Submission by Maya Nadler – Villa Maria – 2A Why do we have to go to a museum to view interesting and creative works of art? Why shouldn’t our everyday surroundings be just as beautiful? Why is it that when we see a red Cardinal bird laying on a tree branch or a rainbow in the blue skies after a sun shower, we stare in amazement. Well, that’s because these natural phenomenon happen rarely and they give us a sense of satisfaction when looking at them. Imagine a city full of vibrant colors and where everyone uses their imagination and creativity. This would be the Montreal of my dreams. If we use the colors of nature to improve the things that are manmade in our society such as houses, buildings and roads, the city would be lively and would be one of the most colorful and interesting places in the world. I truly believe that the houses and buildings in Montreal are monotonous and would be better off with some artistic skills rather than leaving them as is. You may notice that many of the structures are similar and either have red or brown brick which in my opinion, is pretty dull. It is a good idea to change and spice things up because without color, everything appears to be dark and bleak. For example, in Venice, Italy and in some locations in Mexico, the houses are painted in exhilarating and eye-‐catching colors, which brings the area to life and changes people’s moods, making them more joyful! Not only should our architectural works be expressive but also the roads, which make up a large portion of our city. Why does the pavement of the streets have to be black? Why can’t we have multi-‐colored cobblestone roads like in Amsterdam? Artistic murals can be a beautiful addition to our buildings and at the same time, it discourages graffiti artists from violating the rules. We should add more murals, sculptures and other works of art throughout our city. Have you ever seen the mural on the corner of Decarie and Sherbrooke Street West, depicting a young boy with his toys and his cupped hands holding a magical stream of light? This is a remarkable artistic expression that should be appreciated just like any other masterpiece out there. In conclusion, I believe that we should bring color into the city in order for it to be radiant and full of vibrant colors. The configuration of our city would look ten times better and would express every citizen’s work of art!
Submission by Amalia Mastroberardino – Villa Maria – 5C A Birthday Card Happy birthday Montreal! Three hundred and seventy-‐five never looked so great! Has it really been sixteen years since we first met at the Royal Victoria hospital? I wanted to tell you how sincerely grateful I am for all of our adventures together and also that I’m honoured to call you home. Don’t listen to what anybody says, you’re way better than Toronto, that said, it wouldn’t hurt if you made a few improvements in the upcoming years. If I could give you a couple of suggestions… For starters, did you ever consider a “facelift.” Don’t get me wrong, you’re a beautiful city, but I’ve noticed that lately your potholes are very noticeable, and your bridges are crumbling! The state of your haggard infrastructure is putting your citizens in potential danger, making them suffer from unpleasant congestion and inciting them to covet other lovely cities. Your public transport system could use a bit of a makeover as well, especially regarding timeliness. More often than not, I find myself waiting forever for a bus. Moreover, you should try to be a little more eco-‐conscious. Quebec uses almost 97% renewable energy and has done so for quite some time, but don’t let that blind you to the fact that cities are to blame for a substantial portion of carbon emissions. The new hybrid buses are a great choice and I think moving forward with cleaner transportation is a good environmental move for a bustling city like yourself. Go greener still and grow some new trees, you looked absolutely marvelous this autumn; fall colours really do complement your St Lawrence. Lastly, embrace your heritage. You are so privileged to be the home to such a large number of cultures and ethnicities. Now more than ever you should celebrate your diversity, and show the world that you don’t fear being different. All in all, Montreal, you’re a great city, don’t ever think otherwise. I mean, look what you’ve accomplished! You have a rich and influential history, you’ve given life to exceptional artists such as Leonard Cohen and Mordecai Richler; inspired movements like John and Yoko’s sit-‐in, you’re the home of the Montreal bagel (by far the world’s best bagel), Expo 67, the 76th Olympic games, the Grand Prix, the Jazz festival and let’s not forget the greatest hockey team in the world! So blow out our candles, or let the wind blow away some of those unsightly orange construction cones, and have a truly magical three hundred and seventy-‐fifth, you deserve it! Love always, Amalia P.S. If you don’t mind, could you cool it with the frigid winters, I would really appreciate it!