The Town of Rosemere Library recently became the scene of a Halloween celebration that left a lasting impression on its young attendees. For one electrifying night, 150 young people, aged 10 to 16, gathered for a thrilling, parent-free Halloween party that emphasized not only fun but also community bonding and civic pride.
The library, typically a quiet place for reading and learning, was transformed into a Halloween wonderland, filled with lights, music, and decorations that brought the spooky season to life. A DJ set the tone for the evening with lively music that kept the dance floor buzzing, as participants, dressed in a dazzling array of costumes, mingled, laughed, and enjoyed the freedom of an evening designed just for them. The costume parade was a major highlight, giving these young residents the opportunity to showcase their creativity, while also fostering a sense of shared celebration and community pride.
Beyond the entertainment, the evening provided a safe, supervised space for youth to express themselves, meet new friends, and strengthen bonds with their peers. This event underscores the library’s role as more than a center for books; it’s a hub for civic engagement, personal growth, and community connection. Events like this allow young people to experience the library as an inclusive gathering place where they are welcomed and valued members of the community.
The evening also featured a photo booth, where kids could capture memories against Halloween-themed backdrops, and temporary tattoo stations that added an extra level of festive fun. A well-stocked candy bar offered sweet treats, fueling the night’s energy and creating a true party atmosphere.
This Halloween event highlights the importance of community-driven youth initiatives, giving young residents a chance to develop a sense of belonging and shared identity. By creating a safe, inclusive, and festive space, the Town of Rosemere Library succeeded in fostering a strong civic spirit. The success of this event not only sets a promising precedent for future youth gatherings but also reinforces the library’s commitment to serving the community in innovative and meaningful ways.
A Spooktacular Evening at the Town of Rosemere Library: Building Community through Youth Engagement
The North Shore News volume 20-21
The current issue of The North Shore News volume 20-21 published November 8th, 2024.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.
Sainte-Thérèse in the Hot Seat: Storm Debby Sparks Urgent Public Forum
On the evening of October 30th, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, the City of Sainte-Thérèse will hold a special public session at the Thérèse-De Blainville Cultural and Community Center. The focus of this gathering will be to address the aftermath of the Debby storm that struck on August 9th, as well as the steps the municipal administration has taken since.
This meeting comes in response to concerns raised during the September 2nd city council session, where citizens expressed frustration and confusion over the damage caused by the storm. Many residents questioned the city’s role and responsibility in mitigating the impact of the disaster, leading to calls for a more thorough explanation.
In response, Mayor Charron has agreed to host this public forum to provide clear answers to the community’s pressing questions.
Expert in Water Management to Speak
The city council will be joined by Marcel Roy, a seasoned professional from JFSA, a firm specializing in sustainable water resource management for over 30 years. Roy, an expert in flood and water infiltration management, will share his insights on how to handle such natural disasters.
During the session, Roy will delve into the effects of climate change, the functioning of urban drainage and sewer systems, and practical steps that citizens can take to protect their homes from severe weather events like heavy rainfalls.
At the end of the presentation, attendees will have a 30-minute period to ask questions related to the five main themes covered during the evening. The session will also be recorded and made available for those who are unable to attend.
Reminder to Register for Emergency Alerts
In addition to the public meeting, the city is reminding residents of the importance of registering for its Citizen Alert System. This system proved essential during Storm Debby, providing rapid communication with residents through text messages, emails, or phone calls during emergency situations. It ensures that citizens receive critical information to help them prepare and protect their families and property.
Interested individuals can sign up for the alert system by visiting the city’s website.
Although the meeting will provide essential information, it is important to note that the city will not address specific claims related to damages during this event. However, the session aims to empower residents with knowledge and resources for better preparedness in the future. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to confirm their participation by filling out the registration form available online.
Thérèse-De Blainville MRC Receives Prestigious Innovation Award for AI Municipal Initiatives
The Thérèse-De Blainville Regional County Municipality (MRC) has been recognized on the global stage for its innovative approach to municipal governance. During the International Summit on Innovation in Medium-Sized Cities (SIIViM), held on October 8, 2024, in Drummondville, the MRC was awarded the esteemed “SIIViM 2024” Trophy. This accolade, which highlights cutting-edge advancements in cities with populations exceeding 50,000, was given for the MRC’s Signature Innovation Program, which actively supports the implementation of pilot projects utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) within the municipal sector.
The SIIViM Trophies serve to encourage municipalities to pursue innovative solutions as a response to the growing challenges faced by local governments. For the Thérèse-De Blainville MRC, this award underscores its commitment to fostering forward-thinking approaches in municipal operations, specifically through the application of AI.
Eric Westram, the Prefect of the MRC and Mayor of Rosemère, expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishments, stating, “This international recognition is a testament to our ongoing commitment to fostering innovation. We remain dedicated to building smarter, more sustainable, and resilient cities for our communities. The SIIViM event showcased numerous inspiring ideas, and I strongly encourage the wider municipal sector to view innovation as a key solution to today’s challenges.”
A Global Platform for Municipal Innovation
The SIIViM Summit is a major international event that connects cities from France and Quebec, focusing on innovation in medium-sized cities with populations up to 250,000. This year’s summit offered an invaluable platform for collaboration between municipalities and businesses specializing in cutting-edge technologies. Through these exchanges, municipalities can explore new ways to address critical issues, such as climate change, economic development, and improving overall quality of life for residents.
Julie Boivin, Deputy Prefect of the MRC and Mayor of Sainte-Anne-des-Plaines, highlighted the importance of the award: “We are deeply honored to receive this distinction. It highlights our ongoing efforts to modernize governance and embrace technology to improve the quality of life in our region. In facing the pressing challenges of our time, from climate to societal shifts, embracing new technologies becomes indispensable for the future of our municipalities.”
The recognition of the Thérèse-De Blainville MRC at SIIViM demonstrates the growing importance of integrating technological innovation into local government strategies. With an increasing need to tackle complex, civic issues, this award showcases how forward-thinking initiatives can provide real solutions for cities today and into the future.
Rosemère Library Reaches New Heights with 5-Ribbon Distinction, Reflecting Community Commitment
The Town of Rosemère’s library service has once again been recognized for its excellence, receiving the prestigious 5-ribbon rating for 2023 from the BiblioQUALITÉ program. With a remarkable score of 93%, significantly surpassing the provincial average of 70% for Québec municipalities, Rosemère continues to stand out as a leader in providing high-quality public services.
This distinction highlights the town’s ongoing investment in its library system. By prioritizing resource acquisition, extended operating hours, expanded space, and a dedicated staff, the library plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for its residents. Rosemère’s efforts demonstrate the importance of libraries not just as places for borrowing books, but as vibrant community centers that foster learning, engagement, and interaction.
The recognition comes amid growing public interest in the library’s offerings. An independent report revealed a 27% increase in library usage and an 11% rise in activities since 2022, illustrating the library’s expanding role as a hub for cultural and social events. This increase reflects a broader trend of libraries becoming essential spaces for people of all ages to gather, learn, and connect, reinforcing their importance to the community.
Mayor Eric Westram praised the achievement, crediting the hard work of the library staff, led by Library Head Manager Myriam Harvey, for their dedication. “This recognition by BiblioQUALITÉ not only highlights the excellence of Rosemère’s library service but also demonstrates our commitment to fostering an environment where knowledge and culture are accessible to all. I congratulate Myriam Harvey and her team for their outstanding service and passion, which have made the library a cornerstone of our community. The growth in memberships and activities proves that we are creating a space that enriches the lives of our residents,” said Mayor Westram.
Rosemère’s success serves as an example for other municipalities, showing that investment in public spaces like libraries can significantly enhance the well-being of a town’s residents. As the library continues to grow and adapt, it remains a vital part of the community, supporting education, culture, and social connection.
About BiblioQUALITÉ
The BiblioQUALITÉ program assesses and recognizes public libraries across Québec for their service quality and community impact. Municipalities that are members of the Association des bibliothèques publiques du Québec (ABPQ) or part of the Réseau BIBLIO are evaluated on their efforts to improve library services. Achieving the highest 5-ribbon rating underscores a municipality’s commitment to providing accessible and enriching resources to its residents. Libraries with this distinction are models of community service and cultural engagement.
Rosemère in Bloom: Celebrating 35 Years of Community and Environmental Excellence
The winners of the 35th edition of Rosemère in Bloom were revealed during a special ceremony on October 9, 2024, at the Memorial Community Center. This annual event has become a symbol of the town’s commitment to environmental sustainability and beautification, fostering a sense of pride among residents for their contributions to maintaining the community’s natural charm. The contest, which encourages Rosemère residents to submit photographs of their gardens, is a celebration of creativity, environmental awareness, and community spirit.
This year’s winners were recognized for their outstanding contributions to enhancing the town’s landscape. Among the top honorees were the joint winners in the Best Floral Front Yard category, with properties at 186 Bellerive and 296 Rose-Alma sharing the spotlight for their vibrant and well-maintained floral displays. Marilyn Proulx, who resides at 296 Rose-Alma, also took home the award for the Charming Small Space category, showcasing her ability to transform a modest area into an inviting and aesthetically pleasing garden.
In the Environmental Action – Butterfly Oasis Creation category, the property at 335 de Rosemère was celebrated for its innovative design in creating a haven for butterflies, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to pollinator conservation. Other notable winners included the Vegetable Garden award, presented to the gardener at 464 Northcôte for their productive and beautifully arranged edible garden, and the Backyard Garden prize, which went to the lush landscape of 268 de Rosemère. The Flower Display category recognized the impressive efforts at 472 de l’Érablière, while a new category, Pollinators in Action, was introduced this year, with 258 Fairfield winning for their photo capturing pollinators at work in a vibrant garden.
A special mention was given to the judges’ favorite in the Monarch Butterfly Conservation category, awarded to the property at 285 de la Clairière. This heartfelt recognition celebrated efforts to preserve the delicate monarch butterfly, an essential pollinator, and highlighted the critical role that local gardens play in supporting biodiversity.
Mayor Eric Westram praised the participants for their dedication, noting a record number of 116 entries—almost double the previous year’s submissions. This surge in involvement underscores the growing passion among Rosemère residents for contributing to the town’s beautification and environmental initiatives. “The creativity and environmental consciousness shown by our citizens is truly inspiring. Through their landscaping efforts, they not only beautify our community but also help sustain it for future generations,” Westram remarked.
The jury, made up of key members from Rosemère’s horticulture and urban forestry teams—Monique Keurentjes, head of Green Spaces and Environment, Stéphanie Milot, coordinator of Urban Forestry and Horticulture, and Marie-Michelle Moffatt, head of Culture and Heritage—carefully evaluated each entry based on a set of criteria that included originality, plant variety, cleanliness, and environmental impact.
In addition to celebrating this year’s winners, the event also reflected on the summer’s successful horticultural initiatives, including the highly popular Horticultural Bazaar on July 14. This event allowed residents to purchase plants, second-hand gardening tools, decorations, and furniture, with proceeds from both the bazaar and secret garden tours amounting to $3,779. These funds were donated to the local respite care organization Les Petits Plaisirs. The immense success of the event has guaranteed its return in 2025, with residents already marking July 13 on their calendars for another day of green-thumbed fun.
By continuing to promote sustainability and environmental awareness through initiatives like Rosemère in Bloom, the town reinforces its commitment to fostering a greener and more vibrant community. Events like these not only enhance the town’s aesthetics but also strengthen the bonds between residents, reminding everyone of the importance of working together for the betterment of the environment.
New Program to Support Vulnerable Youth in Lac-des-Deux-Montagnes
In an effort to strengthen community support for vulnerable youth, the Quebec government has expanded the Ma famille, Ma communauté program to include services for young people aged 13 to 17 in Lac-des-Deux-Montagnes. This initiative, which has already seen success in the Thérèse-De Blainville area, aims to prevent the need for youth placements in foster care or reduce the impact when such placements are necessary.
The program focuses on creating a network of care around vulnerable youth and their families, involving key community members such as family members, social workers, healthcare professionals, educators, and local organizations. By working together, these stakeholders ensure that decisions about a young person’s living situation are made in their best interest, prioritizing safety and well-being.
Lionel Carmant, Minister responsible for Social Services, expressed his enthusiasm for the program’s success and the positive impact it has had in other regions. He noted that this expansion reflects the government’s commitment to putting the needs of children first: “I am thrilled to see the community in Lac-des-Deux-Montagnes come together to support our youth. Programs like Ma famille, Ma communauté are vital in ensuring that vulnerable adolescents receive the care and support they need.”
Local representatives have also praised the initiative. Benoît Charette, MNA for Deux-Montagnes and Minister responsible for the Laurentides region, highlighted the strong sense of collaboration that defines the program: “The solidarity and commitment of our community are key to helping at-risk youth thrive. This program will offer them a better future by providing a support system that goes beyond traditional interventions.”
The expansion is also welcomed by Sylvie d’Amours, MNA for Mirabel, who emphasized the program’s collaborative nature. “This initiative brings together various community resources to create a safe and nurturing environment for teenagers, helping them to grow and succeed. It’s a collective effort that will build a stronger future for our young people,” she said.
Julie Delaney, President and CEO of CISSS des Laurentides, added that the success of Ma famille, Ma communauté in other regions bodes well for its impact in Lac-des-Deux-Montagnes. “We’ve seen firsthand how this program can transform the lives of vulnerable youth by surrounding them with care and compassion. I’m excited to see it expand and reach even more young people and their families.”
The expansion of Ma famille, Ma communauté to Lac-des-Deux-Montagnes demonstrates the Quebec government’s ongoing efforts to ensure that young people receive the support they need from their communities. By building strong, collaborative networks, the program aims to provide long-term solutions for at-risk youth, giving them the opportunity to thrive in a safe and supportive environment.
Laurentians to Welcome 45 New Family Doctors in 2025 to Improve Healthcare Access
The Laurentians region is set to welcome 45 new family doctors in 2025, aimed at improving healthcare access for the local population. The Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux (CISSS) des Laurentides will recruit 34 new doctors throughout the year, while 11 more will join the region through an interregional mobility program, meaning they are already practicing in other regions and will relocate to the Laurentians.
Julie Delaney, President and CEO of the CISSS des Laurentides, expressed optimism about this development, stating that the arrival of these doctors will contribute to improving access to quality healthcare and social services in the region. She emphasized the importance of having these physicians practicing locally, as it is essential for meeting the growing healthcare needs.
The allocation of these medical personnel is strategically planned to prioritize areas with the highest needs, particularly in home care, hospitalization, and emergency services. Additionally, family medicine remains a priority in several parts of the region to ensure primary healthcare services are more accessible. The ultimate goal is to respond effectively to the health and social service needs of the population.
This announcement follows a recent statement by Health Minister Christian Dubé, who revealed the addition of 458 family doctors across Quebec. Each year, regions are allocated a specific number of family medicine positions by the Ministry to ensure a fair and equitable geographic distribution of medical resources throughout the province. This distribution is determined by assessing the gap between each region’s needs and its available medical resources.
In 2025, the Laurentians will see new medical staffing in the following areas: the MRC Antoine-Labelle will receive three new doctors, while the MRC Laurentides will gain five new doctors, along with three more through interregional mobility. The MRC Pays-d’en-Haut will benefit from two new doctors, both through interregional mobility, while the MRC Argenteuil will receive three new doctors. The MRC Deux-Montagnes and Mirabel-South region will add eight doctors, including two from interregional mobility, with one position specifically reserved for a university-based doctor in a family medicine group. The MRC Rivière-du-Nord and Mirabel-North will receive nine doctors, two of whom will come from other regions through interregional mobility. Finally, the MRC Thérèse-De Blainville will welcome four new doctors, supplemented by two interregional transfers.
This influx of medical professionals is a key step in addressing the healthcare needs of the growing population in the Laurentians.
The North Shore News volume 20-20
The current issue of The North Shore News volume 20-20 published October 25th, 2024.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.
Dimitris Ilias Honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal
On Thursday, October 10, 2024, within the Senate of Canada, Boisbriand resident Dimitris Ilias was honoured in a special ceremony. Senator Leo Housakos awarded Dimitris Ilias, a renowned lyric singer and music director, the King Charles III Coronation Medal, a distinction bestowed by command of the King and on behalf of the Governor General of Canada.
Senator Housakos, who nominated Ilias for this honour, praised his tireless dedication to bringing music into the lives of children across Canada, always with humility and a commitment to musical education. “Their devotion to enriching children’s lives through music is unmatched,” the senator stated during the ceremony.
Dimitris Ilias expressed his deep gratitude for the award: “I feel deeply honored by this recognition and sincerely thank Senator Leo Housakos, who has supported and encouraged us in our efforts for nearly 15 years to bring music to the lives of so many children in our community and beyond.”
The Coronation Medal was created to commemorate the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III on May 6, 2023, marking the first Canadian commemorative medal for a coronation. Managed by the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General, 30,000 medals will be awarded to individuals who have significantly contributed to their communities or brought honour to Canada through remarkable achievements.
Designed by the Canadian Heraldic Authority and produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, the medal features, on one side, an image of King Charles III at his coronation, while the reverse displays the Royal Monogram and the inscription “VIVAT REX” (Long Live the King).
