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Parents and pros exchange views during ‘Autism in the Early Years’ symposium

Martin C. Barry
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Parents and pros exchange views during ‘Autism in the Early Years’ symposium

Province-wide online event explored multiple aspects of the spectrum disorder

After several months and countless hours of preparation by an organizing committee assisted by a team of dedicated volunteers, more than 100 parents and professionals with an interest in autism had the opportunity recently to explore a wide range of autism-related topics during the Autism in the Early Years symposium.

Across the province

The province-wide online event on March 21-22 featured keynote presentations, a panel on autism service navigation across Quebec, and sessions on communication support at home, as well as on parent training, empowerment and other issues.

Co-hosted by the Laval-based Youth and Parents Agape Association with the Giant Steps School in Montreal, with financial support from the Community Health & Social Services Network (CHSSN) and the Public Health Agency of Canada, the symposium drew caregivers, speakers, presenters, panelists and artists who contributed information, opinions and ideas.

A complex condition

Autism [or autism spectrum disorder (ASD)] is a complex neurological condition that affects individuals in various ways, impacting their social interactions, communication skills and behaviors. It is a spectrum disorder, meaning that no two individuals with autism are exactly alike. Each person brings their own unique strengths, challenges and perspectives.

For many of those attending, autism was not just a topic to be discussed. It is also very much a part of their daily lives. Whether as parents, caregivers, educators or as professionals working in the field, they feel the importance of raising awareness, promoting understanding and providing support for individuals with autism and their families.

Autism community united

Throughout the symposium, they were offered the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics related to autism. But perhaps most importantly, they came together as a community – united in commitment to advocate for acceptance, inclusion and the empowerment of individuals with autism.

“We can create a more inclusive and compassionate society for all,” said Kevin McLeod, executive-director of Agape which co-hosted the symposium along with Giant Steps School. (Screengrab: Martin C. Barry, Newsfirst Multimedia)

In opening remarks on day one, Agape executive-director Kevin McLeod said it was important to keep in mind the words of Temple Grandin, a renowned autism advocate and educator: “The world needs all kinds of minds.”

“By embracing diversity and celebrating the unique talents and perspectives of individuals with autism, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate society for all,” McLeod said, adding that the symposium’s exploration of autism should be approached “with open hearts and open minds.”

Symposium Day One

Day one began with a keynote presentation by Maureen Bennie, who founded the Autism Awareness Centre in 2003 in Calgary, to address what she saw as a gap in support, information, resources and advocacy for those struggling with autism spectrum disorders.

Steven Atme, who was diagnosed with autism at age four, closed the evening with a musical performance. A remarkable journey through music and advocacy has garnered him many accolades. His story was one of resilience, creativity and a commitment to encouraging others, with or without disabilities, to embrace their unique identities and pursue their dreams.

Day Two of symposium

On day two, Kelly Bron Johnson (an autistic and hearing-impaired self-advocate) spoke about some of the strengths of parenting through the lens of being autistic. It is an approach she believes anyone can learn, leading to parenting with acceptance and love and happier families.

Before a noon-time break, a panel of experts from the health, daycare, education and social services sectors discussed the autism services offered across the provinces. The session was moderated by Giant Steps director of innovation and special projects Seiun Thomas Henderson. The panelists were Dr. Emmett Francoeur, Dr. Lucyna Lach, Nick Katalifos and Sylvia Benkh.

Nick Katalifos, parent of an autistic child and a member of the Giant Steps School board, was on a panel of experts who discussed the availability of autism across the province. (Screengrab: Martin C. Barry, Newsfirst Multimedia)

World Health Organization

Also during the March 22 sessions, Dr. Mayada Elsabbagh spoke about the World Health Organization Caregiver Skills Training program in Canada, which aims to increase access to intervention for Canadian families, while simultaneously generating high quality evidence relevant for decision and policy makers.

Dr. Mariska Burger spoke on developing communication skills in autistic children. Dr. Keiko Shikako-Thomas discussed the Jooay App, a free mobile app made to help families, youth and professionals find adaptive and inclusive leisure activities.

And Anna Katalifos, a sibling and caregiver to an autistic young adult who is also a researcher, shared personal experiences and research-based insights into the sibling journey of caring for autistic youths and children.

Videos available online

Symposium organizers report they have received many requests for video links from people who want to watch or rewatch the presentations. At last word, the organizers were waiting for the videos from the production company and expected they would be available by April 15 at the latest (although hopefully earlier).

It would be important to mention that the recorded presentations will be accessible through the new virtual libraries at Agape Association in Laval and Giant Steps in Montreal. Should you have any other questions or concerns, you can contact Barbara Klein, administrative assistant and project coordinator at the Youth and Parents AGAPE Association Inc.

Springtime street cleaning starts early in Laval this year

Martin C. Barry
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Springtime street cleaning starts early in Laval this year

Given the unseasonably high temperatures in Laval and Montreal this spring, the City of Laval has announced that it is beginning its annual cleanup of streets early.

With that said, the city wants residents to know that until April 30, seasonal parking regulations will be in effect to allow street sweepers to do their work cleaning up all the dirt and grit left over from the winter.

“The early spring is allowing us to get started somewhat early this year, which will in turn allow all our citizens to be able to get into their favourite outdoor activities securely,” said Laval city councillor Ray Khalil who is responsible for public works on the executive-committee.

“We are, of course, asking for the cooperation of everyone so that the maintenance operations can’t be kept as straightforward as possible,” he added. He is inviting the people of Laval to download the city’s parking app (stationnement.laval.ca) to receive alerts on special operations, whether by e-mail or cell phone texts.

Something to remember: when the lighted panel signs on the street say “Lors d’opérations d’entretien” [during maintenance operations], alternate parking on the other side of the street is mandatory, although it is optional at all other times. But the instruction on the signs must be respected in order to avoid being ticketed or towed away.

At the same time, the City of Laval wishes to inform its residents that crews are at work in all districts carrying out pothole repairs following the winter. It should be noted that potholes in the street can grow worse in the weeks immediately following spring thaw.

Residents who wish to report especially troublesome potholes that may damage vehicles can call 3-1-1 to speak to a city employee. In addition to these activities by city workers, Laval is also carrying out maintenance and repairs on its sewers and waterworks, as well as pruning of tree branches.

‘Petits bonheurs’ festival, for kids 0 to 6 years

The city’s Festival Petits bonheurs, organized especially for children up to 6 years old and their families, is back again this year from May 3 – 13.

During this 14th season, the festival organizers will be offering a range of activities, including shows, workshops and multidisciplinary events. The events will also include theatre, marionettes, music, dance, exhibitions, story-telling, visual arts workshops, circus arts and more.

“It is a great pleasure to offer to young children and their families from all backgrounds a privileged access to this marvelous festival,” says Laval city councillor for Renaud Seta Topouzian, who is responsible for dossiers pertaining to children.

“Thanks to an accessible entrance fee structure, everyone will be struck with wonder while discovering the many quality activities offered to daycares, kindergartens, in community centres and in other venues in several sectors of our beautiful city.” Tickets for events go on sale beginning at 6 am on April 6, and for certain shows and workshops space will be limited.

Stéphane Boyer designated as Earth Day Canada’s national spokesperson

Martin C. Barry
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0
Stéphane Boyer designated as Earth Day Canada’s national spokesperson

‘Active and public transportation are the linchpins for the sustainable evolution,’ says Laval’s mayor

Adding to the City of Laval’s reputation for endorsing measures that mitigate the impacts of climate change, Mayor Stéphane Boyer revealed last week that he has agreed to serve as the national spokesperson for Earth Day Canada’s 2024 campaign.

Montreal-based Earth Day Canada is an environmental organization that helps individuals, municipalities and organizations reduce their impact on the environment by taking concrete action on Earth Day and every other day of the year.

Clockwise from upper left, Laval mayor Stéphane Boyer, public relations advisor Dario Iezzoni, EY Canada corporate responsibility leader Laura Schlee and Valérie Mallamo, executive director of Earth Day Canada. (Screengrab: Martin C. Barry, Newsfirst Multimedia)

Earth Day is on April 22

In addition to its large-scale awareness campaign for Earth Day, which is on April 22, Earth Day Canada rolls out environmental programs and projects in areas such as waste management, food waste and sustainable mobility.

Earth Day Canada’s 2024 campaign spotlights active and public transport. The campaign, which runs until Earth Day, features an animated character promoting an active lifestyle, inspiring Canadians to opt for active and public transport solutions beyond Earth Day.

For the fourth consecutive year, Earth Day Canada’s Committed Municipalities project strengthens partnerships with municipalities across Canada. Launched in 2020, the initiative has rallied over 150 municipalities committed to enhancing environmental conservation and sustainable transportation.

Active and public transit

Laval mayor Stéphane Boyer (seen here during Earth Day Canada’s online announcement) is the national spokesperson for Earth Day 2024. (Screengrab: Martin C. Barry, Newsfirst Multimedia)

“Active and public transportation are the linchpins for the sustainable evolution of our urban and rural communities,” Mayor Boyer said during an online launch event. “Embracing these eco-friendly transportation modes transcends environmental responsibility, fostering a move towards more cohesive and healthier societies.

“The commitment to public transit, as well as cycling and pedestrian transit options, represents a vital investment in enhancing the well-being of our present and future generations,” he continued.

“The Committed Municipalities project has showcased the concrete benefits of local initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable mobility. Championing these efforts within our towns and cities marks a significant stride towards cultivating a society that prioritizes health and respects our planet.”

Laval’s Earth Day events

To celebrate the campaign’s kickoff, a special event was scheduled in Laval, led by Mayor Boyer. The city’s campaign is set to feature an extensive array of activities and events, all designed to enlighten and motivate Canadians and Quebecers towards adopting environmentally beneficial behaviors.

For comprehensive information on this diverse and engaging lineup, the Earth Day website will serve as the go-to resource, ensuring participants have access to all they need to get involved and make a positive impact on the planet. Earth Day Canada hopes that employers and municipalities will help facilitate and endorse active and public transportation, advocating for a sustainable shift not just on Earth Day, but all year round.

Canadians for sustainability

A recent survey by Ipsos, commissioned by Earth Day Canada, revealed that while many Canadians are behind the wheel for their daily commute, a considerable number are open to more sustainable alternatives:

● While 54% of employed Canadians drive to work, there’s a strong inclination towards eco-friendlier commuting methods;

● 76% of employed Canadians express a preference for walking or biking;

● More than half (66 %) would like to use a greener way to commute;

● 67% of employed respondents are willing to engage in employer organized carpooling initiatives on Earth Day, with 49% open to participating in these programs if they were available year-round.

Employers doing their bit

The findings suggest a potential role for employers in addressing climate change through the promotion of sustainable commuting practices. Strategies for employers could include offering subsidies for monthly transit passes or bicycle maintenance, and encouraging carpooling, particularly in rural areas where access to active and public transportation may be restricted.

Many of these strategies are already being deployed by organizations such as EY (Ernst & Young) Canada. “We believe that every organization has an obligation to foster environmental stewardship,” said Laura Schlee, corporate responsibility leader at the professional management services company.

A new way to commute

“Transform your commute into an opportunity to cultivate healthy habits and embrace sustainable lifestyle,” said Valérie Mallamo, Executive Director of Earth Day Canada.

“If you find the infrastructure in your area less than ideal, fear not—there’s a wealth of alternatives at your disposal,” she added. “From leveraging public transport to joining a carpool, every choice you make contributes to a healthier planet. Remember, celebrating Earth Day isn’t just a once-a-year commitment; it’s a daily dedication to our planet’s well-being.”

Until April 22, many Canadians are embracing sustainable transportation methods such as biking, walking, running, using public transit, or carpooling are invited to register at https://earthday.ca/legday for a chance to win exciting prizes. Participants can also choose to engage through the Strava app by opting into the Earth Day challenge, further amplifying the campaign’s reach.

Laval News Volume 32-07

Laval News Staff
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Laval News Volume 32-07

The current issue of the Laval News, volume 32-07, published on April 3rd, 2024.
Covering Laval local news, politics, and sports.
(Click on the image to read the paper.)

Eight families homeless in Fabreville after Delphis St. apartment building fire

Martin C. Barry
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Eight families homeless in Fabreville after Delphis St. apartment building fire

Eight families who are tenants in an apartment block on Delphis St. in Fabreville became temporarily homeless on Monday evening when a fire in a first-floor unit of their building began spreading to other apartments, forcing occupants to flee with whatever belongings they could carry.

The Laval Fire Dept. responded around 6:30 pm to the fire which sent smoke billowing through the building, resulting in the hospitalization of one person who suffered smoke inhalation.

The scene Monday evening on Delphis St. in Fabreville where Laval’s firefighters responded to a blaze that has made eight families temporarily homeless. (Photo: Courtesy APL)

In all, according to the LFD, 27 persons were evacuated from the building which has been deemed uninhabitable for the time being because the electricity has been cut off.

However, the LFD has already deemed the blaze to have been accidental and probably caused by an unsupervised electric clothes iron.

Overall damages have been estimated at more than $250,000.

Sainte-Rose daycare bus crash driver sent to trial

Martin C. Barry
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Sainte-Rose daycare bus crash driver sent to trial
A memorial was set up outside Sainte-Rose-de-Lima Church in Sainte-Rose in February last year immediately after the daycare incident.

More than a year after the bus crash incident at a Sainte-Rose daycare in which two children were killed and a half-dozen others were seriously injured, the driver at the wheel has been ordered by a judge to undergo a trial.

Former Société de transport de Laval driver Pierre Ny St-Amand faces multiple murder and aggravated assault charges related to the crash on Feb. 8, 2023.

The decision by Quebec Court judge François Landry on Thursday March 28 came after four days of testimony and legal arguments presented during a preliminary enquiry.

Preliminary enquiry begins into February 2023 Sainte-Rose daycare bus crash

Martin C. Barry
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Preliminary enquiry begins into February 2023 Sainte-Rose daycare bus crash
An aerial view of the bus crash on the morning of Wednesday Feb. 8 2023. (Screenshot courtesy of Nouvelles TVA)

A preliminary inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the deadly February 2023 Sainte-Rose daycare bus crash in which two pre-school children died got underway earlier this week.

Former STL bus driver Pierre Ny St-Amand, who has undergone extensive psychiatric evaluation while in custody since the Feb. 8 2023 incident, is the key suspect.

In addition to the two fatalities, six other children were seriously injured. St-Amand faces two charges of pre-meditated murder and a half-dozen more charges of attempted murder and aggravated assault.

It is alleged that former STL driver Pierre Ny St-Amand was behind the wheel of the bus that rammed the Garderie éducative de Sainte-Rose. (Photo: Facebook)

Preliminary proceedings for the 52-year-old’s case are taking place in Saint-Jérôme north of Laval because of a lack of courtroom space currently at the Palais de Justice de Laval.

The Montreal daily Le Devoir reported earlier this week that a request by St-Amand’s lawyers that he be allowed to sit in court without handcuffs so he could write down notes was opposed by the head of security at the Saint-Jérôme courthouse, who said Saint-Amand’s behavior was known to be unpredictable.

He was fitted with a type of handcuffs which allowed him to move his hands more freely and take notes.

Man leads LPD on wild chase through Laval at the wheel of a backhoe

Martin C. Barry
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0
Man leads LPD on wild chase through Laval at the wheel of a backhoe

A man who allegedly stole a construction backhoe and led the Laval Police and the Sûreté du Québec on a chase through the City of Laval’s industrial sector was finally arrested after driving into a ravine in the district of Vimont.

At one point during the mid-afternoon incident, up to ten police cars could be seen pursuing the work vehicle, although quite slowly given the typically low road speed of backhoes.

The police were first alerted by a report that a backhoe driver was ignoring orders to stop while travelling along Route 335 south of Bois-des-Filion.

The driver then reportedly collided with another vehicle, and was spotted some time after this by the SQ on the service road of Autoroute 440.

Still refusing to stop, the backhoe driver made his way along Industriel Blvd. and on Dagenais Blvd. Ouest, all the while going through red lights and stop signs without even slowing.

A backhoe similar to the one involved in the chase and which came to a halt in a ravine in Vimont.

After driving into the rear yard of an industrial business on Dagenais, he tried driving into an adjacent wooded area, but stalled in a waterlogged ravine where he got out and fled on foot.

The LPD eventually caught up to the 42-year-old suspect, who was reportedly known to police. However, they had to stun him with a jolt from a Taser before he could be detained.

Although he was transported by ambulance to hospital as a precautionary measure, he was scheduled to be arraigned at the Palais de Justice de Laval on Saint-Martin Blvd. to face charges of dangerous driving, evading police, interfering with police, possession of stolen property and breaking court-imposed conditions.

As a footnote, the backhoe itself had first been reported stolen in Ottawa. There was no immediate explanation from police as to how it ended up in Laval.

Recent raid in Laval nets major haul of methamphetamine, says RCMP

Martin C. Barry
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0
Recent raid in Laval nets major haul of methamphetamine, says RCMP

As part of an investigation that led to the seizure in Montreal of more than two million suspected methamphetamine tablets in late February, police from the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU) executed a search warrant at a Laval residence on March 17, resulting in the discovery of an estimated 1,750,000 additional tablets of suspected methamphetamine.

Some of the suspected methamphetamine products seized by the RCMP during a raid conducted at a Laval residence on March 17. (Photo: Courtesy of RCMP)

According to a statement issued by the RCMP, the tablets were located in an unoccupied house in Laval suspected of having been used for the sole purpose of storing drugs.

The Laval raid followed a police operation which was executed in late February at a clandestine laboratory in the Borough of Saint-Laurent in Montreal, where more than two million suspected methamphetamine tablets were seized in a commercial space described by the RCMP as “likely used for synthetic drug production.”

Significant quantities of chemicals used in the production of illicit tablets, two pill presses and sophisticated equipment for large-scale production were also seized, said the force. An investigation, which began in December 2023, led to the arrest of five individuals.

They were interviewed by RCMP investigators and released pending further proceedings. They face charges under the federal Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, including production and possession of controlled substances for the purpose of trafficking.

Drug traffickers were using this commercial/industrial location in Saint-Laurent to produce methamphetamine, according to the RCMP. (Photo: Courtesy of RCMP)

According to the RCMP, clandestine laboratories can be found in a variety of locations, such as homes, garages and warehouses.

The force notes that clandestine labs pose a great danger not only to those who operate them, but also to neighbors and first responders because of the toxic and potentially volatile nature of the chemicals and substances found there.

If you suspect illegal drug activity in your community, including clandestine labs, drug purchasing or toxic waste dumping, contact your local police service or Crime Stoppers (toll-free) at 1-800-711-1800.

Police seize $1 million in illegal drugs after raids in Laval, Montreal, Brossard

Martin C. Barry
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0
Police seize $1 million in illegal drugs after raids in Laval, Montreal, Brossard

Warrants executed by police in Laval, Montreal and Brossard last week resulted in the arrest of three suspects and the seizure of close to $1 million worth of illegal narcotics.

Two men, aged 49 and 23 and a 45-year-old woman were arrested during the execution of search and seizure warrants at the suspects’ homes, in their vehicles and at a warehouse they allegedly rented.

Police said they seized 21 kilos of cocaine with a street value of around $525,000. As well, around 45,000 tablets of opioid were seized.

According to police, the pills contained metonitazene, a narcotic substance said to be 20 times more powerful than fentanyl and more conducive to poisonings and overdoses as a result.

The raids also resulted in the seizure of 36,000 benzodiazepine (tranquilizer) tablets, as well as amphetamine pills, methamphetamines and steroids, along with $175,000 in cash.

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