In his well-documented presentation, filled with startling statistics on the state of trauma services in Montreal and area, Razek made an earnest case for the construction of the new MUHC hospital. He did not leave his audience shell-shocked, however, but gave them an essential listing of some basic things that could be done to lower the statistics locally. Razek proposes training in basic life support skills such as CPR, the use of bicycle helmets, which have proven to reduce serious injuries by 80 to 85 per cent, more available automatic defibrillators in hockey rinks and other public buildings and the creation of an emergency helicopter system. Quebec is one of the few provinces that do not yet have a life saving Medevac helicopter. Most importantly, Razek is asking for public input and community advocacy to bring the Montreal metropolitan region’s trauma care up to a more acceptable level.
Aitken details history of New Hope CentreThe New Hope Senior Citizens’ Centre in NDG has been providing seniors with programs and services since 1979 — 30 years of what the organizers call alleviating senior isolation. In recognition of its anniversary Westmount community activist Sally Aitken recently published Thirty Years of New Hope Senior Citizen’s Centre in NDG. Aitken writes in her foreword that she tried to paint a picture of the centre of how it started, what it means to a lot of seniors who are fortunate to have found the services it offers and the importance of such a centre.
“I have told this story by speaking to a few members and to the staff and am grateful for their willingness to share their experiences," she said.
Consequently, the book is a detailed history of the Centre’s original mandate and how that has been met throughout the 30 years by providing hot meals five days a week to seniors both in the facility and as meals on wheels, providing activities that meet the needs of citizens physically, mentally and spiritually, and by giving encouragement and support, all of which is authenticated by the experiences of some of the members. The book is available at the centre for $10.
The public is invited to share in the anniversary celebration of the New Hope community within the community on Saturday, Nov. 14 starting a noon. Festivities will include lunch, entertainment and door prizes. Tickets are $25
For more information phone 514-484-0425 or email newhope@videotron.ca
After overcoming challenges in its recent past, Westmount High School, the oldest high school in the English Montreal School Board, continues to graduate students with high levels of academic success. This year a third of the 85-plus students graduated with honours, and many with the well-earned Advanced Placement and Immersion certificates.
Noted Westmount author, filmmaker, Gazette columnist and WHS graduate Bill Brownstein was this year’s guest speaker. He encouraged the grads with an upbeat and humourous presentation about how he got from the auditorium at WHS to where he is today.
The exercises were well attended by students who completed classes in June and teachers and support staff, all garbed in graduation gowns, a platform of EMSB and Westmount dignitaries and a very proud Principal Michael Cristofaro and Vice-Principal Stephen Erdelyi.
“I always think of the space The Gazette gives me as a little sandbox where I’m allowed to play around. They’re very patient with me,” says editorial cartoonist Terry Mosher, better known as Aislin. On Friday, Oct. 23 at 12:30 p.m. at the Atwater Library, he will give an illustrated presentation about his new book, Aislin’s Shenanigans, a collection of cartoons spanning the past three years.The book will be on sale at the event. There is no charge and light refreshments will be served. For more information, phone Tanya at 514-935-7344.
Defending the Client Who Admits His GuiltOn Sunday, Oct. 25, Sundays at the Shaar will present prominent Montreal criminal lawyer Raphael Schachter, who will speak on the topic 'Defending the Client Who Admits His Guilt…. No Problem!' The event starts at noon at Congregation Shaar Hashomayim, 425 Metcalfe. The cost for the event that includes lunch is $5. Reservations are required by phoning 514-937-9471.
