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Annual Guaranteed Income With Growth Potential Minimum $25,000 Editorial Canada should phase out combat role in Afghanistan There used to be a cynical term in journalism called Canadian diplomat Harry Sterling reported that last The main problem with our combat role is that “Afghanistanism”– the notion you could say just about year 147 teachers and students were murdered and 590 NATO partners are not interested in sharing burden anything in an editorial about a far away country that schools closed. The warlords and drug kings continue and risking more casualties. And with good reason: has little impact on our lives. But in the global village, to rule with impunity. Poppy cultivation flourishes with today’s enemies are as vicious as they are determined. as our soldiers continue to die – 78, including a diplo- the connivance of corrupt officials. A student journalist, The Taliban is an evil organization allied with the most mat, we grapple with the deteriorating situation as we Pervaz Kambaksh, 23, faces the death penalty for saying regressive forces of militant Islam. While there are attempt to impart our liberal democratic values to a there is opposition to women getting an education. informal talks between them and the government of country living in sadly medieval social conditions. With Canada in a combat role in dangerous Kanda- Hamid Karzai, accommodation and compromise are a The challenge is huge: the average life expectancy for har province, are we doing the right thing in abandon- long way off. an Afghan is 42, and unemployment is 78%.Attempts to ing our traditional peace-building for the current Let’s not pretend that Afghanistan will soon have change the country’s backward ways are meeting with mission? Last month, John Manley’s report suggested parliamentary democracy, free elections, universal and fierce resistance, and not just from the Taliban. Former Canada’s military should remain in Afghanistan be- accessible education and gender equality. yond February 2009 on two conditions: that NATO According to the Manley report, Canada has allocated and/or other allies dispatch 1,000 soldiers to Kandahar $741 million in bilateral aid to Afghanistan from 2001- to bolster the Canadian presence there and that our 02 to 2006-07. The financial cost of the Canadian soldiers get new helicopters and unmanned aerial military mission has been estimated at $2.6 billion – a vehicles for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. cost expected to reach $4.3 billion by February next year. The report stated Canada should refocus on diplo- Sooner rather than later we must abandon our role as macy and reconstruction and train Afghans to provide an occupying force and turn over policing and military their own security. Bravo! We agree with the report’s functions to the Afghans. We should accelerate our conclusion that “immediate military withdrawal … plans to pull out— not abruptly but as a matter of would cause more harm than good.” But we also staged and planned re-definition of our role. And let’s recognize that Afghanistan is a Viet Nam-like quagmire put more energy into our traditional role as peace from which Canada has to extricate itself and return builders, even if that means accepting a shared to our traditional role of peace building. political role for those we are fighting.

florist • Flowers • Plants le jardin • Weddings de • Balloons Publisher & Managing Editor: Barbara MoserCELEBRATING 21 YEARSProduction OF PUBLISHING & Design: Albert Cormier mélissa • Fruit Baskets Assistant Editor: Kristine Berey Production Coordinator: Emily Wilkinson Copy Editor: Gisele Rucker Systems Manager: Scott Philip Happy Journalists: Kristine Berey, Alex Matthews, Nancy Snipper Web Designer: Gabriel Tordjman Office Manager: Thelma Gearey Printing: Hebdo Litho St. Valentine’s Sales Manager: Jacquie Soloway-Cons Tel.: (514) 484-5033 Fax: (514) 484-8254 Advertising: Jodie Alter, Gloria Beigleman, Shirley Cohen, Email: [email protected] Day! Jacquie Soloway-Cons, Sandra Schachter Website: www.theseniortimes.com Delivery around the World Cover Photos: Clowns: David Babcock, Geordie Productions; Butterfly man: Michel Tremblay, Montréal Insectarium; Hedda Gabler: Mainline Theatre; Portrait de Mary by Jorge Arche, 1938, oil on canvas. Photo: Radolfo Martinez. Courtesy of Montreal Museum of Fine-Arts. (514) 488-1147 Published by Publications Newborn Inc. Contents copyright ©2008. All rights reserved. Legal Deposit: National Library of Canada No. D368087 Dépot légal Bibliothèque Nationale du Québec, 1993. Although every caution is taken by Publications Newborn Inc. to mon- 6206 Sherbrooke St. West i tor advertising in the THE SENIOR TIMES, claims made by advertisers are not necessarily endorsed by Publications Newborn Inc.

2 February 2008 THE SENIOR TIMES n Out With Your Valentine n Seniors in love take the stage Returning to Montreal, John Mighton’s play Half Life runs at Centaur till Feb. 24. The play focuses on Clara (Carolyn Hetherington) and Patrick (Eric Peterson), seniors who meet in a nursing home for veterans and their families. As Clara and Patrick’s middle-aged children watch on, the cou- ple rediscovers beauty and love. “Half Life is about memory, or more precisely forgetting,” says director Daniel Brooks. “The central idea is that we are defined as much by what we forget as we are by what we remember.” Half Life plays at the n Centaur, 453 St-François-Xavier. Info: 514-288-3161 or centaurtheatre.com Fulfilling Needs n Senior Residence Fulfilling Needs at Every Stage Joe Schwarcz on Houdini’s magic • Retirement lifestyle of distinction & quality • Round-the-clock Harry Houdini, escape artist extraordinaire, was a complex man, caregiving by full nursing staff • Quality service • Luxurious loved by the public and hated by the fake psychics he exposed. His accommodations • Recreational programs • At-home atmosphere death was as much a mystery as was his life. Love him or hate him, his story is fascinating. Visit us today! Dr. Joe Schwarcz shares his insight and passion about Houdini in the 4432 St. Catherine St. West, Westmount lecture Houdini: The Man and the Myth, Sun. Feb. 10 at 11 am before the first preview of the Segal’s new musical, Houdini. 5 1 4 9 3 5 - 1 2 1 2 ww w. p la cek ens ing ton .c om Followed by coffee and refreshments, this free lecture is at the Leanor A DIVISION OF FAIRWAY MANAGEMENT CORP. and Alvin Segal Theatre, 5170 Côte-Ste-Catherine Rd. (corner West- bury). Info: 514-739-2301 or www.segalcentre.org F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F For tickets to Houdini the musical: 514-739-7944 F F F F F SUPER DEALS F F F Hedda mainlines — with a Canadian sensibility F Caribbean Cruise F F Feb 23 - March 1 F by Byron Toben Mainline regulars Catherine Berrube and Dan Jean- F 1 week from F Hedda Gabler, Hendrik hotte impress as the naïve ingenue and doomed bad F Transport. incl $1299 F F F Ibsen’s masterpiece of boy genius. This is a production well worth seeing. It F F yore (1890) still runs until Feb 16. Info: 514-849-3378 F Spain Costa Del Sol F moves audiences F Feb / March 2 weeks F n F from 2 meals/day F with issues of sex, F $1199 Air & taxes included F A fairytale for any age F F power and death F F bubbling beneath F F The Helvetia Seniors Club for Swiss men and women its proper formalities. F All Inclusive Sun Destination F presents Prof. Joseph Schmidt on Grimm’s Fairytales, F from F The latest incarnation at Varadero, Cuba Thurs. Feb. 21 at 11 am. A luncheon follows at Monk- F 1 week $699 F the Mainline Theatre, F F land Grill, 6151 Monkland Ave. Info: 514-481-2928 F F adapted by Canadian Judith F F Thompson, recasts the staid Vic- F Hawaii Islands Discover F F &enjoy them on a 10 night cruise F torian British translation into F from F more contemporary English to F only Air & 9 Excursions included F resonate with a modern audi- F $2399 April-2008 F F F ence. Director Jeremy Hechtman F F cleverly stages the piece in the F F * Complete DENTURE service F Plattsburg: Feb $29 F 1950s, and it works. F F BUS Burlington: Feb $35 There are no weak links in the * Hookless Partials F F F TRIPS Hull / Ottawa: Feb $29 F photo: Andrea Hausmann Andrea photo: cast. Portraying Hedda, Patricia * Emergency 1 hr repair Implant F F Summersett shows she is one of the best young ac- dentures F F tresses in town (as well as Mirror and QDF calendar F Tel (514) 485-6004 F cover girl). The ever-ebullient Patrick Goddard is nev- F www.heritagetravel.ca F F taxes incl. / OPC $3.50 per $1000 not incl. F ertheless believable as Hedda’s namby pamby husband, 2545 Cavendish 514 982-2517 F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F as is veteran Jane Gilchrist as Patrick’s saintly aunt (spot her as an extra in the Bob Dylan biopic I’m Not There). Neil Napier impresses as the manipulative Judge Brock. Comic relief is deftly supplied by nnn Carolyn-Fe Trinidad. TR TRAVELERSAVELERS INNINN FLORIDAFLORIDA ALL NEW ESCORTED TOURS DEEP DISCOUNTS FOR LONG STAYS with your friends at ITP TRAVEL The charming lobby, with curving SUPER SPECIALS staircases and glistening chandelier, is typical of the inviting and Elvis: The Way It Was Featuring Manoir Richelieu gracious atmosphere. Our Inn Stephen Kabakos, in Belleville 2 Days, 1 Night offers efficiencies, executive suites $399 pp double $149 pp double 3 Days, 2 Nights May 5-6, 2008 and well appointed rooms. June 4-6, 2008 $498 pp single $224 pp single • Olympic-sized swimming pool Turning Stone Casino For Foxwood & Mohegan • Shopping nearby at Pure Irish Entertainment Sun Casino Boca Raton & Pompano 3 Days,2 Nights • 1.5 miles to the beach Featuring “Celtic Tenors” $295 pp double May 19-21, 2008 • Choice of many golf courses $429 pp single 3 Days, 2 Nights $325 pp double • FREE Continental Breakfast every morning March 16-18, 2008 $424 pp single • FREE high-speed internet Please call Danielle McCartney 10% 514-735-7884 Discount Atlantic City Deerfield Beach, Broward County with ad 5 Days, 4 Nights www.itptravelinc.com $335 pp double 5555 Westminster N., Suite 202 1401 S. Federal Highway • Deerfield Beach, FLORIDA 13344 March 31 - April 4, 2008 $485 pp single OPC Fund of 0.35% incl. TOL TOLLL FREE: 1-800-283-9946 www.travelersinndeerfield.com February 2008 3 THE SENIOR TIMES Art for Art’s Sake A voyage through Cuban art Cuba is about more than just Castro and the American boycott. The Montreal Mu- seum of Fine Arts explores the artistic his- tory of Cuba with 400 works, until June 8. This may be the most important exhibi- tion to showcase the art of the Caribbean island, which Columbus described as “the most beautiful land eyes have ever seen.” With the collaboration of the Museo Na- cional de Bellas Artes and the Fototeca de Cuba, and many US collectors, this multi- disciplinary exhibition draws a broad panorama of Cuban art and history. There are 100 paintings, a huge collective mural produced in 1967, 200 photographs and documents. Installations, videos, music and film excerpts are also included. The Photo: MOMA Photo: MOMA museum is located 1379 Sherbrooke W. Photo: Don Queralto Info: 514-285-1600 Barberia (The Barber Shop) The Balcony Sugar-Cane Cutters

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AFFILIATED REAL ESTATE AGENTS SUTTON GROUP WEST CENTRE 5800 Monkland, Montreal 514-483-5800 Photo: Caroline Hayeur Creole charisma David Greenacre Starmania hits the TOHU stage March 26 - 29. Twelve singers, six musicians, and seven dancers of the Haïti Art Exhibition & Painting Demonstration en Scène troupe from Port-au-Prince perform in 100 canvases on view French with a Creole accent in St-Michel. TOHU’s projects generate meetings between cultures. Friday, February 8, 10:00 to 5:00 In 2006, the TOHU team visited Haiti to stage the 6767 Côte St. Luc Road country’s first Falla event – an end of summer festival. Entrance via King Edward Starmania tickets: 514-790-1245 Info: 514-376-8648 or www.tohu.com Proceeds from the event defray the costs of visiting 514-481-9609 young Haitian performers at Falla 2008.

Do the locomotion Photo: Jean-François Leblanc Comment ça va? Art Déco Montréal presents Posters of the Canadian Pa- TOHU presents Comment Ça Va?, a panorama of life in cific with Marc H. Choko. This illustrated lecture ex- Haiti photographed over 20 years by Caroline Hayeur plores a world of Deco-style streamlined locomotives, and Jean-François Leblanc. The exhibit explores day- ocean liners and luxury resorts. to-day scenes, local spirituality and politics, until The event is Mon. Feb. 18 at 6 pm at McGill U’s School March 8 at 2345 Jarry E. near d’Iberville metro. Info: of Architecture, MacDonald Harrington Building, 514-376-TOHU (8648) Room G 10. Info: 514-931-9325 Soul art Au-delà du Miroir, an exhibit of works by local artists, is at Âme-Art Gallery until Sun. Feb. 10. A show of works by Concordia U Fine Arts students follows Feb. 12 -24, with a vernissage Fri. Feb 15, 6 - 9 pm. Exhibition of works by Ysabel Norris begins Tues. Feb. 26. Âme-Art is at 5345 Parc in Mile-End. Info: 514-271-3383 Contemporary embroidery The Museum of Costume and Textile of Quebec ex- hibits A Day in the Life of Maggy M: Michèle Provost - Contemporary Embroidery. The images, selected and hand-stitched by Provost, illustrate the daily gestures of an ordinary yet fulfilling life, Tues. – Fri. 10 am - 5 pm, Sat. & Sun. 11 am - 5 pm. 349 Riverside St. in St- Lambert. $4. Info: 450-923-6601 4 February 2008 THE SENIOR TIMES Black History Month Black contributions to Quebec & Canada celebrated Celebrating our Presence and Recog- 849-3399, [email protected] or Vendôme), Sun. Feb. 17, 7 - 9 pm, nizing our Contributions is a series of www.mosaikart.ca $20/advance purchase, $25/door. events honoring Black peoples’ contri- Info: 514-367-3064. butions to Quebec and Canada. Union United Church events Ethnic Heritage Ensemble and Kalmu- As 2008 marks the 400th Anniversary of •CJAD broadcasts live from the Sunday nity Vibe Collective perform at La Sala Quebec, Black History Month cele- School’s Winter Picnic, Sat. Feb. 9 at 9 Rosa, 4848 St Laurent, Wed. Feb. 13, 8 brates Mathieu Da Costa, who as inter- am pm. $15. Workshop Thurs., Feb. 14 10 preter to Samuel de Champlain, was • Black Movie Night, Wed. Feb. 13, 6 pm am - 2 pm. the communication link between the • Arts & crafts exhibition and conference Pierre-Michel Menard & Yanick Du- Micmac and the founder of Quebec. on cultural values and heritage by the telly perform Chante-Moi Haiti at Cen- Hereisasamplingofeventsandexhibits: Council for Black Aging Community of tre Leonard Da Vinci, 8370 Lacordaire Montreal, Thurs. Feb. 14, at 6 pm Blvd., Sat. Feb. 22 at 8 pm. $20. Visual Arts • Youth in Arts concert, Sun. Feb. 24, Info: 514-961-4535. Grandir et Mourir, installations by Killy, 4 pm features her assemblages of recycled • Concert & Book launch of A History of Theatre articles and large scale prints on canvas. Union United Church, Sun. Feb. 24, 5 pm. Black Theatre Workshop presents Come Referencing voodoo culture, Killy evokes Events are at 3007 Delisle (Lionel Groux Good Rain by George Bwanika Seremba the problems of political corruption and Metro). Info: 514-935-4951 at BTW space, 3680 Jeanne-Mance, Suite socio-economic marginalization in #460, Sat. Feb. 16, 2 pm. $5. Haiti, at Galerie MAI, 3680 Jeanne- Lectures Info: 514-932-1104 ext. 226 or boxof- Mance, Tues.-Fri., noon – 6 pm. Gail Guthrie Valaskakis Annual Lecture: [email protected] Info: 514-982-1812 ext. 224 Rita Shelton Deverell, C.M., Canada‘s Other visual arts shows: Joseph André most respected and influential Black Variety Shows exhibits Fenêtre sur le Jazz at Biblio- woman television producer, co-founder Painter: Leonel Jules Universal Negro Improvement Associa- thèque de Saint-Michel, 7601 François- of Vision TV and former Director of Jamaican Canadian Community tion presents Black Culture, at 2741 Perrault till Feb. 29. Info: 514-872-3899 News and Current Affairs for Aboriginal Women’s League of Montreal launches Notre Dame W. (Lionel Groulx Metro), or 514-274-6939. Julien Umojha at Ga- People’s Television Network, will be the One Help One! One Teach One! Senior Sat. Feb. 23 at 4pm: Literature, Art exhi- lerie Rafael on St-Laurent. keynote speaker on Diversity In Cana- Program, with keynote speaker William bitions and film. 7 pm: film review, and Info: 514-207-3812 or 514-313-6645 dian Media at Concordia University, Harrison, CDN Community Centre, discussion on Black culture, folk history, Artists collective shows En Héritage at 1590 Dr. Penfield (Metro Guy), Thurs. 6767 Côte-des-Neiges, 1st floor, Sat. Feb. poetry and drumming. Refreshments. Galerie MosaikART, 4897 St-Laurent, Feb. 28, 6 - 8:30 pm. Info: 514-939-3342 16, 1 – 3 pm. Info: 514 486 5704. Donations for education fund. Bus 55 (corner St-Joseph) Info: 514- or [email protected] Coco Café presents Contribute, 10th An- Music niversary show. Join poets from past and Pinnacle Gospel presents Goin’ Home, a present, Sun, Feb. 24 at 7 & 8 pm, $10. gospel concert at Trinity Memorial Info: 514 282-3443 Church, 5200 Sherbrooke W. 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Switzerland Tourism “Certified Agent” “bread” and a lord is etymologically, “the guardian of Good Deals for Winter & Summer the bread”whereas the lady is the“kneader of the bread.” Worldwide Air Services on “Swiss” & other Airlines The Word Nerd The former was originally referred to as the hlafweard Emergency and “Last Minute” tickets (the last syllable giving us“ward”) and this transformed Call us first or last and save! 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The word was borrowed I think it is safe to say, however, that at least some from the Old Norse vindauga, a compound noun that Alzheimer Groupe (A.G.I.) Inc. offers ongoing words are poems insofar as having shown a poetic blends vindr, “wind” with auga, “eye.” SUPPORT GROUPS for spouses and tendency at some point of their histories. Objects are often named because they remind people PSYCHO-EDUCATIONAL GROUPS According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a poem is of something else. I, for one, when sober, never associate for adult children, ACTIVITY PROGRAMS “a piece of writing, often characterized by a metrical a muscle with a mouse but this is how muscle was for individuals in the early to mid-stages of structure, in which the expression of feelings, ideas, named.In Latin,the word for“mouse”is mus. Our Latin- Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders etc., is typically given intensity or flavour by distinctive speaking forbears, given to Bacchanalian tendencies, diction, rhythm, imagery.” must have believed that the shape and movement of ART THERAPY MUSIC PROGRAM and and Using this definition, let us examine words that can certain muscles, like those of the upper arm, were TRAINING for professionals and caregivers. be deemed poetic. reminiscent of a mouse. So they made out the word For further details, please call 514-485-7233 Just by the nature of their sounds, certain words musculus, which meant “little mouse,” and from the such as buzz, swish, cuckoo, clickety-clack and thud word musculus we get “muscle.” This relationship is qualify as poems. Also, certain sounds evoke a partic- found in some other languages. For example, in Greek ular quality. For example, words that begin with gl, pontiko means both “mouse” and “muscle.” WYNMOOR Condos such as glacier, glimmer, and glisten, denote smooth- The word “nightmare” sounds like we are dealing 6 Miles to Atlantic Beach! ness. Other words show poetic elements such as allit- with another animal-based word, but the “mare” in eration and rhyme. Examples are “hanky-panky,” nightmare does not allude to a female horse. It derives 55+Adult Condominium Community dedicated to “wishy-washy,”“hurly-burly,”“daffodil,”and “bebop.” from the Old English moere, “evil spirit,” as it was be- individuals who enjoy active lifestyle The most poetic words for me, though, are words lieved that this malevolent spirit would sit on the chest 300 clubs, sports, facilities, cultural events that are connected to meanings and feelings and often of one sleeping, hence producing a bad dream. & its friendly small town atmosphere. we must return to the origin of words to appreciate If we are a society that worships money, it may be Theatre, Movies, Tennis Courts their poetic quintessence. because the word etymologically is connected to Fitness Center, 25 Swimming Pools Some of our oldest and most common words are worship. The word derives from the name Moneta, one Billiard Room, Business Center, Bike Paths among the most poetic. Take the duo of “lord” and of the designations of the Roman goddess Juno, and Walking Paths, Transportation Fleet the term came to refer to her temple in Rome that 18-hole Executive Golf contained a mint. From the mint sense, the word came On Site Restaurant & Pharmacy to mean “stamp for coining” and eventually “coin.” N.W. Medical on premises Foyer Valiquette Words don’t merely fall from the sky like manna from Wynmoor is located in Broward County South A friendly homey environment heaven but rather are created by people whose percep- Florida. Studio, One & Two Bedroom Condos For seniors tions can be quite metaphorical. Howard Richler’s latest book Can I Have a Word Starting at $55,000-$200,000 1534 Valiquette With You? was published in November 2007. Verdun Call CHERYL STEIN • 24 hour Supervised Care Resident & Realtor A way with words at Yellow Door Wynmoor Real Estate, L.L.C 954. 675.3700 • Doctor Visits • Well-balanced Meals The Yellow Door hosts a reading Thurs. 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6 February 2008 THE SENIOR TIMES Alzheimer’s researcher focuses on prevention Kristine Berey good diet and control of blood pressure is the best means of prevention for the NEED Dr. Serge Gauthier, director of the average person,” Gauthier explained. “A McGill Centre for Studies in Aging and pilot study of one year is in the final a leading Alzheimer’s researcher, was planning stage.” asked at a recent conference what he’d The researcher says he wants the gov- like to see in the research, diagnosis ernment involved. “We will need sus- DIALYSIS and treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease. tained funding for a 10-year study to “Less emphasis on a magic pill, more prove benefit. The governments will be on prevention,”he answered. interested because it will improve the WHILE VISITING SOUTH FLORIDA? At the conference, Everything you al- health of the population and reduce ways wanted to know about Alzheimer’s costs down the road.” Disease but were afraid to ask, organized Currently, there are more than 24 mil- by the Alzheimer Groupe last month, Dr. lion people worldwide with dementia — Gauthier described studies that raise projected to rise to 81 million by 2040. hope for prevention and more effective The total worldwide cost of Alzheimer’s treatments of the illness that affects an and other types of dementia care is esti- Escape the bitterly cold weather estimated 300,000 Canadians over 65. mated at $315 billion US annually. He noted that a pilot study, carried out Gauthier says he has seen the benefits in cooperation with the Institut Géria- of exercise.“Even with 15 minutes of ex- and spend this winter in paradise, trique de Montréal and the Cummings ercise three times a week, the thinking of Centre, showed that cognitive training nursing home residents becomes has benefits in people with memory sharper,”he says. the Sunshine State of Florida problems. “Memory can be improved,” He recommends eating folate-fortified Gauthier said. cereal, such as Corn Flakes, and the In the study, memory training that fo- Omega 3 fats in fish. “Don’t cook it too cused on list recall, face-name associa- much; the Omega 3 are destroyed by tion and text memory, was given to one cooking over 80 degrees.” group of people, in which some of the Alzheimer Groupe, dedicated to im- individuals had measurable memory proving the quality of life of anyone Universal problems, also known as Mild Cognitive touched by Alzheimer’s Disease, offers Impairment (MCI). Another group did support groups and activities, and one- not receive intervention. Test results to-one counseling for patient and family showed that training improved memory at any and all stages of the disease. in all participants. The untreated group Info: 514 485-7233 Kidney showed no improvement. The study, published in Dementia and Cognitive Disorders in 2006 states:“These findings Rx confidential …show that improvement remains pos- sible even among a population of cogni- Citizens in Action hosts a conference on Centers tively impaired older persons, which What you always wanted to know about indicates that cognitive plasticity is pres- the Pharmaceutical Industry, but were ent in elderly populations that experi- afraid to ask, Tues. February 12, 7-10pm. ence cognitive decline.” The event features Dr. Jean-Claude St- Gauthier described an exciting up- Onge, Prof. of Economics and Philoso- will take care of coming “combination study” that fo- phy, and author of The Other Side of the cuses on preventing the illness without Pill: The Hidden Face of the Pharmaceu- pills. This study is in the early planning tical Industry. all your dialysis needs stage and links Montreal (Serge Gau- The conference is at Concordia’s Hall thier and Sylvie Belleville), Toulouse Building, 1455 De Maisonneuve W. (Bruno Vellas) and Las Vegas (Zaven Rm 771. Katchaturian).“We believe that physical Info: 514-846-0644 or SPECIAL RATE FOR and cognitive exercises combined with a alexan.nadia@ sympatico.ca CANADIAN CITIZENS funeral home is proud to Kane & Fetterly welcome Mr. Paul Delaney to the position of Pre-Arrangement Director. Reserve A native of Montreal, Mr. Delaney attended your seat (954) 958-9300 (English) Concordia and McGill Universities. His extensive travels have given him a deep respect and understanding of different cultures. In 2000 NOW! he started a successful career in the funeral (954) 770-6540 (English) profession and has recently joined us to meet our growing demands and to continue in our Please tradition of care and compassion. Through seminars and presentations to groups and the (786) 290-4270 (French) general public, he will share his knowledge call: of the benefits of funeral pre-planning.

Kane & Fetterly, family owned and operated (954) 881-5398 (Spanish) since 1965, independent of international (514) 481-5301 conglomerates. www.kanefetterly.com February 2008 7 THE SENIOR TIMES Services 4 Seniors Personal Concierge and Errand Service Choosing a private residence Language and stimulation Need help with errands, shopping, appointments, If you are told that the residence is bilingual and the transportation, home/hospital visits, Let’s talk split is 50/50, hang around, sit with residents to see what companionship for social outings, etc.? language they speak, and listen to the staff converse. Help for seniors or busy people with aging parents. Check out the activity calendar. Is stimulation about it provided? Is there a fostering of independence when Bonnie Sandler, S.W. possible? Is there queuing? Call 514-942-0752 [email protected] Mingle with the residents. Is your loved one’s range of function similar to theirs? Look at what’s on the shelves: Part 3 of a 3 part series on decorative items or tools for activities for the residents? caring for an Alzheimer’s individual How are rooms decorated to assist the individual to locate theirs? Are there history/memory boxes for each The decision has been made. You’ve chosen to place resident? your loved one in a private residence. Now what? A memory box is placed outside the door of the res- There are all sorts of guides listing private residences, ident’s room and includes items from their lives that Notaries in which residences are categorized by geographical will remind them where their rooms are. There could area, level of care, religious affiliation, amenities, and be photos on the door. Durso&Toone price range. The Senior Times has an excellent guide Food and flexibility Andrea F. Durso • Philip Toone listing the amenities and basic information on the res- Visit during mealtime. Is the fruit canned or fresh? idences who advertise with them. But not all residences Are vegetables served at each meal? Will your loved 4635 Sherbrooke St. West, have the budget to advertise, and they shouldn’t be one’s favorite foods ever be served? How much Westmount Quebec 514.931.2531 overlooked. attention is there to accomodating individual dietary You hear of a residence that has a reputation for good needs and likes and dislikes? care from a friend or health-care professional, but How much flexibility is there in catering to Re-taking your driving upon visiting, you find the facility unappealing. You individuals? Is the schedule for bathing flexible? For test for medical reasons? make some calls and visit a few more places only to meal time, are seats assigned? How is medication find yourself more confused. distributed? What are the rules? Feel like you need Sometimes families are in such distress about imme- Safety a refresher course? diately placing a loved one that they make hasty Is there security? Video cameras? Call bells? Remem- decisions only to have to move the individual a second ber that call bells are only good if the resident knows NO PROBLEM! time. For example, language can be a barrier to how to use them. Night checks? What is the staff to Drive into winter safely with socialization and communication with staff especially resident ratio? How many night staff? OMEGA DRIVING SCHOOL when dementia is involved. Sometimes a residence is You may be told that nursing care is available at all Special classes for 55 + chosen based on location but the match is not right. times. What exactly does that mean? There are Call Maria Drakoulakos 514-271-8306 There are times when a second move is inevitable, even different levels of nursing care, from RNs to PABs. Find www.ecoledeconduiteomega.ca with the best plan. Needs and circumstances change. out the specifics. Is there a visiting doctor? How often? www.ecoledeconduiteomega.com The evaluation How much staff is on duty during each shift? Is a log www.handicapdrive.com A healthcare professional should evaluate the book kept of changes in habit or changes in behavior individual to determine the level of care. This could be for the family to be well-informed? done through your doctor, hospital, CLSC, or privately. Assisted living could be defined differently in each This objective evaluation should include valuable input facility. Leaving persons with dementia alone in their Light Up Your Life with from the family and other health professionals, if own apartments in a residence is questionable. It may The Winter Light relevant. The assessment should cover medical and look like their own home with more security but the re- emotional needs, social abilities, religious affiliations, ality is that dementia is a progressive disease and further Start your day language, family situation and preferences, budget, care may be necessary. If no one is monitoring them with more energy! Research has clearly shown long term planning and more. daily,who will make that decision? They should not be in that the reduced light The role of placement counselors a crisis situation where they may fall and not know how exposure of winter changes You may have to visit several residences before you to call for help, may cause a fire or may wander out of our brain chemistry, choose the best option. How do you choose which ones their apartment in a state of confusion. An overnight making us more lethargic to visit? You may want to engage the services of a place- receptionist in a building of private apartments can not and depressed. ment counselor, but even this takes research because meet the needs of someone with Alzheimer’s Disease. The resulting "blues", when severe, are known there has to be a match between the placement coun- Making the match isn’t always easy. Plans need to be as SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). selor and the family. Giving you a long list of possibili- tailored to each individual. The best solution to fight the Winter blues : ties is useless. You need personal attention both for you Bright Light Therapy. and for your loved one, someone who takes the time to This is the last in a series that deals with caring for Northern Light Technologies understand your needs.You might just ask a good friend an Alzheimer’s individual from diagnosis to increasing Light therapy products who can be objective and who knows your loved one, or need for care. If you would like a copy of the other SADelite – TRAVelite - Flamingo a friend or relative who is a healthcare professional. articles, contact The Senior Times at 514-484-5033 or When you visit a large private residence you may email [email protected] Brochure : 1-800-263-0066 www.NorthernLightTechnologies.com meet with a rental agent. Prepare a list of questions and Comments and questions are welcome at put your detective hat on. [email protected]

8 February 2008 THE SENIOR TIMES n Valentine Dates n

Remember. Honour. Connect.

Are you a veteran of World War II, Korean War, Peacekeeping operations or acurrent member of the Canadian Forces? Share your experiences with young people in schools and your community. Photo: Robert Galbraith Theresa Pindras of Le Jardin de Mélissa shows off flowers for Valentine’s Day. Love Jewish Style The Danish Poet Yiddish Café presents “Love is a Ring of Filmmaker Torill Kove presents her Fire”, love songs and poems by Mon- Oscar-winning short The Danish Poet, treal talent, with refreshments, Thurs., Thurs. Feb. 14, 12:30pm at the Atwater Feb. 14, 8 pm at the Jewish Public Li- Library,1200 Atwater. Info: Contact the Memory Project to brary, 5151 Côte Ste-Catherine Rd. $10; 514-935-7344 or www.atwaterlibrary.ca $5 for JPL members and students. register and receive a free training kit. Info: 514-345-2627 ext. 3006 Snow strides 1.866.701.1867 Join the Montreal Urban Hikers Walk- Legion Dances ing Club for snowshoeing on Îles de [email protected] The Verdun branch of the Royal Cana- Boucherville Sat. Feb. 16 at 9:30 am. $15 dian Legion holds a Valentine’s Day plus snowshoe rental $12.25. Bring dance with music by Duo Rockin’ and water and lunch. Confirm by Feb. 10 door prizes Sat. Feb. 9. They also have with Shelly Chapman at 514-366-8349 dances featuring karaoke Sat. Feb. 16 & The Memory Project is a national bilingual program of The Dominion 23. Dances are 8:30 pm at 4538 Verdun Institute that trains veterans on the best techniques to share their stories Ave. Members may bring family and Calling Cold War veterans friends. Info: 514-769-2489 with youth. The veteran volunteers visit schools and organizations The Lachine branch of the Legion The NATO Veterans Organization in their local communities to talk with youth about their wartime holds their Valentine’s Dinner Dance is almost two years old and has experiences. The Memory Project Digital Archive, an online database grown from five members in March 5:30 pm, Fri. Feb. 15. Fraser supplies that houses the oraloral histories and artifactsartifacts of overover 1000 CanadianCanadian Fish n’ Chips and Greg Innis entertains 2006 to close to 500 members today. with music. $15. Info: 514-637-8002 There are 250,000 veterans of the veterans, complements the Speakers’ Bureau. Canadian Armed Forces who served as part of NATO since 1949 Singles mingle in the navy, army and air force. The Single Person’s Association hosts a They are involved in the defense of Mix & Mingle dance for 35+, Sat. Feb. the Cold War vets who have never 16 at 8 pm. $12 includes door prizes been recognized or honoured as vet- and midnight snack. Line dancing les- erans. After WW II, 570 military sons are offered free before every dance personnel and 926 dependents were from 7-8 pm. The event is at Ste. buried in 44 cemeteries in Europe. Catherine de Laboure Church, 448 Cold War veterans are asked to call: Trudeau, corner Clement. 506-472-1931, visit natoveterans.org Info: 514-366-8600 or e-mail [email protected]

February 2008 9 THE SENIOR TIMES Botanical Gardens hosts youth chorale confidence is perhaps her greatest contribution. Selecting music for events is her ongoing passion. Her basement is filled with reams of material. With today’s improved access to works from other countries, Abbott can scour archives and collections for interesting songs that challenge – and teach new techniques. Her imag- inative repertoire covers a thousand years of chorale music, including Gregorian chants, pieces by Bach and Mozart and songs from Japan and Oceania. Abbott says that a two-minute piece on a program represents two hours of rehearsal. The admirable ease of her choir’s performance hides the production hurdles. Larissa Lehmann,12,sang at the Butterfly Conservatory bedecked in her red and white uniform.Larissa explained how she became involved: “I sing around the house and my mother said,‘Why don’t you try out for the choir?’At first I said,‘No’,but then I did, and really liked it.” Concentration is key, Abbott explains, attributing her success to being able to impart that skill. Boys are less interested. As director of the Chorale since 1990, she suggests two reasons for this: the voice change during puberty and social identity. Unless boys are introduced to singing at home or are in a conducive cultural environment, they are often too self-con- Photos: John Fretz scious. ‘You’d think more boys would want to join,”she John Fretz added, “surrounded by all those girls.” IT’S ABOUT PEACE OF MIND It was a thrill hearing the EMSB (English Montreal School Board) Chorale for the first time. This December, I stepped into another world. The Chorale was performing a recital in the Botanical Gar- dens Butterfly Room. The singing was hauntingly beau- tiful as only the pure clear voices of youth can be, the program reflecting a variety of languages,places and eras. With Patricia Abbott leading and virtuoso pianist • Activities Anne Marie Denoncourt on keyboard, 100 people • Great staff listened to a repertoire featuring Australian, English • Non-smoking and French carols; Hannuka! by David Eddleman; an • Housekeeping adaptation of Robert Frost’s Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening; the joyous Exultate Cantamos Festivo; • 24 hour concierge Gentle Mary Laid Her Child; and La Bolduc en fête. • Clean & safe environment The EMSB senior chorale of 30 kids, ages 12 to 17, • Three meals/day (specified diet) travels widely to festivals and has garnered many • Private & shared rooms awards under Abbott’s direction. The junior chorale of Patricia Abbott • Regular Nurse & Doctor visits about 50 is for children in grades 4 to 6. Abbott visits Last year, the EMSB Chorale’s great adventure was • Assistance with shower/bath all EMSB schools – over 20 make up the chorale – con- participating in the international choral festival in St. ducting auditions, seeking candidates with a good ear John’s, Newfoundland. Abbott will only consider seri- 4847 Jean Brillant and attitude. She claims that “anyone who can talk can ous events offering workshops and joint singing for the Côte des Neiges QC sing,”but specifies her mandate is to develop each stu- enormous stimulation they provide. A side-trip in- dent’s singing voice. The singing voice pushes the cluded a whale watching tour. Call us! We have a place for you. range, or tonality, explores the vast capability of “the Abbott won the St. John’s Newfoundland Music Fes- 514-731-2985•1-877-731-2985 human instrument”,and does not need amplification. tival’s first Ambassador Award in 2007. “I wasn’t told. Abbott laments a changed society that encourages con- I nearly had a heart attack when I heard my name on sumption of entertainment by others, diminishing the the loud speaker in this huge, packed stadium.” Over 30 years experience at your service place of music in the home.She regrets that trend because Abbott’s sense of humour is coloured by experience. of the lack of vocal development in what kids listen to. Commenting on the costumes, she quipped, ‘Yes, the Hearing the choral singers interviewed on a CBC red makes it easy to find them.’ BARBIERIG Radio Noon gala, it’s obvious what a formative experi- Don’t miss the Chorale’s next concert, Saturday, May ence this is – inspiring confidence, poise and a sense of 3 at 7:30 pm at Oscar Peterson Concert Hall, Loyola AUDIOPROTHÉSISTES DIGITALHEARINGAID(S) accomplishment. Abbott says she feels that instilling Campus, 7141 Sherbrooke St. NOWPAIDBYMEDICARE Come in and discover what a digital hearing aid can do for you! KNOWLEDGE *DEDICATION *DRIVEN *RESULTS • Assistive Listening Devices • Audiometric Exam • Ear Protectors Ready to simplify your life? • Hearing Aid Repairs We make selling or buying easy! – All Makes Illustration not • Invisible Hearing Aids covered by medicare (514) 788-1514 Come in for your Contact us today for a FREE evaluation! COMPLIMENTARY HEARINGTEST 1396 St. Catherine W. Suite 404 Gail Cantor Courtier immobilier Agréé / Michael Prudkov (Corner Bishop) Chartered Real estate Broker House calls available (514) 386-8410 (514) 923-8230 Call for details Chartered Real Estate Agent Chartered Real Estate Agent [email protected] [email protected] 514 866-1687 3901 JEAN-TALON W. SUITE 305 MONTREAL QC H3R 2G4 WWW.GROUPECANTOR.COM 10 February 2008 THE SENIOR TIMES Sun Youth thanks volunteers

RO YAL JORDAN R.M. INC., REA LTOR ™ CHA RTERED REA L ES TA TE BROKER INDEPENDEN T AND AU TONOMOUS LICENSE S Ronald Massad Chartered Real Estate Agent (514) 591-3472101 Amherst Beaconsfield, Quebec H9W 5Y7 (514) 694-6900 Toll free: 1-877-694-6900 Registe red Relocation specialis t Fax: (514) 694-8176 E-mail: [email protected]

• CIVIL • COMMERCIAL • WILLS • SUCCESSIONS ROMAN A. GORDY • FAMILY LAW • CERTIFIED LAWYER - AVOCAT MEDIATOR Photo: Nicolas Carpentier Nicolas Photo: Three generations of volunteers working together (from left to right): Bianca Marrocco, 1117 St. Catherine St. W. Suite 406 Peel (514) 849-1289 Réjeanne Cronier, Fernande Plante & Franca Mileto. to the Executive Vice-President and Director of Emer- gency Services at Sun Youth, this gives people a chance to see what their generosity allows the organization to You don’t need to be alone... Here at Sun Youth do. “For them, it also puts a face on poverty; it shows them that it is unfortunately still a reality,”he said. by Nicolas Carpentier Members of the Sun Youth Seniors Club are also in- strumental to the success of the operation. They are re- sponsible for wrapping the 12,000 new toys the organization distributes to underprivileged children dur- Sun Youth officially completed its annual Holiday ing its yearly Holiday Hampers campaign.Volunteers are Hampers distribution December 24. The operation also responsible for the fundraising activities organized that had started six days earlier saw thousands of prior to the Holidays and benefiting Sun Youth. people receiving non-perishable food baskets and Volunteers made all the difference in the Sun Youth new toys. This yearly tradition would not be possible 2007 Holiday Hamper Campaign. From everyone at without the support of volunteers. Sun Youth, thanks to all and all the best for 2008! Volunteers from the media played a big part in the success of Sun Youth’s Holiday Basket Campaign 2007. November 29, CHOM and CJAD did live broadcasts Vicky Stewart from Sun Youth to collect funds and non-perishable food items. This broadcasting marathon allowed the “We offer affordable living organization to collect over $27,000 and 10,000 items for Autonomous of non-perishable food. A week later, the Big Media & Semi-Autonomous Seniors” Food Drive (La Grande Guignolée des Médias) was held • Private and semi-private rooms December 6; $497,281 was raised. This amount will be • Medication Supervision • Visiting Physician split in equal parts between Sun Youth, Saint Vincent • Weekly Housekeeping/Laundry de Paul and Moisson Montréal. • 3 Nutritious Meals Daily • Sunday Chapel, Sat. Mass Sun Youth could also count on volunteers to create • Recreation Program With 24 hour supervision and the newspaper ads used in its Holiday financing cam- or assistance with emergency call bells & paign. Special thanks to Martin Martinez and Jamie • Family-Oriented Home intercom system Henderson, both of Cowlik Communications, and to the models who participated for free. • Long & Short Term Teaching Centre for McGill Nursing Volunteers were also involved in the distribution of • Convalescence/Respite the Holiday Hampers. Between December 18 and De- The Salvation Army Montclair Residence cember 24, representatives from different companies $500 Rebate for 1st Month FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL: and groups working with Sun Youth were invited to Vicky Stewart 514-481-5638 lend a hand. According to Tommy Kulczyk, Assistant 14 Cedar Ave. Pointe Claire 4413 Monclair Ave. Montreal (NDG) H4B 2J4 (514) 697-8922 OWNED AND OPERATED BY THE SALVATION ARMY

February 2008 11 THE SENIOR TIMES MEAL DEAL Sun. - Thurs. 11 am - 11 pm Fri. - Sat. 11 am - midnight Celebrate Valentine’s Day FOR TAKEOUT with us! $ 20 offer expires March 16, 2008 & RESERVATIONS: 5365 des Jockeys $ 20 514-731-6455 (corner Decarie & Jean Talon) 77 plus taxes $ 20 8. plus taxes

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• Fine Lebanese Cuisine • Catering & Banquet Service HAPPY ST. VALENTINE’S DAY! NEW! Private room available for parties! JTruly ardi nAuthentic AsianGa Tasterden 519 Faillon, East 2373 Marcel Laurin Asean Montreal QC H2R 1L6 Ville St. Laurent QC H4R 1K4 • Szechuan • Dimsum • Thai • Sushi Tel (514) 276-8310 Tel (514) 334-1199 Owner : Daou Family ALL YOU CAN EAT Fax (514) 334-6720 Sunday - Thursday $22.95 95 Friday - Saturday $25. Dining Room Only Happy Valentine’s Day! FREE DELIVERY Monday - Thursday 11:30 am - 2:30 pm Valentine Special 5 pm - 10 pm n 10% OFF Feb 14 only n Friday - Saturday 11:30 am - 2:30 pm 5 pm - 11 pm SENIOR DISCOUNTS Reservations: 514-487-8868 Monday & Tuesday 5828 Sherbrooke St. W. (corner Regent) Sunday %2525% 11:30 am - 2:30 pm from 4 p.m. www.aseangarden.ca 5 pm - 10 pm Reservations or Take out n n514-735-1911 n 2356 Lucerne corner Côte de Liesse Highway 40

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Bring your beau or bellle to La Belllle Subma. rines: Steak, Pepperoni & celebrate Happy Valentines Day or Vegetarian n $ 99 nnn nnnn nnnn nnnn 4. Souvlaki TRIO HOT DOG $3.99 Plate Pork (2 sticks) SPAGHETTI SPECIALS $4.95 $ 5.75 WITH SMOKED MEAT $6.45 SUBMARINE 11’’ Hamburger Steak $ 99 FREE refills with grilled onions 4. With any purchase $5.95 THE BEST IN TOWN 6752 ST. JACQUES W. 514-481-8114 START YOUR DAY AT 5:30 WITH A SUMPTUOUS LA BELLE PROVINCE BREAKFAST 12 February 2008 THE SENIOR TIMES Agora opens eyes to Greek delights Dining Out Alexander Matthews full of cucumbers, tomatoes and onions, and covered with generous slabs of feta cheese and herbs that gave Agora Restaurant, 6544 Somerled. it a delicious tang. Served with a lemon wedge, my chicken was perfect Last Sunday, I had the pleasure of dining at Agora – crispy outside and very tender inside. My father en- Restaurant with my father. Located in Côte-St-Luc joyed his souvlaki as well; the piece I sampled was just off Cavendish, Agora offers good Greek food at delicious. affordable prices. On the whole, my meal was very satisfying and a great Because the restaurant is relatively small, its atmos- value, considering some Greek restaurants offer simi- phere is relaxed and cozy. Warm and welcoming, the lar meals for almost twice the price. space is nicely decorated with beautiful paintings. To end our meal, we ordered baklava. As with the The service was prompt and courteous. Soon after tzatziki and the Greek salad, this was my first experi- sitting down, our waiter brought us bread with tzatziki ence with the traditional dessert. In fact, I’m such a instead of the usual butter. Even though I have been to baklava novice that at first glance I mistakenly thought several Greek restaurants, I have never eaten tzatziki, a it was apple pie! Made of layer after layer of filo dough, traditional Greek sauce made with yogurt, cucumbers this pastry is drenched in honey and melts in your and lots of garlic. After tasting Agora’s version, I must mouth. This little treat proved to be a wonderful way to say I’ve been missing out. end a delicious meal. As we dipped our bread in tzatziki, our waiter came Agora Restaurant’s generous portions, satisfying by to take our orders. I opted for the chicken fillet taste, great service and reasonable prices make meals ($13.45) while my father decided on the souvlaki there worthwhile. I would definitely recommend this ($9.95 with a choice of pork or chicken). We both restaurant to my friends and family. chose the Greek salad, and our main dishes came with a choice of fries, rice or a combination of the two. The Greek salad was also a first for me and I loved it! Happy to add it to my Greek repertoire, it was chock RESTAURANT

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February 2008 13 THE SENIOR TIMES Exploring our past in Vilna, Lithuania I grew up hearing about Vilnius, or Vilna (Yiddish) It was raining the day we toured what was once the as the centre of Jewish learning in Europe before the Times ghetto, now dotted with tiny boutiques and galleries. Holocaust, and about the Vilna Gaon (the There is no trace of the 30,000 Jews who once Genius of Vilna, 18th Century Talmudic sage who and Places worked, studied, celebrated, and mourned here. mastered astronomy, mathematics, and music). So Among the marked sites you can visit are the Great when we arrived in Vilnius, Lithuania, I wasn’t Barbara Moser Synagogue, the House of the Gaon, the old Jewish prepared for the carefree beauty of the Old City or Marketplace, the sites of the large and small ghetto, the modernity of Karolina, a “hotel and and the Choral Synagogue. On all the memorials and conference centre” about 25 minutes and culture, as well as to research and record plaques, there was graffiti of a rather innocuous kind. from Vilna’s centre. Vilnius is sur- the Jewish history of Lithuania.” No swastikas — just testimony to the fact that the prisingly sophisticated, accessible, The first institution in the former “youth” of this town don’t like Jews, or what is left of and inexpensive. Unlike Latvia, Soviet Union to teach about the Holo- them in this place. where we visited the nearby caust, the museum presents Lithuan- There is much else to see in this city and I will list resort of Jurmala, we limited our ian Jewry six centuries before World just a few highlights: The Lower Castle Museum, site Lithuanian adventure to Vilnius War II. One room, “The Gallery of of the Royal Palace and an important archaeological and the rich and tragic history of the Righteous,” is devoted to those dig, built in the 16th Century; the National Museum the Jewish people, who numbered who saved Jews during the Holocaust. including reconstructed dwellings of ancient Lithua- 55,000 in 1939, when the German Reading the letters, documents, seeing nians; Gedimino Tower, Gedimino Hill and the army invaded Poland. photos of “the righteous,” Higher Castle Tower, with a funicular that runs It was one of those too-quiet Sundays, The Viln on I was moved and felt from the barracks to the tower; and St. Peter but we were eager to explore the Old Town, so we a Gagrateful, but thought about & St. Paul Church with its Italian sculp- hopped in a cab and were dropped off near a winding the majority that did noth- tures. In the Old Town,Vilnius Univer- lane where a few sidewalk cafés were open. We joined ing, or worse, helped the sity now has 14,000 students.You can two young women who spoke very good English and Nazis round up and mur- find out more about these sites in told us a little about the town, insisting on treating us der Jews. any good guidebook or on the In- to a Coke! Later we walked towards the main square, We did not travel to ternet. We have somewhat limited found a restaurant outside and watched children play Paneriai, where the our site-seeing these last two years among the tables of locals as we viewed the surround- Nazis murdered 100,000 to explore the times and places of ing architecture, not yet knowing that we were looking people, among them our people, and bear witness to at the borders of the Ghetto, whose 30,000 70,000 Jews from Vilnius their destruction and to the rich- inhabitants were murdered during the Holocaust. and the surrounding ness of their lives. The next day, we returned to the“Street of the Jews” area. A small museum Graffiti on Old Ghetto map and the site of Vilna’s there documents the crimes Choral Synagogue. committed in this place with We spent nearly half photographs and objects found the day at the Vilna in the pits. Gaon Jewish State Although I have been to the Holocaust Museum Museum of Lithua- in Washington and Yad Vashem in Jerusalem, the nia, a small wooden Vilna Gaon Museum was touching. Perhaps be- building hidden be- cause the old wooden building made it feel as if we hind more impres- were still hiding, or the fact that it was named after sive structures. The the “Genius of Vilna,” a man who symbolizes all pamphlet describes that was lost. Or perhaps it was because, on these its goals: “The mu- streets referred to as the“Jerusalem of Lithuania,”I seum aims to keep could imagine the children playing, the schools, alive the memory of theatres and synagogues, and the immense expres- the Litvak (Lithuan- sion of Jewish culture and scholarship that went on ian-Jewish) history for 300 years until all was wiped out. Ghetto

Old Vilnius, University building

Mother in Old Vilnius Jewish museum garden 14 February 2008 THE SENIOR TIMES February 2008 15 THE SENIOR TIMES Great for Grandkids Bring in the clowns Playtime at the Centaur Discover Africa’s butterflies Centaur Theatre Company launches its 2008 Saturday Morning Children’s Series Feb. 9 with Dick Whittington. Directed by John Beeteson, it’s the story of Dick and his cat Felix, who leave their small village to seek fame and fortune in London, despite the threat of pickpockets. Hanuman, Written and Performed by Sylvi Belleau, plays Feb. 23. The play follows Hanuman, son of the Wind God and a she-monkey, who must learn to use his very peculiar magical powers for good when the King’s wife is kidnapped. Photo Credit: René Limoges The Future Productions’ play, show- The 11th edition of the Montréal Insectarium’s Butter- ing March 8, teaches grownups that it’s not always easy flies Go Free takes wing Feb. 21 and runs until April 27. being a kid. Here, two best friends face the pressures of The event features several dozen species of African but- parents, coaches, religion, and the media – not to terflies never before seen in Canada. These exotic but- mention the approach of the championship game. terflies and moths from farms in Kenya, Tanzania and The Saturday morning plays are 10:30 am at Cen- Uganda will put on a colorful show while supporting taur, 453 St-François-Xavier. $6/adults, $4/children. the social economy and biodiversity of their home- Info: 514-288-3161 lands. You’ll also find over 15, 000 other winged won- ders imported from Central America and Asia. The Insectarium is at 4581 Sherbrooke. E. Info: 514-872-1400 or museumsnature.ca photo: David Babcock Mike Hughes, Gemma James-Smith, Audrey Finkelstein Our Galaxy, the Milky Way in Peacemaker Discover the Milky Way and the phenomena it harbors Adults may have just as much to learn from Geordie in a new multimedia show at the Montréal Planetar- Productions’ Peacemaker as the children it was written ium, Fri., Sat. & Sun. Feb. 22 – Mar. 19. English: 7:15 for. This interactive play introduces us to Simp and pm. French: 8:30 pm. $8 (Adults), $6 (Seniors/Stu- Franny, two young clowns from the Land of Red, and dents), $4 (Kids 5-17). Discounts for Accès Montréal Bluey, from the Land of Blue. The two communities photo: Denis Germain cardholders, 1000 Saint-Jacques (Bonaventure metro). have been divided by a closely guarded wall — not un- Montreal by moonlight Info: 514-872-4530 or museumsnature.ca like some walls of the real world. When a red juggling The Montreal Biodôme and the Olympic Park join ball tumbles over to the blue side of the wall, the forces to offer family-friendly evening adventures. clowns must set about undoing the years of prejudice During the Montreal School Break week, explore the Saturdays below zero that have divided the reds and blues, while avoiding the Biodôme and the Montreal Tower Observatory by notice of Mr. Man, the walls watch-keeper. With its end moonlight. at Pointe-à-Callière determined by audience participation, the play en- The Biodôme stays open Feb. 29 to March 8 until 8:30 Every Saturday in January and February, Pointe-à- courages kids and adults to practice their peacemaking pm. Find out what the animals are up to after nightfall. Callière, the Montréal Museum of Archaeology and skills — that is, if they want a happy ending. See the glittering Montreal skyline from the Olympic History, is reducing the price of Museum admission by Peacemaker runs Feb. 15 - 24 at the D.B. Clarke The- Stadium’s Observatory. Its tower will be lit up in blue a percentage equal to the outdoor subzero temperature. atre at Concordia’s Hall Building, 1455 de Maison- for the occasion and a traditional storyteller will be On any particularly freezing day, you can visit the Mu- neuve W. $13.50/children, $16/general & $15/seniors. around to make you laugh, wonder, or shiver. seum’s temporary exhibition, 1837-1838 Rebellions, Pa- Info: 514-845-9810 or www.geordie.ca Info: 514-868-3000 or museumsnature.qc.ca triots vs. Loyalists and the permanent exhibitions Where Montréal Was Born and Montréal Love Stories – The Cultural Connection. The temperature is taken at 10 am and does not include the wind chill factor. May not be com- bined with any other promotional offer. The mu- seum is at 350 Place Royale, Old Montreal. Info: 514-872-7858 or www.pacmuseum.qc.ca Montreal Novel discussed at Atwater Library

Led by author Mary Soder- strom, The Atwater Book Club discusses Lullabies for Little Criminals by Heather O'Neill Wed., Feb. 13 at 7:30 pm. 1200 Atwater Ave. Info: 514-935-7344

An afternoon in grandma’s kitchen Families are invited to gather in the kitchen of the Château Ramezay Museum Feb. 24. There, they can bake bread, churn butter and taste the fruits of their labour. Children between 6 and 12 will learn the recipes of yesteryear and bake like their ances- tors did. Reservations required. Maximum of 10 children per group. $18/family of 2 adults & 2 children, $4/child, $9/general. Château Ramezay is located 280 Notre-Dame E. Info: 514-861-3708 ext: 221 16 February 2008 THE SENIOR TIMES Play It Again Sam A comic yet shallow look at dying own hospitals. After earning his millions by privatizing and downsizing hospitals, particularly through his edict of two beds per room, no exceptions, he’s shocked Reel Time to discover that even he’s not an exception. It’s a re- warding chuckle for anyone who’s ever been through a Jim Hoffman hospital’s bureaucracy to hear him indignantly ex-

claim: “I’ve never been sick before.” courtesy: Warner Bros. As Carter begins to see that he might not beat his And they’re the real meat of this film. These aren’t the hospital bed, he begins a “bucket list,” a list of every- deepest or most striking characters ever written, but The Bucket List thing he’d like to accomplish before kicking the bucket. their honest fascination with each other makes them (97 min. G) It’s meant as a theoretical exercise to learn about him- fascinating to us. How else but by seeing him through ###$ self, but once Edward gets it, he decides that all he’s got Carter’s eyes could the film get away with playing Rob Reiner’s latest, The Bucket List, is a rare beast in is money and a few months of good health, and cajoles Edward’s cancer treatment for laughs? Witnessing the popular film – a heartwarming comedy about dying. Carter into turning the list into an action plan, he prag- slow birth of a truly believable bond of friendship We’re introduced to Edward and Carter, two very dif- matically elaborates on Carter’s dreams by turning list between two people who don’t particularly want it at ferent people, just as each discovers that he’s stricken items like “witness something truly majestic” into a this point in their lives is the real treat here. with cancer. Carter (Morgan Freeman), a car me- hike up the Himalayan mountains. The Bucket List never manages to reach anything chanic, takes the news privately, holding himself up The film’s hook is the series of adventures that fol- profound. And the, thankfully brief, tangents into its with solitary grace. Meanwhile, Edward (Jack Nichol- low, involving planes, parachutes, sports cars and gor- characters’ regular lives (Carter has a wife and Edward son), a bombastic multi-millionaire who takes pleas- geous vistas. While the episodes range from amusing has a daughter) are dishearteningly shallow. But it’s not ure in lording his power over anyone in his sightline, to outlandish, at every step of the journey it’s the actors every film about dying that can sustain amusement continues onward just as he was, angrily trying to show who sell us on it all. Pulling out all the stops to get us so well and manage to make you forget about the this illness who’s boss. wound up in their characters’ enthusiasm, Freeman inevitable for a little while. The irony for Edward is that he’s stuck in one of his and Nicholson are amazingly engaging performers. Contact me at: [email protected] Music Music Music Irish Film Fest in 16th year Byron Toben Cadhain who was born 100 years ago. Vic Vogel: the story teller’s voice lingers The movie was shot around Con- Paul Serralheiro wasn’t interested in it and his father, who In a city blessed with a plethora of film nemara. Speed Dating, a more modern was going to sell the piano, agreeing to festivals — world, nouveau, Quebec, art, film from the Celtic tiger, follows on Feb. Looking back over keep it for the young Vic on the condi- Latin, German, gay — my favorite is the 29. There is a hiatus during March St- last year’s releases tion that there be no lessons. cozy and pleasant Irish film celebration. Patrick’s festivities, resuming with a dou- by Montreal jazz This and more is revealed in the two Cine Gael Montreal begins its 16th sea- ble weekend special March 28 – 29 of musicians,one that DVDs that come wih this bountiful son Fri., Feb. 8 at the J.A. DeSève Cin- three films with famous guests. Past dou- still resonates is offering. One of these contains L’homme ema at Concordia. ble weekends have included Milo O Shea Vic Vogel’s three- de Cuivre and The Brass Man, the French Cine Gael is reputed to be the largest and Stephen Rea. Cine Gael was started disc set,Je Joue mon and English versions of a documentary Irish film festival in the world outside of by the indefatigable Lynn Doyle, the first piano(VVRecords, produced in 2005, as well as a number of Ireland. It is leisurely paced, on only Fri- woman president of St. Patrick’s Society, VVCD-3-7797). shorts showing Vogel in concert, on tour day evenings throughout February,March who has assembled a crackerjack team of While there are many talented younger and in intimate settings. and April, ending with a gala April 24. film advisors including Antoine Maloney, musicians making their mark in this city, On the other DVD we see Vogel per- Kicking off events this year is Garage, Patrick Vellaley, Dana Hearne and Mary Vogel’s musical personality is hard to forming the tunes, all originals, that an official selection at both the London McDade. Non-members/$6 $10/opening ignore or forget. make up the heart of this release: the and Sao Paolo film fests. It is followed $20/closing and double weekend galas. A mainly self-taught composer, arranger, audio CD featuring Vogel alone at the Feb. 15 by Cre na Cille (Graveyard Clay) An all inclusive annual membership is a pianist, trombonist, and bandleader, piano. Here we hear the soul of the man’s directed by Robert Quinn. It is adapted bargain at $60. For more details go to Vogel is a link to Montreal’s golden days, art in compositions that are both ro- from a classic Irish novel by Mairtin O [email protected] when jazz musicians played nightly for mantic and earthy, with echoes of past crowds at bars, cafés and strip joints. masters like Earl Hines, Duke Ellington Now 73, the garrulous, outspoken man and Lenny Tristano. Lakeshore Players at it again has many stories to tell, both verbal and Better known for his writing and his Roland Dickerby runs a health spa wife of the insurance company’s presi- musical. Like how he became a band Big Band (which spawned many of the with his wife Julia, bought with the pro- dent, checks into the spa. leader when the one he was working for younger talents in Montreal’s jazz scene), ceeds of a hefty insurance payout from Kindly Keep It Covered, a fast and furi- was roughed-up and dismissed by the Vogel is not the world’s most technically the demise of her first husband, the ous farce by David Freeman is on at the gangster club-owner for having a thing impressive pianist. The always expressive charming rogue Sydney. John Rennie Theatre February 6-9 and for his girlfriend, and the indignant and warm playing, however, more than But today, Fate has something special 13-16. mobster saying what amounted to “Hey makes up for any shortcomings, and the in store for Roland: Sydney has decided Box Office: 514-631-8718 you lead the band.” Or the one about three discs of Je Joue mon piano add up to resurrect himself just as Vanessa, the or www.lakeshoreplayers.org how he got his first piano as a hand-me to the touching testimony to an ambi- down from his brother Frank who tious career and a passionate life.

The Women’s Canadian Club of Montreal Le Cercle canadien des femmes de Montréal Kindly Keep It Covered • One Hundredth Season • a comedy by Dave Freeman Each lecture begins at 12:30 p.m./Sandwiches at cost and tea/coffee available at 11:15 a.m. Directed by Susan Freed February 18: Dr. Christine Meyers – “How Marketing Influences Health Care” John Rennie theatre - 501 St. John Blvd. March 17: Sue Montgomery – “Rwanda: Not Just Another Scary Place” Tickets: Orchestra $22 / Balcony $16 April 22: (Tuesday) Spring Luncheon for members and guests Students/Seniors: Orchestra $18/Balcony $12 May 5: Dr. Mark A. Wainberg – “AIDS in the World” Box Office: 514-631-8718 May 26: Lise Casgrain – “The Legacy of Thérèse Casgrain” (Ann. Meeting follows) February 6, 7, 8, 9 & 13, 14, 15, 16, 2008 8 p.m. Benefit shows New Members Welcome! Guest fees per lecture: $10 Info: 514 933-8067 Feb. 5 - Cheshire Foundation - 514 683-3400 Feb.12 - M L University Women’s Club 514 630-1066, Lectures are held Mondays (unless otherwise noted) and take place at The Unitarian Church W I Palliative Care Residence - 514 426-0729 See our website for more information 5035 de Maisonneuve Blvd West (near Claremont Ave. and close to Vendôme métro) www.lakeshoreplayersdorval.org 2232189 February 2008 17 THE SENIOR TIMES Shriveled mushrooms and a doctor on the spot Nancy Snipper bacon bits also filled my grocery bag. eating and sleeping patterns. It took him 10 minutes “These are good for your eyesight and they will go in to write out a prescription – in Mandarin, and then I This month marks the Chinese New Year, a culture the tofu dish we’ll make,”she said. had to sign my name and give my phone number. full of ancient mysteries, some of which are ingested. I also came home with bok choi, great in soups and There was no charge for the consultation. Assisted by former Hui Zhang Huang, who’s 50 but stir fry. Then the gruff cashier standing in front of hundreds looks more like 35, I was about to learn precious Pointing to a rough brown turnip-shaped item, she of jars filled with odd looking herbs told me that for trade secrets from this enthusiastic learner – a recent explained that this root should be peeled, steamed and only $40 I could have three night’s worth of a rare mix- graduate from the English program at James Lyng then fried like an omelet, and is great when filled with ture to deepen sleep and boost my immune system. But Adult Ed Centre.As luck would have it, I once had her some sugar, soy sauce and shallots. To prove her point, I didn’t need more deep zzz’s, and my immune system as my student. we stopped and ate at a restaurant inside Chinatown’s didn’t cause the freckles. Sun and age do. I already had On a typical day, Zhuang would bring me tupperware indoor shopping complex. It was delicious, and the some sleep herbs given to me by my acupuncturist filled to the lid with great tasting Chinese food. She im- tasty sprinkle of cinnamon likened it to a thick square- some months ago, which to date I still haven’t taken migrated to Montreal ten years ago. Zhuang’s parents shaped pancake. because I sleep well. both served in the army during the Mao-Tse-Tung In one herb store, I was ushered into a narrow corridor I told the cashier I wasn’t going to buy the sleep po- years, and true to training, this hard-working woman, by my student to wait for the doctor. She knew I had tion so he grabbed the prescription out of my hand who once owned a café in Alexis Nihon, believes healthy questions about the freckles on my arms and translated and said“You can’t have it.”I offered to pay for the doc- dishes from her country can stave off old age. for me. In a back room on a small rickety table, my pulse tor’s time. No dice! I asked if Zhuang would teach me about the odd- and blood pressure were taken. He guessed my age short “It’s only good for today,”he said angrily.“You could looking food I had marveled at on my rare visits to of three years, told me not to eat any meat, eat a piece of have something else wrong with you tomorrow.” Chinatown. fruit after every meal, and avoid all milk products. I chuckled, assuring him I would return in 48 hours She was more than eager to practice her English and “Do you have anything for these freckles?” I asked for another check-up. share her culture’s cuisine with me. As we sallied into “No,” he quickly answered. But he had medicine for Zhuang and I went back to my home and within five some food stores, Zhuang explained how a few time- the immune system, which according to this doctor, minutes prepared a savoury tofu stir-fry (no beef as the honored Chinese roots and veggies could work won- was rotten (as were his teeth). Still, I was impressed by doctor ordered). Maybe it was her company and the ders on my tastebuds and energy level. his no-nonsense approach. I liked the no-wait policy novelty of it all, but I felt a burst of energy. Alas, my In one store, we picked up some hard shriveled and his intriguing questions about body pain, my spots are still here. mushrooms in a variety of sizes. We also walked out with some velvety soft tofu and shallots that were the size of leeks. Stopping at a huge white carrot-shaped vegetable, she explained to me that this was a must. Everything you need to know about RRSPs Tiny curly cues — hard bits of plant that looked like the previous year and filed a Canadian tax return can contribute to an RRSP until December 31 of the year they turn 71. After 71, if you continue to earn income, you can contribute to a spousal RRSP until December Common Cents 31 of the year your spouse or common law partner turns 71. Ivan Cons Contribution limits for 2007: Total annual contri- butions are the lesser of $19,000 or 18% of earned in- come from your previous tax year, minus any pension When you reach 65, the government provides you adjustments plus unused contribution room from pre- with a modest pension.Will this income be sufficient vious years.You can access your contribution limit on- for you to live comfortably? line at www.cra-arc.gc.ca. Most individuals are unaware of what their invest- RRSP contribution room accumulated after 1990 can ment income and living expenses will be at retirement; be carried forward indefinitely to subsequent years. therefore it is essential to plan as early as possible. If Earned income is defined as self-employed business you contribute to an RRSP,you are guaranteed to sup- income, taxable spouse and child support received, and STOP SMOKING plement the government pension and have the retire- net rental income from real estate and disability pen- or REDUCEALCOHOL ment income necessary to live with dignity. sion received under QPP. BREAK THE HABIT Value of an RRSP: RRSP contributions can reduce RRSP contribution deadline: The deadline for 2007 «The soft laser» the amount of income tax that you pay. Individuals can RRSP contributions is February 29, 2008. Contribu- TAKE YOUR HEALTH • No pain IN HAND • No side effects benefit from immediate tax savings as the RRSP allows tions made during the first 60 days of 2008 can be ap- The only method of this • Anti-stress them to deduct the amount of contribution from their plied against the 2007 taxation year or any subsequent type to achieve a 90% • Appetite- income on their tax return. The actual cost of the con- year. If you turn 71 in 2008, this would be the final year success rate suppressant tribution is offset by having to pay less income tax. to contribute to your RRSP and you must convert RRSP eligibility: Anyone who has earned income in your RRSP to a RRIF by December31,2008. LASER ENERGIE SANTÉ LAVAL (514) 791-5908 Seed fair welcomes gardeners Environmentally conscious gardeners Canada. All the seeds sold at the fair are won’t want to miss the 8th Annual Mon- open pollinated varieties, which means treal Seedy Sunday seed sale and ex- they reproduce the same characteristics change, Sunday, February 10 at the from one generation to the next, with Montreal Botanical Gardens. respect for sustainability. The event features local producers of “When we grow these plants in our mainly organic, heirloom and open- gardens, we are in fact honouring the pollinated vegetables, flowers and herb richness of our vast horticultural her- seeds, as well as heirloom trees. Also itage as well as protecting and valuing FUNERAL HOME scheduled are free workshops on sub- the importance of biodiversity in our A family business since 1958 jects like seed saving, vegetable and gardens,” says Mathieu Roy of Action flower production, and grafting. Communiterre, the community organ- Visitors to the event are invited to ization that hosts the fair alongside Les bring in their own seeds to exchange Amis du Jardin Botanique de Montréal. 560 Lakeshore Dr. with other local growers. The Montreal Seedy Sunday seed sale Dorval 514-631-1511 “We want to assure that people have and exchange is 10 am to 4:30 pm at the 2125 Notre Dame Julie Cardinal access to these heirloom seeds, which Botanical Gardens, 4101 Sherbrooke E. Lachine 514-639-1511 are not available through conventional near Pie IX metro. Free. commercial sources,” says Gwynne Info: 514-484-0223 or 514-872-1400 Basen, a member of Seeds of Diversity 18 February 2008 THE SENIOR TIMES rill me one more time, Bond HEALTH The Bond men, sexually aggressive but irresistible, make me think of the sexy scenes when, flung into outer space, a girl whispers into Bond’s ear “James, take My Way me around the world one more time,”or of Ursula An- • The Best in Weight dress rising out of the sea like Venus on the Half Shell Management • Balanced by Ursula Feist to the music of “Underneath the Mango Tree, Me Honey,” stopping Sean Connery dead in his tracks. Nutrition • Personal attention These are scenes as suggestive as they can get without having to watch heavy breathing. to individual needs • FREE Snowed in before Christmas last year, I decided to The Bond films all have the same formula: good guy Individual Evaluation spend my time with Bond, James Bond. Double O finds bad guy, bad guy has good guy knocked out, tied seven — the two zeros meaning licensed to kill. up in prison or in the deep, good guy cuts loose – Armed with a pot of tea and wrapped in a huge shawl, avoiding sharks, grinding machines, dangerous Call Mariana I became a couch potato, enjoying every minute of wrestlers – and survives hair-raising chases in cars,fire my heavenly comfort glued to my TV.It was the right engines or powerboats. Bad guy gets caught, is killed, or 1-877-874-5738 escape into the exotic environment of James Bond, suffers worse pains than any ever inflicted on Bond. away from the news and the snow. The violence in these films is rather more funny than I unearthed my copy of Ian Fleming’s book Live and cruel. There are no pools of blood gushing on the floor e Let Die, published in 1954. He was a Navy Commander and the guns ingeniously designed just for Bond never during WWII and died of a heart attack at only 56. He miss their target, however unlikely that may be. Today’s CHAMP Program created the fictitious intelligence agent Commander violence on film is so destructive, ugly and cruel. James Bond, hero of thrillers that have become leg- I wish another Fleming could be found to create more endary and so founded a flourishing Bond franchise. of these outrageous, refreshing and entertaining stories. ... a War Amps MILESTONE There is also a Bond International Fan Club. Fleming wrote: “The craft of writing sophisticated Designs for downsizing thrillers is almost dead. In this age of higher education, Since 1975,  e War Amps writers seem to be ashamed of inventing heroes who Aurélien Guillory, star of HGTV’s Homes by Design, will CHAMP Program has helped are white, villains who are black and heroines who are teach an interior design course at the Cummings Cen- a generation of child amputees a delicate shade of pink.” The outrageous Fleming tre. Learn about resources, color psychology and budget. quote,“Men want a woman they can turn on and off Bring your own design questions. The course runs 7 - 9 with fi nancial assistance for like a light switch,”could still be made in those days. pm, Beginning March 4 at 5700 Westbury Ave. $90. artifi cial limbs, and emotional In Goldfinger for instance, there is Pussygalore, the Info: 514-342-1234 ext. 7241 beautiful and creative lady pilot. Tocall any girl“Pussy” support and information. now would cause an uproar but, at that time the sexy Sean Connery could slap her lovingly on the behind Looking for retirement home with a lusty grin. Watching Goldfinger’s attempt to I may have more white hair showing through my black break into Fort Knox or Bond trying to defuse a nu- fur than I like, and at 12, I’m a senior dog, but my clear bomb ticking away is a nail-biter, even though young at heart attitude and the pep in my step says For more information, or to order you know that all will turn out well in the end. otherwise. I’m a terrier mix named Toby and I’m your 2008 key tags, contact The War Amps. The Bond-like men who belong to every good club, looking for a special home. E-ZEE ACCESS: TEL.: 1-800-250-3030 stay in suites in the best hotels, drive snazzy Aston Mar- To adopt me, please call FAX: 1-800-219-8988 tin convertibles, and sip champagne on huge satin cov- Debra at the SPCA Mon- or visit our Web site at www.waramps.ca ered beds with beautiful girls do present a rather teregie: 514-969-1767 or Charitable Registration No.: 13196 9628 RR0001 enviable lifestyle. In an interview with those Bond [email protected] “girls,”elderly ladies now, some unrecognizable as a re- sult of face lifts, they explained that they consider themselves lucky to have been picked for those roles. Once having been a Bond girl meant entrance into Ivan M. Cons every studio. Financial Services Investments, Tax Planning, Retirement Strategies Tel: (514) 336-6211 Fax: (514) 336-6117 Email: [email protected]

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February 2008 19 THE SENIOR TIMES $ $ INCOME TAX $ $ Starting from $29.99 + GST & QST Music Music Music @ Tax Return (Personal) until April 30, 2008 Hungarian quartet takes stage Oldengram plays city’s biggest instrument The Ladies’ Morning Musical Club hosts the Takács Virtuoso organist Jonathan Oldengarm headlines Sin- IRSHADProfessional AWAN, Accounting, CGA Quartet performing Haydn, Bartók, and Brahms, 3:30 fonica Organo, a concert series featuring Montreal’s Tax & Business Advisory Services pm,Sun.Feb.24.Founded in Budapest in 1975,this string largest instrument, the 6,792-pipe organ of the Church Commissioner of Oaths quartet has recorded complete Beethoven and Bartók of St. Andrew and St. Paul. Concerts are 4 pm, Sundays quartets. The event is at Pollack Hall, 555 Sherbrooke St. Feb. 10, 17 and 24 at the Church, 3415 Redpath corner (514) 227-8765 W. Tickets: $35/general, $15/students under 26. Sherbrooke W. A freewill donation is requested. 6900 Decarie Blvd. (Decarie Square) Info: 514-932-6796 or [email protected] Info: 514-842-9991 or [email protected] Suite 3345, Montreal, QC. H3X 2T8 Mad about music at McGill This month at Oscar Peterson Hall The McGill Student Soloists, coordinated by Marina Oriented Towards Sound III features new and tradi- Senior Services Provider Mdivani, 5pm & 8pm, Sun. Feb. 10 at Pollack Hall. Free. tional works of eastern cultures: The River Runs Red, A voice recital by the class of Sanford Sylvan, 7:30pm, for gu-zheng (Chinese zither), piano and a calligrapher, You need transportation? Sun. Feb. 10 at the Tanna Schulich Hall. Free. 7:30 pm, Sat. Feb. 9. $10; $5/seniors $7/students. Q medical and dental appointments Stefano Algieri and Michael McMahon perform at the Follow the North Star, a concert in honour of Black Q lab testing, Xrays and physiotherapy McGill Staff and Guests Series, 8pm Tues. Feb 12, Pollack History Month, features The People’s Gospel Choir of Q grocery and clothes shopping Hall. $5 Montreal and singer Sylvie Desgroseilliers, 7 pm, Fri. Q daily activities and company McGill Brass Concerto Competition Finals,coordinated Feb. 15. Info: 905-495-9188 or [email protected] Q more assistance upon request by ThomasWilliams,7pmWed.Feb.13,Pollack Hall.Free. Door-to-door transportation to all your appointments The McGill Competition Finals for piano, 7 pm, In celebration of the 90th Anniversary of Estonian In- Call for appointment Thurs. Feb. 14 at Pollack Hall. Free. dependence Day, the Montreal Estonian Society in col- Hinda Bilenco (514) 956-9267 McGill Conservatory Youth Choir and the Boni Pueri laboration with Montreal’s Honorary Estonian Consul, Czech Boys Choir perform Brundibar, an opera written presents pianist Armas Maiste in a free concert Sat. Feb. by WWII child prisoners of Terezin, 7 pm Sat. Feb 16 23 at 4 pm. Maiste plays selections from Lemba, Chopin, at Pollack Hall. $15/general, $10/student & seniors. Debussy, Schubert, and jazz works by Oscar Peterson, Easy Tax Consultants McGill Baroque Orchestra performs 8 pm, Wed. Feb including selections from his Canadiana Suite. 20 at Redpath Hall. $5. Mobile income tax preparation service McGill Live to Europe, a radio broadcast showcase, Ensemble Sinfonia de Montréal perform works by features the Schulich String Quartet, soprano Shannon Stravinsky, Prokofiev, and Copland Sun. Feb. 24 at 7:30 Kevin Arsenault, President Mercer and more, 7 pm Fri. Feb 29 in the multimedia pm. $20/general, $10 students & seniors. Tel: 514-487-1515 room at 527 Sherbrooke W. $5. Oscar Peterson Concert Hall & Box Office is at 7141 Pollack Hall is located 555 Sherbrooke St. W. Sherbrooke W. Info: 514-848-4848, 514-790-1245 Fax: 514-487-4046 Redpath Hall is located at McGill’s Main Campus, [email protected] with access via McTavish Gates. Pro Musica 5925 Monkland Ave, Suite S1 Tanna Schulich Hall is located 527 Sherbrooke W. The Nicholas Angelich Trio plays Brahms, Integral of the Info: 514-398-4547 or 514-398-5145 Trios for piano, violin and cello Mon. Feb. 11 at 7:30 pm. Mozart Piano Quartet features works by Beethoven, Trio Muczynski in concert Dvorˇa´k, and Brahms 7:30 pm Mon. Feb. 25 at Théâtre Pro Musica’s Trio Muczynski performs pieces by Bruch, Maisonneuve, 260 de Maisonneuve W. Dog grooming Mendelssohn, Beethoven, and the trio’s namesake Info: 514-842-2112 or promusica.qc.ca Robert Muczynski Sun. Feb. 10, 2 pm at the Eleanor Salon London Côte-Saint-Luc Public Library, 5851 Lost Pilgrims play for Kenya Cavendish Blvd. $3. Info: 514-485-6900 The Lost Pilgrims perform old-time country, gospel, folk and classic rock songs Sat. Feb. 23 at the Church of St- Columba by the Lake. The show begins 7:30 pm at 11 For us, working with dogs is a way of life. Rodney Ave. in Pointe-Claire. $10 suggested donation supports Life Without AIDS, a program for HIV/AIDS We provide full grooming services for dogs prevention and awareness in Kenya. 20 years experience Info: 514-364-3027 or 514-697-8015 Walk-in showers - Clean premises One-on-one service as each dog gets their own personal stylist ONLY Groomers: Marie-Jo and Mona $21 WYNMOOR VILLAGE (taxes 514-620-1221 DELIVERS included) 4817 St. Charles, Pierrefonds Specializing in Wynmoor sales and rentals since 1977 www.salonshampouchie.ca Fabulous gated senior condominium community in sunny Coconut Creek, Florida Golf, tennis, theatre, fitness center and much, much, more. One and two bedroom condominiums Granite Lacroix Inc. Let Experience Work For You Manufacturing monuments for three generations Moss Realty, Inc. Our craftsmen are well-known for the ability and 954-974-6660 care they take to personalize your monument. Bring us right to your door, every month of the year. First Class Mail! • 1 year = 10 Monthly issues Our Services plus Annual Residence & Resource Directory SW • Delivery across Quebec Bonnie Sandler, Name: • Engraving, cleaning, restorations • Assessment Address: • Porcelain photos and ornaments • Case Management City: • Free consultation in your home • Support Groups Prov: • Interior and exterior showroom • Training Postal Code: • Member of the Association des Détaillants Tel: de Monuments du Québec Placement Counsellor Please make cheque, or money order payable to: (514) 489-8678 THE SENIOR TIMES or pay by or 1735 boul. des Laurentides,Vimont, Laval ALZHEIMER’S EXPERTISE THE SENIOR TIMES (450) 669-7467 [email protected] 4077 Decarie Blvd. Montreal QC H4A 3J8 www.granitelacroix.com www.servingmontrealseniors.com Tel : 514 484-5033 Fax: 514 484-8254 20 February 2008 THE SENIOR TIMES Curtains Up! Music and Magic make for great entertainment in Houdini

ruthless self-promoter; The show, with story beer-hall, dime-mu- and dialogue written seum and circus by Ben Gonshor, and showman; master music and lyrics by publicist and vaude- Elan Kunin, high- ville headliner; lights Houdini’s rise scholar, collector to fame, his relation- and tireless re- ship with his family searcher; “crusader and his battle with against fraud and the spiritualist move- charlatanism and tire- ment, which ended his less seeker for the answer friendship with Arthur to the riddle that was implicit Conan Doyle. Some of Hou- in all of his performances—that of dini’s greatest escapes, such as the death and resurrection”. Straitjacket Escape and the Chinese The Segal’s latest offering, Houdini, Water Torture, are revisited. brings many of the above Houdinis to Boyle says Kunin’s music evokes the life. But be sure to arrive early.“The pro- exciting and hopeful atmosphere of the duction begins outside in the lobby, turn of the century.“There is a wonder- Kristine Berey with circus performers, buskers and ful array of music such as Scott street entertainers,” says Boyle, who Joplinesque ragtime, love songs, waltzes, When Valerie Boyle told friends she plays the great magician’s beloved circus-type melodies and old fashioned was acting in a musical about Houdini, “momma” Cecilia Weisz. “As the audi- jazz.” nobody asked “Who-dini?” Though ence is drawn into the theatrical presen- The show features a live 6-piece band over a hundred years have passed since tation, things lift away and they get to with well-known Montreal musicians he first captivated audiences around see behind the scenes as well.” Chet Doxas, Jim Doxas, Dave Martin, cluding 21 actors and the musicians,” the world with his dazzling showman- Immediately involving the audience is Morgan Moore and bandleader John Wasserman says. ship, his name is synonymous with part of director Bryna Wasserman’s Roney. The staff included a magic con- Houdini runs Feb. 10 to March 2, magic, evoking fascination and horror. vision of what theatre should be. “I sultant, and an artistic/circus consult- Leanor and Alvin Segal Theatre, 5170 Ironically, the man who so successfully honestly believe, with so much time ant. “I would estimate there are 60 to 80 Cote Ste Catherine. Info: 514-739-7944 flirted with death for so long finally spent in front of computers and com- people working on this production, in- or www.segalcentre.org met a violent end here in Montreal municating without being present, that in 1926. when you come to the theatre, it’s In his book on Houdini, modern day important for it to be an experience. I magician Doug Henning says: “There want to go back to a style of theatre that were many Houdinis.” He describes really engages the audience and makes Houdini as the simple, honorable man; them feel like participants from the first devoted husband; supreme egoist and moment they enter.” Peggy Baker Dance Projects Place-des-Arts’ Série Cinquième Salle renowned choreographer James Kudelka, presents Peggy Baker Dance Projects, in features Baker and Michael Sean Marye. collaboration with the Montreal High A “Dance Discovery” package of three Lights Festival, Feb. 20 - 23 at 8 pm. shows includes Peggy Baker Dance Proj- Toronto choreographer Peggy Baker ects, Rubberbandance Group (March 26- performs her most recent solo, Portal, in 29), and Ballet de Lorraine (April 30 to silence, while her piece Unfold is inter- May 3) and costs $33 (tax & service preted by Andrea Nann. charges incl.) Single tickets: $15.79. Woman by a Man, a pas-de-deux by Info: 514 842-2112.

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February 2008 21 THE SENIOR TIMES Quilting art with a message

Nancy Snipper

Many of us own a granny quilt,a beloved bed cover.Most likely,it’s stitched in tra- ditional cotton patchwork with flowery appliqués that break solitary back- ground colours. But for Barbara Sweeney, quilting is art with a message. For ten years, she’s been turning the quilting concept inside out,introducing a myriad of themes on fabrics of silk, taffetas and drapery brocade,set off with beads,sparkly paints,even chicken wire. Each of her quilts tells a story. “I started off as a painter, but even so, most of my paintings have objects in them. Sometimes, I’m not sure if I’m painting or quilting,” she said, joking. “Each medium is a blank canvas, but once I begin piecing the coloured images together, be it for a painting or quilt, the message eventually reveals itself. Of course I have a ‘hand’ in it. I often in- corporate 3-dimensonal aspects to in- tensify the message.” In one collage painting, a dragon has beads for nostrils, a pearl tongue pierc- ing (the dragon just caught his pearl), even a head adorned with gold beads. “My quilts attract controversy. They’re shocking. The subject matter portrays the sides of life that we often don’t want to acknowledge. My quilts make these dark sides visible.” Barbara Sweeney For Sweeney, quilting is about feelings. “There’s something about working with fabric that empowers me emotionally. It’s tactile. You can crunch it up, tear it, and repatch life as you would like it to be or show its tattered form.” Although Sweeney’s poignant mes- sages are immediate, her works have artistic balance, and to her credit and the viewer’s pleasure their aesthetic compo- nent is wicked and wonderful. “I’m attracted to nasty realities. I have addressed abuse and the oppression of women and children in 12 different quilts, which are hung together to create picto- rial messages. They include women serv- ing men, women tied to apron strings, a business graph whose red line shows women at the bottom, faring poorly. Tree Unheard Cries Papal Decision not Mine Another daring quilt portrays the real face of a known sexual predator in the lots of babies figured in this one. lotus flowers. The materials include cot- fighting for the underdog while express- US who was eventually released. “This “Some of my religious friends were ton and satin laced with bead embellish- ing opinions for those who couldn’t. repulsive person and what he represents disapproving of that particular quilt. ments. Kids, dogs, flowers and boats She’spresident of St.Patrick’sSquare Sen- enrages me. I had to express this rage They were also confused about me; they adorn her children’s quilts. iorsArt Group,co-founder and exhibitor at through a quilt.” know I am a practicing Catholic with A childhood artist, Barbara was al- 9 ARTISTES 9 at the Cactus Gallery on It took a month to complete, and al- five kids! ready sewing quilts at 8, along with doll NDGAvenue.She was also president of the though it was cathartic, she soon found But there’s also a soft side to Sweeney’s clothes, teddy bears and pillows. At 12, Arts Club for four years and co-president herself making another contentious quilt quilts. Right now she’s creating an Asian she was making her own clothes and of the Women’s Art Society. about the Catholic church in the days of theme series. There is lettering, Japanese being asked to sew for friends. She did- Contact: yore. A symbol of the pope, women and ladies, dragons, fish, ponds, fans and n’t. She was feisty — a proud rebel, [email protected]

Women’s Canadian Club hits 100 Acrylics at St. Patrick Square environment. The course is Mon. & Wed 10 am - noon, The Women’s Canadian Club of Montreal remains true Artist David Greenacre will be on exhibit Friday, Feb- beginning Feb.18; Cost is $90 for non-members. Reg- to its mission:“to open our doors to all and everything ruary 8, 10 am - 5 pm at St. Patrick Square, 6767 Côte ister Feb. 14 for the 6-hour Introduction to Internet & that will serve to enlighten.” St. Luc Rd. (entrance through King Edward.) Over 100 E-mail course, Thurs. 10 am - noon starting Feb. 21. In 1907, founder Elsie Reford, a woman of influence canvases of acrylic paint on masonite will be on dis- Cost is $65 for non-members. and determination, proposed forming the club to raise play. The paintings “capture the vastness of space to Info: 514-345-2627 x 3027 political awareness of Canadian women, who “knew convey nature’s beauty.” not the affairs immediate and direct of our own coun- Sail the cyber seas try.” Governor General Earl Grey spoke at the inaugu- Intro to Computers Richard at The Good Shepherd Community Centre ral meeting and Lady Drummond sat at the head table. Time to upgrade your computer literacy skills. The helps you navigate the computer, every Tues., 10 - 11:30 The club invites new members to its 100th Lecture Jewish Public Library offers introductory computer am. $10 for 10 weeks at 850 Dominion (near George Series, featuring speakers, events and tours. courses weekday mornings. Register Feb. 11 for the Vanier metro) Info: 514-933-8607 10-hour Introduction to computers in Windows Info: 514-933-7351

22 February 2008 THE SENIOR TIMES For Mr. Penfield, it was more than a poem. during nted r ead in hi s m emory It was a lo ve le tter he wa his commemorative service. en a nd w ill always be a very Commemorating the loss of a loved one has always be hrough a celebration, personal act. Whether you would like to carry on their memoryg, we pledge t to accompany you a mon ument, a memory medallion or an engravin to love. in the plan ning of this ode Honouring life, one precious moment at a time.

For more deta ils, call 1 888 735-1361 . or visit www.cimetierenddn.org

February 2008 23 THE SENIOR TIMES