Local Seeker West End Issue 24

TAKE ONE - We’re different!

Local See ker The We s t

E n d Community paper

Vo l u m e 2 , I s s u e 2 4 , D e c 9 , 2 0 1 1

Do You know your LOCAL

Christmas Angel?

Special lady transforms her grief into holiday spirit When I was a kid, I had an Italian neighbour, Dominic Chicconi, living across the street. At Christmas time, his parents would invite me over and I remember their decorated, authentic fir tree, which I admired as I ate some Italian holiday cuisine (always involving chicken hearts and/or livers, for some reason, I think) and dreamt of sugar plum faeries. While our Festival of Lights, Chanukah, often falls around the same time of year, we Jews don’t really “get into” the Christmas spirit. That is why we do things like see The Nutcracker and enviously spy on the other kids sitting on Santa’s lap.

But I have still had my own Santa experiences over the years, including playing Santa as an extra in the 1989 film Mindfield, starring Christopher Plummer, Michael Ironside and Lisa Langlois and being part of the assembled throng welcoming Sinterklaas to Amsterdam while there in the late 1990s on a travel writer’s junket. I also saw this really welldone foreign-produced Santa horror film at last summer’s Fantasia film fest, but that’s another story.

Last year, we featured an exclusive interview with Kris Kringle on the cover of The Local Seeker, so it made perfect sense to keep the tradition alive for our holiday issue this year...

Story by Bram D. Eisenthal, cover photo by Father John Walsh

cont. p4

Out with the old…

What’s in a name? Well, everything, really. Our names are imprinted upon us, which is why I question many of the names people give themselves today. It says a lot about you when you are revealed to the world, your name does.

Briefly Bram * Briefly Bram *

I have always liked the name The Local Seeker. To someone like me, who loves a good mystery, the word “seeker” means searching for something, often something mysterious and potentially unobtainable… like success, truth, information… words I would definitely associate with what we are trying to do here.

advertiser: Respected local builder Dubelle Developments, which has been bestowed the ACQ award for Performance and Excellence in Residential Construction. We are indeed proud that Dubelle will grace our pages and thank them for their patronage.

We will be profiling Dubelle in a future issue.

To you and your families, a happy and healthy holiday season and New Year! See you in 2012!

Bram Eisenthal Publisher and Editor

The problem appears to be that the moniker Local Seeker raises far too many eyebrows here in Montreal. When I introduced a Montreal edition of the enormously successful Local Seeker in Cornwall, I told my partners “Gals (in reality the self-named Seeker Chicks), remember one thing, Montreal is NOT Cornwall” and that was not only geographically valid, but has proven prescient. The weekly Local Seeker in Cornwall has a very active free classified section. I have offered that to you here, but almost no one has availed themselves of my generous offer. Big cities, unlike small towns, tend to view everything with suspicion. Readers probably wonder what my angle is. Likewise, the title Local Seeker appears to be met with a perceptible shrugging of shoulders: Seeker? What are they seeking? I have been told by many people that they have participated in such conversations.

So, because it’s hard enough to get people to read your paper as it is, in an era where pioneering publications like The Montreal Gazette have problems with their dwindling subscription base, I have decided to change the name to something less perturbing. I like The Local Herald because, one, we ARE indeed a very local paper, centred in Montreal’s West End and, two, “herald” also signifies a foretelling, a messaging, the transmission of something, in this case something special.

I wanted, as well, to pay homage to the defunct Hampstead Herald (later the Weekly Herald), which journalists Warren Perley and Wesley Goldstein proudly brought to West Enders from 1989 to 1991. I really enjoyed this paper, mourned its demise, and actually sought out Perley’s blessing before making this decision. I received it from him, along with a pleased chuckle. Thank you for that, Warren (who, by the way, plies his trade today as a founder of Ponctuation Grafix… you can find him at www.ponctuation.com): I am happy to return a Herald to the West End, due in no small part to the inspiration you ignited. Warren is also Editor of beststory.ca, a new model for online journalism without advertising, which is launching now and will post original features stories ranging from 1500 to 6,000+ words.

So this is really out with the old, in with the new in 2012! Starting with our first issue of the year, to be published on January 12, you will find us at various locations near you as The Local Herald, the West End Montreal community paper. Take one, everybody – as I wish you a Happy and Healthy New Year, I want to remind you one constant remains: We’re STILL different!

And this goes for some material, too I’m sorry to bid adieu to Sol Boxenbaum for the time being (he explains why in his final column for now), but wanted to thank him for his sage and savvy words. He’s sort of our watch dog around here and I hope he’s back with us soon. But I also welcome a new regular

The Local Seeker, West End Montreal Edition Volume 2, Number 24, December 9, 2011 Founded by Julia Lucio and Mai-Liis Renaud 2010 Published by Local Seeker Media Group, Cornwall, Ontario The Local Seeker does not accept responsibility for errors, misprints or inaccuracies published within. The opinions and statements of our columnists are not to be presumed as the statements and opinions of The Local Seeker.

Managing Editor: Bram Eisenthal

THE LOCAL SEEKER,

Creative Design: Julia Lucio

DEC 9 (pg. 2)

OUR CONTACT INFORMATION Free Classifieds and Advertising: 514-975-7745 EMAIL: bram@thelocalseeker.com westend.thelocalseeker.com Mailing Address: 327 2nd Street E. Cornwall, On. K6H 1Y8 The Property Seeker A regular feature of The Local Seeker West End Montreal Edition Professional Consultant - Anita Benabou Rozenblat

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS: 514-975-7745 www.westend.thelocalseeker.com

Francaise uber alles

Photo Credit Max Kalinowicz

Blunt’s Bell Centre comeback a real crowd-pleaser James Blunt is back – and five years since his last show at the Bell Centre, he’s better than ever. His latest album has taken a turn from his usual melancholic ballads into a more upbeat pop-rock sound and he used it to full advantage in this energetic performance. The level of emotion that he puts into his older ballads, like “Carry You Home” and “Goodbye My Lover” was evident as he melted the hearts of all the women in the audience (which made up a hefty majority). Being the third concert of his that I attended, I’m no stranger to his performance style, but this show was by far the best I have seen. His band was impeccable, the sound was crystal clear - usually a challenge in large arenas - and the energetic performance really got the crowd moving. Overall, Blunt put on an amazing show.The opening act was staged by Bobby Bazini, a local Junonominated French-Canadian singer-songwriter who really prepared the crowd with his smooth Folk sound. The sold out Bell Centre was just enthralled by the performance of both Blunt and Bazini and when James comes back, I suggest that anyone interested in an amazing pop-rock show grab tickets as quickly as possible.

Maxie Kalinowicz

ABRA ELECTRONICS INC

514-731-0117 www.abra-electronics.com Store Hours Mon-Fri, 8:30-4:30

5580 Cote de Liesse - Montreal - H4P 1A9 Corner Devonshire For a truly special, interactive holiday gift, Abra has the kit for the boy or girl close to your heart Abra Electronics is not only Montreal’s best-stocked, best-priced distributor of electronic components, but THE place to buy various kits for hobbyists, enthusiasts and educators. We supply thousands of schools worldwide, from TO EN BLIC P our 15,000 square-foot O PU E warehouse and retail store.

TH Now in stock, the ultimate gift, our fine line of inexpensive Radio Controlled (RC) helicopters, in all sizes to suit the needs of pilots of all ages.

Last Call with Sol - Sol Boxenbaum

It is like a bad dream that keeps on getting worse day by day, year by year. The Quebec French movement held a protest last week. It denounced Revenue Quebec because it supports businesses in English. What’s next? Will we, the English speaking people, need to wear a letter “A” on our jackets? When will they start building the camps? How soon will we be forbidden to speak English in public places? It’s no laughing matter. Do they not realize that, per capita, the English population contributes a larger share of taxes?

Throughout Canada, government offices provide services in French and English. The problem begins with the fact that they do not realize that we are still a part of Canada. They have forgotten because Jean Charest doesn’t dare tell them and Stephen Harper told them they are a “nation.” Apparently the English media choose to remain silent as well. That silence will create the atmosphere that one day will allow these linguistic maniacs to forbid the distribution of English language newspapers and magazines in their “nation.”

Can you imagine what people in the free world would think of Bill 101 and all its spin-offs? What happened to democracy? Is there another country in the world that prohibits English from being spoken? It is time we wrote to our member of parliament and to the premiere and the Prime Minister and told them we feel enough is enough. Little by little English language schools are closing due to low attendance. It ought to be our right to educate our children in the language of our choice. Speak out now while we are still allowed to. (ED. NOTE – Yes, Sol, and how about this new official push to force impressionable young children to speak French on their school playgrounds, rather than ANY language of their choice? We really HAVE reached the breaking point where enough is truly enough!).

As Gimme Shelter plays in the background…

I would like to point out the fact that the weather is changing and day by day we await the harsh weather that accompanies fall and winter. There are thousands of homeless people living on the streets of Montreal and there is a need for warm clothing. Old sweaters that no longer fit you will make a welcome gift to someone who has nothing. You can drop off parcels of clothing to most of the churches and synagogues around town or to organizations like Dans La Rue, Old Brewery Mission and Sun Youth, to name a few. Mitts, scarves, tuques, socks, etc., can be purchased at the various dollar stores and left at these same locations. In today’s economy, one never knows who may be in need. If you are able to provide, be thankful.

Fair thee well…

Finally, I wish to take the opportunity of wishing all my readers and former listeners the best of the festive season, be it Christmas or Chanukah, and all the best in the New Year. I will be taking a sabbatical from my writing as of now. I have thoroughly enjoyed my brief career as a columnist but feel the need to move on. I will return to the media one day, perhaps on the Internet and maybe one day on satellite radio. But for now…

It’s closing time.

Please visit www.lastcallwithsol.com Sol Boxenbaum (CEO) VIVA CONSULTING (514) 486-6226

Drop by Abra’s store, open Mondays – Fridays from 8:30 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.

Or shop on-line, at www.abra-electronics.com. We accept VISA, MasterCard and PayPal.

THE LOCAL SEEKER,

DEC 9 (pg. 3) FREE CLASSIFIED ADS: 514-975-7745 www.westend.thelocalseeker.com

Special lady transforms personal grief into true Christmas spirit

Cover Stor y

(continued cover)

from

I wanted to profile someone whose commitment involved sharing holiday cheer with others and I asked our Spiritual Seedlings columnist, Father John Walsh, whether he could recommend anyone. And he had a great suggestion.

respite, Gail found out about a particular Christmas event. “At the church on Ste. Catherine and Bishop, St. Paul’s, I believe, thay were holding a “Face a Face” holiday buffet and I asked them if they wanted a Mrs. Claus in attendance.” Gail was no stranger to this unique role, having portrayed Santa’s lady love previously. “George and I had been volunteering for Meals on Wheels and they learned I still had my Mrs. Claus costume from my days working for CP Rail… so they asked me to do my Christmas deliveries in character, which I gladly did.

“After the church buffet, I started appearing as Mrs. Claus at Ogilvy’s Toy Tea, Father John’s senior’s luncheon at Bonsecour Market, the Old Brewery Mission… all voluntary jobs except the owell Gail Howell is not your run-of-the-mill one at the Labelle Province orge H e G d sb a n Christmas Santa. In fact, she gets u h restaurant on Taschereau e t h la into character as his better half, Wit Blvd. in Greenfield Park on Mrs. Claus, appearing that way at Dec. 24, which is the only various Montreal institutions for one that pays me over a decade now. For the native because it is a business of Longueil, now a Greenfield Park event.” resident, she drew on a loving childhood for her inspiration. “I had a Why does she do it? great childhood, filled with the love “Well, it has always given me and my brothers by our helped me parents,” Gail, whose maiden name is experience some joy Hamer, told me as she prepared for one since the days when I knew of her final seasons as Santa’s spouse. only sadness,” Gail admitted. “But I also enjoy Yup, Mrs. Claus will be retiring soon, likely the reaction of people who see me, especially to tend to the many elves hanging around Santa the children. And they ask me the most precious HQ, apparently. things. I had some kids ask me ‘are you as old as Jesus?’ and I replied ‘why, do I look it,’ she related “I’ve had such a great time and my heart has been with a laugh. And some Jewish kids asked me if I filled with such gladness… but it’s time,” she told could come to their house and I told them ‘only if me. Time: It has passed far too quickly, and on I make special arrangements with your parents.’ occasion far too slowly, since the late 1990s… a period where Gail felt more grief than anything “My only problem is that my French isn’t very else. A parking attendant at Champlain College good, so when I speak it badly, I always cover up late afternoons and early evenings, the infamous by telling the children that it is because I need to Ice Storm of January 1998 was hardly a time to speak elvish as much as possible.” hold dear. “My husband, George, died then and both of my parents followed within three months.

Then the conversation heads back to her late It was a terrible time.”

George Howell, but a loving reminiscence, not a eulogy. “George and I were married for 21 years, During her most stressful days and seeking some even though he was 16 years older than I, but

THE LOCAL SEEKER,

DEC 9 (pg. 4)

were together 31 years. He was so talented and distinguished looking – extremely handsome in fact – that he did a lot of film extra work. You can see him in movies like Mother Night, opposite Nick Nolte… and they got along just great.

George had this very approachable look to him and whenever he worked, the actors were actually quite drawn to him, so much so that they would congregate around him.”

Gail tells me there is a picture of her and a very ill George in Gazette reporter Mark Abley’s book Stories of the Ice Storm. “Someone in the film business found out about us and a movie featuring Ice Storm-related stories was planned, that was due to include ours, but it was never filmed. “ Now that Gail is hanging ‘em up shortly, she may well move to Cornwall, Ontario, where she hopes to live closer to one brother and convince another to join them. But she will always hold that costume dear. “It’s very glamorous, with lots of glitter that attracts kids who think I may be the real deal. Seeing the light in their eyes is all the reward I need.”

You can catch Mrs. Claus, likely for one of her final times in public, at Labelle Province, 3983 Taschereau, St Hubert, from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 24, 2011. This customer appreciation day features an open bar, baked goods and, of course, this special lady showcasing her mesmerizing alter-ego. We wish you a Merry Christmas, Mrs. Claus!

With Father John Wa lsh

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS: 514-975-7745 www.westend.thelocalseeker.com

The Local Seeker’s Holiday Gift Guide 2011 Due to our holiday issue’s early publication date this year, we think we have come up with a small-but-unique selection of gift suggestions you can actually consider, without having to rush around at the last second.

Enjoy… and choose one of the following for the lucky guy or gal in your life, whether they’ve been naughty OR nice.

1/ Man of Grease DVD Montreal filmmaker Ezra Soiferman is founder of Cinemaspace at The Segal at the Saidye, a lifelong hemp aficionado and onetime owner of an actual Smart car. But these achievements may well pale in comparison to his winning documentary The Man of Grease, detailing the life and career of Tony Koulakis, owner of legendary West End eatery Cosmos. The film is now available in a new, enhanced DVD stuffed with features that will keep you busy, inciting you to rush off for some artery-clogging eggs, bacon and home fries at the jammed culinary NDG hotspot still operated by the Koulakis family (even though Tony is retired, you may well still meet him there). Just $20 and well worth every dime, so beautifully heartwarming and humorous is this intimate portrait of the “broke-the-mold” Koulakis and his relationships with his family and customers. Buy three, get one free at www.manofgrease.com.

2/ Something African at Royal Fashion Buying a gift originating in the cradle of civilization would be a great way to usher in a new year, don’t you think? Royal Fashion African Design has two West End locations that feature themed gifts and services, such as hair extensions, tailoring and Black-focused DVD rentals. The location near the corner of Decarie, is much larger, however, and really impresses visitors with its wide selection of sculptures and national fashion… quite popular today. 5900 Sherbrooke W. (514-2234312) and 5335 Sherbrooke W. (further east, 514-394-2016).

ABRA

3/ Something “smart” but fun, at Abra Electronics

5/ Party World’s “Bye Bye Forever” sale Well, we wrote them up on our cover just before Halloween, but Party World is making you an offer you will never forget: up to SEVENTY-FIVE percent off till the end of January when they are <gasp> closing their doors. That’s right… this is the ultimate out-of-business sale, unlike cheapskates like Blockbuster that gave you about 20 percent off just before they went bust. Buy Halloween costumes good for years to come at amazing prices, party favours and supplies, wrapping paper, cards… everything but the kitchen sink, though if you ask nicely enough…. 188 St. Jacques W, Ville St. Pierre, 514-363-9111.

6/ Treat your feet with Luca Vero Shoes If you’re a man on the go, on your feet for long hours, why treat them with derision by sporting uncomfortable, inferior, rubber-soled shoes?

Designed by a career retail entrepreneur who has spent thousands of kilometres on his feet, Luca Vero has a wide selection of sleek, sexy, funky and functional leather-soled beauties that will look as good as you feel. Mention The Local Seeker when you order and receive 40 percent off the regular price! www.lucavero.com, or at Gaudi in Centre Fairview, off St. Jean Blvd., Pte. Claire.

7/ Anything Oppens, for the plus-sized woman Even scrawny men will appreciate this serene oasis of fashion for women sized 14-24. It’s calm, beautifully-appointed and the staff really “gets” what larger women want when they shop for beautiful clothes. And, boy, the fashions here are really stunning. In business over 25 years, Oppens carries Kokomarina, Lauren Vidal, Eilleen Fisher Woman, FA Concept, Spanx and other popular lines, as well as jewellery, scarves, purses, all perfect for holiday gifting. Gift certificates are always available. 4828 St. Laurent Blvd.(corner Villeneuve), 514844-9159, www.oppens.ca or e-mail opens@bellnet.ca.

8/ You don’t have to be Hebrew to kindle the pretty lights…

But it helps if you have a nice Menorah, or Chanukah candelabra, in which to place the colourful candles. The Jewish Store may be small, but it’s got a terrific selection of giftware for the gamut of Jewish holidays and festivals… or simply nice gifts for your favourite “mensch” or “maidele.” Would it hurt to go in and check them out? Cavendish Mall (now called Quartier Cavendish), 5800 Cavendish, Cote Saint-Luc, 514-482-3735, http://www.thejewishstore.ca.

Closed on the Jewish Sabbath.

ELECTRONICS INC

This retail store and distributor, which is sort of hidden away, is really one-of-a-kind in its selection of scientific-themed hobby kits, as well as electronic components used by manufacturers and repair personnel. Abra carries the Velemann and Ramsey lines of kits, as well as chemistry and electronics sets, including the popular Evil Genius kit. But they also have three varieties of RC (radio controlled) helicopters at the lowest prices in town… the least expensive of which can be safely flown inside during the cold winter months. Store at 5580 Cote de Liesse (closed weekends), 514-731-0117, www.abra-electronics.com.

4/ Classy and classic dress apparel at Boutique Jacques Winter jackets and coats by Lutha and Rainforest, featuring removable down liners, are just the beginning at Boutique Jacques. The staff here, which lives and dies by their service etiquette, are specialists in dressing the business executive and professional for all occasions, from casual to formal events. They have a large selection of suits in all price ranges, along with formalwear and accessories, and boast the finest tailors - on the premises. Their prices are also excellent. Boutique Jacques is located at 5970 Cote-des-Neiges, Tel: 514-737-1402. Website at http://www.boutiquejacques.com. OPEN SUNDAYS, FREE PARKING!

THE LOCAL SEEKER,

DEC9 (pg. 5)

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS: 514-975-7745 www.westend.thelocalseeker.com

Long ago, when I was a student a Dawson College, a classmate of mine told me of her mother’s boyfriend. She said he was a singer and songwriter who had some of his compositions recorded by Robert Charlebois, who was a comedian who had appeared on The Tonight Show, a writer for National Lampoon, a film director at the NFB and a teacher at Concordia University. I sarcastically asked her if it was all the same guy. She said “yes, (rather dryly, I might add).” I had difficulty believing her. It wasn’t until I met him a short time later that I discovered all of the aforementioned were just the tip of the iceberg.

Michel Choquette first hired me as an assistant over 20 years ago. One day I helped the diminutive professor of English move a large, heavy steamer trunk and asked him jokingly how many bodies were inside. He quickly opened the chest, revealing a comic book geek’s treasure trove. Enclosed therein were artist’s portfolios containing original, unpublished comic strips from legendary cartoonists like Will Eisner, Jack Kirby, and Sergio Aragones, as well as people not associated with comics like Frank Zappa, Pierre Berton and Fredrico Fellini. I asked him how this all came about and he related to me the saga of The Someday Funnies.

The Someday Funnies began as a special insert to Rolling Stone magazine in the early 1970’s (the idea was to have a series of comic strips that pay tribute to the 1960s). But as Choquette began to accumulate more and more strips, it was eventually expanded to a book-length project. After travelling around the world and collecting over 125 strips from more than 150 artists and writers from 15 countries, in several different languages, various publishing deals fell through and The Someday Funnies was exiled to a storage locker in Park Extension for decades (the entire incredible story is chronicled inside the book itself!).

Yoga U - Chantalle Kudsi

Read On! - Andreas Kessaris

Seeing the Light

“Someday” is now… and the ultimate comic geek’s holiday gift

Like it or not, we are immersed in the darkest time of the year. But the darkness has its place, too. And out of darkness arises the enduring, cross-cultural symbol of the candle flame. This small flame has the ability to connect us to the element of fire, to bring forth warmth, to bring comfort, to unite us both with others and with a shared history. With candle lighting comes ritual, in whatever way is meaningful to you. It could mean entering into a state of peace, calm, and tranquility, detaching from the everyday world.

When the opportunity presents itself this season, try taking a few minutes to gaze upon a candle flame in a meditative way. Here is a guide for resting your awareness on the flame, and for letting that engagement be the portal through which you enter into a state of wider consciousness, spacious beauty and union with an outer light that reflects an innermost one.

Candlelight Meditation: Sit comfortably and at a safe distance from the lit candle.

Focus your gaze on the candle and then allow your gaze to soften. Take in the background and your peripheral vision, but continue resting your awareness on the single flame.

Rest your thinking mind by focusing only on that which is before your eyes right now.

When you notice that your mind is wandering and you are thinking, come back to focusing your attention on the flame with a soft gaze.

Watch, witness, and breathe naturally and continuously through the nostrils.

Want nothing and wait for nothing. The more you grasp, the more elusive will be the meditative experience.A s you let go of grasping and focus on the application of technique, the mind can merge with Universal mind and you will forget yourself.

When you are ready to finish, take a deeper, more intentional inhalation and exhalation. Blink and come out of the meditation.

Chantalle Kudsi is a yoga and meditation teacher in the West-End. She can be reached at chantsomething@yahoo.ca.

It wasn’t until 2009, when attorney and part-time writer Bob Levin wrote a 50-page piece on The Someday Funnies for The Comics Journal that publishers again became interested in Choquette’s magnum opus. Now, in 2011, previously unseen works from the likes of Art Spiegelman, Tom Wolfe, Rene Goscinny & Albert Uderzo, Don Martin and William S. Burroughs are finally in print!

The tabloid-sized tome also includes artist bios, a section explaining the cultural context of the strips, an introduction by renowned music journalist Robert Greenfield and a forward by comic book authority Jeet Heer.

I recommend The Someday Funnies not only for any aficionado of the comic book genre, but as a nostalgic flashback for anyone who was around in the ‘60s…and they just might need assistance recalling that era, because as the saying goes, if you can remember the ‘60s, then you weren’t really there!

Read on! www.essaysbyandreas.com

THE LOCAL SEEKER,

DEC 9 (pg. 6) FREE CLASSIFIED ADS: 514-975-7745 www.westend.thelocalseeker.com

Epicurian Eatz with Evelyne Budkewitsch

Sugar plums not the only holiday sweet on the menu…

Lately, reading my favorite food blogs has been a guaranteed catalyst to get into the holiday mood. Blogs of Thanksgiving feasts are the kick in the rump I need right now since Montreal is not showing any signs yet of a white Christmas – or whichever holiday you celebrate. But I know one morning soon I will open the curtains of my bedroom window and feel the sudden urge to hang my mistletoe.

Thankfully the holiday cheer is quite present in the kitchen. I was recently invited to participate in a fun contest.

The theme: Coming up with a completely original recipe that screams holiday gatherings and

winter entertaining…which must include one cup of walnuts.

Creating an original recipe with walnuts is not exactly a small feat!

We are talking about a very popular nut here, one that graces most holiday recipes. This was a perplexing challenge, until I opened my kitchen cupboard and my bag of matcha powder fell out, bringing on inspiration.

Visions of sugar plums and fairies…oh wait… that is the Nutcracker. Visions of a sliced fruitcake with gorgeous chunks of red cherries and chocolate coated walnuts dances in my head…all of it wrapped up in a melt-inyour-mouth matcha fudge. I wanted to reinvent the fruit cake.

This makes a big log of fudge so you can slice it up, take what you need to a few parties and then just freeze the rest.

ED. NOTE – Someone please get me a napkin to stem the flow of saliva!

Matcha Fudge Fruit Cake Ingredients: 250 gr dark chocolate1 cup California Walnuts3/4 cup maraschino cherries500g white chocolate, chopped1-300ml can of condensed milk30gr of butter2 teaspoons matcha powder Directions: 1. Melt dark chocolate in a bowl. Dip the walnuts in the melted chocolate one by one plan place on a wrack to let excess chocolate drip off. Place the chocolate-covered walnuts in the fridge to harden.

2. Drain and dry cherries on a couple of layers of paper towels.

3. Line with cheesecloth a 25cm x 10cm (10” x 4”) loaf pan.

Make sure the cheesecloth hangs over the edged of the pan.

4. Place all the white chocolate, condensed milk and butter in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave on high for 30 seconds.

Remove and stir well. Microwave for another 30 seconds.

5. Remove, add the matcha powder and stir well. Microwave for 30 seconds. Remove and stir completely.

6. Add cherries, chocolate covered walnuts and stir once very fast (stir too much and the dark chocolate will melt).

7. Quickly poor mixture into the loaf pan, fold the cheesecloth over the top and press down to level the top.

8. Set fudge in the fridge for eight hours. Remove from pan and slice.

For lots of recipes, ethnic food discoveries and Montreal restaurant reviews please visit Evelyne’s blog at http://www.cheapethniceatz.com

Spiritual Seedlings - Father John Walsh

The adult Christmas

story

of

Christmas is important for Christians, but not THAT important.

Everything hangs on Easter: Christmas has true meaning in the light of the Resurrection of Jesus. Saint Paul says: “Without the Resurrection, our faith is in vain.” Matthew and Luke recount the birth of Jesus, while Mark and John do not. The birth narratives were written in retrospect after the Resurrection.

The scene of Jesus’s birth is set: The child Jesus is born in a small room adjacent to an inn and the animals offer warmth.

Jesus is wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger. Mary and Joseph remain at his side. The shepherds come to honour him and led there by a star, three Magi from the east come to do him homage and the Angels sing: Glory to God in the highest, peace on earth and goodwill to all people.

The Crèche cannot be taken literally, or read as history, in its present form: It is the fabrication of Saint Francis of Assisi, although we can still proceed. The location of the story is Bethlehem (beit lechem in Hebrew, meaning House of Bread), he is laid in a manger (in French, mangoir), his presence as food for others in the Gospels. He will feed the multitudes with a couple of loaves and a few fish. He is wrapped in swaddling clothes, burial cloths pointing the reader or hearer to Jesus’s death and victory in the Resurrection. The presence of the shepherds, the petty thieves, is a call to justice. Jesus is fatherless - Joseph is his adopted “father,” the “just” one. Mary being a widow and Jesus being an orphan prompts us to read the Old Testament, where the widow and the orphan are symbols of the poor.

THE LOCAL SEEKER,

In Isaiah, we learn of the gifts of gold and frankincense, but the Magi arrive with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, which is burial ointment. The hope of Christmas is Jesus’s victory over death. Christmas is a challenge to bring justice where there are injustices, to uphold human rights and to become accountable for the care of the poor. To re-read the story of Christmas as an adult will make a difference for all people of goodwill… and together people of all faiths are given the opportunity to work together to bring about peace on Earth.

We provide expert (NOTE: My column on R e m e m b r a n c e mentioned my nephew Ray Robitaille, an inspector in the Calgary Police Force, who was serving in Kabul training the Afghan police. Here is his response to the column.)

Hi Uncle John, Your vision of a world at peace is beautiful and one we should all aspire to achieve. In war, our ideals, ambitions and ultimately our achievements are less than we would hope them to be. The desperate effort of men, who are trying to restore order and power over a determined insurgency, holds hostage our collective humanity, yet it is still possible to step outside of the norm and dare to dream that caring is more powerful than force. Maybe one day we will be there, I sincerely hope so. For now I am happy to be able to touch the life of one person and help make it better, regardless of whether it is only in a small way. Once again your words are far too kind for the little I have done. The bears are out of my hands now; however, the seed is planted and only time will tell whether it grows. Love, Ray

DEC 9 (pg. 7) FREE CLASSIFIED

We’ve been on watch for 50 great years! service in:

For five decades, family business OTA has been here, serving Montrealers from the West End and beyond.

• Quality watch and clock repairs • Battery replacement (best prices around) • Custom work, done on the premises

Plus we sell watches, bands and leather straps (from France) AND Jewellery, including the wildly At OTA, our honesty and integrity are surpassed only by our commitment. We save you time, money and worry.

OT A Watc hmaker & Jewellery C o * F ounded in 1 9 6 1 6 8 6 5 Sherbrooke Street W.

by Mathias Woronc hak (c orner Mayfair)

5 1 4 -4 8 4 -3 8 4 7

BUY or SELL your HOME in the

Property See ker

The We s t

E n d real estate section

Tips on spending during the holidays Holiday time is a time for good food, a lot of cheer

Mortgage Matters

a

n

d

enjoying time with loved ones. It's also a time when everyone tries to buy the most extravagant gifts for their friends and family to show how

much

they

them.Unfortunately,

love

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all

spending,

their they

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when Christmas

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people get their credit card bills from

Issue 1

often

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overwhelmed. The excitement of buying gifts can soon become a downer when you have to pay hundreds of extra dollars in addition to your

regular expenditures.There are ways to spend responsibly this holiday season while keeping everyone feeling special.

First of all, set a limit as to how much everyone can spend on each other. This is great for the budget and avoids anyone's feelings getting hurt because too little was spent on them. Secondly, pay your holiday gifts in cash. Studies

time for giving, more than receiving.

Keep my tips in mind and give you and your wallet a break. Happy Chanukah and Merry Christmas to all!!

(ED. NOTE: This way, you also have the money you need for your mortgage payment, right, Jason? It would be even more of a downer if you made your loved ones happy, but ended up losing your house in the process…)

show that we are less likely to overspend when we actually have to

Jason Zuckerman

hand cash over for our expenditures.

www.mortgageratesmontreal.com

This may not feel as good, but it will

Hypotheca Mortgage Brokers

ultimately lead to less stress a month or

(514) 771-1352 /1-800- 206-1350

two down the line. The holidays are a

jzuckerman@hypotheca.ca

THE LOCAL SEEKER,

DEC 9

(pg. 8)

PROPERTY SEEKER SECTION

www.westend.thelocalseeker.com

A n i t a B e n a b o u R o ze n b l a t

Home Sweet Home -

Selling your home during the holidays The holiday season from N o v e m b e r through January is often considered the worst time to put a home on the market.

While the thought of selling your home during the winter months may dampen your holiday spirit, the season does have its advantages: Holiday buyers tend to be more serious and competition is less fierce, with fewer homes being actively marketed.

Homes often look their best during the holidays, but sellers should be careful not to overdo it on the decor.

Adornments that are too large or too plentiful can crowd your home and distract buyers. Also, avoid offending buyers by opting for general fall and winter decorations rather than items with religious themes.

Make curb appeal a top priority

may attract house hunters who don't have time to physically see your home or would rather not drive in a snowstorm. Give house hunters a place to escape from the cold.

Make your home feel cozy and inviting… … by cranking up the heat, playing soft classical music and offering homemade holiday treats. When you encourage buyers to spend more time in your home, you also give them more time to admire its best features.

Enhance your outdoor lighting As the days get shorter, having proper outdoor lighting will make your home safer and more attractive for buyers who come to visit at night. Use a series of path lights to illuminate the way to your front door, or flank the door with decorative sconces or lanterns.

Relax -- the New Year is just around the corner

When autumn rolls around and the trees start to lose their leaves, maintaining the exterior of your home becomes even more important.

Bare trees equal a more exposed home, so touch up the paint, clean the gutters and spruce up the yard.

Keep buyers' safety in mind as well by making sure stairs and walkways are free of snow, ice and leaves.

The holidays are stressful enough, with gifts to buy, dinners to prepare and relatives to entertain.

Take a moment to remind yourself that if you don't sell now, there's always next year, which, luckily is just a few days away.

Create an audio video tour for the Web

Happy Chanukah and Merry Christmas to everyone!

You'll get less foot traffic during the holidays, thanks to inclement weather and vacation plans. But shooting a video tour and posting it on the Web

Anita Benabou Rozenblat www.anitabenabou.com

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THE LOCAL SEEKER,

DEC 9 (pg. 9)

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS: 514-975-7745 www.westend.thelocalseeker.com

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4 Stewed chicken . . . . . . . . . . . . 9.95$ Ragout de Poulet

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Roties : Vegetarian / VĂŠgĂŠtarien 6.50$

Chicken / Poulet 7.50$ Goat / Chèvre 8.50$

MEALS ARE SERVED WITH RICE & PEAS OR WHITE RICE, SOUP AND SALAD EXCEPT #13+14 LES REPAS SONT SERVIS AVEC RIZ AUX POIS OU RIZ BLANC, SOUPE ET SALADE SAUF #13+14

BOISSONS / DRINKS

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Festivals (3) Beef patty / PâtÊ au boeuf Fried plantains / Plantain frit Sweet potato fries

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Dumplings frit (3)

Frites de patate douce

Mango-carrot / Mangue-carotte Strawberry-banana / Fraise-banane Ting / Malta Pineapple-coconut / Ananas-noix de coco Kola champagne, Ginger Beer Pineapple / Ananas Pepsi, coke , 7 up

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Peu importe vos origines, vos croyances ou votre religion, soyez les bienvenus!

Friends from all backgrounds, faiths and religions are welcome!

Hannoukah Hannoukah Ch anukah Party Chanukah

FĂŞte ĂŞte de llaa

Venez participer Ă des activitĂŠs musicales et de loisirs et dĂŠguster un goĂťter traditionnel de la Hannoukah.

mardi, le 20 dĂŠcembre 2011 17h00

SHAAR CHANUKAH CELEBRATION :('1(6'$< '(&(0%(5 # 30

Illumination des chandelles et fĂŞte communautaire HĂ´tel de ville de Westmount 4333, rue Sherbrooke O., Westmount

Bievenue Ă tous!

Please join us for music, games and traditional Chanukah snacks.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011 5:00 PM Candle Lighting and Community party Westmount City Hall 4333 Sherbrooke St.reet W., Westmount

Everyone is welcome!

Info: 514. 989.5226

Pr PrĂŠsentĂŠ ĂŠsentĂŠ ppar ar | Pr Presented esented by:

THE LOCAL SEEKER,

DEC 9 (pg. 10)

6

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FREE CLASSIFIED ADS: 514-975-7745 www.westend.thelocalseeker.com

Entertainment Entre Nous - Shlomo Schwartzberg

Music in magazines, on CD and DVD, for holiday appreciation Here are some suggestions for things to read, listen to and watch during the holiday season, designed to allow you a respite from the stress of shopping, partying and trying to juggle your many commitments. Enjoy… and Happy Holidays!

Magazines: The year-end is a perfect time to catch up on magazines that highlight the best music of 2011. And none do it more comprehensively than Mojo and Uncut, two fine British mags, complete with cover-mounted CDs and which normally offer up a historical overview of popular music’s past highlights. Expect lots of articles on the Beatles, The Who and The Rolling Stones, but also, at this time of the season, provide Top 10 lists of new albums, reissues and music DVDs as well.

While Mojo’s current accompanying CD is a cover tribute to the Stones’ “Sticky Fingers” album, 40years old this year, Uncut provides a 15track Best of 2011 disc.

CDs -it sometimes seems that every artist extant regularly goes that route in order to keep re-selling the same albums– but the re-do of Pink Floyd’s entire 14 album catalogue is extraordinary. No matter how many times I’ve bought their classic 1973 Dark Side of the Moon – three versions previously – this new edition of the CD is remarkably clear and startlingly immediate when you give it a listen. Bonus on the Dark Side two-disc re-issue (there's also a sixdisc extensive 'Immersion’ edition), a live 1974 concert with the band recreating the album in its entirely.

DVDs: The excellent Criterion label periodically puts out significant movies in spiffy new editions that contain myriad extras, from critical essays, to commentary tracks and documentaries about the filmmaker and/or the movie. Among recent releases you might want to get: Mike Leigh’s Topsy-Turvy, his exuberant 1999 biopic on Victorian composing/ playwriting duo Gilbert and Sullivan and Charlie Chaplin’s courageous 1940 classic anti-Hitler satire The Great Dictator.

The Oxford American is a terrific magazine that embraces all things Southern-American. And December marks the annual release of their Southern Music issue, this time featuring a 27-track CD of Mississippi's best music, as well as great essays on the artists chosen for the disc. At $11.95, it’s also the best deal in town.

A graduate of Ryerson University’s School of Journalism, former West End Montrealer Shlomo Schwartzberg is a veteran film critic, has regularly reviewed films for various publications and lectures on film and TV studies. He was the director of programming for the Toronto Jewish Film Festival automatically for seven years.

Music: I don’t recommend recommend re-masters of

We hope you have enjoyed this year’s final issue of The Local Seeker

"The best Portuguese chicken around."

Sol Boxenbaum Last Call with Sol

THE LOCAL SEEKER,

We wish each and every one of you a Happy Holiday season and a Healthy and prosperous new year

Best, Bram

See you again On January 13th, 2012 under our new name THE LOCAL HERALD West End Montreal’s most unique community paper.

DEC 9 (pg. 11) FREE CLASSIFIED ADS: 514-975-7745 www.westend.thelocalseeker.com

THE LOCAL SEEKER,

DEC 9 (pg. 12)

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