On the evening of October 18, the town of Rosemère will host its own edition of La Grande marche, a 5 km community walk that is part of the larger Grand défi Pierre Lavoie. This event, starting at 7:00 PM at Alpha School, brings people of all ages together in a celebration of health, fitness, and civic engagement.
The Grande marche is a vital component of the Grand défi Pierre Lavoie, a province-wide movement that promotes physical activity and healthy living. Organized in over 100 cities across Quebec, this initiative aims to encourage the population to adopt healthier habits, with an emphasis on physical activity as a foundation for long-term health.
Rosemère’s participation holds special significance, reflecting the town’s commitment to improving the well-being of its citizens. By offering free registration, Rosemère hopes to remove barriers to participation and foster an inclusive environment where residents can experience the health benefits of physical activity. The event is supported by the Fédération des médecins omnipraticiens du Québec, underscoring the role of medical professionals in advocating for public health.
The walk kicks off with a group warm-up at 6:45 PM, providing a space for participants to engage socially while preparing physically. The atmosphere is expected to be festive, with families, friends, and neighbors coming together to share in this simple yet powerful activity: walking. Unlike competitive races, La Grande marche focuses on accessibility, ensuring that individuals of all fitness levels feel welcome.
This event goes beyond promoting physical health—it also highlights the importance of civic participation. Rosemère’s involvement in the Grand défi Pierre Lavoie reinforces the idea that community activities can have a lasting impact. By encouraging residents to come together for a common cause, the walk strengthens the bonds between individuals while simultaneously promoting a healthier society.
Pierre Lavoie, a Quebec-based endurance athlete and health advocate, founded the Grand défi with the vision of improving Quebecers’ health and creating a culture where wellness is the norm. The message of La Grande marche is clear: small actions, like a community walk, can lead to profound changes in personal and collective health.
As Rosemère gears up for this year’s walk, the town is demonstrating how local initiatives can contribute to a larger social movement. Health and community spirit go hand in hand, and events like La Grande marche illustrate the importance of collaboration in achieving long-term public health goals.
Rosemère Steps Towards Health with 5 km Walk for the Grand Défi Pierre Lavoie
Moisson Laurentides Introduces the 2025 “Grand Bedon” Event to Combat Food Insecurity
Moisson Laurentides, a vital organization in the fight against food insecurity in the Laurentides region, has unveiled its plans for an innovative new event: Le Grand Bedon. Set for June 14, 2025, to coincide with World Hunger Day, this initiative aims to raise awareness about the pressing issue of food insecurity while fostering community engagement.
Recognizing the need for a new approach, Moisson Laurentides is shifting its focus away from the traditional large-scale food collections that have served the organization for years. As the organization grows and the demands on food banks increase, it became evident that traditional food drives, though effective, were no longer sufficient. This new event is designed to not only gather support but also to educate and unite the community in a more dynamic way.
Instead of a standard collection drive, Le Grand Bedon will feature a full day of interactive and family-friendly activities, designed to inform the public about food insecurity while promoting healthy lifestyles and community collaboration.
Addressing New Challenges in Food Security
With the rising demand for food assistance across the region, Moisson Laurentides has been exploring new methods to meet the needs of those facing hunger. The organization has seen an increase in the number of individuals and families turning to local food banks, including many who are facing this issue for the first time.
To address these challenges, the Grand Bedon event aims to go beyond the traditional food collection model, focusing on prevention, awareness, and community involvement. Through various engaging activities, the event will emphasize the importance of supporting local food banks while offering practical solutions for promoting food security.
A Festive Event for the Entire Region
The Grand Bedon will be a region-wide event, with activities planned across multiple communities in the Basses-Laurentides. These events will be open to people of all ages, offering a variety of activities to engage children, families, and individuals alike.
Blainville will serve as a central hub for the day’s activities, hosting events at the Equestrian Center, while the town of Saint-Eustache will highlight its local arts scene with the Route des arts, bringing together artists and community members in a celebration of creativity and local culture.
One of the most anticipated highlights of the day will be the Race Without Hunger, a fun competition where participants will customize grocery carts and race them through various courses. This imaginative and interactive event encourages participants to get involved in a lighthearted way while emphasizing the importance of food security. Schoolchildren will also take part in the event through a month-long collection campaign, culminating in a junior version of the cart race.
Innovative Solutions for Long-Term Impact
As an organization that plays a crucial role in redistributing food to those in need, Moisson Laurentides is constantly seeking new ways to make a greater impact in the region. Its efforts, which include partnerships with various local organizations, help provide millions of meals each year to families, seniors, and vulnerable individuals across the Laurentides.
Through Le Grand Bedon, Moisson Laurentides is not only striving to raise awareness but also to inspire long-term change. The event will focus on community education, fostering a deeper understanding of the causes and effects of food insecurity, while encouraging collective action.
The combination of creative activities, educational initiatives, and community involvement is what sets Le Grand Bedon apart from traditional food drives. By bringing people together in this way, Moisson Laurentides hopes to inspire lasting solutions to food insecurity, making the event a pivotal moment in its ongoing efforts to support those in need.
With widespread participation expected, Le Grand Bedon is poised to become a cornerstone event for the region, blending fun, awareness, and action in the fight against hunger.
The North Shore News volume 20-19
The current issue of The North Shore News volume 20-19 published October 11th, 2024.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.
Flood Zone Shake-Up: Major Changes Announced Ahead of October 21 Info Session
Regulatory Framework for Flood Zones: Information Session on October 21 at 6:30 PM at the Legion Hall in Deux-Montagnes
The Montreal Metropolitan Community (CMM) has unveiled the preliminary mapping of new flood zones as part of the Quebec government’s initiative to modernize the regulatory framework for waterway management. This map is currently preliminary, with no legal value, and is subject to change until the final flood zone maps are adopted, which is expected in 2025.
The modernization of this regulatory framework is seen as positive news for municipalities like Deux-Montagnes, which have recently installed protective dikes. The new regulations will officially recognize these dikes, but cities must first prove that their flood protection infrastructure (OPI) is safe and meets the highest standards.
“A new regulatory framework is essential, but it must be adjusted to give us more flexibility in its application and ensure consistency with the realities on the ground. It should allow for the development of at-risk areas with more resilient, adapted infrastructure, while minimizing the impact on the population. Moreover, given the number of buildings situated behind protective infrastructure, it is important for the government to clarify the conditions that will reduce the precautionary zone width to 10 meters and ensure that all areas protected by an OPI are recognized when the regulations come into effect,” emphasized Denis Martin, the mayor of Deux-Montagnes.
Information Session on October 21
Like many cities and municipalities in Quebec, Deux-Montagnes has numerous questions about the modernization of the waterway management framework, particularly regarding the method for determining flood zones. The city recognizes that the release of the preliminary maps may cause concern among residents living in flood-prone areas. To address these concerns, an information session has been scheduled with CMM representatives on October 21 at 6:30 PM at the Legion Hall, located at 141 chemin du Grand-Moulin.
Boisbriand Welcomes Delegation from Annemasse, France
At the end of September, Boisbriand’s municipal council members enthusiastically welcomed a delegation from Annemasse, France, marking a special occasion that celebrates over two decades of friendship. This relationship, formalized on October 1, 2001, through a “pacte d’amitié” (friendship pact), has been ongoing for 23 years.
The Annemasse delegation was invited to commemorate the 20th anniversary of this pact, which could not be celebrated in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and to highlight the 50th anniversary of Boisbriand. The three elected officials and two municipal employees from Annemasse engaged in fruitful exchanges with Boisbriand’s local government representatives and toured municipal facilities. The group also participated in a ceremony at City Hall where they signed the city’s guestbook, attended events for Journées de la culture, and visited regional attractions.
Boisbriand Mayor Christine Beaudette expressed her gratitude and the importance of the meeting. “Annemasse, being similar in size to Boisbriand, offers us a fantastic opportunity to discuss our respective realities, and in doing so, we enrich each other’s knowledge. The entire city council has grown from this wonderful human experience, and I sincerely thank our visitors for their openness, generosity, and enthusiasm,” said Mayor Beaudette.
The two cities were first linked in 1987 through the Québec-France student employment exchange program. Their official ties were solidified with the signing of the friendship pact in 2001, followed by the inauguration of Square Boisbriand in Annemasse in 2009. Additionally, Rue d’Annemasse in Boisbriand’s Faubourg neighborhood was named in honor of the French city.
In turn, a Boisbriand municipal delegation will travel to Annemasse in the spring of 2025, further strengthening the bond between the two cities.
16 Young Students Embark on a Hands-On Firefighter Experience
On October 2, 2024, a group of 16 elementary school students from Blainville and Rosemère stepped into the boots of firefighters for a day, in an educational initiative that gave them a rare, immersive glimpse into the everyday life of a fire department. This hands-on event took place at the Blainville fire station and was designed to expose third-grade students to the responsibilities and challenges that come with being a firefighter.
The initiative, titled “Firefighters for a Day,” aimed to spark curiosity and interest in public safety careers while teaching essential skills in fire prevention. Dressed in full firefighter gear, the participants received a guided tour of the fire station, including an up-close look at fire trucks and equipment. Throughout the day, they engaged in various interactive activities such as handling breathing apparatus, practicing search-and-rescue operations, and learning how to safely extinguish small fires. The children even had the chance to put out a controlled fire using an extinguisher, providing them with practical firefighting experience.
The event concluded with a special ceremony where the children were greeted by Blainville Mayor Liza Poulin and Rosemère Mayor Eric Westram. Local officials, including councillors Stéphane Dufour and Patrick Marineau, joined the celebration to recognize the students’ efforts and enthusiasm. Each child was presented with a commemorative gift and had the opportunity to sign their respective town’s guest book—a memorable moment to cap off a day filled with adventure and learning.
Mayor Westram expressed his hope that this hands-on experience would encourage students to share their newfound knowledge with friends and family, highlighting the importance of fire safety in the community. Mayor Poulin emphasized that the interactive nature of the event helped deepen the students’ understanding of firefighting and public service.
The 16 students, selected from various schools in the area, represented a diverse group of young learners eager to explore the inner workings of a fire department. Participating schools included École de la Seigneurie, École des Semailles, Pierre Elliott Trudeau School, McCaig School, and Académie Ste-Thérèse, among others. The event brought together students from different backgrounds and educational institutions, fostering a sense of community while promoting safety awareness.
While the day focused on fun and engagement, the underlying message was clear: fire prevention and safety are critical skills that can benefit everyone. The students left with a greater appreciation for the important role firefighters play in protecting their communities—perhaps even inspiring a few to consider a future career in firefighting.
The North Shore News volume 20-18
The current issue of The North Shore News volume 20-18 published September 27th, 2024.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.
The Importance and Benefits of Personal Document Shredding for Protecting Valuable Information
In an age where data breaches and identity theft are prevalent, protecting personal information has become more crucial than ever. One often overlooked yet vital method of safeguarding sensitive data is through document shredding. The town of Blainville has recognized the significance of this practice and is offering its citizens a valuable opportunity to dispose of their personal documents securely through free shredding services. This initiative, held at the Blainville Ecocentre on September 15, 2024, highlights how local governments can promote responsibility and personal security.
Why Document Shredding Matters
Document shredding is a critical step in preventing identity theft and ensuring the confidentiality of personal information. Many documents we accumulate, such as bank statements, medical records, utility bills, and tax returns, contain personal identifiers—like addresses, account numbers, and social security numbers—that can be exploited by fraudsters. Simply discarding these documents in the trash can leave you vulnerable to identity theft, which can lead to severe financial losses and emotional distress. Shredding these documents destroys sensitive information and makes it nearly impossible for anyone to retrieve and misuse the data.
Benefits of Document Shredding
Protection from Identity Theft: Identity theft occurs when someone uses another person’s personal information without their permission, typically for financial gain. By shredding personal documents, individuals can prevent criminals from accessing valuable information such as social security numbers, financial records, and healthcare details, effectively reducing the risk of identity fraud.
Legal Compliance and Personal Accountability: Various privacy laws and regulations require the secure disposal of sensitive personal information. Proper document shredding can help ensure compliance with legal obligations and show a commitment to maintaining the confidentiality of personal data. This practice is especially important when dealing with medical or financial records, which are often protected by specific laws.
Environmental Responsibility: Many document shredding services, such as the one offered by the Ville de Blainville, often recycle the shredded paper. This promotes environmental sustainability by ensuring that shredded documents do not end up in landfills. Recycling shredded paper helps conserve resources and reduces the environmental footprint, aligning with the larger goals of waste reduction and ecological preservation.
Active Participation in the Community: By utilizing free shredding services, residents contribute to a safer and more secure environment. It also fosters a sense of responsibility, as citizens are actively participating in managing their data securely and disposing of waste properly. In Blainville, proof of residence is required, ensuring the service is available for individual households rather than businesses, which are advised to seek specialized services.
The Vieux Saint-Eustache Public Market: A Community Tradition
The Vieux Saint-Eustache Public Market, now entering its 16th year, has become a vital event for the local community, providing a unique opportunity for residents and visitors alike to connect with local agriculture and sustainable food practices. Running every Saturday from June 29 to September 21, 2024, this beloved summer market is more than just a place to shop. It is a weekly celebration of local culture, bringing together farmers, artisans, and food enthusiasts in an atmosphere that fosters a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
The market’s role extends beyond its 50 diverse stalls, offering fresh and prepared local products. It acts as a meeting point where the community can come together, rain or shine, to support local producers and promote sustainability. By encouraging shoppers to bring reusable bags, the market underscores its commitment to reducing environmental impact, reinforcing the importance of conscious consumer behavior.
In 2024, the event expands its contributions to the community with several new features, located at the nearby Maison du citoyen on Saint-Eustache Street. Visitors will have access to a range of free services, including a rest area, a breastfeeding station, and a daycare for young children, enhancing the market’s family-friendly atmosphere. The introduction of a secure parking area for bicycles, scooters, and strollers further promotes eco-friendly transportation options, making the market even more accessible to all.
The “Educational Stop,” another 2024 addition, will be present on select Saturdays, offering opportunities to inform and engage visitors on topics related to agriculture and food production. This initiative not only supports local farmers but also encourages responsible and informed consumer practices, reflecting the market’s broader role in shaping a sustainable and well-informed community.
The Vieux Saint-Eustache Public Market is not just an opportunity to purchase local goods; it is a space for engagement, education, and the celebration of local identity. Through its ongoing evolution and the addition of new services, the market continues to strengthen the community’s bond with its agricultural roots, making it a cornerstone of the local summer experience.
Water Network Looping Project to Begin in Bois-des-Filion
The city of Bois-des-Filion will soon commence an essential water network looping project in collaboration with Terrebonne. Set to begin on September 16, 2024, and expected to last approximately six weeks, the project aims to establish a connection between the two municipalities’ water systems. This interconnection will enhance the security of the water supply in Bois-des-Filion by allowing for mutual assistance in case of emergencies or system malfunctions.
Before the construction starts, general inspections will take place at residences in the affected area of Bois-des-Filion. Inspectors will assess the condition of foundations, driveways, and landscaping at these properties, ensuring that if any damages occur during the construction, proper restoration can be made. Residents do not need to be present for these inspections, as the process is routine and designed to protect their properties.
The construction work will impact the area around Rue Carmelle, between 25th Avenue and the city boundary. During the project, the pedestrian and cyclist pathway that leads to 24th Avenue will be closed for approximately two weeks. This closure is necessary to accommodate the construction, but the city plans to reopen the route once improvements are completed.
Residents in the area will experience a one-day water supply interruption, after which a boil water advisory will be issued for safety. Notifications about the water outage will be delivered to homes through door hangers, ensuring that all affected residents are informed in advance.
In addition to water network upgrades, improvements will be made to the cycling infrastructure at the intersection of the construction area. This includes widening the pathway, installing bollards for safety, paving the route, and enhancing the surrounding landscape. These upgrades are designed to improve both the safety and the aesthetics of the area for cyclists and pedestrians.
Despite the expected disruptions, the city has made it clear that access to homes in Bois-des-Filion will be maintained at all times. Efforts will be made to limit inconvenience to residents, and ongoing communication will ensure that they are kept up to date on the progress of the work.
This water network looping project is a significant step toward securing a more resilient water supply system for Bois-des-Filion, providing long-term benefits for the community.
