Inside Nursing Education Back to Health

Help Generations help kids generationsfoundation.com 514-933-8585 MAY 2012 www.theseniortimes.com Vol. XXVi N o 7

Nursing education back to health First female Douglas chief calls for higher standards inside

Sound experience at chamber music fest p 5

Fraud victims fight to stay on the radar p 13

Walking on sunshine p 18

Chamber orchestra’s elements of surprise p 23

Open ears, open minds in Victoriaville p 27

Falling for Iguazu p 30 (photo above) Editorial “Shadow MP” not ready for the big leagues After a mud-slinging campaign to dislodge the Zajdel’s refusal to be transparent, the surrepti- much-admired Irwin Cotler in last year’s fed- tious way he was appointed and the nebulous eral election, the Conservatives thought they nature of his job became a public issue. Not sur- could pull a fast one by appointing the losing prisingly, when Prime Minister Stephen Harper candidate in Mount Royal, Saulie Zajdel, to a came here for some politicking, the media was patronage job. more interested in Zajdel and his job. According Rather than take the usual route of so-called ac- to a report in The Gazette, he beat a hasty retreat ceptable patronage, appointing a loser to sit on a from inquiring journalists rather than face nag- government board or agency, Zajdel was hired by ging questions. He obviously could not stand the Heritage Minister James Moore. His appointment heat, so he got out of the kitchen. was only “announced” in a brief interview with Unable to stick-handle his way around his a local weekly newspaper that supported Zajdel’s appointment and its apparent political nature, candidacy and the Conservative party. Zajdel resigned, telling a Montreal radio station Moore’s office refused to reveal his salary, or he was “tired of being this distraction.” even spell out his mandate, though Zajdel later Zajdel says he felt insulted by being labeled the told a reporter he was disappointed his pay “shadow MP” for Mount Royal, but sometimes had not reached the six-figure range. The exact the truth hurts. Will someone else be named to amount remains confidential. Zajdel’s mandate— replace him? We don’t know, but we doubt it. in his words to the newspaper—was to promote Zajdel says he hopes to run again in Mount and explain Canadian Heritage program available Royal, if the party wants him. to multiethnic communities here. The implication Given the way he has performed as a member of was that he was paid to do the work that the MP Moore’s staff and his lack of candour about all as- and his staff normally do. pects of his job, both he and the party might want No wonder Cotler described Zajdel’s role as re- to think twice about whether he would be suit- sembling a “shadow MP.” able. Riding residents, who are used to being represented by MPs of the calibre of Pierre Trudeau and Irwin Cotler, are entitled to vote for the candidate and party that best reflects their views. Zajdel, who increased the Conservative vote in Fulﬁ lling Needs Mount Royal, has every right to run again. Senior Residence at Every Stage But the public-relations miasma that followed his brief tenure as a member of Moore’s staff suggests this former municipal politician is not ready for the major leagues.

2 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com Visionary nurse advocates for more education, partnership with doctors

Irwin Block the spotlight with Danielle Fleury, recently named chief nursing officer Big changes are underway for Que- for the province. Fleury will be key bec’s nurses. The Senior Times in coordinating the expected trans- learned about them from a nurse formation. who personifies the profession’s Keeping up with the increasingly emerging profile. high-tech nature of modern medi- Lynne McVey sits comfortably and cine is another reason to increase the purposefully in her executive office educational requirement for nurses, at the Douglas Mental Health Uni- McVey added. versity Institute. She is the first fe- “We want to educate our nurses to male executive director of a hospital be full partners with physicians, who affiliated with the McGill University are also adapting their education Health Centre. curriculum to the high-technology Until last fall, McVey was the environment. highly regarded director of nursing Some professors at McGill are Douglas hospital executive director Lynne McVey wants nurses to be able to keep and clinical operations at the Jewish working toward having doctors and up with the high-tech nature of modern medicine. General Hospital during its years of nurses take classes together at uni- major expansion. this can be achieved by increasing 70 per cent did. versity so they can partner better She holds a master’s degree in the number of years of nursing edu- Will this mean fewer nurses enter together when delivering care to pa- nursing and is a leader in advocat- cation. She emphasizes that nurses the profession in Quebec? tients.” ing higher educational standards for with the equivalent of a bachelor’s of According to McVey, upgrading of She cites research published in Quebec nurses. science will be in a position to ex- requirements outside Quebec has re- 1986 by William Knaus indicating Quebec’s requirements for nurses pand their clinical partnership with sulted in a higher profile for nursing, that the quality of the nurse-phy- are the lowest in Canada; they must doctors. attracting more candidates. sician relationship appeared to be graduate from a three-year CEGEP “We believe that nurses have an “We believe that Quebecers de- critical in lowering mortality rates program. important contribution to make serve to have more nurses coming in intensive-care units. But there is change in the air. Fol- that has not been taken advantage into the profession.” McVey sees her appointment to lowing a resolution of the self-reg- of enough, so that our hospitals be- McVey discussed that very topic run the place our parents referred to ulating Order of Nurses of Quebec, come safer places for patients.” early this month in a seminar for obliquely as “Verdun” as part of a trend. talks are underway with the Quebec For McVey, it’s all about patient nurses at the Jewish General, sharing Continued on page 4 education and health departments care. She cites research by nurse to make a bachelor’s degree manda- Linda Aiken, a University of Penn- tory for new nurses over the next 10 sylvania professor who found that years. It will be a five-year program, for surgical patients at 168 hospitals adding two years in university to the in the state, death rates were nearly current requirements. twice as high at hospitals where less McVey is passionate about im- than 10 per cent of nurses had bach- proving patient outcomes and says elor’s degrees as at hospitals where

www.theseniortimes.com May 2012 The Senior Times 3 McVey to launch ‘anti-stigma’ campaign Continued from page 3 glected state of some of the facilities when she took “Clinicians are moving into CEO roles. We are over her post, including insufficient bathrooms. seeing a refocusing on the core business of the “Mental health has been neglected throughout health-care system, which is clinical work.” Quebec in terms of renewing our physical envi- That work can continue over a lifetime for men- ronment.” tal-health patients. Apart from the broad range of illnesses the Continuity of care is an essential part of treat- Douglas treats—including schizophrenia, bipolar ment, she noted. Quebec has created a clinical and eating disorders—at its therapeutic day centre specialty in mental health services for nurses and in-patient units, its staff manages 1,150 hous- with master’s degrees who can provide referrals, ing units for patients under its care. continuing care at a local CSSS and help patients “We are short about 500 places in the west end,” navigating the mental-health-care maze. she said. She plans to launch an “anti-stigma” campaign The Douglas has a staff 1,500, including clini- so that patients feel comfortable in seeking treat- cians who follow these patients, sometimes in ment and she hopes to upgrade facilities so the partnership with other hospitals. Douglas’s aging infrastructure becomes a “mod- Those include 350 nurses, social workers, psy- ern healing environment.” chologists, occupational therapists, attendants, and “The power to recover is our vision statement, educators and specialists who work with children. which for patients with mental illness means to be “To witness their devotion and passion for their able to become fully contributing members of our work, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is very society, even after having an illness. This is part of much a privilege, and deserves much wider rec- de-stigmatization.” ognition.” McVey said she was “quite shocked” at the ne- [email protected]

Clinic minimizes waiting times Waiting for surgery can be a stress- how patients are prepared for surgery. ful time for patients, and having to “The process is more efficient and make several visits for pre-surgical effective, and reduces the number of tests and consultations can inten- visits that patients must make lead- sify the stress. ing up to surgery,” Cummings said in To improve patient care and boost a statement. efficiency, the Jewish General Hos- A team of clinicians at the hospital pital has introduced a one-stop ser- designed the clinic and its processes. vice in a new pre-surgical screening A model was developed by Dr. Phil clinic that minimizes waiting time Troy, a member of the hospital’s for patients awaiting surgery. transformational change committee. TM The hospital says it has drawn up The hospital said this “simulation- procedures for nurses to use as a tri- based optimization” set out required age tool, determining which tests space and staff in a bid “to minimize patients require in connection with physician idle, overtime and exces- their surgery. sive patient waiting.” Beth-Ann Cummings, an in- “As far as we know, this type of si- ternal medicine specialist, says multaneous optimization of a clinic the setup allows one physician has not previously been done any- Do you have pain? to answer all relevant medical ques- where else,” Troy was quoted as hav- A program for SENIORS tions in a single visit, standardizing ing said. 65 years old and over!!!

since 1986

Publisher & managing Editor Production & Design Manuela Lopraino Barbara Moser Production Assistants Assistant Editor Kristine Berey Andrew Kerr, Scott Philip Assignment and Copy Editor Hayley Juhl Web management Scott Philip Journalists Kristine Berey, Printing Hebdo Litho Irwin Block, Byron Toben Phone 514-484-5033 Ofﬁ ce manager Thelma Gearey Fax 514-484-8254 Sales manager Jacquie Soloway-Cons E-mail [email protected] Advertising Jodie Alter, Gloria Beigleman, Website theseniortimes.com Shirley Cohen, Sandra Schachter Front Page Photo John Mahoney

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4 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com Chamber fest: Bach to Tango Irwin Block

There are few sound experiences that can match an evening of chamber music in the intimate setting of an old church. It’s all about unique acoustic possibilities and direct communication with the audience. Music lovers will have extraordi- nary opportunities to appreciate a broad programming range—from Bach to Shostakovich and the antics of the violin-piano duo Igudesman & Joo—when the Montreal Cham- ber Music Festival kicks off May 10. In its 17th year, the series, created and curated by cellist Dennis Brott,

offers 19 concerts over 24 days in Photo courtesy of Montreal Chamber Music Festival the woody and vaulted setting of St. “Intimacy is what chamber music George’s Anglican Church, corner is all about,” Dennis Brott says. Peel and de la Gauchetière, opposite the old Windsor Station. “among Mozart’s more personal “Intimacy is what chamber music works, filled with a pathos and an is all about, creating a person-to- interest that chronicles his develop- person experience,” Brott says. ment in a very concise way.” Eric Fri- One highlight is the complete Bach esen will provide commentary, with cello suites played over three nights, excerpts from Mozart’s letters. May 15-17, by Colin Carr, with read- The opening concert on May 10 ings from Eric Siblin’s award-win- showcases renowned Canadian so- ning book on the music, read by the prano Isabel Bayrakdarian with pia- CBC’s Eric Friesen and musicologist nist Serouj Kradjian, who will be Richard Turp. offering classic vocal pieces as well Dmitri Shostakovitch’s 15 quar- as Armenian folk songs. tets—among the greatest works of For a bit of humour, do not miss the last century—will be performed the Montreal debut of Russian vio- over four nights, May 22-25, by the linist Aleksey Igudesman and Ko- highly regarded Pacifico Quartet, rean pianist Hyung-ki Joo, who, in with pre-concert analyses from au- the best Victor Borge tradition, pres- thor Wendy Lesser, author of Music ent their hilarious A Little Nightmare for Silenced Voices and Turp. Music May 30. Shostakovitch’s quartets, Brott says, With evenings dedicated to Bartok “are filled with sarcasm, acronyms, and Ravel, featuring violinist James musical shorthand and under-the-ra- Ehnes, tango and jazz events, and a dar messages.” Hearing expert com- final Dvorak in America June 2 with mentary “will deepen the experience Brott playing cello, the lineup and and make it more meaningful.” program are first rate. Mozart’s six viola quintets are fea- Tickets: $40, seniors $35, students tured May 29 and 31, with the prize- $14. There are four-concert deals, and winning Cecilia and Afiara String festival passes at $600. 514-489-7444 Quartets, augmented by veteran vio- festivalmontreal.org. lists Michael Tree and Barry Shiffman. [email protected] The quintets, Brott notes, are since 1986

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6 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com It’s Curtains for the Lyric Theatre Singers, but in a very good way Kristine Berey

Alexandrine Véronique Sébastien Annie Josiane Ivanie Those who have read The Senior Godin Blouin, ap. Hébert, ap. Tremblay, ap. Bouchard, ap. Martel-Viau, ap. Fortin, ap. Times since its inception in 1986 Pointe-Claire (South West One) may remember Oliver, Fiddler on T 514.695.2098 NEED A the Roof and other perennially Pierrefonds popular musicals at Centaur, pre- (Pierrefonds medical Centre) T 514.684.8460 #218 sented by Lyric Theatre. HEARING Hudson That was the year the company, (Hudson Medicentre) launched in 1965 as a community T 514.695.2098 AID? Recognized by RAMQ, CSST, theatre, began doing full-length book Ville Saint-Laurent (Plein-Ciel Clinic) War Veterans and Private shows at that venue. T 514.331.9559 Insurance Companies Four years later, a second division Ahuntsic was formed, the Lyric Theatre Sing- T 514.331.9559 ers, under the direction of founder Montréal Est T 514.256.6565 Bob Bachelor. It has blossomed into Rosemont an award-winning vocal ensemble. Photo: Diane Dupuis Kallos T 514.256.6565 Because of financial considerations, Many of the roles in Lyric’s production Tremblay & Villeneuve the book shows were “put to bed” and of Curtains were filled with alumni who cliniqueauditive.com * An evaluation by a hearing-aid acousticians is required to assess since 1998, the Singers have worked had appeared in previous book shows. if the hearing aid is appropriate to the patient needs. on their own. ClinicAudit_TheChronicle_2012.indd 1 12-02-14 21:22 The theatre is again economically for some of the roles. stable and has come full circle with “Many of the roles were filled with our its coming production of Curtains, ‘alumni’ who had sung with the Sing- says Louise Dorais, chairperson of ers or in previous book shows,” Do- Choose y the board of directors and producer rais says. “It really is a family thing.” .villagia.ca own unique unit at of the show. She describes the production as “a www “What we decided this year as we very funny show within a show, a have become more confident was to comedy and murder mystery” from pick a show that was perfect for the the creators of Cabaret and Chicago, Singers.” with John Kander’s music performed Curtains is well-suited to a 44-per- by a 13-piece orchestra. son choral ensemble, Dorais says, May 31, June 1-2, 8-9 at the D.B. keeping all the performers busy. Clarke Theatre, 1455 de Maison- Additional people were auditioned neuve. 514-743-3382. NEW GENERATION AND DISTINCTIVE RESIDENTIAL COMPLEX FOR EARLY RETIREMENT AND SENIOR LIVING

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www.theseniortimes.com May 2012 The Senior Times 7 Mom is where the heart is Seeking volunteers to change the future Naturally, every day is Mother’s Day. We fete Irwin Block pre-symptomatic stages. our mothers, grandmothers, sisters and daugh- A total of 200 volunteers who are cognitively ters who are also mothers year-round, but espe- It’s hard to forget the first time I saw a loving healthy and free of chronic illnesses are being re- cially on May 13. Special activities may include mother showing no sign of recognition as she cruited to evaluate the success of various preven- breakfast in bed, a vase of roses or quiet child- was greeted by her daughter at a nursing home. tion factors that have shown promise. hood recollections. An alert and active woman had been reduced to They include physical exercise and cognitive This month, we applaud motherhood past, near-vegetative status by that pernicious condi- training activities, but also regular use of anti- present and into the future. tion Alzheimer’s disease. inflammatory drugs (acetaminophen) and other The good news is that those who are at risk for “demonstrably safe” common medications. Baby talk and mutant English p 10 Alzheimer’s can do something positive in the Volunteers will participate in active trials for Dementia changes family dynamic p 12 drive to prevent or delay its onset. about three hours every two weeks over two years, Give Mom a hand, and a break p 14 Healthy men and women over 60 with an imme- and be observed over an additional three years. Parental authority, responsibility p 20 diate family member who has or had Alzheimer’s, It’s a serious commitment and the payoff is to First Person: Looking after my mother p 21 memory loss or other symptoms related to the advance understanding of a disease that affects Mom sets her own cooking standard p 22 disease, are asked to volunteer for an important an estimated half a million Canadians. Some sub- The “most dangerous” Mother Jones p 24 trial underway at the Douglas Mental Health jects will be part of a control group to measure University Institute.Dr. John Breitner, who was the so-called placebo effect of perceived or actual recruited to lead the new Centre for Studies on improvement when the subject decides a therapy Prevention of Alzheimer’s, is coordinating this makes him/her better and that belief makes it so. multi-year study. Altruism, rather than personal benefit, is the PC Computers Laptops Laser & Inkjet Printers Breitner is a psychiatry professor at McGill Uni- reason most people take part in these trials, Bre- ✓ versity and holds the Canada Research Chair in itner said. Of course, they will be among all at-risk ✓ Prevention of Dementia. He has taught psychiatry Montrealers who stand to gain from discoveries ✓ at John Hopkins and Duke universities. that can lead to prevention or a cure. ✓ The trials will evaluate how well prevention The challenge is written in the statistics: The pro- ✓ treatments work in subjects who possess certain portion of Quebecers 65 and over will rise from ✓ biomarkers believed to increase the risk of Al- 14 per cent of the population in 2006 to 25.6 per zheimer’s. They include biochemical changes in cent in 2031. Statistially speaking, this can only the brain and neuro-imaging measures that ap- mean more cases of Alzheimer’s. pear to track the development of the disease in its To participate, call toll free, 1-855-888-4485.

This Mother’s Day, think of the children If you’re a mom, you’ll probably receive nice cards and flowers on Mother’s Day. But of course, your greatest gifts are your children themselves. And since you want to see them happy and finan- Financial Fitness cially secure, perhaps you can use this Mother’s Deborah Leahy Day as an opportunity to consider ways to help them at various stages of their lives.

When your children are young financially, the burden could fall on your children. n Teach them to be savers. Encourage young Now is the time to consult with your adviser to children to put away part of their allowance, or prepare for possible long-term costs. any money they receive for household jobs, in a savings account. You could offer to match their When your children reach middle age contributions dollar for dollar. n Communicate your financial situation and es- n Help them become investors. Consider giving tate plans. Don’t leave adult children in the dark your children a few shares of stock in companies as to your financial information. Share everything with which they are familiar. you can about how much you own, where you By following the movements of their stocks with keep your assets and how you plan to eventually them, you can explain how the markets work and distribute them. By clearly communicating your how increasing share ownership is one key to help- situation and wishes now, you can avoid major ing build wealth. problems later. n Contribute to a college savings plan. One of n Create a power of attorney. You can appoint the best things you can do to boost your children’s another person, such as an adult child, to conduct chances of success in life is to help them go to col- your business and financial affairs if you become lege. Your financial adviser can help you establish physically or mentally incapacitated. Such a move a registered education savings plan. can help reduce stress your children may be feel- ing, while allowing them to make moves that can When your children enter the working world help preserve your finances. n Encourage RRSP contributions. A registered Mother’s Day celebrates the special bond moth- retirement savings plan is a great retirement savers have with their children. By following the ings vehicle. Once your children have earned in- above suggestions, you can help strengthen that come, they can contribute to an RRSP. bond throughout your lifetime. n Make long-term-care arrangements. If you Deborah Leahy is a financial adviser with need long-term care, such as an extended nurs- Edward Jones, specializing in assisting seniors. ing home stay, and you are inadequately prepared Edward Jones is a member of the CIPF. 8 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com Church risks moral irrevelancy in rejecting homosexuality No issues have so bedeviled the single sexual act must be both uni- son, but they will not say so publicly Catholic Church as those of gen- tive [loving] and procreative, there is for fear of retaliation from Rome. der and human sexuality. Yet the Pit Stop no possibility of approval of homo- An influential American journal, church shows no signs of changing sexual acts.” the National Catholic Reporter, is its teachings in these areas. Neil McKenty Robinson then went on to suggest solidly behind Robinson’s call for a It is reported that since the time that a more nuanced reading of di- new sexual ethic: “We wholeheart- of Pope John Paul II, all candidates vine commandments in scripture edly second the invitation by Bishop being considered for bishops must and of Jesus’s teachings would lead Robinson for a thorough and hon- be sound on these issues: they must praisal of same-sex unions would to a different set of moral norms, est re-examination of the church’s be opposed to female priests, arti- change dramatically if it were to re- starting with a change in teaching teaching on sexuality. ficial contraception and same-sex evaluate its traditional approach to that every sexual act or thought that Robinson’s invitation is a gentle marriage. all human sexuality. falls outside a loving conjugal act but elegant plea that offers hope It is not surprising, then, that very While the church’s emphasis on open to procreation is a mortal sin for Catholics who want to stop the few bishops ever step out of line on the profound significance of sex is because it is a direct offense against church’s headlong plunge into ir- these matters. Those who do risk correct, its natural-law approach to God himself in his divine plan. relevancy as a moral voice in our their ecclesiastical careers. Retired sexual morality and its interpreta- “For centuries the church has taught culture. ... Robinson’s take on sex- Australian bishop Geoffrey Robin- tion of ancient scriptural passages that every sexual sin is a mortal sin. uality—that it deserved deeper son is an exception. on homosexual and other sexual ac- The teaching may not be proclaimed consideration than the narrow rule- Robinson recently spoke in Balti- tivity are in need of correction, the as loudly today as much as before, but bound approach that has evolved in more at a symposium on Catholi- bishop argued. it was proclaimed by many popes, it Christian circles—takes us to the cism and homosexuality. Robinson began his talk with three has never been retracted and it has af- very heart of the radical approach He called for “a new study for ev- basic premises: there is no possibil- fected countless people.” Jesus took toward human relation- erything to do with sexuality,” a kind ity of a change in the teaching of the “The teaching fostered a belief in an ships.” of study that he predicted “would Catholic Church on the subject of incredibly angry God, for this God Indeed, it is likely that a large num- have a profound influence on church homosexual acts unless and until would condemn a person to an eter- ber of lay Catholics in Canada and teaching concerning all sexual rela- there is a change in its teaching on nity in hell for a single unrepented the United States agree with Robin- tionships, both heterosexual and ho- heterosexual acts; there is a seri- moment of deliberate pleasure aris- son on the church’s need for sexual mosexual.” ous need for change in the church’s ing from sexual desire. I simply do reform. But many more voices— “If church teaching on homosex- teaching on heterosexual acts; if and not believe in such a God. Indeed I both lay and clergy—will need to ual acts is ever to change, the basic when this change occurs, it will in- positively reject such a God.” say so before such reform becomes teaching governing all sexual acts evitably have its effect on the teach- I expect that many Catholic priests a reality. 2012.05 Lecture Series CJN.pdf 1 12-04-25 10:56 AM must change,” he said. Robinson ing on homosexual acts. and bishops would agree with Robin- [email protected] argued that the church’s moral ap- “If the starting point is that every

CMY

www.theseniortimes.com May 2012 The Senior Times 9 Reflections on baby talk and mutant English

The Word Nerd Howard Richler

This article is dedicated to my daughter Jenni- fer, born in Quebec, who gave birth to Maya Ruth Richler-Stoffman on April 5th in Bloomington, In- diana.

TheOxford Companion to the English Language (OCEL) is missing an “s” at the end of its title. The OCEL has headings for more than 400 varieties of our multitudinous language, such as Photo courtesy of Howard Richler Australian English, Singapore English, and Ca- nadian English. I’ve never even heard of some of the varieties, Howard Richler’s daughter Jennifer with such as Babu English, which is described in OCEL 3-year-old Judah and nearly-new Maya Ruth. as “a mode of address and reference in several Indo-Aryan languages, including Hindi, for offi- binky or nuk (or nuk-nuk). Binky was actually a cials working for rajahs, landlords, etc.” brand name for a pacifier introduced by Playtex in My mother tongue, Quebec English, is actu- 1948 and produced until 1977. Nuk derives from ally one of these mutations listed in OCEL. In my the Nuk baby product company, which was estab- dealings with the outside world, I’m constantly lished in Germany in 1964. being reminded, if not chided, about the distinc- Interestingly, the term “binky” grew beyond tiveness of my English. the sense of pacifier and is often used to refer to Some years ago, while toiling in the steel indus- a young child’s blanket, stuffed animal or other try, I couldn’t reach a customer in Newfoundland prized possession. and in my recorded message stated that “my local To paraphrase George Bernard Shaw, British is 222.” I found out a week later why the person English and North American English are two never phoned me back. My reference to “local” languages separated by an ocean, and we see this made him think I represented a union—I should chasm in many terms we use associated with ba- have used the term “extension.” bies. After all, “popping” a baby in a cot in Britain I would think that many a mother born in Que- just means placing it there, whereas stating that bec, but bringing up her children elsewhere, is you “popped” a baby in a North American crib likely to have her mongrel English roots sussed might get you arrested for harming an infant. out were she to use the word “suss” as a noun in a In England, a nanny changes a baby’s nappy, not prenatal class. its diaper. This word was first used in English in You see, for many Quebec anglophones a “suss” the 14th century when it referred to a textile fab- is their word of choice for a pacifier but this term ric and by the next century it referred to a linen is only to be found among English-speaking fabric. people deriving from Quebec. It comes from the It is in the 17th century that the word is first French-Canadian term for a pacifier—suçon or used to refer to a baby’s napkin or cloth. The word suce—and derives from the French word sucer, nappy is a version of napkin and its first citation “to suck.” Even in France, this term would be in the OED is in 1927. Illustration not largely unknown as the definitive word there The term pram to refer to a baby carriage covered by medicare would be une tétine. goes back to 1884 and I was surprised to discover This mongrelization is not unusual, as the term that it is actually a shortening of the word peram- “pacifier” for many products we associate with bulator. babies varies quite a lot in the English-speaking Nowadays this term has succumbed to the more world. The term “pacifier” in the United King- descriptive push chair. dom is largely unknown and the definitive term [email protected] for such is a “dummy” because the device is an Howard Richler’s book From Gay (Happy) to Gay artificial teat. In North America and the U.K., (Homosexual) and other mysterious semantic shifts many people use such other terms for pacifier as will be published by Ronsdale Press in 2013.

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10 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com Selection may be better with a broker did not have the proper knowledge I believe even small of the law and did not utilize the Real Estate proper sale tools. projects have Realities Situations of improper documen- tation, poorly prepared documents, huge potential. Daniel Smyth improper certificates of location and Because working here is about more than helping customers choose the right product. It’s about tapping into property-related issues that could in- my inner potential to help people create a space worth calling crease the cost to the buyer were not home. It’s called “unleashing your inner orange” and it’s about my ability to make a difference in customers’ lives where it March was yet another exceptional declared. Pagé advocates the use of matters most. The Home Depot provides me with all of the training I need to help customers see the big picture, while time for sales in the greater Mon- professional real estate brokers. treal area. Sales were up four per Besides minimizing problems, the projects—both large and small. cent over March 2011, mostly be- selection/exposure to properties is That’s the power of The Home Depot. cause of an increase in sales of sin- often higher when using a broker. – Lorraine, Home Depot Associate gle-family dwellings for the 10th I searched DuProprio, a website consecutive month. designed to match buyers and sellers In Montreal, condo, single-family without a broker, for condos in Dor- and plexes increased, as did the meval, Lachine, LaSalle and Verdun. dian price despite the larger inven- There were 54 choices. For the Mul- tory of listings. tiple Listing Service (MLS), which is Quebec City lawyer Stéphan Pagé supported and maintained by bro- explained during an interview that kers’ listings, there were 915 choices. along with this increase in sales, so Within a one-month period, 12 too are the numbers of buyers and properties were sold through DuPro- sellers going to him with problems, prio; there were 173 sales through and those paying for legal advice MLS. Some of the DuProprio listings after trying to sell or buy privately. were also in the MLS, which suggests Pagé said buyers were purchasing some sellers realized that selling on without completed conditions, such their own is more difficult and time as financing or inspections. Because consuming than they thought. the industry is not regulated, some Whether buying or selling, brokers inspectors did not have proper qual- are available to answer complex fi- We are committed to diversity as an equal opportunity employer. ifications or insurance. nancial and legal questions. Apply online at homedepotjobs.ca/2963 and discover Furthermore, buyers and sellers [email protected] how you can unleash your inner orange!

www.theseniortimes.com May 2012 The Senior Times 11 We buy gold! A mother is a person who, Dementia complicates Broken seeing there are only four pieces of pie & Unwanted for five people, promptly announces jewellery! parent-child dynamic she never did care for pie. We pay top $$$! 8k - 24k ~Tenneva Jordan

Bijouterie 514-695-6527 Let’s Talk About It 3705 St. Charles Bonnie Sandler, BS.W. Jewellery Kirkland

When we think of “mother,” we think of someone who loves her children unconditionally, placing their needs above her own. Alzheimer’s disease complicates the parent-child role, as the parent loses her abilities and needs assistance in her daily life. As the disease progresses, the mother is no longer able to assume her role. For the child, there is mourning for the loss of the mother, whose behaviour and actions are a Residence constant reminder of this difficult change. Some children distance themselves from the parent, The War Amps Anna finding it too painful to witness the effects of the A Legacy of disease. Others will adjust and take responsibility “Amputees for ensuring that their mother is well cared for. Freedom 50? I don’t think so. This was supposed Amputees” to be a time where our children are settled with Since 1918, their own families and or careers, where we reached The War Amps financial stability and our elderly parents still man- has met the needs of war aged well on their own. Our children are settling amputees. Today, down later, often dependent on their parents for the Association years beyond what we imagined, and our parents, continues to serve them, and all now living will into their 90s, need our time and as- Canadian amputees, sistance with their daily lives. Many adult children including children. are struggling with their own health issues. The Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program There are many ways Mother’s Day can be cel- provides artificial ebrated: sing an oldies tune together, hold hands, limbs, regional look at old photos and share beautiful memories. seminars and peer support. Bringing grandchildren into the scene will delight both mother and grandmother and heighten Through CHAMP, the joy of the day. Gifts are always welcome but The War Amps tradition of should be thoughtful to the person with the dis- “amputees helping ease. A CD of favourite songs, a cozy shawl in her Ali and Branden amputees” will favourite color, a cuddly stuffed animal to hold, are members of the continue long into the new slippers or a favourite food are good ideas. Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program future. While a dinner in a busy restaurant may no longer For planned giving information, contact: feel good for the person with dementia, a small The War Amps SPRING warm gathering of loved ones will be enjoyed by 1 800 363-4067 3 MONTHS every mother regardless of her abilities. [email protected] SPECIAL waramps.ca Don’t let Alzheimer’s prevent you from celebrating

Charitable Registration No. 13196 9628 RR0001 the person who gave you life and so much more. [email protected]

Age Female Male 73 6% 7% 79 7% 8% 83 8% 9% 86 9% 10%

Since 1948

12 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com Mount Real fraud victims determined to stay on the radar Kristine Berey pany with consistently growing the financial statements of a com- victims don’t meet its criteria, says revenue and profits. … But a govern- pany with a stellar reputation. The Sylvain Théberge of the Autorité des A 1998 article in Investment Ex- ment-appointed administrator who point is that this can happen to any- marchés financières. The fund does ecutive, a financial industry news- took over the firm in late 2005 found one, and the loss and its effects on not cover promissory notes, which paper, painted a glowing profile of an empty shell with little in the way of victims are devastating.” were sold by Mount Real. Mount Real as an exciting company ongoing business, the suit notes.” A poignant case is that of Len Per- “The fund covers the insurance on the rise. It quoted chief execu- Mortification is often the first reac- rigo, who lost more than $99,000 sector, where it is easer to prove tive Lino Matteo as saying, “The tion. “I’ve been very reluctant to come and whose son, 70, lost $150,000. fraud,” Théberge says. “In Mount company offers an unusual com- out from behind the curtains. I’ve In a letter to the media he wrote: “I Real, this is much more difficult to bination of capital plus financial been pretty embarrassed by myself,” am a WW11 veteran, age 95, and as establish.” The RCMP has refused to management.” said Archie Luccisano, one of 1,600 I served my country throughout the investigate, Watson says. If you were an average inves- victims who collectively lost $130 entire length of the war, I am much Though some have been fined— tor, with a trusted adviser you had million. A project manager at Air too old to be able to go back to work, Marston was fined $104,000—the known for 11 years, and if you saw Canada, now working at Wal-Mart, so I have had no option other than to money will not go to the victims, the names of well-known accounting Luccisano was offered his pension in adjust my way of life accordingly to Théberge says. It will, by law, go into firms on the papers shown to you, it one lump sum, with advice to turn to a much lower standard of living. It an “education fund.” would be easy to invest in this repu- an adviser to manage the money. Wil- is extremely unlikely that I will have Théberge says investors must check table company listed on the stock liam Marston, who had worked with the privilege of living to see any ret- that their adviser is registered on the exchange. him for 11 years, urged him to invest ribution meted out by the courts, but AMF website. But only by calling How could you know that, in fact, it all in Mount Real, Luccisano said. if my letter and your making known the AMF and knowing what to ask its main business was selling maga- By the time he suspected his future about this affair could bring about can you learn whether an adviser is zine subscriptions and that in 10 was in jeopardy, it was too late. some reward for the hundreds of registered for the products they sell, years the same newspaper would re- Most victims, because they have in- others that will still be alive, then this whether these qualify for compensa- port that a class action suit had been vestment income, were seniors, says would make me extremely happy.” tion and whether there were previ- launched against the company and its Janet Watson, the spokesperson of the Watson says the victims’ only hope ous complaints. auditors, including Lino Matteo, Paul group. Encouraged by the activism of is the class-action suit, which will “Do not rely on the AMF and do D’Andrea, B2B Trust and Penson (af- the Earl Jones victims, she wants to only begin in March 2013. As the case not rely on the government,” says filiated with the Laurentian Bank), keep the scandal, which came to light is highly complex, involving a web Joey Davis, who was instrumental Deloitte & Touche, BDO Dunwoody seven years ago, in the public eye. of more than 120 companies, very in obtaining a settlement for the and Schwartz Levitsky Feldman. “The Mount Real victims did ev- little has been done to bring perpe- Earl Jones victims. “You can do ev- The article reads: “For years, Mount erything right,” she says. “They fol- trators to justice or help the victims. erything right, go with the biggest Real presented itself as an up-and- lowed the rules of investing, checked The Quebec securities regulator has a and the best, you can invest with the coming professional services com- if the adviser was registered, checked compensation fund but Mount Real Royal Bank, and this can happen.”

LEAVE YOUR MARK ON SOCIETY

Find out today how you can support your favourite charity with a planned gift!

A charitable bequest lets you do something memorable.

[email protected] Once you’ve provided for your loved ones, you may choose to include a gift to a charitable organization in your will. As major changes happen in your life, PLANNED GIVING you can always modify your will to reﬂ ect these new circumstances. What will your legacy be? Get in touch with the person in charge of planned giving at your charity of choice and consult a notary, a lawyer, an accountant or a ﬁ nancial planner. To get more information on planned giving, visit our website: en.unheritage.org

Benefactors Canadian Red Cross, Quebec Quebec Foundation for the Blind Nicole L. Rouleau Ronald Beauregard GIFT Centraide of Greater Montreal OF LIFE INSURANCE 1 800 363-7305, ext. 2941 514 259-9470, ext. 24 June McCabe 514 288-1261 Centre Missionnaire Ste-Thérèse Royal Victoria Hospital Foundation Father Cli ord Cogger Peggy Killeen Foundation of Greater Montreal 514 842-6874 514 934-1934, ext. 34391 ENDOWMENT Hélène Latreille, TEP 514 866-0808 Collège de Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pocatière/ Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount-Royal Amicale du Collège et la Fondation Claudia Côté FUND Heart and Stroke Foundation of Québec Bouchard inc. 514 733-8211 Edmée Métivier Nathalie Lévesque and Louise Lacoursière Shriners Hospitals for Children® - Canada 514 871-1551 1 877 783-2663 Emmanuelle Rondeau CHARITABLE Jewish Community Foundation Fondation de la Maison du Père (La) 514 842-4464 of Montreal (The) France Desjardins Tel-Aide BEQUEST Robert Kleinman, F.C.A. 514 845-0168 514 735-3541 Hélène Forget Fondation de l’Université Laval (La) 514 935-1105, ext. 2 Sainte-Justine UHC Foundation Claude Parent Université de Montréal Danielle Richer 418 656-2131, ext. 8766 CHARITABLE 514 345-4710 or 1 888 235-3667 Francine Cardinal Héma-Québec Foundation 514 343-6161 ANNUITY Danielle Gabrielle Roy Wings of Hope (Quebec) inc. Friends 514 832-5000, ext. 472 André Franche CHARITABLE Canadian Cancer Society, Quebec Division Montreal Children’s Hospital Foundation (The) 514 277-5111 or 1 866 277-5111 Isabelle Boisvert Elizabeth Gomery TRUST 514 255-5151, ext. 2606 514 934-4846

www.theseniortimes.com May 2012 The Senior Times 13 12-0195_Annonce_LeaveALegacy_SeniorTimes_mai_v2.indd 1 12-03-28 9:26 AM It’s Mom’s turn. Time to step up, step out and give her a hand Here at Generations Sun Youth Natalie Nicolas Bercovici Carpentier

Women head most single-parent From birth to the grave and be- families in Quebec. yond, a mother’s love is always Those who have a hard time mak- there. While cleaning out my base- ing ends meet can always come to ment recently, I found a beloved Sun Youth to receive emergency as- rocking chair that was given to me

sistance through the organization’s Photo courtesy of Sun Youth and that I used while nursing. food and clothing banks, or many A Sun Youth summer program is designed for young mothers and their children. I recalled a younger, thinner me other services. feeding our first baby multiple times Beyond material assistance, Sun ties. The camp provides respite for and crafts workshops. through the nights and days, rocking Youth offers a program to give single young mothers and gives them the Activities for moms include com- him and in due course, this was the mothers a break during the summer. opportunity to develop friendships puter workshops, creative writing scene with our second baby. As they It’s called “It’s Moms’ Turn” and it with other women in similar situa- and role-playing related to being grew, I read to them while each sat on was made possible in 2010 thanks to tions. single mothers, providing them with my knee in the rocking chair. the financial support of the Founda- Their children also make new useful tools for their everyday lives. Juxtapose those thoughts with the tion of Greater Montreal. For one friends and participate in a ton of There are also Halloween or Christ- famous image of golfer Bubba Wat- week, young mothers and their chil- activities at an enchanting site with mas in Summer theme days. son: He’s in his mid-30s, crying in dren can enjoy the facilities of the swimming, fishing, canoeing and Contact Sun Youth camp director his mother’s arms. He experienced Sun Youth Summer Camp and a other outdoor and indoor sports. Johanne Saltarelli at 514-842-6822 an outpouring of mixed emotions, host of fun and educational activi- They explore nature and take arts or [email protected]. of elation at having won the Augusta Masters, sadness at having recently lost his dad, and probably relief and joy, having received word of the success of the adoption of a first child. Flash forward to today’s young single mother, whom I’ll call Joanne. She is bringing up a young son while on welfare. Her spirits are down—she has lost her job and is short in sup- plies. She sleeps on a sofa. Joanne wants to do well and is articulate, but the boy isn’t concentrating in class and shows lack of interest in school. The foundation’s mission is to help people of all ages, but particularly children. On referral from a school social worker, we will help with food and whatever else is on hand. If you would like to help us feed a hungry child and/or sponsor a child for a two-week stay at a summer camp—a respite for parents and children, call 514-933-8585. Kids Love Camp Breakfast is on May 25, 6:30-10 am. La Stanza Buf- fet, 6878 Jean Talon E. $10.

14 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com Shared imagination Artists Maery Morrison and Anita Student recitals enrich listeners Kot will unveil a shared piece at a Kristine Berey special moment in a young life, there unveiled at Encadrium vernissage of their work this month. is the unique opportunity to discover Morrison (art, left) specializes in This is the time of year when music a myriad of instruments, composers photorealistic portraits while Kot schools in Montreal bring forth a and masterpieces. As every music (below) tantalizes Montrealers with new crop of young musicians, pre- lover knows, the easiest way to fall in cyber-spiritual abstracts. The work senting graduation recitals to the love with a piece of music is to hear they will unveil was commissioned public, usually for a small or no ad- it live, and the better you know the for the event at Encadrium, the mission fee. work, the more you can enjoy it when storefront of museum-level conser- Many of the young performers are you hear or play it again. vation framer Liz Keenan. students of professionals well known to At McGill’s Schulich School of Wednesday, May 16. 2305 Guy. Montreal concert goers, such as harp- Music there will be several concerts 514-447-7894, encadrium.com. sichordist Hank Knox, violinist Jona- daily from the beginning of May Wine and light snacks will be served. than Crow or cellist Matt Haimovitz. through the end of June. There will Maery Morrison: artbymaery.com; As years pass, some will rise to in- be percussion ensembles, solo recit- Anita Kot: anitakot.com. ternational fame, others will make als by cellists, violinists, pianists and music while also teaching, forging even oboe, trombone and double the next generation. Some, by choice bass players. There will be sym- or necessity, will leave their instru- phonic and choral music, percussion ment behind and enter a different ensembles, performed by students field, still playing once in a while, and sometimes by faculty. perhaps. McGill: 514-398-4547, mcgill. But all will remember their gradua- music/events. Concordia: 514-848- tion concert as a luminous time, filled 2424, music.concordia.ca. with limitless hope and pride in being Concerts Cathédrale, May 12, 19, able to say, “I am a musician.” 26, Christ Church Cathedral, Ste. For the audience, such a concert is a Catherine and University. concert@ gift. Besides bearing witness to a truly bellnet.ca, http://bit.ly/Krd4TV.

www.theseniortimes.com May 2012 The Senior Times 15 Happy Mother’s Day

Ganesh removes economic obstacle to dining out Irwin Block The fact that this all-you-can eat feast, from 11 am to 3 pm on Sundays, sets you back only $9.95 If you’re looking for a solid Indian restaurant for per person, coffee or tea included, is a tremendous Sunday brunch, a place that also offers Western- deal. The selection may be wider at other Indian style buffet breakfast, Restaurant Ganesh is it. buffets, but it will cost you a good 50 per cent more. But you won’t see it on a casual drive since it’s All three of us agreed the quality and freshness easy to miss, located in an office building in St. of the food, the warm service and pleasant sur- Laurent, sharing a parking lot with an Esposito’s roundings made it a rare find in these economi- supermarket. The main dining room is a few steps cally difficult times. down in a semi-basement, and once you enter, Barbara and my mother, Ruth, started with the you will see a statue of Ganesh, the elephant- fresh tomato, cucumber and lettuce salads, and headed Hindu god of success. passed on the potato and chick-pea salads. The You then enter a dining room, much of which is veggies were fresh and crisp, so fresh that Ruth, set up for traditional Indian weddings, with special still watching calories at 94, declared no dressing chairs set up for the bride and groom and family, was needed. facing a dance floor. Crystal chandeliers give off For those who fancy a Western-style brunch, subdued lighting over a dozen or so tables adjacent there was a table of French toast, omelettes, bacon to the buffet. Popular Indian music on the loud- and ham, pancakes, home-fried potatoes and speakers prepares you for the taste treats to come. beans. Kids can take home a mini-box of cereal Every child is an artist. The problem is how to We were warmly greeted by Daniel Landreville, from the dessert table—unopened. remain an artist once he grows up. ~Picasso a longtime friend of the owner, Ram, and as the Having had breakfast at home, I avoided the first guests to arrive he offered us our choice of ta- starters and sampled the curries—lamb and beef bles, richly set with tablecloths and cloth napkins. were on the milder side, just right for the time of The selection was displayed on two tables: the day. The butter chicken was flavourful. Ruth and first with salads, a nice selection of fresh cut fruit, Barbara enjoyed the Basmati rice with saffron and and several Indian desserts. The main table had peas while I went for the warm nan bread. the pakora and samosa starters, soups, curries, We dipped into dessert—delicious gulab jamun, tandoori chicken, vegetarian dishes, nan bread spongy milky balls soaked in rose-scented syrup cut in triangles, and appropriate condiments. and caramel custard, with plenty of luscious fruit. Ruth loved the fresh whole strawberries, con- trasting their richness with the bland ones often sold at this time of year in supermarkets. We heartily endorsed her verdict of Ganesh: “All this fresh and tasty food, and fine service for $9.95 including tea or coffee: It’s a steal.” Restaurant Ganesh offers a special Mother’s Day brunch for $14.95 including tea or coffee and a flower for each mother. They also cater weddings and other celebrations. 300 Marcel Laurin. The buffet is offered daily. The price is $12.95 in mid- afternoon and $14.95 from 5 pm to 9 pm. Com- bos are $12.95. Not wheelchair accessible but only a few steps down. 514-747-9392.

Last month, The Senior Times printed the wrong number for Ettinger’s Deli. The correct number is 514-508-9100. The Times regrets the error.

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Chef’s omelette Deluxe Bagel Early Bird Specials Try our Chef’s special Light treats house Monday to Friday favourites Eggs and chicken Super Combo Croissant sandwich starting from 5:00 a.m. 6752 St-Jacques O. Except holidays Montréal, Qc (514) 481-8114 LESTER’S Smoked-Meat

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16 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com DINING OUT with mom

Ganesh Party Palace Advertisement in the SENIOR TIMES May 2012 Display advert. - Right Read if possible AND/OR adjacent to Restaurant Review 5.0 in wide x 3.0 in. high Victorian Tea Sunday, May 27th 2 to 4 pm Enjoy a hot cup of tea and a great afternoon with live music, refreshments 95 BUFFET BRUNCH - $9. - Sundays 11:00 to 3:00 Western & Indian menu and a great social atmosphere.

Extensive menu of Location Salons Restaurant Gourmet Indian dishes. Free Admission Famous for their Ganesh curries, Tandoori, appetizers and Naan Party Palace Bread. 300 Marcel-Laurin Blvd. Large dining room (300) The Wellesley is celebrating Saint-Laurent, allows for comfortable seating and groups. 22 years of quality, excellence Fully licenced (wine, beer Reserv. (514) and elegant senior living! 747-9392 and many mixed drinks)

Mother’s Day Gourmet Dinner for 2 Ganesha Catering Services 5 services and more. Many Choices. All occasions - indoor or outdoor 230 Hymus Blvd., Pointe-Claire Glass of red or white wine per person included. Reception Halls on-site 100-300 514.697.7331 Unlimited Indian Chai or Blooming Flower Tea. Take-out and delivery services for Plus … May 10-11, 13 (Thurs., Fri., Sun.) - a red rose for ladies large or small groups or parties. ( This special offer valid until August 31st, 2012 ) Western dishes also available for Our undivided attention | allegroresidences.com SENIOR TIMES SPECIAL (with this ad) 25% OFF ! parties.

www.theseniortimes.com May 2012 The Senior Times 17 How about walking on sunshine ... on trails all over the world You are a walker. ried time with people, you can’t help To give you an idea of difficulty lev- Sometimes, you tread for two or Roads Scholar but be touched in some way.” els, a walk considered easy lasts up to three hours. You find nothing more Mark Medicoff The combination of camaraderie four hours and covers three to 10K. A exhilarating than meandering in the and physical exercise has propelled moderate walk could last six hours and open air. In your mind, you’re tuned to walking tours into a significant travel covers six to 16K. A moderate to chal- a channel called calm, a station called niche to explore such natural won- lenging walk lasts about seven hours mindfulness. Your face glows from the ders as Hadrian’s Wall, Machu Picchu, and covers 10 to19K. warm sun. the Scottish Highlands, the Canadian For specific destinations, talk to the Inspired by this joy, Ben Magagnin France, wound through the Pyrenées Rockies and even Bhutan. tour operator and ascertain the degree took on a “distance” challenge by join- and ended his journey at the burial Country Walkers organizes vaca- of challenge. Magagnin recommends ing the Camino de Santiago de Com- place of St. James the Apostle in San- tions and provides difficulty ratings training for a number of weeks before pastela. “For 24 days, I forgot about tiago, Spain. for on-foot tours in 60 destinations in- the event. my troubles. This walk takes you away Camino organizers offer a number cluding Africa, Asia and South Pacific, To sample a walking holiday, try a city from your personal stuff … it’s like an of less-arduous options like escorted South America, Europe, Latin Amer- walking tour such as Toronto, which act of cleansing, and when you return tours where they move your luggage ica, Antarctica and, of course, North posts self-guided tours on its website. home, you feel emotionally refreshed.” and pre-book accommodations along America. You can even download an MP3 audio Magagnin, an English as a second a trek-friendly route. Backroads offers tantalizing mixed- component from the site. language teacher, walked 805 kilome- For Magagnin, the social aspect is ability challenges. Ramble through My favourite is New York’s Big Onion tres—backpack in tow. He started in paramount. “When you spend unhur- the hills of Tuscany to savour the cui- Walking tours. These last three and sine and wines of the area with treks a half hours. Unique tour ideas (The through the countryside and medieval Gangs of New York) or old favourites Window washing hill towns. Or how about a more exotic (the Brooklyn Bridge, Harlem, Lower interior & exterior ramble through Cambodia and Viet- East Side) make for fascinating mini- CLEANING OF PATIOS 5% nam to explore Angkor Wat, Halong journeys guided by history or architec- AWNINGS • WINDOWS Discount* Gutter cleaning GUTTERS • EXTERIOR OF HOMES with this ad Bay and Hoi An. ture students. House washing Walking Adventurers International To complement your stroll, you can Professional service hosts tramps in Brazil, Scandinavia, download an iPhone app from City- FREE estimation exterior aluminum Robert Lévesque, owner or PVC Alaska, Sicily and even Quebec and Walks Guides that focuses on walks the Maritimes. These itineraries don’t in major cities. To keep a scientific tab mean you walk from one country to on your walking challenge, a free app another. They provide transportation. called MapMyWalk acts as a pedom- Check out Walking Connection’s eter, GPS, calorie tracker and a “con- New York Walking Weekend Septem- nector.” to share your experience. ber 7-10. For $1,000, not including Perhaps an on-foot vacation is just Ofﬁ ce: 450-452-0484 flight, they promise excellent accom- the gift you need to get fit and explore PRESSURE WASHING Cell: 514-825-9503 modations and visits to award-winning the world, one step at a time. Residential & Commercial www.rlperformance2000.com restaurants, museums and attractions. [email protected]

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18 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com Creativity through the eyes of genius Luanna Venditti cher, may look sparse but is lush in concept, lending itself to the differ- Picasso and Einstein walk into a ent levels of intellect reflected in the bar … characters and their journeys to self 5 YEAR That’s no joke—it’s the premise be- awareness. WARRANTY hind the Lakeshore Players’ latest of- Many of us remember Steve Martin fering: Picasso at the Lapin Agile by as that wild and crazy guy from Satur- Steve Martin. day Night Live, or from such movies Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso as The Jerk, but we have to remember 42 prestigious condos 5 floors meet just before they make it big. that comedy, at its best, stems from Martin’s version of Paris in 1904 intelligence, and a deep understand- OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: 2-7pm might not be absolutely accurate to ing of the universe. That’s what Mar- 4445 Boul. St. Jean, D.D.O. the period, but once the arguments tin brings to Picasso, and that’s what start about the physics of art and the audiences will come away with. MODEL READY art of physics, audiences won’t mind. Picasso at the Lapin Agile, di- TO VISIT How do you take those fleeting rected by Jessica Abdallah and pro- thoughts and images and make duced by Nathalie Gafoor, opens on them concrete? Martin looks at the May 3 at the Louise Chalmers The- creative process through the eyes of atre, 501 St. Jean, Pointe Claire. May those on the cusp of genius. 3-5, May 9-12, 8 pm. Matinee May The set, designed by Léa Duro- 12, 2 pm. $16-$24. 514-631-8718.

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www.theseniortimes.com May 2012 The Senior Times 19 Student protests raise moral issues Under the Quebec Civil Code, parents have both the right and duty of custody, supervision and education of their child. Legal Ease This is referred to as “parental authority” and Joyce Blond Frank should be exercised by both parents. Last year at B.A., B.C.L., LL.M. this time I wrote about a parent’s financial obligations toward a child. This year, I want to consider the right and duty of a parent to supervise and educate their child. Nowhere, however, is it declared that a child has Parents have a right to decide how their child will a right to riot. A child’s rights are further fortified be brought up and educated. It must also be em- by the International Convention on the Rights of phasized that they have a duty to do so. We are all the Child, of which Canada is a member. This latter aware of the recent student demonstrations suppos- document refers to the duty of parents to provide edly carried out to get our attention to the objection appropriate guidance and advice as to the exercise to an increase in school fees. Such collective, public by the child of his rights. I wonder if we, as parents, and organized expressions of opinion are permit- are failing to provide that guidance and advice. ted by our laws as long as they do not disrupt pub- Parental rights are often discussed before the lic order. What we have seen are students not only courts, especially on the occasions of family demonstrating, but repeatedly and deliberately caus- breakdowns and divorce hearings. Perhaps it is ing public disruption, inconvenience and property time for greater discussion of parental duties and damage. How can this be if we, as parents, have been obligations. Perhaps it is time for the law to take a carrying out our duty to supervise and educate? hard look at what is meant by the duty to educate. How can this be when teenage students announce a We know we must send our children to school. fight on Facebook, attend the fight as spectators and But what about the lessons of civic responsibility cheer as the victim is beaten, as occurred recently at and moral duty, of acceptable behaviour of one a Hudson high school human toward another, of how to acknowledge The law accepts that a child’s parents are the best the rights of others when exercising our own? Loving Care Nursing Home ones to look after his interests. The Quebec Civil If we are not providing a value system to our For autonomous people Code contains a section from the Quebec Charter children, we are not educating them, we are not of Human Rights and Freedoms. It specifies that acting in their best interest and we are failing every child has a right to the protection, security them. It is not only the welfare of the child that and attention that his parents are able to give him. suffers, but society as a whole. It provides that decisions must be made in the light British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, in a of his interests and with respect for his rights. In so speech before the House of Commons in 1874, doing, his moral, intellectual, emotional and mate- said: “Upon the education of the people of this rial needs are to be considered, as well as his age, country, the fate of this country depends.” health, personality and family environment. About 50 years later, H.G. Wells in his Outline of These laws also declare that a child has the right History said: “Human history becomes more and to express himself and to be heard. Gone are the more a race between education and catastrophe.” days when a child is to be seen and not heard. So as we celebrate Mother’s Day, let us think about what we can do for our children to enable them to become better people and better citizens.

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20 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com Looking after my mother 10-13 years, I felt looked after. Car- First Person ole Seguin, the nurse who runs the centre and sets up follow-up appoint- Barbara ments, is the most caring and con- Moser siderate medical professional I have met. Everyone involved in my mother’s testing and diagnosis treated us When the owner of the small resi- with kindness and understanding. dence where my mother lives called When we returned to meet with me to tell me they had found a oncologist Dr. Harvey Sigman and lump in her breast, I immediately his student (this is a teaching hos- felt guilty. pital) to decide on the next step for My mother had never had a mam- my mother, I knew we were in good mogram and in her agitated periods hands. Fortunately, he told us my (she has dementia) she wouldn’t hear mother would not have to undergo of it. She had eaten badly for years surgery, not because of her age (“old” and never looked after herself. But is not part of his decision-making she has been living at the residence process) but because of other factors, for five years and I could have taken including her dementia and the fact her for testing during that time, now she is not showing symptoms of the Shelburne Farms that she is calmer and easier to deal cancer having spread. with. I had let it slide, secure in the The JGH Breast Centre and the knowledge that her medical needs oncology department are full of car- would be looked after by the doctor ing and devoted staff and volunteers. Orah Moore who visits the home. The atmosphere is light but profes- The lesson? Placing your parent in sional. You can make yourself a tea a facility, no matter how good and or instant coffee and read one of caring and well-meaning the care- many magazines while waiting to see givers are, does not mean you stop your doctor, which for us took over protecting her by ensuring preven- an hour of my mother asking, “Why tive medical testing. am I here?” and telling me, “Don’t • A Toast to the Season: Dinner in the Vineyard Open May 12 thru Oct. 21 • ProPerty tours We took her to the Breast Centre leave me here.” at Shelburne Farms Thursday, June 28, 6 pm at the Jewish General Hospital and I can’t imagine what it must be like • Children’s Farmyard • Words Take Wing: A Retreat for Poets & • Walking trails this was what made this experience a to receive a cancer diagnosis. But from Writers Friday-Sunday, June 22-24 Poet Julie • Cheesemaking • a national good news story. From the moment what I saw and experienced at the Cadwallader-Staub leads an inspiring program historiC landmark we walked in for her biopsy and JGH, we are lucky to have a medical of prompts, group time and delving into your • sPeCtaCular sCenery eventual diagnosis of a malignant unit filled with caring professionals writing, in a peaceful lakeside setting. • the inn at shelburne Farms accommodations & dining tumour that had been growing for when we are in times of great need. • Green Mountain Draft Horse Field Day at Shelburne Farms Saturday, July 28, 11-2 1611 Harbor Road The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. Please visit our website for fees and Shelburne, VT 05482 She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. registration information, plus more 802–985–8686 A mother is something absolutely new. ~Rajneesh special events and programs. www.shelburnefarms.org

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www.theseniortimes.com May 2012 The Senior Times 21 Mom set a standard for herself and no one will raise or lower the bar Mother’s cooking never disap- last week. Your cousin still smokes shouting: “Wham! Let’s add some points. This is an axiom: profound, on the balcony. The roast chicken grape molasses to that veal roast, empirical, Pythagorean. dish you picked at last week, you’ll Grandma!” Restaurant cooking often disap- Flavour Guy pick at again this week. When we go to Mom’s, we don’t points. Equally, it can be elegiac. We Barry Lazar The rice pudding that you loved want surprises, we don’t want a cook can enter a restaurant and anticipate as a kid is the same one you will experimenting in the kitchen or the meal we will get. Whether we are eat tonight. Mom’s is about comfort to have a sommelier face off over a at Schwartz’s or Joe Beef, there is an dining. This is not the same as good bottle of wine. At Mom’s, anyway, we unwritten contract that says: Enter always exercise our right to never food or an elegant meal, although probably brought the bottle. here and you will be served. You will come back. This never happens at depending upon your mom, it may Traditionally, Mother’s Day is when eat well and leave happy. When we Mom’s. be. It is about consistency. Mom is taken out for dinner. I once have a bad restaurant meal, when There is, however, also an unwrit- Mom set a standard for herself a took my future wife and her mother we are ignored, when the food tastes ten contract at Mom’s. It says: Enter long time ago and neither you nor out for Chinese food. I had assumed less than as advertised, when we here and nothing has changed. Your anyone else is going to raise or lower that my mother-in-law-to-be liked anticipate something better, we can uncle will tell the same joke he told that bar. Chinese food, as she often made I have been blessed to have had chicken fried rice with soy sauce. We several moms cook for me. My went to Chinatown. mom—known to her granddaugh- I had been cautioned not to order ter as Granny—died a few years ago. anything exotic or spicy. I ordered Granny could make anything. off the wall, having no idea what Her standing rib roast and York- the dishes were but certain that they shire pudding have yet to be equaled, would be home-style cooking and in my estimation, anywhere. Gran- “interesting.” We started off with ny’s croissant bake has been handed chicken soup. Then there was a wa- down to my wife, who has mastered tery beef stew with steamed vegeta- it and it can now be brought to my bles and rice on the side. There were daughter. hints of black beans and Chinese My college buddy’s mom made seasoning in the sauce. I remember only two things: tuna fish salad and thinking, not too spicy, very subtle hot dogs. My buddy thought he had flavours. died and gone to heaven when he Grandma Sarah looked at me. encountered college cafeteria cui- “This is Chinese food? This I can sine. Still, his mother made a fine make at home.” tuna fish salad. My mother-in-law, Grandma Mom’s croissant bake Sarah, who passed away at 102, made Originally made with stale crois- an outstanding pickle soup. I admit sants, it works well with most bread. that this is an acquired taste and that As slices, heels and bits get left on the I am perhaps not rigorously suf- counter, we stash them in the freezer ficiently Ashkenaz to appreciate it. until there’s enough for this dish. Yet there are those in my family who For 6 cups of stale bread or 6 crois- treasure this recipe and it, too, will sant: mix together 3 cups of milk, 3 be handed down for generations. eggs plus another egg yolk, ¼ cup of My father’s wife, who claims not to breadcrumbs, ¾ cup of grated Par- cook anything, makes a superb bris- mesan cheese, a ¼ teaspoon of white ket that she proudly delivers to us pepper and ¾ teaspoon of onion salt. each Passover. Put the bread in a 6-cup soufflé There is very little difference be- dish and pour the mixture over it. tween a slow-cooked brisket and one Let it stand at room temperature that has braised for hours in a wine until the liquid is completely ab- and gravy sauce with cooked car- sorbed (about 1 hour). rots and a Texas-style beef barbecue You can refrigerate this overnight, except perhaps the wine, gravy and but let it come to room temperature carrots. It is really more a question before baking. Preheat the oven to of whose mother makes it. 375F. Bake for 7 minutes then re- What all moms share is that their duce to 325F and cook another 45 recipes never disappoint. There is no minutes until the mixture is set and Iron Chef category for Mom’s cook- lightly browned. ing. No super chef in the kitchen [email protected]

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22 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com “Black Mozart” Boulogne made music with Marie Antoinette Kristine Berey “I am very taken with his music, it’s great stuff, but not often played and very few know about it. When conductor Boris Brott plans a program— I can thank my father (Alexander Brott, founder unless it’s an all-Bach concert or The Messiah— of the McGill Chamber Orchestra). He is the one he likes to add the element of surprise. who introduced me to it.” “I like to put together programs that I think will He recalled that Alexander Brott had been very entertain the audience, as well as musically edify,” interested in musical discovery, often commis- says Brott, director of the McGill Chamber Or- sioning works by young Canadian composers for chestra. “I want the audience to have a sense of the orchestra. passion and joy of making music and to have the The new season will be filled with “unusual sense of discovery.” things” characteristic of what the orchestra offers, For the May 14 concert, Brott has included Brott said. music by a remarkable figure of the 18th century, “We are starting off with a ballet—Eddy Tous- Joseph Boulogne, the Chevalier de St. George, saint—with dancers on the stage, including a new who is not as well known as he should be, given work by Montreal composer Vania Angelova.” the body of his work and the adventurous life Later concerts will feature André Gagnon’s he led. music, performances of The Messiah, all four Born in Guadalupe to a Senegalese slave and a Bach orchestral suites in co-production with the French plantation owner, Boulogne grew up in Montreal Bach Festival, and an arrangement of France and attended a private academy. Schubert’s Trout Quintet. In Paris, where he spent his adult life, he earned “Joseph Boulogne’s style is similar to Mozart, but A production of Mozart’s Magic Flute will be a reputation as a master fencer and equestrian. with his own stamp on the music,” Boris Brott says. presented with Opera McGill. During the French revolution he led an army of Future concerts include young performers Brott black volunteers. would refuse to take orders from him. refers to as “my discoveries,” playing a Mozart He was a celebrity in his time, admired as a com- “Joseph Boulogne’s style is similar to that of piano concert and music for violin from the film poser, conductor and violin virtuoso. His works Mozart, but with his own stamp on the music,” The Red Violin. include violin concertos, harpsichord sonatas, Brott explained. “He obviously had a very well “We do things that are traditional and also try to symphonies, string quartets, ballet and opera. developed sense of harmony and invention and establish new traditions,” Brott says. “I think the Like Mozart, he knew Marie Antoinette and though maybe not quite as inspired as Mozart, musicians we work with are very special—they made music with her. He was almost selected he obviously had that facility, more than some of bring the energy, enthusiasm and excellence that to direct the Royal Opera, but was thwarted by the other individuals, like Salieri and Vanhal, who is really what the orchestra is about.” three divas who petitioned the queen, saying they lived at that time. 514-487-5190, ocm-mco.org.

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www.theseniortimes.com May 2012 The Senior Times 23 The fascinating world of hats in fantasy, fact and faddism Smart bons, feathers or buttons. You’ll find hats for special occasions like wed- Shopping dings, but also for the beach, travel Sandra and some fantasy ones, too. She offers courses for students, profession- Phillips als, amateurs and hat enthusiasts. Some of the collection of hats, tur- bans and scarves meet the needs of Our Princess Catherine, the duch- women who have experienced hair ess of Cambridge, has brought the loss following chemotherapy treat- word “fascinator” into our lexicon. ments. Hours by appointment. 307 A fascinator is a headpiece, often a Parthenais. 514-279-8856. luciegre bit frivolous or delicate, that you goiremodist.ca. can wear instead of a hat. If you want to buy them for less, Ni-

It is often constructed with feath- Queensland Photo: John Oxley Library, cole & Co. has been in the hat field ers, flowers or beads. You attach one Miss Mercia Doran and Mrs J. Dean were intent on picking winners at a horse- for 26 years. They have kept up with to your hair by a comb, headband or racing event in Brisbane, Australia, in 1933. Hats are not optional at the races. fashion and offer thousands of fasci- a clip, since they are often worn at a nators. You can shop wholesale for steep angle or vertically—kind of a lar at premium horseracing events. Espace Pepin or at their warehouse. mostly dressy-style hats (gray flan- sideways hat. You can find a hat for all tastes, Hours by appointment. 4800 Jean nel cloche, gavroche, peau de soie, Though you may want to wear one since they run the gamut from el- Talon O. #415. 514-341-8624. oph- organza and silk, velvet, lace, mink) to a wedding or with fairly formal at- egant to modern or vintage, at Oph- eliehats.com. or bring in your own fabric so they tire, it might just be fun to dress up elie Hats, sometimes all at the same Lucie Gregoire is one of the few can make one to match an outfit. and make your mom a tea party for time. The hats are sold in Europe and milliners in the city who can cre- Some casual berets, straw foldables, Mother’s Day. Brides may wear them North America, including at Urban ate made-to-measure hats. You can scarves, cashmere caps, dressy head- as an alternative to a veil. You’ll need Outfitters in the U.S. and Topshop select from some ready-to-wear bands and shawls are also around. one if you attend the N.Y. Easter Pa- in London. Here in Montreal, you creations at her studio, then add a Hours by appointment. 9200 Park, rade. In England, headgear is popu- can find them at Simons, Ogilvy and personal touch, such as jewelry, rib- #407. 514-383-5599. nicole-co.ca.

The most dangerous woman in America Byron Toben

Readers may have noticed a progressive monthly magazine called Mother Jones, on newsstands since 1970. Mother Jones was a real person, feisty and his- torically important. She was born as Mary Harris in Cork, Ireland, in 1837. This was not a good time, potato famine and all. Her family immigrated to Toronto. In the 1840s, they moved to the U.S. and Mary became a teacher in a convent in Monroe, Michi- gan, and later in Memphis, Tennessee. She married George Jones, a union iron molder,

and gave birth to four children. George and all the Photo: Library of Congress children died in a yellow fever epidemic. Mary Jones, also known as Mother Jones, told others She moved to Chicago and, at the age of 30, to “pray for the dead and fight like hell for the living. established a dress-making business for wealthy matrons, but lost her home, shop and belongings workers’ march on President Teddy Roosevelt’s in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. home (pre-dating Saul Alinsky’s tactic by 60 years). She then joined the Knights of Labor and cam- The Establishment struck back. She was labeled paigned for decent wages and working conditions. “the most dangerous woman in America.” She A dynamite speaker, she used stories, drama and was falsely accused of murder during a 1913 mine Annual Resource Directory jokes to involve audience participation. strike and sentenced to 20 years in prison, but a & Répertoire des ressources Just five feet tall, she had a commanding pres- nationwide protest led to a commutation of the ence, with a shock of white hair and dressed in all sentence. black. She claimed to be seven years older than She admonished others to “pray for the dead she was to gain more respect and was dubbed and fight like hell for the living.” Mother Jones. She participated in hundreds of She died in 1930 at age 93, though she claimed strikes across the country and, nearing 60, was to be 100. hired as an organizer by the United Mine Work- This gutsy mother, who tragically lost four kids, ers in West Virginia, where she organized wives to evolved into a sort of spiritual mother of many lat- use brooms and mops against scab workers. ter-day long-lived activist women campaigning for She was among the founders of the Social Dem- social justice, such as Canadians Léa Roback (died ocratic Party and the Industrial Workers of the in 2000 at 96), Madeleine Parent (died in March at World. In 1905, she organized a children’s textile 93) and Naomi Klein (going strong at 42). 24 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com movers & shakers 514-484-5033

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www.theseniortimes.com May 2012 The Senior Times 25 Every square inch of Central Park has been fixed with purpose through the arched Bethseda Arcade Our Man In to the lake and look upward. On the New York ceiling are more than 15,000 individ- ually painted tiles. Rarer is Wagner Harry Cove, a hidden oasis by the lake with Rolnick a tiny wooden house where, a century ago, passengers would wait to catch the boat across the lake. Rarest Last month, Central Park was de- is Hallett Sanctuary, four acres near scribed alphabetically till the letter M. 59th St. and closed to the public. Let’s continue. You can’t get in by yourself, but just maybe you can go on a guided tour NOCTURNES: Beethoven’s bust to see the perfect ecosystem, and an- might dominate the Mall, but the imals playing without nosy humans Park’s greatest nocturnal orches- VENALITY: Central Park has al- tral inspiration was Charles Ives’s ways been a knave’s paradise. To 1906-composed Central Park In The build it, 20,000 labourers threw out Dark, seven minutes of haunting the Indians and freed blacks who in- echoes and unconscious references. Dawg Photo: Coco T. habited its Seneca Village. They dug No weather is the wrong weather for artwork, or just a wander, in Central Park. Those were more innocent days. up hills and burned habitations. The Ogden Nash penned a (now thank- despotic “Boss” Tweed placed his fully out of date) vitriolic nocturne: or monument to Olmsted or Vaux is RAMBLE TO THE FOREST PRI- own corrupt cronies as commission- “If you should happen after dark within their most noble creation. MEVAL: West 77th St. opens to the ers. In the Depression of the 1930s, To find yourself in Central Park, PIGEONS: Less kindly New York- Naturalist’s Gate, and the Ramble, the precursor of Occupy folk, put Ignore the paths that beckon you ers not only call them “flying rats” Olmsted’s favourite place. He wanted up “Hoovervilles”—shanties—in the And hurry, hurry to the zoo. but joke about poisoning them. To a primeval New York, forbidding middle of the park, until chased out And creep into the tiger’s lair: this writer, they are amiable, silly tree-cutting, stone-and-rock design- by the police. Frankly, you’ll be safer there.” friends. (And, to paraphrase Tho- ing—alas, the “proper” cut trees, re- WEATHER, WEDDINGS AND OLMSTED: Frederick Law Ol- reau on squirrels, “They are killed in placed rocks. Still, looking carefully WATER: No weather is the wrong msted (1822-1903), a fervent abo- jest, but die in earnest.”) Each June, you can still see Olmsted’s prized weather. Ice-skating and snow, flow- litionist and a “passionate amateur Pigeon Day is celebrated on Pigeon stone ruins. ers blooming, summertime near gardener” designed Central Park Hill, a winter sledding assemblage. SHAKESPEARE: Shakespeare al- nudists, the leaves turning rainbow (and many other parks around the QUIET ZONES: A few years ago, most is the park. The Shakespeare colours. The waters of the lakes are world) with his London-born partner the city fathers decided that Central bust was built in 1870, and outside for boating (see Streisand/Redford Calvert Vaux (1824-1895) (rhymes, Park was too noisy, and they decreed the Delacourt Theater is a bronze in The Way We Were) or strolling. appropriately enough, with “hawks”). a few sections to be “quiet zones.” sculpture from The Tempest (Pros- Then check out the Water Terrace, Omsted’s concept was briefly Well, the civil liberties organizations pero and Miranda) and Romeo and Olmsted’s creation. Down two grand summed when he wrote: “Every foot were hardly quiet about that, and Juliet. Two gardens host Shake- staircases to a grand esplanade with of its surface, every tree and bush, as the decree was undecreed. Music speare’s flowers, along with quotes a huge fountain blooming sprays … well as every arch, roadway and walk from beeping birds, barking beagles, from the Bard. And the squawk- Weddings can be arranged through has been fixed where it is with a pur- bawling babes and booming booming is from the European starling, Central Parks Tours. pose.” Incidentally, not a single bust boxes serenade the visitor. introduced to fill the Park with X-RATED: Don’t look behind any Shakespeare’s birds. Not only did of the 270,000 trees and bushes when the starlings multiply to nauseating the branches are rustling and the dimensions, but a flock was sucked leaves are fluttering up and down. into a plane, the crash killing the YOUNG PEOPLE: For kids, this passengers. For 50 years, Shake- is paradise now. But they don’t need speare in The Park has delighted the children’s zoo, the “enchanted New Yorkers. This summer, it’s As forest,” the Belvedere Castle, the You Like It (with music by famed boat-rides in the lake. They don’t Canadian banjo player Steve Martin) have to listen to storytellers by the MAY 2012 June 5-30; and Sondheim’s Into the Hans Christian Andersen statue or From double bass to jazz trombone, be inspired by the many Woods July 23-August 25. ride the carousel or watch the mari- heartfelt, spirited recitals given by Schulich School of Music TROLLOPE’S IN THE PARK: onettes or run on the Great Oval. graduate students this month. That title is not a typo. It refers to The whole park is a parallel universe British novelist Anthony Trollope. of sights and delights for (gulp, for- Passionate, informed performances of all styles and on all In 1870, he wrote, “The first ques- give the cliché) “children of all ages.” instruments given by the next generation of concert musicians. tion asked of you is whether you ZOO: Not as large as the Bronx All trained by Montreal’s best musicians, including Jonathan have seen the Central Park, and the Zoo, but more accessible and more Crow, Matt Haimovitz, Hank Knox, Sanford Sylvan and others. second is as to what you think of it. charming. Nearly 150 species, from You cannot say it is simply beautiful. polar bears to leaf-cutter ants in And, as always, student recitals are free! You must swear … it is more fine, habitats from the Arctic to the rain- Afternoon or evening concerts, for info visit website more grand, more beautiful, more forest. http://www.mcgill.ca/music/events miraculous than anything else of its POSTSCRIPT: How to sum up Information: 514.398.4547 kind anywhere.” Central Park? Co-designer Frederick UNDISCOVERED PLEASURES: Law Olmsted had one salient credo: Rare is the visitor among the “Framed upon a single noble motive 25,000,000 who come each year a park is a single work of art.” who does not find surprises. Walk That credo will rock! 26 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com Victoriaville is home to innovation and improvisation Irwin Block lives in the American civil rights movement from 1954-64 to end of- With open ears and an open mind, ficial segregation and endemic dis- you will find there is everything to crimination. Videos will accompany love in the annual experimental pianist Anthony Davis, drummers and improvised music festival in Susie Ibarra and Pheeroan AkLaff, Victoriaville that invariably fea- and bassist John Lindberg. ($36.) tures exciting and innovative per- On Sunday night, pianist Muhal formers. Richard Abrams, a co-founder of The big names this year, all from the influential Chicago-based As- the U.S., would already make it sociation for the Advancement of worth the 160-kilometre trip, were Creative Music and free jazz pioneer it not for the equally attractive pros- Photo: Scott Goller closes the festival. Abrams, with pect of checking out all 19 varied Wadada Leo Smith will perform in the retrospective Ten Freedom Summers. saxophonist Roscoe Mitchell and concerts over four days in the peace- trombonist George Lewis, will be ful, if not quite bucolic Victo setting. $100,000 a year for five years—leads linist Mark Feldman and cellist Eric performing an improvised concert. Free jazz, as varied as the impulses, an all-star group, very much part of Friedlander to his crew to play The These musicians know each other inspiration and mindset of its per- the Tzadik family, in Nova Express, Concealed, another world premiere. so well and have played together formers, is the big calling card this fashioned around the 1964 novel by Zorn will lead and narrate 15 pieces, so often that they have developed a year, edging out such more extreme Beat writer William Burroughs. linked to an image and a short text common language. ($36) genres as ear-splitting Noise that gave The work, performed for the first reflecting various mystical tradi- There are other plenty of other previous editions a different flavour. time, combines Burrough’s tech- tions, as selected by mystic/artist veteran and local emerging voices Topping the list is saxophonist/com- nique of cutting up texts in frag- David Chaim Smith. Zorn says the among the performers worth check- poser John Zorn, New York founder ments, then reassembling them with music, in various ensemble combi- ing out. The full lineup is available at of the pioneering Tzadik record label, hard-hitting Ornette-Coleman-style nations, will be in the tradition of his fimav.qc.ca. Packages include $105 who will be leading two groups on ensemble delivery. You can easily set Masada works. ($42) per person for concerts at 8 and 10 May 17 and 18 at 10 pm. The hockey that information aside and just listen Trumpeter Wadada Leo Smith will pm and overnight stay (double oc- coliseum will be set up cabaret style and enjoy as Zorn directs drummer be performing and leading an all- cupancy) at le Victorian Hotel. A with tables and chairs, a bar, and Joey Baron, electric bassist Trevor star ensemble on Saturday, 10 p.m., festival pass to all concerts is $325, draped on two sides with new art. Dunn, pianist John Medeski and vi- in his musical retrospective called and there are various other discount Zorn, who in 2006 won the McAr- braphonist Kenny Wollesen. ($38) Ten Freedom Summers, inspired by packages. 1-819-752-7912. thur Foundation’s Genius Award— On Friday night, Zorn adds vio- the heroic figures who risked their [email protected]

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www.theseniortimes.com May 2012 The Senior Times 27 CANADA’S LEGENDARY TROUBADOUR... Gordon Lightfoot

“Gordon Lightfoot, every time I hear a song of his, it’s like I wish it would last forever.” – Bob Dylan Sunday, June 17th – 8 p.m. Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier – Place des Arts

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28 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com What’s happening in May ARTS Violinist Maxim Foundation Golf Tournament. Benefits an upgrade Vengerov, who the to the LGH pathology department and greatly ben- Montreal Art Centre • Mondays New York Times efit the quality of care for West Island cancer pa- Seeing Through Clothes — open model drawing calls “a rock of in- tients. 514-630-2081, lakeshorefoundation.ca sessions feature models in themed outfits every fallible technique week. $10. 5-8pm. 1844 William, Griffintown. and an interpreter Beth Zion Congregation • Tues. May 15 514-667-2270, montrealartcenter.com of intimidating Are the Cains and Abels Still Alive Today? – Sib- assertiveness,” ling Rivalry, a lecture by Rabbi Sidney Shoham. BAZAARS will perform at $10. 7:30pm. 5740 Hudson, CSL 514-489-8411 Place des Arts Notre Dame de Rosaire Church • May 10-12 on May 14 at 8 pm. Oscar Peterson Concert Hall • Fri. May 25 Bazaar. Thurs. & Fri. 9am-8pm, Sat. 9am - 4pm. pda.qc.ca Lakeshore Concert Band presents Danse, premier- 800 du Rosaire. 514-271-8605 ing the work of composer Robert Buckley and dance by Canadian choreographers. 7141 Sher- Parish of St. Andrew & St. Mark • Sat. May 12 Field trip • Sun. May 20. brooke W. $20, $15 for seniors and students at the Garage sale & BBQ. 9am–1pm. Parc Regional des Chutes Mont a Peines. $60 + $6 door. 514-428-0292, lakeshoreconcertband.ca 865 Lakeshore, Dorval. 514-631-3601, park fee. Register by May 17. Leaving at 8:30am andrewmark.org from 1200 Atwater. 514-845-8317 Park Extension Historical Society • Sun. May 27 Love the Footbridge: art, dance, history exhibit Saint Margaret’s Residence • May 12 Montreal West Town Hall • Fri. May 11 and more. For the threatened footbridge to Jarry Spring Sale. 10am-3pm. 50 Hillside, Westmount. West Over-50 Info Day. Meet organizations and Park. 1pm. East end of St. Roch. 514-618-6640 514-488-1654 businesses that promote well-being, indepen- dence and leisure. 11am-3pm. 514-484-6186 Rotary Club of Montreal-Lakeshore • May 25 St. Philip’s Church • Sat. May 19 Live & silent auction and dinner in support of the Korean food and rummage sale. 10am-3pm. Helvetia Seniors Club club’s charitable works. 1350 Lakeshore, Dorval. 7505 Sherbrooke W. Lecture & lunch • Thurs. May 17 450-452-0782 or 514-697-1838, mlrca.org Najma Shakeel presents Fruitful Wishing. St. Charles Church • June 1 & 2 Monkland Grille, 6151 Monkland. 450-687-5256 Hope & Cope Wellness Centre • May 14 Flea market. Fri. 9am-8pm, Sat. 9am-3pm. Neuro-psychologist Heather Palmer pro- 2115 Centre, Point St. Charles. Single Person’s Association vides strategies for cutting through chemo Table rentals: 514-932-5335 Dance • Sat. May 19 fog. 7-8:30pm. Reservation required. 8pm. For more activities: home.total.net/~spa 4635 Côte Ste. Catherine. 514-340-3616 Men of St. Paul’s • Sat. June 2 7771 Bouvier, LaSalle. 514-366-8600 Garage & bake sale. 8:30am to 12:30pm. Donations LIBRARIES welcome. 377 44th Ave., Lachine. 514-634-1965 Montreal Urban Hikers The Hills of Westmount • Sat. May 26 Atwater Library CLUBS & GROUPS Northwest corner of Atwater and de Maison- 1200 Atwater 514-935-7344 atwaterlibrary.ca neuve. 9:30am. $2 donation. 514-938-4910 Lunchtime series • Thurs. May 10 Hope & Cope [email protected] montrealurbanhikers.ca Jean Bélisle, Concordia University art history pro- Bereavement support group meets on the first and fessor, on Montreal’s maritime history. 12:30pm. third Tuesday of the month. 514-340-8222 x8535 EVENTS Free; donations invited.

Chabad Lifeline Creative Social Centre • Sun. May 6 Jewish Public Library Formerly Project Pride, a non-sectarian centre for Silpada jewelry sale fundraiser. 1-4pm. Reading & wine reception • Mon. May 14 those affected by addictions. See website for schedule. 5267 Clanranald, 514-488-0907 cscmtl.com Roberta Rich presents The Midwife of Venice, 4615 Côte Ste. Catherine. 514-738-7700 a Canada Council for the Arts Literary read- chabadlifeline.com Victoria Hall Gallery • May 6 & June 3 ing. 5:30pm. Free, registration required. May 6: Dolce Musica, 2:30pm; June 3: Matthew Stern, Author talk • Thursday, May 17 The Women’s Canadian Club • Mon. May 7 2pm. $12, $10. 4626 Sherbrooke W. 514-989-5226 Nancy Richler speaks on her newest novel, The Im- Michael Goldbloom on: What’s Ahead for Quebec poster Bride. 7:30pm. Free, registration required. Universities? 12:30pm. Members free, non-mem- Congregation Shaar Hashomayim •Mon. May 7 5151 Côte Ste. Catherine. 514-345-2627 x3006 bers $10. Sandwich lunch available: $5 (11:15am). Dov Shiloah, son of Reuven Shiloah, presents ex- jewishpubliclibrary.org 5035 de Maisonneuve, 514-932-4005 or 450-458-4105 cerpts of The Mossad’s First. 7pm. 450 Kensington, Westmount, 514-937-9471 x169 Zoological Society of Montreal Lecture • Tues. May 8 Beaconsfield Golf Club • Mon. May 14 Ryan Young speaks about Angell Woods on the Join the Lakeshore General Hospital (LGH) Foun- West Island Ecoterritory. 7:30pm. $5. dation for their 15th Annual Nick Di Tomaso LGH

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www.theseniortimes.com May 2012 The Senior Times 29

Falling in love with Iguazu Our 18-hour bus ride from Buenos view the falls. ing, mighty, and other su- and about half of Aires to Iguazu Falls in northeast- There had been a tremendous perlatives come to mind, the river’s flow con- ern Argentina was our best over- buildup from our friend, Nora Kel- as well as our feelings of verges into a narrow night bus experience on this or any ner, an Argentinian who lives in humility, giddiness, won- chasm called the Devil’s othertrip. How many overnight Montreal, about the majesty and der, and happiness at being Throat, where you can ex- bus trips have we taken? None. grandeur of the Iguazu Falls. But alive to experience this nat- perience its thunderous fury We were in the first row of seats nothing could prepare us for our ural treasure. from wooden observation decks atop a double-decker in the more first glimpses of this thundering It is a collection of dra- on the Argentinian side. luxurious full-cama (bed) class, force of nature. matic drops where the Iguazu River The intense heat was relieved by which reclines 180 degrees. We took a small bus from our hotel tumbles over the edge of the Parana the rising spray of the roaring waters It comes with sheets, a pillow, and to the National Park and, after pay- Plateau, 23 kilometres upriver from below the observation decks. a full dinner with vegetarian option ing the entrance fee of $25, boarded the confluence with the Parana Arden and Karen were so blown and as much wine and soft drinks as an open-air train to the Devil’s River. away by what they saw that they one can imbibe. Even breakfast is in- Gorge. There are 150 to 300 waterfalls, fumbled with their camera and it cluded. There are movies, music, and Waiting for the train, we met depending on water levels, vary- tumbled into the gorge below. the toilet facilities are excellent. Arden and Karen, a retired couple ing between 60 to 82 metres high, It was a brand new camera. Unfortunately we can’t remember from Wisconsin, and shared our the name of the company. The fare pleasure viewing the falls. came to about $100 each, fair con- Our photos and videos say so sidering we were saving a night in a much more than words can. Such hotel and arrived rested and rarin’ to adjectives as dramatic, awe inspir-

30 The Senior Times May 2012 www.theseniortimes.com The day before, Karen had dropped her Nikon and had replaced it. We ended up taking many photos of the two of them and of the falls to email them. Ten years older than we are, they had much more stamina than Bar- bara, who was debilitated by the extreme heat and humidity. Arden and Karen stayed on another three hours to view the falls from another angle and to walk through the surrounding rainforest while we high-tailed it back to our hotel, Saint George, and its soothing swimming pool surrounded by lush, sub-tropical vegetation. Fascinated by leaves that looked like flowers and flowers that looked like insects or small animals, Bar- bara took lots of photos as reference for future paintings. We walked to the small downtown of Puerto Iguazu looking for coffee and snacks to take with us on the bus we would take to our next stop, Salta, in the Juy Juy region of Argentina, a 25-hour trip. We met Arden and Karen for dinner at our hotel. The restaurant, Donia Maria, was operated by our hotel. Donia Maria offered a three-tiered buffet: the “salad bar” for $15; the salad plus pasta for $20 and “grills” added for a total of $25. The salad bar was more than enough to delight and satiate us. It was like being served hors d’oeuvres at a wedding reception. Arden, a union activist, expressed great concern about Scott Walker, the right-wing governor in Wiscon- sin financed by the billionaire Koch brothers, who is crushing the teacher’s union with imposed contracts that force them to pay thousands more for medical coverage that they had paid for in previous contracts. He told us he often travels to Cuba on educational missions and we were on the same wavelength po- litically. We were lucky to find our three- star room—the only one left—in this four-star hotel, Saint George, well located across from the bus station and a short walk to the centre. It resembles a Western frontier town thrown together with no dis- cernible art or taste … except for the delicious empanadas that we picked up at a take-out place for about 75 cents each, meat and cheese alike. In short we loved tropical Iguazu but we probably wouldn’t return. It takes one day to see the falls and I don’t think we’ll ever forget it. If we do we have our photos and videos to remind us. But who knows, we may visit again from the Brazilian side. www.theseniortimes.com May 2012 The Senior Times 31 LesPRESTIGIOUS Résidences RESIDENCES FOR GOLDEN AGESoleil CITIZENS

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