The North Shore News

Canadiens and the Aléo Foundation Award $60,000 in Scholarships

Local News

June 14, 2024

Canadiens and the Aléo Foundation Award $60,000 in Scholarships

Olivier Bertrand-Metcalfe from Boisbriand selected

The Montreal Canadiens and the Aléo Foundation announced the awarding of $60,000 in scholarships and support services to 28 elite young hockey athletes who have distinguished themselves over the past year.

The 17th edition of the Montreal Canadiens Scholarship Program, managed by the Aléo Foundation in partnership with Hockey Quebec, the Quebec M18 AAA Hockey Development League (LHM18AAAQ), and the Quebec Student Sports Network (RSEQ), once again supported the best up-and-coming hockey players.

Twenty-eight student-athletes aged 15 to 17 were recognized for their talent, athletic achievements, and exceptional academic records during a scholarship ceremony held on Monday at the Bell Centre. A female hockey player was selected from each of the eight M18 AAA women’s teams of the Quebec Excellence Hockey League (LHEQ), as well as two male hockey players from the M17 AAA division of the same league. Additionally, one player was chosen from each of the 15 male teams in the M18 AAA Hockey Development League. Three bursary recipients from the RSEQ will also receive financial support. To promote the pursuit of studies and preparation for life after sports, each recipient will receive an individual scholarship of $2,000, along with lifetime access to all support services offered by the Aléo Foundation.

North Shore young hockey star selected

Among the distinguished recipients was Olivier Bertrand-Metcalfe, a 17-year-old from Boisbriand who attends École secondaire Saint-Gabriel. Playing with the Vikings de Saint-Eustache, Olivier was selected for his exceptional performance and dedication both on the ice and in his academic pursuits. He was awarded a $2,000 bursary to support his continued development in both areas.

“The Montreal Canadiens organization is proud to highlight the perseverance and achievements of up-and-coming hockey players. Each year, welcoming these promising talents to our home, in collaboration with the Aléo Foundation, is an important moment for our club. By inviting them to the Bell Centre to receive their scholarship and walk in the footsteps of their idols, we hope to inspire them to realize their dreams.” said Geneviève Paquette, Vice President, Community Engagement, Montreal Canadiens Hockey Club

“The Montreal Canadiens are a rallying force, a source of pride and inspiration for all Quebecers, and, of course, even more so for all young hockey players. Counting them among our close collaborators to focus on the recipients’ sporting and academic successes and celebrate their efforts both on the ice and in the classroom is a great privilege for us.” added Patricia Demers, Executive Director, Aléo Foundation

Numerous past recipients of the Montreal Canadiens scholarships have made significant achievements since the program’s inception, including Olympic medalists Mélodie Daoust, Ann-Renée Desbiens, Marie-Philip Poulin, and Lauriane Rougeau, all of whom joined the Women’s Professional Hockey League (LPHF) this season. Among the scholarship recipients who played in the NHL last season are Sammy Blais of the St. Louis Blues, Elliot Desnoyers of the Philadelphia Flyers, Anthony Duclair of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Samuel Girard of the Colorado Avalanche, Alexis Lafrenière of the New York Rangers, Devon Levi of the Buffalo Sabres, Kevin Mandolese of the Ottawa Senators, Mike Matheson of the Montreal Canadiens, Jakob Pelletier of the Calgary Flames, Sam Poulin of the Pittsburgh Penguins, Nicolas Roy of the Vegas Golden Knights, and Joe Veleno of the Detroit Red Wings.

About the Aléo Foundation

Founded in 1985, the Foundation for Athletic Excellence (FAEQ) has awarded over $20 million in scholarships to nearly 4,000 outstanding student-athletes from across Quebec. In 2022, to better reflect its mission of propelling athletes beyond sports, the FAEQ rebranded as the Aléo Foundation. In addition to continuing its scholarship awards and support services to tomorrow’s leaders, it confirms its personalized approach where the overall development and well-being in performance of its scholarship recipients are central to its actions.

The North Shore News volume 20-12

Archives

NSN Staff

June 14, 2024

The current issue of The North Shore News volume 20-12 published June 14th, 2024.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.

Front page of The North Shore News. — Front page of The North Shore News, June 14th, 2024 issue.

The North Shore News volume 20-11

Archives

NSN Staff

May 31, 2024

The current issue of The North Shore News volume 20-11 published May 31st, 2024.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.

The North Shore News volume 20-10

Archives

NSN Staff

May 17, 2024

The current issue of The North Shore News volume 20-10 published May 17th, 2024.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.

Rosemère’s White on White Event Returns: A Cinematic Cultural Celebration Awaits!

Local News

Maria Diamantis

May 17, 2024

Rosemère’s White on White Event Returns: A Cinematic Cultural Celebration Awaits!

The Town of Rosemère announced the return of the White on White cultural event for its third edition, set to take place from June 14 to 16 at Pioneers Park. This year’s theme will be centered around movies, promising a captivating experience for all attendees.

White on White, an initiative of the Rosemère Artists Gathering, is supported financially by the Town of Rosemère, the Corporation de développement culturel et sportif de Rosemère (CDCSR), and several other sponsors. The event features a diverse range of indoor and outdoor activities, including interactive workshops designed to engage the community.

Rosemère Mayor Eric Westram expressed his enthusiasm for the event, highlighting its significance in promoting local artists and the cultural vibrancy of the town. “Culture is a priority for Rosemère,” Westram stated. “Events like this help raise the profile of our community, both locally and beyond. Our artists conceived this wonderful idea, and we are proud to support it once again.”

More than 30 members of the Rosemère Artists Gathering will participate in the event, with the color white serving as the signature theme. This color will be prominently featured in the artworks, exhibitions, décor, and workshops, all of which will emphasize the cinematic theme. One of the highlights of the event is the Dinner in White, a cherished tradition scheduled for Saturday. Tickets for this exclusive dinner, priced at $45, are available at the Rosemère public library. Guests are encouraged to wear their finest all-white attire, and attendees of all the event’s free activities are also invited to dress in white to complement the theme.

Caroline Foley, President of the Rosemère Artists Gathering, expressed the event’s commitment to cultural accessibility. “Our goal is to make culture accessible to everyone, which is why we have curated a program that appeals to multiple age groups,” Foley said. “In addition to the outdoor activities, we are proud to present an indoor art show in the library atrium. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Eric Girard, MNA for Groulx, Luc Desilets, MP for Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, the CDCSR, the Town of Rosemère, and all our sponsors for their invaluable support.”

The White on White cultural event will kick off on Friday, June 14, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., with an evening filled with soothing background music and an enchanting outdoor art pathway leading to an exhibition in the library atrium.

Saturday, June 15, offers a full day of activities from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. Visitors can enjoy a variety of interactive outdoor activities and explore the art pathway and library atrium exhibition. Indoor interactive activities will also be available, but participants must register via the Voilà! Rosemère app. The day will be alive with background music, face painting, and featured musical entertainment. The highlight of the evening will be the exclusive Dinner in White at 7 p.m., where ticket holders, dressed in their finest white attire, will gather for a memorable dining experience.

The event concludes on Sunday, June 16, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., with another round of outdoor and indoor interactive activities, the art pathway and exhibition in the library atrium, and background music creating a delightful ambiance. Face painting will continue to bring smiles to the faces of young attendees, ensuring a joyous end to the three-day celebration. The White on White cultural event promises to be a celebration of art, community, and creativity, shining a spotlight on the talents of Rosemère’s local artists and bringing people together in a shared cultural experience.

Honoring Fallen Officers and Celebrating Police Service: Commemorative Event on May 13

Local News

Maria Diamantis

May 17, 2024

Honoring Fallen Officers and Celebrating Police Service: Commemorative Event on May 13

Thérèse de Blainville PD in attendance

On May 13, a significant event took place at the École nationale de police du Québec to honor the bravery and sacrifice of police officers. This commemorative ceremony, was an integral part of the Police Week celebrations and served as a poignant reminder of the courage and dedication of law enforcement officers.

Commemorative Ceremony for Fallen Officers

The day commenced with a solemn ceremony to remember officers who have died in the line of duty. This year’s ceremony held special significance with the induction of Sergeant Maureen Breau of the Sûreté du Québec into the memorial wall. Sergeant Breau’s dedication and ultimate sacrifice are now forever etched in the annals of police history.

The ceremony also paid tribute to Mr. Gabriel Labelle, a member of the Sainte-Thérèse Municipal Police, who died on October 12, 1971. Mr. Labelle’s legacy continues to resonate within the policing community, reminding everyone of the inherent risks faced by officers every day.

RIPTB’s presence was strongly felt, with Officer Sylvain Lamer representing the brigade in the honor guard. This gesture highlighted the solidarity and respect among law enforcement officers, underscoring their shared commitment to protecting and serving the community, even at great personal risk.

Recognition of Distinguished Service

Following the commemorative segment, the Ministry of Public Security conducted an awards and citations ceremony, honoring distinguished service and bravery among the officers. This was followed by a parade through the streets of Nicolet, showcasing the pride and solidarity of the police force.

The 15th edition of this event was particularly special, with Public Security Minister François Bonnardel, also the Member of the National Assembly for Granby, in attendance. Joining him was Quebec Premier François Legault, whose participation underscored the importance of the occasion.

A Day of Unity and Reflection

Throughout the day, the collective spirit of the public security community was palpable. The ceremonies not only honored the valor of individual officers but also reinforced the deep respect and appreciation for the police force’s ongoing commitment to serving and protecting the community.

The event highlighted the significance of recognizing the efforts and sacrifices of law enforcement officers, fostering a sense of unity and respect within the community. As the Police Recognition Day concluded, it left an indelible mark on all who attended, reminding them of the dedication and courage that define the police profession.

The ceremony on May 13 served as a powerful tribute to the heroism of police officers, ensuring their sacrifices and service are never forgotten.

Anticipation and Concerns Surrounding the Deux-Montagnes REM Launch

Featured

Maria Diamantis

May 17, 2024

Anticipation and Concerns Surrounding the Deux-Montagnes REM Launch

After nearly four years without a commuter train, residents of Deux-Montagnes and its surrounding areas are eagerly anticipating the arrival of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) to facilitate their transportation to downtown Montreal. However, their excitement is tempered with impatience and concerns, as they will have to wait until 2025 for the service to commence due to complications in the Mont-Royal tunnel.

The Long Wait

The prolonged wait has been a significant inconvenience for residents. The Deux-Montagnes line, once a reliable and efficient means of commuting, has been out of service, leaving many to rely on alternative and often less convenient modes of transportation. The disruption has affected daily routines, adding time and stress to commutes that were once straightforward.

“We cannot move forward on [the date of start-up of the REM] because our priority is really to focus on the end of the tunnel work, which is really the work on the critical path of the project,” explained Jean-Philippe Pelletier, senior director for the western phase of the REM project at CDPQ Infra. His statement underscores the complexity and importance of the tunnel work, which is a pivotal component of the REM project.

Progress Amidst Delays

Despite the delays, progress is being made. Tests are currently being conducted on the Deux-Montagnes line, and the station itself is in the final stages of construction. Unlike the previous boarding platform for exo trains, the new REM platform is designed to protect users from bad weather, enhancing the overall commuter experience. Additionally, incentive parking with a capacity for more than 1,200 vehicles will be available, aiming to make the transition to the REM as seamless as possible for users.

Noise Concerns

However, alongside the anticipation, there are growing fears among residents living near the line linking Deux-Montagnes to the city center. The primary concern is the potential for noise disturbances similar to those experienced by citizens of Griffintown.

Addressing Noise Fears

In response to these concerns, Jean-Philippe Pelletier has reassured residents that the noise levels on the North Shore will not mirror those on the South Shore. “The REM on the North Shore does not necessarily make the same noise as on the South Shore. For what? Because the structures it sits on are not the same. On the South Shore, we use a lot of steel beams. Here, on Deux-Montagnes, we are more on ballast and concrete beams, so the resonance will not be the same,” he explained.

This difference in construction materials and methods is expected to mitigate the noise impact, offering some solace to concerned residents. The use of ballast and concrete beams, as opposed to steel beams, should result in less resonance and, consequently, less noise.

The Broader Impact

The arrival of the REM is poised to significantly impact the daily lives of Deux-Montagnes residents. On one hand, it promises a return to efficient, reliable transportation, reducing commute times and easing daily travel. On the other hand, the project’s delays and the associated noise concerns have created a sense of unease and frustration within the community.

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 launch date approaches, the focus remains on completing the critical work in the Mont-Royal tunnel and ensuring that the REM is ready to serve the public effectively. The continued testing and finalization of station construction are positive signs of progress, even if the wait feels interminable for those affected.

In the interim, communication between CDPQ Infra and the residents will be crucial. Keeping the community informed about progress, addressing concerns transparently, and demonstrating a commitment to mitigating negative impacts will be key to maintaining public trust and support.

The North Shore News volume 20-09

Archives

NSN Staff

May 3, 2024

The current issue of The North Shore News volume 20-09 published May 3rd, 2024.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.

Rosemère Town Council Takes Steps Towards Mixed-Use Development

Policy

Maria Diamantis

May 3, 2024

Rosemère Town Council Takes Steps Towards Mixed-Use Development

In a pivotal move to rejuvenate its regional hub, the Rosemère Town Council passed a resolution directing the General Manager’s office to draft a request for amending the MRC de Thérèse-De Blainville’s land use and development plan. This amendment seeks to incorporate mixed commercial and residential use in specific zones of the town, namely C-03, C-139, and C-140, areas central to Rosemère’s urban strategy.

As the local retail sector faces a downturn, Rosemère is experiencing a concerning drop in tax revenues, a scenario that is exacerbating the financial burden on residential taxpayers. The Council’s strategy aims to leverage this situation by optimizing land use in the regional hub to align with broader redevelopment objectives. This would involve the integration of additional green spaces near Place Rosemère, currently the town’s most significant heat island, and enhancing the area’s resilience to climate change.

Furthermore, the Council is committed to addressing the social and demographic needs of Rosemère’s residents by diversifying the housing options available within the community. This approach not only aims to cater to a broader range of residents but also to invigorate the community with new vitality and connectivity.

Earlier in February, the town took a preparatory step by commissioning a technical study to explore the feasibility of integrating certain urban infrastructure systems. This study is crucial in ensuring that any forthcoming projects are backed by thorough data and analysis, thereby supporting informed decision-making by the town’s leadership.

To steer these initiatives, the Council has established a working committee chaired by Councillor Marie-Élaine Pitre, with Mayor Eric Westram and key municipal staff as members. The committee is tasked with monitoring the progress of major projects emerging from these redevelopment efforts, ensuring that each step aligns with the town’s long-term vision for growth and sustainability.

This strategic pivot marks a significant chapter in Rosemère’s urban planning, as it looks to a future where commercial vitality and residential well-being are closely intertwined, creating a more dynamic and sustainable community.

Marie-Andrée Bonneau Wins Municipal Council Seat in Rosemère

Local News

Maria Diamantis

May 3, 2024

Marie-Andrée Bonneau Wins Municipal Council Seat in Rosemère

Marie-Andrée Bonneau has been elected to the municipal council of Rosemère following a special election held last Sunday.
The election came about to fill the seat vacated by Councillor Carla Brown, who resigned in January. Bonneau and another candidate, Alexandre Raymond from the InnovAction+ party, contended for the position.
Bonneau, running as an independent, secured the council seat with a significant lead, outpacing Raymond by 161 votes. Her victory marks her as the second independent voice on the council, a detail she is particularly proud of.
Reflecting on her campaign strategy, Bonneau highlighted her grassroots approach. “I ran as an independent and sparked a debate. I campaigned without any spending, relying solely on word-of-mouth,” she stated shortly after the final vote counts were revealed.
Bonneau also expressed a deep understanding of her constituents’ concerns and a commitment to represent their voices in the city council. “People want to be heard. Since 2021, things have not progressed. Now, with two independent voices, we hope to initiate healthy debate and push forward on important issues,” she asserted.
She concluded her victory speech with gratitude, saying, “I am very happy and would like to thank all the citizens who turned out to vote,” before ending the evening’s celebrations.