ASA Annual meeting

The Association des Séguin d'Amérique is 10 years old in this year 2000, “we must celebrate this” proclaims the president, Yolande Séguin-Pharand, and it was done. Rigaud, who had heard the first beginnings of the Association, had to welcome the Séguins into its bosom, i.e. at La Sucrerie de la Montagne which had belonged to a Séguin family for several generations. (La Séguinière, Vol. 10, No '3, page 15)

It is in this privileged place, in the middle of maple trees, that more than 300 Séguin from Quebec, Ontario and the United States gather. It is the party every year during this reunion. Everyone visits the genealogy kiosks, La Séguinière, promotional items and the trip in preparation.

Our regulations state that a general meeting must be held every year. In her preamble, the President wishes long life to the Association. Raymond Séguin # 002 presents his annual financial report which still includes a surplus. Be convinced by his eloquence when he tries to prove to you that being a life member is still the best investment today.

Four of the five directors coming for election have agreed in writing to serve on the board for another three years. They are: André Séguin # 261 from Granby, Lionel Séguin # 038 from Très-Saint-Rédempteur, Marcel-H. Séguin # 513 from Hawkesbury and Pierre-Paul Séguin # 368 from Sturgeon Falls. Under article 6.09, the board of directors may fill the fifth vacant position.

On the Friday evening of August 18, the Séguins meet at the Salle de l'Amitié in Rigaud for the official opening of the celebration. The president, in her speech, said she was proud that the Association des Séguin has reached its tenth anniversary and she looks to the future with confidence. Réal Brazeau, mayor of Rigaud, is happy to receive the Séguins who are also swarming in his municipality and the deputy for the county, Mr. Yvon Marcoux, who is increasingly discovering the natural beauties of his county, is happy to see the families get together.

Then comes the most important event of the evening: the official proclamation of the Séguin coat of arms. The temporary coat of arms was first created by André Séguin # 006, our genealogist. According to Claire Boudreault, who proclaimed our official coat of arms that evening, it is very rare that we are not obliged to completely modify the proposed model. André Séguin's creation has only undergone a few very, very minimal alterations. Well done, André! The motto, “Strength and Generosity”, designed by Gérald Séguin # 716, is now part of our coat of arms. Our coat of arms is now frozen in time and immutable. Let’s be proud of it. After the unveiling of the coat of arms by the president and the mayor of Rigaud, a much appreciated wine and cheese tasting ensues.

The day of Saturday was occupied by various circuits of cultural and historical visits. Lovers of art, history and nature could find their account there under the guidance of competent and interesting guides.

On Sundays, the Séguins come in large numbers to the magnificent Sainte-Madeleine church in Rigaud to give thanks to the Lord for the happy hours they spent together. Before mass, André Séguin # 027 gives us the history of this church and makes us discover its beauties and Guylaine Séguin # 394, organist, makes us vibrate with his masterful interpretation of the Adagio d'Albinoni. Considering that the Séguins come from various countries and regions, what could be more appropriate than to sing at the entrance: "Lord, we come from the four corners of the horizon, here we are at your home". .. I was amazed by the participation of the crowd of Séguin; the whole church seemed to be frantic. The parish priest, Father Jacques Pilon, welcomes us with joy; he is accompanied by Father Édouard Séguin # 144 and Father Gérard-Georges Séguin # 390. To come out of the church, joyful and full of smiles, what better way than to sing in chorus this song inspired by Robert Lebel: "I would like that seeing you live, astonished, people can say, see how they are. 'love, see their happiness'. Everyone then goes to the Vieux Moulin to end this wonderful weekend with a fraternal feast.

The annual meeting of the Séguin is always a success, because the preparation is done in a serious way.

Many thanks to the organizing committee. The council invites in advance the Séguins next year to ....

Goodbye.