The current issue of The North Shore News volume 21-14 published July 11th, 2025.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.
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The North Shore News volume 21-14
Curtains Rise on Civic Identity in La Tournée Festive
The MRC de Thérèse-De Blainville has officially unveiled La Tournée Festive, a free outdoor theatre event designed to celebrate the region’s rich heritage and strengthen civic pride. Developed in collaboration with the Petit Théâtre du Nord and backed by all seven municipalities of the MRC, the production will tour local communities on the weekends of September 6–7 and 13–14.
Blending historical storytelling with community engagement, the project seeks not only to entertain but also to reinforce the shared identity and civic belonging of residents across the region.
Theatre as a Tool for Community Connection
At the heart of La Tournée Festive is a 45-minute participatory theatre experience built around stories and songs inspired by the region’s past. Audiences are invited to interact with the performers, fostering dialogue between generations and reinforcing the social fabric of each municipality.
“This project goes beyond artistic creation—it is an investment in civic awareness and collective memory,” said Éric Westram, Prefect of the MRC and Mayor of Rosemère. “By reconnecting residents with their local history, we strengthen their connection to place and to each other.”
The production is supported through Quebec’s Ententes de développement culturel, and was made possible through funding from both the provincial government and the MRC. Minister of Culture and Communications Mathieu Lacombe praised the initiative as a vibrant example of how culture can deepen a community’s sense of pride and cohesion.
A Regional Effort with Cultural Reach
The project reflects a rare level of coordination among the seven municipalities of the MRC, and is the product of joint efforts by the MRC’s Table action culture et patrimoine. The Petit Théâtre du Nord, a well-regarded company with more than 25 years of experience, was tasked with bringing the idea to life. Known for its ability to animate historical themes in accessible ways, the theatre company brings a human, community-first approach to the performances.
“Our goal is to create theatre that lives in the hearts of our communities,” said Mélanie St-Laurent, Executive Director of Petit Théâtre du Nord. “With La Tournée Festive, we’re not just telling stories—we’re building bridges between people and their heritage.”
Strengthening Civic Belonging Through Art
Beyond its artistic merits, La Tournée Festive is a powerful civic gesture, using cultural expression to engage residents in the region’s democratic and social evolution. As citizens come together to hear stories about the formation and transformation of their communities, the performances become a mirror—both reflecting and shaping a shared sense of who they are.
Christine Beaudette, Chair of the Table action culture et patrimoine and Mayor of Boisbriand, emphasized this point. “By revisiting our past through theatre, we’re helping citizens rediscover their place in the civic story of Thérèse-De Blainville. This is culture with a purpose—strengthening our democratic community.”
Culture for Everyone
The event also democratizes access to high-quality theatre, taking professional performances directly into public spaces and eliminating financial and logistical barriers. Whether residents are long-time locals or new arrivals, the performances offer an invitation to belong, participate, and take pride in a shared cultural journey.
La Tournée Festive will be part of the MRC’s summer cultural calendar under the banner One Day, One Town, One Show!. Detailed information on performance locations and schedules can be found in the official summer programming brochure distributed by the MRC de Thérèse-De Blainville.
Through its inclusive spirit, historical lens, and community reach, La Tournée Festive stands as a model of how culture can nurture civic identity—one story, one audience, and one town at a time.
City of Lorraine Unveils Playful Yet Serious Road Safety Campaign
The City of Lorraine has launched a new road safety awareness campaign titled “Ici, on roule au ralenti!” (“Here, We Drive Slowly!”), encouraging motorists to slow down and drive responsibly throughout the community. Featuring the image of a smiling snail as its emblem, the initiative blends lighthearted visuals with a serious public safety message aimed at reducing speeding and fostering a safer environment for all road users.
The campaign comes as part of Lorraine’s broader commitment to preserving the city’s peaceful and secure atmosphere. According to municipal officials, the initiative is designed not only to address concerns around speeding but also to promote a culture of respect and shared responsibility on the roads.
“We wanted to deliver this message in a way that educates without blaming,” said Mayor Jean Comtois in a statement. “This is about promoting long-lasting, responsible habits by appealing to the community’s sense of cooperation.”
A Collective Effort Involving Local Institutions
Developed in collaboration with the three elementary schools of Lorraine and the Thérèse-De Blainville Intermunicipal Police Board, the campaign reflects a coordinated, localized approach to traffic safety. This partnership allowed the city to identify specific concerns and tailor a communication strategy with concrete, community-driven actions.
Patrick Archambault, municipal councillor and public safety delegate, emphasized the campaign’s focus on protecting vulnerable populations. “This initiative is about safeguarding our children, our seniors, and everyone who travels by foot or by bike. Speed limits are everyone’s responsibility, and road safety is a shared duty,” he said.
Visual Support and Community Engagement
To help residents visibly support the campaign, illustrated yard signs bearing the snail mascot will be available free of charge at several municipal locations, including city hall, the local library, the cultural and recreation services office, and the public works garage. These signs are intended for placement on private property, adhering to city guidelines.
The Thérèse-De Blainville Police Board has also endorsed the initiative. “Prudent driving saves lives,” said Chief Inspector Karine Desaulniers. “Awareness campaigns like this one are key to building a lasting culture of caution on our roads.”
Giant Snails Make Their Way to the Streets
In one of the campaign’s more eye-catching components, oversized, colorful snail sculptures will be installed in various parts of Lorraine. Designed to be both whimsical and thought-provoking, the snails aim to draw drivers’ attention and spark discussion about speed and safety in residential areas.
Residents are invited to find the snails, snap photos, and share them on social media using the hashtag #OnRouleAuRalenti, turning the campaign into an interactive experience that blends art, civic pride, and public safety.
By combining positive messaging, strong community partnerships, and creative outreach, Lorraine’s road safety campaign seeks to slow traffic and spark conversation—all while keeping a smile on residents’ faces.
Blainville Residents Give City Hall a Standing Ovation in Latest Satisfaction Survey
If municipal satisfaction were an Olympic sport, Blainville might just be bringing home the gold. A recent web survey conducted between January 29 and February 17, 2025, has revealed just how much this North Shore city is impressing its residents — and, frankly, leaving many other municipalities in its rearview mirror.
Out of 554 respondents, a resounding majority expressed high levels of satisfaction with both the communication tools and municipal services provided by the City of Blainville. And these aren’t just warm fuzzy feelings — they’re numbers that outperform the provincial benchmark known as the Léger Standard, which aggregates data from Quebec cities with populations between 50,000 and 99,999.
Blainville: Where Good News Travels Fast (and Often)
As far as communications go, 81% of respondents said they were satisfied with how the City keeps them in the loop. The average satisfaction score came in at 7.4 out of 10, beating the Léger average of 6.9. Seventy-five percent said they feel well-informed, and 62% thought the frequency of communications was just right — not too much, not too little. Goldilocks would be proud.
Municipal Services That Shine (and Shovel)
Across nearly every service area, Blainville either met or exceeded expectations — and in most cases, crushed the provincial norms. From the cleanliness of neighborhoods (8.5 vs. 7.3) to snow removal on sidewalks (8.2 vs. 6.7), residents aren’t just surviving winter — they’re praising how well the City helps them navigate it. Garbage day, often a municipal Achilles’ heel, is instead a high point in Blainville: organic waste collection scored 8.5 out of 10, while recycling pickup earned an even more impressive 8.6.
Safety First, and a Close Second
Blainville’s public safety services are also winning public approval. Fire protection wowed residents with a score of 8.8 — over a full point higher than the Léger benchmark of 7.7. The local police service and overall neighborhood safety both scored 8.3 and 8.4, respectively, suggesting that residents feel not only protected but genuinely at ease in their communities.
A Cultural and Recreational Playground
And it’s not just about garbage and snow. Blainville’s community life is also hitting high notes. The municipal library earned an astounding 9.1, suggesting it might be the best-loved building in town. The city’s sports and leisure programs garnered an 8.5, while its bike paths — increasingly a measure of a town’s quality of life — rated 8.4, beating the Léger average of 7. Even public transit, often a pain point in suburban settings, came in at a respectable 6.9 compared to a 6 across similar cities.
Civic Pride on Display
Mayor Liza Poulin was quick to acknowledge the survey as more than just a report card — for her, it’s a reflection of civic engagement and a vibrant community. “These excellent results testify to a dynamic living environment, a diverse range of activities, and a clear commitment by the City to inform, consult, and involve its population,” she said.
Meanwhile, Chantal Gauvreau, the City’s director general, took a moment to give credit where it’s due — to the municipal team working behind the scenes. “I’m extremely proud of these results, which reflect the collective work of our entire team, dedicated every day to delivering quality services,” she stated.
A City That’s Listening — and Delivering
While municipal surveys often reveal tepid or mixed feedback, Blainville’s results tell a different story — one of consistency, reliability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Yes, not everything is perfect (public transit still has room to grow), but the overall picture is clear: Blainville isn’t just checking boxes. It’s setting the bar.
So if you’re wondering what happens when a municipality communicates with its residents and follows through on promises, look no further than Blainville — a town that’s not just talking the talk but shoveling the sidewalks, collecting the compost, and keeping its citizens happy along the way.
The Pride of Deux-Montagnes: Mikaël Kingsbury Named Knight of the National Order of Quebec
Deux-Montagnes just gained another reason to beam with pride.
Mikaël Kingsbury, the world’s most decorated moguls skier — and hometown hero of this tight-knit Laurentian suburb — has been named a chevalier of the Ordre national du Québec, the province’s highest distinction. The announcement, made this week by Premier François Legault, formally crowns a career that already sparkles with Olympic glory, world records, and unmatched dominance on snow-covered slopes.
But for residents of Deux-Montagnes, Kingsbury’s new title is more than just a ceremonial ribbon — it’s a celebration of a local boy who dared to dream big and stuck the landing.
The King of Moguls
Nicknamed “The King of the Moguls,” Kingsbury has built a resume so stacked it reads like a ski enthusiast’s fantasy. With three Olympic medals (gold in 2018 and silvers in 2014 and 2022), nine world championship titles, and a jaw-dropping 99 World Cup victories under his belt, the 32-year-old isn’t just the best in his sport — he’s rewritten its history.
He holds the record for the most consecutive wins in World Cup history (13), earning him a well-deserved spot in the Guinness Book of World Records. And for the past thirteen seasons, he has clinched the overall World Cup title, hoisting the crystal globe a staggering 29 times by the end of the 2025 season. In 2018, he was named Canada’s Athlete of the Year, taking home the Northern Star Award — a first for a freestyle skier.
Small Town, Big Dreams
While his name echoes on podiums from PyeongChang to Oslo, Kingsbury still belongs to Deux-Montagnes in spirit — and in heart. This peaceful community of just over 18,000 has watched his rise from precocious ski prodigy to global sensation with unwavering support. His parents, teachers, and neighbors have long known what the world is only now fully acknowledging: Mikaël Kingsbury is in a league of his own.
And yet, beneath the Olympic hardware and globe-trotting fame, he remains rooted. Kingsbury has always spoken with affection for his hometown — crediting its support, simplicity, and slopes nearby for shaping both the athlete and the man.
A Knighthood for a Legend
Being named a chevalier of the Ordre national du Québec isn’t just about medals — it’s about impact. Reserved for those who have elevated the province through excellence, this recognition reflects the kind of legacy Kingsbury has carved: one of discipline, humility, and absolute mastery of his craft.
It also puts him in the company of luminaries across all fields — artists, scientists, humanitarians — who have left their mark on Quebec society. That a moguls skier from a small town now shares this honor is a powerful reminder that greatness knows no borders.
What’s Next?
While he’s hinted at future Olympic runs and more podiums to come, Kingsbury’s influence already transcends sport. He’s become a role model for young athletes across Canada, a walking example of what’s possible with talent, tenacity, and relentless self-belief. Whether he’s blazing down a mountain or speaking at youth events, Kingsbury continues to inspire.
And now, with this knighthood, his legacy gets a new shine — not just as an athlete, but as a national treasure.
So as Deux-Montagnes raises a collective toast to its favorite son, it’s clear: Mikaël Kingsbury is no longer just the King of the Moguls.
He’s now officially Quebec’s knight on skis.
Beyond Reports: Quebec’s Youth Protection Leaders Call for Collective Action to Safeguard Children
In their 22nd annual report, Quebec’s Directors of Youth Protection (DPJ), who also serve as provincial directors (DPJ-DP), are issuing a clear and urgent call: child protection must extend beyond official reports and become a shared, societal mission.
Presented under the banner “Au-delà d’un signalement: protéger les enfants collectivement” (“Beyond a Report: Protecting Children Collectively”), this year’s report urges Quebecers to look past the act of filing reports of suspected abuse or neglect and focus instead on building a web of care around all children. The directors emphasized that the wellbeing of young people is not solely a matter for social workers or youth protection services—it is a collective responsibility requiring the active participation of families, communities, and institutions at every level.
The report echoes findings from the 2021 Special Commission on the Rights of Children and Youth Protection, which called for a more compassionate and proactive approach to children’s welfare. It highlights that parents, as primary caregivers, must be supported by extended family, friends, neighbors, schools, childcare professionals, and community organizations. Youth protection services, the report stresses, should be a last resort, stepping in only when the child’s safety or development can no longer be assured by these surrounding supports.
Escalating Reports, Declining Retentions
The data tells a nuanced story. Over the past 25 years, the number of child welfare reports filed in Quebec has risen dramatically—seen by the directors as a sign that society is more alert to children’s needs. However, fewer of these reports are resulting in formal interventions.
In 2024–2025, Quebec’s youth protection services received 141,622 reports, involving over 105,000 children—a 5% increase over the previous year. But fewer than a third of these reports (29.3%) were retained for further evaluation, representing just over 35,000 children.
This declining retention rate suggests that while many families face real and complex challenges, not all situations require the involvement of the DPJ. “This reinforces the idea that broader social networks—community services, schools, and informal support systems—must be activated before the situation reaches a crisis point,” the report implies.
In the Laurentides region, the report shows a similar trend. Youth protection services there handled 15,482 reports, up from 14,332 the previous year. Of those, 4,580 were retained—also an increase—though the retention rate fell slightly to 29.58%, compared to 30.6% a year earlier.
Focus on Family and Prevention
Even among children under DPJ protection, most remain within familiar settings. Provincially, 45.8% of children receiving services stayed with their families, while 19.7% were placed with significant third parties such as extended family or close family friends.
This focus on preserving a child’s connection to their community is echoed at the regional level. In the Laurentides, over 52% of youth protection cases continued to reside in the family home, reinforcing a guiding principle of the system: intervention should support, not replace, the child’s natural environment when safely possible.
Adolescent services under the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) also saw a notable increase. In the Laurentides, 920 teenagers received such services, up from 776 the previous year. Province-wide, that number reached 10,095, marking a 7.4% increase year over year.
A Call to Act Before the Crisis
Despite the growing number of reports, the directors insist that early intervention—and ideally, prevention—must be the future of youth protection in Quebec. This means creating a culture where teachers, neighbors, daycare workers, and even passersby see themselves as active participants in a child’s life and development.
“We all depend on each other when it comes to the wellbeing of children and families,” the directors write in the summary. They stress that protecting a child begins with paying attention: noticing signs of stress, listening without judgment, and offering help long before a DPJ file is opened.
As Quebec’s child welfare system grapples with rising demands and limited resources, the 2024–2025 annual report serves as a reminder that government agencies alone cannot carry the weight of childhood safety. The path forward, they argue, lies in rekindling communal responsibility—one conversation, one kind gesture, and one child at a time.
The North Shore News volume 21-13
The current issue of The North Shore News volume 21-13 published June 27th, 2025.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.
Rosemère Closes 2024 With $1.3M Surplus, Citing Strong Fiscal Management
At its council meeting on June 9, the Town of Rosemère formally presented its financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2024. The report, submitted in accordance with the Cities and Towns Act, confirms a budget surplus of $1,314,300.
The statements, which were audited by the accounting firm BCGO, received an unqualified opinion—indicating the financial disclosures present a fair and accurate picture of the municipality’s finances.
“Our administration remains committed to sound financial management,” said Mayor Eric Westram in a statement accompanying the release. “We continue to weigh community needs against the financial realities facing our residents.”
Revenues and Cost Management
The Town’s operating revenues for 2024 reached $39.4 million, exceeding the initial budget by $900,000. Much of the unexpected revenue came from higher-than-anticipated proceeds from the transfer tax.
Operating expenses totaled $38.4 million, coming in $1.1 million under budget. Savings were attributed to deferred projects and operational delays. In particular, the postponement of certain infrastructure initiatives and the delayed replacement of activated carbon at the water treatment plant led to cost deferrals amounting to $472,300. These funds will be applied to the 2025 budget.
Allocations from the Town’s funds and reserves were also adjusted downward by $700,000, reflecting the reduced expenditure levels.
Infrastructure Investment and Debt Profile
Capital investments for the year amounted to $3.7 million, with the bulk directed toward infrastructure improvements. However, this figure was lower than projected due to the postponement of some projects that lacked required funding.
As of year-end 2024, Rosemère’s long-term debt stood at $34.6 million. However, an infrastructure tax implemented in 2020 will help offset $13 million of that total. The remainder is supported through general property taxes.
According to the Town, its debt ratio remains significantly below that of the broader MRC de Thérèse-De Blainville region, at 1.4 times less than the average, placing Rosemère in what it described as a “relatively stable and enviable” financial position.
Surplus Allocation
Of the total surplus, $472,300 has already been earmarked for 2025 expenditures. The Town will allocate another $500,000 equally between its expense stabilization fund and infrastructure fund. The remaining surplus is being retained to bolster financial flexibility and provide a buffer for future contingencies.
The full financial report is available through the Town of Rosemère’s official channels.
One Voice, Many Hands: The Laurentians Mobilize for a Future Without Homelessness
On May 16, the Laurentians came together for the 3rd edition of the Journée de mobilisation des connaissances en itinérance, or Knowledge Mobilization Day on Homelessness, a vital gathering dedicated to addressing one of the region’s most pressing social issues. Organized by the Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS) of the Laurentians, in collaboration with the Université du Québec en Outaouais, Le Café Parenthèse, and Trait d’union jeunesse, the event took place under the unifying theme: “Acting Together Against Homelessness.”
More than 200 stakeholders attended the event in Saint-Jérôme, representing a broad cross-section of society — researchers, community organizations, health care professionals, and public sector representatives. Together, they delved into the intricate realities of homelessness in the Laurentians, fostering both a deeper understanding of the issue and the will to take concrete action.
A Day of Dialogue and Collective Insight
The discussions throughout the day tackled the complex and sensitive issues surrounding homelessness, with a particular emphasis on vulnerable populations such as women and seniors experiencing homelessness — groups whose needs often go underrepresented in traditional strategies.
The event concluded with a workshop focused on defining the roles and responsibilities of each sector and individual involved. Participants reflected on how to more effectively collaborate across disciplines and institutions, with the goal of creating a more cohesive and responsive network of support for those experiencing homelessness.
A Strong Message from Local Leadership
Benoît Major, Deputy President and CEO of the CISSS des Laurentides, underscored the crucial need for sustained and unified efforts:
“This day of mobilization proves that homelessness is a priority for all community stakeholders in the Laurentians. Only by working together can we confront this significant collective challenge. I want to acknowledge the dedication of all participants and partners involved—not just today, but every day in the fight against homelessness. I am proud of the CISSS des Laurentides’ unwavering commitment to this cause.”
Continuing the Work Beyond the Event
The Knowledge Mobilization Day served not just as a platform for dialogue, but as a launching point for future action. Organizers emphasized the importance of transforming discussion into policy, research into practice, and partnerships into tangible support networks for the region’s most vulnerable residents.
To learn more about ongoing actions and available resources in the Laurentians, members of the public are invited to visit the Homelessness section of the Santé Laurentides website at santelaurentides.gouv.qc.ca.
Hundreds Participate in Rosemère’s 37th Annual “Rosemère en santé” Family Run
On Sunday, residents of Rosemère gathered in large numbers to take part in the 37th edition of Rosemère en santé, the town’s annual family run promoting physical activity and community engagement.
Organized by the Town of Rosemère in partnership with the Fédération Québécoise d’Athlétisme, the event attracted more than 750 participants. With routes ranging from 1 kilometre to 10 kilometres, the run accommodated a wide range of fitness levels and age groups.
A Community Gathering
The event was hosted at École Alpha, which served as both the start and finish line for the races. One of the highlights of the day was the 3-kilometre “Course Alpha.” Proceeds from this specific race are allocated to purchasing sports equipment for École Alpha, adding a fundraising component to the event.
Races for All Ages
Participants included young children, teenagers, adults, and seniors, reflecting the event’s family-oriented and inclusive nature. The 1K, 3K, 5K, and 10K options allowed individuals and families to choose distances appropriate to their abilities. All races were certified by the Fédération Québécoise d’Athlétisme.
Focus on Health and Sustainability
In keeping with the event’s health-focused mission, hydration stations were made available along the course, and participants were offered light refreshments post-race. Informational booths on healthy living were also present.
Sustainability measures were integrated into the event’s organization, including the use of recycled materials for medals and efforts to reduce single-use plastics.
A Rosemère Tradition
Rosemère en santé has become a longstanding tradition in the municipality. Each year, it brings together schools, families, and community members to promote physical fitness and local pride. With its combination of athletics, education, and environmental awareness, the event is a well-established part of Rosemère’s calendar.
