The record, 5 avril 2000, mercredi 5 avril 2000

THE The voice of the Eastern Townships since 1897 65 CENTS Wednesday, April 5, 2000 Anglophones popular with U.S.firms in Townships By René Bruemmer Anglophones in the Townships have become a coveted commodity these days as telemarketing companies scramble to find English speakers to man their phone lines.ACI Telecentrics, which announced recently it needs 200 telemarketers fluent in English for its new Sherbrooke operation to start later this month, is still seeking qualified applicants.At a job fair held over two days at College de Champlain last weekend, 600 hopefuls filled out job applications for the call centre.An additional 150 applicants have mailed or faxed their resumes.The American-based company, which has 10 call centres in the U.S., with 1,000 employees, is currently going over the applications, but indicated yesterday more qualified applicants are needed.The need is expected to continue as ACI has plans to hire a total of 600 telemarketers over the next three years.Job seekers at the weekend fair were told the company hired 60 individuals that weekend and that starting salaries for telephone operators were around $10 an hour plus bonuses.The company will have a booth at the Salon Priorité-emploi 2000 job fair to be held at the Centre Sylvie Daigle on April 14 and 15, 300 Parc Street near Sherbrooke’s Palais des Sports.At the same time, another American-owned company is starting in Magog and seeking a handful of telemarketers.Employees at Axis Marketing were short on details, but did say they’re looking for about half a dozen people to work the phones for four-hour shifts concentrating on the U.S.An advertisement will appear in The Record on Thursday and Friday.See tomorrow’s Record for an interview with ACI and to see what the Office de la langue française thinks about the sudden popularity of English speakers in the Townships.asasw-sai» Pharmacy Fire A morning fire destroyed the only pharmacy in Bromptonville on Tuesday.Richard Toutant (inset) wished to assure customers that service would be carried on through two other Essaim pharmacies in Sherbrooke.Assistant fire chief Marcel Allard said that when they arrived, firefighters found fire without much smoke near the electrical entrance.That suggested the origin was electrical.Temporary quarters will be found as soon as possible.- Perry Beaton, Special to The Record.Turn-key operation free estimate with blue print LES SALIES DE BAIN SH El FUS I Les Sauis deBainsI’ û PfllRO Come see us at the EXPO-HABITAT University of Sherbrooke April 13 to 16 Sylvain Maclure Main St.West, MAGOG • 843-3323 • 1-888-922-3323 Enter our contest to win a $3500 certificate page 2 Wednesday, April 5, 2000 iRrropn How not to apply for a government grant Open letter to Honorable Jane Stewart, P.C., M.P.Minister of Human Resources Development Subject : Application for job creation grant Dear Minister Stewart, Although I have never felt the need or even the desire to apply for a government grant , my attitude dramatically changed after I flipped through the January Billion dollar Internal Audit Report on Grants and Contributions.The generosity of your Department was unquestionably the deciding factor and not a moment too soon.My request has to do with a visionary job creation project worth pursuing because of its simplicity .It involves hiring a few unemployed writers who would agree to move to Shawinigan and paying them to compose pleasant stories about our politicians .This would also benefit a region which has been so hard-pressed for government investments.I was initially hoping for a grant in the neighborhood of $500,000.but after the recent revelations in the House of Commons I felt I was being a bit too shortsighted .A $600,000 grant would enable me to pay off a few loans , buy a few gifts and take a “business” cruise to the Caribbean.You will note that I have no formal application other then this letter.Thanks to the January Internal Audit I came to the conclusion that your class act officials should have no major objection.After all, 15 per cent of the 459 projects that were accepted had no application on file and yet it didn’t prevent them from handing out the grants.Thank goodness they know the difference between a bank loan and an outright grant and aren’t fazed by minor formalities.You will also note that my present request has no cash flow forecast, no estimate of the number of participants, no description of the activities to be supported , no description of the characteristics of participants, no budget proposal and finally.no description of expected results.Once again I took the cue from the internal audit .Although at least one of these elements always seemed to be missing in the 459 projects I thought I would make it easier for your officials by ignoring all of them.Incidentally, I took the business decision of opening a “subsidiary “office in the city of Shawinigan via the rental of a postal box.This should discourage those cocky and nasty members of the opposition from hammering you with questions as to why my project ended up in the PM’s riding.Furthermore, by having an “office” in Shawinigan my files could be that much more accessible to the RCMP and Auditor general who are already carrying out their many investigations in the region.Back to those mean members of the opposition.Their arrogance in describing the job creation program as little more than a political slush fund to reward supporters and win elections is an abominable insult to all Canadians.They also had no right to imply that healthy political donations were made by businesses who benefited from sizable grants.How dare they begrudge those who may have wanted to show a little of their appreciation .Have they forgotten that giving is one of life’s top pleasures?You have my complete support when you say political considerations had no influence in the handing out of government grants.So what if some of the beneficiaries didn’t meet the low unemployment criteria for federal employment grants or that the promised jobs were never created.Nobody is perfect ! As to the federal records showing that 51 companies went bankrupt before the projects were completed but after receiving job-creation grants perhaps it was probably because some frustrated accountant mistook 51 for 15.I was flabbergasted when complaints were made about companies receiving grants for plants that never got off the ground .What did they expect - that your civil servants should be blamed for being too expedient?I feel sorry , much like yourself, for those misled media eggheads who can’t stop implying that the grants were used to pay to pay off party hacks and friends .Obviously they are just trying to rehash the old pork-barrel patronage theme .Need I go on?I especially resented the recent statement of our meddling Auditor-General, Denis Desautels to the Commons committee.He had no business making a big deal just because large amounts of public funds were spent by your department without the appropriate controls.I can’t help but wonder what happened to old-fashioned discretion .He obviously has an ax to grind since it’s not the first time that he has voiced this type of criticism.I would dearly like to challenge him to name any government that has ever been overly-concerned about spending public hinds.He was also way out of line when he recommended that MPs should not be involved in approving job creation grants to companies and groups in their own ridings.His argument that their participation blurs the lines of public accountability makes me wonder if he knows anything about what some politicians do to get re-elected.Enough about my request.1 naturally presumed you were having sleepless nights wondering why you ever accepted the $60-billion Human Resources portfolio .If it’s true that you said at the time of your appointment, “I think it’s going to be fun”-it’s a good thing you didn’t despair.Canadians are already tired of hearing about “Shovelgate”.Most “pseu-do”-political scandals are like electric light bulbs -at first they’re bright -then they flicker and finally they simply die out.Rest assured that I will send a copy of this request to my local MP in order to get his prior approval of the grant.Yours Sincerely, To the readers: I wasn’t planning to take a swipe at the $l-billion boondoggle , especially with the availability of so many other constructive topics.Unfortunately ,my cynical alter ego got the best of me even though I put up a strong fight.I am happy to inform you that I was able to intercept and scuttle this letter before it could be sent.I assure you my alter ego received a piece of my mind.Direct comments to: henryk@enDi- rect.qc.ca Brims Self-defence, White Tiger-style y-T jhe White Tiger Defence Work-I shop is going to be held at Rich-J.mond Regional High School on April 14 from 2 - 5 p.m.If you need any other information contact cjondreville@hot-mail.com or 826-1687.Novena needed Invitation to all Novena to St.Anthony, Lennoxville, every Tuesday at 7 p.m.beginning April 25 ending June 13.Information: 562-7128.Justice Henry Keyserlingk weather Today.Cloudy with a few rain showers possibly mixed with snow.High near 4.Winds west to northwesterly 20 to 40 km/h.Thursday.Some rain possibly mixed with snow in the morning.Low near minus 3.High 6 to 8.Probability of precipitation 80 percent.Friday.Clearing.Low near minus 2.High near 9.BEN by Daniel Shelton _^r-^ Trm means ' OUR JUNK 15 MUCH BETTER THAN THEIR JUNK 1 WOUUWT WORRV ABOUT IT L WEEXENP. THE.Wednesday, April 5, 2000 page 3 Brome Lake tables plans to repair water system Borrowing bylaw discussed at special meeting By Maurice Crossfield The Town of Brome Lake is considering a $650,000 borrowing bylaw to upgrade its drinking water system.The proposed bylaw was the subject of a special information meeting Monday night before the regular monthly council meeting.The meeting was held at Prouty Hall in Bondville, the first of a series of “sectorial” council meetings which will see the council meet in various parts of the municipality in the coming months.Councillor Robin Moore presented the project to the 30 or so people in the audience, which began with an overview of the existing water system: Presently drinking water for those Brome Lake residences connected to the system is supplied by wells on Bailey Road and near the racquet club on Knowlton Road.The water is then pumped to the main reservoir on Spring Hill Road and to a secondary reservoir in Bondville.From there the water is fed to the residences by gravity.Moore said one of the most pressing problems is the cast iron pipe that connects the Bailey pumping station to the Spring Hill reservoir.Installed and buried in the 1920s, large sections of the pipe are now above ground and leaking.“I certainly feel that the pipe is a risk we have at the moment that could be catastrophic,” he said.He said the rupture of that pipe would quickly leave the town without water, and in an emergency there would be no backup source to draw from.The risk of contamination of the water supply is also greater, he said.Replacing that pipe would cost about $398,800.New equipment for the new Bailey Road well would cost another Staff An autopsy has not determined the caused ofdeath of an inmate found dead in his cell early Sunday morning at the Cowansville Penitentiary.Francisco Pazzi, 28, was spotted sleeping on his cot Saturday night.When guards saw him early the next morning, he appeared not to have moved, said Que bec Police Force spokesman Serge Dubord.When they entered the cell around 5:45, they discovered his rigid, cold body, he said.Prison guards attempted to revive Pazzi until the arrival of an ambulance.His death was confirmed at the hospital at 6:50.The preliminary autopsy report showed no signs of violence, but toxicology tests were taken to determine if there were drugs in his system, said Dubord.A drug overdose is one of the theories being looked at, Dubord said adding that the prisoner was taking some flu medication and a prescription for a fungal infection.He said the test will also check for the presence of narcotics in his bloodstream.Pazzi was serving a four-year sentence for armed robbery and possession of an illegal firearm.B R I H FS Pesticide, fertilizer bylaw comes into effect The bylaw governing the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers in Brome Lake has been passed.Under the terms of the bylaw, property owners will be able to spread small amounts of the chemicals on their properties.However if a contractor is called in to do so, they must get a permit from the municipality.To get the permit the contractor must explain what they intend to do and when.There is no charge for the permit, and it is good for one year.Signs must also be posted on the affected properties, informing passersby of what is being used and when.The bylaw also restricts the use of pesticides and fertilizers near wells and water courses.Industries and agricultural operations are not affected by the new bylaw, explained Brome Lake councillor Robin Moore, because they must already get permits from the Quebec government.Battered Brome Lake roads The Town of Brome Lake is seriously looking at how to rebuild its battered roads, and may even consider a borrowing bylaw to do so, says mayor Stanley Neil.At the beginning of the monthly council meeting in Bondville Monday night, Neil said there are numerous roads in need of serious work, including Fulford Road, Mount Echo and Mill Road.Councillor Robin Moore suggested that it might be worthwhile to grind up the pavement on Mill Road and make it a gravel road until funding could be found for repaving.Neil said the evaluation continues, and the municipality wants to make sure it can take advantage of any government grants that might be available.Not all Canada Post workers happy with agreement Canada Post Corporation and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers have formally signed a new collective agreement as of March 27, 2000, but not every carrier delivering Canada Post mail is going to benefit from the contract.While the agreement satisfied the union’s need to improve the terms and conditions of employment for its members, 5,000 Canada Post couriers in rural areas continue to earn less than minimum wage, have no paid leave and can be fired without justification.“In this day and age, it is unacceptable to treat workers in such a feudal way,” said Alice Boudreau, president of the Organization of Rural Route Mail Couriers.The organization, which has just completed its third annual general meeting in Ottawa, represents carriers who, as independent contractors, do the same work as their urban counterparts but do not reap the same benefits as regular employees.Boudreau added that the members of her organization are discriminated against because most of them are women working outside the large urban centers.“If a group of men were treated the same way in a large city,” she said, “the law would have been amended a long time ago.” $162,000, and $117,500 would be spent to connect the existing wells to new piping.The pumps at the Bailey station would be rebuilt as well, at a cost of $9,300., The system upgrade would also include replacing supply piping on Maple Street, from James Street to Maple, Landsdowne and Davignon over the next three years.To pay for all of this, Moore explained that $38,000 would come from this year’s budget.The remaining $650,000 would have to be borrowed.The council is proposing a five-year plan to pay it back.Only those connected to the water system will be affected by the tax changes.Under the terms of the plan the annual water tax would be dropped from $220 to $100.A special tax at the rate of ten cents per $100 would then be added.For a residence evaluated at $116,496 the $220 water tax would then be replaced by a $100 water tax, and an additional $118.83 in the form of the special tax.But while that resident would end up paying slightly less every year, property owners with higher tax evaluations would end up paying more.A property evaluated at $300,000 would pay the $100 water tax, plus an additional $300 or so in the special tax.Moore explained that the proposed bylaw was set up like this because provincial government regulations do not allow a borrowing bylaw to be imposed at a flat rate on users.Therefore the municipality had to devise a payment plan based on the evaluation, frontage or area of the properties involved.During the regular meeting later in the evening a notice of motion was passed, basically a warning that the bylaw will be introduced at a future council meeting.Barring any serious opposition, the proposed plan will most likely pass as is within the next couple of months.Media coverage added to cops’ punishment: Lawyers By Maurice Crossfield Lawyers in the defence of two Quebec Police Force officers convicted of obstruction of justice continued their final arguments in sentencing Tuesday, saying their clients have already suffered heavily at the hands of the media.“The road of the cross is much worse than the crucifixion,” said Tom Walsh, the lawyer representing Pierre-Yves Déragon.He referred to the extensive coverage of the trial as “carnivore press.” “It is a form of punishment, there’s no doubt about it,” Walsh told reporters during a break in the proceedings.“It has a lot of impact on their lives.” Both Walsh and Eugene Bachand, the lawyer representing retired QPF officer Marcel Brodeur, are looking for unconditional discharges for their clients.Bachand drew the parallel between his client and Just For Laughs president Gilbert Rozon, who was granted an unconditional discharge so he could continue to work in the U.S.Bachand said Brodeur also travels to the U.S.in his present job as a tow truck operator.He said a patrol officer has the same rights as the rich and famous.Crown prosecutor Josée Grandchamp replied that the Rozon case was a different one with a particular set of circumstances.As for media coverage, Grandchamp said the press are the eyes and ears of the public, and its coverage is no justification for a more lenient sentence.The two officers were found guilty by a jury in December of trying to scuttle a drunk driving case against Sophie Brodeur, daughter of Marcel Brodeur.The sentencing arguments, which have taken nine days so far, are expected to continue for three more days.Then Quebec Court judge Raynald Frechette will have to take time to go over the heaps of jurisprudence and other documentation before rendering a decision.Police investigating inmate’s death page 4 Wednesday, April 5, 2000 — the™ Record DUCKS UNLIMITED ¦ mm Auction and dinner to benefit Ducks Unlimited By Janice Cunningham Special to The Record Original pieces of art and sculpture, a leather chair, a special edition firearm, a fibreglass canoe and a kayak: these are just a few of the 150 items being offered at the Ducks Unlimited dinner-auction this Saturday evening at the Delta Hotel in Sherbrooke.The event is a fund-raiser for the private, nonprofit charitable organization whose mandate is to restore and maintain natural wetlands.The cost for the evening is $100 per couple.“It covers the cost of the five course dinner plus one year’s membership to Duck’s Unlimited (usually $20 for a couple),” said Burton McConnell, volunteer and local spokesperson.This fund-raiser has been an annual event for the last ten years in Sherbrooke."It’s been built up by word of mouth over the years,” said McConnell.Local merchants have contributed by buying or donating many of the items to be offered on this evening.There will be a regular auction featuring 30 items, including original works of art by local artists such as Stuart More than 70 per cent of North America’s waterfowl originate from Canada’s wetlands, but increasingly these natural areas are making way for highways, agriculture and houses.Main, Don McKinley, Dennis Palmer and Barbara Matthews, as well as original wood carvings by Elmer Andrews and Rick Caton.Bronze sculptures, a wooden decoy, and a bar refrigerator will also be up for bidding.The silent auction will offer 30 items, including framed prints issued by Ducks Unlimited and a wide variety of hunting and sporting goods.The bidding will begin right away at 5:30 p.m.and continue throughout dinner.There will also be a number of draw items, door prizes and the bingo prize of a kayak, which was donated by Dimension Kayaks of Mansonville.Ducks Unlimited began in 1937 when a group of conservation-minded sportsmen set out to raise funds for habitat restoration and creation projects in Canada.Wetlands are an integral part of our environment, providing clean water, habitat for an incredible variety of wildlife, as well as enjoyment for nature lovers.More than 70 per cent of North America’s waterfowl originate from Canada’s wetlands, but increasingly these natural areas are making way for highways, agriculture and houses.Ducks Unlimited invests hundreds of millions of dollars to conserve and maintain Canada’s wetland areas.More than 800 fund-raising events for Ducks Unlimited are held across Canada every year.McConnell said the one held in Sherbrooke is always successful.“Last year we made approximately $20,000,” he said, adding they usually expect about 300 people at the event.There are many regulars who come year after year, to enjoy the good food and the fun.A few tickets are still available for this year’s event and can be obtained from Burton McConnell at 819-569-3306.Volunteer Week to examine aging population PERRY BEATON/SPECIAL .Alison Hannan of Citizen Advocacy.‘I would say that about 30 per cent of all our volunteers come from the youth centres.’ By René Bruemmer With a rapidly aging population and many volunteers quickly reaching the age where they will require volunteer services themselves, the Volunteer Action Week, held from April 9 to 15, is taking on increased significance in the new millennium.“Between 1991 and the year 2011, statistics show that the number of people older than 65 will increase by 60 per cent,” said Bibiane Roy, co-ordinator of the Resistor organization that oversees social help organizations in the region.“The transformation of health and social services has created a huge demand for volunteer services.” Spokespersons representing 11 volunteer service organizations in Estrie, held a news conference in Sherbrooke Tuesday to promote Volunteer Week and bring attention to the needs of their groups in the area in an effort to attract more volunteers.A reception honouring outstanding volunteers of the region will be held at Sherbrooke’s city hall on April 11, and a dinner party at the Abénaquis bowling hall in Sherbrooke is planned for April 15 at a cost of $12 per person.About 500 people are expected.An estimated 15,000 individuals in the Estrie region volunteer their time for a variety of services, including meals-on-wheels, transportation to medical services for the aged, home visits for shut-ins, help for the mentally and physically handicapped, sports organizations, aid for recent immigrants and family support.The number of volunteers has remained roughly the same over the last few years, but needs have increased dramatically, Roy said, especially with the government’s attempt to move more health care services to the home.“I have nothing against the plan, but I do disagree that it was im- posed more with the idea of budgetary concerns rather than social concerns,” Roy said.The change in health care services without sufficient manpower has taxed the social system and led to “volunteer burnout” in certain cases, Roy said.“I don’t want to be alarmist, but I truly hope that, especially with the International Year of the Volunteer coming up (in 2001) that we will be attentive to the new reality so that solutions and actions will be brought to the forefront.” And since the majority of volunteers tend to be retirees, the need will only increase as they become too old to offer services and instead require them, Roy said.An encouraging sign is the participation of youths in municipalities like Mansonville.“I would say that about 30 per cent of all our volunteers come from the youth centres,” said Alison Hannan of Citizen Advocacy.“We have a great turnout from our young people.But demand is always increasing.” For volunteers such as Aline Tremblay of Richmond, who has been working with Meals-on-Wheels for 17 years, the work is its own reward.“I found I had time to give, and it makes me happy,” she said.“I find it incredibly rewarding.” Anyone interested in giving up some of their time for a good cause is advised to contact their town hall to find out more information on local organizations.Jo-Ann Hovey Advertising Consultant Tel.: 619-569-9525 Fax: 619-569-3945 email: recordad@interlinx.qc.ca iTONIGHT ill I ill i l $10,000,000 * " ;¦ .Æ Doesn t loto-québec Record Wednesday, April 5, 2000 page 5 Camping Fairmount makes case for a zoning change Opposition presents petition By Maurice Crossfield TJte Camping Fairmount in Iron Hill is looking for a zoning change that would allow it to get a liquor permit and to rebuild any of its buildings that could be destroyed.At a special meeting before the regular council meeting Monday night, Gordon Swift, owner of the campground for the last 40 years, discussed the proposed zoning change.He said opponents of the plan have been misinformed.Swift said that last year he looked into getting a permit so that he could sell alcohol in the main hall at the campground.It was then that he learned his property and those of his immediate neighbors had been rezoned in 1986 to REC-2.In layman’s terms, he was unable to get a liquor permit, and if any of the buildings on those properties were destroyed, the owners would have no right to rebuild.Swift wants the zon- _______________ ing changed to RECP-1, which would give him and his neighbours the right to rebuild if necessary, and would give him the right to get a sports bar liquor permit similar to those held by golf clubs or arenas.However his plan is being opposed by numerous residents who say a liquor permit will attract more noise and disorderly conduct to the area.A petition with about 45 names on it was presented to the council to block ‘Fairmount is a generally quiet commu nity and we want to keep it that way’ -Gordon Swift the zoning change.Swift shook off the petition, saying the people behind it ________ were misinformed.“I don’t think the residents of Iron Hill had all of the facts before signing the petition,” he said.“Fairmount is a generally quiet community and we want to keep it that way.” But whether or not Fairmount is a quiet community or not was the subject of some debate in the audience.Several residents said they regularly heard excessive noise, while others said noise was never a problem.“I just think that a bar like this would attract the wrong crowd,” said Bill Alderidge.“How will a liquor outlet reduce this noise that is already annoying me?” asked Jacques Langlois.Swift said the liquor permit will allow him and his family to generate a new source of revenue, something he says the campground must do.He said it would also allow him to move activities inside, thus dealing with the noise problem.“The bottom line is we have to survive,” Swift said.“If it means expanding, than that’s what we will do.” The zoning change, which has been recommended by the Brome Lake zoning committee, will most likely be voted on within the next month or two.From there, a registry will be opened, and if enough people from the affected sectors sign, the matter could be put to a referendum. page 6 Wednesday, April 5, 2000 : ¦¦THE — n ¦ ¦ .— _______RECORD __ Community Forum Letters to the editor Why Jean Chrétien will win the next election Dear Editor Those who are interested in the Canadian political landscape know that since 1993 we’ve had five political movements represented in the House of Commons.Each one of these parties comes from an ideological perspective of our society.I will not elaborate on the origins of the political parties in Canada, for it if, not the objective of this letter.But 1 will expose the fact that no one, except the Liberal Party of Canada, can pretend to represent national views and interests.When he proposed the Clarity Bill, not so many people believed he would succeed.Now, and mainly because the Prime Minister and his minister Stéphane Dion, have decided to come face to face with separatists, the supporters of this latter are trying to find ways to elaborate a strategic retreat.Just to say how close the Tories are to separatists, they delivered a pass to Jean-François Lisée, author of Sortie de Secours, when he went to the House of Commons, to testify on Clarity Bill.What Lisée proposed, just to remind you, is kind of a new Meech Lake.Surprise, surprise, Tories proposed this too, last week in the pages of The Record.The reality is that Tories don’t know on which feet to dance.And they are ready to do anything to save their seats.Contrary to that deplorable electoral attitude, the Liberal Party chose to defend National Unity.Rather than playing footsie with separatists, like the Tories did, the Liberal government decided to take its responsibility.And the Liberal team succeeded.I don’t want to predict the future, but I don’t think there are many sunny days ahead for separation.I will only take a few words to describe what the Bloc is all about, because I don’t want to give them more space than they deserve.The Bloc Québécois is becoming the Social Credit of contemporary times.These people criticize the system, but they feel comfortable in it.After all, who would refuse the benefits and advantages of being Member of Parliament?You will never see a bloquiste MP throwing his pension plan away, but he refuses a majority of the people who are paying for it.To them, that’s coherence.Not to me.On the ideological spectrum, there is also the fact that Liberal Party of Canada has a plan, a vision, for the next electoral rendezvous: Sharing Opportunity.After coming to terms with deficit reduction and establishing the good health of the public financial management of the country, the Liberal Party comes back to what it was established for, providing Canadians with equality and prosperity.The Liberal Party cannot accept something as the flat-tax, for it would not advantage the majority of the pop-ulation.It would only help the wealthy.We have nothing against these successful people, but we must never surrender our goal to provide everybody with opportunity.Some people may propose a lot of things to appear new, politically attractive and electable.But one thing remains sure.They only try to position themselves to the right of the political spectrum.The Liberal Party is at the centre, so they must try to find themselves a different positioning.And when you hear Stockwell Day, you realize that he is not a Liberal.When we see the bad management of the péquiste government Emploi-Québec and the millions sleeping in a bank account in Toronto, we realize that the federal government still has a very important role to play.But the good managerial style of the Canadian THE P.0.Box 1200 Sherbrooke J1H 5L6 or 257 Queen St.LennoxviUe, Que.JIM 1K7 Fax:819-569-3945 e-mail: newsroom@sherbrookerecord.com Website: www.sherbrookerecord.com Randy Kjnnear Publisher .(819) 569-9511 Sharon McCully Editor .(819) 5696345 Sunil Mahtani Corresp.Editor .(819) 5696345 Richard Lessard Prod.Mgr.(819) 5699931 Francine Thibault Prod.Superv.(819) 5699931 DEPARTMENTS Accounting .(819)5699511 Advertising .(819)5699525 Circulation.(819)5699528 Nb-WSROOM .(819)5696345 Knowlton office 88 Lakeside, Knowlton, Quebec, JOE 1V0 Tel: (450) 242-1188 Fax: (450) 243-5155 MAIL SUBSCRIPTIONS GST PST TOTAL Canada: l year 114.40 8.01 9.18 S131.59 6 MONTHS 59.00 4.13 4.73 S67.86 3 MONTHS 30.00 2.10 2.41 S34.51 Out of Quebec residents do not include PST.Ratesfor other services available on request.The Record is published daily Monday to Friday.Back copies of The Record are available.The Reconi was founded on February 7.1897, and acquired the Sherbrooke Examiner (est.1879) in 1905 and the Sherbrooke Gazette (est.1837) in 1908.The Record is published by UniMedia Company, a subsidiary of Hollinger Canadian Newspapers L.P.Canadian Publications Mail Service Product Agreement No.0479675.Member ABC, CARD, CNA, QCNA government doesn’t come from the intervention of the Holy Spirit.Thus, who has been able to restore the good shape of government and economy?Jean Chrétien and his Finance Minister, Paul Martin.After reading these lines, one conclusion comes to mind.Who is the best equipped leader to bring Canada to the summits and challenges ahead?Who is the guy who always did what was best for the country first?Who is the leader who provided the Liberal Party with two majority victories?I could go on and on to enumerate the accomplishments and qualities of this leader, but I will only name the man of will remain Prime Minister for the years ahead: Jean Chrétien.Marc Proteau Sherbrooke Music class is essential component Dear Editor, As a concerned parent and former music teacher I would like to share a few thoughts regarding the article printed last Friday, March 31.The article in question being: “Parents want more funding for English schools in E.T.” - Petition deposited in National Assembly.More specifically I would like to zero in on the comments allegedly made by Sharon Priest (head of the governing board of LennoxviUe Elementary School): “.past budget cutbacks used to affect non-essential things like painting classroom walls or the loss of a music teacher.But now she claims budget shortfalls are threatening the quality of education itself.” I received many calls the next day so I felt it necessary to call Sharon Priest myself.As I suspected calling “the loss of a music teacher” a “non-essential” was a misquote.I have always been very grateful for the support the staff and administration of LennoxviUe Elementary have given me.Sharon Priest is no exception.She and they have done all they can to provide both motivation and every opportunity for success for our students.However, there is only so much that can be done due to increasing budget cutbacks placed on the board.The Quebec government has reduced the overall budget once again this past year.“Up until now, the boards and the teachers covered up-the cracks in the system.But they can no longer do that.” Stephen McDougall in his article states: “The petitions charge that teachers at schools run by the Eastern Townships School Board are facing larger and larger classrooms while students with learning disabilities and special needs are being neglected because of a lack of specialists and staff.” Each year, we are seeing a continual deterioration of the quality of education.It is vital that the E.T.community continue to ask for what is needed.Otherwise we will lose even more.Respectfully submitted, Christine Doell LennoxviUe iXWl .lNiiih)nt($i»or mm iï"o THE NEW EUW (GONZALEZ POU- ÉÉIÉÉ?. ¦ — THE».Record Wednesday, April 5, 2000 page 7 Federal offices get good grades on bilingual services Bilingual greetings still a problem: Commissioner By Rita Legault Sherbrooke Federal offices in Quebec’s regions offer good services to English-speaking Quebecers, but the vast majority of them have to make a greater effort to greet customers and answer phones in both official languages, says the federal Commissioner of Official Languages.“If you don’t have a bilingual greeting it discourages English-speaking people from exercising their language rights,” Commissioner Dyane Adam told the Record in a telephone interview Monday.The study, which was released on Monday, showed only three of 17 offices that were visited by auditors greeted them in both official languages.Thirty per cent of institutions who were called answered the telephone in French only.Adam said bilingual greetings on the telephone or in person should be automatic and institutions must make greater effort to ensure managers and staff understand their obligation to provide services in both official languages -especially in designated offices where those services are guaranteed.In Quebec, 885 out of 2503 federal offices are designated to provide services in both officials languages.That includes most offices which provide key services such as post offices, Revenue Canada and Human Resources and Development Centers which provide information about income security Aiming for 100 per cent.Dyane Adams programs like old age pensions and employment search facilities.The survey, which was done last spring, is one in a series of follow ups to a 1994 study to determine the extent to which federal offices designated to provide services in English and French were accomplishing the task.The follow-up of 30 federal services outside Montreal and the national capital region showed the bilingual capacity of designated offices had declined slightly, but that most continue to provide quality service in both official languages.“What we see is a good or even superior report card,” Adams said, adding that there is always room for improvement.Adam said that between the 1994 and 1999 studies, there was not as much improvement as she had hoped.For exam- ple, she said the installation of a pic-togram showing services were available in both official languages was found in 82 per cent of offices surveyed, compared to 68 per cent in 1994.“It’s good improvement, but it could be 100 per cent,” Adam said that installing a pictogram is a simple and effective way to show English citizens they can get services there.But Adam’s greatest concern was the lack of bilingual greetings which have increased slightly from 45 per cent in 1994 to 59 per cent in 1999 on the phone and only from 16 to 18 per cent in person.“We were expecting a marked improvement with regard to the active offer of services, which was and still is the main problem with the provision of service in both official languages in the province,” Adams concluded, adding that in spite of some progress, problems encountered in 1994 still persist.Adams said the problem can be remedied through leadership.She said institutions must develop a culture where offering services in both official languages becomes second nature.“It has to start at the top to show the true commitment of institutions to the delivery of bilingual services,” she said, adding that the respect of official language policies should also be part of the employee evaluation process.Adams pointed out that one Sherbrooke institution - the Canadian Housing and Mortgage Corporation - did not have enough personnel capable of offering adequate services in English.One of the three employees designated to offer bilingual services had an insufficient command of the language and employees had not been tested on their ability to deliver services in English.“In federal institutions, our audit shows it is not a question of bad faith,” Adam said.“It’s often a case of the manager being very much aware of their obligations but some of the employees are not so aware.” “You can’t deliver services if you are not aware of your obligations and responsibilities.” While most institutions did not greet customers in both languages, the study showed that 96 per cent of officers were capable of offering English services on the telephone.All offices offered English services to customers who showed up in person.Once accessed, English services were also shown to be satisfactory or better and, in the vast majority of cases, the services were comparable to those offered in French.The study also showed that 100 per cent of documentation and forms are bilingual and that interior signs are in both official languages 98 per cent of the time.Adam, who came up with 40 general and specific recommendations in her report, recommended that the list of of offices designated to provide English services be kept up to date.The commissioner said local institutions should also maintain contacts with minority language community groups so that they can be in tune with the needs of the English-speaking community.Adam encouraged individuals to speak out and to seek services in the language of their choice, agreeing that if minority-language communities don’t take advantage of their rights, they may lose them.Nearly $100,000 in food fines in six months Local restaurants, grocery stores among those fined By Janice Cunningham Special to The Record Most of us trust, when we buy food from a reputable grocery store or dine at an apparently respectable restaurant, that the food will be at least safe for our consumption, if not always a gourmet delight.But as usual, it’s a matter of buyer beware.Between Aug.12, 1999 and Jan.25, 2000, a total of $99,750 has been levied in fines against offenders of food protection laws in Quebec.In accordance with P-29, the Agricultural and Seafood Products Law, and P-30, the Milk Products and Substitutes Law, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Alimentation has fined 207 offenders on 256 different infractions.The sectors of most concern are restaurants (61 per cent), milk production (15 per cent), retail food sales (12 per cent) and the processing industries (8 per cent).Inadequate temperature for preserving food accounted for 50 per cent of the infractions within Law P-29, unhealthy conditions and the presence of rodents and their excrement, 18 per cent, the presence of improper food and inadequate food handling practices, 11 per cent, and the wearing of jewelry and\or the absence of hair nets, 10 per cent.In the case of Law P-30, the infractions are concerned principally with the quality of farm milk, 46 per cent, unhealthy farm conditions,19 per cent, and the quality of retail frozen milk products, 17 per cent.In the Estrie, $3,100 in fines were levied against nine establishments, including three fines against the Café Ben Lee in Deauville: for allowing perish- able products to attain an internal and ambient temperature above the minimum of four degrees Centigrade ($750), for keeping products in unclean wrapping ($250), and for failure to store food so that it does not enter into contact with the floor ($250).Another restaurant in the Estrie, Café Centrale de Coaticook, and a teaching cafeteria, the Administrations Alfa Enr., were both fined $250 each for not keeping food at the minimum temperature, as was the butcher shop at the Costco Sherbrooke in Laval, the Marquis de Richemont restaurant in Richmond and the Resto Pub Le St.Gab’s in Windsor.One dairy farm, Broadvista Farm in Wa-terville, was fined $175 for having an elevated bacterial count in the milk.A butcher shop.Salaison Aurele Theberge Inc.in Stoke, was fined $250 for improper labelling of food products.The steepest fine, $2000, was handed out to three restaurants in the Mon- térégie: the Cantine des Fourches in Brigham, the Resto-Bar le Bonsai in Bromont, and La Terrasse Sud 2000 in Cowanswille.All three received the fine for keeping unclean premises.The Resto-Bar le Bonsai also received two $500 fines for failing to keep food at the required four degrees Centigrade as well as a $250 fine for uncleanliness.La Terrasse Sud was handed a $500 fine for inadequate washing of hands and arms by personnel before handling food, a $250 fine for keeping food above four degrees Centigrade and a $250 fine for uncleanliness.The IGA in Lac Bronte received a $2000 fine for selling food unfit for human consumption and a $500 fine for altering the expiry date on food products.In handing out these fines, the Quebec government aims to safeguard the public’s health by ensuring that establishments offer healthy and high quality foods. page 8 Wednesday, April 5, 2000 ¦ THEw-i RECORD k.A "\\ Wilkinsons make success a family affair Television land offers two very interesting events for country fans this month.The first one will air on ABC, April 10, 8 p.m.and will feature Billy Ray Cyrus.Indeed, what once was slated to be a TV series has now become ABC’s newest made-for-TV movie.Look for the Achy Breaky Heart singer as a character known as “The Poolman” in this two-hour original film about a woman who escapes death in a limousine crash, but loses her memory.On April 5, PBS will present Sesame Street with a definite country touch.Big Bird, Oscar and the gang find themselves getting acquainted with country superstars Faith Hill and husband Tim McGraw, as they make a guest appearances on this time-honoured kid’s show.Here’s my review for this week: The Wilkinsons: Here and Now (Giant Records/Warner) Almost unknown two years ago, The Wilkinsons have received more nominations, awards and honours since their debut than most artists garner in a lifetime.In 1999 alone, they were nominated for the CMA’s Horizon Award and Vocal Group of the Year to the Academy of Country Music Awards’ nominations for Single of The Year and Top Vocal Duo or Group.Over 20 nominations in all.Same phenomenon on the Canadian scene: The threesome took home a remarkable five Canadian Country Music Awards (Single of The Year, Album of The Year, Song of The Year, Group of The Year and the Wrangler Rising Star Award) along with four Big Country Awards (Best Vocal Group of The Year, Single of The Year, Video of The Year and Album of The Year).This is quite an accomplishment, and it makes it a lot harder to release a follow-up to measure up to their first release.But the family trio has succeeded big time with Here and Now.This is an excellent collection of well-arranged songs.They really have raised the bar on their already stunning career.The Wilkinsons have matured a lot as an act in all aspects concerned.Amanda Wilkinson’s vocals have taken on a greater depth and soulful-ness while her brother Tyler has emerged from adolescence with a nice poised voice.This time around he takes the lead on half of the songs.Last year they had a heavy tour schedule and performing so often really helped them honed their vocal skills.The acquired experience shows tremendously on the new recording and they sound in total control, more confident than ever.Steve is the father and the band’s main songwriter.He “““"“ wrote six of the album’s 11 songs.His music is about feeling good, even when it gets to more serious topics.The first single released, “Jimmy’s Got a Girlfriend,” has an infectious, catchy chorus.After listening to it a couple of times you’ll find yourself singing along.“It Was Only a Kiss,” features Amanda as a vocalist in total control of her talent.It’s radio friendly and might be a potential number one for the trio.On “One Of Us Is In Love,” Tyler offers a command- COUNTRY Connection Jessie Aulis ing performance.There’s a soulful groove on “Till You Let Go” while “1999” offers lush, full arrangements.“Hypothetically,” is a real reminder of The Beatles’ “Octo-pus’Garden,” and Tyler handles the lead vocal like a champ.“The Only Rose” is the only number on the album where Steve Wilkinson takes the lead while Steve Wariner plays har-mony.Of course they also cowrote this great song.This is about a mother telling her daughter that it’s alright to be different like the stars in the sky are different.Really it is a celebration of being yourself.You don’t need to know that Wariner is involved, you can recognize his touch at the first listen.This new album really puts in evidence just how everyone’s perspectives has changed in the family over the last two years and the songs reflect this new maturity both artistically as much as personally.When you listen to this latest collection you get a feel of the family dynamics while you can appreciate the effortless harmonies as their voices blend to perfection.They have the gift of music which translates into a special joy of living.This sophomore album represents a giant step forward in their career and we’ll hear about The Wilkinsons for years to come.Country Radio for you Don’t forget to tune in to CFLX-FM 95.5 for two hours of country music and the latest country music news every Thursday night between 8 and 10 p.m.Broadcasted from CFLX’s studio on Duf-ferin Street in Sherbrooke, Country Club is the show where every song has been carefully selected for your pleasure.You can make your special request by faxing them at (819) 569-8167.Have a great week and keep your country state of mind! COURTESY GIANT RECORDS Here and Now is another step forward for the Wilkinsons.They took home a remarkable five Canadian Country Music Awards (Single of The Year, Album of The Year, Song of The Year, Group of The Year and the Wrangler Rising Star Award) along with four Big Country Awards. — THE—mu .— i.—— .i mi i .Wednesday, April 5, 2000 page 9 Our School’s Page RECORD Massey-Vanier high — COURTESY MASSEY-VANIER A couple of great chefs, Beat Marchand and Andy Bockus making soup.Marie-Helene Hamel, Sacha Thompson and Terry Wilson on the job.COURTESY MASSEY-VANIER Massey Vanier School Carnival Our annual school Carnival was held on March 3 with the East team taking the victory! Students participated in several games and events in hopes of gaining points for their team.After a delicious BBQ lunch hosted by our principals, the highlight of the day was the afternoon show consisting of the following competitions: Karaoke (winner: Patricia St.Onge), Celebrity Impersonation (winner: Lacey Forster a.k.a Sister Mary Catherine Gallagher), Lip Sync (winner: Jessica Gibbons & Friends a.k.a Celine Dion).The Carnival King was Sebastien Dion, Josie Whitehead was our Queen, and our Prince and Princess were Wayne Picken and Lacey Hebert.Congratulations to ALL students and thank you to all staff for volunteering your time, especially Ms.Turriff and Ms.McGovern, our Leadership teachers.On March 18, a pancake breakfast was held at the Knowlton Community Centre.Stephanie Kay, Nikki Johnston and Jaime Kerrigan hosted the day with the help of numerous parent volunteers and teachers.We served approximately 70 people who enjoyed their meal complete with Eastern Townships maple syrup donated by Paul and Kathy Hebert.Marisa Parisella and Katie Seline are currently running a ‘moviefest’ during lunch hours to raise funds for the Christian Blind Mission International.Students are asked for an admission donation of 50 cents, or can get in free by donating a pair of used prescription eye glasses.If you have used glasses that someone could benefit from, please drop them off at Massey-Vanier before the end of April.Teacher Judith Brisson has invited Arnie Engels, of ‘Free the Children,’ to visit our students on Thursday, April 6 and inform them of youth rights and the fight against child labour.Students will be asked for a donation of $2 to help Arnie’s cause.Andy Thibodeau, of Leadership Innovations, spoke to our students on March 23 inspiring them to become active members of their school.He spoke of past experiences, told anecdotal stories and encouraged them to ‘care.’ He stayed after school to speak with the leadership class.Massey-Vanier Orientation Day Students from all elementary schools in the western sector of Eastern Townships School Board who will be attending Massey-Vanier for the 2000-2001 school year, will be taking part in an Orientation Day on Wednesday, April 5.The event will be divided into three sections: an Academic Information seminar, a tour of the school for visiting students and a general information session with parents and a “spectacle” in the auditorium.It will include singing, dancing, drama and band recitals - all performed by Massey-Vanier students and staff.Cultural Arts Aciwities Kaleidoscope On May 11, Massey-Vanier will present a showcase of talent in our annual cultural arts production entitled “Kaleidoscope.” Art, music, drama and dance students of varying levels will be participating.This “Grand Spectacle” will take place in the Massey-Vanier Auditorium starting at 6:30 p.m.Tickets will be sold by our students and will also be available at the door.Cost is $5 for adults, $2 for M - V students with I.D.and free for children 12 years and under.All proceeds of this event go towards promotion of cultural arts activities at Massey-Vanier.For more information, call Jackie at 263-3772.Massey-Vanier Art Show The art students of Massey-Vanier will be exhibiting their works during the month of May in our Library Gallery located at Massey-Vanier.The presentation will feature a collection of pieces from levels one, two and five secondary classes.The M-V Art Gallery is open each regular school day from 9:00 a.m.to 3:30 p.m.while classes are in session, and during the evening of our kaleidoscope presentation on May 11.What's Happening in Mr.Marchand’s Room At M - V, the nine students in the Lifeskills class of Mr.Beat Marchand, have been very busy this year.Every two weeks, four or five students help Mr.Marchand make a grocery list, then do the shopping for our classroom, which is equipped to resemble their home home away from home.On a daily basis, Andy Bockus and helpers prepare gourmet soup, while Chris Coté-Beausoleil and Terry Wilson bake a variety of delicious breads.Some of our students are very actively integrated into the Art, Music and Introduction to Technology classes.In Ms.Dyer’s Art Class, Marie-Helene Hamel learned how to do beautiful decorative painting on a wooden box that she gave to her mom.In Mr.Taylor’s HT class, the students made wooden shelves, plaques and interesting bubble-gum machines.With Theresa Evans’ help, Andy Bockus made a useful, handsome birdfeeder.Pamela Sayers and Steven Dupras play clarinet in the school band with the assistance of Carol Tawse.They have also accompanied Mr.Barr’s school band to play at other elementary schools in the area.Mr.Marchand’s students have put on several plays with the direction of Sharon Budd, including three performances of “One Hallowe’en Night” and “A Christmas Play,” which the students put on by themselves.Our students are responsible for various jobs in the school, such as refiling staffroom water cooler jugs, and collecting and returning cafeteria trays.They have gone on interesting field trips to places like a car lot and the beach.Jon Grubb, Mikala Riker-Lake and Diane Lagi-moniere especially enjoyed a field trip where they got to see some puppies.We are a happy group and would love to have a visit from you, so come and have a muffin with us one day at lunch!! ) t page 10 Wednesday, April 5, 2000 » THE—» RECORD Sports LennoxviUe Cougars finish outstanding season PERRY BEATON/SPECIAL ¦ ‘ ; SHgKf The Cougars celebrating a goal against Uniprix Famham en route to the finals of the Estrie 2000 playoffs.The Cougars lost to Windsor, but can take pride in a stellar year.Pee-Wee B squad captures five tournament titles By Mike Hickey Special to the record The LennoxviUe Cougars Pee-Wee B team completed one of the most successful seasons in the club’s history Sunday when they advanced to the finals of the Estrie 2000 playoffs.Although the club dropped a disappointing 6-5 decision to the Windsor Pa- petiers in the regional final held in East Angus, the loss did not diminish the team’s accomplishments during the season.They won invitational tournaments in Kingsley Falls, Coaticook, Charmey and Lac Megantic, and then captured the Orford-St.Francois Regional Championship.They began the Estrie Championship series with a relatively easy 4-0 victory over Uniprix Farnham on Wednesday.Goaltenders Remy Labrecque and Douglas Cote, who shared the goaltending duties every game, combined for the shutout.The Cougars advanced to the finals with an exciting 4-3 come-ffom-behind overtime win over Plessisville Saturday.Ryan Spaulding paced the Cougar attack with a pair of goals and two assists while Sebastien Boulanger struck for two goals including the game winner.It didn’t look good for the Cougars in the early going as Alexandre Pepin-Gagne and Michel Provencher scored to give Plessisville an early 2-0 lead.Spaulding closed the gap to 2-1 with a goal late in the second period.Plessisville restored their two-goal lead when Pepin-Gagne scored his second goal of the game but the Cougars refused to quit.Boulanger scored a power play goal to make the score 3-2 and then Spaulding tied the game with a great individual effort.He stole the puck at the blueline skated through two defencemen and then beat Plessisville’s netminder Michael Michel-Marcoux cleanly.While the Cougars were going for the equalizer in their offensive zone, Cote was keeping them in the game with some sparkling saves at the other end of the ice.He stopped Plessisville on a breakaway and then stymied Pepin-Gagne’s bid for a hat trick late in the third period.It didn’t take long for LennoxviUe to score in the overtime period.Spaulding rushed the net but was denied by Michel-Marcoux.But Boulanger was there for the rebound and put in past the goalie to set off a spirited celebration at the Cougar bench.LennoxviUe didn’t win in Sunday’s championship game but another spirited comeback showed that they were indeed winners.They took a 1-0 lead when Luc Luce scored 13 seconds into the game and held a 2-1 lead after Blake Pryce added a first-period goal.However, Windsor erupted for four GET A MILLION BUCKS WITHOUT GETTING ON TU.MOLSON CANADIAN Think you know hockey?Then enter the I AM.A HOCKEY MILLIONAIRE™ FANTASY CHALLENGE and you could pocket $1,000,000.or win one of our other cool prizes.But you’ve got to register at Faceoff.com before April 12th and make all the right picks.You could win the greatest hockey pool of all time.fFaceoffBt com hockey lives here To enter the I AM.A Hockey Millionaire”* Fantasy Challenge, or tor full contest details, see wvm.laceoff.com/tantasyhockey.No purchase necessary.Must be legal drinking age and a resident of Canada with Internet access prior to Apr# 1, 2000 Registration for first round begins on April 1,2000 12:00 p.m.ET and closes on April 12, 2000 at 6:00 p.m.ET.Skill-testing question applies PERRY BEATON/SPECIAL Cougars coach Pierre Labrecque praised his young team for a standout season.unanswered goals and the Cougars went to the dressing room down 5-2 after two periods.Most teams would have packed it in at that point but the Cougars were just warming up.Spaulding gave the Cougars life when he scored in the opening minute of the third and Kevin Laforest made it a one-goal game 15 seconds later with a brilliant goal.Windsor then went on the offensive and scored what proved to be the winning goal midway through the period.The Papetiers held a 6-4 lead and threatened to put the game out of reach but once again Cote came up with some big saves.“I knew that I had to stop them at the end of the game if we were to have any chance of coming back,” Cote said after the game.The Cougars came back as Alexandre Dion ‘s goal at the 7:16 mark made the score 6-5.LennoxviUe went on the power play in the game’s final minute and with Cote pulled for an extra skater the Cougars swarmed the net looking for the equalizer.But time ran out on the Cougars and a brilliant season came to an end.“ This was a great team to coach and it was just an outstanding season,” head coach Pierre Labrecque said following the final game.“They listened well, worked hard and really played together.“It was a very enjoyable experience.I am very proud of them.” For Cote and Spaulding, it was their best year in organized hockey.“This was a very good year and the best part was starting to win after beginning the season on a losing note,” Cote said.“Things changed after we won the Kingsley Falls tournament,” Spaulding noted.“That gave us a lot of confidence and things started going right for us.“1 really enjoyed playing on this team, it was a lot of fun.” And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.8047 ¦¦¦THE un Record Wednesday, April 5, 2000 page 11 Golden Age news Mansonville Thirty golden agers met at the hall on Tuesday, March 21st.Paul’s Pizzeria made chili and hash brown potatoes with jello for desert.The club added a tossed salad, Huguette Levoy furnished pickles.George Hamelin made a johnny cake, and Hazel Steinbach made us a delicious carrot cake (a five star dinner).Alfred Vintinner gave the afternoon drink.Karl Steinbach won today’s half and half.Karl Steinbach and Claude Martel were the winners at the 500 tables.Several people paid their dinner fees for next week’s sugar party at Bonsecours.Door prizes were many and here are the winners: Huguette Levoy, Greg and Marian Gauvin, Gaston Schienks, Reginald Landry, Irene Carrier, Louise Oliver, Karl Steinbach, Mr.Kolba, Clifton Jersey, Helma Wiener, Verlie Aiken, Rita Mossa, Alfred Vintinner, Rita Marcoux, Lila McCoy, Edmond Ducharme, George Hamelin, Toni Lamothe, Ida Mackay, Dorothy Woodard, Claude Martel and Jackie Jersey.Game winners were Mary Ann Martel, Rita Mossa, Mr.Kolba, Juliette Lalib-erté, Ida Mackay, Irene Carrier, Flora and Jackie Jersey and Huguette Levoy.No meeting on the 28th.Rita Mossa SawyerviUe Mabel Mackay Ross, Hélène, Christopher and Karine Mackay of Brossard, were supper and overnight guests of their parents, Douglas and Mabel Mackay, being called here by the sudden passing of Hélène’s brother, André Crête.Callers at the home of Douglas and Mabel Mackay, were Mrs.Betty French of Orillia, Ont., and her sister Janice Graham.Douglas and Mabel Mackay spent a very pleasant afternoon at the home of Mr.and Mrs.Gleason Painter, Lennoxville, when relatives and friends gathered to help Gleason celebrate his birthday, March 8.Kinnear’s Mills Mrs.L Allan Kenneth and Linda Allan, Meghan, Tracey and Kurtis of Napanee, Ont., spent part of their spring break at Blinkbonnie with the Lawrence Allans.Sunday guests were Phyllis and Keith Allan, of Birchton.Don, Linda and Lynn Rothney of Cookshire and Jean Powell of Waterville.Callers during the week were Natalie Winteler, Marie-Eve Adam, Edna S.Beattie and Richard Langlois, Lois and Oliva Paradis.Death BOGGS, Irene Vivian (nee Burns) - Peacefully at the CUSE Bowen site, Sherbrooke on April 3, 2000, following a recent illness in her 90th year.She leaves to mourn two sisters, Muriel Heon of Ottawa, Margaret (Lena) Bailey, her brother-in-law Ivan Bailey of Michigan and the late Carl Burns (brother).Will be missed by many parents and friends and nieces, nephews and cousins.She worked many years as a nurse.In respect of her wishes, there will be no visitation.Cremation was held.Funeral services will be held at the Sawyerville Baptist Church in Sawyerville on April 7, 2000 at 2 p.m.Pastor Walter Gawa will be officiating.Interment at the Island Brook Cemetery.Memorial donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.Funeral arrangements entrusted to Cass Funeral Home Inc., 15 Station St., Sawyerville, tel: 819-564-1750.In Memoriam SANBORN, Ona - In loving memory of a dear mother and grandmother who passed away 23 years ago, April 5, 1977.As springtime sets’ her golden seal, We find our hearts reveal, Upon God’s earth to renew -Our love and sadness, in missing you.In God’s golden chain each link must fall.Through wisdom, each one He must call: A true “Angel of Kindness”, He took you away, We pray that we will all be together one day.In loving memory, ERIC & BEVERLEY DANNY & ERIKA Correction Correction: Next District meeting of Canadian Legion Branch 10 will be at Ayer’s Cliff, April 16th (instead of Lake Megantic).The Games Day followed by a bean supper is on April 15).Violet McNabb Publicity Deaths BURTON-SALLS, Tracy Edward - Born on December 4, 1908.Died peacefully on Sunday, April 2, 2000 at Knowlton House, Mr.Tracy Edward Burton-Sails.Burt was predeceased by his first wife, Myrtle McKenzie, and by his wife Francis Hamer Macgregor.He loved and enjoyed his new-found family, Sandi and Jim Macgregor, Roslyn Macgregor and his grandchildren Lisa (Jeff), Kevin (Monica) and Mark (Catrina) and his three great-grandchildren, Holly, Joshua and Cody.Burt also loved, and was loved by his brothers and sisters, the late Howard (late Ruth), the late Erwin (Wilfreda), and the late Velma, Gertrude, Ephraim, Evelyn (Kenneth), his nephew Edgar (Antoinette) and their families, as well as other family and friends.Visitation at the Desourdy Wilson Funeral Home, 318 Knowlton, Knowlton (Lac Brome), Que.JOE 1V0, tel: (450) 263-1212, fax: (450) 263-9557, on Friday, April 7, 2000 from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m.Funeral service from the Holy Trinity Anglican Church in South Bolton, Que., on Saturday, April 8 at 11 a.m.followed by interment at the Union Cemetery, South Bolton.Please note: Donations to the Mile End Community Mission, 99 Bernard W., Montreal, Que.H2T 2J9, would be appreciated by the family (forms available at the funeral home).PICK, Liska - Died peacefully at home on April 3, 2000.Liska was born in 1917, in Jihlava, the Czech Republic.Predeceased by her husband Jan, her son Michael, and her brother Oscar.Liska is survived by her son Thomas and his wife Margot, Sheila Pick O’Connor and her husband John, four granddaughters, Lucy, Elizabeth, Alison, and Emily, as well as two great-grandchildren.The family wishes to expressly thank Barbara Gelinas, Sharon Descoteaux, Lester and Henrietta McKelvey, and Dr.Danielle Fisch for their care and companionship over the years.In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate that a donation be made to the North Hatley Library Association, or to the Fondation du Centre Universitaire de Santé de l’Estrie, Sherbrooke, Que.A celebration of Liska’s life will be held on Saturday, April 8 at 11 a.m.at Ste-Elizabeth Church, Capelton Rd., North Hatley, Que.Kidney disease strikes families, not only individuals.When a Kidney Foundation volunteer knocks on your door, please give generously.The Kidney Foundation of Canada www.kidney.ca Death SAGE, Dorothy Beatrice (nee Luce) - “More Joy in Heaven.” On April 4, 2000 in her 81st year, left her family and friends were on earth to be with her de voted daughter Sylvia Sage Brown, Dorothy was a loving mother to Wayne Sage (Myrna) of Chatham, Ont.Grandmother to Stephen Sage (Susan) of Chatham, Jeffrey Brown (Tami) of Peterborough and Sandra Clement (Kevin) of Ottawa.Great-grandmother of Taylor, Anna, Julia, Madison, Lauren, Cameron, Cara Lynn, and also left to mourn Dorothy are her sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews other relatives and many friends.Resting at the Cass Funeral Home, 6 Belvidere St.Lennoxville, 564-1750, where friends may visit Thursday April 6, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.Funeral services will be held in St.George’s Anglican Church, Lennoxville on Friday April 7 at 10:30 a.m.Interment in Moe’s River Cemetery.Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or St.George’s Anglican Church, Lennoxville, Que., will be gratefully appreciated by the family.In Memoriam McLELLAN, Annie Ellen (Jones) - Who passed away on April 5,1991.There’s a corner in our hearts That is kept aside for you, Quietly remembered everyday Never more than a thought away.Lovingly remembered for your Strength, courage and Being a great Mom to us.Love, JUNE and BOB (^Resiliences (funeral Qjtomes 6 Belvidere St., Lennoxville A source of comfort Thoughtful & Personalized Funeral Services 564-1750 1-800-567-6031 RATES and DEADLINES: ANNOUNCEMENTS & NOTICES BIRTH S DEATH NOTICES, CARDS OF THANKS, IN MEMORIAMS, BRIEFLETS: Text only: 320 per word.Minimum charge $8.00 ($9.20 taxes included) Discounts: 2 insertions -15% off, 3 insertions - 30% off With photo: additional $18.50.DEADLINE: 11 a.m., day before publication.BIRTHDAY, ANNIVERSARY & GET-WELL WISHES, ENGAGEMENT NOTICES: Text only: $6.50 (includes taxes) With photo: $20.00 ($23.01 taxes included) DEADLINE: 3 days before publication.WEDDING WRITE-UPS, OBITUARIES: $19.50 ($22.43 taxes included) WITH PHOTO: $29.50 ($33.94 taxes included) Please Note: All of the aforementioned (except death notices) must be submitted typewritten or neatly printed, and must include the signature and daytime telephone number of the contact person.They will not be taken by phone.DEADLINES FOR DEATH NOTICES: For Monday’s paper, call 819-569-4856 between noon and 2 p.m.Sunday.For Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday’s edition, call 819-569-4856 or fax 819-569-1187 (please call to confirm transmission) between 9 a.m.and 2 p.m.the day prior to the day of publication.The Record cannot guarantee publication if another Record number is called. page 12 Wednesday, April 5, 2000 Record: Finding clothes that fit is a lifelong batde Dear Ann Landers: I saw your column a while back that asked dress manufacturers to give some consideration to women who are larger than average.When I read it, I actually got out of my chair and cheered, because I have been “bigger than average” since junior high school.I left size 16 behind in the eighth grade.Finding clothes that fit has been a lifelong battle.I agree with the writer who said a major problem is the sleeves.They are almost always too tight.Why don’t manufacturers realize that large women need extra sleeve room, not only in the upper arm, but also by the cuffs?Our wrists are not exactly narrow.Half the time, I wind up buying my shirts in the men’s department because the cuffs are wider.And why on earth do they make blouses and shirts in those large floral designs?They are simply horrible.Small prints are OK, polka dots should be tiny, and if manufacturers need to do stripes, they should be vertical, not horizontal.I am 56 years old, and weigh 270 pounds.Diets don’t work for me, and neither does exercise.I’m just BIG, have been big all my life, and have resigned myself to it.I am not writing for advice.I just want to let you know how it is with us large females.Thanks for your ear.— Jacksonville, Miss., Reader Dear Jax: You’ve let us know, and I thank you.And now, maybe the next letter will make you feel better: Dear Ann Landers: Don’t use up all your tears on extra-large women who can’t find clothes that fit.Save some sympathy for those of us who are smaller than average.We have just as much trouble as the Big Mamas.Maybe more.I am 4 foot 11, and weigh 105 pounds.I would like to wear sophisticated adult clothing that fits.I am tired of being sent to the pre-teen Ann Landers ment.Why don’t the merchants wake up and smell the bottom line?There is a market for the taller, shorter, fatter, thinner consumers who are routinely overlooked.— Wilkes-Barre, Pa.Dear Wilkes-Barre: Here’s your letter, with a wake-up call to the manufacturers.I hope somebody out there listens.Dear Ann Landers: I received a wedding shower invitation from a neighbor with the enclosed note that has me baffled.I have never seen one like it.The invitation was beautifully engraved, and the attached handwritten note read: “John and Judy are booked at the So-and-So Travel Agency for a honey- moon cruise.A gift certificate would be greatly appreciated to help them fund the trip.” What do you think about this, Ann?It sounds like extortion to me.— Anonymous Quandary in Purchase, N.Y.Dear Anonymous Quandary: People in Purchase, N.Y., are supposed to be fairly sophisticated.I can’t believe anyone there is doing this cheesy number.My advice is, ignore the invoice, and send a gift of your choosing.Dear Readers: A reminder that tomorrow is National Alcohol Screening Day.If you, or someone you love, has a problem with alcohol, please call 1-800-697-6700 to find a screening site in your area.Don’t miss this opportunity.department where p, i ii r % _.the styles look like bpooner Fond Women s Institute meets they are designed x for junior high school girls.My husband, who is 52 years old, is shorter than average, and weighs 130 pounds.He has been sent to the boys’ depart- 4 Spooner Pond W.I.met at the home of Thera Devries on March 2, 2000 with Anne Stein as co-hostess.Nine members and a guest answered the roll call.Our motto for March was, “The hardest thing to open is a closed mind.” The roll call was to wear something green.Laurie Walker gave an interesting report on our county meeting.It has been confirmed that the July 1 parade in Richmond will be in the afternoon for those concerned.For those going on the trip on June 28, 2000, the bus leaves at 7:30 a.m.A deposit of $20 is needed before April 25, the remainder to be paid on June 10 (total $129).Grace Taylor gave the treasurer’s report for Agnes Keenan.Thera Devries demonstrated her Quebec Tartan material from which she expects to make a skirt and vest to wear at Convention 2003 to be held in Lennoxville, Que.We’ve decided to send woolen articles to the Port of Quebec for shoeboxes for the seamen, instead of to the schools.The Home Economics convenors will meet at the regional H.S.on March 1, to finalize plans and menus for Townshippers’ Day, to be held on September 16, 2000 in St.Felix de Kingsey.On June 6 there will be a meeting to decide on bursaries for education.Our next meeting will be at the home of Myrtle Fleck to start quilting.Lunch could be pot luck.Convenors reports: Agriculture: Hazel Fleck read a short story on “Keep Your Fork,” the best is yet to come.Florence Blanchard informed us of a stamp to be issued to commemorate the Queen Mother.For Education: Laurie Walker commented on the mid-term break and encouraged us to read Anna May Kinney’s article on Nature’s Way (a place where healthy minds and bodys can grow).For Health: Grace Taylor read an article on cataracts.She also gave us several helpful hints for removing candle wax, patching small nail holes and to remove stamps.Safety: Thera Devries warned us that damage caused to our vehicles by pot holes is not covered by insurance.Be careful of hard lumps of sand on the roads.We are planning to have a demonstration on making a covered (decorated) basket, at the home of Grace Taylor, Saturday, March 18.We were informed of the desire of the Legion to move the cenotaph near their building on College St.and erect it near the others in the park near the bridge.The Mastine family quilt will be undertaken between now and the 1st of August.The first drawing (donated by Shirley Marceau) was won by Anne Stein who celebrates her birthday this month.The second drawing was won by Grace Taylor.A spelling contest on publicity was tied by Anne Stein and Laurie Walker, with the prize going to Laurie Walker.Lunch was served by Thera Devries and friend Shirley Marceau.Shirley has decided to join the Spooner Pond W.I.Submitted by Estelle Blouin for publicity St.Andrew’s Guild meets Engagement announcement Robert and Doreen Lloyd are proud to announce the engagement of their son, Terry Robert to Christine Aline Leduc, daughter of Yvon Leduc of Weedon and Joyce Lowry of Cook-shire.Terry is the grandson of Alice Laroche and Frederick Lloyd of Sawyerville.Christine is the granddaughter of Chilton and Mildred Lowry of Eaton Corner and André and Jeannette Leduc of Montreal, Que.An August 5, 2000 wedding is planned.St.Andrew’s Guild met on Tuesday, March 21st at the home of the President, Nancy Brown.A warm welcome was extended to four members and one guest, after which she conducted devotions, reading from Matthew Chp.13, vs.44, 45 and 46.The message being, God wants to be part of our life skills - do not plan your life without him.She closed in prayer.There being no correspondence, the corresponding Secretary, Mildred Goodfellow reported having sent a sympathy card to Rev.Walker and family in the loss of his father.The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved.Business arising: The president thanked everyone for their help with the food sale held on February 16th for the Sher-Lenn Club.The treasurer, Norma Brown gave a satisfactory report.The food sale was very successful despite the inclement weather.There being no new business Blanche Stocks adjourned the meeting.The next meeting will be held at the home of Mildred Goodfellow on April 18th.The president then closed with prayer, after which approx.20 ladies from the congregation joined the Guild for afternoon tea and a social time was enjoyed by all.The president thanked everyone for coming and on behalf of the Guild expressed a sincere thanks to all for their generous donation.Norma Brown, Acting Secretary Wednesday, April 5, 2000 page 13 ¦ THE» RECORD CELEBRITY CIPHER by Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present Each letter in the cipher stands for another Today's clue: U equals F ‘ J Y F W UDIBAWF GDXFL, LFOVF Y F I OW U I D W B JOBY R L A I F VRWN, ZFGRALF ZFYOWN LYF OL Z R M N .’ - MFDWRIND NR COWGO PREVIOUS SOLUTION: “A politician is a man who can be verbose in fewer words than anyone else." — Peter de Vries © 2000 by NEA, Inc.5 Kit n’ Carlyle www.comics.com Herman O Jim Unpet/dist.by United Media, 2000 His bark’s a lot worse than his bite, Alley Oop The Born Loser_________________ 'wCLL,['LLfee.! ATLlLPRme" “SOI If.lTOK, Wl)N