Thursday 20 February 2014

For those seeking easy recipes for Passover - an early March course

Cooking for Passover is no easy task. With the first Seder set for April 14, master chef Lili Yesovitch has an offer many folks may not want to refuse:  a Passover baking class at Shaare Zedek Congregation  (5305 Rosedale Avenue) in NDG on Wednesday, March 5 (7:30 p.m.).  The cost is $18 per person and there will be samples, demonstrations and a recipe booklet handed out.  

"So many people hate Passover food,  but I have managed to adapt many  'regular' recipes to conform to Passover rules and make interesting and delicious cakes and candies," Lili says, noting that the program will double as a fundraiser for the Shaare Zedek Sisterhood. 

Reservations and payment  are required by Friday, February 28. You can call  514-484-1122514-484-1122, ext. 101 or 104. Visa and Mastercard are accepted.
Lili at work.

Head of CRITIQ urges Liberals and CAQ to collaborate in next election

The president of CRITIQ (Canadian Rights in Quebec) is already getting the ball rolling in advance of a provincial election call. Gary Shapiro shared with me a letter he sent off today to Liberal leader Philippe Couillard and CAQ leader Francois Legault, providing what he sees as a possible solution to prevent a Parti-Québecois majority government.
 
Gary Shapiro
"Instead of the Quebec Liberal Party  and the CAQ splitting votes and enabling the PQ to win a majority government, can't the two of you split up the contested ridings, do not run candidates against each other, and promise each other cabinet posts in the minority government?" Shapiro asks. "The goal is not to let Marois form a majority. If you really cared about Quebec you would do what is best for the province, not for your party. Besides this is also what is best for your parties
 
"Do what is best for Québec. Otherwise we are all lost!"

While it is highly unlikely either leader would agree to this, it is not a crazy idea. It is all about survival.

Monday 17 February 2014

Life after CJAD: Claude Beaulieu and Sheldon Fried seek new challenges

I caught up with Claude Beaulieu and Sheldon Fried recently, two longtime CJAD staffers who were let go when the Bell Media takeover set in last fall. Beaulieu originally joined CJAD in October 1983, hired by the legendary Gord Sinclair.  He is now trying to make a living as a freelance writer and being his own boss. 
Claude Beaulieu

I am past disappointment,” says Beaulieu. “My dismissal from CJAD is behind me, and  I am now looking ahead.  I'm seizing the opportunity that's been handed me to turn a corner and I've decided to do something new.  Actually, writing is something old. I've taken a few writing jobs already and  I am thoroughly enjoying it.  While I do miss talking to the audience, in particular to those of The Suburban's readers who moonlight as CJAD listeners, I can attest that there is indeed life after radio.

 Here is Claude's Linked In infomercial: "Claude is a freelance copywriter and translator with vast experience as a reporter in the electronic media. A strong communicator noted for attention to detail and exemplary command of written English, Claude was a witness to many of the major political and other events that shaped the Montreal, Quebec and Canada of today. His broad experience, talent and professionalism make him a valuable resource for your written communication needs."



As for Sheldon Fried,  a master operator for decades at CJAD,  he is also moving on. “On Monday mornings I am taking French courses,” he shares. “On Tuesdays and Thursdays I go to workshops through La Passerelle, which caters to people ages 40 on up to help them get back into the job market. In May I will be going to McGill University in the evenings and will be taking Human Resources Management. One thing I can definitely say
Sheldon Fried
is that I was very fortunate in working with the best people in the business, the legends and the new up and coming people. This was a passion and something I always dreamed of doing since I was a student in high school and at least I know in my mind that I have accomplished this and that no one can take away the wonderful memories.”

If you are looking for a truly bilingual copywriter or a great voice, Claude can be found here on Linked In. Sheldon is happily reachable via  his Facebook page.