Montreal Times 25 14 December 14 2019 by Montreal Times

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Vol. 25 No. 14

Bogdan Calita Courtier immobilier / Real Estate Broker Profusion Immobilier Inc. Real Estate Agency

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Sun Youth's V.P. of Finance Daniel Rousseau, Radio-Canada's Véronique Mayrand and Yves Desautels (The Grinch) and volunteers Thérèse Lauzon and Danielle Bélanger.

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Hydro-Quebec refunds coming but so is christmas I n a statement on Monday December 9th, Hydro Quebec announced they will be refunding $500 million to customers starting in early 2020 - but it is not the $1.5 billion

By Bonnie Wurst mtltimes.ca dollars the CAQ had first claimed it would be. Last Saturday the CAQ pushed through Bill 34, invoking closure that will see refunds sent out at an average of $60 per customer. It will also see the utility's rates frozen in the New Year with increases starting in 2021 and limited to the inflation rate for the following

five years. However, all the other parties voted unanimously against the Bill, saying it would end up costing customers and industries more in the end. The Liberal Party stated that in seven of the past ten years, the increases customers received were less than the rate of inflation and by cementing it to the rates, it would actually result in higher costs.As well, a research team for the Parti Quebecois claims that customers would be doling out $600 million more during those five years. Bill 34 also changes how the rates are reviewed by the Régie de l’énergie, by having the board calculate it every five years, instead of every year - basically meaning the CAQ is taking control of Hydro's power to set the rates. In 2025, they will determine the rates for the following years

once Hydro Quebec has filed its rate application. Nonetheless, the refund credits to customers are expected to start rolling out in January at the earliest. The following information from Hydro-Quebec explains how you can find out if you are eligible and the steps you

may or may not have to take to receive the refund. *For more detailed information or other questions, please go to their website at: mtltimes.ca ELIGIBILITY FOR THE CREDIT - You are entitled to receive a credit if you received at least one electricity bill in your name in 2018 or 2019. - This amount will be issued in the form of a credit on your bill or by a cheque sent to Hydro�Quebec customers who received at least one electricity bill in their name in 2018 or 2019. There is nothing most customers really need to do, as the credit will be applied automatically to their bills between the end of January and April 1, 2020. The amount will be calculated based on a percentage of your electricity consumption billed between January 1st 2018 and Decem-

ber 31st 2019. They ask you to 'look at your bills carefully because the credit will only appear once under Credit note. NOT A HYDRO QUEBEC CUSTOMER ANY LONGER? - You are still eligible and should receive a cheque in the mail - as long as you received at least one electricity bill in your name in 2018 or 2019. They ask you to please confirm your current address, if applicable. There are several ways you can do this: Update your 'Customer Space' file online or fill out the Credit request form and provide the address where you would like to receive the cheque. If you are unable to provide your current address online, they ask you please contact customer services by telephone. Once they have your contact information, they will send you an account

statement at the end of January or later and you will eventually receive a cheque in the mail. *If you are MOVING in December 2019 or January 2020 - they ask you to please confirm the address of where you would like to receive the cheque. NEW HYDRO QUEBEC CUSTOMERS IN 2020 - New customers in 2020 will not be entitled to the credit. Only customers who received at least one electricity bill in their name in 2018 or 2019 are eligible. In 2025, the Régie de l’énergie will determine the rates for the following years once Hydro Québec has filed its rate application. BUSINESSES - All businesses that received an electricity bill in 2018 or 2019 are also eligible for a credit. Go to their website (link above) for more information.

Lauren Marks Vesely

010-051020

Wishing for YOU at this holiday time Peace, Love and Happiness

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December 14, 2019 •

Bogdan Calita Courtier immobilier / Real Estate Broker Profusion Immobilier Inc. Real Estate Agency

514.582.8348

bcalita@profusion.global http://en.profusionimmo.ca/courtier/bogdancalita/79106

A good way to celebrate official languages o mark the 50th anniversary of Canada's Official Languages Act, the Blue Metropolis Foundation has

By Sergio Martinez mtltimes.ca

launched an encouraging initiative: a writing contest addressed to Anglophone students. The project is part of a Foundation's program titled "There Is Something About You." The initiative "seeks to promote empowerment and a sense of belonging among Quebec's Anglophone communities." And yes, for English-speaking Quebecers it couldn't come at a more appropriate time. We have recently seen not very friendly attitudes on the part of the provincial government. There is a divisive attempt to provide access to English-language services only to those categorized as "historical An-

glos." For some, even something as trivial as the customary greeting "Bonjour / Hi" has become a subject worthy of debate in the Quebec legislature. Indications that for some people an issue that should have been settled long ago, seems always ready to be revived.To make things worse, this happens at the same time when other far more pressing problems such as increased waiting times in emergency rooms or lack of affordable housing, keep affecting more people regardless of their language. According to the press release the invitation is to "Quebec's Anglophone university students to write a mini-essay of 300

words about one of these public figures, explaining why, like the person they have chosen to write about, they are determined to remain in Quebec. The students will explore this question while describing their personal attachment to Quebec and the dreams they hope to realize in the years to come." The individuals chosen as the subject of their essays are Tracey Deer, Charmaine Nelson, Aldo Bensadoun, Andy Nulman, Emily Skahan, Ginny Stikeman, Helen Antoniou, Jonathan Wener, Richard Burnett, Guy Rex Rogers, and Tina Kader. "Ten students will be selected based on

their essays. They will be awarded $250 each and invited to develop a personal project that each will carry out here in Quebec. These projects will be voted on by the general public and the student who gets the greatest number of votes will receive a grant of $5,000, allowing them to carry out their project— one that will benefit the Anglophone community, as well as Quebec as a whole," says the Foundation.

Those interested in participating must visit the Blue Metropolis website, and follow these steps: 1. Watch the ten interviews featuring prominent Anglophone Montrealers explaining why they decided to make their lives in this city. Choose the person you find the most inspiring 2. Download the contest form 3. Fill out the Information section 4. In a mini-essay of 300 words maximum,

tell the organizers what touched you most about this Montrealer's story and explain how you might apply this person's experience to your own life 5. Return this document to frederick.gaudin-laurin@metropolisbleu.o rg before Sunday, December 15th, 2019, at 11:55 P.M. Indeed the short time will be a challenge, but the experience must be worthwhile.

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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Is Tampa Bay-Montreal shared baseball season concept dead? he proposed plan of having Major League Baseball return to Montreal via the Tampa Bay Rays by 2024 maybe dead in the water according St. Petersburg, Florida Mayor Rick Kriseman; however, according to the Montreal Baseball Group and its spokesman Peter Bronfman, it’s more like never say die. "We remain steadfastly committed to the sister city concept with the Tampa Bay Rays and its realization in as timely a fashion as possible. Our group continues to be excited by the proposed innovative concept. We will have no further comment at this time," according to a statement that was issued by Mr. Bronfman this past Thursday. The statement was a response to a memo that Mayor Kriseman wrote to city council, in which he said that both

• December 14, 2019

parties agreed to continue with an existing use agreement when it came to the immediate future of the Rays’ existence, with the idea of shared seasons between Tampa Bay and Montreal can still be looked into … but only starting with the 2028 season and beyond. “My door is open if the Rays want to discuss a new stadium in St. Pete. But we are not a part-time city. We are not a part-time region. We are a Major League community. No one can doubt St. Pete and Tampa Bay’s trajectory,” adamantly wrote Kriseman in a December 4 tweet. The concept of shared seasons between the two cities first came about this past summer, when Major League Baseball announced that it would like to explore the notion of having the Rays split their

Major League Baseball returning to Montreal via the Tampa Bay Rays by 2024 maybe dead home game schedule with Montreal, in which they would be played equally in new open air stadiums that would be

built in each city. Rays principal owner Stu Steinberg hoped to have the plan off the ground in time for the

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2024 season; however, the team is contracted to play their home games at Tropicana Field until the 2027 season,

and can seriously initiate the shared season plan only with the permission from St. Petersburg civic leaders.

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A survey and a public consultation will be held on the issue of empty commercial space

Empty commercial space - The city's response

Just this past August we had written about this problem affecting Montreal: empty storefronts, an issue that since then has finally got the attention of

Contributors: • Alyssa De Rosa • Catherine Maisonneuve • Marco Giovanetti • Sergio Martinez • Bonnie Wurst • Stuart Nulman • Deborah Rankin • John Symon • Helen (Eleni) Akrivos

SUBSCRIPTION General subscriptions in Canada: 1 year $150, 2 years $275 Subscription to the U.S. and outside North America:1 year $250 US All contents of this publication are sole property of The Montreal Times Newspaper. Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily intended to reflect those of the publisher. Any reproduction in whole or in part and in print or in electronic form without express permission is strictly forbidden. Permission to reproduce selected editorial may be granted by contacting the publisher in writing.

By Sergio Martinez mtltimes.ca

our elected officials. At that time, we quoted Simon Gaudreault, senior director of national research for the Canadian Federation of Independent Business who in a statement to a local TV station had pointed to one of the leading causes of the problem: "Property taxes are quite high in Montreal so that can have an impact when you have leases." He then added, "When it's translated into the rent, it can scare off some small businesses." Of course, high taxa-

tion in Montreal is one of the causes of this phenomenon affecting some areas of the city, but it is not the only one. Some retail stores, for example, have been affected by the increase of online shopping, a trend that today is global and therefore doesn't affect Montreal alone. But other situations are strictly local. Road works in many of the most important commercial arteries, St. Laurent, Ste. Catherine, St. Denis, to name just a few, have had a negative impact since they complicate access to the stores. On other occasions, it has been the implementation of some policies on the part of city or borough officials which have impacted the commercial streets. For some time now the city has introduced measures to promote the use of bicycles. Still, bike paths have often been built at the expense of parking space, therefore discouraging motorists from shopping in certain areas. Recent changes proposed for the area around Peel St., Dorchester Sq., and Metcalfe St. would re-

sult in a further reduction of parking space in that downtown section. While there is general support for using more public transit, riding bikes, or simply walking more often, not only to improve one's own health but also for the sake of the environment, on the other hand, one cannot ignore the fact that being Montreal a city that undergoes a more or less five-months winter season, from November to March, for some people, especially the elderly, moving by car is practically inevitable. This month the City of Montreal has launched a couple of initiatives to get some feedback from the people. A survey is online (www.ville.montreal.qc .ca) and registrations are open to participate in a consultation process. The deadline to add one's name is December 20, 2019. For its part, the questions included in the online survey suggest some of the ideas that may be floating within the inner circles of the city bureaucracy. Besides asking about the

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causes of the empty storefronts as perceived by the respondents, there are some ideas that if implemented could contribute, if not to the solution of the problem, at least to revive some segments of the most affected streets where the closed stores project a gloomy scene. Some of those ideas are to use those empty spaces for temporary artistic or

community activities, or even to rent them to non-profit groups in the most affected neighbourhoods. Regarding the public consultations, the boroughs will inform the dates when they will take place as well as the venues where they will be held. Given the sad state of some areas the sooner some solutions are put into practice, the better.

Answer is online Saturday, December 14thpage 25 December 14, 2019 •

More bus and metro service in 2020 - but will it make a difference?

fter receiving thousands of complaints from commuters, the STM announced they are ready to invest close to $48.6 million towards improving public transit in 2020. It will be used to implement a 2.6% increase in metro service and a 5% increase in bus service. Mayor Valerie Plante

• December 14, 2019

reported buses pulling in and just as they prepare to board, the driver changes the sign in front to another route number and then leaves. Sometimes the bus is so packed with other zombie-like commuters; only two people can squeeze in just before the doors shut in your face. As the line for the next bus grows exponentially, forget the app to check where it is, because it forgot you a long time ago. At least inside the Metro system you don't have to freeze your toes and fingers off while waiting for the the next train, often delayed for unknown and mysterious reasons. Or like a more recent event, completely shutdown because a water main broke from the ' c r u m b l i n g - h e ave n s above' and flooded a

station down the line. Finally, the lights of a train appear down the tunnel, rapid eye movement scans the cars in a blur as the train slows down as one tries to focus in on a car with an empty seat. Or you hope for enough space to grab hold of a handle, as the train departs or stops with enough torque to send you flying into someone's lap or into the next car. During rush hours, the cars are packed so tightly, even sardines in a can have more breathing space. Screaming in frustration can be a very soothing practice, but it might get you arrested by an overzealous STM officer. In the end, even though you left an hour earlier, you arrive an hour late for work. The coffee is cold and the boss has been looking

for you. You resign to your fate and hope for a better commute on the way home. Nevertheless, by the end of the day, the interior of the bus and trains are alike to the best of viral incubators. If you are lucky, the flu shot kicked in on time or you have grown comfortable wearing a surgical mask, imagining yourself a recipient of the Vezina Trophy for great germ-goal-tending. The problem with public transit involves several issues and not simply about better scheduling.The addition of more buses and metro trains is much needed - but it is the number of vehicules actually on the road that is of major concern. According STM-CSN, the union representing workers, it is due to

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problems with their new computer system. Maintenance work on buses has slowed down significantly. They have not been able to get the parts needed to do repairs and the backlog is growing. As workers fa-

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was pleased with the announcement and said a good part of the money will be used to buy 300 new buses, amounting to a 15% increase of the fleet. As for the Metro system, the STM is committed to running a train every five minutes on both the Orange and Green lines all year long, including during the summer. As well, 17 new Azur trains will be added to the Green line. There are many other factors at play here and skeptic commuters have good reason to wonder if it will really help. If you are a regular user of public transit in the Montreal area, then you know the full meaning of the word 'frustration'. It is the 'feeling of being upset or annoyed, especially because of the inability to change or achieve something' - such as simply getting to work on time. More often than not, commuters experience endless moments and often hours of pure frustration waiting for a metro train to arrive or for a bus already 30 minutes late. While either tearing at their hair or simply resigning to their fate in a zombie-like state, the bus finally pulls in, but the driver changes the sign to 'En Transit' and goes to get a cup of coffee at Timmie's across the street. Commuters have even

110-042620

By Bonnie Wurst mtltimes.ca

miliarize themselves with the new system, the pace of work has also slowed down. There is a shortage of buses on the road and the STM is calling it a crisis. On Thursday November 14th, they were only able to send out 1243 buses, leaving them short by 81 of the 1425 buses needed to meet the posted schedules. This past Thursday they said they were short by 140 buses. Buses are breaking down on the road and there are none available to replace them. It throws off the schedule, leaving commuters waiting in angst. In the meantime, as they work out the glitches, commuters are left feeling more than just frustrated - they are fed up, losing faith and wondering if more buses and metro service will actually make any difference.

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Magdor Jewellery and Diamond Shop – Friendly Service in Beaurepaire Village stores deal with wholesalers; but we eliminate the middleman. We do all the services here, working in gold, platinum, and silver. We also have a very nice diamond collection and work with all other fine stones.” Engagement and anniversary rings are a big part of his business. Earrings, bracelets, and pendants are also offered. Magdor always gives its price in advance so that there are no surprises when customers come to pick up the finished product. Waiting time depends on the season, but generally involves a minimum of two weeks. Rush orders of only a few days are also sometimes possible. Apart from jewelry, Magdor sells watches feaBy John Symon turing brands: Raymond Weil; Seiko, and Swiss mtltimes.ca Army. Magdor also repairs friendly service. The fam- all main brands of ily-owned business offers watches. Currently, Raycustom-made manufacturing; remounting; en- mond Weil are marked graving; re-sizing; watch down 50 percent. High quality diamonds are availrepairs; and appraisals. “We do manufacturing able from Canada and here on site,” he explains. other conflict-free areas “We design jewelry for around the world. Magdor offers verbal or customers or take their written appraisals. He can designs. Elsewhere, many issue certificates for inagdor Jewellery has been operating out of the same location for more than 22 years in Beaconsfield’s Beaurepaire Village. The owner, Mr. Mansur, has been a jeweler for over 40 years; he attributes his store’s longevity to reliable,

Magdor owner, Mr. Mansour examines a diamond ring at the Beaurepaire village shop. surance purposes or for personal information. He helps his customers to upgrade or purchase pieces of gold. “One lady came in with what she thought was an almost

worthless ring but I told her that the stone was an emerald evaluated at $20,000. She was happy to have the appraisal done to say the least!” “My customers here are

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Photo: John Symon

from all over” Mansur says, “One of them even comes in from Vancouver as he still believes in me making his jewelry. I recently had a customer asking me to make him an

engagement ring and I remembered making a ring for his father! Finding a good jeweler is like finding a good car mechanic; once you find a good and trustworthy one, you want to keep him.” Magdor sometimes has wonderful gifts for its clients. Currently, clients who purchase any jewelry for $500 or more will be eligible to enter their names for the St. Valentine’s Day draw. The prize is a gorgeous 14 carat pair of earrings worth $400 or equivalent merchandise. Magdor accepts debit cards, all major credit cards, and also sometimes lay-away plans. As a special promotion, Magdor is currently offering 30 percent off select merchandise. Store hours are TuesdayFriday from 10am-6pm and Saturday from 10:30am-5pm. Free municipal parking is offered nearby. The STM 200, 211 and 405 buses stop just a few steps away. Magdor Jewellery & Diamond Shop 484 Beaconsfield Blvd, (near Woodland Ave.) Beaconsfield, H9W 4C4 514.694.3395

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Montreal buys land in Ile Bizard for Great West Park

he City of Montreal is moving forward with their plans to build the Great West Park (Grand Parc de l'Ouest). The park is expected to encompass a 3,000-hectare green space and is part of a global initiative to 'reduce carbon emissions and increase cities' eco-footprints'.With the purchase of 25 hectares of land in the Île-Bizard/Ste-Geneviève borough and the 10 hectares of green space in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue announced last October - it is slowly becoming a reality. The two areas of land in Île-Bizard which will be an integral part of the project, are located in the southwest part of the borough; in the Pointe-Theoret area agricultural zone (running along Cherrier and Montee Wilson streets) and will en-

compass close to 22 hectares at a cost of $750,000 (with 50% of being financed by the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal). The other 3 hectares will be located in the Bois-de-L’Île-Bizard Nature Park with a price tag of $250,000, bringing the total to $1 million. "Rather than destroying hundreds of hectares of natural spaces and wetlands, we will create the largest urban park in Canada, eight times the size of Central Park," Plante recently said in her speech to world leaders at the United Nations climate summit in New York. In all, the Great West Park will combine parks running from Sainte-Annede-Bellevue to Île-Bizard and could be be fifteen times the size of Mount Royal park.

January 14, 2020

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11.

December 14, 2019 •

The media food drive on its way to a record year

very year, as the Holiday Season approaches, members of the media join forces to help thousands of people in need. Along with an army of volunteers, they become the personification of solidarity. In November, Moisson Montréal’s Hunger Count revealed that although, Montreal’s economic situation is very strong, close to 70,000 people required more than 550,000 food assistance requests. With this in mind the Media Food Drive organized an awareness day with their spokespersons Mélissa Bédard, Alexandre Champagne, JeanPhilippe Dion, Stéphane Fallu, Patrice Godin, Danièle Henkel, Bianca Longpré, Ariane Moffatt and Patricia Paquin. Beneficiaries were also invited, as well as University of Montreal researchers, partners and community organizations for an open discussion on poverty,

hunger and its effects on people’s health and stress levels. Emotions were flying high as people started sharing their stories. Comedian Stéphane Fallu thought he had been invited to soften the vibe with his usual sense of humor. He confided he had to steal food when he was 5 years old so that his family could eat. "For a long time I was ashamed of where I came from,” said Fallu. “I'm not ashamed anymore. Can't we just all get together and feed everyone. It's basic, we're in Quebec!" The workshop set the tone for what would be a very touching, respectful and positive fundraising campaign. On the way to a new record? On December 5th, hundreds of volunteers woke up at the crack of dawn under a beautiful

Sun Youth's V.P. of Finance Daniel Rousseau, Radio-Canada's Véronique Mayrand and Yves Desautels (The Grinch) and volunteers Thérèse Lauzon and Danielle Bélanger. light snow on what was going to be a very successful collect. The Guignolée announced that $ 2.8 million were raised in Quebec, an increase of $ 300,000 compared to the same

time in 2018! But it’s not over! Donations both in cash and nonperishable food, will be accepted until December 24 at branches affiliated with the Jean Coutu network, in the

Provigo and MAXI stores as well as in the offices of Via Capitale. Donations can also be done at guignolee.ca or by texting FILL to 20222. Your donations of

cash and non-perishable food enable thousands of Quebecers and their families to enjoy the Holiday period with dignity. Your contribution makes a difference. Please give if you can!

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Great West Park - another acquisition in Pierrefonds-Roxboro fit of future generations," said Plante in a press release. During last autumn, other acquisitions were made for the park in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue and L'Île-Bizard, as well as a 0.26-hectare site located in another part of PierrefondsRoxboro. Combined with the addition of the 140 hectares just pur-

Great West Park Pierrefonds in Red - City of Montreal

sition of a natural environment since the adoption of the Policy for the Protection and

ousness of our intentions for this sector that was, until recently, dedicated to residential development. By adding 140 hectares to the areas already designated for the Grand Parc de l'Ouest, we are making our vision concrete - of creating a vast green space dedicated to the protection and conservation of biodiversity and natural environments in Montreal. By Bonnie Wurst In 5 months, my administration has acquired mtltimes.ca more natural environEnhancement of Natu- ments than in the last ral Habitats in 2004. 15 years. It is a real par"This acquisition adigm shift that we are demonstrates the seri- operating, for the bene-

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des-du-Cheval-Blanc nature parks, as well as the Bois-de-la-Roche agricultural park. The City will be holding public consultations on the 'development vision' for the project in the New Year. You can follow the consultations by registering online at: www.realisonsmtl.ca/G randParcOuest

Fundraising campaign of L'Oeuvre Soupe Maison

Great West Park Map - City of Montreal

ayor Valérie Plante, announced today that the City of Montreal has acquired 140 hectares of land located in the western sector of the Pierrefonds-Roxboro borough, in the heart of the Great West Park (Grand Parc de l'Ouest). Purchased from Grilli Developpement inc. for $ 73 million, it includes agricultural wastelands and natural environments and will significantly consolidate the territory for the park. The transaction represents the largest acqui-

chased and other acquisitions during the last five months, close to 175 hectares of natural environment will now be protected. The Great West Park will encompass more than 3,000 hectares of land. The area will include the Anse-à-l'Orme, Bois-de-L'Île-Bizard, Cap-Saint-Jacques, Rapi-

For a 7th consecutive year, Commander Robert Piché maintains his commitment as Honorary President for the annual fundraising campaign for L'Oeuvre Soupe Maison (Lachine). Founded in 1985, L'Oeuvre Soupe Maison, a nonprofit organization, provides complete hot meals three times a week to more than 75 people a day. Approximately 11,000 meals are served each year and approximately 1080 bags of food are distributed to help the most disadvantaged in our community. "No one is safe from having a difficult time and needing a place like this. As Honorary President, this volunteer work brings me a lot and since I have received a lot, it is important for me to be able to give to the next one and to get personal satisfaction from it". It is the sum of small gestures/actions that eventually produces changes in our surroundings. Yes, we can make a difference!

Robert Piché

We would like to remind you that all your donations will be used to improve the quality of life of our beneficiaries. At this time of year, we are asking for your support and generosity in order to achieve the necessary objectives, by sending a donation in the name of L'Oeuvre Soupe Maison (Lachine), 1170, rue Notre-Dame, Lachine (Québec) H8S 2C4 (514) 469-9954. A tax receipt will be issued.

TOGETHER, LET'S HELP THOSE WHO ARE HUNGRY! THANK YOU! 52

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great stories and seen how much better the quality of life for seniors can be if they are supported in their homes, I was surprised reading the article in the Gazette earlier this month saying “province pushes to move seniors out of hospital” The plan is, as the article outlined, to inject $16 million for homecare and support in the homes. How can that be a bad move? The slant in the article was not about the seniors at all. It was to free up beds. Most people I have worked with over the years have desperately wanted to go home. So often they have been told “you cannot go home” and have had to By Donna Byrne spend many days, weeks and even months sitting mtltimes.ca in a chair, often restrained, the beginning; it is where waiting for the next meal. we start. "There is noth- With proper support in ing like staying at home the home many do not for real comfort." - Jane have to be there to wait Austen. When you are for another residence… tired, run-down, sad, .They can stay there. If lonely or sick… is there even one half of the $984 anything better than stay- for each day in hospital ing at home? There is was spent on home supsomething about the walls port, frail patients could of your own home; they be at home. For many seem to just reach down seniors help can be proand give you a big hug, and vided for as little as tell you that everything is $60.00-$120.00 per day. going to be all right. More often, people can “Home is where the stay home with support heart is.” This all may costing as little as sound corny or like old $200.00/ week and less if clichés but are they not the need is to assess and true? It is not surprising follow without a lot of then that moving from physical care needs.To me, what we have thought of it is a no brainer. Let me as home for 40 years, is stay home! The longer we often very difficult to even keep people in the hospicontemplate let alone re- tal the faster they lose many abilities to function ally do. We at Health Access independently. Hospitals Home and Nursing Care are confusing places to be have been providing home even for the young and care for thousands of strong. Nights turn to people for the past 17 days and bells ring, mayears. We have worked chines beep and people with people who, with walk into your room at all some support, have been hours. Who wouldn’t be able to stay home safely confused? If there is a real move and happily in their own environment. Because we toward better funding and have witnessed so many coordination of home "Home is where one starts from." -T. S. Eliot. Home is our starting point. Most of our first experiences happen at home. First laugh. First steps. First words. In our homes we build relationships and skills that will deeply affect us for the rest of our lives. Home is

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care why can’t this be an option? If the province just uses the plan to save money and cut funding, I understand the concern. As we age though there may have to be some planning for extra care and help around the house. Some of the cost for these additional needs usually have to be absorbed by the family or the senior themselves. Families may help with some of the difficult tasks for their parents or hire people to do so. I think it is unrealistic to think that the “Government will look after us for all of our care”. However if they do inject funds and eliminate the waiting list and provide a reasonable amount of hours of care for those going home, it can work to supplement what the families have to do. The plan for discharge from the hospital has to start the day of admission so that the eight hospital days can be used to assess needs prior to a last minute panic. As seniors age this can be an ongoing process. It should not be a surprise that certain adjustments need to be made in the home. I know that changes may not be easy but the alternative is worse. The access to care and follow up using technology is far behind in Quebec. The remote teaching and monitoring used in our studies with McGill clearly demonstrated that we can keep costs down and provide better care helping people manage their health, if only there was the will to do so. The need for changes to our health care/ sick care system is now! The years of “same old, same old” has resulted in the desperate situation we find ourselves in today. Contact me: donna@ashcanada.com See ad below. December 14, 2019 •

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Montreal Chimney Sweeping - Can I still use my chimney? By Ryan Dohnalek Montreal Times

ou're as lucky as lucky can be to see a chimney inspector & sweeper yearly! 'Tis the season to have your chimney swept and maintained, as the cold weather

rolls into town. Everyone who heats with oil, gas or wood has a chimney. Yearly maintenance ensures the good working condition of your appliance and keeps your houshold safe. Get your chimney sweep today! Can I use my chim-

ney? We hear this a lot. For those living in the city of Montreal the short answer is that you now need an low emission fireplace insert. These inserts still burn wood, and are designed to heat the house. Residents of Montreal can still use

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their old fireplace in the case of emergency, or a blackout of 3 hours or more. Please call Montreal Chimneys for more information and a free estimate for EPA certified low emissions fireplace insert. For those who live in a de-merged city, you can still use your fireplace or wood stove as usual, whenever you want to! Chimney sweeping is a historic profession which many think has gone extinct, however having your chimney cleaned and inspected is still important as ever. Some common issues including animal nesting, soot build up, deteriorating brickwork & water damage can all be fixed by a chimney sweep. We spoke to Valerie Adams of Montreal Chimneys, the only fe-

male chimney specialist in the region, about the fate of her profession: "Wherever you live, chimney maintenance is still necessary to keep your home safe. Small repairs can make a big difference before damage gets worse and more expensive." Says Valerie, who has over 15 years of experience, she goes on to explain, "If you are not going to use your fireplace we can seal the chimney flue with insulation and a metal crown to prevent cold drafts, and water infiltration. It will help to save on heating bills. Later, if you choose to upgrade we can easily re-open the crown and install a wood burning appliance that conforms to the new regulation. It is important to get a professional to check the condition of your

chimney yearly. Go outside and look up at your chimney. If you see bricks crumbling you should get that repaired before winter. A chimney crown and cap are also very important." Valerie is a popular chimney sweep servicing the island of Montreal and surrounding areas. Customers agree that her attention to detail, professionalism and cleanliness sets her apart from other companies. Montreal Chimneys includes a visual inspection with each chimney sweep and a free estimate for repairs. To contact Montreal Chimneys please see ad below or their website:. montrealchimneys.com 438-345-6687 montrealchimneys@gma il.com You're as lucky as lucky can be to see a chimney inspector & sweeper yearly!

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December 14, 2019 â&#x20AC;˘

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‘Ask The Goat Again’ about pure Argan By Martha Shannon mtltimes.ca

But then try to find it rgan oil should NOT be considered just another oil flooding the market. But it is. There are creams, lotions, hair treatments, shampoos, and soaps proudly advertising ‘with argan oil’. It happens…something really good comes along and the market jumps on the bandwagon. Something too good to be true is an invitation to all.

We have a history with the pure, the real, Argan oil. Back in 2005, when our daughter was manning our Earth to Body booth at the Cavendish mall, we fortunately encountered our indispensable ‘Moroccan connection’, who fell in love with us, our natural, cutting edge skin care line. He liked the fact we were a small family business. We signed on to import the

• December 14, 2019

rarely heard of ‘Argan oil’ sory stimuli, Fragrance is and have been with the also added. Three of the same co-op ever since. chemicals that must be listed (because they are Then ‘Moroccan’ known allergens) are oil hits the market. Coumarin, Benzyl BenMost beautiful hair treat- zoate, Alpha-Isomethyl ment ever! Salons around Ionone. the country smiled. Moroccan oil could do Today, pure Argan oil may no wrong. People loved it. not be that easy to find. And yes, it makes the hair Twice Health Canada has look beautiful. It seems inspected our oil for ‘scam‘Argan’ oil became synonymous with Moroccan oil. ming’ (the concern being The ingredient ‘argan’ is for purity). We passed. the sell, as the oil origiA few years ago I wrote nates in Morocco. The trees grow there. The nuts an article called ‘Ask The are harvested.The pure oil Goats’. Maybe we should is divine. But the ‘Moroc- do so again, to find out can’ oil on the market may what pure Argan oil means. have very little to do with Our Argan oil is pure. DeMorocco. lightful. Skin, hair, nails. Pure The blend contains 3 dif- nutrition. ferent silicones, which are the key to the hair treatWe stand behind our ment. While the fame is products. We give great based on the Argan, very customer service. Visit us little of this oil is actually in at natural.ca. Subscribe to the product. Since the siliour newsletter. Visit our cones have no colour, D&C Yellow11 and D&C store: ‘La Boutique Earth Red 17 are added to emu- to Body’, 89 Lucerne, late the golden hue of real Pointe Claire, QC H9R Argan. To attract our sen- 2V1. info@natural.ca

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Tremblant’s 24h a success

he organizers of Tremblant’s 24h are elated to announce the unprecedented success of their 19th edition. The event culminated in a record fundraising total of $4,789,709 in support of children’s causes, nearly $700,000 more than last year.This edition also drew the participation of a record number of teams (424) and participants (3,780). If there was even a sliver of doubt before this, it has been dispelled forever: Tremblant’s 24h is firmly established as a fundraiser to be reckoned with and an unmissable winter sport event. The 19th edition is only just being put to bed and already we are planning the 20th. The 2019 edition at a glance: •$4,789,709 million raised with 47,491 donations •424 ski, walk, and run teams •3,780 enthusiastic participants enjoying pleasant winter weather •More than 350 dedicated volunteers •18,937 downhill runs •36,385 kilometres covered by walkers and runners, totalling 6,738

laps around the course! •Billions of heartbeats •10 devoted ambassadors •10 child spokespersons • 3 beneficiary foundations •2 fun & festive party nights •Hundreds of fundraising events organized by teams throughout the year •Thousands of highfives, words of support and smiles •Countless lives changed, hearts warmed, personal bests achieved •One 20th edition confirmed for December 4, 5 and 6, 2020 An edition we won’t soon forget! This has been a milestone year for Tremblant’s 24h.The moving and inspiring story of Jacob Tourigny, who passed away last February of an aggressive form of leukemia, touched hearts everywhere. His mother Karine spearheaded the Jacob Strong movement in his memory, and her mission inspired every other team to raise their targets and work even harder for the cause. One of our ambassadors, Benoit Gagnon, and his daughter, Sophie, set them-

selves a daunting challenge and in spite of aches, pains and fatigue, they managed to ski together for the entire 24 hours. Team Guérison, led by athlete Alexandre Despatie and composed of young adults who all battled cancer as children, was also a huge motivation for participants who ran, skied and walked and followed only their hearts! Beyond the physical challenge, Tremblant’s 24h is an opportunity for people to be part of something bigger than themselves, to witness the spectacle of many others pushing to achieve their personal bests. Everyone agrees that the 24h is a priceless experience in which organized activities, generosity of spirit, the gamut of emotions and sheer pleasure come together during a single exhilarating weekend. Mélissa Lavergne and her musical guests Alicia Moffet, Jorane, David Laflèche, Eloi Painchaud, Damien Robitaille, Normand Brathwaite, Geneviève Jodoin and Antoine Gratton used their superpowers to melt all the snow, while

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the hip hop collective Alaclair Ensemble also set the Rogers Stage on fire at the foot of the slopes on Saturday night. The entire mountain resonated to the sounds of their greatest hits. Singer Marie-Mai also conquered the crowds with her performance at the closing celebrations on Sunday. All together for the kids Along with thousands of participants, visitors and donors, the event hosted numerous personalities, companies and organizations participating in support of children’s causes. “Something really special happened this year with the 24h,” said Simon St-Arnaud, executive producer of Tremblant’s 24h. “First, we raised $4,789,709. Just think of what it takes to raise that kind of

Across 4. Asian area 11. Rapture 14. Hidden winner, ___ in the hole 15. Get too many 16. Lode load 17. Wizard of Oz footwear 20. African flower 21. Encounterer 22. Card game 25. Footnote abbr. 29. Live 30. Airs 33. Drudge 34. Bust 35. Pan type 37. Field of play 41. Flowering plant 42. Cheer starter 43. Flock 44. Principle of life, in Hinduism 46. Fancy neckwear 49. Military Order, for short 50. Overcoats 52. Darth Veda's side 57. Cool one's heels 58. Destructive pest 63. Family 64. Astronomer

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money: engaged, committed participants who doubled down on their efforts for weeks on end, incredibly creative fundraising activities and, of course, a massive group effort.” Once again this year, Tremblant’s 24h was pleased to count on a team of dedicated ambassadors who promoted the event far and wide throughout Quebec. Benoît Gagnon, Frédéric Plante, Lianne Laing, Alexandre Bilodeau, Philippe Fehmiu, Dominic Arpin, Erik Guay, Alexandre Despatie and AnneMarie Withenshaw all spent weeks tirelessly pointing out the importance of giving generously and supporting both the participants and the beneficiary foundations. Organizers can attribute part of the event’s

success to its sponsoring partners and major donors which, through their involvement, demonstrated how important children’s causes are to them. Indeed, the 24h was proud to have the incredible support of its presenting partner, Canada Life, which deployed a massive delegation of 17 teams and 200 employees. Where the donations go! All profits from Tremblant’s 24h go to our three beneficiary foundations: Fondation Charles-Bruneau, the Ottawa Senators Foundation of Ottawa and Fondation Tremblant. To see all event results, go here and to learn more about how the donations are used, visit:

65. Life basic 66. Antiquity, once 67. Arranging hair, perhaps 68. Pa and ta ending Down 1. Rattle 2. Eyepiece 3. Fillet 4. In place of 5. Blvd. 6. Saxophonist, Joshua 7. Leprechaun land local 8. Fully fit 9. Legal action 10. Create an email 11. "Mud" 12. "Catch-22" pilot 13. Go word 18.Vote of support 19. Before the finals 23. In a consistent manner 24. Eustacian area related 26. Poi source 27. Cosmetics company 28. Advance 31. Elaborate display 32. Bummed 33. Spots 34. Nor partner 36. Agave rug fiber 37. Bee ___

38. M___: Chinese owned area 39. Craft 40. Meadow 45. Granola cereal 46. Goatees 47. Familiarize 48. Off course 51. Wee hour 53. Periodical publications 54. Surveyor's work 55. Without purpose 56. Commuter line 58. Squeeze (out) 59. "Cool" amount 60. Call off 61. Biddy 62. Swamp Please see answers on-line Saturday edition Page 25 ,December 14th, 2019 edition: www.mtltimes.ca

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Book review

Three Days at the Brink by Brett Baier or over 85 years, political observers and pundits have measured a newlyelected U.S. President’s early progress of their new administration by seeing what they have

By Stuart Nulman mtltimes.ca done, accomplished or failed during their first 100 days in office. Fox News host Brett Baier measures an American President’s historical legacy by only three significant consecutive days, which usually happen towards the end of their presidencies. And he transcended this approach to two New York Times best-selling

books: one dealing with Dwight Eisenhower (Three Days in January) and the other with Ronald Reagan (Three Days in Moscow). And now, for the third book in this “Three Days” trilogy, he focusses on Franklin D. Roosevelt and the three days he spent in 1943 conferring with Winston Churchill and Joseph Stalin in Tehran on what action to take to precipitate the beginning of the end of World War II; the end result is Three Days at the Brink. The common thread with these three books is how these three Presidents dealt with the beginning, middle and end of the Cold War during three significant events in modern history. With Three Days at the Brink, it focuses on the first time Roosevelt, Churchill and Stalin met together in person to discuss a common strategy to defeat

Nazi Germany and Japan (in particular, getting Stalin to agree on Britain and the U.S. to carry out “Operation Overlord”, the invasion of Normandy, in 1944 to break the Nazis’ grip on most of Western Europe). As well, Roosevelt wanted to make Stalin feel welcome as part of the Allied “Big Three”, as well as to find out what were his growing ambitions for Eastern Europe once the Nazis were defeated, which would later lead to the “Iron Curtain” descending upon that region. And how did Roosevelt carry out this bit of conciliation and deference to “Uncle Joe” Stalin? He did it by agreeing to almost everything Stalin suggested during the Tehran Conference, and openly criticizing and somewhat invalidating any opinion or theory that was expressed by Churchill (although he realized its was a ploy by Roo-

sevelt to curry favour with Stalin, he still felt slighted by this 180-degree turn that was done by his friend and ally). Somehow it worked out at the Tehran Conference, but by the time the Allied leaders met again at Yalta and Potsdam in 1945, this air of cordiality between the U.S., Britain and the Soviet Union fell apart with Stalin’s aggressive territorial demands for Eastern Europe. In the 430+ pages that make up this book, Baier has done quite an admirable job of proving how three days in Tehran in 1943 set the stage for an Allied victory in World War II, as well as the shape of international relations for the next 45 years. And I commend how he has effectively managed to tell the story of Franklin Roosevelt, the man and the politician, and the events of his life and career (such as his marriage to Eleanor, his years as

Undersecretary of the Navy, his bout with polio, his unprecedented four successful presidential election campaigns and the legislation he enacted that helped to end the Great Depression in America … the things that would normally take up large, multivolume biographies in their own right) in a fraction of the space (in this case it’s in the first half of the book). However, thanks to Baier’s diligent research, we find out some interesting factual tidbits regarding the meetings, back and forth negotiations, conversations and state visits (secret and public) that helped to bring about the vital gathering of the three leaders in Tehran that made the difference to turn the tide of the war in the Allies’ favour. My favorite tidbit dealt with Soviet Foreign Minister Vyacheslav Molotov, who made his first visit to Washington in May of

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f you are a buyer and just found your perfect home at the right price, the next logical and crucial step By Eleni Akrivos mtltimes.ca

is the home inspection. Are you ready? As a seller, you may be excited to have an agreed upon offer to purchase, yet to move forward with the transaction, your home has to pass the inspection. What will the inspector find? Most buyers and even sellers, now see the value of home inspections. Although tedious, if used for what they’re intended, home inspections can save both sides of a real estate deal many headaches down the road. There are many parties involved during and after the inspections, and it helps when everyone has a “realistic” approach to the entire process. It also helps, when everyone acts in “good faith”, and does not use the home inspection as a pretext to a definite price reduction. What inspections offer: A professional opinion and report on the overall condition of the home including everything that is visible and accessible. What inspections do not offer: An exhaustive expert report on every system in the home, whether accessible or hidden. So who is responsible for what during and after the inspection process? For Buyers: Inspections

• December 14, 2019

Home Inspection advice for buyers and sellers

should reassure you that your new home is safe, functional and not going to become a “money pit”. - Be vigilant and do your homework by reviewing the Sellers Declaration with your broker. - Ask any pertinent questions about the home prior to the inspection. - Get ready to block out at least 2 to 3 hours on inspection day, depending on size of home. - Take your time and review any concerns with inspector and brokers. The Buyer’s Broker: Attending inspections is a must, and good brokers

will be right by your side during the process. - They should have a good basic knowledge by knowing what is important in the big picture, yet not pretend to know the job of the inspector. - If you’re getting a very fair price on the home, your broker will likely advise you not to bother the Seller for small repairs. - If the inspection reveals major or serious flaws in the home, your broker can advise you on how to proceed. The Seller: Inspections are part of the process, and if you can be present during the inspection to answer any

questions, things may go smoother than you think. - You can choose to have a PRE-SALE inspection before selling - Make certain necessary repairs prior to selling - Offer the home at a reasonable price taking into consideration imminent repairs needed (roof, windows etc..) The Sellers Broker: May also be present at the inspection report, as the eyes and ears for the sellers. - Is very familiar with the property and can handle questions that come up - Will need to be ready to manage any un-

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knowns or surprises that may arise. - Although this broker represents the Seller, their main purpose is to collaborate with all parties for a smooth transaction The Inspector: A good inspector will provide explanations and point out things that need to be addressed and will not be an alarmist but will remain impartial. - In Quebec, your realtor can recommend a list of licensed inspectors who qualify with certain criteria. - Should definitely be chosen wisely, maybe through a referral. - Their main purpose is to inspect the home

and provide you with real time knowledge, as well as a detailed report afterwards. It’s important to note, that having a family member with “construction experience”, or a friend who is a contractor be present during inspections, may be well intended but could lead to unnecessary negative consequences, as these individuals are not licensed property inspectors. Most inspections go smoothly, but some can also be the beginning of tough negotiations ahead. Make sure that you try to stay reasonable and work together with all parties of the transaction and come up with solutions that make everyone feel confident about moving forward. Helen Akrivos is a Montreal real estate expert who is passionate about educating and inspiring everyone to succeed in real estate! She holds a Chartered real estate broker license and is President of North East Realties agency in Montreal. As a lecturer in the Residential Real Estate Program at College Lasalle, Co-Host of “The Real Estate Show” on CJAD AM800 radio and contributor to the MTL Times newspaper, Helen shares her stories of real estate success to help as many people as possible! E-mail your comments to eleni@nordestimmobilier.ca

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