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Kensington Knitters knit for Dans la rue Westhill grandmothers knit and Montreal Children’s Hospital p. 21 for African children p. 32 Editorial DELUXE BUS TOUR NEW YEAR’S EVE Tory attack flyers backfire GALA Conservative MPs have upset many Montrealers Royal MP Irwin Cotler has denounced as “close to Thursday, Dec 31 pm departure with their scurrilous attack ads, mailed to peo- hate speech.”The pamphlet accuses the Liberals of Rideau Carleton/Raceway Slots (Ottawa) ple with Jewish-sounding names in ridings with “willingly participating in the overly anti-Semitic significant numbers of Jewish voters. Durban I – the human rights conference in South Dance the Night Away • Eat, Drink & be Merry Live Entertainment • Great Buffet There is much that is abhorrent about the tactic Africa that Cotler attended in 2001 along with a Casino Bonus • Free Trip Giveaway itself and the content. Many of those who received Canadian delegations. In fact, Cotler, along with Weekly, Sat/Sun Departures the flyer are furious that the Conservatives as- Israeli government encouragement, showed sume, falsely, that Canadian Jews base their vote courage and leadership by staying on, along with CALL CLAIRE 514-979-6277 on support for Israel, over and above the commu- representatives of major Jewish organizations, in nity members’ long-standing preoccupation with an effort to combat and bear witness to what Lois Hardacker social justice, health care, the environment and a turned into an anti-Israel and anti-Semitic hate Royal LePage Action Chartered Broker host of other issues. fest. The flyer also falsely accuses the Liberals of While most Montreal Jews do support the federal being opposed to “defunding Hamas” and asking Peaceful, lovely Abercorn - Near Liberals, for a variety of historical and policy rea- that Hezbollah be delisted as a terrorist organiza- Sutton and the sons, they do not vote as a bloc. Even more egre- tion. In fact, the Liberals in 2002 took the lead in Vermont border gious are the statements in the flyer, which Mount branding the two Islamist groups as terrorist or- you will find a ganizations, making financial support illegal. delightful village If the Conservatives think they will make inroads with an excellent DELUXE BUS TOURS with Montreal voters with these untruths and bakery and high 2010 sleazy tactics, they are sadly mistaken. speed internet. Day Trips Here is a charmer of a home in move-in condition. > More editorials on page 10 Wood floors, fireplace, bright rooms, wonderful work- Burlington,VT • Plattsburgh, NY shop, attached garage and great sunrise views, English Lake George & Glen Falls, NY country gardens. Picture perfect at $295,000 Watertown, NY • Quebec City 450-242-2000 • www.loishardacker.ca Ottawa,Tulip Festival Overnight Trips Washington, DC • Boston, MASS NewYork City + Woodbury Commons North Conway & Burlington • Wildwood, NJ Casino Trips Rideau Carleton Racetrack/Slots, Ottawa Lac Lemay, QC • MontTremblant &Village Atlantic City, NJ • Thousand Islands Foxwoods Casino + High Stakes Bingo Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Call Claire 514-979-6277

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2 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Validation: a special understanding Photo: Susan Gold The Alzheimer Groupe team Kristine Berey Rubin says. “Validation can be prac- tised in the course of your other The Alzheimer Groupe has been work. … It’s about communication.” helping Alzheimer’s patients and Key to Validation is the ability to their families for 25 years. In her enter the person’s reality while re- work as director of support serv- serving judgment.“The goal is to ac- ices, Marva Whyte has had to evalu- company the person in the ate different ways of dealing with resolution of their issues. We never the challenging behaviours typical finish it; it’s a process that goes on of the illness. until they die. We just don’t want “We experience what works and them to be alone in it. Also, we be- what doesn’t work five days a week,” lieve that even very badly deterio- Whyte said. One of the most effective rated people in the back of their approaches she uses in support groups minds know the truth.” is the Validation Method, pioneered De Klerk-Rubin said that most by Naomi Feil in the 1970s. At last caregivers want to make the client month’s educational conference,Vikki happy but they apply a definition of de Klerk-Rubin, Feil’s daughter, was “happy” that is their own reference. the keynote speaker. “By trying to get them to be that way “Mom [Feil] was a social worker and I’m trying to change them, not ac- started working in the nursing home cepting them the way they are.” where her father was the administra- Whyte gives an example of some- tor and her mother head of social thing that happens all the time. work,” de Klerk-Rubin said. “They “Someone is asking for their parent, lived at the back of the nursing home.” and says ‘my mother is waiting for Feil, who wrote Validation: The Feil me’, when the reality is that this 85- Method in 1983, had a very straight- year-old’s parents passed away a long forward philosophy. “As human be- time ago. Tosay‘your mother is dead’ ings, we are connected to one another would be totally cruel, but to say‘you in a way that has nothing to do with miss your mother’ gives the person a religion, race or culture,”she said. chance to talk about their mother, As dementia sets in, Feil said, people and by talking you are providing the still have issues to resolve, but become person with the caring, the love and terribly isolated as a result of the ill- the attention they needed.” ness and worseneing condition. “It’s There are learnable techniques, not only a physical deterioration, but such as mirroring gestures, adjusting Jean Charest a psychological need to die in peace.” one’s tone of voice to the client’s, spe- Premier Feil says that at all stages of the illness cial ways of touching the person, there is a desperate need for human which help this process. connection and the person needs to By looking at behaviour in the con- be reached on an emotional level.“If text of the client, it takes on meaning Best wishes for a a person is left alone, that human that makes it easier to understand and being will deteriorate and will become deal with.“That’s where we have to be Healthy and Happy a living dead person,”Feil said. careful with judgments,” de Klerk- Holiday season! There are four levels of training, Rubin says.“Maybe [that behaviour] is given by the Validation Institute in the perfect thing for [the client] to be Cleveland and one that de Klerk- doing at this point. And if I walk with Rubin oversees in Europe, where the her on this arduous path, she feels un- En cette période des fêtes, method is better known. (Feil’s book derstood and maybe feels a little better. c’est avec plaisir que je vous offre has been translated into several Eu- What we find is that if at least the basic ropean languages.) But anyone attitude and most important princi- mes vœux les plus chaleureux! working with the elderly with cogni- ples of Validation are used [in an insti- tive problems can benefit from learn- tution] you will see a significant ing some of the techniques and the reduction in burnout, sick days, and philosophy of Validation, de Klerk- it will reduce staff turnover.” www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 3 THE SENIOR TIMES 4 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Risqué calendar aims to change Cummings Centre’s grey image Martin C. Barry money for a medical cause. The women hit upon the idea of print- Taking their cue from the hit com- ing a calendar featuring some of edy film Calendar Girls, volunteers them posing nude while engaged in at the Cummings Jewish Centre for everyday activities, such as knitting Seniors have decided to mark its and baking. In the movie, their proj- 50th anniversary by issuing a com- ect is greeted with initial skepticism, memorative calendar of their own even though the calendar quickly with a special twist – the models are sells out and the women become all au naturel. media celebrities. But don’t get your hopes up too About a year ago, a committee that much. It’s all been done with the was set up to examine ways to cele- tastefulness of a photo session in the brate the Cummings Centre’s 50th boudoir. (As it happens, one of the birthday had been wondering out consultants on the project was a pro- loud at its first meeting “how could fessional boudoir photographer.) we celebrate this anniversary and Wishing a  our clients And while there’s lots of exposed have fun at the same time?” execu- Hay Holidays! skin, just enough is deftly exposed so tive-director Herb Finkelberg said. that the end result teases more than “So I remembered about the Calen- Day trip to Cornwall, ON Turning Stone Casino, NY it reveals. dar Girls. I suggested it and the com- February 7, 2010 March 16-18, 2010 Visit the Cow-patti Theater Hotel, 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, $85 free play However, there should be no doubt mittee loved it.” to see “Cookin’ with Gus” Irish Festival about one thing: With this calendar Among its many supporters, the Brunch, transport and taxes included Baggage handling, bus transportation the centre is out to change its “grey” centre was fortunate to have two $89 per person and taxes included image while at the same time trying photographers – Rina Friedman, an Carnival Cruise aboard the “Miracle” $335 per person/double occupancy to alter the preconception that sen- amateur, and Morty Benedik, a re- April 29-May 6, 2010 New York City iors can’t engage in a bit of risqué tired professional – who volunteered New York – San Juan – St. Thomas – July 9-11, 2010 Turks & Caicos Hotel, breakfasts, guided tour fun, something that not long ago their services. As for models willing Bus transportation, and taxes included Transportation and taxes included would have been considered taboo. to be photographed in their birthday $1,099 per person/inside cabin $299 per person/double occupancy Calendar Girls was the true story suits, there were so many they had to For information and to reserve please contact of a group of British women who start turning people away. Danielle McCartney 514 794-7884 or 450 691-5555 produced a nude calendar to raise Continued on page 6

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www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 5 THE SENIOR TIMES Calendar seniors are ‘alive and kicking’

Continued from page 5 challenge of making sure her sub- “It was not only not difficult to find jects felt comfortable while fully ex- volunteers to get involved, it was dif- posed. She and Benedik worked out ficult to restrict them,” Finkelberg a method: “If it was a man, I would said. “Even as the calendar came out, turn around or go out of the room,” I had people coming into my office she said. “He would set it up and saying, ‘Now remember, you said I then we’d shoot. If it was a woman, could be in it next year.’ That’s the I would set up the shot.” kind of response it got.” Pearl Grubert, past president of the Each month in the calendar shows centre who helps run its boutique, is different volunteers in the area of the featured with Gloria April in the cal- centre where they work. Shots show endar spread for February. the lobby, exercise areas, the course “When you get to be a senior, you registration department, an art room, lose a lot of inhibitions and so you the woodworking shop and the cafe- say who cares?” she said. “Why teria. Because of technical problems, can’t seniors have fun? Why can’t the lobby photo had to be taken in people see us as enjoying life?” two stages: the models were first In their scene, the two stand behind photographed in a studio, and then the boutique’s counters scantily clad their image was superimposed on a in little else but tissue paper, ribbon photo of the lobby. and large bows. The caption reads AGE WITH DIGNITY Finkelberg maintains that the reac- “We also gift-wrap.” tion to the calendar has been posi- Also featured in the calendar is tive. “I think I was somewhat Gladi Gubitz, whose husband, Irv- concerned as to how this was going ing, chaired the calendar committee. to be received. Generally people call “The buzz in the centre has been can make your later years me not so much with compliments, amazing,” she said. “It put a smile on they call me with concerns. But since people’s faces. They felt good about more comfortable. the calendar’s release, it has, without it. Here was something that was alive a doubt, increased the excitement and kicking. From my perspective it and the mood of the entire agency.” rang a bell that seniors can have fun Ask about Friedman, who photographs events and have a laugh. That’s really what LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE at the centre, was faced with the it was all about.” to suit your budget. since 1986 For More Information Happy Holidays from all of us! Publisher & Managing Editor Barbara Moser Advertising Jodie Alter, Gloria Beigleman, Assistant Editor Kristine Berey Shirley Cohen, Sandra Schachter Call Aida Fokas Copy Editor Andrea Shepherd Production & Design Albert Cormier Financial Security Advisor Journalists Alice Abracen, Martin C. Barry, Web Design Scott Philip Kristine Berey, Shannon Rose, Byron Toben Front page photo Scott Philip Editorial Assistant Shannon Rose Printing Hebdo Litho 514-248-1070 Office Manager Thelma Gearey Phone 514-484-5033 Sales Manager Jacquie Soloway-Cons Fax 514-484-8254

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6 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Legislation keeps veteran out of Ste. Anne’s

Kristine Berey Caring for People.. .Everyday

In November 2006, Greg Thompson, the Minis- Senior Services ter of Veterans Affairs, inaugurated the newly When Ch oice Matte rs built Remembrance Pavilion at Ste. Anne’s On-s it e or in- ho me servi ce s fo r seni ors Hospital, the last federally regulated veterans wh o ha ve c o mpl ex ca re ne ed s: soc ial, hospital in Canada. emoti onal, behav iou ral, and/or psy chi atric. “Canada’s new government stands up for its vet- For a p rivate and confidenti al consultation please contact: erans by making sure they have the state-of-the-art Doug Brice -or - Melinda Atkinson facilities that truly meet their needs,” Thompson 514.991.7432 514.501. 8438 said about the structure especially designed for eld- [email protected] [email protected] erly patients with cognitive deficits. “This Mod- www.bartimae us.com ernization Project demonstrates our commitment to provide high quality care to our veterans.” CLINIQUE As well intentioned as these words may have been, PODIATRIQUE they ring hollow to Sharyn Cadot, wife of Allied SEAFORTH veteran Dennis Vialls, who at 84 is fighting his last Berey Kristine Photo: Especially concerned with the good function of your feet battle, with Alzheimer’s disease. Allied veteran Dennis Vialls last Remembrance Day Pierre P. Cardin, DPM, Joëlle Picard, DPM From her perspective, though her husband she has been offered include a private facility that Podiatrists landed in Normandy on D-Day and fought for she can’t afford, another residence available im- Relief of: * Calluses and corns democracy, he can not make a dent in bureaucracy. mediately but requiring hours of bus travel, and a * Ingrown nails by permanent surgical cure * Plantar warts “Presently there is legislation that prevents Al- public facility where she was told the wait could * Heel, arch and muscular pain lied veterans from admittance to Ste. Anne’s hos- be up to two years. * Alternative choices to surgery pital,” Cadot said. According to policy, veterans To be placed on the waiting list for Ste. Anne’s * Plantar orthotics who served with the Canadian forces have imme- hospital is not an option at the moment, even 3550 Côte-des-Neiges, Suite 430 514-934-3658 Montreal www.seaforthpodiatry.com diate access to long-term care at Ste. Anne’s should though Vialls has been a Canadian citizen for 43 they require it. But Allied (British) veterans are years and has five children born in Canada. placed in facilities in the community as long as As primary caregiver, Cadot, 62, is nearing their needs can be met there. burnout and has had to take sick leave from her Cadot feels that Ste. Anne’s hospital is the best job last May. possible place for her husband, who is now in ur- Continued on p. 8 gent need of long-term care. The hospital is in her community, where four of their five children re- side. She says the care provided there is the best SELLING YOUR HOME? for her husband who already attends the day cen- tre twice a week and is happy there. The choices LOOKING FOR A CONDO?

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5555 Trent, Côte St. Luc Tel.: 514-486-1157 www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 7 THE SENIOR TIMES Not all veterans treated equally Continued from page 7 ferent people. They give different Need Respite Care? In a letter dated November 20, amounts of money based on whether Thompson informed Cadot that you were hurt, not hurt, whether you • Recuperating from surgery “Department of Justice officials were went overseas. You need a special de- • Family caregivers away on holidays consulted on this matter and they gree to figure out who gets what. have confirmed that there is no legal Spouses of veterans are all receiving The Montclair Residence authority, and thus no policy basis on different services.” Just what the doctor ordered! which to admit Mr. Vialls to Ste. Regarding the care given at St. Anne’s Hospital.” Anne’s, Sandler is unequivocal in her Cadot asks why – when the number praise.“The care there is exceptional. of living veterans is declining so dra- It’s very sad that not everybody can • Short & Long Term matically that the hospital is consid- go there who deserves to be there.” • All-inclusive Meals etc. ering bringing in civilian patients – Currently there are 14 names on • Certi fied Caregivers are all veterans not treated equally? the waiting list at Ste. Anne’s, said • Up to 3 hrs of care daily In one of her many communications letters to elected officer André Bou- • Exercise Program “You need a special degree officials, including to figure out who gets what.” dreau. Renovations • Tea Time, Activities Prime Minister on the 14th floor of Stephen Harper, -Bonnie Sandler the main building she pleads for an have been recently Happy Holidays! amendment to the legislation. She completed and there are 33 avail- $ says that Allied veterans should not able beds. The Remembrance Pavil- All this f rom just 60 a da y be sent “to public care when it is not ion, which features 116 bedrooms, $ (Extra large room available f rom 75 a day) their wish. A better evaluation plan has no empty beds. “They’re all needs to be in place for Allied veter- full,” Boudreau said. The Salvation Army Montclair Residence ans. Why are benefits different for Al- Cadot, a formidable fighter in her lied veterans?” own right, plans to send a letter to For further information, please call Lac St. Louis MP Frances Scarpa- Prime Minister Harper every day leggia agrees that Allied veterans until Christmas. She has also started Vicky Stewart (514) 481-5638 should have priority access. “I’ve a petition asking for a special dero- 4413 Montclair Ave., Montreal (NDG) H4B 2J4 written to the minister asking that gation for Vialls and has collected Allied veterans get the same treat- “hundreds of names.” Owned and operated by The Salvation Army ment as Canadian Forces veterans. If A recent letter to Harper reads: the government wanted to do that in “Our families continue to be very the first place, it would require regu- saddened by the silence from your latory changes that wouldn’t happen office and are hoping that you will be overnight.” more lenient toward veteran Dennis End the year with a step Social worker Bonnie Sandler, who Vialls and our families on December works extensively with the elderly, 25, 2009, as a gesture of goodwill and says the policies of Veterans Affairs grant him his derogation.” towa rds a healthier life! are complicated. She adds,“Please grant us his dero- “It’s very hard to understand the gation, as his health and the health of different criteria as they apply to dif- his wife continue to deteriorate.”

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8 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 9 THE SENIOR TIMES Editorials Spectre of Vietnam looms in Afghanistan US President Barack Obama’s an- interference in their affairs, going back Afghan version of what was called the Thomas Friedman, the respected nouncement of a 30,000-soldier to the British withdrawal more than a “Vietnamization” in the early 1970s New York Times columnist, warns that surge to counter the Taliban insur- century ago and up to the more recent is training more Afghan soldiers and the idea the US and its allies can trans- gency in Afghanistan, bringing to and disastrous attempt by Russian police. That is hardly reassuring to form Afghanistan is problematic at 100,000 the United States’ military forces to sustain the unpopular Com- Afghanis who know that a uniform best, and deepening the commitment commitment to the region, is bound munist regime.The rugged mountain- there is carte blanche for extortion and with limited prospects of anything like to fail.The parallels withVietnamare ous terrain is an ideal staging ground abuse. The arrival of 30,000 more a victory is“a prescription for disaster.” only too obvious. The only possible and hiding place for insurgents. That Americans can only mean more riches We say prepare now for some kind positive thing we can foresee at this is among the reasons why US troops for the Afghani elite whose assistance of compromise by encouraging the point is that the boost may take some failed to capture Osama bin Laden in and cooperation will be needed to Afghan regime to reach out to the in- of the heat off Canada’s 3,000-troop the Tora Bora area in December 2001. provide the infrastructure necessary surgents. Afghanistan will not in our Afghanistan contingent, which is to In Vietnam, US and allied forces for their health, safety and security. lifetimes adopt our value system. The end its combat role in 2011. were propping up a hated and cor- Let us not forget how deep is the cul- best we can hope for is to lay the On paper, one can wonder how it is rupt regime. Military expert An- tural gap that separates that country groundwork for building schools, that the Taliban, with an estimated thony Cordesman recently told the from our liberal democratic values. training teachers, doctors, nurses, and force of about 15,000 poorly armed Washington Post that the regime of Take women’s rights. The recent com- engineers and inculcating the essence soldiers, can manage to hold out Hamid Karzai is “a grossly over-cen- promise on family law, after the inter- of our traditions and the rule of law to against a coalition of 43 nations tralized government that is corrupt, national outcry over the initial draft in a new educated elite. Maybe a decent equipped with the most sophisticated is often a tool of power brokers and which married women could not re- life will be possible in at least parts of weaponry and communications capa- narco-traffickers, and lacks basic ca- fuse sex with their husbands, is this: A the country, justifying to some degree bility. The short answer is that, much pacity in virtually every ministry.” husband may deny food to his spouse, the sacrifice of more than 132 Cana- as in Vietnam, there is a fierce and in- The ballot stuffing that was a feature even until death, for refusing to have dian soldiers since 2002. Ultimately, grained determination among the var- of Karzai’s recent re-election is but a sex with her husband. A wife is now and sooner than some may think, it ious Afghan peoples to reject foreign shadow of the deeper problem. The allowed to work outside the home, but will be up to the Afghans to fashion only with her husband’s permission. the framework of their society. Christmas Ideas! Gift Certificates & Stocking Stuffers Tremblay, Bergeron step up to the plate THE WOOL SHOP While only 39 per cent of eligible ough mayor to his responsibilities. LES LAINAGES DU PETIT MOUTON voters turned out for last month’s Voters also indicated a desire for municipal elections, Montrealers change by choosing Richard Berg- EVERYTHING N Felting N Xstitch voted wisely in re-electing Mayor eron’s Projet Montreal to run Plateau YOU NEED N N Gérald Tremblay, but with a re- Mont Royal borough, and electing to Knitting Crocheting duced majority. the central city council former Gazette FOR: N Tapestries The alleged scandals in construction investigative reporter Alexander Nor- and water-meter contracts had a lot to ris. Mayor Tremblay has acknowl- Imported yarns do with it, but voters appeared to edged this important breakthrough CLASSES AVAILABLE IN: agree that the mayor himself was not by giving Bergeron responsibility for N N N involved. They seemed to say, how- urban planning. This is an opportu- Crocheting Finishing Knitting ever, that he should have been more nity for him and his party to show 295B St. Jean Blvd. 514-694-6268 vigilant. 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Take 640 west,E exit 11 direction Lachute (148). After the hospital turn left

on Industriel Blvd. At cheminN Rivière Sud, turn right and keep driving for 8km. Alan 514-941-0047 U 12570 Frenière, St-Benoit, Mirabel Que. J7N 2R9 [email protected] Denise 514-927-9042 10 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Gimme shelter: seniors face bans on Tempo carports Martin C. Barry In 2007, the borough of Villeray/St- Michel/Park Extension stepped in With snow and wind bearing down with a new bylaw cracking down on mercilessly on even the young and the use of polyethylene, particle hardy, winter in Montreal has al- board or other materials with an un- ways been a challenge for senior cit- finished look in the construction of izens. But in some areas of the the improvised winter shelters. While island, municipal officials don’t pre-fabricated Tempo shelters are seem very interested in the needs of permitted by the borough over drive- seniors, even preventing them from ways, shelters over front walks have erecting temporary car ports or now virtually disappeared. While doorway shelters to break the wind. some of the rationales for the ban In Côte St. Luc, Jay Rubinstein, a 76- were fire safety and crime prevention, year-old McAlear resident,appealed to it came into force with at least some city council recently on behalf of him- complaints from affected seniors. self and a neighbour for special per- “The main concern was to have vis- mission as seniors to be exempted ibility,” says Park Extension City from a Côte St. Luc bylaw that forbids Councillor Mary Deros, noting that Tempo car shelters in driveways if the new bylaw also made it manda- there already is a garage. tory to have windows to prevent un-

Rubinstein has lived in the same Barry C Martin Photo: desirables from lurking inside. While home in Côte St. Luc for 54 years. While acknowledging that Côte St. ago homeowners, many of them sen- effectively placing a ban on covering During a city council meeting, he Luc generally discourages Tempos iors, erected improvised doorway balconies, the borough still allows said he had a “wretched basement for aesthetic and other reasons, shelters, often fashioned from plastic shelters on front walks as long as garage and whether I hire a snow Housefather said the city allows res- sheeting and scrap pieces of wood. they’re built on a metal frame and removal firm or clean the driveway idents without garages to put them While they were regarded by some as are anchored securely. “We have an myself it is difficult to go up the up. However, he insisted, “the way “visual pollution” and there were aging population,”Deros says. driveway because of slippery condi- the bylaw is currently constructed, safety concerns as well, seniors grew “Alot of them come out to wait for a tions after a snowfall.” In addition, the city council has no discretion in to appreciate the tunnel-like struc- taxi or adapted transportation. The he added, snow removal contrac- the matter to grant you an exemp- tures, which provided an added meas- last few winters we’ve had a lot of tors will not remove the accumula- tion for hardship or any other rea- ure of protection from the elements snowfall and they don’t have the tion of snow on top of cars. son. I don’t have the power to do it, on cold and blustery winter days. means or strength to shovel the snow.” Rubinstein told Côte St. Luc mayor the council doesn’t have the power to Anthony Housefather how he and do it. We’d have to change the bylaw.” the neighbour, who is recovering Housefather said he would take Ru- from cancer surgery, have two cars binstein’s request for a change in the Wishing all our clients and friends Happy Holidays! parked in their driveways without bylaw under advisement,“but I can’t any shelter. “There is no solution for grant you an exemption.” us, other than to erect a Tempo shel- In an e-mailed response to a ques- TAXIS ter,” he said. “We are an older popu- tion from The Senior Times, the lation … there’s got to be a solution. mayor confirmed, “We have no “We are just as deserving of the power to exempt anyone from a right to have one as someone who has bylaw. It (the Tempo bylaw) has been no carport or garage. … If you don’t in force for over 20 years and we will want them at all for aesthetic pur- review his request at a future date to poses it’s one thing. But why sud- see if we are interested in amending denly are the people without carports the bylaw.” allowed them and why not me?” In Park Extension, until two years 24-Hour Service N In business since 1922 N Fast and courteous service N Reservations accepted N Winter Courses Offered at our Downtown Location Special care for elderly and handicapped N Fast and safe delivery of packages N Acceptance of coupons from Diamond, Veterans & Candare N Largest fleet of vehicles on the Montreal Island 1995 / 2009 CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED GOLD

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www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 11 THE SENIOR TIMES One man’s skunk may not smell bad to another stated, “I should have thought, this is an arcane word, and everyone may not know it.” The Word Nerd In a recent article in The New York Times, Jack Rosenthal called words such as “niggardly,” that Howard Richler look as if they have a particular meaning but mean something quite different, “phantonyms.” He cited members of this club:“noisome,”which “Niggardly”was a politically incorrect mishap in doesn’t mean “noisy,” but rather “offensive,” the offing. “enormity,”which doesn’t mean “enormousness,” In 1999, Caucasian David Howard, a top aide to but “monstrous wickedness,” and “fulsome,” Private Senior Residence Washington Mayor Anthony Williams, announced which does not mean “very full,” but rather “of- to a black colleague during a committee meeting fensive to normal tastes.” Rosenthal says that “I will have to be niggardly with this fund because “when careful writers … confront a shadowy it’s not going to be a lot of money.” phantonym, they’ll resist.”Hence Barack Obama’s Notwithstanding that“niggardly”means“miserly” use of “fulsome accounting” to mean “full” was and has no etymological connection to the N-word, both erroneous and sloppy. Howard was forced to resign for uttering this nine- In a similar vein, lexicographer Bryan A. Garner • Rooms available in a caring home • Personalized care • Qualified & trained caregivers • Short or long term letter word, but subsequently reinstated and shifted in Garner’s Modern American Usage linguist states to a different department. Howard wished he had that “when a word undergoes a marked change Call 438-885-5876 used a different synonym such as “stingy.”He later from one use to another – a phase that might take ten years or a hundred- it’s likely to be the subject L. BERSON & SON of dispute.” An example of such is the word “effete” that tra- MONUMENTS INC. Life Coaching and Wellness ditionally meant “worn out” or “barren” but in- Since 1922 creasingly is used by some people to mean Le Centre Wholistik Personal Home Care Service “snobbishly sophisticated.” Garner adds that “a Leap & Faith • Life Coaching • Herbology word is most hotly disputed in the middle of the Happy Hanukah! 113 Ste. Anne Street • Nutrition • Counseling Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue process: any use of it is likely to distract some 3884 ST. LAWRENCE BLVD. We care about our clients. readers.”He characterizes these disputed words as Montreal 514-505-0535 We ensure a safe, warm “skunked” and best avoided. 514-910-3713 and friendly service. 514-845-7700 www.leapandfaith.com We come to you! The reality of what qualifies as a “shadowy phantonym,” or a “skunked” word is not as clear- cut as Rosenthal or Garner pretend. Can anyone say definitively when a word has been “skunked”? Garner includes in his list of skunked words, We don’t just care for plants, “decimate” and “hopefully,” whereas I regard the use of “decimate”to mean“kill one-tenth”and the we care exclusive use of “hopefully” to mean only “in a hopeful manner” and not “one hopes,” or “it is to about them! be hoped,”to be hopelessly moribund. 514 779 CARE ( 2273 ) Similarly, some language purists argue that the www.ccservice.ca word “dilemma” should only be used to refer to a choice between two unpleasant alternatives and not a plight or predicament, but most dictionaries Happy Chanukah allow for this latter sense. And who is to be the sine qua non arbiter on We have Rabbi Mordechai Tober what qualifies as proper English? According to JosephPastor RayFoisy Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary and other your size! 3725Jean-TalonWest 514-344-1716 US dictionaries,“infer”means the same as“imply,” “peruse” means not only to “examine carefully” but to “read over in a casual manner,”“disinter- ested” can mean “not interested” as well as “im- Amplified phones, partial” and “enormity” can mean the same as Signallers, TV Ears, “enormousness.” Alas, these liberal positions are heresy to some language observers. Magnifiers for low Recently deceased language commentator William Safire started out as a rigid prescriptivist but even vision and for hobby he acknowledged in his book In Love With Norma use, Portable video Loquendi that the masses represent the final arbiter of language:“The rules laid down by elites are to be magnifiers respected … but in the end democracy, which goes HUNDREDS OF ITEMS TO HELP YOU! by the name of common usage, will work its will. … When the population challenges the order over a pe- riod of time, Norma Loquendi – the everyday voice Ultravision of the native speaker – is the heroine who changes 5645 Côte-des-Neiges the order and raises a new standard.” Corner Côte Ste-Catherine Metro CDN Free parking Howard Richler’s latest book, Strange Bedfellows: The Private Lives of Words, will be published in 514-344-3988 www.ultravisionmontreal.com March 2010 by Ronsdale Press. 12 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Can my landlord force me to get rid of my pet? at depends. A“no pets”clause in a lease can lead and the existence of the“no pets”clause clause in the lease. A few years later, to conflict between a tenant who Legal Ease is not unreasonable the tenant cannot one animal died and the landlord or- keeps a pet and a landlord. Rental keep her cat.However,the judge in ap- dered the tenant not to replace it but Board and Court of Quebec judg- Joyce Blond peal ruled in the tenant’s favour,saying she did. The landlord returned to the ments are contradictory, making it Frank the cat was of benefit to her health and Rental Board, which said the old dog difficult to advise people as to their B.A., B.C.L., LL.M. the clause prohibiting the presence of could stay but that past possession of rights in these situations. animals was abusive in this case. an animal did not constitute an ac- The law states that “every lessee has question is: When can a “no pets” In a case involving animal therapy quired right. The tenant was ordered a personal right to maintain occu- clause be considered abusive and with a child, the court held that to get rid of the new dog. On appeal, pancy.”This means tenants cannot be therefore null and void? This has clauses prohibiting the presence of the judge held that the tolerance ex- evicted from their premises except in happened in cases where animal animals were not of themselves abu- ercised by the landlord for several cases provided for by law such as non- therapy has been required as part of sive, but to deprive this particular years did signify a renunciation of the payment of rent and disturbing other the medical care of a tenant. child of his animal would be equiva- “no animals” clause and permitted tenants. However, the landlord also In one such case, a 71-year-old ten- lent to depriving him of care. This the tenant to keep both dogs. has rights, one of which is the right to ant was obliged to give up her cat when would impose an unreasonable obli- What we learn from these cases is modify a condition of the lease at the moving into an apartment where ani- gation on the tenant and the clause that there is no certainty as to the re- time of renewal upon giving the ten- mals were not allowed. Suffering from would be abusive. The court ruled sult of a landlord-tenant conflict re- ant notice of at least three months. health problems, she asked the land- that the child could keep the dog until garding possession of animals. “No These respective rights clash when a lord to agree to let her get a cat. He he was no longer in therapy. pets” clauses have been deemed valid person signs a lease that does not pro- refused. In spite of this, six years after In a similar case, the Rental Board and reasonable in themselves, but hibit pets, but the landlord then modi- giving up her cat,she obtained another listened to the testimony of a child their application must not be discrim- fiestheleaseatrenewaltimebyaddinga one on the grounds that the company psychiatrist and social worker and inatory, unreasonable or abusive. “no pets”clause.The tenant can contest of the animal was therapeutic for her. held the animal could be kept, but Landlords have a right to modify any thenewclausethesamewayhecancon- She went before the rental board with the judge in appeal deemed the evi- clause in the lease, but if the modifica- testarentalincrease:bysendinganotice an animal therapy witness to plead her dence insufficient and gave the ten- tions are contested, the tribunal’s de- of objection to the landlord within 30 case, but her request was denied. The ant 90 days to get rid of the dog. cision is rendered as a function of the days. The landlord then has 30 days to judgment was overturned on appeal Where a landlord had tolerated the tenant’s right to remain in the prem- apply to the Rental Board for a hearing on the grounds that the medical evi- existence of two dogs belonging to ises and the possible abuse that can on the matter.If either party is dissatis- dence established that if she was the same person for several years be- result from the modification. fied with the judgment rendered by the obliged to get rid of the cat she would fore going to the Rental Board, the Assuming the animal is not an an- Rental Board,he can ask for permission suffer depression and her cardiac con- board held that his toleration of the noyance to others and where the to appeal to the Court of Quebec. dition would deteriorate. Under such dogs for seven years was equivalent to modification would oblige the tenant The law also states that “a clause circumstances it was reasonable to a renunciation of the “no animals” to move, it should not be approved. imposing an obligation on the lessee conclude that the life of the tenant which is unreasonable in the circum- would be endangered were she denied stances is an abusive clause. Such a permission to keep her cat. clause is null or the obligation aris- In another case the board held that ing from it may be reduced.” The where a tenant signs a lease voluntarily

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www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 13 THE SENIOR TIMES Suzanne Lamarre Adjusting to ambiguous loss a lasting struggle Nadia De Riggi wedding anniversary? The worlds of families dealing with Alzheimer’s begin to shrink, leading NOTAIRES • NOTARIES Let’s talk about it to their isolation. 3333 Cavendish Blvd. Bonnie Sandler, S.W. Different family members will respond differ- Suite 198 ently to the introduction of Alzheimer’s into the lives of their loved ones. Some will be in denial, some will feel shame and want to keep the dis- 514-484-2788 We feel “ambiguous loss” for people who are ease a secret, adding greater stress to the family, physically present but psychologically absent. while others will readily educate themselves and You might feel this way for someone who is in a seek support. coma, or someone who has Alzheimer’s. In dealing with Alzheimer’s, families have the They remain family members, but in an altered added burden of the stigma. They are often unwill- Large Selection of state; they are no longer the people they once were. ing to share their intimate stories with those in their Unlike in the case of the death of a loved one, there Exclusive Outerwear! is no closure and there are no rituals to follow. “Because there is no death, there is no • Manufacturer You, their loved one, are left in a state of confu- opportunity to say goodbye.” • Fine Shearlings sion, dealing with a physical body and an absent • Capes mind. Families dealing with such loss are often social circle, and end up withdrawing from a poten- • Hats & Accessories overwhelmed. tial source of support. The person with the disease For men & women Because there is no death, there is no opportu- undergoes traumatic changes that in turn affect each Ready or custom made nity to say goodbye, and support systems often member of their familial and social network. Trade-ins accepted! fall by the wayside. Friends and families may be Reactions to psycho-social loss may include guilt 206 St. Paul West uncomfortable with the situation and unsure and depression. Anger is a common side effect (corner St. François-Xavier) how to respond. This results in fragile families when dealing with Alzheimer’s in the family. Dis- Tel.: (514) 844-7483 who don’t receive much-needed social support. appointment with non-supportive friends turns to www.dubarryfurs.com 9K2 Many of these ambiguous losses last for years and anger that can be directed at the affected person. leave families in a state of perpetual grief. Friends Another cause of frustration is the false belief that and family do not know how to deal with life people with Alzheimer’s have the ability to control cycle events. Does one call on the birthday of their own behaviour. In later stages, caregivers can someone with dementia? What about a couple’s become exhausted and angry, feeling that they have lost much of their own lives in the years of caring FLORIDE–MIAMI BEACH for someone who is emotionally absent. In the case of a spouse of a person with demen- CONDOS: Tout équipés sur la plage tia, the role and definition of “spouse” becomes •Occupation: 2 à 4 personnes unclear. How can you be married if your spouse •À la semaine ou au mois no longer knows your name, no longer recognizes you and can no longer fulfill any of the responsi- 800$ / 1900$ et + (US$) bilities one associates with being a husband or www.vacanciersdusud.com wife? If you find yourself wanting to find com- Mimi : 514-833-8513 panionship with someone else, you may feel con- fused and guilty. This confusion is likely to spread, as friends may not know how to react to someone who is technically married yet begins a relation- WESTMOUNT PARK ship with a new person. Support can be sparse in UNITED CHURCH such a case, as people may be quick to judge you as disloyal since your spouse is still alive. 4695 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W. corner Lansdowne Support groups can help people in such situa- 514-937-1146 tions deal with the adjustments they will have to Christmas Eve Carol Service make because of the profound losses presented to them on a daily basis. December 24th 7:30 p.m. Rev. Frank Giffen, Minister Children are welcome! Questions and comments can be directed to Bonnie Sandler at [email protected].

14 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES e Vatican continues its move to the right

This has been a year when the signs bishops are the ones most likely to tive consequences of his efforts to from Rome suggest the Vatican is accept the pope’s invitation. This try to reconcile the ultra-conserva- moving steadily to the right. Pit Stop means the most conservative ele- tive Pius X Society when he goes to One of those signs is Rome’s inves- ments of the Anglican church would the synagogue in Rome on January tigation into American nuns. This Neil McKenty become Catholics. This development 17 because many rabbis intend to inquiry is concerned with the will make the Catholic church more boycott the visit. He added that lifestyle of the nuns and their atti- conservative and the Anglican Christian-Jewish dialogue is now tudes toward such issues as female virtually no bishops have resigned. church more liberal. “in a serious crisis.” priests, gay marriage and the rela- The religious women that Rome is At the same time, an influx of mar- However, this move to more con- tionship of the Catholic church to targeting are members of congrega- ried Anglican priests into the servatism in the church has just sus- non-Christian religions. tions that have taught in Catholic Catholic church will raise in a dra- tained a major setback in Ireland, It is curious indeed that Rome grade schools and high schools, matic way Rome’s insistence on one of the most conservative should launch a full-scale investiga- academies and colleges. They are the celibacy for its own priests. It is also Catholic countries in the world. tion into American nuns. After all, sisters who have staffed hospitals and interesting to note that on its initia- After a three-year investigation and nuns had virtually nothing to do worked to relieve homelessness and tive to reach out to Anglicans, partic- a 700-page report into the crimes of with the paramount problem in the to develop low-cost housing. ularly in England, the pope made no priestly sex abuse in the Archdiocese American church – the child abuse Naturally, American nuns are ex- of Dublin, the conservative Irish scandal perpetrated by Catholic tremely upset at Rome’s vote of non- Christian-Jewish church is reeling. The report on priests and brothers and aided and confidence in their lifestyles and dialogue is now priestly sex abuse in the Dublin abetted by Catholic bishops. ministries. “in a serious crisis.” Archdiocese reveals that for almost Rome has launched no investiga- One of them has expressed her dis- half a century about 50 Irish priests tion into either the priests or the appointment: “There is simply no -Professor John Pawlikowski have sexually abused hundreds of in- bishops. In fact, Cardinal Law, one of way of getting away from the fact nocent children. What’s more, a se- the main culprits, was summoned to that in the Catholic Church it is men effort to consult his English bishops ries of bishops in Dublin aided and Rome and promoted. who tell women how they should or, for that matter, the Archbishop of abetted this abuse. Yet it is the nuns who are under the understand themselves as women. Canterbury, Rowan Williams. This is Some senior political leaders in Ire- gun. One reason is the precipitous Rome wants women religious to ac- just one more instance of a further land are demanding that these bish- drop in the number of American cept such understandings, not conservative trend in the church – to ops resign. This sexual crisis marks merely without dissent, but without centralize all authority in Rome. the end of the authoritarian church “In the Catholic church it comment. The Vatican does not want At the same time, Rome is in dis- in Ireland, an authoritarianism that is men who tell women how independent-minded women the- cussions with the bishops and priests has held sway for centuries and is they should understand ologians or biblical scholars and in the Society of St. Pius X, which re- comparable in some ways to the seemingly won’t read or quote them jects the liberalizing teachings of the Quebec church in the times of Mau- themselves as women.” unless the women mimic the Vati- Second Vatican Council. It was one rice Duplessis. Of course, the suffo- -outspoken U.S. nun can’s – and that means men’s – voices of those bishops – who denied the cating grip of the Catholic church in and views. But we are not ‘men’ or Holocaust – that the pope welcomed Quebec has long since collapsed. It nuns. Forty years ago there were ‘mankind.’ We are persons with back into the church. will be interesting indeed to see if 180,000 vowed sisters in the United minds and hearts and voices who It is difficult to understand how church authority and practice col- States. Today there are fewer than have lived lives of integrity and loy- Rome could sit down and negotiate lapse in Ireland. 60,000. Yet the number of priests has alty and who remain loyal to this with a group that rejects most of It will be also interesting to see also dropped sharply during the church even when it treats us as sec- the teachings of Vatican II, includ- whether in the coming year the Vati- same period, leaving more than 10 ond-class citizens.” ing the Council’s reaching out to can continues its move to the right. I per cent of parishes without resident It will be interesting to see whether the Jewish faith. A former head of should think so. Rome seems pre- priests. Why isn’t the priest shortage this crackdown on nuns will manage the International Council of Chris- pared to live with a smaller conser- the subject of an investigation? to force the toothpaste back in the tians and Jews, Professor John Paw- vative church as long as the During this same period U.S. bish- tube and develop a more docile, con- likowski, has warned that the pope adherents who remain are docile and ops presided over a sexual abuse servative sisterhood. may be confronted with the nega- obedient. scandal that has cost the Catholic The Vatican’s attempt to entice community more than $2 billion and more Anglicans to cross the Tibre the episcopacy much of its moral also seems to be a move to the right. credibility. So why no visitation for Those Anglicans who oppose gay the bishops? One might also ask why marriage and female priests and McGill Residence LaSalle WANTED: WOMEN 65 YEARS and OLDER to participate in a study on memory and mood. If you have

• Nurses aides on staff ever taken hormone therapy, you will need to supply contact 24 hrs/day information for the doctor who prescribed it for you. • 3 home-cooked meals Your participation will involve a one-time visit to our per day & snacks laboratory to fill out questionnaires, to perform paper-and • Transportation to medical pencil memory tests, and to provide a blood sample. or other appointments Compensation will be provided for travel expenses. • Two beautiful parks on street • Close to Angrignon For more information, please call Shopping Mall Dr. Miglena Grigorova at (514) 398-6145. Call Angelo This study is under the direction of Dr. Barbara B. Sherwin, Department of Psychology, 514-807-6310 8100 Giguere, LaSalle McGill University www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 15 THE SENIOR TIMES Transform your food, then let it transform you Fundamentally, cooking is about don Hamersley’s Bistro Cooking at one side. Be sure not to move it – it transformation. Home. When it comes to home cook- will from a beautiful crust. Turn the I was thinking about this while eat- Flavour Guy ing, there are approaches more com- meat over, brush the crust with some ing lunch. Lunch, chez nous, is in- Barry Lazar forting than Hamersley’s, which leans of the melted garlic butter then put variably a transformation: last night’s toward gourmand rather than gour- it in the oven for five to 15 minutes roast beef, sliced thin and served cold met. Here is a version of his bistro- more, depending on the thickness. with salad, or an omelet wrapped chicken broth, itself a reduction of style steak, which we made recently Remove it every few minutes to around day-old cooked vegetables water, vegetable ends and bones from with a small piece of prime rib (1.5 brush it with more garlic butter and and freshly grated cheese. last week’s roasted chicken, with left- kilos or about three pounds – perfect check the temperature. If you are More often, the transformation is over fried rice and frozen shrimp. The for two) we got on sale at Metro. using an instant-read thermometer, in the guise of soup.The process be- fried rice was initially served steamed, First, make garlic butter. This will take the meat from the oven when it gins several meals back.For the first, so it has now gone through two trans- have a dozen uses, so it is worth the reaches 130F (about 55C). If you are I focus on the freshness of the mar- formations. With each version I add a effort. Mash two or three cloves of not using a thermometer, insert a ket – vegetables simply prepared and new dynamic. It could be soy sauce or garlic with some salt, pepper and sharp, thin knife into the meat. If the fish or meat, dashed with salt and a curry, a spicy tomato sauce, perhaps thyme. I use a mortar and pestle for blade is cool to the touch, the meat pepper and broiled or fried quickly highly seasoned bits of smoked meat, this, but a food processor works well, should cook more. It is ready (and to sear in the flavours. Next day, the a can of lentils or chick peas. We are too. Mix this into a softened stick (8 rare) as soon as the blade is too hot cold salmon gets chopped into salad now into the realms of stews, gumbos, tablespoons) of unsalted butter. to touch. Let the meat rest for five to or the chicken supplements pasta. chowders and chili. If I want some- Mold the butter into a log and wrap 10 minutes on a warm plate before The day after that, I heat up broth thing more refined, I throw every- in waxed paper or plastic wrap and carving. This ensures that the juices and serve chicken noodle soup, or thing into the blender. Then I heat up put it in the fridge. Take a thick steak stay in the meat when you slice it. with the fish and salad I might add the slurry, sprinkle chopped herbs (or, in our case, the roast) and let it While the meat rests, pour the fat stock plus Thai seasonings or Viet- (celery, chives, parsley or marjoram come to room temperature. Dry any from the pan, add the rest of the namese fish sauce and head in an are all great) and spoon on a dollop moisture with a paper towel and pat melted garlic butter and a half cup of oriental direction. of yogourt or sour cream at the table. it liberally with salt and freshly red wine or chicken stock. Heat the Today’s lunch brought together Recently, I’ve been re-reading Gor- ground pepper. Melt half the garlic sauce, scraping any caramelized bits butter in a small pan. Heat the oven of meat from the pan. Cook to reduce to 425F (about 220C). When the the liquid to a quarter cup. Pour this oven is ready, take an oven-proof fry- over the meat while serving. Eat ing pan big enough for the meat, slowly. It’s a transforming experience. Delivered to your home! pour in several tablespoons of veg- Lower in salt and made with fresh etable oil and heat until the oil is very Barry Lazar is the Flavourguy. E- ingredients. Meals come in biodegradable hot, but not smoking. Put the steak mail him at flavourguy@thesenior containers for easy freezing, and can be in and cook it for five minutes on times.com. heated in the microwave or oven. For Menu call: Gluten-free doesn’t have to be dessert-free 514 713-1951 or 613 632-9249 One in 133 Canadians that most commercially Elaine Randolph, an A convenient way to have a nutritional home-style meal. [email protected] From the freezer to microwave oven. www.comfortmeals.ca is gluten-intolerant. prepared pastries, avid cook and baker, The majority of baked breads, pastas, paninis opened The Gluten-Free goods are made from and sandwiches are off Gourmet this summer, New Tasty wheat, which means limits to them. and offers gluten-free Recipes cooking classes at her home in Côte St. Luc. In her classes she puts Don’t feel like cooking? together recipes that use We can help you! grains and nut flours (high in fibre and easier DAILYFOOD (CANADA INC.) to digest than grains) to replace the wheat in Presents its door sale popular recipes. SALE OF FROZEN MEALS She also reveals a se- cret ingredient for Sunday January 31, 2010 making light and From 10 am to 3 pm paper-thin crêpes, which are hard to dis- Large variety of healthy frozen meals tinguish from wheat- Seafood, chicken, beef, lamb, fish, vegetarian, pasta based ones and can be Starting from $1.50 to $4.50 per meal turned into quiches, (min. order of 4 to 10 meals depending on meal) cannelloni, pizzas, blintzes, desserts and CASH ONLY • Tasting available on site more. Classes are offered on Delta Dailyfood Canada Inc. For information Saturday afternoons call: 26 Séguin Street, Rigaud and Thursday evenings. The cost is $40 includ- 450-451-6761 450-451-6761 ext. 212 ing tastings and take- 30 minutes from West Island ext. 212 Exit 9, Highway 40 (Direction Ottawa) New address in Pincourt home desserts. Call 514-482-1095 for information. 16 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Sid Stevens honoured at gala Manoir Westmount

nd Patio dens a • All the n Gar Comfo eptio ely rts of tyle Rec Lov Your Home • Hotel-s

• Professional health care personnel 24 hours per day • State of the art smoke and sprinkler system • Spacious main lounges and attractive outdoor patio • Large elegant dining room and bar • Close to shopping, churches, library and recreation Photo: Nicholas Carpentier People making a difference in the community: • All inclusive rates from $1715 / month (left to right) Father John Walsh; Lois Tafler, president of the Jewish Eldercare Auxiliary; Sid Stevens, Sun Youth’s executive vice-president; www.manoirwestmount.ca Marilyn Aisen, gala chair; and Montreal Mayor Gérald Tremblay. For an appointment to view, please call Best Wishes On October 25, Sid Stevens, Sun funds to purchase state-of-the-art Youth’s executive vice-President electric beds for the residents of the (514) 937-3943 for the and co-founder, was the guest of Jewish Eldercare Centre. Manoi r Westmount Inc. Holiday Season! honour of the Jewish Eldercare Montreal Mayor Gérald Tremblay 4646 Sherb rooke St reet West Auxiliary Annual Gala. and Father John Walsh paid a vibrant Westmount, Quebec H3Z 2Z8 Many prominent guests attended tribute to Stevens for his 55 years of A Project of The Rotary Club of Westmount this event. The goal was to raise community involvement.

A Tribute to Robbie Burns Sunday January 24th r 2 to 4 pm

Traditional Scottish food, music, dancers & Robbie Burns poetry recital!

Free admission R.S.V.P. Before January 17th Location Le Salon

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www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 17 THE SENIOR TIMES Righteous Gentiles honoured at Segal Centre Byron Toben

In The Human Condition, Masaki Kobayashi’s nine-hour film epic about the Japanese occupation of Manchuria — called by some the greatest film ever made — Kaji, a liberal intellectual drafted into the army to supervise starving Chinese prisoners, meets their leader, an aged spokesman. Photos: Anna Ronij L to R: Marian Golebiowski, Marianna Krasnodebeska, Ewa Juczyk-Ziomecka, The prisoner, sensing a sympathetic Secretary of State Joanna Sobolewska; chancellery of the president of the soul in Kaji, urges him to help the Republic of Poland, Tadeusz Zylinski; Consul General, Janina Rozecka prisoners. When Kaji queries how he can do that, the leader replies “When good men are confronted with evil, WILLIAMS & ESBER INC. they will find a way to act.” Later, Anna Poray tells the stories of Righteous Poles in her book TRUSTED when the brutal Kempei-Tai (Japan- SINCE 1957 ese military police) seek to chop Golebiowski,90 as they were honoured. INDEPENDENT heads for fun, Kaji intervenes, at the In a handsome book issued in 2008 INSURANCE BROKERS risk of his own head. for the tour, which was attended by • AUTO This powerful episode flashed into Barack Obama in Washington last • HOME OWNERS INCLUDING HIGH my head as I attended an event called spring, the stories of 65 Righteous are VALUED HOMES When Decency Met Heroism during related in detail.An amusing anecdote • CONDO OWNERS its final Canadian stop at the Segal told how Jews were taught the rosary & TENANTS INSURANCE Centre. The event honoured a group and the sign of the cross to pose as • TRAVEL of Righteous Poles and Holocaust Catholics. But Magdalena Grodzka, • LIFE INSURANCE survivors. 84, relates, they signed too reveren- PRODUCTS In tandem with the construction in tially and slowly, closing their eyes. “Don’t Buy Insurance Warsaw of the new Museum of the “Who’s ever seen such a thing?” she Until WE Talk!” 514-481-0181 History of Polish Jews is an archive asked. It was a tip-off to the Nazis. 4999 Ste. Catherine St. W., Suite 208, Westmount inspired by the tribute to Righteous She explained, one should “wave www.weinsure.ca Gentiles at Yad Vashem in Israel to your hand around quickly, without over 6,000 individual Poles who touching: one-two-three.” risked their own lives to shelter Jews. After the tributes, the joint started Happy Hanukah & Best Wishes for a Healthy & Happy New Year! It is inspiring to remember that, in swinging with Yiddish songs by the addition to famous diplomats who dynamic Theresa Tova, last seen here issued escape visas to thousands – in concert during the Yiddish The- Raoul Wallenberg of Sweden and atre Festival in June. Matt Herskowitz Chiuga Sugihara of Japan, for exam- pounded the ivories with the fervor ple there were a myriad of ordinary of Oscar Peterson, and Bryna people who, like Kaji, did the right Wasserman led viewers, including thing when confronted. the amazingly spry honorees, in a The Polish ambassador to Canada ac- concluding hora-like dance finale. companied Marianna Krasnodebeska, Visit the Museum of the History of 86; Janina Rozecka, 87; and Marian Polish Jews at www.righteous.pl.

Holocaust survivor Anna Clarke 18 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Left: Marianna Krasnodebeska, one of the Righteous, with mother and son Lena and Adam Atlas (president of the Quebec Jewish Congress). Middle: Teresa Tova and Righteous Pole Janina Rozecka. Right: Author, Anna Poray, with Marian Golebiowski, a Righteous Pole who appears in her book

Kathleen Weil Raymond Bachand Pierre Arcand Yolande James MNA for MNA for Outremont MNA for Mont-Royal MNA for Nelligan Notre-Dame-de-Grâce Minister of Finance Minister of International Relations Minister of Immigration Minister of Justice and Minister responsible for Minister responsible & Cultural Communities Attorney General the Montreal region for Francophonie 514-428-8747 514-489-7581 514-482-0199 514-341-1151

Best wishes for a Healthy and Happy Holiday season!

Guy Ouellette François Ouimet En cette période des fêtes Jacques Chagnon MNA for Chomedey MNA for il nous fait plaisir MNA for Parliamentary assistant to the Marquette de vous offrir nos vœux Westmount–Saint-Louis Minister for Transport Parliamentary assistant les plus chaleureux! Vice President of Parliamentary assistant to the to the Minister for Justice the National Assembly Minister of Revenue 514-634-9720 514-395-2929 450-686-0166

Geoffrey Kelley Pierre Marsan Lawrence S. Bergman Henri-François Gautrin MNA for Jacques-Cartier MNA for MNA for MNA for Chair of the Health and Social Services Robert-Baldwin D’Arcy-McGee Verdun Committee; Parliamentary Assistant Chair, Committee on Chairman of the 514-766-7503 to the Minister of Public Security Culture and Education Government Caucus 514-697-7663 514-684-9000 514-488-7028

www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 19 THE SENIOR TIMES Happy Holidays from all of us behind the pages of THE SENIOR TIMES Barbara

Shirley Albert Thelma Kristine Sandra Gloria

Jodie Shannon Jackie Scott Alice Andrea

GRAND OPENING ret ire ORIGINALS Up to ALL OUR Pre-Sale before FRAGRANCES Christmas in style Plaza Alexis Nion Level Atwater metro 514-933-6363 or or

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or less or less or less At the Montefiore you can enjoy the convenience of a retirement residence men or women or or with all the comforts of home. For more than 20 years the Manoir Montefiore is proud to be at the service of the elderly. Our professional dedicated caring staff provide the finest healthcare in a warm and dignified environment.

• Independent & nursing care • 24 hour nursing supervision or less or less or less • Social & recreational programs • Housekeeping and laundry services • Walking distance from all services (mall, library, and parks) box of 3 pieces or or • Kosher residence and synagogue on site

Call us for a tour, a lunch and pick up if necessary at 514-485-5994 or less or less or less 5885 Cavendish • www.reveraliving.com 20 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Kensington Knitters do it again Kristine Berey just creeping up to 11 a.m. and the Kensington Knitters’ Famous Hat Carefully lined up on the impro- Sale hadn’t even begun. vised sales counter, the merchan- The sale is an offshoot of the knit- dise looked like toy soldiers ters’ raison d’être for the last nine preparing to go forth on their mis- years, the production and exhibition sion. Cozy and colourful, the knit- of blankets, toques and all kinds of ted hats stood proudly on islands of knitted goodies created for the street rolled up matching scarves, meant kids of Dans La Rue, an organization to warm regular, little and very little founded by Father Emmett Johns. heads. Baby blankets and doggie This year, as every year, there was a sweaters completed the tableau. fashion show and Pops had come to Within seconds, a whole faction of collect the gifts in person. the army was gone, destined for Miriam Berger, founder of the knit- grandchildren who were “just turn- ters, was busy waiting on staff and ing 40” and great grand-children residents who had come to browse, “just now being born.”The clock was try and buy the lovely items at the Photos: Kristine Berey sale. But veteran From left: Elinor Cohen, Pauline Ouimet, Libby O’Brien, Jewel Poch, Miriam Berger Knitter Elinor Cohen explained that the the very special community that the Tencer, 103 next April, says that Knitters had a triple Kensington Knitters has become. though she knows the craft, her mom purpose: to help kids “It keeps us involved,” Cohen said. was the real expert. “She used to knit directly and by rais- “Each one makes something they’re and I used to watch,” she recalls. ing money (proceeds capable of doing. One lady makes just Along with her visiting daughter-in- from the sale and an baby blankets. Some do one square, law Beverly, who is “more like a upcoming raffle are then they bring it to me and I crochet daughter,”she got drafted some time earmarked for the around the edges.” Including both ago into the knitters’ army and winds Montreal Children’s autonomous and assisted living, the yarn, making sure people have dif- Hospital), to involve Cohen estimates there are 30 partici- ferent colours to work with. “Some- the residents at what- pating knitters at Place Kensington. body has to prepare the wool,”says the ever level they You don’t have to be “big on knit- six-time great grandmother. “Any Anna Tencer, 103 next April, with daughter-in-law Beverly choose, and to create ting” to be a Kensington Knitter.Anna good that you can do is important.”

Canada

We would like to extend to you our best wishes for health, happiness and prosperity for the Holiday Season.

Hon. Stéphane Dion Hon. Irwin Cotler Joyeux temps des Fêtes! Hon. Marlene Jennings P.C., M.P. P.C., O.C., M.P. Nous offrons à tous, P.C., M.P. Saint-Laurent–Cartierville Mount Royal nos vœux de bonheur, NDG–Lachine 514-335-6655 514-283-0171 de santé et de prospérité! 514-489-8703

Dr. Bernard Patry Marc Garneau Francis Scarpaleggia Lise Zarac M.P. M.P. M.P. M.P. Pierrefonds–Dollard Westmount–Ville-Marie Lac-Saint-Louis LaSalle–Émard 514-624-5725 514-283-2013 514-695-6661 514-363-0954

www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 21 THE SENIOR TIMES Great Can-Lit picks for all ages

Kristine Berey In Sister Wife, also nominated in this category, Munro was a primary influence on a young Shelley Hrdlitschka recreates a polygamous emerging writer, Deborah Willis, whose first short Former Governor General’s Literary Awards fi- community, here known as Unity, where young story collection, Vanishing and Other Stories, was nalist Budge Wilson, author of several novels, girls are married off to older men and where a nominated this year. short stories, and a prequel to Anne of Green strict code of behaviour overrides individual Willis is an exciting and original voice in the Gables, once said she never liked the “young human rights. landscape of Canadian fiction. Her handling of adult”category in fiction writing. This label im- Still in Children’s Literature, Tim Wynne- form is almost musical, as she sometimes tells her plies, she says, that such a book is less worthy as Jones’ The Uninvited takes readers on an eerie stories in more than one voice, in multiple time literature. “Yet, all it means is that the central journey to an enchanting country house. The frames or alternative scenarios. character is a child or that the story is told from setting’s quaint charm merely adds to the sense “The emotional range and depth of these stories, a child’s perspective”. of uneasiness throughout this gripping thriller the clarity and deftness, is astonishing,” com- This year’s GG award winner in the category of that is also a family drama. mented Munro on this debut collection. children’s literature,Caroline Pignat’s Greener Grass, Alice Munro’s short stories have been com- Those who want to escape this reality and enter is a case in point. The book recreates perhaps the pared to Chekhov’s work. In Too Much Happi- another world will be entertained and enchanted most painful period in Irish history,the 1847 potato ness, nominated in the fiction category, Munro by Annabel Lyon’s The Golden Mean. In a bold famine, when conditions were unimaginably inhu- brings us ten stories that display her mastery of leap of the imagination, Lyon explores the rela- mane and thousands were left to starve. The story, short fiction writing. Though a GG finalist this tionship between the philosopher Aristotle and his told by young Kathleen Byrne, is one of heroism, year, Munro is a three-time winner of the Gov- 13-year-old student and future conqueror of the courage and survival. ernor General’s Awards. Ancient World, Alexander the Great.

AREYOU A VETERAN OF THE SECONDWORLDWAR AND WOULD LIKE TO SHARE YOUR STORY OF SERVICE?

THE MEMORY PROJECT:STORIES OF THE SECOND WORLD W AR is providing every living Second World War veteran with an opportunity to record his or her memories through recorded interviews and digitized memorabilia. These stories will be shared with Canadians through an online digital archive at:

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Contact us to get involved. By phone toll free at: 1.866.701.1867

or by email: [email protected]

22 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Advertising Feature A cup of comfort for the holidays Faamillemille L alondealonde Familleamille d ’épiciers’épiciers iimpliquésmpliqués Faamilymily ooff G rrocers,ocers, auau sseinein ddee llaa ccommunautéommunauté activeactive iinn tthehe ccommunityommunity depuisdepuis 11949.949. sincesince 11949.949. Terrasse de l’île Marché de l’Ouest 640, Jacques Bizard, Île Bizard 11800, de Salaberry, DDO Tél. 514.620.4443 Tél. 514.685.5252

AANNAANNCCYY 6587 Somerled, Montreal Jamaican Cuisine Bring your own Wine

Purchase one meal the 2nd meal half-price Free delivery in NDG after 5 pm Expires Jan 31, 2010 • Valid Sun. - Thurs. Photo: Scott Philip Scott Photo: Un Amour des Thés’ Marie-Ève Leclair is a fount of information on tea Tel: 514-486-2629 Since time immemorial, tea has been mas depend on the way they were known for its health benefits. Many processed. Visit our renovated say that after water, tea is the most For the holiday shopper, there is a Charcuterie & Deli section popular beverage in the world. A range of “perfect gift” choices, includ- EXO fruits first-time visitor to Un Amour des ing useful or quaint tea strainers and Unusual Imported & Domestic Variety For the finest in Gourmet Delicacies Thés, a little teashop in the Monk- gadgets for under $10, seductively land Village, will be whisked away to flavoured oils and vinegars for under • NUTS • CHEESES • BREAD • COLD CUTS exotic lands where over 200 varieties $20, or a gamut of teapots, meant for • OILS • DRIED FRUIT of tea are waiting to be discovered. different types of brews, made of glass, • JAMS • COFFEE Marie-Ève Leclair, filling in for porcelain, stainless steel and even cast owner Stéphane Lemay, was a fount iron. Bite sized bits of chocolate truf- Happy Holidays! of information, explaining the differ- fles and coffee beans grown in volcanic 5192 Côte-des-Neiges HOME DELIVERY ence between black, oolong, green, earth are also available. Open Mon-Sat: 8am-9pm H Sundays: 9am-9pm yellow and white teas. Though all teas Un Amour des Thés is located at 514-738-1384 come from the leaves, twigs or buds 5612 Monkland. Info: 514-369-2999 of Camellia Sinensis, an evergreen Other locations include Outremont Asian shrub, their characteristic aro- and Laval. Great Hanukah M.K. OPENING SOON • A NEW OUTLET gift idea! K.S.R. 5845A Decarie Blvd. Tel: 514-385-0000 • 514-385-0001

Affordable Prices Deli • BarB-Q Banquet Halls Steaks • Burgers and/or Plus Catering with a Fish Delights Luncheron THE ORIGINAL Touch of Class Full Course Meals at ERNIE THE CATERER www.erniethecaterer.com $9.95

Le Marché du village makes life Fast & Reliable Delivery easier by delivering your order right in CDN, Westmount, to your door. We guarantee Outremont & TMR the produce to be as fresh as Telephone orders including if you had chosen it yourself. delivery, $3.25, in store orders Your grocer so close by Order by telephone from Monday Butcher, Fruits & Vegetables, Bakery, to Saturday, 8:30 to 4:30 Prepared Meals, Loto, Telephone Cards

www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 23 THE SENIOR TIMES A taste of Slovenia – without the airfare Matthew Rettino

Walking on Ste. Catherine St. past the Pepsi Forum, you may spot the terrace of a fine café and bakery, with its name displayed in earthy colours near the door. Pekarna’s tour-de-force is the cake display with its impressive diversity of flavours including chestnut, carrot, apple, cherry, mocha, and triple ganache. I had the strawberry cheese cake and was surprised that it had a hint of lemon zest. The cakes come in two sizes,and the bakery also makes children’s birth- Pekarna has an impressive selection of cakes day cakes, wedding cakes and caters celebrations. chocolate chip muffins that are crusty on the out- Other bakery foods include generously sized gin- side and soft on the inside. There are European gerbread men, strawberry tarts, apple pockets and candies, a range of gelato flavours and some choco- late confectionery. RESTAURANT Pekarna also serves large wrap sandwiches that have a distinct Mediterranean flavour.You can order just one or,if you’re feeding a crowd,a deluxe platter. Todrink, you can get coffee – try theViennese cof- SOUVLAKI fee – or tea, hot or cold.A lesser-known beverage on Pekarna’s menu is Euro Soda, a combination of club A warm Greek experience soda and flavoured syrup, served to the rim. This is an authentic Slovenian pastry shop you can *** Happy Holidays! *** enjoy without having to travel to Eastern Europe. Mon–Sat: noon–10 pm • Sun: 4 pm–10 pm Pekarna is located in the Pepsi Forum, 313 Ste. 514 227-0505 • 514 227-0606 Catherine W., Suite 103. Info: 514-228-5222. 6544 Somerled Sun. – Thurs. 11 am – 11 pm Fri. – Sat. 11 am – midnight

5365 des Jockeys A taste of Portugal at your doorstep (corner Decarie & Jean-Talon) FOR TAKEOUT & RESERVATIONS 514-731-6455 RESTAURANT Chanukah Greetings Fireside Best Holiday Wishes to all our clients Reserve now for your Holiday Parties Steak House under New Management ? Introducing Lunch ◆◆◆◆ Breakfast daily Mon - Sat: 6 am - 11 am Mon. - Fri. 12:00 to 2:00 pm Charcoal grilled meats & seafood Starting at Sun: 7 am - 11 am After 6 pm Daily $2.95 7 days a week Dining room • Take-out service • Catering Reception hall for all types RESTAURANT 1970 Graham, Mount-Royal of occasions up to 100 people (corner Kindersley) 514.504.5110 4759 Van Horne (near Victoria) 362 Fairmount W. Montreal www.galogrill.ca 514-737-5576 Reservations 514 270-8437

HOUSE ? A Start your day at 5:30 am ? Tommy & the La Belle the way with ? A SUPER “La Belle” SPECIAL family extends Best Wishes a sumptuous full breakfast Steak or Pepperoni for the NewYear to all? starting only at $4.95 or Vegetarian 11” Submarine their clients. OUR SUPER SPECIALS CONTINUE THROUGHOUT THE HOLIDAYS Breakfast daily 5:30am till 2pm BIG FRIES BIG POUTINE SUPER FAMILIES Spaghetti* Chicken Gyro Pita Meat sauce SPECIALS * In participating Pita 99 restaurants only 99 2 BIG FRIES BIG POUTINE 495 2

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24 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Daou delights with delectable delicacies Barbara Moser whether we wanted large or small (Labneh $6.95). You’ve never had it ($1.75) are not-so-little morsels meant portions and whether we wanted to so good, except maybe in the Druze forindividualdiners.Thethymepiewas When you dine at Daou, be sure to order the chef’s suggestions of grilled village of Daliat-el-Carmel, Israel. a puffed-up pita loaded with thyme, go with a group. That way you can meats ($25.95), a vegetarian platter Fava beans with oil,lemon and gar- which Marnie thoroughly enjoyed. I sample a selection of the restau- ($18.95), combined platter ($21.50), lic (Foule $7.50). This filling, vege- dipped my spinach pie in a few dips. rant’s delicacies. and appetizer platter ($25.95). Two tarian Lebanese comfort food was Babaganoush ($8.95 for the large This authentic Lebanese restaurant such dishes might be perfect for a done to perfection with just the right size). This blend of eggplant, sesame, has two locations: 2373 Marcel Lau- couple, but for a group of six, shar- amount of garlic and lemon, although garlic and lemon, was a masterpiece of rin in Ville St. Laurent, and the one ing larger portions of appetizers some in our party found it too salty. smooth, mouth-watering goodness. we visited, at 519 Faillon E. seemed like a better option. Here are Cooked meat stuffed with minced Of the stuffed vine leaves with ei- Wewent on a Thursday evening with the dishes we finally settled on, in no meat (Kebesanieh $9.95) This pie was ther meat or rice, most of us pre- our friends Avrum and Marnie, their particular order: a favourite with the meat lovers. ferred the vegetarian ones, although daughter, Hardial, and her boyfriend, The feisty fatouche salad ($11.95 Cheese rolls (Rakakat $7.95). We Irwin was a fan of the meaty ones. Addison.Weconstituted a rather large for the large size) was an entertaining gobbled these up fast. They’re Even our $37 bottle of Lebanese and demanding bunch of hungry and mix of veggies, oil, lemon, small pieces wrapped in a flaky filo dough and wine was divine. eager diners, which meant we got to of pita and Middle Eastern herbs that filled with soft white cheese. A For dessert, we shared Daou’s home- sample many items from the long and tasted like zatar or oregano. This was favourite of Addison’s. made Ricotta Cheese Crêpe with pis- luscious-sounding list of cold and hot yummy and fed us all at regular inter- Lebanese sausage ($5.95 for a tacchio and rosewater – a medley of appetizers. Most come in two sizes, vals. It was indeed much bigger than it small portion) is done up in a rich textures and flavours. Avrum and and we opted mostly for the larger looked on the plate. tomato sauce. Irwin’s favourite. Irwin ordered Baklava, “like my ones, which more than satisfied our Ground chick peas with pine nuts Spinach pie ($2.25) and Thyme pie mother never made,”Irwin said. pangs and palettes. (Hommus & Snoubar in Arabic; $10.25 We sat in the centre of the sleekly for the large size). This is one of my decorated, airy room and were im- favourite dishes, and at Daou it’s fresh, mediately greeted by our waiter, who lemony–andhardtostopdippingyour served us complimentary pickled pitain.Marniedescribeditasnot sticky, turnips, green olives and pita. but light with texture as well as flavour. We were a somewhat complicated Red pepper & walnut dip (Muha- TUSCANY GRILL group and full of questions, but the mara $6.75). It’s an original and an- waiter was calm as he walked around other of my favourites. It’s tangy and answering all our queries. He was ob- spreadable, but I wouldn’t advise too Happy Hanukah! Holiday Greetings viously used to diners who don’t much spreading or you won’t have know their fatouche from their foule. room for the other dishes. to all our clients and friends! We kept changing our minds about Pressed cream yogourt with garlic LUNCH SPECIALS starting at $8.95 EVENING TABLE D’HÔTE starting at $16.95 Including antipasto and salad bar at Lunch and Dinner SUMPTUOUS BREAKFAST SPECIALS Saturday & Sunday beginning at 8 a.m.

3800 St-Jean Blvd D.D.O. 514-626-5757

LASALLE • 8520 NEWMAN BLVD RESERVATION 514-595-3535

www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 25 THE SENIOR TIMES Christmas classic brings out the child in all of us Alice Abracen to life on Christmas Eve. She aids dedicated to the creation him in an epic battle against the and performance of new There is one holiday show that can Mouse King and travels to the Land ballets, the updating of always unite us in the ephemeral of the Sweets and the Land of Snow time-honoured classical bliss enjoyed by children Christmas to be serenaded by dancers whose productions and the in- morning. Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikov- musical numbers include the Waltz troduction of the art to sky’s surreal ballet has captivated of the Flowers and the dance of the younger audiences audiences since 1891. This year, Sugarplum Fairy. through matinees and Pointe Claire’s Ballet Ouest Theatre The year of Ballet Ouest’s founda- travelling presentations. presents its annual production of tion, 1984, also marked the year of The Nutcracker’s appeal The Nutcracker. its first production of The Nut- for children lies not only in The Nutcracker has immortalized cracker. Founder, artistic director its delving into the realm of through dance the tale of young and choreographer Margaret fantasy, but also within the Clara, whose gift, a nutcracker, comes Mehuys has built a ballet company composition of the cast. The roles of Ouest, Colbeck says. Clara and her brother, who eagerly The Ballet Ouest production keeps clamour beneath the Christmas tree to the traditional, classical presenta- in the beginning of the ballet, as well tion of The Nutcracker: The audience as many of the magical personalities can expect a beautiful performance Clara meets in her adventures, are adorned with magical costumes that played by children. belong to the dreamworld in which “You don’t often get to see children Clara navigates. Audiences of all ages performing,” says Elaina Colbeck, are encouraged to join Clara in her manager of the Centre de Danse, the journey and share in the privilege of school and studio portion of Ballet witnessing the legacy of one of the Ouest.“It’s very inspirational for any greatest examples of the performing child who dances or takes ballet.” arts that has long crowned the holi- There are over 60 children in the cast day season. this year. “It’s quite an act of coordi- Performances of Ballet Ouest’s nation to get them all together,”Col- Nutcracker take place December 12 beck says. at Théâtre des Deux Rives, St. Jean The costumes are designed by sur Richelieu, and December 19 and Marie Stamour. Numerous produc- 20 at Salle J-Antonio Thompson, tions over the years have made for a Trois-Rivières. Info: 514-987-6919 or very extensive costume bank at Ballet 514- 783-1245.

A MUST FOR THIS rice Upon a Time WINTER !

FUN DANCE ENTERTAINMENT Photo: Y. St. Jean Drawing on legends both familiar with movement and space in a spec- and foreign, Montreal’s award- tacular fashion.” winning Théâtre DynamO returns Thrice Upon a Time runs January SPECIAL EVENING ON this winter from its international 29-February 7 at Moyse Hall, McGill st tour to Geordie’s stage to present University, 853 Sherbrooke W. DECEMBER 31 the modern fairy tale Thrice Upon Tickets cost $13.50 for children, a Time. $16 for adults and $15 for seniors. A young boy, stranded on a myste- Call 514-845-9810. Geordie is also NOVEMBER 19 TO JANUARY 30 rious island, meets a strange creature introducing its Fives for Free pro- who sets him on a quest to defeat a gram: Five-year-olds may attend the DINNER SHOW AT 6 P.M. | SHOW AT 8:30 P.M. villainous witch. Le Soleil’s Valérie January 30 matinee for free when ac- Lesage celebrates Thrice Upon a Time companied by an adult. Families are 514 790-1245 www.admission.com* Infos : cabaretducasino.com as “a work in which bodies speak as encouraged to try out theatre excur- 1 800 361-4595 service charges apply * loudly as words. … The structure al- sions and introduce their children to lows the performers to play around the magical world of the theatre. 26 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Lost hopes and dreams Bands face off for Maimonides

Alice Abracen “the herd” John Abbott College’s Department of Theatre presents Lanford Wilson’s Fifth of July, directed At the by Joan McBride and featuring the graduating Jim Brownell MPP students of the Professional Theatre department. Cornwall, Ontario In rural Missouri, Vietnam veteran Ken and his www.cowpatti.com 613-933-8000 lover, Jed, a horticulturalist, await visits from old Join Tour Groups Departing Montreal & Area friends from college days. All are former activists, and as the play progresses the audience is exposed Tel. 613-938-8068 to the lost hopes and dreams of those onstage and WED THUR FRI SAT SUN to the bitterness that sets in and that must be JAN 28 29 30 31 fought off if one is to continue to perceive the FEB 3 4 5 6 6 7 good that life can offer. Photo: Howard Kay Fifth of July runs until December 12 at John Ab- 10 10 11 12 13 13 14 14 bott’s Casgrain Theatre on Lakeshore in Ste. Anne Joanne Cutler performs with The Dynamics, one de Bellevue. Tickets may be purchased at the door of several bands that sang for Maimonides at its 17 17 18 19 20 20 21 th Dinner Evening Cabaret or at Student Activities. There are no reserved 7 Annual Battle of the Bands. Over $250,000 Theatre - $57 Theatre - $27 seats. Ticket prices: $14, $8 for students and sen- was raised with over 1,000 people attending Brunch Afternoon Cabaret iors. Info: 514-457-2447. both nights of festivities. Theatre - $47 Theatre - $27 EDUCATING A PLAY BY RITA WILLY RUSSELL directed by MARCIA KASH

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www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 27 THE SENIOR TIMES “The true specialist Clean up on toys as warehouses clean out in energy savings” A homegrown company, Mega Brands just had CHAUFFAGE HEATING: ELECTRIC, OIL/GAZ their seasonal sale in the warehouse at their ECONO-EXPERT INC. HIGH QUALITY INSTALLATION Smart Shopping headquarters, but don’t despair because they SERVICEANDMAINTENANCE Sandra Phillips now have a permanent toy outlet. “Consulting service PROGRAM AVAILABLE Besides their well-known snap together Mega available: Solution SPECIALTY: ELECTRICAL for every need” Bloks, they also sell arts and crafts under the CONVERSIONS AND AIR CONDITIONING RoseArt brand and MagNext building sets, King Tel.: 514-487-5656 Cell.: 514-816-4928 For years there was a dearth of places to get deals Arthur construction sets, Mickey Mouse club- on toys – and believe me, I looked. house construction sets, wagons, trucks, Triaz- But suddenly this year we have not one, but three zle puzzles, High School Musical and Hannah places offering warehouse sales to the public for Montana crafts and Board Dudes. incredible bargains on toys. Location: 4505 Hickmore, Ville St. Laurent. While you may not find this year’s hottest Hours: Tuesdays 12-6 pm, Thursdays 12-8 pm, “must-haves,” you will find such basics as cars, Saturdays 10 am-4 pm. dolls, books, bath toys, crafts, and puzzles at Info: 514-333-3339 or www.megabrands.com. prices that should fit into your budget. Some of ### these same toys are being sold elsewhere in town at full price. Danawares offers a one-week sale of seasonal Think of these sales as garage sales by busi- ornaments, puzzles, games, plush, toys, crafts, nesses who need to clean out this year’s mer- shovels, place mats, baby items, room accessories chandise to make room for next season. with such brand names as Princesses; Cars; Toy ### Story; Fairies; Winnie the Pooh; Dora the Ex- plorer; Ni Hao, Kai Lan; Thomas; Max & Ruby;

Let us take care of your Hair - Your neighborhood menʼs stylist Backyardigans and more. This is a small space, Bonnie Sandler, Social Worker but the prices are excellent. Location: 7010 Côte • Assessment de Liesse.Hours: December 5 to 12,10 am-4 pm. Info: www.danawares.com. • Placement ### • Case Management A Every fall, JRC toy warehouse opens to the • Support Groups public with deals of up to 70 per cent off. The Villa Maria company holds another sale in May. The ware- • Educational Workshops A A 514-489-8678 house has items by such brands as Barbie, Cray- Happy Holidays to all our clients! ola, Fisher-Price, Hasbro, Hot Wheels, Little ALZHEIMER’S EXPERTISE Bonnes vacances à toute notre clientèle! Tikes, Mattel, Mega Bloks and VTech as well as www.servingmontrealseniors.com Thank you for your support year after year books for as low as $1. Corporations, day cares or anyone holding Christmas events can buy in bulk and have the gifts wrapped. • Final Expense Protection... Location: 5589 Royalmount at Devonshire. Affordable! Open daily until Christmas. Info: 514-342-6979 or www.jrctoys.com. • Funeral arrangements... Guaranteed! • Peace of mind... Priceless! FAMILYSIDE

For FREE information Rainer Schmalhaus rschmalhaus@ 514-489-3544 • 514-482-5515 lakeviewmemorial.ca 514 606-9426 514-489- 3313 • 514-482-5516

PHARMACIE Barry Lackman, Beny Masella and Sandra Messias and their families and the staff of PHARMACY Lackman and Masella Pharmacy wish their customers All pharmacies are not created equal. and friends a happy and healthy holiday season. Free pick-up & delivery Home healthcare products Personalized medication reports Blood pressure tests Blood glucose tests Complete INR services Complete diabetic centre And many more products and services... 5462 Westminster Avenue, Côte St-Luc Tel: 514-489-4909 Fax: 514-489-8985 Toll Free: 1-888-489-4909 Email: [email protected] 28 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES South of the Border “CRUISES” Two bar seats at ree TomatoesTrattoria Call the “Real Specialist” - Alex Barbara Moser the best Caesar salad I’ve tasted in a very long time with its hearts of romaine lettuce, very tangy with Anytime 514-282-1022 It was a coolish Saturday evening in downtown nice large pieces of anchovies, which we divvied Burlington, Vermont and we decided to try out up and two pieces of “Crisp Red Hen Bakery Gar- 514-842-8000, Ext. 231 Three Tomatoes Trattoria, right in the middle of lic Crostini.”No bacon – we checked. the Church St. pedestrian mall. When the salad arrived, our server was ready to Best Result Travel Agency This Italian restaurant is located in a basement grate fresh romano cheese and grind fresh pepper quite a few stairs down from the street entrance, onto our plate. The portion was generous. If I’d had but you’d never know it once you reach the bottom. my own, I would have had little room for the pastas, The place is huge and on this Saturday at 7 pm it which were also generous.Weeach tried one dish for Seasons Greetings to all was packed with merry diners,families with children, about five minutes and then switched dishes to try our Canadian Friends! dressy-looking couples out for a date,and at least one the other. Back and forth we went, relishing every CORNER - STONE BOOKSHOP older couple from Montreal hoping for a table. morsel. The linguini was full of medium pieces of We were told there would be a half-hour wait at sautéed broccoli and spinach and the pine nut basil A Browser’s Paradise this, their busiest time, but we were invited not only pesto gave the whole dish a zesty,slightly spicy flavor. to wait and drink at the bar but to eat there too! We I was hard pressed to give it up to taste the shrimp Three Floors of Old Books & Records Mon. - Thurs. 10 am - 6 pm chose the two end seats in front of all the wines and penne, but once I started on the latter (or platter), Fri. - Sat. 10 am - 9 pm • Sun. 12 pm - 6 pm spirits and were greeted by the cocktail server who I was smitten by the large shrimp, tails on, sitting Downtown Plattsburgh, N.Y. was also, we discovered, our food server. Another among the penne covered in a spicy tomato sauce 110 Margaret St. (corner of Court & Margaret) long food bar behind us was half filled with diners and sprinkled with big black olives. Tel: 518-561-0520 who also hadn’t reserved a table. Although we were quite full,Irwin insisted we share We both felt like sharing some comfort food, a dessert. We ordered cappuccinos and lemon meaning it had to be meatless. We chose two pasta mousse cake. ($6.95) Lemon was the flavor of the dishes, one with penne and one with linguini: Pesto evening.I love all that is made of lemons and this was Basilico, $13.95, sautéed broccoli, spinach, diced no exception. A fresh mousse atop lemon pound tomato,with basil – pine nut pesto and pecorino Ro- cake, it was the perfect ending to this Italian feast. mano with Linguini; and Spicy shrimp fra davolo, So next time you’re in Burlington, don’t let those $17.95 – imported olives, garlic, white wine, spicy stairs deter you. Once you’ve sampled the fare at tomato basil sauce with penne.Wedecided to share Three Tomatoes, you’ll know why you may have a large Caesar ($7.95) which arrived immediately to sit at the bar on a Saturday night. Or you can and which we thoroughly enjoyed. This may be try making reservations at 1-802-660-9533. A can for all things These cans were decorated and used as gifts that Maimonides managers and de- partment heads would give to their staff when they “go above and beyond the call of duty.” Henry Grover, a member of the Côte St. Luc Senior Men’s Club took up the challenge. Grover said, “I started to Enjoy a carafe of house wine, appetizer, entrée, and dabble, and when you dabble, you start to a dessert to share.* It’s simple – you bring someone dream – and I then apply the dream to the fun to the table, we’ll bring you something delicious. can.” At 83, Grover has been volunteer- ing at the Mt. Sinai Hospital for eight *Available from Sunday to Thursday Ask your server for details at specic locations. years and he also volunteers at the local fire department when he winters in Deer- field Beach, Florida. Photo and text: Sid Birns

A BURLINGTON, VERMONT LANDMARK FOR 19 YEARS! TRAVELERSTRAVELERS INNINN FLORIDAFLORIDA Voted one of Happy Chanukah & Holiday Greetings to our Clients & Friends! New England’s Our Inn offers efficiencies, executive suites and well appointed rooms. Top 5 Diners in Canadian Dollar equal to American Dollar Yankee Magazine Starting Per/Week Per/Month December $300 $750 - A Burlington area favorite - January $350 $1250 • Olympic-sized swimming pool • Shopping nearby at Boca Raton & Pompano Enjoy friendly, upbeat service & Mom’s home cooking February $450 $1500 • FREE Continental Breakfast every morning We make all our own Cakes & Pies ( fresh & local) March $425 $1450 • Choice of many golf courses *** Rates include standard room with refrigerator • 1.5 miles to the beach Daily rates OPEN DAILY and microwave and are for 1 or 2 persons plus taxes. $ • FREE high-speed internet just 69 Monday - Friday 6 am to 4 pm Deerfield Beach, Broward County plus taxes Saturday 7 am to 4 pm Sunday 7 am to 2 pm 1401 S. Federal Highway • Deerfield Beach, FLORIDA 33 441 Route 7 Winooski-Colchester Town Line TOLL FREE: 1-800-283-9946 www.travelersinndeerfield.com Exit 16, right off Vermont I-89 1-802-655-0343 www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 29 THE SENIOR TIMES Tendre la main pour aider. Reaching out to help. Feeding a child... the right thing to do!

Dear Friends,

What they are reporting… “Canada’s poverty rates are dragging down the country’s grades when it comes to quality of life,” according to the Conference Board of Canada Annual Report. “The child poverty rate in Canada is 15.1 percent. There are children who do not have sufficient food and shelter. There are kids who cannot afford to be involved in extra-curricular activities,” says The Organization of Economic Co-operation & Development.

What Generations Foundation is doing about child poverty… The first line of defense for vulnerable children is to ensure their basic needs. Generations Foundation reaches out to 6500 school children in 72 schools and learning centers daily with a variety of food programs to help children succeed.

Our hot meal programs, which include chicken with vegetables, beef stew, and lasagna, is a major daily component in the lives of students at inner-city schools. Snack programs provide nutrition in the morning and for after-school homework and reading programs. We partner with various professionals who work with at-risk students in after-school sports programs and cooking classes. Students are engaged to organize and participate in our breakfast programs, which are tailor-made to the individual school to provide an excellent start to the day.

We do not receive any government funding nor do we impose a fee for any of our food programs. Generous contributions from individuals and corporations are making a difference and we are encouraged by your support which provides needed meals directly to children of parents on meager incomes. Generations Foundation is experiencing a substantial increase in the number of children to feed. With your generosity, children in our communities will be empowered to achieve their full potential. Your income tax receipt will be forwarded to you with our appreciation and thanks. On behalf of Generations Foundation, our best wishes for the holidays!

Sincerely,

Adrian Bercovici, Executive Director Make A Difference In A Child’s Life!

The Generations Foundation feeds nutritious breakfast, hot lunch and snacks to approximately 6500 schoolchildren DAILY in 72 schools and learning centers.

30 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES All generations prepare for the holiday season

Left: Adrian, Natalie and Westmount High students at last month’s Holiday Benefit Breakfast at Buffet La Stanza; right: LCC student volunteers wrap toys sources to buy winter clothing for deliver these baskets to needy families fundraising projects. Generations their children. and group homes for children who Our knitters creatively outdo each Natalie Our phones are ringing off the hook might not otherwise receive any gifts. other with beautiful hand-made Bercovici with requests for turkeys. Meanwhile, American Women held a gathering knitted clothing and lap blankets to volunteers do an amazing job of plan- at our location to bring lovely gifts keep the children warm. We are ning Christmas lunch at the schools, for intellectually and physically chal- grateful to all of you. The realities of our new economic sit- and donors have supplied us with lenged children. Adrian and I cannot wait to see the uation mean food and fuel prices are four new freezers and a forklift to Lower Canada College students children’s smiles and excitement constantlyincreasing,thereisarisein hoist items to the second floor. prepared our food orders for deliv- when we visit the schools and centres. thenumberof childrenneeding basic Wewelcome donations of food items ery to the schools we serve. The stu- What is needed most at this time is necessities,and a proportionalrisein to ensure our pantry is well stocked dents also folded letters and stuffed to satisfy hunger, to fill hearts and requestsforaid.GenerationsFounda- with such holiday items as turkeys, envelopes for our winter campaign. minds with joy, hope and encourage- tionstaff andvolunteers are poisedto cranberry sauce, stuffing, gravy, veg- Throughout the year, board mem- ment for the future. provide cheer – today,tomorrow and etables, fruit, meats, Christmas cakes bers and entrepreneurs pitch in to Thank you from the bottom of our especially at Christmas. and egg nog as well as canned salmon, donate their time and expertise in hearts! We shop carefully to maximize tuna, pasta, sauces and juice. purchasing power. We watch for Volunteers have transformed our sales so that we can fill our orders for boardroom into Santa’s workshop to breakfast, lunch and snacks to over ensure there are plenty of toys to go 6,500 children in 72 schools and around. Volunteers have been busy learning centres. This helps families wrapping them for delivery to schools Local on fixed incomes who worry about and other learning centres, churches the next meal, about whether or not and synagogues. They also help wrap they will have enough money to pay food baskets. the rent, and about finding the re- Board members and police officers

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www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 31 THE SENIOR TIMES Grandmothers unite to help African orphans Alice Abracen

It’s an unusual gathering of activists. The room is warm and comfortable, the walls adorned with paintings, pic- ture frames, bookshelves. The lighting is soft, and gentle murmurs rise and fall in volume. The guests are seated around the room,forced to the walls in an effort to make space for the others. Through the whistling of the kettle comes the delicate but firm tapping of a teaspoon on porcelain. My grand- mother, Thérèse Bourque Lambert, summons everyone as the whispers abate. It is time to start the meeting of the West Hill Grandmothers Group for AIDS in Africa. The West Hill branch of Grand- mothers to Grandmothers was started in October 2006. There are 18 million AIDS orphans Grandmothers in Mnjale in Africa. When their children die, Stephen Lewis, the West Hill Grand- in psychiatry who works for Sparrow of the staff are former patients, and grieving parents are forced to take up mothers are encouraged to undertake Rainbow Village in Gauteng, South some continue to receive care. the mantle of parenthood again and individual projects; theirs support Africa. The village, which can ac- The name Sparrow comes from the raise their grandchildren, some of families in South Africa and Malawi. commodate 300 patients, houses a Gospel of Matthew:“His eye is on the whom have HIV/AIDS. In July, the grannies in the village of hospice for adults and children with Sparrow,I know he watches me (Matt., The West Hill Grandmothers to Mnjale, Malawi, encouraged by HIV/AIDS as well as a Children’s 10:29).” For every person that died at Grandmothers fundraise and give Canada Fund, applied to their govern- Home and Creche for orphans. They Sparrow the group used to nail a small AIDS awareness speeches at schools, ment for NGO registration in order to offer education, training, and coun- metal bird to the tree.“We don’t do it residences, senior centres, churches get further funding. Having expanded selling as part of their Outreach and anymore,” Letwaba said. “It was too and universities on behalf of the beyond their village, they needed to Grannies initiatives. Like the Mon- depressing. The whole tree would be Stephen Lewis Foundation for AIDS elect a new name for their fledgling treal grannies, they support grand- filled with sparrows.” in Africa. They host Play Your Own foundation: They chose Theresa, mothers who care for their The West Hill Grannies have shared Game Days and luncheons. They re- after my grandmother. AIDS-orphaned grandchildren by solidarity with Letwaba’s group for cently participated in Stephen Lewis’s The November 28 meeting was held providing food, medical care, and three years. Dare campaign, in which loved ones in honour of a visitor from Johannes- emotional support. Seventy per cent Continued on page 38 sponsor you for fulfilling a challenge burg, South Africa. Twenty grand- they have set. My uncle dared to run mothers, one grandfather,one student the New York Marathon and man- and a daschund gathered to greet her aged to raise $3,000 for the cause. and pepper her with questions. In addition to the work they do for Rose Letwaba is a nurse specializing

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32 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES What’s Happening in December BAZAARS ish Community celebrates its 15th anniversary with Be proactive about falls Thursday, December 17 from 11am to 3pm NDG a buffet and klezmer, blues and classical music. Senior Citizens Council holds a Gold Party $30/children free. Info: 514-726-3793 Are you prone to falling? Would you like to im- fundraiser at Montreal West United Church, 88 prove your balance and strengthen your bones? Ballantyne N. Ten per cent of profits will be do- Thursday,December 17 at 7:30pm Dorval-Strath- Register with one of the group exercise programs nated to the council. Info: 514-481-1311 more United Church hosts its 8th annual Christ- of the CSSS Cavendish. mas concert and food drive featuring the Mimosa The CSSS Cavendish offers three sessions of the Friday, December 18 from 11am to 8pm, Action Wind Ensemble and the 306 Maple Leaf Wind program a year: fall, winter and spring. Centre will hold a Holiday Bazaar at 2214 Dollard, Pipes and Drums. $8 in advance, $10 at the door The next session in Côte St. Luc begins on Janu- Lasalle. Used books, jewellery, baking, new de- plus a non-perishable food item. 310 Brookhaven. ary 12. Contact Stéphanie Dupont for further in- signer clothes, toys, paintings, arts and crafts, raf- Info: 514-793-9879 formation at 514-484-7878, ext. 1501. fle tickets, and gifts. Bus 123 or Metro Angrignon and bus 106. Proceeds to Action Centre, a daytime Saturday, December 19 and Saturday, December activity centre for physically challenged adults. 31 at 8pm Single Persons Association of Montreal Meet a Friend hosts a Christmas and New Year’s Eve dance at Olga, Every Wednesday-Saturday from noon to 3pm, Ste. Catherine Labouré Church, 448 Trudeau. 75, would like to meet a gentleman with a car who is financially secure and healthy to watch TV Atwater Libary holds a used book sale at 1200 At- Info: 514-366-8600 together, and dine out sometimes. Send a photo. water. Info: 514-935-7344 Sara, Friday, December 25 from noon to 6pm, Keith an attractive, feminine widow who is honest, th caring, artistic, educated, charming, good at listen- CLASSES and Karyn Promotions host their 9 annual free ing and interested in the cinema, exercise and happy Atwater Libary offers computer courses on using Caribbean Christmas Dinner and Toy Giveaway in times is looking for a financially secure Jewish gen- Facebook, computer security, organizing your memory of Keith Lewis at Caribbean Paradise tleman, 65 plus, who is caring, sincere and enjoys computer, mail merge and labels, booking travel Restaurant, 8080 Newman. They will also host a nature, music and exercise. online, PowerPoint presentations, searching the pre-Christmas Toy and Food Drive December 20 To contact Sara or Olga at Meet a Friend, send your Internet, introduction to blogging, and Picasa: from noon - 5pm. Donations of turkey, chicken, letter and a recent photo to Sara or Olga @ Meet a Digital Photo Editing. 1200 Atwater. ham, hot dogs, toys, clothing, hygiene products Friend, c/o The Senior Times, 4077 Decarie Blvd., Info: 514-935-7344 and funds are welcome. $20 sponsors a meal for a Montreal, QC, H4A 3J8. family of four. Info: 514-486-4423 Would you like to Meet a Friend? Send your bio of EVENTS 25-30 words and a $20 cheque to the above address Saturday, December 12 at 6:30pm, St. Willibrord Ski des Amis is looking for seniors, and boomers or call 514-484-5033, or e-mail your bio to Parish in Verdun hosts a Christmas dinner and to join their group to go skiing and snowshoeing. [email protected]. dance at 351 Willibrord. Live band and door Every Sunday, they go to a different location. Full Wereserve the right to edit for clarity and brevity.All contact info is prizes. $20; proceeds go to the Christmas basket membership includes eight trips. Trail fees are not kept private and all responses are forwarded from our office. fund. Reservations required: 514-769-9678 included but are less in a group. Bus pick-ups on Atwater, Decarie and Mount Royal. Saturday,December 12 from 11am-4pm, Loblaws Info: 514-481-3207 TAssetimber Managementcreek TAssetimber Managementcreek Cavendish hosts a book signing with Allan Gold, The Summit House Chateau Isabelle attorney, retirement counselor and author of Es- MUSIC 4020 St-Jean, D.D.O. 4560 LaSalle Blvd, Verdun tate Document Professor. Info: 514-366-8600 Saturday, December 12 at 1pm, Lakeshore Con- cert Band presents a Children’s Christmas Concert 3 ½ • 4 ½ 3 ½ • 4 ½ Saturday, December 12 at 6pm, St. Clement’s An- featuring T’was the Night Before Christmas nar- $ $ glican Church hosts a St. Nicholas Pot Luck Sup- rated by George Doxas. All donations go to The from 775 from 835 Heated per and Penny Fair at 4322 Wellington. Gazette Christmas Fund. Valois United Church, all included Renovated apartments & magnificent views! Info: 514-366-6120 70 Belmont. Info: 514-428-0292 Renovated apartments Call us at Call us at Sunday,December 13 at 5pm, the Royal Canadian Saturday,December 12 at 11am, Church of St. An- 514-620-1311 514-768-0360 Legion, Branch 85/90 hosts a Christmas dinner drew and St. Paul hosts its Advent 3 Sunday service with music by Tom Fernandez. $25. Reservations and White Gift Sunday. December 13 at 3pm, they required. December 19 at 4:30pm, bowling will be host the CBC annual sing in (a popular event, so followed by a chicken dinner. Both events take come early for a seat). December 20 at 11am is the place at 3015 Henri Dunant. Info: 514-637-8002 Advent 4 Sunday service followed by Christmas Family Reception and at 4:30pm there will be carols Sunday, December 13 at 6pm, South Shore Jew- by candlelight. All events are held at 3415 Redpath.

To reserve your spot call: MOVERS & SHAKERS 514-484-5033

COMPUTER HELP Le Concierge du Coin RENOVATION Online Selling Class PAINTING We’re mobile so you don’t need to be The Caretaker Near You Turn your stash PLUMBING Is your computer too slow? 514-489-9882 Viruses bothering you? into cash Want to upgrade? Get Ready for Winter Certified I.T. Specialists with + 10 yrs. Exp. • Snow removal • Home deliveries Single or Group Rates Also available nights & weekends • Window washing • House cleaning Call Dov • Pet sitting (dogs & cats) 514-448-4656 Smilestein Call Jamie at: www.mobiletechs.ca N.D.G. & WESTMOUNT ONLY 514-975-EBAY [email protected] WWW.CDUC.BIZ 514-476-7225 **** 10% off with this ad **** www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 33 THE SENIOR TIMES A seductive education by a questionable character charm, is a liar and a cheat whose “fun” lifestyle is ing, one has to wonder whether this bright and Geezer based on defrauding vulnerable old ladies, but wide awake girl could be a product of such a stul- turns a blind eye to it anyway. Her parents exhibit tifying environment. Furthermore, even though at Large human frailty in too easily being hoodwinked by David only used his house in the same suburb as a John Udy David’s charisma. We, the audience, are initially stopover between his serial seductions, one would charmed by him also and only latterly recognize imagine he would be far too sophisticated to have how obnoxious he is. chosen such a house in such a suburb. You have to see An Education. I’ve gone twice It’s a great film with impressive casting: Alfred It is clear that David’s wife was fully cognizant of and would see it again. Molina as the weak but heavy father; Cara Seymour his philandering, and the fact that she remained The film is set in post-Second World War as the mum; school teachers Olivia Williams and the with him is hard to believe. Perhaps she is a prod- Britain, beautifully evoked by director Lone Scher- formidable Emma Thompson; Dominic Cooper uct of a pre-feminist age. It is also clear that fig. (I can vouch for it for I was a British university and Rosamund Pike as Danny and Helen, friends of David’s friends Danny and Helen were aware of student at the time.) It’s all very convincing, yet it David (Peter Sarsgaard), the antagonist; and Jenny Jenny’s seduction, but while they say they do not is a total fabrication, a believable fantasy based on (Carey Mulligan), the enchanting protagonist. want her to be hurt, in actuality they encourage sleight of hand. As good as this film is, there is room for criticism. David to groom her for her role. To begin with the title: It is not the story of a Mulligan, who is 24, does not come across as a Finally, to live in Oxford to attend the university winsome teenager’s education, but of her seduc- teenager. Her gestures and demeanour are far too (the parents’ goal for Jenny) is extremely expen- tion by an obnoxious predator twice her age. His well developed for the role. In a way, this is neces- sive, and Jenny’s family is far from rich. The cost of interest in Jenny is purely carnal, as revealed the sary for the plot, for if she looked too young, we living would have put it out of reach. One of the tasteless production of a banana as a deflowering would immediately recognize David as the sexual many good but less prestigious universities in instrument. Yet Jenny is not a simple innocent led deviant he is, which would show the filmmaker’s Greater London would have been more realistic – astray; she is well aware that David, beyond the hand. While her home in the suburbs is convinc- but would have done less for the story. DIVA SALON MASSOTHERAPY • Get the best massage • Swedish relaxation therapeutic Bombardier layoffs impact pre-retirees • 7 days/wk from 10 am – 9 pm $ Martin C. Barry Bombardier pension,” said professor Karl Moore, discount5 with this associate director of the Advanced Leadership coupon! A recent round of layoffs at Bombardier Aero- Program in the Desaultels Faculty of Management space’s facilities in the Montreal region is likely at McGill. “It’s been an issue with some of the to have an impact on employees advancing to- workers at the big auto companies. ward retirement, according to a McGill Univer- “Now some people at Bombardier will have Call 514-223-3535 5958-B Monkland, N.D.G sity business management expert. taken early retirement as part of the layoffs.Oth- Bombardier announced last month that a lack of ers will be people who will be close to retirement new orders for CRJ regional jets will force it to dis- who are getting laid off,and so may retire early.I miss 715 workers. The cuts are in addition to 4,360 think that’s where seniors potentially could be layoffs previously announced by Bombardier in its impacted.” worldwide operations. Moore said it was “no surprise” Bombardier had About 200 of the affected Montreal workers are to lay off staff. “We’ve known for some time that administrative, with the rest being unionized em- regional jet sales are down, not only for Bom- ployees. The layoffs are set to begin in January and bardier but for their competitor Embraer as well,” will go on for half of the next fiscal year. he said. “And indeed for Airbus and for Boeing, “I don’t think there’s been a problem with the big jet sales are down.” Happy Holidays! It’s called a hanukiah, not a menorah Hanukah, the eight-day Jewish festival com- fought against the Seleucid Empire, which then 1346 Greene Ave. Westmount memorating the rededication of the Temple in occupied the land of Israel and suppressed the 514-935-2993 Jerusalem, begins this year on the night of De- practice of Judaism. After defeating the Seleucids cember 11. Jews around the world celebrate and reclaiming the Temple, the Maccabees dis- Hanukah as a period of light and warmth dur- covered there was only enough oil to light the ing the winter season. menorah there for one night. Miraculously, the oil Each night of Hanukah, Jews light candles on a lasted for eight days – enough time to prepare chanukiah – a nine-branched candelabrum with more oil. eight candleholders representing each night of the During Hanukah, Jews traditionally eat fried holiday. The hanukiah is often erroneously re- foods such as sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts) ferred to as a menorah, a similar candelabrum but and latkes (potato pancakes) to recall the miracle with just seven candleholders. of the oil. This year, municipalities across Israel are hosting Children play a game by spinning a square top a variety of Hanukah events. In Haifa, the annual called a dreidel (Yiddish) or s’vivon (Hebrew) in- “Holiday of Holidays”coexistence festival – lasting scribed with one Hebrew letter on each side. The a full month – started at the beginning of Decem- letters are an acronym for the phrase:“A great mir- ber and includes events celebrating Hanukah, the acle happened here,” or “there,” depending on Muslim festival Eid-al-Adha and Christmas. whether the players are in Israel or the Diaspora. Coexistence walks, conducted throughout the Hanukah falls on a different date in December city, feature stops at art galleries displaying work each year because Jewish holidays follow the He- by both Jewish and Arab artists. brew lunar calendar. In the Jewish calendar, The celebration of Hanukah dates back to about Hanukah is celebrated on the 25th day of Kislev. 165 BCE, when a band of Jews, the Maccabees, Provided by the Israel Project. 34 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Students and seniors share stories and geography savvy Shannon Rose

Vista residents and Grade 5 Willingdon pupils came to- gether this November to share personal experiences that span four generations. The residence and the Eng- lish Montreal School Board (EMSB) have organized the program that brings students from across the city to partic- ipate in activities with the Vista residents. The first event was a geography game similar to Trivial Pursuit. Residents and students were placed in groups where they answered questions together; in their downtime, they shared stories and ate snacks supplied by the children. “We were talking about my experience during the war in England and the gas masks,” Chidren from Willingdon School with Vista said Mrs. Ricketts, a resident. residents during the “Canada Games” “I said I was sorry that they took the everyone realize that this is for real.” gas masks back at the end of the war Some of the participants were shy because I used to use them for clean- at first, but icebreakers were en- ing up. I was trying to think of things meshed in the game — soon every- that would interest [the children] or body was laughing and talking. make them laugh.” At one point everyone had to pull “The kids started to realize, ‘Hey, out a card with an action on it and Mrs. Ricketts lived through the war’,” they had to perform that action. Mr. FUNERAL HOME said Joanne Kennedy, vice-president Pesner got “do the Charleston,” A family business since 1958 for strategic communication. which had his entire table laughing, Mrs. Ricketts told the students Brunet said. about the bombings that she experi- The game was reminiscent of Triv- 560 Lakeshore Dr. enced in England.“Oh yes, when the ial Pursuit in the sense that they had Dorval 514-631-1511 sirens went, we used to run down to to move their pieces across the board 2125 Notre-Dame the shelters.” by answering the questions correctly. Lachine 514-639-1511 Julie Cardinal “And [the students] were shocked “Some of the kids knew the answers that bombs could have dropped on a better than I did,”Mrs. Ricketts said. city,” Kennedy said. “They had no They named the activity Canada comprehension of that.” Games. The children were telling Secure the future of your Mr. Pesner, another resident who everyone about the places they had participated in the activity told the visited. Discussions and memories loved ones with kids stories about his experience being were sparked by the questions. SNOWDON & ASSOCIATES a pilot in the Second World War. “I think it’s just reaching out and “The kids think that all of the sol- hearing everyone’s story,”Brunet said. Will & Estate Notaries-Lawyers diers have passed away,” said Ronald “It’s an inter-generational project As Notaries-Lawyers who specialize in Will & Estate Planning: Brunet, general manager of the resi- and it’s within the community. It hit dence.“They were so captivated by the a lot of elements that are important - We have the experience and expertise to perform an in-depth analysis of your family’s estate needs. stories. It was pretty amazing to see to this community at Vista.” - This analysis provides Will & Estate planning solutions that are tailored to your family’s unique situation. - Custom solutions for your family ensure full protection for your Personal Organizers loved ones (in terms of their assets, taxes and personal security). We specialize in the transition to assisted living - And, full protection ensures that you have true peace of mind. MINIMIZE clutter For a consultation, please call (514) 630-9852, or visit us at www.snowdonandassociates.com MAXIMIZE space Serving Montreal and the West Island MAINTAIN organization Snowdon & Associates – Will & Estate Notaries – Lawyers Ideal for people moving & down-sizing Call: (514) 630-9852 514-512-8912 • 438-887-1949 Or visit: snowdonandassociates.com Robert D. Snowdon Gaétane (French) • Mary (English) B.A., LL.B., LL.M., M.B.A. Beaconsfield, West Island www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 35 THE SENIOR TIMES Making friends in the ER: an ode to the Montreal General Barbara Moser them! People were getting called in once or twice mained alone and in pain for quite some time. He an hour, but these same people were coming back was still there when I left for the RVH. In some respects, it was a productive and relax- to the waiting room to wait for the next step in At 6 pm, Irwin showed up, and brought miracle ing day. I lost some weight, made three new their diagnosis or treatment or for a test result. upon miracle — fresh strawberries, apples, ba- friends, corrected 30 of my students’ poetry es- To get to the café, the closest place for food and nanas, small juices, cheese and crackers. I began to says, read The Gazette cover to cover, and got ed- water, one had to go outside and through a set of serve all my friends and then lo and behold, I iting help for articles in this issue. doors. No one alone and in pain, and certainly heard my name called. I was in shock. Was I really I spent the day – the entire day – at the Montreal those on stretchers, could manage it, so those of the Barbara Moser whose name was being called? General Hospital emergency waiting room. Like us who were able bodied, helped by going to buy Thank goodness Irwin was there to accompany many who waited with me, I had little choice but these poor people bottled water. It can’t be healthy me in the cab in the rain to the RVH a half hour to appear at the ER at 9:30 am. We all had prob- to go without food for an entire day! later. I quickly said goodbye to my friends prom- lems that could not wait or could not be tended to Try not to go alone to the ER if you are in pain. ising them each a free subscription to The Senior by our family doctors. You absolutely will need someone to tend to you After being told,when I arrived,by the triage nurse while you wait… and wait …. and wait. “Was I really the Barbara Moser whose name that there was an eye clinic at the MGH that day and Arriving in an ambulance does not always ensure was being called?” that I wouldn’t “have to wait long,” an ER doctor you will be seen right away. One of my new friends directed me, nine hours later, to take a taxi to the had been having a root canal earlier that morning. Times for their editing help. Royal Vic and to make it snappy because the eye Suddenly she had a severe reaction to the codeine Suggestions for changing the emergency room clinic there was about to close. I raced over and was her dentist had given her. It seems he hadn’t read procedures at the MGH in case anyone’s listening: examined first by a resident and then by her teacher, her allergy list. Probably because he didn’t want to If there is no specialty clinic or if it’s moved, why a retinal specialist, to determine that my retina has take any chances, he sent her by ambulance to the not inform people when they arrive so that they not detached. I was treated exceptionally well by hospital. But when she arrived, she was told her can move themselves to another hospital where these doctors and am grateful for their care. problem wasn’t serious and she had to wait with there is such a clinic? Back to the MGH at 9:30 am. There was a line the rest of us. Why can’t people not in life-threatening situations up to register and see the triage nurse. Then we My new friends, Norma and Jack, waited longer or in pain get a number like they do in a bakery or had to find a chair in the waiting room while than I did. We kept each other company editing at the SAAQ? Then they could go home or sit in a watching a new smaller waiting room for H1N1 articles for The Senior Times, sharing chocolate cafe and come back at a certain hour.Of course they patients go up before our very eyes, complete with bars Norma brought from her car and doing never know because of the number of ambulances plate glass windows. If you had an ear problem, crossword puzzles. We got to know each other. In that come in, but with more than 20 people waiting the three hours of drilling and banging certainly nine hours you get to know someone. Norma and more than nine hours, surely, they have some idea. didn’t help. I discovered we both love garage sales. Luckily we They seem to thrive on giving out as little informa- were well enough to carry on a conversation. tion as possible. Whom does this benefit? “In nine hours you get to know someone.” Masks are in the entrance for anyone who… Could they at least put a vending machine with well… I’m not sure whom they are for. One water and sandwiches in this waiting room or have At one point there were four stretchers in the woman sat with a mask on all day even though she someone selling drinks and snacks from a cart like waiting room and little room to walk around had no flu symptoms. Another guy coughed a few they do on the train? times into the air of the waiting room until I re- If patients are alone on stretchers for hours in ported him to the guards who promptly brought the waiting room, a nurse’s aide should come EXPERIENCED SEAMSTRESS him a mask. every so often to check on them and get them One poor man lay on a stretcher in the middle of water if they need it or help them to the bathroom. Custom-Made & Alterations our small waiting room for hours. Finally he was The waiting room is just too small. There are not for Men & Women called in. An hour later he came out, found a chair enough seats for everyone. So expand the waiting and started moaning. He pointed to his side. It was room and put in more chairs.Why can’t we afford a Leather & All Fabrics some kind of sciatica, which can be brutal. He few of those recliners? I’LL COME TO YOU! cried and writhed till three of us walked up to the If you have H1N1 symptoms, go to a special registration desks (there were no nurses around clinic set up to diagnose and treat you, not to a Contact Rina 514-389-5097 and when they rushed through and someone hospital emergency room! Please! The triage nurse nailed them, they pulled away, one stating“I’m not should be sending these people back to these clin- here.”) In any case, after three or four of us com- ics unless they are having serious respiratory prob- plained about the inhumanity of his plight, a lems. If they are, a 12-hour wait could kill them! nurse approached the man and loudly asked him And yes, we already know we shouldn’t go near an why he was breathing so heavily. He was obviously ER unless absolutely necessary, but couldn’t the in panic from the pain. She finally found him a triage nurse let us know if it is absolutely necessary? stretcher and one of us helped him walk into the Postscript: Norma and John waited until 1am to newly built H1N1 waiting room, where he re- be seen — another six hours after I left. Letter: Don’t put cruelty on your holiday shopping list Dear Editor: The way to stop puppy mills is for consumers to I would like to warn readers not to put cruelty stop supporting them. on their shopping lists this year. People need to Responsible pet purchasing,adoption,and ongoing E-majen Services know that when they buy puppies over the Inter- guardianship takes effort. But it’s worth it to do it net, through newspaper ads, or at pet stores, they right. By finding responsible breeders or shelters, are often supporting puppy mills. you can help defeat the puppy mill system. You Personal shopper offering a Puppy mills are breeding facilities that produce can look up shelters and breed rescue groups at unique approach to fulfilling puppies in large numbers. They are designed to www.petfinder.org and www.adoptananimal.ca. your shopping needs. maximize profits and disregard the physical and A list of good breeder characteristics is available at emotional health of the dogs. The breeding dogs www.hsicanada.ca/puppymills. People who love www .ema jenservices. webs.co m live their lives in cages. The conditions cause pup- dogs need to help stop them from being mistreated Call 514 -972 -3995 pies to have physical and behavioral problems. by not supporting puppy mills! — Annie Choinière 36 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES On the prowl for the elusive specialist — another ode to the MGH John Udy ignored me until she had finished a long metal blades slipped under my inevitably miss each other wandering long private telephone call, then told feet. I fell with a thump and my ele- the vast corridors of the hospital. Although all other encounters with me I would have to go to the waiting vator escaped me once again. He When I got home, my back prob- the Montreal General Hospital have room and wait my turn. This I did made no attempt to help me up nor lems began to appear– drastically! I been positive, this is a record of my and eventually my name was called, did he say he was sorry. (Perhaps he could neither get up nor sit down bizarre introduction to this estab- to be served by another receptionist thought that to do so might make without assistance. I could not even lishment. at the the other end of the impressive him liable.) Nor did any of the three tie my shoe laces and sleeping in my I had been given an appointment desk. This person was far more co- or four people waiting in the area bed was out of the question. Fortu- with the specialist who heads up a operative and wanting to help, but stoop to help me up. I think they nately I had a broken down easy research program dealing with my she also had not heard of my special- were in shock, as was I. With a groan, chair in the bedroom that was com- medical problem. Thus I approached ist. It was suggested that perhaps he I painfully rolled over and got up on fortable enough for me to sleep in. the hospital’s information desk to was associated with another hospital my own. This went on for many days until, inquire as to his whereabouts. No – Saint Mary’s and the Royal Vic I finally made it to my specialist. I gingerly, I was able to sit up, stand up one there had even heard of him, so were named as possibilities. I was had started off 20 minutes ahead of and lie down with a degree of com- they invited me to use their infor- beginning to believe that she was my appointment, having been driven fort, but every transition took my mation phone. I was given a quick right, when entirely by chance a by my daughter, Helene, but ended breath away. response so I headed off to find the woman passing by, overhearing the up 20 minutes late. He could not lo- I will probably have these twinges person. As it turned out, she knew conversation, broke in to tell me ex- cate my blood test, made at a CLSC for the rest of my life, and all because nothing of my specialist, but bent actly where his research unit was two weeks before, perhaps sent to somebody had forgotten to put the my ear explaining to me what she located! But for her, I might still be Saint Mary’s by mistake, so he made doctor’s room number on my hospi- did know.When I was finally able to wandering the corridors of some use of the tests previouly done for tal form. I should have been able to tear myself away, I high tailed it back hospital looking for the elusive unit. my GP. In a few minutes he was able go to the information desk and be in- to the information desk and its tele- But now, at last, I knew where I was to tell me to continue with the drug stantly given the correct directions phone appendage. going, so down the corridors to the I was already taking. He had nothing instead of misinformation. Is this not I explained my need again and was accursed elevators I went. My initial to say about my aching back, for as a why, after all, it is called an “infor- given new directions. The elevators attempts to find one going my way specialist he knew nothing about mation desk”? Why this was not so in the hospital are confusing. They failed miserably, but finally, the one I what ailed me. I was a bit sore but was and still is a great mystery – and perversely are either going in the needed was just opening its doors, so able to get around with minimum misery – for me. wrong direction or not to the floor I made a dive for it. Unfortunately, at pain, so forgot about it until I got or wing you need, but I soldiered on this very moment, along comes a home. Helene was a bit frantic, for Editor’s Note: I met John Udy in and finally found the unit I’d been worker with an empty, hand held she had assumed I would take about the ER of the MGH Friday, Novem- sent to – a wide desk under an im- forklift. Taking no notice of my mad 10 minutes instead of 40. She could- ber 27, which led to his contributions pressive canopy. The receptionist dash, he plowed on ahead and the n’t leave the car, in fear that we would to this and future issues. Online brokerages offer low fees, independence aries and bypass the estate completely. If minors are Common Cents involved such as grand- children, make sure you Ivan Cons appoint trustees on the in- surance contract and that you specify to what age. How much do you know about your Consider prearranging your fu- spouse? Are you prepared should neral. This simple task ensures that the unforeseen occur? Too often, things will be done according to your upon the death of a partner or loved wishes. This avoids unnecessary ac- one, people are left scrambling. rimony among family members and Much of this could be avoided with siblings. Consider purchasing a small advanced planning. life insurance policy to cover final ex- Locating and centralizing your im- penses such as funeral and burial portant papers is a priority. It should costs. By doing so, you know the be easy to find bank accounts, in- money will be available. vestment accounts, wills, safety de- Appoint trusted executors who can posit boxes, real estate holdings, and look after your estate. Keep in mind life insurance. the many tasks such as filing a ter- Make sure that your wills are up to minal return, applying for death cer- date and notarized. Many people tificates, transferring RRIFs and neglect to do this. It is particularly RRSPs, pensions, real estate, and as- important if you are in a second sets in general. You want to make marriage and there are children in- sure that the value of your estate is volved. Your wishes may not be re- maximized and not compromised spected and the fallout among by foolhardy decisions. family members can be devastating. The best advice is to get good advice. Verify that the beneficiaries on your Death is not a topic that most of us life insurance policies are correct.Gen- want to face; however, acknowledging erally the life insurance proceeds are its impact on your loved ones will go paid directly to the named benefici- a long way toward easing the burden. www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 37 THE SENIOR TIMES What you should know about drugs and government hotlines Involuntary separation: When a son pays $79.53 a month for medica- To have a brand-name drug paid for Notify your pharmacist about any spouse is forced to move to a long- tion. Those who receive a partial by the government, a doctor must herbal medications you take to make term care facility, the separation can supplement pay $49.73 a month. provide a written explanation to the sure they don’t interfere with your often place a financial burden on the Generic and brand-name drugs: government asking for an exception. prescription drugs. other.Such a couple may be eligible for There is almost no difference be- A dosette is a prepared pill case tai- Vitamins: A large amount of Vita- the Guaranteed Income Supplement. tween these medications. Brand- lored to each client’s needs with the min C is not recommended: an appro- Each person is assessed individually, name drugs have patent protection medication labelled, indicating the priate dosage is 250ml. Large amounts and one or both could qualify for the so generic companies cannot make time the pill is to be taken.Many phar- of Vitamin C can upset your stomach supplement. Contact Social Develop- close replicas until the patents have macies provide this service, charging and be harmful if you are prone to kid- ment Canada at 800-277-9914 for expired. Generic medications must $4 a week; however it is also covered by ney stones. Multivitamins are not more information. be sold at 50 per cent less than their the Public Drug Plan and is included particularly useful to people with a Quebec Drug Insurance Plan: Peo- brand-name counterparts. Under in the calculation for the maximum well-rounded diet. ple 65 and over without a private Quebec’s drug plan, should a doctor amount paid for prescriptions. Telemarketing: If you don’t want to medical plan must be on the Public prescribe a brand-name drug when a Expiry dates: Medications used on be called by telemarketers, register Quebec Drug Insurance Plan. The generic version exists, 30 per cent your body such as eye drops and your phone number by going online cost of this plan is based on income must be covered by the client. If creams are to be thrown away after at lnnte-dncl.gc.ca or call 866- and the maximum is $585 a year. A clients desire a brand-name drug but one month as your body isn’t sterile. 580-3625. list of drugs covered by the govern- have been prescribed a generic one, Herbal medications: These can be Courtesy of Cummings Centre ment is provided. The average per- they must pay 50 per cent of the cost. just as strong as prescription drugs. Social Action Committee. Good news for caregivers fected by the illness, and 140,000 might develop Alzheimer’s or a related impairment within the Kristine Berey next five years. Caregiver resource centres, based on a British According to the Care-ring Voice Network, there model, will be set up across the province, with the are more than 500,000 caregivers in Quebec who aim of providing quick and easy access to services provide 80 per cent of the care needed by loved already established in the community. The money ones with health problems. Over 60 per cent of will not go to caregivers directly but rather to these people juggle work and home responsibil- organizations already in place that support them. ities. Many are in danger of burnout and 25 per “We’re not going to invent new structures,” Blais Photo: Kristine Berey cent suffer from depression. André Chagnon and Marguerite Blais said. “We will check all the projects that exist.” Help may be on the way as early as next year Herb Finkelberg, director of the Cummings Jew- through a newly created fund designed to help years and will be managed by an administrative ish Centre for Seniors, welcomed the news. “We caregivers in a private/public partnership that is council made up of five members named by Quebec are seeing a dramatic increase in individuals who said to be unique in Quebec’s history. and five by the Chagnon family foundation. Three are cognitively impaired. The caregiver is at risk of On November 23, family and seniors minister quarters of the funds are earmarked for caregivers compromising their health because of the incred- Marguerite Blais and André Chagnon, philan- helping loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other ible amount of energy caretaking requires. The thropist and owner of Sojecci II Ltd., launched the cognitive deficits while one quarter will be used to idea here is to prevent this kind of deterioration $200-million fund, of which $150 million will be fi- help caregivers of people with other incapacities. from taking place. This is much-needed funding nanced by Quebec, and $50 million by the Chagnon According to the Quebec Federation of for a problem of which we’ve seen only the tip of family. The money will become available over 10 Alzheimer’s Societies, 120,000 Quebecers are af- the iceberg.” More grandmother groups needed Continued from page 32 During a visit to a preschool, Letwaba saw the chil- The West Hill Grandmothers will continue to send “Nina has a bathtub full of squares,” my grand- dren napping after lunch.“There were 50 of them in the squares to Sparrow and lend their voices in mother proclaimed eagerly.“Jan has a basement full. ahall,”Letwabasaid,“allcoveredintheselittlesquares.” support of the organization’s bid to receive funding I have a cupboard full and another big bag.”These She told them that the squares had come from across from the Stephen Lewis Foundation in 2010. squares are to be knitted together into blankets on the Atlantic Ocean. They didn’t believe her. “I look around and I see how people have started to their arrival in South Africa. Blankets, especially in The West Hill Grandmothers presented Letwaba become more alive and involved.Whenever we meet, winter, are not only used for sleeping. They are to with a colourful wrap composed of knitted squares. someone says this is uplifting. More grandmother be worn continually throughout the day,a perpetu- “I’ve seen a style like that on models!”someone said. groups have to be spawned,”Nina Minde said. ally protective garment. One member worried the gift was too colourful. •January 13 from 2 to 4 pm at the Westmount Li- “What you’re doing here has gone beyond the “My grandmother wouldn’t have worn that,”he said brary, a panel of four will speak about the move- group you support in [the township of] Alexandra, – and received scandalized looks. ment and try to raise awareness among families in Johannesburg,” Letwaba told us. “Now the grand- “We’re bright, we’re funky,” came the reply. the area. The panel will include Thérèse Bourque mothers over there are meeting together and making “We’re free spirits!” Lambert, Nina Minde, Jan McConnell, and Biatha blankets for those with HIV. Originally Letwaba worked at a clinic with the Kayitefe, the daughter of a woman caring for 18 “What we have seen with the knitting is that it has grandmothers as a psychiatrist. She now does man- orphans in Rwanda. really promoted a sense of togetherness, making agerial and support work when necessary at Spar- •February 20 a meeting of all the Montreal them learn about teamwork. It’s not just a matter of row, which continues to support the grandmothers grandmothers groups will be held at West Hill. keeping them warm, but of bringing them closer to of Alexandra, or Alex. Sparrow offers them free •March 13 the West Hill group hosts a Celtic each other.You might think it’s a piece of wool, but transport, the use of its chapel for funerals, and Concert at Westmount Park United Church. it goes beyond that.” food from their gardens. Info:[email protected]

SELF Happy Holidays •Grooming service for dogs & cats •Soft claws SERVICE to all our clients! •Daycare centre for dogs •Feline boarding PRODUCTS & Kobi Ben-Jacob President • [email protected] ACCESSORIES 6129-A Monkland, Montreal • 514.564.1399 GROOMING 38 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Former radioman Sid Margles joins broadcasters Hall of Fame Martin C. Barry A high point of Sid’s reporting ca- reer included coverage of the 1968 Retired Montreal broadcaster Sid- St. Jean Baptiste parade and the dis- ney Margles, whose name and voice ruptive riot, during which Prime were synonyms for late-breaking Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau sat news on CJAD Radio during the steadfast as other VIPs around him 1960s and ’70s, has capped his 40- sought cover. It was also during the year career by being inducted into troubled times in Montreal, from the Canadian Association of Broad- 1962 to 1970, when bombs were casters’ Hall of Fame. planted in several areas and there As is the case with so many fruitful were many demonstrations and riots. careers, Sid started at the bottom. But by far, his most memorable ex- While attending a teen audience perience began on a stormy Friday, participation program on CJAD in November 29, 1963. the mid-1950s, he was selected to read One evening while he was prepar-

a commercial for the show’s sponsor – ing dinner, a call came in about an Broadcasters of Association Canadian the of courtesy Photo Coca-Cola – and more opportunities “explosion” in Ste. Thérèse, north of Sidney Margles at the 2009 CAB Broadcast Hall of Fame reception November 30 followed. In 1959, during his third Montreal. Possessing news intuition, For Sid, one result of that experience was, of course, a lot larger than what year of university, Sid seized the op- Sid sensed a disaster and was on his was realizing the limitations faced at you see today. But in those days it portunity to join the CJAD news de- way even before he learned it was an that time by radioreporters on location. was quite a development.” partment as a full-time writer. Air-Canada DC-8 that had crashed So he consulted with CJAD’s engineers While Sid’s career in radio news In 1960, CJAD provided Sid with a moments after takeoff with 118 peo- about developing a mobile transmitting came to an end in 1984 when he was transmitter-equipped mobile unit – ple aboard. He was the first newsman unit. In conjunction with Motorola, appointed president of a division of a veritable studio on wheels that on the scene. With microphone in they produced what became known Standard Broadcasting (CJAD’s par- could put the listener at the scene of hand, he was able to immediately as a Carrier Operated Relay System, a ent company), four years later he a fast-breaking or major news event confirm the crash and describe the portable unit enabling a radio reporter embarked on a career in politics virtually anywhere in the Montreal tragedy. Sid remembers it this way. to transmit back to a car, where the when he was elected to the first of region. From fires to politics, cele- “I received a phone call from Vince signal could be relayed to the station. three terms he would serve as a city brations to crises, civic issues to pub- Rowe, news editor on duty. Being a “At that time, the unit they devel- councillor in Town of Mount Royal, lic demonstrations, Sid Margles was hunch player, I said I was on the way oped for me was the size I’d say of a where he, his wife, and three daugh- there, on call 24 hours a day, seven and to call me in the car to give me huge suitcase, which sat in the trunk ters lived at the time. Sid has lived in days a week. As such, he is recognized more information. I was on my way of the car, and the portable was a Côte St. Luc for the past four years. today as a pioneer of Canadian on- to the Laurentian Autoroute, which five- or six-pound handheld unit. It He spends his winters in Florida. the-spot radio reporting. in those days was a toll road, when he Among seasoned journalists in called to say the explosion had been those days, Sid was known for his several miles into Ste. Thérèse. knack for turning up at the scene of “I told him to call the police and tell newsworthy events before anyone them I wasn’t stopping at the toll gate. else got there. While some speculated As I travelled up Highway 11, I saw he had a highly developed network there was this one policeman standing of insiders to keep him clued in, Sid in the middle of the road with a flash- attributes his success to the techno- light trying to direct traffic, and there logical tools he was using, including I saw on my left all the flames. I ended a mobile phone in his car, a helicop- up moving in to observe what I would ter with a two-way radio link that describe. I had to walk in about half often provided assistance, and a a mile from my car because it was in scanner radio for monitoring police the fields. And I came back out and and fire activity. was able to report from my car.”

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www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 39 THE SENIOR TIMES Educating Pygmalion time and again Byron Toben The most famous version, of course, was Shaw’s Susan/Rita is Irish, like many from Liverpool (the 1913 play (later movie) called, well, Pygmalion, Beatles).Where else did she get that spunk? Long ago and far away, Pygmalion of Cyprus, a which was turned into the hit musical (and You can see this role reversal with witty repartee slave revealed to be of Royal blood and restored movie) My Fair Lady. at the latest in a string of hits at the Segal Theatre as a king, decided what he really wanted to be The 1990 movie Pretty Woman continued this Centre. Ric Reid is pitch perfect as the prof and was a sculptor.And what better inspiration than theme. In these earlier incarnations, the Pyg- NTS alumna Carly Street as the charming lass, all Galatea, the sea nymph, who, carved from ivory, malion figure improved the diction or status of the against an impressive set designed by award win- then came to life. female object. However, the 1980 British play Ed- ning John Dinning.The director, Marcia Kash, has Like the Cinderella story, this ancient tale has ucating Rita (later, yep, a movie) put a spin on this herself played the role of Rita several times so she been the template for numerous retellings dressed plot, whereby the jaded Pyggie professor finds that had added insight in sculpting this proven com- up in contemporary garb. W.S. Gilbert made a lot he has a lot to learn from the spunky student, Liv- edy drama to our eyes and ears. of money with his 1871 verse play called Pyg- erpuddlian hair dresser Rita (nee Susan). Educating Rita continues at the Segal until malion and Galatea and that was before he teamed Although not stated in the script, I suspect that December 13. Call 514-739-7944 up with Sullivan. Cool notes played for Atwater Library

Byron Toben

The evening breeze caressed the trees on a fine November night for Atwater Library’s annual fundraising cocktail benefit. Jazz pianist Oliver Jones opened with a medley of classic tunes to entertain the 300 guests. When Oliver, who grew up near the venerable in- stitution, was not playing, Concordia prof Dave Turner and his trio provided cool notes to the chatter and tinkling. The whole was m.c.’d by the amiable Dennis Trudeau who is busy these days as he also performed such duties at the Cinemania French film fest and the RIDM (Rencontres Inter- nationales de Documentaire de Montreal) film fest. Dr. Serge Gauthier, seen here at the inaugura- Westmount mayor Peter Trent and City Coun- tion of Maison Herron’s new wing for residents cilor Martin Rotrand were among the minglers. A with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive deficits. silent auction, including popular Aislin original On January 13, at Alzheimer Groupe’s cartoons, raised $72,000. Atwater Library receives Alzheimer Awareness Conference, Dr. Gauthier only 10% of its funding from government sources. Dennis Trudeau with Oliver Jones & Eric Lagace on bass will give an update on the latest treatments for the different stages of Alzheimer's disease. Staying connected with those we’ve lost Dr. Michael Eleff painful part was that she could no longer pick up the phone and talk to her sister. I commented that, When we lose a loved one, the pain of loss is ac- although this was true, she could certainly write companied by a feeling of disconnection: “I will letters to her sister and maintain her connection never see him again.I won’t be able to talk to him, that way. (I happened to know that this woman tell him about my day, share news with him.” enjoys writing and is accustomed to sharing However, it is not only possible but healthy and events, thoughts and feelings through writing.) normal to maintain a sense of connection with She was initially stunned by the suggestion: many those we love, even after the loved one has died. people would regard writing letters to a deceased Close bonds, especially those forged and enriched person as “crazy.” She quickly warmed to the idea over many years of shared experiences, are altered and has found both comfort and value in “staying by death, but not necessarily severed. I’m not talk- connected” this way. It may well be that being en- ing about ghosts, spirits or any specific religious couraged to do this by a friend who happens to be beliefs, but rather about the reality that loving a psychiatrist made it easier to see this as perfectly human relationships are enduring and continuous. reasonable behaviour: if the psychiatrist doesn’t Recently, I had the opportunity to talk to a friend think it’s a sign of mental illness to remain in whose sister had died after a long illness. She was touch with my sister this way, I guess it is ok. grieving this loss and commented that the most Not everyone is a writer, but everyone can main- tain these important bonds. Certainly, death changes our relationships with our lost loved Tel: 514-939-7247 Fax: 514-939-2699 ones, profoundly and, at least within our usual understanding of day-to-day life in this world, JOYCE BLOND FRANK permanently. However, we don’t stop loving a B.A., B.C.L., LL.M. Avocat-Attorney person just because he or she has died. Similarly, we don’t stop feeling connected with our loved Family and Elder Law ones. We can respect both the need to stay con- nected and the reality of enduring bonds, altered 1310 Greene Ave. Suite 660 but not severed by death. Westmount Michael Eleff is Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Manitoba. 40 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Byron Toben’s theatre picks Black eatre Workshop honors Bertrand Henry

Teacher and mentor Bertrand Henry will be honoured with the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award Saturday, January 30 at Black Theatre Workshop’s 24th Annual Vision Gala Awards. Henry, whose contribution to the arts and English theatre will be celebrated, is one of the orig- inal founders of Dawson’s Dome theatre and has been de- A Christmas Carol voted to young people for over A Christmas Carol, until December 13 Infinitheatre Pipeling Reading Series, 25 years. at D.B. Clarke at Concordia. until December 13 at Bain St. Michel. Cocktails, dinner and dancing Info: 514-845-9810 Info: 514-897-1774 will follow. Cabaret, until December 13 at Monu- Urban Tales, from December 16-19 at Info: 514- 932-1104 ext.226 or ment National. Info: 514-871-2224 Centaur. Info: 514-288-3161 blacktheatreworkshop.ca

A haunting exposé of immigration WINTER 2010 Online Registration Available The Montreal Theatre Ensemble pres- the timelessness of human situa- ents A View from the Bridge, Arthur tions. “What happens today is what Miller’s haunting expose of the havoc happened 500 years ago and 500 compounded by jealousy, self-decep- years before that.” tion, and distrust upon a closely-knit A View from the Bridge runs at Cas- 1950’s Italian-American community. grain Theatre January 14-30, Tuesdays Bill Fletcher, who plays the narra- to Saturdays, 8 pm, Sundays, 2 pm. tor Alfieri, believes the play talks to Info: 514-515-9140 or mtlt.com Computers & Technology Professional & Word, Excel, PowerPoint & Access, Personal Development NEW PHARMACY IN THE WEST-ISLAND 3D Animation, SolidWorks, Photoshop, Dreamweaver,InDesign, Illustrator for Fashion Inside Film,TV & New Media, Musical Theatre, Design, Internet Marketing Strategies, ... Staged Combat, Scriptwriting for Hollywood, WELCOME SENIORS! Photography CreativeWriting, Painting withAcrylics, ... Camera Basics, Digital Photography, Languages ATWATER Documentary Photography,Creative English, French, Chinese, Spanish, Composition, Photographing People, Japanese, Italian. Souren Bedrossian, Owner Marco Vernacchia, Owner Environmental Portraiture, ... PHARMAPRIX For a complete listing of courses, please visit our website. www.dawsoncollege.qc.ca/ctd Affiliated to PRESCRIPTIONS - FREE DELIVERY Beauty Boutique™ and Food Mini-Market Tours Lower Price, Open 8 AM – 10 PM, 7 days a week CONCORD & Travel Better Service Deluxe Bus Tour 514-426-1081 1071 St-Urbain, Suite R06, Montreal 10 Place de la Triade, Pointe-Claire, on Holiday next to new IGA Place d'Armes 514-876-1680 Specialist www.concordtours.ca Casino Specialist Getting Ready to Fly South for the Wi nter? Foxwoods & Mohegan Casinos 2 days (Springfield, Massachusetts) Departure: Feb. 25, 26, 2010, 5-star hotel, 3 meals included! $188 The UPS Store can help get you to Receive $40 coupon for the slot machines! your sunfilled destination with ease! (Occ.2) • We’ll pick your luggage up at your place of residence Ottawa Casino & City Tour 1day • We’ll handle all the necessary shipping paper work • Your luggage will arrive directly at your final destination Departure: Every Saturday • No more waiting for your bags at the luggage carousel Receive $15 coupon for the slot machines! $25 Contact us today for more information!

Prese nt this AD and g et 8 days The UPS Store The UPS Store Orlando Disney World 2348 Chemin Lucerne Carrefour Don Quichotte % Ville Mt-Royal, PQ 15 Don Quichotte Blvd., 101 OFF Regular Tour: Departure Dec. 19, 26, 2009; Feb. 27, 2010 H3R 2J8 L’île-Perrot, PQ Shipping 7 nights hotel, breakfast and tax included T: 514.341.6245 J7V 7X4 & Packing Servi ces [email protected] T: 514.425.6245 Limi ted time offer, some restrictions appl y. $378+ Valid at this loc ation onl y. [email protected] Direct Tour: Departure Dec. 27, 2009; Feb. 27, 2010 5 nights hotel, breakfast, tax and TICKETS INCLUDED! $769+ www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 41 THE SENIOR TIMES Sikh congregations contribute to holiday campaign

Here at Sun Youth Nicolas Carpentier

Sun Youth launched its Annual Holiday Cam- paign October 28. This year, the goal will be to feed some 18,000 people for the holidays and to provide 10,000 new toys for children under 13. To accomplish this mission, Sun Youth is rely- ing on the generosity of individuals, companies, and foundations. For this Holiday season, Sun Youth received a generous boost from the Montreal Sikh commu- nity. Every year, this community supports various charities to underline the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, founder of the Sikh faith. This year marks the 540th anniversary of his birth. Guru Nanak taught that people should share with and help those in need. This is one of the three basic prin- ciples of Sikhism. Photo: Nicolas Carpentier Two congregations decided to lend a hand to The West-Island Sikh Community (Guruwara Sahib Greater Montreal) presenting their generous Sun Youth and offered us their support through contribution to the Sun Youth Holiday Basket Campaign. various initiatives. On November 8, members of growing community of a few thousand members. would like to thank Dr. Leduc, everyone at CHOM the Gurudwara Sahib Quebec congregation in Pe- We wish to thank the members of the Montreal and CJAD, as well as their station’s listeners for tite Patrie / Little Burgundy welcomed Sun Youth Sikh Community for their renewed support this their support this year. From all of us at Sun Youth, representatives to their celebration of Guru year. Together, we are confident that we will reach happy holidays to Senior Times readers. Nanak’s birthday. This marked the 23rd consecu- our goal in helping those who need it most. tive year that this congregation donated to Sun There was also a lot of giving going on at Sun Youth. They presented Sun Youth with 200 $10 Youth on November 26. The CHOM and CJAD food vouchers that will be distributed to victims radio stations were doing the annual live broad- of fire assisted by the organization over the Holi- cast of their shows from outside our St.Urbain day period. In December 2008, Sun Youth assisted headquarters. From 5:30 am to 8 pm, listeners 39 families that were victims of a fire. were invited to drop by with a food or cash dona- The following weekend, the Montreal West-Is- tion. Dr. Alain Leduc from Centre Dentaire Paris land Sikh community also commemorated the Loft, 83 Rachel St. E came by early to bring the an- birth of Guru Nanak at a special in their temple: nual contribution from the centre as part of their Gurudwara Sahib Greater Montreal in Dollard- commitment to give a percentage of their profits Des-Ormeaux. On this occasion, the members of to Sun Youth. The doctor came in with a $10,000 this temple donated 10,000 food items to Sun cheque to purchase milk and eggs for our emer- Youth as part of our annual campaign to help gency food bank. 18,000 people during this Holiday period. The street collection was very successful and Réjeanne Cronier, Fernande Plante and Juan Pedro This temple was founded in 1999 and counts a brought in $10,157 for a total of $20,157. We wrap Christmas presents for children.

The members of Gurudwara Sahib Quebec presenting Sid Stevens with two Dr. Alain Leduc discussing his $10,000 donation to Sun Youth with hundreds $10 food vouchers to assist fire victims during the holidays. CJAD morning man Andrew Carter and show producer Andrea Elias. 42 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Your don ati on s br ing a smil e to so many face s THA NK YOU! Dear friends,

2009 represented an even grea ter degree of generosity on your part. Here at Sun Youth, we ha ve witnessed your increasing readiness to lend a hand to the less fortuna te for the past 55 years. Dona tions from thousands of Montrealers like you, to whom we promise total confi dentiality , ha ve allo wed us to help nearly 2,000 families a month this year; a sta tistic tha t has defi ed the recent economic do wnturn and actually risen in the past two years. Incredibly , in these tough economic times, you ha ve sho wn an inspira tional dedica tion to the Montreal community , and for this, we thank you; for this, the less fortuna te are truly gra teful.

The Holiday season is an especially important time for us to sho w our support for under - privileged families. During this crucial time, man y Montrealers turn to us for much-needed support and comfort to make their Holiday season a merr y one. Your generous gifts will allo w us to distribute Holiday food hampers to some 18,000 people in need, inc luding new to ys to children. It will also ensure the continuity of our food assistance program for the first few months of the year . Thanks to your warmth and kindness, Montrealers young and old will be able to ga ther around the table for a traditional meal in the Holiday spirit.

You should also kno w tha t your support makes it possible for us to offer our essential community ser vices year round. More than 900 youths were able to participa te in our sports and recrea tion program this year thanks to you. We were also able to assist man y families who fell victim to fires, and to offer diverse ser vices to senior citizens in need of assistance. Wha t’ s more, you helped keep our Crime Prevention department on our streets, and on pa trol.

2010 is sure to bring man y new challenges for Sun Youth and our wonderful community . With your continuing support, we look forward to meeting these challenges head on, and turning them into new and rewarding opportunities. Please accept our thanks in advance for your generosity , and our best wishes for this Holiday season. May you enjo y the warmest of celebra tor y cheer with your loved ones during this ver y special time. Ha ppy Holidays!

Sid Stevens Executive V.P.

Earl De la Perralle Executive Director

Photo Credit: Wayne Oliver

Sun Youth • Annual Campaign Please make out your cheque or money order to: Sun Youth Organiza tion Inc., 4251 St. Urbain, Montreal, QC H2W 1V6. Tel.: (514) 842-6822 Online dona tions at www .sun youthorg.com

www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 43 THE SENIOR TIMES It takes lots of love to share the warmth Photos: Scott Philip Viveka Anban, with keyboard teacher Suzanne Larose Fiona Crossling with founder, Judy Stevens Susan Mingo rules in the kitchen

Nathalie Manley Stevens and Hodes started out collecting clothes. College music student since October.“I learn how Then, after a house in Pointe St. Charles was do- to play and soon I might become a great musi- The delectable scent of freshly baked muffins fills nated, the two started a second-hand shop that sold cian,” Jannack says. “I listen to heavy metal a lot.” the air. Nearby, people browse through racks of clothes and provided free clothing to those who In another room,Viveka Anban, 11. is having her clothing. The sounds of lively chatter and music could not afford any. At the time, they were still keyboard lesson with Suzanne Larose. They are are audible. But this isn’t a typical day at a shop- using their cars to drive around and distribute food preparing for a recital, Stevens explains. ping mall – it’s a Thursday afternoon at Share the and clothing to those in need, but they later ac- Twice a week, food is distributed to the unem- Warmth, the multi-faceted organization that’s quired a truck so they could increase their efforts. ployed and those on government assistance. The been helping Montrealers in need for 20 years. It wasn’t long before Share the Warmth became in- always-busy kitchen staff works daily to prepare Share theWarmth was founded by Judy Stevens and corporated. “I always think that we were meant to snacks for hungry school children. her sister-in-law Linda Hodes in 1989 after the two do it,”said Stevens of founding the organization.“It “We prepare sandwiches and muffins for schools women received a visit at their old business place sort of came from the back door. Nothing is static. all across the island,”Stevens said. After preparing from a woman who told them she was going out onto Everything evolves and changes in life and so did the snacks, volunteers at the organization pack the streets to help feed the homeless. “My sister-in- Share the Warmth.” them up and deliver them to daycares, elementary law said,‘You know what,we’ll get some warm clothes The organization kept growing. It moved from and high schools. Susan Mingo is head of the and we’ll meet you on the street,’” Stevens recalls. the smaller house to its current location – a large kitchen staff. “We make 500 to 700 muffins a day After Linda made a phone call to The Gazette, their church in Pointe St. Charles – in 2005. The church for kids in schools,” she says proudly, “and 1,000 actions on the streets were given a full-page write-up has room for all of its functions: second-hand tuna, egg salad and cheese sandwiches.” the following day. “I went into work the next day clothing shop, food bank, youth group and after- In the fall, Share the Warmth runs a back-to- and the phones were ringing like crazy,”Stevens said. school centre. school program that provides school supplies to “People were calling saying they wanted to volun- A youth group for inner-city children meets 6:30 students in need. The organization also provides teer. … so many people wanted to help.” to 8 pm twice a week. “The turnout is great,” scholarships to about 25 gifted students from low- Stevens said. The group lets children socialize and income families. Over 30 years experience at your service participate in such activities as arts and crafts.“Last New ventures are in the works. “Our latest pro- time we had almost 40 kids. They really need it.” gram involves working with the students in the BARBIERIG Share the Warmth also hosts community events scholarship program, the music program, the — spaghetti suppers, dances, and after-school tu- youth group, and offering them tutoring and AUDIOPROTHÉSISTES toring. The organization has music rooms on the mentoring,” Stevens said. “If we can help them in DIGITALHEARINGAID(S) second floor, where musicians give children key- feeling that they want to learn more and they want NOWPAIDBYMEDICARE board and guitar lessons. “It’s fantastic. They’d to be involved in life, they can create a positive des- Come in and discover what a digital hearing otherwise never get an opportunity to do this,” tiny for themselves.” aid can do for you! Stevens said. Share the Warmth is able to do all this thanks to the • Assistive Listening Devices Daniel Jannack, 17, has been taking weekly gui- generosity of over 200 benefactors.“Weget donations • Audiometric Exam • Ear Protectors tar lessons from Philippe Blanchette, a St. Laurent from corporate foundations and individuals. We’re • Hearing Aid Repairs – All Makes Illustration not Pet of the month • Invisible Hearing Aids covered by medicare Do you like to feel loved? Then I am the cat for you! I love to Come in for your play and be cuddled.Wouldn’t you enjoy some cuddling with COMPLIMENTARY me? Ask for Joshua! HEARINGTEST SPCA Montérégie is located at 178 Vide, Ste-Angèle-de- Monnoir (exit 37 on autoroute 10). Visiting hours for cats is 1396 St. Catherine W. Suite 404 (Corner Bishop) from 2pm to 4 pm everyday. Adoption fees cover sterilization, House calls available vaccination & deworming. Call for details Info: 514 386-5960 / [email protected] 514 866-1687 Their 2010 Christmas calendars are now available at L to R: Joshua and Lola spcamonteregie.com 44 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Gently-used clothes are offered Philippe Blanchette teaches guitar to Daniel Jannack “Please support Scholarship Program. $2.00” at a low price not funded much by the government,”said Fiona Crossling, the associate director of the organization. To keep everything running smoothly, Share the Warmth needs more than just financial aid. Even Holiday Wish List though the organization has six full-time staff mem- bers, they still need lots of willing volunteers to keep • Turkeys • Stuffing makers their many programs going. The kitchen is often filled • Financial Donations • Drivers to deliver & with volunteers, many of them seniors, preparing • Food pick up food boxes snacks for the School Food Program. • Turkey carvers • People to unpack Seniors are just part of Share the Warmth’s varied list and roasters food boxes of volunteers. “Instead of staying home, students on • Christmas cookie • New toys for children suspension can come here and work for the day,” bakers • Wrapping paper Stevens said. “We also have volunteers who are young • Cranberry sauce offenders.” University and high school students often makers To Share The Warmth: 514-933-5599 visit and help out with the day-to-day work. n r $ i a T a t n r M e 2 o p Volunteers also help with the more menial chores.“We p a c g 1 t p p T n l i , i u l r c 6 s h s i o e d e 2 t m e r v s 3 e . a a i H . I s t 0 t D n l o i y s 4 o b v e u have partners for a day, where people from a company or i o n n e y / l n i

SMART AD VAN TAGE! n e , n v $ H d R w t e 2 ( a y o n D 9 r u i r y i , o P y n 3 n n w a 9 R a d i s n s 3 M m a school come help out with cleaning or renovating,” t f . d o r l 2 i e i o c F m 8 ( D s Q m i k . n e , i F t u m a l s e $ i o é n t n d 1 o g i b a n c 7 , d o e n , i Crossling said. Recently, the youth group meeting room a d e 9 a s c c t e 9 l , l i ) s i o a 9 S n p a . n l ) g r e e n S / o r c r d e e 2 d v h o e x 0 i t u c a a r a and music room were given facelifts. 1 c d d e r x m 0 t g e e s e S p n e a r . s a l a T s l . m e e n m h S o : r a t e e $ f e a f y e o 1 ( p Everyone is welcome to volunteer in this lively s 2 F b 7 r , u y 0 e , e f c r 9 o 1 e c G o 9 u r 0 a h e 9 m r L t A a q , u H ( p s c 2 u 4 r y l e 0 e c - i e r atmosphere. Application forms let people choose u c 1 e t e fi n n e y 0 n d n a d l t i S d . a m n a $ † e o n d i e 1 † t n c d e a , s a i 4 H e r n i , , l 9 t

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Festival Amsterdam) and re- u o p a e 3 a a l l , c i ( 5 d l c c 2 t h 9 p e o a 0 h a 9 u a t 1 b a ) a n r l 0 l r e l c / g e g S r o h e 2 cently selected to Sundance Festival 2010. e l o b f i 0 a c o o $ n l 1 s i e r r 0 0 g a e n . c c a t 1 S fi a s a o t 0 o e i hyundaicanada.com n n m G / o n k a c f n L p m a e E-mail [email protected]. In the subject, be n e

ULSANHYUNDAI ) l o t e c e l . f a l f o s i a t L n e , $ G r e t g i 1 i 3 a o d L n 5 r 6 s , n e s a , e 0 m u t m w t a sure to write “Last Train Home - SENIOR TIMES”. 9 e r o a o i 3 a i l f t n u s n . n f (1 km East of Sources) Tel.: h 2 u . e p 1625 Hymus Blvd, Dorval 514 683-5702 t c o 0 h a r o e u s s / l n , The film is playing at AMC forum. t www.theseniortimes.com December 2009 45 THE SENIOR TIMES Times and Places Molly Newborn

St. Peter’s Basilica St. Peter’s Square Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II Alone in magnificent Rome and not so fancy free I heard it over and over again: Be- most populated city in Italy and real- straight to the colosseum – Rome’s sio. Built in 1630, the crypt preserves ware of child pickpockets at the ized that throughout my Italian ad- most defining landmark. I took the the hearts and lungs of popes from train station in Rome. venture I had never felt so alone. I subway, again clutching my bag. The 1590 to 1903. Many tourists are likely I took the train from Florence to started to regret having left my travel Colosseum was colossal, and easily unaware of the decaying organs be- Rome. Paranoid, I clutched my bags friends in Florence and wondered spotted from far away. Opened in 80 hind them as they snap pictures and as I walked through the train station why I had ever thought exploring AD, this travertine theatre once held marvel in the beauty of the fountain. and the few blocks to my hostel. The Rome solo would be fun. 50,000 spectators. The closer I got to I walked along streets lined with area around the train station was not I had to snap out of it. I was in the Colosseum, the more street ven- chic cafés and boutiques and stum- the nicest. The sun was disappearing, Rome! Italy’s capital! This bustling dors I saw trying to sell cheap bled onto another glorious land- and what was soon to be one of the metropolis, rich in art, culture, his- bracelets to unsuspecting tourists. mark: Scalinata di Spagna, or the worst migraines of my life had begun. tory, fashion, cuisine and religion There are many costumed “charac- Spanish Steps. I woke up in a room, with 14 other was waiting for me. ters” at the entrance. They charge The Scalinata is the longest and young visitors, in the largest and I got to my feet and ventured out, tourists $20 for a picture. I joined a widest staircase in Europe, with 138 tour group and waited in line to get steps. Built from 1723 to 1725, it be- in. While climbing the steps inside I gins at the Piazza di Spagna and leads looked down into the labyrinth of up to Piazza Trinita dei Monte with walls on the floor that once had ele- the church of the same name. Next vators that transported the animals to the staircase is a pink house where from the cages to the arena level. I in 1821 John Keats, one of the most couldn’t help but feel the pain of the famous romantic poets of all time, thousands of people and wild ani- passed away when he was a mere 25 mals that perished for the amuse- years old. ment of the Roman crowd. As the sun started to set, I made my Rome is crowded with ancient way back to my hostel. It was not ruins – and with tourists. I tagged easy. As a young woman walking along with some of the tour groups around solo in Rome I felt like a lamb to hear the stories and learn some in the forest. An endless number of history. I walked around in awe of Italian men approached me, followed the massiveness of the city. The me, and went on and on trying to se- buildings were titanic; the Renais- duce me in Italian. I made it back to sance and Baroque architecture is the hostel safe, with purse intact. glorious, breathtaking and dramatic. The next morning I joined a tour I was overwhelmed, and in an at- of The Vatican City, the walled en- tempt to find the Jewish Ghetto and clave within Rome. Home to the the synagogue – which I never did – Pope and the Catholic Church, it is I got lost. I felt bad about that be- the smallest country in the world by cause my mother had told me they both population (about 900) and were definitely worth a visit. I turned area (0.44 square kilometres). a corner and found myself in front of Postage stamps, tourist mementos, one of the most spectacular water and fees for admission to museums fountains in the world: the Trevi support the entire economy. It issues Fountain. The largest Baroque foun- its own coins and even has its own tain in Rome, it stands 25.9 metres bank, Vatican Bank, containing the high and 19.8 metres wide. Legend only ATM in the world with instruc- has it that the traveller who throws a tions in Latin. Within Vatican City coin into the fountain will soon re- are Saint Peter’s Basilica, the Apos- turn to Rome; two coins and you will tolic Palace and the Sistine Chapel. fall in love in Rome. The Swiss Guards roam the streets Next to the fountain is the Baroque and guard entrances. These personal Chiesa dei Santi Vincenzo e Anasta- bodyguards to the Pope look like 46 December 2009 www.theseniortimes.com THE SENIOR TIMES Inside St. Peter’s Basilica Inside the Colosseum charming Disney characters in their stamp on it back home to my mother night was his last night before he re- experiences travelling around Europe, colourful uniforms. in Montreal and wondered if she’d turned to Iraq. We could not have and my life in Los Angeles. We talked The immenseness of Saint Peter’s appreciate its value. been more different and yet we could politics, religion, culture – everything Basilica is indescribable. As one of Rome is a spectacular city, and de- not get enough of each other. The café we could think of. We sat at the café the holiest sites in Christianity it spite all its beauty and history, the closed and we walked around and until the sun rose. We exchanged spans 5.7 acres and holds 60,000 peo- stress of all that a big city entails wore found another that was open all night. e-mails, said our goodbyes and we ple. Constructed from 1506 to 1626 me out. I was ready to leave and re- We sat there, eating a cheese platter never contacted each other again. I it is the burial site of Saint Peter, one turn to the calm of northern Italy. with tea, and shared our stories. He suppose we both wanted to preserve of the 12 apostles of Jesus and of I returned to my hostel, once again told me about his life in Iraq and his the perfection of that night and our great importance in the founding of successfully dodging the men and the decision to join the army. I shared my connection in Rome. the Christian Church. child pickpockets. The Sistine Chapel is the chapel in I stopped at a small pizza joint next the Apostolic Palace, the official res- to the hostel and ordered a slice of idence of the Pope. cheese pizza in broken Italian. A The frescos in the Sistine Chapel young man approached me and Come d own for a Vermont are among the most famous in the asked if I was American. He sighed world with works by Michelangelo, with utter relief when I said yes. He Raphael, Bernini, and Botticelli. too was American and said he’d spent Michelangelo’s The Last Judgment the whole day without speaking to covers the entire wall behind the anyone in English. He asked me if I and experien ce altar. I spent most of my time there wanted to get a coffee with him. so much mo re . with my eyes on the ceiling in awe of We found a small café and ordered Michelangelo’s works depicting sto- some pastries, coffee and tea. He was ries in Genesis. a 26-year-old US soldier stationed in I went to the post office and sent a Iraq on his two-week vacation, which Vatican postcard with a Vatican he chose to spend in Rome. That

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