All posts on 2024

First, I would like to thank my Lord and Savior for giving me the strength and resources to keep this newspaper going. It has been a great challenge to uphold the standards and reputation of the Contact. Mourning the loss of my father while becoming a father myself has been the biggest test of my life. Balancing the daily challenges of running a business that serves the community while also providing for my family has not been easy. However, thanks to my wonderful and dedicated staff, as well as your unwavering support, you’ve helped me continue living this dream. I …

Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce borough mayor Gracia Kasoki Katahwa has officially entered the race for the leadership of Projet Montréal, the party currently searching for a new leader following Mayor Valérie Plante’s decision not to seek re-election. Katahwa, the first Black elected borough mayor of Côte-des-Neiges–NDG, brings a rich personal and professional history to her bid. Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, she moved to Canada at the age of three when her father began studies at the Université Laval in Quebec City. Growing up in a multicultural environment, Katahwa developed a deep appreciation for diversity, which continues to influence her approach …

Submitted by: Mary-Anne Campbell-Shaw My name is Mary-Anne Campbell-Shaw, and I am the CEO and lead baker at Atelier Zamara Baking Studio. As far back as I can remember, I saw both my grandmother and mother in the kitchen, either cooking or baking. I remember helping my mother bake chocolate chip cookies; she would let me shape the cookie dough into balls and place them on the baking sheet before putting them into the oven. I’d stand in front of the oven window and patiently wait for them to finish baking. One of my favourite memories is of going to …

The Afro-urban dance school Uplift514 in Montreal is hosting a Christmas fundraiser on Dec. 14, 2024, in collaboration with Centre d’Éducation des Adultes (CÉDA). They will collect funds to support families in the Little Burgundy neighbourhood. Abee Jean-Pierre is a dancer at L’Académie de Danse de Montréal. She feels thrilled to participate in the event. “I feel that I was born to dance,” Pierre said. “I think it’ll benefit families who don’t have much money.” Pierre believes Uplift514 is an essential dance school because she feels a family connection within the group, making it more fun. “People who don’t have …

The 54th Barbados House Montreal Gala in Montreal was more than just another event; it was an extraordinary night filled with culture, community, and unity. Guests gathered to celebrate the our independence month of the republic of Barbados while contributing to a vital cause for our building and scholarship funds. Each year, the Barbados House Montreal Independence Galas draws together a diverse crowd that cherishes the island’s culture and the power of community support. The essence of the Barbadian spirit shone brightly throughout the evening, captivating everyone present. The gala was a tribute to Barbados’ rich history and cultural heritage. …

An excited throng packed the Oliver Jones Reception Hall at Union United Church in mid- August to celebrate the 117th anniversary of the church’s founding. As Union’s inclusive history embraces diversity, the celebrants represented a multitude of ages and origins….MC Liam Christin, a university student, amply kept the evening events moving. He introduced senior comedian, Ms Joyce Armourer, who graced the audience with hearty humour. Keynote speaker, Ms Brenda Paris, traced her family, grandparents, Ernest and Mary Phillips’, participation at Union United Church from its beginnings as the Union Congregational Church. Ms Paris served as an executive member of the …

As we are in the heart of the Christmas season. Here’s some reasons why Christmas is my favourite season. There’re parties aplenty. I can finally rock my ugly Christmas sweater. I get to spend time with. family and friends. Shopping, eating, drinking and more. Everyone is in a great mood, and I can enjoy my own yearly traditions such as my 18th Annual Christmas Day Radio Show titled “Island Riddims”. Island Riddims Christmas show will be live at the Radio stations CKUT 90.3FM. This Annual Christmas Day Show title “Island Riddims” will be airing live on CKUT 90.3FM from 9am …

For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 May God’s peace and blessings be with you this holiday season! As you gear up for the Christmas holiday, take a moment to pause, breathe deeply, and engage in some much-needed reflection. Remember to R.E.L.A.X. and appreciate the blessings around you. Remember what Christmas is all about… Let’s celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, and all the miraculous things He has …

Many of us are fully immersed in the thick of the holiday season, a time that awakens practically all our senses. – The crisp winter breeze on our skin. The sparkling lights that brighten the city with a warm, cheerful glow, making the cold air just a tad easier to bear, particularly auspicious when evening comes a bit earlier during the month of December. – Decorating the Christmas tree (something that I looked forward to when I was a kid, it was a beautiful, memorable family time) and for those with real trees, the gentle whiff of pine in the …

Winter—cold, dreary, and let’s be honest, kind of depressing. Is it summer yet? Curl care is probably the last thing on your mind right now. Tossing your hair up in a bun and calling it a day sounds like the easiest plan, right? Sure—but it doesn’t have to be your *only* plan for getting through these chilly months. Even if a bun is your winter go-to, your curls deserve a little TLC to make sure they’re thriving and ready to pop when spring and summer roll around. Lucky for you, you’ve stumbled upon this article just in time—whether it’s before …