By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

On Dec. 10, the Village of North Hatley held a public consultation meeting at Sainte-Élisabeth Church to address proposed zoning changes in the C-4 zone. Councillor Andrew Pelletier, in a Dec. 11 interview, outlined the process while deferring specific commentary, emphasizing the ongoing nature of deliberations.

The proposed amendments, detailed in public notices issued by the municipality on Dec. 3 and Dec. 10, include removing single- and two-family homes, motels, and religious establishments from permissible uses. Instead, they introduce multi-family dwellings (with 8 to 24 units per building), commercial spaces, and increased building heights, from 10 metres to 15 metres. These changes aim to accommodate a prospective project in the C-4 zone, which includes properties like the Pilsen and the old Grist Mill building.

“We collected all kinds of information,” Pelletier said of the Dec. 10 meeting, which included a presentation by municipal officials and drew about 20 attendees. According to Pelletier, the consultation primarily focused on the rationale behind the zoning amendments and allowed residents to voice their concerns. He added that the feedback gathered will be reviewed at a Jan. 13 council meeting.

The village’s ongoing master plan process, supported by an anonymous donor, was a recurring theme at the meeting, according to Pelletier and the Dec. 10 notice. Residents questioned why zoning changes were being considered ahead of the plan’s completion, expected in late summer 2025. “A lot of people said, look, you guys are doing the master plan, so why are you doing this sort of thing?” Pelletier explained.

The Dec. 10 public notice highlighted the master plan’s timeline, with consultations set to begin in early 2025 and final adoption anticipated in September. It also clarified that the zoning changes align with the village’s vision of creating a denser, mixed-use core while addressing the need for rental housing.

Pelletier, however, was tight-lipped about specific discussions from the meeting, citing respect for council processes. “We can’t really talk about the project until we get the zoning change,” he said. He encouraged residents to attend the January meeting, where more concrete details will be addressed.

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L’article North Hatley council reviews zoning amendments est apparu en premier sur Sherbrooke Record.

At least two people have been found suffering from hypothermia following a search for suspected migrants crossing through a First Nations territory which straddles the both the Canada-U.S. and Ontario-Quebec borders, according to police.

An ice jam on the Matane River in Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula prompted flooding and the evacuation of dozens of homes and businesses in the city of Matane on Thursday.

The 950-room luxury hotel in downtown Montreal announced the decision in a news release Thursday, saying the labour dispute prevents the hotel from providing its clientele with “the exceptional level of service for which it is renowned.”

The municipal election is nearly a year away, but the race to replace Valérie Plante as leader of Projet Montréal has already begun.

Trudeau can’t be Mr. Nice Guy with Trump in office. Now more than ever, the prime minister needs to pull this country together.

There’s not much that could unite Liberals and Conservatives, separatists and progressives, immigrants and Indigenous, Prairie populists and Laurentian federalists — except a despotic, repeat-rapist American half-wit intent on trade wars and talk of annexation.

Hopping on the first flight to Mar-a-Lago for dinnertime selfies with the Cheetoh in Chief may look like diplomacy to the chattering classes, but to a bully — to a loathsome turd — it reeked of appeasement.

Our great existential crisis is upon us: If Trudeau’s not willing or able to unite his people and stand up for our interests, then the time has truly come for him to stand down.

For more commentary about Montreal politics and culture, please visit Observations from Montreal.

For our latest in news, please visit the News section.

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This week on This is Montreal, we hear about the obstacles Montreal food banks face in meeting specific dietary needs and why many advocates are calling for more financial support from governments.

Montreal saw a 21% decrease in the number of homicides in 2023, according to Statistics Canada. Montreal is also among the major Canadian cities with the lowest homicide rates, at 1.19 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants. The city with the highest homicide rate is Thunder Bay, ON, at 5.34.

Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante shared the news about the city’s homicide statistics, saying, “Our Montreal model of public safety is bearing fruit.”

Overall, the province of Quebec saw homicide levels reduce to numbers not seen since the 1960s. Across Canada, homicides have also gone down, for the first time in a decade.

While homicides in Montreal decreased in 2023 — there were 31 murders last year, and 42 in 2022 — rates of assaults, hate crimes and property crimes (such as car thefts) rose over the same period.

As of Oct. 31, 2024, there have been 32 homicides in the city this year.

For our latest in news, please visit the News section.

The post Montreal homicides decreased by 21% last year appeared first on Cult MTL.

ELNA Medical Group, a Montreal-based company that bills itself as Canada's largest network of medical clinics, has entered creditor protection.

L’article Season’s Greetings 2024 est apparu en premier sur Sherbrooke Record.

Mireille Silcoff’s daughter never read for pleasure, until she offered her $100. Silcoff says the carrot is necessary when you’re going up against Snapchat and Instagram for kids’ attention.

An event being held by the Canadian Street Soccer Association allows people with no fixed address to come and play soccer twice a week. It's also being held to find players for a globally recognized soccer tournament.

A dozen Habs players brought some gifts and holiday cheer to patients, families and staff of the Montreal Children's Hospital as well as Sainte-Justine Hospital.

While the federal government's GST holiday includes suspending the tax on children's toys, defining what's a children's toy and what's for adults or all ages isn't so easy.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Stanstead’s Dec. 9 monthly council meeting, presided over by Mayor Jody Stone and attended by eight residents, centered on the unveiling of the 2025 municipal budget and updates on pressing local matters. Key issues included the budget’s implications for residents, rising Sûreté du Québec (SQ) policing costs, and community infrastructure projects.

Budget focus: Balancing tax rates amid increased property values

The new 2025 budget reflects a significant shift in property values following the release of updated evaluations. Residential properties saw an average increase of 44.7 per cent in value, while commercial and industrial properties rose by 30 per cent. To counterbalance this and prevent substantial hikes in tax bills, the council reduced the tax rates.

“The general and agricultural property tax rate, which was previously set at 75.5 cents per $100 of evaluation, has been lowered to 54.4 cents,” explained General Director Hughes Ménard. Commercial and industrial tax rates have also decreased to 84 cents and 95 cents, respectively.

The council emphasized that the adjustments were designed to maintain fairness. “Our goal was to ensure the burden on taxpayers remains manageable while meeting the needs of the town,” said Stone. The decrease in tax rates reflects the council’s proactive response to the surge in property values, an issue that could have resulted in disproportionate tax increases if left unchecked.

The special economic development tax, however, remains fixed at its current rate. This tax supports key projects outlined in the town’s triennial capital investment plan. For 2025, the projected increase of $14,500 in economic development revenue will fund initiatives such as new business incentives and infrastructure enhancements aimed at boosting local commerce.

The budget also outlines strategic funding allocations for infrastructure, including the ongoing maintenance of critical water wells and planned upgrades for Phelps Street. According to council members, these projects will enhance the town’s capacity to accommodate growth and improve service delivery. “These investments in infrastructure are not just about maintaining what we have,” said Stone. “They’re about positioning Stanstead for future opportunities.”

Breaking down the SQ tax rate

A significant point of discussion was the policing costs associated with the SQ. These costs, which represent a 5 per cent increase from the previous year, prompted questions from The Record during the meeting. Despite the increase in service costs, the property tax rate for SQ services has been reduced to 6.17 cents per $100, down from 9.08 cents in 2024. The reduction was made possible by higher overall property valuations spreading the cost across a broader base.

Mayor Stone reassured attendees that the town’s commitment to public safety remains steadfast. “We’re taking steps to ensure the SQ continues to deliver reliable service without overburdening our residents,” he explained. The council also hinted at exploring potential cost-sharing models with nearby towns to further mitigate rising expenses.

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L’article Stanstead council meets, unveils 2025 budget with revised tax rates est apparu en premier sur Sherbrooke Record.

Nonprofit’s reconstitution breathes new life into tenants’ fight

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In a landmark December 2024 ruling, Justice Martin F. Sheehan of the Superior Court annulled the dissolution of Faubourg Mena’sen, a nonprofit organization in Sherbrooke. This decision effectively reconstitutes the organization, granting it the ability to pursue legal actions against its former administrators and the buyer of its properties. The judgment is detailed in court records and was a critical victory for tenants and advocates seeking accountability.

Faubourg Mena’sen was founded in 1976 under Part III of the Quebec Companies Act to provide affordable housing to low- and middle-income individuals, particularly retirees, according to the judgment. Operating 19 buildings with 172 apartments, the nonprofit received significant public funding through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). The organization’s mission was reinforced by strict clauses in its letters patent requiring its assets, upon dissolution, to be transferred to another nonprofit pursuing similar goals. According to the ruling, these conditions were blatantly ignored by the administrators during its controversial sale and dissolution.

Events leading to the crisis

The judgment states the administrators began soliciting private offers for all of Faubourg Mena’sen’s properties in May 2021 without public notification. By February 2022, they accepted an $18.25 million offer from 9254-1556 Québec Inc. and executed the sale. On March 1, 2022, the administrators renamed the nonprofit “L’Orientation Éphémère,” removed clauses mandating asset transfers to nonprofits, and then dissolved the organization on April 5, 2022. The notice of dissolution was inconspicuously published in the Montreal newspaper “Le Devoir”, bypassing local awareness. This strategic maneuvering ensured that objections from tenants or other stakeholders were unlikely.

Tenants, unaware of these developments, only learned of the sale when introduced to the new owner. This shift resulted in the immediate loss of housing subsidies, as subsidies provided through CMHC were contingent on the properties being owned by a nonprofit organization. Court documents revealed that many tenants lost between $2,400 and $4,800 annually in subsidies, creating severe financial strain. The impact was particularly harsh for retirees on fixed incomes, many of whom struggled to make ends meet following the sudden increase in housing costs.

The judgment

Justice Sheehan’s judgment recognized the administrators’ actions as an abuse of their fiduciary duties. The ruling annulled the dissolution of Faubourg Mena’sen, allowing the nonprofit to pursue claims against its administrators and the buyer. The court noted that the administrators acted in secrecy, failed to respect the nonprofit’s mission, and violated the Quebec Companies Act’s spirit.

The judgment emphasized the importance of protecting public funds used for nonprofit purposes. Justice Sheehan highlighted that public subsidies and the nonprofit’s social mission were intended to benefit tenants, not be exploited for personal gain by administrators. The ruling further underscored the role of transparency and accountability in nonprofit governance, criticizing the administrators for their deliberate attempts to obscure their actions from public scrutiny.

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L’article Faubourg Mena’sen dispute est apparu en premier sur Sherbrooke Record.

Billionaire Robert Miller is facing additional charges of sexual misconduct involving a new alleged victim who was under the age of 14, Radio-Canada has learned.

The Sûreté du Québec in the province's Montérégie region, on the South Shore of Montreal, say the boy was taken at around 1:50 p.m. on Wednesday.

Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante has announced that the Molson Brewery site is going to be developed into a new neighbourhood, spanning roughly 1.2 million square feet between Old Montreal and the Jacques-Cartier Bridge.

The area will feature off-market housing (and a total of 3,200 housing units), green spaces, parks and a riverfront promenade with access to the river. A consortium formed by Groupe Sélection, Groupe Montoni and Fonds immobilier de solidarité FTQ bought the land in question in 2019, for $126-million.

“The iconic Molson Brewery site is beginning its transformation.”

For our latest in news, please visit the News section.

The post New Montreal neighbourhood on Molson Brewery site to feature off-market housing, parks, riverfront promenade appeared first on Cult MTL.

The developers planning to rebuild the historic site of Montreal's Molson Brewery into a mixed-use residential neighbourhood with a park and pedestrian-only area said Wednesday they intended to devote 20 per cent of the project to social housing.

Montreal police say the individuals, aged 26 to 35, were arrested after operations in Montreal, Sherbrooke, Que., Cambridge, Ont., and Kamloops, B.C.

Streaming guide JustWatch has revealed the top 10 TV shows streaming right now. Topping the charts for the fifth straight week is The Day of the Jackal starring Eddie Redmayne and Lashana Lynch, which is streaming now in Canada on STACKTV.

“The Jackal is an elusive assassin who makes his living carrying out hits for the highest fee. He soon meets his match in a tenacious British intelligence officer who tracks him down in a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase across Europe.”

In second and third place are Creature Commandos (STACKTV) and Black Doves (Netflix).

For previous updates on the most popular movies and TV shows streaming in Canada right now, please click here.

For our latest in film and TV, please visit our Film & TV section.

The post The Day of the Jackal tops streaming charts in Canada for a fifth straight week appeared first on Cult MTL.

A conflict over a vehicle towed during a snow removal operation ended with a gun being fired in Montreal's east end late Tuesday.

Canada is not the broken country the Conservatives need you to think it is

While Canada’s economic outlook is high, all Conservatives can do is complain. They’re desperately trying to maintain a false narrative that Canada is ‘broken’ and only CPC leader Pierre Poilievre can fix it.

So as Canada is named among the best countries in the world, the countries with the highest quality of life or even the countries with the most freedom, their panic begins to set in.

But I thought Justin Trudeau broke Canada?

Inflation is down, interest rates are down and Canada’s economic outlook is the best in the world. Canada is not the broken country the Conservatives need you to think it is.

For more commentary about Montreal politics and culture, please visit Observations from Montreal.

For our latest in news, please visit the News section.

The post Canada is not the broken country the Conservatives need you to think it is appeared first on Cult MTL.

Quebec Premier François Legault told reporters last Friday that his government wants to ban prayer in public places, such as parks and in the streets, in order to “send a very clear message to Islamists.” When asked to comment on this news on Tuesday, Federal Immigration Minister Marc Miller said that Legault “keeps picking on Muslims.”

“I don’t know what Legault is picking on. It seems to me that it’s always Muslims,” Miller said, calling for respect for freedom of expression and religion, which are protected by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Legault has said that the CAQ would once again use the notwithstanding clause to shield the prayer ban from constitutional challenges.

Miller also pointed out the irony of Legault’s call for a ban on public prayer, and increased secularism in general (particularly in schools), just hours before attending the reopening of the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.

The proposed prayer ban has also been criticized by the Assembly of Quebec Catholic Bishops.

For our latest in news, please visit the News section.

The post François Legault ‘picking on Muslims’ with new threat to ban public prayer in Quebec appeared first on Cult MTL.

Instagram’s visual nature makes it an excellent platform for building brand awareness. High-quality images, videos, and graphics can help convey your brand’s personality and values, making it easier for potential clients to connect with you on Instagram Story Viewer with InstaNavigation.

Showcasing Expertise

By sharing informative and valuable content, you can establish yourself as an authority in your field. This can help build trust with your audience and position you as the go-to expert for the services you offer.

Engaging with Your Audience

Instagram offers numerous ways to interact with your audience, from comments and direct messages to stories and live videos. Engaging with your followers can help build a strong community and foster loyalty.

Driving Website Traffic

With strategic use of your bio link, Instagram Stories, and posts, you can drive traffic to your website, blog, or landing pages, where potential clients can learn more about your services and make inquiries.

Setting Up Your Instagram Profile for Success

Choosing the Right Username

Your username should be easy to remember and reflective of your business. If possible, use the same username across all your social media platforms to maintain consistency.

Crafting a Compelling Bio

Your bio should clearly state what services you offer and what sets you apart from your competitors. Include relevant keywords and a strong call to action (CTA) that directs visitors to your website or a specific landing page.

Selecting a Professional Profile Picture

Your profile picture should be high-quality and easily recognizable. It could be a professional headshot or your business logo. Ensure it’s consistent with your brand image.

Optimizing the Bio Link

Instagram allows you to include one clickable link in your bio. Use this strategically to direct followers to a specific page, such as your services page, a booking form, or a link aggregator like Linktree.

Using Story Highlights

Story highlights are a great way to showcase important or evergreen content. Organize your highlights with clear labels and use them to share testimonials, case studies, behind-the-scenes content, and more.

Content Strategies for Service-Based Businesses

Educational Content

Providing value through educational content can help establish your expertise and attract potential clients. This could include tips, how-to guides, tutorials, and industry insights. For example, a marketing consultant might share tips on social media strategy, while a fitness coach could post-workout routines.

Showcasing Client Success Stories

Sharing testimonials and case studies is a powerful way to build credibility. Highlight your clients’ success stories and the results they’ve achieved through your services. This not only showcases your expertise but also provides social proof.

Behind-the-Scenes Content

Giving your audience a glimpse behind the scenes can make your business more relatable and transparent. Share behind-the-scenes content of your work process, team, office setup, or day-to-day activities.

Promoting Services and Special Offers

Regularly promote your services and any special offers or discounts. Use clear CTAs and eye-catching visuals to grab attention. You can also use Instagram Stories and Ads to reach a wider audience.

Interactive Content

Engage your audience with interactive content such as polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions. This not only boosts engagement but also provides valuable insights into your audience’s preferences and needs.

User-Generated Content (UGC)

Encourage your clients to share their experiences with your services and tag you in their posts. Report this UGC on your profile to build trust and authenticity. It also shows potential clients the real-life impact of your services.

Using Instagram Features to Your Advantage

Instagram Stories

Instagram Stories are a powerful tool for engaging your audience and driving traffic. Use Stories to share quick updates, behind-the-scenes content, client testimonials, and promotions. Don’t forget to use interactive stickers like polls and questions to boost engagement.

Instagram Live

Going live on Instagram allows you to connect with your audience in real time. Host Q&A sessions, webinars, tutorials, or live consultations. This can help build a deeper connection with your audience and showcase your expertise.

Instagram Reels

Reels are short, engaging videos that can help you reach a wider audience. Use Reels to share quick tips, tutorials, or behind-the-scenes snippets. The algorithm favors Reels, so they have a higher chance of being discovered by new users.

IGTV

IGTV is perfect for sharing longer video content. Create in-depth tutorials, case studies, or interviews with industry experts. IGTV videos can provide more value to your audience and establish you as an authority in your field.

Instagram Shopping

If you offer products alongside your services, Instagram Shopping can be a valuable feature. Tag products in your posts and Stories, making it easy for followers to shop directly from your Instagram profile.

Engaging with Your Audience

Responding to Comments and Messages

Engagement is a two-way street. Respond promptly to comments and direct messages to show your audience that you value their input. This can help build a strong community and foster loyalty.

Hosting Contests and Giveaways

Contests and giveaways are a great way to boost engagement and attract new followers. Ensure that the prizes are relevant to your services and that the entry requirements encourage interaction, such as liking, commenting, and sharing.

Collaborating with Influencers and Other Brands

Collaboration can help you reach a wider audience and build credibility. Partner with influencers or other businesses in your industry to co-create content, host joint giveaways, or offer bundled services.

Optimizing Your Posts for Maximum Reach

Using Relevant Hashtags

Hashtags can help increase the visibility of your posts. Use a mix of popular, niche, and branded hashtags to reach a broader audience. Research the best hashtags for your industry and include them in your posts.

Posting at Optimal Times

Timing is crucial for maximizing engagement. Use Instagram Insights to determine when your audience is most active and schedule your posts accordingly. Consistency is key, so establish a regular posting schedule.

Crafting Engaging Captions

Captions are your chance to connect with your audience on a deeper level. Write engaging captions that complement your visuals and encourage interaction. Ask questions, share stories, and include CTAs to drive engagement.

Utilizing Instagram Analytics

Instagram Insights provides valuable data on your audience and post-performance. Use these insights to refine your content strategy, identify what works best, and optimize your posts for maximum reach and engagement.

Measuring Success and Adjusting Strategies

Key Metrics to Track

To evaluate the effectiveness of your Instagram strategy, track key metrics such as:

• Engagement Rate: Likes, comments, shares, and saves.
• Follower Growth: The increase in your follower count over time.
• Website Clicks: The number of clicks on the link in your bio or Stories.
• Conversion Rate: The percentage of followers who take the desired action, such as filling out a form or booking a consultation.

Using Analytics Tools

Leverage Instagram Insights and other analytics tools to monitor your performance. Analyze data on user behavior, engagement patterns, and conversion rates to identify areas for improvement.

Adjusting Strategies Based on Data

Use the insights gained from your analytics to adjust your strategies Instagram Story Viewer. Continuously test different approaches, refine your tactics, and optimize your content to achieve the best results.

Case Studies of Successful Service-Based Businesses on Instagram

Example 1: Marie Forleo

Marie Forleo, a business coach and motivational speaker, uses Instagram to share educational content, client success stories, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of her work. Her engaging captions and interactive Stories help her build a strong connection with her audience, driving both engagement and conversions.

Example 2: The Financial Diet

The Financial Diet, a financial education platform, uses Instagram to share tips, resources, and personal finance stories. Their visually appealing posts and clear CTAs drive traffic to their website and online courses, converting followers into paying customers.

Example 3: Jessica Hirsh (@cheatdayeats)

Jessica Hirsh, a food photographer and social media consultant, showcases her expertise through high-quality images and engaging Reels. She uses her bio link to direct followers to her portfolio and booking page, effectively converting Instagram engagement into business inquiries.

Conclusion

Instagram offers a wealth of opportunities for service-based businesses to connect with potential clients, showcase their expertise, and drive conversions. By understanding the value of Instagram, setting up a professional profile, creating valuable content, leveraging Instagram’s features, engaging with your audience, and continuously optimizing your strategy, you can achieve success on this powerful platform. Remember, the key is to provide value, build trust, and foster a sense of community, turning your engaged followers into loyal clients.

FAQs

How often should I post on Instagram for my service-based business?

Consistency is key, but quality trumps quantity. Aim to post at least 3-4 times a week, ensuring each post provides value and aligns with your brand strategy.

What types of content should I post on Instagram for my service-based business?

Your content should be a mix of educational, inspirational, and promotional. Share tips, client testimonials, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and special offers to keep your audience engaged and informed.

How can I increase engagement on my Instagram posts?

Engagement on Instagram can be boosted by posting high-quality content, using interactive features like polls and questions, responding to comments and messages promptly, and collaborating with influencers or other brands.

Is it worth investing in Instagram advertising for my service-based business?

Instagram advertising can be a valuable tool for reaching a larger audience and driving conversions. Experiment with different ad formats and targeting options to see what works best for your business goals.

How can I measure the return on investment (ROI) of my Instagram marketing efforts?

Track key metrics such as engagement rate, follower growth, website clicks, and conversion rate. Calculate the cost of your Instagram marketing efforts and compare it to the revenue generated to determine your ROI.

How can I stay up-to-date with Instagram’s algorithm changes and best practices?

Stay informed by following Instagram’s official blog, attending webinars and workshops, and following industry experts and thought leaders. Experiment with different strategies and monitor your results to adapt to changes in the algorithm.

The post Understanding the Value of Instagram for Service-Based Businesses appeared first on Cult MTL.

Psychedelic experiences have long intrigued humanity, with psilocybin mushrooms taking center stage in recent years. Among these, Blue Meanies mushrooms stand out for their unique attributes and historical depth. This article delves into their cultural importance and potential health benefits, providing a comprehensive overview for curious minds.

In the dynamic realm of psychedelics, psilocybin mushrooms have captured significant attention due to their potential therapeutic effects and expanding popularity. These fungi are renowned not only for their psychoactive properties but also for their deep-rooted historical significance across diverse cultures. Among the myriad species, a particular focus on the Blue Meanies mushroom offers insights into a world of vibrant experiences and ancient traditions. These mushrooms are distinguished by their potent effects and unique characteristics that set them apart from others in the psilocybin family.

Blue Meanies mushrooms

Blue Meanies mushrooms, scientifically known as Panaeolus cyanescens, are recognized by their small size and distinctive blue coloration that occurs when bruised. This species has been a subject of intrigue not only because of its striking appearance but also due to its potency compared to other psilocybin varieties. Historically, these mushrooms have held cultural significance in many societies, being used in spiritual rituals and traditional ceremonies. Their use dates back centuries, with evidence suggesting they were revered for their ability to facilitate transcendental experiences. As you delve deeper into their historical context, you uncover a tapestry of cultural narratives that highlight the profound impact these mushrooms have had across time.

Potential benefits of Blue Meanies mushrooms

The potential mental health benefits linked with psilocybin are being increasingly explored within scientific communities. Compounds within these mushrooms can enhance mood and improve cognitive flexibility, offering promise for therapeutic applications. In this broader context of psilocybin research, Blue Meanies mushrooms fit as a powerful example of nature’s potential in aiding mental well-being. Researchers are actively investigating how these substances might help alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and cognitive decline diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s among other conditions. However, it is crucial to approach such studies with caution and emphasize the need for further research before definitive claims can be made about their benefits.

Cultural and recreational use

Throughout history, Blue Meanies mushrooms have found a place in both cultural rituals and recreational settings. They have been used ceremonially by indigenous groups seeking spiritual enlightenment or communion with deities. In contemporary times, these mushrooms have also gained popularity within recreational circles, although this usage often sparks debate regarding legality and societal perceptions. The legal status of psilocybin remains complex, varying significantly across different regions, reflecting broader societal attitudes towards psychedelic substances. As societal norms continue to evolve, there is an increasing conversation around the potential decriminalization or medicalization of such substances.

Safety and consumption guidelines

For those considering exploring Blue Meanies mushrooms, understanding safe consumption practices is paramount. It is essential to approach these experiences responsibly, ensuring proper dosage and environment to mitigate potential risks. Consuming psychedelics should never be taken lightly; awareness of individual health conditions and mental states is crucial before any exploration begins. It is advisable to consult reputable sources or professionals who can offer guidance tailored to personal needs and circumstances. Ultimately, while these mushrooms present intriguing possibilities for exploration, responsible use remains key to ensuring safe and beneficial experiences.

As you ponder over the mystique surrounding Blue Meanies mushrooms, remember that they embody a unique intersection of culture, history and science. Their story invites us to reflect on ancient traditions while contemplating modern scientific advancements in psychedelic research. With this knowledge at hand, you are encouraged to further investigate the cultural significance and possible therapeutic applications of these fascinating fungi.

The post The Mystical World of Blue Meanies Mushrooms: Cultural Significance and Potential Benefits appeared first on Cult MTL.

In two reports on antisemitism and Islamophobia in Canada, Liberal and NDP MPs on the House of Commons justice committee said Ottawa should take steps to keep student protest encampments off university grounds, criminally ban the display of terrorist emblems and recognize anti-Palestinian discrimination as a unique form of hate.

Carla Beauvais is one of the driving forces behind Fondation Dynastie, which organizes the Gala Dynastie that has put a major spotlight on the province's Black communities in the last decade.

Despite the very real safety risk of driving on worn-out winter tires in snowy and icy conditions, more than 850 tickets for non-compliant tires have been handed out by Montreal police this season already. CAA says it thinks the cost of living has something to do with it.

With an estimated one-third of butchers in Quebec set to retire in the coming years, students at a vocational school in Montreal are slicing their way toward a stable career.

The Quebec Superior Court has approved a class-action settlement that will provide up to $10.5 million in compensation for individuals sexually abused by François Lamarre, a former minor hockey coach in Greenfield Park who died in 2020.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Lennoxville Borough Council, led by Borough President Claude Charron, gathered on Dec. 9 for its final meeting of 2024, delivering updates on projects, events, and community efforts. Discussions ranged from the long-anticipated firefighter memorial to reflections on a year filled with festive cheer and sustainability initiatives.

A major highlight was the progress on the firefighter memorial honouring the Lennoxville fire brigade. Initially planned for February, the unveiling is now set for spring due to technical delays. Despite the postponement, council members were optimistic. “It’s a significant event,” one member noted, emphasizing the meticulous planning required to ensure the tribute lives up to its importance. The memorial is set to recognize the service and dedication of the former local volunteer fire brigade, and council members encouraged residents to stay tuned for further announcements once details are finalized.

Council members took time to reflect on the community’s many achievements, with special mention of the Santa Claus visit to Square Queen and Uplands. The festive event drew over 1,000 attendees and featured activities for children, refreshments, and a joyful atmosphere. “It’s always heartwarming to see the excitement on children’s faces,” a council member shared, recalling a touching story about a four-year-old asking Santa for bath bombs. Another highlight was the success of this year’s general events at Square Queen, which hosted 75 activities between June and October. “This year was even better than the last,” a councillor said, applauding the park’s role in bringing people together.

Sustainability emerged as a key theme during the meeting, with council members urging residents to embrace eco-friendly practices during the holiday season. Suggestions included carpooling, reducing air travel, and opting for local, experience-based gifts. “Why not offer a donation to a local organization or tickets to a concert instead of another gadget?” proposed one councillor.

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L’article Lennoxville council highlights firefighter memorial and festive community spirit est apparu en premier sur Sherbrooke Record.

The company reached the settlement agreement in October, but a Quebec Superior Court judge signed off on it Tuesday. 

As public support for immigration dwindles in Quebec and Canada, and as both provincial and federal governments slowly start implementing immigration policy with an eye on the next elections, expect to see even more measures and rhetoric directly targeting newcomers. Opposition parties will, in turn, bang the same drum even louder so the focus remains on them. 

Record numbers of immigrants and asylum seekers, post-pandemic inflation, housing shortages amid government failures to provide adequate infrastructure and social services have created a “scarcity mindset” where immigration — even in cases when there’s no direct or provable correlation between the stated issue and high levels of newcomers — is constantly seen as a problem to be solved. In Quebec, immigration is also perceived by some political parties as an existential threat to the province’s French identity, language and culture, which only adds to sentiments of malaise. 

Business as usual for the CAQ

In response, the Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ) government recently announced that it’s suspending applications for the Quebec Experience Program, a popular path for permanent residency for foreign students who graduate in the province. It also put a stop to applications from the Regular Skilled Worker Program. The moratorium, which affects most of Quebec’s economic immigration, is effective immediately and is already causing concerns among the province’s business community. Earlier this year, the CAQ also slashed family reunification applications by half, devastating the 43,400 Quebec families currently separated by immigration quotas.

I don’t expect much from the CAQ when it comes to immigration. Cheap nationalism has been a mainstay of the party’s politics since the very beginning and it has stayed consistent over its two terms, with Legault claiming that accepting more than 50,000 immigrants per year would be “suicidal” for Quebec (even as the CAQ just announced the province will welcome up to 67,000 immigrants in 2025) and the party’s former immigration minister Jean Boulet brazenly (and falsely) claiming that “80% of immigrants don’t work, don’t speak French and don’t integrate.” 

The CAQ was, after all, elected on the promise to reduce immigration by 20%. It’s also the party that proposed in 2016 that immigrants be screened for compliance with Quebec’s secular values and French language and shipped off elsewhere if they fail after two attempts. Proposals, by the way,  the Parti Québécois (PQ) opposed at the time as “absurd” and “harmful,” but I’ll get to them in a second. 

Knowing all this, the CAQ’s latest attempts to hold on to power and distract from its many failures by, once again, blaming immigration for all that ails Quebec, should come as no surprise.

Housing shortages? Immigrants. 

Even though housing policy experts will tell you that immigrants have historically always been blamed for the housing crunch and shortages also exist in the regions where few immigrants can be found. 

A severe shortage of public-school teachers? Immigrants. 

Even though educational professionals point out that staff shortages have also been taking place in English schools, which newcomers don’t attend because of Bill 101, and teacher shortages have long plagued rural Quebec as retiring educators aren’t being replaced. 

A lack of promised francisation classes? Immigrants. 

Even though Ottawa provided Quebec with more than $775-million for the 2023–2024 fiscal year, yet the total budget of the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) was just over $478-million, indicating the total sums are not being used.

An explosion in demand for youth protection services and the inability of Quebec’s Youth Protection Department (DPJ) to stay on top of long-standing cases involving sexual misconduct of minors? Immigrants are apparently to blame for that, too.  

Even though Social Services Minister Lionel Carmant later admitted he doesn’t have any figures to support such a claim. 

This past October, Quebec Premier François Legault told reporters that Ottawa should forcibly relocate half of asylum seekers. Back in 2019, the CAQ government wanted to throw out 18,000 skilled-worker applications as a quick way of reducing backlogs. After a major outcry, the government backtracked, but not before talented and hard-working wannabe Quebecers got the message that their contributions and expertise weren’t as appreciated as they should be. 

PQ shows similar populist tendencies targeting immigrants

And there are no signs anything will change as the political landscape shifts in Quebec. If anything, the closer the PQ is to forming government, the more likely it is to play on fears revolving around immigration, identity and language.

I worry that as the PQ, which nearly fell off the political map in the 2022 election, starts to slowly rebound in popularity, it’s pushing aside its more progressive agenda and engaging in the same anti-immigration rhetoric that the CAQ has successfully used to its advantage. A big reason for the PQ’s revival has to do with its leader intensifying populist identity-based appeals and evoking fear for Quebecers’ survival. 

In citing too much immigration as a potential reason for why Quebecers aren’t having as many children, PQ leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon sounded eerily like far-right People’s Party leader Maxime Bernier, who recently made the same claim on social media. With Plamondon at the helm, the PQ appears to steadily be lurching to the right, claiming immigration is to blame for the housing shortage or declaring Canada’s goal is to “assimilate” Quebec’s francophones, discourse solely aimed at ramping up support for sovereignty. The PQ’s immigration plan was recently espoused by far-right conservative pundit and current immigrant himself, Mathieu Bock-Côté, as “courageous.”

The PQ has proposed to slash the number of international students allowed into Quebec by half, dropping it from the current 123,689 to 50,000 in the first year of the party’s mandate. This is despite those in academia warning such measures could seriously affect the province’s ability to attract top-notch academic and scientific talent from around the world.

A PQ government would also reduce the number of permanent immigrants from the current level of 50,000 a year to 35,000. The number of temporary immigrants would drop from 270,000 to 40,000. A PQ government would also put a moratorium on the arrival of permanent immigrants in the economic category.

Ottawa also reacts to a decreased appetite for immigration

Even the Trudeau administration has caved to decreasing support for immigration. Amid constant attacks by Conservative demagogue Pierre Poilievre, Ottawa announced dramatic cuts, reducing new permanent resident numbers by almost 100,000 in 2025 and for the next few years. That represents a 21% drop in permanent residents in 2025, from a previous target of 500,000 to 395,000. That’s on top of already announced reduced targets for both international students and temporary foreign workers. Quotas, by the way, that were often exceeded at the request of premiers themselves (that includes Premier Legault, too) to correspond to severe labour shortages at the time.

As I watch politicians locked in a cycle of ever-increasing anti-immigrant rhetoric, aided by media outlets that either misreport or constantly over-report on immigration, creating these dangerous narratives that we’re being completely overrun by outsiders causing all our problems, I worry.

Negative news doesn’t create an environment that’s conducive to reason, empathy and compassion. Asylum seekers, the most vulnerable among us, stand to lose the most. As for immigration, whether there’s social acceptability for it or not, we still need newcomers to boost our aging workforce and a birth rate that’s simply too low to replace our population. No amount of debate or resistance to newcomers will change that reality.

Despite having a critical mass of immigration scholars in Quebec and Canada, too often the public gets its information from those who often deliberately conflate systemic social inequalities with the increased presence of immigrants and who, in the quest for easy votes, often propose simplistic solutions to complex issues. 

Framing immigration solely as a problem without also reminding people of how vitally we depend on it inevitably affects our perception of it. We must continue discussing these issues responsibly and constantly call out all politicians willing to exploit fears and social insecurity for political expediency. ■

This article was originally published in the Nov. 2024 issue of Cult MTL.

Read more weekly editorial columns by Toula Drimonis.

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