Fiddler on the Roof exceeds all expectations

Cast of Fiddler on the Roof, CSL Dramatic Society

Last night I finally had the opportunity to attend a special, volunteer night edition of the Cote Saint-Luc Dramatic Society’s presentation of Fiddler on the Roof. I’ve heard so many first hand comments and entertainment critic reviews on the musical now playing at the former Wagar High School. But seeing, and hearing, is believing and believe me, this was no ordinary play. This was an outstanding, high energy, musical and emotional roller coaster that gripped the audience for a thrilling ride from the opening scene to the closing of the curtain.

The stage was jam packed with nearly 40 talented and spirited volunteer actors, who also sang and dance with perfection. The acting was so sincere, so real, that you felt as though you too were transported back in time to the shtetle of Anatevka.

The show was directed and choreographed by the very talented Anisa Cameron and the lead performer playing the role of Tevye the Milkman, was none other than Sam Stein, a familiar face in Montreal theatre, particularly at the Segal Centre for Performing Arts and the Dora Wasserman Yiddish Theatre. Kalie Rae was remarkable as Golde as were lead performances by daughters Tzeitel (Michelle Sasson), Hodel (Moriel Shahin) and Chava (Einav Ne’eman) along with son-in-laws Motel (Daniel Harroch), Perchik (Kenny Stein) and Fyedka (Mike Rappaport). Yente the Matchmaker (Hannah Sheffren) was a riot!

Local politicians also got into the act with drama king, and CSLDS founder Councillor Mitchell Brownstein playing the role of Lazar Wolf, Reb Mordcha, the Innkeeper played by long time actor Councillor Sam Goldbloom, Hampstead Councillor Michael Goldwax, singing and dancing in three different roles with his colleague, Hampstead Mayoral Candidate Bonnie Feigenbaum in a cameo role as the pious woman. Dollard Councillor Herbert Brownstein was decked out in a long black coat, fur hat and grey beard as the rabbi, while Mayor Anthony Housefather surprised the audience as the Russian Orthodox Priest.

A special shout out to 10 year old Aidan Catriel, the Fiddler on the Roof, a veritable junior virtuoso. This kid is truly gifted.

Without naming the rest of the cast individually they should all be proud of their incredible accomplishment on stage. Each of them added immensely to the story and the spirit of this musical classic.

Several members of city staff were very involved in ensuring the logistical, administrative and marketing success of Fiddler. Bravo to them along with the sound and lighting folks and the gifted orchestra.

Fiddler on the Roof is a musical with music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, and book by Joseph Stein, set in Tsarist Russia in 1905. It is based on Tevye and his Daughters (or Tevye the Milkman and Other Tales) by Sholem Aleichem. The story centres on Tevye, the father of five daughters, and his attempts to maintain his family and Jewish religious traditions while outside influences encroach upon their lives. He must cope both with the strong-willed actions of his three older daughters—each one’s choice of husband moves further away from the customs of his faith—and with the edict of the Tsar that evicts the Jews from their village.

The original Broadway production of the show, which opened in 1964, had the first musical theatre run in history to surpass 3,000 performances. Fiddler held the record for the longest-running Broadway musical for almost 10 years until Grease surpassed its run. It remains Broadway’s fifteenth longest-running show in history. The production was extraordinarily profitable and highly acclaimed. It was nominated for ten Tony Awards, winning nine, including Best Musical, score, book, direction and choreography. It spawned four Broadway revivals, a successful 1971 film adaptation, and the show has enjoyed enduring international popularity. It is also a very popular choice for school and community productions.

Run, don’t walk, to book your tickets now for one of the last performances. The show runs through this Sunday only. For tickets and information click on CSLDramaticSociety.com.

CSL Dramatic Society’s Fiddler on the Roof: Beyond Fabulous

Cast of Fiddler on the Roof, CSL Dramatic Society

Councillor Mike Cohen’s May 23 reporting on the opening night of the Cote Saint-Luc Dramatic Society’s presentation of Fiddler on the Roof:

What began as a small project for my colleague, Councillor Mitchell Brownstein, has now become very big. I am referring to the Côte Saint-Luc Dramatic Society and their spectacular presentation of the classical musical Fiddler on the Roof. I was among those fortunate enough to attend the May 22 VIP preview presentation of the show at the Giovanni Palatucci Facility (former Wagar High School) on Parkhaven

The production features professional actors Sam Stein as Tevye and Kalie Rae as Golde.

“Our community theatre has taken another step forward by recruiting professional actors in our two lead rolls,” said Councillor Brownstein, who is responsible for the Côte Saint-Luc Dramatic Society and a long-time community theatre actor. “I think people are going to be amazed by how good community theatre can be.”

Fiddler on the Roof runs from May 23 to June 9, 2013, at 5785 Parkhaven Ave. The production is directed by the brilliant Anisa Cameron.

Fiddler on the Roof is a musical with music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick. The show is set in Tsarist Russia in 1905. The original Broadway production of the show opened in 1964. The story centres on Tevye, the father of five daughters, and his attempts to maintain his family and Jewish religious traditions while outside influences encroach upon their lives. He must cope both with the strong-willed actions of his three older daughters—each one’s choice of husband moves further away from the customs of his faith—and with the edict of the Tsar that evicts the Jews from their village.

Sam Stein is absolutely magnificent as Tevye. Ditto for Rae as Golde. Others who shine among the very large cast are Michelle Sasson as Tzeitel, Moreiel Shahin as Hodel, Einac Ne’eman as Chava, Daniel Harroch as Motel, Kenny Stein as Perchik and Hannah Sheffren as Yente. We must also mention Grade 4 JPPS student Aidan Catriel as the Fiddler.

Councillor Brownstein and his brother Herb (a Dollard councillor) turn in fine performances as Lazar Wolf the butcher and the Rabbi respectively. Councillor Sam Goldbloom stands tall as the innkeeper. Hampstead Councillor Michael Goldwax, who by day is the executive director of Le Waldorf in CSL, is part of the cast while Mayor Anthony Housefather and Hampstead Councillor and mayoral candidate Bonnie Feigenbaum have cameo roles, as does CSL’s Director of Parks and Recreation David Taveroff.

And hats off to several of my District 2 constituents in the cast: the father and son team of Steve and Jesse Stein, Mike Rappaport, Cheryl Everett-Rajchgot and Seymour David. Dr. Jerrold Rappaport, a noted general practioner, serves as videographer and assistant to the director.

Brownstein has built up a very healthy organization, bringing in multiple corporate sponsors. The program book has a healthy supply of advertisements. And if you think Fiddler is a success, wait until next year’s planned collaboration with the Black Theatre Workshop unfolds with the presentation of Hairspray.

The special preview show included a VIP reception, attended by many dignitaries and guests.

I will be back to see this show in June when we hold a special presentation in honour of our volunteers.

Tickets are available online at CSLDramaticSociety.com. Those without a computer can purchase tickets in person at the Côte Saint-Luc Aquatic and Community Centre (5794 Parkhaven Ave.), Parks and Recreation office (7500 Mackle Rd.), or the Eleanor London Côte Saint-Luc Public Library (5851 Cavendish Blvd.).

 

CJPAC Jet Setter Action Party 2013

Last night Cote Saint-Luc Mayor Anthony Housefather, Councillors Dida Berku (and masterful mingler husband Jacob Kincler),  Mitchell Brownstein (and elegant party wife Elaine) , Steven Erdelyi and I attended the Canadian Jewish Political Affairs Committee (CJPAC) Action Party at the Starlink Aircraft hangar at the Dorval Airport.

MP Isabelle Morin, Cllr. Glenn J. Nashen, MNA Lawrence Bergman, Mayor Anthony Housefather

CJPAC is a unique national, grassroots, independent organization whose mandate is to engage the community in the political process. CJPAC mobilizes the grassroots across the country, builds relationships with elected officials – of all political parties – and works for Jewish community interests, on a multi-partisan basis, during and between elections.

We met with several elected officials and their staff from all levels of government along with many young people interested in engaging with politicians.  You’d think that Mount Royal riding, encompassing Cote Saint-Luc, Hampstead, Town of Mount Royal and a slice of Snowdon was up for grabs as former conservative candidate Saulie Zajdel made the rounds while the current liberal MP’s (Irwin Cotler) Chief of Staff, Howard Liebman, worked the other side of the room.  Meanwhile, former Mount Royal Tory candidate Neil Drabkin was also in attendance easily working his way across the floor connecting with younger voters.

Mayor Anthony Housefather with former Darlington Councillor Saulie Zajdel and Chief of Staff Howard Liebman

The keynote speaker at the dinner earlier in the evening was former PM Brian Mulroney.  Former Senator Leo Kolber warmly maneuvered among the younger crowd as did several community stalwarts including Herbert Paperman and his son Joseph, Elliot Lifson and Jon Wener.

D’Arcy McGee MNA Lawrence Bergman is always a crowd pleaser shaking hands with the younger set, this time with his new chief (and future Premier), Philippe Couillard.  Mount Royal MNA Pierre Arcand was also among friends from TMR.

Liberal MP and Montreal Mayoral hopeful Denis Coderre was out shaking hands and making many new contacts within the Montreal community.

Councillor Mitchell and Elaine Brownstein with Neil Drabkin and Councillor Herbert Brownstein in the hangar at Starlink Aircraft

CDN-NDG Borough Mayor Lionel Perez is a superb local leader who has rapidly risen in power in the West End and is a name to watch. Also in attendance was NDG-Lachine MP Isabelle Morin, with whom I have had a few opportunities to meet. Isabelle is a delightful young woman who has given all of her energy to learn the role of MP and dutifully represent her constituents with passion and devotion. Having worked as a school teacher certainly helped to build her character a a compassionate young leader.

Former ministerial chief of staff and tory candidate Neil Drabkin could toss his hat in the local ring in the next federal election

Another former teacher who made a significant impact at the party, and across the country, was none other than Justin Trudeau.  Partygoers had their smartphones snapping for shots with Justin.

Hampstead Mayoral Candidate Bonnie Feigenbaum considering new transportation options for her town

DDO Councillor Herbert Brownstein, Hampstead Councillor and mayoral candidate Bonnie Feigenbaum, Veteran St-Laurent Councillor Maurice Cohen (31 years on council!!), Hampstead Councillor Michael Goldwax, Snowdon Councillor Marvin Rotrand and Loyola Councillor Peter McQueen were all in attendance representing their cities and districts.

Local liberal love-in: Howard and Heather Liebman greet Justin Trudeau

The Action Party is a terrific opportunity to turn young voters on to voting and becoming involved at all levels of government.  The organizers did a stellar job at setting up a superb venue.  The outdoor terrace area was essentially the runway with flights taking off just over yonder while the jets in the airport hangar were parked like sports cars spit polished for show. Amazing venue, creative decor and superb opportunity to mingle with the next generation of young leaders, influencers, policy makers and shakers.

Kudos to the sponsors and committee for a job well done and greatly appreciated.

You don’t have to be a rich man

The Not-a-Rich-Man ticket sale on until the end of March for Fiddler on the Roof

Tickets for the Côte Saint-Luc Dramatic Society production of Fiddler on the Roof are on sale at reduced prices until March 31, 2013.

The Not-a-Rich-Man early bird prices in March are $25 for adults and $20 for seniors and students. Tickets are available online at CSLDramaticSociety.com. Those without a computer can purchase tickets in person at the Côte Saint-Luc Aquatic and Community Centre (5794 Parkhaven Ave.), Parks and Recreation office (7500 Mackle Rd.), or the Eleanor London Côte Saint-Luc Public Library (5851 Cavendish Blvd.).

The latest production of the Côte Saint-Luc Dramatic Society features professional actors Sam Stein as Tevye and Kalie Rae as Golde. Sam Stein who played Tevye in the Dora Wasserman Yiddish Theatre production of Fiddler on the Roof, is a professional equity actor most recently seen in the Segal Centre production of Guys and Dolls. Kallie Rae has performed professionally in the United States.

“We have taken another step forward by attracting such high caliber performers including a very talented cast of more than 60 actors well known to our community,” said Councillor Mitchell Brownstein, who is responsible for the Côte Saint-Luc Dramatic Society and a long-time community theatre actor. “People were amazed at how good our community theatre productions of Grease and Norm Foster’s Office Hours were last year. Wait until they see Fiddler.”

Fiddler on the Roof runs from May 23 to June 9, 2013, at 5785 Parkhaven Ave., which is the former Wagar High School building, today called the Giovanni Palatucci Facility. The production is directed by Anisa Cameron.

Fiddler on the Roof is a musical with music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick. The show is set in Tsarist Russia in 1905. The original Broadway production of the show opened in 1964. The story centres on Tevye, the father of five daughters, and his attempts to maintain his family and Jewish religious traditions while outside influences encroach upon their lives. He must cope both with the strong-willed actions of his three older daughters—each one’s choice of husband moves further away from the customs of his faith—and with the edict of the Tsar that evicts the Jews from their village.

Kid-friendly Winter Carnival Day on February 10, 2013 in Côte Saint-Luc

The main attraction of the Côte Saint-Luc Winter Carnival is on Sunday, February 10, 2013 at Pierre Elliott Trudeau Park, where people will enjoy a free pancake breakfast, horse drawn carriage rides, inflatable games and more.

Other kid-friendly activities include taffy on snow, snowshoeing, kicksledding, tobogganing on the hill, a puppet show, face painting, a Scouts presentation, and snow games.

The Côte Saint-Luc Winter Carnival runs from Wednesday, February 6 to Saturday, February 16, 2013 and also includes a hockey tournament, a figure-skating exhibition, a Valentine dance, and movie screening for seniors. The full schedule is available at www.CoteSaintLuc.org/WinterCarnival2013.

All Côte Saint-Luc Winter Carnival events are free except for the public skating event on February 9, 2013 and the Valentine Dance on February 16, 2013. The entrance fee for public skating is $5 (or free with a Fun Card). Proceeds from the public skating event and donations will go to Ronald McDonald House. Tickets for the Valentine dance are $25 in advance or $28 at the door.

The event co-chairpersons are councillors Mitchell Brownstein and Allan J. Levine.

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And many more…

Happy Birthdays to Councillor Steven Erdelyi, Mayor Anthony Housefather and Councillor Mitchell Brownstein

Cote Saint-Luc City Council took a brief pause from its Monday night meeting to celebrate three birthdays.  All the best wishes to Mayor Anthony Housefather, an athlete and competitive swimmer who usually passes on the snacks, and Councillors Steven Erdelyi and Mitchell Brownstein.

 

CJPAC Action Party 2012

This year Cote Saint-Luc Mayor Anthony Housefather, Councillors Ruth Kovac, Dida Berku,  Mitchell Brownstein, Mike Cohen and I attended the Canadian Jewish Political Affairs Committee (CJPAC) Action Party at the Arsenal in St. Henri.

Councillor Mike Cohen and I meet Member of Parliament Tyrone Benskin

CJPAC is a unique national, grassroots, independent organization whose mandate is to engage the community in the political process. CJPAC mobilizes the grassroots across the country, builds relationships with elected officials – of all political parties – and works for Jewish community interests, on a multi-partisan basis, during and between elections.

Former party organizers Mike Cohen, Sandie Sparkman and me. We were the leaders of the Jewish Adult Programming Society (aka JAPS) that threw large soirees in Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto and Calgary as well as trips to Israel in the late 80s and early 90s.

We met with several elected officials and their staff from all levels of government along with many young people interested in engaging with politicians.  You’d think that Mount Royal riding, encompassing Cote Saint-Luc, Hamsptead, Town of Mount Royal and a slice of Snowdon was up for grabs as former candidate Saulie Zajdel made the rounds talking up Stephen Harper‘s great support of Israel while the current MP’s (Irwin Cotler) Chief of Staff, Howard Liebman, worked the other side of the room.  Meanwhile, former Mount Royal Tory candidate Neil Drabkin was also in attendance easily working his way across the floor connecting with younger voters.

Mike Cohen and I meet up with former Montreal City Councillor and candidate for MP of Mount Royal Saulie Zajdel. Could Saulie be planning to run yet again?

CDN-NDG Borough Councillor Lionel Perez is a superb local leader who tells me that the Jewish General Hospital has done a marvelous job at promoting the current expansion to the neighbouring residents. Also in attendance were NDG-Lachine MP Isabelle Morin, with whom I recently had the pleasure of meeting one on one with JGH Executive Director Dr. Hartley Stern.  The NDP’s Pat Martin was also in from Winnipeg to experience the Action Party for the first time.  NDP big boss Thomas Mulcair did rounds of the packed industrial party place as did MP Justin Trudeau, DDO Councillor Herbert Brownstein, Hampstead Councillor (and possibly next Mayor?) Bonnie Feigenbaum and longtime political organizers Steve Pinkus, Jonathan Schneiderman and Jonathan Goldbloom.

Could Howard Liebman of the Liberal Party face off against Neil Drabkin of the Conservative Party in Mount Royal riding in the next federal election?

The Action Party is a terrific opportunity to turn young voters on to voting and becoming involved at all levels of government.  One word of advice to the organizers for next year (an I do feel “old” saying it):  Turn down the incredibly loud music so people can hear each other.  There’s hardly any dancing at all but lots of shmoozing where I struggled to lip read what was being said to me (I hope all good things of course).

All in all, a tremendous idea and well organized venture.  Bravo to the sponsors and committee.

Read more on Mike Cohen’s blog.

Read more in the CJN.

Mayor of Côte Saint-Luc and other municipal politicians to act in dark comedy

The Mayor of Côte Saint Luc and three city councillors will perform on stage in the dark comedy Office Hours by Canadian playwright Norm Foster later this month at the Harold Greenspon Auditorium, 5801 Cavendish Blvd.

Mayor Anthony Housefather, Côte Saint-Luc city councillors Mitchell Brownstein and Sam Goldbloom, and Dollard des Ormeaux city councillor Herbert Brownstein will star with other members of the Côte Saint-Luc Dramatic Society.

Showtimes are at 8 pm on Thursday, May 24, Friday, May 25, and Saturday, May 26, with two 2 pm matinee performances on Friday and Saturday.

Tickets are $15 plus tax and are available at the Eleanor London Côte Saint-Luc Public Library (5851 Cavendish Blvd.), the Côte Saint-Luc Aquatic and Community Centre (5794 Parkhaven Ave.), or by telephone at 514-485-6806 ext. 2200. Credit card or Interac will be accepted.

“Côte Saint-Luc is committed to community theatre,” Mayor Housefather said. “I hope that my participation helps draw attention to this great community initiative.”

The January 2012 performances of the musical Grease were sold out.

Norm Foster’s Office Hours takes place during the same Friday afternoon in six different offices in the big city. We follow the stories that take place in each office, and, as they unfold, each story becomes connected with the other: A newsman who will do anything to keep his job, a Canadian producer willing to overlook the shortcomings of a down-and-out director, an entertainment agent caught in a scandal, a lawyer with big news to share, a delusional jockey, a love-starved therapist and a man on a ledge.

Anisa Cameron returns to direct the cast of 15, which includes also includes Ariel Sterlin, (who played Frenchy in Grease) as the production stage manager, and Scott Drysdale as the lighting and technical director.

The Halifax Daily News said that playwright Norm Foster “is Canada’s most-produced dramatist, and no wonder. His snappy dialogue, everyday situations and gently balanced characters dare to represent that great, under-represented middle of North American society.”

For more information about the production, visit CSLDramaticSociety.com.

About the Côte Saint-Luc Dramatic Society

The Côte Saint-Luc Dramatic Society is a community theatre initiative that began in the summer of 2011 in partnership with the City of Côte Saint-Luc. The goal of the society is to bring together actors, writers, musicians and other artistically-minded community members to produce theatrical works in an inclusive environment where emphasis is placed on team work and camaraderie, not celebrity.

Residents worked up over workout centre’s closure

Residents worked up over workout centre’s closure

NDG Free Press, February 14, 2012

By Isaac Olson

Nautilus Plus, a private gym located at 6585 Mackle near Cavendish, is closing its doors at the end of February, leaving its customers feeling more than a little frustrated and a city looking to help where it can.

“We have been at the Cavendish location since 1986,” stated customer service representative Sylvie Linteau in an email after the Free Press tried, through various means over a period of nearly two weeks, to get an interview. “We have done our best to maintain the activities of the club. Unfortunately, the operations have not been successful for several years and with the lease coming to an end, the company has made a business decision to close the club.”

Côte St. Luc residents like Estie Radowitz-Walsh and George Anisef have confirmed that, in a circulated notice, members were invited to either cancel their membership or use one of the company’s other locations. But the closure is frustrating for people like the 84-year-old Anisef, who moved to the area so he could be closer to the facility “There’s a group of us that play squash, racquetball and handball, but we have nowhere else to go,” said Anisef. “We’re hoping somebody, maybe somebody who already owns similar facilities, will be interested in the gym and take it over.”

Ratowitz-Walsh said she regularly used the exercise equipment at the Nautilus and is not interested in travelling outside of CSL to train. She said she and fellow members are trying to convince the city to improve the fitness component of the new Aquatics and Community Centre (ACC).

Councillor Mitchell Brownstein noted there is an effort by city officials to augment the ACC’s fitness facility and other features to make up for the closure but, he added, “We can’t really add squash or racquetball courts at this point.” If, prior to construction, the city had known Nautilus was planning on closing, there may have been more opportunity to add different features that accommodate residents. As it is now, every room has its purpose, he said, but that doesn’t mean all hope is lost. “I’m sure there’s something we can do,” said Brownstein. “I’m sure we can find some room for some more equipment somewhere.”

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Grease is the Word in Cote Saint-Luc

I didn’t have very high expectations heading in to the preview night of the Cote Saint-Luc Dramatic Society’s presentation of Grease the musical. It’s not like I was headed to Places des Arts for a night on the town. Boy, was I wrong.

Renowned local director Anisa Cameron assembled a talented group of actors and singers that burned up the quarter-mile right through the Harold Greenspon Auditorium of the Cote Saint-Luc City Hall. A west end who’s who of politicos, sponsors, media and VIPs filled the cosy theatre and were quickly crooning with Sandy D. and Danny. Mayor Anthony Housefather and members of Council were joined by Hampstead Mayor William Steinberg and his wife Doris, along with Councillors Bonnie Feigenbaum and Michael Goldwax, City of Montreal Executive member and CDN-NDG Borough Mayor Michael Applebaum, D’Arcy McGee MNA Lawrence Bergman and many more.

Councillor Mitchell “Vince Fontaine” Brownstein, credited with launching the Dramatic Society, belted out tunes including Handjive and Beauty School Dropout, and was joined on stage by his son Matthew “Charlie, T-Bird” and CSL Public Works Manager Bebe “Principal Lynch” Newman. Mitch has had a life long passion with performing arts and his efforts are well appreciated.

A surprise birthday cake was presented during the intermission to Mayor Housefather. The entire audience joining in singing Happy Birthday.

Ben Warner did a brilliant job of performing the role of Danny Zuko. Ben was energetic, singing and dancing like a star. This guy has talent!

Octavia Dumas played Sandy D. As cute as Olivia Newton John and able to sing delicately with grace and charm, she has a future in the arts as well.

The cast of young, and some less young were totally on fire – funny, well choreographed and in sync. The six piece live band added immensely to the feeling of a major stage production yet the tiny theatre gave everyone a front row centre seat.

My friends, Sandie Sparkman and Davina Shapiro, couldn’t stop tapping along and singing to the music. The audience erupted in a standing ovation as the curtains dropped.

The show runs from January 26 to 29 at the Harold Greenspon Auditorium at 5801 Cavendish Blvd.

This is first major production of the new community theatre group, which performed Dining Out last fall to a packed house. Tickets are available at the CSL Public Library (5851 Cavendish Blvd.), the Aquatic and Community Centre (5794 Parkhaven Ave.), or by telephone at 514-485-6806. Tickets cost $22 for general admission, or $18 for students (with valid student identification) or seniors (age 60 and older). Showtimes are 8 pm on January 26, 27, 28 and 29. There are also 2 pm matinees on January 28 and 29.

Who needs Places Des Arts when you’ve got such a fun musical playing in your own backyard? Run to get tickets as it will surely sell out.

9 Minutes of Grease:

Lights of freedom burn bright at CSL City Hall

Cote Saint-Luc has always been proud to display the Chanukah candles in front of its city hall and the Chabad CSL giant menorah burns bright tonight on Cavendish boulevard.

Candles are lit on the giant Chabad menorah outside Cote Saint-Luc city hall

As pro-Mayor, I was honoured to light the menorah.  Together with my daughter Nicole, we were hoisted high into the air aboard CSL’s cherry-picker, blow torch in hand to light the candles on this third night of the eight-day festival of freedom.

Mayor Anthony Housefather gave an energetic speech to the assembly, welcoming the lighting of the menorah and highlighting Cote Saint-Luc’s openness to all to celebrate.

Rabbi Mendel Raskin had just returned from his native Casablanca, Morocco where he assisted in lighting the first lights of Chanukah.  He greeted D’Arcy McGee MNA Lawrence Bergman, Mayor Housefather along with Councillors Mitchell Brownstein, Steven Erdelyi, Sam Goldbloom and myself.

Glenn J. Nashen, Mitchell Brownstein and Anthony Housefather beneath the giant menorah

The unusually mild temperature made for an extra festive mood as videos of candle lighting around the world were shown and music was blasted for all to hear.

Finally, the parade of vehicles (see video below) decorated with illuminated Chanukah menorahs began, led by police officers from station 9, volunteer Citizens on Patrol and CSL Public Security agents. Rebetzen Sarah Raskin was jubilantly waving from one of the lead parade vehicles.  The procession winded its way through CSL, bringing light and good cheer to all who witnessed this Fraylich Parade.

Chanukah menorah parade along Cavendish blvd. in Cote Saint-Luc

What is Chanukah?

Chanukah celebrates the triumph of light over darkness. More than twenty-one centuries ago, the Holy Land was ruled by the Syrian-Greeks, who sought to forcefully Hellenize the people of Israel. Against all odds, a small band of faithful Jews defeated one of the mightiest armies on earth, drove the Greeks from the land, reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and rededicated it.

When they sought to light the Temple’s menorah (the seven-branched candelabrum), they found only a single cruse of olive oil; miraculously, the one-day supply burned for eight days, until new oil could be prepared under conditions of ritual purity.

To commemorate these miracles, the festival of Chanukah was instituted. At the heart of the festival is the nightly menorah lighting: a single flame on the first night, two on the second evening, and so on till the eighth night of Chanukah, when all eight lights are kindled.

Chanukah customs include eating foods fried in oil — latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiot (doughnuts); playing with the dreidel (a spinning top on which are inscribed the Hebrew letters nun, gimmel, hei and shin, an acronym for Nes Gadol Hayah Sham, “a great miracle happened there”); and the giving of Chanukah gelt, gifts of money, to children.

CSL by-law tackles ethics, conduct at city hall

CSL by-law tackles ethics, conduct at city hall
By Isaac Olson
The Free Press, October 11, 2011

Forced by a provincial act, municipalities across Quebec are authoring code of ethics and good conduct by-laws for elected officials to follow and, come October 17, Côte St. Luc will join the fray with a by-law of its own — one that outlines the “do’s and don’ts” of running a city.

“Côte St. Luc is a city where, historically, there’s never really been an issue with people not respecting normal ethics,” said Mayor Anthony Housefather, noting there is already a provincial code that demands elected officials stay in line. “To me, ethics are common sense.”

CSL is incorporating the city’s values, such as language protection for Canada’s two official tongues, into the by-law.

“First and foremost, human rights and equality of the English and French language within the city are profound values that are protected and cherished by the city and city council,” states the by-law as drafted. The by-law goes on to state, “Every council member shall conduct himself with integrity, loyalty, honour and prudence in the pursuit of the public interest of the city and the pursuit of equity.”

Councillor Dida Berku headed up the dossier, working closely with the associate general counsel Cheri Bell. Housefather and Councillor Mitchell Brownstein used their legal backgrounds to go over secondary drafts, ensuring the language wasn’t too “ambiguous,” the mayor said. The city’s administration, he added, is being careful to define the rules in a way that won’t bring the hammer down on basic, day-to-day business.“

You certainly don’t want to have a code of ethics that is unclear or hard to follow,” said Housefather, noting the provincially crafted law was bogged down by vagueness. “For example, ‘city tools can only be used for city purposes.’ But that obviously makes no sense. You don’t want to carry two cell phones. If you’re going to carry a city-issued cell phone, you can’t say that you can never make a personal call to your husband, wife or child. You have to live.”

Aquatic and Community Centre opening just weeks away

The grand opening of the Cote Saint-Luc Aquatic and Community Centre is just four short weeks away and excitement is building in anticipation.  The $17 million dollar multipurpose facility was financed equally by the Government of Canada, Government of Quebec and City of Cote Saint-Luc.

The entrance hall will be tall and wide and bright with natural lighting. This view shows the rear of the hall onto the patio near the outdoor pool.

It will house a major competitive pool, a beach-like recreational pool, mini-library, teen studio, dance studio, tots centre, senior clubs, cafe and more.

The competitive pool will feature 10 lanes and is expected to spawn a CSL swim team

The facility will be able to accommodate gatherings of several hundred guests and will be available for private functions as well.  The spacious conference style room will be equipped with a kitchen for use by caterers.

Conference and party facilities will allow for large receptions

The fitness room will be filled with bright natural light and overlook the pool area.

Councillor Mike Cohen inspects the new fitness facilities

A grand opening is planned for Sunday, August 28 at noon.  The public is invited in for a tour of the facilities, located on Parkhaven Avenue, and to learn all about the programs that will be open for registration.

Mayor Anthony Housefather and Councillors Mitchell Brownstein and Mike Cohen proudly overlook construction of the competitive pool

Canada Day CSL Style

What a fantastic Canada Day  in Cote Saint-Luc.  The rain passed quickly before the crowds came out for an action-packed evening. Proceedings began with a Canadian Citizenship Ceremony, presided over by Judge Marcel Tremblay. The former Montreal city councillor was just appointed to the position last week. He swore in 32 new Canadians from 11 different countries. Councillor Mitchell Brownstein brought this ceremony to our Canada Day festivities in the early 1990s.

Co-chairs Mike Cohen and Glenn J. Nashen unveil the Human Rights Walkway plaque in the presence of Mayor Housefather and members of City Council, MNA Laurence Bergman, Senator Leo Housakos and Citizen Court Judge Marcel Tremblay

Next was the annual Human Rights Walkway ceremony. The Human Rights Walkway was inaugurated in 2000 and is dedicated to men and women who, through their actions, have promoted and defended human rights. This year we honoured those who spoke out and fought for Jews oppressed in the former Soviet Union, Syria, and Ethiopia. Councillor Mike Cohen co-chaired this initiative with me. We were both very involved in these movements in the late 1980s via Canadian Jewish Congress. You can watch the ceremony on CSLTV.

Glenn J. Nashen and Senator Leo Housakos at Canada Day 2010

Thousands of people were at the park to enjoy fun and games, music and performances for Canada Day all culminating with a spectacular fireworks display –perhaps one of the best we have seen in years. 

Cote Saint-Luc Council welcomes thousands to Canada Day festivities

Dan Laxer of CJAD Radio was an excellent master of ceremonies for the 3rd year in a row. Congratulations to Councillors Mitchell Brownstein and Ruth Kovac, co-chairs, to our outstanding volunteers and staff in Parks and Recreation, to our dedicated vCOP and EMS volunteers and to our Public Security agents and the Police Department.

Mayor Anthony Housefather and the volunteer Citizens on Patrol Electric Scooter Brigade, Elaine and Abe

Councillors Ruth Kovac and Mitchell Brownstein at Canada Day

Canada Day in Côte Saint-Luc: citizenship ceremony, musical performances, fireworks

Canada Day in Côte Saint-Luc Day includes Canadian citizenship ceremony, live musical performances, fireworks and more
The annual Canada Day celebration in Côte Saint-Luc includes a Canadian citizenship ceremony, a Human Rights Walkway ceremony, live music, fireworks and more at Pierre Elliott Trudeau Park on Thursday, July 1.

“This year’s event will be taking place rain or shine, so I encourage all families to come to the park and enjoy the activities that have been planned,” said Councillor Mitchell Brownstein, who is the co-chairperson of the Canada Day event along with Councillor Ruth Kovac. “In particular, I am very proud that we are again hosting a Canadian citizenship ceremony.”

A Canadian citizenship judge will administer the citizenship oath to new Canadians at 4:30pm. Immediately following the ceremony, at approximately 5:30pm, Côte Saint-Luc will unveil a plaque for its Human Rights Walkway honouring those who spoke out and fought for Jews oppressed in the former Soviet Union, Syria, and Ethiopia.

The Canada Day events will run from 1pm to 10:40pm. Other activities include inflatable games, a roaming magician, a children’s train, face painting, arts and crafts, fireworks and more. There will also be live performances by musical groups Airport 77, Zuruba and Music Academy Fortissimo throughout the evening.

“People will be able to enjoy unique activities such as baratanga, a zumba demonstration and more,” Councillor Kovac said. “There is something for everyone at this year’s event.”

Bracelets will be sold benefiting the Montreal Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Event sponsors include The Suburban, Scotia Bank, Domino’s Pizza, the Cavendish Mall, Quality Fruits and Infusion Catering.

In case of heavy rain, the majority of activities would take place in the Confederation Annex, with the exception of the Canadian citizenship ceremony and Human Rights Walkway ceremony would take place at city hall, 5801 Cavendish Blvd. Residents can call 514-485-6806 ext. 5501 on July 1 for confirmation on schedule type.

Pierre Elliott Trudeau Park is located on Mackle Rd. near Shalom Ave.

For a full schedule of events, visit www.CoteSaintLuc.org.