Montreal Times 25.35 May 30, 2020 by Montreal Times

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Vol. 25 No. 35

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COVID-19: Back to Work - What will the "New Normal" look like?

t doesn't seem that it was so long ago that we were having an intense discussion about whether women

By Deborah Rankin mtltimes.ca

wearing face coverings would be permitted to use public transit or take an oath of citizenship. However, countries like France that banned both the niqab and hijab in the public square have now made the wearing of nonmedical grade masks mandatory for users of public transit. Restaurant owners are worried that if servers have to wear a mask it will kill the vibe of dining out and forget the pub

crawl. Not that the Legault Government has given any clear indication of when restaurants and bars, a basic staple of social life for many people, will be allowed to reopen for seated service. As workers in so-called non-essential sectors return and the pros and cons of various safety measures are discussed, the question on everyone's mind is, "What will the "New Normal" look like in a COVID19 world?" Some business owners and professionals are demanding that their clients wear a mask in order to receive in-person services while some commuters want all public transit users to cover up. As everyone scrambles to get back to work and to figure out the logistics of working in the new COVID-19 reality there are more questions than answers. What about dentists, dog groomers, nail and, hair salon employees, auto

mechanics, landscapers, office workers, cashiers, and park monitors? Many retail employees are already shielded from the public behind plexiglass barriers. Should they also don masks and wear latex gloves to protect the public from them? What about bus drivers, ticket sellers, taxi drivers, and their customers, Uber members & drivers, and users of car-share serv-

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ices like Communauto or, private motorists for that matter? (Some hypervigilant motorists are wearing masks with their car windows closed.) So far, wearing a mask or rubber gloves isn't obligatory except in a medical setting. There's no doubt that many people are fearful of contracting COVID19, but is the current fixation on PPE just a case of "mask hysteria"? Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada's chief public health officer, explains why she is now recommending the use of non-medical masks in situations where physical distance cannot be maintained. "For the spring and summer months, strict adherence to the public health basics of physical distancing, handwashing and cough etiquette must continue as the bare minimum," she said. "In addition, where COVID-19 activity is occurring, the use of non-medical masks or face coverings is recommended as an added layer of protection when physical distancing is difficult to maintain. And staying home when sick is a must, always and everywhere." . Quebec public health director Dr. Horacio Arruda clarified his position on face coverings recently when prompted by a journalist who asked him why he was against using them at the beginning of the pandemic.Arruda said he was never against the use of masks. “I said the mask in and of itself wasn’t enough,” he said. “Peo-

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ple needed to learn two things: stay two meters apart — which is the most important — wash your hands and practice proper respiratory hygiene.” Ontario has also been hit hard by the pandemic and is doling out similar advice. Transportation Minister Caroline Mulroney told reporters at the province's daily news briefing that the province is "recommending anyone traveling on public transit wear a face covering," with exceptions for children under twoyears-old, anyone who has trouble breathing, and anyone who would have trouble removing one." It must be noted that Dr. Tam's recommendation to wear a mask in certain situations is an advisory, not an edict. Ditto, for similar pronouncements by Dr. Arruda and other officials. The overwhelming majority of deaths from COVID-19 in Canada have been concentrated in two provinces: Quebec and Ontario. Most of these have occurred in long-term care facilities where elderly residents typically have underlying conditions that put them at increased risk of contracting the potentially fatal disease. The situation has been so dire in pandemic-hit nursing homes that the Canadian Armed Forces were called in to shore up staffing shortages. The military has just published its report detailing horrific conditions in five of Ontario's

long-term care facilities. The scathing document alleging gross negligence and abuse has prompted calls for a judicial-lead inquiry raising the prospect of criminal charges. Quebec officials are bracing for the report of the armed forces on the situation in CHSLDs and there may be more disturbing reports coming out of Ontario. Despite the evidence that COVID-19 has disproportionately affected the frail elderly and chronically ill in both private-care and public healthcare facilities, public officials continue to err on the side of caution and are making vigorous efforts to stem community transmission. The overall infectious death rate from coronavirus in Canada is in fact extremely low. However, many people are still spooked by initial faulty projections of hundreds of thousands of deaths - projections that proved to be false but which influenced policy and perceptions, sparking panic, and lockdowns. Despite the best efforts of public health authorities to set the record straight now as restrictions begin to lift in order to restart the economy, many individuals are still gripped with fear. A new reality of "Safetyism" has taken hold and there are still many people who won't go to public places or risk using public transit no matter what safety features are put in place. continued on Page 5

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Mamma mia! Little Italy forced the city to change plans

The idea of removing parking spaces and banning cars was rejected by people in Little Italy

By Sergio Martinez mtltimes.ca

no much consultation, has to be reversed, given the strong rejection among those affected by it. Of course, it helped that people in Little Italy were "up in arms" with a petition going on in the neighbourhood and on the now powerful social networks. It all started with Ms. Plante's vision of a "blue corridor" that contemplated a oneway bike path on St. Laurent Boulevard and the loss of about 100 parking spaces. St. Laurent would also be closed to traffic between St. Zotique and Jean-Talon, to provide what the city planners have called a "transit mall" (only accessible by bus). Marcello Di Ilio, the • May 30, 2020

will affect our ability to generate revenue, especially if you compound this with the measures the government was required to take to address the current COVID pandemic. We find this decision was made too swiftly without taking into consideration how the small businesses in the area would be affected by this, given they are already struggling to remain afloat." In the end, the strong opposition to Ms. Plante's plans resulted in the city changing its plans: no "transit mall," no bike path (it would be done on St. Dominique), and Little Italy should be back in business, as usual, this sum-

mer. People from other sectors of the city will still have the option of taking the bus or driving to enjoy a cup of coffee at some of the already famous cafes in the area or to shop for exclusive Italian specialties at Milano. If finding a parking spot is sometimes still hard, could you imagine what could it has been with the loss of one hundred spaces? For now, at least, merchants and shoppers in Little Italy may feel relieved that Mme. Plante will let them undisturbed. Our mayor has other concern in mind right now, according to

a report on May 22, by Émilie Dubreuil on Radio-Canada: the "masculine predominance" in the French language. Mme. Plante has instructed the city's executive committee to adopt an "épicène" model of communication (the word also exist in English— epicene: "having characteristics of both sexes or no characteristics of either sex; of indeterminate sex"). In plain language, our mayor wants the city administration to employ neutral terms, she used the example of "enfant" which can be applied to boys

and girls. (For the most part, the English language already complies with Ms. Plante's wishes. Terms such as director, professor, child, apply to both genders. However, in a few cases, male-female distinctions are still present: emperor/empress, prince/princess, actor/actress.Yet, I have seen sometimes the term "actor" applied to female performers. I guess those who engage in this form of linguistic male predominance in the English language may also provoke the ire of our mayor).

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owner of Restaurant Pomodoro, was one of the initiators of the petition that gathered lots of support not only from the merchants and restaurateurs in the area but from people from other neighbourhoods who like to visit this, one of the most vibrant areas in Montreal. In a part of the petition, he wrote: "It is our position, as business owners either working on Boulevard St. Laurent or next to it, that the loss of almost 100 parking spots along with the increase in traffic due to the necessary detours that will naturally result from this, will discourage people outside the area from coming to Little Italy. This, in turn,

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ayor Valerie Plante has done it again: a decision made with

People will still have the choice, public transit or the car, when shopping at Little Italy

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COVID-19: Are the Montreal homeless being shortchanged? A mong the many announcements made by the federal govern-

By Sergio Martinez mtltimes.ca ment regarding financial assistance to various groups and institutions, there was the $157.5 million earmarked for the homelessness front line. Of that money, $21.4 million were transferred to Quebec. However, although Montreal is the region with the largest homeless population in the province (anything between 3,000 to 4,000 people), it has received only around 32 per cent of that amount (7 million). â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have no explanation for that decision," told me Matthew Pearce, Chief Executive Officer of the Old Brewery Mission, and added "the government owes an explanation as to why this happened. The federal government has assigned these funds to those organizations that are on the homelessness front line, the decision by the Quebec government is incomprehensible." The irruption of COVID-19 has not only

Montreal has the largest number of homeless people, but received only a third of the money allocated for the COVID emergency added new tasks to the staff working with the homeless, but it has also prevented organizations such as the Old Brewery Mission to stage fundraising activities. This situation has created an additional strain on its resources. This organization may now run a one-million-dollar deficit â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a condition that may seriously affect its operations. Mr. Pearce underlined the fact that at his organization, there was only one case of a homeless person who had caught COVID-19,

but that highlights the hard work done by the staff. "And they deserve an acknowledgement in the form of a risk bonus, like other people working in senior homes or in grocery stores" pointed Mr. Pearce. He also emphasized that these organizations providing assistance to the homeless have been declared an essential service by the government. The reduced funding to the Montreal front line by the Quebec government may seriously compromise various

services provided by the organizations that work with homeless people. As stated in a press release: "Services for the homeless population (food, emergency shelter, housing supply, adapted health services, etc.); better pay for front-line workers, who are dealing not only with homeless individuals but increasingly with entire families, who come to temporary facilities such as the one at Place du Canada/St. George's Church for meals; and measures to minimize the risk of

COVID-19 transmission." At the time of writing this piece, the Quebec Minister for Health and Social Services, Danielle McCann had not replied to the demands for explanations about the allocation of these funds. However, taking into account that during a pandemic homeless people are one of the most vulnerable segments of the population, it seems indeed illogical that most of the funding had not been allocated where the

needs are greatest. It is up to Ms. McCann now to rectify this anomalous situation. Disregarding the claim of those working with the homeless at this time might bring critical consequences not only for beneficiaries of those services and the workers who provide them but also to the rest of the population, since a socially vulnerable group left unattended at this time, may, in fact, contribute to the spread of the virus.

June 30, 2020

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11.

May 30, 2020 â&#x20AC;˘

Cannabis might help reduce chances of contracting Covid-19

continued from Page 2

Ridership on public transit is seriously depressed now that the COVID-19 unemployed are no longer traveling daily to and from the office towers, stores, and factories that keep the economy humming. Mayor ValĂŠrie Plante hasn't given up on public transit yet. She had her game face on behind her own fashionable pink mask as she handed out masks to transit users at Langelier metro station the other day. The STM began distributing masks in the metro system Monday morning on May 25th, the day Montreal businesses officially reopened. The mayor thanked transit users who are choosing to cover their faces. "Do it for yourself, but especially for others," she said. So far, Plante has resisted calls to compel transit users to wear a mask or face covering arguing that she doesn't want to turn Montreal into a police state. Some people just can't deal with the dystopian visuals of masked strangers everywhere and will opt to stay at home longer. Those who opt back into public life will need to rely on other methods of transportation besides the public transit system. Cyclists will take to the bike paths en masse now that the nice weather is here but this isn't a realistic option for most people. Many families have only one car and it doesn't meet all of their needs. Some people don't have a car or simply don't drive. This raises the issue of what the new rules will be â&#x20AC;˘ May 30, 2020

sults are found or not. An article on the study, 'In Search of Preventative Strategies: Novel Anti-Inflammatory HighCBD Cannabis Sativa Extracts Modulate ACE2 Expression in COVID-19 Gateway Tissues', was published online on Preprints - and although further research needs to be done, the initial findings are promising. Researchers looked at hundreds of THC and CBD strains, and found

that sativas higher in CBD were able to 'down-regulate the protein receptor ACE2, which is targeted by the coronavirus in the mouth, lungs, gastrointestinal tract and elsewhere in the body'. As it was not possible at that stage to test their hypothesis on humans, their research was done with artificial 3D models that imitate parts of the body impacted by COVID-19. Working

under the Health Canada research license, they developed over 800 new Cannabis sativa lines and extracts and hypothesized that highCBD C. sativa extracts may be used to modulate ACE2 expression in COVID-19 target tissues. "Screening C. sativa extracts using artificial human 3D models of oral, airway and intestinal tissues, we identified 13 high CBD C. sativa extracts that modulate

ACE2 gene expression and ACE2 protein levels. Our initial data suggest that some C. sativa extract down-regulate serine protease TMPRSS2, another critical protein required for SARS-CoV2 entry into host cells. While our most effective extracts require further large-scale validation, our study is crucial for the future analysis of the effects of medical cannabis on COVID-19." The study certainly

does show promise, as the weed strains high in CBD C. used in the research show they communicate with the same receptors COVID-19 does. The hope is that their findings will significantly lower the chances of contracting the coronavirus and help in the fight to stop its spread. To read the full study go to: https://www.preprints.org/ manuscript/202004.0315/v1

for all modes of transportation so that everyone can get to and from work and their appointments in relative safety. On May 25th rideshare and food delivery service Uber unveiled COVID-19 protocols requiring masks for drivers and passengers and placed limits on the numbers of passengers per vehicle with sanitation reminders to keep drivers and riders safe. The taxi industry is asking for clear guidelines on the transportation of people who have or might have COVID-19. Taxi drivers frequently pick up patients from hospitals and clinics - by definition, sick people. Hailing a cab is a timehonored practice, but not a safe one for either the driver or passengers in the current highrisk context. In Toronto, city officials have said they will work with taxi companies to develop COVID-19 protocols for taxi and rideshare vehicles. In the meantime, taxi customers are being advised to wear a mask, ride in the back, and open the windows. Carshare service Communauto is disinfecting on average 300 vehicles per day and distributing bottles of an alcoholbased sanitizer in vehicles to help members disinfect surfaces before and after use. All of its employees are working from home, except for fleet agents who have no contact with the public and are each equipped with an exclusive car. There is a curious contradiction to the social fallout from COVID-19.We've spent 60 years investing in government bureau-

cracy but the main solution of public authorities to the pandemic has been to send everybody home to work it out themselves. There's been a marked disconnect between the public service announcements that depict fun at home with the family and the gathering storm outside. An unprecedented number of people have been put out of work. Many of these jobs will never come back. Although the federal government has been hemorrhaging money to compensate for the economic losses to Canadians during the pandemic, programs such as CERB, CEWS, and the OAS one-time-

only top-up payment don't cover everyone. Any public goodwill capital for short-term government relief is bound to run out when the full impact of the COVID-19 economic downturn sets in.Those who have been lucky enough to work from home have discovered that teleworking is feasible. Home entertainment, shopping locally, and drive-thru take out have become the new standard in just a few months. Many parents have discovered that it is possible to home school and they welcome more time with their children.They have inadvertently found the elusive life-work bal-

ance and some are in no hurry to send the kids back to school. Another COVID-19 conundrum concerns healthcare itself. It has been almost impossible to see a doctor for anything except an emergency since the coronavirus outbreak while the CLSCs closed in the midst of the pandemic. It is obvious that there is a major problem in extended care and many people are anxious to bring their relatives back home. Enter private in-home nursing services, online medical consultants, and go-to pharmacists who have had to fill the void left by the public healthcare system. What's the

upshot? The economy will slowly rebuild such is the nature of the marketplace. However, now that the vast majority of the citizenry has been catapulted back to a privatized 1950s suburban lifestyle, albeit with a 2020 "virtual" twist, where does this leave the public system? Given the seismic shift that has occurred in the way that people are currently organizing their lives, it will be interesting to see how things shape up after Labour Day weekend when some form of public gatherings resume and the "New Normal" is fully implemented.

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lthough it is a preliminary study and has yet to be peer-reviewed, researchers from the University of Lethbridge and University of Calgary are finding that certain strains of cannabis could prove to be of significant help in the fight against the Covid-19 virus. Every study is important given the scope of the pandemic, regardless of whether the desired re-

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United States 45th President Donald Trump

Is Donald Trump Cooked? U .S. president Donald Trump has never been described as

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having a small ego, but was especially full of himself in January, 2020. The president gave a triumphant state of the union address just after the Democrats failed to impeach him in the U.S. Senate. “America’s future is blazing bright,” declared Trump, perhaps also talking of his own personal future with his reelection this November 3 looking almost certain. In his speech, Trump trumpeted his efforts to “cut red tape” and reduce the size of government, claiming this had resulted in increased economic performance and record low unemployment. Then the pandemic happened. Not only has Trump

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repeatedly fumbled in dealing with this major crisis, drawing criticism from near and far, but the economy has tanked. The U.S. rapidly went from record low unemployment to unemployment levels unseen since the 1930s. And economic performance is almost everything for re-election campaigns... Embarrassingly, the only thing that has prevented the U.S. economy from contracting further is massive government intervention, something conservatives like Trump are hyper-allergic to. Now, the only reason many Americans can pay their bills is because of big government and its red tape issuing billions of dollars worth of cheques. Trump, who had no previous experience in public office before becoming president of the world’s largest power, has a weak grasp of public health. He first crowed about the low COVID-19 infection rate in the USA before that country gained the dubious title of having the highest numbers of infected people and deaths in the world. Refusing to listen to his experts, Trump has dis-

missed and dismisses public health measures such as social distancing or wearing masks. Trump has promised that the virus will disappear of its own accord and recommended “cures” not sanctioned by the medical community. He has stymied efforts of the Center for Disease Control to issue guidelines for how different levels of government should respond to the threat. Most importantly, in true Trump fashion, the president refuses to take blame for any mistakes he has made and continues to make. Instead, he lashes out at anyone else on whom he can pin some blame:

the World Health Organization (WHO), former President Obama, the Democrats who tried to impeach him, or the Chinese... Microsoft founder Bill Gates is a businessman, not a politician. But he felt compelled to respond to Trump’s threats by tweeting: “Halting funding for the (WHO) during a world health crisis is as dangerous as it sounds.” Obama spoke recently about how officials in the Trump administration are handling the pandemic and that “a lot of them aren’t even pretending to be in charge.” This provoked an angry series of tweets from

Trump, suggesting that Obama is guilty of some sort of unspecified criminal misdoing. There is an old saying that “anybody can captain a ship in fair weather, but only a true captain can do the job in a storm.” And the COVID-19 storm vividly shows what Trump’s shortcomings are. But Trump is very adept at marketing, and still capable of making this look like somebody else’s fault. Also, things can change so quickly in politics campaign that it is far too early to call the November election. So, Trump might be incompetent, but he is not cooked.

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Hudson to ban access to Sandy Beach

ccessed through a beautiful forest and walking trails near Jack Layton Park, Sandy Beach is an oasis for the Town of Hudson residents. Located just a short drive from the western tip of Montreal, it's also become a popular 'go to' destination for many visitors from the city, especially during the summer months. They are drawn by the Lake of Two Mountains scenery, the sand under their feet - and the chance to cool off with a dip or a swim in the water. However, with only 10 confirmed cases of the Covid-19 virus in Hudson (as of May 26th), residents are concerned that the influx of visitors, with some potentially carrying the virus with them, could add to that number. Given the number of cases in Montreal to date, with 24,388 confirmed cases and 2,584 deaths attributed to the coronavirus, and that visitors come from other regions as well their concern is not farfetched. A press release from Hudson states: 'The

Hudson Town council has tabled a bylaw for adoption this Wednesday May 27th in order to close Sandy Beach. The beach being a small area, the rules of social distancing cannot be sufficiently respected with the number of individuals being present'. "Sandy Beach attracts many people searching for an appealing summer activity, but the crowds are simply too large. Our priority will always be the well-being of our residents,â&#x20AC;? said Mayor Jamie Nicholls. 'The new bylaw 7302020 indicates that the only activity allowed to the population at Sandy Beach Park for the duration of the sanitary emergency will be walking on the trails, and that loitering on the beach of Sandy Beach is forbidden'. *There will be penalties and fines given out by police who will be enforcing the bylaw and patrolling the area. In part of Section 3 of the bylaw, posted on the Town' website, it

reads as follows: COSTS, OFFENCES AND PENALTIES Anyone who contravenes a provision of this Bylaw commits an offense and is liable for each day or part of a day that the offense lasts and / or during the social distancing measure: 1) for a first offense, to a fine of fifty dollars ($ 50) 2) in the event of a repeat offense, a fine of seventy-five dollars ($ 75) 3) in the event of additional recidivism, a fine of two hundred and fifty dollars ($ 250) - In all cases, administrative costs are in addition to the fine. If the offence continues, the offender shall be presumed to have committed as many offences as the number of days the offence persists. Regular visitors to the beach will be disappointed, particularly during this heatwave. If you were a resident of Hudson, how would you feel about it?

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QESBA files legal action against Education Act Bill 40

lthough the announcement was made amid the ongoing

By Bonnie Wurst mtltimes.ca pandemic, the Quebec English School Boards Association (QESBA) had little option but to move forward with their legal challenge against the CAQ's Bill 40. The 'Act to amend

mainly the Education Act with regard to school organization and governance', basically puts an end to school boards in the province and replaces then with 'Service Centres'. Bill 40 created controversy when it was first introduced in the National Assembly last October 2019 by Education Minister JeanFrançois Roberge. It was passed through on February 8th 2020 when the government invoked closure, basically leaving no time for the opposition parties to debate the Bill. The QESBA held back on their legal challenge - but with school elec-

tions scheduled for November, they have officially filed the action. A May 28th statement on the QESBA website reads: 'The Quebec English School Boards Association (QESBA) has filed legal action on Bill 40: An Act to amend mainly the Education Act with regard to school organization and governance following our announcement in February. QESBA along with co-applicants Adam Gordon (Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board Parent Committee Chairman) and the Lester B. Pearson School Board, filed for an interlocutory in-

junction and judicial review in Quebec Superior Court on May 15, 2020. “We recognize that the filing of this legal action is not ideal under the current circumstances. This should not come as a surprise as we publicly announced our intention to file this action accompanied by all of our education and community partners last February. It has, however, become a pressing matter due to the looming November school elections and the deadlines surrounding the legal requirements and logistics of these elections,” said QESBA

President Dan Lamoureux. “Furthermore, we are collectively facing an on-going pandemic which is making the planning for and potentially the holding of these elections complicated for School Boards.” “QESBA along with our education partners requested in writing to the Minister of Education and the Minister of Justice a postponement of these elections in light of the current situation in Québec and we were told that they would move ahead and hold the November elections regardless. We, therefore, felt that we

had no choice but to move forward at this time based on our minority community’s rights to manage and control our institutions as prescribed in Section 23 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms,” concluded the President'. Bill 40 violates the constitutional rights of Quebec's Englishspeaking minority to manage their schools. The QESBA and several other Anglophone organizations are prepared to fight for that right. Check back with the Montreal Times for future updates.

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May 30, 2020 â&#x20AC;¢

Top places to bicycle around Montreal & West Island

Kirkland - Lacy Green bike path behind Centre RioCan Kirkland

By John Symon mtltimes.ca practice during the COVID-19 confinement, bicycling is a notable exception. The sport can be practiced individually or in small groups (i.e. families), taking advantage of the warm weather that has finally arrived.And Montrealers are fortunate to live a one of the most bicycle-friendly cities worldwide. In the 1980s, Montreal became the first North American city to start building protected bike lanes. Today, Montreal is ranked the most bicycle-friendly city in North America by the Copenhagenize index. Globally, Montreal ranks 18th by that same index. “So many Montrealers would like to ride their bikes on a daily basis, but they do not dare to do so because the infrastructure is unsafe and they fear for their lives. Montreal’s bike network was built in the • May 30, 2020

1980s and is no longer adapted to our reality. New infrastructure needs to be built to meet the needs of today's cyclists. I travel by bike every day and I see how many problems there are and how great the need is,” states Montréal Mayor Valérie Plante on the Copenhagenize website. That statement by our bicycling mayor apparently predates the current pandemic. Now, in an effort to facilitate social distancing, city officials are rushing to add 327 kilometres of bike paths to a network that already counted 876km. Some of these bike paths wind along waterways, offering safe, flat, and scenic rides. A 35km circuit from Atwater Market through Verdun and LaSalle near the rapids and back along the Lachine Canal was selected by Time Magazine in 2009, as “the third best urban bike path in North America.” This is also one of my favourites, often including ice cream stops on the way. Some other classics include the 14km Maritime Seaway (the first bike path in Canada) between St Lambert and Ste Catherine, Gouin Blvd, and Senneville Road on the West Island. Access to the Maritime Seaway bike path from the South Shore is

presently complicated by the closure of a link at St Lambert. Perhaps you want to do a ride off Montreal Island but can’t carry a bike in your car? Bicycles are permitted on the metro and on Exo commuter trains at no additional fee; some conditions apply. Taking the Exo train to StJerome, for example, puts you at the start of the 232km P'tit train du Nord bike path leading through the verdant Laurentians on a for-

mer train track with gentle gradients. This bike path is surprisingly rural, featuring waterfalls, fishing holes, and spots for swimming. Bicycles are also permitted on local ferries for a modest fee. The ferry from Ile Bizard to Laval, for instance, gives access to bike paths in Laval and then DeuxMontagnes, which eventually lead to Oka Park. When we checked on May 26, Mohawks were letting cyclists into the park, but blocking car

traffic. You can also escape Montreal Island on bridges that have bicycle paths, including the new Champlain Bridge, the Jacques Cartier Bridge (downtown to Parc Jean Drapeau & Longueuil), the Concorde Bridge (Habitat 67 to Parc Jean Drapeau), the Galipeault Bridge (Ste-Anne-deBellevue to L'Île-Perrot), Le Gardeur Bridge (Pointe-aux-Trembles to Repentigny), and many bridges to Laval. A

notable exception is the Mercier Bridge (to Chateauguay) where the bike path was “temporarily closed” in 2009, but never reopened. Remember during these COVID-19 times to carry drinking water and use the washroom before leaving home. An online bicycle map for Montreal Island is available at: http://ville.montreal.qc.ca/portal/page?_ pageid=8957,99693747 &_dad=portal&_schema =PORTAL

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A large bowl of fresh cut fries topped Club Wrap with homemade chili and mixed cheese. Chicken breast, romaine lettuce, fresh Garnished with ranch and green cut tomatoes, bacon and teriyaki mayo . onions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $13 $15 Nacho Platters (built for 2) Buffalo Wrap Our CHEESE nacho platter is topped with our mixed cheese, fresh cut tomatoes, Crispy chicken, Buffalo sauce, lettuce, olives, jalapeno peppers, green onions tomatoes and ranch dressing . . . . . $15 and ranch dressing . . . . . . . . . . . . . $18 Reuben Sandwich Our CHILI nacho platter is topped with Smoked meat, sauerkraut, swiss cheese our homemade chili mixed cheese, fresh and thousand island dressing . . . . . $18 cut tomatoes, green onions and ranch Replace pretzel bun with gluten free dressing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $20 bun $2 (Hot chili will be put on the side) Replace fries with Cunninghams garlic and spice fresh cut fries $1 Choice of Dipping Sauces: Replace fries with side house salad $4 Spicy Mayo / Ranch Extra dipping sauce $1 Replace fries with Ceasar salad $5 Blue cheese $2 Replace fries with Greek salad $6 Replace fries with poutine $5

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May 30, 2020 •

Is Bordeaux still relevant Prestige, accomplish- soulless. ment and a sense of Do I despise neoclasself-actualization. Have sical art?. Not really. you ever felt those feel- From time to time, I love to contemplate a painting by Marat or Godward. These are pristine pieces and many times I have experienced beauty but at the end there is an unfulfilled longing for something more emotional. This parallel can be drawn to the Bordeaux wine scene of course By Marco Giovanetti with a few exceptions. The neoclassical style in mtltimes.ca Bordeaux was ceings when buying a bot- mented with the 1855 tle of wine?. Me, many classification and times and it happened reached its apex with first when I bought my the influence of Parkerfirst fine Bordeaux Rolland. These are wine wine. masterpieces perfect in My introduction to form and geometry. In fine Bordeaux was Les other words, they are Carruades de Lafite highly cerebral or tech1996. I was in my early nical wines. 20’s and felt uneasy My preferred style of spending 75$ on a bot- Bordeaux is Crus Bourtle of wine. However, I geois. While still neolet my subjective feel- classic in nature, it has ings take over the deci- some flairs of romantision and ended up cism. This category is a buying the bottle. As i social class below the holded the bottle in my Aristocratic classed arms, I remember feel- growths. There are ing so good about my- many estates from the self and accomplished. It tiniest to the largest is crazy, when you think such as Chateau about it. All of this for a Larose-Trintaudon. In bottle of wine!! the Bourgeois category The wine ended up beyond quality/price living to my expecta- ratio, you can also find a tions. This Carruades more personal intimate was one of the finest style. Bordeauxs that have Is Bordeaux still releever tasted. A blend of vant?. Very much so. 63% Cabernet Sauvi- However, the region as gnon, and 37% Merlot, it a whole gives the imwas about as much pression of being stuffy, power and elegance as snob and not very apwell. On the palate, it proachable to the wine was perfectly balanced consumer.When I think with the perfect dosage of Bordeaux, I think of of oak, texture and the art snob that wants length. I did not know it to talk the talk about yet but the Lafite was contemporary art to fit my introduction to in polite society. The Classical French wines. challenge to Bordeaux What is a classical in the coming postwine?. In pure wine the- corona years will be to ory, they embodied the wash out this disdainful perfect representation image. of a regional style or a As Dave McIntyre type of wine. The Bor- says:“Bordeaux remains delais are masters of the benchmark referthe blend and those ence point for all red qualities are what gives wines, especially blends, the finesse, balance and made from the tradilength of their wines. In tional Bordeaux grapes my experience, sipping of cabernet sauvignon, a Bordeaux is like con- cabernet franc, malbec, templating a neoclassi- merlot and petit vercal work of art. It is all dot”. This is a solid relabout an appreciation evant statement that for harmony, propor- set the benchmark for tion and symmetry. It is blend based wines. a beautiful experience Château but sometimes it agLarose-Trintaudon gressively pursued The legacy of Chateau could leave the wine Larose Trintaudon goes • May 30, 2020

back to 1719, when the estate was known as Larose Perganson. For a brief period of time, the wine was traded under both names, Larose Perganson and Larose Trintaudon. The gorgeous chateau was constructed in 1870 by Comte Ernest de Lahens. Through the late 1800’s, the property was much bigger than today. During his tenure, the count was able to increase the size of their vineyards to 345 hectares of vines. In 1963, after having been in the hands of the great Spanish general Duke Del Infantado, the domain Trintaudon was acquired by the Forner family, who were already business owners of Château Camensac and Marqués de Caceres in Rioja and Bordeaux respectively. In 1986, the insurance company Allianz bought the domain, now one of the largest vineyards in the Medoc both in terms of size and production, based on the great potential of its ‘terroir’ It has since built up a fine reputation and is now considered one of the very best cru bourgeois by the Bordeaux wine industry

Château Larose-Trintaudon Haut-Médoc 2016 SAQ # 11835388 $26.35 ( 60 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot) Under $30, This Bordeaux is one of the finest in his category. The nose is complex enough to deliver tones of cedar, vanilla, blackcurrants complemented by cigar box aromas. Rich and voluptuous in the palate with fieldberry tones and delicate roasted herbes de provences nuances. Long and distinguished

finale. Perfect pairing palate gets tired, satuwith a grilled flank steak rated with all that butserved over grilled as- ter and salt paragus. Reach for that chilled bottle of prosecco and let the bubbles and acidity do the magic of washing and cleansing your palate. It’s a perfect combination as you can now indulge in eating more popcorn.

Villa Sandi Il Fresco Prosecco SAQ # 12458828 $15.25 A beautiful and easygoing Prosecco.Very enticing aromas of ripe apple, lemon cream with subtle nuances of mountain flowers. Lovely freshness and crisp finale. Highly reccomended specially during the warm weather that is settling slowly in our province

Pairing Prosecco and popcorn! I am not joking you when I say that this is a wonderful combination. Imagine it for a momentYou are sitting in your sunny terrace snacking on a bowl of buttery salted popcorn. The first morsels are great but then your

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May 30, 2020 •

Moose, Mask, Wash and Zinc

t is time to venture outdoors, safely. We know the new rules: moose distance, mask handy, wash, wash and wash again. We can do that. But do not for-

By Martha Shannon mtltimes.ca

get the Zinc. Summer and Zinc are synonymous. Zinc is protection against the sun. I have written often about this important topic and as I do not always agree with the methods of protection offered out there, I do love zinc. An important excerpt from The Four Seasons of Zinc We cannot live without the sun’s vitamin D for healthy bones and immune function. I wince when I see small babies and children being lathered with strong commercial sun blocks that totally prevent our Vitamin D absorption. I am not blaming the parent. It is the marketing. We know we must protect, but we are misled has

• May 30, 2020

to how. Zinc is a natural healthy way to protect. (The Four seasons of zinc https://www.natural.ca/en/blog/four-seasons-zinc Commercial sunscreen ingredients are absorbed into the top layers of the skin, the goal being to filter out the damaging rays of the skin. Zinc, on the other hand physically BLOCKS the UV light from entering the skin. It acts a barrier. It works right away and you do not have to wait 20 minutes before venturing outside. Chemical sunscreens can irritate the skin.What is wonderful about zinc is that people with sensitive skin, acne, eczema, rosacea all can benefit from using zinc. We do not know yet if and or how our public pools will be open. Can we lake swim, camp or visit cottages? While the uncertainties prevail, the sun still shines and we still need to be cautious. Marnie from Comox loves our zinc oxide blend

“I have used this product (Zinc Oxide Blend) for 4 years on my 4 children and myself. We love it. Never have had a burn. My Mum bought a children's sunscreen in 2016 and took the grandkids for a holiday. That "children's" sunscreen ate all four of my kid’s goggles. How can that be good for the skin? My Mum now uses Earth to Body’s zinc. It does not eat goggles."

Over and above weather protection zinc has notable properties: Acne does not like zinc Zinc works like an antioxidant, helping to defend the skin. Zinc revitalizes, heals and rejuvenates Scalp woes like dandruff and itchiness subside with zinc Babies love zinc as a bum balm and adults use it on hemorrhoids Zinc has its uses both

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indoors and out. Now that we are venturing outside more (with caution) don’t forget it. While we have a few rules to remember, moose, mask, and wash, let us enjoy the application of nature’s mineral gift.You will feel safer. We sell our zinc oxide blend for skin moisturizing, soothing dryness and protection against harsh weather elements. Many people know zinc can be used

as a sun block and proceed to do so. We stand behind our products. We give great customer service. Visit us at natural.ca. Subscribe to our newsletter. Our boutique will be opening soon, on a reduced schedule. You can also call 514-6940705 to place an order or shop online. ‘La Boutique Earth to Body’, 89 Lucerne, Pointe Claire, QC H9R 2V1) Email info@natural.ca

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May 30, 2020 •

Book Reviews - mtltimes.ca

Crimson Letters: Voices from Death Row by Tessie Castillo hether it be from Alcatraz, San Quentin,

By Stuart Nulman mtltimes.ca Soledad, Kingston, the Birmingham Jail or Devil's Island, written first-hand accounts from behind bars of some of the world's most notorious prisons by the people who are serving hard time make

Across 1. White riceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lack 5. Balancing pro 8. Put in a nutshell 13. Pervasive quality 14. Fruitless 15. Develop 16. Follow a recipe directive 17. Figure in Maori mythology 18. Corset tightener 19. Be a generous trapper 22. Diaper cream ingredient 23. ___ Day 24. Mathematical function 27. Epitome of simplicity 29. Car with a bar 33. Divination deck 34. It may be bid 36. Center of a ball? 37. Buy a beachfront boutique 40. Night of poetry 41. Katzbalger, e.g. 42. Undulating 43. Environs 45. Belgium village 46. Climbing herbs 47. Perceive 49. Superciliousness 50. Savory aroma at a clamâ&#x20AC;˘ May 30, 2020

for compelling reading (Papillon by Henri Charriere and Cell 2455, Death Row by Caryl Chessman are two glaring examples). Such books serve two purposes: to give readers a realistic, no-holdsbarred look at the harsh world of prison life, and to scare them straight to live a life free of crime so that they should never end up in this concrete hell on Earth. Tessie Castillo, a freelance writer based in Raleigh, North Carolina, served as a community volunteer at one of state's notorious penitentiaries (Central Prison) to conduct a journaling program with its inmates, particularly those who resided in

death row. Throughout her time there, Ms. Castillo realized the human side to these inmates, and that their respective roads to death row were a result of the difficult circumstances they experienced in their upbringings and socioeconomic environments. And to top that off, the brutal conditions in the penitentiary had the Montreal exist in a world of violence and fear. This compelled Ms. Castillo to write and editorial in the Raleigh News & Observer, in which she stated: "I don't see heartless killers, though they might have killed in a

bake 58. Stand for something 59. Eukaryotic organism 60. Hip bones 61.Very, in music 62. Flock member 63. Abdicator of 1917 64. Noah's son, and namesakes 65. Armageddon 66. Round up

26. Grimalkin 27. Dig, so to speak 28. Shuttlecock 30. Some reality show winners 31. Actress Oberon 32. Doesn't ignore 34. Call to a mate 35. Bridal party members 38. Takes out a fly 39. Metal worker 44. Radiant 46. Air freshener option 48. ___ Island National Monument 49. Cold 50. Wet septet 51. No gain, no loss 52. Actual being 53. Actor Alan 54. Brio 55. Alternatively 56. Carrey vehicle 57. Enrich, in a way

Down 1. It may be striped 2. Gordon or Ginsburg 3. "Mi chiamano Mimi," e.g. 4. Role in "Arrested Development" 5. Black band of mourning 6. Falafel bread 7. Jewish month 8. Hot stuff 9. ___ nitrate 10. Flexible mineral 11. End ___ 12. Title for some priests 14. Bad lighting? 20. Lifts up 21. Run the show 24. Muddleheaded 25. Speed demon

moment of heartlessness. I see anger problems, stubbornness, lack of self-control, immaturity and miseducation. ... But in these men I also see pain, regret, a capacity for kindness and self-reflection -- and a desire to be see no for what they are: flawed and very human." Shortly after the editorial was published, Ms. Castillo was summarily dismissed from her community volunteer position at Central Prison. However, her resolve to tell the death row inmates' stories to the public never diminished, and decided to continue the journaling project to the next level.The end result was the book Crimson Letters: Voices from Death Row. The book is basically a collection of 30 autobiographical essays by four Central Prison death row inmates: Michael J. Braxton, Lyle May, Terry Robinson and George Wilkerson. The common thread with their essays is that they don't primarily focus on the crimes that brought them to death row, but the circumstances that brought them there, not to mention the distasteful conditions of doing time behind bars, and how the prison system is determined to break their spirit before their ultimate punishment is carried out. If the goal of this book is to establish a sense of empathy to the reader towards these

four essayists, then it has been accomplished many times over. Their accounts are not only nerve-shattering, but also quite disturbing to how far a human being's threshold can be stretched to the limit within the concept of crime and punishment. Case in point, George Wilkerson's story. The product of a father who dished out violent beatings to his children and a Korean-born mother who was more vindictive than caring in nature, Wilkerson, who was charged with two murders, was hoping to be sent from segregation to Safekeeping, a place within the North Carolina prison system where high profile or troublesome prisoners were sent to await their trials to begin, and offered amenities that one would never find in a maximum security facility. When he found out from a guard that his request was about to be refused, Wilkerson took the blades out of a disposable razor and tried to commit suicide by slashing him-

self all over his body (that passage is definitely to for the squeamish). He eventually got his transfer request granted for Safekeeping, but not before spending time in Central Prison's psychiatric ward. I also found the inmates' writing styles quite intelligent and allegorical in tone, especially when they described how prison conditions tried to drain their souls and their emotional wellbeing. For example, Michael J. Braxton's description of what an extended stay in solitary confinement affected him: "Many nights I lay on my bunk wanting nothing more than to bring this madness to an end. My soul was weary. The weight of the armour I wore to protect that frightened and sad little boy had crushed him.The weight was now too heavy to bear." Crimson Letters is a book that not only gives a human side to those who face the spectre of capital punishment while biding their time on death row, but also serves as a searing indictment to a prison system that offers nothing but a one-way ticket to hell and desperation. Yes, let the punishment fit the crime, but thanks to books like Crimson Letters, we can understand why people commit the crimes that lead to their punishment. (Black Rose Writing, $18.95)

Please see answers on Page 19, May 30th, 2020 edition: www.mtltimes.ca

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f you are a buyer and just found your perfect home at the right price, the next By Eleni Akrivos mtltimes.ca

logical and crucial step is the home inspection. Are you ready? As a seller, you may be excited to have an agreed upon offer to purchase, yet to move forward with the transaction, your home has to pass the inspection. What will the inspector find? Most buyers and even sellers, now see the value of home inspections. Although tedious, if used for what they’re intended, home inspections can save both sides of a real estate deal many headaches down the road. There are many parties involved during and after the inspections, and it helps when everyone has a “realistic” approach to the entire process. It also helps, when everyone acts in “good faith”, and does not use the home inspection as a pretext to a definite price reduction. What inspections offer: A professional opinion and report on the overall condition of the home including everything that is visible and accessible. What inspections do not offer: An exhaustive expert report on every system in the home, whether accessible or hidden. So who is

Home Inspection advice for buyers and sellers

responsible for what during and after the inspection process? For Buyers: Inspections should reassure you that your new home is safe, functional and not going to become a “money pit”. - Be vigilant and do your homework by reviewing the Sellers Declaration with your broker. - Ask any pertinent questions about the home prior to the inspection. - Get ready to block out at least 2 to 3 hours

on inspection day, depending on size of home. - Take your time and review any concerns with inspector and brokers. The Buyer’s Broker: Attending inspections is a must, and good brokers will be right by your side during the process. - They should have a good basic knowledge by knowing what is important in the big picture, yet not pretend to know the job of the inspector. - If you’re getting a very fair price on the home, your broker will

likely advise you not to bother the Seller for small repairs. - If the inspection reveals major or serious flaws in the home, your broker can advise you on how to proceed. The Seller: Inspections are part of the process, and if you can be present during the inspection to answer any questions, things may go smoother than you think. - You can choose to have a PRE-SALE inspection before selling - Make certain necessary repairs prior to

selling - Offer the home at a reasonable price taking into consideration imminent repairs needed (roof, windows etc..) The Sellers Broker: May also be present at the inspection report, as the eyes and ears for the sellers. - Is very familiar with the property and can handle questions that come up - Will need to be ready to manage any unknowns or surprises that may arise. - Although this broker represents the Seller,

their main purpose is to collaborate with all parties for a smooth transaction The Inspector: A good inspector will provide explanations and point out things that need to be addressed and will not be an alarmist but will remain impartial. - In Quebec, your realtor can recommend a list of licensed inspectors who qualify with certain criteria. - Should definitely be chosen wisely, maybe through a referral. - Their main purpose is to inspect the home and provide you with real time knowledge, as well as a detailed report afterwards. It’s important to note, that having a family member with “construction experience”, or a friend who is a contractor be present during inspections, may be well intended but could lead to unnecessary negative consequences, as these individuals are not licensed property inspectors. Most inspections go smoothly, but some can also be the beginning of tough negotiations ahead. Make sure that you try to stay reasonable and work together with all parties of the transaction and come up with solutions that make everyone feel confident about moving forward.

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kevinshea@sheapainting.com

www.sheapainting.com

FINANCE

LEGAL

FINANCIAL Problems? Drowning in debt! Stop the harassment. Bankruptcy might not be the answer. Together let’s find a solution. Free Consultation. G. Bill Hafner - Licensed Insolvency Trustee 8585 St-Laurent: 514-983-8700.

NOTICE OF CLOSURE OF INVENTORY

MOVING ?

Call Bill 514-457-2063 TOLL FREE 1-877-870-3432

01-120917

All jobs - houses, aparts., single items. 30 years experience. Local / Long distance Maritime, Ontario.

Advertise your business for CALL FOR DETAILS Call 514-457-7656 info@mtltimes.ca

• May 30, 2020

Notice is hereby given that Jeannette La Pensée (the “Deceased”), in her lifetime residing at 10332 Belvedere, Pierrefonds, Province of Quebec, H8Y 2J3, died in Pointe-Claire on January 16, 2019. An inventory of the Deceased's property has been made in accordance with the law and can be consulted by creditors and other interested parties by contacting the executor Vince de Grandpre, at estate.lapensee@videotron. ca, no later than June 15, 2020.

Antiquités Ste-Genevieve Flea Market

110-042620

010-042018

514.267.2378

Rooms “Kiosks” for RENT Sell everything at the best Flea Market in the West Island Every Sunday 9 AM - 4 PM ALL YEAR ROUND 15,674 Gouin Blvd. West Ste-Genevieve (Pierrefonds) H9H 1C4 WestIslandFleaMarket.com

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS FOR ONLY

EMPLOYMENT

SALES REP WANTED Looking for bilingual salesperson to cover Montreal & surrounding area’s with fantastic promotion campaign for both our papers.

• Bilingual • Must have own car. • Minimum 2 years sales experience (Sales with other newspapers an asset). • Salary base depending on experience. Please send your CV to info@mtltimes.ca or call (514)457-7656

9. /

$ 95

Call for more details 514-457-7656

www.mtltimes.ca

For Sale - Senneville

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

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

eleni.akrivos@gmail.com https://linktr.ee/mtl_realestatenews 20

www.mtltimes.ca

VILLAGE

514-999-8888 May 30, 2020 •

Wishing you all good health!

LAND, RIGAUD MOUNTAIN MLS# 28479041 ASKING $215,000 Desirable buildable lot, one of the last available on Rigaud Mountain. Beautiful location, backing directly onto groomed cross country ski/walking trail network. Easy access to Hwys 40, 30, & 20.

EQUESTRIAN ST-LAZARE MLS# 24732296 ASKING $1,275,000 Gorgeous 11 arpent equestrian facility with unique 5 bedroom home, separate caretaker's home, 120' x 60' arena, & 30 stall stable in park-like setting; easy access to Highways 40, 30, and 20

Royal LePage Village 35 Wharf Rd., Hudson, QC J0P IH0 â&#x20AC;¢ May 30, 2020

NEW LISTING HUDSON RENTAL MLS# 26970971 $2,000/MO + UTILITIES

HUDSON WATERFRONT MLS25910307 ASKING $819,000

Classic 3 bdrm 1 1/2 bth Victorian house for rent w/lovely Truly charming 4 bdrm 2 1/2 bth home lovingly relarge garden. Hardwood & pine floors, high ceilings, stored w/hardwood floors, granite counters, & lovely renovated kitchen, & lovely screened porch. Some solarium overlooking sweeping lawn to the magnificent appliances included. Unfurnished, Available July 1, 2020 Ottawa River. High and dry, no danger of flooding.

EQUESTRIAN RIGAUD MLS11994389 ASKING $1,150,000 Spectacular 15 acre equestrian property, the ultimate 3 bdrm home for the discerning rider, near National Polo Club.Multiple paddocks, a stone dust training track, separate 1 bdrm apt and more.

DOG KENNEL, RIGAUD MLS# 19330323 ASKING $599,000 PLUS GST & PST Great Investment Opportunity! Very Popular kennel facility with custom stalls on 7 acres with large fenced areas, plus a charming 3 bdrm re-built log home. Great location, with easy access just off Highway 40 west of Rigaud.

Helen Henshaw 514-703-8981 www.helenhenshaw.ca www.mtltimes.ca

www.mtltimes.ca

May 30, 2020 â&#x20AC;¢

â&#x20AC;¢ May 30, 2020

www.mtltimes.ca

May 30, 2020 â&#x20AC;¢