The Journal - Thursday, February 4th 2021

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

VOL. 21 NO.04

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

No friend of mining Rigaud Mountain, enjoyed by skiers and hikers from across the region, is one of two areas – the other be-

ing Saint-Lazare – that the 23 mayors of the Vaudreuil-Soulanges Municipalité régionale de comté (MRC) are

seeking to exclude from any future mining activity by the Province of Quebec. See story on page 3.

“There are no wastelands in our landscape quite like those we’ve created ourselves.”

- Tim Winton

PHOTO COURTESY NICK ZACHARIAS

Inside Vaudreuil-Dorion clarifies community centre

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A sneak peek at the Vaudreuil-Soulanges Hospital

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Hudson ‘Open’ for business

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Helping hand for small businesses

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THE JOURNAL

Thursday, February 4, 2021

MRC challenges province over possible future mining in Saint-Lazare and on Mont Rigaud John Jantak

The Journal

Plans by the provincial government to allow mining in the Towns of Rigaud and Saint-Lazare are being challenged by the Municipalité Régionale de Comté (MRC) de Vaudreuil-Soulanges over concerns regarding the negative impact the activity would have across the entire territory.

The issue was discussed among the mayors of the 23 municipalities that comprise the MRC at at a January 27 meeting and all agreed that mining should not be allowed because it would severely affect the remaining fragile environmental diversity in the region and seriously impact the underground aquifers which provide the potable water supply for many municipalities.

The MRC recently adopted its revised Schéma d’aménagement et de développement which prohibits mining in the territory but it was rejected by the province. Raymond Malo, the MRC Adjunct Director General, said the MRC is adamant that the pristine woodlands of Mont Rigaud and the aquifers must be protected as well as the region’s underground drinking water source.

Aquifers threatened Saint-Lazare Mayor Robert Grimau-

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do agrees with Malo’s assessment and is adamant that mining not be allowed within the territory because of the damage it could cause to the drinking water supply which is also used by neighbouring municipalities.

“The provincial government says that if certain things are discovered such as rare earth minerals like lithium, the government has the right to allow mining in Vaudreuil-Soulanges. It’s very bureaucratic in that the government gives themselves that right,” said Grimaudo.

“The fact is Vaudreuil-Soulanges has 160,000 people. We’re not talking about a little MRC that is located in the far north with a large swath of territory and a population of 5,000 people. To allow mining in Vaudreuil-Soulanges is completely illogical. It’s insane to think that we would allow it in our territory,” he added.

Grimaudo said 18 of the 23 municipalities that comprise the MRC access their water from underground sources.

“There are very few that get their water from the rivers or lakes. It’s an extremely important resource. For the provincial government to insist that if they see the necessity to still permit mining in our territory… just this thought is com-

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THE JOURNAL FILE PHOTO/JOHN JANTAK

The members of the Vaudreuil-Soulanges MRC is requesting in its current Schéma d’aménagement et de développement (SAD) to be excluded from any mining that may be carried out by the Province of Quebec, something the provincial officials have not agreed to.

pletely ludicrous,” he said.

Long history in Quebec According to investquebec.com, one fifth of Canada’s mining output comes from Quebec which has the most diverse resources in the country including lithium, rare earths and apatite. It goes on to say, “Quebec is one of the rare producers of niobium, titanium dioxide, cobalt and platinum in the world. The province is also Canada’s

biggest producer of iron concentrate and zinc and its second-largest producer of gold.”

Mont Rigaud preservation essential Environmental activist Katherine Massam who lives on Mont Rigaud said she was shocked and dismayed to learn of the government’s plans to disregard the MRC’s mining ban in its territory.

Continued on page 5

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IT’S MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER TO TAKE CARE OF OUR MENTAL HEALTH If you are having a hard time coping, you are not alone. Cold winter months can be difficult at the best of times when it comes to mental health and have been made more challenging to cope with due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. If you need to speak to someone, please use one of the free services provided by the local organizations above and the Government of Canada’s WELLNESS TOGETHER Portal.

Let’s do all we can to care for ourselves and each other, and in doing so, we will get through this. /PeterSchiefkeLiberal

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Peter Schiefke Member of Parliament - Vaudreuil-Soulanges Thursday, February 4, 2021

THE JOURNAL

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EDITOR’S CORNER

Photo of the week

Mine, not yours Kudos to the MRC Vaudreuil-Soulanges for standing up to the provincial government’s efforts to flex its mining muscle in our region (see story on page 3).

Mining is big business in Quebec and the mining act itself begins by boasting of its proud history in our province, stating the natural resources constitute social wealth for present and future generations. It states that mining has helped forge Quebec’s identity and should continue to be a source of pride.

But where there’s money to be made off the land, there’s always a price tag attached and sometimes the bill only comes due to future generations, often at a substantially inflated rate.

Ripping the Band-Aid off the reliance we’ve come to place on so many things we extract from the Earth for refinement and profit will be painful, whether it’s done slowly or quickly. But it needs to be done.

Any positives the practice may offer regarding short-term employment gains or community development will be offset by long-term environmental impacts.

And once all the profits are extracted, the rich executives pack up and leave town, leaving the workers with no jobs and a big clean-up bill.

The air we breathe and the water we drink are not negotiable – they’re essential. Any proud history of the mining practice in this province is immaterial to our kids and grandkids if their right to clean air and water is jeopardized.

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THE JOURNAL

Thursday, February 4, 2021

PHOTO BY KEN MASON

Winter has made its presence known as illustrated in the yard of Hudson resident Ken Mason.

Welcome to another Photo of the Week contest. We had such a high volume of participation last year and are pleased to continue the tradition.

Following the same format as last year, photos will not be limited to the Vaudreuil-Soulanges region and we will be offering three prizes at the end of the year - $200 for first place, $100 for second, and $50 for third.

Interested? Send your entries to editor@yourlocaljournal.ca. We will showcase all submissions on our website at www.yourlocaljournal.ca/photo-of-the-week.

Dear Editor: editor@yourlocaljournal.ca Canal conundrum Dear Editor, ‘What to do with the Soulanges Canal?’ (The Journal, January 21, 2021) is a question that has been repeatedly asked over the almost half-century I have lived with it in my view in Les Cèdres.

There have been discussions about grandiose plans along the lines of those of the Lachine Canal. Unfortunately there are several problems involved with such ideas being applied to the Soulanges, most preceded with a dollar sign.

Often heard is the concept of opening up the canal to pleasure boating.

Those with such thoughts need to be reminded about why it was built in the first place and the 25-metre height differential between Lake SaintFrançois and Lake Saint-Louis. Without the lock gates closed there would be another set of rapids, this one man-made. That flow would quickly erode the already deteriorating canal walls.

When the canal was decommissioned in 1958 the Federal Government decided to remove the various swing bridges along its length (except for the last remaining at Coteau-du-Lac) to avoid future maintenance costs. They were replaced with causeways over relatively small culverts so as to allow some water flow and fish movement and also to prevent stagnation. Those too would have to be rethought.

Another major impediment is the lack of space.

The right-of-way is quite narrow. The surrounding terrain is, for the most part, precious and protected agricultural land. As is, some of the recent work, for example the toilets at the bicycle path parking lot at Rang Saint-Antoine were squeezed in by reducing the number of already insufficient parking spaces. So now many park on the soft shoulders near there turning them into what looks like a tank training ground.

I think that the biggest obstacle is funding.

For the Lachine Canal, banked (sorry, no pun in-

tended) by no-longer viable industrial land and affluent residences that generate big taxes, it was relatively easy. Not so in these sparsely populated boonies. There is even a problem about the high cost to demolish the huge concrete abutments, formerly used by the long-gone swing bridges, in order to gain valuable space or to remove the numerous mooring bollards, slowly rusting away, along the length. That high cost was why the aforementioned toilets were plunked down in the middle of the parking lot instead of closer to the bike path.

Then there is the question about supervision.

The Lachine Canal falls under the watchful eyes of the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM). The Sûreté du Québec (SQ) are very reluctant to do anything at the Soulanges Canal until reminded that it is provincial crown land and various activities such as illegal camping, poaching, or pooping in the bushes are, in fact, under their jurisdiction. In case anyone wonders, our dogs often find evidence of that last listed activity. Even the reports of drug-dealing in the parking lot here fall under the wire of the distant Saint-Clet SQ detachment which, for reasons unexplained, patrols here rather than the closer Vaudreuil-Dorion post.

Without wanting to sound like a total curmudgeon, I would prefer it remain as is. I would hate to see my property taxes increase with no benefit for me. Indeed, it would only add the decline in the quality of life we enjoy here now. An added influx will only aggravate the existing problems of misuse by non-residents. The only locals who would see a gain are business owners and the developers who turn corn fields into a suburban sprawl of houses, spaced by arms’ lengths, sold to those falling to the lure of ‘Country Living.’

Alfred Epstein Les Cèdres Continued on page 8

The Journal - Democratically serving the public interest.

New Vaudreuil-Dorion Islamic community centre will proceed as planned City to host mobile library and will stabilize portion of Quinchien River John Jantak

The Journal

The issues regarding the new Islamic community centre and Muslim cemetery in Vaudreuil-Dorion were raised again during the first question period at the start of the bi-monthly council meeting on February 1 when two residents asked for a clarification regarding both subjects.

Mayor Guy Pilon stressed the two issues are not related. “The community centre is a municipal issue. The cemetery is a regional matter and the Communauté régionale de Montréal (CMM) and the provincial Commission de protection du territoire agricole Québec (CPTAQ) have a word to say about it,” said Pilon The mayor adamantly reiterated that the new community centre will only be used for non-religious purposes. “There cannot be any type of religious celebrations. Parents will be able to use the centre to tutor their children in school subjects. They’ll be able to make meals to

MRC

Continued from page 3 “Mont Rigaud is an extremely important ancient forest. It’s one of the last two forests remaining in the SaintLawrence Valley and needs to be preserved. The forest is home to many unique species of animals and birds.

There are 150 species of birds, 95 of which nest on the mountain at the end point of their migration,” said Massam.

“It’s very important for the production of fresh air for this area and Montreal because of the density of the

give out to the community and hold other types of non-religious events which are allowed. We have officially accepted their proposal,” said Mayor Guy Pilon.

The new cultural centre will be located at the former Sunny’s Bar and Grill on Rue St. Antoine. Their current facility is located in a small strip mall on Harwood Blvd.

New cemetery The city is also in the process of resubmitting a request the CPTAQ to build a new Muslim cemetery on Route de Lotbinière. “We have to restart the process with the MRC de Vaudreuil-Soulanges before we can resubmit our plans,” said Pilon.

“Nothing in the original proposal has changed. If it is accepted by the CPTAQ this time, the CMM said they will not oppose the project and work will be able to begin. It’s exactly the same project that will be built in the same place,” added Pilon.

New municipal mini bus Council announced the city will pur-

trees. There are about 4,300 hectares of intact ancient forest so this is not only important for the wildlife but also for our air. It’s also a recreational area for citizens from all over VaudreuilSoulanges and the West Island,” she added.

Massam says mining should be disallowed and the forest preserved. “At what price are you willing to have economic development? You can’t put a price on the value of Mont Rigaud regarding the environmental and social terms. Mining is a very invasive activity. It could ruin the environment for the people who live here and for the people who use the mountain.”

THE JOURNAL FILE PHOTO/JOHN JANTAK

In responding to residents’ queries about the Islamic cultural centre, currently located in a strip mall on Harwood Boulevard (pictured) but slated to move to the old Sunny’s Restaurant location, Vaudreuil-Dorion Mayor Guy Pilon reiterated the centre will only be used for nonreligious purposes.

chase a new minibus that will house a mobile library and be available for residents to use during its many community and cultural events that it hosts every year. The city will pay for half the cost of the vehicle with the balance being picked up by the provincial Ministry of Culture and Communications.

“It’s a new way to reach our population especially our youngest citizens.

This way everyone will learn more about our city. It’s also another way to reach out to our residents. We will bring our bus to the people and we hope they will come to our bus,” said Pilon.

Riverbank stabilization Work will be done on the banks of the Quinchien River at Place Charlemagne to stabilize the slopes of the riverbank and even out the water flow in order to keep hydro poles from sliding into the water.

“It’s not a big job but it’s something that has to be done,” said Pilon.

The city had planned to do the stabilization work almost three years ago but faced opposition from area residents.

Pilon lamented the fact that the work could have been done earlier and at a lower cost if it wasn’t opposed by the residents.

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THE SOAPBOX CARMEN MARIE FABIO

Selling it I understand the need for dreams and aspirations and the admiration of luxury items and lifestyles. But the stubborn and pragmatic side of me also rolls her eyes at features in magazines and national newspapers that are so out of reach from the everyday consumer that it serves to alienate, rather than entice, the reader.

Multi-million dollar log cabins with outdoor Jacuzzis featured in Real Estate sections are undoubtedly stunning but not within the financial grasp of most of us so I have to wonder why they seem to pop up so often.

While at a recent dental visit, I happened to flip through a copy of Architectural Digest. Now, the interiors featured are without a doubt beautiful but I can’t grasp the idea of spending over $1,000 on a lamp or – wait for it - $2,893 for a metal chair. And let’s not forget the tufted wall rug for $359 US. A rug. That you hang on the wall. I can pick up a nice little mat that is actually useful for wiping your feet on at Costco for about $20.

Speaking of Costco, I recently picked up their ‘Connection’ magazine and came across a reader poll titled, ‘How do you spend your Executive Reward?’ of the year-end reimbursement of a percentage of money spent there throughout the year. Most readers were staid in their response, particularly after the year that was 2020, saying they would simply use it to renew their membership. But I guess that wasn’t exciting enough for the magazine which magnanimously offered some suggestions on how to fritter away your sudden windfall.

First – a Kobe Classic Wagyu boneless rib roast for $394.99.

For that price, I was picturing something hefted onto the side of my car à la Flintstones getting their order of woolly mammoth ribs at the drive-through. Nope. It’s a chunk of meat weighing roughly 2.5 kilos. So, that little meal will cost you $158 per kilo. At that price, it ought to show up with someone to cook it and serve it to me.

Second – a black Prada ‘Matinée’ bag for $4,000. Okay, I rounded up, it’s actually only $3999.99, much more reasonable. I’m thinking the leather must’ve come from the same cow that gave up its life for the rib roast. My last purse cost me about $24.99 at Winners. I still have it. By being cheap, stubborn, and pragmatic, I saved $3,975 and no cows lost their lives for me to carry around a bunch of useless stuff.

Third – an LG GX 77” Smart 4K OLED TV. Or, in layman’s terms, a really big flat-screen TV for just shy of $7,000. Now, for some people dealing with social isolation, watching movies might be their only entertainment or link to sanity during these weird times. But for me – who watches not much more than the news and Coronation Street – I really don’t need to experience the characters on the cobbled fictional streets of Weatherfield or (shudder) Donald Trump in super-high definition, thanks. Another $7,000 in my pocket.

But they saved the best for last – an Emerald-cut diamond solitaire 4.02 carat ring for $70,000. Oops, sorry, $69,999.99.

Now, my last rebate cheque from Costco was around $250, and that’s for a family of five. How much money do you have to spend in a year to get a rebate cheque big enough to cover that ring? I somehow can’t picture making room in my cart which will probably already contain a 10 lb. bag of warehouse carrots, dog treats, toilet paper, Laughing Cow cheese, and possibly (okay, likely) a box of wine to squeeze in a ring that’s worth more than any car I’ve ever owned and the first house I bought.

There’s a time to dream in life but there’s also time to keep your feet firmly planted on frugal ground.

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THE JOURNAL

Thursday, February 4, 2021

IMAGE COURTESY SANTEMO.QUEBEC

The sprawling complex built on former agricultural land near the junction of Highways 30 and 40 will include three main pavilions.

A glimpse of the Vaudreuil-Soulanges Hospital project The design plans of the long-awaited Vaudreuil-Soulanges Hospital were released January 29 and the sprawling project which will be built on former agricultural land near the junction of Highways 30 and 40 touts sustainable development incorporating surrounding green spaces.

“The facility will be modern, designed to ensure a humane, efficient, simplified and intuitive organization of care and services,” reads the description on the santemo.quebec website.

Soulanges MNA Marilyne Picard released a communiqué including the first images of the project which includes three pavilions designed, “…according to the highest quality standards and which will offer the best possible environments for users and staff.”

Pavilion A will be used primarily for out-patient clinics as well as reception facilities, cafeteria and laboratories. Pavilion B, the largest of the three structures, will house the critical healthcare units including the emergency room, operating rooms, and medical imaging

IMAGE COURTESY SANTEMO.QUEBEC

The 404-bed facility will come with a price tag of $1.7 billion and construction is set to begin early in 2022.

among other support sectors. Pavilion C will accommodate outpatients and childspecific fields of medicine including neonatology, pediatrics and child psychiatry along with the mental health unit.

“This great major project is starting to materialize in a tangible way, and we can be very proud of it, collectively,” writes Christian Dubé, Minister of Health and Social Services.

Continued on page 12

Hudson ‘Open’ for business Nick Zacharias

The Journal

Opening question period for the February meeting of the Hudson town council saw only one participant writing in. Resident Benoît Blais wrote to ask about an access to information request he’d submitted December 2, 2020 regarding the Sandy Beach development, for which he has yet to receive an answer. He wrote that receipt of the request was confirmed, but when he reached out again after the 20-day waiting period had elapsed (along with a 10-day grace period) he was told by the town that “…because of COVID they can’t provide the information within the lawful period.

When is the town going to meet its legal obligations to the citizens? We all understand COVID employment constraints, but is it not also true that a lot of time was spent last year digitizing files? Either way, when can I expect to receive the information?”

Mayor Jamie Nicholls responded that the digitization of files was ongoing and will take years to complete. As to the specific request, he said, “Simply to put this bluntly, there are some files

that are not accessible to the public.”

He cited, as an example, floorplans of individuals’ houses which he says are protected by privacy and not disclosed to members of the public even via access to information requests. “Access to information does have boundaries,” he said. He confirmed that any information, should it be accessible, will be made available in due course. He did not provide a timeline.

Regular business In regular business, council appointed resident Andrea Spitzer as the newest member of the Town Planning Advisory Committee (TPAC), approved the write-off of outstanding receivables in amounts under $5, authorized the granting of a $22,995 contract to Laboratoire GS Inc. for a geotechnical study for Main Road as part of the redevelopment initiative, and amended a by-law allowing for the placement of two single temporary driveway shelters per household (as opposed to the existing standard allowing for one single shelter or one double shelter).

Nicholls also announced, “We are hoping to offer our summer day camp service this year,” and as such council

PHOTO COURTESY SHUTTERSTOCK

A request for struggling businesses to use ‘Open’ illuminated signs in Hudson was deemed allowable provided they’re not animated or flashing.

awarded a contract to third party L’Air en Fête to run the program. He asserted that the cost would be similar to that if the town ran it themselves.

In the summer of 2020, no day camp was offered in Hudson and residents who needed the service were encouraged to take advantage of a program in Rigaud instead.

‘Open’ for business Owner of local restaurant Sauvé’s and president of the Hudson Hospitality Association Andrew Dumas spoke up during the live question period in the latter part of the meeting. He said he was “…following up again to see if

there’s any advancement on the ability for us to use illuminated ‘Open’ signs for our businesses, a lot of which are struggling right now.”

Responded Nicholls, “I’m happy to say that council has discussed the issue and we’ve arrived at a consensus to allow illuminated signs.” He said they would have to crunch down on providing a standard set of parameters for signs, underlining that animated or flashing signs would be a proscribed, but fairly modest lit ‘Open’ signs would at some point in the near future be allowed.

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KICK IN THE ARTS

BRIAN GALLAGHER

Where was I? (part 2)

So I’m sipping a nice hot coffee while sitting at the island on this chilly Tuesday just waiting for the snow to start (my Tuesday; not today, which is Thursday to you or maybe Friday or heck maybe this is Sunday morning and you are sitting in the tub reading the ol’ Journal). Wow, I really messed up the first line of this week’s article didn’t I? We are NOT off to a Giller Prize start for this PHOTO BY STEVE GERRARD one so buckle up – chances of making sense this week are the same as a squirrel picking a nut off a tree in a hurricane. ******* My point is… Whilst I was enjoying my java and keeping up with world events on CNN I was also chewing through my daily helping of emails that had come in over the last 14 hours or so. And happily I see one from my benevolent editor, replying to me regarding her choice of the new avatar for this adorable little column of mine. She has chosen a very adult and dramatic photo instead of my choice, which was yours truly in a skimpy yellow ‘Borat’ costume I wore at a recent awards ceremony. Wait? Did you just gasp? Did I get ya? Seriously now beautiful people, you know I have never won an award (I’ll just leave this here for now…) ******* My point is… It’s Tuesday. Deadline day. As in this which you are currently reading is supposed to be completed, done, sent in.

Signed, sealed, delivered. But where is your non-award-winning author? Lounging with coffee in hand, scrolling through emails, TikTok, Snapchat, Imdb while Poppy Harlow’s dulcet tones waft across the living room talking about the latest vaccinations or impeachments. ******* My point is… How in the name of Moses’ donkey (not ‘ass,’ that’s sacrilegious) did I forget what day it was? I really hope that thousands of you are all nodding your heads in unison at this point and are afflicted with the same malaise. We have a giant wooden calendar on the wall of our living room, one in the kitchen, one downstairs, one iPad, one laptop and two cellphones that display the date constantly – and yet I still think it is TueFriWednesSunday.

And probably perpetually noon. ******* My point is… COVID fever, somewhat like cabin fever, has set in. Can’t quite remember the day but it doesn’t matter (except when I receive gentle e-mail reminders). And since I’m starting to look like Tom Hanks in ‘Castaway’ (the middle of the movie, not the beginning or the end), I guess the particular time or day really doesn’t matter as they are all blending into one abysmally long day separated by a seven-hour nap. Can’t wait until the cold and Covid bugger off so I can get back outside and maybe be able to navigate through the day with my pocket sundial and Mayan stone calendar. ******* My point is… to all of you who suffer (willingly though; no money changes hands between us so technically if you have made it this far it is your owned darned fault, but thank you) through my musings and inevitable oncoming dementia each week, and to my long-suffering but eternally patient benevolent editor as well as that nice lady who pays me every week – I’m sorry. I will try to do better. Starting tomorrow this will be a viable, credible, intelligent and entertaining column! And did I just get ya again? That Chibougamau swampland won’t last on the market long beautiful people! ******* Stay safe, stay warm, stay home. From Crooked Tree Corner here in Shangri-la - Sociable!

The Hudson Music Festival goes digital with Csur la télé The Hudson Music Festival is proud to make available three shows online from its ECHO 2020 edition filmed last fall in the cozy ‘Alibi Lounge’ barn in downtown Hudson.

February 3 featured Steel Rail with Tod Gorr, Ellen Shizgal and Dave Clarke (still available online), February 10 will showcase Rob Lutes with Rob Macdonald, and tune in February 17 to see Kira Flamenca with Zal Sissokho.

This project, carried out in collaboration with the Vaudreuil-Soulanges community television station Csur la Télé, aims to expose the region to music and art that they would not otherwise have encountered given the challenges of COVID-19.

Festival director Lynda ClouetteMackay explains they had no choice but to adapt and that the option of offering a digital version has become

Letters

Continued from page 4 Unedited Dear Editor, I enjoy your Soapbox column.

As a young man (a much younger man) I worked as a reporter for a bunch of Canadian newspapers, then spent years as a reporter and editor for The Canadian Press in Toronto and New York.

Copy was filed from New York to the then-CP central circuit in Canada at a maximum 66 words a minute on teletype machines of the day. I learned to be a fast and brutal editor.

The holdover is that I still ‘edit’ as I read.

But I don’t edit your column. It flows.

It’s well put, always nice and interesting reading.

Cheers, Bob Exell Hudson Bearing witness Dear Editor, I do not get many phone calls but

IMAGE COURTESY CSUR LA TÉLÉ

Steel Rail with Tod Gorr, Ellen Shizgal and Dave Clarke are part of the virtual Hudson Music Festival lineup featuring past concerts to help showcase arts and entertainment during the COVID-19 lockdown period.

a must. As part of its digital shift, Csur la télé is enhancing its webcasting service offering in order to finance its mission of broadcasting local content on its various platforms.

More info is available at csur.tv/ festival-de-musique-de-hudson sometimes there are some messages.

One message this week was from someone calling from some organization to ‘check’ on me and see if I needed anything and to see if I was ‘alright’ etc. It was a nice warm sounding man, and he left a phone number. It was a bit like ‘Dear Occupant’...but, well...you know.... that call made me feel good! Someoneis-looking-after-me kind of feeling.

Thank you ‘kind man’ whoever you are... if I do need something sometime I’ll give you a call. I did take down the number.

Turns out my ‘caller’ was the Jehovah Witness people. That’s good. They once helped me out big time....they used to come to see Freddie (my late husband) all the time...and one day we were standing outside wondering what to do as we were due in court that morning and our witness had taken ill in the night and spirited off to hospital. So we asked the ‘witness’ if he would come to court with as he was a real ‘witness.’

He came with us and we won the case....we gave him two tins of maple syrup for his trouble. Wonderful memory.

Naomi Henshaw Hudson

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Vaudreuil-Dorion provides economic assistance for businesses John Jantak

The Journal

The City of Vaudreuil-Dorion has contributed $250,000 to an aid fund intended to support businesses in its territory.

The municipal aid fund, also known by its French acronym FAME (Fonds d’aide municipale pour les entreprises) demonstrates the city council’s commitment to contribute directly to the continuing economic development of its business community and provide economic relief to owners affected by the pandemic.

This initiative by city council follows a decision by the provincial government to provide $800 million to municipalities to cover additional costs and loss of income caused by COVID-19. This money can also be used by municipalities to play an active role in reviving the economy.

Jöel Lessard, Portfolio and Business Development Manager for Développement (DEV) Vaudreuil-Soulanges, said the organization is pleased with the financial commitment which will help bring relief to struggling business owners within the city.

Sms C D ra prog

Financial lifeline The funds are necessary to provide a lifeline to enterprises which have been hit hard by the lockdown and curfew which has seriously affected their ability to continue to operate normally. Lessard said the financial contribution made by the city will help to provide additional breathing room which will help owners who didn’t qualify for either federal or provincial financial assistance.

“It’s a major commitment by the city,” said Lessard. “This is the best way for small business owners to get money that they are unable to get any other way. Part of the money they will receive will be in the form of a grant and the remainder will be a loan.”

The funds will be channeled to businesses related to retail trade, restaurants and food services, local agriculture producers and food processors, service companies and tourism outlets, including accommodation sites. “Our desire is to adapt to our economic reality and contribute to companies whose citizens are in great need,” said Mayor Guy Pilon.

Important economic hub Loans valued between $5,000 and

PHOTO COURTESY SHUTTERSTOCK

Small business owners in Vaudreuil-Dorion are getting an extra helping of financial aid to weather some of the economic hardships endured during the COVID-19 pandemic.

$25,000 will be supplemented with non-repayable assistance equivalent to 20 per cent of the loan amount. The remainder will have to be repaid within a five-year period with an interest rate of three per cent. A loan repayment moratorium is offered for the first six months to take into account the revival of regular activities.

“These loans will help small businesses who have been unable to receive federal or provincial assistance through their economic relief programs. We received funds from different sources including the government to provide financial relief to owners in the Vaudreuil-Soulanges region,” said Lessard.

The financial aid being provided by

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the city to help revive its struggling business community is important because Vaudreuil-Dorion is one of the major economic hubs within the VaudreuilSoulanges region, said Lessard. Other major municipalities that require financial assistance for their stores and restaurants include Saint-Lazare, Hudson and the four cities on l’Île-Perrot.

DEV provides their services to entrepreneurs and small business owners within the 23 municipalities that comprise the MRC de Vaudreuil-Soulanges.

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9

Confinement in Québec A confinement and a curfew are in effect across Québec from January 9 to February 8, 2021, inclusively,* with the exception of the Cree Territory of James Bay and Nunavik.

These measures are in place to slow the spread of the virus and protect the population, which includes seniors, at-risk individuals and healthcare workers.

THE CONFINEMENT AT A GLANCE Gatherings are prohibited • Private indoor and outdoor gatherings at homes and cottages are prohibited.

• There are a few exceptions: - One visitor from another address for people living alone (ideally, always the same person to limit social contacts) - One informal caregiver - Individuals offering services or support - Labourers for planned work

Travel is not recommended • Travel between cities or regions is not recommended

(except for essential travel for students, workers, shared custody and freight transportation).

Sports and recreational activities with members of the same household only

• Non-priority businesses must close until the end of the confinement.

Businesses authorized to continue their activities must offer only essential goods and services.

• Curbside pickup is still allowed. Products can be purchased online and delivered or picked up on site without entering the premises, in accordance with the health recommendations.

• Restaurant dining rooms remain closed. Delivery, takeout and drivethrough orders are permitted. Only delivery will be possible during the curfew.

• To comply with the 8 p.m. curfew, all businesses must close their doors no later than 7:30 p.m.

• Exceptionally, during the curfew, pharmacies and service stations

will remain open on the same schedule as usual. Pharmacies will only be allowed to sell medication and essential products such as pharmaceutical, hygiene and cleaning products. Service stations will only be allowed to sell food, non-alcoholic drinks, fuel and products for road vehicles. In other words, service stations are not authorized to sell tobacco or alcohol products during the curfew.

Mandatory teleworking and reduced activities

• Sports and recreational activities must be limited to members of

• Teleworking is mandatory for people who work in office buildings.

• In the manufacturing and construction sectors, activities must

• An exception is also permitted for individuals who live alone, who

Visit Québec.ca/en/confinement for more information about the measures in force.

the same household. Activities such as walking, downhill skiing and cross-country skiing are permitted, provided they are carried out individually or with members of the same household, and that the curfew is respected. may carry out an activity with another individual (ideally, always the same person). In this case, a minimum distance of two metres must be maintained at all times.

10

Commercial establishments open for essential goods only

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Thursday, February 4, 2021

be reduced to a minimum to meet commitments. Teleworking is mandatory when possible and shifts must be adjusted to limit the staff present at any time on production and construction sites.

THE CURFEW AT A GLANCE Stay home from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m.

During the confinement, a curfew is in effect from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Quebecers must not leave their homes or property during this period, save for the exceptions below.

Valid exceptions • A person whose presence is required at

their place of work or who is transporting goods needed for the ongoing activities of their business.

• A person who is going to a pharmacy

to obtain medication or pharmaceutical, hygiene or cleaning products.

• A person who must go to or return from a hospital, a clinic, or a dentist’s or optometrist’s office.

• A person who must visit a sick or injured relative.

• A student who must attend an in-person evening class or go to a laboratory in a recognized school.

• A parent who must accompany their child/ children to the home of the other parent who has custody of them.

• A person who is going to take an interregional or inter-provincial bus, train or plane to their final destination.

• A person who must take their dog out to do its business, within a radius of no more than one kilometre from their place of residence.

• A person who must travel in order to comply

with a court judgment, to respond to a summons to appear before a court, or to exercise custody or access rights as a parent.

• A person who must accompany another

individual to a medical appointment if they are unable to drive themselves there.

• A parent who must accompany a sick child to the hospital.

• A person travelling to give blood at

Broader policing and fines for offenders • Police will continue to ensure compliance

with health measures and can intervene when individuals are outside their homes during curfew hours.

• Offenders can face fines ranging from $1,000 to $6,000 if they are unable to adequately justify why they are outside the home. Young people 14 years of age and over are subject to a $500 fine.

To learn more about the curfew, visit Québec.ca/en/confinement.

a Héma-Québec donor centre.

• A person who must accompany another

person who requires assistance in one of the situations listed above (e.g. a parent who must drive an adolescent to their workplace).

Be there for yourself like you’re there for your loved ones The current situation may cause emotions that are distressful or difficult to handle. Experiencing an imbalance in various facets of everyday life is a normal reaction. Managing your thoughts, emotions, behaviours and relationships with others may become more challenging. While most people will adapt to the situation, it is important that you listen to your needs. Take the necessary steps to get help if you need it.

There are solutions. Visit Québec.ca/gettingbetter to learn more.

*This article contains information valid as of January 12, 2021. For the most up-to-date information, visit Québec.ca/en/confinement.

Québec.ca/coronavirus 1 877 644-4545

Thursday, February 4, 2021

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11

IN THESE TRYING TIMES PHOTO COURTESY ROD HODGSON

LET’S VISIT

YOUR FUTURE RESIDENCE TOGETHER!

VISIT US VIRTUALLY OR IN PERSON

PLEASE CALL US FOR AN APPOINTMENT

Here is another nice old photo from our archives. It shows the first Remembrance Day Ceremony on Sunday, November 14, 1948 at the newly constructed cenotaph then located in Benson Park. In the photo are Legion President John Legate (just left of the cenotaph), Padre the Rev. Jos. Mowat, Rev. E.C. Royle, Father Cloutier, and Parade Marshal Nick Carter. Many of those in the photo were veterans of both World War I and World War II. The cenotaph was built by local stone masons Lorne Graham (my grandfather) and Everett Lancaster as their donation to those from Hudson and the area who had served and made the supreme sacrifice as well.

Legion News Rod L. Hodgson – President

Special contributor

Here is some wonderful news from our Membership Secretary, Lise Bernier. Three hundred and twenty members have paid up their memberships for 2021 and this includes a number of new members. We lost a few members because there was no curling this season but we are still taking renewals.

Your support for our still closed Legion Br. #115 is very encouraging. You can mail in your payments of $60 to Hudson Legion Br. #115, 56 Beach Road, Hudson, QC, J0P 1H0 and write on your cheque ‘2021 dues.’ You can also pay online through Dominion Command’s website at www.legion.ca. Dominion does send us back our portion of the yearly fees as well and Provincial Command also gets a portion.

I had some troubles last week with our e-mail of the Legion News. I narrowed it down to that the message was just too large in megabytes because of the photos. I did contact a number of members by phone and they did get the second set of news that I sent out as an attachment. Hopefully it will be better this week. If you did not get the

Hospital

Continued from page 6

VACCINATION IS COMING TO YOUR RESIDENCE SOON! STAY TUNED.

3223, boul. de la Gare, Vaudreuil-Dorion

450 455-7889

LeFelixVaudreuilDorion.com 12

THE JOURNAL

Thursday, February 4, 2021

“The first images of the project give us an excellent overview of what this modern facility will be like, designed to meet the current and future major health challenges in the region, especially in the context of population growth that we have resulting in the increase in needs.”

“I am delighted to note that this facility will provide patients with a most modern and welcoming care environ-

attachments you can check our branch website at www.hudsonlegion.ca and our webmaster Zbig does a great job at keeping that up to date – thank you Zbig for your true dedication and help with this.

We still have a number of T-shirts in various sizes and still at $25 each and also 10 packs of hasty notes at $10 for a pack of 10 with envelopes. If you are interested please drop us a line at rcl115@videotron.ca and we can arrange a pick up or delivery time.

We are still closed and at the moment we have no idea when we will be able to reopen so we can socially gather again for meals, cribbage, pub quiz, bridge, conversations and maybe enjoy the odd libation! However we will keep you up to date of course.

We learned just that former Legion member and Hardy Rock curler Bill Sturrock passed away this past week.

He had been suffering from severe diabetes and had both his legs amputated because of that. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his dear wife Lillian.

I believe they were living in Saint-Jeansur-Richelieu in recent years.

Lest we forget…

ment, and that it will also promote exchanges between the various professionals who will offer their services there on a daily basis, for the benefit of our entire community,” adds Picard.

The 404-bed facility comes with a projected price tag of $1.7 billion and actual construction is set to begin early in 2022.

For more information, consult santemo.quebec/santemo/phvs/ concept-architectural.

To see a video of MNA Picard at the future hospital location, go to www. facebook.com/MarilynePicardCAQ

National Children’s Dental Health Care Month Avoid dental emergencies during the COVID-19 pandemic (NC) Good dental hygiene might not be an obvious priority during the pandemic, but that could quickly change if a painful cavity develops and in-person visits are no longer available.

Understanding that this isn’t the most normal of times, it’s important to control the things we can right now, and

that includes a good daily oral hygiene home routine. Below are a few ways to help keep your smile healthy: Create an easy routine Brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing regularly are easy ways to keep your teeth in good shape. Ensure you clean between your teeth by rinsing

with a non-alcohol-based mouthwash to help reduce plaque buildup and keep breath fresh. Finally, rinsing your mouth with water after eating can help keep your mouth clean.

Update your oral products With the ever-growing array of oralcare products on the market today, consider trying a new brush or toothpaste, but be sure to look for those that have been scientifically and clinically tested.

Tom’s of Maine Luminous White toothpaste, for example, is a vegan formula made of fluoride, mineral- and plantderived ingredients that fights cavities and whitens your teeth in two weeks by removing surface stains.

Be mindful of your diet Did you know your diet can have a

PHOTO COURTESY NC

huge impact on your oral health? When combined with the bacteria in your mouth, carbohydrates can produce an acid that attacks your teeth, increasing your risk for cavities. Make water your beverage of choice, limit foods that are high in sugar or carbohydrates and try to opt for healthy snacks like fruits, crunchy vegetables, and nuts.

National Children’s Dental Health Care Month

C.J. Maxwell

Special contributor

When should your child’s first dental appointment be?

According to the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), it should be within six months of the appearance of his or her first tooth and every six months after that. Be sure that your dentist is willing to take on a patient of that age. Most will but it doesn’t hurt to be prepared.

The sooner your child recognizes that dental visits can be a fun experience, the easier it will to go back every six months to ensure continuity of care and establish a foundation of good dental hygiene habits.

Until your child is comfortable being in the chair herself, she can easily sit back on your lap as you recline in the chair and take comfort knowing mom or dad is right there.

An early start will help your dentist see any issues that may arise including decay, or crooked or crowded teeth.

Even baby teeth, that are destined to eventually fall out, will benefit from early intervention. If a cavity is found, a filling will help avoid problems further down the road. Remember that baby teeth can sometimes stick around for well over 10 years.

How soon should they start brushing their teeth?

The CDA recommends getting your child used to having his mouth cleaned even before he has teeth. You can use a soft cloth wrapped around your finger to wipe the gums. Only use toothpaste when you can actually see teeth. Once your child is over the age of three, he should be able to brush with some assistance from an adult.

How do you motivate kids to brush their teeth?

Make it fun from a young age! Use a toy dinosaur (with teeth of course) or a smiling doll and let your children help ‘brush’ their toys’ teeth as you’re helping them. If brushing becomes a nightly power struggle, it won’t be fun or ben-

PHOTO COURTESY SHUTTERSTOCK

Starting early and making brushing fun are two ways to instill good lifelong dental habits in kids.

eficial in the long run for either of you.

Establish a nightly brushing routine Brushing at night is important as the mouth does not produce as much saliva while sleeping – saliva is what helps keep

the mouth clean. By ensuring a nightly ritual of brushing, along with story time, it will become a positive experience for your child – and for you.

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THE JOURNAL

13

ADVICE FROM THE HEART

KAREN SIMMONS Welcome to our new advice column featuring The Journal’s own Karen Simmons who brings a mix of life experience, common sense, and a loving heart to any situation. Have you got a dating issue? Family problem? Unresolved friendship issues? Just ask Karen.

Send questions to editor@yourlocaljournal.ca Dear Karen, Since the work-at-home order became effective in March of 2020, my husband refuses to shower every day. How do I convince him that showering every day is a normal thing?

Worried wife Dear Worried wife, Thanks so much for your question and while I will be the first one to admit that I’m certainly no expert when it comes to living in domestic bliss, as someone who suffers from an autoimmune disorder that largely affects my skin, I certainly know a thing or two about what’s good for the epidermis.

My first question is who decided that showering daily is ‘normal?’ If it’s what you like to do for yourself then that is what’s ‘normal’ for you. I personally know many people who don’t shower daily (myself included), especially during the winter months when heating can make skin SO dry. By not showering every day your husband is actually helping his body to retain and replace natural oils that are important to the overall health and appearance of the skin. It’s also a step that’s good for the environment by saving water and good for your pocketbook by saving money on heating water.

My second question is does your husband smell if he doesn’t shower daily? If the answer is yes then I think that the issue needs to be addressed as his bathing habits are now having a negative effect on the rest of the household. If not then I say buy that man a soap-on-a-rope and let him do his thing. That being said, if ever your husband takes to only brushing his teeth every other day please get back in touch! *******

Dear Karen, My sister, who’s 10 years older than me, lives on the west coast.

We have nothing in common.

She’s always been critical and will make judgemental comments about things I say or do.

With both our parents now passed away (for which she offered very little help while they were sick) I honestly see no point in continuing having a relationship with her. It really brings me no happiness to speak with her.

Any advice?

Fed up sibling Dear Fed up sibling, When it comes to family matters it seems to me that it often feels like a double edge sword, or a, “damned if you do damned if you don’t” type of situation. In the case of siblings, it’s often difficult to fully understand where the other person is coming from because we don’t know what it’s like to be in their shoes. Your sister most certainly had a different type of relationship with your parents while growing up than you did. Often there can be jealousy of the dynamic that you might have had with your parents.

Perhaps your sister already knows that she didn’t do as much as she could have to care for your parents and is feeling guilty.

As for whether or not you should continue a relationship with her, the question I would be asking myself is whether or not I can live happily with myself knowing I have cut all ties. Are there other family members that will be affected by your decision? Are you going to regret time lost when she’s gone? (Being 10 years older she will likely predecease you). The answer should not be about your sister, it should be about you. Unfortunately not all things in life are reciprocal and if we go through life expecting everyone to do as we do we will only end up disappointed. Do what’s best for you, stick to your decision and I’m sure you will start to feel more peaceful in a very short time.

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 is given to charities, non-profits, volunteer events, animal rescue organizations, and community/church groups.

SAINT-LAZARE Starting Saturday, February 6, subject to government health instructions, the curfew and favourable weather conditions, the City of Saint-Lazare is offering its residents a new version of outdoor winter activities. Under the theme La Caravane des neiges (winter caravan) these different activities and innovations will take place in a park near you. For activities that do not require registration, residents are encouraged to check for updates at ville. saint-lazare.qc.ca/en/loisircovid19 before showing up.

PHOTO BY FRANCINE LABONTÉ

Though this shot of pétanque on ice was snapped in Notre-Dame-de-l’Île-Perrot, other municipalities are also offering access to this fun winter activity. See VaudreuilDorion listing for more details.

VAUDREUIL-DORION Every weekend until February 27, citizens are invited to take advantage of winter by practicing outdoor sports activities in several parks in VaudreuilDorion including cross-country skiing, pétanque on ice, snow scooters, and fat bikes. Certain activities require reservations. Please consult www.ville. vaudreuil-dorion.qc.ca/en/recreationand-culture for more info.

on Wednesday, February 10, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Guest workshop leader Aileen Borruel will lead us in an exercise program of Laughter Yoga. Info: www.

LowVisionSelfHelpAssociation.weebly. com or phone (514) 694-2965 or (514) 626-2649.

AMI (Action on Mental Illness) is offering online programs to help families and people dealing with mental health issues. More information is available at amiquebec.org.

ONLINE ACTIVITIES Low Vision Self-Help Association will hold its monthly meeting on Zoom

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14

THE JOURNAL

Thursday, February 4, 2021

Home and Estate FOR THE BIRDS

Cardinals in winter Donald Attwood

Special Contributor

O

JU C LY CU /A PA U N G C .2 Y 02 1

On the Christmas Bird Count, our job was to list all the birds seen in one sector. Every bird counted, including pigeons but not chickens or pets. I was with three experienced birdwatchers, and midway through the morning, we weren’t seeing much – not even pigeons. Then one person exclaimed, “cardinal” with emphasis, and we saw a flash of red. We had a small buzz of excitement, partly because this was the first of its species that day but also because it was a cardinal, a common but charismatic bird.

The Northern Cardinal (to use its official name) lives here year-round. While it’s become a familiar bird of parks and gardens, it settled in Quebec only recently: 1964 was the first year it was observed here in the Christmas Bird Count.

In later years, its population exploded faster than anywhere else. Since the 19th century, this species has been expanding its range northward in the US, and now it lives among us.

Human habits account for the cardinal’s expansion. Some regions, like Vermont, have become partly reforested as small farms reverted to woodlands, and cardinals like mixed landscapes with

trees. Winters are becoming warmer, so this and other species are shifting northward. In summer, cardinals like suburban shrubs and hedges as nesting sites.

(Perhaps to compensate for their showy appearance, cardinals use dense foliage to hide their nests from predators.) And backyard feeders help this bird survive in winter. People who stock their feeders in winter are motivated partly by the hope of cardinals, so it’s a win-win situation.

Cardinals have short, thick bills, ideal for cracking seeds like the black-oil sunflower seeds they prefer. Other birds also like these seeds, though some are not equipped to open the hulls as cardinals do. A chickadee will fly in, grab a sunflower seed, fly to a nearby twig, pin the seed against the twig with its foot, and hammer it open with its tiny beak.

A cardinal just sits on the feeder and cracks the hulls in its massive beak.

Male cardinals not only look handsome, they have cheery voices. It brightens my day to hear a cardinal singing in the morning. During a warm spell this January, I heard one singing several times along a trail in Hudson. Did he think that spring was coming early? Whatever his purpose, he offered a spark of colour and melody in an austere landscape.

Early last April, as I was walking around our neighbourhood, I heard

H

PHOTO COURTESY SHUTTERSTOCK

Cardinals live here year-round, brightening the winter landscape, yet 60 years ago, none were known to nest in Quebec.

three cardinals proclaiming their territories in a call-and-response pattern that seems typical of territorial songbirds.

Once I noticed that a cardinal sang one tune while his rival responded with a different song. That set me wondering.

Were they sending each other different messages or just different phrasings of one core message: “no trespassing?”

I tried using my smartphone (already indispensable for listing the birds seen and heard on my walks) to record and compare cardinal songs in the neighbourhood. I never became adept with this technology, but I learned a couple of things. First, from one day to the next, a cardinal may change his tune. Whether he does so to copy a nearby rival, or perhaps to show a more impressive reper-

toire, is open to question. Most often, both males sing the same song back and forth, but they vary the selection from one day to the next.

Second, I learned that, no matter what tune it sings, a cardinal always sounds like a cardinal. (Some birds are famous for not doing this: a catbird often sounds like a cat, a mockingbird can mimic almost any bird plus a variety of other noises, and so can some parrots.)

Cardinals seem inclined to sing many variations on phrases they’ve used before.

What makes a cardinal’s voice identifiable, despite all this variation, is a mystery to me.

Continued on page 19

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Thursday, February 4, 2021

THE JOURNAL

15

MOVIE REVIEW MATT MILLER

Movies You Might Have Missed 52 Week Challenge Edition Title: Primer (2004) Directed by: Shane Carruth Genre: Sci-Fi Available on: YouTube Brief Synopsis: Two engineers working in their garage stumble into an incredible discovery, changing their lives forever.

Scores: 76% Rotten Tomatoes, 6.9 IMDb Last Week’s (#2) Challenge – A ‘Classic’ Film (The Lady Vanishes– 1938) This Week’s (#3) Challenge – ‘A Low Budget, Big Return’ Film Review: While many of us would attest to being fans of film, arguing that they can often contain deeper meaning, emotional connections and social impacts, the bleak truth is that for all of cinema’s history, moving pictures propagated for one simple reason – profit. With financial burden too dear for artists to handle, it quickly became the norm for those with capital and deep pockets to fund these ventures, and due to this, profit has always trumped creativity. Yet every once and a while, someone forgoes the middleman to get their story across on a shoestring budget, a lot of hard work, and clear vision. There have been many ‘low budget, big return’ films, and this week we will look at the $7000 miracle, Primer.

Primer is an incredible achievement. I have been a part of multiple film sets; some with a moderate budget, others with almost nothing.

I can personally attest that even on small sets, the food budget alone can often climb into the thousands, and yet Primer was shot for a measly $7000. With a box office return of $850,000 (a tidy 12,000% profit), Primer grabbed the attention of critics and film buffs alike. Usually, sci-fi films (especially those dealing with high concept ideas like time travel) are big-budget, action fuelled spectacles. Most examples that cut costs are doomed to be shown on late night sci-fi channels, and contain poor acting, cheap effects and stilted dialogue. However, Primer avoids these pitfalls at an impossibly low budget. Thanks to the (then) major technological breakthrough of digital handheld cameras, filmmakers like Carruth (who directs, stars, and composes the film) were able to avoid paying for many of the costly fees. While the footage is grainy, and the sound slightly muted, it feels like a much more sophisticated work than it has any right being.

However, Primer is not the easiest film to follow. Without giving too much away, it is about two engineers who accidentally create a time machine, and their ensuing struggle with how to properly (and ethically) use it. It is densely packed with scientific references, looping timelines, and jump editing. Carruth’s filming and editing style is reminiscent of old Steven Soderbergh films (like Sex, Lies & Videotapes), and will often cause viewers (like I did) to reach for the pause button (only to read the Wikipedia plot explanation… it helps!). Yet it is also impossible to look away. The slow pace allows dread to seep into the narrative seamlessly, and the naturalistic dialogue helps to suck the audience in. For a movie about time travel, it is remarkably grounded in believability.

While it may seem unappealing to watch an ‘unpolished’ film like Primer, it is important to remember that this is where most of our greatest artists have come from. Directors like Richard Linklater, Darren Aronofsky and Kevin Smith all self-financed their first films. James Cameron, the King of the Blockbuster himself, got his start on Piranha II with a budget of $150,000. What Primer may lack in refinement, it makes up for in concept and creativity; something that money just can’t buy. Need proof? When Avengers: Endgame, one of the most expensive films ever made, was explaining their time travel method, what film was referenced?

Not bad for $7000.

If this week was one for the underdogs, then Challenge #4, is one for… well, just the dogs. The criteria is ‘Films Starring Animals’ so get your snacks ready, and make sure to share some with your best friend.

PHOTO COURTESY IMDB.COM

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Up for adoption Akita is a sweet girl who was born August 6, 2018 and doesn’t have a mean bone in her body. She was a feral cat who gave birth to and raised three beautiful kittens who have all been adopted. She has had time to enjoy a life of a spoiled indoor cat and has put on a little bit of extra weight!

She absolutely loves and needs to be around other cats. She will run around and follow them everywhere. She will rub up against them and make the cutest chirping noises to get their attention. Kika - as she is affectionately called - is very scared of people. She has not yet developed a level of trust where she can be petted but you can easily get her attention and approach her with food. She will never be far when she hears the treat bag or the can of food open! Lately she has become more approachable but she still has a long way to go and will need a family that will either be very under-

PHOTO COURTESY CASCA

standing of her needs and understand that she may never become a people cat. She would also be great for a family that is looking for a companion for their cat. She must go to a home with other cats. She would not be suitable for children. It is unknown how she would react around a dog.

For more information regarding Akita, please write to us at cascavaudreuil@outlook.com

Up for adoption We don’t know where she came from but Thinsel, a 7-year-old female Husky mix, was running hard. By the time a Good Samaritan caught her and got her to Animal Control, her feet were bloody and she was desperate for food and water. Unclaimed and weighing only 28 lbs instead of the 50 that she should, Thinsel came to Animatch. She needs a quiet, lowtraffic home where she can have a walk or two every day while she recovers. She is very selective of her doggie friends and should be your one and only. Cats are a no-no. If you think you’re the one to help her re-

PHOTO COURTESY ANIMATCH

claim her health and can love her and make the second half of her life better than the first, fill out the form and ask for Thinsel.

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

Su

bm ph it ot yo o ur

Pets of Vaudreuil-Soulanges PHOTO COURTESY TRACY WORTHINGTON

Welcome to our feature showcasing and celebrating the many companion animals we have in our region.

Meet Summer Alibi, a nine-yearold Quarter horse x Thoroughbred belonging to Saint-Lazare resident Tracy Worthington.

Summer is a dream come true for Tracy who has wanted a horse of her own since she was a little girl.

The two are getting to know each other more and more each day and are having lots of fun horsing around along the way!

If you’d like us to feature your pet in our weekly section – dog, cat, rabbit, horse, lizard, possum (possum?) etc., send us a photo of you and your pet together, along with a short description, to editor@ yourlocaljournal.ca.

Crossword and Sudoku "A Little Slice of Life" by Terry Gergely

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1. Karenina of fiction 2. Bridal wear 3. "Free Willy" whale 4. Asian frying pan 5. End zone sack 6. Classroom scribblings 7. Related 8. Ewe's mate 9. They can make pupils grow larger 10. Indicate a turn 11. Black belt's blow 12. Composer Stravinsky 13. Pulls a trailer 18. Milky gems 23. Roadside bombs, in mil. jargon 24. Barely gets by 25. Warty hoppers 26. Ravi Shankar's instrument 27. Campaign subject

28. Narrow escape 29. Organ transplant receiver 30. Witherspoon of the widescreen 31. Seeded 33. Beetle Bailey's NCO, briefly 36. Big soccer tournament 37. DC office holders 39. Bell knell 40. Part of LPN 42. "The Children Act" author Ian 43. Get together, as a crowd 45. Town near Helena 46. Bruins of the PAC 10 47. British baby buggy 48. Mayberry lush 49. Crystal ball gazer 50. Palm fruit 51. Gumbo veggie 54. Family card game 55. Genetic inits.

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16. "Othello" evildoer 17. Without a second to spare (after "in the") 19. Mature 20. Chicken-king connection 21. Hammer part 22. Iraqi currency 24. Diner sign 25. Grab the check 26. Not healthy 29. Marginal artists?

32. Dots in the ocean 33. Afternoon TV serials 34. Corp. top dog 35. General ___ chicken (Chinese menu choice) 36. Magician's props 37. "Man, that was close" 38. Vienna's local, abbr.

39. Studies intently, with "over" 40. Rodeo riders slipknot 41. Become prominent again 43. Swallowed noisily 44. G - A - B - C - D - E - F# G, for example 45. Pubs 46. Did not overturn, legally 48. Double play makes two 49. ___ Paulo, Brazil 52. Sticks in one's ___ (irks) 53. Keep the dealer honest option 56. Mechanic's soap 57. Merge into one 58. Close-by 59. Prayer closer 60. Question requiring some thought 61. Diva's piece

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More chances to win!

Our Photo of the Week contest culminates every December with our ‘Photo of the Year’ winner chosen by one of our sponsors. This year, there are more chances to win! The top prize will be $200, second place will be $100 and third place $50 for photos taken by our readers.

Have your cameras and phones ready to capture flora, fauna, artistry, and architecture. Every photo printed in the paper has a chance at winning the top prize! Send your entries to editor@yourlocaljournal.ca.

Reducing our carbon footprint, one tiny footprint at a time.

BUY affordable kids clothing!

Kalia Kid is a way to make life easier and to encourage efficient and sensible shopping as well as giving back to our community.

VISIT US ONLINE

kaliakid.com Thursday, February 4, 2021

THE JOURNAL

17

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.

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

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)

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

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 Canadel solid wood dining rooms set with 6 chairs. LIKE NEW. Table has an integrate leaf allowing you to expand the table to sit 10. $1,500. 514-754-9726. See visual classified ad 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 Handyman. Maintenance, repairs and minor renovations, indoor or outdoor. 30 years of experience. Donald 514-913-2881 (210128)

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

Need a helping hand with your foot care (Our faithful servant)? Professional, customized and holistic services offered. In home, retirement home or hospital setting. Call Nadia at 438-923-5557 or 438-836-9189 (210211) Hi! Need your roof cleaned? Free estimate, no obligation. Call John 514-979-3067 (210218)

APPLE MAC SUPPORT since 1983 Variable Rates Initial Hour Free ** Preventive Maintenance ** Upgrades Troubleshooting System Analysis & Advice A Local Review: cloudbyteconsulting.com/review.html terry@cloudbyteconsulting.com 450-853-0534

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

175 - WANTED

WANTED: Old cars from 1900 to 2010. Cash offer for your old car, motorcycle, or any vehicle, running or not. Will visit by appointment.

Tim 514-755-0664 (210211) We buy old comics, vinyl records, coins. We do house calls. 514-349-0971 (call or text). mguy123@hotmail.ca (210211)

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 Hudson/St-Lazare junk removal. Sold your house? I can help. Tell me what you want removed and I’ll give you an accurate estimate of the cost. Bilingual. Leave detailed message at 450-202-0576 (210211)

@thejournalnewspaper Continued on page 19

125 - FOR RENT

Registered Gun Smith. We buy new and used guns, restricted and non-restricted. 514-453-5018 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

Follow us on

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

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 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

ARCHITECT

HOME CARE NURSING

ACCOUNTANTS

Nova Hudson

Chloe Hutchison Architect, PA LEED™

chutchison@live.ca • 514-806-8952 BOOKKEEPING

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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Thursday, February 4, 2021

Mark Quenneville

LIFE COACH

PSYCHOLOGIST

Caroline Courey Life Coach

drs. Martina Kleine-Beck

caroline.courey@gmail.com 450-853-0616 www.courey.com International Coach Federation ICF

ORTHODONTISTS Dr. Amy Archambault Dr. Paul Morton

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

Psychologist 514.265.1386 martinakb _ 58@ hotmail.com PSYCHOLOGIST

Sylvi Lafontaine

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

JOIN THE PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY Contact us today 450-510-4007 • admin@yourlocaljournal.ca

CLASSIFIEDS

View, submit & pay your ad online at www.yourlocaljournal.ca or e-mail: classifieds@yourlocaljournal.ca • 450 510-4007

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.

SUMMER EMPLOYMENT. Administrative assistant required in Hudson for 8/10 weeks. University Student Preferred.

Computer skills required. General administration, web research and analysis, record and bookkeeping, other duties as assigned. Send your CV and application to manning@compas-orientation.com by March 26th, 2021 (210218)

CLASSIFIEDS WORK! Get G et y your our a ad d sseen een b by yo over ver 5 54,000 4,000 llocal ocal readers readers by by placing placing it it in in Contact C ontact u uss at at :

cclassifi lassifie eds@yourloc ds@yourlocaljournal.ca aljournal.ca

450-5 4 50-51 10-40 0-400 07 7

The Journal

HERE’S MY CARD CLEANING SERVICE

COMPUTERS

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

DISINFECTING

HANDYMAN SERVICES

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL FOGGING

DO YOU NEED HELP AROUND THE HOUSE?

Fogging for disinfection of virus bacteria and COVID -19, General Maintenance, Carpet Cleaning, Renovations, Decks, Floors , and More!

Spiros Roumeliotis President

514-817-8923 Milemi2021@gmail.com

VISUAL CLASSIFIEDS A picture may be worth a thousand words but we’ll only charge you $5.

The Journal now brings you our NEW VISUAL CLASSIFIEDS section. Take a print classified in our paper for the usual low cost ($15/one week, $20/ two weeks, $25/three weeks) and for an additional $5, we’ll post your ad and photo of what you’re selling on our website. Your ad will STAY POSTED online until your item is sold. Try it out – we look forward to seeing your ad. Email your ad request and photo to admin@yourlocaljournal.ca. Ads will be updated online every Thursday.

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

MANAGEMENT SERVICES

MOVING

• PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • ESTATE SETTLEMENTS • ELDERCARE ASSISTANCE • BUSINESS MEETING MANAGEMENT 736 Main Road, Hudson, QC J0P 1H0 Tel: (450) 458-7316 Fax: (450) 458-4763 e-mail: froyle@frank-royle.com www.frank-royle.com

PAINTING

TREE SERVICE

514-802-2824

TREES AND BEYOND

TREE SERVICE

Birds

Continued from page 15 Each new version seems to say, “Here’s another way to do that,” while at the same time saying “It’s me again.”

Ornithologists have found that cardinal songs vary by region, suggesting

that repertoires change as cardinals in one place try out new versions on each other. When I was growing up near Chicago, I learned to whistle one cardinal song that still seems fairly standard. The songs I hear in Quebec seem to be built around phrases taken from my old Chicago version. My whole life, these birds have commanded attention.

In Memoriam

Bernard (Bernie) Jodouin It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Bernie who died peacefully from cancer at the Hawkesbury General Hospital on January 19, 2021 at age 85.

He is survived by his devoted wife Aline (née Carrière), his son Marc Jodouin and his daughter Joanne Jodouin.

Bernie will always be remembered for his magnetic personality, his selfless devotion to his family, and the love of all sports, especially golf.

A private celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Tree removal and trimming Stump removal • Chipping 60 ft. bucket truck service Firewood • Fully insured

VACUUM CLEANERS

WWW.TREESANDBEYOND.CA

Aspirateurs Valleyfield VENTILATION

J.S. Maintenance Is your ventilation system in need of cleaning?

TALK TO THE EXPERTS!

Marco Lapierre - Owner Sales • Service • Repairs • Bags • Filters

111 Grande-Île, Salaberry-de-Valleyfield QC

www.aspirateursvalleyfield.com

450-377-0577 • 1-877-377-0577 (Toll Free)

Also Carpet, Window & High-Pressure Cleaning and Water Damage Clean-Up

Fax: (450) 424-1055 Tel:(450) 458-3022 info@jsmaintenance.net www.jsmaintenance.net

@thejournalnewspaper

There is room for your card Call us

(450) 510-4007 Thursday, February 4, 2021

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19

Now more than ever, simple gestures are our best protection to fight the virus.

Maintain physical distancing Wear a mask Wash your hands regularly Avoid travel to other regions and non-essential trips Get tested promptly if you have symptoms Follow self-isolation guidelines

Let’s continue to protect ourselves properly.

QuĂŠbec.ca/coronavirus 1 877 644-4545

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Thursday, February 4, 2021