A year in review: Aylmer's 2023 highlights

Tashi Farmilo

Winter: cold commutes and community celebrations

• Bus Shelter Blues: Commuters faced the winter chill without new bus shelters, despite plans by the Société de Transport Outaouais.
• Epiphany Joy: The Centre Aydelu hosted the first Fêtes des Rois in three years, a joyful post-COVID cultural reunion.
• Digital Transition Delays: The SAAQ’s move to digital services caused extended service interruptions.
• Love and Heritage: The "La magie de l'amour" exhibition in February and Black History Month celebrations enriched Aylmer's cultural landscape.
• David Desjardins Remembered: The community mourned the passing of a beloved local, David Desjardins.
• Winter Marina Activities: Families enjoyed winter activities at the marina, thanks to the Ville de Gatineau's efforts.
• Golden Anniversaries: Les Galeries Aylmer and FADOQ celebrated their 50th anniversaries with a special event.
  

Spring: civic engagements and cultural flourishes

• Municipal Council Meet: The April council meeting highlighted local governance and citizen participation.
• BTI Pesticide Ban: Gatineau’s decision to ban BTI reflected a growing environmental commitment.
• Eid Al-Fitr Festivities: The Aylmer Mosque became a focal point for Eid celebrations, drawing people from across Gatineau.
• Federal Budget Focus: Local discussions took place on the federal budget’s implications for groceries, healthcare, and climate change.
• Novel Celebrations: Local author Natacha Belair returned to Aylmer for her book signing event.
• Escape Room Adventure: The Symmes Inn Museum launched an intriguing escape room experience.
• Tour du Silence: Aylmer's cyclists participated in a poignant event remembering those lost in road accidents.
• Latin Festival Debut: The first HOLA Fiesta Latina festival brought Latin American culture to the forefront in Aylmer.
  
  

Summer: regattas, workshops, and urban development

• Festivoile Regatta: The Centre de Voile Grande Rivière's sailing event was a highlight at the Aylmer Marina.
• Fishing Workshop for Youth: The Aylmer Rod and Gun Club hosted an engaging fishing workshop for children.
• Water Plant Renovations: Significant upgrades began at the Aylmer drinking water plant.
• Awards Gala Excitement: The Best of Aylmer Awards Gala celebrated local business and association leaders.
• New Apartment Complex: The greenlighting of the Front Street apartment complex marked a major urban milestone.
• Artistic Departure: Leonore-Namkha Beschi’s departure from L'Imagier Art Centre marked the end of an era.
• Nautical Festival Focus: The Fête du nautisme highlighted nautical safety and family fun at the Aylmer marina.
  
  

Autumn and Winter: community, culture, and conservation

• Invasive Species Study: A critical study on Eurasian Watermilfoil began at the Aylmer Marina.
• Terry Fox Run: The community united for the noble cause of cancer research in the Terry Fox Run.
• Gatineau Book Festival: The Festival du Livre Gatineau championed literacy and local authors.
• Deschênes Ruins Decision: The community reacted to the announced demolition of the historic Deschênes ruins.
• Santa's Sparkling Arrival: Santa's visit brought festive cheer to Aylmer, drawing thousands of spectators.
• Christmas Market Success: The Aylmer Food Centre's Christmas market raised significant funds for the community.
• Cycling Competition: The international cycling competition brought excitement and athletes from around the world to Aylmer.

In 2023, Aylmer showcased its resilience, cultural richness, and community spirit, making it a year to remember. From environmental initiatives to cultural celebrations, each season was marked by events that strengthened the community and enriched local life.

Photo caption: The Festival du Livre Gatineau Book Festival was successfully held on September 8 and 9. This enriching event, orchestrated by The Gatineau Anglophone Writing Group in collaboration with the Regional Association of West Quebecers, Western Quebec Literacy Council, and Librairie Michabou/La Maison anglaise Gatineau, transformed Galeries Aylmer Mall into a bustling hub of literature.

Photo credit: Tashi Farmilo