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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Vol. 13 No. 47 December 22, 2015

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Snow news is good news

IMAGE COURTESY SYLVIA GARLAND

“Santa Claus has the right idea. Visit people once a year.” - Victor Borge

In this last edition of Your Local Journal in 2015, and while wishing all our readers and advertisers Happy Holidays and a very Merry Christmas, we are delighted to feature this original painting for YLJ by Laval-based artist, Sylvia Garland who has been commissioned by several local companies for seasonal window painting and murals and whose multi-faceted creations take pride of place in private collections throughout Canada and the U.S., as well as at the offices of the Quebec Delegation in New York.

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YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

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STORIES OF THE YEAR JANUARY

Hacked by Mecca John Jantak A cyber-attack by an Islamist extremist group called Middle East Cyber Army (MECA) hijacked the town’s domain name and replaced the home page with a propaganda page filled with jihadist rants. The hack was first discovered just after 9 p.m., January 22, by a Your Lo-

cal Journal (YLJ) journalist who visited the website by chance to begin preparing a story on the upcoming inauguration of the town’s new fire hall scheduled for Monday, January 26. A page immediately popped up with flashing words that displayed the message “HACKED BY MECA”. The town finally regained control of its website almost 11 hours later.

Though the story garnered national attention, it was determined that rather than being targeted, the town merely had a particular vulnerability in its site that allowed the hack. “We have a private firm that takes care of our website server which is located off-site. It has nothing to do with the service provided by our mu-

PHOTO BY JOHN JANTAK

nicipality,” said DG Ron Kelley. “There was no confidential information that was compromised.”

Pay hike for BeaconsÀeld councillors Carmen Marie Fabio News that Beaconsfield elected officials voted late in 2014 to increase their remuneration by 40 per cent – the first increase implemented in the town in almost eight years – was met with mixed reaction by residents and invoked an ongoing email debate. The increase put Beaconsfield at

about the middle of the earning field for 22 comparable cities across the province but didn’t assuage the anger of citizens who said, “You all got into this position knowing exactly what your remuneration was.” Council said it worked out to two raises in 18 years and, going forward, salaries would be adjusted on a yearly basis.

FEBRUARY

FQM president calls on oil pipeline ofÀcials to disclose their safety strategy John Jantak Citing safety concerns for the Vaudreuil-Soulanges municipalities that will be affected by the eventual flow of oil through pipelines operated by Enbridge and TransCanada Pipelines, Richard Lehoux, the President of the Fédération Québécoise des Municipalités (FQM), said his organization will continue to press both companies to provide full disclosure regard-

ing pipeline safety and security. For Lehoux, one the major concerns for Vaudreuil-Soulanges is the lack of disclosure from both Enbridge and TransCanada Pipelines for failing to provide information on what safety measures will be put in place to deal with the possibility of an oil spill should it occur within one of the municipalities that the pipelines will run through. Stories of the year continued on page 5

Correction In the December 17 edition of Your Local Journal it was stated in the fourth paragraph of the article titled ‘Slight property tax increase as Hudson Town Council approves 2016 budget ’ appearing on page 7, and also appearing in the picture adjacent thereto, that there were projected expenditures of $25,422,706 over three years. This number should have been $18,765,006. The Town of Hudson would like to apologize for this error.

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Tuesday, December 22, 2015

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

EDITOR’S CORNER

Wrap it up It’s a true testament to the community when, despite the economic belt tightening that we’ve all had to endure lately, much needed donations to food banks, community initiatives, and church groups are status quo in recognition of the increased need. Food Banks Canada reports use for food resources was 1.3 per cent higher early this year as compared to the same time in 2014. And the demand is a reported 26 per cent higher than in 2008, the year that saw the global financial crisis. With temperatures predicted to reach a record-breaking 17°C on Christmas Eve, it’s safe to say, despite some skeptics’ opinions to the contrary, that this whole climate change thing is actually happening whether we’ve been paying attention or not. Food prices, already sharply climbing, are expected to rise an additional four per cent next year as the Loonie falls following an increase in American interest rates. But the news is not all bad. Because, or perhaps in spite, of the bleak forecast – environmental and financial – we still have an embarrassment of riches, not the least of which is our ability to take care of each other. And that’s the best gift of all.

AWARD WINNING

PUBLISHER: GENERAL MANAGER: EDITOR: JOURNALIST: COLUMNIST: OFFICE MANAGER: ARTISTIC DIRECTOR: GRAPHIC DESIGNER: SALES COORDINATOR: ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS: CONTRIBUTORS:

JOSEPH BISSONNETTE MONIQUE BISSONNETTE CARMEN MARIE FABIO JOHN JANTAK JAMES PARRY JAMES ARMSTRONG RODNEY LORICA SABREENA MOHAMED KAREN SIMMONS TARA FITZGERALD ABBIE BENNETT JAMES ARMSTRONG LAUREN MITCHELL STEPHANIE O’HANLEY JULES-PIERRE MALARTRE SHELAGH MCNALLY

3100 Route Harwood, Suite 201, Vaudreuil-Dorion (QC) J7V 8P2 Tel: (450) 510-4007 • Fax: (450) 455-9769 email: admin@yourlocaljournal.ca / editor@yourlocaljournal.ca www.yourlocaljournal.ca

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

PHOTO BY JAMES PARRY

Help solve the puzzle of the mystery photo featured each week taken somewhere in the Vaudreuil-Soulanges or West Island region. Featured photos pertain to a story in this week’s newspaper. Winners get bragging rights and their names printed in the paper. Send your answers to editor@yourlocaljournal.ca. Congratulations to Notre Dame de l’Île Perrot resident Martin Roloff who was the first reader to correctly identify last week’s Puzzled? photo taken near the entrance to the Paul-Émile-Lépine Community Centre in Île Perrot. The Puzzled? feature is also available on our website www.yourlocaljournal.ca.

Dear Editor: editor@yourlocaljournal.ca Dear Editor, After declaring the 4.86 per cent tax increase to St. Lazare residents, Mayor Robert Grimaudo said that he is proud of his 2016 budget. This reflects mostly the new luxurious fire station. How can he make us believe this means an addition of $120 on our municipal taxes for 2016 and when his municipal palace will be erected with a loan of $10 million and plus, we would only pay $63 more for an evaluation of $370,000? This is an insult to our intelligence. The mayor doesn’t care if he is not re-elected. He will certainly not be and he will leave us with a sour taste of a city burden with very high municipal taxes. Alain Bruneau St. Lazare What public security? Dear Editor, I’m getting very concerned about having no real police protection in Hudson, and it’s getting worse. With all the car thefts lately in various parts of Hudson I was suspicious of the bearded man with a bag, standing/lurking on the corner of Ridge and Cameron one night last week (about 7:30) and called 311 to see if they could investigate. They did nothing but suggest I call the police (911) who had difficulty knowing where Hudson is, what I meant by a break-in (was my car broken?) and what stealing items from my car meant. Communication with (and response from) any Sûreté du Québec (SQ) officer is becoming more and more difficult lately. The Hudson council’s recent strategic plan mentions trolleys, arts & culture centre, metering water for businesses, etc. but not one word about public security which (with the present road con-

ditions) I’m sure are major concerns of most Hudson residents. There is really no public security in Hudson and almost nothing being done about it which is a disgrace considering the taxes we’re paying and the bills for the SQ, community patrol, etc. which is more than double what our own police cost before Quebec decided to tax communities for the cost of the SQ which was never intended to police communities (and don’t). Do we have to pay for it and also do it ourselves with a re-invigorated neighbourhood watch? In fact I understand the SQ presence is becoming even less. We are fortunate not have any serious crimes (rape, murder, child abduction, etc.) lately because of our lack of police protection to deal with these crimes. However, there are two real problems with inadequate police resources in the area. I have no confidence in any crime statistics published because there are so few police to collect these statistics or fill in any reports and also it is so difficult to contact the police to make a complaint or to complete and file a report. Secondly, it is very difficult to prosecute anyone breaking the law if a prosecutor does not have sufficient evidence to believe a prosecution will succeed in court, and with so few police around to collect this evidence the likelihood of many crimes not being prosecuted is much higher. This is great for criminals, not so great for residents. It is time we demand some actual service for the taxes paid, or have our council reject the use of the SQ, and withdraw from any MRC arrangement with the SQ, and return our own police force. Trevor Smith Hudson Continued on page 7

Stories of the year Continued from page 3 Last September, the 23 mayors from the regional municipalities that comprise the MRC unanimously adopted a resolution at its monthly meeting calling on TransCanada Pipelines to provide full disclosure regarding its plans for the new Energy East Pipeline that will run through its territory.

PHOTO BY JOHN JANTAK

Angell Woods’ conservation status questioned by private landowner Carmen Marie Fabio News that Beaconsfield’s Angell Woods would likely be granted conservation status by the Montreal Agglomeration Committee may be good for local dog-walkers but was met with disdain by at least one of the private landowners whose company, SEDA Holdings, owns just under 2 million square-feet of the woods. The conservation status of the 85-hectare lot, however, does not end the ongoing disputes between the city and the private landowners, SEDA, and Yale Properties who collectively own the largest tracts. SEDA Holdings’ President Diana Shahmoon alleges, “Beaconsfield and Montreal have consistently acted in bad faith towards the landowners. Everything they have done is an effort to massively slash its market value, and then “purchase” it. Further complicating the situation is the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB)

PHOTO BY CARMEN MARIE FABIO

by-law requiring Beaconsfield property owners to inoculate all ash trees on their respective properties or face monetary fines starting at $750 per ash tree. Mayor Georges Bourelle said once the issue of ownership is finalized, Beaconsfield will look at creating a ‘nature park’ while a small portion at the southern portion of the woods will be slated for low-density residential development. “That will be certainly identified and zoned for residential development,” he said, “but the bulk of the woods will be conserved.” Stories of the year continued on page 7

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Tuesday, December 22, 2015

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Helping homes for the holidays

PHOTO BY LAUREN MITCHELL

This Christmas will be a lot brighter for over 40 families living in Hudson, St. Lazare, Vaudreuil and Rigaud thanks to the generosity of all those who supported the recent auction at Hudson Village Theatre for Royal LePage Villageâ€™s 38th annual Hudson Firemanâ€™s Christmas Basket campaign that raised over $12,000 for this most worthwhile cause. Helping families

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

who are going through a rough time of it right now. In addition to food for the next month, as well as gifts and surprises for the youngsters, some of them will also be helped with their Hydro or oil heating bills, says Janet Ellerbeck on behalf of the entire Royal LePage Village team.

STORIES OF THE YEAR

St. Lazare’s H-300 housing development project John Jantak Attempting to preserve St. Lazare’s rustic charm and equestrian heritage with development requirements is the goal of the new H-300 residential project that began last spring. The sprawling urban village that will be called le Projet des Champs will comprise about 380 residential lots near the southwest corner of route de la Cité des Jeunes and Chemin Ste. Angélique.

“St. Lazare has the largest percentage, 49 per cent of buildable property in the 11 CMM municipalities that comprise Vaudreuil-Soulanges,” said Mayor Robert Grimaudo. “If we’re going to have high-density development, we’re going to do it in the east where it will do the least possible damage to the environment. We have a conservation plan. It’s been adopted by council and was designed to protect our forests and water.”

New water and sewage systems will also eventually be extended for another new housing development being planned just west of le Projet des Champs with the aim of connecting it to the town’s small industrial park which is presently not serviced. Grimaudo said the development projects will bring in much needed additional tax revenue which will help the town keep property tax rates steady.

PHOTO BY JOHN JANTAK

Hudson council vote upholds Director General’s suspension Carmen Marie Fabio

PHOTO BY JAMES ARMSTRONG

Letters Continued from page 4 TransCanada Pipeline information evening held in Rigaud December 16 Dear Editor, In addition to the six Garda security guys hired by TransCanada to guard the doors outside the building, two TC thugs at the inner door pretended to greet visitors, but were there to bar entry to protesters. I was not allowed in unless I left behind the photocopied questions I carried, intended for the TC reps. who had supposedly come to Rigaud to answer questions. I refused to leave my papers at the door, and stood there deciding what to do. When a friend came to the door to gain entry, I handed her one of my papers with questions on it to ask them, and the thugs physically pushed me out the front door. That constitutes assault, in addition to the affront to freedom of expression which expressly gives us the right to distribute flyers in public places. The thugs and a TC Vice President (whom I did not speak to because no one from inside bothered to come to the door to find out what was going on there, though they were often unoccupied, since relatively few people attended) argued that they rented the hall, so could bar anyone they wanted to. They had put out an invitation to the public, my motives were clearly peaceful, and the millingabout (it wasn’t a meeting) was held in a building my taxes pay for. No one from TC even glanced at my papers to see what they were. The people who entered whom I spoke to on exiting, found the intent of the evening was evidently marketing and not to respond to questions

In a hastily called meeting, Hudson council voted four to two to uphold the two-week unpaid suspension of Director General Catherine Haulard effective Monday, February 23. Mayor Ed Prévost told those in attendance the council and DG had “inherited each other” and though he credited Haulard from the public. Reps were unable to answer questions, but wanted to show what they had decided we needed to know - i.e. the state of their art in theory. The people demonstrating cleanup machines (for a line that’s not supposed to spill) had no clue who would operate those machines or who would be asked to purchase them and have them on hand, for example.... The only person who thought the whole thing was “très bien” was a relative of one of the 20-odd TCan employees present in the room. Basically, it was a non-event that said a lot more about TC’s attitude to the public that is directly threatened by their pipeline, than about pipeline safety. This attitude is decidedly disrespectful and even hostile. Sandra Stephenson Rigaud Hudson administration Dear Editor, Have just read Diane Piacente’s let-

for her performance during a difficult 18-month period, the interpersonal situation had deteriorated to the point where they could no longer move forward. A copy of the letter to Haulard obtained by Your Local Journal outlining the reasons for her suspension says, in part, “As General Manager, you must act in the best interests of all citizens of Hudson. Your personality

conflict and recriminations towards (union negotiator) Ms. Sheehan clearly diverted you from the best interests that should define a Director General. Both Haulard, who has since left her position, and Sheehan currently have ongoing lawsuits against the town.

ter ranting on about all the bad things that have occurred in Town Hall starting with the crime that Louise Villandré perpetrated in stealing money from the public purse. I might suggest at this time, Christmas, we might start thinking positively and remember words fitting to this season. Forgiveness, tolerance, redemption, love, understanding, moving forward, giving another chance, receiving. Hudson is our home. Louise is a citizen of long standing. She comes from an early family of settlers and developers of this community. She worked diligently and capably for the town for 43 years. I don’t pretend to know what happened to her, but I think we as a town, and as a caring community, can come up with some proposal that Louise would be able to redeem herself here at “home.” Maybe go back to working as an administrator at Town Hall. She was certainly very good at it. But ...no stealing this time! Think of

the “good” publicity this action would incite abroad. The Town could achieve a high regard from other communities. People would want to come and live and work here. Well, they would if the zoning were adjusted and there were any places to actually work. We could “fix” Pine Lake! We could declare a small light industry park; we could make bike paths, and boardwalks and parking spots by the river. We could make Sandy Beach a real public beach. We could fix the wharf. We could complete the sewer system to cover the whole town! By this opportunity for a simple Act of Redemption we can change the whole place! We might even have Town Hall running smoothly again! Hudson will continue untarnished and unblemished forever. Merry Christmas to all. Naomi Henshaw Hudson (and Mexico)

Stories of the year continued on page 8

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

THE SOAPBOX CARMEN MARIE FABIO

STORIES OF THE YEAR

Love and Rockets

St. Lazare town councillors receive 76 per cent salary increase

Did you know you can take the letters in the words 'New Year's resolutions' and rearrange them to spell 'only we aren't serious'? I take that as permission not to make any resolutions and would much rather look back on the previous year and figure out what, if anything, I've learned over the last 12 months as opposed to vowing to make some sort of major lifestyle change that I'm highly unlikely to keep. I'm not fond of getting older but I can handle getting wiser. I've learned that sometimes I can successfully talk my way out of a traffic infraction ticket and other times, it's in my own best interests to just keep my mouth shut. I've discovered that about seven newspaper staffers can easily eat a four-pound bag of Rockets Halloween candy in a little over a week. I know exactly how long it takes to get to the Valleyfield courthouse, but even if I'm running late, the security guards usually know what story I'm there for and are kind enough to direct me to the right courtroom. Thanks to statistical feedback of Facebook and website hits, we're able to see exactly what readers like, what gets viewed the most, and what goes absolutely viral. The truck that took a little trip over the side of the Île aux Tourtes Bridge in June had tens of thousands of shares, eliciting comments from throughout North America. A September story we ran about a group of motorcyclists called Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) who volunteer to stay at a kid's side as he or she is shuttled through the court system not only went viral, but after getting hundreds of thousands of hits, is still getting Likes and comments from as far away as England and New Zealand. After being without a dog for almost a decade, I'm rediscovering the joys of dog ownership and I'm sometimes stymied trying to grasp exactly what he's telling me with his whines, barks, and varied canine vocalizations. All I know, and all I really need to know, is that he's awesome. I've learned, without looking, to differentiate between a police, fire truck, or ambulance siren, a talent of which I'm immensely proud but, quite honestly, impresses no one. I've learned that I can try reasoning with people but facts and logic, in some minds, are simply barriers to their own agenda. Who am I to convince anyone that Barack Obama does not have a personal vendetta against them and is not out to kill them? I've learned that, despite the amounts of Likes and Shares offered by the connected collective when someone goes missing, some stories don't have happy endings. That's never an easy lesson. I refuse to learn how to mature as I think it's entirely overrated. I plan to always get excited over the first snowfall, Christmas morning, and seeing my family at the end of the day, and I wish the same for you. Peace, love, and happy holidays.

MARCH

John Jantak The Town of St. Lazare passed a resolution that saw the remuneration for its councillors increase by 76 per cent. Former councillor Michel Lambert brought the town to task saying the current administration should try to keep taxes for its residents as low as possible instead of giving council a substantial salary increase. Property taxes have risen an average of 4.5 per cent in the past seven years and prop-

erty values increased an average of six per cent in 2015. Mayor Robert Grimaudo defended the increase saying while councillors’ salaries were being increased from $11,000 to just over $19,000, they will no longer receive a $100 stipend for each municipal committee meeting or function they attend. “What we did tonight is not really a salary increase,” said Grimaudo. “In reality, they all earned an average of $19,000 last year. It’s just that the money came from two different pots.”

Dognapping Carmen Marie Fabio A Chihuahua stolen from Animalerie Toutou on Harwood Boulevard in Vaudreuil-Dorion March 7 was located and returned and police arrested a 34-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman in connection with the theft. Sûreté du Québec spokesperson Sgt. Ingrid Asselin said six people, three men and three women, entered the store and four of them created a diversion to distract the employees. In the process, two males, one under the age of 18, opened the cage containing two pure bred Blue Chihuahuas, taking

PHOTO COURTESY ÉLYSE CORRIVEAU

one and hiding it under his jacket. The group then left in a van. Working with information obtained from the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) police arrested the pair March 10 after a search of a home on Stanislas Street in Montreal.

Community rallies to help Île Perrot man Carmen Marie Fabio Following a proverbial comedy of bureaucratic and legal errors that left a handicapped Île Perrot resident without adapted transport to his thrice-weekly Lakeshore General Hospital dialysis treatments, the community stepped up to help make Richard Lemieux’s life a little easier by offering

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transport, meals, and housecleaning services. A team of six volunteers was assembled to chauffeur Lemieux to and from his treatments. Lemieux, who was born with physical disabilities and is confined to a wheelchair, said his ordeal began when he received a notice from the Quebec Government recommending he seek child support from his ex-wife to help offset the costs of raising his 16-year-old daughter who’s been in his custody since age threeand-a-half. Lemieux followed the advice and said he was then told his income had exceeded the maximum allowable for which subsidized transportation services are provided. While he struggled to work out the bureaucratic details, volunteers picked up the transportation slack. At last report, the Lakeshore General Hospital provided six weeks' worth of taxi vouchers but Lemieux is reportedly still struggling to make it to his treatments. Stories of the year continued on page 9

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YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

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PHOTO BY CARMEN MARIE FABIO

Rigaud Town Council approves property tax increase with 2016 Budget James Armstrong Your Local Journal

Property taxes in Rigaud will increase to $0.7075 per $100 of evaluation up by $0.035 from 2015. The budget for 2016 was presented at special Town Council Meeting on Monday December 14 followed the regular meeting that passed the budget resolution. Mayor Hans Gruenwald Jr. said Rigaud is in good financial health. “The town is getting bigger and we have more maintenance services and activities,” he said in a follow-up interview Monday, December 21. Budgeted expenses for 2016 are up $898,980 from those of 2015 although a budget surplus from 2015 is a possibility. “We don’t have exact figures for the surplus, yet,” said Gruenwald Jr. adding that the numbers will be available in January 2016. New community activities for the town in the New Year include the Festival Glisse et Réglisse from February 12 to14. Planned as part of the celebra-

tions marking the 20th anniversary of the fusion of Rigaud and the parish of Sainte-Madeleine de Rigaud, the festival includes skating on the Rigaud River, ice sculptures, dog sledding, fireworks and more. “We hope to have skating from behind the library to the Highway 40 bridge,” said Gruenwald Jr. noting the activity is weather-dependent. Council also passed a resolution authorizing the signing of an agreement with the Montréal Symphony Orchestra for the presentation of a concert in Parc Chartier-De Lotbinière on July 26 at a cost of $48,000. In other business, Council resolved to issue a payment of $16,000 to the for plans and drawing for the new fire station an amount considerably less than originally requested by the firm. “They wanted $36,000 but that wasn’t acceptable,” said the mayor. Gruenwald Jr. added that calls for tender for the construction of the fire station would likely happen mid-January 2016 followed by calls for tender for the new town hall at the end of that month.

PHOTO BY JAMES ARMSTRONG

The 2016 Budget was the main order of business during the December 2015 Rigaud council meetings.

Plans are also in the works to hire a resource person to promote Rigaud commerce and the industrial parks. According to the mayor, this person will handle communications for the town and be a resource person to help the commercial community. The rumor that Santa Claus was

stolen from a holiday display at the town entrance is simply that - a rumor. The mayor said that the Comité d’embellisement decided that Santa needed some refurbishment and removed him from the scene.

STORIES OF THE YEAR

Hudson hires Interim Treasurer/ Director General Carmen Marie Fabio and James Armstrong

PHOTO BY JOHN JANTAK

Vaudreuil-Dorion’s Je Suis cultural program garners international recognition

John Janak

Vaudreuil-Dorion’s Je Suis cultural program took centre stage March 18, during a presentation to international delegates at the first United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) Culture Summit in Bilbao, Spain. VaudreuilDorion was the only North American city that was invited to present its Je Suis program because of the strategies it used to successfully initiate and integrate cultural programs within a sustainable urban environment in the past five years. “We were very proud to have been there for a city of our size with 37,000 people,” Mayor Guy Pilon said. “We accomplished something amazing because we’re a small town that developed a cultural program that other cities can look at and take away something from it.”

The Town of Hudson hired Jacques Lemieux to fill the vacant positions of interim Director General and Treasurer following the suspension of former DG Catherine Haulard and resignation of Ramin Jawanda. In an emergency council meeting held Monday, March 23, council passed the motion to engage the services for a three month short-term contract to carry out the duties of both positions. Lemieux retired from a 30-year career as Director of Finance and Information with the

PHOTO BY CARMEN MARIE FABIO

Town of Salaberry-de-Valleyfield. Stories of the year continued on page 12

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YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

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‘T

hard to believe dear readers – at least for me – that another year has come PHOTO BY and almost MAURICE JEFFERIES gone. And that here we are just in to what is officially winter and with Christmas Eve only hours away – at time of writing – in our little hamlet called Hudson by the Lake of Two Mountains. Not that you would know it by this most unseasonal weather with barely a snowflake in sight and rain and brolly-weather drizzle seemingly the order of the day. Think of Bing Crosby singing I’m dreaming of a Green Christmas and, with the lake still not frozen, there’s little chance of any sleigh bells ringing over the ice bridge at the OkaHudson Ferry crossing any time soon and you perhaps get my drift! --------------FACT OR FICTION? - Definitely more like spring than winter and which this past weekend saw some local residents, or at least their designated gardeners, still raking or blowing leaves and putting the final touches of their properties to bed. Sheesh, I even spotted one mowing his lawn on a tractor in just shirt and shorts while sporting a Santa hat. More for the sheer fun of it than anything else I can only assume. But hey, why the heck not? For who knows what January through April here in Hudson and our immediate region will bring in the New Year and throughout 2016? For as one long-time Hudsonite told me over coffee at my early-morning coffee oasis, The Carousel, yesterday, his father told him that it was the same scenario back in the early 70s. Everyone was celebrating until a 20-inch snowfall hit the town in mid-January and brought everyone back to reality! Fact or fiction? Who knows? Ah, who cares? Let’s just seize the day –

carpe diem - and regardless of what the New Year brings let us all enjoy every day that comes to the max! --------------GREAT GENEROSITY - But one thing I do know for sure, however, is that some things have not changed over the years in this great little community of ours. It is a time for giving. And I’m not just talking about gifts set under your tree for family and loved ones. Or delivered to their homes or at parties over the holidays. But rather presents to those who may never know your name, nor the fact that you have given, but – I’m sure in their own way – will always be appreciative of your caring and generosity. Not only at this special and, for many emotional, time of year. But, in some instances, for many more months to come. One such quintessential example being the Hudson War Memorial Library which this past week, and in a tradition going back for many years, presented cheques to no less than 10 local worthwhile causes and charitable organizations to help support those in need throughout the region. A community library, I might add, that is a real gem in Hudson in that is entirely volunteer-run, superbly stocked with both books and DVDs, totally self-funding with no grants whatsoever from municipal, provincial, or federal sources and which - always at this time of year - gives back to the community. “So how can they do this?” you might ask. Following the presentation, I asked Library co-chairs, Elizabeth Dawe and Donna Seaman, that very same question. Although, as a longtime member of the Library, I already knew the answer. Said Elizabeth, “It is truly with great pleasure that each Christmas season we are able to give back to our community in this way. Approximately 40 cents of every dollar raised through The Bunker, our thrift shop in the basement below, as well as the library’s

PHOTO BY JAMES PARRY

Following their recent annual Christmas party at the Auberge Willow Inn, and on behalf of all members of the Hudson Coronation Street Appreciation Society, Mireille Lemelin presents Carol Laws, founder of Hudson’s Le Pont/Bridging food bank, with non-perishable items and gifts for children for local families in need at this special time of year.

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

PHOTO BY JAMES PARRY

Sharing the gift of giving at the Hudson War Memorial Library last week, recipients and library volunteers carry on a tradition that helps so many throughout the region.

monthly book sales and overdue fines, goes towards these charitable donations that are so important to help so many. And on behalf of all those who make it possible, we would just like to say that we are so proud to be a part of this amazing Library/Bunker community of volunteers.” Just for the record, or the book, here’s this year’s recipients with a cheque for each representative being presented by the co-chairs on Wednesday, December 16. Nova Hudson, Le Pont/Bridging food bank, Greenwood Centre for Living History, Hudson Historical Society Angels of Hudson, the Poppy Fund of the Hudson Legion Branch #115, the Alzheimers Association, La Passerelle, Hudson Fireman’s Christmas Basket Campaign, and the Vaudreuil-Soulanges Palliative Care Residence Foundation (VSPCRF). For photos, check out our Facebook. By the way, the Bunker at 60 Elm will be open from 10 a.m. to noon this Saturday, December 26, and Saturday, January 2. The good work continues! --------------FABULOUS FONTAINE - And speaking of the VSPCRF, for the 11th consecutive year it is staging what has to be the most glamorous event on the regional social scene on Saturday, January 30, at the Pavillon sur le Lac of the Château Vaudreuil. Under the honorary co-presidency of Angele Marcoux and Marie-Andree Prevost, The Happening will once again comprise a lively dinner and show formula following the traditional cocktail and culinary experience with a true super star taking guests through the vibrant music of the 50s through 80s. His name? Martin Fontaine. Who has thrilled over 1.7 million spectators here in Canada in Quebec City as well as in Las Vegas with his absolutely brilliant Elvis Story and Showman, praised by Elvis’s widow, Priscilla Presley, as the best tribute to Elvis she has ever seen. Caught his show at Le Capitole a few years ago, and just can’t wait to see him again. Although this time around and accompanied by The Groovy Good Times Band, in addition to those of Elvis he will also be singing the hits of Ray Charles, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, KC & the Sunshine

Band, the Commodores, and Kool and the Gang to name but a few. For more info and tickets – assuming of course that some are still available – contact Monique Bourbonnais at (450) 202-2202 ext. 128. It sure promises to be quite a show and for a most worthwhile cause! --------------CHEERS CORRIES - Which brings me to a show that – at least on TV – has been running nonstop for millions of fans worldwide for the past 60 years. That great British soap – er, docudrama – Coronation Street seen every evening on CBC. And why am I mentioning this? Because at its recent 10th annual Christmas party at the Auberge Willow Inn, members of the Hudson Coronation Street Appreciation Society who come from Montreal, the West Island, and throughout VaudreuilSoulanges for the monthly luncheon there, filled a car with non-perishable food and other items destined for Le Pont/Bridging food bank. And duly delivered to Carol Laws, by yours truly and my beautiful Sunshine earlier this week. On behalf of Carol and all those families that you are helping, thanks guys and gals and see you at the next lunch on Sunday, January 10, with the colour theme red, white, and blue as a tribute to Paris, France. No further explanation needed! --------------FANTASTIC FILMS - In closing and still on the screen in both English and French – albeit a much bigger one – here’s a gift giving idea that might appeal to all cinephiles. A pass at $75 for all eight films being screened by the Hudson Film Society in its first Hudson Canadian Film Festival running the weekend of March 3-6 at Hudson Village Theatre. A festival, according to HFS president, Clint Ward, designed to support young film makers who are knocking on the door of greatness. Go to www.villagetheatre.ca or the HFS web site at www.hudsobfilmsociety.ca. Me, I’ve gotta go to do some lastminute shopping. Have a wonderful Christmas and Holiday folks and we’ll be back in the New Year on Thursday, January 14! And that’s a wrap! E-mail: creation@videotron.ca

Finally, a real

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1915, ch. Sainte-Angélique, Saint-Lazare Tel. : 450 455-9393 www.adenisetfils.com Tuesday, December 22, 2015

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Star Wars winners

STORIES OF THE YEAR APRIL

Hudson’s newly hired interim Treasurer and Director General resigns after one week Carmen Marie Fabio

PHOTO BY VAL PROVOST

Winners of the recent Your Local Journal Create Your Own Costume Contest are seen here surrounding Vaudreuil-Soulanges Liberal MP Peter Schiefke (center) at the preview of Star Wars: The Force Awakens on Thursday December 17 at the Cineplex Kirkland.

Following media reports quoting District 1 Councillor Robert Spencer questioning the legality of the March 23 emergency meeting in which a resolution was passed, by Mayor Ed Prévost and four of the six sitting councillors, to hire an Interim Director General and Treasurer, newly hired Jacques Lemieux walked off the job after a mere eight days. “Given the circumstances that he (Lemieux) has found himself in at the town, he no longer has the energy or the desire to take this on. It’s too much of a monumental challenge for him at this time,” said Mayor Ed Prévost. In a copy of his resignation letter obtained by Your Local Journal, Lemieux states, “My decision follows

Adapted van donated to family for daughter with Trisomy 18

Lauren Mitchell

A fundraiser with the goal of $25,000 to buy an adapted van for 7-year-old Amanda Cugurs was achieved in an unexpected way after a West Island

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

an article published in the ‘Montreal Gazette’ where an elected official declared my nomination illegal.” Spencer had, in fact, questioned the legality of the last minute change of the meeting agenda that had originally stated the emergency March 23 meeting was called to pass a motion to hire a new interim treasurer. “It was nothing personal towards Mr. Lemieux,” Spencer said. “What I was questioning was the way the hiring was done.” Lemieux’s letter further stated, “I think the problems existing in the Town of Hudson are more in human and political (issues) and not problems of administrative processes.” Former Westmount Director General Duncan Campbell stepped in as interim DG until the September hiring of Jean-Pierre Roy.

woman decided to donate a used adapted van after the owner passed away, saying it was what he would’ve wanted. Continued on page 15

VILLE DE SAINT-LAZARE M.R.C. DE VAUDREUIL-SOULANGES PROVINCE DE QUÉBEC EXPLANATORY DOCUMENT ADOPTION OF BUDGET ESTIMATES - 2016 Ville de Saint-Lazare’s town council has adopted the budget estimates for the 2016 fiscal year at an extraordinary sitting held on December 15, 2015. The budget estimates are summarized as follow: REVENUES OPERATION REVENUES Local taxes Payments in lieu of taxes Transfers - Government grants Services provided Fee assessment Fines and penalties Interests Others

2015

2016

$20,658,000 $ 243,400 $ 490,300 $ 1,002,400 $ 1,512,800 $ 130,000 $ 351,800 $ 40,000 $24,428,700

$21,756,400 $ 262,100 $ 516,800 $ 1,198,600 $ 1,564,000 $ 130,000 $ 362,000 $ 32,000 $25,821,900

2015

2016

$ 3,965,000

$ 4,320,000

($1,375,200)

($1,627,300)

($ 423,300)

($ 402,500)

$ 1,706,000 ($ 269,100) $ 404,750

$ 1,950,000 ($ 250,700) $ 195,650

$ 4,008,150

$ 4,185,150

RECONCILIATION FOR TAX PURPOSES Capital cost allowance Repayment of long-term debt Allocations Investment activities Accumulated surplus (deficit): Allocated operating surplus Financial reserve and reserve fund Expenses incurred to tax or provide

INVESTMENT REVENUES $ 496,000 $ 79,000 $ 575,000 $25,003,700

Transfers Others TOTAL REVENUES

$ 0.00 $ 82,000 $ 82,000 $25,903,900

Operating surplus (deficit) for tax purposes

TAXATION RATES – 2016

EXPENSES General Administration Public Security Road Transport Environment and Hygiene Health and Welfare Urban planning and Land exploitation Recreation and Culture Financing Services TOTAL EXPENSES (before capital cost allowance)

$ 3,946,350 $ 5,801,300 $ 4,795,500 $ 3,271,400 $ 147,400 $ 1,569,900 $ 4,568,800 $ 371,200 $24,471,850

$ 4,004,450 $ 5,914,500 $ 5,081,800 $ 3,461,200 $ 184,100 $ 1,543,950 $ 5,006,950 $ 490,100 $25,687,050

Capital cost allowance

$ 3,965,000

$ 4,320,000

$28,436,850 ($ 3,433,150) ($ 575,000) ($ 4,008,150)

$30,007,050 ($ 4,103,150) ($ 82,000) ($ 4,185,150)

TOTAL EXPENSES (Including capital cost allowance) Surplus (deficit) Deduct : Investment revenues Operating surplus (deficit) before reconciliation for tax purposes

General property tax : Mill rate residual (base rate per $100 evaluation) Mill rate E.A.E. (per $100 evaluation) Mill rate non residential buildings (per $100 evaluation) Mill rate debt (per $100 evaluation) • La Pinière ($0,0021) • Ste-Elisabeth ($0,0027) • Municipal garage ($0,0056) • Westwood synthetic field ($0,0015) Water Garbage Waste water treatment SQAE’s share (Waste water treatment plant) Water treatment plant Water treatment plant - optimization Garbage bins

$0,6716 $0,6716 $1,0898 $0,0128

$0,6546 $0,6546 $1,0620 $0,0119

$ $ $ $ $

$ 200 $ 165 $ 135 $ 5,50 $ 20 $ 54 $ 9,50

200 165 135 21 20 N/A $ 9,50

VILLE DE SAINT-LAZARE M.R.C. DE VAUDREUIL-SOULANGES PROVINCE DE QUÉBEC EXPLANATORY DOCUMENT ADOPTION OF THREE-YEAR PROGRAM OF CAPITAL EXPENDITURES FOR THE YEARS 2016, 2017 AND 2018 The 2016, 2017 and 2018 Three-Year Capital Expenditure Program was adopted by members of Council at the Extraordinary Sitting of December 15, 2015. The said program can be summarized as follows: Breakdown of expenditures according to the period of expenses Three-year program

Breakdown of expenditures according to the period of expenses Three-year program

Services

Expenses prior to the program

2016

2017

2018

Total of the 3 years

Expenses subsequent to the program

Total

Permanent financing methods Long-term loans – General

$339,500

$10,429,000

$420,000

$135,000

$10,984,000

$11,323,500

Public Security

$5,236,000

$266,500

$1,050,000

$1,316,500

$6,552,500

Transport

$3,356,100

$3,147,000

$1,256,500

$786,000

$5,189,500

$1,800,000

$10,345,600

$359,800

$11,683,250

$3,102,150

$14,785,400

$200,000

$15,345,200

$1,018,000

$125,000

$1,125,000

$2,375,000

$1,125,000

$4,518,000

Working fund

$485,300

$5,303,700

$1,237,000

$412,000

$6,952,700

$500,000

$7,938,000

Parks fund

$10,794,700

$30,954,450

$8,190,650

$2,458,000

$41,603,100

$3,625,000

$56,022,800

General Administration

Environment Hygiene Urban planning and environment Recreation and Culture

Total

Expenses prior to the program

2016

$5,783,700 $11,221,000

Total of the 3 years

2018

$2,050,000

$1,000,000 $14,271,000

Expenses subsequent to the program

Total

$2,470,000

$22,524,700

$4,496,300

$1,082,500

$5,578,800

Government grants & contributions

$3,143,300 $11,782,950

$2,202,150

$0 $13,985,100

$17,128,400

Administration fund

$1,741,700

$2,816,200

$2,257,000

$1,217,000

$6,290,200

$1,155,000

$9,186,900

$126,000

$388,000

$599,000

$241,000

$1,228,000

$1,354,000

$250,000

$10,794,700 $30,954,450

$8,190,650

$2,458,000 $41,603,100

$3,625,000

$56,022,800

Long-term loans – Sector

Total

2017

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

2015 HOLIDAY SCHEDULE RECYCLING COLLECTION

MONDAY December 21, 2015

TUESDAY December 22, 2015

WEDNESDAY December 23, 2015

THURSDAY December 24, 2015

FRIDAY December 25, 2015

L’Île-Cadieux Rivière-Beaudette Vaudreuil-sur-le-Lac

Les Coteaux Saint-Clet Saint-Lazare Saint-Polycarpe Saint-Zotique

Hudson Pointe-Fortune Rigaud Sainte-Justine-de-Newton Sainte-Marthe Saint-Télesphore Vaudreuil-Dorion

L’Île-Perrot Notre-Dame-de-l’Île-Perrot Pincourt

CHRISTMAS DAY REPLACE BY A SPECIAL COLLECTION

MONDAY December 28, 2015

TUESDAY December 29, 2015

WEDNESDAY December 30, 2015

THURSDAY December 31, 2015

FRIDAY January 1st, 2016

L’Île-Cadieux Rivière-Beaudette Vaudreuil-sur-le-Lac

Les Coteaux Saint-Clet Saint-Lazare Saint-Polycarpe Saint-Zotique

Hudson Pointe-Fortune Rigaud Sainte-Justine-de-Newton Sainte-Marthe Saint-Télesphore Vaudreuil-Dorion

L’Île-Perrot Notre-Dame-de-l’Île-Perrot Pincourt

NEW YEAR’S DAY NO COLLECTION

SPECIAL COLLECTION Coteau-du-Lac Les Cèdres Pointe-des-Cascades Terrasse-Vaudreuil Très-Saint-Rédempteur

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

lidays! o H y p p Ha

STORIES OF THE YEAR National Energy Board meets behind closed-doors with Vaudreuil-Soulanges MRC Carmen Marie Fabio

PHOTO BY CARMEN MARIE FABIO

The National Energy Board’s invitation-only meeting April 20 with the elected officials of the VaudreuilSoulanges MRC focused on the procedural role of the NEB in relation to pipeline companies and their regional operations and reportedly sidestepped questions concerning the requested

hydrostatic testing for the 40-year-old Enbridge pipeline in preparation of its 9B flow reversal plan. Despite the board touting the meeting the following day on its website with the headline, ‘Ongoing public participation in Vaudreuil-Dorion,’ it was quickly changed to read ‘Board dialogue with the MRC Vaudreuil- Soulanges’ dropping the word ‘public’ from its com-

muniqué. “I’ve already expressed my complete disappointment to the MRC, and had them express it to the NEB, that a closed-door meeting like this does not foster mutual trust and respect,” said St. Lazare Mayor Robert Grimaudo on the NEB’s decision to exclude the media and public from attending the two-hour session held at the St. Lazare community centre.

Hudson FireÀghters’ second Shave2Save event exceeds expectations Carmen Marie Fabio Despite getting off to a slow start, the second annual Hudson Shave2Save April 25 fundraiser for cancer re-

search was a resounding success, more than doubling the $5000 goal with an amount of $10,369. “We ended up with an extra six heads that we weren’t expecting,” said organizer Andrew Du-

Van

mas of the last minute participants, young and old, who joined in the event at the Hudson Fire Station, “so we had 45 heads shaved in all.” PHOTO BY CARMEN MARIE FABIO

MAY

St. Lazare plane crash

Continued from page 12

Carmen Marie Fabio “We received a call from the sister of the late Doug Webb of Pointe Claire,” said Eric Cugurs and Esmirna Lopes. Their daughter Amanda suffers from pulmonary hypertension, pronounced scoliosis, and is considered legally blind. “Doug’s sister Donna said that he passed away recently and he was the owner of this adapted 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan. It was Doug’s wish

PHOTO BY LAUREN MITCHELL

that the van be given to an organization that would find someone in need of it. We did the transfer a week later and now we have the van we need.”

Two people, a man and a woman, were killed May 14 as their homebuilt biplane plunged into a field just shy of the runway at the St. Lazare airport. SQ spokesperson Sgt. Joyce Kemp said police received the call at approximately 12:30 p.m. from an area business owner saying a plane had plunged straight down into the field near the corner

of Montée St. Lazare and route de la Cité des Jeunes before bursting into flames. “When the craft hit the ground, it caught fire. The local fire department was called to the scene and was able to rapidly extinguish the flames. Unfortunately, in the craft, we know that there were at least two people, who have been pronounced dead.” Kemp said that given there was no criminal wrongdoing determined, the investigation had been turned over to the Canadian Transportation Safety Board. Stories of the year continued on page 16

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

STORIES OF THE YEAR

SQ make arrests in 70 home break-ins

Carmen Marie Fabio

Following more than a year of investigation, Sûreté du Québec (SQ) officers announced May 27 the arrest of four suspects in a series of 70

breakins in the Montérégie, between September 2011 and April 2014, with 21 homes in St. Lazare and one in Ste. Marthe included in the total. “The investigation started in the VaudreuilSoulanges west area after the investi-

During this joyful and contemplativee time of the year, on behalf of the C Council and staff members of the MRC llll de Vaudreuil-Soulanges, I wish you all Happy Holidays. ffiiilll llle le led ed d with w wit iith th h May the New Year be filled h arm ar rm mony on ny, ny y, jo y jjoy, joy oy, oy o y,, h he e dp pr pros ro ros ro rosp ospe osp os sp spe sp peri perity pe eeri erit rity! rity iity! ty y!! y harmony, health and prosperity!

Happy Ha Happ Hap H appy ap app a ppy py y Holidays days day da d ays ay a ys y s Lee préfet L

Jean Je Jea ea an nA nde nd dee d Jean A. Lalonde

gators saw several break-ins that had taken place,” said SQ spokesperson Sgt. Joyce Kemp. The break-ins typically took place in single family homes while the occupants were away. The four suspects include a 30-yearold man and 27-year-old woman who were arrested in Laval, a 26-year-old man arrested in St. Jerome, and a 36-year-old man arrested in Prévost. “What was mainly stolen was jewellery and money totaling over $1 million,” said Kemp, who added the property

PHOTO COUTESY SQ

damage caused due to the break-ins totaled over $150,000.

BeaconsÀeld withdraws proposed billboard project Carmen Marie Fabio Following a public consultation session held May 25 to hear resident feedback over a proposed project to allow a large electronic billboard erected on Bearepaire Drive near City Lane in Beaconsfield, the town issued a communiqué Wednesday, May 27, indicating that through mutual agreement with Cogeco, it was withdrawing the proposal. “The councillors and I received a lot of email and phone calls from residents,” Mayor Georges Bourelle told Your Local Journal before going to press. “It started to become obvious that the social acceptability of

PHOTO BY CARMEN MARIE FABIO

this project, notwithstanding the fact that it would bring in some substantial money, just wasn’t there.” Bourelle said even citizens who did not live within the vicinity of the proposed project expressed their reluctance to proceed, saying it didn’t fit in with their perception of the town. Stories of the year continued on page 17

registrations for Winter activities Saint-Lazare Community Centre (1301 Rue du Bois) Thursday, January 7 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Jeudi 7 janvier 13 h 30 à 19 h 30 Thursday, January 7

For all available activities Organizations and Community life booklet kiosk.ville.saint-lazare.qc.ca

1:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Entrée #2 / Entrance #2 101, boulevard Cardinal-Léger

ŽŵŵƵŶŝƚǇ ůŝĨĞ ĂŶĚ ƌĞĐƌĞĂƟŽŶ ĚĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚ ϰϱϬͲϰϮϰͲϴϬϬϬ͕ Ğǆƚ͘ ϮϮϬ 16

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

St. Lazare reinstates spring pick-up after “leaf storm” of discontent John Jantak Saying town council didn’t anticipate the uproar over a simple decision, Mayor Robert Grimaudo announced June 2 that it will reinstate its springtime leaf collection service in 2016. A petition with more than 200 signatures

was presented by a resident during question period that asked for the service to be reinstated. “The council had already decided that we will review our position on leaf pick-up in 2016,” Grimaudo told Your Local Journal. Continued on page 20

YLJ out of this world

Warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful Holiday and a Happy New Year.

www.hudson.quebec

PHOTO BY VAL PROVOST

Star Wars aficionado Liberal MP Peter Schiefke takes time out from exploring the universe to get caught up with all the news back home in Vaudreuil-Soulanges.

n cettte péériodde du teempss dees Fêêtes,, nnoous vouss offfroonss, à vouss et à vootrre famille,, nnoos vœ œux lees pluss chhaleuureuux !

À ll’l’a ’avaant:M M.Ro M. R be ber eerrtt A.Laaureen ence ce(district ct 3/DuFie Fieff–Caavaggnal n ),Mm me CélinneChaartitier(dstric (dii ict 4/De la Seigneurie), M.Guy uyy Pilo lon lo on (ma (maire iree), ),M.Rén é ald ldGa ld Gabri Ga briele bri br ele(d ele ( istrict 5/Dess Cheenau (d aux)ettM.Paul M.. lDu lDumouulin(dis d tririct ct8 /De la Baie) À l’arri rriririèree:M.Cla Claude ud Beaud ud udoin doin oin(d (ddisttric ict 1/ /Q Quinchien)),M.Franç Qui Qu annçoi nçoi oissSé Ségui guin(disstr gui triict 2 2/ /Harwood), /H M..Gab M ab Parrent abriel ab e (ddist istric ric icct6 ict t6/Dee la l Cité té-de -dess-Jeunes))etM M.Pa Paul Pa ul M.No Normaand(dist ndd trictt 7/Du Carrefour)

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

LE CENTRE

ILE-PERROT

Christmas Baskets 2015

FRANCISATION - JANUARY 2016 • 5 levels (1-2-3-4-5) • Oral expression • Writing

• Cultural activities • Experienced teachers

DAY COURSES • PART-TIME 12 hours / week Monday to Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. or Monday to Thursday 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

• FULL TIME Monday to Friday 25 hours / week 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Possibility of financial support by Emploi-Québec for full time courses)

• EVENING COURSES 2 evenings / week 6 hours / week 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Courses are given in: • Vaudreuil-Dorion • L’Île-Perrot

PHOTO BY KEVIN RAFTERY

For the 10th year in a row, On Rock founder Kim Reid (kneeling in front) and over 50 volunteers get ready to fill and deliver 189 Christmas Baskets, filled with food and toys to families in the West Island.

Happenstance for the holidays

REGISTRATION From January 4th to January 15th, 2016 • Classes start on January 18th, 2016

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS / $ • • • •

Immigration documents Proof of residence in Québec Fees : $15 $ for exercise book PHOTO COURTESY BRIAN GALLAGHER

Call now :

514 477-7000, ext. 5620 or visit our Website : multicentre.cstrois-lacs.qc.ca/br/formations/programmes-fip

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

8:30-12:00pm Available for Community Groups & Meetings 3:00-4:00pm Creative Meditation with Sian Nia

3:00-4:30pm (11-14 years) Exploring Sculpture with Adele Reeves

4:00 6:30pm OPEN STUDIO EXPLORE ART with Carolyn Weisnagel

3:30-4:30pm YOGA for Youth with Mark Smith

10:00-12:00pm Toastmasters International Youth Leadership Program

4:00-5:30 Youth in Action with Sarah Wakani

5:00-6:30pm (15-17 years) Exploring Sculpture with Adele Reeves

Phase one of creating an ART HIVE

4:00-6:00pm Enlighten Up With Sian Nia

2:00-3:30pm (6-10 years) Youth IMPROV with Mary Vuorela 4:00-6:00pm (11-14 years)

7:00-9:30pm Hudson Community Concert Band with Steve Dubinsky

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Friday & Saturday 6:00-11:00pm Youth Activities & Events

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Tamara Clark and Brian Gallagher of Hudson-based group Happenstance entertain the kids at the Montreal Children’s Hospital during an impromptu concert held December 16. The duo also played the Christmas 4 a Cause show organized by the John Molson School of Business that helps raise food and toys for underprivileged children.

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Wishing you a festive holiday season and a very happy new year! (450) 458-5688 • www.whitlockwest.com

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

STORIES OF THE YEAR Spring pick-up

done under a different formula. I don’t know what that formula will be yet, but it will be different.” Some residents openly criticized the town for cancelling this year’s spring leaf pick-up, saying they didn’t have the space on their

Continued from page 17 “We decided there will be a spring and fall pick up next year, but it will be

properties or the resources to properly compost or mulch the huge mound of leaves they rake, which can easily amount to over 100 bags per residence in some heavily-wooded areas. PHOTO BY JOHN JANTAK

Hudson resident charged with 10 counts following June 12 accident released on bail Carmen Marie Fabio

Adams in critical condition in hospital and a friend minor injuries. On Monday, June 15, 23-year Taylor appeared at the Valleyfield Courthouse where he was charged with 10 counts – five for each victim - of impaired driving,

Jordan Taylor was released on $10,000 bail June 17 following the June 12 accident on Cambridge Street in Hudson that left 21-year-old Tina Lyon

impaired driving causing bodily harm, having a blood alcohol level exceeding the legal limit, dangerous driving causing bodily harm, and criminal negligence. He was held in custody until June 17. “He’s been released on the condition he doesn’t drive, doesn’t consume alcohol, live at his address and get permission from the court if he wants to change address, and not communicate with a list of witnesses except

PHOTO BY CARMEN MARIE FABIO

to prepare for his defense in the presence of his lawyer,” said Taylor’s lawyer Philip Schneider. His next court date is February 26, 2016.

Truck plunges off Île aux Tourtes Bridge Carmen Marie Fabio A truck driver suffered minor injuries when the 18-wheeler he was driving westbound over the Île aux Tourtes span early June 19 slid into the concrete barriers and toppled over into the Ottawa River below. A pair of fishermen in a nearby boat pulled the driver to safety. Witnesses report seeing smoke coming from the truck along with the

MLS MLS 16006976 16006976 $550,000 $599,000

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$ T

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EW Model HOME, 4 bdrm, 2 1/2 baths,2 rowing family or Empty nesters? 3+2 bdrm car garage, 9’ceilings, hardwood Àoors Raised BUNG.+ 3 baths, NEW hardwood throughout, custom built kitchen with moveÀoors. Forced heat & A/C, wood stove insert able island and walk-in pantry. Young famPool & multi level deck on 22,500 sq treed lot ily area with trail & forest in front. Close to in quiet & family friendly cul-de-sac. Low taxes village and access to highway 40 & 20. Sold and adj. to Hudson’s shops & public schools. with Contractors new home warranty.

S B

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PACIOUS, clean, well MAINTAINED and reathing Space! 5 bedroom ¿eldstone CanaFRESHLY Bdrm, 2+1 lot Baths diana on a painted 73,614 sf3+1 lot landscaped with in FAMILY closehuge to PARK and a variety of neighbourhood fruit trees, perennials, vegetable Shops. FENCED yard, above ground kitchen, POOL! garden and your own forest. Renovated Basement fullÀoors, BATHROOM, bedroom bathrooms, has wood windows,4th roof, electric and withtogaz FIREPLACE. forcedFAMILY air & A/C room . 3 minutes Hwy 40. QUICK OCCUPATION.

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Stories of the year continued on page 22

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OCATION...WITH WATERVIEWS. Perfect family home. Original woodwork + new extension with enlarged NEW kitchen & sunroom. 4 Bedrooms, one on main Àoor+ 3 upstairs. 2 full baths, ¿nished basement, 2 roof top balconies. Private 22,208 sf lot

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PHOTO BY CARMEN MARIE FABIO

smell of burning rubber. Sgt. Gino Paré of the SQ said alcohol was not a factor in the accident.

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I S

MLS MLS 15352697 14617360 $399,000 $420,000

nground pool! bdrm cottage with Gas parkling & 3+1 Impeccable Saddlebrook ¿replace, garagemaster and ¿ensuite nished cottage double with 3 bdrm, basement. kitchen, windows plus Jack Renovated and Jill bathrooms cottage. and bathrooms. corner Cathedral ceiling, Landscaped ¿replace, wood trimlot & with mature cedar 22,718 hedge on a 19,296 sf set lot crown mouldings. sf. private,lot, with quick accessand to hwys & 40. back from street high 30 & dry.

St-Lazare L’Île Perrot

N D

MLS MLS 27742166 22062244 $225,000 $489,000

EW 4 potential bdrm, 2 uplex2600 withsf2 Model Hydro HOME; meters & 1/2 baths, revenues; 9’ceilings, hardwood Àoors $18,000/yr Upper level inthroughout, custom kitchen with walk-in pancludes 3 bedrooms, renovated bathroom, try, 2 car garage. Young yard. familyLower area with forest patio doors to fenced level has & trail. Close tokitchen village and access to hwy 2 bedrooms, witheasy dinette and W/D 40. Includes homeIMMEDIATE warranty and TAXES outlet. 4 Car new driveway, OCCUPAPAID BY BUILDER TION.

Home and Estate 75th Hudson Christmas Bird Count December 27, 2015 No partridge in a pear tree but you might see a snowy owl Stephanie O’Hanley Special Contributor

It all started with the idea that instead of hunting birds around Christmas, why not count them. Over 100 years later the National Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count is still going strong, “It’s been going on for 116 years but now it’s almost worldwide,” said Jean Demers of Bird Protection Quebec, who is compiler for Hudson’s Christmas Bird Count. “All the data is sent to Audubon.” Demers who’s in his fifth year as compiler for Hudson’s Bird Count and has been involved with the count for 13 years says the count helps people see what’s going on with bird populations and species. “It helps in studies of bird populations worldwide.” Hudson’s Christmas Bird Count is a little different from Montreal’s since the 24-km area covered is not as urban, Demers said. The circle is centred at Cooper Airport in St. Lazare. “You have a good part of Hudson, you have St. Clet, part of VaudreuilDorion, part of St. Lazare... In a good part of it you have a lot of fields and wooded areas. “You won’t see snowy owls in Montreal, that’s for sure,” Demers said,

adding that Hudson’s count includes ducks and rafters which you don’t usually see in the Montreal count. Two years ago a red-bellied woodpecker was spotted at Hudson’s Bird Count for the first time ever. “That was pretty surprising,” said Demers. “Over the last 74 years we’ve had 140 species seen at the Hudson count.” Strangely Hudson’s Christmas Bird Count, which has been going for 75 years, sees fewer birds than Montreal’s, he said. “I don’t know why nobody has analyzed that. In Montreal one thing that helps is feeders, a lot of people are feeding birds so they get more birds. In the Hudson area there are not as many feeders.” For the count, parties, usually two or three people, spend a day that can go from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. or longer driving or walking around, using their binoculars to search for any bird that has feathers and flies, Demers said. Even a budgie that’s escaped counts, Demers confirmed. “This year if they have a smartphone I can send them a map that they can zoom in and exactly where to go,” he said. Also included: a sheet with a description of all the places they have to go, including the addresses of people with feeders, instructions and a tally sheet. Numbers

can either be handed in or emailed at the end of the day. No experience? No problem. “I’ll put them with somebody who has a lot of experience.” If you have a bird feeder, Demers invites you to join the count. “I have maybe 10 or 12 people who just stay at their homes and watch the feeders.” The main rule? No cheating. “It has to be as precise as possible,” he said. “If I see somebody who says he has 10 blue jays I’ll have to contact them.” After the count people can drop in by the St-Hubert restaurant in Vaudreuil-Dorion at 4 p.m., to hand in their tally sheets and then enjoy finger food, wine and coffee and talk about their day. For sign up or for more information, you can reach Jean Demers by email at cbchudson2@gmail.com or call (514) 694-8240. To see if you live in the circle for

PHOTO BY ANDREW BELDING

You might see a snowy owl in some sectors but Hudson Christmas Bird Count compiler Jean Demers says you’re more likely to spot a cardinal or a blue jay that, though once considered rare, have made a recent resurgence in the region.

Hudson’s Christmas Bird Count, a map is available in the Christmas Bird Count section of www.birdscanada. org.

Happy New Year! Wishing you happiness in 2016. 514-718-7171 andreel@remax.net Andree Lavigne www.andreelavigne.com Real Estate Broker

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

STORIES OF THE YEAR

NEB orders hydrostatic testing on portions of Enbridge pipeline Carmen Marie Fabio Though Enbridge Pipeline Inc.’s 9B

reversal plan to pump diluted bitumen from Alberta to Montreal East through the Vaudreuil-Soulanges region was

recently given the green light, it comes contingent on conditions resulting in a bittersweet conclusion in a longfought battle by citizen activist groups. The June 18 ruling by the National Energy Board (NEB) determined that before 9B is operational, hydrostatic testing must be performed on portions of the line in Ontario including Hilton, a part between Kingston and Brockville, and also in Mirabel, Quebec. This follows a February ruling seeking additional shut-off valve installation. “We’re very happy, however we still have some issues,” said Citoyens au courant spokesperson Lorraine Caron, “the

PHOTO BY CARMEN MARIE FABIO

first being which areas they’re going to hydrotest.” Caron questioned why the stretch of pipeline under the Ottawa River, typically subject to more than usual corrosion, was not chosen.

JULY

Hudson commemorates 25-year anniversary of Oka Crisis Carmen Marie Fabio Under a sunny blue sky, a light breeze, and the grace of centuriesold pines, a procession of Kanesatake residents set off on a commemorative march at 10:30 a.m. July 11, 25 years to the day of the Oka Crisis that saw a simmering land dispute result in a standoff that would grip the community, placing it on the world stage for

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

the next 78 days. “The Town of Hudson played a significant role during the summer of 1990,” said Chief Lourena Montour to the assembled dignitaries, guests, and media who gathered in Kanesatake for Remembrance Events that spanned the entire weekend. “Kanesatake has had strong economic ties with Hudson. Continued on page 25

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Tuesday, December 22, 2015

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

CLASSIFIEDS

SECTIONS 100- For Sale 125- For Rent 150- Services

175- Wanted 200- Careers/Employment 225- Financial Services

Submit & pay your ad online at www.yourlocaljournal.ca or e-mail: classiﬁeds@yourlocaljournal.ca

450 510-4007

250- Real Estate Sale 275- Garage/Moving Sale 300- Miscellaneous

325- Autos for Sale $24.95 until it sells

350- Legal

1 week 2 weeks 3 weeks

$15 $20 $25

100 - FOR SALE

150 - SERVICES

200 - CAREERS/EMPLOYMENT

Dry Firewood. Stacking and kindling available. Very reasonable. Dan: 514-291-1068

ALL RENOVATIONS & CONSTRUCTION, FREE ESTIMATES. FRAMING, PLASTER, WINDOWS, DOORS, FLOORS, STAIRS, CERAMIC TILING, PAINTING, BASEMENTS, KITCHENS, BATHROOMS. EXPERIENCED WORK. RBQ 5688-2244-01 JONATHAN 514-402-9223

Experienced local piano technician offering quality tunings and skillful repairs. Improve the sound and touch of your piano with hammer voicing and action regulation. Marc Lanthier 514-7707438 info@pianolanco.com (160114)

APPLE MAC SUPPORT since 1983 Variable Rates Initial Hour Free – Upgrades Troubleshooting Bootable Backups System Analysis & Advice terry@cloudbyteconsulting.com – www.cloudbyteconsulting.com 450-853-0534

Jacques Harvey Piano School. Experienced, qualified teacher offers piano lessons to beginners or advanced students. Children and adults are welcome. Call 450-455-1544.

Beautiful Montessori Daycare is looking for a qualified daycare educator to begin in January. Full or part time position available. Please send CV and letter to sasha@inspirationmontessori.com or call 514-349-0940. Inspiration Montessori, Vaudreuil, Quebec. (160114)

Kiln-dried kindling for sale. Half-cubic foot, 10 lbs. minimum per bag. $7 per bag. Mix of hard and soft wood. Free delivery on the island of Île Perrot. Delivery on Thursdays and Sundays. Help support teenage enterprise. Contact ileperrotkindling@gmail.com Dry Hard Wood - $90/Cord. Semi-Dry Hard Wood - $80/Cord. Delivery Charges Extra. Please call Yves at 514-708-4518 (151222) Central Vacuum Cyclo Vac Model E103, reconditioned with new motor, 3-year warranty included $395. Central Vacuum Ultralux Johnny Vac, new, 10-year warranty $529. Special: 30 or 35 foot Hose kit with 24V on/ off switch, 3-year warranty $140. Aspirateurs Hudson. 450-458-7488

4 Ford Ranger 16 inch Steel Rims - $80. 4 Original Toyota Plastic Hubcaps from an ’06 Camry - $100. Call 514-865-1648 (160114)

125 - FOR RENT 3 bedroom Coachhouse apartment for rent, hardwood floors, fireplace, garage. Available January 9. $1200/month + utilities. Call for details: 514-703-8981. (160121)

Woftech Inc. Since 2004. PC/Laptop repair, sales and services. Custom system builds. Software/hardware upgrades, virus - malware removal. Data recovery, network and international troubleshooting. Pick-up or In-home service. Very competitive rates. Windows and other software tutorials. HTTP://wolftech.ca services@wolftech.ca 514-923-5762

House for rent, 2 + 1 bedrooms, 1 big bathroom. Fridge, stove, washer, dryer, dishwasher, freezer, pool table, wood stove, kitchen table and 6 chairs included. Available February 1st. $1020/month. Long-term and short-term leases available. Call 450-4582351 (151222)

Local Experts in matters of Bankruptcy and Insolvency since 1994. First Consultation Free. Available Nights & Weekends. Solid reputation for Reliability, Honesty & Integrity in our field of Expertise. Blumer Lapointe Tull & Associes Syndics Inc. www.blumerlapointetull.com. 514 426 4994

3 bedroom condo for rent in St. Lazare. Great location, walking distance to the park and village. Main floor with a fireplace and all appliances, A/C, large patio. Utilities extra. Short or long-term. Available February 1st. $1350/month negotiable. 514-884-9788.

Piano Tuning, local Fine tuning $88. 514-206-0449 Piano Piano Piano (160114) Moving Service, local, trailer rentals. Call Colin: 514-850-9948

(151222)

3 bedroom house in St-Lazare. Furnished or unfurnished. Appliances included. Garage and finished basement. Central Vacuum. 514949-3128 (151222) St-Lazare, Luxury Detached Cottage (1989) 4 + 2 bedrooms, 3 + 1 bathrooms, very private and serene setting, in-ground pool, 22,000 sq/ft lot. $3,000/month. Will also consider to sell at $599,000. Call Pat Arya 514-916-3246 Royal de Montréal Inc.

Registered Gun Smith. We buy and sell used guns. 514-453-5018 (151222) ¿Moving? All jobs. Reliable, reasonable, fully equipped. Local and Ontario, Maritimes, USA. 35 yrs experience. Call Bill or Ryan 514-457-2063. Nanny/Babysitter Available – 54 year old empty nester available to babysit your children. Evenings/Weekends. Early Childhood Educator for 5 years. 514-569-1644

(160114)

Attention Snowbirds. 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom Fort Lauderdale condo for rent. Walking distance to Lauderdale by the Sea and all amenities. Wi-Fi, Jacuzzi, huge pool, tropicalstyle gardens, nightly activities. 3-month minimum rental. Available immediately. Call Manuela 514-418-3583. (151222)

150 - SERVICES Experienced senior gentleman seeking part-time work as a caregiver. English speaking with workable French. References available. Please call Barney at 450-458-6660.

Couture Le Mieux. Seamstresses without appointment. 2 locations to better serve you: 1051 avenue St-Charles, Vaudreuil-Dorion, corner of chemin de l’Anse, one minute away from Costco (450218-6899) and 140 avenue St-Charles, Vaudreuil-Dorion (450-218-6400). Pants hem $10, alterations of all kind, clothing modifications, curtains, gazebo, tarps and pillows. Custom made curtains, valances and roman shades. Fabric sales as well as sewing supplies. All of our prices include taxes.

(151222)

Handyman/ for small jobs. Call John: 514623-5786. (160211) SINGING LESSONS - Ages 7 to 17. Private or Semi-Private. In my home (StLazare). Sing the songs you love! Call Morgan. 514-607-1308 References available. Vacuum Cleaner. Sales and repair of all brands, 40 years in service (Electrolux, Filter Queen, Kenmore, Samsung and Central Vac). Special on Hoover Central Vac w/standard kt at $399. Other brands available from $329 and up. Repair and service of all central vacuum systems. Parts and bags (all makes). Small appliance repair. Carpet cleaner rental available. NEW: Oreck Excel air purifiers $329. AspirateursHudson.com 67 McNaughten Hudson, Quebec 450-458-7488 Cleaning ladies available, weekly, biweekly or occassionally. 20 years of experience with same clients. All have: attention to detail skills good work ethics motivated by perfection glowing references Call and leave message 450-458-0251 (160114) Encounter/Rencontre Avec/With MEDIUM Channeled Universal Messages Messages Universelle Canalise Love/Light/ Hope L’Amour/Lumière/Espoir 2016 Group Format Groupe. Limited Seating/Espaces Limitées. Info 444.i.resource@gmail.com

250 - REAL ESTATE SALE House for sale. 82 Pine, Hudson Village. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. $279,000 negotiable. Available now. 514-983-7164

325 - AUTOS FOR SALE Ford Ranger 1998 Black. 298,000kms, good condition, 2 sets of tires, (4 X 4 not working). $1750 or best offer. 450-458-7906

2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL, Lease Take Over, 67,000 kms, Black, Leather package , 22 months remaining @$325/month. View on Leasebusters.com ID #140741. Call 514-2203398 1992 Lincoln 192,000 km. V-8 auto, fully equipped, used for weddings, second owner, electric roof. Invested $12,000. Must sell (illness) $2250 Cash. 514-453-7468 2009 VW Rabbit, 2.5 litre, gas, 5-speed manual transmission, black, heated seats and mirrors, AC, power windows, locks, mirrors, sunroof and fog lights. 130,000 km. $9,600 Call 514-886-1008 2003 Kia Rio, Automatic, Green, new all season tires, very clean, 121000kms, $2,500 2003 Kia Rio, Standard, Silver, very clean, 172000kms, $2,200 both 4door. 514-773-0394

Kia Sportage LX 2009 with Convenience Package, (4WD), manual, 136,000kms, very good condition, never accidented, new 4 (151222) season tires, towing hitch inc., asking $8,900 Odd Jobs / Home Maintenance. Hudson / neg., 450-424-4308 St-Lazare / Vaudreuil area. Call for quote. JB 438-338-3990 (160114) 1996 Honda Civic Si with multiple modifications: JDA B16A SIR II, cams, Exedy clutch, Snowbird Express. Experienced driver JDM ITR S80 LSD trans. w/short shift, urethane available to drive your car and luggage to engine mounts, Sparco quick release steering and from Florida while you take a relaxing wheel, Sparco seats w/Willans 4 pt. harness, 3-hour flight. In operation since 1988. Refer- Neuspeed sport springs w/Koni front shocks, ences available. Call 514-865-1648 (151222) frt/rear strut bars, stainless brake lines and much more. $6500 or best offer. 514-2182776

175 - WANTED

LATERAL FILING CABINET, 5 drawer, legal file size with lock. Preferably one that doesn’t make me swear when opening and closing it! Call 514-594-2055. $ Buy car for scrap. Running or not, 24/7. www.scrapvehicule.com Call 514-951-4203

“1999 Chrysler Cirrus LX Sedan, Amethyst, Very good working condition, Automatic, P.S., P.B., P.W., P.L., P.M., Cruise control, A.C., Tilt Steering, Pioneer stereo, C.D. with remote. 230,260km. Asking $765. Neg. Please call 514918-4274”

2006 Mercedes CLS 500,Silver, never winter driven. 86,000 kms, very clean, $18,000 – negotiable. Call Ray: 514-668-9718.

Supplying your Vaudreuil-Dorion, St-Lazare, Hudson and West Island Regions More Classiﬁeds on page 25...

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

CLASSIFIEDS 325 - AUTOS FOR SALE

Submit & pay your ad online at www.yourlocaljournal.ca or e-mail: classiﬁeds@yourlocaljournal.ca

450 510-4007

325 - AUTOS FOR SALE

2009 Chevrolet Malibu 2LT, grey/green, 98300 km, no Montreal winters, excellent condition, well-equipped, 6 speed transmission, great gas mileage, sunroof, leather/ suede seats, $8700. 450-458-7863

1964 Cadillac Sedan de Ville. Excellent condition. 82,000 original miles. Rebuilt motor. Numbers match. Appraised at $17,000 asking price $10,000 or best offer. Call 514-6264770

325 - AUTOS FOR SALE

2009 Chevrolet Malibu 2LT, grey/green, 98300 km, no Montreal winters, excellent condition, well-equipped, 6 speed transmission, great gas mileage, sunroof, leather/ suede seats, $8700. 450-458-7863

Mazda3 2006, 4 door, manual, sunroof, fully loaded with AC 159, 000km. Includes 4 winter tires used 1 season. Asking $ 3400. Also selling 4 summer tires with mags asking $450. Call or text 514-690-5463.

Mercedes CLK 320 - 1999 - Convertible, Silver. 208,000 KM. $6,900. Call 514-216-9217.

Nissan X-Trail SE 2005, 165,000km. Looks great. Runs great. New Toyo winter tires on rims, summer tires on mags. Asking $5,200. Richard: 450-458-1497. 514794-4507. Mercedes S550 – 2007 AMC Package. White, panoramic roof. 144,000 km. Mint condition. $24,500. Call 514-216-9217.

Chevrolet Suburban 2010 -LT- White. Model 1500, 4x4. 60,000 km. Mint Condition, Like Triumph TR6 1972, White, Very Good Con- New. $30,000. Call 514-216-9217. dition, 77,000 miles. $7500 negotiable. Call 1992 Mercedes 300 SL convertible. 162,843 514-262-3320. Km’s … Hardtop, new: soft top, battery, comMazda 3 for sale, 2006, charcoal-black, pressor A/C . 6 cd disc player, cassette player. 4-door, 5-speed AC, 159,000 km, $3495. (514) Not winter driven, mint condition. $12,000 or best offer. Call 450-458-5995 941-5320

Wanted – Dead!

Ford Focus Wagon ZXW 2005. 218 000 kms, dark grey. Comes with 4 winter tires. $950.00 Call 450-218-2935 Silver Chrysler LHS 2000 with 267,000 kms. Highway driven only to Florida, Very clean, all electric. 3.5 engine with a V-6 $1700 Please call 450-458-7488

Oka Crisis Continued from page 22

Carmen Marie Fabio With ragweed season in full bloom, the Town of Hudson launched an innovative way of inviting citizen involvement in clearing private property of the allergen by putting a bounty of $0.10 a kilo on the loathsome crop. And Parks and Recreation Director Julia Schroeder decided to make the payout even more interesting by upping the ante. “I personally will offer $100 of my own money as a reward for the person who brings in the most ragweed by the cut-off date,” she said. Until September 14, residents were asked to bring the harvested weed, roots included, to the Parks and Recreation office where it was weighed and paid. Plants must not have been treated with pesticides and dirt from the roots must be shaken clean. The contest was

94 Mustang GT. Black coupe $5,800 must sell. Please call 514-996-6965

PHOTO BY JAMES PARRY

won by an enterprising 7-year-old Boy Scout named Kyle Secours whose diligence and hard work led to the accumulation of 140 kg of the offending plant.

This deep-rooted relationship and history motivated the townspeople of Hudson to take action to support Kanesatake at a time when we needed support.” Those in attendance stopped short of calling the event a ceremony saying the pain the community endured a quarter century ago when the neighbouring Town of Oka sought to expand a golf course by encroaching onto a native burial ground, and the ensuing standoff , was not something to be celebrated. “All our residents were profoundly affected at that time,” read Hudson Mayor Ed Prévost from a framed letter presented to Kanesatake Chief Serge Simon,

PHOTO BY CARMEN MARIE FABIO

“and many risked arrest by transporting food and other necessities as best they could across the pond. We stood by you through those difficult times and we stand with you today.” Stories of the year continued on page 27

200 - CAREERS/EMPLOYMENT

THANK YOU On behalf of the Robinson Family we would like to thank you very much for attending the Visitation and Celebration of Life for “Dee”. Also, thank you for the many cards, flowers, donations, loving support and kindness shown to us by so many.

Your Local Journal

Peter, Jane and our entire Family

P R O F E S S I O N A L D I R E C TO RY ACCOUNTANTS

INVESTMENT ADVISOR

KARAVOLAS BOILY & TRIMARCHI CPA INC.

Jeffrey Quenneville

Taxes and Accounting 438 Main Road, Hudson Tel : 450-458-0406,

Investment Advisor Raymond James Ltd. 2870 Route Harwood, St-Lazare 450.202.0999

ATTORNEY

FITNESS & INJURIES

Aumais Chartrand 100 boul. Don Quichotte, bureau 12 L’Ile-Perrot, QC J7V 6C7 Ph: 514-425-2233 ext. 229 andreaumais@bellnet.ca

BOOKKEEPING

Bryan Todd, B. Comm (Acct.) Business and Personal Accounting Services, Tax Preparations & Filings Ph. (514) 730-5966

DENTISTS

Dr. Don Littner & Dr. Morty Baker

Greg Lothian, B.Sc.,CAT(C), CSCS Professional strength coach & Low back/ injury reconditioning therapist. Become strong & injury free! 514-867-5684 mifitpro.com

IMMIGRATION

Brazolot Migration Group 35 Wharf Road, Hudson, QC (450) 458-2186 info@brazolotgroup.com

NOTARIES

472 Main Rd, Suite I, Hudson QC, J0P 1H0 Ph. (450) 458-5334

Jean-Pierre Boyer

Dr. Aileen Elliott

L.L., L., D.D.N. 1576 C Ste. Angélique, St. Lazare Ph. (450) 455-2323

1710 Ste Angélique, Saint Lazare

450 455 7924

OPTICIANS

PSYCHOLOGIST

Lunetterie Vista

Sylvi Lafontaine

1867 E Ste. Angélique, St. Lazare Ph. (450) 455-4500

ORTHODONTISTS

Psychologist 450.458.0944 sylvi.lafontaine@videotron.ca Bilingual Services • Cdn & US trained

Dr. Amy Archambault Dr. Paul Morton

drs. Martina Kleine-Beck

Your Local Specialists in Orthodontics 3206, boul. de la Gare, Suite 160 Vaudreuil-Dorion (450)218-1892

Psychologist 514.265.1386 martinakb _ 58@ hotmail.com

PHARMACIES

PSYCHOEDUCATIONAL SERVICES

Marilou Leduc

Sandy Farrell, Davis Facilitator

Affiliated BRUNET 1771 Ste. Angelique, St. Lazare Ph. (450) 424-9289

Dyslexia, ADD, ADHD & Learning disabilities can be corrected. www.dyslexiacorrection.ca (450) 458-4777

JOIN THE PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY 450-510-4007 admin@yourlocaljournal.ca

PSYCHOTHERAPY Frema Engel, MSW, ts, Psychotherapist Individual, Couple & Family Counselling

Relationships/Conflict/Mental Health/Bullying/Trauma, School & Workplace Issues St. Lazare - 514-989-9298 www.fremaengel.com

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

STORIES OF THE YEAR

Appeals court sides with Pincourt Sports Complex owners John Jantak The Quebec Court of Appeal ruled in favour of Groupe Thibault Rhéaume et Associés Inc. regarding the group’s plans to complete renovations to the Pincourt Sports Complex and ice hockey arena complex in Pincourt. The unanimous decision from the Court

of Appeal was announced August 31, and was delivered by the Honourable Justice Jean- François Émond who dismissed the appeal made by Paul Roy and 8280959 Canada Inc. In a press release issued by the town, Mayor Yvan Cardinal stated, “The rejection of the appeal confirms the legality of the procedures followed by the Town of

Pincourt… Therefore, the Court of Appeal’s judgement will enable Groupe Thibault and Pincourt to move forward. The town is confident the citizens of the island will soon have access to quality infrastructure to practice their favourite sport. The advent of an arena in Pincourt will be an important asset for the area.”

PHOTO BY JOHN JANTAK

SEPTEMBER

Hudson Town Council welcomes new DG

Your Local Journal

James Armstrong Hudson Mayor Ed Prévost welcomed Jean-Pierre Roy as the town’s new Director General, chosen from a roster of 37 candidates who applied for the position. “He comes to us with 20 years of experience in municipal affairs,” said the mayor noting Roy speaks three languages, French, English and Spanish.

PHOTO BY CARMEN MARIE FABIO

La petite séduction shines a spotlight on Hudson Stephanie O’Hanley The focus was on Hudson when a television crew from the popular Radio-Canada show La petite séduction came to visit and featured the town in the show’s 11th season, which airs next spring. Hudsonites and their neighbours helped host Dany Turcotte

PHOTO BY KEL DEEGAN

thrill Quebec actress Maude Guérin as she was shown the sights around town. Kel Deegan, a Hudson resident who was part of the organizing team, said the show asks somebody famous in Quebec a series of questions and then looks, ‘for a town that can offer what this person’s dreams are.’ “Hudson had everything they needed,” said Deegan. From a tourism perspective the show offered Hudson very good exposure at a low cost, said Nicolas Pedneault, Hudson’s Director of Tourism and Culture. “We’ll be coast to coast across Canada and they have one million viewers. It’s the most popular summer show in Canada in French.” Stories of the year continued on page 29

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Discover your local businesses! The deer are back: Make your Holiday reservations at Auberge des Gallant and come dine with your DEAR and our DEER! “Our reputation was made by the deer who come by our windows and keep our guests company while they dine,” Linda Gallant says. “And with the Christmas decorations, the setting is even more magical.” Auberge des Gallant has been a fine dining and hostelry staple since 1972. Many new services were added following reconstruction after the 2012 fire. More than just a simple inn, Auberge des Gallant is a charming resort with a full spa. “We added more rooms. We added exterior thermal baths, and our son, Neil Gallant, is now Executive Chef of our renowned ‘Le 1171’ restaurant,” Linda says. The renewed and expanded Auberge des Gallant continues to charm its existing clientele and also to attract a younger clientele and new residents who are discovering its endless charms. “The restaurant is very popular with local residents for a family dinner or Sunday brunch. Our sommelier Thomas organizes dinner events, pairing food and wine, that have become highly popular,” Linda says. It’s fine cuisine focusing on locally procured ingredients − a practice that Auberge des Gallant pioneered, long before it became trendy. “What many people don’t know is that we also have a full spa,” Linda adds. The spa is available not only to guests staying at the inn, but also to local residents and visitors who wish to escape in a nice mountain setting. Why drive all the way to the Eastern Townships − especially on

WWW.THEMAINKITCHEN.CA

winter’s uncertain roads − when you can enjoy a spa day in an enchanting setting no more than 20 minutes from home? “It’s a real asset for the people in our region,” Linda adds. Auberge des Gallant is also a trendsetting establishment that welcomes pets. Not only can guests bring their pets into their rooms; the inn also features a spa for the guests’ furry companions. Guests can have their pets groomed while they’re enjoying dinner, a massage or a facial. The reputation of Auberge des Gallant is unparalleled when it comes to quality and customer service. When a fire devastated the establishment in 2012, the inn was still able to accommodate the weddings planned in the following months. “You can imagine the panic of people who had reserved when they found out that their wedding venue had suffered a fire,” Linda says. “Of the 94 weddings booked, we managed to hold 84 of them. Ten opted to go somewhere else, but 84 decided to trust us and we were able to hold their weddings here. We could have taken a year off. Instead, we raised pavilions outside, and we transferred some events to the sugar shack. In short, even only four days after the fire, we made sure that the bride who got married that day had the most memorable day of her life,” Linda says. Auberge des Gallant is located at 1171 chemin St-Henri in Ste-Marthe. You can call the inn at (450) 459-4241 or visit its website at www.gallant.qc.ca for more information, and to find out about its gift cards for any of its services.

PIZZA AL TAGLIO

• Gourmet Take-Out, Catering • Dining Room open Friday & Saturday nights (on reservation) • NEW: Dining room now open for lunch Tuesday thru Saturday, Counter Service 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Bring your own wine!

422A Main Rd., Hudson • 450.202.MAIN (6246)

Small Business...BIG Difference! 28

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

STORIES OF THE YEAR

Ste. Anne reunited with ofÀcial reopening of Exit 41

Enbridge pipeline reversal decision a bitter pill for residents

John Jantak

Jules-Pierre Malartre

After more than four years of being closed, Exit 41 along the westbound highway 40 service road at Ste. Anne de Bellevue was officially reopened October 2. The completion of the long-awaited project also meant northbound traffic from Boulevard des Anciens-Combattants was able to connect to Chemin Ste. Marie in the city’s northern district. “To me, this is the best part of it – we are a united city again,” Mayor Paola Hawa said noting the project fulfills a promise she made during her election campaign in October 2013. “We hit the ground run-

On September 30, the National Energy Board (NEB) gave Enbridge the all-clear for its controversial line reversal and pressure increase project on the 40-year-old pipeline 9B, an unexpected decision that irked a number of regional stakeholders, including the MRC Vaudreuil-Soulanges that lobbied for full hydrostatic pressure testing along the pipeline. “This is a

PHOTO BY JOHN JANTAK

ning and we got it done.” Ste. Anne’s Executive Director Martin Bonhomme said the total cost of the construction project was $3.1 million – $1.7 million which came from the MTQ and $1.4 million from the city.

Rigaud holds Federal Government responsible for National Energy Board decision James Armstrong In direct response to the recent decision by the National Energy Board (NEB) of Canada allowing the Enbridge pipeline 9B flow reversal of diluted bitumen through its territory, the Town of Rigaud officially gave notice to the Prime Minister of Canada that the town is holding the federal government responsible for any consequences resulting from that decision.

Council passed the notice, in the form of a letter, unanimously at the October council meeting. The letter states the measure was taken as the pipeline in question is 40 years old and repeated requests for hydrostatic testing by municipalities in the area were not fulfilled. “We are saying that because the pipeline crosses our territory and hydrostatic testing was not done, we are holding the federal government responsible for anything that happens.”

very disappointing result, and I share the MRC’s reaction,” incumbent NDP Member of Parliament Jamie Nicholls said. MRC Prefect Jean Lalonde said the MRC was bitterly disappointed by its October 2 meeting with NEB representatives, a meeting that had been scheduled in order for the NEB to explain its decision. “Once again, we come out of a meeting with more questions than answers,” Lalonde said.

Red wave washes through Vaudreuil-Soulanges riding James Armstrong “Thank you for letting me realize my dream of representing all of you as the Member of Parliament for VaudreuilSoulanges,” said Peter Schiefke to the crowd of supporters on winning his seat in the federal election. “My job is about helping to realize the needs, wants, dreams and desires of the people of Vaudreuil- Soulanges.” When asked how he felt about his victory, Schiefke replied, “Surreal, I think is the best word to describe the feeling. To see so many people putting their trust in me means a great deal to me.” He at-

PHOTO BY JAMES ARMSTRONG

tributed the win in the Vaudreuil-Soulanges riding to Justin Trudeau’s plan and promises. “I am looking forward to putting in place that plan and keeping all the promises we have made.”

St. Lazare Town Hall project to go ahead following November 24 registry Jules-Pierre Malartre A total of 483 residents showed up November 24 to sign St. Lazare’s registry against the $9.4 million loan by-law for the new proposed Town Hall, short of the 500 signatures that would have been required to oppose the by-law and either scrap the project, or send it into referendum. The proposed project

has met opposition from some residents, mainly over cost. “We have been completely transparent,” said Mayor Robert Grimaudo. “We showed all the maximum costs. It won’t cost $10 million, we know. But when we prepare a loan by-law, MAMOT asks that we go for the maximum.” Grimaudo said the resulting municipal tax increase would not exceed $63.

PHOTO COURTESY VILLE DE SAINT LAZARE

Hudson facing ethics investigation James Armstrong and Carmen Marie Fabio Hudson Mayor Ed Prévost said a formal ethics complaint had been filed against him with MAMOT by an undisclosed individual and had resulted in a negative impact on himself, his family and friends. “I assure you that all of these insinuations will be proven to be what they are: malicious attempts to smear the town, the council and yours truly.” He said the legal issues have absorbed the energy and finances that should have been dedicated to

building Hudson’s future. “Now that I know who the conspirators are, I will not back down.” Legal costs comprise $95,438.15 with approximately $67,462 spent on battles with former DG Catherine Haulard. A resolution passed mandating legal proceedings against the defamation of Town of Hudson employees on social media also raised a question regarding costs. “It’s shameful that we have to put something like this in our minutes,” said Councillor Nicole Durand. “We have to protect our employees from false allegations.” Stories of the year continued on page 30

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

STORIES OF THE YEAR

St. Lazare asked to rein in spending Ste. Anne de Bellevue scheduled

budget meeting cancelled

John Jantak With residential property taxes in St. Lazare set to increase by an average of 4.1 per cent, some residents are calling on town council to curb its spending after its 2016 budget was adopted December 15. For homeowners, the hike will raise property taxes by about $120 based on a house evaluated at $370,000, roughly the same increase as in 2015, said Mayor Robert Grimaudo. “Our council is here to make the hard decisions and sometimes they’re decisions that might lose you an election,”

Carmen Marie Fabio

PHOTO BY JOHN JANTAK

Grimaudo added. “They’re making the decisions they’re making because it’s good for the population of St. Lazare.”

Citing an insurmountable impasse within council, Ste. Anne de Bellevue Mayor Paola Hawa announced the scheduled Budget 2016 information session that was to be held December 15 was cancelled. “Of course you cannot propose a budget if you cannot agree on what the budget is,” she said. “One of the big hurdles to the operation’s budget is whether or not to cut one specific position within the administration,” Hawa said. “We are not a

private company, we’re a municipality, and part of our responsibility is to provide quality service to our residents.” The situation needs to be resolved and the town’s budget approved before it issues tax bills by January 15, 2016. If not, Hawa said the cost to the town will be $63,000 a month in interest on its financial obligations to repaying Agglomeration expenses. “I can tell you, that is way more than what it would cost us to maintain that (contested) position.”

Former Hudson DG Louise Léger-Villandré pleads guilty Carmen Marie Fabio After previously vowing she would not plead guilty, the Town of Hudson’s former DG Louise Léger- Villandré pleaded guilty December 10 to six of the 19 charges of fraud in the misappropriation of $1.1 million in municipal funds over a 17-year period. “The charges include breach of trust and four counts of use of a forged docu-

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

ment,” said Crown Prosecutor Mathieu Longpré. There was a stay of proceedings on the other counts. Hudson’s DG Jean-Pierre Roy said the town is exploring other possible civil action against Léger-Villandré to recoup the money and is hoping to have access to evidence taken by UPAC investigators. Léger-Villandré will be sentenced February 22, 2016.

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

PHOTO BY CARMEN MARIE FABIO

Special Menu for New Years’s Eve and New Year’s Day Supper FULLY LICENSED

RESTAURANT IS CLOSED DECEMBER 25TH.

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

YOUR LOCAL JOURNAL

L’équipe Exit Performa vous remercie de votre conÀance et soutien. Nous vous souhaitons un très Joyeux temps des Fêtes à vous et votre famille et que la nouvelle Année vous apporte Santé, Paix et Prospérité!

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The Exit Performa Team would like to thank you for your continued conÀdence and support. We wish you a very Happy Holiday with Best Wishes of Health, Peace and Prosperity for the New Year!

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