The

O•S•C•A•R© The Community Voice of Old South Year 38 , No. 11 The Ottawa South Community Association Review DEC 2010 Exciting News From the Conservancy (LPC)!

Conservancy Competitive Bid Registered

n Monday, November 15, 2010 the Conservancy offi- Ocially registered its competi- tive bid for the development and man- agement of Lansdowne Park with the city of Ottawa. On Wednesday, November 17, we hosted our press conference and un- veiling of the proposal at the Canal Ritz. We were pleased to have in at- upon Fairness Commissioner whose will be open and competitive. The Board of Advisors will include tendance both one of the principals job will be to determine if the overall representation from the City of Ot- and one of the senior architects from objectives for the City have been met, How will the Conservancy oper- tawa, NCC, Parks Canada, Agricul- NBBJ, the internationally acclaimed and seek best value for the taxpayer. ate? ture/Rural, The Arts/Culture, Herit- design firm we retained for the project. The conservancy will be a non- age, Sports, Tourism, Community and Over 50 people were in attendance at Meeting the Major Guidelines this early morning event including of the City members of local government, busi- The guidelines set out by the City ness, academia, culture, tourism and for the development of Lansdowne community as well as print, radio and Park boil down to four key elements TV coverage. which are: On Thursday, November 18, the City procurement department rejected 1. Stadium, the bid. This was not only anticipated 2. Green Space, but prepared for. 3. Revenue Model and 4. Outside Management. Conservancy Competitive The Conservancy meets all the re- Bid Commences Internal quirements and as noted, retained the Review services of NBBJ, arguably among the foremost recognized professional On Friday November 19, we com- sports stadium firms in the world. menced an internal review process NBBJ has partnered with a variety of under the rules of Substantive Ob- project management and construction profit charitable foundation. Members Business. The park will remain 100% jection within City Procurement, not companies on the most cost effective of the prestigious board will receive public but managed professionally. City Council. Part of this process is and timely delivery of projects includ- no compensation; it’s about giving the appointment of a mutually agreed ing park elements. All subcontracting back to our city and Nation’s Capital. Cont’d on page 6

More articles about Landsdowne Park on pages 4, 6, 7, and 8 Page 2 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010

CONTRIBUTIONS The OSCAR The OTTAWA SOUTH COMMUNITY Contributions should be in electronic format sent either by e-mail to ASSOCIATION REVIEW [email protected] in either plain text or WORD format, or as a printed copy delivered to the Firehall office, 260 Sunnyside Avenue. 260 Sunnyside Ave, Ottawa , K1S 0R7 www.OldOttawaSouth.ca/oscar SUBSCRIPTIONS Please Note: The OSCAR Has No Fax Moving away from ? Know someone who would like E-mail: [email protected] to receive The OSCAR? We will send The OSCAR for one year for just $40 to Canadian addresses (including foreign service) and $80 outside Editor: Mary Anne Thompson of Canada. Drop us a letter with your name, address, postal code and [email protected] country. Please include a check made out to The OSCAR. Distribution Manager: Larry Ostler 613-327-9080 Business Manager: Susanne Ledbetter [email protected] SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS Advertising Manager: Gayle Weitzman 613-730-1058 The OSCAR is sponsored entirely from advertising. Our advertisers are [email protected] (not classy ads) often not aware that you are from Old Ottawa South when you patron- OSCAR is printed by Winchester Print ize them. Make the effort to let them know that you saw their ad in The OSCAR. They will be glad to know and The OSCAR will benefit from their support. If you know of someone providing a service in the com- munity, tell them about The OSCAR. Our rates are reasonable. NEXT DEADLINE: FRIDAY, December 17 The OSCAR is a community association paper paid for entirely by ad- FUTURE OSCAR DEADLINES vertising. It is published for the Ottawa South Community Association Inc. (OSCA). Distribution is free to all Old Ottawa South homes and Dec 17 (Jan issue), Jan 21 (Feb issue), Feb 18 (March issue). March 18 businesses and selected locations in Old Ottawa South, and (April issue), April 15 (May issue), May 13 (June issue), June 10 (July/Aug Billings Bridge. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not issue), Aug 12 (Sept issue) necessarily of The OSCAR or OSCA. The editor retains the right to edit and include articles submitted for publication. The Old Firehall FOR DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES, Ottawa South Community Centre CALL 613-327-9080 or email: [email protected] The OSCAR thanks [email protected] the following people who brought us to your door this month: HOURS PHONE 613 247-4946 ZONE A1: Kathy Krywicki (Coordinator), Mary Jo Lynch, Brian Eames and Kim Barclay, Wendy Robbins, Jim and Carrol Robb, Terri-Lee Lefebvre, MONDAY TO THURSDAY 9 AM TO 9 PM Becky Sasaki, Kevin and Stephanie Williams. FRIDAY 9 AM TO 6 PM ZONE B1: Ross Imrie (Coordinator), Family Gref- Innes, Gabriela Gref-Innes and Fiona Fagan, the Montgomery family, Laurie Morrison, SATURDAY 9 AM TO 1 PM* Susanne Ledbetter. SUNDAY CLOSED ZONE B2: Craig Piche (Coordinator), Pat Eakins, Laine Mow, Hayley *Open only when programs are operating, please call first. Atkinson, Leslie Roster, Kathy Krywicki. ZONE C1: Laura Johnson (Coordinator), the Williams family, Josh Rahaman, Lynne Myers, Jeff Pouw, Curt LaBond, Brendan McCoy, the Woroniuk-Ryan family. WHAT’S THAT NUMBER? ZONE C2: Craig Piche (Coordinator), Alan McCullough, Owain O’Connor, Curt LaBond, Charles and Phillip Kijek, Sam & Avery Piche, Kit Jenkin, Michel and Christina Bridgeman. Ottawa South Community Centre - The Old Firehall 247-4946 ZONE D1: Bert Hopkins (Coordinator), Emily Keys, the Lascelles family, Ottawa South Community Association (OSCA) 247-4872 Gail Stewart, Gabe Teramura, Oliver Waddington, Sullivan-Greene family, Ottawa Public Library - Sunnyside Branch 730-1082 the Sprott family. Rob Campbell - [email protected] 730-8128 ZONE D2: Janet Drysdale (Coordinator), The Adriaanse Family, Gaia Kathy Ablett, Catholic Board Trustee 526-9512 Chernushenko, The Rand family, Aidan and Willem Ray, the Stewart family. Community Health Centre 233-5430 ZONE E1:Brian Tansey(Coordinator) , Wendy Johnston, the Rae Brown- Clarke Family (esp. Katie), Anna Cuylits, Sutherland family (esp. Edwina CUSA (Carleton U Students Association) 520-6688 and John), Sanger-O’Neil family. Graduate Students Association 520-6616 ZONE E2: Chris Berry (Coordinator), Mary-Ann Kent, Glen Elder and Community Liaison 520-3660 Lorraine Stewart, the Hunter family, Brodkin-Haas family, Allan Paul, Mediation Centre 520-5765 Christina Bradley, Caroline Calvert, Larry Ostler. Athletics 520-4480 ZONE F1: Carol and Ferg O’Connor (Coordinator), Jenny O’Brien, the CITY HALL Stern family, T. Liston, Ellen Bailie, Dante and Bianca Ruiz, Wendy Kemp, Kelly Haggart and Taiyan Roberts, Walter and Robbie Engert. Clive Doucet, City Councillor ([email protected]) 580-2487 ZONE F2: Bea Bol (Coordinator), the Tubman family, Paulette Theriault, Main Number(24 hrs) for all departments 3-1-1 Ryan Zurakowski, Susan McMaster, Paige Raymond, Pierre Guevremont, Community Police - non-emergencies 236-1222 Cheryl Hyslop. Emergencies only 9-1-1 ZONE G: Bernie Zeisig(Coordinator), Claudia and Estelle Bourlon- Serious Crimes 230-6211 Albarracin, David Lum, Cindy MacLoghlin, Hannah and Emily Blackwell, Ottawa Hydro 738-6400 Katya and Mikka Zeisig. Streetlight Problems (burned out, always on, flickering) 3-1-1 Echo Drive: Alex Bissel. Brewer Pool 247-4938 -Ottawa South: Rob Cook, Tom Lawson, Paula Archer. Brewer Arena 247-4917 Bank Street-Glebe: Larry Ostler. City of Ottawa web site - www.city.ottawa.on.ca Ottawa East: Brian Lowley, Dave White. DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 3

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The OSCAR welcomes letters on subjects of interest to the community or in response to previous articles. All letters must disclose the name of the writer, as well as the address and phone number. Lettters may be edited for length, clarity, and libelous statements. The opinions of the writers are not necessarily those of the newspaper or its editor. Email your letters to [email protected] or leave in print at the Firehall.

Jim Watson 2) Secondly, it is unaccept- of the child hit by a car at Seneca & these buses would be removed from Mayor, City of Ottawa able that a proposed solution to one Sunnyside Aves., stop signs began go- the bus route no. 7. This agreement community’s traffic flow/ circulation ing up at intersections. Even so, as was respected for awhile. However, Office of the Mayor problems, be to re-direct that traf- recently as two – three years ago, an- since September 2010, these elon- 110 Laurier Ave. W., fic/ problem into the adjacent neigh- other pedestrian (waiting for the bus gated buses, ( in “off duty” status) are Ottawa, Ontario K1P 1J1 bourhood. Any proposal to forbid at Sunnyside & Seneca) was gravely back, roaring up Sunnyside Ave east- Dear Jim Watson: right or left turns onto Glebe Ave., injured after being hit by a car. bound, every week-day at late-after- (or any avenue in the Glebe) from I have been a Sunnyside Ave noon rush hour time (approx. 4:00 to Subject: Congratulations Bronson Ave. during morning & late home owner since 1975. I raised my 5:30 pm). Why are these noisy, intru- & Suggestions afternoon rush-hours can only result children in this neighbourhood. Resi- sive buses being allowed on residen- in increased volumes of traffic onto dents of Sunnyside Ave have fought tial Sunnyside Avenue? Is this a trial ongratulations on your victory Sunnyside Ave, and other avenues of hard to discourage the misconcep- run of things to come, once the entre- in the recent mayoralty race. (old) Ottawa South. Over the years, tion that we are just renters, transients preneurs of Lansdowne Park open for CWelcome back! Sincere best the Glebe has restricted access to ve- not caring about our avenue or our business? wishes for a successful and rewarding hicles, becoming like a “gated com- neighbourhood. Over the years, there Added to the trucks having no tenure as mayor of Ottawa. munity”. For example: barring ac- have been several petitions, on vari- purpose in (old) Ottawa South) but for I wish to relate to you some of cess into the Glebe, at the Queensway ous issues relating to conditions on “cutting through “ the community, my concerns about recent municipal (Isabella Ave), for downtown traffic Sunnyside Ave. The speed limit was the Carleton U - Ottawa U shuttle-run developments which would greatly heading south on O’Connor St; mak- recently reduced to 40 Km. Although buses, and the regular runs of elemen- affect my (old) Ottawa South com- ing avenues inaccessible from the you’d never know it, Sunnyside Ave tary school buses and the usual heavy munity. Queen Elizabeth Drive (QED); and is supposed to be a “no-truck” route. car traffic, someone should take a 1) First, it was quite irrespon- (dare I mention it) having the very The Ottawa Police Services & by-law count and record the existing heavy sible of the (former) City of Ottawa wide Clemow Ave privatised and ren- enforcement agents are well aware traffic volume on the residential Sun- Council to have accepted a develop- dered inaccessible at its extremities; of the boisterous & loud (transient) nyside Avenue at approx. 4:00 to 5:00 ment/ renovation plan for Lansdowne have resulted in traffic congestion on students from Carleton U who make pm each weekday. Imagine what it Park, without an adequate parking Bronson Ave, Bank St, and O’Connor themselves heard into the night most will be like, once the shopping mall, & transportation plan to accommo- Street. If logic and common sense Fridays & Saturdays. As well, the Ot- businesses, and attractions/ events be- date the increased volume of traf- were used, as a basis to improve east- tawa Police Services have been kept gin luring clients to Lansdowne Park! fic the attractions & events of such west traffic flow, Glebe Ave would busy monitoring intersections on Sun- Your consideration of these con- a “redevelopment” will cause. Why become a two-way avenue permit- nyside Ave, intercepting the roll-bys/ cerns would be greatly appreciated. should the (old) Ottawa South and ting traffic flow from Carling Ave to drive-throughs (cars which do not Hopefully, satisfactory solutions may the Glebe communities become the Bank St, to O’Connor St with access stop at the “Stop” signs), as well as be reached. Once again, best wishes thoroughfare & parking lots for the to the QED; Clemow Ave would be the frequent speeders. for much success as mayor of our city. “developers”/ entrepreneurs at Lans- opened up to permit traffic flow from 3) Finally, but not the least, two – downe Park? Also, what will be the Bronson Ave to O’Connor St. There three years ago, OC Transpo officials Sincerely, inevitable additional budget for the should be more accessibility into the came and met concerned (old) Otta- Ottawa Police Services, and (parking Glebe, rather than less, such as Fifth wa South residents, about the noisy, R. Ozga & noise) by-law enforcement officers’ Avenue has been, which allows traffic disruptive “elongated” (articulated) expenses/ requirements to patrol and from Bronson Ave to the QED. buses ( OC bus route no. 7 ) which monitor the additional volume of traf- Suggestion: If right and/or left thundered through the old Ottawa fic and parking congestion through- turns are to be forbidden onto Glebe South community. It was agreed that out the Glebe and (old) Ottawa South Ave, why not also forbid them onto communities? With inevitable in- Sunnyside Avenue? The reasoning creased volumes of car and pedestrian used for traffic concerns in the Glebe circulation resulting from this ill-con- should also apply to (old) Ottawa ceived “planning” of the Lansdowne South. Park “redevelopment”, what compen- Like you, I have enjoyed (old) sation is foreseen for the (old) Ottawa Ottawa South. My parents moved to South and Glebe residents to be ad- (old) Ottawa South in 1955, and it’s versely affected by this “redevelop- here where I grew up. I was living on ment”/ these entrepreneurs’ business Sunnyside Ave. when unexpectedly, venture(s)? in early 1971, city crews began cut- Suggestion: Adequate parking ting down old maple trees, in prepa- facilities/ spaces on the grounds of ration of the widening of a (once) Lansdowne Park, should be provided beautiful one-way tree-lined avenue, for/ made available by every entre- turning it into a two-way speedway preneur, retailer, business, and event from Bronson Ave to Bank Street. organiser operating out of Lansdowne After many car collisions/ accidents, Park. injuries to pedestrians, and the death

I may not agree with what you have to say, but I will defend to the death, your right to say it. ....Voltaire

Send your comments to [email protected] Page 4 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 Brief Notes From the Firehall

DECEMBER at the Firehall Park is run by OSCA with a grant from the disappointment as many programs fill up the first City of Ottawa to help pay for equipment and night of registration. BREAK IN at the Firehall – your community supervision? Registration starts online, Wednesday, December 8 centre was broken into the night of Saturday, * Did you know that the rink is flooded by at 8:00 pm and in person Thursday, December 9 at November 13 and very expensive, brand new volunteers every night? 9:00 am at the Firehall, 260 Sunnyside Avenue. electronics were stolen. Let’s all be vigilant. * Did you know that volunteers are becoming increasingly scarce? GARDEN CLUB – will be back in January with 21 CLUB – Party, Party at the Firehall – It was Please contact OSCA at osca@oldottawasouth. Peonies with Mary Pratt. a great party and EVERYONE dressed in 20’s ca or call 613-247-4872 to volunteer for costume – and the swing band was marvelous and your neighbourhood rink – you will only be NEW PROGRAM IDEAS?– please contact us the cocktails divine! Check out the photographs volunteering for ONE NIGHT a year – two at the about ideas you have for programs or workshops on our Website. most. for adults or children that we could offer at the Firehall. MOVIES AT THE MAYFAIR– Join your HOLIDAY PROGRAMS - for ages 3 to 5 neighbours on Sunday, December 12 at 3:00pm for * Santa’s Little Helpers - Saturday, December 4 INFORMATION and REGISTRATION for all THE and 7:00pm for HOLIDAY INN. * Santa’s Baking Elves – Saturday, December 11 OSCA programs at: www.oldottawasouth.ca - just follow the RED registration signs or call us at 613- FLOODING WINDSOR PARK OUTDOOR WINTER PROGRAM REGISTRATION 247-4946 or drop by the Firehall at 260 Sunnyside RINK – help STILL needed – The brochure is in this issue and is online at Avenue. * Did you know that that the rink in Windsor www.oldottawasouth.ca. Register early to avoid Friends of Lansdowne Question Legality of Lame Duck Council Vote Steven Shrybman By Friends of Lansdowne

ovember 15, Steven Shrybman of Sack Gold- blatt Mitchell LLP gave notice to the City that NCouncil should not make critical decisions re- garding Lansdowne Park at this time. Shrybman, who represents Friends of Lansdowne, argues that Section 275 of the Municipal Act pre- cludes the outgoing Council from making decisions on the site plan and the relocation of the Horticulture Building. “We have what is known as a ‘lame duck’ council” says Shrybman “ a council that no longer has a democratic mandate to govern. The Municipal Act clearly states that ‘lame duck’ councils should not make major or costly decisions. Yet here we have a Council proposing to approve a project of at least $170 Million only 1 week before it leaves office.” City officials have stated that the Lansdowne is not subject to lame duck provisions since the costs of redevelopment were “contemplated” by Council in June. The Friends of Lansdowne counter that cost estimates are not budget approvals and that no city budget approval has been given for Lansdowne re- development. Furthermore, the group argues that site remediation costs (estimated at about $20 Million) have not been considered and this alone is a signifi- cant cost. At the same time, Friends of Lansdowne point out that it is contrary to both the spirit and the letter of the law for a lame-duck council to vote on the relocation of the Horticulture Building--a decision that is both controversial and costly. Bob Brocklebank, a member of Friends of Lans- downe, concludes: “Friends of Lansdowne has al- ready launched a legal action contending that City Council has been breaking the rules and acting in bad faith when it comes to Lansdowne Park. This latest lame duck gambit simply proves the point”. DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 5

OSCA PRESIDENT’S REPORT Board Planning Retreat, OSCA As A Public Organization Best Wishes for the Holiday Season

By Michael Jenkin of OSCAR. to run an organization that is as open who wish to bring issues before it. and transparent as possible, both We also have an extensive network of Board Planning Retreat OSCA As A Public Organization to its membership and the wider committees who deal with issues of community in Old Ottawa South. Our interest to the community and where s I mentioned in a previous In the last issue of OSCAR Board meetings are open to not only individuals or groups can come to column the Board will be questions were raised about OSCA’s our members, but the public at large discuss issues of concern to them. holding an all day planning commitment to being an open and the press. The same is true for These committees report to the Board A organization. In particular, questions our Annual General Meeting. We also and can take these issues forward to session on December 4 at the Firehall. The last time we did something were raised about whether the Board post our agendas and minutes on our it, or can hold public meetings on an like this was about five years ago, of OSCA could or should operate website for all to see and I report on issue if the committee thinks an issue and obviously a lot has changed privately. These issues were dealt OSCA’s activities and issues to you warrants it. Indeed, my observation since that time. Having achieved a with in an article in the same issue by each month in this column. over the decade or so that I have spent major strategic goal of getting our David Law our Vice-President. But There are a very few occasions on the Board is that what we need community centre renovated and perhaps it is also useful to re-iterate when the Board will have a part of their more of is people willing to come expanded and having campaigned for to you, our members and the residents monthly meeting in private; this is out and pitch in to help resolve issues other improvements to the community of Old Ottawa South more generally, usually when we discuss issues which in the community, not the reverse. I that have come to pass (a renovated where we stand as an organization on affect individuals’ privacy (such as would urge you, therefore, to consider library branch for example) it’s time to this issue. OSCA is technically a non- personnel issues) or legal matters volunteering for a committee or take stock and see what the challenges profit incorporated body, made up of where a public discussion might consider joining the Board, as there are for the short and medium term members who live in the community prejudice the association’s position. is no shortage of good things you can and what should be our goals and or have a business here. In that sense While at our Annual General Meeting do. objectives over the next few years. We we are not a government or public any member in good standing may are going to divide up into two groups, body; our job is to represent the speak on an issue under discussion Best Wishes for the Holiday one looking at our internal operations interests of our members who are the and vote on issues before the meeting, Season and particularly our programming residents of this community who join the Board does exercise the right to activities, and another group will OSCA. manage its meetings. As such, people As you can see on the OSCA look at our external activities and The Board of OSCA, which is coming to a Board meeting have to web site and in the OSCAR there are issues such as transportation and elected at our Annual General Meeting seek the agreement from the Board to a host of events being sponsored by development and how we engage by the members, is accountable for bring forward an item for discussion the Association and others over the with the City on these issues. With the management and organization of and to speak at the meeting. This is holiday season. It should be a warm major issues such as Lansdowne and OSCA activities to those members. In because Board meetings are usually (at least in terms of the socializing if infill housing facing us externally and that sense we are a private organization lengthy affairs, and in consequence not the temperature!) and festive time the City’s proposal that we take on the accountable to its members whose the Board does need some ability to this year in the neighbourhood. I did job of running programmes ourselves goals are the betterment of the manage the timing devoted to agenda want to take this opportunity on behalf at the Firehall, we have some very community in which its members items. of the Board and the OSCA staff to tough and immediate and longer reside. As such we are that curious In general though, the Board has wish you a happy Holiday Season and term issues to address. We will be hybrid of a private organization taken the position that to the best of its convey our very best wishes for a safe reporting back to you on the outcome with public goals. We have made a ability it sets aside time at its meetings and prosperous New Year. of these discussions in the next issue commitment over the years, therefore, to hear delegations and individuals

OSCA Movies At The Mayfair

By Brenda Lee and believe humanity can be. They I think that is why we flock to these We will also be offering up remind me of what the holidays really movies…and why we see them over Holiday Inn starring Bing Crosby ast year the OSCA Special have to offer….not just presents and and over again. and Fred Astaire at 7p.m. Tickets Events Committee decided traveling and too much food….but We want to believe…in Santa, are 8 dollars each at the door and are to introduce a new event to love, friendship, family, joy, laughter in love, in friendship , family and available on a first come basis. L and the underlying truth that in the community …and we should…. There will be fabulous door the community and thus OSCA CHRISTMAS MOVIES AT THE end this is really what we all need and because they are all real. prizes at both shows. Your ticket can MAYFAIR was born. desire. We all want to be surrounded It is why we all react to Boris also be used to get 10% off your order Last year was truly wonderful by people who care about us, to be able Karloff as the Grinch saying in his at Quinn’s Ale House, Starbucks, with the community coming out in to give of ourselves unto others and to deep baritone..” Maybe Christmas Wag, and Life of Pie on Dec. 12th droves to two Christmas Classics feel supported, loved and cherished in perhaps doesn’t come from a store, only. You can buy your ticket at the (Elf and White Christmas). I am a our homes and communities. maybe Christmas perhaps means a Matfair Theatre in advance of the complete sap at the best of times, We forget at times that this is little bit more” performance on December 12. but something about Christmas just possible. We forget that we all have We know it to be the truth and it For a chance to win free tickets enhances that for me. So seeing White within us the ability to be like George resonates in us as such. to the Grinch, check out our colouring Christmas on the BIG SCREEN with Bailey, Buddy the Elf, Bing Crosby, With this in mind the OSCA contest at www.oldottawasouth.ca. my Mom beside me was a moment Fred Astaire, Rosemary Clooney, Special Events Committee is proud to All entries must be brought to the I will cherish forever. I admit to Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, present two Christmas Classics that Firehall no later than Dec. 8th. Winner weeping openly as the audience sang …etc etc. We embody these motifs. will be randomly drawn and notified along to White Christmas. can all be loved by our neighbours On Sunday Dec. 12th we will be on the 8th. There are so many wonderful and friends, we can all hold onto the showing The Grinch starring Jim So come out and enjoy a day at Christmas movies that we all see time innocence of childhood beliefs, we Carey at 1:00 p.m. The doors will open the movies with your friends and and time again. They may be sappy, can all unselfishly reach out to others, at 12:30 with a special appearance by neighbours, savour a meal or treat at predictable, etc…but they are also we can all believe in the magic of Santa before the show starts. Tickets a local establishment and embrace the well loved and for good reason. For Christmas …even if it is for only two are 5 dollars each and will be sold at truth and possibilities that the season me they remind me of what I hope hours in a darkened movie theatre. the door on a first come basis. has to offer. Page 6 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 Reasons for OSCA’s Appeal to the OMB of the Lansdowne Rezoning

By Brendan McCoy have. what it is, and that is a change of the Compatibility This development ignores the Official Plan, to create a new Mixed he Old Ottawa South Official Plan (OP 3.6.7) requirement Use Center (Offical Plan 3.6.2). Then Official Plan objectives quoted in Community Association that event sites of this size (e.g. sports the problem would be that the site the City of Ottawa staff report include (OSCA) has appealed the stadium with 24,000 seats), need would not qualify for such a zoning ensuring that new development T to be located on rapid transit routes because of its poor transportation respects the character of existing By Law rezoning Lansdowne Park (By Law 2010-329) to the Ontario in order to ensure spectators can links. areas. This proposal will create a Municipal Board (OMB). This was efficiently be moved to and from the A Major Urban Facility (Official mall with 1000 parking spots and done because we believe that in its site. The underlying purpose of the Plan 3.6.7) such as a mall or a includes buildings 16 stories tall rezoning of Lansdowne Park the Offical Plan requirement is that sports stadium needs to be located at a rapid or taller in a streetscape dominated City of Ottawa is in contravention of venues of this size are not deemed transit station and have direct access by 2-4 story buildings. This is not the spirit and the letter of the City’s to be manageable in transportation to an major arterial Road (Official respecting the character of the existing Official Plan, Transportation Master planning terms without access to Plan 3.6.7.5a,b) but there is neither neighbourhood. This is especially Plan and good planning practice. The robust transportation infrastructure at Lansdowne. This stadium is the true at Holmwood where a two story appeal was made very reluctantly that this site clearly does not have major urban facility that draws the residential street will face buildings and with modest hopes, as the OMB access to. most people of any venue in the city, up to 30 Meters and 18 storeys tall. has a history of being very pro- and it is far away from any transit This development will add car traffic development. That OSCA, and other Main Street station. A Major Urban Facility such and pull commercial activity off Bank community groups and individuals, as a stadium should not have a mall Street. It will endanger the very fabric has appealed the rezoning should be The addition of well over as well as housing. This site should of this historic main street which has an indication of our deep concerns, 300,000 square feet of commercial either be a stadium or a mall, not both. evolved over the last 100 years. and of the City’s failure to act fairly. space represents a doubling of the The proposed use appears to fit best Furthermore, the zoning is so OSCA has concerns in six major areas. commercial space in the Glebe. This the description of a Mixed Use Center, vague that almost any activity could will be devastating to such an historic as defined by the Official Plan, but if take place anywhere on the site with Transportation commercial street, both in the Glebe it were to be zoned as such it would retail, commercial and residential and Old Ottawa South. This ignores need rapid transit, which it does not. allowed anywhere. If the intent is to A key Official Plan objective the Provincial Policy Statement put certain activities in certain areas quoted in the staff report on the 1.7.1(b) which states that “Long- Parking that should be done in the zoning, not rezoning is creating places that are term economic prosperity should the site plan. accessible and easy to get to. This be supported by…maintaining and, “The development should proposal will create a mall and where possible, enhancing the vitality have adequate on-site parking to Public Consultation stadium on an urban peninsula, well and viability of downtowns and minimize the potential for spillover away from rapid transit and with poor mainstreets”. parking on adjacent areas.” (Official Public consultation on this very road connections. The Lansdowne mall detracts Plan 4.11.2.c) This development is large and important project has This development is insensitive from the main street because it leaves providing just 1000 of the 10,000 been as meager as possible and our to neighbouring communities and Bank and juts east into a residential parking spots that would be required if suggestions and concerns, and those lacks the transportation infrastructure section of the Glebe, which will it were built elsewhere in the city. As of the wider public, have been largely it needs. Bank Street is an important draw people off the Traditional Main it exists now with over 2000 parking ignored. The City of Ottawa’s staff commercial corridor, but for much of Street. The Official Plan requires spaces and no mall, office space or report on the Lansdowne Rezoning, the day it is effectively a two lane road that traditional Main Streets are to housing, Lansdowne Park does not some 48 pages long, devotes just two and traffic is often bumper-to-bumper. be preserved and enhanced. Bank is have nearly enough parking for large paragraphs to public consultation. To expect Bank Street to accept zoned as Traditional Main Street, and events in the stadium. By adding more Where is the summary of public significant extra volumes of traffic is has all the characteristics of one both facilities and reducing the existing comments? Has there been any courting gridlock. There is no capacity to the North in the Glebe, and to the parking, this development will not consideration of the enormous amount to improve transit on Bank as the two South in Old Ottawa South. have adequate on-site parking, which of reasoned and thoughtful input from bus routes that serve it can only move will result in extensive spillover community groups and concerned as quickly as the congested car and Major Urban Facility parking into the adjacent residential individuals? That report would seem truck traffic. To succeed, Lansdowne neighbourhoods. to indicate not. needs rapid transit, which it does not This should at least be treated as

Lansdowne Park Conservancy.... Cont’d from page 1

Additional benefits of the Conserv- within two hours of the city. The an- Financial Advantages to our ancy model include, a $6.4M herit- nual economic benefit of the CPC to Alternative without a complete City and Nation’s Capital age restoration to the Horticulture the City of New York has been calcu- stadium The Conservancy bid is competi- building in its present location, a $3M lated by AppleSeed Inc. to be $1B. The stadium option, necessary to tive, at a cost of $98M for the entire heritage renovation to the Coliseum In Ottawa we have a population meet the guidelines of the City and to park, including stadium, it is $200M building and red brick administration of about 1 million, with close to 4 be eligible for the competitive pro- less expensive than the other propos- building, a $1.4M outdoor Concert million within a two hour range. The cess, is not necessarily the best way al; competitive bidding works! Since Shell, a $5M outdoor heated mineral projection of benefit of this plan to Ot- to proceed. It is in fact more profitable the management is non-profit all site water training and leisure pool and tawa and area hotels, restaurants and to not rebuild the south stands, and revenue surplus is returned to the tax- pavilion, protection of the entire Syl- business is $50M annually. Addition- simply use that space for additional payer. Over the 30 year period this will via Holden park and grass strip, plus al studies conducted by the CPC also playing fields and encourage local mean a $300M savings to the City of no private construction, and a build- demonstrate that the quality of life amateur sporting events, for example Ottawa and not a single dime of tax- ing height restriction of 11 meters increases for the local citizens by hav- soccer fields, needed by the 50,000 payer cost. The savings are equivalent (stadium of course excepted). ing spaces for relaxation, sports, cul- young members of the Eastern On- to a 1% property tax deduction, every ture, dining, small shopping and, most tario District Soccer Association. year, for the next 30 years. (The com- Tourism importantly, maintaining a connection The main point we have learned, plete proposal, including financials, The basis for using the Conserv- with nature within the city. from the 60 years of experience of may be seen at www.lpc-cpl.ca The ancy non-profit management model City dwellers always crave our design partner NBBJ, is that we Proposal) was the success of the Central Park beautiful places and that is the aim should put stadiums near rapid transit. Conservancy (CPC) in New York. of the Conservancy. Under the Con- This fact is supported by the City of Additional Benefits New York City, including boroughs, servancy, Lansdowne Park will be a Ottawa’s own stadium location study This plan also includes the bene- has a population of roughly 15 million destination for the city at large, and fit of keeping the park 100% public. people, and about 20 million people visitors. Cont’d on next page DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 7

CITY COUNCILLOR’S REPORT

Deeply Honoured to be Elected to Serve Capital Ward

By David Chernushenko and nearby community actually need. legitimate worries. They know their • Require Building what the community ac- neighbourhood better than anyone, a public meet- wish to open my first of many tually needs — that was the theme and they have a vested interest in ing before site plan applications are columns by paying special tribute of an essay I recently wrote. I keeping their community vibrant. submitted. This is preferable to after- to Clive Doucet, who has served want to share a few ideas from It does nobody justice to dismiss the-fact “public consultations” that I that essay, “Moving from NIMBY them as NIMBYs. Instead, we need devolve into shouting matches and this ward with remarkable devotion, diligence, passion and compassion. to YIMBY,” because it demonstrates to focus on the things we can agree only reinforce NIMBY attitudes. Clive has always been available to the my approach to municipal affairs: on. We need to develop mechan- • Help bring sides together by community, to serve and to listen, and Over and over in municipal pol- isms for local residents to declare holding smaller meetings between I intend to carry on that tradition. itics, opponents to new projects are and constructively contribute to what councillors, developers, community I am deeply honoured to be elect- portrayed as obstructionists who they would like to see in their back associations, concerned residents and ed to serve Capital Ward as your new hate change and certainly don’t want yards, and move forward from there. local experts. councillor. While I had the good for- any in their neighbourhood. Any- Here are some specific suggestions to One advantage of this YIMBY ap- tune to be chosen from a large and one who raises concerns, objects to shift from NIMBY to YIMBY: proach is its versatility. These kinds strong field of candidates, I want to the process, cites inconvenient stud- Respect the City’s Official of community engagement strat- thank Isabel Metcalfe, Bob Brockel- ies or proposes alternatives can ex- Plan. This document exists for a rea- egies can be applied to large- or bank, Domenic Santaguida, Eugene pect to be labelled a selfish NIMBY. son, and we can avoid conflict by ap- small-scale developments, trans- Haslam, Ron Le Blanc and Mano This cynical, divisive approach is plying its guiding principles. portation, landfills, wind turbines, Hadavand and their campaign teams useful for forcing through chan- • Use Community Development energy-from-waste projects, etc. for engaging in what was a posi- ges. But playing the NIMBY card Plans and Neighbourhood Plans to By defining what people want and tive and constructive exercise in dem- is ultimately counterproductive, flesh out the Official Plan in ways that need, and why, and by using this ocracy at the grassroots. because it escalates disputes, en- respect unique community character- information throughout the plan- In my first weeks as “councillor- trenches a lack of trust, and contrib- istics, as determined by residents. ning process, we are more likely to elect”, I and my cohort of 10 new utes to polarized politics. Just look • Give planners and develop- get everyone on the same page and councillors received a thorough ser- at the anger surrounding Lansdowne. ers advance information so they willing to endorse the final results. ies of orientation sessions with the If we instead encourage and re- can understand what’s important to By reducing conflict, we can save help of city officials, and I seized spect neighbourhood involvement the community. For example, create everyone — the City, developers and the occasion to meet as many of my in the ongoing evolution of com- a map-based tool that lets residents residents — a lot of time, effort and future colleagues on Council as pos- munities, we might be pleasantly identify favourite features and places, money. sible, to develop good working re- surprised by a very different, posi- and share their insight into transpor- lationships, and to raise the import- tive reaction: YIMBY, or Yes In My tation issues, business and social dy- My contact details as of Decem- ant issue of the future of Lansdowne Back Yard. To avoid fighting over namics, cultural and ecological attrib- ber 1, when I will be sworn in as your Park in particular. The current re- what people don’t want in their utes and other local factors. councillor will be: David.Chernus- development process serves neither back yards, let’s find out what • Seek creative input on land- [email protected] 613-580-2487 our democracy nor our pocketbooks, they do want in their back yards. use options for neighbourhoods and and there is much work to be done to Residents’ concerns are typical- specific properties. Create an open- ensure that we build what the city ly based on personal knowledge and source registry of unique ideas.

Lansdowne Park Conservancy.... Cont’d from previous page conducted by CRG Research in 2008. How Can you Help? Let us work together to ensure this Most sincerely yours, The study found that the best location Tens of thousands of dollars have beautiful space is preserved and kept for the stadium would be on the Bay- been required to fund this proposal. 100% public for our children and view site, which is City owned land The Conservancy, at the moment, their children. John E Martin at the Rapid Transit Hub where the consists of three individuals, with Michael Gazier O-Train and the Transitway intersect legal counsel. Andrew Dickson near the Ottawa River and LeBreton We need your financial support Lansdowne Park Conserv- flats. The Bayview site is the most to see this bid through to completion. centrally located and easily accessed We take no salary but your help to ancy founding members. site for the entire Ottawa/ re- cover costs will allow us to promote gion. The Lansdowne site came in 6th this viable and competitive alterna- in that same study. (See www.vo-ao. tive. Please visit our website at www. ca for Bayview, Information for De- lpc-cpl.ca for more information and velopers). opportunities to donate online, or call us at 613-898-1284. The main question? Answer what is best for Lans- You can also donate directly to downe Park first and then examine the the “Lansdowne Park Conservancy” best stadium location. It will be up to account at any ScotiaBank (Tr#002, council to decide where to direct de- Acct#0026212) - or by mail to: velopment of a complete stadium. The LPC has shown Lansdowne is self- Lansdowne Park Conservancy financing with or without football, 99 Fifth Ave, Suite 417, and this allows the City to make the Ottawa, ON K1S 5P5. right decision. The Conservancy suc- cessfully delivers on Lansdowne Park with or without a complete stadium, keeps the park 100% public, self sus- taining and adds prestige to our City and Nation’s Capital. Page 8 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 Welcome To Lame-Duck Land! By Ken Shipley pages along with grants to social Steven has a strong track record in authority to borrow money on behalf Friends of Lansdowne services and the arts, support for kids’ taking on, and successfully litigating, of the City – another matter of concern sports, and the myriad other cost public interest cases such as the to taxpayers. [email protected] items council will need to consider. privatization of Hydro One. Welcome to lame-duck land! Even though no final decisions have Readers will recall that OSEG The fundraising target for our ur lame-duck council is been made on the Lansdowne deal, is to rent approximately ten acres of Lansdowne legal action is $100,000. not acting lame at all. It is it may never be debated by our new Lansdowne’s 37.5 acres for thirty Thanks to the generosity of people Osprinting to the finish line, council. It appears that the Lansdowne years at $1.00 per year for residential from all over Ottawa, we’re about doing its best before leaving office file is being “kicked downstairs” and commercial development. Part one-third of the way there, but we on 30 November to make sure its deal to be handled as an administrative of the deal requires that the City need your help to take us over the for Lansdowne will not be reversed. matter by city staff. Our new mayor (taxpayers) pay for redevelopment top. Please help by making a donation This is not supposed to happen. A campaigned on a promise to hold next of Frank Claire Stadium, complete right away. lame-duck council is one where year’s tax increase to 2.5%, but the with underground parking. Less well fewer than 75% of the former council costs associated with the Lansdowne known are the City’s plans to transfer You can donate by will be returning to office. Ontario will make that promise hard to keep. full ownership of the 37.5 acres of - going to http://www. law requires such a council to deal Ottawa City Council’s approval Lansdowne Park to a new Municipal letsgetitright.ca/ and clicking on the with routine matters and not make of the unsolicited scheme by OSEG Services Corporation (MSC) with DONATE button decisions that will cost taxpayers (Ottawa Sports and Entertainment its own Board of Directors. This - sending a cheque to more than $50,000, but the decisions Group) to redevelop Lansdowne Park corporation will enter into leases and Friends of Lansdowne our lame-duckers are taking will cost prompted Friends of Lansdowne to arrangements with OSEG for 30, 50 c/o Ted Lupinski CA millions of dollars. The city argues file an application with the Ontario and potentially 70 years. This could 137 Second Ave, Suite 2 that council has already considered Superior court to quash the deal. provide OSEG with full control Ottawa ON K1S 2H4 the budget for Lansdowne, so they are The legal case is strong and we over all activities at Lansdowne, - visiting any TD bank and making within their rights to proceed. have an outstanding lawyer taking the including: scheduling, pricing, a donation to account 3248-5207023 Not only that, as the new council lead. Steven Shrybman is a lawyer permitted activities and more. It will (please let our Treasurer Jack Gilmer begins to deal with their first major with Toronto and Ottawa-based likely remove normal public input know at [email protected]). agenda item, the 2011 Ottawa budget, Sack Goldblatt Mitchell LLP, one of and control over Lansdowne for Thanks for your help. the implications of the Lansdowne Canada’s leading labour law, civil decades. It is proposed that this new deal may be buried deep in the back litigation and criminal law firms. Corporation be given independent Fight To Prevent Lansdowne Park From Being Privatized NOT OVER YET By Brian Tansey zoning, and possibly environmental. which will be fully explained on Nov made public. None of the costs of re- In addition, the last vote of the last 28th at 4 pm at the Mayfair, has two mediation have been released; they The fight to prevent Lansdowne Park Council on the LPP issue, ( on Nov- main elements: one, the City has may be significant, and the City is from being privatized is not over yet. ember 24th ) may be taken in a per- not followed its own rules about the on the hook for those, not the OSEG Although Council has repeatedly iod known as ‘ lame duck’ , which is procurement aspect of the LPP, and, partners. voted 15-9 in favour of pressing on in the interval between old and new two, it has acted in bad faith from the In addition to the legal challenge with the LPP ( Lansdowne Partner- Councils, as defined by the Ontario beginning. It seems as if every week and its two main arguments, there are ship Plan ) despite warnings of many Provincial Government. City Coun- there is a new piece of evidence of the 14 OMB Appeals; your commun- types and from several sources, they cil decisional powers are severely re- bad faith: the latest was that the Phase ity association is just one of these ap- are going to have to face challen- stricted in this period. One Environmental Assessment was pellants. ges on 3 or 4 fronts; legal, heritage, Basically the legal challenge completed in March 2010, but never It is expected that Ontario Herit- age Trust will weigh in even more formally than they have already done, once the Council votes to push ahead again ( the vote will likely have been taken by the time you read this ). In this case, the Ottawa Built Heritage Advisory Committee voted unani- mously against moving the Horticul- ture Building, so if and when Council votes to ignore the advice of another one of their Advisory committees, they will again be showing bad faith. And there were major changes to the Site Plan from the concepts pre- sented to City Council in June, the most important of which may be the increase in height of the building that is proposed for the corner of Bank and Queen Elizabeth Dr., and a huge increase in the density for the whole site from 300,000 sq. ft. to 500,000 sq.ft. .... plus a decrease in green spaces. Finally the huge increase in lo- cal traffic is projected; this has been a main thrust of the opposition from your community association (OSCA) So come on out on Sunday the 28th at the Mayfair, if you want to have hope that our public treasure will be saved, and to learn about the strength of the legal arguments to make that happen. DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 9 OSCA Comments on the Corridor Pedestrian Crossing Study By Brendan McCoy the minimum of one point between Pretoria Bridge and Somerset Street OSWATCH Co-Chair for the on the Queen Elizabeth Driveway, Old Ottawa South Community and also at the minimum of one Association (OSCA) point between Pretoria Bridge and Fifth Avenue on the Queen Elizabeth (These comments were submitted to Driveway. the NCC by the OSWATCH Chair for OSCA. These comments are a Crossing Points response to the Pedestrian Crossing Study that the NCC recently carried Bronson Place out. The study is available on the OSCA web site http://oldottawasouth. A “pedestrian refuge island” ca/ ) should be added to this intersection on Colonel By Drive as part of s Chair of OSWATCH (the intersection improvements. planning and development Acommittee for OSCA) I was Leonard very disappointed to read the NCC’s report on pedestrian crossings on While not part of the study, the Rideau Canal in our area of Old despite our request, a safe crossing Ottawa South, in particular on Colonel point in this area to allow pedestrians By Drive. We believe residents have and cyclists to access the NCC path is the right to safely access the canal needed. paths and the NCC skateway, but at the present time they cannot do this. It Echo DriveWest of Bank Street is good that the need to do this study was recognized by the NCC, as OSCA This crossing point on Colonel By and local residents have been asking Drive is heavily used and needs safety for a safer way to cross Colonel By and working for safety for all users, While we are not opposed to improvements. The path and steps Drive for some time. especially pedestrians and cyclists. improved signage, there is little should be maintained in the winter. The outcome of this study is very In densely populated areas such evidence it actually improves safety. The pedestrian “storage” or waiting modest indeed. Small improvements as Old Ottawa South there should be Signs are cheap and an easy way to area should be expanded. Further to crossing points such as on a safe place to cross both sides of the have done something, but it is physical improvements should be explored for Colonel By Drive at Bronson Place, Rideau Canal approximately every 0.5 changes to the road and crossing this area. below the Bank Street Bridge, and kilometer. It has become very difficult lights that really have an impact, and at the Echo Drive steps are a good to cross Colonel By Drive at rush are needed. So we would strongly (While stairs from the Bank beginning. OSCA will support their hour periods unless you can run. Even suggest such safety improvements as Street Bridge to the NCC pathway implementation, but the reality then pedestrians face long waits or are pedestrian waiting/storage areas and are outside the scope of this study, continues to be that in order to cross forced to take dangerous chances. As crossing lights. (See Effectiveness of the NCC should explore them as an Colonel By Drive residents of Old a result children, the elderly and those “Children at Play” Warning Signs, option to allow pedestrians to safely Ottawa South as well as visitors to the with handicaps are at great risk or Transportation Synthesis Report, cross Colonel By Drive.) area must look both ways, and when prevented from crossing. CTC & Associates LLC, WisDOT there is no traffic, RUN. People must Therefore there should be 3 or Research and Library Unit, 2007. Echo Drive Steps at Riverdale run because this is very busy roadway, more safe crossing places in the area “There is no evidence that special Avenue with high speeds as the study showed. from Bronson Place to Echo Drive warning signs of this sort reduce driver This key crossing point on Also the sight lines are bad because and Riverdale Avenue on Colonel speeds or crash rates.” http://on.dot. Colonel By Drive is heavily used, the road here curves and undulates By Drive. Priority at these crossing wi.gov/wisdotresearch/database/tsrs/ especially during the skating season, in several places, so it is very hard to points should be given to pedestrians tsrchildrenwarningsigns.pdf) and needs safety improvements. The know if it is safe to cross, particularly and cyclists, not cars. Some crossing spots in certain steps should be maintained in the given the speed of the traffic. This is The statistics on crossing were areas such as Centretown and the Glebe winter. The pedestrian “storage” or an unacceptable situation. artificially low as they reflected how were not assessed. OSCA supports waiting area at the base of the steps General Comments many people crossed despite it being other community associations in should be enlarged. OSCA originally requested dangerous. They are not a reflection their desire to have safe crossings at a study of a crossing point in the of the demand which is likely much area of Leonard Street where there higher. is significant pedestrian traffic. Safety was only given a 30% Unfortunately this was not done. weighting, almost the same as heritage Both Colonel By Drive and the and aesthetics. Safety should have Queen Elizabeth Driveway have a much higher weighting. It is not become North-South freeways for acceptable to give such a low priority commuters, a purpose for which they to safety, it should be the predominant were not designed. The NCC should concern in terms of intersection work to resist their conversion into design, and should trump all other commuter routes by reducing speeds considerations. Page 10 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 Collisions on Colonel By: Above Normal

By John Dance rate is higher than the NCC’s typical collision rate on both two-lane and ver wonder about the “dead” four-lane parkways, it is lower than light standards that appear from the 1.21 collision rate of Island Park time to time along Colonel By Drive. E The entire 8 kilometer length of Drive between Bank and Bronson? They are victims of a stretch of the Colonel By had a collision rate of parkway that has a relatively high rate 0.58 “which is similar to other two- of collisions. lane parkways,” the NCC’s report According to a 2007 report of the says. Queen Elizabeth Driveway and National Capital Commission, “There the Rockcliffe Parkway had collision are no cost-effective actions which rates of 0.60 and 0.47 respectively. can be taken to reduce the collision Statistics provided by the NCC rate [on this section of Colonel By].” show that over the last 20 years the The report says,”The higher collision traffic on Colonel By has not grown rate, in all probability, is related to the much. For instance, the average 24- curvilinear alignment of the roadway hour traffic count on the section of and the high number of intersecting Colonel By between Bank and Clegg local streets.” was 17,371 in 1988 vs 18,944 in 2008. The report’s collision data from And on some sections of Colonel By, 2001 to 2005 show that there were 36 notably between Carleton University collisions, or an average of seven a and Bronson, the traffic has actually year, on the one-kilometer stretch of dropped. Colonel By. Of the 26 collisions, 80 Michael Muir, the NCC’s Land percent occurred when the pavement Manager, notes that although Colonel was either wet or there was snow, By has accident rates comparable to ice, or slush present. Single-vehicle those of similar roads, the accidents collisions accounted for most of the tend to be dramatic and always get accidents. attention, especially when the vehicles crash into the canal. Traffic Growth Limited Colonel By Accident: In October another light standard was destroyed on NCC Plans Colonel By Drive, just west of Bank Street. This Old Ottawa South portion of Colonel By Drive had a collision “The NCC is continually Works Engineering. Some of the parkways. rate of 1.01 collisions per million monitoring accident rates,” says Commission’s initiatives to improve Also, a series of other measures kilometers travelled. Although this David Graham, Manager, Civil pedestrian safety on the parkways is being contemplated in the context include the recently released study on of the neighbouring community the canal parkway crossings and the associations, including the Ottawa erection of signs that warm motorists South Community Association, of pedestrians crossing at the four providing their perspectives. busiest crossings of the two canal

Submit articles about interesting people you know in Old Ottawa South to oscar@ oldottawasouth.ca Area Church Service Times Sunnyside Wesleyan Chuch St Margaret Mary’s Parish 58 Grosvenor Avenue (at Sun- 7 Fairbairn (corner of Sunnyside) nyside) Sunday Liturgies Sunday Worship Service at 9am 9:30am and 11:30am & 11am Christian Meditation Children’s program offered during Mondays at 7:00 pm. both worship services. Evening Prayer: Tuesday at 7 p.m.

Trinity Anglican Church Services Southminster United Church Sunday - 8 a.m. Holy eucharist 15 Aylmer Avenue (at Bank & the 10 a.m. Holy eucharist with Choir Canal) and Church School Sunday Worship Thursday - 10 a.m. Holy eucharist 10:30 a.m. (9:30 a.m. July & in the Chapel, August) followed by bible study Sunday School During worship, September - May DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 11 On Community and Grocery Stores

By Janine Debanné -- with determination. Since opening his grocery store he has gone the or those of us who prefer the extra mile with his team to make this smaller grocery experience our community grocery store, with to the bewilderingly huge thoughtful food choices and truly Superstore,F there was happy news in excellent pricing. But “they haven’t the opening of Cedars & Co Food come,” he told me recently. The Market this past summer. The “all in community, that is. And with large one glance” grocery is a rare species. distributors looming just over bridge, Their owners must be valiant types that is not good news. because they must not only compete This leads me to some soul with larger stores and exclusive searching about food, about health, supplier agreements, but with car about values. Brian has brought in the culture in general. And there is items we asked him for, some of them another obstacle: today’s extravagant punishingly expensive, only to have to throw much of it out – thousands of food culture and a wide variety of stretch of Bank Street. And based on have preferred to see a full on health dollars worth of organic perishables dietary preferences. the Rideau Street experience, when food store like the Wheatberry settle for example – because we did not Since its opening, I often walk the mall at Lansdowne takes root we here, others a Produce Depot, others a come back to purchase them. Granted into the store hoping to see it abuzz, might be more likely to get a Money Nicastro, etc. But Cedars & Co is here the fit between the store and the and I chat with the owner, Brian, to get Mart than a fancy food market. among us, fulfilling an essential role neighborhood needs adjusting, but the news on how things are going. “Have With his exceedingly kind staff, in a walkable community, and taking question arises: are we a community the students started coming? What Brian has created a kind of dream on the small grocery store risk. Maybe that sits back with entitlement waiting new things have you brought in?” store, possessing all the things a its time we become the community for things to be brought to us, or And Brian speaks with optimism and human being should hope to eat in a that deserves a store like this, and start one that collectively builds itself energy about his venture, apologizing healthy daily diet, plus baklava. He to shop there. by supporting each other during the for the in-progress aspects of the offers a complete range of produce, growing pains? store, welcoming suggestions, and meat and fish (Brian has found another Editor’s Note: the author brought Many neighborhoods pine for saying how much he loves those in the supplier), and a myriad of nourishing this story to the attention of Maria a store such as Cedars & Co. And it neighborhood who come to him daily international foods. There is also the Cook, who covered the story in The is not as if vacant stores fly off the for their groceries. loving home-made touch of Lebanese Citizen. See “Grocer sets store by market in Old Ottawa South. After the I’ve never seen as hard working a specialties and treats including baba locality,” http://www.ottawacitizen. closure of the previous grocery store grocer as Brian. He faces each day’s and mama ganoush, prepared on the com. at Bank and Cameron, the space was challenges -- such as when a local premises in the behind-the-scenes vacant for a year and a half. There fishery forced his supplier to drop him kitchen. Perhaps some of us might are other stale vacant spaces on our Page 12 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 Fall Fest (or the day a goat pooped in the Firehall) by Brenda Lee Queen…Michael Dobbin Hand made Hallowe’en Quilt blame it all on Bob…he wrote on from Deirdre McQuillan….Karen my facebook page that he would Goodrich be away during Fall Fest this year, Jelly Bean Contest…Sophie Troh I Best Jack o Lantern Design prize but that he knew it would be good weather since” it is always good of one very large pumpkin…Darcy weather for Special Events”….or McCoy perhaps it was my refusing to buy a Thank you so much to all of the rain coat this year…or maybe it was people and businesses who donated just a part of the water cycle …but prizes to this event. It is really whatever the reason the weather gods wonderful how many donations we looked down upon Fall Fest this year had and a true testament to what a and tried to rain it out. Luckily for great community we live in. Please us we now have a new and improved go out and thank the businesses and Firehall that is actually large enough let them know that their help was to host an indoor Fall Fest. appreciated!! So after a flurry of phone calls and as the winner of the 50/50 prize and Mary Anne Thompson. Thanks goes out to the local e-mails on the Saturday, the Fall Fest he walked away with over 60 dollars Raffle Prize winners were vendors( listed above) who helped was quickly shifted to the Firehall on in his pocket. ….and no he did not get Kaleidoscope Kids Books and who took time out of their busy Sunday, Oct. 24th. to keep the goat!! basket….Catherine Radford schedules to make the Fall Fest a true We were worried that we might While Nic’s win was certainly the Teak Statue from D’Grandeur celebration. have a low turnout, but in the end over most entertaining, there were other ….Kelly Campbell Thanks also to all of the many 200 people showed up to celebrate prizewinners who were equally as Hair cut from Fatia at Atlantis volunteers who helped out at this Fall at the Firehall! happy with their wins. (and yes you Beauty Salon…Lori Sullivan event. These events would be With over 12 pots of soup will see the Wennekes name featured Life of Pie free pie certificate… absolutely impossible without your donated and free hot dogs and drinks prominently in this list. I hope Nic Brenda Sidla and Avra help and it is again a testament to the from OSCA, people were well fed went out and bought a lottery ticket Brendan Flynn c.d …L Rachlis community that we live in that we had and ready to check out the various after the Fall Fest!) John Allaire c.d…..L. Rachlis such hard working and committed activities offered. There were games Best Soup Prize (a 25 dollar gift Cooper Brothers c.d…..Kerry volunteers. THANK YOU! from the Firehall Staff, hay rides, certificate to Taylor’s) went to Cas Duffy And if it looked like fun, and pumpkins, raffles, local vendors Houde. Bytowne Beauty Supplies you want to volunteer at our next (thanks to Yummy Cookies, Life of Best Pie (25 dollar gift certificate package…Dianna Rachlis event ( The Winter Carnival ), then Pie, Alpenbick Farms, Cas Houde and to Domus) went to Julia Danis. Yummy Cookies basket….Regis please call 613 247 4872 for more Christopher Heilmann), live music Best Pickle (25 dollar gift Alcorn information or watch the OSCAR and (courtesy of Darcy Middaugh and The certificate to Patty’s Pub) went to Wag package…Nic Wennekes www.oldottawasouth.ca as we get Ottawa Folklore Centre) food contests Brenda Lee and her day care children. Global Pet Foods Package….Nic closer to Feb. and of course GOAT BINGO! Best Preserve (20 dollar gift Wennekes Now I am off to kick Bob and When Cathie suggested to me certificate to Quinn’s Ale House and Two hair cuts from Sunnyside buy a rain coat…..and maybe get Nic that we just move the Goat Bingo a Quinn’s t-shirt) went to Mary Anne Barber’s…Kevin Wennekes Wennekes to pick the date of the next inside, I almost fainted…but I quickly Thompson. Mother Tongue Calendar….Kerry Fall Fest. recovered, bought some painter’s tape Best Jam (Life of Pie gift certificate Duffy and just went with it. In the end the and a Dairy Queen certificate) went to Two Treatza Pizza’s from Dairy goat” picked” Nic Wennekes’ square Sudoku Sudoku Solution on page 19 To complete the puzzle: 1. all rows must contain digits 1 to 9 only once 2. all columns must contain the digits 1 to 9 only once. 3. each of the nine boxes must contain the digits 1 to 9 only once DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 13 Beaver Sightings in Old Ottawa South

Beavers gather around the camp fire

By Janet Jull and Darwin Among the special days music that engages all Beavers in offers challenging programs for boys, Jull (cub) recognized by the Beaver colony enthusiastic sing alongs. girls and youth age 5-26 in thousands has been Remembrance day, and The17th Southminster Scout of individual groups in most cities and he Old Ottawa South , with related crafts and Group offers co-educational programs towns across Canada. Over 74,000 Beaver colony, identified stories; the change in season, with for Beavers (ages 5-7), Cubs (8- young people enjoy Scouts Canada’s as part of Scout Canada’s evening hikes, campfires and s’mores. 10) and Scouts (11-13). For more programs, which are provided Tth And they’re not staying put in their information on Scouts Canada, please by 23,000 caring and dedicated 17 Southminster group, has been meeting weekly at Old Ottawa lodge. Look for glimpses of Beavers contact: volunteers. Scouts Canada’s national South’s Southminster United Church. in the neighbourhood and other far office is located in Ottawa. The colony has been active since away OOS beaver habitats like the Scouts Canada, the country’s early September, with sightings of Science and Technology museum leading youth organization, Beavers and their leaders in parks, where members of the colony plan to and trails, within the Old Ottawa overnight soon. South neighbourhoods. Beaver outings are organized and These are enthusiastic and led activities by dedicated leader, energetic beavers. When asked about Rusty, who is assisted by a team of Beaver activities, one colony member talented and kind parent volunteers. stated “It’s great. We have fun and Rusty personally greets each of the play lots of games, and we have hot Beaver members by name before the chocolate.” start of the meetings, and ends the evening meeting with his guitar and Cubs At Large In Old Ottawa South By Janet Jull and Darwin Jull (cub)

he Old Ottawa South Cub Scout Pack, part of Scout Canada’s 17th Southminster group, has been meeting weekly at Old Ottawa South’s TSouthminster United Church. The cubs are led by parents who are also dedicated and talented volunteers, and they have their hands full with this energetic young bunch of fun seekers. Cub scouts are an outdoor program, and the cub pack has been already been active around the neighbourhood and parks of Old Ottawa South. With activities ranging from tree planting, hiking, and games, there is a lot to keep the cubs engaged. At meetings, cubs have the chance to learn about interesting subjects and then put their knowledge to practical use. Animation was the focus of last few meetings, and has already resulted in a clip called the “attack of the angry bananas”. Cub activities were described by one pack member as focused on “Learning skills, having fun, and learning to get along with everyone”. The17th Southminster Scout Group offers co-educational programs for Beavers (ages 5-7), Cubs (8-10), Scouts (11-13), and Venturers (14-17). For more information on Scouts Canada, please go to scouts.ca.

Scouts Canada, the country’s leading youth organization, offers challenging programs for boys, girls and youth age 5-26 in thousands of individual groups in most cities and towns across Canada. Over 74,000 young people enjoy Scouts Canada’s programs, which are provided by 23,000 caring and dedicated volunteers. Scouts Canada’s national office is located in Ottawa. Page 14 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 OTTAWA SOUTH HISTORY PROJECT A Profile of Architect Cecil Burgess This month’s contribution to the Ottawa South History Project comes from Jean-Claude Dubé.

ld Ottawa South has the privilege of having been the Oneighbourhood of choice of a most prolific architect of Ottawa during the 20th century. While the designer of the Old Fire Hall No.10 Werner Edgar Noffke (1878-1964) may be better known, his contemporary Cecil Burgess (1888-1956) left behind a legacy just as bountiful and diverse as his fellow professional and rival. English-born and trained, Cecil Burgess arrived in Ottawa in 1908 at the age of 20. He worked as a draughtsman and assistant for the firm of Weeks and Keefer for some years and resided as a roomer at 418 Gladstone. He married Violet Hervey from Round Hill, Nova Scotia in 1913 and took residence at 81 Third Avenue. At that time, he had partnered with his boss, A.Le B. Weeks, under the company name of Weeks and Burgess. When he moved to 404 Riverdale Avenue, his partner was R.H. Millson. Cecil Burgess then took up 25 Bellwood residence with his young family at The introduction of modern and brought new meaning to the word partnership of Hazelgrove & Burritt, 25 Bellwood and remained there for rapid building construction methods “modern”. Cecil Burgess was a man he worked mostly alone for the thirty-some years. Those years were with structural steel and reinforced of his time, he was modern, and he following ten years. This is when the most fruitful period of his sound concrete brought about the concept of designed the Bank Street Coliseum in he designed St. Matthews Anglican and imaginative career. Every time we walls no longer being weight-bearing 1926. Church on First Avenue, The Windsor pass by Lansdowne Park and admire but rather like skins applied to a The Coliseum at Lansdowne Park Arms at 150 Argyle, the Duncannon the design of the Coliseum we should skeleton with strong components. was a project paid by three government at 216 Metcalfe, the Val Cartier be reminded of his great talent for Support columns were replaced levels to help celebrate the centennial Apartments on Cartier Street and the creativity and innovation infused with with thin wall-engaged pilasters of Ottawa. The street façade addition Trafalgar Apartments on Metcalfe. restraint. that offered much vertical visual was made perpendicular to the then These buildings are all variations of The Coliseum is possibly the very features. The architectural bulkiness existing building known as Howick the Stripped Classicism early version first Art Deco civic building designed of former decades was replaced with Hall. It was built in record time. The of Art Deco. The Windsor Arms has a in Canada in the 1920s. Early 20th a light and frugal distinctiveness of contract was given in February 1926 most beautiful entrance that is worth a century architectural design in urban the Roaring Twenties. Society had and week-long centennial celebrations trip just to see. Canada was not evolving as rapidly been through a Great War, Spanish were held in the large 200-seat dining The 6-storey Art Deco Postal as it was in European and American Influenza, a large national debt, room on the second floor in August. Terminal Building on Besserer cities. As can be seen on many financial turmoil and unemployment. This upper floor has huge multi-paned Street, which he designed with his buildings and houses completed The new decade brought the radio, windows that brought natural light partner E.A. Gardner in 1935, became during that period in Ottawa, and phonographs and talking movies. and ventilation to the dining room and redundant when the train station especially in the Glebe and Old Car manufacturing, paper mills and the kitchen, bathrooms and an office was moved to the outskirts of the Ottawa South, the designs were of the gold mines created new employment or reception room in the north-west city according to the Greber plan. It Edwardian style with large cornices, and financial security. People started corner. was demolished to make way for the block-like brackets and braces, touring overland by car and overseas Early in the 20th century, Cecil . oversized keystones, porticos and by pleasure ship. Jazz music, novel Burgess was involved with the Between 1942 and 1944, Cecil pediments, columns, flattened roof dances and upsetting dress styles architectural drawings of Ashbury Burgess oversaw the construction of lines, and heavy horizontal banding. College, the Ottawa Hunt Club and eighty building at HMCS Cornwallis the Rivermead Golf Club House, the Naval Base near his wife’s hometown Rosenthal Building and the Birks of Round Hill, N.S. At that time, Building on , Fire Hall Cornwallis was the largest naval base No.5 on King Edward and the Bank of in the British Commonwealth. Montreal at Somerset and Bank (now He had kept his house on part of the Hartman’s Metro grocery Bellwood and after the war he store). came back to restart his practice. With his partner, R.H. Millson, He designed St. Peter’s Lutheran he designed the Larocque Department Church on Lyon Street and the Manor Store, Rideau and Dalhousie; the Park Public School. Being an active Plant Bath, Somerset and Preston; member of Trinity Anglican Church the Blackburn Building, Spark Street; at Bank and Cameron, he oversaw Fire Hall No.11, Parkdale Avenue; St. the reconstruction of the church after John Anglican Church in Kars; Holy it burnt down in 1947. He had served Name in Pembroke; as rector’s warden of the church from St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in 1934 to 1942. Perth; and the Carnegie Library in In the 1950’s, Cecil Burgess Renfrew. After the Coliseum in 1926, Cont’d on next page which Burgess designed with the DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 15 A HARD DAY’S PLAY Mis-Steps and Recoveries By Mary P …double damn… Only, when I’d dissassembled per bags, neatly labelled, and this is a Happily, I have a brilliant, cre- the first clothes-hanger, I discovered KIT, you see. A KIT, so you can make hristmas is coming! That ative older daughter, extra interfacing it was TOO FAT to go through the your own wreath at home!!! means gift, and, because I am and leftover lightning-bolt material, spring of the clothespeg. So I have (Assuming your mothers haven’t a creative sort (not to mention so I can make... a wee superhero shirt 172 painted clothespegs, 200 metallic tossed all the flimsy coathanger in C for the littlest one!!! pony beads, a few metres of Christ- your houses…) mildly impoverished) I make my gifts. Gifts for the daycare kids, and gifts Phew. mas ribbon, four eager and expectant This afternoon, while the mid- for the daycare kids to give to their Project #2: Clothes-peg wreaths four-year-olds… and no craft. dlers are napping, I plan to assemble parents. That’s some heap o’gifts. It for the four-year-olds to give to their …damn… project #3: the picture frames they takes planning. It takes strategy. It parents. I prepared for two wreaths, My wonderful husband had a will give their parents. The middlers takes Method and Order. And me? I because I have two four-year-olds. I suggestion. “Don’t use those sturdy have already painted the jogsaw am a creating machine, all methodical counted. hangers. Find some of the flimsy ones puzzle pieces that will embellish the and assembly-line. Only, this week, because school’s from the drycleaner.” Brilliant!! frames. They fill a bowl on the table, a Project #1, for the kids, from me: out, a couple of my graduates are back Except we have only ONE in the cheery confusion of red, green, white, Superhero capes. Take three metres of with me for a day or two. I suddenly entire house. I have a vague memory and polka-dots. All I need do is at- red satin. Cut into 5 lengths of 60 cm. have FOUR four-year-olds. All of of tossing a bunch into the recycle tach these lovely items to the frames (No waste! Not a single cm! I am so whom looooove to do crafts. bin some months back. These things (which I have, in the right number, I proud!) …damn… breed in the corners, I reasoned. Why counted!!) with a hot-melt glue gun. I have great instructions, capes are But that’s okay! I pulled rank and don’t I just toss the flimsier ones??? I foresee no problems… simple things, and I am a competent forced Emma off the couch and into …damn… seamstress. I foresee no problems. the cold (-19C, feels like -28C) to But we did have one! If I cut it Fold in half (times 5) Home Hardware in the Glebe for two in half, we could make TWO smaller Cut curve at lower end (times 5) more packs of clothespegs, which, wreaths. There are, of course, four Hem all raw edges (three edges times 5) bless their hearts, they are still selling. 4-year-olds. Time for the tough deci- Attach bias tape to neck (times 5) In -19C weather. sion. Emily and Willliam, who come Iron all (times 5) And all day yesterday we painted here daily, get to make a wreath. (I am a model of efficiency, I tell you!) and painted and painted dozens and And Timmy and Nigel, who are Iron on initial and lightning bolts… dozens of clothes pegs. With a night only with me for a couple of emer- and discover… to dry, we’d be all ready to assemble gency days? Timmy and Nigel, whose I have SIX initials. our wreaths today. All I needed was small faces are quivering… Nigel and Because… some duct tape, the ribbon to decor- Timmy get to… um… get to… (ridiculous woman) ate the top, and a pair of wire-cutters. Nigel! And Timmy! You get to ..I have SIX children. Got all those!! Oh, and a couple more take the clothespegs home! 42 each! …damn… wire coat-hangers. No problem. We And 21 beads — you even get to pick And since I planned it sooooo have dozens of those things. I foresee which colours!! And a length of rib- well, there is NO red satin left over. no problems. bon! And we’ll put them all in zip-

TRILLIUM RECIPES Scotch Shortbread Gluten-free Shortbread Maple Syrup Shortbread

Pre-heat oven to 325º F. Pre-heat oven to 350º F. Pre-heat oven to 325º F. Cream 1 cup butter. 2 cups rice flour ½ cup butter, at room temperature Sift together: 2 cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup 1 cup icing sugar ¼ cup sugar confectioner’s sugar, ¼ tsp. salt. (My grandmother 250 grams butter ¼ tsp. vanilla extract used fine brown sugar, insisting that was real Scot- 1 egg or 1 tsp. xanthium gum ¼ cup maple syrup tish.) Blend together. 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour Blend. Roll out. ¼ tsp. salt Pat the stiff dough into a 9 x 13 ungreased pan. Cut into shapes. 1 tbsp. turbinado sugar (optional) Poke with fork every ½ inch. Bake at 350º F until very pale golden, approxi- Mix the first six ingredients to a soft dough. Bake 25 -30 minutes. mately 10 minutes Pat evenly into a 9-inch tart pan. Cut into squares while warm. Prick dough with a fork. Sprinkle with turbinado sugar. Bake 25 – 30 minutes or until golden. Let cool in pan. Cut into wedges. Ottawa South History Project ... Cont’d moved to a smaller house at 684 Echo Drive. This was where he passed away in July 1956 at the age of 68 after a short illness. A charter member of the Ottawa Kiwanis Club, Cecil Burgess was known for his philanthropy and had been a director of the Ottawa Boys’ Club from 1939 to the time of his death. A resident of Old Ottawa South for 40 years, Cecil Burgess left his mark in all areas of the city and the Ottawa Valley. He designed dozens of churches, schools, houses, apartments and civic buildings. However, there is one building that deserves our special attention: the Bank Street landmark building that we all know as the Coliseum. This building saw the election of many federal political party leaders including four Prime Ministers: Mackenzie King, St. Laurent, Lester Pearson and John Diefenbaker. And in 1961 the newly-formed NDP party choose Tommy Douglas, the father of Canada’s health care system, as leader at its founding convention held at the Coliseum. Contact the Ottawa South History Project at HistoryProject@OldOttawaSouth. ca or visit us online at www.OldOttawaSouth.ca/HistoryProject. Page 16 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 Christmas at Trinity Anglican Church

Eli MacLaren

ome and rediscover the meaning of Christmas this Cmonth at Trinity Anglican Church (1230 Bank Street - for full December service details see the Church Notice below)on this page). The season of begins on November 28. A wreath with candles will stand at the front of the sanctuary, each candle symbolizing a sacred emotion – Hope, Peace, Love, and Joy. One candle will be lit each week through Advent, and the light of the wreath will augment as we enact the ritual of welcoming the birth of the Saviour. Reverend Andrea Thomas will lift our hearts and minds, interspersing inspiration with mirth and wit, while the Trinity Choir furnishes wonderful anthems for this most musical of seasons. The Cherub Choir has been working hard on an anthem, too, to mark the lighting of each candle, and will sing each Sunday at the 10 a.m. Eucharist – sing mellifluously, with the odd dinosaur or plastic train in hand to remind themselves that Christmas pot luck will commence after the isn’t only about worship. pageant, downstairs in Bender Hall. The Christmas Pageant and Ron Dicks will lead three Parish Pot-Luck Lunch will take sessions in Christian Meditation place on the third Sunday of Advent – on Wednesdays in Advent (1, 9, 12 December from 10 a.m. Two gifted and 15 December) from 7:00 to orators hand-picked from among 9:00 p.m. Ron is a retired family the rising Ciceros of Old Ottawa therapist who has been practicing and South will narrate the story while teaching meditation for nine years. a host of other children aged two to He will introduce us to the ancient fifteen portray Mary, Joseph, , shepherds, angels, swine, and kine in Cont’d on next page a succession of silent tableaux. The

TRINITY ANGLICAN CHURCH “Unto Us a Child is Born”

Christmas Services

Friday Dec 24th at 4pm- Children’s Service with Holy Eucharist at 10pm- Holy Eucharist with Choir

Sunday Dec 26th at 10am- Holy Eucharist

1230 Bank Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 3Y3 Church Office: 613-733-7536 www.trinityottawa.ca DEC 2010 Page 17 Southminster Christmas Pageant: “Can This Child Live?”

hat happens when powerful ambitions threaten the Wlife of the innocent? This question of global significance is explored in a play based on the ancient story of the evil King Herod who seeks to put a quick end to the “infant king” . At first, the fight against evil starts small, but soon a community of unlikely characters comes together in a passionate and humorous attempt to foil Herod’s evil plans. Enjoy the Christmas Story with a twist as a community of strangers gathers to make a difference against evil impulses. Come out and take in this heartwarming Christmas drama. You are bound to see some familiar characters from our own community! Southminster United Church: December 12 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Christmas at Trinity ... Cont’d from previous page tradition of contemplative prayer, displaced people, and migrant which seeks God in silence and workers. PWRDF partners are drawn stillness – beyond words, thoughts from Anglican churches, ecumenical and images. Christian meditation was organizations, and community-based rediscovered and taught in modern groups. Partners address the root times by the Benedictine monk, John causes of problems and accompany Main (1926–82), and is practised communities as they move today by thousands of people around beyond survival into sustainable the world. development. One example of a Looking for a thoughtful PWRDF partner engaged in crucially with a positive net important work is Girl Power Wolf impact on our embattled world? Spirit, a program of leadership Try donating in someone’s honour training and community workshops to the Primate’s World Relief for women in the Nishnawbe and Development Fund. The Aski Nation in northern Ontario. PWRDF works in partnership Through traditional practices and with organizations in Canada and education, Girl Power Wolf Spirit is throughout the world to support helping Indigenous women solve the people-centred development that problems of suicide and addiction improves the quality of daily life for caused by the residential schools in vulnerable populations, promotes Canada – but it needs the support of self-reliance, and addresses root PWRDF to do its work, and PWRDF causes of poverty and injustice. in turn needs ours. PWRDF is active in approximately For more information on Trinity 30 countries, and also accompanies Anglican Church please contact Uprooted People – including victims us at 613-733-7536 or http://www. of disasters, refugees, internally trinityottawa.ca/. th Page 18 The OSCAR - OUR 38 YEAR DEC 2010 AFTER THOUGHTS

My ‘Jewish Question’ from Richard Ostrofsky very much of an American, I went to come to mind – skeptical thinkers, somehow descended from this Jewish of Second Thoughts Israel, partly in hopes of finding some right about some things, wrong tradition, don’t take advantage of its sort of Jewish identity. I happened to about others but usually outside the permission and encouragement to Bookstore (now closed) be there for the Six-Day War in June mainstream of conventional thought, question. And God himself seems to www.secthoughts.com of 1967, and was stirred by the wave and contributing greatly to it for that be sad, in many of the Jewish stories, [email protected] of patriotism that swept the country very reason. Of course, there were that most of the humans he created in the run-up to war, and by the wave many lesser people like myself in are just sheep, sometimes avaricious ssues of ethnicity and identity, and of pride in victory, survival and the this same lineage who, assimilated or power-hungry sheep, rather than of ethnicity as a key component taking of the Old City of Jerusalem. as they were, and regardless of their worthy sparring partners. of identity, have become critical But in the aftermath, my wife and I talents and merits, shared a certain So where does this leave me? I (I had gotten married meanwhile to very Jewish temperament – their Today, at 67, I am an atheistic, in this post-modern, globalizing, diasporan world. I have written another visitor whom I met while propensity and need to ‘wrestle with thoroughly assimilated North about these issues, in this column studying Hebrew on a kibbutz) agreed God,’ like Jacob in the wilderness. American Jew who admires, identifies and elsewhere, from several points of that Israel was no place to make a life Now, with this lineage I identify with, and would like to continue and view, but never in any really personal unless you were a committed Zionist strongly. I understand that old story propagate certain aspects of his ethnic way. I’d like to repair that omission – which we were not. We left Israel of Jacob’s wrestling match (initiated and religious heritage, while detesting this month with a column on my own and came to Canada – to Montreal, by God, notice, and not by Jacob and rejecting some other aspects. In Jewishness, and what it does (and where my wife had an aunt. She and himself) as symbol, permission and this I feel very much in the spirit of doesn’t) mean to me. I want to write, our daughter are still there and, after encouragement for existential struggle the times, for this problem of keeping as frankly as I can, about my own thirty five years in Ottawa, I have as such. Read this way, it’s of a piece faith somehow with our ancestors experience of ethnicity and identity. moved back to Montreal to be near with many other stories in the Bible and ancestral cultures is a common But I hope the column may be of my Quebecoise-Jewish daughter and and in Jewish folklore afterwards. one now. Propagandists both for interest to people of whatever ethnic grand daughter – and near my (for Abraham had his struggles with God, Zionism and for rabbinical Judaism background who feel, as I do, that long) ex-wife who lives upstairs. a couple of generations before Jacob. (on the rare occasions when I have ancestral issues are an encumbrance Along the way, like many others Moses struggles with God in Egypt, crossed their paths) have called me on nearly all their real preoccupations of my generation, I took an interest on the mountain, and in the Sinai a ‘self-hating’ Jew. But I am nothing and concerns, yet too important (for in Taoist and Zen thought, fell into wilderness. Job struggles with God. of the sort – only a modern one who some unintelligible reason) to be a Japanese martial art (aikido), and Jesus struggles on the cross, notably would take what he can from the past simply dropped or ignored. was led thereby to some wide reading when he asks why God has forsaken without feeling bound by it. I have I am not religious – certainly about religion and religious thought him. encountered much the same attitude in not in any traditional Jewish sense. and history in general, but on the And the Jewish God allows lapsed Catholics, up-to-date feminists, My father, a complete child of the histories of Christianity and Judaism himself to be struggled with – seems to black people, Canadian Chinese, and Enlightenment, who was even less in particular. In that connection, demand it, in fact. Muslims, Christians diasporan types of every kind. It’s the concerned with religion than I have I learned a fair bit about Judaeo- and many Jews have emphasized the world we are living in today, and there been, did have me circumcised as Christian religious history but the need for obedience – for ultimate are two ways to get it wrong: either an infant for reasons I never asked upshot was that aikido and writing submission to God’s will. Yet a to repudiate or ignore the past, or to about. Probably because it was nearly ended up as central to my identity, peculiar glory of the Jewish tradition feel pre-empted and committed by automatic in that time and place, while Judaism is not. And yet, after is the permission God gave it, or that it. The more creative response is to though I believe it’s less so today. all this, I remain very much a New it gave itself, to talk back to God: to recognize and honor the ancestral past When I was 12 he asked if I wanted a York Jew in some respects, though question, criticize the arrangements, while recognizing that its obsessions Bar Mitzvah, so as not to be different rather alienated from the tribe in some complain and negotiate. and agendas, especially its hatreds, from the other Jewish kids in our others. This tradition of not taking ‘God’s are best left there. For it is the present neigborhood (in the Bronx, in New There is a lineage of secularized, ways’ – nature and happenstance – as that we must live in, and the future we York City). We discussed that, I said assimilated, cosmopolitan Jews mere givens strikes me as the really must live toward; and, in this respect, no, that I wouldn’t have a problem going all the way back to Joseph in great Jewish teaching, far beyond regardless of our martyred ancestors with being different, and that was the the Bible, the advisor to Pharoah, monotheism (which is still basically a and their oppressors, we are all in the end of it. Some years later, when the with his ‘coat of many colors.’ More fantasy of the supernatural), and well same boat. United States bogged itself down in historically, figures like Spinoza, able to survive God’s ‘death.’ I am sad Viet Nam, on discovering that I wasn’t Marx Einstein, Freud, and Derrida that more people, Jews and non-Jews

he neighbourhood granny group, Grammas to Ambuyas, that support sub-Saharan African grandmothers who support children affected by THIV/AIDS is hosting a shopping evening at both Ten Thousand Villa- ges locations (1174 Bank - between Grove and Ossington; and 371 Richmond Road). The date is Thursday December 9 from 5:30 to 9:00 pm. Ten Thou- sand Villages is donating 10% of all sales that evening to the Stephen Lewis Foundation that supports African grandmothers and millions of AIDS orphans in their care. Enjoy complimentary coffee and tea while you shop for stocking stuffers, gift cards, table decorations many other fair trade goods made by artisans in developing countries. Bring neighbours and friends. DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 19

BOOK REVIEW Girl Unwrapped by Gabriella Goliger

Arsenal Pulp Press (July 1 Toni is the only child of Lisa and as “internment” there is only silence despite her meandering path to reach 2010) 336 pages Julius Goldblatt, immigrants from instead of an answer.” Her mother that conclusion. ISBN: 978-1551523750 Italy prior to her birth. Both deeply quickly leaves the room, her father’s Some time after the Six-Day scarred by their experiences during the face grows pale. “Never mind” is the War Toni leaves for Israel with the war and the Holocaust, they each cope common response by the parents. aim to “immerse” herself in the with their past in different ways. While Instead, dialog is confined to culture and history and, hopefully, Lisa, outgoing, concerned with good the practical day-to-day level and clarify this fundamental part of her looks and making a good impression, even more general questions about own self. Preoccupied by her inner is concentrating on maintaining a her Jewish heritage are not given turmoil, however, will she be able to busy traditional household, Julius substantive answers. Not surprisingly, find answers to her questions there? is quiet and withdrawn but shows Toni retreats into her own shell and Dramatic events back home, call her more patience with his often unruly tensions grow between the teenager back, and, possibly save her. daughter, unless that is, when she asks and her parents. She does not even Conscious of the risk of falling questions about their past. Growing feel confident in revealing to her under a ‘genre’ label with her book, the up in the generally conservative mother the visible signs of puberty author explained the aim of her novel social environment of Montreal in the or the emotional confusions she in a recent interview with Ottawa fifties and sixties, where, according experiences. Goliger delves into XTRA’s Noreen Fagan: “I wanted to to her mother, “being respected” and these challenges with sensitivity and explore how having the dual identity behaving accordingly is of utmost candour. — marginal identity — can enrich importance, Toni’s attitudes bring her “Girl Unwrapped” is not someone. Toni is marginalized to early on towards a collision course “just” another coming of-age- some extent, certainly in the times she with her parents, especially her story, however. It is a complex and is growing up, for her sexuality, but mother: Toni feels most comfortable sensitively crafted chronicle of a her Jewish identity is something that as a tomboy, fooling around with young person’s struggle to overcome perplexes her, and she has to wrestle Reviewed by: Friederike “her gang” of boys in the outdoors, her sense of alienation and her deep with that as well.” Knabe whereas her mother would prefer yearning for discovery of herself and Gabriella Goliger has won that she plays nicely with the neatly of the community where she can fit in several awards for her earlier writing lmost over night, Toni girlishly-dressed twins next door... and be accepted as she is. “Everyone such as the 2001 Upper Canada Goldblatt, heroine of OOS Whenever Toni attempts to elicit belongs to a tribe of some sort...” Writers’ Craft Award for ‘Songs of Aresident Gabriella Goliger’s more information about the past, she Lisa explains to Toni,”... you cannot Ascent’, a collection of stories, and debut novel, “Girl Unwrapped”, has is met by a wall of silence. Watching choose whether to be Jewish or not. the PRISM International Award in grown into a “beanstalk, long, gangly, her parents’ relationship deteriorate You can only choose HOW you will 1993. Her short fiction has been big-footed, everything stretched out over time, Toni turns to quietly or be Jewish”. As Goliger explores in published in a number of journals and wrong” kind of teenager at the even secretly listening in on the great detail with her novel, neither and anthologies. age of thirteen and a half. How she parents’ arguments rather than asking can Toni choose her sexual orientation reached this significant new stage questions about the time the parents in her young life and where she is met and lived in Italy at the end of the heading from here on in her search war. The conversations, in German for her identity and place in the world, with bits of English, Yiddish, and is intimately imagined by the author. Italian mixed in, flits back and forth Arranged into five distinct parts, each between Karlsbad (where Lisa grew part zooms in on one significant period up), Vienna (where Julius worked in Toni’s growing up process - from before he was forced to leave), and childhood to young adulthood. The several Italian towns to which her novel invites the reader into Toni’s parents drifted after the war or places mind and complex struggles pertinent where they lived separately, before for the specific time in her life. The they met. Some weren’t towns at all, outer world is backdrop and context, but camps or prisons or places with and, while historical events can at caves for hiding during the war, when different stages inform and challenge they had to go underground. “Toni the young mind, the author’s interest gets mixed up with before, during remains always clearly focused on the and after the war... yet when she asks inner life of her heroine. for clarification on some term such Sudoku Solution Sudoku Puzzle is on page 12 Page 20 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 THE BIG PICTURE Season is Believing

By Michael Dobbin maybe what was getting to me was the taken us up on our offer to visit… In in the winter. dark, dank and wet version of what February. We did everything that I had Citizens of the National Capital ears ago, while living in Lon- the English pass off for winter – but bragged about and more. Not only did are always the first to forget how ab- don, England, I recall conver- I surprised even myself at how excit- my friend have the time of his life, but solutely superb our quality of life is in sations with friends and col- ed I was to regale my audience with he and his wife have since decided to this region. We love to complain about Y a romantic vision of that cold, crisp, move to Ottawa. the weather, rave about other destina- leagues who were interested to know about what life was like in Canada’s bright winter we have in Canada. I won’t take credit for my friends’ tions, and make sweeping condemna- Capital. One of my friends had be- As I explained how a citizen of decision to move to Canada, but I do tions of our city for no other reason moaned the fact that he’d never been the National Capital could put on ice- like to think that my romantic vision than because it’s the thing we suppose to Canada to which I jokingly replied skates, and commute to work, their of our way of life in Canada had some we’re supposed to do, or hear others that if he really wanted to come, he eyes lit up. As I wistfully told how we impact in that pub on that dark and say. But what makes a city great is should visit in winter. could finish a hard day at work with a dreary evening in London. Perhaps what the people who live there have As in many conversations about cross-country ski and a fondue dinner the flip side of the coin my conversa- to say about it, not only to outsiders, life in Canada, winter weather im- from a hot wood stove in a log cab- tion with him actually made me think but to each other. mediately became the topic of our in in the Gatineau Park, they began seriously about moving back. Per- If you hear something often dialogue. The assumption often made to lean forward. As I described the haps it’s that reminder that ultimately enough, you start to repeat it. If you was that the legendary Canadian win- hundreds of thousands of Christmas brought us back to this city. In any repeat it enough, you start to believe ters must be unbearable. The British lights that adorn amid case, it was the best decision we ever it. are infamous for knowing nothing at the snow, they sighed. As I laughed at made. The holiday season is a celebra- all about Canada, and even more no- how people actually enjoyed spend- Every now and again, it takes an tion of belief – whether it’s the mir- torious for their adhesion to outdated ing hours outdoors in winter weather outsider to remind us of what we have acles told to us from religion, the cult stereotypes of other nationalities, de- to look at statues made of snow and here. An article in the Washington of Santa Clause, or bargain-basement spite our Commonwealth history. But ice, they were all ears. The usual ex- Post this past July called “Discovering prices. But this holiday, behind that honest unawareness was a planations about it being “not that bad Canada’s Cool Capital” certainly perhaps you’ll come to believe how genuine interest in what I had to say – it’s a dry cold” didn’t seem to mat- made waves. Michael Kaminer wrote absolutely blessed you are to live in and I took the chance to enlighten ter. They were hooked. that we are a city “waking up to its this community, and this city which them. After a few more dreary Northern own potential”. In his visit to Ottawa, is the envy of the world (even if they Perhaps a small dose of home- European winters, life had ultimately Kaminer raved about our restaurants, don’t know it). sickness had started to set in – or taken us back to Canada. We were landmarks, galleries, museums, shop- Let’s get started. delighted that my friend had actually ping – and he didn’t even come here CARLETON CORNER arleton’s annual fall degrees on U.S. economist and students received their degrees at the retirees. Convocation was held in environmentalist Jeffrey Sachs and ceremony. Over the course of the academic CNovember and the university Don McEown, a 35-year employee The university was also delighted year, Carleton has many vehicles was pleased to bestow honorary at the university. More than 700 that Robert Slater, an adjunct professor it use to recognize the hard work of and director of the Regulatory its faculty and staff. Recently, the Governance Initiative in the School Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral of Public Policy and Administration, Affairs, in partnership with the Office was named a member of the Order of the Vice-President (Research of Canada on Nov. 17. In over three and International), announced the decades with Environment Canada, inaugural winners of the Faculty Mr. Slater played a pivotal role in Graduate Mentoring Award. Recipients shaping Canada’s environmental received their awards at a reception policy. He is widely credited for on Nov. 30. The winners were chosen being a driving force behind the 1991 for their ability to render exceptional acid rain agreement between Canada mentoring services while supporting and the United States, as well as and fostering transformational effects the Environmental Protection and on the careers of their graduate the Species at Risk acts. A former students. Congratulations go to Susan senior assistant deputy minister, he Aitken (Biology), Craig Bennell often served as a trusted voice for (Psychology), Josh Greenberg (School Canada in international fora. Now of Journalism and Communication), the president of an environmental Sheryl Hamilton (School of Journalism consulting firm, he also serves as vice- and Communication), Louise Heslop chair of the National Round Table on (Sprott School of Business), Norman the Environment and the Economy. Hillmer (History), Vinod Kumar He lectures on environmental and (Sprott School of Business), Thomas sustainable development policy at Kunz (Systems and Computer Carleton. Engineering), Ken Storey (Chemistry/ In mid-November, Carleton’s Biology) and Halim Yanikomeroglu Art Gallery launched a new exhibit (Systems and Computer Engineering). featuring three works including Once again this year, Carleton “David Rokeby: Very Nervous is hosting its Make the CUT event System,” “Four Ottawa Painters: for Grade 12 students, a transition Authier, Golland, Morrow, Schissel” program designed to assist students and “Ijurnaqtut: Whimsy, Wit and with learning disabilities or attention Humour in Inuit Art.” The new exhibit deficit hyperactivity disorder make a runs from November until Jan. 30, successful transition from secondary 2011. The gallery hosted its second school to college or university. community art show called “Here” This program is a joint initiative of which featured works from Carleton faculty, staff, students, alumni and Cont’d on next page DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 21

Squirrel Talk

Waitin’ for the bus

Have mercy, been waitin’ for the bus open but remaining true to oneself is Ottawa’s poor biking routes). Car The proposal develops Lansdowne all day. difficult and we see societies around pooling would be an option but how with or without a full stadium and Have mercy, been waitin’ for the bus the world struggle with this as popu- can we know who we could carpool as a self-sustaining non-profit busi- all day. lation densities increase and as local with ? Wouldn’t it be nice if there was ness, thus removing the costs from I got my brown paper bag and my cultures diversify. a way to share car pooling routes ? the city. The proposal includes small take-home pay. Speaking of population density The simple fact is that there are scale businesses such as restaurants increase, the need for proper public many professional bus drivers, but and shops, adds a concert shell, an Have mercy, old bus be packed up transportation in Ottawa is maturing to we hear and live far too many “hor- Olympic sized swimming pool, and tight. center stage. The “tunnel to nowhere” ror stories” and there doesn’t seem to develops the park for the citizens of Have mercy, old bus be packed up under the urban core is clearly a waste be a way to be heard and improve the Ottawa. Importantly, the proposal tight. of taxpayer money, and doesn’t solve situation. does not develop towers on the site, Well, I’m glad just to get on and the basic need for rapid, efficient, and At the same time, there are in- does not add 500,000 square feet of home tonight. pleasant cross-city transportation. We sufficient numbers of buses and the businesses, does not lose the land to are baffled at how expensive propos- system forces us to use the car in private developers, does not use our Right on, that bus done got me back. als with almost zero return, such as many situations where we shouldn’t taxes to subsidize the private busi- Right on, that bus done got me back. the tunnel, can gain momentum. have to. This is where we start think- nesses, is open-tendered, does not Well, I’ll be ridin’ that same ol’ This next paragraph expresses ing of LRT / BRT to zip us around the play coin tricks with our taxes ( http:// packed bus ‘cause there ain’t any frustrations many of us have certain- city (and at surface level please, we www.goodtricks.net/coinmagic. gonna be no ly felt with our current public trans- the taxpayers aren’t quite Talpidae ). html ), and respectfully renovates and useful new bus or track in Ot- portation, we all have similar stories If it was up to us, we’d be bold and architecturally emphasizes the herit- tawa till after that tunnel to no- that range from benign to near-death shut down some main arteries from age aspects and buildings of the park. where’s paid back. situations. The unfortunate part is that cars in favour of electric bus / train / The proposal creates a beautiful new much could be fixed without a single tram / bike / walk arteries, it’s simple site that will increase tourism (unlike - Billy Gibbons & Dusty Hill penny: last week I had some “interest- and cheap and healthy. Bank street the “shopping mall” and business of- ing” experiences with O.C. Transpo would be a natural artery to convert fices in the existing proposal that do By Tania & Michaël customer services. If you take the from Billings to the core, it would be nothing for tourism). The proposal is bus twice a day about 46 weeks per tram + bike + walk, in fact Bank had simple, sound and good for the tax- k , so we took some relevant year you have certainly called their a tram in 1891 so this would be noth- payers. Mr.Watson please seize the liberties with the last line. customer service. The buses are often ing new. Some folks even dream of day and redefine Ottawa in an eco- We’ll get back to that topic... full at rush hour and it isn’t rare to rapid inter-city monorails http://goo. nomically sound way that respects O see a bus pass by right in front of gl/yustE that might be 3x cheaper as and develops Ottawa. first, a thought as we move along from the delicious Hallow’s Eve to- you. “We understand what you are they do not require new rights of way We truly believe Ottawa can be wards Winter Solstice, now known as saying, we hear your complaint. But as a train does and are 3x faster than put back on the right track, and proud- Christmas. It is a beautiful time to get you should take buses before 8:20. buses (and more pleasant and fast and ly take its place as a world capital by together with family and enjoy each There are more on the road.” I don’t ecological than airplanes). Interest- developing its existing history and other - let’s just hope it’s not a Woody want to take the bus earlier ! I want ingly, they claim huge amounts of beauty. We hope the new mayor will Allan style family as that’s too com- more buses from 8:20 to 9.00 a.m., is job creation and related development define his own path, a better path, in plicated ! It is a good time to pardon that so unreasonable ? Another time, - efficient transportation is a huge de- an ethical and financially responsible any grudges we may have, especially Friday morning, the bus was wait- veloper of the economy and of quality manner. as grudges just hurt ourselves. It is ing at the bus stop. I started crossing of life. To each, we extend our warm a good time to do a special activity the street to reach it. The light turned And now on to today’s last topic: thoughts. N’hésitez pas à nous écrire we’ve been wanting to do for our- green and the bus departed and cut me Lansdowne. By the time you read this : [email protected] selves but putting off. It is also a good off ! Having been cut off, I was stuck article, the Lansdowne Park Conserv- time to reach out and be kind to some- in the middle of the street ! I called ancy http://www.lpc-cpl.ca/ will have one, or to help a cause that is dear to customer service again, and this is presented their proposal to the media us. what they said “You were not at the and formally submitted it to the city. The history of Christmas goes bus stop.” I will keep calling them back to Neolithic times (9500 B.C.). until they get the message: we want See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Win- courteous service. The same day, a ter_solstice for more background and few minutes later I was on Welling- a listing of many solstice observances. ton waiting for the bus to Gatineau. I Christmas is the most locally familiar was right under the bus stop sign. The of these, with traditional pine tree and driver stopped about 10 meters before chorals - certainly some of our readers the stop where 2 people were wait- have different traditions also. Multi- ing.... The driver then passed right by culturalism can be wonderful when me without stopping. Angry, I walked all work together and to learn from across the bridge thinking: what hap- each other and respect each other. pened to summer, why is it gone ? I Achieving a comfortable mix of being can’t take my bike anymore (let alone

Carleton Corner .... Cont’d from previous page

Carleton University’s Paul Menton Carleton Corner is written by Centre for Students with Disabilities Carleton University’s Department of and ’s Centre University Communications. As your for Students with Disabilities in community university, Carleton hosts collaboration with the public and many exciting events of interest to Catholic school boards of Ottawa- Ottawa South. For more information Carleton, Upper Canada and Renfrew about upcoming events, please go to County. carleton.ca/events. Page 22 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010

Kaleidoscope Kids’ Books Holiday Books to Share

Kaleidoscope Kids’ Books of Christmas. With glorious verse celebrate it. The eleven puffins pip- 1018 Bank Street (yes, and artwork, this book is a joyful re- ing really are adorable but we really minder that the very best gift of all is do have to register a protest over the parking for the building is when we spend Christmas with those ten [Toronto Maple] Leafs a-leaping. just around the corner!) we love. Also available in French as Un porc- Cuban traditions épic dans un sapin. or me, the holidays are filled are celebrated in La Noche Buena. Richard Scarry fans will love the with many wonderful trad- When Nina flies from chilly New Best Christmas Book Ever! (not my Fitions and memories – going England to sunny Miami to spend exclamation mark, but it’s still appro- through the Eaton’s catalogue with Christmas with her father’s family priate – some people really do love my sister to prepare our Christmas she takes part in all her family’s trad- Richard Scarry). As the inhabitants lists, looking in the TV Guide to find itions – the intricate cooking for their of Busytown get ready for Christ- out when our favorite shows would feast, the dancing, the music and mas, with the firefighters stringing be on (I will never tire of A Charlie the gathering of family and friends. lights, the stores crowded with shop- Brown Christmas), making snow- A wonderful affirmation that we all pers and everyone in a merry mood, men with my dad and cookies with hold the same things dear. it promises to be the best Christmas my mum and reading The Night Be- With a new twist on an old favor- ever. fore Christmas on Christmas Eve. If Rachel Isadora brings her dis- you’re looking for holiday stories to tinctive illustrative style to 12 Days day to reveal a new decoration to add share with your family, we are happy of Christmas. Set in Africa, this to the display. Christmas will arrive to share some of our favorites. beautiful rendition of a classic Christ- and you will have a lovely holiday mas carol has a unique twist: colorful display scene based on Carle’s book Christmas Stories icons illustrate the gifts repeated in Dream Snow. For those looking for the trad- each verse of the cumulative song, itional Christmas story to share with creating a rebus-style text that gives Hanukkah Stories your little ones, The Story of Christ- children a fun way to follow along Light the menorah and sing mas is perfect. This board book is and chime in with the lyrics. along On the First Night of Chanu- a simple retelling of the story of the Christmas is coming and Santa kah. This whimsical introduction to birth of Jesus and captures all the Claus is making his list. David is try- Hanukkah sees dreidels spinning and wonder and excitement of the very ing to be good, but when the house first Christmas Day. is filled with candy canes, cookies Nancy Tillman, author of the ite, A Porcupine in a Pine Tree shows and beautifully wrapped gifts, it’s beautiful On the Night You Were Christmas as only Canadians can very hard to stay out of trouble. It’s Born, works her magic in The Spirit Christmas, David describes the latest mis-adventures of David Shannon’s

latkes sizzling as we celebrate the miracle that happened long ago. A beloved holiday song is cele- brated in Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel. lovable boy. Playing dreidel has never been so Fifty years after it first appeared, much fun! A Child’s Christmas in Wales show- The Menashe family is ready to cases Dylan Thomas’s genius for lan- celebrate Hanukkah when a furious guage and remains the poet’s most blizzard covers all the apples and popular prose work. This is the story potatoes in Latkes and Applesauce: of a childhood lost but not forgot- A Hanukkah Story. Will there be ten. We also have the CD of Dylan no latkes and applesauce this year? Thomas reading his story – a classic The starving and kindhearted family and popular gift each year. starts to lose hope until they take in a The Christmas Magic was a new stray cat and dog – who end up mak- title from popular illustrator John ing a miraculous discovery. Muth last holiday season. It’s such Winter is Sam’s favorite time of a magical tale, we can’t resist recom- year - he gets to celebrate Hanukkah mending this luminous tale of how and Christmas in My Two Holidays. Santa gets ready to bring each child in the world what their hearts most Gift Sets desire. Deceptively simple text and Boxed sets are always a popular enchanting artwork make this a new holiday gift with the kids in your life. classic for your holiday bookshelf. Here are a few favourites: For those of us with small people The Eric Carle Mini Library anxious to count down the days of showcases four classic stories from December, we have Eric Carle’s Dream Snow Pop-up Advent Calen- dar. Kids can open a window each Cont’d on next page DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 23

BACKYARD NATURALIST Gifts for Budding Naturalists

By Linda Burr

y parents gave me my first field guide to the birds Mwhen I was 14 years old. They recognized my interest in nature, and birds in particular, and decided to nurture it with that Christmas gift. Do you know a budding naturalist? Consider the gift of nurturing a child’s interest in nature this holiday season. There is likely a field guide available for whatever seems to interest the children on your gift list. Subjects range from collecting rocks or fossils, to mammals, trees, amphibians, insects or butterflies. One of my favourites is about learning to recognize animal tracks, and is particularly fun to use in the winter. For younger children, you can sometimes find simplified version of these guides. A good pair of binoculars can also be a great gift for the older child who can learn to handle them with care. Binoculars can be used for many activities and on walks, and even at night for looking at the moon. Magnifying lenses are also a lot of fun, and can be used on anything from snowflakes to ants. Photo by Linda Burr A bird feeder kit, complete with seeds, is another great idea for one night and aimed it at Saturn. It’s such as Kids Can Press, or ask your curiosity. fostering an interest in nature. Check amazing what you can see from the bookseller for a recommendation. I still own my original Golden with a good dealer for the types that city, in spite of light pollution. It is distressing to me that our Field Guide, although it is now well will deter squirrels and other pests, Consider a subscription to one children grow up very “nature worn. That book accompanied me to maximize your enjoyment. Setting of the excellent children’s magazines illiterate”. That is, they cannot identify on many adventures over the years. up and maintaining the feeder is also about nature. For example, Your Big even the most common birds or plants There are even a few teeth marks in a fun family activity. If you’re not Backyard explores wild nature for around them. Yet they are able to it from an over-zealous mouse that into buying birdseed, a birdbath in children ages three to five, and Wild identify (and pronounce) the names once nibbled my backpack. I’ve the backyard can also provide a lot is aimed at six to twelve years old. of dozens of dinosaur species, or added many other field guides to my of entertainment and is a great way to These are both available through the models of cars. Think about fostering collection over the years, but I will see birds up close. Canadian Wildlife Federation. There an interest in nature, for as the saying always treasure that first book. I’ll never forget the first time I saw is something fun for children in goes, it is only what we come to love Consider sparking or encouraging with my own eyes the rings of Saturn receiving their own magazine in the that we will want to protect. Nature is an interest in nature this holiday through a telescope. How exciting mail all year long. not just experienced at the Museum season. It could last a lifetime! and amazing that was! That telescope Aside from field guides, many – it is all around us all the time. Too was another Christmas present under excellent books about nature and often, we ignore it, and our children Linda Burr lives in Old Ottawa the tree when I was about 12 years wild animals are also available from learn to ignore it as well. You don’t South and is a biologist and avid old. My Dad and I set the telescope booksellers. Check out the selection have to be an expert. You just need backyard naturalist. up in our suburban Toronto driveway from your favourite publishers to have an interest and some natural

Kaleidoscope Kids’ Books ... Cont’d from previous page some of his lesser known titles (Rooster’s Off to Jemima Puddle-Duck are welcome additions to all See the World; Pancakes, Pancakes!; Papa, Please libraries. Get the Moon for Me; and A House for Hermit With the trilogy now complete, fans of the Crab comprise the collection). Mockingjay trilogy, by Suzanne Collins, will love Jan Brett’s books are popular year-round, but to receive the boxed set. We call these get-your- Jan Brett’s Little Library takes three favourite win- own-darn-dinner books – you won’t want to stop ter tales (The Mitten, The Hat, and to eat or sleep, much less make someone else’s Baby) and packages them together for a board dinner. book reader’s holiday enjoyment. We’re happy to help you cross some names off Another classic selection is now environment- your holiday shopping list – come on in and ask ally sensitive as well – Peter Rabbit’s Naturally us for some recommendations. Happy Holidays! Better Classic Gift Set is made from recycled ma- Kaleidoscope Kids’ Books is located across terial, uses vegetable inks, and has bio-degradable from Lansdowne Stadium at 1018 Bank Street. lamination as well. All this and four great stories: Free parking is available on the south side of the perennially popular author/illustrator Eric Carle. The Tale of Peter Rabbit, The Tale of Mr. Jeremy building off Wilton Avenue. The risk of duplicating books already in a child’s Fisher, The Tale of Tom Kitten, and The Tale of collection is diminished as the four stories are Page 24 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 OCCSB TRUSTEE REPORT “Putting Students First”

Kathy Ablett, R.N. School Fundraising Challenge at Remembrance Day service with guest across North America: Trustee Zone 9 $33,363.14!!! speaker Corporal Jordan Abraham, * Do not exit a building during an Nick Glennon, Head Boy, was the son of Principal Valerie McGillis. earthquake; Capital/River Wards first male to cross the finish line to loud Corporal Abraham gave a personal * Evacuate only if there are signs Telephone: 526-9512 shouts of support from classmates. account of his service for Canada of structural damage, fire/smoke, Anna Pearson was the top student in Afghanistan. He was seriously gas leaks or other life-threatening Post Election 2010 fundraiser at $1656 followed closely injured by an IED in the fall of 2009. situations; by Kelly O’Connor. Well done! We can all be truly thankful that he * Avoid use of cell phones. wish to say a very sincere thank The excitement, the enthusiasm and is progressing in his recovery and Each school and department has a you to all of you who voted for the energy was contagious and the is a remarkable example not only to copy of the emergency response plan. I me. Your continuing support weather cooperated. Bernie Mac, the young people but to all in attendance. and confidence in both our Catholic team mascot, was a great addition to Thank you Jordan. Bringing Students Back School Board and me as your trustee the “pink theme”. Mac’s Drama Club will present Superintendent of Student Success are truly appreciated. Our sincerest thanks go to Ms. “You Can’t Take It With You” on (Intermediate/Secondary) Manon I look forward to working Darlene Charron for again organizing December 2, 3 and 4th. Tickets are Séguin, and Principal of Student with our new city councilor, David such a great team- building event for available at the school. Success (Intermediate/Secondary), Chernushenko, and public school such a greater worthwhile cause. It Debbie Clark, updated the Board trustee Rob Campbell. was my privilege to run with such a Corpus Christi on the Ministry of Education Re- dedicated group. Thanks to a lot of engagement Initiative designed to Immaculata High School people, I raised over $9000 for Team Corpus Christi School raised a encourage students who have left Immaculata in my capacity as a family whopping $700 in the Terry Fox Run school in Grade 12 or 12+ to return to Team Immaculata 2010 Run for practice nurse. See you next year! and had tremendous success in their complete their high school diploma. The Cure placed first in the High Immaculata held a very special canned food drive for Shepherds of Mary and Barry Lemoine, Good Hope. You are truly a caring former guidance counselors with community the Board, have taken on the role of The students of Corpus Christi “re-engagement counselors.” After celebrated November 11th with a developing an action plan with each Remembrance Day service to give high school, the team contacts each thanks for the sacrifices of many in the student on the “late leaver” list and name of peace and freedom. Mr. Ray offers many options to encourage the Thomas, a veteran of a peacekeeping student to finish their diploma credits. mission was a guest and an integral Students are offered enrolment part of this very important day. Thank in the high school Achievement you Mr. Thomas. Centre, an off-site Achievement December will see a focus Centre, or St. Nicholas Adult High on Corpus Christi’s sister school, School; enrolment in credit recovery, Kathelong Lesoto, swing into full cooperative education, dual credits, throttle. Many fundraising activities focus programs, Specialist High are planned and last year a total of Skills Majors, experiential learning; $6800 was raised. This will certainly or e-learning courses. motivate everyone to do their best Also offered is additional fundraising this year in true Corpus support through the most important Christi spirit! connection to a caring adult in the The season of Advent will be school, connections to school clubs/ celebrated with a school liturgy activities, counseling through the at Blessed Sacrament Parish on Student Services office, referral to a December 9th. You are most welcome social worker and/or connection to to join us. Please see the Principal’s appropriate community agencies. monthly newsletter for this and other events taking place this holiday Ensuring Students Succeed season. All school boards in Ontario are required to complete a Board General Board Updates Improvement Plan (BIP) for student achievement. Deputy Director of Emergency Response: Education, Denise Andre, outlined to Earthquakes the Board the main elements of the The Board received an update plan to be submitted to the Ministry of from Denise Andre, Deputy Director Education by October 29, 2010. of Education, and John Spencer, It addresses goals in the following Health and Safety Officer, on addition four Ministry pillars: to the reference document: * Community, Culture and Caring EMERGENCY – Emergency * Literacy Planning and Response; Disaster * Numeracy and Pandemic Response; Crisis * Pathways. Intervention (2007). These four pillars align perfectly Guidelines have been added to with the four goals established under provide principals and managers with the Board Priorities – Success for a standard procedure should a major Students (http://www.occdsb.on.ca/ earthquake recur. The guideline is content.php?doc=4831). The Board’s based on a number of best practices improvement plan supports each from areas that have had major individual school’s improvement earthquakes in their region. plan. Included in the updated Board The needs assessment used plan are key elements of earthquake response plans that are common Cont’d on next page DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 25 OCDSB TRUSTEE REPORT Potential Accommodation Changes

By Rob Campbell Mutchmor is experiencing some Student Survey of this for me is that we now need student decline as is Glashan while to set about improving aspects of ack on Nov 4th the Glebe Hopewell is still too large. More on A survey of students will be the program which had been left Community Association’s all of this subsequent columns. hitting the schools at some point next unaddressed for years pending this Education Committee hosted few weeks. It should help us correlate review. B A glaring problem for me has been 120 or so people from all over Late French Immersion subgroups with bullying and with Capital Ward to discuss local school Phaseout achievement and dropout rate and so the inequity in bussing provisions. accommodation issues. The speakers, forth. At press time there was word We bus students from for Arts Canterbury, from to organizers and quality of discussion at As per Board decision 2-3 years that it might all be delayed in order Mutchmor Gifted, and everywhere the 8 facilitated tables was amazing. ago now, this current school year is to address privacy concerns but I’m else for Immersion and so forth and This and further meetings constitute slated to be the last one offering Late confident that it will be going ahead uniquely not for this program. Further, the “community-initiated” dialogue French Immersion 9 (Gr 7 start). I in at least some form or other. At the this program is offered only inside the my motion in the Spring asked our agreed then and now also that having end of the day confidentiality will be at any centres. staff to support. three general entry points (we also assured. In time we may find a way to The primary concern driving have SK and Gr4 start points) was My hope is that this data will open additional centres outside the this is overcrowding at First Avenue hard to justify pedagogically and allow us to be more strategic in budget Greenbelt where sufficient demand PS, which this column has discussed financially. allocations and policy directives. The exists, though there will always be before. Options include sending Gr6 However, I was concerned then goal is reduced dropouts and higher transport needs. Meanwhile, I believe to Hopewell (with Hopewell maybe and am concerned now about equity achievement by making sure we have that it is important to provide bussing transferring other students elsewhere), of access to Immersion for those identified and tackled any systematic to existing alt ed sites as we can. A Gr6 to Glashan, JK to Mutchmor, simply not in the jurisdiction in Gr4, barriers which may exist in the motion will be coming forward soon boundary changes, etc. The concern or for those with challenges then but District. which calls for a stepwise approach to right now is immediate relief for Sep not now who could not take advantage this question. 2011. However a long term solution of Gr4. The Immersion option in high Equity in Bussing Motion which is stable and serves local needs school will be closed to these students. re Alt Ed If you have a suggestion or a is required also. It is quite possible I am considering bringing forward that what is arrived at short term could concern, or would like to be added a motion to retain one or two LFI Readers will recall that the morph into a long term solution. Or to my e-newsletter list, then please centres to address this equity of access elementary alternative program was not, and if not, then we will need a contact me via [email protected] or issue. Any comments appreciated. reviewed last year and reconfirmed as comprehensive area review. at 323-7803. Meeting and document a valuable program the Board wanted Other local school communities info available at www.ocdsb.ca to retain. One of the implications are interested in this process as Tell OSCAR Readers To book an OSCAR ad about interesting people, call Gayle 730-1058 your travel [email protected] or your interests. Send text and photos to [email protected] OCCSB TRUSTEE REPORT... Cont’d to develop the Board plan Wilson also outlined some items to incorporated data from many be examined by the committee before sources, including report card data, the release of the Ministry report in school climate surveys, pass rates/ spring of 2011: credit accumulation, EQAO results, * Possible outcomes and impact of PM benchmark data, and anecdotal the Ministry of Education Review of evidence. French programming and curriculum * Data on Board trends for French as a Second Language – students choosing French Immersion Curriculum Review over time The Ministry of Education * Possibility of increasing the currently has a French as a Second number of dual track centres Language curriculum review * Seeking solutions for small, underway. Each year, our Board single-track schools not currently reviews the data, implementation and offering Immersion French resources for French programming * Exploring the feasibility of across the system. offering a French Immersion option This school year, the FSL Review in the K-3 division. will be more extensive and will focus on examining elementary French May I wish everyone a very programs offered and the possibility happy Christmas and all the best of changes in response to the pending for 2011!! Ministry report. If, at any time, I can be of Brenda Wilson, Superintendent of assistance to you please do not Student Success, Elementary, updated hesitate to call me at 526-9512. the Board on the interdepartmental Sincerely, Steering Committee membership Kathy Ablett guiding the Board’s review process, ” a tentative schedule of dates for the “Your Trustee Board Review and consultation. Ms. Page 26 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010

WINDSOR REDUX PARTS 17 & 18

The Flu Season

For nearly eight years, from he first snows came last night. Alpha stays home with the Pup. They appropriate approving noises. They February 2000 to August 2008, This morning I had a wonderful cuddle up together on the sofa and express their admiration at my ability OSCAR carried a monthly column. Tromp across the white sward watch television. They won’t let me to jump the boards of the hockey The Windsor Chronicles, written by with that youngster, Thor. He’s only a join them. rink. They never seem to tire of my Zoscha the Wonder Dog. Zoscha little more than a year old, but already When the Pup gets sick they are attentions. Sometimes they even get became something of a celebrity he’s my size. He’s going to be a big willing to drop the rule about boys not used to picking up a ball soggy with in our neighbourhood, and her German shepherd one of these days. watching tv in the middle of the day. dog slobber. observations on the passing scene, I enjoy taking him down while I still I would have hoped they might also And when it eventually comes from a canine perspective, attracted can. consider suspending that rule about time to head back for the house – with her share of loyal readers as well as I was very pleased that I could dogs not climbing up on the furniture. Alpha trying to herd both the Pup and critics. more than hold my own against a But no. me past all the temptations of puddles OSCAR is reprinting some of much younger dog today. But I’m The only way to get Alpha to go to splash in and sticks to throw – I Zoscha’s musings from eight years going to have to lay down the law to the park is if I can engage the Pup keep hoping that we’ll be back again ago. The editors have annotated with my Alpha. He hasn’t taken me in a romp around the hardwood floor. before long. where we feel that today’s readers out for long runs ever since he broke That way, I might convince Alpha that Maybe I could persuade Alpha to may need to be informed of his foot last summer, and I’m getting the Pup is well enough to go out. take me just to the edge of the park, references that may no longer be out of shape. And when we do go, I let them and then he could return home to remembered by readers today, or Worse yet, we’ve reached the know they can’t take me for granted minister to a sick Pup. I’ll be all right where recent scholarship has shed season where these humanoids come like this. I bring my ball, and I let on my own. After all, I have always further light on the world described down with the various bugs that afflict them throw the ball for me. But when relied upon the kindness of strangers. in the Windsor Chronicles.. them. They snorfle and sneeze, and it comes time to bring the ball back, Healthy and hearty, but needing carry their boxes of tissue around with I play hard to get. In fact, wherever more exercise, November 2001 them from room to room in the house. possible, I bring it back to total And when the Pup comes down strangers. Zoscha Dear Boomer, with a bout of the flu, well, I might as There! These new people well not bother wagging my tail and certainly appreciate a handsome and grinning my dewlap at walkies time. intelligent dog. They provide the Of Lumps And Pups December, 2001 Must Be Obeyed discourage this kind are building on the house. He’ll have the Lump all the ropes. This is a Dear Boomer, of territorial imperative. a lot less back yard, but then, when wonderful place to be a dog or to be I’m not sure what to make of these you live beside Windsor Park, maybe a humanoid pup, with parks and pup Tis the season when Alpha and the humanoid pups. I see that your Lump this doesn’t matter as much. But the kennels, stores that give us dog treats, Pup bring trees indoors again. (1) has graduated to full pup-hood – now biggest change, of course, will be the and riverbanks that provide homes I’m a wiser dog now. I know better capable of throwing a ball far enough new addition to the pack. I remember for all sorts of wonderful creatures than to make any effort to leave my to provide a challenge. I suppose it’s very well the look and the scent of She to sniff and chase. It’s a place where mark on this tree, the way I do on the time that we stopped referring to him Who Must Be Obeyed when she was we all get to know the other dogs, and trees outside. I content myself with as the Lump and acknowledge that he with Lump. The same transformation our humanoids seem to make friends watching the way the reflected light now is indeed a pup. is taking place in Wembley’s she. with one another too. So bring on glimmers on the walls. When Alpha My Pup is evolving into a very good We’re going to have to welcome the new lumps, let’s train the next and the Pup are decorating the tree, friend – although I’m not sure what to Wembley’s lump -- for lump he or generation of pups. And the circle of sometimes the glimmer skitters across make of his attentions when he tries she will be until mastering the art life continues. the floor, and I pounce. But there is to crawl into bed with me, or when of ball throwing. I can imagine the nothing to touch, and no smell. The he decides to shampoo my fur. Still, humanoids singing in their curious Dog bless us every one, glimmer remains one of nature’s we’ve reached the stage where, if warbles the festive song in honour of mysteries. The Pup thinks this is great I lie on my back in the living room, the pending birth: Zoscha fun, watching me scrambling after sometimes the Pup will come over glimmer as it darts this way and that. and scratch my belly. He’s learning For onto us a Lump is born. (1) See “Indoor Trees,” Windsor She Who Must Be Obeyed came to how to do it just right. I guess this For onto us Chronicles, Part 8, December 2000 the house last week to drop off the business of adding new humanoids A Lump is given. Pup’s karate gi and discuss plans for to the pack may work out well for us For onto us Christmas. Every second week, the over the long term, although I confess A Lump is gi-i-i-i-i-i-i-i-i-i-ven. Pup goes to stay with her, leaving that it has confused me in the past, and And the Lump shall ride on Alpha’s Alpha free to take me for long walks I sometimes resent my descent in the shoulders. late at night. I don’t know what the hierarchy. All in all, it’s a good thing. And its name shall be callPd Pup does while he’s away. I hope he And so we’ll have to counsel our Wonderful has enough sense to leave his mark friend Wembley when he comes Snookie-pooh on the grass, the sidewalks and the back from camp. He’s been away The tiny thing shrubs outside the new lair, just as for a long time. I’m afraid when he The never ending story I’ve tried to teach him to do here. But returns, Wembley’s going to be in A pending pup. I’m afraid that Alpha and She Who for an awful surprise. First of all, there’s the addition his humanoids We’ll have to help Wembley teach DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 27

The Grosvenor Avenue Gastronomic Society “Life is too short to eat disappointing food.”

Not a Mis-SteaK, but Don`t be Mis-Steaken--!

or no reason other than a ser- Ster - looks great in this setting. (First great for sharing. what you’d find at any good steak- ious craving for beef and rec- daters, take note!) Decked out with Naturally, we tried steak dishes house in the city, however, the level Fognition of an extensive ad- a large, glitzy bar they offer all the as our main course, however we of arrogance in their delivery is not vertising campaign, GAGS visited standard mixed drinks as well as more also tried the homemade mac and commensurate with their quality. Al- Steak – Modern Steakhouse Lounge than 50 wine selections – including cheese (delicious!) as well as the though, occasionally, we all look for (87 Clarence St. in the Market) for Eno technology, allowing everyone grilled salmon that came coated in a an expensive evening out with excel- this month’s review. We were right to dabble in wines typically beyond soy-mustard glaze and bursting with lent food, etc., our experience at the on time for our late Friday evening their budget (i.e., better wines by the flavour – including a hint of wasabi Steak wasn’t nearly as satisfying as reservation, but that certainly wasn’t glass). That said, none of the wine tang in the smoothly whipped po- the $200/couple bill (plus tip) would enough to elicit a sincere welcome offerings seemed overly interesting or tatoes. We tasted the standard filet suggest. In summary, interesting from the gaggle of leggy, slim host- unusual. and also the bacon-wrapped, Gor- menu ideas, spotty implementation, esses in equally tiny black dresses. Our waiter projected the attitude gonzola filet. Both were very tender and so-so service. But, if you’ve got Stylish staff, for sure, but not particu- that he was doing us a huge favour by and flavourful, although the generous cash and you’re looking for flash, this larly gracious that night. Nonetheless, serving us, which set us off on a bad helping of strong cheese over-pow- may be just the place for you. we were led to our table at the rear note, although he was knowledgeable ered the steak in the latter dish. of the stage-lit, dark restaurant and and easily answered our questions The dessert menu had a lot of As always, we welcome you feed- settled in at our table. about the menu. The appetisers were tempting choices, but we tried only the back at While we were admiring the assembled in cool, geometric shapes carrot cake and the crème brulée. Nei- [email protected] super chic light fixtures we couldn’t that fit the décor and all of them ther one of them was anything special; help but noticing an air of pretension were quite good. The French onion the carrot cake was presented in a flat- Happy Eating! in the setting and the servers - not un- soup was hearty and had pleasantly tened cupcake-like serving with just a like some of the neighbouring restau- crunchy croutons in a sweet broth drizzle of icing, and the tiny crème The Grosevnor Avenue rants. Our first impression was that with a generous layer of gooey melted brulée was clearly cooked at some Gastronomic Society Steak is marketing itself as a place cheese. The surf and turf spring rolls previous point in time, then brought (GAGS) to ‘see and be seen’ among 30-some- with tiny scoops of tabouli and Asian straight to the table from the ‘fridge. things. We must admit that the venue slaw were particularly awesome and Setting aside dessert, the dishes at is well-done: everyone - even a GAG- the flatbread with mushroom ragout is Steak are of comparable quality to Cola de Mono To book an OSCAR ad call Gayle 730-1058 Monkey’s Tail [email protected] (Chilean Eggnog)

This traditional Chilean drink will have you acting like a monkey.

Ingredients 1 gallon milk, the creamier the better so some of this can be cream 1 cup sugar 1 vanilla bean 1 – 2 sticks cinnamon 1 cup café espresso, or 1 cup freshly coarsely ground coffee 6 egg yolks ½ tsp mace 2 cups rum or brandy

Directions Bring the milk and cream to a boil with the sugar, vanilla, cinna- mon and coffee. Let it simmer slowly, stirring occasionally, until the milk turns a light brown. Remove from the heat, strain, and return to low heat. Add a couple of Tablespoons of the hot milk to the egg yolks to dilute and warm them. Stir the yolks back into the mixture and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes. Add mace Let it cool completely before adding rum or brandy. This is traditionally put into bottles and kept in the fridge. Chileans serve this to friends who come to visit during the holiday season. Chileans also drink cola de mono on New Year’s Eve, a favorite holiday. At midnight, Chileans hug and kiss each other, saying (in Spanish), “Good luck and may all your wishes come true.” Some believe they will have good luck if they eat lentejas (lentils) at midnight. th Page 28 The OSCAR - OUR 38 YEAR DEC 2010 SURROUND CIRCLE YOGA Sensational Yoga

practice. What better place than on to figure out why you feel that way. e experience our lives a yoga mat or meditation cushion to Is the whole world really against you? through our bodies, practice noticing physical sensations? Are you angry because the kitchen Wwhether we are aware of it By becoming more aware we can is in a mess or annoyed because the or not. Yet we are usually so caught investigate and discover what our weather is lousy? If you let yourself up in our thoughts that we miss moment-to-moment experiences get all worked up over things, you out on much of our direct sensory really are. Here’s an example. Pain will without a doubt feel something experience. Even when we are aware is a sensation – perhaps you feel somewhere in your physical body. of feeling a cold north wind, the sound pressure and an ache that seems Stop! Turn inwards and look at what of rain dripping on a tin roof, the localized in a small area. As you you are actually feeling. Are you tired fragrance of an antique rose; rarely do pay closer attention, you might after a busy week? Have you been we remain with the experience long notice heat or tightness. Perhaps the pushing yourself way too hard? Your enough to inhabit it fully. In most sensations are no longer pinpointed body is telling you to slow down and moments, we hear an overlay of inner in one place but begin to spread out relax. So take a break and breathe; let dialogue commenting on what has beyond the original spot. As you your breath be your guide. Slowly as just happened or on what we plan to continue, you might become aware of you are able to unwind, re-charge, and Maureen Fallis • Photo by Tom Alfoldi do next. flowing sensations arising, becoming find a way to rejuvenate your body, Many people are so accustomed distinctive, blending into one another, you will soon find yourself being to being out of touch with their body vanishing, appearing elsewhere. more kind and spacious to yourself By Maureen Fallis, that they live entirely in their head - a The neat thing about diving into the and to others! Surround Circle Yoga mental world. The fact that the body sensations of your body is that you can If you are interested in developing and mind are interconnected seems learn to be mindful of the changing a keener awareness of the sensations hard for them to comprehend. Unless stream of feelings without trying to of your body and becoming more feelings are painfully intrusive, hold on to them, change them or resist actively engaged with life, you are extremely pleasant or intense, them. invited to try one of the drop-in physical sensations can seem elusive Being creatively aware is beneficial classes at Surround Circle Yoga. See and be difficult to recognize. Other because it clearly demonstrates how www.surroundcircleyoga.com for individuals are often in a trance – only the mind influences the body, and winter schedule or call 613-730-6649 partially present to experiences of the conversely, how the body influences for more details about group classes moment. the mind. Here’s a challenge: When and private therapeutic yoga. Being creatively aware takes you are upset and feeling irritable, try

Sips from the Poetry Café Thinking about November

By: Susan Atkinson come to quite like the muted tomes November of greys, browns and muddy green. ovember’s a funny month I’m finding a delight in ‘a fall that’s tucks itself neatly don’t you think? - A sort hidden within’. Without the flashy into bed of no man’s land. Even burst of colour, without the glorious bare bones N leaves, without the show we all love if it isn’t official that fall really is of trees over, all the leaves have fallen, been to see there are textures and shapes, waiting raked, piled and for the most part stories and poems to be found in to be buried taken away. Usually I don’t care what is left behind. the moon amber- much for this damp, grey month but My bike route takes me west gold slung strangely I am finding something along the beautiful Ottawa River low on quite beautiful about all the empty Parkway. In the unpredictability of the back of the sky lawns, tided and put to bed. The this ‘funny’ month, the current of a month turns shrubs and young trees swaddled in the water changes both rapidly and a season changes. hessian blankets, the flowers all cut unexpectedly. Some days the ducks back and neatly tended. And I don’t glide along as if skimming on glass mind that feeling that fall is over and others the current is so turbulent we’re waiting for the next season to you’d think our city was nestled by arrive. the Ocean. The trees bend and twist Usually I don’t care much for in different ways, noticeable now November but I’ve been riding my they are bare. Grasses and reeds bike a lot of late and find myself thinned by the season show coves noticing so much more than perhaps and holes previously obscured. I’m I usually do. This year I’ve actually finding this all a bit wondourous in a month that I really have never paid much mind to. I am learning to appreciate the simple gifts of November – the glorious gold, which settles at the end of each day, the way the bright colours pop against the monochrome backdrop, the way nothing is hidden in November, how it is all left open and exposed. It’s a funny month, but you know what I am learning to like it! DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 29 Tasty Tidbits From Trillium Bakery Happiness is Homemade Made at Home…

By Jocelyn Le Roy Voila! “I made the salad dressing!” Older kids can grind another look, a new perspective. Here’s a make an entire meal once or twice a week, or more. radical idea. How about one day a week everybody ow, that’s deep. It’s loaded. They will be proud, and so will you. And the family at your house eat only raw food? It can be fun. You Last month, three of my four children and can relax over dinner, as they should. will feel energized. It doesn’t have to be just lettuce I drove to the family cottage for our annual I see so many stressed-out customers grabbing leaves. It’s really easy – no messy dishes. It does N food on the run. Hey, even we at Trillium are making help if you’re not allergic to nuts. special day, to remember and honour the life of the mother of two of my grandchildren. She died long dinners for our customers. They’re buying our The varied beautiful colours of fruits, before her time. While enroute, we stopped at a “dinner pies” like never before; they’re homemade vegetables, nuts, seeds and sprouts make art country restaurant for lunch. from scratch by me and my elf helpers. We work out of food. You enjoy the added pleasure of I spotted a sign on a wall filled with fishing together to create a real homemade product in our slowing down while eating (all that chewing) and trophies, “Gone Fishin’” signs, “Home Sweet second home, the bakery. appreciate the bounty we have at our fingertips Home” and other folksy hand-made signs. The Christmas is a good time to take a couple of here in Canada. sign that caught my eye said, “Happiness is hours one evening to open up the dusty old family Homemade.” I thought about it. I thought about cookbook that grandma used. Find “cookies”, close how my son made his children’s life and home good your eyes and take turns pointing blindly after their mother’s death. Together they planted at the list. Open your eyes. Look up the seeds and started over. Happiness gradually grew appointed recipe. Try it! in their home. Cookies are all pretty easy. They The restaurant boasted homemade country bring a lovely aroma to your home. The cooking. You could taste the freshness. Nothing fragrance wafts around the house (great fancy, but the food was homemade by people who if you’re trying to sell your house, they care enough to try to give the authentic experience say; even better if you’re not). This of hands-on prepared meals with love, doing their is part of living in the moment: near best and hangin’ in. There were a lot of people instant gratification. Cookies keep well. eating lunch on a rainy Monday in the middle of Baking something from scratch is kind of nowhere. “grounding.” You can substitute sugars, It was a family run restaurant. flours, if you need to. I thought of our bakery and our values. I If you want to prove that happiness decided to write about the concept of happiness is homemade, get going. It’s not as time- being homemade. consuming as you might think. A fun Going deep isn’t necessary. You can still create way to achieve this homemade happiness your own homemade happiness in your kitchen is to try “binge cooking.” That means while having fun. There will be profound benefits getting out the really big pot, making and deep discounts in your food bills. larger quantities, and freezing portions in Enlist the help of everyone! Volunteer them for containers for later, quick meals. all the little and big jobs involved in making a meal. For a little extra preparation time you Children can set the table and clear it after the can do a week’s worth of meals. There meal. They can assist you in washing, chopping, might be a hearty soup (and some leftover and deciding how many potatoes to put in the pot. bits of protein to it). Perhaps a big potful Teach them how. Let them try out their new skills of roasted herbed chicken (from that great and make some judgments. If something gets sale at the store), or braised (any kind) overcooked or is underchopped, they’ll learn fast. cheaper cuts of meat with pieces of carrot Put someone in charge of veggies, even if they and potato in the pan for added flavour begin by opening a bag of pre-washed salad. Chop and less use of cookware. Easy! something (from scratch) to add to the mix: a And lastly, there’s my favourite sliced carrot, a handful of dried cranberries, a sliced – better than a wife, some politically tomato. incorrect people say: the CROCKPOT. Nobody’s listening to the tired old “I don’t like The latest versions are all sexy sleek that.” We’re too busy. There’s no time for picky stainless steel with blue lights. A crockpot complaints. “Which of these would you like to will make a complete dinner for you, all add? Pick one.” in the same pot, while you are at work. There are so many opportunities to teach the And you put the ingredients into the pot children simple skills such as cutting and measuring: with your own hands, in your own home. make your own salad dressing – whisk a little oil, Once again – homemade happiness. lemon and a carefree large pinch of herbs together. Really folks, let’s all give the kitchen

TRILLIUM RECIPES -- page 15

Contributors Distributors Advertisers Thank you! Page 30 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 Yasir Naqvi’s Unusual Path to Queen’s Park

By William Burr origin. Upon meeting him, however, in Pakistan and how Canada was and education officer at the food bank, what’s most remarkable is the man’s different. “It’s so easy in our country remembered this year’s St. Patrick’s hen Yasir Naqvi was 10 energy. here to be involved in public service.” Day parade. “Yasir Naqvi approached years old, growing up in Slender, with round cheeks For years, Naqvi volunteered the Ottawa Food Bank float right Pakistan, his father was and a pointy chin, he is physically with the Liberal party. When Richard before it began along the parade route. W unassuming. But he has clear, steady Patten stepped down as MPP for He introduced himself and asked for arrested for leading a pro-democracy protest. Naqvi says this was the eyes and he talks with intense purpose. Ottawa Centre in 2007, Naqvi had the a cash collection bin, so that he could seminal event in his life. Every Naqvi didn’t necessarily always opening he needed. walk alongside our float collecting weekend he made trips with his family know that he was going to be a He succeeded despite the fact donations from parade-goers. It was to visit his father in prison. politician, but politics were always that Patten endorsed local councillor completely unexpected on such a Next fall, Naqvi will be up for front and centre in his life. “I was in a Diane Deans as his replacement. chilly day!” reelection, and the 37-year old MPP very civic minded family.” According to the Ottawa Citizen, Naqvi uses Twitter a lot – just for Ottawa Centre says he is excited “I grew up in a country that was a Naqvi has since won Patten over and what you would expect from the to run again. “I’ve been on the job military dictatorship. So the politics earned his support. The two have second youngest member of provincial now for three years and I have not had there were more about how do you become friends. Parliament. a single morning where I got up and, restore democracy, how do you get “He is embarked on a steep He says his goal is to build a you know, didn’t want to do it.” the right to vote, and that’s what my political ascent,” the newspaper vibrant community. He is trying to On paper, the two most remarkable parents were really engaged in.” said about Naqvi in a January article make more community health centres things about Naqvi are his age and his His family left Pakistan in 1988 headlined “He’s a firecracker.” and he supports light rail. He has tried for Niagara Falls, Ontario when he Located in a small building in to improve the state of community was 15 years old. He finished high Westboro, Naqvi’s multiple-room housing buildings which he says were school there and then pursued two office appears at first glance like any in bad shape at the beginning of his undergraduate degrees at McMaster other, with cream walls and minimal term three years ago. University. He earned a law degree at decoration. Newspapers are strewn Naqvi’s biography on his website the and got a job across his coffee table. has a happy ending; after describing at an Ottawa law firm. Jackie Choquette, his executive his father’s arrest in Pakistan and His former boss at the Lang assistant, laughs easily talking about his family’s emigration: “Canada Michener firm was impressed by her job. “Honestly, it’s fun. It’s fast welcomed his family and allowed Naqvi’s “huge work ethic.” Michael paced. It’s exciting. Every day is a them to prosper.” Flavell says the young lawyer would different adventure. We’re all over As cheesy as it sounds and as work “bulldog hard. He doesn’t let it the place.” much as it might seem like a smart go.” Naqvi founded and continues to political statement, Naqvi does not shy Surrounded by politics in the help run a food drive “blitz” campaign away from his gratitude to Canada. In nation’s capital, Naqvi says he knew with the Ottawa Food Bank. Staff contrast, he brings it up several times he had found his home. “When at the charity speak highly of him. during our interview. I started practising law I got very “Yasir was always the first to be out “My parents made an incredible involved in the community,” he says. front leading the troops in the door- decision to immigrate, and I thank “I knew I wanted to run.” to-door campaign,” Peter Tilley, the them every single morning when I Naqvi saw how much it cost his executive director, said in an e-mail. wake up because of the great quality father to march in a public protest Chris Cline, a communications of life I have.” DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 31

M.P.P. OTTAWA CENTRE A Better Health Care System

By Yasir Naqvi, MPP Cardiff Wing at CHEO; build a new This plan includes $7,043,380 nurse practitioner who is accepting Royal Ottawa Hospital; and expand in new funding to increase health new patients in their community. n October we hit a milestone: the Emergency Room and open more system capacity at all of our hospitals Nothing in life is more important one million more Ontarians had operating rooms at the Queensway in Ottawa. It also includes nearly $2 than our health. It is the basis of all found a family doctor since 2003. Carleton Hospital. million for Critical Care Response we have, and the means for all we I Expanding our health care Teams, consisting of intensive care do. Our government understands This milestone was possible because our government made training more facilities and adding more doctors to doctors, nurses and respiratory this and is working hard to ensure doctors a priority – adding 160 more the system have resulted in significant therapists available 24/7 to reduce that you have access to world class first-year spaces in medical schools drops in wait times for key medical the need for lengthy stays in the health care services right in our own and creating the first new medical procedures at all of our hospitals. At Intensive Care Unit (ICU). These community. Investing in health care school in a generation, the Northern the Queensway Carleton Hospital, teams have been established at the has always been a key priority of our Ontario School of Medicine. Here knee surgery wait times are down 62 Ottawa Hospital Civic site and the government, and will continue to be in Ottawa, the University of Ottawa percent from 648 days to 245 days. At Queensway Carleton Hospital. the center point of our vision moving medical school now has 12 new , cancer surgeries Of course, our goal is to prevent forward. spaces and can train 155 doctors a are down 50 percent from 113 days Ontarians from ever needing We have come a long way in year. We have also invested $200,000 to 56 days. At the Montfort Hospital, emergency medical care, and that seven years. We went from closing to upgrade their lab equipment so that hip replacement surgery wait times is why focusing on prevention and the Grace Hospital and firing nurses, Ottawa doctors can learn in the best are down 68 percent from 383 days to treatment is so critical. To help connect to doubling the size of the Montfort possible environment. 123 days. And at the Heart Institute, people with the valuable services they Hospital and hiring over 200 new We know it takes years to train a Angioplasty wait times are down 57 need to manage their health, we have nurses in our local hospitals. Our doctor, and that is why we have also percent from 56 days to 24 days. launched Health Care Options, an wait times have dropped and more focused on helping foreign trained The reduction in wait times educational program that provides of our neighbours have access to doctors become certified and establish is good news because it means information about the different family health care. We are building a their practices to help Ontario’s that people in our community are health care options available right in healthier community and a healthier patients. Since 2003, we have seen a receiving the care they need, when our community. You can visit www. Ontario. 21 percent increase in the number of they need it. Although we are proud of health.gov.on.ca. Also, please use During this holiday season I internationally trained doctors. our achievements, we know that more www.ontario.ca/healthcareoptions for wish you and your family health and It takes more than just doctors to can be done. We have to continue to more information on what services are happiness. May you each be blessed provide world class health care – they work hard to get our wait times even available and how you can access the with the gift of good health. need a space to treat people. That is lower, and to focus on reducing wait health care professionals you need. Please do not hesitate to contact why we have invested over a billion times in our emergency rooms. Ontario has introduced Health me if you have any questions about dollars in health care infrastructure in We have introduced the Care Connect, an innovative doctor the innovative health care services Ottawa alone. This money has helped Emergency Department (ED) Action referral service. Health Care Connect available in our community. You can to double the size of the Montfort Plan that contains $142 million in helps Ontarians who are without a reach me anytime at ynaqvi.mpp.co@ Hospital, build a new Cancer Centre new funding to increase capacity in family health care provider (family liberal.ola.org or 613-722-6414. with sites at the Ottawa Hospital and our hospitals, improve emergency doctor or nurse practitioner) to find To your health! the Queensway Carleton Hospital; room practices and coverage, and one. People without a family health open a new critical care wing at the increase the health care capacity in the care provider can call 1-800-445-1822 Ottawa Hospital; open a new Gary community, outside of our hospitals. to be referred to a family doctor or a

To book an OSCAR ad call Gayle 730-1058

oscarads@ oldottawasouth.ca Page 32 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 33 The Part II O•S•C•A•R© The Community Voice of Old Ottawa South We Told You It Was True! hen we decided to open up our wedding ceremony to Wthe Firehall children and families, a few thoughts went through our minds – is this really a good idea? Do you really think anyone will show up? Do you think they’ll finally believe us!? As it turned out, we were pleasantly surprised…. October 16th was a beautiful autumn day. There was not a cloud in the sky, and the fall colours were incredible. Our wedding day turned out to the best day of both of our lives – not because of the beautiful weather, or the gorgeous Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, or even the lavish Chateau Laurier where we had our reception, but because of the amazing and overwhelming support and encouragement we received that day from the many guests who took the time to come downtown and watch our wedding ceremony. We just wanted to thank all of the Firehall families and children (past and present) who came out to offer their blessings and well wishes. We were truly touched by how many people attended from the Ottawa South community. It was so will be moving to our new home in And so, it really was a good idea wild stories, they finally did believe comforting for both of us to see so Carp in January, we always try to stop to open up our ceremony to include us! many familiar faces when walking into the Firehall any time we can. We Firehall families. And many people Thanks again. down the aisle! hope to see all who attended at some did show up - more than we ever Paul and Caitlin Although both of us have moved point, and offer our personal thanks expected! (Thank you Steve for on to ‘other’ jobs now (Caitlin as a for supporting us in this special time promoting it so well!) And, most teacher, and Paul as a Paramedic), and in our lives. importantly, after our many, many

Margaret Dickenson - a Culinary Ambassador of Canada

ld Ottawa South cookbook author, Margaret Dickenson, was recently named by the Ottawa Life Magazine (OLM) as one of the “TOP Fifty OPeople in the Capital”. In saluting Margaret, OLM referred to her as “Ottawa’s Julia – a culinary ambassador of Canada”! In response to popular demand, Margaret is hosting another TV series produced by ROGERS. “Mar- garet’s Table” was filmed this past summer in the Dickenson’s home on Seneca Street. Margaret developed each episode, wrote the scripts, did the food styling and hosted each of the six episodes. The new TV series is available to Rogers’cable TV customers on Rogers TV, Cable 22 in Ottawa. It is also available across Canada to all Rogers’ cable, wireless and high-speed internet customers on Rogers On Demand Online (RODO).The titles of the six shows are(1) Cocktail Favorites, (2) The Ultim- ate Stacked Dinner, (3) An All Seasons’ Menu, (4) Creating a WOW Breakfast, (5) Crêpes Go Exotic and (6) A Relaxed Chic Dinner. Plus, each episode has one of “Margaret’s Decorating TIPs”. Page 34 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT OTTAWA CENTRE A Plan for Affordability and Sustainability

By Paul Dewar ly and the government has cancelled By removing the federal portion ing for the family budget. programs that would assist Canadians of the HST from your home heating, The EcoEnergy program was ome heating is not a luxury with the financial costs of green retro- you can immediately feel the relief in also vital for creating local green jobs in Ottawa. I have heard from fits. the cost of home heating. in the construction, evaluation and constituents that they just While you have to pay the price The introduction of the EcoEner- maintenance fields. H for the government’s poor tax poli- gy retrofit program would allow you The costs associated with our plan can’t afford to keep their homes warm this winter. Low income families and cies, the biggest polluters in this coun- to make your home energy efficient would be covered by the cancelation seniors, in particular, are finding it try receive over $2 billion per year in and fight climate change. Before Ste- of subsidies to the biggest polluters. harder to make ends meet. subsidies. phen Harper shut down the EcoEnergy After all, we made a commitment to This year, the cost of home heat- It’s time for fairness and practical program, the program helped to retro- the world at the Copenhagen con- ing has increased by 30% in Ottawa. steps to make your life more afford- fit 500,000 Canadian homes and save ference on climate change to cancel The increase was partially fueled by able. That’s why New Democrats an estimated 3 tonnes of green house those subsidies. the HST, which raised sales taxes on are proposing the following steps to gas emissions (GHGs) per home. That These three practical steps would home heating from 5% to 13%. This reduce the cost of home heating and amounts to 1,500,000 tonnes of GHGs advance affordability, sustainability is a far cry from Stephen Harper’s invest in green retrofits: a year after 4 years of retrofits. and fairness in our economy. We have promise of affordability to working 1. Drop the 5% federal sales tax The program cost $745 million invited the government to work with families. on your home heating now. over those 4 years and is estimated to us in implementing these ideas. I look At the same time, we are trying 2. Re-introduce the EcoEnergy have leveraged an additional $4 bil- forward to your feedback and if you to reduce our energy use. We recog- retrofit program – so you can make lion in retrofit investment by private wish to stay updated on our campaign, nize that consumption as usual is not your home more energy efficient and individuals. The Department of Nat- please visit www.heatyourhome.ca sustainable, neither financially nor fight climate change. And, ural Resources Canada says the aver- environmentally. However, retrofit- 3. End subsidies to the big pollut- age program claimant cut their home Paul Dewar, MP ting energy-inefficient homes is cost- ers. energy bill by 20%, a permanent sav- Ottawa Centre Yoga Tips For Teachers And Parents Enhancing The School Year With Awareness By Sally Waterfall how they want to feel today. If so, share your five good things with one poor memory, but more likely because have them enjoy 5 deep breaths into another. they were not paying attention at the The medical field has consistently their feelings, helping them grow and These are simple and quick ways to time. identified self awareness as a hallmark spread throughout their whole being. raise emotional awareness and begin Children are often much closer to their of life long health. However, we 3. If they decide that they want to feel to self care. Try them over a few experiences than adults. Watch an often get stuck on negative moments a different way today, then enjoy 5 weeks to increase effectiveness and infant experience anything for the first and exaggerate their significance. breaths while thinking about the way build a healthy pattern of checking time; they look at it, touch it, feel it on Learning to pay attention to how they do want to feel. Send that feeling in. As children learn mindfulness their face, taste it. Every experience different moments and events make to every corner of the body and techniques, they can practice is fresh and new. They live in the us feel is an important skill leading to imagine it filling up with fresh breath independently in everyday life: as moment reacting emotionally and emotional intelligence, improved self and fresh feelings. they walk, as they eat, as they play. immediately to stimulus, then moving understanding and greater compassion You can also try the Five Good Purposefully engaging in their various on to the next experience. and empathy. Moments mindfulness game. Suggest activities will actively shape the mind, However, children also exist on auto- Try this simple exercise, either in to your child that they pay attention helping children to live deeply each pilot, are easily distracted, forgetful, the home or classroom, to boost self to moments that make them feel good moment of daily life. lack concentration, have poor self- awareness and contribute to a healthy and try to find five different ones. Children live in a world of being control and often do not understand day of learning. The moment might be a thought told what to do: what time to wake themselves or the world. Mindfulness 1. Take a moment with your child or that inspires, a lovely view that up, what to eat, where and when they exercises address these concerns students to “check in”. How are they makes them pause in admiration, an have various activities such as school, and can assist children in living with feeling this morning? How is their interaction with someone, etc. What sports or music lessons. This can lead attention and awareness of themselves body feeling? How about your self? matters is that for at least a moment to going through the motions of living and their environment. Ask the kids to describe the feelings it made them feel good. You do the without conscious awareness. For Visit my website, www.waterfallyoga. as best as they can. same. When you gather around the example, if you ask them what they com, to learn more about my yoga 2. Now that the kids are aware of their dinner table tonight or get together ate for lunch, they may not be able to philosophy and the children’s yoga feelings, ask them to decide if this is at the end of day in the classroom, tell you. This is not simply because of programs I offer. Tosca Tarta Swedish Holiday Cake 2 eggs mix. Pour into a 10-inch round cake pan. ¾ cup sugar Put in 350 F oven. Cook until sides sep- 7 Tbsp butter, melted arate from the cake pan or until a tooth- 1 cup flour pick inserted into the centre comes out ¼ cup milk clean, usually 20 to 30 minutes. Cook the topping – butter, sugar and almonds Topping in a saucepan on the stovetop at a low 7 Tbsp butter heat. Almonds burn easily at high heat. ½ cup sugar Stir constantly. Add the milk and flour to ¾ cups almonds or more, toasted create a smooth paste. Cook until thick- 2 Tbsp milk ened. Spread the topping over the cake 2 Tbsp flour and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. Mix dry ingredients together. Alter- nate adding milk and melted butter to dry Submitted by Karin Sundin DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 35 On Guard for Our Kids

By Paige Raymond Kovach MacDonald, a vice principal at Hopewell Avenue Public School. wo men in our neighbourhood “We are also surprised by some of the stop rush hour traffic holding stories they tell us about drivers who only metal STOP signs. Each disregard their stop signs, and proceed T through the intersections.” school day, Robert Seto and Nicholas Obanor are stationed at Sunnyside and The Ottawa Police Service is Grosvenor and Bank and Sunnyside aware of these types of drivers, a fact intersections. They watch traffic while sheet on its website reads: coaxing Hopewell Avenue Public “Sadly, some drivers traveling School students safely to the opposite through school zones are in such a corner. rush that they honk, yell or otherwise Nicholas is the crossing guard at mistreat school crossing guards who Bank and Sunnyside. He has been a are entrusted with getting children guard in various locations in the city safely across the street. All in the name since 2004. His is a stressful location. of getting through the intersection five Each day there is construction traffic, seconds faster. Some drive through drivers driving through red lights, and the intersection while the crossing those speeding late for something. guard is assisting children across He says his “calmness may refusing to wait.” emanate from years of meandering “If you are one of these people, Robert Seto through traffic on bicycle irrespective the crossing guards are there because of the weather.” of people like you. If there is a Robert helps families cross at crossing guard present, it is because take them up with their school liaison Hunt. Sunnyside and Grosvenor. Robert’s this area was identified as potentially officer and he in turn would speak to Neal Hill, Chair of Hopewell first day as a crossing guard was hazardous to students crossing. A the traffic section. Hopewell’s school School Parents Council, agrees that September 24, 2002. He knows most driver approaching an intersection liaison officer is Constable Matthew those guards do a great job in making our kids and families safer as they walk to and from school. “We feel lucky to have two individuals who take their jobs so seriously, and do them so well.” But he adds, “We would love to have more help from the City on the other side of the school, as well, Hopewell Avenue. For years, the School has been asking the City for some changes in traffic flows on that side, and so far we have not seen any action. But there is currently an Area Traffic Management Study underway that will cover all of the area, including specifically Sunnyside and Hopewell. When it is completed next year, we hope the result of that will put into place some more safety- related protections on both sides of our very busy school.” While both Robert and Nicholas enjoy their jobs as crossing guards, the rest of their days are filled with other activities. Robert is an aspiring comic book artist and writes journals, while Nicholas has created a free website that generates lottery numbers Nicholas Obanor for those who play as a group, for example with colleagues at the office or with friends. of the parents and children by name while a crossing guard is stopping and greets them everyday. traffic must stop and proceed only Nicholas and Robert are just two when pedestrians and the crossing of the some 117 guards the Ottawa guard have left the roadway. If you Safety Council provides for the city’s commit this offence -- and your license schools. plate is recorded by a witness -- you Guards are trained in first aid every can be charged. If you are convicted, two years, and have an annual training you face three demerit points and a on health and safety policies. The $180 fine.” Safety Council invites guest speakers Everyone can play a part to keep to come in and talk to the guards about the streets safe added Sergeant Al issues that affect them. For example, Ferris of the Traffic/Escort Section. a police officer came in and talked “Record vehicle information – the about traffic behavior and the best vehicle make, colour, license plate – procedures for reporting vehicles that and be absolutely sure of the driver do not comply with stopping. because you’ll have to identify him/ “We do believe that [crossing her 30-90 days later.” guards] help keep the students safe He also suggested that any parents as they cross the roads,” says Kim with any traffic safety issues should Page 36 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 By Anna Redman flocks. New Zealanders favour this element of the biblical tale, resulting very year as the weather gets in an exceptionally strong tie between colder and the ground is the traditional Christmas story and covered in a sparkly, white many citizens. New Zealanders E also enjoy the Australian tradition of blanket of snow, people all over North America prepare to celebrate . This entails Christmas. Caught up in the season and carol-singing outside, in a large group, its festivities, few people remember and is often known as “Christmas in that halfway around the world that the Park.” same wintery holiday is celebrated on Less religious elements of sandy beaches in the scorching heat. Christmas are also important to Residents of New Zealand celebrate the New Zealand celebrations. the holiday during their summer Interestingly, many decorative months, without a snowflake or icicle Christmas scenes are depicted as in sight. snowy winter wonderlands, despite As North Americans, a summertime the lack of fluffy white stuff in Christmas instead of a snowy one reality. Perhaps this is due to the seems completely unfathomable, but preponderance of the connection to New Zealanders, it’s the norm. The traditional (below) (essential!) and the photo above is prob- of winter and Christmas in media, They celebrate just as heartily as any ably the one that speaks Christmas the most - on the beach! through movies, carols, and stories, other country, designing their own Photos from Kylie Gorringe, New Zealand or maybe through European and traditions, as well as incorporating North American influence. Likewise, New Zealanders had traditionally customs from other countries. like a paper crown, a cheap toy, and referred to Christmas’ annual toy Because many people in New Zealand a joke or riddle. The dinner itself giver as . But in are initially of British descent, the would include roasted turkey, chicken recent years, in the typical trend of are heavily or lamb accompanied by vegetables Americanization, his name has slowly influenced by their British heritage. such as peas, potatoes and pumpkin. switched to . Starting with the standard The standard British gravy and other Like in North America, Santa is element of , New sauces are also staples. featured in his own parade with bands, Zealanders import the traditional This feast is followed by various decorations and floats. The most Christmas crackers from the Brits. desserts, some of which include popular is undoubtedly ’s Guests each take hold of a tootsie roll hot fruit pudding; pavlova, a New Santa Parade down Queen Street. This shaped cracker, pulling each end to a Zealand speciality; fruit salad; takes place at the end of November sharp bang, and reveal cheap trinkets with brandy each year, and is seen to be the official start of the Christmas celebrations. sauce, a traditional British dessert; People also purchase Christmas trees and pastry cases filled with chopped for their homes, decorating them with fruit. For a particularly different twist, many families begin their celebrations Cont’d on next page earlier in the day with a barbeque lunch that often includes ham, shrimp, and other fish. In the original spirit of Christmas, the religious aspect of the holiday is heavily emphasized. New Zealanders celebrate the story of Jesus Christ with a special service. Citizens often feel a deeper connection to the Christmas story due to their population of sheep. They traditionally hold shepherds in high esteem due to their reliance on them to care for and maintain their

Dog in Aukland, north New Zeand, herding a few of the 45 million sheep in New Zealand (pop. 4,387,000) (below) and Muriwai Gannet in southern shoreline of Queenstown, New Zealand Photos from Rachelle Grant DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 37 Strollercise By Anna Redman

ixteen years ago in Old Ottawa South, two women came up Swith a brilliant idea. Consid- ering the dilemmas of seclusion and loneliness that are often faced by new mothers, they designed an innovative program called Strollercise. It would allow women to get out of the house with the young children to get some exercise. The initiators of the program are Lyne Burton and Joan Garvey. Cur- rent owners of WAG - A Posh Shop for Spoiled Pets, the two “have al- ways been very forward thinking,” says Dianne Lupinska. They are also responsible for the Boomerang Kids, the children’s consignment store on Bank Street. For those unfamiliar with the festive purple shop, it is managed and run by more than 45 women, and it aims to reuse and recycle while sav- go at their own pace. The Bank Street that he came out and participated, dur- She says Strollercise is such a “posi- ing their customers money. It is also walk is a 45 minute cardiovascular ing the Strollerthon. tive and wonderful experience,” and home to the innovative Strollercise program, followed by 10-15 minutes This fantastic program has now that two minutes into the program, her program. of core recovery stretches. Each club changed hands as Burton and Garvey day always gets better. Hilliker initi- Initially starting at the Old Ottawa travels a specific, and very pictur- moved on from Boomerang to start ated the fundraiser for the honorary South location, across from the Sun- esque route, with those in Old Ottawa WAG, also located on Bank Street. It bench, saying that participants of the nyside branch of the library and on the South Strollercise following the path has survived the transition and con- program kept asking how they could south side of the bridge from Lans- of the Rideau Canal. tinues to draw large crowds. “I get told give back to the instigators. Hilli- downe Park, the Strollercise program After the success of the program, almost every week how people have ker decided a bench was appropriate, is now operated at all four Boomer- creators Burton and Garvey decided made great lifelong friends through wanting to “purchase a symbol of the ang Kids locations. The other three to create a Strollercise fundraiser, en- Strollercise,” says Dianne Lupinska, support the program has given.” are located in Westboro just west of titled Strollerthon, to help support the “it’s a great program.” Hilliker says that the only bad the giant Superstore on Richmond Children’s Wish Foundation. Over the Anyone interested in joining thing about the program is when Road at Kirkwood Avenue, the Or- past 16 years they have raised more should know that in addition to being people don’t know about it. “The leans Gardens Shopping Centre, and than $100,000. In 1998 Burton and an opportunity for friends, fun and fit- women really help each other,” she in Kanata on the west side of Eagle- Garvey were presented with the Hil- ness, it is also free. To get involved says. When people join with a six son, just south of Michael Cowpland ary Whitton award in the category you simply go to the store nearest you month old, Hilliker is always sad- Dr. and Stonehaven Dr. Each location of business and commerce for their and sign up for the day(s) that suit you dened by the six months they endured has different days and times that are efforts. They have sponsored many best. You also have to sign a release alone, but grateful that they have been designated for Strollercise, and list of community events including an “en- waiver, which can be found online. able to join the Strollercise support these can be found on the Boomerang tire Ottawa South Soccer League (15 Then with your baby and your walk- system; better late than never. Hilliker Kids website http://www.boomerang- teams), a team in the Ottawa Cen- ing shoes, you can join the other par- says that her favourite part of the pro- kids.ca/ tre Minor Hockey Association, and ents who are part of the club and hit gram, although she clearly loves it all, In Old Ottawa South the program have participated in the Big Sisters the road. is the transformation that participants is offered year round, only being can- Fundraiser.” They are Jules Hilliker, a pre and post natal go through. Newcomers often claim to celled if the weather exceeds 30 de- founding members of the Old Ottawa specialist, leads the walks at the Bank have no interest in running, but soon grees Celsius or drops below minus South Business Group, and even set Street and Richmond Road locations, they feel so good about themselves 30. For the other three locations the a Guinness World Record in 2004 for and gets rave reviews from the regu- that their exercising and participation program ended on November 1st and the largest Strollercise class, and cre- lars. “Jules is a phenomenal trainer, evolves, starting from day one. will resume again in April. ated a video of the event. she knows everyone’s kids names Whether you’re a new parent, or The purpose of the program is Now the program has been hon- from 5 years back,” states Lupinska. a grandparent, or simply a resident in to allow parents to “walk, jog or run oured with a bench, donated by Roy- Julie Barss says “Thanks to Jules and the area, it’s nice to know that these [their] way to fitness by working out al Lepage Partners and Strollercise her excellent program, I was able to types of programs exist, and that they with [their] baby, whether in the stroll- alumni Jennifer Stewart and Diane get back in shape and run a half-mara- succeed. Strollercise undoubtedly er, a carrier...or [their] tummy!” New Allingham. It is located near the li- thon within 6 months of giving birth builds a sense of community, bring- babies often limit one’s social inter- brary, across from Bank Street, and to twins. More importantly, I got out ing people together to discuss mutual action, and this program allows new was dedicated to all Strollercisers as of the house with two babies (no easy issues, and make friends at a time parents to leave their homes without a thank you to Boomerang Kids. At task) at least three mornings a week when they really need them. Enjoy hiring a babysitter, and meet with a its unveiling, then Mayor Jim Watson with a fabulous group of women, and the newly donated bench and look out group of people who are experiencing was present to dedicate the new bench made some excellent friends.” for any future Strollerthons, they are similar things. The programs are run to the old owners and the new owners Jules Hilliker “lives and breathes undoubtedly quite a spectacle. by personal trainers and fitness in- of Boomerang Kids. Lupinska says the [Strollercise] program,” having structors. They encourage people to that “Jim Watson has always been joined almost seven years ago after be active, while allowing everyone to very supportive” of their program and training the owners at another facility.

Christmas in New Zealand... Cont’d from previous page

the traditional Christmas bobbles and Watching television is not a Despite our own connections of family and friendship. Whether in enjoyed in North America and common component of the Christmas Christmas in a winter wonderland, snow or sand people enjoy the spirit Britain. However, unlike the pine celebrations. Some exceptions Christmas is enjoyed worldwide, of Christmas. So this holiday season, tree which is the centrepiece in North include religious programming, the despite the season. What connects as they would say in New Zealand’s America, it is the pohutukawa, with Queen’s Christmas message and the these celebrations is not the snow Maori language, be sure to have delightful red blossoms, that serves as Christmas specials that are imported gently falling outside, or its roots in a ‘Meri Kirihimete’, or a Merry the Christmas tree in New Zealand. from Britain. Christianity, but the season of giving, Christmas! th Page 38 The OSCAR - OUR 38 YEAR DEC 2010 ‘Tis the Season for Planning by Rick Sutherland, CLU, declined in value. You may want income will be reported in the spring So while you are mulling over CFP, FDS, R.F.P to speak to your financial advisor of 2013 on your 2012 tax return. your decision to go with turkey or ham about selling your losers and apply This is almost a two year tax deferral for your holiday feasting, you may s the year 2010 draws to a the losses against your gains. It is strategy. want to devote a little time toward close our thoughts are turning recommended that you make these Make your charitable donations tax planning. These and many other toward the festive season, decisions before Friday December before the end of the year. You may tax reduction strategies should be A 19 in order for trades to be placed, want to consider donating publicly practiced year round, not just at year- family and celebration. The year-end also brings another deadline well settled and be eligible for use in 2010. traded securities. Any resulting end. We wish our readers a happy worth considering. With the exception Otherwise the trade may settle in 2011 capital gains on donated securities holiday and a prosperous 2011. of RRSP contributions and maybe and not be useful in 2010. Capital are not subject to tax and you receive The foregoing is for general a few other tax planning strategies, losses can be used in the current year, a donation receipt for the full market information purposes and is the you have until December 31 to take carried back three years or carried value of the donated investment. It opinion of the writer. This information any final action related to your tax forward indefinitely. Be careful of the might make more sense, from a tax is not intended to provide personal reduction plans for 2010. superficial loss rule which states that point of view, to donate securities advice including, without limitation, Here are some ideas that you may when you sell a property for a loss and rather than cash. investment, financial, legal, wish to consider before the end of the then buy it back within 30 days your There are a multitude of ideas and accounting or tax advice. Please call year. Then again, you may wish to loss will be disallowed. strategies one can use for year end tax or write to Rick Sutherland CLU, implement these ideas on an ongoing If you are going to buy an interest- planning. Whether you’re considering CFP, FDS, R.F.P., to discuss your basis and reduce your income tax bill bearing investment with a maturity of tax shelters or charity donations you particular circumstances or suggest in future years. one year or more, and it is held outside should speak to your trusted financial a topic for future articles at 613- For your non-registered accounts your RRSP, wait until after December planner and accountant to go over 798-2421 or E-mail rick@invested- you may have some investments that 31. By waiting until January 2011 the your ideas and discuss any last minute interest.ca. Mutual Funds provided increased in value and others that first anniversary for interest earned tax strategies that can be completed through FundEX Investments Inc. will be January 2012. The interest before the end of the year.

Tell OSCAR Readers Conditional Agreements Of about interesting people, Purchase And Sale your travel By Anna Sundin before closing. The vendors had or your interests. agreed to repair some items in the Send text and photos to hat is the purpose of property before closing. inserting conditions into The purchaser attended to do [email protected] an offer to purchase real the inspection before closing. Some W of the work the vendors had agreed estate? It could be that there has not to do had not been completed. Of been enough time for the purchaser the work the vendor had completed to investigate all aspects of the some of it was not as the purchaser property and wants more time to had required in the agreement. As complete his or her investigation. a result, the purchaser could not It could be that the purchaser inspect a part of the house that the needs to obtain information or building inspector had not been able approval from a third party the to access. purchaser has no control over, such The condition in the agreement as a bank approving a mortgage, did not address the areas the inspector a municipality providing zoning had not been able to inspect in any information or a house inspector event as condition did not state what investigating the state of repair of the purpose of the inspection was or the property. what the remedy for the purchaser If the information satisfies would be if she was not satisfied as the needs of the purchaser, the a result of the final inspection. The purchaser can choose to waive the vendors refused to allow a second conditions and proceed to complete inspection by the purchaser before the transaction. Once the conditions closing or any kind of holdback are waived, the agreement becomes for the possibility of incomplete binding and the purchaser can no work, improperly completed work longer walk away from the deal or new issues arising as the result without penalty unless something of accessing the part of the property unexpected comes up as a result the inspector had not been able to Guidance, Protection of the searches conducted by the access earlier. purchaser’s lawyer. A properly worded condition and Peace of Mind. Until the conditions are waived, would have set out the purpose the purchaser has no obligation of the inspection and provided Anna E. Sundin, Barrister & Solicitor to complete the deal but with a a remedy to the purchaser if she GEnErAl PrActicE includinG: conditional offer the vendor is was not satisfied. A right without a Family Law, Wills, Real Estate, Incorporations, Litigation and Collaborative Family Law obliged to sell to that purchaser once remedy is of little use. – A Cooperative and Dignified Approach to Separation and Divorce.– the conditions are waived. The usual Inserting a condition in an offer wording indicates that it is within benefits the purchaser as it provides the purchaser’s discretion to decide time for further investigation whether he or she is satisfied and before he or she is fully committed whether or not the conditions will to completing the purchase. A be waived. properly worded condition has a Recently I acted on a purchase consequence spelled out if it is not where the conditions had been fulfilled. This clarifies the rights and waived but the agreement also said responsibilities of the vendor and the that the purchaser had the right to purchaser during their negotiations. a final inspection of the property

Sundin-OSCAR-Ad-2006.indd 1 7/27/06 11:15:35 AM DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 39

COMPUTER TRICKS AND TIPS What about that Old Computer? By Malcolm and John a look at www.compu-home.com/tips is what to do with the old one. The computer. Harding, of Compu-Home where these columns are archived frustrating fact is that it is only the If the brutal and glum decision and see if a second life might be a rare case where someone else could has been made that the old machine ust a short time ago it was your possibility. use it, even as a donation or a gift. We must be discarded, we are pleased to pride and joy, and it cost such a Sometimes, though, a new or here at Compu-Home do cannibalize see that some retailers are now taking fortune that you hid the credit refurbished computer may be the best old computers and make up systems care of the proper disposal for you. If J alternative. Everybody’s situation to give to refugee families, but not, then you can have a look at the card statement from your spouse. This was “The last computer I’m is different, but if your computer is unfortunately it is rare for us to find City of Ottawa website, www.ottawa. ever going to have to buy,” because eight or more years old, then your useable and compatible parts, and we ca and go to Recycling & Garbage it was so much more powerful than RAM, processor, hard disk space and often go through literally dozens of >>> Take it Back! to find the closest you predicted you would ever need. Operating System are probably too computers before we can assemble free disposal site. This will ensure Now it’s a different story; it seems old for it to be cost-effective to update the happy combination that will make that all of the dangerous or precious to take forever for programs to load, or repair them. For example, an OS one complete and useful placement in materials are dealt with properly. and browsing the web or even your older than Windows XP (eight years a New Canadian home. hard drive is an exercise in patience or so) is not going to be compatible You can keep and reuse some Malcolm and John Harding are or frustration, depending on how with current virus protection; RAM parts of your current system in your owners of Compu-Home, assisting urgently you need the information. is going to be difficult to find and new setup. Even monitors that are home and business computer users. Something is noisy in there, and that therefore quite expensive. . . and many years old are compatible with Be sure to visit our web site for rattle might mean the hard drive is so on. With decent refurbished new computers, and you might find an archive of our columns. . . www. about to quit. Maybe it’s time for a computers starting at just a bit more that you prefer your own keyboard and compu-home.com replacement after all. than $100.00, and brand new honkin’ mouse over the ones that came with the Write to harding@compu- Or maybe not! If you have a powerful Windows 7 machines new machine. Don’t forget to allow home.com or phone 613-731-5954 look back at our previous columns just over $400.00, the cutoff for a for the necessity of transferring your to discuss computer issues, or to about the causes and corrections for reasonable amount to sink into repairs precious data, although sometimes suggest future columns. computer slowdowns, you might or upgrades arrives pretty quickly. you might be lucky enough to be able find a strategy for making your old When the decision is made to to install your old hard disk with your machine your best friend again. Have buy another computer, the corollary data right into a spare bay in your new

Local Veterinarian - Dr. Emily Black

When It Isn’t All Just Fluff – Embarking Down The Diet Road In A Multi-Cat Household

By Emily Black fat. That way, your body can either When you are stuffed, you don’t want choose to put all its energy to digest to eat more… not even a mint! This is ight, so last night, I came to the hard to digest protein or it can a similar concept to weight watchers. market. It is designed to trigger the a startling realization… one choose to digest it’s own readily di- Here you eat a whole bunch of food feeling of fullness before the cat ac- of my cats is obese! I came gestible fat stores. Being a body of that fills you up without adding any tually is full through the use of both R infinite wisdom it chooses to do the extra calories. Because of this, by the to this realization as he jumped off non-soluble and soluble fiber and the bed and I not only heard it on the later. Works great especially seeing time you have finished eating, you ac- their action on glycogen in the liver. lower floor but the house actually that in the wild, many but not all cats tually have eaten more but consumed Basically your body responds to be- shook. Now this has been tough be- ate a diet very low in carbohydrates, less on a per calorie basis, your emo- ing full with a whole series of hor- cause I have always given Mr. Fair somewhere less than 30%. The prob- tional need to eat has been satisfied, mones and this is designed to trigger Dinkum (that’s the cat), the benefit lem is that many cats, like many oral fixation and the rest of that, but these hormones a little earlier. The of the doubt. I myself am big boned people who shall remain nameless, you loose weight because in the long diet also provide most of the cal- and I have up until now thought that eat because they are bored, or they are run, you have eaten fewer calories. ories themselves from protein in the much of his 7.5 kg was due to this self eating for attention, or they are eating This works great for those cats and same way as “Atkins” In this way it same underlying problem, but alas, because they really like the taste of people that eat for other reasons than kind of combines both the first and this is not the case…. So, I will an- cheese… oh I mean kibble. For these that they are hungry. This has up until second principles. It’s very new and nounce to the world… Dinky is going cats this is not a viable option because this point worked really really well I haven’t actually seen it work yet, so on a diet!!! My problem is this; I have although their daily food requirement in my house. Currently my cats are I decided… being the caring and com- three cats and together they are like is being met, they continue to eat eating one of these diets mixed with passionate cat mum I am… I would the three bears, one too big, one too above and beyond this for all reasons a diet to improve their teeth. What try it on my own cat. We shall see!! small and one just right! Also due to mentioned. If you take these cats happens is that when the bowl is full This is an experiment I am taking on my unpredictable hours, I choose to and ration them out only to their rest- the boys run in and eat the tooth diet, for the betterment of both cat and hu- free feed them so that they are never ing energy requirement of nutrition, because it’s tasty. They then exhaust mane kind! I shall keep you updated without food! What is a girl to do I they will simply hound their owners that and start eating the high fiber along our slimming road! ask you! until they cave… which for many of food. They get full they leave. In this Dr. Emily Black owns Centre- There are three types of diet food us is about… oh… three minutes. It way Dinky has stayed 7.5 kg for three town Veterinary Hospital and is her- out there. The first is a high protein also won’t work in my house because years and Podee has kept his normal self owned by three cats. low carb food. This diet is designed I need to free feed, without this my svelte figure. Kitten, the wee one, has to work in a similar way to “Atkin:”. little cat will get littler. On to option also stayed trim because she is young- It does this by not providing simple two. er and faster and often will get to the calorie sources, namely carbs and fat, This option relies on the fact that yummy food before the boys do. which are easily transformed to body some foods, namely those high in Where to go from here. There is fiber, keep you more full for longer. a new diet that has been put out on the Page 40 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010

AMICALEMENT VOTRE Par Jean-Claude Dubé le bord de la rivière des Outaouais et pénible voyage, elle n’avait plus le troublant qui est rarement abordé par sous le pont de la Chaudière. Ceci se courage ni les forces de rentrer chez- les romanciers de nos jours. Un tel passe à Ottawa au début de février. Il elle en France. C’est alors qu’elle roman serait peut-être « On Golden faut comprendre que Félix, le conjoint rencontra Félix, un castor canadien, Pond » par le romancier américain d’Eulalie la cigogne, est bien un castor qu’elle trouvait charmant et avec qui Ernest Thompson. et que le rut d’un castor n’est qu’une elle fit ménage pendant vingt ans. Il n’y a pas de héros dans ce bijou fois par an en hiver. Félix parle un charabia français de Véronique Marie Kaye. Les quatre Voici qu’Eulalie reçoit une lettre qu’il a appris en se soumettant aux personnages sont des stéréotypes mais surprise de Rémi de Bourgogne, son politiques du bilinguisme de son ils sont très forts et colorés et ils sont ancien patron. Celui-ci était autrefois pays. Il est mordu sur la politique tous méchants, chacun à leur façon. le PDG de la société Cigognes de canadienne et ne lui parle que de ça. C’est un regard comique, sarcastique, France – Services de Pouponnage. Eulalie admet à Rémi de Bourgogne lucide et même sincère sur les amours Eulalie se souvient de lui pour son que, depuis que la fougue de sa de ceux que ne sont plus jeunes de libertinage et ses conquêtes des jeunesse est disparue, elle retrouve corps mais néanmoins jeunes de jeunes femelles travaillant pour son une nostalgie pour la France, qui coeur. ulalie la cigogne est une commerce. s’intensifie avec l’âge. Véronique-Marie Kaye a allégorie humoristique Eulalie commence alors une Voilà qu’une autre cigogne remporté deux fois le prix d’écriture finement écrite qui nous correspondance avec ce Rémi et elle française qu’Eulalie avait rencontrée dramatique O’Neill-Karch. E en sera courtisée à distance. C’est durant ses folles années de jeunesse Après des études en théâtre et en porte à trouver une similarité avec les Fables de La Fontaine. En se servant ainsi que nos apprenons que son nid et qu’elle méprisait depuis vient se chant classique, elle a œuvré pendant de l’accouplement loufoque d’une est sur le toit de l’édifice de la Cour poser dans son nid conjugal pour plusieurs années dans les médias. Son cigogne française avec un castor Suprême de Canada. Elle dit qu’elle une visite prolongée. Son nom est roman, Eulalie la Cigogne, est publié anglo-canadien, l’auteure Véronique est satisfaite et heureuse dans son nid. catalan: Azalaïs. C’est une cigogne de en 2010 par la maison Éditions Vents Marie Kaye nous étale les péripéties La vue sur la rivière des Outaouais est mauvaise vie et d’une nature frivole d’Ouest. pouvant arriver dans la vie de ceux excellente et de temps en temps, elle qui sème la discorde partout où elle La prochaine rencontre du Cercle et celles qui ont cessé d’être jeunes voltige vers le belvédère Champlain passe. Elle est une croqueuse de de lecture de l’Amicale francophone depuis longtemps. du parc de la Gatineau. Cette mâles et Félix se fait enjôler. Eulalie d’Ottawa aura lieu à 19h, le mardi 14 Le roman se déroule selon un correspondance lui causera un cafard, s’envole pour la France et pour Rémi décembre 2010. La lecture choisie est moyen épistolaire par lequel Eulalie, un besoin de revoir son pays et, de de Bourgogne, lui-même aussi un le chef-d’œuvre du Romantisme du la correspondante, vide son coeur en plus, une renaissance d’émotions enjôleur, mais de la vielle école. 19ième siècle, La Mare au Diable, relatant sa jeunesse, sa vie conjugale qu’elle croyait avoir perdu. Nous laisserons à de nouveaux de Georges Sand. Il faut dire que et son besoin d’une affection dont Eulalie, jeune et stupide et en lecteurs le soin de découvrir le l’écrivain, qui est une femme, était elle ne croit pas avoir bénéficié querelle avec sa mère, avait été dénouement de ce roman plein de la compagne de Frédéric Chopin, suffisamment. engagée par la société de Rémi de doutes, de troubles et de trahisons compositeur réputé de La Polonaise. Depuis vingt ans, Eulalie a un coït Bourgogne il y a vingt ans pour qui peuvent être trouvés dans toutes Tous et chacun sont invités à participer une fois par année, mi-submergée sur livrer deux poupons de la France au les relations de gens d’âge moyen ou simplement témoigner nos petites Canada en plein hiver. Après un long et même d’âge d’or. C’est un sujet rencontres intimes.

To book an OSCAR ad Have a Tax-smart Finish to 2010 call Gayle 730-1058 By Bob Jamieson taxes – and also adopt some tax-smart get about the Tax-Free Savings Ac- oscarads@ he year may be almost over, habits for the coming year and be- count (TFSA). Beginning in 2009, oldottawasouth.ca but there may still be time to yond. Here are some ideas you may Canadians 18 years of age and older find ways to save on your 2010 want to consider. can put $5,000 per year into a TFSA T 1. Complete tax-saving trans- and benefit from tax-free growth on actions before Dec. 31. Many items all types of eligible investments held that are deductible or qualify for tax in the account. credits must be paid before the end 5. Contribute to a RESP or RDSP. of the year. These include medical Put money into a Registered Educa- and child care expenses, professional tion Savings Plan (RESP) or Regis- dues, alimony, and donations to polit- tered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) ical parties or charities. Keep in mind before year-end to qualify for the that it may be advantageous to make 2010 government grant. donations of publicly-traded secur- 6. Are you turning 71? If you ities to a registered charity in-kind: in are turning age 71 in 2010, you have addition to the donation tax credit, until December 31 to convert your there is also no capital gains tax. Registered Retirement Savings Plan 2. Trigger accrued losses before (RRSP) to a Registered Retirement year-end – If your investment object- Income Fund (RRIF). If you have ives have changed or the underlying “earned income” consider an over- fundamentals of an investment have contribution before year-end. changed, you may want to consider Speak with your current financial selling the investment, which can trig- advisor for more information on these ger a capital loss and offset any cap- and other year-end strategies, or give ital gains you may have had, thereby me a call at 613-526-3030. reducing your overall tax bill. Bob Jamieson, CFP. 3. RRSP contribution – The dead- line is not until early 2011 (for spousal Edward Jones, Member – Can- plans, Dec.31 is best), but make your adian Investor Protection Fund 2010 Registered Retirement Savings Edward Jones does not provide tax Plan (RRSP) contribution now if you or legal advice. Review your specific haven’t already done so. By acting situation with your tax advisor and/or sooner rather than later, you can give legal professional for information re- the investments in your RRSP more garding, or issues concerning, the tax time to potentially grow through com- implications of making a particular pounding. investment or taking any other action. 4. TFSA contribution – Don’t for- DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 41 Charlotte: The Last Suffragette Reviewed by M. A. Thompson

n Charlotte: The Last Suf- fragette, Dave Mullington Ihas presented an unflinch- ingly candid portrait of one of Ottawa’s most colourful and controversial mayors. It is a wonderfully well-researched work that makes for compelling reading about one woman in pol- itics who would be welcomely active today. Born 1896, Charlotte was elected as controller in 1950– with the most votes for control- lers - to the Board of Control and became mayor in 1951 when the elected mayor, Grenville Goodwin died in that summer. This made her the first female mayor in a major city on Canada. But she accomplished more in life than becoming the first female mayor. She is credited as saying: “Whatever women do, they must do twice as well as men to be half as good. Luckily, this is not difficult.” From fairly poor beginnings in Renfrew, Charlotte’s excellence in school and sports, opened the doors to Queens University where she excelled at academics and became the first female editor of the Queens Journal as well as becoming the star and fastest skater of the women’s hockey team. After university she became the director of the Canadian Council on Child Welfare, which became the Canadian Welfare Council and the Canadian Council on Social Development. She worked for child welfare from 1920 to 1941 where she tirelessly battled to improve professional standards in the care of juvenile immigrants, and neglected and depend- ent children. Her considerable accomplishments led her to be chosen Canada’s Child Welfare representative at the League of Nations Her significant achievements in this field also brought her tothe attention, during the depression years, of both prime ministers R.B. Ben- nett and Mackenzie King, for whom she was an important advisor on federal unemployment relief policy. Charlotte was a prolific writer on just about any topic, including her brand of conservative feminism, with her intelligent wit and humour, and this wit gave her great notoriety as a public speaker. Charlotte was raised as a British anglophile by her family, and it is in the light of this that one must view her seeming anti-Semitism: she was simply passionately British, as were many other Canadians. Inter- estingly, her travel, particularly in the later part of her life, in Europe and Israel, softened this extreme Britishness. When Charlotte became mayor in 1951, Ottawa’s population was almost 200,000, about one-third more than the decade before. Ottawa was the sixth largest city in Canada. Ottawa had 353 miles of streets, 255 miles of water mains and 2000 miles of sewers. And Charlotte thought “it was a mess.” “The veteran bureaucrats had been running the show and the part- time politicians had allowed inefficiency and disorder to thrive. Nepo- tism was rampant, as was patronage.” Charlotte realized that she would have to battle with staff and long-time politicians but she had the will and determination. One of her many fights was with council about the Central Canada Exhibition Association . It had been established in 1877 by city council as an annual summer fair with a large agricultural component. It re- ceived a regular donations form the city’s lumber barons as well as con- tribution from the city: $34,000 in 1948. In 1946, Ottawa city council gave the CCEA a ten year lease at $1 per year, and in 1949 the council extend the lease to 1959. “In Charlotte’s eyes, that was like giving away the company store.” Another fight was with developers like Robert Campeau, who often seemed to have insider information to make purchases of land that would then be needed for a school or a hospital. It is delightful to read how Charlotte was able to foil some of his plans. The media loved her for providing colourful commentaries for their articles and cartoons. It is important to read books like Charlotte: The Last Suffragette to get a sense of Ottawa’s past, to see how we got to where we are, to see that battles that we think are unique to our time are actually age-old battles between politicians, staff, developers and the various cabals that form to maintain control of the city’s development. Page 42 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 FLY ON THE WALL Abbotsford Play Reading

By Anne C. Smith aka Fly on the Wall

he play’s the thing!” exulted Hamlet. And that’s exactly how the Abbotsford play- Treading group feels too. “We just love reading plays – it’s a joy!” confirms Pat Dillon as she flips a loonie into a tiny basket on the table. It’s Monday afternoon and the group is ready to start. For a dollar apiece drop-in fee, the players begin to distribute scripts and check out their parts. This group has been going strong for eighteen years. Usually they read a light-hearted comedy such as Neil Simon’s Lost in Yonkers, or a murder mystery like Agatha Christie’s The Unexpected Guest. But this afternoon it’s a tragedy about the final days of Admiral Horatio Nelson, Terence Rattigan’s A Bequest to the Nation. Ana Merritt is the group’s stage manager. Together with Patricia Goyeche, Program Coordinator at Abbotsford, she works closely with Abbotsford Players at Play Photo by Patricia Goyeche the Ottawa Library, choosing scripts using their ‘homebound service’, reading possible plays for spurned wife) and Emma, Lady Hamilton (Nelson’s Monday afternoons at 1 pm in the Abbotsford interest and characters, and with the Library’s help, notorious mistress) has reached the boiling lounge. New readers are always welcome, check locating sufficient copies so that all can have, or at point. Nelson is torn between his love for Emma out this and all of Abbotsford’s varied programs by least share, one of them. Finally, having checked and his duty to lead the British navy against the picking up a copy of our program guide in person at the chosen script to make sure that there are neither French and Spanish fleets. Abbotsford (950 Bank Street) or by looking for it on too many nor too few parts, Ana assigns roles. The Abbotsford play readers, ordinary people the website under Abbotsford Community Services The group -- Ana, Pat, Mabel, Len, Susan, in ordinary clothes, without benefit of costumes, ‘Program Guide’: www.glebecentre.ca Doug, Nina and Yvette -- is gathered in the lounge scenery or sound effects, have metamorphosed into Many thanks to the many volunteers, merchants, reading the last act of A Bequest to the Nation. The heroes of Trafalgar, victims of blighted love, and members and friends of Abbotsford for making the play readers are plunged suddenly into Nelson’s mourners of Nelson amid the sound of London’s 35th Annual Christmas Bazaar indeed….The Best 1805 world. Emotion and tension grow. The tolling bells. All the world’s a stage indeed Bazaar in the City!-- Patricia Goyeche conflict between Frances, Lady Nelson (Nelson’s The play reading group meets regularly on DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 43 The Red Apron Cooks Season’s Greetings egardless of which occasion Baked treats make a wonderful gift. the holiday season. The Illumination bacon. Transfer all ingredients to the you are celebrating this A beautifully decorated sugar cookie Ceremony takes place on Parliament slow cooker and add tomato paste, Rmonth (Hanukkah, Christmas, is a great stocking stuffer. A loaf of Hill on December 2 at 6 pm, and chicken stock or water and beans. Kwanzaa, Winter Solstice or New banana bread with chocolate chips includes free family fun, with carols, Stir until combined. Cover and cook Year’s Eve), the Holiday Season can is a fast and easy last minute hostess hot chocolate and BeaverTails® on LOW 7 to 8 hours. Before serving, be a very stressful time. In addition gift or potluck contribution. A roll of pastries! garnish with chopped parsley and to shorter days, busy schedules and a ready to slice and bake frozen cookie This month, I am including two home made croutons. struggling economy, there is the added dough makes entertaining a cinch. Slow Cooker recipes, one of which pressure of gift buying, cooking and 4. Rely on the great food purveyors in is vegetarian, to help you get through Curried Lentil Stew entertaining. How can we make the your community to help out. the month of December with minimal Holiday Season a little less stressful? • Life of Pie will be offering a stress. Remember to stretch, breathe, Serves 4-6 1. We are all being encouraged to lovely assortment of fresh baked and enjoy the company of those you Ingredients: shop online to reduce time spent in treats, and many of their pies can be love. 1 cup of dried French lentils, soaked stores, and manage our budget. But purchased frozen to bake off later. for 2 hours or overnight, and drained for those who want to also support • Pelican Fishery prepares a White Bean Cassoulet 1 large onions, chopped the local economy, or spend ethically, lovely smoked fish platter that can Serves 4-6 2 cloves garlic, minced this can be a bit of a challenge. be pre-ordered for your occasion. So 1 28 oz can of diced tomatoes, with Everyone loves Etsy, and you can do the Chelsea Smokehouse, and the Ingredients: liquid now use the ‘shop local’ button on Whalesbone Oyster House. A raw 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 14 oz can of coconut milk Etsy to locate crafters and artisans oyster platter is an exciting way to 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 cups water, OR stock in your community. Also, check out start off your evening! 4 chicken thighs, bone in 2 large carrots, diced the World Vision online catalogue for • A dozen bagels and assortment 2 pork sausages, cut in half or thirds 1 large sweet potato, peeled & cubed some truly inspiring gift giving ideas. of flavoured cream cheeses from 4 oz double smoked bacon, diced ½ cup raisins Visit worldvision.ca for more details. Kettlemans is a popular treat and 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 ½ tsp curry powder 2. If you are feeding a crowd, simple to throw together – and it goes 2 carrots, peeled & diced ½ tsp ground cumin consider serving your meal buffet well with smoked fish! 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves 1 tsp ground ginger (or 1 tsp fresh style. Setting a buffet is easier to • Serious Cheese can help you 1/2 teaspoon black pepper grated ginger) assemble, serve, and clean up. It frees assemble an impressive cheese platter. 1 tablespoons tomato paste ¼ tsp ground turmeric up space at the dining table and you • Of course our team of Red Apron 1 ½ cup chicken stock or water 1 ½ tsp salt don’t have to face the long wait for Elves will be busy stocking the fridge 1 ½ cups white (great northern) 2 cups chopped fresh spinach the mashed potatoes to make their and freezer with rich and colourful beans, soaked overnight and drained way down to your end of table. It holiday menu items. Naughty or nice 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley To Prepare: also lends itself well to delegating. - everyone deserves the gift of time. Sauté the onions & garlic. Place Create the menu well in advance and Visit our website to view our Seasonal To Prepare: all ingredients (except spinach), in assign specific dishes to your guests. menu and get your tastebuds in the Heat olive oil in large skillet over the crockpot and cook on the LOW This is also a great opportunity festive mood – redapron.ca. medium heat. Add onion to hot oil; setting for 7-8 hours, or until the to break out the slow cooker! This year get out and take a stroll cook and stir until onion is tender, lentils & sweet potatoes are tender. 3. Host a cookie baking party. I or a drive around Ottawa to enjoy about 4 minutes. Add garlic and Fold in chopped spinach. You can know I suggest this every year but the Across Canada. thyme, salt & pepper. Remove from garnish this dish with chopped it’s a great way to spend time with From December 2, 2010 to January pan. Brown the chicken on both fresh basil, cilantro or parsley, plain people you enjoy while also ticking 7, 2011 the capital will be lit up with sides. Remove. Brown Sausage yogurt, diced avocados, chopped another task or two off your list. 300,000 multicolored lights during on all sides. Remove. Sauté diced green onions or goat cheese. Dried Fruit Scones Back by popular demand -- Red Apron recipe Dec 2007 ter and mix (or blend with your fingertips or a pastry blender) until mixture resembles coarse meal with some small (roughly pea-size) butter lumps. Mix Ingredients in figs, then add buttermilk mixture and mix until just combined. (Do not 3/4 cup well-shaken buttermilk overmx.) 1/4 cup pure maple syrup Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper and drop 10 (1/4-cup) 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons heavy cream mounds of batter onto each sheet, leaving 1 inch between mounds. Scones can 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour be made larger or smaller and I like to use my icecream scoop to measure and 3/4 cup sugar drop the dough. 1 teaspoon salt Whisk together yolks and remaining 2 tablespoons cream, then brush over 1 teaspoon baking powder tops of scones. Bake, switching position of baking sheets halfway through 1/2 teaspoon baking soda baking, until scones are puffed and golden, 20 to 25 minutes total. Transfer to 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes a until cool enough to handle. Scone batter can be mixed a few hours ahead 1/2 lb dried figs, chopped, stems (about 1 1/2 cups) – you can substitute dried of time but it’s best to bake them off just before serving. cranberries, currants or any dried fruit combination. 2 large egg yolks

Directions

Put oven racks in upper and lower thirds of oven and preheat oven to 400°F. Whisk together buttermilk, syrup, and 1/2 cup cream in a small bowl. Mix together flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda in bowl of a stand mixer with paddle attachment at low speed, (or whisk in a large bowl) until combined. Add but-

To book an OSCAR ad call Gayle 730-1058 [email protected] Page 44 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 Halloween Madness on Pansy Avenue

By Ada Brzeski

:00 PM and all is quiet on a Sun- day eve on Pansy Avenue. 6:10 6as if on cue, out came throngs of ghosts, witches, and monsters of all sorts. Small ones and big ones too. Adults were just as dressed up as their kids. Where do they all come from? I arranged to go trick or treating with my daughter Michelle and her friend Tiah along with Tiah`s mom Sue. We did our usual route within 5 or 6 blocks of our house on Pansy. First we did Pansy Avenue itself, then we crossed over to Seneca to vis- it Ross’s haunted house. It is so scary no kid under 5 will go into it. On the corner of Seneca and Woodbine Lane, the folks set up a whole village of beautifully carved pumpkins. One even resembled the resident dog. Onto Roslyn, where our friend Sandi witch lives (see previous issue of Oscar). After Roslyn, we go to Joe’s house on Hopewell to check out what is brewing in his cauldron. Will there be floating hands or eye balls this year? Returning via Sunnyside, we stop at the corner store where they are always generous. We did about 6 or 7 blocks. Things were starting to quiet down on Seneca and Sunnyside.

Not so on Pansy. The party was in full swing. Some homes including my own ran out of candies. My hus- band left a sign on the step: sorry out of candy. I usually estimate for about 100 kids. We do 7 or 8 blocks in an even- ing, and there are about 10 kids per block. That should be plenty for the neighbourhood. My neighbour gave out about 200 candies and still ran out. Where do all the kids come from? Other streets reported only a hand full of trick or treaters. What draws people to our street? I know we have a great repu- tation for hospitality with our winter and summer street parties. Does the word spread in the schoolyard that we give the best candies? Please let me know so I can be better prepared next year. DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 45 Friederike Knabe’s Bedside Books for 2010/2011

look” at three people, living in the to the United States and follows the upend entire lives. Using ten different “way we live now”, and their relations loosely parallel lives of a cellist and narrators, each chapter is a small to each other in the face of personal a physicist at a pivotal moment in universe of its own, and together challenges. “Full of shocks and history. they form a dazzling whole. Gliding aftershocks, it makes us think and feel effortlessly across time and space, deeply about the uses and meaning THE MISTRESS OF NOTHING the novel build towards moments of of beauty and the place of love in our by Kate Pullinger. 2009 (pb 2010). revelation, when refugees from their lives”. McArthur and Company. ISBN 978- own lives, of from history’s cruelties, 1-55278-868-4 come together in unpredictable ways. ROOM by Emma Donoghue. 2010. With this novel, Canadian author HarperCollins Publishers Ltd. (now living in London, UK) won the THE CELLO SUITES by Eric ISBN 978-1-55468-831-9 2009 GG Award for Fiction. Described Siblin. 2009 (pb 2010). House of Irish-Canadian Emma Donoghue by the Globe and Mail as “Gritty, Anansi Press. has burst onto the Canadian and moving, and utterly believable”, the ISBN 978-0-88784-958-9 international book scene with ROOM, novel is based on the real-life story of Montreal writer, Eric Siblin, a story of a mother and child confined Lady Duff Gordon and her maid Sally, one day discovered The Cello Suites to one room where they are held set against the exotic background of by J.S. Bach and not only fell in captive. The story is told from the Egypt in the mid-nineteenth century. love with them, he launched into a perspective of the five-year old boy, “A highly sensual evocation of place research projects on “J.S. Bach, Pablo born in this confined space. “The and time, The Mistress of Nothing Casals, and the search for a Baroque he Ottawa Writersfestival novel is more about parenting and explores the subtle complexities of Masterpiece”. Part biography, part (www.writersfestival.org), how we relate to each other than about power, race, class and love during the music history, and part literary Theld in OOS again this confinement and abduction...” stated Victorian era”. GG’s Jury Citation. mystery, The Cello Suites is a October, introduced many new and Donoghue during the introduction of dramatic narrative featuring legendary established author to interested to her novel. Donoghue is the recipient DAY FOR NIGHT by Frederick composer Johann Sebastian Bach, enthusiastic audiences. Personally, I of the 2010 Rogers Writers’ Trust Reiken. 2010. Reagan Arthur Books/ world-renowned cellist Pablo Casals, found attending many of the events Fiction Prize. Little, Brown and Company (Hachette and the author’s own quest to uncover very enriching for the mind, and, Book Group). ISBN 978-0-316- the mysteries that continue to haunt of course, less so for the money THE MASTER OF HAPPY 07756-9 this musical masterpiece. Siblin purse... The books recommended ENDINGS by Jack Hodgins. 2010. US author Frederick Reiken’s won several prestigious awards for here with brief summaries, are newly Thomas Allen Publishers. ISBN 978- new novel is a departure from his his book and was a finalist of the published books in Canada primarily 0-88762-523-7 two previous ones. It is an ambitious GG’s Award and the Writer’s Trust by Canadian authors. Except for one, British Columbian GG Fiction illumination of how disparate, far- Nonfiction Prize. Jack Hodgins, they all presented Award winning author Jack Hodgins’s flung people can be connected, and their new books and discussed their is a master story teller. His new novel how the truth of those bonds can writing with excellent well known is described by Alice Munro as “an personalities from local media or the irresistible novel about the vagaries book world. of youth, old age, Hollywood, family, The recommended books are and the marvel of keeping going.” It presented in alphabetical order. They is also a compelling story about how represent a wide range of themes and a man in his late seventies manages to interests, whether in fiction or non- conjure one more great adventure for fiction. The notes are adapted from himself. book covers, author presentations or my own readings: THE DISAPPEARING SPOON - And Other True Tales of Madness, LOUIS RIEL & GABRIEL Love, and the History of the World DUMONT by Joseph Boyden. from the Periodic Table of the 2010. (EXTRAORDINARY Elements. by Sam Kean. 2010. Little, CANADIANS) Series Editor: John Brown and Company (Hachette Book Ralston Saul (Introduction) Penguin Group). ISBN 978-0-316-05164-4 Canada 2010. ISBN 978-0-670- Sam Kean is a Washington DC 06671-1. based, award-winning science writer. Governor General’s (GG) Fiction His book should be required and fun Award winner Joseph Boyden has reading for everybody - of all ages- created an “unforgettable portrait of interested in and intrigued by the two seminal Canadian figures”: Louis Periodic Table as a “treasure trove Riel, the controversial Métis leader, of passion and adventure, betrayal, - mystic and visionary, and Gabriel and obsession,” as well as by its Dumont, a trained pragmatic man of fascinating scientific achievement. the land and trained in warfare. They Kean’s illustrative tales and stories could not have been more different, will be difficult to forget. yet were able to work together and developed an extraordinary friendship A LILY OF THE FIELD by John and partnership. This impressive Lawton. 2010. Atlantic Monthly short book is part of the Extraordinary Press (Grove/Atlantic, Inc.). ISBN Canadians Series, the brain child of 978-0-8021-1956-8 John Ralston Saul. Renowned English TV producer, children’s book author and crime BY NIGHTFALL by Michael writer, who was named by the Daily Cunningham. 2010. HarperCollins Telegraph “as one of Fifty Crime Publishers Ltd. Writers to Read Before You Die”, has ISBN 978-1-55468-989-7 won many accolades for his Inspector Best known for his Pulitzer Prize- Troy series, primarily set in the years winning novel, THE HOURS, New between the two World Wars. A LILY York author Michael Cunningham’s OF THE FIELD is a remarkable story new novel takes a “heartbreaking that moves from Vienna to London Page 46 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 BACKYARD BEAT We Are More Alike Than Different By Cst. Khoa Hoang class in high school. (Don’t try this simply lives by the playground code ing and purpose. So as soon as we Central-West District at home!) to treat others the way he wants to can overcome our biases, there lies a But the world was also flat once. be treated, I’ve worked hard to edu- vast opportunity to work together in a Community Officer in Recent breakthroughs in the map- cate myself about religion because symbiotic relationship that is equally Charge ping of human genome challenged I felt it was important. I’ve spent a beneficial to everyone. 393 Somerset Street West what we thought was true. Today’s lot of time taking religion courses to It takes real effort for us not to (613) 236-1222 Ext.5287 scientists have confirmed that all hu- fulfill my curiosity, and have been to judge a book by its cover. To show man beings share 99.9% of the same prayer sessions in temples, churches, patience to those who are impatient, DNA coding, regardless of ethnicity mosques, and synagogues. and to commit to a New Year’s reso- t wasn’t that long ago that popular or sexual orientation. That is for Whether you believe in Christ, lution that benefits others. Every belief and scientists held the view the exception of identical twins who practice scriptures of the Torah, or shoplifter I’ve arrested had money to that biology played a role in sep- I share 100% of their genetic makeup. follow the Qur’an, all religions share pay for the item, and many homeless arating races of people. That people We are all virtually identical to one a similar history of suffering and pro- people I’ve spoken to were quite suc- of various ethnicities were fundamen- another… Scary, I know! mote strong foundations of humility cessful at some point. tally different from one another. Not There’s not much separating all of to become the best person you can I’m certainly no different and only was everyone physically differ- us except for individual perceptions, be. The holiday season is an excel- often reminded by those who know ent, but so was their behaviour, belief, full of personal biases and experien- lent time to meet your neighbours me best that my path into policing and even intelligence. ces that skew the very lens we view and learn something new. The Mere was quite a pleasant surprise. I too Clearly, we must have been made the world through. Like a binocular, Exposure Theory states that the more had many opportunities to become vastly different from one another. we easily focus on the negative differ- you’re exposed to someone, the more trapped within the pitfalls of adoles- This theory gave a great vehicle ences with a tunnel vision that blocks positive you associate that person. cence and peer pressures. for racism, bigotry, and allowed out the obvious, we are the same. Truth is we all want what’s best So from my family to yours, have everyone to stereotype each other Fear of the unknown can prevent for our families, but the trick is to in- a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, without remorse. I remember being a us from understanding each other. clude each other under that umbrella. and wonderful New Years! child in the late 80’s given extra math And in the absence of understanding, I’ve often challenged others to homework work because I was “born we use the limited knowledge we have spend less time focussing on the “Peace cannot be kept by force; it with it”. Well let me tell you some- to assume and pass inaccurate judge- 0.1%, and more time acknowledging can only be achieved by understand- thing, this little Asian boy hates math ment. It’s what we do best; convince our similarities and commonalities ing.” – Albert Einstein like a dirty cruiser on a nice sum- ourselves that we know the unknown. which make up 99.9% of who we mer day and dropped out of physics As a non-religious person who are. We all need a sense of belong-

To book an OSCAR ad Tell OSCAR Readers about your travel contact Gayle or your interests. 730-1058 Send text and photos to [email protected] [email protected] HOPE for the Youth of Ukraine ... Cont’d from next page kids who stop by every day. During we were there, we were privileged to to oversee their education in the local we took with us, we held a fund our stay, very few kids were there participate in the “graduation” of 4 schools and to help them with MUCH raiser Auction/Dinner at Sunnyside. because the police had rounded up girls who have lived at Hope House paperwork involved in establishing Many of the local businesses in Old the street kids and had either put them for the last 4 years. They are going their “identity” in society. She is Ottawa South supported us with their in jail or in an Internaut. We did visit on to further education or moving to so full of energy and love for these donations, and we are very grateful for First Steps and had a chance to meet Odessa to live and work. To know the girls that it’s contagious! We worked that support. One thing that was asked those people who make a difference stories of these girls, and to realize right alongside the Allisons, cleaning a couple of times is, “Why would you in the lives of these kids. And if you that they were uneducated and had the chicken coop, tilling the garden, go overseas to help people in Ukraine were ever to go to Odessa, you may no life skills, and to see them now as cleaning beets, painting, and at night when there are so many needy youth see a street kid sporting an Ottawa mature young women (see attached we hung out with the girls playing right here in Canada?” My answer is, South t-shirt. It’s a small thing to give photo), whose desire it is to spread Dutch Blitz! A few of the girls have there will always be those who need out clothes, but such a positive thing the love they have received at Hope learned English well enough for us to our help here, and I applaud those for kids who have nothing. House to other troubled youth in communicate well, and they were our who spend time and money helping. Hope House was created because Odessa, and to live as productive interpreters at the camp. For me, I needed to visit Ukraine to it was felt there was a need for a safe citizens of their society changed World Hope Canada has been understand the desperate situation of place for girls age 16 and over (the me. I was blown away by the love working in Ukraine for 8 years. Now Odessa’s youth. I will never forget age at which girls are “kicked out” of that was shown to these girls by the that I have seen firsthand how the the kids in Kremidovka, the girls at the Internaut). It is on the outskirts of Canadian couple (Kerry and Carole dollars given are used to better the Hope House, and I will talk about my Odessa on the Black Sea in an area Allison) who live there 6 months of lives of these young people, I cannot experience whenever I get a chance! I that was “cottage country” in the the year and teach them English, life emphasize enough how worthwhile it now know that there is HOPE for the 1970’s. 14 girls presently live there skills, and how to garden and raise is. In the spring when we were raising youth of Ukraine! “in community”, 7 of them having chickens. Lina is the house mother, funds to help pay our way to Ukraine, just arrived from an Internaut. While and she gave up a medical practice as well as to pay for all the supplies Too Busy To Bake Christmas Cookies This Year?

hy not buy delicious homemade cookies First you pay for the box, then you walk around the of Cartagena. The village of Bocachica has no run- and squares and help support a worthy tables and select your favourite kinds of cookies. Or ning water or sewage, so one of the projects that the Wcause at the same time? you can simply purchase a box containing various team will be working on will be helping to build On Sat. Dec. 11, Sunnyside Wesleyan Church kinds of cookies. latrines for families without a toilet in their house. (58 Grosvenor Avenue – at the corner of Grosvenor This event is a fundraiser for a group of people Please contact Wendy at Sunnyside Wesleyan and Sunnyside) will be holding a from Sunnyside church going to Bocachica, Co- Church if you would like more information: 613- sale from 9 am to 12 pm in the basement of the lombia, for 2 weeks in August, 2011. The team will 730-9411 or [email protected] church. Boxes of delicious homemade cookies and be working with a non-profit community develop- squares will be sold for $10 each, or 3 boxes for $25. ment project, on an island close to the coastal city DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 47 HOPE for the Youth of Ukraine By Jill Davis facial expressions! The stories all had to do with the life of David from the t was my privilege to be part of a Old Testament and my teammate and team from my church, Sunnyside I had fun with the application of the Wesleyan, that travelled to story each day. One day the kids did I a trust walk, and even the older boys Ukraine this past summer. Our main purpose was to run a day camp in had fun climbing in and out of tires Kremidovka, a village outside of and over walls blindfolded! Another Odessa. This is the fourth year our day, we made God’s eyes with the church has sent a team, and going younger kids and sling shots with back year after year has made a the older boys! No, they didn’t shoot difference. The kids in Kremidovka stones at each other…just at cans have very little organized for them and trees! The main craft was mask- in the summer. There are no public making. We had to take all our craft swimming pools or Community supplies with us, and any supplies left Centres offering summer programs over will be used by a weekly club that such as our youth enjoy. It is extremely has grown out of this annual camp. hot (upper 30’s while we were there), They were also used by another camp but the one thing they will do is play that our interpreters ran later in the soccer all day, every day! So our camp summer in another village. The finale definitely featured sports and games of the week was both a choreographed camp, we spent time just hanging out them. Drugs, alcoholism and mental each day! The camp was structured dance presented by the older girls and with these kids, and I could see from health issues have contributed to the their participation how much they problem. World Hope Canada decided appreciated a group of people coming to do something about this. First Steps from Canada to run a camp just for Centre was created in downtown them. And there will be a team going Odessa. There are at least 5,000 back again next summer. street kids in Odessa, and First Steps Although the camp was the main is a place of refuge for them. Here focus of our team, we also spent they receive a meal, clean clothes, a time in a house for disadvantaged shower, and most importantly, they girls called Hope House. When I say meet people who really care about disadvantaged, I mean girls who had them. This ministry is still going lived on the streets, or had spent all strong, and there are at least 20 street of their lives in state-run orphanages (Internaut) because their parents didn’t Cont’d on previous page want them or were unable to care for

to accommodate kids aged 5-16, and younger kids, and a drama presented besides sports, we led crafts, dance/ by the older boys. It was absolutely drama and a story each day. The kids thrilling to see these kids with their were divided into 4 groups: young eager faces and desire to show what girls, young boys, older girls and older they learned to their parents, but the boys, so we saw them on a rotational highlight for me was watching the basis. My area was story telling. It older boys act out David and Goliath, was very stretching for me to work equipped with swords, helmets and directly with an interpreter (“Dobre shields they made that week, and utra” doesn’t get you too far!!), but as wearing Old Ottawa South t-shirts each day passed, I found it easier and (see attached photo) to represent the easier. It’s amazing how much you can Israelites and the Philistines!! When get across with lots of hand signals and we weren’t actively running the Page 48 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010

NOTES FROM THE GARDEN CLUB Redeveloping a Front Yard Garden in Old Ottawa South

By Kristin Kendall pattern. There were also some challenges: t its November 9th meeting, the long shared driveway and lack members and guests of the of a drop-off point, and overgrown Old Ottawa South Garden planting. John also noted the different A materials used for the two walkways: Club welcomed landscape architect, John Szczepaniak, to discuss how an pavers from the driveway to the front existing Old Ottawa South front gar- steps and concrete from the street to den might be redeveloped. In John’s the front steps. In addition, he had view, front gardens are spaces shared suggestions about changing the house with the community that, in turn, cre- numerals, the mail box, and the porch ate communities. In developing plans lighting, pointing out that details like for a garden, he thinks of creating an this become positive features when experience by stimulating the senses, they are incorporated into a coherent using texture and line, and colour and design. sound. During the discussion following John begins every project by lis- the break, two particularly interesting tening and observing, to get an idea of ideas emerged: to have a “bubbling the clients’ tastes and interests. When stone” and to include a storage area he visited the owners of the garden in for recycling bins and garbage cans. question, he saw Japanese art on the When John revealed his plan for the walls of the house. So, the initial in- virtual renovation, he demonstrated spiration was to create a garden with how he would make changes to in- Japanese influence and flavour, incor- clude these elements suggested by the porating simple, clean lines, natural group. boulders and stone, soft textures, and The new plan showed a dramatic perhaps some water. curved walkway across the driveway With that inspiration, using some continuing to the front steps where photographs of his completed pro- it would meet the walkway from the jects, and referring to the actual site, sidewalk. The two walkways would John explained and illustrated some be of the same material, pavers in an basic principles of landscape design. interesting pattern, perhaps incorpor- ating natural stone. With this curved Function dictates form—if there is a Photo by Colin Ashford driveway, it’s important to create a walkway, the long narrow driveway drop off zone so that people can eas- is broken up, a proper drop off point ample, it’s important to plan an easily bin, the blue and black boxes, and ily get out of a car and arrive at an is created, the driveway is linked to accessible storage area for the green the garbage can. Steps and walkways entrance to the house. As another ex- the front walkway and steps, and a need to be wide enough for safety and defined area around the tree is cre- convenience, as well as for aesthetics. ated. With the overgrowth cleared, The design of a garden should re- the tree comes into focus, and the flect the architecture of the house and front porch assumes more promin- the streetscape of the neighbourhood. ence. The owners dislike the trellis John advised the group to think out- screening which would be revealed side the box: a garden exists in bor- by cutting back the planting along rowed spaces; for example, a distant the porch. John saw the screening as view, the neighbour’s big tree, or vine a potential design feature that could covered wall, or perhaps less desir- be continued around the side of the able elements that cannot be ignored. house where a storage area could be Another principle of landscape archi- placed. The “bubbling rock” could tecture, is that a garden design or land- sit in the newly-defined area around scape is not only about the plants—the the tree with other natural stone. The planting is the last step in the process, plantings could incorporate grasses to and it can be simple. Avoid the dread- give some year-round interest and to ed plant collection syndrome—one reflect the simple lines and soft tex- example of every plant. tures which were part of the first in- In small spaces, John pointed out, spiration. cohesion and continuity of style and From inspiration to a practical design are even more important. To plan for redevelopment, this was an make a small area appear larger use evening which gave the group an in- different levels, curving lines or lines side look at the planning process in- on the diagonal. volved in creating or recreating a resi- For the front yard dential garden. under consideration, For illustrations of some of John’s John identified many completed projects, for more inspira- positive features includ- tion, ideas and details, visit John’s ing the large tree, the web site at www.jszla.com . generous front porch, the attractive and welcom- The Garden Club next meets ing streetscape, the front January 11, 2011, when we welcome walk leading up to the Mary Pratt, Ottawa’s well-known front porch, and a south- peony expert. Mary will share her ern exposure. He saw passion for, and knowledge of, peon- potential for continuity ies and their cultivation- and will also from an attractive back bring some much- needed colour to yard patio with interlock- our mid-winter meeting. ing brick in a curving DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 49 Carleton Sports Three Top 10 Team Teams in Action on Weekend By Joe Scanlon straight losses to Nipissing. They will will be back with the team in January. last season of the Oshawa Generals; be at home that same weekend. They Down the line however the Ravens Brad Albert, assistant captain last sea- he last weekend of this month will host Brock Friday night (Novem- are solid. Ashleigh Cleary (4th year) son of the Brampton Battalion; Matt – Friday, Saturday and Sun- ber 26) and York Saturday afternoon and Kendall MacLeod (third year) are Dopud who played goal last season day, November 26, 27 and 28 (November 27) at three o’clock. both playing well under the basket for the Rimouski Oceanic and is now T Finally, the women’s hockey and the point guard (the player who Carleton’s starting goaltender; Jordan – three of the best university teams in Canada will be playing at Carleton. team will be at home Saturday night runs the offence) Alyson Bush is a Deagle, last season with the Red Deer Two of them – men’s basketball and and Sunday afternoon and the visitor third year veteran and was an all-star Rebels; and Linden Bahm of the Hali- women’s basketball – are Carleton Saturday is McGill – the team that last season. fax Mooseheads. All five are now stu- teams. The third – the # 1 team in was ranked # 1 all last season and is Most important, the team has dents at Carleton. women’s hockey – is McGill. again ranked # 1 this season. McGill three second year players – Jessica The success in basketball and The top attraction is Carleton’s so far is undefeated. Resch, Jennifer Stoqua and Elizabeth hockey – so far – has somewhat over- men’s basketball team which has won CIS – the body that governs uni- Roach – and three excellent rookies shadowed the end of the football the Canadian Interuniversity Sport versity sport -- allows university ath- – Krista Van Slingerland who is start- (soccer) season. The Carleton men (CIS) championship six times in the letes five years of eligibility and most ing, plus Darcy Hawkins, who can be and women both finished high ending past eight years. So far this season the teams win when they have seasoned a very good rebounder – she had 11 to earn home field advantage in the Ravens are undefeated against Can- fourth and fifth year athletes. The rebounds in the opening league game opening round of the playoffs – but adian competition and are ranked # 1 Carleton men’s basketball teams had against Guelph – and Genevieve both lost. The women lost to Lauren- in Canada. three fifth year players in the line- Melatti. tian 2-1 and the men after scoring in They started the regular season up when they won the Nationals two The result is that the women’s the first half and taking a 2-0 lead at with four straight wins. years ago. coach Taffe Charles now has the depth the start of the second half, gave up They will be at home to Mc- This season the Ravens have only he was lacking when he took over the three straight goals and lost to Ryer- Master and Lakehead on Friday and one fifth year player – Mike Kenny – team – and the result is tough defence. son 3-2. Saturday, November 26th and 27th. who has not been well – but they have The men’s hockey team started the Despite those losses, one Carle- Their games start at eight o’clock. three fourth year veterans – Elliot pre-season slowly with four consecu- ton woman -- midfielder Amanda Two hours before that, Carleton Thompson, Cole Hobin and Aaron tive losses – two to McGill and two to Ngwafusi was named a second team women – ranked eighth in Canada – Chapman, a solid third year player, US teams – St. Lawrence and Clark- all-Canadian. Ngwafusi scored eight will be playing the same two teams. Kyle Smendziuk and two other out- son. Since the regular season started goals this season. Earlier, Ngwafusi All the pre-season polls rated the standing players – Tyson Hinz, now however, they have seven wins (one and the Carleton goalkeeper Rachel women Ravens the top team in On- in his second year with the team and of them in overtime) and five losses. Bedek were named Ontario East first tario University East and they won Philip Scrubb, a rookie. Both Hinz Two of those losses were shoot-out team all-stars. eight of their 10 pre-season games, and Scrubb have scored more than 30 losses to Toronto and Queen’s. Since For the men, goalkeeper Karl enough at one point to rank # 7, the points in a game this season. So far no then the Ravens have defeated Toron- Wasslen, defender and Ravens cap- highest ranking they have ever had. Canadian team has been able to defeat to. They have not yet played Queen’s tain Nick Persichino and midfielder Like the men, they started the regu- them. a second time. Joey Kewin (London, Ont.) were also lar season with wins over Guelph and The women basketball Ravens One reason for the team’s success named 2010-11 OUA East First Team Brock but they lost to Wilfrid Laurier have two fifth year players and both under the new coach Marty Johnson All-Stars. before defeating Waterloo. have had serious injuries. Bailey Lo- is that the team has five players who The Carleton men’s hockey team mas is back now after missing most were playing Junior A hockey last was briefly in the top 10 before two of last season and Courtney Smith year: Jeff Hayes who was captain Carleton Varsity Schedule

November 26 6 p.m. Women’s Basketball – Lakehead at Submit articles 6 p.m. Women’s Basketball – McMaster at Carleton Carleton 7 p.m. Women’s Hockey – McGill at Carleton about interesting 7 p.m. Men’s Hockey – Brock at Carleton 8 p.m. Men’s Basketball – Lakehead at Carle- people you know in 8 p.m. Men’s Basketball – McMaster at Carle- ton ton Old Ottawa South to November 28 [email protected] November 27 2 .p. m. Women’s Hockey – Montreal at 3p.m. Men’s Hockey – York at Carleton Carleton Old Ottawa East Couple Hosts Holistic Childbirth Classes For Both Mother And Partner ovember 12, 2010, Ottawa: births of our three children, and we resources to deal with the intensity of of their child and their transition to On the weekend of January both came to recognize how valuable birth parenthood.” N7-9, 2011, Ottawa area the partner’s role is in birth. We are • Learn to ask effective questions Signy is a trained doula (birth couples can participate in Canada’s also aware of the challenges that of medical professionals and make companion) who has assisted women only known birth training program new parenthood presents for couples. informed decisions from diverse backgrounds during their presented by a couple for couples. That’s why we feel this course is so • Transition to becoming a new births and in the period before and Signy Fridriksson and Steve Fick’s important,” says Steve. mother, a new father after. Steve is one of only a handful Childbirth Classes for Couples The weekend workshop takes • Baby-proof their relationship of men in North America with formal promotes a strong partnership between place in their home in Old Ottawa “Birth is a journey into the Birthing from Within training. They the parents and prepare both partners East and is based on Birthing From unknown and can be joyful or are also trained as Couple Enrichment for their role in the birth experience. Within philosophy. The acclaimed traumatic. We help parents to deal facilitators, leading workshops for With training both in Birthing From Birthing From Within program helps with whatever comes their way,” says couples wanting to strengthen and Within and in Couple Enrichment, expectant parents face their fears and Signy. “In our classes, we prepare improve their relationships. they look at many critical aspects of recognize their strengths in facing expectant couples to be informed Childbirth Classes for Couples are the birth experience that other prenatal challenges. The workshop will assist and confident, to cope with intensity, offered on an ongoing basis. Check classes ignore. expectant parents to: to make their best decisions, and to their website www.primadoulas.ca for “I supported Signy through the • Access inner strengths and outer fully embrace and celebrate the birth future dates. Page 50 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 Doula Support for Your Birth Signy Fridriksson In ancient Greece, a doula was the If I’m planning to have a home birth Prima Doulas – Ottawa highest-status female servant, charged with a midwife, could I still have a Your doctor may not be aware with attending to the woman of the doula? of the benefits of having a doula www.primadoulas.ca household. The doula´s personal care present, as doulas are fairly new duties included the all-important role Yes. The doula and midwife have among birth professionals. He or she hat would you think if I as birth companion when her mistress different but complementary roles may appreciate seeing the statistical told you that by adding was giving birth. There for her support and work in cooperation with each evidence proving the advantages of Wone person to your birth- throughout the labour, the doula other. Whereas your midwife will join doula support. As well, your doula support team, you would greatly massaged her belly or back, helped you at home or at hospital once active may attend one of your prenatal increase your chances of having a her change positions to increase the labour is established, your doula will visits to introduce herself, to increase better birth experience? In clinical efficiency of contractions or to ease come, not at any given point in your the level of comfort among the three studies (cited in Mothering the discomfort, and offered prayers and labour, but as soon as you feel you of you at the time of your birth. Mother by Marshall H. Klaus, John words of encouragement. It was an are needing support. Both your doula H. Kennell, and Phyllis H. Klaus), extremely close relationship. The and your midwife will stay with you What kind of training does a doula women who are supported by doulas doula was a trusted friend offering throughout your labour and birth, and have? not only have shorter labours, they are loving support when her mistress in your baby’s first couple of hours. more likely to give birth without pain was at her most vulnerable. Modern Similar to other professionals, to medication. If they do opt for pain doulas offer the same emotional and I feel more comfortable giving be certified as a doula it is necessary medication, they wait longer and have physical support to labouring women. birth in a hospital. Don’t the nurses to complete a regimen of coursework, lower dosages. They are less likely to provide the same kind of support as independent study, and practical have complications, which can result What is the difference between a a doula? experience and pass a certifying in caesareans, or vacuum- or forceps- doula and a midwife? examination. deliveries. Following the birth, they Certainly, the labour and delivery spend more time interacting with A midwife is a “primary nurse assigned to you will provide It’s very important for me to relate their babies, are more successful at caregiver”, and, like a family doctor support; however, she has many other well to my doula. Do you have breastfeeding, and assess their babies or obstetrician, she has the medical responsibilities, and may only have suggestions about how to choose a as being “above average” in a number training to assess your pregnancy, relatively brief periods available compatible doula? of areas. In addition, they feel better labour and delivery, and to deal with throughout her shift when she can about their birth experiences, exhibit medical concerns that may arise. A provide that level of support. If You may want to interview more higher self-esteem, and view their doula is a woman trained to help a your labour continues over a change than one doula, either over the phone partners and their relationships more woman prepare for birth, provide in shifts, a new nurse will take her or in-person. Having an opportunity positively than women who are not emotional and physical support place. Your doula will be with you to talk together, asking her about her supported in this way. I don’t know during labour, and give follow-up throughout your labour. She has no training and experience, why she about you, but I find these astounding support. She does not perform any other responsibilities and will give chose this type of work, and how she results, especially considering the few medical procedures. A doula attends her total focus to you. Many nurses views her role, you will begin to get hours a mother spends in labour! to the head and heart, whereas your appreciate the support a doula gives, a sense of her personality and be able doctor or midwife attends more to the since the doula helps to calm and to judge whether you and she are a What is a doula? “business end” of things. ground the labouring woman. good match.

My partner is planning to be with me How do I find a doula? as a birth coach. Wouldn’t having a doula get in the way of him or her There are several associations giving this loving support? through which you can contact a doula – Prima Doulas (www.primadoulas. Although your partner is the one ca) or Canadian Mothercraft (http:// who loves you the most, it is likely that www.mothercraft.com/prenatal_ he or she has never been faced with parent/Mothercraftbirth.php) can the challenges of labour. There can be provide you with information. You a lot of pressure placed on a partner. can ask your midwife or doctor for a Your doula can give a knowledgeable referral. You could do a search on the and objective perspective. Is this web. Perhaps one of the best ways pain normal or cause for alarm? Is is to ask for recommendations from reasonable progress being made, your friends or others who have used or are things stalled and needing to a doula. be augmented? Your partner may, understandably, want to spare you pain, not realizing that the body Signy Fridriksson is a resident has an amazing chemical feedback of Old Ottawa East. She is a birth system. The pain of labour causes doula certified through Canadian the release of endorphins, which both Mothercraft and a member of mitigate the pain and cause the release Ottawa Valley Doula Association. of oxytocin, which increases the She mentors BIRTHING FROM strength of contractions, which leads WITHIN Childbirth Classes, and to the release of more endorphins. with her husband Steve Fick, Most often, partners really appreciate mentors BIRTHING FROM WITHIN the doula´s calm, reassuring presence. Childbirth Classes for Couples. She is there to support you, your She is a founding member of Prima partner and your relationship as you Doulas of Ottawa, a collective of transition from couple to family. birth and postpartum doulas and childbirth educators. Contact her by I am afraid that my doctor will not phone at 613-233-8438 or by email understand the usefulness of having at [email protected]. a doula. Will this be a problem?

To book an OSCAR ad call Gayle 730-1058 [email protected] DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 51

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE LIBRARY Sunnyside Branch Library Sunnyside Branch Library Tuesdays, 11:15 a.m. (45 min.) ages 10-12 island home, building roads and 1049 Bank Street, Ottawa December 7, 14 A place for girls and the special houses to create new towns. But 613-730-1082, women in their lives to share watch out! There’s a robber on Toddlertime C - Registration. books. Registration. the island, and that renegade can Adult Services, Thursdays, 10:15 a.m. (45 min.) Mondays, 7 p.m. (60 min.) show up at any time to steal your extension 22 December 2, 9, 16 December 13 valuable resources. Ages 12+. Children’s Services, Registration. extension 29 Toddlertime D - Registration. Books and Beyond Thursdays, 6 p.m. (120 min.) Thursdays, 11:15 a.m. (45 min.) Enjoy an exciting new program of December 2, 9, 16 Children’s December 2, 9, 16 stories without boundaries. Use your imagination and enjoy crafts, Adult Babytime Storytime creative games and exploring For babies and their parents or Stories and rhymes for young outside. Each week we will bring Consumer awareness magazines caregiver with stories, rhymes, children ~ parents and caregivers a new story alive. Ages 10-13. All about how to explore what songs and games. 0-18 months. are welcome to join. Ages 3-6. Registration. is more reputable via Internet Wednesdays, 10:15 a.m. (30 min.) Saturdays,11 a.m. (60 min.) or Hard copy for Wise Women Babytime A December 1, 8, 15 December 4, 11 and Great Men, by the seniors Tuesdays, 2:15 p.m. (30 min.) Special Programs for Children group from South–East Ottawa December 7, 14 Children’s Book Clubs community health centre Wednesday, December 1, 1 p.m. Babytime B Mother-Daughter Book Club for Teen (120 mins) Thursdays, 9:15 a.m. (30 min.) ages 7-9 Mother-Daughter Book Club for December 2, 9, 16 A place for girls and the special ages 13-15 Adult Book Club women in their lives to share A place for girls and the special Meet new people and join in Toddlertime books. Registration. women in their lives to share stimulating discussions on For toddlers and a parent or Mondays, 7 p.m. (60 min.) books. Registration. selected titles in a friendly and caregiver with stories, rhymes, December 6 Mondays, 7 p.m. (60 min.) relaxed atmosphere. Registration. songs and games. Ages 18-35 December 20 Tuesdays, 2 p.m. months. guysread Registration Required Share the love of books. For boys “Settlers of Catan” Cercle de lecture and a significant male adult. Ages Join us to play the award winning Partagez avec nous le plaisir des Toddlertime A - Registration. 8-12. Registration. board game, “Settlers of Catan.” livres dans un ambiance détendue. Tuesdays, 10:15 a.m. (45 min.) Wednesdays, 7 p.m. (60 min.) Catan is an imaginary unexplored Inscription. December 7, 14 December 15 island, and players are explorers Les mardis, 19 h (60 min.) 14 and settlers. Settlers must use décembre Toddlertime B - Registration. Mother-Daughter Book Club for their resources to develop their

Christmas Hamper Calling Young Artists! Project 2010 Are You Sunnyside Library

uring the holidays, our thoughts often turn A Writer, Drawing Contest to those less fortunate than ourselves. For Young And by OSCA Library Committee and Sunnyside Dmore than 30 years, the Christmas Hamper Branch Children’s Department, Ottawa Project has supplied thousands of Ottawa families and individuals with boxes of food, toiletries and Awesome? Public Library small gifts to help make their Christmas season a little brighter. he Ottawa Public Library Do you love to draw? Do you love your local library, Hosted by Centretown United Church, hampers T(OPL) is looking for awesome Sunnyside Branch? If you do, then draw or paint a colourful will be delivered to 160 families and individuals authors between the ages of 9 and picture that shows how you feel about your library and bring who have been referred by a number of Centretown 17. Writers are invited to submit it to the Children’s Department at Sunnyside Branch between st th emergency food providers. poems and short stories in English December 1 and 20 , 2010. One picture will be selected to This worthy project relies on the generosity and and/or French for the Awesome be used on the OSCA website to represent the library, and the goodwill of the community. How can you help? Author’s youth writing contest that every picture will be displayed on the website with the artist’s There are many ways: closes on January 31, 2011. name. All pictures will also be displayed in the Children’s To adopt a hamper, contact Sue by November The winning poems and stor- Department over the holidays and in January. 30th at [email protected]. ies will be published in pot-pourri, Need some ideas? What does the name “Sunnyside” mean to To pack hampers and help wrap gifts between an anthology published annually you? What do books and reading mean to you? Your picture December 15th and 21st, contact Ann at613-234- by the Friends of OPL. Partici- could include: a big, bright sun, a sunrise, some books, a 6084 or [email protected] pants can also win awesome priz- rainbow, people reading at the library, or anything you wish! To deliver hampers or drive on December 22nd, es which will be presented at an Just be creative and use your imagination! contact Linda at [email protected], or by awards ceremony in March. When you have finished your picture, make sure your name phone if you don’t have email, at 613-232-0370. Visit www.BiblioOttawaLi- and phone number are printed clearly on the back, or an Or, have a crazy schedule? We gladly accept brary.ca for details. attached sheet, and bring it to the Children’s Department at donations! Please send a cheque made out to “The Sunnyside Branch at 1049 Bank Street between December st th Christmas Hamper Project”, to Centretown United 1 and December 20 . For more information, visit www. Church, 507 Bank Street, K2P 1Z5. Thank you for oldottawasouth.ca your support! Page 52 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010

CLASSY ADS

CLASSY ADS are free for Old Ottawa South residents (except for businesses or for business activity) and must be submitted in writing to: The OSCAR, at the Old Firehall, 260 Sunnyside, or sent by email to [email protected] by the deadline. Your name and contact information (phone number or email address) must be included. Only your contact info will appear unless you specify otherwise. The editor retains the right to edit or exclude submissions. The OSCAR takes no responsibility for items, services or accurary. For business advertising inquiries, call 730-1058. FOR SALE: two MEC sleeping bags, information or email oldottawasouth- for grades 1 through 12. Call 613-260- For Sale synthetic fill, totally washable, excel- [email protected] for pictures. $8. 5996, or e-mail Astolot.tutoring@ lent condition. $10 ea. 613 730-7684 gmail.com for more information, or to Teddy Bear Tea Set - made of porcel- Accommodation reserve a time. ain with four cups and saucers, teapot, SONY 46-inch 1080i Widescreen sugar bowl and milk jug, as well as a CRT rear projection TV with stand. SHORT TERM HOUSE RENT- cookie plate. New condition - would $200 or best offer. Call Nicola 613- AL: Available for the month of Looking For make an excellent Christmas gift. Call 730-2933 March 2011. Looking for clean, 613-304-7856 for more information non-smoking tenant(s) with no or email oldottawasouthsale@gmail. Sony HDMI CD/DVD player with children or pets. Please call Nan- Seeking: - house / plant / cat-sitter for com for pictures. $10. Precision Cinema Progressive Dolby cy or Terry at 613-233-7676 the full month of January 2011. 730- sound and high-definition multimedia email: [email protected] 4804; [email protected] For sale: antique upright piano, ori- interface 1080p upscale. $20 or best ginal ivory keys, 58” wide, 52” tall, offer. Call Nicola 613-730-2933 Wanted: 2 bedroom apartment to rent 27” deep, plus bench. Have your chil- in Old Ottawa South for a single, Lost dren playing for the holidays. Reason- 3 Firestone P215/70 R14 tires. $35. non-smoking professional, prefer- able offers. 730-4804; fdoy@sympat- each. 2 SnowTracker P205/75 R14 ably closer to the Ossington Ave area. Lost: Sunglasses in a brown, hard ico.ca tires.$50. each. Phone 613-730-5114. case. They are prescription glasses Call Harvey @ 730-5759. and I am desperate for them! If found, Sony HDMI CD/DVD player with Tutoring pls call Gayle @730-6749. It would Precision Cinema Progressive Dolby Mosquito Net - purchased at Ikea, this be so greatly appreciated!! sound and high-definition multimedia net can be hung over a child’s bed like interface 1080p upscale. $20 or best a canopy. Let your daughter feel like a Tutoring - Astolot Academy - Book offer. Call Nicola 613-730-2933 princess. Excellent condition - no rips now for after school tutoring in Eng- or stains. Call 613-304-7856 for more lish or French. Tutoring is available

To place a classy ad or contribute a community event email Around Town [email protected] Introduction to the Bible: A Li- dents and visitors are invited to attend United Church on Sunday, December breast-feeding women, ask specific brary of Books the official illumination ceremony at 12, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. A donation questions about breast-feeding, learn Weekly series led by Pierre 6 pm on December 2, 2010 on Parlia- of a toonie per letter to cover the cost more about breast-feeding from ac- LaViolette (Graduate in theology ment Hill. of stamps to overseas destinations credited leaders who have breast-fed from Saint Paul University) will be welcomed. Southminster is at their own children and who volun- • to be held at St. Margaret Mary’s Bytown Voices will present the corner of Bank and Aylmer, across teer their time, get tips for working Church, 7 Fairbairn St. (corner of their Christmas Concert on Satur- from the Sunnyside branch of the Ot- through best breast-feeding chal- Sunnyside) day, December 11 at 8:00 p.m. at St. tawa Public Library. lenges, find out more about get- • for adults and young adults (no Basil’s Church (Maitland Avenue, just ting ready to breast-feed (if you are previous biblical knowledge required) north of the Queensway). Under the You’re invited to a very special pregnant), find out more about the • 1.5 hours once a week from direction of Robert Jones, the 56-voice evening of remembrance and tree benefits of breast-feeding for baby January to April (number of sessions, choir will sing a varied programme of lighting service on Monday, De- and you, borrow books about breast- time, and day of the week to be deter- sacred and secular music for Christ- cember 13th at 6:30pm at the May feeding and related parenting topics. mined by the group) mas and Hanukkah, including music Court Hospice on Cameron Avenue. Meetings every second Tuesday of • free of charge (minimal costs for of Rutter, Handel, Bach. The choir This event is an important fundraiser the month from 7:00 to 8:30 PM at photocopying) will be accompanied by pianist/or- for the Hospice. 36 Glen Ave. Next meeting December Aim of the series: To gain a gen- ganist Brenda Beckingham. Plenty You can donate in memory or in 14. eral understanding of the historical, of free parking is available on site and honour of someone and have a light For more information call 613- cultural and literary elements that the church is wheelchair accessible. shine for them on the courtyard tree 238-5919, the local La Leche League have shaped the Bible in order to lead Tickets, which are $15 (adults), $6 and have a card displayed with their phone line. us further into a faithful and faith- (students) and free for children under name on the Shine-a-Light mem- filled reading of Scripture. 13, are available from choir members ory wall for the month of December. Sunday, December 19 at 3pm For more information or to sign or at the door. Additional informa- Please contact Julie Oliveira at www. AND 8pm, the Chorus Ecclesiae, up, contact Pierre LaViolette (pjlv_ tion is available at www.bytownvoi- hospicemaycourt.com to RSVP or get directed by Lawrence Harris, present [email protected]). ces.com or from Rosemary Covert at more details. their Christmas Concert of Carols and (613) 521-4997. Gregorian Chant in the cloister of the From December 2, 2010 to La Leche League Canada has a Dominican Convent, 96 Empress Av- January 7, 2011, hundreds of thou- Write for Rights at Southmin- group in Old Ottawa South enue – off Somerset St., two traffic sands of multicoloured lights will il- ster on December 12: Be part of Are you breast-feeding your lights west of Bronson. luminate NCC and partner sites along Amnesty International’s worldwide baby? Are you pregnant and planning There is free parking in the adja- Confederation Boulevard, including writeathon in support of human rights. to breast-feed? cent lot. Tickets at the door: $15 adult Parliament Hill, national museums, Adults and children can write to and A La Leche League meeting is / $8 students institutions, monuments, embassies on behalf of human rights defend- a relaxed, supportive and non-judg- Information 613-567-7729 and other prominent landmarks. Resi- ers around the world at Southminster mental place where you can: meet DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 53 Page 54 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR DEC 2010 Tom Alfoldi’s Pumpkin Creations for 2010

The dragon (left) took 4 hours and the Beauty and the Beast took 5 hours. Photos byTom Alfoldi DEC 2010 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 55 YourMarketplace

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