The current issue of The North Shore News volume 18-07 published February 25th, 2022.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.
(Click HERE to read the paper.)
The North Shore News volume 18-07
André Lapointe appointed Director General
After a little over two years as interim Director General, Mr. André Lapointe was officially appointed Director General of the City of Boisbriand during the meeting of the city council on February 1.
With 32 years of experience in municipal administration in Boisbriand, including nearly 15 years as director of the Engineering Department, Mr. Lapointe’s appointment was unanimously supported by the members of council.
“I particularly want to highlight Mr. Lapointe’s considerable contribution over the past 24 months, but also since he joined the City. His dedication and unwavering support for elected officials, staff members and the public are undeniable,” said Christine Beaudette, Mayor of the City of Boisbriand.
“Knowing that he shares the same determination as the municipal council to offer the citizens of Boisbriand services that meet their expectations, it is with conviction that we are handing over the helm of the municipal administration to him,” added the mayor.
During his long career with the Engineering Department of the City of Boisbriand, he contributed to several large-scale projects, including the upgrading of the wastewater treatment plant, the implementation of selective collection in three lanes as well as the construction of numerous municipal infrastructures, including the Maison du Citoyen, the Recreation Center and the outdoor municipal swimming pool.
“It is with honor and pride that I accept this position. I believe that the experience I acquired at the City of Boisbriand will allow me to meet this challenge with confidence. I would like to thank the Board for the confidence it has shown in me by delegating this responsibility to me,” said the new Director General.
Mr. Lapointe will assume the duties of Acting Director of Engineering Services until the arrival of his successor.
The North Shore News volume 18-06
The current issue of The North Shore News volume 18-06 published February 18th, 2022.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.
(Click HERE to read the paper.)
Winter tree inspections in Rosemère
The city of Rosemère has benn waging war against the emerald ash borer, a type of beetle which has been ravaging ash trees in Quebec in the last years.
According to the latest newsletter of the city, in order for the trees on a residents property to be inspected by the Town during the winter months, especially if they are in the backyard, it is important that they be easy to get to.
If people have a fence, any snow must be cleared out from around the gate so it can be opened. It can be difficult at this time of year to confirm certain diseases or detect insect infestation. Since the signs of many of these problems are identified by thinning, withering, spotting or otherwise altered leaves, residents are advised to wait until the foliage returns in spring before requesting an inspection.
Ash tree replacement program
A financial assistance program has been set up to help Rosemerites if they have had ash trees cut down on their property as a result of an emerald ash borer infestation. There are two options open to them. In both cases, the Town will help them replace 50% of the number of ash trees that have been felled.
Option A: Twice a year, the Town will deliver young trees with a 25 mm (1”) trunk to affected property owners.
Option B: If citizens wish to have a greater choice of replacement trees, they will be issued a grant of up to $100 for each tree, upon presentation of the required receipts, providing the choice of tree is on the authorized list
Forest engineer services available
If residents have trees in their yard that they are concerned about and would like an expert to take a closer look, the Town offers the services of a forest engineering consultant free of charge in the summer. They will answer all questions, advise people on the best conservation solution and carry out tests to determine whether there is a safety risk. If a resident would like to request these services, simply he/she will have fill out a tree inspection application and indicate that you wish to receive an assessment in the “Additional Details” section of the form.
Online tree cutting and inspection application
Residents of Rosemère can now request permission to have a tree cut down or inspected directly online using the Voilà! app. If they don’t already have the app on your mobile device, they can simply download it and create an account. Then go to Online Requests, select Permit and click Abattage d’arbres (urbain) to submit a form to the Town. If they just want an inspection, they must fill out the same form, indicating in the work description that they do not wish for the tree to be cut down.
Inconvenience this spring
The Town has been cutting down emerald ash borer–infested trees on public property and rights-of-way throughout the winter. Depending on the surrounding snow cover, some stumps will start to become visible as spring rolls around. Public Works will proceed with stump removal operations as soon as the weather allows, one site at a time. A crew will start by sawing the stump down to the ground. The removal itself will take place later in the year in accordance with a set timetable. Different machinery is required for each stage of the process, so it cannot be done all at once.
The RIPTB is currently investigating a robbery that occurred in a business in Boisbriand
The Régie intermunicipale de police Thérèse-De Blainville is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding a robbery that occurred around 7 a.m. on Tuesday February 8th 2022 in a convenience store located at 2 business boulevard in Boisbriand.
A man showed up in the business, committed mischief and then stole the contents of the cash drawer at the threat of a blunt object. The witnesses present informed the police that he then left on foot to the north.
The victim, the convenience store clerk, was fortunately not injured.
“Police are currently examining the scene and the investigation is ongoing. No arrests have been made to date in this case. The victim was taken care of by the police and is met by our investigators. The person sought is a Caucasian male in his thirties, approximately 5’8 (1.72) tall, of average build. He was dressed in dark clothes. The suspect spoke to the clerk in English reported Sergeant Karine Desaulniers, spokesperson for the RIPTB. All information relating to this file can be sent confidentially to 450 435-2421 ext. 0.
Surgeries gradually resuming in the Laurentians
As the epidemiological situation in the region has greatly improved in recent weeks, the Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux (CISSS) des Laurentides is gradually increasing surgical procedures to shorten waiting lists and wait times.
Reducing operating rooms activities during the fifth wave of the pandemic was necessary to respond more massively to COVID-19-related needs while the region was at the highest Alert Level 4. The reduced number of persons needing COVID-19-related care and the return to Alert Level 3 in the Laurentians now make it possible to gradually increase surgical procedures.
The activity rate for all operating theatres in the region was at 61% in early January. The CISSS des Laurentides is now aiming to reach am 81% activity rate by mid-February. As for endoscopic examinations, procedures which had been 50% reduced during the fifth wave will 100% resume in the coming days.
For Ms. Rosemonde Landry, President and Executive Director of the CISSS des Laurentides, the resumption of surgical procedures is very good news. “I am pleased that we were able to maintain urgent surgical procedures at all times during the pandemic for people who needed them. I want to thank our staff and the doctors who work in our operating theatres. They found a way to stay the course despite the reduced activities. We are now going to gradually increase procedures so that people waiting for surgery can be treated as soon as possible,” she said.
Call for patient cooperation
Although the pressure on the clinical teams to meet COVID-19-related care needs has decreased, the general rate of care continues at a sustained pace in order to reduce wait times. The CISSS des Laurentides is calling on the public’s cooperation in honouring examination and appointment dates as scheduled to avoid depriving others on waiting lists.
“Every prevention measure is in place to ensure the safety of people coming to our facilities for an operation and our teams are ready to provide the best care possible to our patients according to the highest standards of quality”, said Ms. Landry.
No more late fees at Blainville Library
Joining the global “Fine Free Library” movement initiated in the United States, the municipal administration of Mayor Liza Poulin is now abolishing late fees for users of the Paul-Mercier library, the objective being to create a welcoming environment and break down barriers to attendance from the library.
“In today’s busy family lives, even the best-meaning parents sometimes forget the expiration dates of borrowed materials. Some subscribers who are experiencing financial difficulties even completely stop using the library because of the fees entered in their file,” said Liza Poulin, Mayor of the City of Blainville. Not only will late fees no longer be billed to subscribers in the future, but the sums in the user’s file will also be canceled when this measure comes into force.
“By abolishing late fees, we are ensuring that all children and all families in our municipality have free and open access to reading material. With this action, we want to awaken citizens to a taste for reading, without punishing them,” added David Malenfant, Councilor for Services to the Population and Quality of Life.
New rules for lateness
Despite the abolition of fees, a procedure for managing lateness remains in place to promote the circulation of books and allow as many people as possible to benefit from them.
Thus, when books are borrowed, a transaction statement is given to subscribers. A courtesy notice is then sent by email, three days before the deadline. Delay notices are subsequently sent after 7 and 14 days of delay. The subscriber’s file is blocked when the first overdue notice is issued.
If the books are still not returned to the library after a month’s delay, they will be considered lost and an invoice will then be issued to cover the cost of the materials not returned.
“If we rely on the experience of other municipalities, this initiative generates positive spinoffs, including an increase in the circulation of books, an increase in the subscription rate and the rate of use of the library. And in the end, the entire population of Blainville will benefit,” concluded Mayor Liza Poulin. It is interesting to know that in Quebec, 46% of municipalities have abolished their late fees.
On the photo: David Malenfant, delegated councilor for services to the population, Liza Poulin, mayoress of Blainville, Stéphanie Lachaine, deputy director Recreation, culture, library and community life department – cultural sector
Discovery stay in Annecy/A memorable internship experience for young Thérésians
In July 2022, six young Thérésians will have the chance to fly to the magnificent city of Annecy in France to participate in one of the internships Discovery stay lasting four weeks, promising them an enriching experience in an enchanting setting!
Participants will be hosted by the City of Annecy, while the City of Sainte-Thérèse will offer each a $1,000 scholarship to help pay for transportation costs. To be eligible, candidates must be between the ages of 18 and 25, be residents of Sainte-Thérèse or be studying full-time in an educational institution located on the territory of the City.
“As the health context has forced the cancellation of the Discovery Stay courses in 2020 and 2021, we are happy to be able to offer such an extraordinary opportunity again. After two years of challenges to overcome, what could be better for the young Thérésiens than to explore new horizons this summer and live a most memorable adventure! “, said the mayor of Sainte-Thérèse, Mr. Christian Charron.
The available internships are:
- Reception and administrative assistance officer at the Bonlieu Youth Information Office
- Reception and cultural activities officer at the La Turbine Media Library
- Reception and maintenance officer at Le Belvédère Campsite (Semnoz)
- Room and maintenance worker at the Pré Saint Jean accommodation residence
- Animal care assistant in the Landscapes and Biodiversity Urban Ecology department at Annecy
- Assistant in communications at the Alliance Française d’Annecy
- Receptionist and security guard at the Musée-Château and the Palais de l’Île
- Bike repairer at Roule & Co
- Trainee at the Department of international relations, City of Annecy
The detailed descriptions and eligibility conditions can be found at www.sainte‑therese.ca > City > Friendship pacts > Annecy. To submit an application, a curriculum vitae accompanied by a cover letter must be sent before March 15, 2022 to sejourdecouverte@sainte-therese.ca.
A friendship pact dating from 1987 unites the towns of Sainte-Thérèse and Annecy. The latter allows many fruitful exchanges, as well as unique opportunities for citizens. The city of Annecy, also nicknamed the Venice of the Alps, promises to certainly make the young interns fall under its spell with its breathtaking landscapes!
A snow celebration worthy of Old Man Winter
The first weekend pf February, the Fête des neiges blew over Lorraine. In the middle of a chilly Saturday, it allowed families to rediscover the pleasure of playing outside during this event, which this year took place under the theme of the Olympic Games. Despite a reduced reception capacity, due to the pandemic restrictions, people were there, as was the wonderful winter spirit. It was a great satisfaction for everyone to find Lorraine Park lively during this winter celebration.
Among the activities that delighted participants were the snow sculpture workshop, the unmissable inflatable games and the skill contest for hockey fans. Congratulations to the young hockey winners, who received a $100 gift card offered by the Hockey Experts store at Place Rosemère: Benjamin Bossé, Levi Correia, Mathieu Généreux, Ludovic Geraldo, Jérémie Herbert and Xavier Herbert. Throughout the day, various games and traveling entertainment brightened up the site. The exhibition of snowmen made by Lorraine families over the past few weeks, as part of the “Mon bonhomme et moi!” competition was noteworthy. Adèle Brouillette, voted by visitors during the Festival, won the grand prize: a gift set valued at $50 including a thermos mug, sweets and a gift card redeemable at Sports Experts.
Present on the site with his colleagues from the municipal council, Mayor Jean Comtois said he was delighted with the celebration: “Really, what a pleasure to meet the happy faces of young and old during this beautiful winter day! The citizens had fun, they took advantage of it, and I can tell you that for all the members of Council, it was a great pleasure to meet up with them. Hats off to the recreation and culture team for this great organization and thank you to all the visitors, volunteers, organizations, partners and sponsors,” said the mayor of Lorraine.
Used cooking oils are now accepted at the Sainte-Thérèse multi-recycling center
As of February 11, residents of Sainte-Thérèse and Boisbriand will be able to bring their used cooking oils to the multi-recycling center free of charge (105 , rue Blanchard, Sainte-Thérèse). To do this, they must go on site during opening hours, present proof of residence and return their closed and identified containers to the attendant.
“Every gesture counts when it comes to the environment. We are pleased to offer a free, environmentally friendly alternative to disposing of used residential cooking oils. We hope that many citizens will take advantage of it,” said the mayor of Sainte-Thérèse, Mr. Christian Charron.
It can be frying oil or cooking fat, such as when cooking bacon. It is not recommended to dispose of these materials in the kitchen sink or in the toilets. The cooking oil contained in the wastewater requires additional treatment at the water purification plant. In addition, when the oil cools, it freezes and adheres to the walls of the various pipes, which can obstruct the passage of materials.
Reminder
Before disposing of them, it is possible to reuse certain cooking oils. Just filter them, for example using a coffee filter, and put them in a container. The filter will retain the particles, allowing the oil to be used again.
According to Mahoney Environmental there are many different uses for used cooking oil. Many of these uses are perfect for putting your used cooking oil at home to good use:
Household lubricant: Used cooking oil is an effective lubricant that can be used for many things around the house from squeaking hinges to troublesome locks. Used cooking oil also helps prevent rust on metal surfaces and objects such as tools.
Key lock lubricant: If your key regularly sticks in the locks in your home, spreading some cooking oil on your key will prevent it from sticking.
Lamp oil: If you have an oil lamp in your home, you can use your used cooking oil to fuel the lamp.
Furniture polish and conditioner: If you have wood furniture in your home that looks dull or scratched, used cooking oil can be used to polish and restore the look of the wood. Make a mixture that is equal parts used cooking oil and vinegar and use it to polish your wood furniture.
Removing paint from your hands: Paint is one of the hardest things to wash off if it gets on your hands. You can remove paint from your hands easier with used oil. Rub some used oil on your hands and let it sit for 5 minutes, then wash your hands and the paint will come off.
Pot and pan protector: Rubbing some used cooking oil on the surface of new pots and pans can help keep them protected. Wash your new pots and pans before you use them and rub some used oil on the surface.
Non-stick gardening tools: Soil and grass can stick to gardening tools like shovels, trowels, and lawnmower blades. Coating these tools with used cooking oil will prevent grass and dirt from sticking to them.
Car cleaner: Used cooking oil can be used to remove tough dirt and debris from any surface of your car including the brakes and the body. Put a little bit of cooking oil on a rag or paper towel and wipe the affected areas. Used cooking oil can effectively remove dirt, grime, pollen, bugs, and other gunk.
Composting: If you have a compost pile, adding used vegetable oil to the pile can help. Adding small amounts of used vegetable oil will feed the worms that help with the composting process. Make sure you only use vegetable oil because animal-based oils will attract nuisance animals and cause pathogens to form.
Animal feed: Used cooking oil can be used as animal feed in several different ways. You can drizzle some used oil on the food for your dog or cat which will improve the taste for them and keep their coats shiny. You can also mix some oil in with the bird seed in your bird feeder.
