The record, 14 décembre 2000, jeudi 14 décembre 2000

THE The voice of the Eastern Townships since 1897 65 CENTS Thursday, December 14, 2000 Connaught’s Christmas Concert PERRY BEATON/SPECIAL Pianist Émilienne Cambron-Vanier accompanied Lois Blanchette and her merry bunch of singers at the Connaught Home yesterday.With a mix of Christmas carols, show tunes and other songs in both English and French, the audience didn’t stray during the hour-long program.Municipal cops to be next issue on merger agenda Small town forces like Brome Lake, Cowansville could disappear By Maurice Crossfield Even though the provincial government is now focusing a lot of its efforts on municipal mergers,, Brome Lake mayor Stanley Neil says the future of the municipal police force is still very much in question.“I don’t think we will see any more movement until this merger stuff is straightened out,” Neil said Wednesday.“But the best thing is for the public to keep reacting that they don’t want it.” To date, no official word has been given to the municipalities on exactly how the Quebec government plans to reconfigure policing services in Quebec.But here’s a look at what has been discussed in public security and police circles: The public security ministry wants to reduce the number of police forces in Quebec from 150 to 39 larger forces.SEE POUCE, PAGE 7 Got health care complaints?See Caroline Bouffard Will help people deal with their grievances against regional institutions By Rita Legault Sherbrooke Waited too long for surgery?Couldn’t get a second opinion about your gall bladder operation?Doctor would not take the time to explain a worrisome procedure?The nursing home won’t give your mother a regular bath?The CLSC nurse was rude and unhelpful?The hospital receptionist refused to deal with you in English?Don’t know where to go to complain?The potential for complaints in our overburdened health care system is abundant, but there is someone who can help you negotiate the bureaucratic maze when you have a beef with health care and social service institutions in the Sherbrooke area.The Centre d’action bénévole volunteer centre in Sherbrooke, which is now charged with helping citizens through the complaints process, recently hired a coordinator to help people deal with their grievances against regional institutions.SEE COMPLAINTS, PAGE 5 Wood Cookstove Pay 1 Solid cast iron and steel construction » Large cooking surface ground & polished • 6 gal.stainless steel reservoir with tap • Fire brick lined box all stoves $ Incredible price 1495, I * Subject to credit approval, taxas extra.2002* 8 sold only 2 left Hurry in today Reservation by phone First come, first served 4350 Industriel Bivd., Sherbrooke 564-8333 LES MARIN -v- page 2 Thursday, December 14, 2000 -—THE».Record Tracing evolution from phonograph to CD At first progress was slow, with hundreds of years between the discovery of fire, the wheel and then the cart.Now in a matter of months the auto industry can put out new features and gimmicks that were on drawing boards for a long time before being released to assembly lines.Imagine what has been developed and not yet put into new cars?The evolution since my first 16K computer bought in 1985, to the powerful, lightning-rapid machines of today is awesome.Other than a slow word processor, with none of today’s features, there was not much in the old computers.Even it’s memory was on 5 1/2-inch floppy disks.We new users had to learn how to build a program from instruction books that looked liked hieroglyphics.Never heard of Windows, e-mail, Excel, Outlook or Bill Gates.As I was leaving the store with my new computer a few months ago, UPS was delivering boxes marked “IBM” on them.A bystander wisecracked “Your computer is already obsolete! Here comes the replacements.” He was right.The music industry is a good barometer to appreciate the rate of technological advance.Lets start with that old Vitrola I played with as a wee lad more than 60 years ago.That heavy 78-rpm record, almost like slate, would spin on the platen with a heavy pick-up head holding the needle.It was fun to listen to the scratchy music and watch the head bobbing up and down on the warped record.They were sensitive to heat and had a nice clean cracking sound if you ever accidentally sat on one.Then came the light plastic 78-rpms, sometimes with two pieces of music on the same side.They would bend a bit before cracking when you sat on them.They were more sensitive to heat and out of commission if left on the radiator.Even their babies, the 45-rpms, had two pieces of music, one on each side.By now electric gramophones and jukeboxes replaced the hand-cranked players.Remember the 33 1/3 records?It was a light, thinner record with five or six pieces of music on each side.Didn’t have to run to the player so often.You must remember the tape decks with the large spools that would play for hours.Then came the popular but short-lived 8-track cassettes.I bought a car in 1976 with an 8-track player installed.The music was great so I bought a radio-cassette player, with the big slot on the side, to play them at home.It is still in use now by my daughter-in-law.The popular cassette tapes and their players that replaced the 8-tracks can play both sides and continue non-stop.The famous “Walkman” gave us portable music and increased the sale of batteries.Although CD portables are replacing the cassettes, many of them are still in use, like my companion’s yellow Sports Sony.Those CDs have now entered our lives thanks to a gift from our children last Christmas.We learned of the true quali- ty of music on the CDs by accident.My companion has always had difficulty mastering electronic gadgets.Trying to play some CDs without my guidance, she was not aware that she had her finger on the volume button of the remote while she looked for the CD button on the tuner.When she did hit the button it sounded like a clap of thunder right in our living room.She gave out an equally loud yell.The result was a blown speaker - not my companion’s.Feeling guilty she paid for a set of new speakers which I installed the same afternoon.It was only then that I realized our 27-year-old speakers were only 25-amp high fidelity.The new ones are 100 amp stereo with tweeters, surround sound and what have you.What a marvelous difference! I can listen to almost any radio station in the world on my computer.Now I am learning to import music from other computers with programs like Real Player and Napster that will most likely be obsolete before I master them.Happy Thursday! Our Man Thursday William Cox Toxic chemicals must be eliminated worldwide One of the most remarkable traits of the human species is our adaptability.But that adaptability also has a downside - it makes us short-sighted and quick to forget.When our actions degrade the environment or our health, we often arrogantly assume that we are clever enough to find some technical way to solve the problem instead of simply changing our behaviour.So when scientists tell us they are finding large quantities of human-made toxic chemicals in some of the world’s most pristine environments, it doesn’t really shock us anymore.Most of the people alive today were born since 1950 and cannot remember a time when human activities were not pervasive across the planet.We have become accustomed to our domination of the Earth, without accepting the responsibility that this power entails.You could say that as a species, we have entered our adolescent years - a frightening thought.But there are some signs that we are maturing.This week delegates from the world’s nations are meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, to negotiate a treaty on persistent organic pollutants (POPs).POPs are synthetic chemical compounds that include the well-known pesticides DDT, aldrin and toxaphene, as well as some industrial chemicals like PCBs and industrial by-products like dioxin.The problem with these chemicals is that they are all veiy toxic, they are “persistent” in that they do not degrade easily into less harmful components, they are easily transported by water and air currents, and they accumulate in body fat.As a result, they are everywhere.In fact, all human beings now carry some amount of POPs in their bodies, even though these chemicals did not exist 75 years ago.POPs are often described as being like “grasshoppers” because they evaporate in warm areas, are carried by the wind and then settle in cool areas.This hopping around the globe often leads to concentrations of POPs in colder regions like the Canadian Arctic.Although thousands of kilometres from the American border, the territory of Nunavut receives up to 82 per cent of its dioxin from the United States.Once in the Arctic, POPs accumulate in the body fat of fish, seals, polar bears and people.These toxins are then passed on to the next generation through breast milk.The milk of Inuit women of the Eastern Arctic contains 1,210 parts per billion (ppb) of DDT and its derivative, DDE, while milk from women living in southern Canada only contains about 170 ppb (which is alarming in its own right).Researchers are concerned that such high concentrations of POPs in Canada’s Arctic peoples will lead to immune dysfunction, cancer and developmental delays.Recent studies on nursing human infants, for example, have found that even “background” levels of PCBs can increase the incidence of disease.That’s why a global treaty aimed at eliminating these chemicals is so important.POPs are not limited by national boundaries and can only be effectively dealt with on a global level.But elimination will not happen overnight.The pesticide DDT, for example, is still needed to combat mosquito-spread malaria, which kills millions of people every year.But there are other ways to fight malaria that, if properly funded, could eventually eliminate the need for DDT.Science Matters Dr.David Suzuki Weather Today: Snow.Total accumulation possibly exceeding 10 centimetres.High near minus 2.Friday: Mostly cloudy and a few flurries.Low near minus 8.High near minus 6.Probability of precipitation 70 per cent.Saturday: Sunny with cloudy periods.Low near minus 18.High minus 5 to minus 8.Ben by Daniel Shelton W£ HAVE A CHURCH, A SCHOOL.A GENERAL STORE k anp little JL CHILPREN v) PLAYING! ISN'T THIS „ NICE, NICHOLAS?OUR OWN LITTLE CHRISTMAS TOWN/ i SNOWING BEN.STOP SCRATCHING WUR p| ^ / ! \ ,TUUK fi| VHEAP' Thursday, December 14, 2000 page 3 Record Transport Quebec asked to use asbestos in asphalt Studies show roads cost more but last twice as long By Stephen McDougall Special to the Record Asbestos In an effort to promote the use of asbestos locally, Asbestos and Danville town councils and provincial deputy Yvon Vallières have asked Transport Quebec to use asphalt mixed with asbestos when it builds a bypass road to the Magnola magnesium plant next year.The two towns and Vallières argue the asbestos will reinforce the asphalt and make a longer-lasting road.“Tests that the Quebec government did using asbestos showed the pavement did not sink as much when the road was used by heavy trucks,” said Vallières in a recent interview.“We want the government to give a green light for its use on the bypass road where a lot of trucks will be driven.” Construction of the road is set to start next summer or fall.It will link Highway 116 on the northeast side of Danville with the Magnola plant via an abandoned railway lane and open fields.It will also intersect with Highway 255, which already contains asbestos on the stretch between Danville and Asbestos.Vallières has been critical of the Quebec government for defending the use of asbestos in other countries but ignoring it at home.Two weeks ago he called the provincial government hypocritical for allowing worker health and safety inspectors to declare any work site dangerous that has even the most minute amount of the fibre present.“This is a chance for the government to show it cares about our asbestos industry,” he said.“Use it in all Quebec roads and show how useful it can be for the world.” Jacques Garrant, an official with 'rans ort Quebec in Sherbrooke, said the government is seriously considering using asbe tos in the bypass road protect.“The chances are good for asbestos use in the bypass, but no final decision has been made yet.We are still in the planning stages, and asbestos is being considered,” he said.Garrant said tests by his department showed the fibre did allow roads to last longer, but mixing it with asphalt meant higher costs.“The mix formula calls for more asphalt than we usually use, but in tests on two roads in the Beauce and the Gaspe, the pavement did last longer." According to a recent Transport Quebec pamphlet, an asphalt mix called “EGA-10”, used on some sections of the Trans-Canada highway 20 had “a more closed, denser surface texture than standard grained asphalt mixes.” It went on to say that the “the high mastic content reduces permeability, protecting the pavement structure while maintaining its load-bearing capacity.” Bernard Coulombe, head of the local JM Chrysotile asbestos mine, said asbestos-asphalt mixes such as EGA-10 cost 15 percent more than usual pavement mixes.“But the tests show the road lasts twice as long as other roads without asbestos,” he said.Vallières said another problem with asbestos in asphalt is the different types of mixes needed for different types of roads in the province.“It can get cost- ly when the road builders have to make one mix for one road and then change it for another,” he said.“The mixes have to be made at a central factory, then shipped out to the work site, whereas at most other road projects, the asphalt is ready to be applied without being mixed.This becomes a logistical problem if asbestos is to be used across the province.” But Vallières added the effort to set up regional mixing sites might be worthwhile if it can fend off competition from other road building materials like cement.“The cement companies are trying to convince Quebec they can build a better, more durable road,” he said.“I believe we can have better roads using asbestos.The trouble is convincing municipal, regional and provincial governments of that.” Serge Charland, director general of Asbestos, fully supports the use of asbestos for the bypass road, and added the town is also considering the fibre asphalt for future town projects.Open until Electrical fire in Racine Staff Faulty wiring is being cited as the likely cause of a fire that caused some $50,000 damage to a factory in Racine early Wednesday morning.At around 3 a.m., an employee was working alone at Ramajex, located at 192 Route 222 in Racine.The flames apparently started after an explosion in an oven used to dry pine and ever- green tree needles.The employee was not hurt by the explosion or the flames.He immediately called for help, thereby limiting the damage done.Sutton celebrates 40th with low prices this weekend L'Enfant- Staff This weekend, on Dec.15, 16 and 17, Sutton will be celebrating its 40th anniversary by offering visitors three days of skiing and snowboarding at prices that have rarely been seen since the resort opened in the early sixties.Over the three days, lift tickets will cost $5 per day for most skiers, and will be free on Dec.17 for clients born in 1960.And with the recent weather, which has dropped some 18 centimetres of snow on the mountain, there will be many runs open.Entertainment in the form of a jazz trio - guitar, percussion and stand-up bass - is planned to highlight this anniversary event at Chalet Alt.400m starting at 3 p.m.on Saturday.Also in celebration of Sutton's anniversary, the Corlab Group is sponsoring an exhibition of more than 60 photos that retrace the resort's history.The exhibition begins Dec.15 at the Sutton Museum of Communication and History, 30A Principale Street South.For the snow report, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, call (514) 866-7639.NORTHERN-CROWN Web Design Web Hosting Content Creation fi .no rthern- 819.829.5772 crown.com E.XHi B.l.I I flj u o 1/1 Madame Linda Cfité, a resident of Martinville, has collected a large number of religious statuettes induding more than 70 wax versions of the infant Jesus.The Société d’histoire de Sherbrooke was strongly attracted by the theme, as well as the rarefy and state of conservation of this collection.Production Centre d’interprétation de l'histoire de Sherbrooke 27 S rue Oufferin, Sherbrooke 819-821-5406 With financial support from; Monsieur Bernard Landry EX EX vice^rtfflier ministre BU et ministre d'état S l'Économie et aux Finances et ministre de la région de l’Estrie tégufruits Inc __Agenda Bibliothèque municipale Éva-Senécal (BZ1-BSS1) : Le Noil de Charlie, Saturday, Dec.16, 1 pm (6-12 yrs).Bricolons avec des cocottes, Sunday, Dec.17,1.30 pm (6-10 yrs).Biscuits en pain dépice, Saturday, Dec.23,1.30 pm (6-12 yrs).• Noté* des beam-arts ds Sherbrooks (121 -2116) : Exhibitions: Frire Jirtme.Noir et couleurs, untl January 21,2001.Dessins de la terre.From the discovery ot America to the discovery ol Lake Memphremapop, until January 28,2001.• Musée du Mmiaatrs ds Shsrbrsokt (644-1200) : Exhibition Territoire dean, au Centre ^exposition Léon-Marcotte, until January 7.2001.Permanent exhibition at the Musée de la lour.• Galerie d'art da Centre sultsnl ds lUnhwrsité ds Sherbreoks (121-7742) : 2500, boulevard de l'Université.Sherbrooke (Québec) J1K 2R1 Réseau Patrimoine et Muséologie de Sherbrooke http://rpm.ville.sherbrooke.qc.ca page 4 Thursday, December 14, 2000 .¦—THE»—- Record Richmond councillors to visit rail centre in Maine Plan is to increase industrial shipping, but residents fear increased noise and loss of bike path By Stephen McDougall Special to the Record Richmond Richmond’s mayor and six council members have been invited by the St.Lawrence and Atlantic Railway to visit their main rail installations in Auburn, Maine next Monday.“I don’t know if all seven elected council members will go, but they have been invited,” said town director general Martin Lafleur on Tuesday.“A company bus will pick them up on Dec.18 and return them to Richmond at the end of the day.” Robert Grossman, head of Emons Transportation Group, which owns the St.Lawrence railway, said the trip will highlight more than just the company’s material assets.“We want to show the members of the council more than just our facilities, we want to show them how well we get along with the people and the officials of Auburn,” said Grossman Monday.The American company did not invite local residents or the media along on the trip.St.Lawrence bought the local rail line, which runs through Richmond, from CN rail in December 1998.Since then it has been discussing setting up an intermodal truck-to-rail loading facility in the town’s industrial park and linking it to their main line near the town’s former train station.The plan is to attract local industries such as Magnola Magnesium in Asbestos and Cascades paper in Kingsey Falls to use the Richmond industrial park to ship and import products and materials from other FINANCIAL PLANNING By Frank Cameron C.ADM.R.F.P.Dear faithful readers As we are approaching the end of the first year of the new millennium, it is an appropriate time to reflect on the important topics that we have discussed over the last 15 years.It has nothing to do with the UPS and DOWNS of the stock markets and/or interest rates.History has a way of repeating itself, sometimes in a modified form according to its time, but the trends are essentially the same.No, what is important is the way conscientious people educate themselves in order to prevent disastrous situations for their families.Fortunately in the last 20 years, we have seen and increasing percentage of Canadian taking the necessary step to protect and in fact improve their general financial situation.There is however still much to be done.To be more precise, we have seen Canadians do the followings: Stop relying on the different levels of governments to guarantee their financial security.Invest in themselves and corporations to create wealth.Protect themselves and their families through adequate coverage for their responsibilities whether they be, life, income, serious illness, responsibilities, travel, etc.Learn more about the different legislations that govern their lives or the places they travel to.Update their knowledges as fiscal changes are made in relation to their also changing situation (marriage, divorce, children, education, etc.).Differentiate the trees from the forest when they select professionals, institutions or consultants before making important decisions.From early survival to social structuring, from social structuring to world communicating, conscientious Canadians have maintained an above average level of understanding, respect and love for the most important aspect of their life.LIBERTY or FREEDOM.I hope my contribution over these last 15 years has help you to reach, toward that goal.To all Health.Success.Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year This column, written and published by Investors Group Financial Services Inc., is presented as a general source of information only and is not intended as a solicitation to buy or sell investments, nor is it intended to provide legal advice.For more information on this topic or on any other investment or financial matters, please contact your financial advisor.Mr.Frank Cameron is a Chartered Administrator, and Registered Financial Planner, with Investors Group.Canadian provinces and the United States.One problem is the project might have to use a former rail link from the park to the station.The link was turned into a bike path two years ago and became part of the Trans-Canada Trail last summer.Some residents also fear the project will mean more rail traffic and noise through a town that has been trying to promote tourism with the bike path and other local projects.Gerry St.Laurent, who transformed half of the former train station into the popular Deli-Train restaurant, does not object to increased train traffic as long as it is well-managed and does not obstruct the bike path.“When I invested in this restaurant, it was on the understanding that the path would always be there,” he said.“I get a lot of people who have a meal on my terrace and watch the trains go by.Many of them come in by the bike path.If it’s taken away, I will consider legal action.” Mayor Marc-André Martel said last April the town wants both tourism and increased industrial activity, and would consider other rail links or bike paths if the two can’t be shared in the same space through town.He added any new link would have to be approved by a town referendum.“If the residents feel the proposed line is acceptable, they will tell us so in a referendum,” he said.Trains through Lennoxville to speed up Staff The multitude of trains passing through Lennoxville everyday will soon start moving a lot faster, according to officials at the St.Laurent and Atlantique rail company.Trains had been slowing down as they moved through town due to damage on the rails at the College St.and Dépôt SL crossings.Now that the crossings have been fixed, the trains will move through town at speeds between 25 and 40 km per hour, up to 30 km/hr faster than they have for more than a year.ÈjÈÉÈSm Rising Star “Garou” Spokesperson for Maison Aube-Lumière Recently, popular international singer Garou was in his hometown of Sherbrooke to present a $5,000 cheque to Mrs.Marie-Paule Kirouac, director, and Mr.Jacques Auger, Board President of Maison Aube-Lumière.Garou’s aunt spent her last moments at the residence.Located in Sherbrooke, Maison Aube-Lumière is a residence for terminally ill cancer patients.ADVERTORIAL ¦MM ¦¦ £ ¦ ¦ v SM»S ticka \o (ce O* MICHELIN RoadHandler SS »!?* «ag*?* Diamond could be forever for suspected thief By René Bruemmer Suspected jewelry thief Robert Vien-neau of Granby has spent 17 days with a $16,000 diamond engagement ring lodged in his digestive system that shows no signs of wanting to leave.Now it’s up to the court to decide whether he can leave prison on bail, even if he’s still allegedly in possession of stolen goods that the rightful owner wants back.According to police reports, Vienneau, 34, visited Magog’s Joallerie Duvar on Nov.27 and asked to see a variety of engagement rings, then dashed off with the most expensive one presented.Owner Jean Hamman chased Vienneau down, and x-rays determined the ring was resting in Vienneau’s stomach.Since then, Vienneau has languished in jail cells at the Memphrémagog police station and at Sherbrooke’s Talbot prison, with authorities expecting everything to come out in the end.He has also been charged with several other crimes of the same nature after police officers from Montreal and Trois-Rivières noticed similarities between Vienneau’s modus operandi and a slew of unsolved jewelry robberies in their districts.This is the first time, however, that Vienneau is also accused of swallowing the evidence.Jewelry store owner Hamman says Vienneau has more than 40 charges pend- ing against him for similar crimes.Despite various medical interventions, including administering laxatives and other treatments to loosen up his intestinal tract, and the fact that Vienneau has been regular in a dietary sense, the ring has only moved as far as Vienneau’s intestines according to x-rays taken last Monday.Vienneau has complied with all medical requests, short of surgical intervention.By law, he cannot be forced to undergo an operation to remove the 1.48-karat solitaire diamond perched on an 18-karat gold band.A court appearance for a possible bail hearing yesterday was pushed until Friday, when lawyers and the judge will decide whether Vienneau can leave Sherbrooke’s Talbot prison, even if the ring has not yet appeared.Police say they are no longer concerned with the whereabouts of the ring, because it’s not necessary for a conviction.Hamman credits regular exercise with his ability to catch up to Vienneau.“He was a professional at this, you could tell,” he said.“In the 100-metre sprint, there was no catching him.” Unfortunately for Vienneau, Hamman has worked more extensively on his longdistance training, and caught up to the suspect after nearly a kilometre.Although his insurance company has Complaints: CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 “Often times people are having a hard time, but they don’t know how and where to complain,” complaints coordinator Caroline Bouffard told The Record.Since June, Bouffard offers a variety of services which range from informing people about their rights and referring them to the appropriate authorities to helping people write up their complaints and accompanying them when they meet with institutions if needed.“Sometimes people just need someone to listen to them and help them determine what they should do about the problems they have encountered,” Bouffard said, adding she helps citizens prepare their complaint, determine what recourse they have and decided what remedy or corrective measure to seek.Bouffard said some institutions have an ombudsman or person charged with complaints.But, she said, those staffers are rarely objective and many patients often feel uncomfortable dealing directly with institutional representatives.That’s why the government has mandated a number of organizations to help citizens make effective complaints.In most cases, complaints are resolved by the institutions concerned, Bouffard said.In some cases, decisions are appealed to the regional health board.If citizens are not pleased with the remedy proposed by the health board, already offered to cut him a cheque for the missing ring, Hamman says he would rather have the original back.“I’ll take the gold band and mount a zirconian (fake) diamond in it and display it in our front window, with a sign saying “This is a reproduction of the famous ring,” Hamman said.In the 25 years he’s owned the store, he’s had a few similar snatch-and-run rob- beries, but this is the first time anyone’s swallowed the merchandise.So far he hasn’t noticed a large increase in shoppers as a result of the free media publicity.As for the real diamond, valued at $15,000, he plans to have it cleaned, polished and mounted on another band, and perhaps sell it at a slight rebate.“I’ll tell people the history, that it was the ring he took, and we’ll see what happens.” they can appeal to the provincial complaints commissioner known as the Commissaire des Plaintes, Bouffard said.The Commissioner has the power to make recommendations to the health minister.At each step in the process, the institution and the health board have 45 days to respond to complaints.Bouffard said the aim of her service is to help guide people through the system, not to represent them.She indicated the service is not set up to handle citizens with legal complaints.People who intend to sue doctors or institutions for malpractice are referred to the bar association.Bouffard’s service deals mainly with complaints against government-run or publicly financed health and social services which run the gamut from hospitals and CLSC clinics to foster care families and community organizations.Complaints can range from the right to receive services to the right to participate in health care decisions and the quality of services dispensed.Bouffard said a large number of the complaints she has received so far have to do with waiting lists and citizens being unable to access certain services.She said there have been no complaints about language, but she said the service is not yet well-known in the English community.Those in the Estrie region who require help can call 823-2047.Bouffard said she can go and meet people where they live.Collect calls are also accepted.Services, which are free and confidential, are also available in English.SAI F PRir.FS FNn SlINflAY nFHFMRFR 74 7000 WHII F OIIANTITIFS I AST Use your Sears Card and don't pay for 3 months* or pay no interest for 6 months’ on all automotive products and services over $200 SNOW TIRE BLIZZARD.STORM IN AND SAVE Save $20-68 total when you buy 4 snow tires.Save $5-17 per tire.RoadHandler* Ice V Snow Plus tires From 39.99 each P145/80R12.#10000 series.Sears reg.44.99-129.99.Eoch 39.99-113.99 lires include Road Hazard Wotronly Blizzak WS-50 tires From 59.49 each PI 55/80R13.#20000 series.Sears reg.67.99-148.99.Each 59.49-132.49 Arctic Alpin tires From 59.99 each PI 55/80R13.#16000 series.Sears reg.67.99 158.99.Each 59.99-141.99 ’Complete details a) Sears •'Don't pay' offer: Don't pay until March 2001.** 'No interest' offer: Pay in 6 equal monthly payments, interest free, until June 2001.When billed, any unpaid portion of your Sears account balance will attract credit charges, commencing the following month.Both offers: On approved credit, only with your Sears Card.Minimum $200 purchase.All applicable taxes and charges are payable at time of purchase.Exclude items in our liquidation/Outlel stores and Catalogue purchases, Offers end Sunday, December 24, 2000.Ask for details.Sears Centre de l'Auto Carrefour de l'Estrie 3150 Portland Bvld., Sherbrooke (819) 563-4821 NP1233000 Copyright 2000.Sears Canada Inc.Thursday, December 14, 2000 page 5 page 6 Thursday, December 14, 2000 ¦ THEwi Record Community Forum Letters to the Editor The Law is THE LAW and the Church will have no option Dear Editor, I refer to Stephen McDougall’s article of Dec.8, “Anglicans Refuse to Pay” in which David Blair, Chancellor of the Anglican Diocese of Quebec, states: “Canon Law does not allow parishes to refuse assessments.” To understand Mr.Blair’s and, in turn, Bishop Bruce Stavert’s dilemma, it is imperative that some clarification be given regarding the difference between Canon Law and Statute Law.In the Middle Ages, laws of the Church came to be known as “Canon Law.” being distinct from “Civil or Statute Law.” The Anglican Diocese of Quebec is regulated by Statute Law formulated at different times in the past by the Government of Quebec.Statute Laws regulate, and restrict the rules and regulations that the Church may wish to make into Canons.Plainly said, Statute Law has absolute priority over any Canons, fabricated or otherwise.Letting the Statute Law speak for itself, we find that it is intended “.for the general management and good government of the said Church.” and “.nothing in the said constitutions or AVNOBD OFCMIOM MABJO AlWSSEEM UkE^UOl & ke finds itself in sixth place in the Lebel Conference overall standings but they have a weekend.They travel to Vic-e Tigers for a Saturday night game and then to the friendly confines of the Palais des for a Sunday afternoon matchup against the m Wildcats.THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14th AT 7:30 P.M.LES CASTORS HOST THE CAPE BRETON SCREAMING EAGLES FOR RESERVATION: www.castors.net Thursday, December 14, 2000 page 13 RECORD Spooner Pond W.I.Spooner Pond W.I.minutes for November 2nd meeting Our November meeting was held at the Wales Home with Myrtle Fleck and Stella Parkes as hostesses.The president Vera Hughes opened the meeting in the usual manner.Ten members bought a poppy in remembrance of wars gone by.Unwrapped gifts were brought to be sent to the Douglas Hospital.The Rivage contacted us for donations of money or personal items for the needy, and maybe to fill Christmas baskets.The Troc-à-tous welcomes new members as well as donations of used clothing, toys, furniture, household items, etc.to be exchanged for whatever you need or someone in your family.They are open on Thursdays from 1 p.m.- 8 p.m.If you just need to chat and have a cup of coffee, they’ll welcome you in both English and French.The program for Spooner Pond for the upcoming year, was prepared by Laurie Walker, Hazel Fleck and Florence Blanchard.You will notice they have a sense of humour! Wool gathering to be taken to the schools is up for discussion.Possibly we will send the knitted articles to the Port of Quebec for the workers on the boats, or maybe they could be used in the Christmas baskets?For Agriculture - an article in the Record by Anna May Kinney on growing food organically was very interesting.Laurie Walker informs us that provincial exam marks at Richmond Regional The semi-annual meeting of Megan-tic Councy Women’s Institute was held on November 9th at Bonnieblink Farm.The County President, Audrey Allan welcomed three members from Inverness and six from Kinnear’s Mills, and then proceeded with the meeting in the usual manner, by the repetition in unison of the Creed, Pledge to the Flag and Oath of Citizenship.Two minutes silence was observed, in memory of deceased members.The county secretary, Mildred Robinson read the minutes of the last meeting, which were accepted as read.Audrey gave a report of the annual convention, held at Macdonald College in May, which she and Huguette Blais had attended.Sarah Maude Vincent of St.Patrice had won a prize in the essay contest.It was agreed that a book enti- meeting were higher this year, (on an average) than at Massey Vanier!!! (Yeh! Richmond Regional).Grace Taylor read an article on children who learn to cook, eat more healthy food, than those who don’t.Folic Acid is recommended for pregnant moms and for those considering becoming pregnant.Folic Acid helps prevent birth defects, could it also prevent cancer if it keeps our DNA normal?Alzheimers in women would be caused by a lack of spinach (iron), peanut butter (vitamin B6), whole grains (vitamin E), orange juice (vitamin C).Beware of fast foods they taste good and are quick to prepare but do they contain health maintaining nutrients?Our faithful Christmas eleves will be buying and wrapping and delivering Christmas cheer to our shut-ins.Thank you Myrtle Fleck and helpers.Our December meeting has been advanced to the 5th, with a buffet at the Marquis at noon, followed by a meeting at Hazel Flecks.Remember your gift for exchange! Happy birthday to Arnold Mallette on November 24 or 27 (election day).Arnold will be celebrating 80 years of getting up early in the morning and presenting a friendly face and a word of greeting to all he comes in contact with.A delicious lunch was served by Myrtle and helpers, thank you, all for your participation.Submitted by Estelle Blouin for Spooner Pond W.I.tied, 101 Dalmations, be given to the Thetford School, in recognition of their participation, and to be delivered by Catherine Maxwell.It was moved by Helen Lowry and seconded by Jean Wright that a vote of thanks be extended to Grace Cox and Lois Marshall, for acting as judges.All were in favour of continued participation in the essay contest.Helen Lowry, treasurer, gave a very satisfactory financial report.A donation to the Homestead Upkeep Project had been acknowledged.Fees, Pennies for Friendship and the travelling parcel were collected by Helen.Catherine won the parcel.A handicraft project list was circulated, as was Evelyn Lennon’s new address.The annual convention will be held on May 16th and 17, 2001.Branch reports Deaths MACKLE - In loving memory of our dear son and brother Kevin Patrick Mackle who died on December 13,1998 at Bishop’s University, Lennoxville, Quebec, aged nineteen.No words can expess the loss of the love.Friendship and kindness which you brought to our lives.There is a place in our hearts That will never again be filled.Love MOM, DAD and MO A mass will be said in his memory at StAmtoine’s on Thursday, December 14.are due to be sent before Nov.15 and county reports before Dec.15.Cards for sick and shut-ins were signed by all present.The president, Audrey congratulated Inverness on their 80th anniversary and the secretary, Mildred returned thanks for a card of congratulations.Audrey appointed.Helen Lowry and Lois Marshall to form the nominating committee.The annual county meeting was set for March 28, 2001 at Inverness.The meeting closed with a poem read by Audrey.At Chinese auction followed.A delicious meal was served by the Kinnear’s Mills ladies and a social time enjoyed.Submitted by Lois Marshall (County Publicity Convener) Deaths GRYGAR, Mr.Ernest - Peacefully at the Brome Missisquoi Perkins Hospital in Cowansville, Que., on Tuesday, December 12th, 2000, one day prior to his 91st birthday, Mr.Ernest Grygar.Beloved husband of Janina Ambitski.He leaves to mourn his son, Zygmunt (Jane), his grandchildren; Peter and Robert, other relatives and friends.A memorial service will be held at a later date.Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Desour-dy Wilson Funeral Home, 104 Buzzell St., Cowansville, Que., J2K 2N5, tel.: (450) 263-1212, fax: (450) 263-9557, dwilson@endirect.qc.ca.Donations in his memory to the Brome Missisquoi Perkins Foundation, 950 Principal, Cowansville, Que., J2K 1K3, would be appreciated by the family.MURRAY, William Harold (Hal) - died suddenly Monday evening, December 11, 2000 at Knowlton, aged 95.He was a railroader who retired to Sutton with his late wife, Shirley Darrah, and lived there for almost 30 years.He will be deeply missed by his children, Michael, (Penny Burleigh) Susan (Wright) and David, (Josee Archambault); his seven grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren, and by his wife Lenora Poirier who lives in Calgary.Visitation will be at Desourdy Wilson Funeral Home at 31 Principale Sud, Sutton on Saturday, December 16th from 2 pm to 5 pm.A memorial service is planned for the spring.In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Canadian Diabetes Foundation.WILCOX, Charlotte Ethel (nee Bugge) - Peacefully at the Centre d’Accueil in Cowansville, Que., on Saturday, November 25th, 2000, in her 90th year, Mrs.Charlotte E.Wilcox.Survived by her daughters; Doreen Gruer of Ormstown, Que., and Peggy Nicolle of Newmarket, Ont., her grandchildren; Donna Roy, Ste-van and Andrew Gruer, Brent and Blair Nicolle, also her great-grandchildren; Lindsay and Liam Roy.A memorial service for Mrs.Wilcox and her son Richard Lapierre, who predeceased her in May 1999, will be held from the chapel at the Desourdy Wilson Funeral Home, 318 ch., Knowlton, Que., JOE 1K9, tel.: (450) 263-1212, fax: (450) 263-9557, on Saturday, December 16th, 2000, at 2:00 p.m., followed by the interment at the St-John Anglican Cemetery in Brome.Please take note: Saturday, day of the funeral, visitation will be from 1:00 p.m.Megantic County Women’s Institute meeting RATES and DEADLINES: ANNOUNCEMENTS & NOTICES BIRTH & 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 1 p.m.and 5 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 5 p.m.the day prior to the day of publication.The Record cannot guarantee publication if another Record number is called. page 14 Thursday, December 14, 2000 ¦¦THE» Record Sawyerville United Church 100th anniversary August 6th was an important day at Sawyerville United Church.It was the 100th Anniversary of the church building, 150 years of ministry in Sawyerville and 75 years of Church Union.The Anniversary Committee worked hard to make sure everything was prepared for this celebration.Invitations were sent out, food for the luncheon after the church service was looked after and old pictures were asked for.The day arrived finally, a beautiful bright day.People entered the church and were given a bulletin by our ushers - Edie and Ian McBurney and Janice and Randy Hartwell.The children received a special bulletin along with crayons so they could color the pictures.Soon it was time to begin the service.The United Eaton Valley Choir entered the choir loft followed by Justin Lowry and Rev.Cedric Arnold, our guest speaker.Mary (Crosby) Scholes presided 11 j';i MOE’S RIVER To be held in the nostalgic country setting of the Moe’s River Church, all are cordially invited to attend the annual Christmas Service, sponsored by the Moe’s River Community Association, on Sunday, December 17 at 7:30 p.m.under the leadership of Rev.James Potter.AYER’S CUFF Townshippers’ Association invites you to a CBC reading of “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens at the Beulah United Church in Ayer’s Cliff on Friday, December 15 at 7:30 p.m.Come one, come all! Bring a donation and/or a non-perishable food item for the Beulah United Church Christmas Basket Drive.Info: (819) 566-5717.STANBRIDGE EAST Service of 9 lessons and carols at St.James Anglican Church, December 17 at 4 p.m.Everyone welcome.Refreshments.For information call (450) 248-3257.SHERBROOKE St.Peter’s A.C.W.Thrift Shop, 200 Montreal St., closed December 20 and 27 and January 3 for holiday season.Open again January 10, 9 a.m.to 1 p.m.Merry Christmas to all.LENNOXVILLE St.Francis Valley Naturalist Club Audubon Bird Census, December 16, dawn to dusk.Pot-luck supper to follow at Amedee-Beaudoin Community Hall in Lennoxville.Participants with feeders should contact coordinator Gladys Beattie (819) 346-5301.NORTH HATLEY A Christmas Service of Lessons and Carols will be held at the North Hatley United Church on Sunday, December 17 at 7 p.m.Musical leadership will be provided by Glenn Coates and Aurelien Quintin.Refreshments to follow.Eveiy- at the organ and Sara McBurney played her flute.We opened with “Holy, Holy, Holy” with Sara playing the descant.Jessica Nugent then called us to worship.This was followed by Claris Phillips singing “Bless This House” accompanied by our former organist, Phyllis Smith.Bradley Hartwell led us in the Prayer of Approach and Confession and Justin Lowry gave the Assurance of Pardon.It was time to sing our first hymn, “Come Let Us Sing of a Wonderful Love.” The Rev.Robert Shaughnessy, one of our former members and now a minister of the Baptist Church in Cambridge, Ont., gave the Old Testament reading.Psalm 100 was sung, “All People Who on Earth Do Dwell.” Garth Lowry, a member of the congregation, read the Epistle.We then sang “The Church’s One Foundation.” The Gospel reading was given by the one welcome.WARDEN 500 card party on Wednesday, December 20 at 7:45 p.m.Sponsored by Victoria Rebekah Lodge #19.Lunch and prizes.All welcome.COOKSHIRE “Love Came Down at Christmas” performed by the Parish Council of E-D-V to mark Christ’s birth at Bethlehem and the millennium at St.Peter’s Church, Cookshire on Sunday, December 17 at 2 p.m.Everyone is welcome.NORTH HATLEY Classic Carol Service and Reception at St.Barnabas Church, North Hatley on Sunday, December 17 at 4 p.m.LENNOXVILLE Ham & Turkey bingo at the Hut, 300 St.Francis street on Wednesday, December 20 at 7:30 p.m.by the A.NA.F.Unit 318.Everyone welcome! LENNOXVILLE Last chance to see the three exhibits on display at Uplands: “Bonheur d’hiver 2000” (featuring eight Townships artists), “Nina M.Owens 1869-1959” and “International Nativity Scenes”.Come on December 17 and enjoy tea and seasonal treats for our last Open House.Uplands will be closed from December 18 to February 4, 2001.Uplands, 9 Speid, Lennoxville, 819-564-0409 (Open Thursday, Friday and Sunday from 1 to 4:30 p.m.) • • • This column accepts items announcing events organized by churches, service clubs and recognized charitable institutions for a $6.00 fee.$9.00 for 2 insertions of same notice, $12.00 for 3 publications.Maximum 35 words.If you have more than 35 words the charge will be $10.00 per insertion.Requests should be mailed, well in advance, to The Record, P.O.Box 1200, Sherbrooke.Quebec, J1H 5L6, be signed and include a telephone number and payment.Telephone requests will not be accepted.Admission charges and trade names will be deleted.No dances.Rev.Cedric Arnold followed by his sermon, “Close But No Cigar.” Rev.Arnold was the minister at Sawyerville United Church in the late Sixties.The UEV Choir then sang an anthem sung 50 years ago.This was composed by E.S.Orr and used at the 50th Anniversary.Next, an old friend of the congregation, the Rev.Nettie Hoffman, whose father at one time was a minister here, spoke to us and led us in the Preparation and Dedication of the offerings followed by the Prayer of Thanksgiving.We closed by singing “Creations God We Give You Thanks” followed by the commissioning and Blessing given by the Rev.Arnold.Following the service everyone was invited downstairs, to partake of the bountiful lunch provided by our congregation and the scrumptious desserts brought in by other churches.There are many people to thank.Some of them include Ian McBurney, committee chair, Doug and Mabel Mack-ay, Claris Phillips, Theda Lowry, Mary Scholes and Janice Hartwell.Thank you to Christine Robinson who took the picture of the church and had it put on the bulletin cover.Christine also took many pictures during the service and lunch.Thank you to Hope Evans for sending out the invitations and receiving the responses, to Glenna Evans who prepared the history of the church and to Ruby Thompson for doing a great job of displaying the many old pictures loaned for the service.We must not forget to thank all the other people too - all those who attended, those who worked behind the scene in the kitchen and helped to serve the lunch and those who made the desserts.We could not have done it without your help.Also thank you to Roberta Symvester who videotaped the days events.A special thanks to the Evans family who built a showcase to put our old communion sets in and to Glenna who polished the sets and made them shine.Mary Scholes Magog & Area Connie Girard 843-6671 My sincere apology goes out to Melbourne’s Georgette Lavoie when in a previous column I erroneously printed Georgette Mallette.However, best wishes are extended to you for a speedy recovery and may you and Bruno have a happy holiday season! Austin’s Peter Meesen had an unfortunate accident and suffered a leg fracture.Sincere best wishes are extended to you, Peter for a speedy recovery from your relatives and many friends.Stanley Royea of Austin is not feeling too well, of late.Take care, Stan and get well real soon.Ella Carr-Davidson of Magog celebrates a birthday on Christmas Day.Happy birthday wishes are extended from your neighbours, relatives and many friends.A happy holiday season is extended to all my readers and to the Record staff who are always so pleasant and helpful in so many ways.It is more than a pleasure to have regular contact with each and everyone of you.Take care and God Bless! Love Came Down at Christmas In celebration of the end of this millennium and the birth of Jesus 2000 years ago, an adult Christmas pageant, Love Came Down at Christmas, will take place on Sunday, December 17, at 2 p.m.at St.Peter’s Church in Cookshire.The cast is composed of members of various churches of Eaton/Dudswell/Victoria Parish.The first of the 8 scenes of the pageant will be with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden.Other scenes include Abraham and Isaac, Moses and the Israelites, David the shepherd, the Annunciation when Angel Gabriel appears to Mary, Joseph and Mary arriving at the Inn in Bethlehem, a scene in the stable with the babe in the manger, shepherds, wise men, kings and angels.The scenes will be interspersed by Scripture readings and the singing of many beautiful carols.Come and truly enjoy this beautiful story and Carols Love Came Down at Christmas, scene in the manger, St.Peter’s ^ Christmas.Anglican Church, Cookshire at dress rehearal, Dec.3.N‘na RoweR ¦ i THE— i RECORD Thursday, December 14, 2000 page 15 Wales Home news So, here it is at the end of November, with Christmas knocking on the door.November, as usual was a gloomy month.The trees were all bare, then Remembrance Day, with it’s sense of loss and the tedium of the elections in both Canada and the U.S.A.Somehow, Kelly managed to inject a bit of entertainment into each week, with exercises, bowling, bingo, etc.The month started on the 1st with a visit and demonstration of equipment to help the handicapped.A company named Comforto, met the residents on Shaw 1 and offered walkers, canes, visual aids, etc.On the 9th, Kathleen Taylor brought a variety of Art and Craft items for sale.Residents were delighted with the lovely things she had to offer.It was a great help with Christmas shopping as many of us find it hard to tramp about in the Mall.On November 11th, the Richmond Branch No.15 of the Legion and the Women’s Auxiliary to the Legion arrived to help with the Remembrance Day ceremonies.There was a good representation from the Legion and they were joined by residents who had been members at one time.Mickey Blem- Richmond Hill W.The November meeting was held on the seventh, with six members present, at the home of Edna Smith, due to Mrs.Eurith Mason being ill.President Lois Enright welcomed everyone and thanked the hostess.The collect was repeated in unison.Roll Call followed with everyone handing in their program for next year.Motto: Genius is 1% inspiration, and 99% perspiration! Program: buy a poppy.Secretary, Bernice Beattie read the minutes of the September meeting as the October meeting was a demonstration on making wreaths - no business conducted.Business arising: Changes to Richmond Fair, exhibits for children were made.List of winners for year 2000 - as follows: from Richmond Hill W.I.1) Collection of 8 kinds of wild flowers: 1st, Sarah Jones and 2nd, Justin Badger.2) Welcome sign: 1st, Joe Reine Paix, 2nd, Julie Nixon and 3rd, Sierra Red-burn.3) Paint Design: 1st, Benjamin Weare and 2nd, Amber Redburn.4) Painted Bird House: 1st, Jeremy Gunter.Correspondance: Federated news and Quebec W.I.newsletter was distributed.New business: We have packed nine Christmas Seamen’s Shoes Boxes to be given to county to send to the Quebec Port for Christmas.We are selling the wreaths for Christmas made by our members and friends of the W.I.ming led in the Parade of Colors.Grace Johnston read “The Unknown Soldier” which had been published in the Record a few days earlier.Ken Gemmel played the piano for the singing of O Canada, other hymns during the service and God Save The Queen at the end.Rev.Ruth Matthews led the prayers and gave the blessing.At exactly 11 a.m.Marc Bolduc sounded the Last Post on his trumpet and at the end of two minutes George (Gibby) Gibbons played Amazing Grace on the bag-pipes.George is a newcomer to the area.He and his wife moved to Melbourne Ridge from B.C.We are looking forward to hearing those bag-pipes again.On behalf of the Women’s Auxiliary, Maijorie Abercrombie presented 55 year pins to Eileen Flanders and Dorothy Carr.Kelly read “In Flander’s Field”, thanked the legion members for being here and invited them to the Library for refreshments.The same afternoon, residents again met in the living room.This time to play one of a number of games, (scrabble, five hundred, bridge checkers, etc.).The activity cleared the sadness of the morning from our minds.A couple of bright spots in the month were the musical evening with Bruce I.meeting Treasurer’s report by Lilian Johnston -School Taxes were paid on our hall.A cheque from County Treasurer was received for semi-annual meeting.Drawing on quilt was won by Mr.Leroy Lyster.Donation was made to Canadian Legion Richmond for Remembrance Day.Insurance on hall to be paid.Lois Enright gave a report on “Townshippers Day,” and the Richmond County booth was a success in spite of the weather! Report on “Conference and Improvisation Match on Support to Natural Caregivers” held on Oct.25th at Community Centre.A number of our members attended and enjoyed it very much.Letter was received “Riviages” from Helen Johnston of asking for care packages, these to be in by Dec.1st.Members will exchange Christmas gifts at next meeting.Convenor reports: Agriculture: Beef farmers getting a break.Large hay crop quality not so good, because of weather.Canadian Industries: Slate Quarry opened 1868 at Kingsbury, Quebec.Long sence closed.A museum now opened on “slate” in what used to be St.Paul’s Church, on Belmont St., Melbourne, Que.Publicity: Sent news item to Record.Sunshine: two cards to be sent out.Next meeting Dec.5, at Mrs.Nellie Davidson’s, 1:30 p.m.As this will be our Christmas meeting, an exchange of gifts will be held.Meeting adjourned, pot luck lunch served, and social time spent.Submitted by Bernice Beattie, Publicity Convenor and Fran and the afternoon concert brought to us by Francine Beaubien’s musical students.They range in age from six to sixteen and each one of them gave a fine performance.What a lot of practice it must have taken! During the weeks before the election, a representative from the Liberal and Conservative party found time to come and meet the residents and encourage them to vote the “right” way.Shaw I was a busy spot on the 27th, since the Home was also the Pole for the surrounding area.A number of residents enjoyed breakfast at the “Old Station” on the 24th.The well-laden mitten tree was stripped of its wears, and given to Mr.Nourse to be divided between the schools.The beautiful afghan that was raffled was won by Thelma Williams of Richmond.Mavis and Roberta wish to thank each and everyone who contributed to the success of the event.Two boxes of scarves, mittens and toques were sent to the schools and six boxes to Sun Youth.Eighteen birthdays were celebrated during the month.The Young Women’s Institute held a party for the celebrants on the 4th floor on the 15th.The Birthday Boys and Girls had a great time.Thank you ladies.One lady, Irma Woodard was one hundred years old.She went to North Hatley to celebrate the day with her family there.During the month, we were joined by Iris Bishop, Della Doyle, Lillian Hanson and Grace and Gerald Dezan.We bid them all a hearty welcome.Welcome also to Rachael Clifford and Aline Healy, who are here for rehab.Eurith Mason has already returned home after her brief stay here.We wish her continued good health.Sincere sympathy is extended to the families and friends of Cleveland (Kelly) Taylor, Doris Gunter and Stanley Downes, who passed away during the month.The building is beginning to look a lot like Christmas, with all the decorations the staff is putting up.It seems that November was the lull before the festivities of the season.So with greetings of the season, I leave you.Alleda Nixon Mansonville Lawrence Jones Kenneth Jones is now residing in Knowlton, Que.Anyone wishing to visit or send him card’s, his address is: Manoir Lac Brome 28 Mount Echo Room 221, Knowlton, Que.JOE 1V0 “The Alexander Galt Christmas Basket Campaign 49 Record and ALEXANDER GALT REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL Lv>, ite you to drop off your non-perishable food and donations (before December 15th).The baskets will benefit families within the ETSB School Board.ffl ‘ m 1 lift DROP-OFF POINTS: Lennoxville VAUDRY'S FLOWER SHOP, 49 BELVIDERE 563-7271 Sherbrooke -THE - RECORD 1195 Galt St.East 569-9525 Please give generously! page 16 Thursday, December 14, 2000 'THEi North 12-14-00 A A 9 7 6 ¥ A 10 9 ?K 9 8 A J 9 5 West East K 4 A Q 5 3 2 J 8 7 4 3 ¥ 5 2 7 5 4 2 ?10 6 3 A 3 A K Q 8 6 South * J 10 8 ¥ K Q 6 ?A Q J A 10 7 4 2 Vulnerable: Neither Dealer: South South West North East 1A Pass 1 A Pass 1 NT Pass 3 NT All pass Opening lead: ¥ 4 Thursday, Dec.14,2000 Points are fine, but they aren’t evevthing By Phillip Alder If you worry only about high-card points, you are playing like a robot — and a rather inefficient robot at that.In particular, you should also be aware of two other plus-features.First, a decent five-card suit.For example, A-K-Q_-J and A-K-Q-J-10 both contain 10 high-card points, yet the latter is worth one more trick.Second, having intermediates — the nines and 10s of this world — is beneficial too.Indira Gandhi claimed, “A nation’s strength ultimately consists in what it can do on its own, and not in what it can borrow from others.” That does not apply to a bridge hand, which usually requires help from the hand opposite.For example, suppose you have J-10-9.That is three losers.Yet opposite A-3-2, you can take two finesses, having a 76 percent chance for two tricks.Now reduce that suit to J-5^4.It is still three losers in isolation.And opposite A-3-2, you would be very lucky to win two tricks.Bid up when you have good interme diates; they help to generate tricks, which is, after all, the object of the exercise.In today’s deal, opposite a 12-14 one no-trump rebid, North’s two aces, one king and good intermediates should have him bidding game.South has seven top tricks: one spade, three hearts and three diamonds.He hopes to collect two more spade tricks by taking two finesses.As long as West has at least one of the missing honors, South will do fine.But note that if South had either J-3-2 of spades or four low clubs, his chances of success would be negligible.WÊÊÈ Learn how to live with that man case — do it.Pronto.Dear Ann Landers: Every year at Christmas, my brother sends me frozen steaks from a catalog company.The steaks cost him at least $60.I can buy those same steaks at my local grocery store for $15.How can I tell him that I do not appreciate his expensive, totally impersonal gift?I know he sends the same thing to his clients and business associates.Is he so lazy that he cannot shop for his only sister?Maybe I should keep my mouth shut, but every time I think about it, it burns me up.Any suggestions?— Big Sister Dear Big Sister: A gift is whatever someone chooses to send.These days, many people prefer to “shop” via catalog or over the Internet.Kwitcherbeefin’ about the beef, and don’t sweat the small stuff, Sis.At least he is thinking about you.Dear Ann Landers: You recently printed a letter from a grocery clerk with hints for customers.May I offer a suggestion for the clerks?Please give us change in the correct manner.Most cashiers return change by putting the paper bills in your hand first, then dumping the change on top of it.Sometimes, they put the receipt on top of the change.This creates a “handling" problem.We need both hands to remove the receipt and the change before both slide off the bills and onto the floor.If cashiers would put the change in our hand first, and then the bills, we could grab it all with one hand.This would save us a lot of time and trouble, and spare the cashier a lot of frustrated customers.Please tell them, Ann.— Moon Township, Pa.Dear Moon Township: 1 don’t have to tell them.You did, and I thank you.Pedwell - Robinson wedding On July 22, 2000 Denise Pedwell, daughter of Maurice and Marie Pedwell, and Kirk Robinson, son of Don and Jolene Robinson (Lacolle, Quebec) were married.The ceremony took place outdoors at the home of the bride’s parents in Newcastle, Ontario.The best man was Scott Emery (Quebec City) with the matron of honour being Kathleen Clarke (Calgary).The wedding party also consisted of two flowers girls Bianca Robinson and Gabriele Nyman.The couple now reside in Denison Mills, Quebec.Birthday party Stanstead The afternoon of November 23, a delightful birthday party was held at the White House Residence here to celebrate the birthdays of Beatrice Gagne and Arthur Clowery.The party was hosted by Joyce Demers, assisted by Betty Smith and Lois Leney.Val Martin played piano music and the birthday song as Piedad Michellod presented a beautiful floral corsage to Beatrice and a boutionierre to Arthur.Several musical selections followed by Val at the piano.Games of Bingo were played and prizes were won by Ida Labor, Marion Phelan, Ruby Kay, Blanche Webb, Leda Cote (twice), Hazel Hand, Beatrice Gagne, and Jimena.Supper was served by the staff of the residence.The two celebrants blew out the candles on their cake after which is was cut and served with ice cream.Beatrice and Arthur were each presented with a gift bag containing gifts and cards.Lois Leney Season’s Greeting A veiy Merry Christmas and the best in the New Year to my relatives and many friends.Sincerely, Helen Brown-Burton Ayer’s Clifl Dear Ann Landers: My husband left a copy of your column on my night table.It was the one from “Divorcing Her in Massachusetts.” The writer said his wife has become a “sloppy mommy” and shows no interest in sex.Here’s my response: Dear Husband: Yes, you are absolutely right.I have a negative attitude about intimacy.When we have sex, I do so grudgingly and without enthusiasm.Why would I want to be sexually intimate with a man who belittles me on a daily basis?Twenty years of your tantrums have worn me down.You have humiliated me so many times in front of family and friends that we barely have a social life.Our daughter is afraid to have you Ann Landers around her friends because your idea of “discipline” is verbal abuse.I am glad you have started taking medication, which now allows us to enjoy your company from time to time.But I fear the alcohol you drink negates the effect of the medicine — and you refuse to stop drinking.It is becoming harder and harder to tolerate your boozy behavior.I am exhausted from doing everything at home and at work.Your criticism drains my energy.We have tried counseling.It didn’t help because you rejected all the recommendations.You will not agree to a separation, and a divorce would be financially and emotionally harmful to our daughter, so I will stick around until she is grown.How sad that such a potentially wonderful life should have come to this.— Leaving Eventually, When the Time is Right Dear Leaving: Your life with your husband sounds like a nightmare.Since you do not want to divorce him, get back into counseling — with or without him — and learn how to live with that man.It may be that you need to develop outside interests that do not include him.If that is the Thursday, December 14, 2000 page 17 —-th l —— —— ¦ - 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: Z equals H 'EM RFF ZXMPLHD, E KXM’H IPPF FEWP R FPUPMK; E IPPF FEWP R CXAW EM YAXUAPLL.’ -TRATAR LHAPELRMK PREVIOUS SOLUTION: “There’s always something suspect about an intellectual on the winning side." — (Czech president) Vaclav Havel © 2000 by NEA, Inc.14 Kjt n’ Carlyle How &ACOÜ STRIPS ARZ 7é$T£D For It-'f fflr © 2000 by NEA, Inc.www.comics.com Herman Jim Unger/dlst.by United Media, 2000 Is that chicken too well-cooked for you?Alley Oop TO YOUR.HEALTH AND SUCCESS.' 'THEY ARE ASLEEP MISTRESS.' „ VERY GOOO.' TARE THEM TO THE DEPROGRAMMING UNIT.' /