Municipality of Blanc-Sablon issues statement about recent public meeting regarding the local arena9/29/2022
 LOCAL NEWS – September 29, 2022
CFBS was speaking today with Karine Benoit, Acting General Director, regarding the meeting that had taken place on September 26th with the Corporation de Développement Économique Est-Ouest board about the current situation regarding funding, administration, and the logistics of operating the local arena in Lourdes de Blanc-Sablon. As you may recall, CFBS was in attendance and reported that many community members attended as it was open to the public. At the closing of the meeting, there was still no solution yet made by both parties, but an agreement to hold another meeting later in October to find a solution has been made. The Municpality of Blanc-Sablon would like to issue the following statement regarding the meeting on September 26th: "The municipality of Blanc-Sablon had a meeting with the Corporation de développement Économique Est-Ouest, where the public was also present on the 26th of September. The municipality presented their plan to change the way that the yearly $60,000.00 grant was given. At this time, the Corporation and the public voiced their concerns on this plan. The municipality took all opinions and concerns into consideration, and are pleased that we will be having another meeting with the corporation in late October. One of the objectives for the Municipality at this meeting was to create a better working relationship and communication between the two parties. We feel that this was achieved, and we will continue to work on this relationship in the future." CFBS will attend the next meeting in October and bring you an update on discussions between the Municipality of Blanc-Sablon and the Corporation de Développement Économique Est-Ouest board for the funding and requirements needed for the local arena in Lourdes de Blanc-Sablon to continue to receive this yearly grant. Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist LOCAL NEWS – September 28, 2022 CFBS was speaking today with Carla Fequet, President of the board of the Corporation de Développement Économique Est-Ouest board, regarding the meeting that had taken place on September 26th with the Municipality of Blanc-Sablon about the current situation regarding funding, administration, and the logistics of operating the local arena in Lourdes de Blanc-Sablon. Many community members attended as it was open to the public, but at the closing of the meeting there was still no solution yet made by both parties, but an agreement made to hold another meeting to take place at a future date. Board President, Carla Fequet, has mentioned 3 points that their organization hopes in going forward that the Municipality would reconsider to solve the issue: 1. Seeing as we are forced to do a yearly audit costing us well over 7 thousand dollars, then we would like for them to replace quarterly reports with quarterly meetings between the arena board and the council. 2. Keep in place certain donations such as high school SEC V bursary from the Arena. We consider this a very small investment and token of appreciation to our youth that is important for our board. Therefore, we would like that to be accepted in their no donation clause. 3. Seeing as our expenses keep increasing with the cost of living, that they try to apply for funding as a municipality to not only benefit the arena, but the leisure and social activities as well. The overall outcome we want, Carla says, is a better working relationship with the council. “We would appreciate some trust and less criticism. More public meetings, etc. It is crucial that we keep the building open and have it made more accessible for all generations” she noted. I asked Carla if she could explain the issue around giving donations, she said: “We receive donations, but the Corporation itself, gives a bursary to a SEC V graduating student. It's been done ever since the arena opened. They (Municipality) asked for that to stop. So we understand it's something incredibly small, but we feel like that shows appreciation to our youth.” She also wanted to add; “In 2021 we had twelve employees work for our center. Considering how small our community is, that is a lot of people with jobs that invest back into their municipality. If we keep getting less funding, more expense, its going to have an impact on more that just the arena. We were disappointed that the full council did not show up for the meeting, as we were expecting. Therefore, no decision could be made. Which was a little bit disappointing. But I still think we managed to get some points across from both sides. We had a good public turn out too and we want to thank the people for being there. On another note, as of today we are looking for a new arena manager, and there is a seat available on our board, as someone on the board resigned yesterday” she said. Information for the job posting can be found here, you can follow the Facebook page of the Comité Des Loisirs Blanc-Sablon for more information. CFBS also reached out to the Municipality of Blanc-Sablon for comment, more info to come... Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist LOCAL NEWS – AUGUST 17, 2022: BLANC-SABLON, QC. - The Municipality of Blanc-Sablon answers questions on the recent situation that unfolded with the local arena administration and committee
CFBS was made aware of an issue that had taken place between the two organizations following a social media post made by the Comité Des Loisirs Blanc-Sablon stating that the administrative board of the Corporation Développement Économique Est-Ouest as well as the Arena management had collectively taken the difficult decision to step away from their duties. The organization stated that the constant feeling of having to prove to the municipality that their board can be trusted regarding the operations of the arena had been overwhelming. In light of this, CFBS reached out to the Municipality of Blanc-Sablon to ask questions regarding this situation, which were answered by the council members of the Municipality of Blanc-Sablon in an email: 1. Can you explain the situation that is currently happening between the Municipality of Blanc-Sablon and the Comite des loisirs Blanc-Sablon? The municipality met with the management of the Corporation de Development Économique Est Ouest to discuss and go over the details of their yearly subsidy. As per usual, the council requested to have financial reports completed within the time limit. Considering the municipality is dealing with taxpayers’ money we want to remain transparent. We recognize the importance and need of such an establishment and want to work together in the best of both parties. When the meeting was over, it was agreed by both parties involved that we would have a second meeting with more members of their board and our missing councilors as well. It was supposed to happen in early September. They told us that they had financial difficulties. To support them, we consulted other municipalities that had an arena and no financial problems. We were able to identify ways to facilitate their management. 2. In the meeting mentioned, was the Municipality of Blanc-Sablon questioning the running and management of the arena? The municipality has not questioned the need or importance of such a facility. Given that the municipality gives such a large subvention to the arena every year, we simply asked the management to provide the council with a financial report every 3 months stating where these funds are being disbursed, and the annual financial statements documents are required by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs (MAMH) that we are obligated to adopt before May 31 st to be able to be conform with the Commission Municipale du Québec. Since both parties are suppose to be working together, we did ask to have a follow up meeting to see if and what was needed. 3. Can you explain the process of granting subventions to organizations like the Comite des Loisirs Blanc-Sablon, and what is the amount granted per year? The municipality contributes a grant of $60,000 to the Corporation de Development Économique Est Ouest. When given a large subsidy like this amount there are conditions and procedures that need to be followed. The management would have to complete quarterly reports to the municipality and the annual financial statements within the deadlines giving by the MAMH. The Comité Des Loisirs Blanc-Sablon also stated on their social media post that they will be inviting the population to their AGA, and to answer any questions that the public may have regarding their decision. The date and time will be announced within the next few weeks. Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist  LOCAL NEWS – MARCH 25, 2022: BLANC-SABLON, QC. - Anthony Dumas, property owner of the Résidence aux Beaux Séjours building, weighs in on the current lease situation
Following the news coverage by CFBS on March 24th regarding questions from local residents on if services would continue at the Résidence aux Beaux Séjours in Lourdes-de-Blanc-Sablon, we were speaking with Mr. Anthony Dumas who owns the building that currently hosts the residence to see if he could shed more information on what is happening with the current lease, and the information given by the CISSS de la Côte-Nord stating that the building will no longer meet intermediate operating standards by December 2022. Mr. Dumas informed CFBS that there is no current lease contract with the Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de la Côte-Nord (CISSS de la Côte-Nord), the contract was not renewed by the CISSS since October 1st 2017. "I cannot understand why they are saying it is not up to standards, the only communication I have received from the CISSS asking for any upgrades to the building was a letter dated on July 30, 2021 asking for paint to freshen up the patio deck" stated Mr. Dumas. Anthony Dumas has owned the building since it was renovated in 2011, where he operated the residence himself until 2013. Besides for that time frame, the newly renovated facility has only ever been leased to the health center, and was meeting all of the requirements necessary he says. The CISSS installed a new alarm system at the beginning of the first lease, and that was the only upgrade carried out. Mr. Dumas states that in the leases that were signed in 2013 and then again in 2014, the CISSS as the leaser was to assume all damages to the building such as paint, plaster, furniture upkeep, flooring, patio, and daily maintenance. "I am disappointed about this current situation, I can only imagine how concerned the residents must be in worry of what will happen" says Anthony Dumas. On March 1st 2022, Anthony Dumas attended a meeting with the heath center establishment. At this meeting, Mr. Dumas said he was told that the CISSS will not be adding any new residents, and questions were raised about building standards. Anthony said he gave the CISSS three options to consider; to buy the building, to sign a new lease for the building, or to terminate the use of the facility on May 30, 2022. "I feel that the CISSS de la Côte-Nord has long had the intention to discontinue leasing the building for the residence, otherwise why not sign a new lease after the last one ended in 2017? As a landlord, how can I invest further in the property without a contract? It makes no sense. I want to work with the CISSS for a solution" adds Mr. Dumas. Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist  LOCAL NEWS – MARCH 24, 2022: BLANC-SABLON, QC. - What will happen to the Résidence aux Beaux Séjours?
CFBS received information from concerned local citizens that the Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de la Côte-Nord (CISSS de la Côte-Nord) would no longer be operating the Résidence aux Beaux Séjours home in Lourdes-de-Blanc-Sablon, a home for individuals with a slight loss of autonomy. This residence has been much appreciated by the community, and the people who stayed there, since its doors opened in late 2011. Following our questions to the CISSS, this information was sent to CFBS by email from Pascal Paradis, Communications Advisor of the CISSS de la Côte-Nord: "Since March 2019, the Résidence aux Beaux Séjours is no longer operated by a private promoter. The CISSS de la Côte-Nord manages the resource in the rented building. Despite the calls for tenders, no promoter came forward to operate an intermediate resource (IR) in the Blanc-Sablon sector. Even though operating an IR is not part of the mission of a health care establishment, the CISSS is temporarily maintaining the current service offer. However, the building will no longer meet the IR operating standards as of December 2022. There are currently no more new admissions at the Résidence aux Beaux Séjours. An assessment of the residents is underway to determine the best lodging option for each of them, and they will be met individually in the near future. The CISSS will take steps to ensure that residents who wish to stay there will be able to do so, but several issues are out of its control, including the lease. Residents will be kept updated regularly as developments arise." - Pascal Paradis, Communications Advisor of the CISSS de la Côte-Nord CFBS will continue to follow this news story, with more to come ....... Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist Local Sûreté du Québec will be vigilant this weekend for illegal use of cell phones while driving11/26/2021
 LOCAL NEWS – NOVEMBER 26, 2021: BLANC-SABLON, QC. - SQ safety reminder regarding cellphones
The local Sûreté du Québec in Blanc-Sablon have begun a weekend campaign (Nov 26 - Nov 28) of routine stops from Blanc-Sablon to Old Fort to spread awareness about the illegal use of cellular devices while driving. Officer Keven Beaudoin, of the SQ in Blanc-Sablon, would like to remind drivers of the following: - Practice safe driving habits, such as not being distracted while behind the wheel and holding your cell phone. - Cellular devices should only be operated in your vehicle when using hands free devices like Bluetooth - Paying attention to the road enables drivers to be aware of their surroundings, which in turn can help to reduce road accidents, and save lives. If you are caught behind the wheel using your handheld devices while driving, you will be fined. Exactly how much you may be wondering? The fine for the illegal use of a cellphone while driving is $300.00 plus 5 demerit points. Repeat offenses carry an automatic suspension of your driving license for 3 days, effective immediately from the time of the infraction. Officer Beaudoin would like to thank the population in advance for abiding by road rules. Also, would like to remind the population that beginning today, November 26, 2021 to January 3, 2022, all Quebec police services, in collaboration with the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ), will intensify their interventions as part of the national concerted operation (CNO) targeting the ability to drive impaired by alcohol, drugs or a combination of the two. These interventions will result, among other things, in the presence of checkpoints where mandatory screening could be carried out randomly. Please drive safely. Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist  LOCAL NEWS - NOVEMBER 19, 2021: BLANC-SABLON – A new mayoress for Blanc-Sablon CFBS was speaking with Gabrielle Landry, the newly elected Mayoress of the Municipality of Blanc-Sablon. Gabrielle won the seat after running unopposed in the seat of Mayor on November 5, 2021. Gabrielle discussed with CFBS what she hopes to achieve during her 4 year term, the files that she is focusing on first, and her drive in taking on the role as a young adult. Listen to Becky Spingle's interview with Mayoress Gabrielle Landry in both French and English, by clicking on the sound files below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview). Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist 
 LOCAL NEWS - NOVEMBER 19, 2021: LOWER NORTH SHORE – Art fun with Musée Ambulant! You may remember Musee Ambulant, a small nomadic arts museum, from a previous visit to the Lower North Shore, in February 2019, and the exhibition they showcased in the schools in Lourdes-de-Blanc-Sablon, Old Fort and St-Paul River. Well, they are coming back! The Musee Ambulant team will coming to the Lower North Shore in the upcoming weeks, this time bringing contemporary artworks to new audiences. They will be visiting elementary and high schools from Kegaska to L'Anse-au-Loup, offering artistic workshops that showcase exciting visual work by professional artists, including some augmented reality and interactive virtual reality experiences. They will be in the Blanc-Sablon area from December 7th to December 16th, and CFBS radio will be giving away Colis d'art toour listeners! So what is Colis d'art you may ask? In the past year, Musee Ambulant has produced a series called Colis d'art (Art Parcels, literally), a collection of special boxes containing an original artwork created by a professional artist, tools to explore an artistic medium and a code to access extra content online (ex. interview with the artist, and tutorials for the use of the provided material. CFBS will be giving away Colis d'art from the following artists: A. Colis TREMBLAY / ARGUIN (silkscreen printing) B. Colis MARSH / MERCADER (wood engraving and printing) C. Colis K. PHANEUF / DOYON-RIVEST (book binding) D. Colis BONEY / PÉTRIN (clay modeling). Supported by the Canada Council for the Arts, this project is entirely FREE and the Colis (value of $85 each) can of course be kept and enjoyed, so the artistic discovery can continue on for years to come! Listen to the interview with Sarah Bélanger-Martel, by clicking on the sound files below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview). Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist
 LOCAL NEWS - NOVEMBER 15, 2021: ST. PAUL'S – Student Election Campaign Underway
An exciting event is taking place at St. Paul's School this week. The school has teamed up with Elections Québec through their youth program Vox Populi to engage in the democratic process of electing their class representatives for Student Council. Ashley Duguay, Development Agent at St. Paul's School, speaking by email with CFBS said that she is proud of the students for their commitment to their school community and for taking part in this democratic process. There will be a swear-in ceremony on Tuesday, November 16th at 1:15 p.m. in the gym, where the students will be joined by the Mayor of Bonne-Espérance, Ms. Dale Roberts Keats, to make the big announcement of who has won the student elections, and to congratulate the newly elected council. More to come ...... Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist LOCAL NEWS - OCTOBER 18, 2021 - Programme Empreinte interveners from CALACS are in Bonne-Esperance today to speak about Sexual Violence against girls and community workshops Sexual violence is a serious social problem affecting thousands of people every year in Quebec. It is mistakenly believed that the perpetrator of sexual violence does so out of impulse, but it is more often the expression of an underlying desire for power and domination of the victim. Sexual violence has many faces: sexual assault (rape), incest, sexual harassment and abuse by a professional are just a few manifestations. The shame, guilt and fear that surrounds sexual violence are still very much present among victims and often keep them in social isolation. Breaking the silence, speaking freely, is a first step towards healing, and Programme Empreinte is aiding students, families, friends and school staff in the process. CFBS was speaking today with Laury Boulianne and Alexandra Paradis, Interveners for the Programme Empreinte, a program designed to give support to victims of sexual violence, and anyone else affected by giving tools in order to cope while respecting the confidentiality of all involved. This program is through Lumière Boréale Calacs in Baie-Comeau, a community organization founded in 1990 specifically dedicated to the problem of sexual assault. This center for help and the fight against sexual assault in Baie-Comeau helps women aged 14 and over and those around them. If you are a victim of sexual violence, there is support available to you, and it is confidential. You do not have to bear the burden of the situation alone. Lumière Boréale Calacs in Baie-Comeau Phone: 1-800-563-0443 Website: http://lumiereboreale.qc.ca/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lumiereboreale.calacsbaiecomeau For 24/7 Emergencies after hours, please call 1-888-933-9007 Listen to my interview in English with Laury Boulianne and Alexandra Paradis, by clicking on the sound file below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview). Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist
 LOCAL NEWS - AUGUST 26, 2021: NORTH SHORE – CISSS PRESS BRIEF COVERAGE
A press briefing was held this morning by the Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de la Côte-Nord (CISSS de la Côte-Nord) regarding the COVID-19 situation on the North Shore. The press briefing by Zoom, was led by Ms. Manon Asselin, President and CEO of the CISSS de la Côte-Nord, and Dr. Richard Fachehoun, director of public health. The epidemiological situation on the North Shore is stable, with five cases in the last 10 days. However, the province is going through a fourth wave with increasing numbers of cases and hospitalizations, and an increasing prevalence of the Delta variant, which is more contagious. People who are not adequately vaccinated are more affected by the Delta variant, stresses the CISSS de la Côte-Nord. Unvaccinated North Shore residents are five times more likely to be infected than their adequately protected neighbors. Also, these unvaccinated residents are 29 times more likely to be hospitalized than those who are adequately protected. At this time, almost 84% of eligible residents have received a first dose of the vaccine against the virus, and 76.5% are fully vaccinated. The CISSS de la Côte-Nord estimates that a 90% vaccination rate is needed in order to achieve a group protection against the Delta variant. The CISSS de la Côte-Nord cannot stress enough the importance of all residents aged 12 years and over to get their two doses of the vaccine as soon as possible. The other important element for residents is to protect the health network. Several service reductions were experienced this summer because of the staff shortage. Any more pressure on the health network may have major consequences. This could happen if the number of hospitalizations in the region increases. The CISSS de la Côte-Nord thanks the population for your collaboration and solidarity. Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist  LOCAL NEWS - AUGUST 19, 2021 - Maison Mecatina welcomes seniors to fill out an application to become a resident On July 2nd, Maison Mecatina opened it’s doors for community members to take a tour of the new senior facility in La Tabatiere, and now they are ready for applications to be filled. This new senior’s home means that more aging residents will be able to stay in their community, as apposed to having to leave for housing services in other communities of the Lower North Shore. This new facility has 8 bedrooms (7 single rooms and 1 double room) and boasts many comforts that residents will surely enjoy! The home has an amazing view of the saltwater and is located right on the main road. Home cooked meals provided 3 times daily, plus snacks and baked goods, there will also be fun activities for the residents to participate in. Depending on the needs and autonomy of the residents, Maison Mecatina will base the living arrangements on the specific needs of the clients. You can checkout the Facebook page of Maison Mecatina by clicking here. Listen to the interview with Josh Boland, a board member of Maison Mecatina, and Tara Bobbitt, the project coordinator at Maison Mecatina, by clicking on the sound file below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview). Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist
 LOCAL NEWS - AUGUST 19, 2021 - Supporting those who served from our region with quilts of comfort CFBS was speaking today with Camilla Gallibois, the regional representative (Sept-Iles to Blanc-Sablon) for Quilts of Valour, an organization whose mission is to ensure that Canadian Forces members are recognized for their service and commitment to our country. They give support through the presentation of quilts to comfort past and present Canadian Forces members. A Quilt of Valour is a single, lifetime gift from a grateful nation. The need for quilts continues to grow. At present, there are approximately 185,000 Veterans in our country, many of whom are eligible to receive a Quilt of Valour. To date, they have presented nearly 17,000 quilts. Each one a handmade hug, stitched with love and gratitude by grateful Canadians. Check out the Quilts of Valour website by clicking here, to request a quilt for someone you can click here. Camilla is seeking local quilters who would be interested in volunteering their time to help produce the quilts for those who are eligible. If you are interested in donating your services, contact Camilla by phone at (613) 407-0372 or email at camilla.gallibois@quiltsofvalour.ca Listen to the interview with Camilla Gallibois by clicking on the sound file below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview). Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist
 LOCAL NEWS - AUGUST 11, 2021 - Learn 3D imaging training with archaeologists on the Lower North Shore! CFBS was speaking with Manek Kohlatkar, an archaeologist currently working for Archeo-Mamu, the Centre de services scolaire du littoral, and the MRC Golfe du Saint Laurent, to help preserve aspects of local heritage by bringing it to life through 3D image technology. FREE, interactive mini-workshops, are being offered all along the Lower North Shore in the coming days and weeks to learn where elements of history and heritage are brought to life through 3D modeling. A course is being planned for this fall with the Centre de services scolaire du littoral, those trained will have the future opportunity to work along side archaeologists to digitally catalogue artifacts! UPCOMING LOCAL DATES:
Listen to the interview with Manek by clicking on the sound files below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview). Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist
 LOCAL NEWS - AUGUST 9, 2021 - WELCOME TO THE BAKEAPPLE FOLK FESTIVAL OF 2021 An interview with Dean Flynn, Chairperson of the Bakeapple Folk Festival in Forteau, speaking about the upcoming festival this weekend now on its 42nd year of providing local fun for all ages!
Check our their new website at: https://www.bakeapplefolkfestival.ca/home/ Check out their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/bakeapplefolkfestival/ Listen to the interview with Mr. Flynn by clicking on the sound files below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview). Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist
 LOCAL NEWS - AUGUST 3, 2021 - Learning about our local seabird population CFBS was speaking with Lisa Gutcher, a QLF Intern and biologist who studied at the University British of Columbia, and Heather Grant McLoughlin, who is also a QLF Intern and a computer scientist, who studied at Dalhousie and Swansea University in the UK. These ladies are currently in Blanc-Sablon working with the Quebec Labrador Foundation on the conservation of the local seabirds, spreading awareness, and engaging the community about our magnificent winged neighbors. Avid birders, Lisa and Heather have been hosting a series of fun community activities in the last few days, welcoming the community to come out and learn about our seabirds like the Razorbill (Tinker), the Puffin, the Common Eider, the Common Murre (Turre), the Great Black-backed Gull, the Bar-tailed Godwit, and more. Check out the photos below of the mural painted by these ladies, and community members, during their event held at the Blanc-Sablon General Store on August 2nd. Way to go everyone! Listen to my interview with Lisa Gutcher and Heather Grant McLoughlin by clicking on the sound files below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview). Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist
 LOCAL NEWS - JULY 30, 2021: BLANC-SABLON – Young author Tommy Fequet, releases his 1st book 'Ali in the Summer', available now on Amazon Could you write a fictional novel at age sixteen? As most teenagers at that age are beginning to think of their future, focusing on their friends, or just having fun, this exceptional young man decided to put to pen his love of writing, and has published a book! CFBS was speaking with Tommy Fequet, a high school student from Quebec City, with family living here on the Lower North Shore, to talk about his first published book, called 'Ali in the Summer'. The synopsis: “There she sat, alone in the park.” After a rough school year filled with rumours and glares, Liam gave up on socializing. Nothing brought him motivation apart from a few of his close friends until he met her. He wants to trust her, yet struggles with this newfound friendship. His life finally had meaning, which is threatened by his grim past. Now, he must face the challenge of not only the school’s influence but protecting the one thing left that gives him a purpose. Will he be able to prevail? You can listen to my interview with Tommy Fequet, by clicking on the sound file below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview). Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist
 LOCAL NEWS - JULY 29, 2021: BLANC-SABLON – The language debate heats up as Quebec's Bill 96 and Ottawa's Bill C-32 draws opposition from the new Task Force on Linguistic Policy CFBS was speaking with Colin Standish, a constitutional law scholar, about Quebec’s language reform legislation Bill 96, and Ottawa’s Bill C-32 reforming the Official Languages Act, as well as the new task force that has been created to oppose the language law reforms. Quebec anglophone rights groups say they will be extremely under-represented at the hearings this fall for Bill 96. In a recent press release from the new Task Force on Linguistic Policy, only three groups tasked with representing the approximately 1.2 million English-speaking Quebecers were among those invited, despite substantial opposition to Bill 96 and the proposed federal constitutional amendment. They recommend that Quebecers concerned with Bill 96 voice their concerns by emailing their MNAs and M. Olivier Champagne, the Bill 96 Committee Clerk, at cce@assnat.qc.ca. You can checkout the website of the Task Force on Linguistic Policy by clicking here, to make a donation to aid the Task Force on Linguistic Policy on stopping bills 96 and C-32, you can click here. You can listen to my interview with Colin Standish by clicking on the sound files below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview). Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist
Cycling Across Canada and Spreading Awareness about Brain Injuries, CFBS Speaks with Julie Aubin7/20/2021
 LOCAL NEWS - JULY 20, 2021: BLANC-SABLON – Julie Aubin is cycling across Canada for awareness and hope to those who have suffered a brain injury CFBS was speaking with Julie Aubin, a cyclist and adventurer, who is currently cycling across Canada. Julie is spreading awareness about brain injuries, and raising money for Répit Jeunesse, a community organization that helps a diverse clientele with social, mental health, addiction, homelessness, school dropouts, and other problems. Julie's story is quite amazing. After being struck by a motorist while cycling, she had sustained mild head trauma, concussion, and post-concussion syndrome. Julie rehabilitated herself to about 80%, with some after-effects of her injury that are still present. But still she pushes through, and is committed to her journey of awareness. One she says is necessary towards returning to her health, towards personal resilience, towards people and their own hopes. To follow her story, you can checkout Julie's website, or her Facebook page. You can listen to my interview with Julie Aubin by clicking on the sound file below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview). Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist
 LOCAL NEWS - JULY 16, 2021: NORTH SHORE – A LUNG CANCER SCREENING PILOT PROJECT IS NOW TAKING PLACE ACROSS QUEBEC CFBS was speaking today with Dr. Kim Boutet, a respirologist, about the lung cancer screening project now taking place across the province using low-dose computed tomography (CT scans), and this test is free to all participants of the project. Launched by the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux (MSSS) on May 31st of this year, studies have shown that the use of CT scans in screening can aid in reducing mortality. According to the Société canadienne du cancer, in 2017, 8,700 lung cancers were diagnosed in Quebec, and 6,700 deaths had occurred that were attributed to this form of cancer. Who can participate? To be eligible for the screening project, two important criteria must be met: you must be between the ages of 55 and 74 and have smoked for at least 20 years, consecutively or not, 20 cigarettes per day. The program is open to smokers or ex-smokers. You can be referred by your family doctor for the screening, or you may make a self-referral by calling 1-844-656-4312, or you may email depistagecancerpoumon@ssss.gouv.qc.ca For more information, you can visit the government of Quebec website here. Listen to the interview with Dr. Kim Boutet by clicking on the sound file below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview). Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist
 LOCAL NEWS - JUNE 17, 2021: BLANC-SABLON – Trying out something new with the accordion From his early beginning playing the organ at local churches in the region, Davey Jones quickly discovered that he loved music. Growing up he heard his father play the accordion at home, and soon he was also playing the instrument for family and friends, later releasing albums of his talent. CFBS had the pleasure of speaking today with Davey Jones, originally from Lourdes-de-Blanc-Sablon but now living in Port Au Choix, NL, about his music career and new musical projects. Besides for the traditional style of playing the accordion, Davey has found a fresh new way to enjoy this instrument, by mixing it with techno music! You can listen to my interview with Davey Jones by clicking on the sound files below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview). Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist  Davey along with his wife Melita and son Josh
 LOCAL NEWS - JUNE 15, 2021: BLANC-SABLON – The Better Together community group wants you! Do have a certain set of skills that may better your community, or maybe just the drive to be involved in a group that aims to build a community network of people working together for a unified goal? Better Together is a community innovation accelerator, by building public community infrastructure to help make the world a better place and help communities care for and support one another and share their knowledge, skills, and resources to promote local resilience and community empowerment. CFBS was speaking today with the co-founder of Better Together, Robert Smith, about the goals and future direction of this interesting community imitative of solving problems and advancing together for the betterment of all involved. You can listen to my interview with Robert by clicking on the sound files below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview). For the website of Better Together, you can click here For the group Facebook page, click here And for the Better Together community hub, click here Email: community@bettertogethersolutions.com Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist
 LOCAL NEWS - JUNE 8, 2021: BLANC-SABLON – Goodchild Park Welcomes You Free of Charge! Sometimes in life, an event will happen that will shake a community to its core, and with time in trying to find ways to cope with what has happened, people will come together in a positive way to begin to heal. On March 9th 1995, an avalanche occurred at Goodchild hill, claiming the lives of two residents on Goodchild Street, Tony Lavallee and Jamie Lavallee, a father and a son. The avalanche of 95' left devastation and sadness in the tiny community of Blanc-Sablon. Then later, in the year 2002, the Quebec government approved relocation project saw the residents of Goodchild Street relocated elsewhere in Blanc-Sablon. Renita Lavallee of Blanc-Sablon recalls the memories of growing up in the area, and fondness for the street and those who lived there. "I always walked in the area after the houses were moved, the space has always been a place I enjoyed coming to. It was where I grew up." As time moved forward, nature began to reclaim the area. Land lots that once held homes, were now overgrown and unkept. Then one day, Renita along with Melissa Lavallee, Darcy Chubbs, Marlene Letto, Melvina Lawless, and Bernice Lavallee, had an idea of cleaning up the area and making it a community campsite. And so together, they set out on beginning the clean up effort, putting in countless hours of their own time, and money, to bring the community back to Goodchild Street. "It was very therapeutic for me to return to the site and make something positive for the community after what had happened. We also realized that together, we can take an idea and then put it in action for the community, to make a special space," says Renita Lavallee. A few years later, she had decided to approach the local Caisse Populaire for funding to buy much needed necessities for the campsite, up to that point, everything that was placed at Parc Goodchild was community donated, and most of the time from Renita herself. Renita had received the funds requested from the Caisse Populaire, as well as from Pacte Rurale, with assistance from the Municipality of Blanc-Sablon, and Blanc-Sablon à vie. The Centre services scolaire du Littoral (CSSL) recently donated the playground set that was originally on the Ecole St. Theresa site. Family and friends of those who had perished in the avalanche of 1995 had also donated items to the campsite in memory of Tony and Jamie.
GOODCHILD PARK CAMPSITE WELCOMES YOU ...... Today, Goodchild Park is a bustle of activity, breathing renewed enjoyment to a street that still feels like home to people, and making new memories for the campers who choose to visit the community. The park has many campsites that include a fire pit, lounge chairs, some with tent platforms, on site port a potty, benches, picnic tables, playsets, and more. Renita says soon there will be better access to running water, and a 2nd port a potty will be arriving that is wheelchair accessible, and other functional items soon to be added, like an adapted outdoor playset from Jambette. The park is there for everyone to enjoy, and it is free of charge to visitors, and campers. Those who visit are asked to clean up after themselves and to please respect the space. Unfortunately, there has been incidents of vandalism over the years, and Renita asks everyone that comes to the site to remember what the campsite is all about; a spot for the community and visitors to gather, a community memorial, and a place to appreciate the beauty of the local scenery. Renita would like to thank all those who have been a part of the realization of Goodchild Park, the volunteers over the years who assisted in the upkeep of the area, and especially to her father Clarence Lavallee, and to her husband Jody Letemplier, who have also worked tirelessly at maintaining the park. Visitors who are coming to region, when exiting the ferry: turn right at the first intersection, and then follow the Boulevard Docteur Camille until you see Goodchild Hill and then make a left to the campsite. For the Facebook public group page of Parc Goodchild, click here. Summer is finally here, so why not stop by Goodchild Park and relax, or go for a scenic walk. The site is breathtaking, and if you see Renita, stop and say hi to her. And if you have some time to give, why not ask if she needs a hand. Because together, we can make something beautiful happen. Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist   Middle Bay, Quebec LOCAL NEWS - JUNE 2, 2021: BONNE-ESPERANCE – Vandalism and theft cases at Middle Bay The local Sûreté du Québec office in Blanc-Sablon is seeking information to help solve a series of crimes that was committed in Middle Bay earlier this week. Vandalism and theft occurred at 11 cabins and the fish plant in Middle Bay, either on Monday night (May 31st), or early Tuesday morning (June 1st), resulting in property damage and items being taken. The Sûreté du Québec in Blanc-Sablon is asking the population to assist their investigation by providing any information that may help solve the crime by calling 418-461-2162. Any information given will be treated as confidential. Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist LOCAL NEWS - JUNE 1, 2021: BLANC-SABLON – The Sûreté du Québec reminds motorists to slow down
From June 11th until June 17th 2021, the Sûreté du Québec along with the police chiefs association of Quebec and the SAAQ will work together for the National Speed Operation (NSO). For the second year in a row, this operation is named "I Slow Down, I Save Lives" to remind motorists that if every driver would practice safe driving habits, that their actions can make a difference. Speeding is the principal cause of death on Quebec roads. As the province continues to return to normal activities following all of the covid restrictions, there will be a lot more traffic on the roads. The Sûreté du Québec is taking the opportunity to warn motorists to slow down, drive responsibly, and avoid receiving a speeding ticket. Abbygail Wellman CFBS Journalist |
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