The Journal - December 10th 2020

VOL. 20 NO. 40

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020

HUDSON, ST. LAZARE // VAUDREUIL-DORION, RIGAUD, PINCOURT, ÎLE-PERROT, N.D.I.P. & SAINTE-ANNE-DE-BELLEVUE

PHOTO BY VALÉRIE RINFRET

The changing landscape of Hudson Multiple planned or in-progress projects in Hudson are raising ques-

tions about rapid density increases, as well as forest conservation for

developments planned in previously unbuilt areas. See story on page 3.

“They call it paradise, I don’t know why. You call someplace paradise, kiss it goodbye.”

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Inside Traffic and postal issues in Vaudreuil-Dorion

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Cleaner air in Ste. Anne’s

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Traffic lights at troublesome Saint-Lazare intersection

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THE JOURNAL

Thursday, December 10, 2020

SAINT-LAZARE - CENTRIS #19142106. Land zoned commercial - Cote St-Charles in St-Lazare.

Building opposition in Hudson Nick Zacharias

The Journal

The December online meeting of the Hudson town council saw some dissent amongst councillors over more new construction approvals, an apparent reversal on changing the recentlynarrowed lanes on Bellevue, and numerous residents voicing opposition to planned large-scale developments.

Council also highlighted some achievements and offered recognition to longstanding town employees.

Well-earned recognition Hudson was recognized with third prize amongst municipalities across the province for their civil security improvement plan. The award from the Mutuelle des municipalités du Quebec comes with $2,500 to fund training.

Said Mayor Jamie Nicholls, “I just want to extend my congratulations to Chief Dan Leblanc and his great team at Public Security.”

The mayor also highlighted the service of several employees celebrating milestone anniversaries, notably Director of Public Works, Parks and Green Spaces Iain Dalgarno who has worked with the town for 25 years.

Conflict over new builds The evening’s agenda called for votes on seven new construction projects, five of which were approved – though not without dissent. District 1 Councillor Helen Kurgansky opposed a single-family dwelling on Royalview (at Sandy Beach) but was outvoted. Next, the Town Planning Advisory Committee (TPAC) recommended refusing an application for a new house at 62 Main Road, but council decided to disregard

the recommendation and proceed with approval. Councillor Kurgansky and District 2 Councillor Austin RikleyKrindle both opposed that one, but again were outvoted by the remaining three members.

Asked in question period to explain her opposition to the house at Sandy Beach, Kurgansky began to say the proposed detached house, on top of the hundreds of other units planned, would be, “very close to the 100-year floodplain,” and also very close to the entryway for the beach, but was interrupted with a call of, “…come on Councillor Kurgansky, it’s outside the ZIS, point of correction,” from District 6 Councillor Daren Legault. She reiterated that she had said it was outside but very close to the floodplain (commonly referred to by the French acronym ZIS) and then was interrupted again by District 5 Councillor Jim Duff who said, “Point of information, this is a misrepresentation of the facts,” with no further explanation.

Mayor Nicholls said, “The rest of council do not have the liberty to take what would essentially put the town into legal jeopardy should we follow Miss Kurgansky’s orientation.” He followed by pointing out that many lots in Hudson are close to, or within, the floodplain (as drawn in 2019), and chose to cite Kurgansky’s own house as an example.

Bellevue lanes here to stay?

Though several councillors have said recently that the reduced lane widths on Bellevue could be re-evaluated in the spring, Mayor Nicholls appeared to refute that notion in response to a question from resident June Penney.

PHOTO BY VALÉRIE RINFRET

A 348-signature petition has been submitted to the Town of Hudson asking council to reassess its recent spate of new development approvals.

“The lane widths have been shown to be fine. They are safe enough,” he said, underscoring that the narrower lanes were intended to slow traffic. “Bellevue residents have claimed that the traffic has slowed down, and they wish to keep it that way,” he added.

Opposing deforestation Resident Trevor Smith wrote to urge council to take heed of a 348-signature petition he submitted, asking the town to reassess its recent spate of new housing approvals. He also said, “Council has a history of ignoring petitions and yet it is obvious that there is no consensus for the level of present development and expansion of Hudson’s population.”

Nicholls categorized ideas of changing the development plan as, “wish-

ful thinking.” He said opposing plans handed down to Hudson from the Communauté metropolitaine de Montreal (CMM) and the Municipalité régionale de comté (MRC) “…requires amendments that are very difficult to make,” and so they prefer to work with the regional bodies to, “…do our best to make sure they fit our idea of what Hudson is.”

For a large and vocal number of people that idea does not include hundreds of new condominiums in threestorey buildings on what is currently forested land at Sandy Beach.

Citizens from as far as Rigaud and Sainte-Marthe joined the Zoom meeting to question the logic of reducing the town’s limited tree cover.

Continued on page 21

To the Gannaiden “family of friends” on this holiday season.

All the best!

our family to yours!

Wishing you happy and safe holidays from out Full Covid 19 ID 19 Full COV ns in precautions in precautio r ou place. Your psalafectey. Yis our safety is our numbecreornn.e con number one Dr Diana Ponoran & Associates concern.

Dr Diana Ponoran & Associates Thursday, December 10, 2020

THE JOURNAL

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Photo of the year!

EDITOR’S CORNER

Development at a cost For the second time in a relatively short span, citizens concerned about their dwindling greenspace and increased development on areas of environmental concern have been told, rather indelicately, that if they’re so interested in its preservation they should consider purchasing it themselves.

In the case of the large single-family dwelling that’s currently being built on Mont Rigaud, Mayor Hans Gruenwald has said as long as someone owns a piece of property, that someone has legal rights. Fair enough.

But we don’t elect representation only to be told, ‘If you don’t like it, pay to change it.’

It’s everyone’s job to care about, and make efforts to protect, the environment.

And if a financial solution can’t be absorbed by the town coffers, other avenues at least deserve exploration.

The Town of Pincourt was in a similar situation with a contested patch of woodland that was privately owned and slated for development. After much back and forth with a small but persistent group of residents, negotiations were made to secure the purchase of the lot to be paid for by the residents over the next 30 years, agreed upon by public vote.

The Town of Rigaud has made efforts to establish a land trust to secure as much of the mountain as possible but needs to raise millions more to ensure preservation – perhaps not a perfect plan but a plan nonetheless.

Very few towns have the resources available to protect every green space from development but it’s up to elected officials to work with the people who elected them to explore every avenue available before uttering dismissive comments.

The Journal PUBLISHER: EDITOR: JOURNALIST: STAFF WRITER: COLUMNISTS:

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MONIQUE BISSONNETTE CARMEN MARIE FABIO JOHN JANTAK NICK ZACHARIAS BRIAN GALLAGHER KELLY MIYAMOTO MATT MILLER LAUREN MITCHELL SABREENA MOHAMED KAREN SIMMONS LUCIE BRODEUR JULES-PIERRE MALARTRE TERRY O’SHAUGHNESSY CJ MAXWELL BETH SHILLIBEER KYLE SHILLIBEER

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Thursday, December 10, 2020

3rd place winner Our Photo of the Year contest has wrapped up and what a year it’s been. Perhaps because of the pandemic outbreak, the amount of spectacular submissions significantly increased and was something to look forward to each week.

Our third place winner is Hudson resident Karen Symonds whose photo of her dog Silver enjoying a day on the snowy trails caught the eye of contest judge Steve Charland of Régate Kia Valleyfield. For second and first place winners, be sure to pick up the next two copies of The Journal just before the holiday break.

Due to the popularity, our contest will definitely be back in 2021. Happy snapping!

Dear Editor: editor@yourlocaljournal.ca Dear Editor, Your article on Rigaud mountain was a good effort at explaining the latest commotion here. (Development on Mont Rigaud deemed a necessary part of conservation, The Journal, November 5).

It’s not easy to write about Rigaud. I have lived here for a long time and mainly because I have family in Ottawa. From my perspective, Rigaud has identity problems which arise out of refusal on the part of most people who have run the town over the years to let it be what it is; i.e. a little town at the end of the line.

The confusion you describe in your article is the very thing that makes it hard to live in Rigaud. Not even the most basic by-law stays around for long.

Everything gets tweaked and fiddled with in hopes of that ‘avant garde’ moment when the town will bloom as a sudden find. It never happens, and can’t.

Rigaud, in my opinion, is a town that people drive through and it’s nice for that. There is little reason to want to live here, however, because there are very few good areas to live in. The mountain takes up a lot of the space and again, although nice to drive through when the leaves change colour or for a thrilling car ride down Bourget Street, there is little demand for permanent residence up there.

The ascent on a daily basis is horrific for the environment as your car spews out exhaust on the climb and no one really wants to live in a place where traipsing tourists can at any moment appear, staring moonfaced at you going about your daily life in so-called privacy. Also, most people don’t want the added hassle of digging a well, maintaining pumps and paying for septic services on top of very high taxes.

A lot of the chronic hype over the mountain is, in my opinion, to create an intrigue over the place and hopefully to stir up interest but in fact there is little demand here for practical habitation. I do fear though, that the mountain offers potential for businesses who deal with waste and general dumping.

The history of the mountain, in fact, is riddled with stories of people and things being hidden away.

Rigaud has severe water shortages and poor infrastructure. These basic needs are not being met despite the high tax rate.

Rigaud’s enduring reality is as a less expensive option to Hudson and Saint-Lazare. No confusion there.

Robert Sides Rigaud

IGA Hudson I have been shopping at IGA for over 40 years.

We should be so grateful for this store. The staff, from day one, has always been so helpful and courteous. I have seen many changes… but always in keeping with outstanding friendly service. This pandemic has made the staff shine even more. I can’t believe how lucky we are to have them. They all deserve a medal. Thank you so much.

Monique Campeau Hudson A Love letter to the Town of Hudson on Chanukah 2020 ‘How do I love thee? Let me count the ways,’ borrowed from Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Were it not for our ultra-observant health precautions, I’d be out in the streets this holiday season hugging the past and present Hudson mayors, councillors, administrators, Hudsonites, and even them strangers that ride through town.

Thank God that my ‘hugs’ are an attachment to nearly 50 ‘golden years’ of living as a visible Jewish Hudsonite who continues to receive love, strength and support from the community. The fact that husband Marcel Braitstein shares this story is a blessing. Braitstein is a WW II child survivor.

I do not know if my urge to write a love letter to ‘Everything Hudson’ is due to age, stage, COVID-19 environment, all of the above or something other. I do not want to miss the opportunity to hand over to Hudson what belongs to Hudson – the Hudson Chanukah Menorah story. Menorah is the Hebrew word for candelabra. The Chanukah holiday is also known as the festival of lights.

In the 1970s, when my children were young, Chanukah in Hudson meant visiting their classes at local schools to tell the Chanukah story. Fast forward.

About 11 year ago a Chabad Jewish Community Centre and synagogue was established in Saint-Lazare. The Chabad organization is known for lighting large outdoor electrical menorahs on Chanukah.

The municipality that welcomed the Chabad Chanukah menorah event was the Town of Hudson.

Two years ago, Mayor Jamie Nicholls invited Hudsonite Marcel Braitstein to create a Chanukah menorah specifically for Hudson. We (Marcel and I) like to describe the project as, “a menorah by the people for the people.” Braitstein is a sculptor.

Continued on page 8

New traffic light configuration should ease traffic woes at busy Vaudreuil-Dorion intersection John Jantak

The Journal

Motorists travelling westbound on Boulevard de la Cité-des-Jeunes will finally get some relief from the traffic that normally accumulates on the dedicated left turn lane at the intersection with Boulevard de la Gare.

Vaudreuil-Dorion announced that after more than four years of negotiations between the city and the prov-

PHOTO COURTESY SHUTTERSTOCK

Motorists heading westbound on Boulevard de la Cité-des-Jeunes should be in for an easier ride with the installation of a new priority left turn to the light sequence after four years of negotiations with the Ministry of Transport.

incial Ministry of Transport (MTQ), the MTQ will add the priority left turn lane to the traffic light sequence at the intersection. The intersection is located near the site of the former Flying J truck stop.

Dangerous intersection The city noted that several complaints have been made by motorists about the dangerous intersection and the long wait time. The city has been aware of this situation for many years.

Mayor Guy Pilon said if the traffic lights at the intersection had been had been under the city’s jurisdiction, the sequence would have been changed a long time ago.

“This intersection is the responsibility of the MTQ so we had to wait for them to give their authorization. We increased the number of requests we made and our director general finally managed to finalize an agreement with the MTQ,” said Pilon. Changes to the traffic light sequence are expected to be made by December 18.

Security requested for post offices Vaudreuil-Dorion council has made a request to Vaudreuil-Soulanges federal MP Peter Schiefke to see if there is anything he can do to help stem a

reported loss of personnel at various postal outlets in the city due to abusive and aggressive customers. The issue was raised at the Monday evening council meeting on December 7.

Mayor Guy Pilon said he’s concerned by the loss of postal workers because it could have a negative impact on the city’s 42,000 residents.

“The problem is the post office doesn’t have people who want to work for them anymore because the customers are very impolite and aggressive and Canada Post is losing their employees,” said Pilon. “We want to make sure Mr. Schiefke knows about this issue and to see if there’s anything that can be done to keep people from quitting such as putting a security person at each outlet.”

Bringing Christmas cheer to the needy Vaudreuil-Dorion council welcomed a recent initiative from the city’s white collar union, blue collar union, firefighters union and its association of executives which recently united to make a donation to the l’Actuel volunteer organization which helps provide relief to families who are undergoing hardship at this time of the year.

PHOTO BY CARMEN MARIE FABIO

Whether it’s due to the pandemic or the increase in parcel volume, Canada Post workers are reporting an increase in rude behaviour from customers and the Town of Vaudreuil-Dorion is reaching out to MP Peter Schiefke for possible solutions.

Each of the four groups contributed $1000 and city council added an additional $1000 for a total of $5000. “We won’t be able to hold social events this holiday season so we decided why not use a portion of that amount and give to those who are going through a more difficult time?” said white collar union president Maurice Pilon.

Holiday Solidarity project The Holiday Solidarity project was launched by the city last year and is aimed at making the daily life of people who are undergoing a difficult time financially a little bit easier.

Continued on page 21

Thursday, December 10, 2020

THE JOURNAL

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THE SOAPBOX CARMEN MARIE FABIO

Till we meat again...

A CBC news story this week indicates that the average Canadian family will be looking at a grocery bill increase of up to $695 next year due to the combined effects of the pandemic, global wildfires, floods and droughts. That amount is for an average family. Shudder.

Most of the produce we consume comes from California which has been hit especially hard during this year’s wildfire season so even the price of veggies is expected to jump by up to 6.5 per cent. This is not good news for the veggie crowd.

At the behest of my eldest, we’ve been on a plant-based diet for much of 2020. And, much like quitting smoking typically takes multiple attempts before one achieves success, giving up meat has been a transition years in the making.

But we’re getting better at it. While my eldest does his own meal prep for the week, we’ll often collaborate on weekend family meals, usually arriving at a compromise as I lack his digestive tolerance for beans.

But with creative uses of tofu, seitan, oats, sweet potato, squash and a number of other ingredients, we’ve been able to craft a series of palatable meat alternatives that have gotten us to December.

“Do you feel any better?” a friend asked when I told her of our dietary change.

Not really. Perhaps if I was an athlete competing at the elite level, I would notice a boost in performance. But being a middle-aged editor who mostly sits at a desk and hasn’t been swimming since the damn global pandemic broke out in March, my only gauge on health improvement is how fast I’m typing.

As the year draws to a close, I can’t say I have any plans of sitting down to a T-bone steak on January 1st. I’ve actually come to enjoy many of the meals we make and some of the products we’ve found on the grocery store shelves but yeah, I still get the odd craving for a piece of fried chicken.

The current brand of ‘Beyond’ meats available is very good – but pricey. I’ll splurge once in a while and buy the veggie sausage (fauxsage) which, for some reason, is half the price of the veggie burgers and while it’s uncannily close to the real thing, consider yourself warned – if you’re going to fry it up, open every window and turn your range hood ventilation system to max. Not only does it smell exactly like fried sausage, it lingers with a tenacity that evades nose-blindness. It took two days for the smell to leave my house.

Vegetarian meatballs (what we call cheatballs) are actually really tasty smothered in a good quality marinara sauce. A decent ground-beef substitute can be made from onions, mushrooms, and lentils or oats. Slap it all together with barbecue sauce and you’ve got yourself a nice dish of Fake ‘n Bake.

Or combine it with veggies and top with mashed sweet potato for a heaping helping of Shepherd’s Lie. I’m not big on the veggie cold cuts available on the grocery store shelves but hubby says once loaded in a sandwich with mustard, mayo, cheese and lettuce, it’s actually pretty good, the tofurkey being the best. There’s no need to find a veggie pseudonym for baloney.

So if the predicted price increases in meat – particularly poultry – leads more people to try a plant-based diet, then that can only be a good thing. But I predict the real culinary breakthrough will only shift our collective palates once someone devises a way to safely consume all those beans.

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Thursday, December 10, 2020

THE JOURNAL FILE PHOTO/CARMEN MARIE FABIO

Following the lead set by the City of Montreal, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue is implementing stricter emission guidelines for all wood-burning units over the next five years.

New wood burning device by-law will improve air quality in Ste. Anne’s John Jantak

The Journal

Reduced air quality from fine particulates emitted from old non-compliant wood burning stoves and fireplaces during the winter months prompted a Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue resident who lives in the north sector of the city to ask council what it intends to do to improve the situation.

“At certain times of the year, the air becomes downright unbreathable and even with all the windows closed, particles seep into the home causing asthma attacks, headaches and respiratory distress,” the resident wrote in a question that was submitted before the start of the monthly council meeting Monday, December 7.

Respiratory disease The resident, who isn’t named, stated he has been living in the north sector since 1983 and suffers from lung disease. He asked the city to implement regulations to curb the emission of fine particulates sooner than the five-year grace period currently allowed by the city.

The grace period is meant to give residents time to convert or upgrade their current wood-burning and other solid fuel burning devices to new devices that comply with the city’s revised regulations, but not everyone agrees with the city’s intentions.

Not all residents agree “We had a comment from another resident who felt we shouldn’t be applying any sort of restrictions on wood burning devices,” Mayor Paola Hawa told The Journal. “Half the population wants one thing and the other half wants another. What we’re doing is a step forward. Hopefully people will become accustomed to this idea and within five years we’ll be able to move forward.

“This is the direction the City of

Montreal has taken when they adopted new regulations about two or three years ago. We’re a little bit behind in terms of adopting any kind of regulations that control emissions. We’re behind Montreal in terms of the rigidity regarding the levels they imposed.

They’re a lot stricter than we are but we need to start somewhere,” Hawa added.

Leaded gasoline ban The mayor compared the imposition of its new regulations regarding wood burning devices to when the federal government decided to ban leaded gasoline throughout Canada in 1990.

“Everybody knew leaded fuels weren’t good for the environment and there were certain negative repercussions. It took everyone time to adopt to the new standard,” said Hawa.

Compliance to the city’s new regulations won’t happen overnight which is why the city imposed a five-year grace period to give residents time to comply.

The mayor added she has a wood burning stove herself and is also affected by the new regulations imposed by city council.

Second largest cause of air pollution “In terms of air quality and pollution, wood burning stoves and any kind of solid fuel burning device is the second largest cause of air pollution on the Island of Montreal. It’s only eclipsed by transport. There definitely is an issue and it has to be addressed. You can’t just put your head in the sand and pretend it doesn’t exist,” said Hawa.

“It’s not as if you can contain the air above Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue,” she added. “Pollutants come in from the off-island municipalities. It all needs to be regulated. Montreal has done its bit, we’re doing our bit and hopefully in time the off-island municipalities will do their bit as well.”

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KELLY’S KEYBOARD A MILLENNIAL’S VIEWPOINT

KELLY MIYAMOTO

Isolation and connection during COVID-19 I think it’s safe to say we’ve had some time to re-evaluate things lately.

Our priorities, our ideas of the future, our connections with each other… this year has given us plenty of opportunities to change and obstacles to overcome. We’ve all had our challenges under COVID-19, but social distancing and isolation have made it hard at times to hold onto the feeling of everyone being in this together.

We haven’t been able to be out in the world in the same way as before. Except for the people within our pandemic pods, we haven’t been able to spend time with friends and family like we used to either. We became our own little islands. And communication, for all intents and purposes, turned into a long-distance situation. Friends and strangers alike became quite literally out of reach. It suddenly seemed to matter less whether you were down the street or halfway around the world from someone you love.

At least we have technology. I don’t mean that to sound sarcastic. As a young person, I’ve grown up hearing constant warnings about the dangers and downsides of smartphones and social media. And some of the concerns are valid.

But I’m so grateful that I can text, call, and video chat with my loved ones no matter how far away they are. I knew how fortunate I was to be able to do that before COVID-19 but given the events of this year, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the many ways we can connect when we can’t see each other in person. Even sending handwritten letters has seen a recent surge in popularity as we search for any and every way to reach out to others.

Because of the pandemic and everything that has changed since it started, we’re using our electronic devices and online apps to keep in contact more than ever. Nothing is quite the same as really being together, but it’s amazing to have other ways to be close to the people we miss, even when we lose out on the physical over the virtual.

It’s been rough not being able to see who we want to see, when and how we want to see them. Video chats and instant messaging can only do so much to fill that void, but having those options is so much better than not having any at all. And thankfully we have collectively improved at using the tools at our disposal.

I might not be able to see some of my friends and family in person, but I can still write them a catch-up text, share a funny video with them, or see their faces via a Snapchat or a video call. Though we’re living in a time of social distancing, we have ways of being connected.

Online and social media-based types of communication are a big part of what has kept the spirit of community alive since the pandemic began. We can be together, even when we’re not.

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Thursday, December 10, 2020

Letters

Continued from page 4 He accommodated the Chanukah lighting program within the virtue of a sculpture. Hence, we say it is ‘a sculpture-menorah.’

It stands as evidence of a love story in Hudson.

The storyline is about celebrating Chanukah and Christmas in Hudson.

For the past nine years, a Chanukah Menorah and a Christmas tree stood side by side. The underlying theme is about loyalty and an unspoken commitment between the Christian town folks and their Jewish counterparts.

“How do I love thee? Let me count the ways,” said Elaine Steinberg Vaudreuil-Dorion The Braitstein sculpture-menorah is on display at Hudson Community Centre. All nine lights will be on as of the last day of Chanukah on December 18.

Dear Editor, A few weeks ago the Lester B. Pearson School Board announced it was spending half a million dollars to purchase and install ventilators for every classroom in schools with natural ventilation and upgrade the filtration systems to Merv-13 in schools with mechanical ventilation. This was in response to the CAQ government’s lack of response to this issue. The board made the decision regardless of the fact that it may not get paid back but the health and safety of the students and staff was paramount.

400 units will be purchased.

Just this week, the English Montreal School Board made a similar decision, perhaps a little late, but still the right decision. Due to the fact that its buildings are considerably older the EMSB will have to spend about $1.5 million and purchase 800 units. It too is not sure if it will be reimbursed but again the health and safety of their population came first. Thus the two school boards are purchasing 1200 units and spending about $2 million.

Contrast this with the Francophone Service Centres. They do not have elected commissioners who are responsible to the local community. To this point they have ordered zero units for their students and staff and are still waiting for the minister to give them directions. Even if they decide in the next few weeks to purchase them, and that’s a big ‘if’ considering the government’s lack of concern on this subject, the units wouldn’t be installed until the end of the coldest part of the winter. I guess the Service Centres think it’s fine for their students and staff to freeze with the windows open all winter.

Had Bill 40 been allowed to pass the Anglophone Service Centres would now be in place and a similar fate would have befallen our students and staff.

That is why, when the school board elections resume in the spring, it is of paramount importance for everyone to go vote. School boards are the last line of defense when dealing with a government that either doesn’t care or is too indecisive to act. Please remember this

in the spring.

Danny Olivenstein Commissioner, Ward 11 Rigaud I care too Dear Editor, No question, the pandemic has wreaked havoc with the on-again, offagain English school board elections.

However, using the pandemic for political sympathy and toward political gain is not helpful in running our public school system.

On October 8, fellow candidate for Pearson board chair Judy Kelley told the Montreal Gazette that she was, “…hoping voters will make it to the polls, despite the COVID-19 pandemic.” (‘LBPSB elections set for Nov. 1’) Yet, on Nov. 14 on Global News, Commissioner Kelley blasted the Education Ministry, which works in concert with Public Health and Elections Quebec, because it decided, “to go ahead with school board elections (Dec. 20) amid COVID-19 crisis.”

Her reaction was not shared by others running for chair at the Lester B. and Sir Wilfrid Laurier school boards.

Hence, the letter ‘Candidates for chairs of LBPSB and SWLSB agree to December 20 elections’ (The Journal, Nov. 26) In her ‘reaction’ to our letter, Mrs. Kelley wrote on Dec. 3 to The Journal ‘Vote when it’s deemed safe.’

She said her, “…thoughts were always with our vulnerable electorate, with the poll workers and custodians who would have been tasked to ensure safe conditions for voters in the many schools slated to be used as polling stations….”

Commissioner Kelley is being somewhat melodramatic. We are not talking of hordes of people lining up to a rock concert.

Newly appointed vice-chair of the Pearson board and her allies – the Quebec English School Boards Association and APPELE-Québec, seem to believe they have a monopoly on caring.

In late April, I was starting to express concern about the upcoming elections and safety matters connected to the pandemic. These worries were expressed to many people/groups, newspapers and to all members of the National Assembly.

I suggested if schools were still closed, “voters could line up – two metres apart – near outside trailers, which would be under large tents, in shopping centres’ parking lots....”

And if schools were open, as far as voting during the pandemic is concerned, that’s no problem given the traditional puny voter turnout of about 16 per cent, and now, with about 85 per cent of the commissioners acclaimed.

Respecting social distancing rules, voters can come in the front door of a school, cast their ballot and leave out the back door.

I care, too.

I’ve been caring at the Lester B. Pearson School Board for about 23 years.

Chris Eustace Pierrefonds

Saint-Lazare installs traffic lights at Chemin Saint-Louis and Bédard Avenue John Jantak

The Journal

Following years of discussion and debate on how to best address the rush hour traffic flow that clogs the Saint-Lazare intersection of Bédard Avenue and Chemin Saint-Louis, traffic lights have finally been installed last week.

The lights are intended to ease the traffic congestion that normally occurs each weekday during the morning and afternoon rush hours, Mayor Robert Grimaudo told The Journal.

“Council made a decision based on the budget that was allotted and I hope this helps to alleviate the congestion that comes off the highway,” said Grimaudo.

Operational by end of next week “Right now the traffic lights are flashing red which requires people to make an obligatory stop at each intersection.

The lights haven’t been programmed yet but they should be fully functional by the end of next week,” Grimaudo added.

The sensors on the traffic lights will indicate the number of vehicles that are at the intersection and switch according to the flow of traffic and backlog of cars during each sequence.

PHOTO BY LAUREN MITCHELL

The installation of traffic lights at this intersection in Saint-Lazare – which sees regular traffic build-up during rush hour – is hoped to mitigate the situation for frustrated motorists.

Expropriated land The issue of what will happen to the four corner lots was raised during question period at the start of the monthly council meeting that was livestreamed on Tuesday evening, December 8. “I’m not sure what will happen. Council has not discussed it at this point. We don’t know yet,” said Grimaudo.

Councillor Richard Chartrand suggested the expropriated land could be

Chez Maurice up for sale

used for pedestrian crosswalks or bicycle paths. “That’s a possibility but we haven’t looked into it yet. We don’t know what we’re going to do with those four very small lots,” said Grimaudo.

Traffic lights or roundabout Residents and former council members had sparred on what the most cost effective solution would be – lights or a roundabout.

As reported in The Journal in 2017, Mayor Grimaudo advocated for the traffic circle saying it would cost the town $600,000 less compared to the installation of lights – the higher price tag because the project at the time also included left turning lanes and a reinforced conduit for an underground Hydro-Québec transmission line.

Continued on page 19

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THE JOURNAL FILE PHOTO/CARMEN MARIE FABIO

Chez Maurice co-owner Richard Chartrand said the cost of the pandemic-induced closure of his bar – a fixture on the entertainment scene for decades – is forcing him to put the building on the market.

Carmen Marie Fabio

The Journal

A Saint-Lazare landmark building is up for sale after being the go-to place for live music for 40 years. Bar Chez Maurice, located at the corner of Chemin SainteAngélique and Bédard Avenue, has been put on the market for the asking price of $4.68 million.

“It’s for the same reason as every other business that’s for sale,” said current co-owner and District 5 Councillor Richard Chartrand. “We’ve been closed for almost a year. We were thinking we would open in the springtime or the

summer, or maybe the autumn, but we don’t know. Every time I think the situation is better, it’s worse than what I thought.”

Though Chartrand, who owns the two-storey locale with his brother, said his first priority was to reopen, it’s costing roughly $15,000 a month to maintain the empty building. And though more government financial aid is currently available to bar owners, the decision has been made and the contracts with the real estate agent have been signed.

The establishment has been in the Chartrand family since 1938 and is named for Chartrand’s father Maurice.

Visit

ACHATLOCALVS.COM Thursday, December 10, 2020

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9

KICK IN THE ARTS

BRIAN GALLAGHER

The laundry was hung by the chimney with care Something has occurred to me. See if you are in the same boat would you? You see, it’s about me spending more time at home all these days (weeks, months). Now that December is here, the yard is all cleaned up for the season, the summer tires and lawn furniture are stowed away, the garden’s covered with mulch and the garden gnomes are tucked away in their beds in the shed, I guess I need to be turning my attention to

the great indoors.

So in a pre-emptive move I’ve decided to report about what I did (or will do) during my (government sanctioned) Christmas holiday before it even happens. In all honesty beautiful people you’ll probably read the same column in January, except I’ll write it in the past tense – I’ve always been a ‘cut and paste’ kind of guy – and it’s not plagiarism if I’m stealing my own material, right? I said am I right? Besides, like my benevolent editor says (with love, of course) – “It’s not like you’re covering politics or bake sales Gallagher, no one will notice.”

With that said, here’s my indoor ‘Ho Ho Holiday’ activity guide for 2020: Vacuum (even under the beds and dressers – sometimes late at night I hear purring coming from under them when I know the cat is locked in the bathroom); Flip the mattresses (although it is easier falling into bed when you roll downhill into the middle and settle like the meaty stuffing in a cotton burrito); Laundry (the furballs under the bed aren’t the only things making noise and keeping me awake – see last week’s column for further clarification); Load up the recycling bin (if I finally start throwing out the hundreds of take-in containers I’ve been stockpiling for the apocalypse I will finally be able to see the counter tops again and hopefully the plastic will help muffle the sound of all those bottles clanging loudly every Monday at 6 a.m. – you’re welcome neighbours); Write my 2021 New Year’s resolutions down (why wait until January to start ignoring them when I can start ignoring them right now? Who says I am a procrastinator? Mr. Proactive – that’s me); Martinis. ‘Nuff said (with pimento olives for that extra holiday garnish).

Seems daunting yet fulfilling and exhausting all at the same time doesn’t it? Might try to get in a Zoom or two as well with the loved ones. I love seeing the family over the holidays but being able to do so and not having to wear pants? – It’s the little pleasures in life, you know. Right? I said, am I right? Well I certainly hope your holidays are going to be as jam-packed as mine are looking to be my dear reader(s). Stock up on Swiffers, paper towels, Windex and Grey Goose then settle in for the most fun you can have without pants in the safety of your own home.

Happy Hanukkah to all you dear readers who are celebrating it starting today. Blessings be with you this Festival of Lights and always!

Stay well, stay safe and keep up-to-date on everything you need to know with The Journal each Thursday and everyday online (www.yourlocaljournal.ca) for everything you need to know for this festive season here in the great V-S region. Feel free to drop me a line and let me know how exciting your holidays are going to be!

Sociable!

10

THE JOURNAL

Thursday, December 10, 2020

PHOTO COURTESY JESS CUMBERBIRCH

Dancer and choreographer Jess Cumberbirch chose haunting locations when performing her dance, inspired by the struggles and also hopefulness many are feeling during the pandemic.

Holiday from COVID-19 Nick Zacharias

The Journal

Ballet dancer, teacher and choreographer Jess Cumberbirch of Studio Balletvolution in Pointe-Claire has teamed with guitarist Brian Greenway formerly of April Wine to produce a COVID-19 inspired choreography of his acoustic version of the song ‘Holiday.’ Put together for the joy of creating a work of art and to share something beautiful in a difficult time, the video has been released freely online.

Gift to the community Said Cumberbirch, who has known Greenway for many years, “When I saw that he’d posted an acoustic version of the song, my husband and I approached him and told him how we were inspired to create a choreography to go with it. When I asked if we could do it, he said, ‘sure go for it – it’s my gift to you.’” She said it was an honour to dance to his music, and she saw it as an opportunity to give something to the community at a time when many are struggling.

Hard times for artists The pandemic has made things difficult for artists everywhere. Greenway, a long-time resident of the Hudson/ Saint-Lazare area, put it simply, “Artists depend on mass gatherings; we were the first to close and we’ll be the last to open.” Since the start of the various levels of lockdown he’s been doing live shows on Facebook just for an outlet to share music.

The new video appears to be having the desired effect. Said Greenway, “There have been thousands of views, people seem to be enjoying it.” As for Cumberbirch, the motivation was much the same. With the studio closed for the pandemic, she and her husband Eric Mehta jumped at the chance to flex their creative muscles working on the COVID-friendly small-scale production that they choreographed and filmed together, along with helpful input from Greenway.

PHOTO COURTESY BRIAN GREENWAY

Iconic guitarist Brian Greenway, who’s known multi-platinum success and an induction to the Canadian Music Hall of Fame with his former band April Wine, strikes a pensive, uplifting note with his acoustic rendition of ‘Holiday.’

Haunting and hopeful “The song ‘Holiday’ kind of reflects what a lot of people are feeling,” said Cumberbirch. “With the locations for the video, we wanted to capture that feeling of vulnerability and fragility, but also show a hopeful and encouraging side.” In a true-to-life reflection of that fragility, Cumberbirch laughed at the thought of having lost a few ballet shoes that were destroyed while dancing en pointe on rough paving stones and rocks. She said it was worth it though, to accomplish what they did.

“The haunting locations combined with the beauty of the song and the choreography create a hopeful message. It was great to be able to create something that allows people to escape for a few moments and enjoy something beautiful while all this is going on around us.”

“Please come and take me on a holiday,” goes the song, and even if only for a few fleeting minutes, they hope the video can do just that.

The video can be viewed on Studio Balletvolution’s Facebook page.

Virtual gifts

Virtual gift-giving – think outside the box

C.J. Maxwell

Special contributor

Gift giving is bound to take on a whole new meaning in what will be remembered as the year of the COVID Christmas – but that doesn’t necessarily have to be a bad thing.

Consider the fact that we won’t be allowed to congregate in crowded shopping malls (walking around overheating in our winter attire) as we search for some concept of the ‘perfect’ gift as a blessing in disguise. It’s the perfect excuse not to go overboard on spending and also gives us more time to reflect on how we can truly embrace the ‘season of giving.’

Since the pandemic’s outbreak, many fripperies and second-hand stores have had to put up signs asking people to stop making donations as they grapple with an influx of drop-offs.

Perhaps extra time in seclusion coupled with the whole Marie Kondo movement has influenced our realization that, at the end of the day, it’s just stuff.

And maybe we can bring greater meaning to the holiday season giving where it’s really needed.

It’s true that our economy functions

largely on spending – whether for entertainment, food, or clothing. But it’s also true that if it weren’t for private donations, volunteers, and unsung philanthropists, much of the delicate network that props each other up – in good times and bad – is subject to compromise.

Before heading out to a big-box store for something wrapped in sparkles and cellophane, consider alternate giftgiving options. Donations to a worthy cause that will benefit a greater portion of society, or supporting Earth-friendly companies which base their business model on reusing and recycling, are more in line with the spirit of giving.

A number of local artisans who traditionally make a large part of their yearly income at this time of year would be happy to help you choose that unique gift for someone special. And if you and your loved ones just don’t need any more stuff, there are always young families, recently unemployed, or those for whom 2020 has brought more than a pandemic into their lives who will be grateful for any good cheer that comes their way.

Happy holidays.

PHOTO COURTESY SHUTTERSTOCK

The notion of giving doesn’t have to come in a box – thanks to technology and greener initiatives, all manner of gifts that warm the heart and soul are available for sharing this holiday season.

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Thanks to your generous donations, the HGH Foundation is able to continue bringing state-of-the-art equipment and additional services to the Hawkesbury and District General Hospital.

During this season of gratitude and giving, we celebrate your unwavering support, which this year, has helped us with: • The first-ever MRI machine at HGH; • An urgent COVID-19 Relief Fund for HGH; • The new HGH Walk-In One Session Counselling Clinic in mental health and addictions; and • Our new funding priority: There’s No Place Like Home.

Thank you for putting these incredible gifts under the tree for our hospital and its patients!

As we celebrate the holidays of an unprecedented year, please consider making a donation to the HGH Foundation in support of your regional hospital.

There are many ways of giving, including virtual giving by visiting our website: www.hghfoundation.org

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You can truly make a difference in the life of someone at HGH! 613-632-1111 x 21101 foundation@hgh.ca Fondation HGH Foundation Thursday, December 10, 2020

THE JOURNAL

11

Be there for yourself the way you’re there for others

You are always there when your loved ones are going through difficult times.

But don’t forget about yourself—solutions exist to help you feel better.

The current situation may cause you distress.

Experiencing various levels of anxiety in some spheres of life is normal. When this happens, you may find it more challenging to deal with your thoughts, emotions, behaviour and relationships with others.

Most people succeed in adapting, but listening to your needs is vital. Don’t hesitate to do whatever is necessary to help yourself.

Take care of yourself • Rely on your personal strengths and have confidence in your abilities.

• Remind yourself of the winning

strategies you used in the past to overcome difficulties. There is no one-size-fits-all solution! Each and every one of us must take steps to foster our own well-being.

• Enjoy life’s little pleasures, such as listening to music, taking a warm bath, reading, exercising, etc.

• If you live close to nature, make

the most of it. Breathe deeply and slowly as you walk.

• Lend a hand in your community in

a way that respects your personal limits and public health directives. By helping others, you can improve their wellness and your own as well.

• Think about what has meaning

and value for you. Reflect on the important things in your life that you can hold onto in hard times.

• Reduce the stressors in your life.

• While it is important to stay informed, limit the amount of time spent reading about COVID-19. Information overload can increase stress and anxiety, and even cause depression.

• Learn to delegate, and allow others to help you.

• Ask for help when you feel

overwhelmed. It is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength when you are strong enough to do what is necessary to help yourself.

The Getting Better My Way digital tool Getting Better My Way is a digital self-management tool for emotional health. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety or distress, this tool can help improve your well-being by identifying practical things you can do to feel better.

Learn more at Québec.ca/Gettingbetter

12

THE JOURNAL

Thursday, December 10, 2020

Help and resources Give voice to your feelings • Keep in mind that having a range of

emotions is normal. Feelings play an important role in life, and it is essential to experience them without passing judgment.

• Use words to express what you are going through. Do you feel alone?

Are you worried?

• Allow yourself to share your feelings

with a trusted friend or family member. It might also be helpful to write down how you’re feeling or call a helpline. Find what works for you!

• Those closest to you may not

necessarily be able to “read” you.

Express your feelings.

• Leave space in your life for your

feelings and those of your loved ones.

Choose healthy living habits • Try to keep to a routine for eating, resting, sleeping and other daily activities.

• Take time to eat well.

• Go to bed at an hour that lets you get enough sleep.

• Be physically active on a regular

basis, while complying with public health directives.

• Reduce your consumption

of stimulants like coffee, tea, soft drinks, energy beverages, chocolate, etc.

• Drink lots of water.

• Lower your alcohol, drug and

tobacco consumption, or simply say no to them entirely. The same goes for gambling.

We are all going through unprecedented times that can intensify our emotional reactions. For example, you might feel greater fatigue or have fears that you can’t shake, or even have trouble just dealing with the day-today. Focus on these signs of a problem and, as soon as you can, contact resources that can help you to better manage your feelings and develop new coping strategies.

• Info-Social 811

Info-Social 811 is a free and confidential telephone consultation service available 24/7

• Regroupement des services

d’intervention de crise du Québec Provides 24/7 referral services for people in distress (French): centredecrise.ca/listecentres

• Suicide prevention crisis helpline

Crisis helpline that provides suicide prevention services 24/7: 1 866 APPELLE (277-3553)

For a host of other helpful resources, visit Québec.ca/gettingbetter

Make judicious use of social media • Use critical thinking before sharing

something on social media.

Ill-advised information can have harmful effects and be detrimental to everyone’s efforts in these times.

• Use social media to share positive actions.

• Watch videos that make you smile.

Québec.ca/Gettingbetter Info-Social 811

Thursday, December 10, 2020

THE JOURNAL

13

Senior life

Christmas will always be Christmas...

Despite life more virtual than real, It all seems so confounding… so truly surreal.

Christmas will always be Christmas...

This year many things to contend, But it’s the sweet smell of cinnamon… we choose to befriend.

PHOTO BY NICOLE GIRARD

(Left to right): Ian Kelso, Brian Gallagher, Mac Grundy and Dan Gallant back in 2009 jamming at the Hudson Legion.

Bands in the bubble - Vol.3 “Pleased to meet you, hope you guess my name” – The Rolling Stones Brian Gallagher

Christmas will always be Christmas...

And though we cannot be too near, Love’s wings will steadily carry us… to those we hold so dear.

Happy Holidays to one and all!

105, Don Quichotte boulevard, L’Île-Perrot 514 646-8008 | ResidenceLilo.com 14

THE JOURNAL

As many of you may know, I’ve been a recording and working musician for over a decade. Mostly known for my work with the band ‘Happenstance’ that started in 2008 as a trio right here in the town of Hudson and went on to create three studio albums over the next seven years. COVID-19 has certainly affected me like many other musicians across the land and we feel the sting monetarily and emotionally every day that we are not out performing. But it’s not just the pros that are missing the thrill and pleasure of live music, there are thousands of musicians, those weekend warriors, who have lost the ability to play in front of people at pubs, coffee houses, open mics, shopping malls, schools, etc.

That’s why in this issue of ‘BITB’ I wanted to give a shout out to all those guys and gals out there who just love to play a guitar, sing an old favourite or

head out to listen to a great duo that you’ve never heard of before in a small neighbourhood pub and let you know that music will be back out there again folks. Maybe not tomorrow but it will be back. You can bet your A-flat diminished minor on that one.

In writing this piece my thoughts turned to a kind, gentle and giving man that I have had the pleasure of knowing for almost 15 years and who is also a neighbour of mine. His name is well known to those whom have ever been to the Friday night suppers at the Hudson Legion – Mr. Mac Grundy. That’s where I met Mac and still remember the first time I sat in with him and Ian Kelso on guitar (his old left-handed Martin was gorgeous), the magnificent Doris Blaise on the accordion, my buddy Phil Gale on that ol’ tenor banjo along with many other folks who regularly came along and sat in to entertain the residents of the Manoir.

Continnued on page 15

17 Boulevard de la Cité-des-Jeunes, Suite 140,Vaudreuil-Dorion, QC J7V 9S6

514-282-2114

Thursday, December 10, 2020

CORPO-LIL-2020-09-Publication Décembre - Noel-4.809x13,825 The Local Journal.indd 1

The Journal

2020-12-08 15:22

Senior life

Bands

Home and Estate

it doesn’t take away the fact that playing music means as much, or more, to them as it does to the circuit musiContinued from page 14 cians. And some of these weekend warriors are pretty fantastic as well. There It may have started with that in are people everywhere spreading joy mind but became more of a communthrough song who have never made it a ity of local musicians who simply were career for various reasons but still have happy to get together to play some made it their lifelong passion, whether good music and find camaraderie with they be plumbers, electricians, doctors other like-minded folks. I met some fine or dock workers. And to them I tip my PHOTO BY PETER MANSELL players and singers there, not neceshat. Carry on brothers and sisters. Carry In this photo organizer Jay Oland explains how to fill out the donation form to one of the sarily professional musicians but great drive-through guests at last weekend’s fundraiser. Looking on are volunteers Linda Putnam on. people who simply loved to play and and Erich Schmedt.

Laughing and singing part of the listen. I was very happy to have met Our giant fundraising campaign last human condition Saint-Lazare’s Dan Gallant there, who weekend was a grand success. ExecuMy heart goes out to all musicians, played (and still does) with Glen Bowser tive Board member Jay Oland organartists or performers in any genre who and Karen Kromar. Dan and I went on ized an amazing day and it was very have not been able to share their creato form a friendship and played in the well received. A special thank-you goes tivity and spirit with everyone in 2020. group ‘Night Shift’ as well as a duo for a out to all our members and friends who There are more people out there countlittle while. Dan was well-known for his dropped by to purchase the various ing on us for entertainment than we beautiful voice and his amazing version products we had available. Numerous might think. It’s truly a shame that of Roy Orbison’s ‘Crying.’ members and new members also signed We continue to accept your paythere are so many hearts we could all Lifelong passion up for 2021. The funds raised will help us ments for the 2021 Legion dues.

You can reach and touch with just a few minutes The more I got to know Mac the through these tough times for the time mail your payment to Hudson Legion of artistic expression. I believe we are more I realized that this was not somebeing.

Br. #115, 56 Beach Rd., Hudson, QC, J0P all starved for it and need it to nourish thing he stumbled upon in retirement, The fundraising event really showed 1H0.

The fee is $60 and on the memo our souls. Being together to laugh and he had been playing music his whole how much our members and fellow Hudline of your cheque, write ‘2021 dues.’ sing and share in an experience is eslife; from the early days in the Montreal sonites care about our Legion Br. #115. It Make the cheque payable to Hudson sential to the human condition. folk scene to volunteering at hospitals was a long cold day but very worthwhile Legion Br. #115. We can arrange to have So here’s to folks like Mac and all of and seniors’ homes and teaching young and just seeing members and friends for you pay with our debit card machine if you closet guitar slingers, park bench students in his home. And of course the first time in many months was wonyou call the Legion at (450) 458-4882 troubadours, church choir members derful as well. On behalf of Legion Br. his ongoing long tenure at the Hudson and Terry Connolly, our manager, can set and weekend strummers. Keep the #115 I wish to thank all of you who were Legion. In chatting with him I know he it up. Finally you can also join or renew music alive in your homes and in your Proof there. You are all so kind and generous. misses it and the fact that these people online at the Canadian Legion’s main hearts until we can bring it back out Proof Lest we forget… website; www.legion.ca. who looked forward to the last Friday into the light and into the streets. For as of every month to all get together for a Mon. Nov. 25 2020 closes, I believe with all my heart Mon. Nov. 25 Age in Motion Dear:Age ......................................................................................................................................

Day: ....................................................... lovely meal and to be entertained have in Motion Dear: ......................................................................................................................................

Day: ....................................................... that 2021 will be brighter, sunnier, filled been denied that pleasure by a tiny Wed. Nov. Nov. 27 27 Please E-Mail or fax (514-484-8254) proof back by ....................................................................

Please E-Mail or fax (514-484-8254)your your proof back bylaughter .................................................................... with more love, and certainly virus. And they, like all of us, remember more music than are about Please respond by the above date, otherwise wewill willuse use thethe as shown below.

Please respond by the above date, otherwise we the adyear as we shown below. those Friday nights fondly and long to to turn the page on. have them return as soon as it is safe to ❍ doOK is ❍OK OK with corrections ❍thought Revise I embrace that withas allindicated my OK asso.isas with Revise as indicated So while guys like Mac mightcorrections not might and as Nigel Tufnel would probApproved by: .......................................................................................................................................................................................... beby: considered ‘real’ or ‘working’ musiApproved .......................................................................................................................................................................................... ably say, “Turn it up to 11.” cians like some members of the music community would state and denounce,

Legion News

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THE JOURNAL

15

FOR THE BIRDS

Winter finches Donald Attwood

Special Contributor

In November I walked up the path through the Clarke Sydenham Nature Reserve in Hudson, seeing very few birds until I veered off toward the edge of the golf course. Suddenly a bunch of robins, juncos, cardinals, and chickadees were flitting around.

If you’re a birder, when chickadees or robins cross your path, you take a second look because less-common species sometimes forage in mixed flocks.

In this case, two robins half-hidden in the shrubbery turned out to be Evening grosbeaks.

Evening grosbeaks are not quite robin size with short, conical beaks (like other finches and like cardinals) for cracking seeds. The males are spectacular – yellow and white with black accents on head, wings, and tail. They live year-round in the northern coniferous forests, but in winter they sometimes irrupt southward in search of food. Information on food supplies compiled by observers in the north helps predict which years they may show up, and this year is expected to be a good one.

It’s been years since I saw Evening grosbeaks, so in late October, I was

thrilled to spot a handful in Jack Layton Park (Hudson). The next day, digital notice boards began lighting up with sightings all over our region. Some have been seen at backyard feeders. If you have a feeder, especially a platform feeder, be sure to stock it with blackoil sunflower seeds. They often come in flocks and devour all the seeds. You won’t want to miss this.

Since the 1960s, Evening grosbeak populations have been dropping sharply, perhaps due to logging and other extractive industries that reduce boreal forest cover and degrade its quality. This year, many are said to be heading our way; their population has rebounded thanks to an outbreak of spruce budworm in the north. This recovery illustrates the economic value of Evening grosbeaks (to the logging industry) as voracious predators of spruce budworms.

After seeing grosbeaks near the golf course, I saw a flock of Common redpolls high in a tree, eating birch seeds.

Redpolls are small (about goldfinch size) and another irregular visitor from the north. In past winters, they’ve occasionally visited our backyard feeders. Like Evening grosbeaks, they come in lively flocks and, with their reddish

in collaboration with

PHOTO COURTESY SHUTTERSTOCK

Evening grosbeak populations have declined in recent decades but this year more are expected to visit from the northern woods.

caps, add a touch of colour to the scene. They prefer thistle seeds (the tiny, dark, thin ones) but also enjoy sunflower. Their early appearance in these parts may presage larger numbers as winter sets in.

Other finches that normally stay in the north may also visit. Pine grosbeaks (nearly robin size, the males mainly reddish with grey wings and tails) have been spotted in our area, and I’ve seen a pair near Le Nichoir. In winter, they seek mountain-ash berries in the north, and the crop this year is said to be good, but some may come looking for sunflower seeds.

Like Evening grosbeaks, Purple finches have benefitted from the summer outbreak of spruce budworm, and many are said to be heading our way.

The male looks like a sparrow dipped in raspberry juice and has a fine singing voice.

Red crossbills are also expected to come south as the crop of white pine seeds runs low in the north. Their bills have crossed tips, useful for prying seeds from pinecones; the males are mainly reddish in colour. All these northern finches are attractive and un-

common here. In their home ranges, they seldom encounter people, so they are a bit less wary than most birds.

Aside from finches, other northern birds may visit here in the sunny south.

Recently I saw a flock of Bohemian waxwings – handsome grey, crested birds, a bit smaller than robins – that travel around on irregular winter circuits looking for berries. Those here now may have come from northern Manitoba. Later arrivals might possibly arrive from Yukon. (Two Januaries ago, I saw my first flock eating buckthorn berries beside Brisbane Road.)

One or two Snowy owls may visit our region, as they did last year, hanging around the open fields near SaintClet, watching for rodents. Some years, these owls irrupt south in large numbers, often due to scarcity of prey animals, such as lemmings, back in the Arctic tundra. For similar reasons (decline of prey in their home ranges), we might be visited by a Great Grey owl, a Northern goshawk, or even a Gyrfalcon. They all serve as reminders that life goes on in winter’s darkness.

For questions or comments, contact donald.attwood@mcgill.ca

Up for adoption

Thank-you

to everyone who submitted photos to this year’s Photo of the week CONTEST! The top 3 photos can be seen in The Journal on the following dates:

Dec.22nd - 1st Place - $200 prize Dec.17th - 2nd Place - $100 prize Dec.10th - 3rd Place - $50 prize Winners were selected by Steve Charland of Regate Kia Valleyfield

16

THE JOURNAL

Thursday, December 10, 2020

This international mixed breed beauty named Talia recently flew in from the Dominican Republic, and is anxiously awaiting her first forever home. One of her favourite things is the sound of her own voice, so that home will have to be free-standing.

This 2-year-old suffers from separation anxiety so she’ll need lots of exercise, physical and mental. Tearful goodbyes and dramatic hellos will only prolong the problem. The ideal family will be active (including Talia in their activities) and have someone at home a

PHOTO COURTESY ANIMATCH

good part of the day. Some obedience training will be the icing on the cake, and Talia will have found her place in the universe.

For more information on Talia or any of the other dogs available for adoption, go to www.animatch.ca.

Up for adoption Meet Amaretto, a young female who was found lost outside. She is sweet, friendly and was born on November 15, 2018. Amaretto has been vaccinated and sterilized and is ready for her fur-ever home.

For more information, please contact Romy at romyadler@hotmail. com.

PHOTO COURTESY CASCA

Dreaming of a Green Christmas Jules-Pierre Malartre

Special contributor

What with global warming and snow never being guaranteed on Christmas these days, it’s high time we start thinking (and dreaming) of a Green Christmas instead. The holidays are a time of giving, so it’s a great occasion to give a little something back to Mother Nature. There are a lot of ideas being circulated on how to make our seasonal festivities take on a more durable, environmentally friendly aspect. Here are a few of them.

Rent a Christmas tree This might seem one of the most far-fetched eco-holiday ideas but it’s gaining in popularity around the world. And no! I am not talking about an artificial tree here – I mean an actual living, growing tree that comes in a pot. After the holidays, the tree is then returned to the Earth where it can continue its lifecycle. As weird as that idea might sound to some, it’s probably one of the most eco-friendly alternative seasonal ideas out there. Artificial trees, no matter for how many years you use them, are not really an eco-friendly alternative to a cut tree.

The statistics vary, but many say an artificial tree can take over a decade of use before it yields any ecological benefit. Very few people will keep the same artificial tree for that long, and it eventually ends up in the trash in any event. As for cut trees, countless natural trees end up being dumped after Christmas rather than being reclaimed in some ways. It adds to the heart-warming seasonal sentiments to know that a rented Christmas tree will be returned to the Earth after the holidays where it will continue to help counteract global warming.

Get a reusable advent calendar While much if not all of the nonedible content of advent calendars can probably be recycled, it’s always better to reuse than to merely recycle.

I inherited a wood and metal handcrafted advent calendar last year and I love it. It may not come with the customary chocolate Santa and Rudolph figures but it’s not as tacky, and it adds

a touch of old-fashioned class to any Christmas decor.

Send out eco-friendly Christmas cards The custom might have lost some popularity over the years, but I’m one of those people who still like to send and receive Christmas cards. Buying paper goods made from recyclable material was already popular long before ‘going green’ started trending, but it’s good to be on the lookout for the greenest alternatives when it comes to purchasing Christmas cards. Cards bearing respected ecological logos are a good choice.

Fast growing in popularity, ‘plantable’ Christmas cadrs are the next step up from reusable cards. That’s right!

It’s actually like you picture it – seed paper. Card stock embedded with seeds that you can plant come spring.

Some can merely be composted but they’re a great alternative too.

Reuse wrapping paper This one has been going around for a long time, actually, but this article would not be complete without mentioning it. It should actually enjoy a renaissance with the growing green movement. Whatever I wrote above about Christmas Cards goes double here, but why stop at buying recyclable or compostable wrapping paper when you can simply reuse paper? If, like me, you’re one of those people who methodically unwraps gifts without tearing into the paper, there’s no reason not to save that colorful paper with the Superman logo for wrapping your comic book-loving nephew’s birthday gift next year.

Switch to LED Christmas lights LED lights consume a lot less energy, whether they’re in your flashlight, your car, or in your Christmas tree. Our province is blessed with a seemingly inexhaustible supply of ‘clean’ hydroelectric energy, but any form of energy production has an impact on the environment.

Hydroelectric power may be cleaner than coal-fired or even natural gasgenerated power, but it still generates greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing our power consumption makes

PHOTO COURTESY SHUTTERSTOCK

Christmas doesn’t have to be all plastic tinsel and fake trees – it’s easy to incorporate some Earth-friendly practices into your holiday celebrations.

senses all around.

And while you’re at it, you can also switch to solar-energy powered external lights. There is a heated debate going on about the viability of recycling used solar panels at the moment, but regardless of how this debate turns out, you’ll still save on your energy bill.

Eat right. Eat less. Reduce food waste I can’t stress enough the importance of reducing meat consumption, not only for ethical reasons, but also for durability considerations. ‘Growing’ a steak consumes tons of grain and thousands of litres of water – resourc-

Tanya Gauthier Hairdresser

es that would be better used feeding the hungry and meeting the needs of an alarmingly growing global population on a planet that will soon run out of room to raise more cattle (for meat and dairy). It’s hard to replace seasonal meat dishes around Christmas because of long-held traditions, but there are many options for other Christmas treats; the best Christmas log I ever ate was a vegan one. Good vegan cookbooks used to be scarce but nowadays there are so many available, it’s hard to decide which one to buy – and many have awesome vegan Christmas options you can try.

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OPEN - DEC. 24TH – 9:00 A.M. TO 3:00 P.M. & DEC. 31ST – 9:00 A.M. TO 3:00 P.M.

Celebrating 17 years in the community Thursday, December 10, 2020

THE JOURNAL

17

MOVIE REVIEW MATT MILLER

Movies You Might Have Missed Title: The Founder (2016) Directed by: John Lee Hancock Genre: Drama/Biopic Available on: Netflix Brief Synopsis: After seeing the potential for growth in “fast food”, a businessman works with the owners to franchise their restaurant. Its name? McDonald’s.

Scores: 80% Rotten Tomatoes, 7.2 IMDb Review: It’s funny how we often grow up with institutions that have been around for so long, we don’t even consider a world without them.

They often feel inevitable; so ingrained into our culture that we often feel they are our culture. One of these examples must be the incredible rise of fast food: America’s largest cultural export. McDonald’s, the most successful fast food giant, is one of the most recognizable brands in the world. A Whopper-ing (sorry Burger King!) 96% of American children can identify Ronald McDonald, making him the second most recognizable figure after Santa Claus. Eric Schlosser, author of Fast Food Nation, warned that the Golden Arches were now more of an important symbol for the next generation than the Christian cross, a statement that should not inspire as much fret as their horrific environmental impact, exploitation of low-wage earners and frightening effect on rising diet-based health issues. Yet even something as colossal as McDonald’s has an origin story, and it just so happens to resemble more villain than hero.

In the mid-50s, traveling milkshake salesman Ray Kroc (Michael Keaton) discovers a hidden gem on his way through California. While living comfortably with a supportive wife, Ray dreams of greatness and sees his opportunity in McDonald’s, a popular fast-food joint run by brothers Mac and Dick McDonald. Honest and hardworking, the Mac & Dick have engineered an efficient system that makes highquality food at an incredibly low overhead. Having failed in an earlier attempt to franchise their restaurant, the McDonalds are pressured into trying again with the help of Kroc, who immediately proceeds to attempt to elbow them out of their own business.

The Founder is a difficult film for multiple reasons. On one hand, it reminded me of a lesser version of one of the finest films this millennium, There Will Be Blood. Kroc, much like Daniel Plainview, is a man who can’t be happy when there is someone more successful than him. On the other hand, the film occasionally falls into the adoring biopic trap which romanticizes the protagonist even when they are clearly in the wrong. If it is impossible to make an anti-war film without glamorizing violence, perhaps it is also impossible to make a corrupt, greedy business flick without also making us envious of their wealth. After all, some people clapped during Gordon Gekko’s ‘Greed is Good’ speech during Wall Street. Director Hancock often over relies on exposition and does not always balance the personal and business life of Kroc in a strong way. Best known for his Disneyfunded films (The Blind Side, Saving Mr. Banks) Hancock gives some meat to chew on, but much of the drama could have been SuperSized a bit more to really leave an impact.

While The Founder possibly could have been more effective with a different director (perhaps Adam McKay of The Big Short?), there is no doubt that Keaton steals the show as ‘The Founder’ himself, Ray Kroc. A dialed-in Keaton is a unique beast, something I’ve often compared to as a steely-eyed shark. This blood-thirsty quality and obsessive persistence is at first shown as commendable; perhaps even ‘American Dream-esque.’ But that obsession is always there on Keaton, quietly under the surface, and turns as the movie progresses.

Insidiously it grows, eating away at the McDonald brothers’ own business, until Keaton is ready to call checkmate.

Continued on page 19 PHOTO COURTESY IMDB.COM

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THE JOURNAL

Thursday, December 10, 2020

THE JOURNAL FILE PHOTO/COURTESY DEBBIE DORE

Vaudreuil-Dorion’s A Horse Tale (AHT) rescue is one of the five local community organizations benefitting from federal donations addressing the needs that have arisen as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Five Vaudreuil-Soulanges community organizations receive federal funding In October 2020, the Government of Canada invited community organizations across Canada to apply for funding in the second round of the Emergency Community Support Fund to support various COVID-19 response activities. In collaboration with the United Way Canada, the Canadian Red Cross and Community Foundations of Canada, the second round has provided funds for important community projects across Canada, including five here in Vaudreuil-Soulanges.

They collectively received more than $55,979 from the Government of Canada. This amount is in addition to the $352,823.98 announced in September, which funded 12 community projects in Vaudreuil-Soulanges.

The funding has supported, and will continue to support the community organizations in Vaudreuil-Soulanges listed below in their various activities that respond to the pressing needs of our citizens as a result of COVID-19 such as: • Increasing volunteer-based home deliveries of groceries and medications; • Providing transportation services, like accompanying or driving seniors or persons with disabilities to appointments; • Scaling up help lines that provide information and support; • Providing training, supplies and other required supports to volunteers so they can continue to make their

invaluable contributions to the COVID-19 response; and • Replacing in-person, one-on-one contact and social gatherings with virtual contact through phone calls, texts, teleconferences or the internet.

The breakdown of organizations in Vaudreuil-Soulanges that have received funding for their projects from this Emergency Community Support Fund is as follows: Centre d’action bénévole L’Actuel – $23,169 Secours A Horse Tale (AHT) Rescue – $16 430 MRC Vaudreuil-Soulanges pour le Centre Prénatal & Jeunes familles – $8280 Grand Regroupement des aînées de Vaudreuil et Soulanges (GRAVES) – $8100 Moisson Sud-Ouest – $45,000 “Our community organizations are doing incredible work, and have done so since the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Vaudreuil-Soulanges MP Peter Schiefke. “The support provided to them by the Emergency Community Support Fund helps them better respond to the increased demand for their services and I will continue to do everything I can support their incredible work as we make our way through this unprecedented pandemic.”

‘Lost’ and found This cute little boy showed up at someone’s house on November 28. He must have been lost or been abandoned for quite some time for he was hungry, cold, and had a superficial wound behind his left ear, probably from engaging in a fight. Our foster family took him in and ‘Lost’ was examined by our veterinarian, who treated his wound and vaccinated and sterilized him. The vet estimates that he was born November 30, 2017.

He is now in great physical condition and repaying all the kindness he is shown in his foster home by being especially af-

PHOTO COURTESY CASCA

fectionate and gentle. Lost gets along with other cats and dogs. He would be a great companion in a home who will not abandon him by keeping him inside.

Please contact Valerie at Val_01_10@ hotmail.com.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO To submit your “Things to See and Do”, send your information to editor@yourlocaljournal. ca before Tuesday noon. All announcements should include dates, times and addresses.

Publishing priority will be given to free events, non-profit, and community based groups.

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GREAT-HOUSE MINN CLEANING COMPANY Services: • Residential • Commercial • Weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly • Eco-friendly products CLEANING SERVICE • Spring/fall window cleaning WWW.GREAT-HOUSEMINN.CA 514-865-1973 • greathousemin@gmail.com

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Confinement measures may be in place but you can still enjoy a good old-fashioned Christmas with a modern Zoom twist. See Hudson listing for more details.

HUDSON Greenwood is holding a virtual Old Fashioned Christmas via Zoom on Sunday, December 13 at 2 p.m. Registration must be done in advance at www. greenwood-centre-hudson.org. There is no cost for registering. We hope to spread Christmas cheer to our audience.

The event will feature music from The Kitchen Ceilidh, The Greenwood Singers, and selected seasonal readings.

VAUDREUIL-DORION On December 12 and 13, the famous Nicolas Noël will stroll in his kingdom through the districts of Vaudreuil-Dorion to greet the children. In order to avoid gatherings, no stops are planned during his route which will be available on the city’s website at ville.vaudreuil-dorion. qc.ca.

“We wanted to put magic in children’s Christmas. Who better than Santa to make them smile? In this time of pandemic, it is very difficult to organize activities while respecting the rules of physical distancing. This is why we invite

Saint-Lazare

Continued from page 9 An earlier study conducted in 2005 revealed that traffic lights would not accommodate the town’s expected population growth.

Research study According to the study conducted in 2018 by Léger market research that was posted on the town’s website, 65 percent of the 400 participants who took part were in favour of the installation of a traffic circle. When asked why they fa-

Movies Continued from page 18 It is difficult to tell if the film is saying that Kroc was evil from the start, lost his soul midway through, or does not condemn him at all. Wittingly or not, The Founder serves up a combo of biopic and warning signs, getting to an issue that we have been grappling with more in 2020 than ever before.

With over $160 billion in net worth, McDonalds is one of the few restaurants

parents to keep a distance of two meters and wear the mask,”said Mayor Guy Pilon.

Although the City of VaudreuilDorion had to do things differently this year, several activities are underway in December to mark the holiday season.

Until January 4, the public is invited to visit the park at 405 Saint-Charles, where the Lumin’Art exhibition is taking place, for which 10 artists have pooled their creativity by decorating huge illuminated Christmas balls. An advent calendar, available on the City’s website, offers families a variety of activities to wait until December 25: story time, colouring, virtual workshops, etc.

VAUDREUIL-SOULANGES Illuminated Christmas – A number of residents in the community are taking part in a Christmas lights/decoration display so residents can drive around and partake in the seasonal spirit while safely ensconced inside their car. For a list of address of homes taking part, consult tinyurl.com/y54b9sfg. voured a traffic circle, there were three responses: it’s the best solution, avoids unnecessary waiting at traffic lights and is the least expensive solution.

The 29 percent not in favour of the traffic circle solution responded that other solutions such as traffic lights were available, there weren’t any real problems at the intersection, and that a traffic circle was very expensive and dangerous. “I’m not 100 per cent sure whether or not this will resolve the traffic situation but this was council’s decision,” said Grimaudo at the time.

making out just fine in the pandemic.

Despite their inordinate effect on the environment, animal cruelty and health issues, they face no consequences. Ray Kroc, for all his persistence in growing McDonalds, worked even harder to keep minimum wage down. For what it’s worth, he died valued at $600 million in 1984 ($1.5 billion today). If McDonalds truly is part of our culture, it is worth recognizing what that says about our society. Perhaps we can all be Ray Kroc if we work hard enough: so long as you don’t mind leaving some people behind.

Quality Handyman Service • 450-458-5623 HudsonHomeRepairsMaintenance@gmail.com

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Dear readers and advertisers, Yes, we’re open but our day-today operations will reflect our new reality. Our offices will not be open to foot traffic. All communication will be handled by phone, email, or online through our website www.yourlocaljournal.ca.

We will continue to take classified ads and obituaries by phone or via our online platform but for the moment, no cash transactions are possible.

We look forward to continuing to serve the community and are happy, as always, to hear from you.

The Journal Team

Thursday, December 10, 2020

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

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

View, submit & pay your ad before 4 p.m. on Tuesday, 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 (max. 3 months)

350- Legal

1 week $15 2 weeks $20 3 weeks $25

100 – FOR SALE

150 - SERVICES

150 - SERVICES

175 - WANTED

Google Nest Hub, brand new, never opened. View and control connected devices from a single dashboard. Simply use your voice to watch YouTube and play songs from YouTube Music. $50. Text 438491-0133. See www.yourlocaljournal.ca/ visual-classifieds.

“MAN WITH A VAN” MOVING. Whole house. Small moves, too! Quebec/Local/ Ontario. Experienced/Equipped. Please leave a message 514-605-3868 MIKE THE MOVING MAN.

ASPIRATEURS HUDSON VACUUM. Canister and Central Vacuum Cleaners. Sales and repair all brands. SEBO Vacuum Cleaner, 10 year warranty $398. (Electrolux, Filter Queen, Kenmore and uprights; other brands available, $75 and up). New Central Vac with bag, hose, accessories $579 and up. Repair and service central vacuum systems. Parts and bags (all makes). Biodegradable cleaning supplies. Toilet paper 500 sheets per roll, $37.95/48 rolls per case. Sharpening scissors, knives and gardening tools. 67 McNaughten, Hudson, Quebec 450-458-7488

$ Buy car for scrap. Running or not, 24/7. www.scrapvehicule.com Call 514-715-7845

Five large beveled mirrors. Two measuring 19.5” by 40” and three measuring 21” by 45”. $100 for everything. Pick up. Text 514-3463234.

4 snow tires, 2 yrs old. Bridgestone Blizzak W80 235 X 45 X 17. $100. Summer tires free. Call/text Cory 416 254 9011 (in Hudson) (201217) MUST GO A.S.A.P. Solid wood, white with gold trimming bedroom set. Includes a tall dresser (20.5”x60.5”x40.5”), chestOdresser LD! S (64”x 30.5”x 20.5”), mirrorE(34”x42”x1.5”) D IFI 25”x 17.5”). All and 2 side tables (28.5”x S S doors are press to open. Lightly used in CLA L great condition!

Perfect for nursery or A U ISbedroom first set. $400. Message Keri V at 514-242-2034. See photos at www. yourlocaljournal.ca/visual-classifieds Large dog cage. Measures 29.5” wide X 48” long X 33” high. Dog not included. $100. Please call 514-425-5965 and leave a message. See photo at www.yourlocaljournal.ca/visual-classifieds

125 - FOR RENT OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT. Six spacious offices, reception area, kitchenette and powder room.

Offices are on the second floor of the Hudson Shopping Centre.

Available November 1, 2020. $2,000/month.

Call Marcel Leduc (514)602-4313

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

APPLE MAC SUPPORT since 1983 Variable rates Initial hour free ** Preventive maintenance ** Upgrades Troubleshooting Bootable backups System analysis & Advice terry@cloudbyteconsulting.com www.cloudbyteconsulting.com 450-853-0534 Tree cutting & removal, limbing, pruning, branch trimming, brush clearing, stump grinding, hedges & shrubs, branch removal & chipping. Sean. 514-991-9674 (201222) Serge Guindon Inc. Excavation and Levelling 514-269-8281 Registered Gun Smith. We buy new and used guns, restricted and non-restricted. 514-453-5018

175 - WANTED A Military Collector looking for medals, flags, swords, uniforms, documents, helmets, hats, all related war memorabilia WWI, WWII, Canadian/German or others.

Antiques, collectibles, aviation, nautical, coins, badges, maps, signs. Please contact Patrick 450-458-4319, patrick148@ca.inter. net, 2760A Côte St-Charles, St-Lazare, Reni Decors (210211)

200 – CAREERS/EMPLOYMENT Great house Minn cleaning services, a well-established cleaning company in Pincourt is seeking a part-time cleaner for 10 hours per week. Please contact Deneise at (514)865-1973.

325 – AUTOS FOR SALE Pontiac G5 for sale. 2008 model, 166,000 kms, air conditioning, block heater, trailer hitch. 4 mounted summer tires, 4 mounted winter tires (on car). Asking $2,300. 450-2022009. See photos at www.yourlocaljournal. ca/visual-classifieds (201217) Chevrolet HHR 2007. Dark blue, grey interior. 179,255 km. Good condition, 5 speed manual. New battery, new clutch and gears, and brakes. $2,000, as is. 450-202-0718 (201217)

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125 - FOR RENT

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¿Moving? All jobs. Reliable, reasonable, fully equipped. Local and Ontario, Maritimes, USA. 35 yrs experience. Call Bill or Ryan 514-457-2063.

SINGING LESSONS. Private or SemiPrivate. In my home (St-Lazare). Sing the songs you love! Call Morgan. 514-6071308 References available.

Piano Lanco - Experienced local piano technicians offering quality tunings and skillful repairs. Improve the sound and touch of your piano with hammer voicing and action regulation. info@pianolanco.com 514-7707438

Six spacious offices, reception area, kitchenette and powder room.

Offices are on the second floor of the Hudson Shopping Centre.

Available November 1st - $2,000/month

Call Marcel Leduc (514)602-4313

PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY KARAVOLAS BOILY & TRIMARCHI CPA INC.

DENTISTS Dr. Don Littner, Dr. Morty Baker & Dr. Natalie Liu

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

New patients welcome 472 Main Rd., Suite I, Hudson 450.458.5334

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Chloe Hutchison

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ACCOUNTANTS

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Bryan Todd, B. Comm (Acct.)

Nursing care, palliative care, cancer care, foot care, family support, volunteer services and adult day centre.

465 Main Rd, Hudson, Suite 202 (450) 458-5727

Business and Personal Accounting Services, Tax Preparations & Filings Ph. (514) 730-5966

INVESTMENT ADVISOR

IMMIGRATION

Associate Investment Advisor Quenneville Walsh Private Wealth Management / Raymond James Ltd. 450-202-0999 mark.quenneville@raymondjames.ca

Brazolot Migration Group 450 Rue Main, Hudson, QC (450) 458-2186 info@brazolotgroup.com

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LIFE COACH

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Caroline Courey Life Coach

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Psychologist 450.458.0944 sylvilafontaine@gmail.com Bilingual Services • Cdn & US trained

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Dr. Amy Archambault Dr. Paul Morton

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The Journal

Home and Estate

Young amputee to share special moment with fellow ‘Champ’ this holiday season

Twelve-year-old Pincourt resident Gabriel Finn was excited to be recently fitted with a new waterproof artificial leg which allows him to swim and walk safely on wet surfaces.

Gabriel, born a right foot amputee, is a member of The War Amps Child

PHOTO COURTESY THE WAR AMPS CHILD AMPUTEE (CHAMP) PROGRAM

Gabriel (left) and friend Jericho Rodriguez of Markham, Ontario at a CHAMP Seminar in 2019.

Hudson

Continued from page 3 David Pharand of regional environmental action group MARE joined the meeting to announce their intention to go, with the support several other environmental groups, directly to the Vaudreuil-Soulanges MRC with a proposition to protect the entire Sandy Beach area as an important regional asset for its biodiversity, its role in protecting against floods, and its unique status as a parcel of nature the likes of which few parks

Vaudreuil-Dorion Continued from page 5 “The idea came from a member of our executive who suggested extending the initiative to other labour organizations in the city in order to show a gesture of solidarity with those in need. The response was quick and unanimous,” added Maurice Pilon.

The city is also inviting businesses in the region to organize their own collections for L’Actuel because of the increasing need for food assistance during the pandemic, not only for

Amputee (CHAMP) Program. As a ‘Champ,’ he is eligible to receive financial assistance for artificial limbs and assistive devices. He also attends regional CHAMP seminars where Champs and their parents learn about the latest in artificial limbs, dealing with teasing and staring, and parenting an amputee child.

Gabriel attended his first seminar when he was a year old. It was here that his parents connected with the family of another amputee the same age as Gabriel – Jericho Rodriguez, 12, of Markham, Ontario, who is a double leg amputee.

“Gabriel and Jericho have such a special bond,” says Gabriel’s dad, Christopher. “They are always keeping in touch whether it’s on the phone or playing video games online.”

Over the holidays, Gabriel and Jericho’s families will have a virtual get-together so that Gabriel can show off his new water leg and Jericho can show his new running legs.

“Gabriel and Jericho can relate to each other in ways that they can’t with their other friends,” says Christopher.

“They encourage and support each other, and we are so grateful to have

PHOTO COURTESY THE WAR AMPS CHILD AMPUTEE (CHAMP) PROGRAM

Pincourt resident Gabriel Finn displays his new water leg which will enable him to swim and safely navigate wet surfaces.

the Rodriguez family in our life.”

The War Amps has been making a difference in the lives of amputees for more than a century and there is still much to do to ensure amputees, like Gabriel and Jericho, have the artificial limbs and devices they need.

“The War Amps receives no government grants, but with the public’s continued support of the Key Tag and Address Label Service, our vital programs for amputees will carry on long into the future,” says Danita Chisholm, Executive Director of the CHAMP Program.

can match.

Roxanne from Rigaud joined the meeting to question the validity of the 2002 referendum often cited by council as a turning point in approving the development. “Children who were born after that referendum are now old enough to vote. Do you not find this referendum is a little out of date?” Councillor Duff responded by saying it’s too late to change anything. “The site is sold,” he said. “It will be developed. The only way to change the destiny of Sandy Beach is if the MRC decides to buy it … or if you want to buy it, go ahead – let’s see the colour of your money.”

Christmas, but also into the first few months of the New Year.

‘A chain of solidarity’ “Let’s make a difference in our community by helping those who are going through difficult times. Let’s form a chain of solidarity that will sweeten the holidays for some of our fellow citizens. It’s a small gesture that can have a significant impact in the lives of many people,” said the mayor.

Companies and businesses interested in participating in the L’Actuel Volunteer Action Center’s campaign can consult the organization’s website or contact Vanessa Gagné at (450) 4553331, ext. 225.

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