The Local Herald

T H E

Local Herald End’s

Community

Vo l u m e 3 , I s s u e 5 ,

March 16, 2012

Issue

West

Story by Bram D. Eisenthal Pictures by Lifetime Photos

Paper

The Dress: The ultimate deal-maker

Toni Monzione-Iermieri (left) with Dianne, one of her devoted staff members. Ready to make your wedding day, prom or other memorable event a day for all time!

Dressed in simple white and wearing flowers in her hair, Music as she walks slowly to the altar, And picking up his Bible then the preacher turns towards her, “Will you take this man to be your wedded husband, To honour and love in the eyes of God above, Now let the people sing with me These words to live forever in your heart...”

The WEDDING

-Chris de Burgh, In a Country Churchyard

: This issue

ager p 4 2 t s r i f *Our tures and a e f , s n m ith colu s w d e d a o L * ad ver! e n a h t r e t *Bet

Doesn’t much matter if you liked the food or the band’s singer missed a high note: In the end, the memory you will likely take with you most, from any wedding, is how beautiful the bride looked in her dress. Same goes with her bridesmaids – the groom, even - or your prom date. The fashion of the day and how lovingly it was crafted for that person is unforgettable. So, in a way, Toni Monzione-Iermieri is an angel of happiness for untold numbers of people since starting her business, Boutique du Mariage Punta Chiara (3654 St. Charles Rd. in Kirkland, 514-694-6382) seven years ago...

cont. p4

You’re invited: In celebration of marriages of minds and souls

B r a m E i s e n t h a l - Th e Lo c a l S e e ke r

So it’s that time of year. With March 21 the official first day of spring and April showers bringing May flowers, thoughts naturally turn to romance. You can also kneel on the ground as you propose and not get your knees wet!

This issue is dedicated to that soulful tradition, marriage. It’s a sweet concept, even for those of us who have tried it and didn’t fare too well. Yup, I did, and while I gave it a shot… sometimes my best and others not so much… I still believe, although I don’t suggest entering into that sacred union unless you are prepared to work… and work… and work… at it. Forever.

Marriage is not for the selfish and, as an only child, I have been accused of being that and more, but if you can hang in and make a nest with another person, there can be nothing better. Besides, I suppose the kids have to come from somewhere or we’re doomed to extinction.

Sharon’s been with CHOM for 15 years and I think she is going to surprise and stimulate us with her musings about her chosen career at my favourite Montreal radio station. Please take it away, Sharon!

Finally, this issue includes features on some recent working marriages of personalities, one involving two artists who have opened an impressive Montreal West atelier and the second involving the seminal coming together of three men of the faith, representing Judaism, Catholicism and Islam, who have the potential to make a HUGE difference toward the pursuit of eliminating blind religious hatred from society. We wish them well.

Enjoy The Local Herald’s first Wedding Issue, also our first 24pager. We wouldn’t be here without you.

Good luck to all of you who are married, about to join together in wedded bliss or who are considering the act.

www.royalafricanstores.com

As for content, we start off the celebration with a feature about a woman who makes some of the prettiest wedding dresses around. This is a story that is very close to my heart, because I was raised by such a woman. My late, beautiful mother, Mina Eisenthal, was a European-trained couturier, pattern-maker, dress-maker… and she did stunning work. She spent the early years of my life working for Madame Cassar, a hence-deceased Montreal fashion designer those work was highly respected. I remember my mom crafting the wedding dress of my godmother’s daughter and how splendidly it turned out. The family was thrilled and Audrey still talks about her dress to this very day. I have also kept the dress my mother made for my wedding, as a family heirloom, and I take it out once in a while to look at it. Even a layman such as I can appreciate its finer points.

Now, while I did not inherit my mom’s talents through osmosis, I CAN sew a small tear or a button onto a shirt. I also make a mean omelette, which has nothing to do with anything but I can scrape the bottom of the barrel here, can’t I? So thanks, mother dearest, for teaching me there’s more to “manly things” than shovelling the walk, downing a glass of Chivas Regal or simply acting macho.

This is also about marriage and that gives me a chance to pay homage to the marriage of fabulous content to what is a very nice publication, in my opinion, starting our cover story on a fabulous West Island-based wedding attire vendor who will give us some tips on what’s hot nowadays, compared to 20 years ago or more.

We always have terrific columnists and I am pleased to welcome two more: Robert Callard, owner of Westmount’s Chez Nick, cancer survivor, all around nice guy and latter-day cyclist. Rob, whom I am also proud to call my friend, took up cycling after his cancer diagnosis and is fairly convinced that cycling helped save his life. So we certainly welcome his musings on one of his favourite past-times, after family life and, of course, his legendary love of music.

And I’d also like to welcome long-time CHOM DJ Sharon Hyland, whose presence here is a coup if there ever was one.

The Local Herald, West End Montreal Edition Volume 3, Number 5, MARCH 16, 2012 Founded by Julia Lucio and Mai-Liis Renaud 2010 Published by Local Seeker Media Group, Cornwall, Ontario The Local Herald does not accept responsibility for errors, misprints or inaccuracies published within. The opinions and statements of our columnists are not to be presumed as the statements and opinions of The Local Herald.

Managing Editor: Bram Eisenthal

THE LOCAL HERALD,

Creative Design: Julia Lucio

MARCH 16 (pg. 2)

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

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New publisher groomed at The Local Herald

Experienced writer and editor available to edit and proofread your documents.

Specializing in term papers, stories, speeches and more. Call today for rates.

Mark (514) 209-5689

Young Josh is a fan of community papers and indicated his interest in publishing one someday. The Local Herald therefore claims dibs on this fine young man, but he’s gotta graduate from primary school first, at the very least!

Photo: Julia Lucio

THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg.3)

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Cover Stor y

(Continued from cover)

The Dress:

...This isn’t a West End business, but I felt it was unique and important enough to cover them nonetheless.

The business is insanely busy, something I learned the hard way when attempting to contact Monzioni-Iermieri to set up an interview. It’s not just about wedding dresses, but also attire for engagement events, seasonal proms and fundraisers, that have her and the staff of this unique family business hopping madly. Even her partner, brother-in-law Stephen Barrett, is extremely occupied taking care of grooms-to-be and other men who need to ensure they are at the tops of their games in the fashion department. Hardly a man around isn’t metrosexually-inclined these days. Not that there’s anything wrong with that.

Raised in Ahuntsic by Italian parents hailing from Campagnie in the Avalino region, Monzioni-Iermieri was surrounded by haute couture all her life and, despite working in the constriction industry alongside her bricklayer

The ultimate deal-maker

what a complete act of creation designing a dress and doing alterations can be, I really do.

But the business has certainly changed in recent

decades. “First of all, while Montrealers are still into glitzy dresses, on the West Island less is more,” Monzioni-Iermieri told me. “Here, you find people more interested in the simple-butelegant ‘red carpet’ look. We sell many fine products off the rack, but if you can’t find it here, we have a team of designers ready to customcreate a dress for you.”

She admitted that a designed dress is much more expensive than prêt-a-porter and also much more time consuming. “You should also be aware that even a prêt-a-porter gown requires alterations in many cases and will take 2-3 weeks to get ready, something many retailers do not tell you. And these, too, can be expensive.” I shuddered, realizing that just having my pants hemmed is hardly free.

So, I asked Monzioni-Iermieri the logical question: How long do you need to buy a dress, in an age where most are crafted in faraway China? “It’s not like it was 7-10 years ago, when you walked in and got your dress a few weeks later. For brides-to-be, give your retailer about four months to deliver a custom dress, which will probably require 4-5

THE LOCAL HERALD,

“Custom bridesmaid and prom dresses will require a 2-3 visit process, most likely.”

What’s really cool about buying a dress today is that almost anything goes. Times have indeed changed in haute couture and this translates into more flexibility when choosing colours or styles.

“I had a bride recently who had us design a gold and burgundy dress,” said Monzioni-Iermieri.

“The traditional white wedding dress (much to the chagrine of Billy Idol) is still in, but becoming increasingly passé: If anything, ivory is becoming very popular.”

Grooms-to-be are also becoming more involved with fashion choices and Monzioni-Iermieri said that about 50 percent of them fall into that category, coming in with their fiancées to make that historic decision. As mentioned earlier, Barrett works with the men at creating their own styling for their big day. He takes the measurements, does any required alterations and will stand in for the groom if he gets cold feet (Just kidding on the last part).

“We even have our own line of designer fashion dresses for brides having their weddings in the Caribbean or another overseas destination, called Mille Fiori (Thousand Flowers in Italian) that use lighter fabric which doesn’t crease as easily.” On most flights, by the way, a prior arrangement with the airline will see the flight attendants taking personal care of the safety of your prized dress - They will hang it in their own locker on board.

father and as an special needs integration aid, amongst other things, she always felt destined for her chosen career as a fashion entrepreneur. “This has always been my passion and I love what I do,” said Monzioni-Iermieri.

Having had a dress designer mother and having spent my formative years in close proximity to her classic 1950s Singer sewing machine, patterns, spools of thread, bobbins and needles galore, I GET

errors due to miscommunication.

You need to prepare for all possibilities. Remember, too, that brides should have their initial meeting with the retailer a YEAR before the big event.

sessions for fittings and adjustments. Remember, the dress that is being made in China may be held up at the border or there may be

MARCH 16 (pg. 4)

Punta Chiara’s Mille Fiori line has become so successful that one of its designs recently made it onto a Top 10 list in Wedding Bells magazine.

If I was a bride getting married, wearing one on a beach as the moon rose over the blue ocean, wearing a lightweight non-creasing dress would be the way to go… but I digress….

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Whether it’s an engagement party, bridal shower, the reception or post-wedding brunch, professional event planner Alison Hotchkiss knows a thing or two about creating memorable bridal celebrations. As the founder-owner of Alison Events, and author of “The Destination Wedding Planner: The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding From Afar” (Chronicle Books), she’s produced stunning weddings all over the world. For tips from Alison for creating a bridal event to remember, visit www.cupcakevineyards.com.

Prosecco Ginger Cocktail Yield: 12 servings, 2 glasses per serving 1 1/2 cups water 1 cup (6 ounces) crystallized ginger 1/2 cup sugar 2 bottles (750 ml) Cupcake Prosecco, chilled 24 thin diagonal sliced seedless or Persian cucumber Combine water, ginger and sugar in saucepan and bring to a boil.

Simmer on low heat, uncovered, 15 minutes. Off heat let steep, covered, 30 minutes. Cool.

Purée in blender until smooth.

Add 1 tablespoon ginger purée to each champagne glass. Add chilled prosecco, and stir well with swizzle stick until blended.

Garnish glass with cucumber slice.

Shrimp Fajitas Salad on Crisp Flour Tortilla Chips

Melted Gruyere Toasts with Crisp Frizzled Prosciutto Yield: 12 servings, 2 pieces per serving Extra virgin olive oil 4 slices (about 3 ounces) prosciutto, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 24 1/4-inch-thick slices Italian bread 4 ounces aged Gruyere, coarsely shredded (about 1 3/4 cups) Heat 1/2 inch olive oil in medium skillet over medium heat until hot enough to sizzle a piece of prosciutto.

Stir half the prosciutto into hot oil and cook over medium heat until prosciutto is crispy, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from with a slotted spoon to a side dish. Add remaining prosciutto and cook until crispy.

Set aside.

Heat oven to 350°F. Spray baking sheet with nonstick spray and arrange bread slices on tray.

Top each bread slice with a rounded tablespoon of cheese. Bake until cheese is melted, about 5 minutes. Remove from oven.

Stand a crispy piece of prosciutto in the center of each melted mound of hot cheese and serve at once.

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Yield: 12 servings, 2 pieces per serving 4 8-inch flour tortillas 1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lime juice 1 teaspoon finely chopped cilantro 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped jalapeño, or more to taste 6 ounces extra small (salad shrimp) cooked and peeled shrimp, chopped (about 1 1/4 cups) 3 tablespoons finely chopped peeled ripe mango 2 teaspoons finely chopped cilantro 1 teaspoon finely chopped jalapeño 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice 2 tablespoons thin sliced green onion (scallion) tops (garnish) Preheat oven to 350°F. Use ruler to trim tortillas into 4 large 6-inch squares.

Cut 24 2-inch squares from the squared off tortillas; discard trimmings.

Spray baking sheet with nonstick spray. Arrange tortilla squares on pan and spray with nonstick spray. Bake until toasted golden and crisp, 10 to 12 minutes. Cool.

Purée avocado, lime juice, cilantro and jalapeño in a food processor until smooth. Set aside.

Combine shrimp, mango, cilantro, jalapeño and lime juice in small bowl.

Spread about 1/2 tablespoon avocado mixture in center of each toasted tortilla square. Lightly press a tablespoon of the shrimp salad in center of each. Garnish with scallion slices and serve.

MARCH 16 (pg. 5)

Beet Purée with Sesame Flavors Yield: 12 servings, 2 pieces per serving 1 pound fresh golden or red beets, trimmed, peeled, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 24 endive leaves, thick ends trimmed, separated into individual leaves 3 tablespoons reduced sodium tamari or soy sauce 1/2 teaspoon toasted (dark) sesame oil 1/4 teaspoon grated fresh ginger 1/4 teaspoon minced fresh garlic Salt to taste Toasted white sesame seeds (garnish) Place beets in a steamer and cook, covered, over simmering water, until tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Cool.

Place endive leaves in a large bowl. Add water and a cup of ice and refrigerate until crisped, about 15 minutes. Drain and pat dry with paper towels.

Place tamari or soy sauce in a small saucepan and boil gently until reduced to 1 tablespoon. Cool.

Purée beets, 1 tablespoon reduced tamari or soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil and salt in food processor until smooth and creamy.

Arrange endive leaves on a platter. With two teaspoons, place a mound of beet purée in the center of each leaf. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds.

Note: Canned or cooked vacuum packed beets can be used as a substitute.

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H E A LT H A N D F I T N E S S - H E A LT H A N D F I T N E S S

These days, most people know that maintaining optimal health begins with what we eat. The problem is that, in today’s world, everything is fast-paced including food. In the old days the mom would be home cooking and keeping house all day long. There would be time to bake homemade breads and cook all meals from scratch using wholesome ingredients. This is just not possible anymore with two-income families. Even if one parent stays home, there are tons of activities and things to get done that make this type of cooking nearly impossible.

Here are some ways to facilitate the process of making healthy foods. Consider small appliances as tools to make quick-and-easy recipes. For example, a small immersion blender turns a pot of chunky vegetables into a smooth soup. It does the same for a pot of meat sauce and the bonus is that the kids won’t know you blended veggies into it! A food processor is the king for chopping and grating. I use mine to grate large blocks of cheese. This saves me money because pre-grated cheese costs a small fortune. I use the grated cheese on homemade pizza, over pasta, in casseroles and for omelettes. The standing mixer is “da bomb” when it comes to baking. It’s easy to buy cookies and other snacks for lunches but nothing beats homemade, especially since you can control the amount of sugar and the type of flour that goes into the recipe. Home baked goods can be a source of whole grains and fiber. Store bought- Less so.

When making a meal from scratch why not prepare a double batch and freeze it right away? Chop the vegetables the night before and your meal will be half prepared when you get home from work.

Order your groceries online, creating more time to cook. As you can see, the key to healthy eating really is in the planning.Take some time to make menus and grocery lists so you already know what to make for supper or go to a website like www.thescramle.com which does it for you.

These are just a few ideas to motivate you to cook more and order or eat out less. Stay tuned for some cooking short cuts to create easy and healthy meals.

Caryn J. Roll P.Dt. (514.817.0135) Twitter: @MTRLnutrition Join me on Facebook www.montrealnutrition.com

THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 6)

We’ve been on watch for expert 50 great years! We provide service in: For five decades, family business OTA has been here, serving Montrealers from the West End and beyond.

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

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

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Whole Grain Roll by Caryn Roll

For moms, dads and newlyweds, too: Time saving food prep tips

STAR SALES REP WANTED

If this limited staff situation continues much longer, we’re gonna change our name to The Lonely Herald.

We are looking for a sales rep, experience not required… just desire and a chance to make some cold, hard cash. No benefits, straight commission… but also no one looking over your shoulder, clocking your hours or stressing you out. This is a real opportunity to grow along with a growing paper, where your earning potential is limited only by your ability and desire. Male or female, all ages, any race or religion, bilingualism preferred but NOT required, although the ability to converse in English IS a must. If you are interested in giving us a hand, call us at 514-975-7745 and leave us a message if we do not answer.

We are seeking a sales star-in-the-making.

Is that you?

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Fun with words

Yoga U - Chantalle Kudsi

A Romantic twist What better time to introduce Partner Yoga, than in "The Wedding Issue" of The Local Herald?

Partner Yoga involves two people doing yoga. But more than that, the two people support each other - simultaneously - in the postures. While more advanced poses might require one partner to carry the weight of the other, certainly at the beginner level, there are safe and relatively easy ways to explore Partner Yoga. Try the pose below with a friend or loved one and see what arises in the connection. Partner yoga is surprisingly playful.

It can also be an exercise that opens us up to greater trust and intimacy. An embodied and deeply silent partnering, such as this, is one form of honest communication.

Seated Partner Twist 1. Sit back-to-back with your legs crossed, on the floor, with your partner. Sit upright so that the lowermost part of your backs are as close to each other as possible. Depending on your relative proportions, your upper backs will touch. Take care not to lean your weight back onto the other person. 2. Sitting up tall, bring your left hand across your body and place it over your right knee. Have your partner do this as well, with their left hand to their right knee. 3. Take a deep breath in. Exhale and reach your right hand to your partner's left knee, which is behind you.

Doing so will gently twist your upper body, including neck and head, to the right. 4. Have your partner do the same, reaching their right hand to your left knee, and twisting to their right. 5. Stay in this position for a few deep and silent breaths through the nostrils. 6. On an exhalation, release one another's knees and untwist. 7. From a neutral position, repeat on the other side. Sit tall and place your right hand on your own left knee, and have your partner do the same. Take a breath in. On the exhale, each person reaches their left hand to the partner's right knee and twists left. Stay in the twist for a few deep breaths before releasing on the exhale.

Across

Down

1. But not quite all 5. Shopping center 9. Bright thought 10. Murres 11. Linked 12. Products of human creativity 13. Conceal 14. A territorial subdivision of Greece 17. Seats oneself 20. Indistinguishable 21. Sell 22. A Roman emperor 23. Picnic insects 24. Cultivate

1. Flexible mineral 2. Fragrance 3. Tender, romantic, or nostalgic feeling 4. Bronzes your skin 5. A lot 6. Artisan 7. Told an untruth 8. Stow, as cargo 14. Opera star 15. Biblical garden 16. Concludes 17. Make melodious sounds 18. Tropical root 19. Sluggish

8. Record or share reflections on the experience with your partner.

Chantalle Kudsi is a yoga and meditation teacher in the WestEnd. Sheteaches group and private classes and can be reached at chantsomething@yahoo.ca

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THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 7)

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BUY or SELL your HOME in the

Property See ker

The We s t

Issue 1

E n d real estate section

Multi-unit building purchase: Is it right for you?

Mortgage Matters 

Many real estate gurus in the last 10 years have t a l k e d about achieving financial freedom through the purchase of rental property.

Although there is some truth to this depending on your investment/return, you have to be sure that owning rental property is right for you. It isn't as glamorous as people think and often times it is hard work. I will discuss a few benefits, but also a few downfalls of being a landlord. It isn't just about collecting the rent cheques.

if your tenant stiffs you for three months on the rent and leaves? Do you know your rights? Since Quebec law generally favours the tenant, it is important to choose your tenants carefully.

Another factor which works against you can be the insurance premium. Let's say you have a $500,000 mortgage while putting the minimum 15% down and want the highest amortization to get the payment as low as possible. The premium added onto a mortgage like this would be almost $25,000, making your mortgage $525,000. If you are planning on holding onto

a property as part of a portfolio, the benefit will likely outweigh the downside. If you are planning on reselling your property quickly, that $25,000 will obviously impact you more. You must consider, as well, that there are usually file-opening fees with the lender and CMHC fees when buying these types of properties.

The CMHC will also want to make sure that they calculate whether the property you are buying is considered a good investment. If not, they will not insure the loan, which will in turn force you into a conventional loan that carries with it higher interest rates.

take longer, but if done with the proper real estate agent/mortgage professional, they can be very fruitful. It is just important to be aware of what it takes to buy one, so you don't end up with nasty surprises down the road that discourage you from buying them to begin with.

Jason Zuckerman www.mortgageratesmontreal.com Hypotheca Mortgage Brokers (514) 771-1352 /1-800- 206-1350 jzuckerman@hypotheca.ca

Multi-unit purchases typically

One of the strongest benefits is that you can buy a multiunit property for as little as 10% down for triplexes and four-plexes and as little as 15% for six-plexes and up.

This enables the property owner to keep most of the cash in their pocket, while the rental income covers the mortgage. This allows time for the property to appreciate in value as well....a side benefit.

Another reason to get into real estate is to use it a passive income stream. Is it so passive, though? Many people underestimate factors such as repairs/vacancy. If you don't have a contingency fund for emergency expenditures, you could be in trouble. You must be ready to spend hundreds of dollars should something break in one of your apartments. What

THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 8)

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H o m e S w e e t H o m e - A n i t a B e n a b o u R o ze n b l a t

Attention newlyweds and other potential buyers!

REAL ESTATE IS STILL ONE OF THE BEST INVESTMENTS YOU CAN MAKE Home ownership offers immediate benefits and long-term value.

Home owners accumulate wealth for the future while enjoying the benefits of a shelter that they can use, improve and sell.

the size of your family, a one-story house if accessibility is a factor, etc.). The second list is your wishes, things you would like to have (pool, den, etc.) but that are not absolutely necessary. Realistically for first-time buyers, you probably will not get everything on your wish list, but it will keep you on track for what you are looking for. * Visualize the house empty and with your decor: Are the rooms laid out to fit your needs? Is there enough light? * Be objective: Instead of thinking with your heart when you find a home, think with your head. Does this home really meet your needs? There are many houses on the market, so don't make a hurried decision that you may regret later.

Advice for First-Time Buyers * Pre-Qualification: Meet with a mortgage broker and find out how much you can afford to pay for a home.

* Be thorough: A few extra dollars well spent now may save you big expenses in the long run. Don't forget such essentials as: o Include inspection and mortgage contingencies in your written offer.

* Pre-Approval: Doing so while knowing how much you can afford is the first step: Sellers will be much more receptive to potential buyers who have been pre-approved. You'll also avoid being disappointed when going after homes that are out of your price range. With Pre-Approval, the buyer actually applies for a mortgage and receives a commitment in writing from a lender.

This way, assuming the home you're interested in is at or under the amount you are pre-qualified for, the seller knows immediately that you are a serious buyer for that property. Costs for preapproval are generally nominal and lenders will usually permit you to pay them when you close your loan. * List of needs and wants: Make two lists. The first should include items you must have (i.e., the number of bedrooms you need for

Single Family Homes

Townhouses Townhousses

o Have the property inspected by a professional inspector. o Request a second walk-through to take place within 24 hours of closing. o You want to check to see that no changes have been made that were not agreed on (i.e. - A nice chandelier that you assumed came with the sale having been replaced by a cheap ceiling light).

Happy shopping, everyone!

Do you have questions for Anita Rozenblat? E-mail your comments or questions to anitarozenblat@hotmail.com

Semi-Detached Semi-D Detached Homes Ho

Condos

Signature Modelss | Custom B Built uiilt H Homes omes | Sin Single Family Lots Adjacent to the Cavendish Mall, just minutes from downtown.

The Dubelle Developments Ltée.

THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 9)

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Photo Credit Bram

FAITH AN D S PI R ITUALITY - FAITH AN D S PI R ITUALITY

Spiritual Seedlings - Father John Walsh

March – When Irish eyes are smiling for us all The month of March is the month of the Irish and the wannabe Irish.

There are now seven, yes seven, Saint Patrick Day parades in Quebec. The number of participants who walk in the parades or watch as sidewalk superintendents is truly amazing! Last year in Montreal there were close to half a million people lining Saint Catherine Street and the parade lasted over two hours. In Chateauguay, the parade was smaller, yet, each year, the attendance and participation grows. Quebec City reignited the fire of the Irish in the entire region after a long hiatus when the parade had been discontinued – now, after only a couple of years, it is the talk of the town. “Bonne Saint Patrick” is the greeting and it echoes on the streets of the Old City as bands from all over the east coast of Canada and the United States celebrate a heritage that is dear to the hearts of many French-speaking Quebecers.

It is said that almost forty percent of French-speaking Quebecers have Irish blood running through their veins. The Irish came to Quebec during the potato famines that created abject poverty and sickness on the Emerald Isle. The emigration of substantial numbers of the Irish to Quebec meant a new way of life for them. They had no idea what awaited them. To their surprise they were welcomed, housed, fed and care for. They soon found out that their hosts were of the same faith, had large families and had a “joie de vivre” that was similar to the Irish “love of life” and they soon shared a way of life.

The many who came to Quebec riddled with typhoid were almost at

THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 10)

the point of death. They were quarantined on Grosse Isle, where Protestant and Catholic clergy ministered to them. Many of these dedicated women and men died because typhoid was so contagious.

Faith was the strength of the Irish who came to our shores. They believed in God’s care, which they knew came to them through human concern and service to them. The Irish survived the 1847-1848 crossings and today the Irish community remains proud of what they have accomplished in Quebec and in Canada.

There are long lists of members of the Irish community who have served the country as politicians, economists, business women and men, bishops, priests, religious women and a battery of dedicated people who cared for the good of the populace. The Irish are a great example of individuals who manage to integrate into a new world without losing their own identities. Today, the Irish in Ireland are undergoing what French-speaking Quebecers have undergone since the Quiet Revolution of the 1960s. Regular church attendance is on the wane, public displays of faith are almost non-existent, and a secularisation of society leaves Ireland and Quebec in very comparable worlds. The very particular Irish spirit that underlies the new Quebec culture and the new Irish culture, however, greatly benefit from a past that will never die.

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day! ED. NOTE: A trip to Grosse Ile and the Irish Memorial, a national park about two hours by boat past Quebec City, is a truly remarkable and highly moving experience for both Irish and non-Irish alike. The Irish arrivals of the 19th and 20th centuries have beenpreserved by the Canadian government, including the disinfection centre, first and second class hotels and a cemetery where over 6,000 Irish are buried, plus a majestic Celtic cross that welcomes visitors upon arrival. The island is open to the public throughout the summer months through October… go to http://www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/qc/grosseile/index.aspx

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Groundbreaking News!

The initiative of an interfaith blog – faithblender.com

the United States, there was the removal of the display of the Ten Commandments in a government office building and, here at home, there was the prohibition of displays of Christmas trees and decorations, including the refusal to display a Menorah in public.

by Father John Walsh It is said that retirement has many challenges, but few for which you can prepare. One for which I had perhaps prepared for many years - but was soon to discover as a new challenge – involved inviting two of my friends, Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz and Imam Dr. Ziyad Delic, to join me in forming an interfaith blog. All three of us became enthusiastic about the possibilities. We emailed back and forth, trying to determine what the blog could bring to people who would read it. It wasn’t long before we agreed that everyday lives are affected by how people, including Jews, Christians, Muslims and all people of faith and goodwill, see themselves and the world around them.

All people are looking for meaning in their lives: Questions abound! The reality is that responses to the very same questions, situations and issues often offer differing interpretations that create conflict. The three of us have spent some time together and feel certain that our honesty will prevail, even when we agree to disagree. Rabbi Steinmetz is the Chief Rabbi in an Orthodox Community, Congregation Tifereth Beth David Jerusalem, located in the West End of the City of Montreal. TBDJ, as it is commonly referred to, is an open, warm modern Orthodox synagogue committed to serious involvement in prayer, Torah study, social action and communal involvement. You will see all these wonderful hallmarks in the writings of the Rabbi.

Imam Dr. Ziyad Delic takes pride in his position as a Canadian Imam. He is a published author, an activist, teacher, scholar and public speaker. He is known among young Muslims as “The People’s Imam” and has worked hard to forge strong relationships with Christian, Jewish, Sikh and Aboriginal leaders. He is forthright when he speaks out against extremism.

Religion is meant to be a positive contribution to the humanization of the world. This blog is a coming together of the three monotheistic religions, a collaborative project to present to the public three perspectives on life in the 21st century. The points of view of the three traditions converge when they willingly - and sometimes courageously - express their different approaches to explain how their religious traditions deal with issues all people have to face in this century.

This blog is a beacon of hope for a world in crisis and it is hope that respects the faith of those who dare to open a dialogue. In the everyday of our lives, all people face the challenges of life, whether they live with a vision of faith or not. Living in this world is sustainable to the extent that people freely, openly, willingly and cooperatively work towards a better world to offer humanity a path towards a mature understanding and appreciation of life in all its facets.

Theoretical solutions to situations that arise in life leave most people disheartened, whereas changes are accepted and welcomed when tangible results, however inconsequential they may seem to be on a world-scale, become stepping-stones to a greater unity of humankind. Small steps lead to giant steps. Small victories lead to greater victories. This blog is one small attempt to bring together three religious traditions, three clergy from these traditions, and to invite others to post their points of view in a respectful manner so that ultimately the circle of partners will grow to encompass more and more people in an honest dialogue.

Change can never happen when we live where “my” world begins and “my” world ends. We can change the world when we open our individual worlds to include “the other.”

Please click on faithblender.com.

I am Father John Walsh, a Roman Catholic priest, who has worked in ecumenical and inter-faith dialogues for several decades. I am presently on the Board of Directors of the Ecumenical Centre of Canada. My ministry and studies have taken me half way around the world and now this blog will bring all three of us to the entire world through the Internet. The hope and aspiration of our blog is to offer three expressions of faith on subjects and issues that face all of our faith communities and all people everywhere.

We live on the same planet Earth, we share the same city streets, we work in the same offices and we hope all people of faith accept the incredible task of humanizing the world.

We are compelled to humanize our world and respect each other’s differences, as well as to rejoice at our similarities.

Humanity is at stake. There are movements afoot to promote a totally secular society in which religion is privatized and not allowed to be present in the public domain. Many incidents have occurred because of such an attitude: In

THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 11)

(l-r): Imam Dr. Ziyad Delic, Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz and Father John Walsh

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Business as Art/Art as Business

Gallery Atelier Quartz shines in Montreal West

by Chantalle Kudsi

A number of years ago, I was living in Toronto when the city launched its "Toronto: Live with Art" campaign. At the time, I couldn't help but make the comparison to Montreal, a city so alive with art it would seem absurd to be reminded to live with it. In Montreal we are surrounded by art. We have a rich and diverse artistic community. For artists, it is a great place to live and to create.

But artists also need a venue from which to sell their work.

Several weeks ago, The Gazette spotlighted some of the challenges Montreal artists face when it comes to exposure, and in particular, what local art galleries are doing to diversify and stay relevant to the public.

Some art galleries in the city are exclusive, by appointment only, and feature work by one or two artists. Others are more casual in atmosphere and are like ateliers, studios, where during opening hours the public is welcome to come right in, have a look around, engage with a working artist and see a number of pieces available for sale by a variety of artists.

One such gallery new on the scene is Atelier Quartz, located on Westminster in Montreal West. Opened in August 2011, it's the creative vision of artist and decorative painter Irene Marconi, who rents the space. Part studio and part exhibition space, it houses both her atelier in the back and artist Chris Tobin's studio in the front. The remaining area is gallery, offering paintings by emerging and established artists in a range of genres and styles, from antique to realist to abstract modern.

There are decorative mirrors, small pieces of furniture, and wooden floor sculptures, too.

Many of the works exhibited at Atelier Quartz are here on consignment, providing a great opportunity for artists working in painting, photography, sculpture, textile, or any other medium, to find some exposure in the neighbourhood. Marconi, along with Tobin, has the final say as to which pieces go in. The gallery then takes a reasonable 30% commission on every piece sold.

Marconi is a big supporter of first time exhibitors and, with that in mind, the gallery can also be rented by the week to artists wishing to have their own exhibit. With its high ceilings, natural light from street-level windows, exposed red-brick and fresh white walls, the gallery is an ideal space for a vernissage.

Atelier Quartz was initially born out of an artist's desire to find a work space and to show people how the painting techniques she uses, such as faux finishes, Venetian stucco, and trompe l'oeil, can enhance a home or business. "I was looking for a studio at street-level, because I wanted to have more visibility," Marconi explains. "I always worked as a decorative painter, but I always relied upon interior designers or architects. The clients don't really know what you can do with paint. So this was the first step."

How did artist Chris Tobin, whose realist and abstract paintings hang around the gallery, also come to have a studio here? "I live across the street. When it opened up, I thought, wow, isn't that cool. This has worked out great. What a great work space."

"And now I'm more involved," he adds, having just done the Atelier Quartz website.

Both Marconi and Tobin are excited about things to come, and invite you to check out Atelier Quartz. "It's not an intimidating gallery, it's kind of got the feel of a studio," says Tobin. "And it also smells like a studio," adds Marconi. "Paint thinner and oil."

THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 12)

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Atellier Quartz is located at 51 Westminster North in Montreal West, telephone (514) 439-6919, website www.atelierquartz.com A self-taught artist, Irene Marconi has been creating high quality decorative finishes, including murals, trompe l'oeil, and faux finishes, for 20 years. More recently, she has made the foray into easel painting. Her customized work can be seen at www.irenemarconi.com Chris Tobin is a full-time artist who began painting in watercolour but soon switched to oil, his medium of choice. He paints realism as well as abstract and impressionism, and often works from commissioned contracts. His art can be seen at www.chris-tobin.com

THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 13)

Upcoming Events From March 27 until April 1, Atelier Quartz will be holding a Daffodil Sale for the Canadian Cancer Society. A silent auction will also be held between those dates, of work submitted by participating artists in an array of mediums, with 40 percent of sales going to The Canadian Cancer Society, 40 percent to the artist and 20 percent to the Gallery to cover costs.

On Saturday, March 31, the gallery will host an evening event with silent auction, food, beverages, dancing and a live band. Proceeds go to The Daffodil Charity Foundation. For more information contact Atelier Quartz.

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LEISURE AND ENTERTAINMENT - LEISURE AND ENTERTAINMENT Freestyle wedding photography

Our critic takes a break from film post-Oscar (and music) to discuss one of the literary field’s most successful writers:

Naturally over the last 20 years I have been asked “ Do you do weddings?” many times. Normally I would decline, as I never saw myself as the sort who positions the family in front of a staircase, having people chase me around asking if I got a picture of this person, or of that person… you get the picture?

There’s a tendency by many to assume that popular authors are generally also hacks who pander to the lowest common denominator, since their great success must necessarily come about because they write “down” to their audience. But that’s definitely not the case with Stephen King, who for nearly 40 years has crafted skilled works that are among the best in their field. He’s known as a horror writer but though many of his books, such as Carrie, The Shining, Salem’s Lot and It fit neatly into that genre, others run the gamut from science fiction (The Stand, The Dead Zone) to mainstream books (Dolores Claiborne, Hearts in Atlantis).

He’s even written non-fiction, including Danse Macabre, an analysis of the horror genre, in print and on screen, and On Writing, literary criticism focusing on his craft. What all his books share is an uncommon ability to present great characters and, for the most part, to offer smartly thoughtout and highly creative flights of the imagination.

I’m nearly done reading his latest book, 11/22/63, a weighty tome about a time traveler who goes back to 1963 in a bid to prevent the assassination of President John. F. Kennedy, and once again, I’m blown away at how good King is at putting believable personalities down on the printed page. You always utterly believe in his protagonists and how they act. 11/22/63, though, is also terrific SF, one of King’s best books in a career filled with great reads. Following on the heels of his equally fine 2009 novel Under the Dome, a dark, disturbing SF saga about a town which wakes up to find itself encased in an impregnable dome, his latest suggests that, if anything, King is becoming even better at writing, no mean feat.

His books also reflect America, good and bad, heroic and cowardly. If Under the Dome is a subtle take on a postSarah Palin mean-spirited, ignorant USA, 11/22/63 is a Kennedyesque or even Obamaesque novel about idealism and optimism and what people are capable of doing at their best. Born in Portland, Maine, King has always displayed a nuanced, discerning eye for small town life without glamourizing nor demonizing it, as is evident in 11/22/63, which also points out the positives and negatives of the ‘60s as compared to our present. If books can sometimes be seen as time capsules of their time and place, you can’t do any better then entering Stephen King’s fascinating, riveting worlds.

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

THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 14)

Photophaeliac by Ricky Friedlander

Entertainment Entre Nous - Shlomo Schwartzberg

Shlomo on Stephen – Latest book about Kennedy ultimate time capsule

Well, a transition in wedding photography started to take place for me not too far back. Couples were starting to hire photo-journalists to cover their weddings, veering away from the traditional wedding album that many a family member has had to endure while visiting the newlyweds for years following the wedding. Eventually the album finds itself dusty and buried away forever with old skates and the dish set they never opened.

When I started getting some calls for weddings, first and foremost I created a contract that granted me the photographic freedom I deemed necessary to make this work.

I decided to approach this as I would a photo essay. Capture the love, the event, the moment and create a story for this historic evening. Then it would be something I would be inclined to do. I explain this to the couple, point out the essential people that, in my opinion, I might direct my attention to ( as with most weddings today, many people bring point and shoot digital cameras and capture all the in-betweens) and off I go, looking for nice light conditions, a laugh, a hug, a kiss….

I have been very happy with the weddings I have photographed.

Nice, tight cropped portraits, slow shutter speed movement images that lend a sense of romantisicm and such, all contributing some of my artistic flair to the memories of this couple, hopefully forever. Simply stated, I capture my images from a natural, non-posed point of view.

I do not feature the weddings I have photographed on my website. But a portfolio is available online for private viewing. rick@friedlanderphotography.com

A Bit of wedding humour A woman was telling her friend , "It was I who made my husband a millionaire." "And what was he before you married him?" asked the friend. The woman replied, " A multi-millionaire".

Marriage - an institution in which a man loses his Bachelor's Degree and the woman gets her Masters.

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A Hollywood director’s look at this year’s best films I have a dear friend who has worked with Clint Eastwood for years and he has made it clear, Clint’s crew is all about friends and family working together. An actor friend of mine has worked with the Coen Brothers a couple of times, he tells me that their sets are also all about friends and no drama. They, like Clint, feel making a movie is difficult enough, they don’t need bad energy. Hollywood itself can be a soul sapping, hope stealing enterprise, why would you surround yourself with anything less.

There is an old adage in the politics of the United States attributed to Harry Truman; You want a friend in Washington, get a dog! I think many who work in Hollywood would tell you the same thing about surviving the “biz” where you are reminded, sarcastically at times, that everyone is your friend and no one is.

Liner Notes - Sharon Hyland

Letters From L a L a L and - Steven Goldman

Every marital union features a great soundtrack

I’m thinking about how lucky I feel that I have the friends I do more then ever. I sit writing this LETTER FROM LA LA LAND from Old San Juan Puerto Rico about to board a really huge yacht to cruise the Caribbean for 7 days, all expenses paid. I would never be on this trip, but for the love, kindness and generousness of a very special friend.

The last couple of years have been tough for this ex-Montrealer living and trying to work in LA. I have unfortunately learned the hard way that the “social safety net” in the US has some huge holes and after a battle with cancer, me and my family fell through one.

Over Thanksgiving break I directed a music video for country music superstar Alan Jackson. Over the course of the week, his manager, an old friend, got to catch up. Because of this crazy business we are in, we had lost contact over the last few years and she did not know anything about my health issues. Weeks later, when I finished the video, she asked me a series of questions about what I do with my kids when my wife and I go away alone.

I said we don’t do anything because we don’t go anywhere just us - haven’t in 20 years. Well she told me we would have to. She explained that she had won a silent auction in my named at huge cancer research fundraiser. What she won in my name is the trip my wife and are on as I write this!

I'm lucky that I've been allowed to marry my work and my play to one great lifelong soundtrack. I LOVE music! I love how a song can take you right back to the moment you first heard it, how it can empower you, support you and even get you riled up and ready to take on the world. That's the power of music. It sets the mood, can make or break a party and can create lasting memories.

How about the all important choice of the song for your first dance on your big day? Celine Dion, Whitney Houston and Shania Twain have made it to many a wedding that way. It comes down to one song that will convey to your family, friends and in some cases people you'll never see again, just how much you love the person with whom you've just vowed to spend the rest of your life. No pressure!

Should that wedding song be "Because You Loved Me," "I Will Always Love You" or "From This Moment"? Maybe Bette Midler is lingering in the back of your mind, but you probably shouldn't be asking a question about whether or not you've told your new spouse that they're your hero.

Love may be blind, but don't be fooled by songs with “love” in the title. Eminem and Rihanna's "Love The Way You Lie" really sets the tone for a rocky start. Soft Cell's "Tainted Love" is an 80's classic; one of those songs that have you singing along sometimes without realizing what you're singing. "Now I know I've got to run away" is not the vibe that says “I'm in this for the long haul.”

Likewise with J. Geils Band's "Love Stinks," which might be better played at your divorce party, which you shouldn't been planning before your wedding day, in any event.

Bad Company's "Feel Like Making Love," "Love Gun" by Kiss and Motley Crue's "Punched in the Teeth by Love," are, albeit fun, a combination of 'obviously bad choices for the occasion' and 'difficult to explain to your parents.'

So, choose wisely and remember that the gushy tunes work for a reason. They might seem cliché or even simple, but the song is the compliment to the very personal love story you've already written (all together now... “Awwwwwww!”).

Solution

I know we could not have gotten by without a little help from my friends...and family. Thank you Ringo for letting twist your words, and thank you Alan, David, Lawrence, Jacob, Randee, Tony and Stephen for being there and teaching me what friendship and brotherhood really means. Sometimes people truly surprise you with the depth and breadth of love and kindness. Their love can be illuminating, life changing and in one case truly surprising.

Every great union starts with an introduction, and, considering the theme of this month's issue, here goes. Hi, I'm Sharon. Montrealerborn-and-raised, I've been working in radio for about 18 years now, the bulk of it at CHOM 97-7. I celebrated my 15th anniversary there back in October.

That someone, anyone would do something like this is both unbelievable and an incredible honor. To be worthy of such gift...heck, such friends, is something else entirely. I am a very luck man. I have some wonderful friends who truly have taught me about what it means to be a friend. And oh, I have an adorable dog.

THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 15)

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DOLLAR CINEMA

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Buy SparkFun products at Montreal’s Abra Electronics, Canada’s main supplier of SparkFun … and so much more.

SparkFun – Let Your Geek Shine!

Only at Abra Electronics 5580 Cote de Liesse (corner Devonshire) Montreal H4P 1A9 514-731-0117/1-800-361-5237 www.abra-electronics.com Watch for an upcoming feature on a brilliant Montreal teen who is making waves at school for her

THE LOCAL HERALD,

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Looking to compete with the Mad Inventor next door?

in the Local Herald works

MARCH 16 (pg. 16)

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The Local Herald proudly brings you businesses any soon-to-wed couples would happily patronize: What a marriage!

THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 17)

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Brides on a Budget How to Have a Fabulous Wedding for Less (Family Features) The average wedding in America costs around $29,000, according to The Wedding Report, Inc., a wedding industry research company. Not surprisingly, couples are looking for ways to save money on their special day.

Here are some ideas to help you have a wonderful wedding on a budget.

The Date. Having a wedding on off-peak months and days can be a bargain. November through April are slower months for weddings, so many halls, caterers and other service providers give discounts because they have fewer bookings. Some will also have discounts for weddings held on any day other than Saturday.

The Venue. If you know anyone with a beautiful home or a large garden, consider having the wedding there.

Be sure to factor in the cost of renting tables and chairs. Holding the reception at a private place lets you buy your own alcohol and hire your own bartenders, both of which can save you money. Another option is to negotiate a package deal on an all-inclusive venue such as a hotel. The wedding and reception are all in one place, and out of town guests won't have far to go when the party's over. (Negotiate a good deal on a block of rooms for guests.)

choosing poly satin instead of silk fabric. Another option is to buy a discontinued design, rather than the latest one.These are usually less expensive and can be found at smaller dress shops or consignment shops.

Flowers. Do you really need fresh flowers blanketing everything? Many couples opt for fresh flowers for the bridal party and silk arrangements as decoration for the ceremony and reception.

Look into candles, ribbons, shells and decorative stones as alternatives.

Food. Save serious money by planning the reception for a time when guests will not need a full, seated meal. If your ceremony is between one and three in the afternoon, you can have a tea reception. Serve tea, finger sandwiches, scones and mini pastries. For a reception starting at four or five p.m., have a cocktail reception. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres are all you need. Make it clear on your invitation - "Tea (or cocktail) reception to follow."

Decorations and Favors. Take inventory of what you already have - and what friends and family have. Borrowing is cheaper than buying or renting, so ask around. Do-it-yourself favors are a great way to personalize your wedding for less. If you do need to buy supplies in large quantities, don't be afraid to talk to the store manager about a bulk discount.

Invitations. Keep them simple. High-end paper, custom-colored inks, decorative linings and multiple enclosures all cost more. Do online research to find the best deal - or print them yourself. You can find plenty of affordable options at craft, hobby or office supply stores. To keep postage costs down, don't use oversized or heavy paper.

You can have a fabulous wedding for less with some planning and elbow grease. But the best advice for saving money is to make a budget and stick to it.You'll be tempted to upgrade just a little here and there - but pretty soon your bargain wedding is no bargain at all.

The Dress. It's possible to save big on your dress by

Courtesy of Family Features

THE LOCAL HERALD,

The Local Herald proudly brings you businesses any soon-to-wed couples would happily patronize: What a marriage!

MARCH 16 (pg. 18)

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Celebrating 25 years in business: Capturing moments that will be treasured for many lifetimes

ATTN Wedding Planners Everywhere!

We cater to your every whim‌ Chef Pat knows what hungry wedding guests like to eat and he can cater it all, from choice cuts of meats and chicken, fish and seafood to the most delectable desserts in town.

Remember that we are renowned for our quality fruits, hence our name:

Pat 514-945-5292 For your once-in-a-lifetime celebration, for the very best, go no farther than

QualitiFruits 5818 Westminster Ave. (corner Mackle Rd. , near the CP yards)

514-481-7341

THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 19)

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Wedding Belles, Beaus and B and

The Directors: Directing your event with stylistic sound Story by Bram D. Eisenthal Photo by La V Photo About 7-8 years ago, I wrote a column on a wedding band led by veteran West End crooner Tony Picciuto, who had started the then-named Il Diretori with friend Frank Bufo. I instantly took a liking to the singer, but when I first heard his band I was really impressed. More like Sinatra than Biber, Picciuto could really deliver them with panache: Classics and latter-day tunes alike.

Then Randi Katz came into the picture and while the band didn’t completely change its substance, it did transform into an even better incarnation with her sharing the crooning with the master singer. Newly named The Directors, Katz helped the band usher in a whole new style, introducing Tony and the other musicians to those in the Jewish community, who appreciated great music as much as the Italians did.

“The band was always top three in its market,” Katz told me recently. “It began as a four piece, then five, seven and now an 11-piece show band. It has always adapted to the changing times, trends and the needs of the client. But more than anything, The Directors Showband is an unparalleled, electrifying group. We were the band cast for the role in the Golden Globe and Juno award winning, Academy award nominated film ‘Barney's Version.’ The strong blend of qualified musicians matched with engaging, superior talented front people/entertainers are what make The Directors Showband stand out.”

Their discerning attention to song selection and attention to the dance floor along with their strategic marketing efforts and customer service are what keeps the band regarded as the most sought after show band in Montreal. Given their proper backgrounds and experience in the events industry, their management skills give them the upper hand when dealing with their clients.

The band performs at over 70 corporate, private and fundraising events per year, a number that keeps growing constantly. For instance, I have experienced them three times at Valentine’s Day events that were once annual occasions at Buffet Sorento in Lasalle and had a blast every time, as both good food and dancing to tremendous tunes were guaranteed. Where else could you enjoy hors d’oeuvres, a sit down dinner and dancing till the wee hours to a professional live band, all for a mere $75 per person?

“Every event is an opportunity to get up and entertain,” Picciuto and Katz (seated, centre) flanked by their stellar musicians.

Picciuto said. “We don’t view it as a tedious chore. It excited us and we’re driven by the fact that people want us to perform for their most important moments of their life.

We’re driven by the passion and love for what we do.”

Asked if having a female crooner has made a difference, he replied that he didn’t see Katz as a crooner at all. “Crooner is not the way I would describe Randi. Apart from being a beautiful and talented girl, her vocal versatility to cover any style of music is a rare find. It’s hard to find in a singer that can cover everything from Etta James to Lady Gaga and do it well. All that and business abilities to boot!”

As for the gig on the film Barney’s Version, how did that happen? ”They found us on the Internet, but we had to audition and qualify for the role,” Katz told me. “And we’re still pinching ourselves (all you need do is look on the cover of the DVD and there they are, The Directors, Katz, Picciuto and several musicians prominently seen in the background). It definitely brought worldwide attention to the band. It also gave us that seal of approval that we were on the right track. But as they say: ‘You’re only as good as your last performance.’

In the film, based on the story by late, legendary Montreal author Mordecai Richler, The Directors performs at one of Barney Panovsky’s (a role played by actor Paul Giamatti) weddings. Giamatti won Genie and Golden Globe awards for his inspirational work.

THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 20)

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I was curious to hear such a seasoned veteran as Picciuto discuss wedding bands in general. How does performing at a wedding differ from doing other gigs?

“Nothing really changes, although at a wedding, when we’re entertaining 300 guests, the most important people in the room are the two people whose lives are coming together,” Picciuto said. “And every decision made is for them and their friends and family. You have to remember that this is the kickoff party to their lives and that this will be a memory for the rest of their lives. ”Keep in mind that any band has to face the reality that music has changed,” Picciuto added. “The bands have to really be able to reproduce both old classic favourites and today’s music. The quality of the performances has changed, HAD to change, mainly because the customer has become more educated. American Idol and the other singing shows put a lot of pressure on singers and musicians to be at the tops of their game. Everyone in the audience is a Simon Cowell.

“Where some bands are relying on technology (sequences) to produce sounds on stage, we still believe that producing the sounds and music live, even though this might be more challenging, is the way to go.” Katz was asked to give some pointers… what does one look for in a good wedding band?

“Find a band with strong performances, strong entertainment values and the ability to read the crowd, a band that plays for the party and not the clock.

Remember that, for real professionals, performing is not a job, it is a pleasure. And that goes for every single supplier you’ll be dealing with that day. Be sure you feel comfortable with them and that they are working for you and not themselves. The last thing you want to feel on your wedding day is that you are part of a production line.”

To book The Directors, call them at 514.926.4426. They can also be contacted through their website: www.thedirectors.ca. Feel free to LIKE their Facebook fan page, at http://www.facebook.com/thedirectorsshowband

Breaking News: The Directors are finalists in the Canadian Special Events Reader's Choice Awards, with the voting deadline March 23, 2012. The link for voting is http://www.facebook.com/l/9AQG5Wmu8AQ FTClAwV3VnUvZiI8EkNGmlOCuXaotFlSTzA/ca nadianspecialevents.com/cseme_toronto/re aders-choice-awards-nominees/

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MARCH 16 (pg. 21)

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S PORTS - S PORTS - S PORTS - S PORTS - S PORTS J e a n B e l i ve a u – C l a s s , k i n d n e s s a n d g e n e r o s i t y

Spotlight on Sports by Paul Graif

Canadiens Nation held its collective breath with the news last week that Jean Beliveau was in hospital after suffering a stroke.

News directors across Canada scrambled to make sure the obit stories were up to date and that potential guests were lined up for reaction should the hockey great finally succumb to one of his illnesses.

of making the person he is talking to feel like the only person in the room. There are reasons why he holds the Order of Canada and was offered a seat in the Senate.

I have interviewed and spoken with Mr. Beliveau more times than I can count and I have felt privileged every single time. Several years ago he invited me to his house for one of those interviews. I can’t remember why I was even there. But I know I was struck by his warmth and kindness and that of his wife Elise: They have been married for nearly 60 years and she is just as classy as her husband.

He took me down to his office in the basement of the home in Longeueil they lived in for 50 years. There he had some memorabilia, but it was hardly ostentatious. What struck me most was the pile of mail on his desk. I asked him how much mail he received - he said it was about 100 letters per week. He took the time too respond to every single one. Here’s hoping that he’s back at his desk soon, catching up to that ever growing pile of mail at his new condo and at the offices of the Montreal Canadiens.

The outpouring of support for “Le Gros Bill” has been overwhelming, but for me, it seems as if the hundreds of thousands of words written about Beliveau have been written posthumously. I guess I understand why. He has had several health scares in the last decade, including a troubling case of neck cancer in 2000, that left him unable to produce saliva. But Beliveau also appears to be indestructible and we want him to be, we need him to be… he represents all that is good in sport. He competed hard, won 10 Stanley Cups and was never even so much as mentioned as part of any scandal. He seemed to rise above it all. He scored 500 goals with class, even though opponents described how running into him felt like hitting an Oak Tree.

(ED. NOTE: I have interviewed Mr. Beliveau twice and both times were truly an honour for me, as well, as Paul’s every word about him rang true. And of every milestone NHL goal I ever saw, it is the image of an aging Beliveau, captai of the Habs in his final season, 1970-1971, scoring a beautiful 500th on Minnesota goalie Gilles Gilbert assisted by Phil Roberto and Frank Mahovlich, that I will remember most. If a photo representing class, kindness and generosity is ever required, you need look no farther than a picture of Jean Beliveau. We wish him a speedy and complete recovery).

Many of us in the business of sports reporting have some touching stories about the legend. Beliveau is one of the rare athletes who looks you in the eye when he says hello and shakes your hand. Hard to imagine what a profound effect that can have on the jaded reporting crowd. No matter how long we have to wait around to conduct an interview with Beliveau, we don’t seem to mind his signing every last autograph requested of him.

How cycling saved my life It’s early March and, for me, the outdoor cycling season is already in full gear.

Yup, my spandex is sorted, my jerseys hanging in unison, bikes polished and tuned, training plans tweaked. I read every imaginable cycling magazine over the winter – twice.

And once you sit down to talk about any subject, be it the Canadiens, his friends or his time as Chef du Mission for Canada at the Maccabiah Games in Israel (something that is very close to his heart), Beliveau is thoughtful and introspective. He has a way

While the NHL strike decimated the entire 2004-2005 season, I arranged a meeting with Habs’ goodwill ambassador Jean Beliveau, then a spry 72 years old, in order to take some photos for a feature.

I was allowed to invite my very good friend Morley Lonn and his young sons Shayne and Kyle - Mr. Beliveau graciously posed for pictures with us and signed various objects in the Bell Centre’s Canadiens Oldtimer’s Lounge. A lot has changed today, with the 80-year old Mr. Beliveau recovering from a stroke, Shayne running his own renovations business and Kyle about to be married in July.

What has not changed, however, is our adoration of and respect for the Habs’ legend. We wish you a fast recovery and a long life, Jean!

The Cyclopath

ROB CALLARD

Then as now – Jean Beliveau the epitome of class

I admit it – I’m a Cyclopath.

I know all of you – you’re the ones who gaze with hatred as I blow past on my super-lightweight full-carbon road machine, decked out in my Sunday best lycra, color-coordinated down to the aerodynamic socks they say take seconds off your best riding time. I believe it – I feel faster just knowing I have those socks on.

MARCH 16 (pg. 22)

The weight came off, I started to feel great, my motivation to take the sport up a notch increased, my mood changed, my car sat in the driveway while I rode to work…I was seeing the world through a different lens …. a clearer lens. And then, one evening, I found a lump in my abdomen. The doctors said that cycling may just have saved my life – if I hadn’t lost all the weight, I would have never discovered the tumour. How is that for gratitude?

After the chemo, I got right back on my bike and managed to ride 7,500 kms. That year. Can’t tell you how this sport has transformed my life in so many different ways.

Yes, a bike changed my life.

I love the sport of cycling, and with it comes the nerdiness of the gear, the clothes, the tech talk…. the Spandex… don’t knock it till you try it!

But I’m sane enough to know that you don’t need all of the “stuff.” It’s just periphery. Take it from me, cycling saved my life. The “gear” that comes with it didn’t.

So wear the gear, or don’t. You don’t need carbon fiber to ride - Just a pair of legs, and a desire to feel the wind pushing you on a crisp April morning. The rest is easy.

I, for one, am in cyclopathic nirvana.

See you next time!

A few years back, overweight, lethargic, and in terrible physical shape, I had one of those “moments” when you knew you had to change something in your life. I thought about my passion for the bike as a kid, and

- Bram Eisenthal, Editor

THE LOCAL HERALD,

decided to give it a try again. And that was it. I was hooked.

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Rob Callard is a restaurateur in Westmount who cycles to work from Beaconsfield eight months of the year. He is married with three young boys. They all support his cyclopathic passion for cycling.

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Pro baseball back in Montreal?

As we memorialize Carter, the interest is there Gary Carter’s recent untimely and painful (for us, hopefully not for him) death brought back such vivid memories of his beloved Montreal Expos, a team that was one of THE perennial sellouts in the major leagues at one point, whose interest dwindled after a series of financial and political wrangling that started when original owner Charles Bronfman abdicated and sold the team to Claude Brochu. Up to that time, they captured our hearts and souls like no other local sports entity since the heyday of the current bottomdwelling Montreal Canadiens.

A series of events in recent years, however, have reignited the passion and raised the issue of baseball returning here, potentially as a semi-pro team and then as a MLB team again. Montreal HAS the history. Jackie Robinson DID break the colour barrier here with the Montreal Royals prior to starring with the Brooklyn Dodgers. The Expos DID feature some of the league’s top players, with Gary Carter, Pedro Martinez, Vladimir Guerrero, Andre Dawson and others too numerous to mention starting their careers here and then fanning out to achieve career fame elsewhere. And it STILL hurts, a full eight years after the team relocated to Washington thanks to the manipulations of a heinous, irresponsible and singleminded owner named Jeffrey Loria, for whom the mighty dollar was a loftier motivation than anything else.

This weekend, on Sunday, March 18, Expos history will be front and forward the highlight of the day as the Cummings Centre’s Sports Celebrity Breakfast will memorialize Gary Carter when it honours entrepreneur, volunteer and philanthropist Alan Maislin. Cromartie will be on hand to speak about his close friend and team-mate of nine seasons. Indeed, nothing was more heartbreaking than hearing a shattered Cromartie’s comments on a TSN/Team990 radio interview, immediately following Carter’s death.

Meanwhile, our hearts go out to everyone associated with late Hall of Famer Gary Carter, certainly anyone touched by him during his formative baseball years in Montreal. And, as we remember with pride: We had him here first! And, Gary, “we won’t forget your smile.”

Slayd’s “Kid (A tribute to Gary Carter)” is must viewing for anyone who wants to remember. Warning: More tears are guaranteed. Go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AY5RSmXzfvc

Carter’s death brought it all back for so many people, but anytime we have a chance to congregate and remember those fantastic 35 years, the love is evident. Last year, the West End’s Cummings Jewish Centre for Seniors feted the 1994 Expos, the “best team in baseball” before a MLB strike nullified its World Series ambitions.

The centre’s annual Sports Celebrity Breakfast was a massive sellout that year, as a slew of players from that team, led by former manager Felipe Alou, regaled the throng with stories and reminiscences. Talented hip hop artist Annakin Slayd screened his moving, rousing video tribute called Remember (A Tribute to the Montreal Expos), filled with clips and images culled from his extensive private personal collection. I challenge everyone who watches it on YouTube not to shed a tear, or find themselves bawling their eyes out.

Last weekend, Expos outfielder Warren Cromartie, who later also became a bonafide star and owner in the pro Japanese league, appeared at an Irish tribute breakfast in downtown Montreal and revealed that he and Carter had discussed the possibility of a pro team returning to Montreal someday. Hey, it has happened to the city of Washington, twice already, in fact, so why not? There is no reason this city can’t support pro teams in every major sport, certainly not a lack of enthusiasm on the part of the Frenchspeaking Montreal majority, who are tiring of the misguided antics of the sad-sack Habs as much as anglos and allophones are. Start small, Cromartie urged, with an amateur or semi-pro team, as they have in Quebec City with the popular Capitales of the Canadian American Association of Professional Baseball, and work our way up! “The majors will take notice,” he said. Cromartie also stressed the need for SOME sort of museum or other institution people can visit in this city, to learn about the history of the Expos. Currently, nothing at all exists here and that, he added, is nothing short of a travesty.

THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 23)

We hope you have enjoyed this issue of THE LOCAL HERALD We are working on next issue and it will be out April 20, 2012 Deadline: Friday, April 13 5pm.

Next time : Don’t miss the Eco-friendly EARTH DAY ISSUE of

Best, Bram

the West End Montreal’s most unique community paper.

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THE LOCAL HERALD,

MARCH 16 (pg. 24)

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