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 North Shore News volume 20-18
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.
Whooping Cough Continues to Spread in the North Shore: Health Authorities Urge Vaccination
Health authorities in the Laurentides region are sounding the alarm as whooping cough, or pertussis, continues to spread rapidly. The Public Health Directorate of the Laurentides Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS) reports a sharp rise in cases over the past few months, with infections surging from 41 reported cases in mid-May to an alarming 1,405 by the end of August.
Children under the age of 10 have been hit hardest by the outbreak, especially over the last two weeks. Since the beginning of the year, 32 cases have also been confirmed in infants under one year old, a particularly vulnerable group.
Whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection spread through droplets when an infected person coughs. Initial symptoms mimic those of a cold, but quickly escalate into severe coughing fits. These bouts of coughing can cause difficulty breathing and are often accompanied by a distinctive high-pitched “whoop” sound. The intense coughing can lead to vomiting and, in some cases, a bluish tinge to the skin due to a lack of oxygen. In infants, who are especially vulnerable, the symptoms can be even more dangerous, with some showing only mild or absent coughs but experiencing serious breathing difficulties, including apnea.
The most at-risk populations include babies under the age of one, who are particularly prone to severe complications that may require hospitalization. Pregnant women who contract the illness in the four weeks leading up to childbirth are also at heightened risk of passing the infection on to their newborns. Health officials stress that vaccination during pregnancy can significantly reduce these risks, preventing up to 90% of hospitalizations and 95% of deaths in infants under three months.
With the school year now underway, the Public Health Directorate is reminding residents of the importance of keeping vaccinations up to date. They are strongly encouraging everyone, especially families with young children, to get vaccinated against whooping cough. By doing so, the spread of this highly infectious disease can be slowed, and the most vulnerable members of the community can be protected.
Vaccinations are available free of charge, and appointments can be made online through Clic Santé or by calling the health service line. Vaccination schedules for children involve multiple doses to ensure long-term protection, starting at 2, 4, and 12 months of age, with boosters required between ages 4 and 6. Pregnant women are advised to receive the vaccine during each pregnancy, ideally between the 26th and 32nd week, to safeguard their newborns until they are old enough to be vaccinated themselves at two months.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of whooping cough, regardless of vaccination status, should contact Info-Santé at 811 or seek medical advice, particularly if they are in close contact with vulnerable groups such as infants or pregnant women. Those diagnosed with the illness are urged to avoid contact with infants and pregnant women nearing their due date to help prevent further transmission.
For more information on whooping cough, how to recognize its symptoms, and ways to prevent its spread, residents are encouraged to visit the Laurentides Public Health website (santelaurentides.gouv.qc.ca).
The North Shore News volume 20-17
The current issue of The North Shore News volume 20-17 published September 13th, 2024.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.
North Shore Mayors, Criticize Quebec’s Inadequate Storm Debby Relief Program
Mayors from the North Shore of Montreal, including Denis Martin of Deux-Montagnes, are raising their voices in frustration over the inadequacy of the Quebec government’s aid program for victims of the recent storm Debby. On August 9th, the storm unleashed torrential rains that resulted in widespread flooding across the region. However, the majority of those affected by the disaster are being left out of the government’s compensation program due to restrictive eligibility criteria.
Premier François Legault had initially suggested that the government would expand its compensation program to accommodate more victims. Yet, the guidelines released last week reveal a different reality: only those whose damages were caused by sewer backups linked to the overflow of natural watercourses will qualify for aid. For cities like Deux-Montagnes, where most flooding occurred due to overwhelmed sewers far from any rivers, this exclusion has been particularly devastating.
Denis Martin, the mayor of Deux-Montagnes, expressed his disappointment with the government’s approach, stating that the vast majority of the flooding in his city was due to heavy rainfall that turned streets into torrents, causing sewage systems to back up and flood basements.
The Quebec government has justified its stance by pointing out that private insurers typically cover damages from sewer backups. Public Security Minister François Bonnardel emphasized that the government does not intend to replace private insurers and will only consider cases where sewer backups are directly caused by a river overflow. This decision has left many residents, especially those in areas like Deux-Montagnes, struggling to cover the costs of repairs. Denis Martin and other North Shore mayors argue that this narrow definition of eligibility fails to reflect the realities of the disaster.
They, are calling for a reassessment of the government’s disaster relief program. They argue that it must be adapted to the increasing frequency of severe weather events caused by climate change, which are now impacting areas far from traditional flood zones. The current criteria, they say, leave too many people vulnerable and unsupported in the face of such disasters.
Denis Martin and his colleagues are pushing for immediate changes to the program, stressing that the government must act swiftly to address the gaps in aid and provide meaningful support to all victims of storm Debby, regardless of the source of the flooding.
Hit-and-Run Incident with Injury in Rosemère: Suspect Arrested
In the early hours of Friday, August 16, just before 7:50 AM, a hit-and-run incident shocked the quiet residential streets of northern Rosemère. Officers from the Thérèse-De Blainville Intermunicipal Police Authority (RIPTB) swiftly responded to an emergency call, where a 28-year-old man had been struck by a vehicle that fled the scene immediately after the collision.
Upon arriving at the scene, the RIPTB officers quickly administered first aid to the injured pedestrian. Despite the traumatic event, the man remained conscious and was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for further medical treatment. His injuries, while serious, were not life-threatening, and he has since been reported to be in stable condition.
The rapid response of the police and the collaboration of local residents played a crucial role in the subsequent investigation. Witnesses at the scene provided detailed accounts of the incident, including a description of the vehicle that fled. These critical observations allowed the police to narrow down their search and identify the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run.
Lieutenant-Detective Michel Duchesne, who led the investigation, emphasized the importance of teamwork in resolving the case. “This was truly a team effort, and it was the collective work that made the difference in this case. Thanks to the telecommunications operators, the quick response of the patrol officers, the effective handling of the case by the investigators, and the involvement of witnesses, we were able to arrest the suspect,” he stated. Duchesne’s remarks highlight the coordinated efforts across different departments and the vital role that community members played in ensuring the suspect was brought to justice.
Following the identification of the vehicle, the police were able to track down and arrest the suspect, a 27-year-old woman from the local area, at her home. The suspect is now facing serious charges, including hit-and-run and impaired driving. According to police reports, alcohol was a contributing factor in the incident, which not only exacerbates the severity of the charges but also underscores the ongoing issue of impaired driving in the community.
To ensure a comprehensive investigation, a reconstruction officer from the Sûreté du Québec was dispatched to the scene. The officer conducted a thorough analysis of the site, gathering evidence and reconstructing the events leading up to the collision. This step is crucial in piecing together the exact sequence of events and will provide essential information for the legal proceedings that are likely to follow.
The victim, despite the traumatic experience, is currently in stable condition, and medical professionals do not fear for his life.
The RIPTB took the opportunity to remind the public of the seriousness of impaired driving. “Human life is at the core of our actions, and impaired driving is a serious crime that poses a significant threat to public safety,” the police stated. They also reiterated the legal responsibility of drivers involved in accidents to remain at the scene and provide assistance to those in need. Fleeing the scene of an accident is not only illegal but also morally reprehensible, as it leaves victims without the help they might desperately need.
Ensuring a Safe Back-to-School Transition
As the new school year begins, the Sûreté du Québec is taking proactive measures to enhance safety around school zones. From August 26 to September 6, 2024, police officers will be increasing their presence near schools to help manage the influx of traffic and ensure that students can return to their studies in a safe environment.
The start of the school year brings a noticeable increase in road traffic, primarily due to the greater number of school buses, pedestrians, cyclists, and crossing guards on the streets. This surge in activity around school zones highlights the need for heightened vigilance and adherence to traffic safety rules. By following these rules, drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians can all contribute to a safer environment for everyone, particularly for children who are more vulnerable near roadways.
One of the most critical aspects of ensuring safety in school zones is strict compliance with speed limits. Speeding in these areas can have serious consequences, as children may unexpectedly step into the road or be less visible to drivers. During school hours, which are defined as 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, from September to June, the penalties for speeding in school zones are significantly increased. Fines are doubled to emphasize the importance of driving at safe speeds where children are present.
In addition to obeying speed limits, it is essential for drivers to understand and respect the rules regarding school buses. When a school bus or minibus activates its flashing red lights or extends its stop sign, all vehicles, including cyclists, must come to a complete stop at a distance of at least five meters. This rule is in place to ensure that children can safely enter and exit the bus without the risk of being struck by a passing vehicle.
The role of crossing guards and traffic controllers is also crucial in maintaining order and safety around schools. Their signals and instructions must be followed without exception, even if they differ from standard traffic signs. These individuals are positioned to manage the flow of traffic in response to the specific needs of school zones, and their guidance is designed to protect the lives of students and other pedestrians.
Furthermore, drivers must exercise caution when approaching pedestrian crosswalks. If a pedestrian signals their intention to cross, vehicles must stop to allow them to pass safely. Pedestrian crosswalks are often located near schools, where children are likely to cross the street, making it even more important for drivers to be attentive and prepared to stop.
Parents also play a vital role in maintaining safety around schools. When dropping off their children, they should do so in designated areas that are specifically set up to manage the flow of traffic and prevent dangerous maneuvers. Avoiding double parking or stopping in no-parking zones helps to minimize risks and ensures that other drivers can see and avoid pedestrians, especially young children who may be harder to spot.
For those seeking further information on traffic regulations and safety measures in school zones, the SAAQ (Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec) provides comprehensive resources. By visiting their website at SAAQ Road Safety, parents, drivers, and community members can access guidelines that will help keep everyone safe during this busy back-to-school period.
Deux-Montagnes Responds to the Impact of Storm Debby and Torrential Rains
On August 9, 2024, the community of Deux-Montagnes, along with other parts of Quebec, faced significant challenges due to the heavy rainfall brought by Storm Debby. The severe downpour led to considerable property damage and other difficulties for many residents in the area.
In a statement from the City of Deux-Montagnes, it was reported that emergency response teams, led by the city’s General Director, were quickly mobilized as the storm began to impact the region. These teams worked to clear streets, assist residents, and deploy pumps to manage the flooding. The General Director, alongside blue-collar workers, firefighters, and police officers from the Régie de Police du Lac des Deux-Montagnes, remained active on the ground late into the night of August 9th and into the early hours of August 10th.
Mayor Denis Martin, speaking on behalf of the municipal council, expressed deep concern for the affected residents. He noted that city officials had been actively present in the community since the night of the storm, engaging with citizens and seeking ways to support those impacted by the disaster.
The city implemented several recovery measures in response to the flooding. As of August 10th, a deposit site was opened at the municipal garage, allowing residents to dispose of debris free of charge. Containers were placed at strategic locations, and a large-scale debris collection operation was initiated, which would continue as long as necessary. Additionally, psychosocial support teams from the CISSS des Laurentides were deployed at the city’s request to assist those affected.
To ensure the city was included on the list of disaster-stricken areas, Deux-Montagnes officials communicated with the Ministry of Public Security. The city emphasized the importance of an inclusive provincial relief program. Urban planning inspectors were assigned to assess and document the damages, assisting residents in filing claims with the ministry. The city also announced that renovation permits for affected properties would be issued free of charge.
Mayor Denis Martin also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects designed to enhance the city’s resilience to future storms, including the construction of a stormwater retention basin and a dedicated stormwater pumping station, expected to be completed by the end of the year.
In closing, Mayor Denis Martin expressed his gratitude to all municipal employees for their efforts during the crisis, noting the strong sense of community and mutual aid that was evident throughout the recovery efforts. The city underscored both the challenges posed by the storm and its commitment to supporting residents in the aftermath.
