Montreal Times 22 84 July 15 2017 by Montreal Times

Cunningham’s street side terrace - Page 5 Saturday, July 15, 2017

Vol. 22 No. 84

Covering Montréal & Surrounding Areas

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RESPECTING THE RULES?

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Montreal Times reporter Bonnie Wurst investigates if people are respecting cycling rules in Montreal

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Vol. 22, No. 84

Are Montreal cyclists respecting the rules? Saturday, July 15, 2017

Hudson, St. Lazare, Senneville, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Baie d’Urfe, Beaconsfield, Chateauguay, Kirkland, Pte. Claire, Pierrefonds, D.D.O., Dorval, Lachine, NDG, CSL, Ville St-Laurent, Mtl-West, Hampstead, Westmount, Montreal, Lasalle, Verdun, Nun’s Island, Laval, St. Leonard

strongly support the use of bicycles to get around the city, although I rarely cycle. I also believe there is so much more we can do to expand and improve the cycling infrastructure in Montreal - as well as all over the island. We can make it more efficient and most importantly, safer.

turbing headline in the news; 'Montreal Cyclist Seriously Injured after Running a Red Light'. A 26-year-old cyclist was hit by a car after speeding through a red light at the intersection of Berri and St-Antoine streets. Last heard the cyclist was taken to the hospital for a head injury, but it was not believed to be life-threatening. On average, 650 cyclists and 1200 pedestrians a year in Montreal are taken by ambulance to hospitals - and the numbers are growing. The city introduced a few initiatives to make the roads safer, but they are like Band-Aids on a far more serious problem. Experts the main problem lies By Bonnie Wurst say in the infrastructure already in place in Montreal mtltimes.ca - roads that were built What is in place right without any forward now is pale in comparison thinking and are still being to what some progressive built that way. To change all that cities have implemented, would not only take time like the Netherlands (see link to video below). Re- but require well-thought gardless of some of the out, educated planning initiatives put in place and a serious commithere, cars still come first - ment. But it can be done. while cyclists and pedes- In the meantime, there is trians follow behind best a way to make the streets as they can. The short- safer and it involves cycomings have created clists themselves - cyclists very dangerous situations. who understand and obey And to add to it, many cy- the rules of the road they clists are disregarding the are obliged to follow. Many people might not rules put in place to make even be aware the rules it safe - safe for themselves and others who exist. Did you know cyuse the roads and even clists can get demerit sidewalks. It has resulted points for an infraction, in accidents, injuries and even without having a driver's license? Or that not even death. Just before I sat down respecting any of the rules to write this article I of the Highway Safety came across another dis- Code (HSC) constitutes a

www.mysticpinesgolf.com • July 15, 2017

violation and subject to penalties and fees? Here are some of the rules listed on the SPVM (Service de police de la Ville de Montréal) website's page 'Traffic Rules for Cyclists' (with applicable fines and demerits): RED LIGHTS - Unless otherwise indicated, when approaching a red light, cyclists must stop before the pedestrian crossing or the stop line; if there is none, they must stop in front of the lateral line on the road at the intersection. $15 / 3 demerit points OBLIGATORY STOP - A bicycle rider approaching a STOP sign must stop and yield passage to any vehicle that is either turning into the intersection or close enough to present danger of collision. $15 / 3 demerit points YIELDING THE RIGHT OF WAY - A bicycle rider turning in an intersection must yield passage to other pedestrians and cyclists. $15 / 2 demerit points There is more information and other rules listed

'Riding in single file' plus more. *See link below to the website. Cyclists are up against a lot. They are not the enemy. Our wheeled friends are already adding to a quality of life benefitting all Montrealers - they are keeping cars off the road and helping to keep the air clean. And they are getting great exercise doing so. Not only do they have traffic to contend with, but car doors opening in concerning: 'Riding with their paths, roads and bike the flow of traffic and on paths in bad need of rethe far right-hand side', pair, dangerous under'Portable music device or passes, detours leading earphones', 'Riding on the them all over the place sidewalk', 'Riding between and even on to sidewalks. two lanes of vehicles' and And who cannot feel

compassion for a cyclist having to stop at a red light when it is raining? But in the meantime, the bottom line is cyclists need to 'step up to the plate' and unfortunately, many are not. Cyclists have it in their power to make things better and as safe as possible for now, by diligently following the rules put in place to do exactly that. Are you a responsible cyclist? Have you witnessed a cyclist breaking the rules? Have you as a pedestrian or driver ever been injured by a cyclist? And… should cycling rules be better enforced? Please let us know online or at info@mtltimes.ca

11 Critical home inspection traps to be aware of weeks before listing your home for sale

MONTREAL - According to industry experts, there are over 33 physical problems that will come under scrutiny during a home inspection when your home is for sale. A new report has been prepared which identifies the eleven most common of these problems, and what you should know about them before you list your home for sale. Whether you own an old home or a brand new one, there are a number of things that can fall short of requirements during a home inspection. If not identified and dealt with, any of these 11 items could cost you dearly in terms of repair. That's why it's critical that you read this report before you list your home. If you wait until the building inspector flags these issues for you, you will almost certainly experience costly delays in the close of your home sale or, worse, turn

prospective buyers away altogether. In most cases, you can make a reasonable pre- inspection yourself if you know what you're looking for, and knowing what you're looking for can help you prevent little problems from growing into costly and unmanageable ones. To help home sellers deal with this issue before their homes are listed, a free report entitled "11 Things You Need to Know to Pass Your Home Inspection" has been compiled which explains the issues involved. To order a FREE Special Report, visit: www.montrealinspectionpitfalls.com Get your free special report NOW to learn how to ensure a home inspection doesn't cost you the sale of your home.

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ComicCon: the delights of fantasy

hat makes grown-up men and w o m e n dress-up as their favourite superheroes or video games characters? What makes so many people—

Of course, the term "popular culture" is, at the same time, easy to grasp (an image of a ubiquitous Spiderman would immediately be associated with it) and hard to explain in a more articulated form (is it "inferior" to high culture?). Even specialists such as Chandra Mukerji and Michael Schudson (editors of "Rethinking Popular Culture—Contemporary Perspectives in Cultural Studies") would admit that "(it) is a difficult term to define".They then settle on the idea that "popular culture refers to the beliefs and practices, and the object through which they are organized, that are widely shared By Sergio Martinez among a population. This includes folk beliefs, practices and objects rooted mtltimes.ca in local traditions and about 60 thousand during mass beliefs, practices and the three-day event—to objects generated in politventure for a few hours ical and commercial ceninto the cavernous ambi- tres. It includes elite ence created by Comic- cultural forms that have Con at the Palais de been popularized as well congrès, an environment as popular forms that that might resemble the have been elevated to the bazaar depicted in Star museum tradition." BeWars? Let's be taken away fore the age of films, teleby imagination and fan- vision, and the Internet, tasy, seemed to have been pop culture was very the thought during these much associated with the ComicCon days. Un- idea of folk culture, doubtedly, this immersion rooted in what was into a world of fantasy is mostly a rural environan interesting phenome- ment.Today pop culture is non: it is one of the most urban, although images representative celebra- rooted in an agrarian past tions of popular culture are still present in scithat comes to various ence-fiction films and cities all over the world. video games such as some Montreal has proven to images resembling landbe one that has embraced scapes from western this pop culture party movies found in Star Wars with great enthusiasm. for instance.

Holly beautiful car Batman was on exhibition at Montreal Comiccon this past weekend

Then there is no question that, depending on the age of the many visitors to ComicCon this past weekend, some may still be looking for those visions of a romanticized

Editorial cartoonist Aislin presented his latest book, "From Trudeau to Trudeau"

The appeal of

Comics that cost 10 cents now could be yours for $125 (and these were cheap)

Certainly, the visitors shouldn't have been disappointed. Besides displaying their costumes, they had the chance to the likes of John Cusack, Nathan Fillion (Captain

past, paradoxically, in the futuristic images of their favourite video games and movies. In any case, for many, it was a good opportunity to enjoy the fantastic at a time when reality may seem so hard to handle.

incarnated the tenth Dr. Who was also here and so were the actresses Alex Kingston and Freeman Agyeman from the same famous science-ficiconic Dr.Who tion series. Most people, however, Malcolm Reynolds in spent more time visiting "Firefly" and "Serenity"), the various booths where and Sir Patrick Stewart you could find vintage who delighted many peo- comic books from the ple with his impeccable 1950s to more recent delivery of Captain Picard times, to T-Shirts, and in "Star Trek: The Next many other memorabilia Generation." Scottish associated with comics actor David Tennant who and pop culture in gen-

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eral. For the young, ComicCon was an occasion for discovery, for the mature, a time for nostalgia. In any case, an opportunity to enjoy the delights of fantasy.

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July 15, 2017 •

Cunningham’s street side terrace trial in Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue

It’s time to liven up Ste. Anne’s streets

new life for Sainte Anne’s streets lingers on the horizon. Cunningham’s Pub is the first restaurant outside of downtown to be granted a trial period for street side dining. Jim Beauchamp, the owner,

By Jillian Clark mtltimes.ca

has built a new terrace that spills into the street, offering his guests the chance to dine in the sun. If all goes well this summer, Cunningham’s terrace won’t be the only place we see diners gathering street side. Beauchamp presented his idea to the city to obtain the rights for a trail period. The terrace was installed on Wednesday, June 28, and fills one and a half parking spaces in front of 75 Sainte Anne Street. Beauchamp hopes that other restaurants will soon be able to follow his lead. “The look is beautiful,” he said. “I think it changes the look of the whole town with terraces on the street side. It makes it look like downtown.” If the streets start to look like downtown, there’s a good chance the whole town will become a bit livelier—something that the town has needed for quite some time. A lot

• July 15, 2017

Cunningham’s Pub new terrace in Ste. Anne’ de Bellevue ( reserve your set now ) of the storefronts are empty, but the potential for more summertime business might bring more restaurants to the area. “I think this may rejuvenate the other side of the water,” Beauchamp said, referring to Sainte Anne de Bellevue. “More is going on. Eventually the street will come alive.” It only takes one to start a new trend. “Can it draw in more restaurants? I think it can. I think it should.” An increased opportunity for business—in the form of outdoor seating in this case—makes opening new restaurants more feasible.

Fortunately, Cunningham’s Pub is busy year-round. Beauchamp is excited about brightening the town, but also offering his guests a better summer experience. “It gives my clients a chance to sit on a terrace versus being stuck inside,” he said. “And it’s good for the town.” Most of the town of Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue is on board. “I’m getting 98 percent fantastic feedback,” Beauchamp said. A small handful of people are concerned about terraces taking up parking space. There are a few alternative parking lots within blocks of the Sainte

Anne Street. Hopefully, the potential for increased business in the town outweighs the brief inconvenience of parking further away. About the cozy local pub leading the way Jim Beauchamp opened in 2004. Beauchamp named the Irish pub after his mother who passed away shortly before Cunningham’s opened its large garage doors. The brick and furnished wood interior offers a cozy atmosphere for guests. Cunningham’s caters to a range of ages. “Twenty year olds can come in and feel comfortable,” Beauchamp said. “Sixty-

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year-olds can come in and feel comfortable.” No one leaves hungry or thirsty. Cunningham’s takes pride in the experience they give their guests. Great food, better prices, and welcoming service are the most important. They keep sixteen beers on tap and a selection of wine pours so they can quench everyone’s thirst. Live music entertains patrons on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. Local artists typically take the stage, but some of the artists are locals who have moved onto bigger cities. “You walk in on a Friday night to a small town in

Quebec and you get to see members of the Damn Truth playing,” Beauchamp said. “At one point I wanted to expand to have 10 or 15 Cunningham’s across Quebec,” he said, “but the older I get the more I realized I should concentrate on running two pubs well.” Visit Cunningham’s in Hudson for the same friendly experience. Have you soaked up the sun on Cunningham’s street side terrace yet? Let us know what you think of bringing terraces to Sainte Anne de Bellevue.

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The most expensive homes for sale in PQ

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Rebecca Perez

City gives green lite on revamp of Childrens Hospital

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July 15, 2017

The City of Montreal has given the green light to most of the recommendations of Montreal's Public Consultation Office (OCPM) in regards to the redevelopment of the former Children's Hospital site near the intersection of Tupper Street and Atwater Avenue. See online for more: www.mtltimes.ca

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Making Montreal drivers slow down

tion and the judgment to slow down and stop - if one is not already about to cross. Instead it inspires many to hit the gas pedal and fly through the intersection so they could beat the light, which they don't. It creates the scenario for a horrific accident, with very deadly consequences. And it has happened too frequently. Pedestrian crosswalks, meant to slow drivers down and actually come to a full stop when someone is crossing, are often ignored. Albeit, the majority of our crosswalks are simply painted lines that are often faded, with a couple of little signs indicating priority is to be given to pedestrians. They poor examples in By Bonnie Wurst are comparison to what many other cities have. mtltimes.ca Perhaps it's the stress of modern daily life, the ing, but it is not. People frustration of city traffic are being seriously injured congestion or just ignoor killed - pedestrians, cy- rance - but they are all clists and drivers included. sadly, poor excuses. Stop signs appear to Just recently, the have no effect, except for denizens that be at Monhaving drivers slow down, treal City Hall announced blink left and right - and measures aimed at slownever come to a full stop. ing down the lead-footed Speed bumps are largely Montreal driver. It is a ineffective in this case, un- long overdue initiative less they are in line with but unfortunately, one the stop sign.Yellow traffic that could prove to be balights, indicating an immi- sically ineffective. It's all nent red light to drivers about the follow through. approaching an intersecAt the July 4th press tion, should inspire cau- conference at City Hall, here are drivers who respect the speed limits in Montreal, but there are far too many who blatantly do not, especially on residential streets. In fact, we have a reputation of being the worst drivers in Canada. To some the repute has become somewhat amus-

• July 15, 2017

Mayor Denis Coderre unveiled his plans to reduce speed limits on most of the city’s streets, with the goal of having the new limits in effect by late 2018 or early 2019. But if the speed limits are not properly enforced, as they are not now - what difference will it make except costing taxpayers $2 million to change all the signs? Here is what is proposed: - 30 km/h on residential streets, in school zones, near playgrounds and one-way commercial streets. - 30 km/h in Old Montreal (*Some roads will be decreased to 20 km/h). - 40 km/h in industrial areas and on the main arteries of the city, like Sherbrooke and RenéLévesque. (*Notre Dame street will be set at 60 km/h). - 40 km/h on the main arteries on the outskirts of the city. (*Some will be set at 50 km/h). The announcement brought applause and accolades from many people and groups - but it also brought forth a lot of skepticism. The initiative is part of the 'Vision Zero' road-accident policy, an international movement started in Sweden in 1997 meant 'to reduce the number of fatal or serious accidents

on a specific territory to zero'. It is based on the fact humans make mistakes, so 'road systems should be engineered as carefully as possible to ward off accidents, the public should be educated, and rules should be enforced'. When Coderre first announced his 'new' Vision Zero road accident policy in September of 2016, then opposition leader of Projet Montreal, Luc Ferrandez said in a Montreal Gazette article 'there was nothing new in the city’s action plan other than its name. Everything Mr. Coderre announced today, absolutely everything, was written in the 2008 transport plan of the city… some of these measures were announced by him several times. Nothing has been done.' However, there were many who welcomed the July 4th announcement, although with caution. "Lower speed limits will help make Montreal a safer place for cycling enthusiasts. It's music to our ears," Velo Quebec spokesperson Jean-Francois Pronovost said to the media. "We asked for this for years. For us, the comfort and safety of cyclists is of course infrastructure, but also a question of speed."

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Véronique Fournier, spokesperson for Piétons Québec also said, 'It’s a step in the right direction. But more needs be done to ensure pedestrian safety, such as creating roads allowing greater space for pedestrians and cyclists… for now it’s encouraging to see Coderre taking pedestrian safety seriously.' Yet Mayor Coderre's initiative is not new. In fact, it comes on the heels of projects where lower speed limits are already in place, like the RosemontLa-Petite-Patrie, Outremont, Sud-Ouest and Plateau-Mont-Royal boroughs - all who took their own initiatives. Even Hampstead already implemented lower speed limits. Coderre had criticized the boroughs for their plans. He expressed deep concern over how it would 'hinder businesses and in turn effect the city's economy'. And now he has become a champion of the very same thing. It is an election year after all - and many more appeasing announcements are to be expected. On Social Media the consensus seems to be divided, although the vast majority of people do welcome the idea of slowing down drivers. Who wouldn't? The main con-

cern is the enforcement of speed limits. The limits now in place are rarely enforced. How many times have you seen drivers speeding down a residential street, not stopping at a stop sign or going through a red light with nary a police officer in sight? We can expect a few speed-trap blitzes when the new limits are in place, which will fill the coffers at city hall and inflate the statistics - but the question many people are asking is, what will happen after that? Putting up signs but not having a plan in place to really enforce it will leave the streets in the same place - dangerous. Let's hope the initiative is followed through properly, either by the present administration or by the opposition party - who have already been fighting for safer, better streets and seriously positioning themselves to bring about a 'changing of the guard' at city hall this November. What do you think? Will lowering the speed limits make our streets safer? Or is this just an election 'carrot-on-a stick' and/or a cash grab? We welcome you to share your thoughts with us and our readers.

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The team behind the Fantasia Fest

nitially, it was a festival recent productions and to devoted to highlighting have the pleasure of welAsian films, especially coming their creators, those with a fantastic who want to be present or horror theme. That so as not to miss this original vocation is still unique experience" says present today, but Fantasia President-Founder Pierre has evolved into some- Corbeil. thing more complex and Since I haven't seen any diversified, although its of the movies yet, after emphasis on Asian movies going through the long is easily detected just by lineup, I just picked up the number of tithree that tles from that seems intercontinent. This esting acyear Fantasia cording to presents its 21st the credenedition with an tials of the exciting lineup directors that even inand the decludes what scription of promises to be their plots. an American hit Remember (to be released anyway that soon): "Valerian Fantasia and the City of A highlights Thousand Planmovies with ets" directed by a certain Luc Bresson, By Sergio Martinez emphasis on with Dane Dethe fantasmtltimes.ca Haan as Valerian tic, horror, and Cara Delevand scienceingne as Laureline. Most of fiction, although the the movies, however, are comedic element may also from outside the tradi- be present in many of tional Hollywood movie them too. factory, which is certainly "Almost Coming, Almost a good thing: we need Dying" by Japanese direcsome diversity after all. tor Toshimasa Kobayashi, “Fantasia has grown over which actually makes his the years to become an debut on the big screen event now firmly estab- with this production (he lished on the calendar of has been a TV director) industry professionals and caught my attention after media around the world. reading the film descripThis recognition allows us tion. "Ask yourself this: if to have access to the best you found yourself buck

naked in the hospital following, say, a sudden, lifethreatening brain hemorrhage, which occurred while you were doing something you're mortifyingly ashamed of – and your concerned family really wants to know just what was going on – what would you do? In the case of Japanese comic artist Manabu Nakagawa, you'd relate every squirm-inducing detail in a popular autobiographical manga ("Kumoman", named after the bat-wielding phantom teddybear Nakagawa envisioned as a mascot for Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome)." The Swiss-Polish-Austrian co-production "Ani-

mals" is another film that sounds worth seeing. "Greg Zglinski directs this strange hybrid of black comedy, marital melodrama and surrealist horror with masterful, often jaw-dropping assurance, showcasing his sharp ear for dialogue, and keener eye for montage, making every layer of reality collide into the other in constantly inventive and surprising ways, until the film's shocking resolution – a virtuosic boiling point, closing the darkest scenes of a marriage you'll see this year." "The Aztec Revenge" by American director Jeffrey Uhlmann, comes back to a particular type of superhero: the masked Mexican

wrestler. "After a break-in at a campus storage facility, a college professor calls upon his old friend and world-renowned righter of wrongs, the legendary Mil Máscaras. As he investigates the crime scenes, the superhero wrestler soon realizes that these deeds are the work of an ancient demon more dangerous than anything he has ever faced before." Fantasia runs from July 13 to August 2; screenings take place at Concordia University (Downtown Campus), the Cinémathèque québécoise, and the McCord Museum. For detailed schedule, prices, and full film descriptions visit www.fantasiafestival.com

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Thank you for coming to Hattiesburg by Todd Barry

what each stop had to offer him, not to mention some of the highlights and quirks that went along with it, based on his expet’s no big secret that riences from past gigs, the life of a stand-up whether they were memcomedian is a solitary, orable or totally forgetlonely one. table. When they are not writFor his very first book, ing jokes and routines, or Barry has taken a yearperforming in front of live and-a-half’s worth of audiences at theatres or comedy road stories and clubs, the comedian’s life turned them into a rather is mostly that of a “road interesting warrior”. They are travel- called Thank travelogue You For ling by air or road to cities Coming To Hattiesburg. and towns across North The book starts on a America, performing their grand scale; that is with opening or headlining set for the sheer purpose of Todd being the opening making people laugh at act for a Louis C.K. show their jokes, and hopefully at Madison Square Gargetting paid once their 45- den in New York. From minute or hour-long stage there, he hits the road to embark upon a series of times are done. Veteran comedian Todd headlining gigs in mediumBarry, who will be hosting sized cities and towns “The Masters” series at across the U.S. (including this year’s Just For Laughs stops in Israel and Winfestival from July 27 to 29, nipeg), from Portland, knows what it’s like to be Maine to Ronnert Park, a comedy “road warrior”. California, to yes, even the He has experienced his city mentioned in the share of travelling from gig book’s title – Hattiesburg, to gig, in all types of ven- Mississippi. However, with each ues, in locales large and small. Instead of dreading entry about the places he each stop along the road performs at during this for his gigs, Barry has be- year-and-a-half comedy come a keen observer of odyssey, Barry rarely By Stuart Nulman mtltimes.ca

makes the show itself the emphasis of his observations; in fact, many times, the shows themselves play a rather secondary role. Instead, he chooses to focus on several nonshow related observations with each stop. Some deal with his never ending quest for the perfect cup of coffee in the ideal coffee shop; or the conditions of his hotel room or venue dressing room (good or bad); or quirky tourist attractions that he happens to stumble upon; or recounting incidents that occurred during a previous stop in the city in question; or even searching for restaurants that don’t offer the typical chain hotel fare (by the way, if you happen to run a Mongolian BBQ restaurant, expect a visit from Todd the next time he performs in your hometown). There are plenty of interesting stories that Todd shares with the reader that fall under the above categories. For instance, Todd recounts the time he last played a gig in Jersey City, in which the booker hesitated paying

way too often, unfortunately). But somehow, he views it with a sense of adventure and looks forward to every stop along the way, so he could continue his quest for the perfect cup of coffee or discover a new restaurant before or after a performance. Thank You For Coming To Hattiesburg is a fascinating book that gives a fresh perspective at the him after the show (the only to find that the toilet sometimes solitary world sweaty booker hemmed was left unflushed (Todd of the stand-up comic. and hawed until he gave got another room, plus a Being a comedy road warhim enough cash to pay $25 food voucher); and rior is not always the the opening act, and to then there was the time glamourous part of the this day Todd still hasn’t he performed in Missoula, job of making people been paid for that gig); Montana, in which his laugh on a regular basis, during a coffee stop at dressing room was noth- but Todd Barry demonDistrict Coffee in Boise, ing but a cramped, littered strates how he has Idaho, Todd was so im- storage closet, and when earned his stripes on the pressed with the black he found out he couldn’t plus signs on white back- even get a bottle of water, road, which can be frusground design in its bath- the promoter “gener- trating at times, but someroom, that he took a selfie ously” offered him a sip how he manages to find of it, and became an Insta- from the bottle that he something that catches his interest, and makes gram sensation for several was drinking out of. Todd’s dry, glib tone that that time touring across weeks;Todd recounts one of his favorite museum he employs in the book the country not such a experiences following a somehow removes the dreadful proposition. A gig in Wilmington, North sense of bitterness and must-read for comedy Carolina at the Cape Fear dread that many comedi- fans and those who want Serpentarium; then ans develop when en- to follow in the footsteps such of Todd Barry and those there’s the time when he countering checked into his hotel circumstances while on multitudes of comedy room in Mulvane, Kansas, the road (which happens road warriors.

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• July 15, 2017

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July 15, 2017 â&#x20AC;¢

The Jazz Fest is over: ‘till next year son, just wait until next summer when the streets will be again filled with music. "We already can't wait for the next edition

The view on one of the shows on Sainte Catherine

"After 38 years, we take the same admiration in watching this magnificent melting pot of people from all walks of life converge upon the Festival: people who would otherwise never find themselves in the same place,

By Sergio Martinez mtltimes.ca

at the same time; youths having fun alongside seniors; music devotees as-

sembling from the four corners of the Earth, speaking every language, as though the Festival were the United Nations of music. All in all, the true stars of the Festival are the Montrealers and guests from all over the world who seize the moment of Musical Now in a spirit of harmony; all assembled as one." These were the emotional terms in which the president of the Montreal International Jazz Festival, Jacques-André Dupont summed up during the last press conference, the eleven days of this year's edition of the most iconic music event in the city. The Jazz Fest ended with a major event, the Closing Concert at the TD Stage, featuring Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals, a Los Angelesbased singer-rapper re-

of the Festival, which will run from June 28 to July 7, 2018!" said Dupont at the closing of the press conference. Neither can we.

The Oscar Peterson Award ceremony

garded as one of the emerging artists of this moment in the U.S. He delivered a combination of soul, R&B, funk, jazz, and rap. A combination that managed to captivate the audience congregated in a large number for this free concert. For my part, the last indoor concert I attended was the one offered by Rachel Therrien, and her group made up of Latino and Canadian musicians which delivered an inspiring musical combination of Afro-Cuban, Colombian, jazz, and rock rhythms with an original accompaniment that included a marimba and Afro-Caribbean drums. Under the title of her latest album "Pensamiento: Proyecto Colombia" this Canadian trumpeter managed to mix different styles and musical genres

in a manner that was at the same time accessible to the public, and able to suggest a mature work of putting together those elements in a very successful way. An important issue that was addressed this year was that of providing appropriate security to women, Dupont mentioned that this implemented through the collaboration with "the Conseil des Montréalaises: the Hirondelles (swallows). The project was inspired by our desire and concern to enhance the security and wellbeing of festival fans, especially women, members of the LGBTQ community and all those who may feel a sense of vulnerability during our events" said Dupont. Now, the limelight and mikes are off for the sea-

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• July 15, 2017

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V-Fit PRO Gym in Montreal West Karate, Kickboxing, and Fitness Business Profile

new gym in Montreal West teaching martial arts opened in 2016.; V-Fit PRO Solutions offers classes in karate, kick boxing, and in fitness for adults and children. Owner Giovanna Taddeo has a sixth level black belt (6th dan) in Shorinjiryu Kentokukan Karatedo and began teaching karate 20 years ago. Reasons for taking her classes can include: wanting to learn about self-defence, building self confidence, becoming fit, and personal self-fulfillment. As a former RCMP (police) officer who worked in northern communities building on anti-bullying and drug awareness programs, Taddeo eventually realized that she did not need to be a police officer to help others. Taddeo opened V-Fit P.R.O. to focus on helping others become the best they can be. “V-FIT P.R.O. is known for its Perseverance, Respect and Optimization of self. These are three core values we strongly encourage. At V-Fit, we believe the continued

practice of all three as the key to a successful and fulfilling life journey.” V-Fit rents the spacious 2700 square foot basement underneath a pastry shop. Taddeo is joined by three other instructors, teaching classes of up to 20 students at once in the

working towards their 3rd degree. The third instructor, Shinan Wayne Donivan, also the founder of Shorinjiryu Kentokukan Karatedo, began his karate training in 1967 and now holds a 9th degree (dan) black belt. “Compared to other karate schools,V-Fit P.R.O. is very personal/intimate. We train and sweat together, becoming like a family in our dojo.” Taddeo notes that there is no maximum age for her classes and even those with medical conditions can register after getting the OK from their family doctor.The goal is to continuously strive for self improvement, keeping individual goals and limitations in mind. By John Symon Programs at V-Fit include karate (mixed), fitmtltimes.ca ness classes (mixed) and kickboxing classes “dojo” or practice area. (women and children Two of the instructors are only). The fall session Taddeo's students who starts around Sept 13 at a are both excellent exam- cost of $105 for 24 karate ples of perseverance and classes over 12 weeks. Fit hard work (Nicole Ryans & Fight classes cost $150. and Selena Benoit). They Kick boxing classes cost both current hold the $55. More details are rank of 2nd degree black available on the website belt and they are actively below.

V-Fit PRO offers courses for children and adults

On the menu at V-Fit PRO are karate, kickboxing, and fitness classes

Taddeo also mentions that there is a special summer promotional price for adult karate classes running through to September 6th of $30 for the entire summer. Currently, there is summer camp for children

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aged 7-12 where pro- route. There is also free grams include: Karate, municipal parking nearby. Kickboxing, Self-defense, drug and safety awareV-Fit PRO Solutions ness, bullying awareness 10 Milner, Montreal West and much more.. H4X 1J1 V-Fit is close to the (514) 718-1597 Montreal West train sta@vfitpro.ca tion and the 162 bus www.vfitpro.ca

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July 15, 2017 â&#x20AC;¢

When was the last time you had a 50¢ piece in your hand?

By Michael Joffre mtltimes.ca

ith the Canada 1 cent having recently ended its 150+ year run as a part of our circulating coins, it is interesting to look at another seemingly strange but important denomination... the 50 cent. When first introduced in 1870 by the Dominion of Canada, it was the highest value coin. Considering most workers at that time likely earned between $5 and $15 a week, this piece represented a significant sum. The Victorian coins 1870-1901 were minted in sterling silver (92.5%) which was the current standard in the British Empire. Weighing 11.62 gram, and with a diameter of 29.72 mm it was an impressive size. The obverse (heads side) has a mature crowned bust of Queen Victoria with the legend “VICTORIA DEI GRATIA REGINA CANADA”, which roughly means, Victoria Grace of God Queen of Canada. The other side (reverse) is much like the

• July 15, 2017

The first minted 50 cent piece in Canada 1870 5, 10, and 25 cents; having and 1905 stand out as difSt. Edwards crown on top ficult years for collectors of two rows of maple to locate, even in used leaves with a ribbon on condition. George V 1911-1936 the bottom. Because of its large size again kept a similar design, and value, it was not is- but in 1920 the silver consued every year, and most tent was reduced from Victorian dates have mod- 92.5% to 80%. The est mintages. All are of mintages were greatly ingreat value in top condi- creased during WWI and tion, and are still scarce by 1919 over a million even somewhat used. were made annually. By 1890 is the scarcest date the early 1920’s there with only 20,000 minted, were so many 50 cent and few surviving (espe- pieces around that much cially in new condition!) of the 1920, and almost all of the 1921 dates were today. The early 20th century held back from circulation eventually Edward VII dates 1902- and 1910 continued in a very melted. Only 75 to 100 similar style to the Victo- 1921’s are known to have rian issues...obviously survived, and this coin with a change of bust of sells for between $20,000 the monarch on the ob- and $250,000 depending verse. Unlike during the on condition!!! The coin 1800’s, there were coins has a nickname as the produced for every year “King” of Canadian coins of Edward’s reign. 1904 because it is so hard to

find. No other dates appear until 1929, and then only 1931, 1932, 1934, and 1936, the last 4 minted in much lower quantities. So putting together a date set of these coins will indeed be hard work, and cost quite a bit. There was a total design change for the George VI (1937-1952) issues. For the first time the bust of the king (or queen) had no crown on top…just a bare head. On the reverse there is a Canadian coat of arms. Most years through the 1940’s and 1950’s were produced in

Last Canadian minted 50 cent piece put in circulation 2002

large quantities, and this coin was well circulated in commerce. Four basic varieties exists with the 1947 coins. There are two types of 7’s in the

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date, one with the tip of the 7 facing left (this is called “Straight 7”), and another with the tip curved right. To make things more interesting some of 1947 coins were minted with a small maple leaf after the date...we will explain why in a future article. The rarest combination is one where the 7 is curved, and there is a maple leaf after the date. This is a classic Canadian rarity. In my estimation less than a few hundred of these exist, and even in used condition it is valued in the

thousands of dollars. Elizabeth (1953-present) began by continuing the tradition of her father of not having a crown on her portrait. Coins until

1967 continued to be issued in 80% silver. The 1967 date was special since it was the 100th anniversary of confederation, and Canadian animals appear on all denominations. For the 50 cent, an image of a howling wolf was struck...designed by well known artist Alex Colville. In 1968 all 50 cent pieces were struck in pure nickel, this continued until 2000, and since have been made of plated steel. For some reason the bust of the Queen appears with a crown starting in 1990, and this continued until 2002. A decision was made in the early 2000’s to end the regular circulation of 50 cent pieces. Since 2003 no coins were distributed for general use as money...however these coins are still produced every year in mint sets, and obtainable in rolls purchased from the Royal Canadian Mint.

Michael Joffre is President of Carsley Whetstone & Company Inc. Canada’s oldest Coin Dealers with a history dating back to 1928. They are always looking to buy collections of rare coins, paper money and related collectables. He can be reached directly at 514-2899761, or by visiting: www.carlseys.com

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July 15, 2017 â&#x20AC;¢

Perfect wines for the summer style of Beaujolais, in contrast to the richer 2015s. These delicious, easygoing wines make a welcome addition to any barbecue, picnic or impromptu gathering. Here are my top picks:

• July 15, 2017

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Jean Foillard Beaujolais 2015 SAQ # 12454958. $24.05 Gourmand nose. Generous aromas of candied red fruit, black pepper and violets. Fresh with firm tannins, with a subtle structure.Very long finish.

Jean-Paul Brun L'Ancien Beaujolais 2016 SAQ # 10368221 $19.15 Raspberries, slate, flowers.Excellent, balance, ripe fruit, fleshy with and little tannin on the finish. Very fragrant finale.

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Anita Kuhnel Moulin-àVent Vieilles Vignes 2015 SAQ # 13211835.

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after direct pressing of the grapes (no prolonged skin contact). It is a predominant blend of Grenache noir,Syrah, and Carignan. After fermentation, the wine is aged for about 7 he days are longer And one more reason fruit. Refreshing. Very fine months on its lees before and the tempera- to love rosé: it’s really af- and elegant with lovely bottling in Spring. ture are relatively fordable. Not because it’s zesty citrus and red berry The nose dominated by warm, we are in cheap wine, but because it fruit. Delicious saline nutty notes of roasted the midst of summer: san- does not have a strong taste. Very elegant finale. hazelnut with some ordals,outdoors activities, foothold with Canadian Nice wine to have with ange peel and fresh pomeand of course sipping a buyers as red and white salmon tartare granate rather than your glass of rosé on a warm wines. usual strawberry and evening. Admittedly, this presents grapefruit flavours. It has a While rosé wines offi- a bit of a dilemma in the solid body but also a top cially appeared in the evangelizing of rosé wine, class acidity to keep its but when it comes down power and nuance to it they’re too good not fresh.Flavors bring to to share. So the next time mind lots of savoury you’re shopping for wine, spices with citrus flavours keep an eye for rosé and reminding me of confit spread the love! lemon. The kicker is rich Rose Recommendations: nutmeg, oaky vanilla and some coconut richness coat the whole experience in a powerfully aromatic and an oily texture. Georges Duboeuf Syrah A gastronomical wine to Rosé 2016 SAQ # have with diverse grilled 13205021 $13.45 seafood. Made in the Languedoc Beaujolais, brand ambasBy Marco Giovanetti region, this cuvee reflects sador wine of the sumthe sudist roots of the re- mer mtltimes.ca gion. Made with 100% Beaujolais is the essenearly spring at the SAQ, syrah, the bouquet re- tial summer red, offering they’re indelibly associflects notes of small red light, fruity, uncomplicated ated with summer, and for berries, nectarines and pleasure. Made from the good reason.They tend to english toffee. Round tan- tart gamay grape, it's light be refreshing; but even Joseph Mellot Le Rabault nins, medium acidity with and fresh enough to more than that they pair 2016 SAQ # 12228539 earthy and floral under- charm most white-wine perfectly with classic $26.50 tones and a crunchy fi- drinkers, too, especially summer foods like barbeThe dynasty of the nale.Good with rose when it's slightly chilled. cue, picnic sandwiches, Joseph Mellot Estate in pastas such as Tortellini. Twenty minutes in the tacos, spicy take-out, and the Loire Valley was cre- Have this wine with burg- fridge will define the fresh fruit. Not because ated in Sancerre almost ers bright berry flavours. they’re sweet, but because five centuries ago by In early spring, in the they’re so versatile. They Pierre-Etienne Mellot and, Domaine de la Rectorie past Beaujolais salon in balance the acidity and since then, the family has Côté Mer 2016. SAQ # Montreal, I had a chance brightness of white wine always been involved in 11632441. $26.75 to taste both the crus with the body of red winemaking. This Collioure Rosé from the 2015 and 2016 wine, and come in a variThis rose is a favorite of wine by Banyuls winery vintage. Ripe yet refreshety of styles from fruity mine every year. On the Domaine de la Rectorie ing, 2016 sees a return to and floral to spicy and sa- nose, ground cherry, is, like rather rarely, fer- the typically medium-bodvory. strawberry and cranberry mented in oak barrels ied and summer-friendly

$26.40 An amazing Beaujolais made from 75 years old Gamay wines. Rich and vigorous wine with a panoply of floral, and spice notes. Dense with black fruit notes, it opens up with time in the glass. Should improve for the next 10-15 years.

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July 15, 2017 â&#x20AC;¢

Sun Youth Alumni make it to the next level!

he motivation that led to the creation of Sun Youth in 1954 was to allow disadvantaged youths residing in Montreal's St. Louis district (now Plateau Mont-Royal) to play sports. Today, almost all the young people who are part of the organization play within one of its sports teams or attend its day camp or basketball camp. Sun Youth's Hornets Sports and Recreation Program offers team sports such as football and basketball, as well as baseball, basketball and hockey development programs.They encourage academic success by scheduling all activities after school hours and during weekends. Athletes also have access to a study hall in the organization's building and can count on the support of tutors if they are having

academic difficulties. Sun Youth allows youths to develop values such as team spirit, perseverance, patience and much more. The organization also takes pride in displaying on its "Wall of Fame" the achievements of the Hornets that distinguished themselves before becoming successful in their respective sports, whether at the university or professional level. It is possible to visit it virtually on Sun Youth's website (www. http://sunyouthorg.com/en/services/sports-and-recreati on/wall-fame1). Recently, Sun Youth alumni Eze Dike-Nwagbara, who received offers from Boston University, Yale University and University of Louisiana at Lafayette, committed to the Yale Bulldogs for the 2018-2019 season. The young athlete is not only an outstanding player, but also a hardworking stu-

dent who prioritizes education: “First I’m coming for that Yale degree and an NCAA title, and then I have my heart set on the NBA or pro level overseas”, said the young man in an interview with North Pole Hoops (Eze Dike 2018 Quebec Commits Yale Bulldogs). Sun Youth would also like to congratulate its Hornets alumnus Arnaud Boyer-Cillis, Jahfari Coulombe and Ibrahim and Djibril Ngom, who will pursue their dream at a higher level. Indeed, Arnaud and Jahfari will be playing for the McGill’s Redmen, while the Ngom brothers will be representing Brock University’s Badgers in Ontario. The organization is proud to see its athletes reach their full potential on the field and at school. They serve as examples to their peers that perseverance and hard work do pay off.

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