Introducing Dr. Jean-Paul Dedam, M.D. – Listuguj’s New Physician

/0 Comments/in , /by

In March, the Listuguj Community Health Services Directorate announced that Dr. Jean-Paul Dedam, M.D., will be joining their team as the new physician in the community. Having a physician in Listuguj is something that Listuguj Community Health Services (LCHS) has been working towards for quite some time. They wanted someone with experience in caring for Indigenous people, with ties to the community and Mi’gmaw culture. Dr. Dedam was a perfect fit for the position.

Dr. Dedam is a Listuguj community member, who grew up in Maine. Prior to taking on this new role, Dr. Dedam was living and working in New Mexico. He is temporarily residing with his uncle, Herbie Martin and Elizabeth Barnaby, and is in the early stages of learning Mi’gmaq. He is hoping to take Mi’gmaw Immersion classes later in the year. Although this will be his first time living in Listuguj, he said, “In the back of my mind, I was always preparing myself to come here.”

He has been a Board-Certified Family Physician since 2009. He went to college, medical school, and did his residency training in New England. He has outstanding work experience having worked in hospital settings, running a non-profit organization in Nicaragua, facilitating a Diabetes Empowerment Group, working on Cancer Center Symptom Management and is a Board-Certified Medical Acupuncturist. Dr. Dedam understands the trauma that Indigenous people face, and how that plays a significant role when it comes to health. He said, “The root of almost all health disparities in Native communities, other than some degree of poverty – varying by community, is trauma. Historical trauma and unfortunately ongoing childhood trauma.”

Dr. Dedam recognizes how cultural healing and practices can be beneficial to individuals. He has taken part in sweat lodge ceremonies and recently attended his first Mi’gmaw sweat lodge in Eel River Bar. He said, “I do think that ceremony and traditional practices have the potential of helping Native communities in that healing journey.”  Eventually, Dr. Dedam would love to bring more Indigenous medical staff and students to Listuguj to practice medicine.

LCHS Director, Donna Metallic, spoke about the importance of having a family doctor in the community. She stated that it was a long process for Dr. Dedam, and how exciting it is that it has now become a reality. She said, “It’s very important, because he’s a community member, he’s going to see firsthand, the realities of living in a First Nation community and addressing the colonization and the traumas.” Metallic spoke about the rise of addictions in the community, and how a doctor is needed more than ever.

LCHS recently had a meeting with the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux (Ministry of Health and Social Services “MSSS”), Centre intégré de santé et de service sociaux (Integrated health and social services center “CISSS”), plus partners at the Maria hospital, Dr. Dedam and clinic staff at LCHS. LCHS expressed their needs through the Mawlugutijej Cancer project. They stressed that the community needs to feel connected and have access to health care and resources. Dr. Dedam will be working with a family of physicians with the Groupe de médecine de famille (Family Group Medicine “GMF”). There has been an agreement with the MSSS for Listuguj community members to be able to bypass any Medicare card issues they may be dealing with. There will be a Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) navigator available at LCHS that will do applications for individuals who currently do not have a Medicare card.

Dr. Dedam will be offering house visits, he’ll be working closely with the Listuguj Community Social Services and the Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative, as well as Mawiomi Treatment Centre in Gesgapegiag and the Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal. Metallic said, “Dr. Dedam being here for the past few weeks, it’s been a whirlwind of visits, site visits, meeting with the different stakeholders that we have here, our sister community of Gesgapegiag as well. So that he really gets an understanding and a feel of what the portrait of our community is here.”

Dr. Dedam will begin his role as Physician at LCHS starting May 1st. Over the past few months, LCHS has been asking community members who do not have a family doctor, to contact them with their information. Those community members without a family doctor, will be taken as patients by Dr. Dedam, and will have access to his services. As of right now, Dr. Dedam will have an office at the Waqatasg Elders Facility.

If you have any questions regarding Dr. Dedam’s services, or for any other services offered at Listuguj Community Health Services, please call 418-788-2155.

Welcome Dr. Dedam!

By Ann Marie Jacques

Chief’s Message with Chief Scott Martin – April 2025

/0 Comments/in , /by

In early April, our fishermen and fisher women in the community went out to start the snow crab season. On behalf of Chief and Council, and the community of Listuguj, we appreciate all your hard work. I wish you all a safe and prosperous season.

I hope you all had a great Easter, surrounded by friends and family. Looking forward to the nice weather ahead!

LMG Communications Department Working on New Video Initiative – ‘Ms’t No’gmaq

/0 Comments/in , /by

The Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government (LMG) Communications department holds great importance within the organization, as well as the community as a whole. The department is responsible for updating social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn), LMG’s website, the Wi’gatign newsletter, video content, live-streaming events, photographing events, digital message boards and internal communications within LMG.  They work to promote and preserve the Mi’gmaw culture, language and traditions through these various media channels.

LMG’s Communications department consists of five employees who play pivotal roles in getting information out to the community:
– Communications Manager – Michael Isaac
– Media Journalist – Ann Marie Jacques
– Communications Officer – Julianne Wysote
-Multimedia Technician – Wayde Barnaby
– Graphic Designer – Kate McBrearty

The department would like to introduce a new project, ‘M’st No’gmaq – meaning, “All My Relations” in Mi’gmaw.  This will be another form of communication in Listuguj and another way to deliver information to community members.

What community members and viewers can expect to see on ‘M’st No’gmaq:
-Discussions on important topics in the community
-Information on LMG services and programs
-Interviews with leadership, LMG Directors/Managers/employees, Elders, youth and community members.

The videos will be a mix of live streams that give viewers the chance to comment and ask questions in real time, and pre-recorded videos that will feature appearances from special guests in the community.

If you have any suggestions on what you’d like featured on this new video initiative, send your feedback to feedback@listuguj.ca.

Keep an eye on LMG’s social media channels for upcoming information on ‘M’st No’gmaq!

By Ann Marie Jacques

Local Artist Spotlight – Lola Marie Vicaire

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Tell us about yourself.

“Gwe’ telwisi Lola Marie Vicaire, nesisgegipunai jel asugom aqq tleiawi Listuguj. ‘Ngij telwisit Janice Vicaire aqq nujjaq telwisipnaq Murvin Metallic. Gi’s nanipunqeg waiopsgwa’tegei. “

When did you learn how to bead, and how did you learn? 

“Amgweseweieg poqjiwaiopsgwa’tegeianeg na ‘ngij gegina’muip ta’n ‘teliltmg “necklace”. Etug pas’g ‘lluigneg te’sipunaiap na tujiw.

Toqo 2020-eg, getu’unjanianeg na ‘gsnugowaqan telwisig COVID ala’s’g’p. Newtugwa’lugweiap te’sigisg’g. Na tujiw poqjiwaiopsgwa’tegeiap aqq etuapnn nassaputaqann aqq keychain-l.”

What kind of products do you create?

“I create all kinds of beaded items but my favorite to make (and most requested) are floral earrings – they sparkle beautifully in the sun, and compliment everyone so well.”

Where do you find your inspiration when it comes to your beadwork/art?

“My inspiration comes from many things! Like the very first time I beaded with my Mother and learning to make the little flower necklaces is a core memory that means so much to me. I live right by the beach so sometimes I draw inspiration from the sparkle in the water or the colors of the sky as the sun is setting. And sometimes I get inspired by the beads themselves, and the way they catch the light and compliment one another. “

Tell us a bit about ‘Gsite’taqan Designs by Lola.

“Every piece of mine is a unique, long lasting, handcrafted heirloom. They are meaningful pieces that are meant to be cherished gifts, and that’s why I chose the name ‘Gsite’taqan. I’ve always been a creative and artistic person, and beadwork was a perfect fit for me. It all simply began as a creative outlet, which over the span of 5 years turned into full time business. My overall goal is to have my own creative studio and boutique, a place where I can collaborate with other artists and continue sharing my love for beadwork with others. “

Can you tell us about any future projects you have in store?
Stay tuned!

If someone was looking to purchase an item, what is the best way to contact you?

I can easily be reached at Gsitetaqan.designs@gmail.com, Instagram:  gsitetaqan_designs or on Facebook. 

Drop Off Any Expired/Used/Unused Prescriptions at LWRI’s Prescription Drop Off Events!

/0 Comments/in , /by

The Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative (LWRI) is a community-driven effort dedicated to supporting healing, wellness, and renewal in our community. Their goal is to address substance misuse and related challenges by working together to build a healthier, stronger Listuguj.

Over the past two years, the initiative has held a number of events in the community related to wellness. One of these ongoing events are prescription drop offs.

Community members are able to drop off any expired, used/unused prescriptions. Disposal of medication is important because expired medicines may not provide the treatment you or your family needs, and fewer medicines in the home means fewer safety risks. Anyone who drops off prescriptions, has a chance to win a prize!

Earlier this month on March 11th, LWRI held a prescription drop off.

Listuguj Community Health Services were on site and offering demonstrations on Naloxone administration. Naloxone kits were available for pickup as well. (Naloxone is a medicine that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose.)

Listuguj Public Security provided information about the new anonymous tip-line in the community.

Listuguj Community Social Services Directorate employee, Michael Martin had information regarding his Healthy Choice Healthy Community program.

Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative were also on site asking for feedback regarding wellness in the community.

Congratulations to the winners for March’s prescription drop off, taking home Presidents Choice gift cards:

Lililan Vicaire
Forest Condo
Marilyn Vicaire
Carmel Isaac
Ricky Condo

Keep an eye on LMG and LWRI’s Facebook page for upcoming prescription drop off events!

By Ann Marie Jacques

“It’s ok to step away.” – Why It’s Important for Parents to Regulate Emotions

/0 Comments/in /by

On March 13, the Listuguj Community Social Service Directorate hosted a Prenatal/Post-Natal Support Co-regulation event at the Listuguj Community Development Center (Bingo Hall). The event featured guest speaker Stacie Quigley Cormier, Manager and Licensed Counselling Therapist at the Mind At Peace Center in Campbellton.

The Mind at Peace Center offers a variety of services, such as therapy, a dietician, financial counselling and more.

Quigley Cormier’s presentation was titled, “Supporting Yours, and Your Baby’s Nervous System.” She specializes in the nervous system and spoke about the importance of regulating emotions. It’s no secret that being a parent is very hard work, physically, mentally and emotionally. Self-regulation allows individuals to be the best versions of themselves while parenting. To help soothe and regulate a baby or toddler’s emotions, it is beneficial for individuals to regulate themselves prior.  Babies are only born with a partially developed nervous system; therefore, it is important for parents and guardians to assist in teaching the tools on how to regulate the nervous system.

When assisting a child who is upset, it’s important to have yourself in check. Take a breath and focus on connecting with the child. Make eye contact and get on their level. Ask important questions: “What’s going on? What can I help you with?” Do not offer a solution, offer affection and care.

It is ok to feel overwhelmed and overstimulated, as this is natural human emotion. Quigley Cormier touched on self-regulation strategies, such as taking a pause, changing body temperature, movement, laughter, positive self-talk, and humming or singing. It’s also important to care for yourself and invest in your own happiness.

Quigley Cormier stressed that it is NOT selfish to simply step away in a situation and get emotions under control. It’s also important to recognize dysregulation in yourself. (Irritability, feeling helpless or guilty, tearful reactions, etc.)

If an individual is having difficulties regulating their emotions, or are feeling overwhelmed, help and resources are available. Quigley Cormier said, “Mental health support can look like what you need it to be.”

In Listuguj, there are several resources available within the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government:

Listuguj Community Health Services – 418-788-2155.  
Listuguj Community Social Services – 418-788-3039

The Mind at Peace Center is also an option. You can contact them at 506-525-2976 or find them on Facebook at Mind at Peace Center/Centre Mieux-Être.

By Ann Marie Jacques

Robyn Vicaire – Highlighting the Importance of Mobility and Strength Training

/0 Comments/in , /by

Listuguj’s Robyn Vicaire has a highly impressive educational background when it comes to the care of muscles, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. She studied to be an occupational/physiotherapy assistant at Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC), received a personal training specialist certificate, and most recently obtained a master’s degree in Kinesiology. Vicaire specializes in orthopedic rehabilitation and corrective exercise. She offers knowledgeable one-on-one personal training classes in her fully equipped in-home gym in Listuguj, and group fitness classes typically held at the Civic Center in Campbellton. 

When it comes to exercising, Vicaire stresses the importance of gaining strength and improving joint mobility and balance for preventing and rehabilitating common injuries, such as bone fractures, sprains, and joint pain. She said, “I find for a lot of people, exercise is linked to appearance, and losing weight, but I really want to send more of a message that exercising can be beneficial for improving quality of life. For example, training muscles and joints appropriately can reduce injury risk and boost performance in sports and everyday activities.” 

A lot of the time, when individuals decide to start going to the gym or exercising, they don’t know where to start. They may get overwhelmed, or overdo it, and this increases the risk of injuries. It’s important to be aware of how the body works and what your body can tolerate when it comes to bodyweight exercises or training with weights. Vicaire said, “You have to learn to progress yourself accordingly. If you don’t know how to do it yourself, that is where you can benefit from someone else teaching you.” 

As individuals age, their bodies naturally start to lose muscle strength and bone density, placing individuals at a greater risk of falls and fractures. This begins as early as the age of 30 and speeds up the older we get. This is why it’s important to focus on mobility and building muscle. This can be done through balance training, mobility training, training against resistance, or strengthening muscles required for good posture. 

Anyone can request a consultation by messaging Robyn Vicaire on Facebook, registering online at https://FunctionallyStrong.as.me/ or via phone at 418-320-9223.  During a consultation, individuals can expect to talk about their medical history, past injuries, and fitness goals they’d like to achieve.  

Group training such as Hip Mobility and Aqua Mobility classes are also offered and held at the Civic Center. Individuals can book a class using the same method as consultations.  

Keep an eye out on social media for more information on upcoming classes with Robyn Vicaire!

By Ann Marie Jacques

Chief’s Message with Chief Scott Martin – March 2025

/0 Comments/in , /by

Nice weather is just around the corner! Please exercise caution and be safe during the rest of winter and these icy months! March is Women’s History month. I’d like to acknowledge all the women of Listuguj, those who work in the LMG organization, and those on Council. I am grateful for the hard work and contributions of women in our community. Lastly, our fishermen and fisherwomen will be starting their season shortly. I wish them a safe season. Thank you for all you do

New Building Signage at 48 Dundee Rd!

/0 Comments/in , /by

Last Summer, a naming contest was held for the Admin 2 building at 48 Dundee Rd. This building houses LMG’s Communications and IT departments, the Restorative Justice Directorate and the MMS organization.

Listuguj Community member Rena Morrison was the winner with “Mawlugutieg.” Mawlugutieg meaning “We Work Together” in Mi’gmaq.

Earlier this month, the building received beautiful new signage.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this contest!

By Ann Marie Jacques

Listuguj Police Department’s Dispatchers – Prioritizing Community Safety

/0 Comments/in , /by

The Listuguj Police Department (LPD) oversees all aspects of public safety in the community, and one of the major resources used is the Police Dispatch Program.

Currently at LPD, there are six trained dispatchers who are available to provide emergency assistance 24/7 in Listuguj. These dispatchers answer calls and send the proper emergency teams to respond to the situations. They monitor and record the whereabouts of police officers, to ensure there is always help available for every call that comes in. 

The dispatchers are trained to answer calls and remain calm under high stress situations. Their role requires quick thinking and the ability to multi-task using dispatching equipment and tools and provide basic emergency help before responders arrive on scene.

Abby Metallic is a dispatcher with the LPD and engages in public relations work as needed for the past four years. She highlighted how working in this field is very rewarding and said, “Having a connection with my community, I have the opportunity to make a positive difference by providing assistance during critical situations. Helping people in their times of need can be emotionally rewarding, giving you a sense of purpose.”  She has also had the opportunity to assist in the training of new dispatchers in the community over the years. She spoke about the importance of teamwork and camaraderie when it comes to working closely with law enforcement officers and other emergency responders.

The LPD developed an updated Police Dispatch Program in Summer 2021. Before this program was put into place, LPD officers answered calls directly over the radio and then responded, which was not typically an ideal process. Constable Jesse Doiron assisted with the development of the program. He worked as a 911 PSAP (Public Safety Answering Point) Operator prior to his career in policing. Doiron said, “Drawing from that experience, I applied my knowledge to help develop a dispatch system tailored to LPD’s needs. This program allows dispatchers to log calls and track officer activity throughout their shifts. Additionally, I helped ensure that our new dispatchers were trained internally. Now I’m in the process of building an updated version of the system to enhance its capabilities even further.”  

Listuguj community members have two options when they require emergency services. They can call the LPD emergency phone number: 418-788-2003, or 911. Calling the emergency line ensures that individuals will speak with an LPD dispatcher, rather than a 911 dispatcher in Quebec beforehand. Ultimately every call will end with an LPD dispatcher no matter which number you call, and they will assist accordingly. Calling the emergency line may also shave off time in the event of a critical situation.  

Doiron said, “I also want to remind the public, that even though dispatchers may ask questions during an emergency, help is already on the way. Their role is to gather crucial details to ensure the right resources are sent as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

In early February, LPD rolled out an anonymous Drug and Crime Tip Line. Some examples of situations for the tip line include drug activity, theft, missing persons and crimes against a person. Call or text 506-987-3654 or email lpd.tips@listuguj.ca.  Please note that all calls, texts and emails will remain anonymous. The LPD would like to stress that this tip line is NOT designated for emergencies, and to please continue to use the LPD Emergency line and 911 for all emergency calls.

If you are interested in becoming a dispatcher with the Listuguj Police Department, please contact LMGjobs@listuguj.ca.

Thank you to the LPD dispatchers for the hard work they do in the community.

Listuguj Police Department Emergency Line – 418-788-2003
Non-Emergency Line/Office Phone – (418) 788-2334

By Ann Marie Jacques