Armstrong nominates six for volunteer service awards

EDITOR'S NOTE: This is an updated version of this story containing additional information about one of the recipients.

Armstrong Township council has nominated six residents of the municipality for the provincial government's 2023 Volunteer Service Awards.

Council members chose Mayor Jean-Marc Boileau, Bruno Dallaire, Debbie Demers, Caleb Fotheringham, Francois Gauthier, and Gisele Gauthier at its October 25 meeting.

Councillor Peggy Harrison, who sat on the committee with Councillor Michele Rivard, briefly outlined the volunteer services provided by each of the nominees.

Boileau was chosen for his volunteer work with the Earlton Lions Club, the recreation committee, and his strong support for the community of Earlton.

Dallaire has served as the president of the Knights of Columbus and is a member of the Camp Jeunesse en Marche board. He has participated overseas in professional development experiences for teachers. He has worked on overseas projects in underdeveloped countries, assisting children and others in housing and with other assistance. Now retired from his teaching position, he provides assistance to local people by driving them to medical appointments. He is an active member of his parish and a representative for development and peace.

Demers has been active for many years in the Earlton Lions Club, the Fondation communautaire de Temiskaming, the Paroisse St-Jean Baptiste d'Earlton, and the Earlton Steam and Antique Show.

Fotheringham was nominated because of his volunteer work supporting activities for children. He involves himself at all levels of baseball, coaches hockey, and "gets kids out."

Francois Gauthier has served in the past as the president of the Earlton Lions Club and is currently the chair of the Coeur du Village.

Gisele Gauthier helps with the preparation of meals at Église de Saint-Jean Baptiste and is a life-long member and supporter of the church.

The council intends to select another group of people in 2024, said Harrison.

Darlene Wroe, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Temiskaming Speaker