1997 - 1998
OUR GATHERING IN JONQUIÈRE (22 to 24 August 1997)
When we choose to attend a Perron gathering we can be sure we'll experience invigorating moments. Once again, we came from all directions; Québec, Ontario, New-Brunswick, Manitoba, British-Columbia, and from the United States (Rhode Island) to convene with the big family.This year's event, which was incorporated into the official celebrations of the 150th anniversary of the town of Jonquière, was particularly special. The organizing committee headed by Roger Perron did a tremendous job in making us feel welcome and in unveiling to us the charms of their region.
Greeting and registration
At registration, we were given a welcoming package containing souvenir pins of the city of Jonquière. a special pin, representing the new barrage JOSEPH-PERRON and designed by artist Lina Perron, was on sale.
Corn Roast
The rain was not allowed to affect this event; the delicious corn that was prepared and cooked on the patio was served and eaten in the hotel. There were twice as many people as expected, and the wait was an additionnal opportunity for the Perrons to chat with old friends and make new ones. We listened to Roger's words of welcome then resumed eating and fraternizing.
Play « Un Cheddar se raconte »
That evening we were treated to a play by artists of the Vieux Couvent de Saint-Prime about the beginnings and successful story of the Perron cheese factory. One hundred years of hard work, life - sad and happy events - family love and humour unravelled in a few hours of brilliant performance
Saturday activities
Several activities were on the program; A tour of the areas devastated by last year's flooding and a cruise on the Saguenay river; visit to Shipshaw hydroelectric power station plus a tour of Laterrière's Alcan installations; tour of the region's arts and crafts centers; visit of a blueberry farm.
Activities were enjoyed by all. For those who chose to remain at the hotel, a kiosque displayed the life of Joseph Perron while in another room, Michel Perron gave genealogical information on different branches. Two videotapes were also played; one showed the damaged towns of the Saguenay area; the other featured the late Camille Perron, Pépère Cam, in a splendid rendition of a touching legend.
Thanksgiving Mass
In the afternoon the Perrons gathered in the beautiful St-Dominique church in downtown Jonquière, to attend mass in honour of their ancestors. Every detail, from the enchanting voices of the choir, to the offering of flowers and local products to the altar, everything unfolded as planned by the skillful church committee: Deacon Gaston Giroux, Yolande Lamontagne-Perron and Aline Bouchard-Perron. The celebrants were Fathers Toussaint Perron and Renaud Perron, both missionaries of the Pères Blancs d'Afrique.
Honouring Joseph Perron
Mass was followed by the unveiling of a commemorative plaque in honour of Joseph Perron, founder of the first Pupl and Paper Company of Jonquière. The bronze plaque donated by Abitibi-Price will soon be mounted at the new dam, now called BARRAGE JOSEPH-PERRON, thanks to the close collaboration of Abitibi-Price and the City of Jonquière.
Joseph Perron's own grand-daughter, Sara Louthoud, has prepared a wonderful tribute to her grandfather. 
Unfortunately, she was ill that day and could not attend but her touching words were read with pride by Lina Perron and our president, Cécile, who joined Mr. Gaston Dallaire of Abitibi-Price for the actual unveiling. In attendance with Mr. Mayor Marcel Martel and Mr. Dallaire was Mr. Jacques Fortin of the Québec Toponymy Commission who was there for a very special purpose: to officially present the Association with a certificate recognizing the name BARRAGE JOSEPH-PERRON. After thanking the officials, the president reminded a very proud audience that every one now had a part to play by demonstrating our pride through spreading the news of this momentous occasion.
Cocktail and banquet
The festivities kept in full swing! Back at the hotel, while two musicians performed on the violin and the accordion, we enjoyed a cocktail offered to us by the city of Jonquière. Before the banquet, Mr. Mayor Marcel Martel eloquently addressed the crowd, adding how pleased he was to have this opportunity to welcome us and take part in our family's celebrations. Other speeches were held following the delicious meal which was graced with beautiful classical music. Later on, two other artists rendered well-known songs inviting us to sing along; many did and others quickly filled the dance floor.
As before, the Association paid tribute to couples celebrating 50 years of marriage by presenting them with flowers, a certificate and heartfelt wishes.
Annual General Assembly
The large number of members attending the General Assembly - nearly 100 - proved once more that the Perrons care for their Association. Administrative reports were read; amendments to the by-law were ratified; various propositions were offered; a new Board of administrators were elected. This year there are eleven of them.
Brunch
The last hours of a gathering are always hectic; there are so many things to do before saying good-bye. Then, it was already over! A last « thank you » from Roger and Cécile, and members started to leave.