For over two decades, Paul Goyetche, also known as 2MoPaul, has been running a news and information publication serving the anglophone community in Deux-Montagnes, Quebec. In an environment where English speakers are finding it increasingly difficult to access information in their language due to efforts to promote French, Goyetche’s website, 2MoPaul.com, has become a vital resource for the English-speaking community in Two Mountains. The website, started by Goyetche as a personal journal 20 years ago, has grown into a crucial news source for the small but vibrant English-speaking community in Two Mountains, a city northwest of Montreal with a population of about 20,000.
The community of Two Mountains relies heavily on 2MoPaul for information, as other English language publications in the area, such as The Victory, have ceased publication. Additionally, under Quebec’s latest language protection law, Bill 96, the city’s official website is no longer allowed to post any English information due to Two Mountains not having official bilingual status. This leaves 2MoPaul as a key source of news and information for English speakers in the community. Goyetche spends up to 20 hours a week serving the community through his website, without compensation, as it costs him money to run the site. He sees it as a way to give back to the community he loves and cherishes.
Goyetche covers a wide range of local events and news on his website, often using his own photos and videos to provide content. From local sporting events to construction projects and community fundraisers, 2MoPaul offers a comprehensive look at what is happening in Two Mountains. He also provides coverage of Canada Day events and the Two Mountains Santa Claus Parade, garnering international attention for his videos, such as a parade video that received four million views on YouTube from viewers in countries like Brazil and India. Goyetche’s hard work has been acknowledged and appreciated by the city’s mayor, who commends his dedication to showcasing the community’s activities.
In addition to covering local events, 2MoPaul is relied upon for his obituaries, where Goyetche honors the departed with articles and videos without charging families for his time. He also creates tribute videos for individuals while they are still alive, showing his commitment to the community’s members. In instances where people have offered to pay for event coverage, Goyetche has turned the money into a bursary for the local English high school, further demonstrating his selfless dedication to his community. Goyetche’s wife, Myrna, expresses pride in his work, while community members recognize and appreciate the impact he has had in the city.
Despite gaining local celebrity status for his contributions to the community, Goyetche remains humble and focused on being a reliable source of information for those who rely on his website. He receives thanks from community members who appreciate his efforts and recognizes the importance of being there for the people in his beloved community. 2MoPaul has become a vital resource for English speakers in Two Mountains, demonstrating the power of an individual’s commitment to providing information and connectivity within a community. Through his dedication and hard work, Goyetche has created a valuable platform that serves as a beacon of information for the anglophone community in Deux-Montagnes.
