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We are back for our third year of community journalism, bringing you news, stories, and events taking place in and around Pointe-Claire. I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and New Year’s holiday and is staying warm this exceptionally cold winter.

This past January 20th, we held a public meeting about both the Pointe-Claire Citizens' Association (PCCA) and the Pointe-Claire Record (PCR) to gather feedback and solicit more involvement. The turnout was good, although some might have come just for the chocolate chip cookies. The majority of residents who braved the cold weather were there mainly to discuss the Pointe-Claire Record, and it is great to see so much interest and enthusiasm for this community paper.

We discussed different ideas about content as well as advertising, which is something we decided we will pursue. There were a few people who contacted us in advance to say they could not attend this meeting but were still interested in helping. Moving forward, I believe that holding another meeting would be helpful to plan content for PCR and further evolve PCCA. That being said, the next PCCA/PCR public meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 3rd at 7 p.m. at the Pointe-Claire Legion, 365 Saint-Louis Ave.

As for PCCA, it will still be the umbrella hosting PCR as well as other community events. Currently, there is a fundraiser being planned, benefiting West Island Mission and Ricochet (Hébergement/Homes). The event will be held on Saturday, May 23rd, featuring the Coyote River Band at Macallans Pub, and will also include a food drive. 

For those unable to attend the event, another food drive will take place at the Pointe-Claire Legion one week before the concert. Non-perishable items will be collected on Saturday, May 16, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 365 Saint-Louis Ave.

Holding food drives in May is especially meaningful for families in need, as spring is traditionally a slow season for charitable donations and many organizations feel the strain. While contributions are greatly appreciated during the Christmas season, the need for support continues throughout the year.

Our first-ever fundraiser last year had J.B. and The Playboys playing to a full house at the Mayfair Tavern and raised $1800, along with boxes of food donations for West Island Mission. Let’s make this year’s event even more remarkable!