Author name: Gatineau Bulletin

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Les Grands Feux Casino Lac-Leamy is back for its 27^th edition from July 31 to August 17. Every Wednesday and Saturday, from 6 pm to 10 pm, the Canadian Museum of History will transform into a magical venue to offer a multisensory experience for all. Event-goers can prepare to be blown away by breathtaking pyro-musical shows, local culinary offerings, artistic performances and displays of contemplate digital art. 

“To truly experience and feel the full range of emotions our event aims to provide, you definitely need to visit the site at the Canadian Museum of History! The entire team is thrilled and excited to offer a real multisensory festival here in the Outaouais,” says Julie Moffatt, President and CEO of Les Grands Feux du Casino Lac-Leamy.

This year’s theme “Unifying Fire” promises to be electrifying. On the program; six firework shows presented by varying countries from across the globe, fire cooking restaurants and multisensory activities for the whole family. For one firework experience tickets range from $7.50 to $37.50 per person depending on seating, age and location. For those interested in attending every show, firework passports are available online starting at $147 pre-tax.  

To meet the increasing demand, more seating has been allocated for this year in order to accommodate over 240 festival-goers each evening. 

All information on programming, show schedules, featured artists and food vendors can be found online at feux.qc.ca.  

Full list of themed pyro-musical shows:

Wednesday, July 31, Royal Pyrotechnie presents the Grand Opening with the theme A Sky From Here, showcasing Quebec’s musical genius through the decades.

Saturday, August 3, the firm Dancing Fireworks presents China with the theme Mulan, showcasing a world where humility, bravery, and dedication are honoured.

Wednesday, August 7, the firm Pirotechnia Zaragozana presents Spain with the theme My Universe, an enchanting musical experience that will transport you through various musical styles, representing our journey through different life situations.

Saturday, August 10, the firm Caribe Fire Fx presents Barbados with the theme Pyros of the Caribbean, a dynamic show that will make you feel like you’re in the Caribbean with a rhythmic, sensual, and festive soundtrack.

Wednesday, August 14, the firm MLE Pyrotechnics presents the United Kingdom with the theme Harmonies Across Borders: A Musical Journey Through Canada, the UK, and France, a visual symphony choreographed to the iconic melodies of these culturally rich nations.

Saturday, August 17, the firm Royal Pyrotechnie presents the Grand Finale with the theme Champions, a fiery sporting event highlighting strength, skill, and discipline in this glorious fireworks display.

Photo caption

Photo: Les Grands Feux Casino Lac-Leamy is back in Gatineau for its 27^th edition. The multisensory festival held from July 31 to August 17 promises to bring igniting fireworks and artistic shows, mouth-watering cuisine and interactive activities for all. (DD) Photo: Djeneba Dosso

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Audrey Leduc made headlines on Friday after finishing the women’s 100-metres in 10.95 seconds, surpassing the Canadian record she set last April. However, the Gatineau sprinter will have to take a few more laps, this time around the sun, to become a 100-metre finalist in the 2028 Olympics.

The 25-year-old came out fifth during the women’s 100-metres semifinals on Saturday, just .03 seconds shy of a spot in the semifinals. “There’s not much difference. That’s it, that’s beauty,” she said in French post-race. “That’s what gives you a show. That’s life.” 

The sprinter admitted her start wasn’t as optimal as the one that earned her first place on Friday. Nonetheless, she remains a good sport.

“I wouldn’t say it’s a disappointment; we’re still in the Olympics. It’s my first experience in the Games,” she said. “[…] It’s true that I would have wanted to make it to the final, but I don’t think it’s a disappointment in itself.”

Leduc was among 16 Olympic rookies like herself on the 26-woman field at the Stade de France. Julien Alfred of Saint Lucia took gold home after setting a national record time of 10.72 seconds. She was closely followed by world champion Sha’Carri Richardson of the U.S. who earned silver and Melissa Jefferson, also from the U.S., with bronze. 

On Sunday, the Gatineau sprinter won her heat during the women’s 200-metre race where she finished third with a time of 22.88 seconds, earning herself a spot in the semifinals on August 5. 

More to come.

Photo caption

Photo #1: Faster woman in Canada, but not in the world just yet. While Leduc surpassed her own national record on Friday, finishing the 100-metres in 10.95 seconds, it wasn’t enough to qualify for the semifinals. Nonetheless, the Gatineau sprinter advanced to the semifinals for the women’s 200-metres race on Sunday. (DD) Photo: Djeneba Dosso.   

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Local club Artistic Swimming Gatin’Eau proudly hosted the 2024 SYNC competition held at the Gatineau Sports Centre from July 16 to 19. The event, which was organized by Artistic Swimming Quebec in collaboration with the Ontario and Alberta branches, gathered athletes of different ages from varying provinces, offering “an exceptional opportunity for young Quebec athletes to show their talents and to compete against Canada’s top artistic swimmers.”

The competition gave stage to different formats, including solo, duo and team or combo routines. Each choreography was placed into categories such as adapted artistic swimming, the youth and junior categories and the 11- to 12-year-olds. The wide range of disciplines was designed to highlight the diverse skills of each competitor.  

On day one, Gatin’Eau’s Noémie Jobin came out number one in the youth figures category, closely followed by Nina Bernier in third place. Later in the day, Jaime Hope Denis earned Quebec first place in the adapted artistic swimming discipline. She would go on to win first place in the same category but during a solo performance on day two. The Quebec team also came out triumphant in the mixed abilities category thanks to a duo performance from Mariza Caron and Jaime Hope Denis on July 18. The junior technique team came out second. On July 19, Quebec’s Charlie Breault and Kelly-Anne Alie dominated the youth duo category finishing in first place. The province’s U12 team came out in second place after Ontario and before Alberta, while the youth and acrobatic teams finished in number one. 

The City of Gatineau was proud to host the successful competition and thanked the many volunteers, coaches, judges and partners who made this three-day event possible. The National and provincial teams are now looking ahead to the Quebec Games held from July 28 to Aug. 2 in Trois-Rivières.

Photo caption

Photo #1: Gatineau’s artistic swimming club Gatin’Eau proudly hosted the 2024 SYNC competition organized by Artistic Swimming Quebec, Alberta and Ontario. The local club stacked gold medals during the event held from July 16-19 at the Gatineau Sports Center. (DD) Photo: Dan Robichaud Photography

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Big changes will be coming to a theatre near you in the fall, announced Cinémas Ciné Entreprise on July 23. The Quebec-based movie house company has announced the acquisition of Cinéma 9, adding it to their list of 53 screens across 7 theatres. 

“As proud supporters of Quebec cinema, we are committed to showcasing the incredible talent and compelling stories our province has to offer and we will continue to bring these exceptional films to the big screen,” expressed Cinémas Ciné Entreprise (CCE) President Raffaele Papalia via press release. “With this acquisition, we are excited to bring the CCE […] to Gatineau and look forward to becoming an active partner and supporter in the local community.”

The acquisition of Cinéma 9 is part of CCE’s ongoing expansion project that began with the renovations of auditoriums at the Cinéma Fleur de Lys in Trois-Rivières this spring. Preceding this success, they introduced two XPX theatres equipped with above-standard image, acoustics and comfort to offer a fully immersive experience. The use of this never-before-seen technology earned the CCE an NACA “Best Use of New Technology” Global Award last year. 

“Our commitment to breaking boundaries and redefining the cinema experience has resonated with audiences across the province of Quebec. The success of our XPX theatres at Cinéma Triomphe in Terrebonne and Cinéma Élysée in Granby is a testament to our innovation approach and dedication to excellence,” commented Papalia. 

While no details regarding possible closures or renovations either before or after August 30 have been released, Papalia says he “looks forward to announcing more news,” underlining his excitement to bring innovation and the offer of exceptional cinematic experience to Gatineau moviegoers in 2024 and early 2025. 

Photo caption

Photo #1: Cinema 9, the only one of its kind in the city, will be acquired by Cinémas Ciné Entreprise effective August 30. The movie theatre, located at 120 de l’Hôpital Boulevard, will be added to CCE’s seven theatres across Quebec. (DD) Photo: Djeneba Dosso. 

Djeneba Doso

LJI Reporter

If you’ve noticed bright blue rocking furniture out on Principale, Jacques-Cartier, Main and Notre-Dame streets, you may have run into Blue Beaks. The versatile street furniture offers passers-by the choice between sitting down alone or in groups to relax, enjoy a meal or simply have fun. Three local associations, AGAP, APICA and ACJCG joined forces to launch 36 Blue Beaks across the city.

They have been described as “a new species of rocking furniture bird that allows you to sit down, lay down, read or rock,” by Mathieu Lévesque, Member of the National Assembly for Chapleau, who is certain “these beautiful birds will be a must for our walks and cityscapes this summer.”

Following a migration calendar, the Blue Beaks will travel in groups across the city’s ambient streets before settling in parks to await the winter season. 

“Annually, the 36 rocking furniture will stop, in groups, on Gréber and Jacques-Cartier streets, Notre-Dame and Main and on Aylmer Main Street,” reads the official website for the Blue Beak campaign. “In winter, 12 Blue Beaks will settle in each sector in the parks targeted by the associations: The Mémoire d’Elles Park, the Place du Marché on Notre-Dame Street and the Micheline Lemieux Park on Aylmer’s Principale Street.” 

The Blue Beaks, which are all named after influential figures resonating with the history of the associations, have an estimated minimal lifespan of three years and are expected to also be functional in the winter. 

The three associations who consider the blue rocking furniture a part of the Gatineau landscape, hope this initiative will “embody the vitality and conviviality of Gatineau’s commercial arteries.”

With notes and edits from Mary Baskin and Lily Ryan.

Photo caption

Photo #1: 36 Blue Beaks can now be found across Gatineau’s ambient streets until their migration to the parks for the winter season. The project, which was launched by three associations, AGAP, APICA and ACJCG, is planned to become a staple of the Gatineau landscape. (DD) Photo: Courtesy of ID Gatineau. 

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Help a child start the school year on the right foot during your next shopping trip. The Gatineau Social Pediatrics Centre has partnered with the shopping centre Les Promenades to collect donation school items for children. All items, including notebooks, pens, school bags, calculators, lunch boxes and any other school equipment must be new or in good condition. Donors can drop off their items in the designated box located at the mall’s Customer Service desk near the food court. Donations will then be passed on to children and families who need them most. 

“It is essential that children start the school year off on the right foot by having the school supplies they need for their learning,” reads a release from Les Promenades Gatineau. “Together, let’s make a difference in the community!”

The “Pass it on” initiative has slowly mobilized across the province, with shopping centres Les Promenades Drummondville and Beauport joining the campaign. 

With notes and edits from Mary Baskin and Lily Ryan. 

Photo caption

Photo #1: Make a difference in a child’s life by donating school supplies during your next shopping trip to Les Promenades Gatineau. All donations will be passed on to local families in need. (DD) Photo: Courtesy of Les Promenades Gatineau. 

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

July 9 was Maude Marquis-Bissonnette’s first municipal council meeting since being elected as Gatineau’s mayor last month. 

After being welcomed to the council by President Steven Boivin, the mayor provided a mandatory review of Gatineau’s financial situation for the 2023 fiscal year, noting that the City had a net surplus of almost $4.1 million last year. 

“With this amount, we’ll be able to replenish certain reserves in line with the policy of operating surpluses,” she said. “The reality in 2024 with climate change is that we have to be ready to face any crisis in Gatineau, and the very good management of our finances gives us that assurance.”

The City’s debt servicing represents 8.2 per cent of the budget, leaving plenty of room for manoeuvre compared to other cities in Quebec, according to the mayor.

“We have already started to use this leverage, and this will remain a recurring concern until the end of the mandate.”

The mayor also used her time to support the financing of a new sports complex in the West and the expansion of the Guy-Sanche Library on de la Gappe Boulevard. 

“There are plenty of projects from the east to west,” she said. “Thankfully, the council can rely on tools like the long-term financing plan. Not all cities have access to these resources.”

Photo caption:

Photo #1: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette addressing the municipal council for the first time since elected mayor. (DD) Photo: Djeneba Dosso

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Mark your calendars for Canevas’ multicultural alley party from 11 am to 4 pm on July 13. Hosted outside the Canevas Space, the one-day festival where “music and gastronomy meet” promises to bring electric live performances from local artists paired with authentic dishes from the four corners of the globe. 

The day will open with a set from XANNIE, a local Ivorian DJ who will be tasked with warming the crowd up for the day. She will be closely followed by rapper and DJ, SEIIIZI who will bring the Jamaican sound to the streets of Gatineau. Her set will fade into the echoes of Chady Tam-Tam’s drums whose bewitching rhythms will make you want to get on your feet. Starting at 1 pm, KIMYAMUSIK will hit the stage bringing his take on Congolese-inspired hip hop with notes of slam poetry. Gatineau’s rising star Alex Brazeau will take the microphone next, slowing things down with enlivening melodies. QuataQuata’s Lisa Yacé powerful vocals will take over from 2:40 pm to 3 pm, before letting Eliot Martin close off the day. 

On the culinary side, event goers can expect meals that transcend all borders. Mexican, Indian, Japanese, African, French, Senegalese and Quebecois food will all be available from various kiosks during the event. 

The Alley Party is free of charge and welcomes all. 

Photo caption 

Photo #1: On July 13, Canevas and QuataQuata will host a free multicultural alley party. The one-day festival, open to all, will feature performances from local artists and mouth-watering food from the four corners of the globe. Pictured from left to right: Feza, Jess RjOe, Chady Tam-Tam, XANNIE, SEIIIZI and BeeDee Jones. (DD) Photo: Courtesy of QuataQuata via Instagram. 

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Rain or shine and free of charge, once a week in July and August, children can enjoy inflatable structures, arts and crafts workshops, sports games and a mouth-watering BBQ. La Maison du Quartier de Notre-Dame has put together a loaded program this summer, offering Gatineau families entertainment every Thursday from 3:30 pm to 7 pm at John Luck Park. 

The MQND, whose mission is to “improve quality of life and recognize the full potential of residents,” believes this type of activity can help develop a sense of belonging and create solidarity among local families. 

This second year of programming was made possible through the support of the City of Gatineau and the Comité de Vie de Quartier du Vieux-Gatineau. This year, the Gatineau Library has hopped onboard and will be donating lightly used books to the children. Additionally, a storyteller will also be in attendance each week, reading children’s books from 4 pm to 5:30 pm. 

The activities available will vary each week, including but not limited to, gymnastics, soccer, scavenger hunts and musical chairs. Free activities are also available for older kids aged 11 to 17 each Monday from 10 am to 3:30 pm, where they’ll put their own spin on art projects found on the platform TikTok. 

On August 22, the last day of programming, activities will be extended until 8 pm and closed-off with an open-air cinema for all attendees to enjoy. 

A full list of the activities offered each week is available on MQND’s Facebook page.  

Photo caption

Photo #1: Each Thursday in July and August, La Maison du Quartier Notre-Dame will be putting on free activities for children and families to enjoy. The programming, put together in partnership with the City of Gatineau, the CVQ Vieux-Gatineau and the Gatineau Library, aims to create solidarity between local families. (DD) Photo: Djeneba Dosso

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Champagne, wines, ciders, beers, spirits or even tea; Soif’s tasting event had a little bit of whatever one’s heart desires. The fifth edition of the Salon des Assoiffés gathered brewers, vintners and distillers from far and near at the Canevas Space on July 6. Equipped with a complimentary wine glass in hand, event goers were able to try over 300 products from 50 different producers and importers with the purchase of tickets ranging from $75 to $95. The event, which only featured winemakers and agencies who partner with Soif, offered the opportunity to taste their products and order them to drink at home. 

This year saw the biggest turnout thus far, with over 700 people and producers in attendance. Among those partners was Selection Caviste, a wine agency based in Laval that focuses on French and Italian wines. Philippe Pearsall-Vézina, their sales development manager, was approached to participate in the Salon back in October. 

“We said ‘why not!’ Ottawa and Gatineau is a super nice market, we get to speak to people from both places which is great,” he said.

For him and many of the producers and importers present on Saturday, events like these are not about making sales, but instead, networking. 

“It’s a nice clientele, there’s a lot of people here,” he said, “however, we do it more for the name, we don’t come here expecting to do a bunch of sales. If we can meet a couple of restaurants and private clients, why not, it’s great, but we come here to put our names out there and show our wines.”

A new addition was made this year with the intention of making the tasting easy and stress-free for each attendee. This was done through the creation of an app called “Le Salon des Assoiffés”, available on the App store, which doubled as a guide for those who may not know much about wines. On the app, event goers can find a list of all the vendors present, along with descriptions of each of their products and their social media and websites. 

Attendees were advised to eat beforehand and drink cautiously as food was not sold on site. However, fresh oysters from Prince Edward Island were available for the price of $20 for six. 

Pearsall-Vézina, who attended the event for the first time this year, says that besides the long hours standing, his experience exceeded his expectations, adding; “If they’ll have us, you can expect us to be back next year.” 

Photo caption

Photo #1: Local wine bar Soif hosted the fifth edition of their tasting event, Le Salon des Assoiffés, at Cavenas Space on July 6. The event, which saw a turnout of around 700 people, was a chance for brewers, vintners and distillers from across Quebec to share their products with Gatineau residents. (DD) Photo: Courtesy of Soif Bar à Vin

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Shawville police are still looking for the perpetrator behind the attempted bank robbery at the

Shawville National Bank on June 24.

Marc Tessier, Media Relations Officer for Surêté du Québec, told the West Quebec Post they

received a call at 12:30 am, the same time the bank’s security alarm was triggered. However, by

the time officers arrived at the scene, the suspects had already vanished.

“[For the time being], it is unclear if the suspect acted alone or in a group; it could be one or two

people,” he said.

The attempted robbery left the bank with a damaged wall that the perpetrators tried to bring

down to enter the bank. It is unknown if the perpetrators were armed, and the type of tools used

to damage the wall is also still a mystery. Nonetheless, the efforts to force entry were significant

enough to trigger the bank’s security alarm.

“The identity of the suspect or suspects is unknown for the time being; however, the

investigation is ongoing,” Tessier closed off. It is not known if police have retrieved security

footage from the bank at this time.

The Shawville National Bank was contacted to comment on this story, but declined.

There were no staff or customers in the bank at the time of the attempted robbery. No injuries or

thefts have been reported.

This is a developing story with more details to come.

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

When asked if shopping at public markets is a luxury, Lucie Daragon was quick to replace the

word luxury with investment. The senior has been attending markets across the Outaouais for

more years than she can count and in her opinion, it is clear that when paying for fresh produce,

every penny is worth spending.

“It is not a luxury, it’s an investment to encourage our people, our producers, and it’s important

to do it,” she said. “Some people are passionate about it, some people aren’t interested in it, but

the goal is finding those people who aren’t interested and making them curious enough to come

check it [public markets] out.”

Over the years, Gatineau has amassed an army of markets, each located in different sectors of the

city and offering various selections of vendors and products. These markets are made accessible

based not only on their location but on their hours of operations as well, which often fall on

weekends. Yet, Daragon notes most markets are frequented by regulars and an older crowd rather

than new and young faces.

“People don’t come because they assume it’s too expensive, but we pay for the quality and the

freshness,” she said. “Often in grocery stores, it’s a long way off—they travel a long way with it,

they arrive here, the next day they put it on the shelves. Here, produce is often picked in the

morning and sold that same morning or early afternoon.”

The question remains; besides pricing and freshness, what sets supermarkets apart from public

markets? For some it may be selection, for others practicality, as most markets are only open

once a week. For Marguerite Jarry Suarez, owner of Studio Crudo, what makes public markets

unique is community. The entrepreneur has been creating vegan candles and custom tote bags

since the pandemic. After refining her work, she began looking for places to possibly sell it and

public markets welcomed her with open arms. Now, she displays her work at the Vieux-Hull and

Outaouais Creative markets two to three times each month. She’s found that the long or short

exchanges with each customer makes all the difference.

“I love connecting with people. I am from the Dominican Republic, and we’re known to be

warm-blooded,” she said. “It’s great being able to talk with different people and the other

vendors who have become great friends— if one day I ever need a necklace I know who to call

and I would be supporting their business.”

Buying and supporting local businesses is “of paramount importance” for Daragon.

“It’s important to keep an eye on the ecology, the environment and our ecological footprint,” she

continued. “If anything happens, we’ll have no more farmers, no more market gardeners; we’ll

have nothing. You’ve got to support them and buy locally.”

Each market in Gatineau and the Outaouais region will be open throughout the summer until the

end of the season in October. Whether it be produce, clothing, artisanal work or local gems, a

public market near you may just have what you’re looking for.

Find a public market near you

Vieux-Hull Market (currently seeking more vendors)

1 Wellington Street (Gatineau)

Every Thursday from 930 am to 130 pm

Plateau Market (currently seeking more vendors)

205 de Bruxelles Street

Every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm

Old-Aylmer Market

117 Principale Street

Every Sunday from 9 am to 2 pm

Notre-Dame Market

330 Notre-Dame Street

Every Friday from 11 am to 3 pm

Buckingham Farmers’ Market

390 Buckingham Ave

Every Saturday from 9 am to 3 pm

Chelsea Market

23 Cecil Rd

Every Thursday from 4 pm to 7 pm

Photo caption

Photo #1: Marguarite Jarry Suarez has been displaying and selling her handmade candles and tote bags at the Vieux-Hull public markets for a little over a year now. Used to seeing the same faces, she encourages young and curious people to come see what each market has to offer for them. (DD) Photo: Djeneba Dosso

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

“I did not see this coming,” said Audrey Leduc, the fastest woman in Canada to run the 100- and 200-metre sprints, when she was told she had qualified for the Paris Olympics. 

Just a few weeks earlier, the Gatineau athlete, dubbed “Lightning Leduc,” set two Canadian records, notably breaking the 36-year old Canadian women’s 100m mark of 10.98. “I was hoping to qualify for the relay and the 100 metres via World Ranking, but I didn’t expect the 200 metres, too,” she stated. Her record-breaking performances earned her a direct flight to Paris to make her debut at the Olympics, July 26 to August 11.  

Leduc’s background in soccer from a young age helped her discover her love for running, which propelled her into the field of track at the age of 10. Aged 25 today, the business student at the University of Laval has built an impressive resume, currently ranked 38^th in the 100m world ranking and already having participated in the Quebec and Canada Games. After exceeding the Olympic standard of 22.57, setting the national record to 22.36 in the 200m, preceding running a national record of 10.96 at a 100m meet in Louisiana last April, the sprinter will now be representing Team Canada alongside 48 Canadian athletes.

“I’ve done the Quebec Games and the Canada games,” she said. “The Olympics game is just the big thing. I’m excited to get there, represent Canada as best I can, and run fast.”

Photo caption

Photo #1: After breaking the Canadian records in both the women’s 100m and 200m this spring, Audrey Leduc dubbed “Lightning Leduc” has qualified to make her debut at the Paris Olympics which are set to begin on July 26. The 25-year-old Gatineau sprinter, who has already participated in the Quebec and Canada games says she is excited to be representing Team Canada. (DD) Photo: Curtesy of Athletics Canada. 

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

On June 27, the mayor was joined by ministers, councillors, MPs and STO representatives to

announce the receipt of $163.5 million toward the next phase of the Gatineau tramway project.

Of the large sum, the Government of Quebec has invested $98.1 million, covering 60 per cent of

the cost, with the remaining amount funded by the federal government. This next stage of the

first three-year phase will be focused on pre-drafting for the project office, which will conduct

environmental impact assessments, preparatory engineering work and reviews of preliminary

designs.

“This announcement shows once again that our government is continuing its work to offer its

population a Quebec that will always be greener, more prosperous and prouder,” said Suzanne

Tremblay, MP for Hull. “As we all know, projects like this one are not only important and

improve mobility, but they also contribute to economic development [and] reduce our

greenhouse gas emissions. So, I’m very, very proud to improve mobility here at home, in the

Outaouais region.”

While the funding allowed the project office to receive the green light to begin the planning

phase, the elephant in the room – Ontario – did not go unnoticed. The province next-door, who

has yet to invest in the project, accounts for 2 km, and two stops of the tramway line.

“To do that, of course, all the financing has to be secured; you all understand that I’m talking

about the Ontario portion of the project that must also be financed,” he said.

Nonetheless, the Outaouais plans to continue spearheading the project which will meet the

demand of its growing population, expected to reach a 73 per cent increase over the next 25

years.

“We’re expecting 100,000 new residents by 2050 in Aylmer, and our demographic projections for

the City of Gatineau in 2021 are at the levels we were expecting for 2031,” stated Maude

Marquis-Bissonnette, Gatineau mayor. “That’s how fast we’re growing and how much we need

this project — it’s not just a fad.”

The tramway which is projected to carry 30,000 daily passengers as soon as it comes in service

will be designed as an alternative to cars. Cheaper than a light rail and able to transport three

times more people than a Rapibus, the 100 per cent electric rapid transit will have a frequency of

3 to 6 minutes during rush hour and its own individual lane to avoid traffic jams.

“It’s not just a mode of transport for people going to work, it’s really for everyone, and it’s a

transformative project for our region in terms of transport,” added the mayor. “The STO is going to do just

that; it’s going to organize the feeder lines and the bus lines that are going to make it

easier to get to and from [destinations.]”

The STO’s task team, which is currently made up of 27 members, has a long to-do list before

reaching the completion of the pre-draft phase. This includes urban development studies around

the tramway corridor, travel and public transport in relation to active vehicles. In other words,

what’s going to happen on the roads surrounding the tramway in terms of street parking, vehicle

and bicycle lanes, sidewalks and green space. Their research will also target finding the right

location for stations and interchanging hubs in a way that benefits municipal services and local

residents. Additionally, studies on everything below the ground and the environmental impacts of

the project will be covered in collaboration with Hydro-Québec and Gassifère.

“So, as you can see, we’ve got a lot of work to do,” said Edmond Leclair, STO Vice-President

and representative for the City of Gatineau. “But we’ve also got a great team of professionals

who are going to get the job done. In fact, I think we were in a hurry to get the green light

today.”

Photo caption

Photo #1: The Gatineau tramway project will be entering its next phase following the receipt of

a $163.5 million investment from the federal and provincial governments. On Thursday,

Gatineau mayor, Maude Marquis-Bissonnette was joined by MPs, councillors, ministers and

STO representatives to announce the exciting news. Pictured from left to right: Mathieu

Lévesque, Robert Bussière, Steven MacKinnon, Mathieu Lacombe, Maude Marquis-Bissonnette,

Suzanne Tremblay, Sophie Chatel, Greg Fergus and Edmond Leclair. (DD) Photo: Djeneba

Dosso.

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

On June 18, newly elected mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette and Catherine Craig-St-Louis,

councillor for Carrefour-de-l’Hôpital district, were sworn in by M^e Véronique Denis, clerk and

returning officer of Ville de Gatineau.

The ceremony was opened by Daniel Champagne, who has been acting mayor since France

Bélisle stepped down from office last February. Champagne readily handed the reins over to

Marquis-Bissonnette, stating that while she faced many challenges ahead, he was confident she

had everything she needed to lead Gatineau.

While aware of her shortened 17-month mandate, the mayor affirmed that she knew the job and

how to get it done, adding that she plans on stepping into office hitting the ground running.

“In the coming days, we will have to navigate through two crucial issues that will significantly

influence Gatineau’s development in the coming decades,” she said, pointing to the Gatineau

tramway and the location of the new hospital.

Catherine Craig-St-Louis who was also elected will now be the councillor for Carrefour-de-

l’Hôpital district. With the two elected, Action Gatineau now occupies half of the seats on the

city council.

Photo caption:

Photo #1: On June 18, Maude Marquis-Bissonnette was sworn in, alongside new councillor for

Carrefour-de-l’Hôpital district Catherine Craig-St-Louis. The newly elected mayor will replace

Daniel Champagne, who stepped into office following France Bélisle’s resignation last February.

(DD) Photo: Djeneba Dosso

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Generous, devoted and a man of action were among the qualities used to describe Alain Labonté

at the inauguration ceremony for the park named after him. The late municipal councillor, who

held his title for 14 years, was a prominent figure in Aylmer, known for his efforts to secure

school and park zones and implementing a neighbourhood watch program.

“He was known for his weekly tour of his neighbourhood in his orange Corvette to meet and

ensure the well-being of his residents,” said Gilles Chagnon, municipal councillor for the

Lucerne district. “It’s a tradition that I put into practice myself, but on foot, as I do not own a

remarkable car.”

Chagnon’s anecdote was followed by the echoing chuckles of Labonté’s friends, family and

former colleagues, who on June 21 all made their way to 510 Caveau Street to witness the

inauguration of his dedicated park.

The intimate ceremony was short but sweet and closed off by Labonté’s widow Colette Proulx,

who delivered a moving speech on his impact in the community.

“Oh my, he was so close to everyone,” she began. “When he received a call from someone

asking for help or advice he would jump into action—it was in him. He absolutely loved being of

service to people.”

The project, which was funded by the City of Gatineau, stemmed from the suggestion of Aylmer

resident Mr. Lecours, who unfortunately passed away just a few weeks before the inauguration.

Mrs. Proulx, however, believes that her late spouse would’ve been touched by this generous

show of appreciation.

“What an honour to receive such a tribute from the city, today [of all days],” she said. “June 21 is

his birthday, so Alain, this one’s for you.”

Photo caption:

Photo #1: On June 21, Gilles Chagnon, municipal councillor for the Lucerne district, and Colette

Proulx, Labonté’s widow, gathered friends, family and former colleagues at 510 Caveau Street

for the inauguration of the Alain Labonté Park. The project, which was funded by the City of

Gatineau, is an homage to the former councillor who held his title for 14 years. (DD) Photo: Djeneba Dosso

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Warmer weather always calls for an increase in pedestrian activity in downtown Gatineau.

Weaving through over 45 public artworks and exhibitions by local artists, Hull’s 2 km Culture

Trail offers a way to make walking more stimulating.

“As part of the cultural development agreement with the City of Gatineau, I’m proud to be able

to support the latter in setting up its Cultural Trail,” said Mathieu Lacombe, Minister of Culture

and Communications, following the trail’s seasonal closure last year. “Every year, the teams and

their partners demonstrate their creativity in showcasing the downtown area and introducing

visitors to the heritage attractions of its streets. Since its inception, this structuring project, whose

success continues to grow, has made a significant contribution to the vitality and cultural

development of the city and region.”

This year, residents or visitors of Gatineau will be able to discover new urban art pieces along

the trail with free guided tours available every Saturday starting at 10 am. These immersive 75-

minute tours, presented in partnership with the Center of Contemporary Art (CACO) offer

enriching anecdotes about each iconic site. Tours are available with no registration between June

1 and September 7 inclusive.

For those wanting to discover the promenade on their own, they can do so by following the 2 km

red line painted on the pavement which winds through each public art piece and exhibition.

Photo caption

Photo #1: Bilingual map of Hull’s 2 km Culture Trail. Back for the 9th edition, the immersive

trail gives a platform to local artists and public art. (DD) Photo: Courtesy of City of Gatineau.

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Vieux-Gatineau’s business association AGAP and its partners have announced the launch of their

treasure hunt, the Golden Bond Campaign. Starting on June 27, there will be 90 gold vouchers

hidden within the businesses of AGAP members, continuing until December 31, 2024, or until all

the vouchers have been found. A total of three vouchers, each valued at $30 will be concealed at

each location, representing a spending total of $90 at participating shops or restaurants. Staying

true to AGAP’s mission to revitalize Vieux-Gatineau’s atmospheric streets, the pilot project will

unfold on Notre-Dame and Main Streets along with Maloney Boulevard.

Pauline Bouchard, AGAP’s general manager, says the association wishes to reward returning

customers while encouraging new ones to explore the businesses and services offered in Vieux-

Gatineau. She added that the launch date was intentional.

“We chose this date because it coincides with the Day of Micro-, Small and Medium-sized

Enterprises. In our opinion, this is a great way to highlight the importance of our local businesses

and services and to support them more.”

Structured with the objective to stimulate local purchasing, the campaign intends to invite

residents from all around the Outaouais to discover or rediscover businesses on Vieux-Gatineau’s

dynamic streets. For that reason, gold vouchers will be well-hidden in stalls and aisles.

So how does it work? The gold vouchers have no monetary value, only the vouchers that have

been validated and embossed by AGAP are worth $30 and can be presented to businesses for

redemption.

After finding a voucher, the shopper should contact the association through email at

info@vieux-

gatineau.com or by calling 819-669-2224. In order to claim a redeemable voucher, the shopper

will need to provide their name, phone number, the name of the business where the voucher was

found, along with the postal code listed on the voucher. Lastly, they will list where they wish to

use their $30. After getting in touch with the association, the found gold voucher will be

exchanged with one that has been validated. The redemption limit is one per person and each

participant must be 18 years of age or older.

Happy hunting!

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Smiles were visible through mouthfuls of pizza on June 14 as 165 students and 20 educators

savoured their first meal in 30 hours. Just a day before, Secondary 5 students from Polyvalente

Le Carrefour gathered in the cafeteria to embark on the 10th edition of Moisson Outaouais’ 30-

hour hunger challenge. Joined by students from Polyvalente Nicolas-Gatineau, de l’Érablière and

Collège Nouvelles-Frontières, the benevolent bunch were able to raise $7,094, breaking last

year’s record.

“What I feel today as I look at you all is immense pride for your commitment and respect for the

organization,” said Marie-Ève Théberge, principal at Polyvalente Le Carrefour.

The challenge, which is organized by Moisson Outaouais, was first initiated in 2015 by Éric Noël

de Tilly, a teacher at Polyvalente Le Carrefour. The educator wanted to make teenagers aware of

the problems of hunger in the region by exercising solidarity with those who suffer from food

insecurity. The major fundraiser is in partnership with Moisson Outaouais, who transforms every

donated dollar into $10 of food.

“You have all done something that will allow you to see how others live,” added Steven

MacKinnon, Gatineau deputy, while addressing students from all four schools. “There is hunger

in our region, in our city, in our country and it is disheartening. There are plenty of people you

will meet who lead the battle against food insecurity, and you are now all a part of it.”

Djibril Paquet is one the 165 students who volunteered to participate in the challenge. Like his

peers, he committed 30 hours, sacrificing his comfort during exams and just a week before

graduation to raise funds.

For Paquet, 30 hours without food is insignificant compared to what those who face daily hunger

endure. He admits the experience was challenging, nonetheless.

“Since we were able to drink water, the first few hours were really easy, but right now, the

hunger is really setting in,” he said smiling while rubbing his stomach.

Students spent the evening doing various activities like hide and seek across the school,

volleyball and open gym hours. Educators also used their time with students as an opportunity to

host discussions surrounding food insecurity.

“I hope the new cohort participates in large numbers,” Paquet added. “Don’t be scared to restrict

yourself for 30 hours—there are no dangers and it’s an amazing experience.”

Photo caption

Photo #1:

Students from Polyvalente Le Carrefour, Polyvalente Nicolas-Gatineau, Polyvalente

de l’Érablière and Collège Nouvelles-Frontières celebrated the end of their 30-hour hunger

challenge to raise funds toward easing food insecurity. The 165 students and 20 educators were

able to raise over $7,000. (DD) Photo: Djeneba Dosso

Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

Head of Action Gatineau Maude Marquis-Bissonnette is set to be the city’s new mayor according

to Sunday’s byelection results.

Following France Bélisle’s resignation in February, seven candidates decided to run for office for

a 17-month mandate. Marquis-Bissonnette, who placed second in the 2021 elections, came out

on top, earning 41.7 per cent of the vote, followed by former mayor Yves Ducharme with 30.9

per cent. The City of Gatineau reported a turnout of just over 33 per cent with 67,118 people

casting ballots.

The former councillor delivered a moving speech surrounded by family, friends and members of

Action Gatineau at the Bar Minotaure in Hull.

“

Thank you to the Gatinois for their trust. I am touched, honoured. I take my responsibilities

seriously. I will be the mayor of everyone. I intend to work with the entire city council,” she said.

Due to the unusual nature of this election, Marquis-Bissonnette will step into office hitting the

ground running. During her campaign, she stressed her

commitment to protecting the city’s

heritage and promoting environmentally responsible development.

​

“I am aware that there are high expectations,” she added. “In 17 months, we will not be able to

settle everything, but I would like us to give ourselves more hope, to continue to build a sense of

belonging, to make people proud of Gatineau. We can dream big. We can build everything.

Thank you Gatineau, thank you everyone.”

Last night was a double victory for Action Gatineau, who also earned a new seat at town hall.

Catherine Craig-St-Louis was elected as new municipal councillor of the Carrefour-de-l’Hôpital

district, replacing Olive Kamanyana who had to step down to run for mayor. This win means that

Action Gatineau, the only political party in the city, now has nine out of 19 municipal

councillors.