The Town of Rosemère achieved remarkable recognition at the 30th annual Communities in Bloom awards ceremony, held on October 20 in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Competing against national and international communities, Rosemère was awarded the prestigious Outstanding Achievement Award for Community of Gardeners and achieved a 5-Blooms Gold rating in the International Challenge – Medium-Sized Communities category. The town also received a special mention for its Community Engagement Program, specifically aimed at protecting the Monarch butterfly.
Outstanding Achievement Award for Community of Gardeners
Rosemère’s Hamilton House garden earned the Outstanding Achievement Award, a recognition of the meticulous care and creativity that have transformed the site into a community landmark. Maintained and designed with the collective efforts of residents, volunteers, and town staff, the garden’s unique guitar-shaped layout is a nod to the cultural heritage of the site and has become a central element of Rosemère’s beautification projects.
This award also reflects the success of long-running community initiatives like the Rosemère in Bloom competition, now in its 35th year, and the Secret Garden Tour, which invites the public to visit private gardens showcased by local residents. Additionally, the community gardens on the grounds of Externat Sacré-Cœur and Val-des-Ormes schools were highlighted as examples of the town’s commitment to cultivating beauty and sustainability.
International Challenge – Medium-Sized Communities
In the International Challenge category, Rosemère received the distinguished 5-Blooms Gold rating, an achievement that acknowledges excellence in environmental sustainability and green space enhancement. The town was also honored with a special mention for its Community Engagement Program to protect the Monarch butterfly, a species facing significant threats. Through this program, Rosemère’s residents have joined efforts to create habitats that support Monarch populations, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.
Reflecting on Rosemère’s achievements, Mayor Eric Westram expressed gratitude for the community’s ongoing dedication to green initiatives:
“We are honored to be a finalist alongside such fine Canadian and European cities. Winning in this category is a great reward for the Town of Rosemère, which has been participating in Communities in Bloom since its very first edition, 30 years ago. This honor would never have been possible without Monique Keurentjes, foreman of green spaces and environment, who has made Rosemère a town that shines both provincially and internationally for its landscaping and management of natural spaces. She will be leaving us at the end of the year for a well-deserved retirement. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Monique, for 35 years of passion and commitment, and for making Rosemère as green and flourishing as it is today.”
About Communities in Bloom
Communities in Bloom is a volunteer- and partner-driven organization dedicated to enhancing community participation, environmental sustainability, and heritage conservation. Through initiatives that promote the improvement of municipal, residential, commercial, and institutional spaces, Communities in Bloom encourages communities across Canada and internationally to develop beautiful and sustainable green spaces.
Rosemère Wins Top Honors at the 2024 Communities in Bloom Competition
Radon: The Second Leading Cause of Lung Cancer After Smoking November: Radon Awareness Month
This Radon Awareness Month, the Public Health Directorate of the Laurentian Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS des Laurentides) emphasizes the health risks linked to elevated radon levels in homes. Exposure to high levels of radon can significantly impact health.
Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is produced by uranium decay in the earth’s crust. Outdoors, it disperses harmlessly in the air, but when it seeps into buildings—mainly through foundations—it can accumulate, reaching concentrations that pose health risks.
With many people converting basements into home offices or children’s rooms, the potential for radon exposure is increasing. Radon is invisible, odorless, and undetectable by the senses, making it essential to monitor its concentration to keep levels within safe limits.
Long-term exposure to high radon levels increases the risk of lung cancer, making radon the second-leading cause of lung cancer after smoking and the primary cause among non-smokers. In Quebec, radon exposure is associated with 10 to 16% of lung cancer deaths, totaling over 1,000 fatalities annually.
Testing Radon Levels for Health Protection
The easiest way to determine radon concentration in a home is by using a radon test kit, known as a dosimeter. Homeowners can perform the test themselves or seek the services of a radon measurement professional. If the results reveal high radon levels, corrective measures can be taken.
For more information on radon, obtaining a recommended dosimeter, and making your residence safer, visit santelaurentides.gouv.qc.ca/sante-publique/environnement/radon.
Deux-Montagnes Achieves Level 5 Ribbon for Excellence in BiblioQUALITÉ Program
The City of Deux-Montagnes has achieved a significant milestone in public library service excellence, securing a Level 5 ribbon with an impressive 89% rating in the 2023 BiblioQUALITÉ program diagnostic. This high score, which reflects a 4% improvement from the previous evaluation, sets the city apart in Québec, where the average score among participating cities in the program is 70%. With a score 19% above the average, Deux-Montagnes continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to providing exceptional library services.
The BiblioQUALITÉ program, spearheaded by the Association des bibliothèques publiques du Québec (ABPQ), is designed to evaluate and recognize the quality of public libraries across the province through a sustainable, objective framework. Cities are assessed across five quantifiable indicators that reflect essential components of a robust library system: acquisition expenditures, operating hours, adequate space, seating availability, and staffing resources. These indicators serve as a comprehensive measure of the library’s ability to meet the needs of its community and maintain a high standard of accessibility and service.
Deux-Montagnes’ high rating reflects ongoing efforts to enhance the local library, making it a resource-rich and inviting space for residents of all ages. Recent initiatives include an expansion of the library’s hours, ensuring greater flexibility for users, as well as significant investment in new book collections, digital media, and educational resources aimed at meeting the diverse interests of the community. Additionally, the city has increased its commitment to qualified staffing, ensuring that users receive expert assistance and guidance in navigating both traditional and digital library resources.
Mayor Denis Martin noted that the Level 5 rating underlines the city’s dedication to continuous improvement in public services. He expressed hopes that this recognition will inspire more residents to explore the library’s offerings and benefit from the broad range of services available. Martin highlighted the city’s focus on fostering a welcoming environment through enhanced facilities, qualified personnel, and an ever-expanding collection that reflects the needs of Deux-Montagnes’ evolving community.
Beyond the services and resources within the library walls, the Deux-Montagnes Public Library also prioritizes accessibility and community engagement. The library regularly hosts a variety of programs, workshops, and events tailored to different age groups and interests, including children’s story hours, educational workshops, and digital literacy programs. These initiatives not only provide residents with learning opportunities but also strengthen the library’s role as a community hub, fostering connection and inclusivity.
After the Deluge: Rosemère Gathers to Fortify Homes Against Future Storms
The town of Rosemère is still reeling from the aftermath of Hurricane Debby, which unleashed torrents of rain, leading to widespread flooding and sewer backups across the area. In response, the town is hosting a critical community event on November 25, 2024, aimed at empowering residents with strategies to protect their homes against increasingly volatile weather patterns.
This event, taking place at the Memorial Community Center, will open with a post-mortem on the August 9 deluge. Mayor Eric Westram will present an analysis of the town’s response to the storm and outline proactive measures to enhance preparedness for future occurrences. Though the presentation will not address individual claims submitted to the town, residents will have an opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with the town’s action plans.
Following the mayor’s session, the evening will shift to a conference titled “Immunizing Your Home Against Climate Hazards,” focusing on home resilience amid severe weather. Marcel Roy, a technical advisor from JFSA, an engineering firm specializing in water resources and environmental protection, will lead the conference. Roy will provide Rosemère homeowners with practical, code-compliant strategies for safeguarding their properties, including the use of flood barriers, pump systems, and backflow preventers. The session will end with a Q&A period, where residents can address specific concerns and receive expert guidance.
Due to limited seating, registration is required, with priority given to Rosemère residents. Those interested can reserve their place by emailing communications@ville.rosemere.qc.ca or by calling 450 621-3500, ext. 1249, providing their full name and address.
The conference will explore a range of relevant topics, including common vulnerabilities in homes that lead to flooding or sewer backups, types of drainage networks in Rosemère, key plumbing regulations for flood prevention, an overview of various backflow preventers and pumping equipment, and notable issues identified in past home inspections. For those unable to attend, a recording will be made available on Rosemère’s website at a later date.
This essential event replaces the mayor’s breakfast initially scheduled for November 23, ensuring that all residents have access to critical information as Rosemère adapts to an evolving climate landscape.
A Spooktacular Evening at the Town of Rosemere Library: Building Community through Youth Engagement
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.
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.
