The City of Côte Saint-Luc recognized  its volunteers on Thursday evening, November 3 with a different kind of event than in years past. Everyone was invited to the Cineplex Theatres at the Quartier Cavendish where they were ushered into one of two cinemas, given a choice of drinks and snacks and treated to a screening of the comedy motion picture Keeping Up With the Jones`.

Roy Salomon

This year`s award winners were showcased via video on the big screen. Technical difficulties in one  of the rooms caused somewhat of a glitch. But here is the video and a detailed summary of the award winners.

Community Services Award - Recognizes a volunteer couple for exceptional contribution to the community special events programs;

2016 Bernie & Joan King

Bernie and Joan were longtime residents of CSL and were extremely active on many committees. Although they moved to neighboring NDG right on the border of CSL they continue being active on Special Events. During the past 20 some odd years they have been dedicated judges on the Maisons Fleuries Contest. Their dependability, integrity and willingness have been of major service to this Special Event. What may sound easy the judging of homes for floral display is not so easy? Going out for hours at a time for several days in 30° plus July heat is not an easy task. They are often because of their impartiality called upon to judge several districts and to final judge when there are tie scores in other districts. In short most deserving of this award,

William E Kesler Memorial Trophy – Recognizes a volunteer for their exceptional contribution to the Parks and Recreation special events programs;

2016 Steven Monk

Steven has been a volunteer member of the Côte Saint-Luc Minor Hockey Association for well over a decade. Aside from many years spent coaching, Steven has served in the capacity of coaching coordinator on the executive for many years where he was a liaison with the associations coaches and was always available to assist the coaches with any issues that arose. Steven has also worked with the associations developers to act as a liaison with the coaches, as well as establish a plan for the overall development of the players in the hockey program. Even after his own children graduated from the program, Steven continues to remain involved in these capacities.

Royal Canadian Legion Brigadier Frederick Kisch, Branch # 97 Award, Recognizes the Youth Volunteer of the Year , a “leader of tomorrow”, for outstanding efforts in making a difference in Cote Saint-Luc through volunteer activities.

2016 Alison Levine

Alison was born and raised in Montreal, Canada and is 26 years old. She is an athlete in the sport of boccia. Boccia is a Paralympic sport of precision, concentration, and muscle control. She plays in the BC4 category which is for athletes with severe disabilities affecting the whole body, other than cerebral palsy. She has played many adapted sports in the past from wheelchair rugby but now concentrate on boccia as it is physically the only sport suited for her level of disability. If it were not for her disability she feels she would probably never have had the opportunity or honor to represent her country or get to spend her days playing a sport she loves. Paralympic sport requires her to push through barriers to achieve her goals, allows her to be proud of who she is no matter how she looks, and gives her the courage to be the best that she can be. She has won in 2016 the European World Open (Portugal) Doubles = Silver, American World Open (Montreal) Doubles = Silver and the American World Open (Montreal) Individuals = Bronze. In 2015 she won the Parapan American Games (Toronto) Doubles = Silver, World Open Championships (Poland) Doubles = Silver, World Open Championships (Poland) Individual = Silver and Americas Team and Pair Championships Doubles = Gold. In 2014 she won the Boccia Masters Portugal Doubles = Bronze.

Socio-Cultural Award, Recognizes a volunteer for their exceptional contribution to the City’s socio-cultural programs;

2016 Mark Cohen

The Library would like to nominate Mark Cohen who has founded and been running the weekly adult chess program since February 2014. This program has been very successful. Mark facilitates sanctioned tournaments and is an excellent instructor devoting many hours to the community. Since its inception, children’s chess has become very popular at the Library as well.

Special Recognition Award

2016 Isabella Pucciarelli

Isabella has already worn a few hats during her time as a volunteer in the Children’s Department at the Côte Saint-Luc Library. She began volunteering with us when she was 12 years old and consistently impressed the staff with her dedication to the program and her sunny disposition. Isabella is always seeking out more opportunities to help. When she was just a few weeks away from turning 13, she took the initiative to ask if she could graduate from Early Volunteering Program to become a Reading Buddy. In a short period of time, Isabella has already helped several elementary school students become more confident readers. Her enthusiasm and passion for reading are infectious. She is a natural mentor, and never fails to inspire her Reading Buddies. It is clear that Isabella will be an advocate for libraries and will be giving back to her community for years to come.

 Hazel Lipes Award - Recognizes a volunteer for their exceptional contribution to the Community Services Programs.

2016 Philip Goldberg

Phil Goldberg has been the art teacher for the Côte Saint-Luc Men’s Club for nearly 12 years. Meeting every Wednesday morning with his beginners’ class, and Friday mornings with his more experienced participants, Phil has put his heart, soul, and immense talent into turning out gifted painters. Phil creates a sense of camaraderie and enthusiasm among his devoted students. 

 EMS Award – Excellence in operations

2016 Or Hilzenrat

The EMS Excellence in Operations award goes to Or Hilzenrat. Since being promoted to Lieutenant of Logistics last year, Or continues to excel in this branch. He has taken ownership of our equipment and logistics and is always stepping forward with new ideas to improve our systems and processes. Often working behind the scenes, Or is a great member of the EMS team.

EMS Award – Excellence in training

2016 Mark Metivier

The EMS Excellence in Training award goes to Mark Metivier. Mark was recently named Captain of Training, after having served as the Lieutenant for a number of years. Under Mark's leadership and instruction, we have streamlined our training, recruiting, coaching and quality assurance processes for our members. Now, we are able to better track our members from new recruit to seasoned vet, ensuring that they remain up-to-date with their clinical, training and quality assurance requirements.

EMS AWARD – Rookie of the Year

2016 Bev Mitelman

Our Rookie of the Year award goes to Bev Mitelman, in recognition of her contributions to EMS within the first year of service. In addition to getting fully immersed as a new EMS medic, Bev is actively involved in our community outreach and fundraising strategies, bringing her professional experience and her engaging personality to the benefit of EMS.

 vCOP Award

2016 Bert Rabinovitch 

The vCOP Award is given to Bert Rabinovitch in recognition of his on-going efforts with the vCOP smoke detector brigade program. Bert has been instrumental in developing this program, getting it off the ground and continues to lead this team of volunteers that goes door-to-door checking residents' smoke detectors and replacing batteries, helping in a tangible way to reduce the number of fire-related damages and deaths.

Eco Award, Recognizes a volunteer who has demonstrated leadership in the promotion of environmental advocacy and action within the community. (Missing Inscription)

2016 Dr. Mandie Aaron 

Dr. Mandie Aaron, the unofficial den mother to about 75 gardeners is the dedicated president and coordinator of the volunteer-run Côte Saint-Luc Seniors'Community Garden.  She came to know the garden by helping her mother, who has had an allotment for more than 20 years. As her involvement with the garden grew, she began to help other gardeners, too, four years ago she was elected garden president and coordinator. Today Mandie gardens in two allotments — her own and one she grows for MADA, a community organization that helps to feed those in need.

Sports Award, Recognizes a volunteer for exceptional contributions to the community sports programs;

2016 Darin Barney

Darin is a dedicated parent who has embraced the idea of volunteering for the good of the Côte Saint-Luc swim team. Over the last few years Darin has dedicated himself to become a fully qualified official and has spent countless evenings in seminars learning the intricacies of the various positions needed during a competition.  Darin does not only volunteer at home competitions, but also represents CSLA at all our competitions, weather they are local or out of town. Darin represented our organization at the Canadian Age Group Nationals in Calgary, as well as the Québec Games in Montreal. A respected official, Darin provides a positive image for the City and shows, through his actions, the unbiased professionalism that volunteer officials aspire to attain.

Stewart Mankofsky Memorial Trophy, presented to the athlete / volunteer who best exemplifies the qualities of dedication, sportsmanship, and love of competition.

2016 Jordan Glazer

Jordan, a Côte Saint –Luc resident, is a dedicated athlete to the game of baseball. Jordan played a number of years in the intercommunity Baseball league and was a dominant player. Jordan also played with NDG Baseball for over 10 years and was a member of 10 NDG All-Star teams, won four Provincial Championships and appeared in three Canadian National Tournaments. Jordan has won numerous individual awards including being named NDG Baseball’s Borough Athlete of the year in 2009 and at the 2013 Junior League Canadian Nationals. Jordan finished the tournament with the 6^th best batting average amongst all tournament players. For the past two seasons, Jordan has been a member of the Midget AAA baseball program where he has been one of the team’s top hitters and pitchers. In addition to his playing career, Jordan has spent time doing charity work with the Montreal Torah Center for helping to feed the needy in the community. He has also volunteered time to help build homes in Africa.

Gerry Weinstein Ambassador of the Year, Honours the Cote Saint-Luc citizen best portraying charitable qualities and serving the community at large

2016 Roy Salomon

Roy has received numerous awards for his volunteer contribution to the sports community. He has served as Honorary Co-President of the Maccabiah Games in Israel in July of 2013. He has also been Vice-President and Honorary President of the YM-YWHA and received the Norah and Joe Rubin Leadership Award for 50 years of involvement with the organization. From 1981-85, Roy served as National Athletic Chair promoting Canadian Jewish athletes. Roy began an eight year term as President of Macabbi Canada in 1990. In 1995, Roy was inducted into the Montreal Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. In 2001 Roy was recipient of the prestigious Yakir Maccabi Award.  In 2013, Roy was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, marking the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II accession to the Throne, for giving selflessly in service of his community. Roy is an exceptional human being and is a true Ambassador making all of us extremely proud to have him call Côte Saint-Luc his home.

Volunteer of the Year – Aquatics Program

2016 Michèle Castonguay

Having been a pivotal linchpin to the success of the swim team at Cote Saint-Luc Michele Castonguay has given tirelessly since the inception in 2011. During the year of 2015-2016 the competitions held at Cote Saint-Luc have operated flawlessly under her guidance and preparation of officials and presence. She has led and mentored over 100 other volunteers over the course of the year to achieve qualifications in officiating and has been instrumental in creating a volunteer culture at Cote Saint-Luc aquatics! While this last season has been Michele's final season leading the officials we are confident that the charges she has developed will continue her high standards and quality of leadership. Michele is always welcome to Cote saint-Luc and we wish her the very best!

Edward J. Kirwan Award – Honours the Volunteer of the Year for exceptional contribution to the community Parks and Recreation programs;

2016 Rhonda Shechtman

A volunteer at the Côte Saint-Luc Tennis Club for over 20 years, Rhonda has served in various capacities on the executive since 2006 (President from 2013-2015) Rhonda has been instrumental in assisting the City in determining the best avenue for achieving the long term sustainability at the club. Her roles include marketing coordinator (social media, newsletter/ application form/ event posters), secretary and her contributions to the development of the club's business plan. Her commitment and dedication has been truly admirable. 

Lifetime Achievement

2016 Joseph Panunto

Ever since he moved to Côte Saint-Luc in 1978 Joe Panunto has been actively involved in the community in various social, educational, religious, cultural, political, and sports related activities.  He served as City Counsellor from 1994-1998 and served on the planning and financial committees. He currently heads and plays recreational volleyball.  He proposed and actively participated in the setting up of the very successful soccer program here in Côte Saint-Luc. As a parishioner of St. Richard’s Catholic Church, he has served as Warden, sat on the Parish Council, was the President the Men’s Club, organized yearly barbeques at St. Patrick’s Square, has overseen renovations in the church, and organized many fund raising events over the past 38 years.  He is currently a Eucharistic minister, usher, and reader in the parish, and has acted as liaison between the City Council and the Parish.  As an involved member of the community he served as a committee member of the Côte Saint-Luc Wine-making Contest (which he won prizes in 2008 and 2009, and last year he was the winner of the Maison Fleuries contest in District 7.  On the political scene, he has been very active in the D’Arcy McGee Quebec Liberal Party Riding Association and has held the position of ethnic Councillor since 1998.   Joe has been married to Brenda for 47 years, has 2 children Stephen and Sarah, and is the very proud grandfather of Aurora and Brennan.  A fervent believer in volunteerism and the altruism of “do unto other as you would have them do unto you” and “where there is a will there is a way”, he continues to be involved and encourage others to become involved in the very vibrant community that is Côte Saint-Luc.

Lauréats des prix de bénévolat 2016

I was pleased to attend the second annual presentation of the D’Arcy-McGee Citizenship Medals on June 20 at the Côte-Saint-Luc Aquatic and Community Centre.

Three winners of this National Assembly medal were recognized for having touched and enriched the lives of riding residents through their community engagement. The selections were made by a blue-ribbon jury composed of three former D’Arcy-McGee MNAs: Justice Herbert Marx, Lawrence S. Bergman and Robert Libman.

Lawrence Bergman addresses the audience.

Bergman provided opening remarks and showed how he remains the ultimate politician, almost a D’Arcy McGee Liberal MNA Emeritus.

At the event, an inaugural winner of the Victor Goldbloom “Vivre ensemble” essay contest was announced. The prize, a tribute to the former MNA, Minister and Official Languages Commissioner who passed away earlier this year, will now be bestowed annually on a Secondary IV or V student studying in the riding.

“I’m privileged to serve a riding population that consistently distinguishes itself by its community involvement, compassion and leadership,” said present-day D’Arcy McGee Liberal MNA David Birnbaum. “We are all beneficiaries of this dedication.”

Left to right: Solloway, Feldman, Ivry and Birnbaum. 

The winners were Dr. Mark A. Wainberg, Ian M. Solloway and Liselotte Ivry of Côte Saint-Luc. They were honored before friends, family and guests for lifetime achievement in serving their fellow residents and beyond.

For the first time, an additional medal was presented to the winner of the Victor Goldbloom ‘‘Vivre Ensemble’’ Essay contest, open all Secondary IV and V students studying within the riding. Sheila Goldbloom was present for the presentation of the prize, in memory of the former provincial Minister and first MNA for D’Arcy-McGee, Victor Goldbloom. The essay winner, Ben Feldman, was selected by a jury composed of the current MNA, D'Arcy-McGee Liberal Association President Orna Hilberger, retired Professor and Association member Dorothy Zalcman-Howard and Michael Goldbloom, Victor’s son and Principal of Bishop’s University. Ben attends Hebrew Academy on Kellert Avenue.

A music ensemble from École secondaire Saint-Luc in the riding entertained the gathering with a wonderful medley of jazz tunes.

Among those present were the Minister responsible for Access to Information and the Reform of Democratic Institutions Rita Di Santis, federal MP for the Mount-Royal riding Anthony Housefather, Hampstead Mayor William Steinberg and members of our council.

“There is such a rich tradition of volunteer and community leadership in this riding,” noted Birnbaum. “I am pleased and proud to have instituted a National Assembly medals program that allows us to recognize those in the D’Arcy-McGee riding who have given so much back in service of their fellow residents. Today’s three winners exemplify that spirit of community and public service.”

Wainberg, of course, is a world leader in advancing treatment for, and awareness of, AIDS and HIV. His research and collaboration have helped save millions of lives around the world. He was on business in Kenya and unable to attend. His colleague at the Jewish General Hospital, Councillor Glenn J. Nashen, accepted the award on his behalf.

Solloway is presently into the fifth decade of a remarkable career as a family law attorney. He has pleaded cases here and internationally. In addition, he wrote more than 650 judgments during three terms on the Commission d’appel sur la langue d’enseignement. In fact he was the first English-speaking member of that body. Ian also chaired the English-speaking section of the Montreal Bar for an unprecedented eight terms. Over the years he has also been integrally involved in the community.

“Ever since I was a child growing up, community has been important to me,” Solloway said in his acceptance speech. “My uncle was former Côte Saint-Luc Mayor Sam Moskovitch. I always believed that giving back to a community is not just a duty, but a privilege.”

Ivry is a Holocaust survivor who has shared her message of hope and remembrance with hundreds of Quebec children of all origins and backgrounds. Her mother and brother perished at Auschwitz. She was finally liberated from Bergen-Belsen in 1945 at the age of 19 and built a new life in Montreal. Professionally, she was an art teacher. In 2007 she published “I’m Their Voice,” a compilation of letters, poems and drawings from the students whose classes she visited over the years. “I believe we are all here on earth to accomplish a mission,” she said. “Mine is to speak on behalf of the six million Jews who cannot do so themselves.”

As for Feldman, 16, here is excerpt from his winning essay. “On July 6, 2013 a train carrying oil failed to brake properly and started rolling down the tracks towards a Quebec town. When this horrible explosion occurred, Federation CJA raised just over $100,000 for the people of Lac Mégantic along with Dr. Victor Goldbloom. The inhabitants of Lac-Mégantic did not understand why the Jewish community of Montreal was helping them and that is exactly where Vivre Ensemble comes into play. The few people who went there representing Montreal Jews explained that their morals and purpose was to help others, and as the people of Lac-Mégantic needed help, so that is why they came."

Congratulations  to Jesse Shuster Leibner, a resident of Côte Saint-Luc`s District 2, who recently received  the Scarlet Key for leadership at McGill  University Jesse was also offered the Guy Drummond Fellowship as one of the top Political Science Honours students from the 2016 graduating class.  He intends to go to Paris for the  2016-17 academic year to pursue graduate studies at Europe's leading school in political science, Science Politiques, and then return to McGill to complete his Masters in Political Science. These activities are supported by the   Fellowship.  Before that, Jesse will be working this summer as the Economic and Trade Intern for the European Union in Ottawa.  

Jesse Shuster Leibner

During his time at McGill, Jesse   has worked to create meaningful and enduring change in the university community. His positive experience working as a Research Assistant lead him to spearhead the creation of a data base of all the research opportunities in the Faculty of Arts in order to facilitate student access to these positions. While working as vice-president, Academic, of the Political Science Students Association, he worked with students and faculty to develop the first departmental level Assessment and Re-Read Policy. This  benefits both students and faculty by removing ambiguity and clarifying rules and· grading procedures. Under Jesse's leadership, the McGill Journal of Political Studies has been transformed into a peer reviewed publication, making it the first undergraduate journal to receive this distinction. Jesse also co-founded Effective Altruists at McGill, which aims to eradicate global poverty by directing funding to the most effective charities.

This year's winners include a wide range of student leaders who are entrepreneurs, politicians, social activists and much more. However, what they all have in common is that in a University known for its active student life, their exceptional commitment makes them stand out among their peers.

Members of Côte Saint-Luc city council and senior staff held a small reception for former Mayor Anthony Housefather on November 30, only hours before his new chief of staff Bonnie Feigenbaum drove him to the train station so he could head to Ottawa and begin life as the Liberal Member of Parliament for Mount Royal.

A nice sendoff for Anthony.

Anthony served as our mayor for the past 10 years and did an outstanding job. We will miss him terribly, but know that he has landed in a spot he dreamed about for a very long time. Councillor Glenn J. Nashen has stepped in as interim mayor and steered the ship nicely as we head towards tabling our 2016 budget. Dida Berku will assume that role in January as we await for the formal announcement of a by-election for mayor. Councillor Mitchell Brownstein has the support of Anthony and the other six sitting members of council.

Interim Mayor Nashen was a great emcee.

We wish Anthony the best of luck in Ottawa and know that he will not be a stranger to us for we have very regular interactions with our MP and his staff.

You can watch a tribute video our multi-talented communications guru Darryl Levine produced here.

A footnote to this story as Anthony co-organized a Chanukah Lighting ceremony in Ottawa, attended by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, NDP leader Tom Mulcair, Conservative MP Lisa Raitt and many others. The link is  here. and embedded below.

Côte Saint-Luc City  Council recently presided over another impressive Maisons Fleuries Awards Ceremony, held at the Aquatic and Community Centre. This honours residents who beautify their gardens.

It is a pleasure to walk, bike or drive through the streets of Côte Saint-Luc and see the beautiful gardens that adorn our city during the summer months. The efforts made by many residents to maintain their lawns, tend to their gardens and landscape their flower beds in a creative and unique fashion beautifies our community and is tremendously appreciated.

Councillors Mitchell Brownstein and Allan J. Levine co-chaired this year`s competition and served as emcees for the ceremony. A big thanks to our staff at Parks and Recreation for their hard work, notably Laura Trihas and Cornelia Ziga. Director of Public Affairs and Communications Darryl Levine put together a great video slide show and Rami Negev did his usual top-notch job taking photos. Judges  assessed front gardens according to the cleanliness of the property, the appearance of plants and flowers and general landscaping.

District 2 resident Frank Palucci from Ilan Ramon Crescent receives his award from council.

Here is a list of the 2015 winners, with District 2 recipients in bold.

We added a nice treat for our guests this year. A silent magic show from Max and Maxine, Max being my old friend Jonathan Levey whom I had not seen perform in many years.   His Silent-Comedy Magic show was a sure-fire hit. He brought people on stage from the audience, including Councillor Dida Berku who kept sipping from a cup of milk only to see Max  empty the contents from her nose and ears. Check out his website here to book him for your occasion.

Councillor Dida Berku performs with Max.

As beautifully reported by Councillor Glenn J. Nashen on his blog, Member of the Quebec National Assembly, David Birnbaum, inaugurated the D’Arcy McGee Citizenship Medals on Monday evening, June 22 in Ashkelon Gardens at Côte Saint-Luc City Hall.

I have taken the liberty of sharing Glenn's report.

The first three inductees were selected by a blue ribbon panel of three former MNAs for D’Arcy McGee riding: Dr. Victor Goldbloom, Justice Herbert Marx and Lawrence Bergman. All three served as ministers in previous Quebec Liberal governments. The dedicated Bureau Chief of the riding office, Elisabeth Prass, served as emcee.

Janine, Valerie and Justin from the library join Mayor Housefather, David Birnbaum and myself in congratulating Paul Shuster.<

Medal recipients were Paula Brauer Shuster, Samuel Gewurz and Barbara Seal.

Paula Brauer Shuster is a retired teacher who now serves as a volunteer library ambassador in Côte Saint-Luc, offering community input on library programs and serving as driver in the home delivery program to those who are home-bound. She is always involved in book sales, the annual city tomato plant giveaway and Canada Day celebrations. Paula serves lunch at B’nai B’rith House and volunteers for the Pharmaprix Weekend to End Women’s Cancers. Library Director, Janine West, noted in nominating Paula: “Her willingness to help and selfless spirit have made her a very beloved member of the Cote Saint-Luc library family.”

Barbara Seal is a former citizenship court judge, Hampstead Town Councillor and director of the Segal Centre for Performing Arts. She’s the National President of the Canadian friends of Tel Aviv University and a director of the McGill School for Continuing Studies. In her long professional and volunteer career, Barbara has been chair or director of more than 40 community, educational, cultural and health support organizations. She has lectured widely, has been a lifelong learner, and the recipient of a myriad of citations and awards. She continues to conduct the annual Canada Day Citizenship Ceremony in Cote Saint-Luc.

Birnbaum, Herbert Marx, Barbara Seal, Sam Gewurz, Dr. Victor Goldbloom and Lawrence Bergman.

Samuel Gewurz is a commercial and industrial real estate developer who has given back to his community throughout his life. He has been recognized with awards for his impact on urbanism in Quebec and for his leadership initiatives to promote staying in school, heritage properties and sustainable development. Sam has been a volunteer advocate and supporter of MADA, which provides groceries and prepared meals for thousands fighting poverty, Hebrew Academy and Canadian Friends of Bar Ilan University, among others. MADA director Rabbi Chaim S. Cohen noted in supporting Sam’s nomination: “We are continuously honoured and awed by his care to MADA and the community. He’s a true leader, paving the path of goodness and kindness in our community.”

Music was provided by the local, talented and energetic high school band, Les jeunes musiciens de l’Ecole secondaire St-Luc.

Mr. Birnbaum introduced the medal presentation as a unique and meaningful manner in celebrating the deep involvement and active participation of the citizens of D’Arcy McGee.  

Last March Côte Saint-Luc Mayor Anthony Housefather stood before a group of supporters at the Quartier Cavendish and announced that he planned to seek the Federal Liberal nomination in the riding of Mount Royal. He did so  with the knowledge that incumbent Irwin Cotler would not be seeking a  new mandate when the next election is held, likely next October.

From that point on Anthony developed a machine, signed up about 3,000 members and waited for news when the party would call a nomination meeting. Last summer Jonathan Goldbloom, a highly respected and successful public relations professional, threw his hat in the ring. The  race was on.

The much anticipated nomination day arrived on Sunday, November 30. Voting took place simultaneously at the Côte Saint-Luc Aquatic and Community Centre and the Côte des Neiges Community Centre. In the end, Anthony prevailed by a substantial margin.There were 1,948 votes cast and 20 ballots rejected.

Members of council, Sidney Margles and Matthew Erdelyi celebrate with the mayor.

I have had the privilege of serving on Mayor Housefather’s council for nine years now so I know what he is capable of. Becoming the next MP for Mount Royal has been a dream of  his. Now he is one step closer, but recognizing that the Conservative Party of candidate will represent a formidable opposition be it Robert Libman or Beryl Wajsman, the two declared candidates for that party’s nomination.

Jonathan Goldbloom, Irwin Cotler and Anthony Housefather.

Goldbloom was gracious in defeat. He lauded the fact that some 4,500 people signed up as Liberal Party members for this nomination and urged everyone to get behind Anthony for the next election.

Goldbloom deserves a lot of credit for showing the courage to run against such a star candidate like Anthony.

People line up to vote.

Anthony, who never once took this victory as a certainty, thanked his tireless campaign manager Sidney Margles, chief organizer Councillor Mitchell Brownstein, his parents and endless list of campaign workers. He made special mention of people like Mark and Bonnie Merson and others like them who delayed their departures to Florida in order to be part of the nomination day team.

Anthony remains our mayor and will stay in office until after the next federal election.

You can also see Councillor  Glenn J. Nashen's blog.

Related articles

Supporting Anthony Housefather as the Federal Liberal candidate for Mount Royal

Housefather wins coveted Liberal nomination in Mount Royal riding

I was pleased to co-chair  with Councillor Allan J. Levine this year’s Maisons Fleuries Contest, which recognizes the superb floral arrangements at homes, condominiums, apartments and business complexes. Whereas pre-registration was required in the past to qualify for  an award, this year  everyone who planted something was eligible as our judges fanned across the city to evaluate.

Kevin Shustack and Anisa Cameron.

On Monday, November 3, the Mayor and Council hosted the annual Awards ceremony at the Aquatic and Community Centre. In order to jazz things up, we welcomed the Gravy on the Side Variety Hour with Anisa Cameron, Kevin Shustack and Brandon Schwartz. This group, an offshoot of the Côte Saint-Luc Dramatic Society, performs on occasional Saturday evenings at City Hall. For the purpose of the Awards ceremony  they came up with a funny shtick in which Anisa and Kevin told made some  lighthearted jokes about CSL, the councillors and our districts while Brandon played the  keyboard. The recurring theme was “We are the Champions.”

George displays his beautiful painting made especially for our ceremony.

The room was beautifully decorated thanks to the talents of  George Deligeorge, who created an enormous masterpiece banner especially for Maison Fleuries which required countless hours of work and dedication. This is George’s 30th year as an arts teacher in the city and the room was also dotted with works from his students. George’s students stay with him for years, bringing their children and sometimes their grandchildren. In some classes, his students have represented three generations. Many speak of George's "kindness know-how and patience,” and that his classes provide a safe yet exciting space where they can evolve as painters and sculptors.

Louise Ferland is thanked by Mayor Housefather.

We recognized George and  Louise Ferland, who was on the committee that created Maisons Fleuries 30 years ago. She has been an outstanding asset to this event and production. Although Louise although retired from the city, she  remains extremely active within this event and spent countless hours revising all of the plans and judging for the contest. Louise and her partner Sammy Pinsky were judges this year along with Joan and Bernie King, Roslyn Guttman, Bonnie Nobel, Linda Maislin, David Guttman, Sandra Segal, Alice Schwarcz, Roz Kasner, Mark Bessner and our team of Volunteer Citizens on Patrol. 

Co-Chair Allan J. Levine joins me in thanking Tony Ciavattella of Les Entreprises Canbec.

The event’s sponsors were also acknowledged:  Les Entreprises Canbec Construction, represented by  Tony Ciavattella and CMS  Entrepreneur Generaux Incorporé  

We had the following categories this year: apartment / condo; seniors buildings;   commercial and public buildings;  churches / hospitals / synagogues; townhouses;  single family and semi-detached dwellings; and duplexes;

Among the winners in District 2 were

Condominium and Apartment and Category

Le Rothchild I  at 6500 Mackle Rd

Seniors Residence Category

Third place: Manoire Montefiore  at 5885 Cavendish Blvd

Commercial and Public Building Category

Third place:  Quartier Cavendish

I handed out the first prize to Karina Pinsonneault of Canada Trust at 5500 Côte Saint-Luc Road.

Karina Pinsonneault

Overall Courtyard Townhouses

Second Place: Mike and Bluma Litvack  from Cambridge Courts on Mackle Road

Mike and Bluma Litvack.

First Place Tie: Sandy and Bob Lubarsky and their neighbours Jason and Carol Balinsky from Cambridge Courts on Mackle Road

Bob and Sandy Lubarsky.

Single Family & Semi-Detached Homes:

Second  Place, 5777 Ilan Ramon Crescent and

First Place,  5794 Ilan Ramon Crescent

A big thanks to Director of Parks and Recreation David Taveroff, lead staff persons on the event Cornelia Ziga and Laura Trihas, photographer Rami Negev and our technical guru Maurizio Giobbi.

I have always been a big believer in recognizing volunteers and in the City of Côte Saint-Luc we have a large and devoted group of individuals who make our various programs run smoothly and effectively.

Mayor Housefather and Kayla Segal.

On November 1 we held a Volunteer Recognition Evening in our gymnasium on Parkhaven Avenue, nicely spruced up for the occasion. Councillors Ruth Kovac and Mitchell Brownstein co-chaired the  event and hats off to our  wonderful Parks and Recreation and Communications and Public Affairs Departments for all of the hard work they did to make this happen.

Dancing the night away.

With nice background music and the names of every single volunteer being flashed on two screens, guests filed in the room and were greeted by Mayor Anthony Housefather and members of council. There was a light buffet and a chance for people to enjoy some nice conversation at their tables before the highlight of the evening, the awards presentations.

Here were the winners

The William E. Kesler Memorial Trophy recognizes a volunteer for their exceptional contribution to the Côte Saint-Luc Parks and Recreation special events programs went to Irving Schok, who helps organize the annual Valentine’s Day Dance and countless other activities.

Irving was "Schoked" by the award.

The Royal Canadian Legion Brigadier Frederick Kisch Branch 97 Award recognizes the Youth Volunteer of the Year and a leader of tomorrow for outstanding efforts in making a difference in Côte Saint-Luc. It went to  Alexandra Cohen, who as a member of the Côte Saint-Luc Cats Committee, Alexandra produced a nationally recognized  film interviewing professionals and volunteers about homeless cats and about the Côte Saint-Luc Trap, Neuter, Release/Adopt Program.  

Alexandra Cohen

The Socio-Cultural Award recognizes a volunteer for their exceptional contribution to socio-cultural programs in Côte Saint-Luc. It went to Shayamera Navaratnam, who helps out at the Reading Buddy Program.

Shayamera Navaratnam

The Special Recognition Award went to Sid Rath, who wears many hat at the CSL Tennis Club.

The Special Recognition Award went to devoted Volunteer Citizens on Patrol (vCOP) member Lewis Cohen.

Lewis Cohen

The Hazel Lipes Award recognizes a volunteer for their exceptional contribution to the Community Services Programs. The winner was Paula Shuster, a devoted ambassador for   the Eleanor London Côte Saint-Luc Public Library.

Paula Shuster

The EMS Award  (Excellence in Operations), went to Robert Rousseau. 

Robert Rousseau

The EMS Award  (Excellence in Training), went to Jasmit Heera.

Jasmit Heera.

The vCOP Award went to Elaine Meunier.

Elaine Meunier

 The Sports Award recognizes a volunteer for exceptional contributions to the community sports programs went to coach Ron Aberback.

Ron Aberback

The Stewart Mankofsky Memorial Award, presented to the athlete and volunteer who best exemplifies the qualities of dedication, sportsmanship, and love of competition, went  to swimmer and swim coach Alexandre Grant.

Alexandre Grant

The Volunteer of the Year – (Aquatics Program)  went to Laurence Orefice.

Laurence Orefice

The Ambassador of the Year went to Amos Sochaczesvki, who has a longstanding history of involvement in community affairs, dating back to the years he spent as  a member of the Côte Saint-Luc Community Leisure Council and as a volunteer in the city's various sports programs. In 1986 he purchased The Suburban Newspaper. His pride in joy is the  The Jewish Unity Partnership, an  organization he established to coordinate the annual Israel Anniversary Rally which attracts up to 10,000 people each spring. Amos not only heads the committee, he funds the entire event.   

Amos Sochaczevski

The Edward J. Kirwan Award for the Volunteer of the Year who made an exceptional contribution to the community Parks and  Recreation Program went to Victor Waisgrus, a tireless worker in the minor hockey program.

Victor Waisgrus

The Lifetime Achievement went to ageless 90 something year old Jack Budovitch who never stops working, be it for the local Legion, the Senior Men’s Club or Combined Jewish Appeal.

Jack Budovitch

“When we were in school, we were taught that every narrative had to have the five  w 's – who, what,  when, where and why??” stated Councillor Kovac. “Who are they? The five year old who sees a sad child in the classroom and goes over to befriend them..and volunteers their compassion, the senior who drives people to their doctor, those who deliver meals, the parents who coach hockey baseball soccer, the vcops who patrol the streets and the teens who visit seniors. They are everyone.  What do they do?  They  read to patients, help someone cross the street, visit the elderly, support new mothers,  teach about the environment at a farmers market  or community garden, save stray animals and  or help raise funds for various needs. They perform musically or act for our entertainment.  They go door to door for political reasons and give their own blood so that others may live!"

Here is a video link about the award winners.

The City of Côte Saint-Luc presented Dr. Marc Afilalo and Roy Salomon with Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medals at the start of the council meeting on February 11.

Dr. Marc Afilalo was nominated for this award for his contribution in the field of emergency medicine. Chief of the Emergency  Department at the Jewish General Hospital for the past 27 years, Dr.  Afilalo has become a reference in the field of overcrowding, use and  misuse of the Emergency Department, acute asthma management, pain  control, treatment of unstable angina and myocardial infarct. He is also largely credited for the recognition and development of emergency  medicine as a specialty in Quebec.

Roy Salomon was nominated for his long time involvement with  Maccabi Canada, from player to eight-term president of the organization. Mr. Salomon has received numerous awards for his volunteer contribution to the sports community. He is this year’s Honourary Co-President of
the Maccabiah Games in Israel. He has also been Vice-President and Honourary President of the YM-YWHA, received the Norah and Joe Rubin Leadership Award for 50 years of involvement with the organization, and  is a 2001 recipient of the prestigious Yakir Maccabi Award. In 1995, he  was inducted to the Montreal Jewish Sports Hall of Fame.

I have personally known Roy most of my life and a finer gentleman you will not find. On April 14 he will be the honouree at the prestigious annual Cummings Jewish Centre for Seniors Foundation Sports Celebrity Breakfast.

“We are proud that these two deserving individuals are Côte Saint-Luc residents,” Mayor Anthony Housefather said. “They are both  uncontestedly leaders in their respective fields who have realized  significant contributions and achievements.”

Côte Saint-Luc also acknowledged  Councillor Dida Berku, who  received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in recognition of her community service and her initiatives in helping preserve the  natural environment. Councillor Berku was nominated for this medal by  Senator Judith Seidman.

“I’ve known Dida since 1994 and she is a worthy recipient of this  medal,” said Mayor Anthony Housefather. “It is rare to find someone who  combines the precision of an attorney, the political smarts of an  elected representative, and the passion of an environmentalist.  She is someone whose advice and counsel I rely upon.”

The Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal was created to mark the  60th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the Throne. The medal is intended to honour individuals who have given  selflessly in service of their communities. During the year of  celebrations, 60,000 deserving Canadians will be recognized. Côte  Saint-Luc was invited to nominate two recipients.