Thursday, July 31, 2025
spot_img
Blainville, Boisbriand, Bois-des-Filion, Deux-Montagnes, Lorraine, Rosemère, Pointe-Calumet, Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac, Sainte-Thérèse, Saint-Eustache
Home Blog Page 2

Capturing Light, Building Community: Deux-Montagnes Launches 2026 Photo Contest

Maria Diamantis
-
0
Capturing Light, Building Community: Deux-Montagnes Launches 2026 Photo Contest

Deux-Montagnes — The City of Deux-Montagnes is inviting its citizens to shine a light—literally—on what makes their community beautiful, resilient, and vibrant. Through the lens of local photographers, the 2026 edition of the annual municipal photo contest aims to spotlight the town’s luminous moments with this year’s evocative theme: Deux-Montagnes en lumière (Deux-Montagnes in Light).

This civic initiative, spearheaded by the City’s Communications Department, offers amateur photographers a chance not only to have their work featured in the official 2026 municipal calendar but also to contribute to a growing visual archive that celebrates shared identity and collective pride.

A Community Illuminated

Whether it’s the golden glow of sunrise over the lake, the whimsical flicker of Halloween decorations, or the dramatic burst of fireworks at civic festivals, light plays a vital role in how residents experience their surroundings. This contest seeks to immortalize those ephemeral, often poetic moments—both dazzling and subtle—that reveal the soul of Deux-Montagnes across all four seasons.

From festive holiday cheer to quiet plays of light in natural settings, the theme encourages participants to explore how light brings life, emotion, and storytelling into the visual tapestry of their hometown.

Strengthening Civic Connection Through Art

At its heart, the contest is more than a celebration of photography—it’s an act of civic engagement. By encouraging citizens to observe, appreciate, and capture their environment, the initiative fosters a deeper connection to place and community. In a time when digital images often feel fleeting, the municipal calendar offers a tangible tribute to local creativity, curated with care and shared with every household.

How to Participate

Participants must be residents of Deux-Montagnes and must submit original photographs that reflect the 2026 theme. The technical requirements are straightforward:

  • Photos must be taken within Deux-Montagnes (with location clearly identified).
  • Only horizontal (landscape) format will be accepted.
  • Digital files must be of high resolution, suitable for 8.5″ x 11″ printing, and larger than 1.5 MB.
  • A signed consent form will be required if identifiable individuals appear in the image (excluding the photographer).
  • Municipal employees and elected officials are not eligible to enter.

The submission deadline is October 1, 2025, visiting the City of Deux-Montagnes official website and entries must be sent in digital format. Finalists will be selected by the Communications Department and announced in mid-November.

Recognition and Prizes

Winning images will be published in the 2026 municipal calendar, which is distributed to thousands of homes throughout Deux-Montagnes. In addition to local recognition, each finalist will receive a prize (to be announced), and one grand prize winner will receive a $200 gift certificate to IGA Marché Lamoureux, a nod to the importance of supporting local business.

Light as a Unifying Element

In a society often fractured by speed and screens, initiatives like this remind us of the simple power of observation, the dignity of the everyday, and the role of shared experience in building civic cohesion. By framing Deux-Montagnes in light, the contest invites all residents to see their city—and each other—through a more thoughtful and generous lens.

The North Shore News volume 21-12

NSN Staff
-
0
The North Shore News volume 21-12

The current issue of The North Shore News volume 21-12 published June 13th, 2025.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.

Blainville Celebrates Its Winter Stars: Young Athletes Honoured for Excellence and Dedication

Maria Diamantis
-
0
Blainville Celebrates Its Winter Stars: Young Athletes Honoured for Excellence and Dedication

The City of Blainville turned the spotlight on its most inspiring young athletes last week, hosting a special evening to recognize the standout talents of the 2025 winter sports season. Held at the community centre on June 5, the Coups de cœur inspirants de l’hiver 2025 event paid tribute to dedication, performance, and community spirit across a wide range of winter disciplines.

Mayor Liza Poulin and the municipal council welcomed athletes and their families to the annual ceremony, which highlighted exceptional accomplishments in figure skating, hockey, swimming, gymnastics, fencing, and snowboarding. Selected by their respective sports associations, the honourees were celebrated not only for individual excellence but also for their contributions to team success throughout the winter.

From local tournaments to regional championships, these young athletes stood out for their commitment, discipline, and competitive spirit. More than just a recognition of medals and rankings, the evening also emphasized the values of perseverance, teamwork, and positive representation of the Blainville community.

A symbolic highlight of the evening was the signing of the City’s livre d’or (golden book), giving each recipient a lasting place in Blainville’s civic memory—a gesture underscoring their role as ambassadors of local pride and determination.

“This event is a reminder that the future of sport—and community—is built on passion and effort,” said Mayor Poulin during the ceremony. “Each of these young people is an inspiration.”

Blainville continues to foster athletic excellence by supporting youth engagement in sports and celebrating their milestones. Events like this not only showcase talent but also reinforce the strong social fabric that defines the city.

The North Shore News volume 21-11

NSN Staff
-
0
The North Shore News volume 21-11

The current issue of The North Shore News volume 21-11 published May 30th, 2025.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.

Reimagining Rosemère: Residents Called to Help Shape the Town’s Next Landmark District

Maria Diamantis
-
0
Reimagining Rosemère: Residents Called to Help Shape the Town’s Next Landmark District

The Town of Rosemère is calling on its citizens to actively participate in a public consultation meeting scheduled for June 3, focusing on the future of the Pôle régional—the area surrounding Place Rosemère. This significant event will offer residents a chance to contribute to the development of a visionary urban plan aimed at transforming the space into a multifunctional, inclusive, and sustainable living environment.

The consultation will center on the proposed Plan particulier d’urbanisme (PPU) for the Pôle régional, which includes the quadrilateral defined by Labelle and Bouthillier boulevards, montée Sanche, and Highway 640. This area is currently home to the Place Rosemère shopping centre and surrounding infrastructure, but the town hopes to reshape it into a modern, community-focused hub that aligns with both local needs and broader regional guidelines.

The in-person event will take place on Tuesday, June 3, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Lévis-Fortier Hall of the Externat Sacré-Cœur, located at 535 rue Lefrançois in Rosemère. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. for participant check-in. Attendance is free, but registration is mandatory and must be completed by May 30 by emailing communications@ville.rosemere.qc.ca or by calling 450-621-3500, extension 1249.

The evening will include a formal presentation followed by interactive workshops where participants can share their views on key urban planning aspects. These will touch on the proposed layout of the regional hub, land use and building function, public spaces, mobility infrastructure, architectural integration, and the projected steps moving forward. Urban planning professionals and citizen engagement specialists will be on hand to guide and moderate the discussions, ensuring everyone’s input is heard and documented.

Importantly, the Town of Rosemère is making a special effort to include younger voices in the conversation. Residents aged 12 to 17 are warmly encouraged to participate, with a designated “youth table” being set up during the workshop segment to allow them to engage with the issues in a way that speaks to their experiences and expectations. For families attending with small children, a play area will be available upon request. This space will include toys and craft materials to entertain young ones while their parents take part in the consultation. However, the town advises that this is not a formal childcare service and that parents remain responsible for their children during the event.

For those unable to attend in person, the consultation process will also be made available online. Starting at 7:00 p.m. on June 3—the same time as the live meeting—and running until June 11, residents will be able to participate through a digital platform. The link to this online consultation will be posted on the town’s official website and shared across its various digital platforms to ensure maximum accessibility.

Town officials emphasize that this consultation is not merely a symbolic gesture but a vital component of the planning process. “This is an opportunity for the people of Rosemère to take an active role in shaping a future neighborhood that reflects their priorities—whether that’s improved walkability, more green spaces, or better architectural cohesion,” said a spokesperson for the municipality. “The Pôle régional has the potential to become a true hub of daily life, and we need the input of our community to make it happen.”

As urban development continues to reshape cities and towns across Quebec, Rosemère’s initiative stands out for its emphasis on community engagement, sustainability, and inclusivity. The consultation aims not only to present a vision but to co-create it—putting the power of planning into the hands of the people who will live, work, and raise families in the space being designed.

The Town invites all residents—young and old—to seize this opportunity to be heard and to help guide the future of one of the most important development areas in Rosemère. For more information, to register, or to participate online starting June 3, residents are encouraged to visit the Town of Rosemère’s official website or follow the latest updates on social media.

Fire, Family & Community Spirit: Deux-Montagnes/Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac Fire Station Hosts Open House

Maria Diamantis
-
0
Fire, Family & Community Spirit: Deux-Montagnes/Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac Fire Station Hosts Open House

A sun-drenched Sunday turned into a hands-on lesson in heroism and fire safety as hundreds of families descended on the Deux-Montagnes fire station for its first-ever open house event. With children in plastic helmets, wide-eyed toddlers exploring fire trucks, and crowds gathered around live demonstrations, the event offered a rare and memorable glimpse into the life of local firefighters.

Held on May 25 at 206 8th Avenue, the open house by the intermunicipal fire service of Deux-Montagnes and Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac brought together citizens of all ages in a spirited celebration of public safety and community connection.

From the start, the atmosphere was festive and engaging. A full ceremonial guard greeted dignitaries and visitors in a show of pride and tradition, setting a respectful tone for the day. The event was then quickly ignited — metaphorically — with hands-on activities and dramatic displays.

Among the biggest crowd-pleasers were the live vehicle extrication demonstrations, where firefighters simulated the rescue of crash victims using hydraulic cutting tools. As sparks flew and heavy tools snapped through metal, parents and children alike looked on in awe.

Meanwhile, children were delighted to meet the department’s oversized firehouse mascot “Boucane,” who handed out high-fives and helped break the ice for the youngest visitors. Another standout moment was the firefighter training obstacle course, designed to let kids test their strength and agility — and, for some, fuel dreams of one day joining the brigade.

Inside the trucks, young guests put on helmets and climbed into the driver’s seat while parents captured the moments with proud smiles and smartphones.

Beyond the thrills, the day was also deeply educational. Interactive booths, scale models, and a realistic smoke trailer gave visitors valuable insights into fire hazards, safe evacuation techniques, and the intense realities of an active fire scene.

Aerial ladder trucks towered over the crowd, food trucks hummed, and laughter echoed down 8th Avenue as families mingled with firefighters who proudly explained their tools, routines, and commitment to protecting lives. More than just a showcase of gear and skill, the event served as a powerful reminder of the bond between emergency services and the communities they serve.

The fire service, which covers a population of nearly 40,000 across 16 square kilometers, responds to over 1,200 emergency calls each year — a statistic that underscores both the scale of their responsibility and the importance of public understanding.

Given the enthusiasm and turnout, many are already calling for the event to become an annual tradition — one that celebrates not only firefighting, but community, connection, and the everyday heroes who quietly keep their neighbours safe.

New Synthetic Turf Installed at Parc Régional Soccer Fields in Boisbriand

Maria Diamantis
-
0
New Synthetic Turf Installed at Parc Régional Soccer Fields in Boisbriand

The City of Boisbriand has completed a major upgrade to its recreational infrastructure with the full replacement of the synthetic turf at the Parc Régional soccer fields. After 15 years of heavy use, the aging surface reached the end of its lifecycle and was replaced in May 2025 as part of a $750,000 investment under the city’s three-year capital works program.

“This complete replacement was essential to maintaining the quality and safety of our sports facilities,” said Mayor Christine Beaudette. “We are committed to offering all users a secure environment for athletic activities. The municipal council and I extend our sincere thanks to the Public Works team—specifically the Parks and Green Spaces division—for their dedication and efficiency throughout this project.”

The initiative not only enhances playability and safety for local athletes but also reflects Boisbriand’s long-term commitment to sustainability. The materials used in the new surface, including rubber granules made from approximately 30,000 recycled tires, were selected with the environment in mind. These components can be reused for up to two or three additional field replacements, significantly reducing the environmental footprint of future upgrades.

This refurbishment project is one of the key actions outlined in Boisbriand’s Parks and Green Spaces Master Plan for 2025–2035, which is available for consultation online at boisbriand.ca and in print at the municipal library.

Lorraine Honours an Exceptional Volunteer: Yves Carrières Receives City Medal of Distinction

Maria Diamantis
-
0
Lorraine Honours an Exceptional Volunteer: Yves Carrières Receives City Medal of Distinction

The City of Lorraine has paid heartfelt tribute to one of its most devoted citizens, Mr. Yves Carrières, whose remarkable volunteer work and unwavering spirit of service have left a lasting impression on the community.

In a special ceremony, Mr. Carrières was awarded the City of Lorraine’s Medal of Honour, a distinction reserved for individuals whose contributions significantly enrich civic life. As part of the celebration, he was also invited to sign the city’s livre d’or (Golden Book), a symbolic gesture that permanently inscribes his name into the town’s legacy.

Mr. Carrières is widely recognized for his generosity, integrity, and community-minded leadership. Through years of tireless volunteerism, he has played a pivotal role in strengthening the social fabric of Lorraine, creating bridges between residents and nurturing a spirit of solidarity.

Mayor and council members expressed deep appreciation for his work, noting that Mr. Carrières embodies the very best values of the city—compassion, dedication, and civic pride.

In honouring Mr. Carrières, Lorraine not only celebrates an individual but also reaffirms its commitment to recognizing those who make a difference through quiet acts of service. His impact serves as an inspiration to current and future generations, reminding all that true community is built on the efforts of those who give without expecting anything in return.

Blainville Shines a Spotlight on Unsung Public Works Heroes During National Week

Maria Diamantis
-
0
Blainville Shines a Spotlight on Unsung Public Works Heroes During National Week

In honour of National Public Works Week, the City of Blainville opened the doors of its municipal workshops to showcase the essential yet often overlooked work of its public works professionals. With acclaimed singer-songwriter and TPQuébec spokesperson Sara Dufour in attendance, the weeklong celebration brought energy, gratitude, and public recognition to a sector vital to everyday life.

Exploring the Trades Behind the City’s Pulse

Visitors—including fellow municipal staff—were offered an immersive look into the many skilled roles that keep Blainville running. Demonstrations covered everything from aqueduct and sewer work to road maintenance, park and green space care, and foremanship. Those eager for hands-on experience had the rare opportunity to operate heavy vehicles under supervision, including snowplows and excavators.

In one particularly engaging moment, participants watched as a colleague carefully maneuvered a mechanical shovel—highlighting not only the skill but also the responsibility tied to the role. For many, it was a chance to gain a deeper appreciation of the day-to-day demands faced by their public works peers.

A Celebration Powered by Music and Admiration

Sara Dufour, known for her spirited performances and dynamic personality, brought her signature warmth and authenticity to the event. As spokesperson for TPQuébec, she addressed attendees with heartfelt praise:

“You never quit—working in snowstorms, heatwaves, whatever comes your way. Because of you, people can get to work, have clean water, access public buildings and enjoy our parks. Honestly, you’re like behind-the-scenes superheroes.”

Dufour’s presence and praise resonated deeply, reaffirming the value of these workers in the public imagination—not merely as technicians, but as guardians of civic functionality.

Changing the Narrative Around Public Works

Roch Arbour, Director of Blainville’s Public Works Department and President of TPQuébec, emphasized the importance of visibility and appreciation for his sector:

“The image of public works is evolving. We see it across social media, where certain functions like roadwork and snow removal are gaining visibility. But there’s so much more to what we do—everything we touch impacts citizens’ well-being and the city’s efficiency.”

That broader understanding was echoed by Blainville’s mayor, Liza Poulin, who drew a powerful metaphor between public works and the human body:

“Public works is like the arms and legs of our city. Without these women and men, Blainville simply couldn’t function. They are essential to our quality of life.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

Beyond celebration, the event carried a strong recruitment component. With an aging workforce and increasing demand for skilled labor, Blainville hopes to inspire the next generation to consider careers in public works.

Chantal Gauvreau, the city’s Director General, underlined the importance of investing in the future:

“We need to prepare for succession, and our current employees are our best ambassadors—especially when it comes to showing young people the wide range of careers available in this field.”

The open house at the municipal workshops served as both an appreciation event and a dynamic career fair. Attendees were encouraged to engage with workers, ask questions, and explore various tools and technologies used daily.

A Week to Remember, a Workforce to Celebrate

From sweeping streets to laying underground pipes, maintaining green spaces, and clearing snow in the dead of winter, public works employees are the invisible force behind a city’s livability. Blainville’s tribute—marked by praise from artists, officials, and peers—sent a clear message: these workers are not just maintaining infrastructure, they are building community resilience.

Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac Grapples with Spring Water Discoloration

Maria Diamantis
-
0
Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac Grapples with Spring Water Discoloration

The municipality of Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac is responding to public concern following several recent episodes of discolored tap water affecting residents over the past few weeks. Mayor François Robillard acknowledged the situation in a statement and outlined both immediate interventions and long-term plans aimed at improving water quality in the community.

According to municipal officials, the issue tends to reoccur each spring, a seasonal phenomenon linked to increased water usage. However, this year’s discoloration appears to be more pronounced than in previous years, prompting authorities to accelerate their search for solutions.

Technical Interventions Underway

The city is working with experts from the École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS), Polytechnique Montréal, and consultants from Veolia Canada to address the issue at its source. One key intervention has been the replacement of a filtering medium at the municipal water treatment plant—part of a series of upgrades to the facility’s infrastructure.

While these adjustments are expected to improve water clarity, municipal officials caution that residents may not see immediate changes. Mayor Robillard expressed hope for noticeable improvements by the end of the current week but emphasized the need for patience as the system stabilizes.

Spring Surge in Consumption Adds Pressure

The municipality has identified a spike in residential water consumption as a contributing factor to the discoloration. Warmer weather, particularly over the weekend of May 3–4, led to a marked increase in demand, as residents began activities such as lawn watering and pool filling.

The surge in usage increases the flow through the water network, which can stir up natural sediments in the pipes and result in discolored water. City officials advise residents who encounter such water to let it run until it clears before using it for drinking or cooking. Additional information is available on the city’s website.

Major Investments Planned

Beyond emergency measures, the city has committed to long-term investments aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. Over the coming years, Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac plans to invest $15 million in water infrastructure upgrades.

This figure includes $7.5 million from the provincial PRIMEAU 2023 program to construct a new potable water reservoir. An additional $6.9 million will go toward upgrading treatment and distribution facilities, with funding from the Québec gas tax and contribution program (TECQ 2024–2028).

Community Cooperation Critical

In his statement, Mayor Robillard expressed regret over the disruption and stressed the importance of public cooperation in preserving water quality. Measures such as tightening regulations on water use, increasing the frequency of preventive maintenance, and promoting responsible consumption habits are all part of the city’s strategy moving forward.

“We recognize the concerns this has caused among residents and want to reassure the community that every effort is being made to resolve the issue,” said Robillard. “Our team is working diligently, and we are confident that with collective responsibility, we will see improvements soon.”

The mayor called on citizens to respect municipal guidelines for outdoor water use, particularly during designated time slots for watering, in order to avoid further stress on the system.

As Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac works to modernize its infrastructure and address immediate concerns, the situation highlights the complex balance between seasonal demand, aging systems, and the need for sustainable water management in growing communities.

123...128Page 2 of 128

Weather

Rosemère
broken clouds
20.1 ° C
21.3 °
18.9 °
57 %
3.1kmh
75 %
Thu
23 °
Fri
24 °
Sat
24 °
Sun
31 °
Mon
25 °

This project is funded [in part] by the Government of Canada.

Canada Logo

Ce projet est financé [en partie] par le gouvernement du Canada.

spot_img