During the last public meeting, the Council presented two Grandioses awards.

GRAND FALLS, JANUARY 21, 2026 – At the first regular meeting of the year, held on January 21, 2026, the municipal council presented two Grandioses Community awards in the volunteer category. The honours were awarded to Ms. Francine Simard-Levesque as well as to the St-André BINGO Committee.

FRANCINE SIMARD-LEVESQUE

With nearly forty years of exceptional volunteer service, Francine Simard-Levesque has touched countless lives. Her generosity, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment have made a meaningful difference in the community, particularly in sports and arts.

For nearly two decades with the Malobianah Figure Skating Club, Francine supported the development of young athletes. As a member of the executive committee, she coordinated evaluation days and year-end performances, brought her creativity to decorating the events, and helped design and prepare costumes. Through her constant commitment, she developed the personal and athletic growth of countless young participants, instilling discipline, creativity, and perseverance.

Ten years ago, Francine fulfilled a dream by co-founding Acanthus Galery with two fellow artists. Since its opening, Francine has devoted countless hours ensuring the smooth operations of this non-profit organization. She recruits artists for exhibitions, organizes workshops, prepares grant applications, and oversees budgets. Her energy and professionalism have helped create a vibrant space where local creativity thrives.

A driving force in promoting visual arts in the region, Francine continually seeks new ways to showcase artists through events such as La Rue des Arts and the ExpoFest. She also teaches painting and wood sculpture workshops, sharing her expertise and inspiring others to explore their creativity.

Francine Simard-Levesque’s commitment to culture and sport makes her a true pillar of the community, fully deserving of this recognition.

COMITÉ - BINGO ST-ANDRÉ

For several years, the St-André Bingo Committee has proudly demonstrated the values of solidarity and generosity that unite our community. Composed of 5 members of the Daughters of Isabella and 5 members of the Knights of Columbus, this group of volunteers dedicates their time, energy, and heart to tangibly improving the lives of families in the region.

Driven by a deep desire to help, these volunteers devote their time, energy, and hearts to making a real difference in the lives of local families. Thanks to their dedication, many children stay warm during the winter months, receive essential school supplies, and fully experience the magic of Christmas with a festive meal shared with their classmates. Through their donations to the SPCA, fire brigades, primary schools, Galerie Acanthus, Villa des Chutes, and the Grand-Falls Food Bank, they lend a helping hand and make a lasting, meaningful impact to those in greatest need in the community.

Their commitment is also evident in organizing community building activities, such as bingo nights, community dances, and an annual family day, that strengthen social ties and create treasured memories. Their unwavering dedication, compassion, and community spirit make them inspiring leaders, truly deserving of exceptional recognition.

La communauté est invitée à soumettre des candidatures en remplissant le formulaire de mise en nomination disponible sur le site web de la municipalité au : https://www.grandsault.com/grandioses.

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Infos et demandes d’entrevues :

Service de développement économique et marketing

506.240.1774 - communications@grandsault.ca