Donald Teuma-Castelletti
FORT COULONGE
May 12, 2018
A community hub in Fort Coulonge held an early start to Quebec Family Week on Saturday, hosting entertainment, a barbeque and much more at their party.
With the celebratory week running May 14 through the 20 this year, the Maison de la Famille du Pontiac decided to start the party early, seeing many familiar and new faces alike come out for their day of fun.
“This is a kick-off for family week,” said Nicole Belleau, director general from the organization.
While the Broken Arrow Drummers provided a steady rhythm to portions of the day through their traditional First Nations beats, guests were welcome to tour the grounds and enjoy a variety of activities.

From kids’ games to crafts, and vendors to the chance to check out a fire truck from the Mansfield Fire Department, there was a little bit of everything.
While some took to dancing along to the drummers’ rhythm and songs, others took the time to browse the vendors, offering everything from jewellery to original pieces of art.
Of course, there was also much interest in testing out the horns and sirens on the fire truck, proving a popular crowd pleaser.
Still, many guests simply took the time to grab some lunch and enjoy the company of neighbours, especially with the weather cooperating so well.
By the early afternoon, Belleau said the event didn’t have as many guests as usual, but chalked it up to a lot happening in the area that day.
“We usually see more,” she said. “Last year we had 150 come out.”
Still, with numbers reaching over 100, there were plenty to enjoy all the activities, food, and sunshine overhead.
“Because the organization’s vision is to work with families in need, we see a lot of old friends,” said Belleau. “It’s a reunion of sorts.”