Local grant distribution rules changed in Gacé as Mayor Marc Salmon joined association leaders for the annual gathering of Familles rurales.
Salmon addressed the group on Thursday, explaining that the municipality adjusted its subsidy allocation process to better understand the operational methods, objectives, and financial means of local groups. Salmon told the assembly that the town hall intends to remain close to local organizers, thanking the group for keeping the territory active.
Thierry Berteau, president of Familles rurales, delivered the annual activity and human balance sheet during the meeting. Berteau noted that the association counts 117 member families, marking a decrease of ten compared to the previous year.
Despite the dip in household memberships, participation across various regular activities remained steady at 230 people, matching the figures recorded during the 2024–2025 season.
Leadership changes marked the transition into the new program year across several community workshops. Véronique Carpentier stepped in to replace Monique Cissé at the head of the sewing workshop, while Caroline Guillemin took over the yoga classes previously led by Aurélie Bonneau, as Berteau thanked the departing instructors for their years of service.
Individual activity leaders presented their respective updates during the gathering. Patrick Génin, who helps mark local hiking trails, addressed participation rules directly regarding the monthly walking group.
Several unfortunate experiences during different outings motivate my response,
Génin explained when asked if dogs are permitted, confirming that canines are not welcome on the walks organized each second Sunday of the month.
Manual crafts, including sewing and a newly introduced drawing class, continue to draw strong interest from participants. Meanwhile, badminton sessions maintain a steady following with play scheduled on Sunday mornings, according to Marc Duvilla, who is responsible for the activity.
A new table tennis activity will join the schedule for the 2026–2027 term, operating on Thursdays from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Gacé sports hall under Duvilla’s supervision.
Berteau also highlighted the organization’s theatrical events, thanking the actors for performances across two weekends that drew 450 spectators. Beginning Jan. 1, the association plans to evaluate running activities during school holidays depending on community demand.
Treasurer Catherine Ryba and assistant treasurer Béatrice Caplet presented the financial report, confirming a healthy treasury balance. The organization is currently weighing equipment investments, including lighting projector rails and new table tennis tables, according to the financial summary.
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