INTRODUCING THE NEW MUSIC PROGRAM AT ALAQSITE’W GITPU SCHOOL

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Former Youth Care worker Douglas Pictou is the Performing Arts teacher at Alaqsite’w Gitpu School. Last year he solely taught Mi’gmaq hand drumming to the students, and this year, he will be the music teacher from grade four to eight. Pictou has plans to update former music classes and teach them in a more modern and progressive way. Pictou said, “It’s going to be more percussion-based and projective-based as opposed to music class I grew up with.”

The brand-new classroom is equipped with many different instruments, like guitars, pianos, and drums, but will also have a variety of cultural instruments as well such as Mi’gmaq hand drums, and African rainmakers. The students will also get to learn digital aspects when it comes to music – such as MIDI boards and using various recording software.

Pictou explained his class will be very project based with exercises such as group rap projects, music video producing, and creating elements in sound.  One project, in particular, will be having the students mute scenes in a film and have them find a piece of music that fits the tone and mood of the film. When it comes to his goal for the class Pictou said, “I want to encourage them to play music, expose them to different types of music as opposed to just being a listener. If they still want to be just a listener, at least they’ll know what they’re listening to.”

Pictou says that he is looking forward to building relationships with students and letting them know that the classroom is a safe environment where they can come and blow off steam, feel accepted, have fun and perhaps heal themselves through music if need be.

By Ann Marie Jacques

NR Scientific Research members saved the life of DFO officer

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“The fact that you have put your own life in danger to save me is remarkable and I’m deeply touched by your actions. In doing so, you gave me the chance to continue my wonderful life and for that, I will be forever grateful. You have shown exceptional courage and strength and I’m so proud to say that you are my heroes.” 

These were the words from Michel Arsenault addressed to Diane Bernard and Denise Barnaby.

Emotionally and in tears, he told a small audience about the moment, three years ago, when he fell from the smolt wheel, his boot was caught in the wheel, pushed underwater by the current with his wader full of water, which it made it hard for him to lift his head. “It lasted few seconds, but it looked hours for me,” said Diane Bernard, who was the first one to jump from the Scientific Research canoe to the platform of the smolt wheel and run to the other side to try to rescue Michel.

Diane’s first attempt was to pull Michel out, but the water current was hard because Michel was 5’11”, 190lbs, the water in his wader, and the strength of the current. On her second attempt, she got the help from Denise and together they pulled him out. When he was out of the water on the platform, Diane was still holding him so tight that Michel, recuperating and coughing to expel water from his lungs, told her “Let me go”. 

This happened in spring May 19, when the current of the Restigouche river is fast and carrying all kinds of debris. DFO wanted to thank them before, but the pandemic prevented doing it.

Yesterday was the day when Diane, Denis, and Michel, their families, DFO representatives, and the Listuguj Scientific Research team were together to celebrate the act of heroism of helping a colleague of 23 years, in danger on the salmon river.

By Felix Atencio-Gonzales

LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER SPOTLIGHT – LLOYD ALCON

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Lloyd Alcon has had many impressive job titles under his belt, but now he’s focusing on his businesses. He is the owner of LCA Rentals and Outdoor Services, LCA Solutions Inc., and is the Chief Executive Officer/Part Owner of Initiative Concrete Inc.

Alcon says LCA Rentals and Outdoor services began in 2019 when he purchased a tractor and started doing small maintenance jobs in the area. Alcon always knew he’d like to do this kind of work eventually, but when COVID-19 hit, with the bridge being closed, these kinds of services became a big demand.  Alcon said, “We weren’t able to access certain services, and equipment rentals was one of them. I saw an opportunity and rolled with it.” Alcon continued to purchase more equipment and hired employees to work for his business. LCA Rentals and Outdoor Services is now a successful construction and landscaping equipment and machinery rental business.

LCA Rentals and Outdoor Services offer a wide variety of services such as construction equipment and machinery rentals, land maintenance, new driveways, larger landscaping projects such as retaining walls and drainage, and much more. The company has completed many projects in the area like various renovations and new house excavations.  One thing Alcon highlighted is how proud he is to be able to give back to the community of Listuguj. He said, “We’re able to donate a lot back to the community. I have the equipment, so if somebody needs something within the community and it’s not a big project, I can give it to them.”  One particular project done by LCA Rentals and Outdoor Services is the community garden.

After this business was underway, Alcon partnered with Grant-Mann Solid Concrete Ent. and started his most recent business, Initiative Concrete Inc. which is a ready-mix concrete company – the two companies complement each other and continue to do so.

Since 2017, Alcon also owns LCA Solutions Inc. which is a private consulting firm that specializes in public security.

Alcon says that he would eventually like to expand his businesses and hire more full-time employees. He is currently working on getting his contractor’s license and getting certified in Quebec to work off the reserve. Alcon laughed and said, “This is still pretty new to me, and I don’t think I’ll be starting any new businesses any time soon.”

By Ann Marie Jacques

GIVING CHILDREN A HEAD START SINCE 2001

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Listuguj celebrates and offers many programs for the youth in the community.  One of these programs is Head Start.

Head Start began back in 2001.  It was initially held in what is currently the Haven House building. It eventually moved to the Education Complex until a new building became available specifically for the program in 2017.

Head Start features an early childhood learning curriculum and is a program for children ages three to four in the community. The staff at Head Start consists of General Manager, Tina Martin, and early childhood educators Valery Jacques-Larocque and Mallory Larocque. Here children will learn and participate in several programs with various workstations, such as story time, yoga, fine motor skills activities, outdoor play and even learning Mi’gmaq.  The children learn how to maintain structure and routine, how to become independent and interact with other children in the community.  Head Start consists of two groups – mornings and afternoons, and each group runs on weekdays for two hours. This type of program will also help prepare them for going to school in the future.

The program is a key point in helping to determine any learning disabilities and ensure children receive the type of assistance they need. Tina Martin said, “If we see any kind of a developmental delay, we’ll be able to have them screened with the permission of parents, we can either get a speech pathologist or an occupational therapist, we can also go through Jordan’s Principle.”

When asked what their favourite thing about working at Head Start is, Martin said, “Watching these children learn and play, and then seeing them graduate from high school.”

Valery Jacques-Larocque simply said, “Watching them grow.”

Head Start has kicked off again this month, and the staff is eager to take part in the children’s education journeys!

By Ann Marie Jacques

Elawsimgewei Gina’muo’guom – Encourage, Empower, Educate

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The Elawsimgewei Gina’muo’guom isn’t just your typical education institution when it comes to adult learning, it’s a safe haven and a place for students to learn about themselves and grow as individuals. As the name loosely translates, it’s a place where lifelong learning occurs.

Bella Moffat is the Academic and Guidance Counsellor and Co-Manager of this First Nation Regional Adult Education Centre right here in our community. Moffat is the first person potential adult learners meet with to discuss the next step in their education journey. “My goal is to identify the individual’s career goal or what the goals are, and it’s whatever is in the best interest of the adult learner,” said Moffat. Once the staff can establish the individual’s goal, then they can work together to determine the best path to take for success. The staff recognizes that many of these individuals are in different stages of their lives, and once they make that first step to further their education, the staff will guide them the rest of the way.

There are various programs offered at the Elawsimgewei Gina’muo’guom such as high school diploma, general development test (GDT), academic upgrading, and more. The staff at the centre understand that each adult learner is different, which is why they offer a different approach when it comes to teaching. The style of courses is switched up to keep things interesting for the adult learners. “We try to base our courses on the needs of the adult learners,” Moffat said. The courses are a mix of self-paced learning, land-based learning, Mi’gmaq learning, and theory, but also feature a lot of hands-on learning activities such as horticulture and cooking classes.

The atmosphere is very laid back and welcoming. The centre takes pride in its relationships gained with the adult learners. Each person is treated in a mature, respectful manner and their comfort is the number one priority. Moffat said she wants the adult learners to feel loved and respected when they come through the door. The staff are very eager to support and guide the adult learners throughout this stage of their life.

In addition to the relaxed, self-paced teaching structure, the centre offers various incentives and fundraising for activities, events and holidays. The centre offers transportation to the adult learners, breakfast and lunch programs, and even weekly self-care activities in the building.

The Elawsimgewei Gina’muo’guom consists of a staff of eight, and the programs are run from September to June. To find out more information on the centre, contact Bella Moffat, or Administrative Technician and Co-Manager, Myrna Sook. More information can also be found on their Facebook page.

-By Ann Marie Jacques

Opening of the Eastern Door – Women’s Gathering

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Families First Support Services hosted the Opening of the Eastern Door event in August.  Guest speakers at this event included Elder Janie Meader and Shinead Meader from Membertou, Dr. Andrea Colfer from Elsipogtog, Karen Bernard from Waycobah, and Rose Ann Martin from right here in Listuguj.

Families First Support Services, Cultural Coordinator Christine Metallic discussed the importance of this event, “We’ve been trying to get it organized for the last three years, because of COVID we weren’t able to.”

This three-day Women’s Gathering featured ceremony, teachings, sharing, and prayer. It was a time for women to gather and listen to one another to help with healing. “The purpose of the women’s circle is to create a safe space, to be able to share your story or listen to other people share their stories, so you can decide where you would like to go in your own healing journey,” said Christine Metallic. The theme for the gathering was reclaiming power as women.  Dr. Andrea Colfer said in her teaching, “We don’t need anyone’s permission to be Indigenous women.”

You can find more information on upcoming events on Families First Support Services, or Haven House’s Facebook page, as well as posters and pamphlets in various Listuguj locations.  

y Ann Marie Jacques

Listuguj Police Department Debuts Axon Body Worn Cameras

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Listuguj, QC – Earlier this month, the Listuguj Police Department announced that going forward, 14 frontline members will be equipped with Axon body-worn cameras. The cameras will be used during their day-to-day operations, to continue to maintain a safe community. Listuguj Police Department Chief, Trapper Metallic said, “The main reason for bringing in these devices was to improve our service delivery to the community.” These cameras will be set in place not only to secure safety for the public but for the officers as well.

Listuguj Police Department’s initial statement on the cameras via social media: the intended outcomes of the Axon body-worn camera initiative include, the enhanced collection of unbiased evidence, enhanced transparency with the public body, Enhanced officer accountability and professionalism, protection of both the public and officers and to assist in an officer’s ability to de-escalate certain situations.

The data from the videos and images captured using the Axon body-worn cameras are uploaded to secured servers in Canada.  Officers will be provided with login credentials and will be able to access the data and can even receive video evidence and photos straight to their mobile devices.  These easy-to-access videos and photos will be used to review certain incidents and will allow the department to act accordingly.

“By using body-worn cameras, the Listuguj Police Department seeks to reinforce trust and confidence with the community by keeping everyone protected; mentally, spiritually, physically, and emotionally,” said Chief Trapper Metallic.

Stay tuned for public information sessions with the Listuguj Police Department for more information regarding the new Axon body-worn cameras.

By Ann Marie Jacques

Local Juice Bar Is Here To Quench Your Thirst

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On top of being a full-time artist, a clinical aesthetician; and a cannabis store owner, Tracey Metallic now has another business, Ki’Juice.

Ki’Juice is a beverage bar specializing in low-calorie, sugar-free energy drinks. They recently just introduced bubble tea, smoothies, and iced coffee. Customers can also customize their own drinks to their liking. The business opened in August 2021 and has been successful ever since.

“When we were first given the idea in early February 2021. We thought it might work but then we quickly put it aside because we were busy with our other business. After Giving it much thought, we decided to go for it,” said Tracey.

Ki’Juice is located on Church Crescent here in Listuguj, attached to Tracey’s home. This location is a main challenge for the business, as it is not centrally located; but customers still find their way to keep the business going.

The menu has grown exponentially since opening, and it is sure to always be a drink to your liking. “Our menu is diverse where the customer can come in and order a healthier alternative to what’s out there like our sugar-free, carb-free, energy drinks; or they can enjoy a sweet treat like a strawberry coconut cream cheese smoothie with strawberry popping Boba’s,” Tracey said.

Many drinks have become a hit, like the Banana Pop, Mr. Freeze, and Bruce Banner. A lot of these drinks couldn’t have been made without the help of Tracey’s boyfriend and co-owner, Justin Lavigne. “It’s Justin’s pallet and impeccable taste who creates many of the drinks, which is why I dubbed him with the name Mix Master Jay,” Tracey says. “He’s the best!”

With Tracey’s hard work and diligence, Ki’Juice’s success can only go up. She plans on creating a franchise for Ki’Juice. “We are currently planning to expand; and within the near future, open up our second Ki’Juice beverage bar. We are looking at either Miramichi, Moncton, or Fredericton,” Tracey says.

Ki’Juice is located at 21A Church Crescent, in Listuguj, Qc. They are open from Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 8:00pm; and Saturdays, 10:00am – 8:00pm. Be sure to check them out!

By Tanner Isaac

Amelia Rioux – Athlete of the Year

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LISTUGUJ, QC – Amelia Rioux wins SSHS Athlete of the Year

Sports have always been a big part of Amelia Rioux’s life. She started her athletic career at the early age of three years old, beginning with soccer and dance. In grade three, she started swimming; and a year after that, she began playing basketball. When she entered high school, she added volleyball to the list of sports.

For Amelia, playing and committing to these five sports was all just for fun. It was a perfect way to keep busy and get rid of any stress.

“Playing sports is an escape from all the stress of life and everything,” said Amelia.

This year at the SSHS Sports Banquet, Amelia won ‘Most Improved’ for volleyball, ‘Best Defense’ for basketball, and the ‘Henderson Award’ for volunteering with the school. She also got her name on the gymnasium wall for winning the biggest award of the night, ‘Athlete of the Year’.

This isn’t Amelia’s first time getting her name on the wall. Her involvement in basketball during her middle school years at AGS scored her ‘Rookie of the Year’ in grade five, ‘MVP’ three years in a row afterward, and was able to get her name on the wall in grade seven for winning ‘Athlete of the Year’.

Though she accomplished so much throughout her journey, her high school experience was far from normal due to the pandemic.

“I only had like one normal year of high school, which was grade nine,” she said. “I lost out on half of it all.”

Attending high school during the pandemic is unimaginably rough, but Amelia got by. She graduated from SSHS this year and already has her plans set out for what is next.

“I’m going to Holland College for kinesiology in the fall. I’ll get my diploma in two years and then I want to finish my degree at a university,” she said. “Once I’m done that, I want to go to my bachelor of education and teach at AGS.”

For her upcoming journey, you can expect Amelia to be trying out for the basketball, soccer, and volleyball teams. There is no doubt that she will become a huge asset to any team she plays for.

The community of Listuguj is proud of Amelia and her accomplishments and can’t wait to see her continue thriving.

By Tanner Isaac

“You Have to Find Humor in Painful Things”

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What better way to kick off Listuguj’s first Pow-Wow in two years than kicking it off with a live performance from the hilarious, Don Burnstick?

The last time Burnstick was in Listuguj was in 2017 for National Addictions Awareness week where he talked about sobriety, violence, and well-being, this time around, he came to the community to lighten things up after the pandemic. “COVID was horrible across the board,” says Burnstick, “You’re healing when you can make fun of an experience. You have to find humor in painful things.”

Burnstick is forever grateful for the impact he has on people, and how his show affects the lives of his multi-generational fans: youth, adults, and elders.  He is touched by the laughter that erupts from the crowd at each show, and by the stories from individuals saying he played a major part in their lives. Burnstick recalls one powerful fan encounter where the fan stated he and his father often laughed and bonded together listening to Burnstick, and since the fan’s father passed away, he continues to watch and listen to Burnstick in memory of his father and feels his father laughing alongside him.

Burnstick believes it’s his mission to make people forget their problems while he is performing. He says, “Somebody in the audience could be thinking about suicide, or someone is depressed, or someone got beat up the night before, there’s stuff that’s going on, so if I can help those people, I’ll do it. I’ll pour my guts out.”

Touring North America and performing for Indigenous communities is what Burnstick craves. He acknowledges that he could travel the world and perform, but says he wants to specifically share his humor and visit with the Indigenous communities who have supported him since day one.  Burnstick says it is truly humbling to see fans lined up outside venues to listen to him speak. “I used to get in trouble for my words, now I get paid for them.”

Burnstick has developed a major following on various social media platforms.  Be sure to follow him for news, upcoming show dates, and of course the humor we all love him for.

By Ann Marie Jacques