Montreal Times 25 17 January 25 2020

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Vol. 25 No. 17

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Covering Montréal & Surrounding Areas

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Bring your sweetie for a treatie!

Montreal’s favourite place for Spare-Ribs and Chicken

Many accidents have been reported about people not cleaning the snow and ice off their car or trucks and have caused serious injuries. See inside or online for more details: mtltimes.ca

‘DRIVING IGLOO’ CAN KILL

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Winter and seasonal depression F or most people, especially those who take advantage of outdoor

By Bonnie Wurst mtltimes.ca activities and sports, the winter season can indeed be a 'wonderland' of fun and pleasure.

However, for some people, it could have them singing the blues the cold and dark blues.

In fact, the winter season could lead to serious depression and there is a name for it Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

SAD is a form of depression linked to the change in seasons. According to a senior scientific advisor at Byron Health Group, for most people the 'winter

blues' are only a shortterm problem, but for one in five people, the colder temperatures that come with winter as well as less sunshine, it is connected to a deeper condition. The exact causes of seasonal depression are unknown, but some of the symptoms may be caused by the pineal gland, a small structure in the brain that serves as our biological clock.

In this case, when daylight decreases, the pineal gland reacts by secreting more melatonin, a hormone known to cause drowsiness and fatigue.

During the winter season, SAD symptoms can sap your energy and make you feel moody. As the season progresses they could become more severe.

Symptoms specific to Winter-Onset SAD may include oversleeping, appetite changes (especially a craving for foods high in carbohydrates), weight gain and low energy. According to the Mayo Clinic,

other signs and symptoms of general SAD could also include: - Feeling depressed most of the day - Losing interest in activities you enjoy - Having problems with sleeping - Feeling sluggish or agitated - Having difficulty concentrating - Feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty - Having frequent thoughts of death or

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suicide SAD is diagnosed more often in women than in men and occurs more frequently in younger adults than in older adults. There are ways to address the disorder before symptoms go too far, including light therapy, medications, psychotherapy, relaxation techniques, meditation and more.

As with other types of depression, SAD can get worse and lead to

serious problems if not treated. Those affected may experience social withdrawal, school or work problems, substance abuse, other mental health disorders such as anxiety or eating disorders, as well as suicidal thoughts or behavior. Signs and symptoms of seasonal affective disorder should be taken seriously. If any of the above information speaks to you, please reach out

and contact a doctor for yourself or somebody you care about.

Here are a few websites you can contact if you or somebody you know has mental illness: montrealtherapy.com montrealpsychology.ca quebec.ca amiquebec.org/treatment santemontreal.qc.ca ementalhealth.ca psychologytoday.com

Hwy 40 and Hwy 13 closures

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change started in May of fter having to postpone the 2018, because of its unwork planned for safe and poor condition, last weekend beand will continue well cause of inclement into 2020. Between weather conditions, 90,000 and 140,000 plus work on the Hwy 13 cars use Hwy 13 North overpass has now been and South daily. Transofficially rescheduled for port Quebec is advising this weekend - January drivers to avoid the area 24th to the 27th. Here is and instead use Hwy 20 what you need to know: for those in Montreal Due to the demolition work of the Hwy 13 By Bonnie Wurst area. South Shore users are being advised to use overpass heading South, mtltimes.ca Hwy 30 and drivers who Hwy 40 and the service roads will be closed in both the East use Hwy 13 North and South are and West directions at the inter- advised to take Hwy 15. *Weather change starting on Friday January conditions could delay the work.

This comes not long after Hwy 40 24th at 11:00pm until Monday January 27th at 5:00am. Hwy 13 North- was closed last November in the bound at the interchange will stay Vaudreuil-Dorion area for the demopen. Construction and rebuilding of olition of the Chemin des Chenaux the overpass and ramps at the inter- overpass, also for safety concerns.

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January 25, 2020 •

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Driving a 'Mobile Igloo' is just plain dangerous riving during the winter season is challenging and can be danger-

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By Bonnie Wurst mtltimes.ca ous. Having good winter tires installed and adapting your driving habits to conditions on the roads are the first lines of defense. However, many drivers seem to be unaware (or are ignoring) one of the most dangerous aspects of winter driving - the Mobile Igloo. A 'mobile igloo' in this case, is a car covered in snow or ice, sometimes with only the front windshield cleared. Even though drivers have a legal obligation to make sure their cars are cleaned off before driving, common sense appears to elude some people and it creates a potential, lethal menace to other drivers.

When snow or ice is not properly removed from a vehicle before going on the roads, especially on highways, it dangerously obscures a driver's vision. More im-

portantly, cars, vans or semi-trailer trucks, that have not been properly cleared off, especially on the roof - can also become killing machines.

Huge chunks of ice or snow can suddenly dislodge, hitting cars behind them. It can cause other drivers to swerve and lose control, sometimes even breaking windshields that can lead to serious and lifethreatening accidents.

Yes, trying to remove ice or a foot of snow off a car in below freezing temperatures could be a daunting experience indeed, and especially inconvenient for those who have to park their cars outside all winter long - but it is a responsibility that comes with driving, period.

Just recently, Martin Burger, a man from Ontario suffered considerable injuries after a piece of ice flew off a car that was travelling in the opposite direction on Hwy17 near Renfrew, just one hour west of Ottawa. He saw it coming, but did not expect it to go through the windshield - but the ice smashed through and his face was seriously cut and bruised.

He could feel blood dripping down his face, but somehow managed to drive his car to the side of the road and then called 911. Para-

medics arrived soon enough and took to him to a hospital. Although he is expected to make a full recovery, he required eight stitches to his forehead and four on the eyelid of his right eye. His eye was also injured by the impact, it affected the ocular pressure, and his pupils were dilated. His 16year-old son was in the car with him and thankfully not injured.

Just last week, I was driving along Hwy 40 West, when a sheet of ice came flying of the roof of a car ahead of me. The car was a fair enough distance away, but the ice came towards me at a speed I was not expecting.

Other cars were beside me and it was too dangerous to swerve out of the way. Luckily, the ice hit the front end of my car near and instantly broke apart. Had I reacted differently I would have likely hit another car, people could have been killed or seriously injured and this article would be very different • or not written at all. I was slightly shaken by the event, but soon regained my composure.

There are fines and penalties in place for drivers whose vehicles are covered in snow or ice. However, it might not be enough and perhaps the fines should be significantly raised or even made a criminal

offence. A driver must take the time required to make their car safe.

Being worried about arriving late somewhere is nothing compared to the loss of a life. Be careful, be smart and be safe on the roads - all lives matter. If logic does not appeal to the senses, perhaps the SAAQ fines and demerit points will for now: • DRIVING A 'MOBILE IGLOO' IS DANGEROUS AND PROHIBITED: A vehicle’s windshield and windows must be cleared of any matter that might reduce visibility for the driver. An officer may impose a fine of $100 to $200, plus

costs, on the driver and require that the vehicle’s windows and windshield be cleared of ice, snow, or any other matter that reduces the driver’s visibility. The driver must comply with this requirement. *Furthermore, no person may drive a vehicle covered with ice, snow, or any other matter that may detach from the vehicle and constitute a hazard for other road users.

Offenders face a fine of $60 to $100, plus costs.

• FAILURE TO ADAPT YOUR DRIVING TO WEATHER AND ROAD CONDITIONS: A $60 fine, plus costs and 2 Demerit Points.

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Health Minister keeping close eye on coronavirus Travellers to Toronto’s Pearson Airport from specific areas of China, will soon be asked a screening question about a new coronavirus that has caused a pneumonia outbreak in China

and already taken six lives.

While currently there are no reports of cases in Canada of this novel coronavirus, and the Public Health Agency of Canada is not aware of any cases involving

Canadians overseas...

To see more please visit:

https://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/s ocial-life/health/health-minister-keeping-close-eye-on-coronavirus/

5 things to do in Montreal Montreal is one of Canada’s largest cities and it welcomes tons of visitors from around the world every year. As you would expect in a city of this size, there are tons of

things to do, and it can often be hard to choose which attractions to visit if you only have a limited amount of time. In this article, you can find 5 things to do in Montreal on your

next trip.

To see more please visit: https://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/social-life/5-thingsto-do-in-montreal/

JAPANESE GERMAN ARABIC CATALAN

How to be a top Instagram page

Day : February 3rd 2020 Evening : January 13th 2020 Teen : Spanish, Mandarin and Japanese: January 18th 2020 English: January 11th 2020

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These days, everyone wants to be among the top content creators on the platform.

Not only do they generate money from doing what they love, but they also have a significant influence on their followers, the industries they operate in, and the products

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they endorse. Becoming a top Instagram page isn’t an overnight phenomenon.

It’s going to take time, effort, and more than your fair share of hard work, but if you follow these tips, you’ll find it to be much easier than going in blindly. Original

content can only take you so far without consistency, quality, good hashtags, great followers, and a solid work ethic. https://mtltimes.ca/Mont r e a l / s o c i a l life/technology/how-to-be-atop-instagram-page/ January 25, 2020 •

February at Tremblant

kiers, riders and winter wonderland lovers are sure to revel in February’s snow conditions and countless activities, events and happenings tailored especially for families on school break. Here is February’s event overview, devised for alpine sports fans and vacationers alike: January 30 to February 2: Elevation – This LGBTQ ski and snowboard event celebrating diversity features chill apres skis and festive evenings with renowned DJs.

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February 1 & 29: Super Demo Days – Meet up with ski and snowboard reps from top names in the industry, with free try-outs of next year’s gear.

February 7, 8, 9: Festival Rando Alpine Tremblant, presented by Smartwool – Beginner to expert backcountry skiers unite to share their passion, with gear try-outs, alpine touring, friendly races and perfect turn clinics. Expect new challenges, including a 15 km hors-piste romp for the more daring as well as a junior ages 3 to 9. snowshoe romp for February 12, 13, 14:

podium. An event presented by l’Association Québec Snowboard and Canada Snowboard.

February 15 to 23: U.S. Spring Break – Loads of fun and free family activities including wacky outdoor games, Saturday Night Fever and a long list of skier and rider programs for every calibre.

February 22 to March 8: Québec School Break – Meet-ups with Toufou the mascot, outdoor group games, Saturday night starlight disco, enAir Nation Tour – The athletes compete for tertainment and more world’s top slopestyle the Air Nation Tour family-friendly activities.

Montreal's vacancy rate plummets to a 15 year low units off the market.

Add in the dozens of condo developments going up in Montreal, catering to the higherincome groups - the reality for those searching for an affordable place is even more challenging. It is a crisis and tenant rights groups have been calling for tougher

rental control action from the Quebec government. It is a situation needing to be urgently addressed, otherwise those who are unable to find a place to live will be sitting in limbo again this year, desperately trying to find somewhere to call home.

Aforable housing in Montreal is harder to find

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By Bonnie Wurst mtltimes.ca

options with reasonably priced rents to choose from, but all that has changed. By 2018, the vacancy rate dropped to a record low of 1.9% and now it has plummeted even further.The city is facing its lowest vacancy rates in 15 years, with rates dropping to 1.5% - while rents have gone up 3.6% on average according to the CMHC (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation).

• January 25, 2020

The city is working on a project to build 12,000 housing projects and has secured 50% of the funding needed, and they are asking the Provincial and Federal governments to help finance the other 50%. In the meantime, Mayor Plante is advising tenants who are thinking of moving this year to not cancel their present leases until they have signed a new one - although it could be a conundrum for many renters who need to give advanced notice of non-renewal.

According to a recent rental market report, the average rent for a presently vacant two-

bedroom apartment in verted to Airbnb hotels Montreal is $1,080, - estimated to have bringing it close to 25% pulled more than 4,500 more than the average for rental units that are now occupied. The increases are being attributed to several factors, such as foreign students and temporary workers who prefer rental units, an aging senior population who often choose to downsize and rent a place instead, as well as the rising prices of homes keeping fewer people under the age of 35 years old from buying homes.

Another problem behind the increases, beside the lack of social housing, are apartment buildings being con010-051020

ontreal used to be well known for having enough housing

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Montreal theatre and Art

3551 boul. St. Charles, Suite #547, Kirkland, Quebec, H9H 3C4

or regulars at the Montreal Fringe Festival and the MainLine Theatre’s many productions,

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Contributors: • Catherine Maisonneuve • Marco Giovanetti • Sergio Martinez • Bonnie Wurst • Stuart Nulman • Deborah Rankin • Martha Shannon • Helen (Eleni) Akrivos

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Permission to reproduce selected editorial may be granted by contacting the publisher in writing.

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By Stuart Nulman mtltimes.ca Kenny Streule is a familiar face. Whether he’s tending bar during a MainLine show, playing the genial narrator in “The Rocky Horror Show” every October, emceeing Fringe Festival events (like the Air Guitar Championships or the Fringe-For-All), or tirelessly making sure that the Fringe Festival is running smoothly as its Associate Director, Kenny is seen as a multi-talented hard-working individual.

However, there is so much more to this native of Lac Brome, and we’ll get the chance to witness this as Kenny will stage his new solo show called “Malunderstood”, which will have a nine-performance run at the MainLine Theatre, located at 3997 St. Laurent Boulevard, from January 30 to February 2, and February 5-9.

“Malunderstood is a word that you won’t find in the dictionary; it’s actually a mixed-up version of the word misunderstood. And I always wanted to write a show about my evil grandmother, who was a kooky character who raised me and tried to teach me how to speak Swiss-German, which I couldn’t speak and still can’t,” said Streule during a recent phone interview.

The second of four siblings (he has an older sister and two younger brothers), Kenny was raised on the family farm in Lac Brome, but found out early in life that milking cows, planting and harvesting crops, and pitching hay was not his future calling.“I hated living on the farm; I was never a big fan of it. However, I found my escape when I joined a theatre

troupe in the Eastern Townships when I was grade 5. Even in my grade 6 school yearbook, I wrote for my ambition that I wanted to win an Oscar,” he admitted.

Kenny’s final break with the rural life came in 2010, when he moved to Montreal to study at Dawson College. He then got himself involved with the Montreal theatre scene, performing with such theatre troupes as the Chocolate Moose Theatre Company and the Montreal Shakespeare Company, and wrote his first play called “City Boy”. In 2015, he joined the staff of the Montreal Fringe Festival and MainLine Theatre.

“Misunderstood gives me the chance not only to bring my grandmother to life, but also give the audience the chance to see the authentic side of myself, in particular the storytelling side,” he said.

“They will get to witness how I can tell a story, even though I speak in a form of broken English.”

The show is being presented as a co-production of the MainLine Theatre and Kenny’s company KS Productions, which was workshopped and developed between July and December of last year. And it is being directed by Amy Blackmore, the Artistic and Executive Director of both the MainLine Theatre and the Montreal Fringe Festival, who found the entire experience very special to her.

“I have known Kenny for years, and I am honored to direct ‘Malunderstood’. It’s coming during a real significant year for us, as the MainLine celebrates its 15th anniversary, and the Fringe Festival will hold its 30th anniversary edition this June,” she said.

“With ‘Malunderstood’, you will see the real side of Kenny, which is more genuine and authentic. It’s a simple theatrical piece with simple technical parts where you will experience the same cordial Kenny Streule, but more sensitive and honest.”

Tickets for “Malunderstood” cost $18 each, and $12 for students,

seniors and members of the Quebec Drama Federation (QDF). To purchase tickets, call 514-849-3378, or go to: mainlinetheatre.ca . *** It’s heaven and hell at the Centaur Theatre between now and February 2, as they present the Stratford Festival’s production of “Paradise Lost”, which was written by Erin Shields and adapted from John Milton’s epic 17th century poem of the same name.

This is a very ambitious production, as Satan (played to devilish perfection by Lucy Peacock) is your guide to demonstrate what went wrong with the world and humanity for thousands of years. And she attributes it to the idea of “original sin” that was committed by Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (remember when that sly serpent convinced Eve to eat the forbidden fruit from the dreaded Tree of Knowledge?).

And besides the angels and archangels that try to guide civilization’s first couple to understand the difference between good and evil, there is also the subplot of the Lord and his son Jesus observing these situations from above, which compels the Son of G-d to leave his heavenly perch and live the life of a mortal in order to save civilization.

All of this original human drama is delivered with plenty of fire and brimstone – not to mention piety and humour – and interpreted by a stellar cast of local and Stratford actors that will leave you breathless and instantly rise to your feet in a thunderous ovation at the play’s end. Standouts for me include Alain Goulem, who provides plenty of wonderful comic relief in the role of the angel Raphael; and the duo of Qasim Khan and Amelia Sargisson as Adam and Eve, whose brilliant, rapid-fire repartee bursts with plenty of passion, energy and some well=placed laughs.

“Paradise Lost” is an excellent example of what happens when

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two major players in the Canadian theatre scene join forces and produce an unforgettable, yet highly entertaining morality play.

For more information or to purchase tickets, go to: centaurtheatre.com . *** Perfect Bite Productions is presenting a fun, warm way for couples to spend Valentine’s Day weekend on February 15, as Montreal’s famous troubadours of mirth, Bowser & Blue, will be in concert at the Wheel Club, located on Cavendish Boulevard below Sherbrooke Street West; doors open at 7:30 p.m., with show time at 8 p.m.

Tickets for this special Valentine’s show of satirical music and comedy are $30 in advance, $35 at the door, and a free drink is included in the ticket price. To get your tickets, go to: https://www.facebook.co m/events/49630879088 5300/ . *** Everyone loves and appreciates a fine work of art, especially if it’s a painting by a master artist, whether it be from the Renaissance, Impressionist, or Surrealist eras. But can the average person tell the difference whether a classic painting is a work of art, or a work of forgery?

Art forgery is an international crime, and Canada is not immune from it. Canadian filmmaker Jamie Kastner reveals the story of a major art forgery ring here in Canada regarding the works of one of the country’s greatest painters, Indigenous artist Norval Morrisseau, in his documentary “There Are No Fakes”, which will make its broadcast debut on TV Ontario (TVO) on February 1 at 9 p.m., with repeat broadcasts on February 3 and 5.

Since its debut at last year’s Toronto Hot Docs festival and following a theatrical run, the information that was provided in the film has resulted in many major developments, including an official criminal investigation that was launched by the Thunder Bay police into the production of the

fake paintings that were mentioned in the documentary. *** On January 29, to mark the third anniversary of the tragic mosque shooting in Quebec City, there will be a series of theatrical screenings of Oscarnominated director Ariel Nast’s documentary “The Mosque: A Community’s Struggle” in Ste. Foy, Gatineau, Sherbrooke, Victoriaville, as well as the Cineplex Quartier Latin in Montreal; there will also be a community screening of the film at the Cinema Politica Concordia on January 27 (English) and February 1 (French).

The documentary focusses on the courage of Ste. Foy’s Muslim community as the first anniversary of the mosque shooting approaches in 2018, and how they collectively struggled to shift the narrative on what it’s like to be a Muslim in Quebec. For more information, go to: loadedpictures.ca *** The Professional Theatre Department of Dawson College will present a stage adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s classic work of children’s literature “Alice in Wonderland” on January 29-31 and February 1, 6, 7 and 8 at 8 p.m., with preview performances on January 27 and 28 at 7:30 p.m., and a matinee on February 6 at 12:30 p.m.

Performed by the department’s third year students, “Alice in Wonderland” will combine the joy of Carroll’s original story with theatrical magic such as an intricate and moving set, choreography and musical numbers, to tell the much beloved story of young Alice’s trip to a deep world that is both like and unlike her own. For more information, go to: dawsoncollege.qc.ca January 25, 2020 •

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• January 25, 2020

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Black History Month stamp celebrates little-known hockey history anada Post today unveiled a stamp honouring the Colored Hockey Championship and the all-Black hockey teams in the Maritimes that competed for it between 1895 and the early 1930s.

In this little-known chapter in Canadian hockey history, determined organizers and players arranged their own challenge matches, dispelling hurtful misconceptions and changing the game in small but important ways.

In the late 19th century, Baptist Church leaders believed all-Black hockey would be a great way to attract young Black men to the Church to strengthen their religious path. Games became community events that brought mixed audiences together in the stands; and post-game meals united Black players from different communities.

There was no predetermined game schedule. Rather, teams challenged each other to matches by telegraph or by placing ads in local newspapers. Organizers, players and newspapers of the day called the ultimate prize the Colored Hockey Championship, a term not in use today, but which the stamp issue retains because it is historically accurate.

The stamp acknowledges some of the game's early developments, including some of the earliest recorded uses of down-tothe-ice goaltending, which was later adopted by players in "white-only" leagues, including

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professional leagues. At that time, hockey goalies in other leagues stood upright.

The first record of an all-Black hockey game in the Halifax area dates back to March 1895 and involved the Dartmouth Jubilees and the Halifax Stanleys. Six more teams would soon form, including one from Prince Edward Island. There were the Halifax Eurekas, Africville Sea-Sides, Truro Victorias, Hammonds Plains Moss Backs, Amherst Royals and Charlottetown West End Rangers.

The golden era of all-Black hockey was between 1900 and 1905, when games often outdrew those of "white-only" leagues, but teams continued to play for the Colored Hockey Championship until the 1930s.

Designed by Lara Minja of Lime Design, the stamp features an illustration of the Halifax Eurekas, the Colored Hockey Champions in 1904. The illustration by Ron Dollekamp is based on a historical photograph. The stamp is available in booklets of 10; the Official First Day Cover is cancelled in Halifax.

Canada Post is proud to honour the courage of those who organized and played all-Black hockey and helped to make this little-known story part of Canada's national discussion.

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January 25, 2020 •

Three nice full-body wines to try this winter

old winter slow things down— and for good reason.The days

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By Marco Giovanetti mtltimes.ca are short and dark, the morning is sunny but freezing. Some days making the commute from home to the office in the freezing cold feels like a challenge There’s something deeply rewarding about enjoying a glass of wine in the evening after a cold commute.

But what type of wine goes best with cozy sweaters and binge-

watching Netflix? Is the winter really all about a full-bodied, tannin-heavy red? Yes and no.

When choosing a wine to enjoy during the winter, keep in mind certain things. If you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, something sparkling might be interesting. If you’re wrapped up on the couch, deep into a Lucifer marathon, you’ll probably want something more rich and layered. Here is a wonderful trio of red wines that I recently discovered for versatile winter nights tude of 915 metres above sea level.

Modern style Rioja with warm aromas of cherries, licorice and spice. Elegant and smooth with a very suave finale. Food pairing idea: roasted leg of lamb.

Chateau Trillol 2014.

SAQ # 00523274, $19.05

High in the hills of the Corbières, in a magnificent corner of south west France, Château Trillol has been the Sichel family property since 1990. At 400m above sea level, the vineyard is located in two of the Corbières terroirs: Termenès and Quéribus. Here the local grape varieties, Grenache, Syrah and Carignan (harvested by hand), yield a soulful wine that delivers an authentic sense of place.

Deep and enticing aromas of dark blue fruit reminiscent of prunes and cassis with enticing notes of brown sugar, christmas spices and tobacco. Powerful and intense with many layers that make me think of rosemary, lavender and dried fruit character. Polished midpalate with a silky finale.

Pairing well with pasta with rich tomato sauces or braised red meats.

Bodega Piedra Negra Gran Lurton Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Valle de Uco 2015.

SAQ # 11375596, $24.30 Piedra Negra is the project of Bordelais Francois Lurton in Argentina. After researching throughout several regions of Argentina, Francois Lurton planted vines in the Uco Valley, in the foothills of the Andes Cordillera, at an altitude of 1,100 m, in semi-desert conditions.

A pioneer of the Uco Valley, he created his

winery, Bodega Piedra Negra, in the heart of 200 hectares of virgin land acquired in the middle of what, a few years later, would become the Geographical Indication of Los Chacayes.

A beautiful Cabernet that will continue to improve with a few years in the cellar. A nose that brings to mind beautiful cherry balanced with notes of vanilla and blackcurrants. Medium to full body with chewy tannins and a lingering finale. Pairing well with

grilled steak or braised chicken thighs in Moroccan spices.

Rolland & Galarreta Rioja 2014. SAQ # 12887278, $25.95 The hugely influential Rolland Galarreta Ribera del Duero is the joint effort of Michel Rolland, probably the world's most influential winemaker, and Javier Galarreta.

A blend of 85% Tempranillo and 15 % Merlot, this Spanish red wine is made with grapevines above 35 years of age planted in poor, rocky-limestone soils located at an altitude of 915 metres above sea level.

Modern style Rioja with warm aromas of cherries, licorice and spice. Elegant and smooth with a very suave finale. Food pairing idea: roasted leg of lamb.

Montreal’s favourite place for Spare-Ribs and Chicken

• January 25, 2020

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Monsieur

Some of the amazing dishes that have been created for this years Poutine Week!

Brasserie Rapids

Briskets

Churros

Devi

Dirty Pizza

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January 25, 2020 •

La Poutine Week: Montreal one st th curd at a time Feb 1 - 7

ver 55 participating restauRoch le Coq rants will take part in the 8th official Poutine week in Montreal this year.

La Poutine Week is also giving back to communities across Canada.

ONE DOLLAR for every poutine sold at a participating restaurant during La Poutine Week will go to Anorexia and Bulimia Québec (ANEB), an organization that guarantees free, immediate and specialized help to people with an eating disorder and their loved ones.

La Poutine Week Quick Facts: • 8 years La Poutine Week has been wowing the nation with the best and most creative poutines!

Week since 2018 • 400 participating Na’eem Adam and restaurants this year Thierry Rassam across Canada (55 founders of Poutine Montreal) Week • Over $105,000 has La Poutine Week was been raised for charity through La Poutine first created by co-

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founders Na’eem Adam and Thierry Rassam, also of the wildly successful fall food festival Le Burger Week, in 2012. After their success bringing a new kind

of national burger festival across Canada, the Montreal entrepreneurs thought what better way than to expand the culinary horizons of Canada than

with a poutine focused festival! La Poutine Week was an instantaneous hit – with over 20,000 poutine-lovers flocking towards 40 participating restau-

rants across Quebec in the first alone! Now, eight years later, the festival includes six Canadian provinces and over 350,000 participants!

restobarlecordon.com

Amazing Angus beef hamburgers (Picture is totally an exaggeration, but freshness isn’t)

All You Can Eat Fries!

• January 25, 2020

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11

How did the chicken cross the 'breed' road?

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he familiar joke, 'Why did the chicken cross the road?' and

By Bonnie Wurst mtltimes.ca the answer 'To get to the other side' - first appeared in an 1847 edition of The Knickerbocker, a New York City monthly magazine.

Since then, the joke has been altered in many creative ways, with many a creative answer - but about four years ago a study came out, which did not receive much laughter and had many people scratching their heads.

The question arose,

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'How did the chicken grow so big?' and the answer was somewhat disconcerting to some.

The chicken we know today is not the same chicken our grandparents or great-grandparents knew. In fact, today's chickens are at least 400% bigger than they were in the 1950's.

The reason is not growth hormones, as many might presume, but rather 'selective breeding'. According to a 2014 study by University of Alberta (published in the Journal of Poultry Science), in 1957 chickens weighed an average of 905 grams and by 1978 the average was 1,808 grams.

Today, chickens weigh in at an unprecedented 4,202 grams. The study compared the growth of three different types of chickens to understand how the process of selective breeding worked.

They found 'massive genetic differences as a

result of selective breeding by raising chicken breeds from different eras under exact same conditions'.

The study concluded that the chickens - all who were of the same age and fed the same type and amount of food, showed a remarkable difference. The 2005 breed had grown on average, over four times as heavy as the 1957 breed.

According to 'Modern Farmer', a quarterly American magazine devoted to agriculture and food, it all started in 1948 when the US supermarket chain known as A&P (in conjunction with the USDA), held a contest they called the 'Chicken of Tomorrow inviting poultry farmers from all over the nation to develop 'superior meat-type chickens'.

The chickens with the most white meat, as well as bigger drumsticks, plumper thighs and that grew the

fastest' - would be crowned the winners.

The crossbreed of the two winners, resulted in what is known as the 'Arbor Acres' breed, the 'grandparents' of most of the commercial chicken eaten worldwide today.

To pluck at a few more feathers, consumption of chicken has grown exponentially over the years.We now eat more than three times as much since the '50s. To keep up and feed into the demand, chickens are bred more cost-efficiently by shortening the production cycle and cutting costs. According to data from the National Chicken Council in Washington, not only does it take less than half the feed to get the same amount of meat, but it now takes less than half the time for a newly-hatched chicken to be ready for the market - from 16 weeks in 1925 to less than 7

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weeks since the 1990's.

But there is a big price being paid. To do so, most commercial 'broiler chickens' are raised to reach their slaughter weight as fast as possible. They are confined to sheds, crowded wall to wall where they can barely move around and are overfed - to the point where they often collapse under their own weight. Add in the antibiotics used by most commercial farmers to enhance growth - and these creatures suffer greatly their whole life until they are tossed unceremoniously like feed bags towards their deaths.

Animal advocates have been crying out about this for years and have helped to bring attention to this issue. It has resulted in greater public awareness and some improvements, but the practice continues with no real end in sight.What is has led to,

is a growth in organic and free-range poultry farming, where even though the costs are significantly more to both producer and consumer, it is a more responsible and respectful development to the farming of living creatures.

Were you aware of how selective breeding has genetically effected chickens? Do you or would you consider eating poultry from more 'responsible' or organic farms? Or are you a vegan and already abstain from consuming any animal products?

Please leave your comments at the bottom of the article on our website. Please clcik the link below: http://mtltimes.ca/Mont r e a l / s o c i a l life/health/chicken-cross-b reed-road/

January 25, 2020 •

DIY (Do-It-Yourself) this Valentine’s Day our everyday distractions

By Felicia Di Palma and appreciate those we love. But, how can you mtltimes.ca

alentine’s Day is a hit or miss holiday. Some see it as a commercial holiday filled with pressure to organize the best love fest ever. Others see it for what it is; a day that forces us to forget about

V

show your love? There’s no need to buy teddy bears at ridiculous February 14th prices or generic cards. This Valentine’s Day try making a gift that speaks from the heart.We are not talking about elementary school arts and crafts. These are modern

Love It and Label It

twists on arts and crafts.

Love It and Label It

Mason Jars Romance

veryone loves to receive homemade goodies. Making a pesto or a jam is not as difficult as it may seem. But, how could jars of jam or pesto be considered a Valentine’s Day gift?

It’s all about the label. If you’re not savvy with programs like Photoshop, there are many different websites that will allow you to create your own jar label.Your custom label could include the date, your sweetie’s name and the type of jam.

Sweet labels are not limited to jarred goods. If

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your Valentine is a beer or wine aficionado, you could have custom labels made for beer and wine bottles.

Gift your love with more than one wine bottle made with your personalized label. You could drink one on Valentine’s Day this year and save the other for the following year.

Mason jar gifts are all the rage right now and for Valentine’s Day, the trend is picking up even more steam. Pick up some jars and fill them up with candies and chocolates. Hershey’s kisses or pink and red M&Ms look exceptionally festive in jars.

Red is the primary color of love. Mix chocolate and the color red and you have yourself a Valentine delight.

Red velvet desserts are perfect for February 14th –and the best part is they are not

limited to cake alone.

Cupcakes, brownies, cookies and even waffle versions of red velvet do exist. You can put all the dry ingredients into a jar and create a jar tag that has the recipe written on it. Your Valentine will bake away with a smile on their face especially when the aroma of baked goods fills the kitchen.

If your lover isn’t a baker, you could put the baked red velvet cake or brownies inside the Mason jar and layer away. If you’ve baked a red velvet cake, make a cream cheese frosting to add in between the layers of cake. If you’ve baked red velvet brownies, you could make fudge for the layers.

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Sun - Thurs 11 a.m. - 1 a.m.

Fri - Sat 11am - 1 am

365 Love notes in a Jars

nstead of adding treats to Mason jars, you could do something more expressive. Last

I

Christmas, one Reddit user decided to take romance to the next level for his gift. He wrote 365 love notes for his girlfriend and put them in a jar. She was told that for the next year she had to take one note out and read it every day. Notes on yellow paper were about special moments they’ve shared over the course of their eight relationship. Green paper notes were love quotes and lyrics to romantic songs. Pink notes were reasons why he loves her.

While Reddit user TheOnlyOne87 created this gift for Christmas it is

the perfect Valentine gift.

Write down why you love your partner and reminisce about memories you’ve made. How else could you make the jar even more romantic?

Handwrite your notes.

There’s something about taking the time to handwrite your love notes that is touching and classically romantic.

This Valentine’s Day, be romantic, creative and thoughtful. Anyone could buy a box of chocolates but nothing says thoughtful and loving like DIY gifts.

• January 25, 2020

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13

Renaissance reinvents Montreal’s donations to fulfill a triple bottom line t’s time to start prepping your spring cleaning for a good cause. Many Montrealers know of Renaissance as a great place to find awesome treasures. Like other used stores, Renaissance takes gently used donations to be sold to the public at a small price.

But Renaissance takes

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community support one step further.

Renaissance’s triple bottom line sets this non-profit organization apart from your typical Montreal frippery.

Founder, Pierre Legault built Renaissance with social integration, our ecological footprint and low costs in mind. “We are trying to contribute

at different levels, not just economically,” Legault says.

Renaissance generates jobs and training.

“We are helping people on the social dimension,” Legault explains.

Renaissance runs a program designed for lowincome Montrealer’s and new immigrants with the goal of helping

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“There is a strong entrepreneurial spirit to the organization,” says Legault. “We are very strong on autonomy… and also self-respect.” A full-time work and a stable job gives each of a sense of purpose.

Through work we gain confidence, set and reach goals, and socialize. But to find a stable job, employees need stable experience and training. Renaissance extends this opportunity to everyone.

Renaissance holds regular donation campaigns in the form of “friendly competitions” between boroughs. The next campaign begins on April 24th and runs until May 21st. All of Montreal’s boroughs are invited to donate used goods, and take time to shop at one of Renaissance’s locations.

Prizes will be allocated to the borough who

donates the most per 1000 residents, most donations overall, or most improved from previous years.

Not sure what to donate? Just think of things you might buy yourself.

“Give us what you would give a friend, something that still has some life in it.” All of the fun of fripperies is the unique items you might uncover.

“I think I have the best job in the world,” Legault beams. “We help people and the community has really adopted us.”

Renaissance does all it can for the community because of its residents. “We would like to thank the population for their generosity,” Legault expresses. “We are very grateful for the way we are supported.”

Without donations, Renaissance couldn’t exist.

General information / Head Office 7250 Saint-Laurent Boulevard Montreal, Quebec H2R 2X9 Telephone: 514-276-3626 information@renaissancequebec.ca http://www.renaissancequebec.ca/en Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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these individuals gain the experience and tools necessary to find and retain jobs. “We help people regain their strength and capacity to work, so in 6 months they can find a job and keep it,” says Legault.

Renaissance helps people “regain their self-esteem, and start to be able to live.”

Renaissance reuses your donations. “In the environmental and ecological dimensions, we are using the [donated] goods so that they don’t end up in landfills,” Legault explains.

Montrealers can donate at any of Renaissance’s 33 collection points, or in store. It’s a “Renaisssance in the chain of consumption.” It’s the literal rebirth of donated items as they become treasures with new homes.

“Economically speaking, we provide goods at a minimal price,” says Legault. “Everybody’s winning.” All types of people shop at Renaissance. Even the low prices are enough to drive Renaissance’s main goal: training employees to become active members of Montreal’s workforce.

During his time with Montreal Harvest, a non-profit food bank, Legault came across many individuals who had been out of work for an extended time.

He found people who wanted to work, but were stuck without experience. Through the Renaissance training program, participants work for minimum wage, all while tackling gradually increasing challenges.

Top prospect Wilguens Exacte Jr. shooting free throws at the 39th Holiday Classic

Jonathan Kayemba Tshienda at the dunk contest.

Once again Holiday Classic Tournament showcases elite level talent he Holiday Classic is a legendary basketball tournament hosted

by Sun Youth traditionally the weekend right before the Christmas break. The tournament gained notoriety in the 1980’s when teams like Riverside Church (a re-

T

and the rest of Canada and to raise money for Sun Youth basketball.

This year the tournament raised $9,500 which will go towards operational costs of the program that runs year round.

This year the tournament held a dunk com-

The tournament included 14 teams from across Canada featuring some of the top prospects in the country like Sun Youth’s own Wilguens Exacte Jr. and Muon Reath from Canada Topflight Academy (CTA). Both are poised to be Major D1

@sunyouth_basketball Sun Youth Holiday Classic in Montreal.” (CTA instagram) Sun Youth would like to thank all the athletes who took part in the tournament this year, all the coaches and support staff. Special thanks to all the volunteers who donated their time to the tournament, es-

pecially the referees of the Metropolitan Montreal Basketball Referee Association (MMBRA (MMBRA), whose renewed support allows the organization to present its Holiday Tournament year after year. A huge thank you goes out to Saint-Laurent High School for hosting the tournament

again this year and George Lengvari for his generous donation of $2500. We would also like to thank Expresco Foods for the delicious chicken wings and skewers, Grind Now Shine Later for hosting the very popular Dunk Contest, Trophée Artistic, Dominion tshirt and all our donors.

Jonathan Kayemba Tshienda at the dunk contest. liable NBA prospect producer) would make the trip down from New York City to Montreal to play against Montreal talent. At the time for top American teams traveling to Quebec was unheard of.

Today the tournament has evolved but its goals has remained the same, to expose young Montreal basketball players to high quality talent from the United States

petition for the players in the tournament. It was hosted by Grind Now Shine Later, a socially conscious and responsible clothing company. As you can imagine, the quality of participants was literally mind-blowing. Jonathan Kayemba Tshienda (a Sun Youth player) won the competition by dunking over two people standing up back to back.

NCAA scholarship level talents. The quality of teams this year was very respectable but the reigning champions Canada Topflight Academy were once again tournament champs. In fact they won every game by 30 or more.

“Canada Topflight Academy SR Men's Gold enjoyed a great weekend winning back to back Championships at the prestigious

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, twitter, Instagram

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The Power of Scent

By Tara Palov Montreal Times

o Scents Please.

Fragrance Free Space.

No Scents Makes Sense. We Share the Air. The signs are popping up everywhere. Public waiting areas and increasingly more work places are demanding that we refrain from using perfumes and "scented" products.

I get it. We are allergic and sensitive and sickened by the toxicity in the air, sharing close quarters with pertochemical and carcinogenic affects all of us. As we make changes to avoid chemicals in our daily lives, we in turn become healthier and more aware of the reactions our body produces. Watery eyes. Headaches. Fatigue. Nausea. Difficulty breathing. The few of us who react with drastic allergic responses, are the canaries in the coal mines, warning the rest of you. Run People. RUN! You are listening and taking precautionary measures to ensure a safe breathing environment.

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Essential Oils and natural scents are NOT harmful or irritating. As a matter of fact, they are used therapeutically! We've taken it one step too far.

How do we reign it in?

How do we determine the fine line, or in this case the shear dichotomy from one scent to another? Can we all sense the difference? The power of scent needs to be re-examined, evaluating the discrepancy between the pleasant and the putrid.

Botanical alchemists are using ancient methods of self-care ritual to connect us deeper to nature and to our intuitive selves. Scent is directly linked to memory and pleasure. The smell of baked bread instantly takes me back to warm and cozy familial kitchen time as a child. We had a lilac tree in our backyard, so you will rarely see me pass a branch without gently nuzzling my nose into a bundle of purple joy and closing my eyes.

Instantly, the release of endorphins and feelgood hormones flood my system.

We can all attest to the nostalgic powers of the

olfactory function, the most primal part of our brain, therefore we cannot deny the medicinal qualities of wildcrafted botanicals, connecting us, grounding us, healing us, one inhale at a time. We should not be denied the use of natural scents.

Next time you're out and about, sporting the fine scent of rose or lavender, and you are greeted with a sign that states "No Scents Allowed", don't worry, they aren't referring to you.

Earth to Body We stand behind our products.We give great customer service. Visit us at natural.ca. Subscribe to our newsletter. Visit our store: ‘La Boutique Earth to Body’, 89 Lucerne, Pointe Claire, QC H9R 2V1. info@natural.ca

Five warning signs that your loved one should be considering a move to a retirement home / senior community t’s not easy to admit that one is getting older, especially when your body and your mind are not what they used to be. Moving a family member into a senior care

3. Caregiver Stress There are the psychological costs of caregiving and of making difficult care decisions, which can be compared to the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder. Caregivers may experience symptoms like disabling anxBy Matt Del Vecchio iety, hyper-vigilance and more.The emotional, mtltimes.ca mental and physical toll of caregiving can be particularly pronounced for adult children or residence is never a simple decision. It may spouses of those who need care. In cases like not be easy to broach the subject with your this, when the demands of care become too loved ones. In fact, they may be resistant to great, it might be clear immediately. In other moving and they may fear losing their inde- cases, it might not be so obvious. pendence.

4. Safety and Security However, here are 5 warning signs that your This is a common reason why families conloved one should be considering a move to a sider a move. They noticed that their loved retirement / senior residence: ones are not as sure on their feet as they 1. Physical used to be or their eyesight is less clear, causWhen there are physical and anatomical signs ing them to be a fall risk. According to the of deterioration that will affect their wellCanadian Public Health Agency, falls remain being and their safety. A person who is having the leading cause of injury-related hospitaltrouble getting out to shop or remembering izations among Canadian seniors. how to cook or when to eat can result in sig5. Loneliness nificant nutritional issues. This could range It’s normal for activity to decrease with age. from unhealthy weight loss or conversely, exBut if your loved one once enjoyed spending cessive weight gain. Check the fridge and time in the yard gardening, or simply being watch meal-prep skills. Other examples inwith friends, and then chooses to no longer clude loss of sight or hearing, loss of balance, engage in these activities, or rarely leaves the stroke, disease. or physical conditions, such as house, it may be time to consider a senior livarthritis and osteoporosis. ing residence. This is a sign that behavioral 2. Mental Behaviour – Cognitive, Language, changes are underway. and Decision Making Helping your loved ones to recognize the Cognitive decline can have serious ramificasigns of when it is time to move, having an tions, especially if your loved one can't take open dialogue with the family members inmedications correctly, is not able to fix a meal volved and taking the time to discuss the opor doesn't remember to eat. If a loved one tions will go a long way in making the exhibits confusion, poor judgment, or other transition to senior care residence more signs of cognitive impairment, assisted living agreeable for everyone. is often a good next step.

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January 25, 2020 •

• January 25, 2020

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17

Book Review - By: Stuart Nulman - mtltimes.ca

American Prison by Shane Bauer

ack in 1887, system in America has New York been expanded to book World re- form, and the result is porter Nellie the riveting American Prison.

The chief culprit in this story is the Corrections Corporation of America (CCA), which was co-founded by veteran prison administrator T. Don Hutto and currently has over 80 types of correctional facilities across the U.S. that houses over 80,000 inmates. CCA operates its network of private

By Stuart Nulman prisons by getting lucrative contracts by differmtltimes.ca ent state governments Bly did something un- on the promise that precedented for a story they can run these corthat would deal with in- rectional facilities on a humane conditions that cost-saving basis ($34 were prevalent per prisoner, as opthroughout the city’s in- posed to the $52 per prisoner its costs to sane asylums.

The young reporter house them in a state somehow feigned insanity, so that prison); she could be committed CCA’s modus operandi to an asylum located is quite effective, as they outside of New York raked in about $1.8 in City. Before she was re- revenue in 2014, the leased 10 days later, Bly year that Bauer went observed and noted undercover at Winn.

As the reader discovdown the horrific conditions at the asylum, as ers through Bauer’s acCCA’s well as the cruel way count, the patients were being cost-cutting measures mistreated by the staff. are felt by both guards Her articles that were and prisoners alike. based on her experi- Guards are virtually ences led to increased hired on the spot withspending and improved out any background regulations by the City check to speak of; the of New York to better training sessions are the conditions of the cursory at best; and city’s insane asylums, starting salaries for an and create criteria re- entry level correctional garding who should re- officer is $9 an hour, as opposed to $12.50 an ally be committed.

Shane Bauer, a senior hour for guards who reporter for Mother work at state prisons.

Jones magazine, has And it gets worse for taken a page from Nel- prisoners, with constant lie Bly’s book of how to punishments for even be an undercover re- the slightest infractions porter to get the inside (which are rewarded story dealing with a with lengthy stays in pressing social matter. segregation wings of the This time, Bauer de- prison), food that hardly cided to investigate meets any type of how privatization of a health standards, refusal number of prisons of sending inmates with across the U.S., espe- health problems to a cially how the prison hospital because it system is being run means that CCA is obmore like a business ligated to pay the exthan a penal institution. pensive costs for any Only this time, Bauer medical treatment they would not see the con- receive, and if a prisditions of a private oner ends up in a suiprison from the point of cide watch cell, they are view of a convict, but as confined in a tiny cell, a prison guard. His four and stripped naked with months as a corrections nothing but a “suicide officer at the Winn blanket” for clothing.

Correctional Center in And with barely any acWinnfield, Louisiana re- tivities or work prosulted in an expose that grams to keep these was published in inmates busy or aid Mother Jones, and won them towards rehabiliBauer a National Maga- tation, a sense of anger zine Award. And his ex- and violence is quite pose into what is wrong prevalent, which lead to with the private prison increased stabbing inci-

B

18

American Prison by Shane Bauer dents within the walls of Winn.

And every time Bauer recounts many of the ugly incidents of prisoner violence or abuse, he footnotes every CCA response to them, in which they categorically deny they ever happened, or that company policy was followed to the letter to ensure such incidents were brought to their logical conclusions.

As an added bonus, Bauer fortifies this expose by offering a vast historical perspective to how the private prison system in America evolved, which goes back to before the Civil War, where such practices as chain gangs, road gangs and prisoner leasing (in which private prisons or prison farms would pay a leasing fee to the state government in question to use their convicts for hard labor, which would lead to immense profits for both the state and the owners of these prisons; it also gave prison guards free rein to inflict some of the most brutal, violent types of punishments to these convicts who had the bad fortune to end up in these labour gangs, which ranged from whippings to time in confining “sweatboxes” for insubordination, escape attempts, or not meeting their daily work quotas) were the norm.

American Prison is a great piece of undercover investigative journalism, in which Shane Bauer was willing to risk his own life and well being to discover how crime and punishment has shamelessly

gone corporate (which is boldly exemplified in the book’s final chapter, in which Bauer attends CCA’s annual stockholders’ meeting at its headquarters in

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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Nashville and is endlessly stonewalled by CCA executives every time he tries to raise the issue of prisoner mistreatment). Thanks to Bauer’s absorbing

book, we sadly discover that the world of the private prison is more like “time is money” rather than “if you do the crime, you do the time”.

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 ,January 18tt, 2020 edition: www.mtltimes.ca January 25, 2020 •

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NOTICE OF CLOSURE An inventory of the Deceased's property has been OF INVENTORY made in accordance with the Notice is hereby given that law and can be consulted by Gary Jocondo (the “De- creditors and other interceased”), in his lifetime last ested parties by contacting residing at 111 – 329 Hymus the executor Wayne Bleakley, Boulevard, Pointe-Claire, 506 Ennis Road, Ennismore, Province of Quebec, H9R Ontario, K0L 1T0, no later 2Y6, died in Montreal, on than March 25, 2020.

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15,674 Gouin Blvd. West Ste-Genevieve (Pierrefonds) H9H 1C4 WestIslandFleaMarket.com SALES REP WANTED Looking for bilingual salesperson to cover Montreal & surrounding area’s with fantastic promotion campaign for both our papers.

• Bilingual • Must have own car.

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Please send your CV to info@mtltimes.ca or call (514)457-7656

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January 25, 2020 •

Best advice for first-time home buyers

s a first-time home buyer, the best thing you can do is surround yourself with trusted professionals

A

By Eleni (Helen) Akrivos

mtltimes.ca that will advise you every step of the way and have your best interest in mind. There are so many steps and you want to avoid the pitfalls and mistakes by having experts at your side. And this does not always include your well-meaning family and friends. When buying a home for the first time it is like becoming parents for the first time, everyone has advice for you!

The first step I recommend is to get a solid mortgage pre-approval.

There is no point hopping into open house visits and searching online without knowing your true budget. This will allow you to sit down with your realtor and look at all your options. Depending on your budget and needs,

• January 25, 2020

you may be surprised that instead of buying a single-family home, you may end up with a duplex or a condominium.

Your budget may not allow you to get into your first-choice neighborhood and you will have to have a plan to move forward. A good realtor will offer you options and solutions based on your budget which you may have not thought of yourself.

Keep all your options open and make sure you share your short term and long-term goals with your realtor.

Your realtor should have enough experience to create a solid plan for you and you should trust this person to advise you. They will explain the entire process and what their role will be. Once you have the plan and start visiting homes, it is easy to get emotional and “fall in love with a house”. Your realtor should get to know you well enough so that you can decide together what type of buyer you are. If you are not very handy and want a move in ready home, you will pay top dollar for the home. If you are willing to do a few upgrades yourself, there will be more negotiating power on homes that need some work, and you will benefit by

adding value to the property. Remember that each home has its own story and your realtor will gather as much information in order to strategize and prepare a good offer to purchase. If the house is priced to sell, you need to follow your realtor’s advice and offer over the asking price, if it is within your budget of course.

Once your offer is accepted, it is recommended to go through a building inspection.

Depending on the age of the property and what the sellers have declared the building inspector should provide a report, to give you an overall idea of

that current state of the home and future maintenance and major repairs to come. If something major comes up your realtor is there to help you navigate this.

Once the final negotiations are complete, and all parties agree to move forward, all the paperwork is sent to your notary or lawyer who will take care of researching the history of the property (title search) and transferring the property legally to your name.

This process sometimes reveals surprises concerning the property such as zoning changes, municipal by-laws, encroachments or other

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legal matters affecting the property. Your realtor will help find solutions to get everything straightened out before the signing date.

When it comes time to sign for the house officially and obtain the keys, it feels like all the hard work was worth it and you will officially become a homeowner!

After the purchase, feel free to keep in touch with your realtor as you may have questions that come about the house as a first-time buyer.

With a trusted realtor by your side, the process will be smoother than going it alone.

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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January 25, 2020 •

• January 25, 2020

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New Listing - Senneville

SENNEVILLE - Completely renovated large 5 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom in one of the most prestigous areas of Montreal. Enjoy your morning coffee outside by your 20’ X 40’ ingound cement pool completely renovated with new unistone deck, walkways and gardens. Walking distance to Train and Public Transit and close to Highway 20 and Transcanada. Wifi 100% efficent electric boiler hot water heating, new windows, wood fireplace, wetbar, granit throughout are just some of these amazing renovations.Call for a private viewing. CENTRIS #17203988 “Making the Deal is an Art Form...”

Eleni (Helen) Akrivos Courtier immobilier Agréé DA - Dirigeante D'Agence Certified real estate broker AEO- Agency Executive Officer

eleni@nordestimmobilier.ca www.northeastrealties.ca 24

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800 Decarie boulevard Saint-Laurent, QC, H4L3L5

514-716-6188 January 25, 2020 •

Answers for January 25, 2020

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• January 25, 2020

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