MARCH 12, 2021 VOL. 26 NO. 3 THE BUZZ

From lumberyard to bus station to condos, 3 What’s on: New Anne Frank exhibit, 8 Is anybody home? considers a vacant homes tax Victoria Welland meant to be punitive. It is ttawa City Council a tax that aims to increase has passed a mo- housing supply which we O tion to study the desperately need here in the feasibility of a vacant unit city.” tax, a move which could Cheryl Parrott, the trea- help address the city’s surer of the growing housing crisis. Community Association, has The goal of the tax would seen first-hand the problems be to reduce the number of vacant homes have caused homes which lie empty and for her community. Parrott neglected for extended pe- first noticed the issue nearly riods of time, according to a decade ago, when a num- Catherine McKenney, the city ber of residential properties councillor for Somerset Ward. in Hintonburg were bought McKenney, along with by a developer, the tenants Mayor Jim Watson, intro- evicted, and then left empty duced a resolution in De- or demolished. cember directing the city to “There are eight boarded study the viability of a va- buildings within one block Little Free Libraries are scattered across Centretown. One library provider would like you to cant homes tax and report its of the Tom Brown Arena re- findings by the end of June. spite centre [and] within two use them as a destination for neighbourhood walks, and has compiled a map of them. See The report will look at Ot- blocks of people sleeping our story on page 6. Gail McGuire/The BUZZ tawa’s current tax legislation [in] homeless encampments. as well as similar taxes im- These are perfectly good plemented in Vancouver and buildings and these people A new diverse community Toronto, McKenney said. In were our neighbours that got December of 2020, Vancou- evicted.” ver raised their tax on empty Not only do these vacant takes shape in Dalhousie residences from 1.25 to 3.0 residential properties go Alayne McGregor munity Housing (OCH), lic school board will have two percent of the home’s value, unused while people sleep he pieces have come which had earlier bought the years to investigate a primary and Toronto recently passed a on the streets, but they also together this month southern 3.26 hectares for school in the development, re- resolution to implement a va- use up city resources, she T for Gladstone Vil- its 933 Gladstone mixed-use placing the school currently on cant homes tax by 2022. said. “In terms of all [the] lage, a massive public re- project. Beech Street. The revenue from the tax city services trying to keep development of the western The entire development Last summer, the Dal- would go towards funding them from being an eyesore end of Somerset Ward in will be centred around the housie Community Associa- for affordable housing initia- [and] from being a danger– lands formerly used for fed- planned new Corso Italia tion (DCA) submitted a list tives, they said, though this between bylaw police, fire–it eral government warehouses. LRT station on Gladstone of concerns with the second- is a secondary benefit. costs a lot of money.” A doubling of the size of Avenue. Its design will mini- ary plan, in particular about “This is not a tax that is cont in “Vacant unit tax” on p 4 Plouffe Park and 1160 new, mize car use and strongly insufficient affordable hous- mixed-income residences promote cycling, walking, ing and park space. No surrender: keeping pets are in the immediate plans. and transit. DCA President Michael An expansion of the Plant This month, the City of Powell said he felt these con- together with their owners Recreation Centre, a new Ottawa arranged to buy 1010 cerns had been responded to Nightingale, a freelance school, and even a grocery Somerset Street, the final in the current plan. “Broadly Jack Hanna editor and former editor of store could come later. outstanding piece of Glad- the CDP is in the right di- hat if you own The BUZZ, is launching a Councillor Catherine stone Village, from the feder- rection.” The acquisition of a pet and have volunteer service in Cen- McKenney said this new de- al government. And on Feb- 1010 Somerset was particu- W little money, and tretown to help. She believes velopment is planned to be ruary 25, the city Planning larly important: “This is a life throws you a curve ball? people sometimes can ben- the “most inclusive neigh- Committee approved the significant increase in park Maybe you are evicted efit from a little assistance bourhood we will have in Corso Italia Station District space, and compared to ear- and end up in a shelter, and getting past a momentary the city, an amazing mix of Secondary Plan, which pro- lier drafts of the plan, it’s your cat is not allowed. May- bump in the road, so that incomes, [with] a mix of vides a detailed framework contiguous park space.” be you twist your knee and they can keep a beloved pet. uses from housing to retail to for the entire area. The sec- The one-hectare park was cannot walk your dog. Her service is named institutional to an arts hub.” ondary plan covers a larger an essential part of the devel- For someone lacking ex- No Surrender, because the Having families with dif- area than Gladstone Village, opment, McKenney said, and tra money, even a small set- goal is to avoid the neces- ferent incomes living beside extending west to Breeze- they refused to support the back can mean losing a pet. sity of pet owners having each other, shopping in the hill and Loretta Streets, and secondary plan without it. The individual is forced to give up–formally termed same stores, and with their east to Preston and Booth McKenney said that, pre- to turn over their cat or dog “surrender”–a pet to an ani- children going to the same Streets. Both decisions were pandemic, the Plant Centre to an animal shelter or rescue mal shelter or rescue service. schools, builds “the kind of expected to be approved by was the #1 recreation centre service. That means parting That pets can suddenly equity that we need in our City Council on March 10. in Ottawa for memberships, with the pet permanently. become homeless and need city,” McKenney said. The 1010 Somerset purchase and it’s “just not big enough The Ottawa Humane Soci- help was driven home to Gladstone Village is a also needs federal Treasury to accommodate the people ety’s policy is that all animal Nightingale last Novem- large (8.52 hectares) and Board approval. in this neighbourhood. It’s surrenders are permanent. ber, following a tragedy in mostly vacant site stretching As part of that purchase, hard to get your kids into Marna Nightingale says Centretown. Cat-lover Jona- along the Trillium LRT Line the city will also develop a con- swim lessons at Plant. It can people whose lives are “pre- than Hammell was killed from Somerset to Gladstone. cept plan for a new community be overcrowded at times.” carious” often “are one bad after a fight. Abruptly there It will be jointly developed hub effectively expanding the In Gladstone Village, the day away from losing their was no one to look after the by the city and Ottawa Com- Plant Bath. The French pub- cont in “New homes” on p 5 pet.” cont in “Lending a hand” on p 5 2 AT THE HEART OF OTTAWA MARCH 12, 2021 The Lighter Side of the Pandemic, by Karen Munro-Caple March 12, 2021 — Vol. 26, No. 3 THE CENTRETOWN BUZZ AT THE HEART OF OTTAWA SINCE 1995.

101-210 Gloucester St. Ottawa, ON K2P 2K4 Phone: 613-565-6012

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BUZZ Staff

Managing editor: Alayne McGregor [email protected]

Associate editor: Eleanor Sawyer

City Editor: Robert Smythe [email protected]

Distribution manager: Archie Campbell The Good, the Bad, and the Bumpy: [email protected] Removing construction barriers

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Ryan Lythall have to. Accessibility is a right and not • More salt boxes on city streets ecently, I received my first a privilege. would be useful, as would more signage The Centretown BUZZ is created and distributed letter in response to my col- My other issue with sidewalk con- that the public can use. in Centretown, Ottawa, located on traditional and R umn in The BUZZ. I would struction is that there are no alternative • Owners of parking lots and build- unceded Algonquin land. like to share some of it with you. ramps to get back onto the sidewalk if a ings should be required to have salt The letter writer provided examples curb is being repaired. Frequently, I’ve boxes. of various barriers in Centretown and had to drive my chair onto the road just • There could be better snowplow- NEXT ISSUE how they had moved several of these because there was no way for me to get ing techniques. out of their way. The writer advised back onto the sidewalk. Depending on I encourage readers to reach out The next issue of The BUZZ will be published that some of them were due to various where you are and the time of day, this to me and tell about your experiences April 16. Deadline for ads and submissions: April 5. construction sites/projects from July to can be very scary. getting around Ottawa. Let me know ISSN 1204-1604 November 2020. They included: However, I do agree 100 percent how you feel when you aren’t able to • construction signs in the middle with moving construction signs that go to certain places, do certain things or of the sidewalk on Frank Street near prevent accessibility as long as they shop at local businesses due to a lack of ADVERTISING O’Connor Street, as well as on the don’t put either you or others at risk in wheelchair accessibility. You can also sidewalks on Lisgar, Metcalfe, and doing so. So, by all means, please keep bring other issues to my attention so The BUZZ is proud to offer an effective advertising O’Connor Streets, on moving them and thanks to the letter that I can share your experiences with medium that reaches 10,000 Centretown homes and • a directional sign on a path near writer for bringing up the issue. People others as well. businesses each month. Our competitive advertising rates are the Hurdman Bridge, and with disabilities need all the help we I’m easy to find on Facebook or as low as $31 per issue. • a mailbox located on a sidewalk can get when it comes to accessibility Twitter, or you can send me a letter care View our rate card and publishing dates at near O’Connor and Somerset Streets. and, in general, getting around Ottawa’s of The BUZZ. Just advise if you’re com- centretownbuzz.com/advertising. Many times I have been unable to streets. fortable sharing your letter or message. For more information, email get around construction signs and most The letter writer also had other sug- [email protected] or call 613-565-6012. people with disabilities aren’t physically gestions about maintaining the side- Follow Ryan on Twitter: able to move these signs. We shouldn’t walks: @rolling_enigma Thank you to our volunteer carriers

Ahmed Shalabi, Amanda Asquith, Anne O’Connor, Comment: Bridging the social distance Archie Campbell, Arwyn Holmes, Bayne Pearen, Berkley Robinson times a month at various organizations, use volunteering to connect with the Betty Gregory, Brendan Hennigan, Brent McLean, s we come up to the one year and my connection with my community community. After a year of this, what Brett Delmage, Carol Sissons, Cassidy Beers, anniversary of the pandemic, was stronger than ever. are we to do? How are we to engage in Catharine Vandelinde, Catherine Boucher, I have started to take stock of I never would have guessed that, a year our community in a safe way? Charles Akben-Marchand, Chris Edwards, Craig Layng, A my surroundings. later, things would look completely differ- What I have come to realize is that, Colleen McGuire, David Seaborn, Debbie Barton, , Don Smith, Drina Wethey, Eleanor Sawyer, A one bedroom apartment in Cen- ent. While some volunteer positions still as we recover from the effects of this Emily Graves, Emma Chamberlain, Glynda Newton, tretown. No balcony, just me and two exist, many have been placed on hold or devastating pandemic, I must continue James Bruce, Jennifer Bedwell, Kathleen Oliver, cats. A desk for working from home. operate on Zoom due to COVID. Now, un- to foster my community connection Kenney Vandelinde, Kim Malcolm, Laura Mueller, A few feet away sits a couch and a TV able to see friends or family, living alone, through those around me. I have no idea Michael Hatfield, Michael Powell, Michelle Kirkman, ready for Netflix, a puzzle half-finished I am denied another important connection: when life will return back to normal, but Mike Gregory, Mindy Sichel, Neil Parkinson-Dow, on the coffee table. that of my community. what I do know is that some people still Pam Gahan, Pat Shaulis, Patricia Marsden-Dole, But, after a year of near continuous Already, my visits to local stores are need help. For myself, I will continue to Robert Smythe, Ruth Barrie, Shelley Pearen, Suzanne Nash, lockdown, these things cease to provide quick and contactless, and small talk look out for neighbours who might need Venita Warren, Wendy Bennett, Wendy Hunter, distraction. The novelty of working has become a fearful endeavour. I miss help with getting groceries or medica- Wendy Sewell, Zsofia Orosz from home has worn off, snow cov- chatting with cashiers from my favou- tion. I’ll offer to walk friends’ dogs, ers our pathways and limits outdoor rite local shops, attending trivia nights shovel driveways, and donate to local To join our distribution team, please call activities, and nothing has quite taken at pubs where waitresses knew my food banks. I’ll tell myself that this is 613-565-6012 or email the world by storm like the Tiger King name, and trying whatever new work- just for a little longer and try to believe it. [email protected] documentary on Netflix last March. For out class popped up. There are fewer If you are struggling with feeling those of us who live alone, the struggle and fewer opportunities to engage in disconnected from your community, The Centretown BUZZ is published by the Centretown BUZZ Board of solitude continues. our community, and the lack of volun- please check out Centretown Commu- of Directors, a group consisting of community A year ago, I wrote an article for teer positions has only highlighted the nity Health Centre’s Winter Schedule: members representing all residents of Centretown. The BUZZ about how volunteering was feeling of despair. https://www.centretownchc.org/2021- The Centretown BUZZ operates under the guidelines of the a great way to connect to the communi- Some who would normally volun- cchc-winter-schedule/ Canadian Copyright Act. ty. It explored the relationship between teer may be more at risk for COVID or Berkley Robinson is a member of © 2021 The Centretown BUZZ volunteers and their chosen cause. At feel unsafe volunteering during a pan- Centretown CHC’s Advocacy and the time, I was volunteering multiple demic. Thus, they’re no longer able to Communications Action Team. MARCH 12, 2021 AT THE HEART OF OTTAWA 3 Skyline: end of the line for the bus station... Next stop “hub of luxury”? employment and residential uses. It’s defined as “an area where several new projects are anticipated to occur in the future. These projects have the potential to enhance the image of the street by bring- ing new life to the street and improving the conditions of the public realm.” The “Tall Building Ty- pology” (that’s planners’ speak) says that “New devel- opments along this corridor The 2011 proposal featured nine-storey buildings with three- should be designed to mini- storey townhouses along Arlington. (City of Ottawa report) mize shadow and wind im- In 2011, approved rezoning for 19 and 25 storey towers along Catherine pacts on the neighbourhood to the built-form and open The developer told CTV to the north” with a mini- space strictures imposed by News that “Brigil is still in Street as part of a proposed development (called “block265”.) (City of Ottawa report) mum separation distance of the 2011 zoning. the preliminary design phase Robert Smythe tial surrounded by an area of that the bus company was 20 metres between towers. So the table is set for a and expects to file its propos- small buildings on small lots. prepared to abandon the ter- Tall buildings facing each major clash of visions for al with the City this spring. he intercity bus In 1964, when Ottawa’s minal, a 2011 proposal was other should not overlap by the southwest quadrant of An architectural design com- terminal is leaving first comprehensive zoning submitted by Crerar Silver- more than 15 to 20 percent of Centretown. Quiet low-rise petition involving Montreal T Catherine Street for bylaw was passed, the site side Corporation of Vancou- the facades. residential streets or super- and Toronto architectural good. The land has been was classified as a manufac- ver (the owners of the bus Initially, the CDP called block mega developments? firms is already underway.” sold to Brigil Construc- turing zone because of the terminal building and lot) to for buildings between 16 and The Official Plan and the The plans include “a hub tion, a Gatineau-based de- sidings and spurs from the redevelop the entire site. It 25 storeys along Catherine zoning bylaw seem to favour of luxury rental condos, of- veloper, who is planning rail corridor across the street was approved and the block Street, and that “the fine- the latter. fice space, hotel buildings, a “prestigious project pro- (later the Queensway). was re-zoned for “General grained quality of Arlington Brigil is perhaps best neighbourhood restaurants, moting urban densifica- With the adoption of the Mixed Use.” This project Avenue should be considered known for the controversial and specialty stores.” That’s tion.” Centretown Plan in 1976, called for two condo tow- in building designs.” It ap- Place des Peuples, a 55-sto- quite the departure from a At 2.55 acres, the site Catherine Street was re-des- ers at 19 and 25 storeys on pears that this has morphed rey project in the Hull sector now deserted asphalt waste- is uniquely large for Cen- ignated as a “Queensway- the Catherine frontage, and into 27 storeys, the city’s of Gatineau directly across land that was once the bus tretown. The block of Cath- Commercial” zone, with a mid-rise stacked townhous- new go-to height for towers from the Canadian Museum station, and quite a lot to erine between Kent and Lyon minimum building height of es along Arlington Avenue, in Centretown. It’s equally of History, although their Ot- pack into this blowsy block Streets was assembled by six floors. It was hoped that with some commercial uses. unclear as to whether the tawa projects have generally of Catherine Street. Voyageur Bus Lines owner these buildings would act as Most notably it was stip- new developers will adhere been more modestly-scaled. Paul Desmarais beginning in a noise buffer for the high- ulated that the block was to 1970, after the largest prop- way! Furthermore, this odd have a minimum of 25 per- erty owner in the block, the zoning actually prohibited cent public open space, con- Barrett Bros. lumberyard, any further residential use. ceived as two interior pedes- relocated to Nepean. The To my knowledge, no build- trian streets crossing through building supply business had ings were developed under this development, titled moved there eight years ear- this formula. “block265,” and designed by lier after their original loca- The presence of the Brisbin Brook Benyon Ar- tion was expropriated for the Voyageur-Colonial bus ter- chitects. Queensway’s construction. minal precipitated a change The latest set of design Acquiring the land for the for this section of Catherine guidelines to be layered on bus station was an arduous into a “Ground Transporta- this property is the 2013 task. The remaining 28 sepa- tion Facility” zone during Centretown Community De- rate properties were bought the city’s 2008 housekeeping sign Plan’s categorization up over several years, piece updates of The Centretown of the district as the “Cath- by piece, resulting in one full Plan. erine Street Corridor” which block of development poten- After it was rumored permits a range of retail, The Voyageur Colonial bus terminal under construction. It opened in 1972. (CMHC) Somerset Ward: finding home-like options for long-term care ca/blog/2021/2/10/plan- care which enables them to begun implementing The things that people could be staff turnover, and higher Catherine McKenney regarding-innovative-mod- get to know who their resi- Butterfly Model of care and active with–books, maga- staff engagement scores. els-of-care-for-long-term- dents and families are, and is committed to putting the zines, puzzles, things to sort It is time for a shift in our uring the COV- care-homes) to the city’s what their life was like be- well-being of residents first and rummage through, music thinking about how we ad- ID-19 pandemic, it Community and Protective fore they entered long-term and providing the type of and art, and couches to sit on dress the systemic problems D became clear that Services Committee recom- care. It means schedules and care and services that con- next to a friend. in LTC homes that have been we have lost focus on our mending that the city make it routines are flexible to match nect people to where they are They have reported that exposed by the current pan- collective responsibility to a priority to improve the care the residents’ preferences in their life journey. key indicators for adopting demic and the tragic loss of long-term care (LTC) and in the city’s four long-term and needs. It means residents The centre’s first step was this model include decreasing so many lives of long-term the residents who reside in care homes by adopting an are involved in many mean- to pilot one of their home ar- pain levels, decreasing the care residents in Ottawa and these homes. innovative model of care for ingful activities according eas into a more “home-like” use of psychotropic and seda- . I am committed to The issues of low-wage people living with dementia. to their abilities and what place that reflects the people tive medications, seeing an ensuring that our city-operat- personal support workers Without a transformative brings them joy. who live there. increase in resident wellness ed homes adopt these models who must move from home culture change, no additional We can look to several They painted the walls and quality of life through of care to ensure a life of dig- to home just to make a living amount of staff, home in- innovative models of care in bright colours and gave ev- meaningful engagement, a nity and meaning for people wage, inadequate care in too spections, or personal pro- LTC homes in other coun- ery resident their own per- reduction in resident distress, living with dementia. many homes, and other health tective equipment will reme- tries, as well as Ontario ex- sonalized front door. They a reduction in falls, reduced and safety issues existed long dy the failings in the system. amples, such as Malton Vil- created stimulating wall before COVID-19 began. These new innovative lage in Peel, Henley House murals, some interactive, so However, now more than models of care are relation- in St. Catharines and, most that there would be things of Looking for a good home? ever and within a pandemic ship-based, where residents, recently, Henley Place Home interest to look at and engage environment, there is a press- staff and families feel part of in London. Eight other long- with. They created nooks ing need to change the sys- a community and are treated term care homes in Ontario and spaces throughout the tem so that residents in LTC with dignity and respect. are in the process of imple- home area so residents could homes are safe, comfortable, Residents know and feel like menting innovative models have quiet spots to sit and and live a dignified life. they are living in a warm, of care including two in Ren- be engaged with an activity It was for this reason that caring environment which frew County and one in Ot- or just watch the goings-on I was compelled to bring a looks and feels like home. tawa: Centre. around them. They filled the report (catherinemckenney. Staff deliver person-centred The Glebe Centre has house with the stuff of life– 4 AT THE HEART OF OTTAWA MARCH 12, 2021 City wants opinions on vacant homes tax

MPP report: Voula’s Law will clarity on the exact number of vacant homes. protect family caregivers Councillor McKenney Joel Harden home. Family members had family visitations comes at wants to make the messag- consistently noted shortfalls a steep price. Residents are ing clear that this tax would n March 4, the On- in Andre’s care. These com- deprived of crucial support. not apply to the majority of tario Legislature plaints provoked trespass There is a moment when pol- homeowners. “It really is O debated my mo- orders, and ultimately the itics has to preserve the dig- only for homes that are sit- tion, Voula’s Law. It called home evicted Andre, leav- nity of people in crisis, and ting empty. So, if you’re on the Ford government ing him on Joy’s doorstep. this is one of those moments. using your home, if you’re to clarify to care home op- Andre’s possessions were Voula’s Law asks a sim- living in it, if you’re renting erators that they cannot use stuffed in a garbage bag. ple question: Whose side it out, you are not affected,” trespass notices to ban fam- Incidents like these are are we on? Will we support said McKenney. “But if ily members who speak out happening across Ontario– seniors, people with dis- you’re allowing a home to sit about their loved ones’ living families are separated from abilities, and their families vacant [...] there could be an conditions. I’m delighted to loved ones for making rea- impacted by unfair trespass added tax.” share that the motion passed sonable complaints about orders? Or will we enable a The Ottawa Real Estate unanimously with the sup- their relatives’ living condi- minority of care home opera- Boarded-up houses in Centretown. Board’s Government and port of all parties. tions in care homes. tors who engage in terrible Community Relations Com- Victoria Welland/The BUZZ Voula’s Law is inspired This is wrong. The Tres- acts of cruelty? cont from page 1 mittee is currently reviewing by Mary Sardelis, who is pass to Property Act (TPA) Thankfully, my col- During last November’s could include properties that the issue of a vacant unit tax, the primary caregiver for her should not be used in in- leagues in the Ontario Leg- city budget hearings, Parrott are rented out as Airbnb’s or according to Debra Wright, 98-year-old mother Voula stances like this. Home own- islature chose to support presented this issue to city are occupied by retirees who the Board’s president. Cur- who lives with dementia. In ers and operators have an families by supporting the councillors on the Commu- spend the winters outside of rently, their main concern is 2018, Mary expressed con- obligation to ensure safety, motion. This is a victory nity and Protective Services Canada. that the tax be practical and cerns about the treatment but dangerous or threaten- for both the rights of family committee, urging them to effective. of Voula’s personal support ing behaviour is a Criminal caregivers and their loved consider a vacant homes tax “It’s important to have a workers by management in a Code violation. The TPA ones living in care homes. like those in other Canadian clear understanding of what retirement home. is not about behaviour and We know, however, that cities. During the meeting, the intended purpose [...] and When her concerns went shouldn’t be used as a tool to this motion is only the first city bylaw staff reported that objective of the municipal unheard, she filed a com- stifle complaints. step. The Ford government city records show 217 vacant tax is,” said Wright. “If it’s plaint with the regulator of Residents have a legal must respect the will of the homes in Ottawa. to add additional rental hous- retirement homes and dis- right to see visitors, and fam- legislature and clarify to care Parrott believes the num- ing, we would want the city cussed this with other resi- ily members have a right home operators that trespass ber is even higher than the to be sure that such a tax will dents of the home. For doing to advocate for loved ones orders cannot be issued to city’s records indicate. “We actually add rental housing.” so, she was banned from the (particularly when they are ban family members who know that’s not all of them The city is currently ask- home and separated from substitute decision-makers.) speak out. because we’ve since walked ing for public feedback on Voula for 316 days. Her sto- This is what I have heard Families have waited around and determined that the specifics of the tax via ry has been featured by CBC from experts in my capacity long enough, it’s time for there’s some others that are an online survey. It includes Marketplace. as critic for accessibility and this government to act and empty, [...] but they weren’t Cheryl Parrott asked the city to questions on how long a The same thing happened people with disabilities. put an end to this cruel prac- on the vacant property list consider a vacant homes tax. property should remain va- to Joy Seguin, a Cornwall As family caregivers tice once and for all. that the city has.” cant before the tax would ap- resident whose 34-year-old have said to anyone who According to a 2016 re- Under Vancouver’s cur- ply and possible exemptions, son Andre lives in a group will listen, the withdrawal of port by point2homes.com rent system, each home own- such as when a house is for using data from Statistics er makes a declaration on sale or under construction. Canada, there were 20,000 their property taxes as to the To add your opinion homes in Ottawa deemed occupancy of their home. If to the conversation, you “empty or temporarily oc- this method was adopted in can fill out the survey at cupied.” However, these Ottawa, there could be more engage.ottawa.ca/VUT MARCH 12, 2021 AT THE HEART OF OTTAWA 5 Planet of the Scapes: sidle up for soup & a side

Pearl Pirie • 85g frozen spinach (thawed and drained) key to good health: greens and • 1/4 cup corn syrup beans, brights, grains, or seeds. • 1/4 cup whisky A This food combo hits all the spots. • 1/4 cup melted margarine The cornbread is nutritional, bright, and • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk colourful. The broccoli is green. Pour into the hot pan and bake 30 to 35 Not a fan of the green flower? This soup minutes until the top is browned and a tooth- could change your mind. After snow shovel- pick comes out clean. ling, it tastes even better. If you don’t have whisky on hand, water or water with a teaspoon of apple cider vin- egar works. The loaf freezes well so you can thaw slices as needed.

Main Dish: Broccoli Soup (30 minutes, serves 6) No Surrender’s first foster cat: Michael’s cat Niqe explores its new space. Cat Meier/The BUZZ Cut up one head of broccoli into florets (discard the stems). Boil or steam until crisp- tender. Lending a hand to keep pets with their owners Puree the cooked broccoli with: cont from p 1 make the delivery. foster homes, she says, is Savoury cornbread is bright with red pepper, • 2 roasted cloves of garlic two dozen cats Hammell Nightingale hopes No university students. “A uni- spinach, and corn. Pearl Pirie/The BUZZ • 2 yellow onions, diced, cooked in had been caring for in his Surrender will be able to versity student may not know olive oil until tender lodgings and backyard. purchase some things a pet where he or she will be in Side Dish: Savoury Cornbread • 1 red potato, cubed, boiled Nightingale sprang into ac- owner might require, such as two years’ time and so can- I’m not a fan of sweet cornbread, nor dry, • 1 Tbsp cornstarch tion, trapping the cats in a kitty litter or basic veterinar- not permanently commit to so this one hit the spot. Vegetarian and dairy • 1 bouillon cube humane trap one by one. A ian services. a pet. But they know where free, it is dense but not moist and is full of • ground black pepper GoFundMe campaign raised No Surrender can even they will be for the next six flavour. • pinch of salt almost $7,000 to pay vet find a temporary foster home months and would love to Preheat a 10-inch cast iron pan at 400F. Add to blender or food processor: bills. Nightingale and her for a pet. have an animal for a while.” Mix dry: • up to 1 cup unsweetened almond milk friends worked the phones, Someone who is evicted One cost No Surrender • 1 cup yellow cornmeal until desired thickness is reached quickly finding temporary might end up in a shelter or will face is veterinarian bills. • 1/3 cup whole wheat flour Garnish: or permanent homes for all on a friend’s sofa and their For instance, before a cat or • 1/2 cup unbleached white flour • sprinkle of sesame seeds and black the cats. (See the December cat is not welcome. What’s dog goes into a foster home, • 1 Tbsp baking powder pepper (optional) 2020 Centretown BUZZ.) needed is a foster home for it will go to a vet. The animal • 1 tsp salt That experience led to the pet until the individual will be spayed or neutered, • 1/2 cup frozen corn Pearl Pirie’s fourth poetry collection, No Surrender. finds new lodgings. and receive vaccinations and • pinch to 1/4 tsp hot pepper flakes (to footlights, is getting good reviews! Coming Or a person might be ad- an ID microchip implant. taste) in April: online classes on editing at www. Help tailored to needs mitted to hospital and need The cost ranges from $120 to • 1/2 large red bell pepper, diced pearlpirie.com/classes Keep staying home, No Surrender tailors its someone to take their dog $500 per animal. Mix and add wet to dry: washing your hands, phones and masks. Get service to meet the need, until they are out. No Surrender is also • 2 eggs, beaten the vaccine when you can. Nightingale said. seeking donations. The peo- If an individual experi- Seeking volunteers ple it assists “do everything ences a temporary mobil- No Surrender is seeking they can to care for their New homes, new park, new school ity problem–for instance, volunteers who can provide pet and just need a little bit cont from p 1 pass Pathway. This pathway you’re particularly affluent sprains an ankle–No Surren- a temporary home for a cat of help,” Nightingale says. DCA wanted to avoid north- would become a “primary or double-income. City af- der can find a volunteer to or dog. “Why not lend a hand?” south through car traffic, north-south pedestrian and fordable and deeply afford- walk the dog. “We just need people You can reach the group and ensure that the new cycling gateway and route” able housing will be impor- If the money runs out who can provide a sofa and at nosurrenderottawa.ca or neighbourhood is “walking- from the district to City Cen- tant. The children going to and there’s no cash for pet some love for a little while,” by emailing focused and doesn’t have tre, , and the schools will be of all types food, No Surrender can help. Nightingale says. [email protected] an endless amount of cars,” Bayview O-Train Station. and that will be good. There are established orga- One possible source of Powell said. At 933 Gladstone, build- “Having a huge chunk of nizations, such as Ottawa In fact, the secondary plan ings will connect directly to land that’s basically a blank Paw Pantry and the Ottawa strongly de-emphasizes the car. multi-use pathways. Streets slate will allow for some Humane Society, which op- “New streets or extensions will will be pedestrian-oriented development opportunities erate as food banks for cats prioritize the safe movement of with widened sidewalks, in terms of laying out the and dogs, giving out free pet pedestrians and cyclists in their passive recreational space, community that wouldn’t food. No Surrender can di- planning and design so that and a “woonerf” (shared) otherwise be available. And I rect someone to the nearest they enhance the active trans- street. The plan also propos- think how we think of where pet-food pantry. portation experience, ensure es a new pedestrian/cyclist the front and back are will As well, if the person safety, calm traffic and create bridge over the LRT trench change a little bit. The Trilli- cannot get to the pet-food a more enjoyable and welcom- at Laurel Street. um multi-use path will be the pantry, No Surrender might ing public realm,” it says. “This whole area is get- easiest connection to transit be able to supply a driver to The plan in general will ting denser. We’re building a stations and to 900 Albert. It prohibit new surface car community on top of a tran- could become a more prima- parking across the district, sit station,” Powell said. “I ry conduit than we have seen and “strategically control the think that the focus should previously.” availability of on-street park- be on that as a preference. He said the DCA’s first SVP portez ing, only where the need is People will still move in and priority will be to “move the Please wear most anticipated” – instead out [by car] and there will be park expansion forward as your mask! votre masque! using the space for bike lanes. garbage trucks. It’s just how soon as possible. It shouldn’t It does envision cars still be- you do it in a way that’s pri- wait for the buildings.” ing driven and parked in the marily local in nature.” McKenney said they district, but suggests more He said he thought the were worried that city ser- Catherine McKenna efficiently sharing parking long-term effect of the new vices like parks, transit, and M.P. for Ottawa Centre | Députée pour Ottawa-Centre among developments with development on the Dalhou- recreation programs won’t different peak demand times. sie area is “all positive. The keep up with the develop- It calls for bike parking to ownership structure of this ment. “The plan looks great, be “ubiquitous and plentiful” is really important, making but unless we follow it, Constituency Office | Bureau de circonscription : and located as close to destina- sure that it’s a real diverse we’re not going to build the Telephone | Téléphone : 613-946-8682 tions and entrances as possible. neighbourhood in terms of kind of neighbourhood that Email | Courriel : [email protected] It also proposes creat- economic opportunities for we have the perfect opportu- ing a City Centre Under- people to rent, not just if nity to build.” 6 AT THE HEART OF OTTAWA MARCH 12, 2021 Managing change and growth in Ottawa and in Somerset Ward buildings are being used to line the main thoroughfare on , especially in the area between James and Catherine Streets. The 40+ storey build- ing near Dow’s Lake is a highly visible landmark and will provide fabulous views to most of its residents. Yet, it is just a tall skinny box, close to many restaurants but not near any major gro- cery stores or daily ameni- ties. There is another high rise under construction just High rises in northwestern Centretown form a wall blocking the view for lower-rise buildings. across . The only place light can break through is at roadways. Stephen Thirlwall/The BUZZ Stephen Thirlwall sized. By world standards, it spite the introduction of the The process and impacts of he City of Ottawa is small, perhaps comparable LRT, Ottawa remains a very intensification has plans to create to some mid-sized European car-centred city, with heavy Centretown in particular T a livable, vibrant, cities. It is relatively clean, rush-hour traffic. has gone through a series of mid-sized North American safe, and full of activities. To reach its mid-city waves of intensification in- city. The questions that In non-pandemic times, goal, the city seems intent on terspersed with a year or two need to be answered are life in Centretown and Dal- growing much larger. This of slower activity. Around According to whose view? housie can be very interest- translates into (1) aggres- 2000, intensification meant and Which North Ameri- ing, exciting, walkable, and sively extending the subur- creating small enclaves of can city models? bikeable. There are many ban sprawl boundary and (2) townhouses. This model New high rises between Gloucester and Nepean Streets, just In many respects, Ottawa public events, arts festivals, aggressively intensifying in- ended quickly. From 2010 west of Elgin Street. Stephen Thirlwall/The BUZZ is already there. It now only and street festivals. What ner city neighbourhoods by and continuing on, there has needs to carefully manage is appealing about this dis- quickly building many high been a fixation on growth Avenue and Nepean Street is So what does “livable” more organic growth in mod- trict is its variety of housing rises (10-30 storeys) and mid measured in high-rise and now extending across Bron- mean in the Official Plan erate increments, instead of choices and activities; the rises (5-9 storeys). taller mid-rise condos of in- son Avenue into the Dalhou- –livable for those who can trying to force major growth diversity of people; and the creasing number and height. sie area. One tall high rise afford and can find suitable through its upcoming Offi- many small shops, restau- Open season for height? With the increased inten- is well under construction housing, or livable for every cial Plan. rants, and cafes. At certain The developers’ inter- sification of the inner city, near Nepean Street, another single person that lives here? Ottawa is actually very times, some neighbourhoods pretation of the unfolding the number of single family proposed near Laurier. The large in physical area, but can even be very quiet. The Official Plan seems to be dwellings is declining, as all only places light can break The problem much of this space is ru- low-rise residential sections that they have open season new buildings are multi-unit through this wall are along The city’s Official Plan is ral land: farms and forest. are full of trees, gardens, and on building ever-taller high and many large houses are the roadways. obviously complex because That is a healthy state to be wildlife. rises and skyscrapers down- subdivided. This will limit Increased intensification of the range of issues it cov- in, providing good sources But, over the past several town, lots of high mid-rise the variety of housing choic- means further congestion ers over the urban, suburban, of local food. Those living years, this area has already buildings in areas like West- es. The size of units in new on streets and sidewalks. and rural parts of the city. downtown can be “in the undergone major changes boro and Hintonburg, and condos or apartments is also Although ground level park- There are numerous rules, country” in a 20 to 40 minute and disruptions. Downtown many large single-family declining (becoming claus- ing lots are decreasing, un- regulations and principles drive. To spoil this relation- has become congested and dwellings in new suburban trophobic), and their cost is derground ones are being laid out for new and replace- ship with excessive suburban noisy at times because of areas. This is very evident in increasing. Even with the built, with little decrease ment developments. sprawl and overcrowding of major roadwork and replace- Somerset Ward, both in re- pandemic, home prices and in car parking. High-rise The written plan ac- downtown is not a good idea. ment of utilities, construc- cently completed buildings, rents are soaring. Taxes are populations may outstrip the knowledges many of the Compared to Canadian tion of the LRT line, and new construction, and cur- likewise rapidly increasing. availability of surrounding public concerns raised by cities like Toronto and Mon- significant high-rise and rent proposals for towers of For some, it means being amenities (social and other individuals and groups. Ad- treal, Ottawa is at best mid- mid-rise development. De- over 25 storeys. Mid-sized forced out of the area. services, grocery stores, equate parks are to be pro- Every new high rise adds pharmacies, and shops), vided and maintained; more Explore your neighbourhood, find a book a huge shadow area. Wind especially in the area be- complete streets developed patterns are altered and our tween Gloucester and Gilm- that allow proper flow of all Alayne McGregor Pascal said she gets a steady stream of view of sky and landscape our along Metcalfe and vehicles and pedestrians; and ittle Free Libraries–those wood- traffic at her LFL, which has been upfor is increasingly blocked. O’Connor. Near the corner of limitations set for building en cabinets on posts stuffed with about four years, Furthermore, high rises are Elgin and Gloucester, there height, footprint, style, and L books–have been sprouting up in “If a book is in the box for four days I will growing in clusters of two or are three high rises (each closeness to create a great front yards across Ottawa during the pan- move it on to a different box, but about 60 per- three towers. Between Bank over 25 storeys) in various skyline and permit appro- demic. They allow readers to find new cent of the books that go into our box get picked and Elgin streets in the mid stages of construction. priate access to sunlight and books or to drop off ones they’ve finished up within three days. We have given away thou- 2010s the Tribeca triple tow- The hardware stores and healthy airflow. for others to enjoy. sands and thousands of books. Probably 8k+.” ers appeared as did The Soho cinemas formerly in Cen- But is reality living up to A Centretowner has made it easier to Many of the books came from people on Lisgar near Bank. The tretown are now gone. The the plan? Perhaps in some find local free libraries by putting them on a passing by, she said, but the biggest source Onyx across the street from library will eventually move parts of the city, but it does not map, which so far includes nine locations in has been Black Squirrel Books, which has Soho recently opened. With- away. The pandemic has seem so for Somerset Ward. Centretown and 25 in urban Ottawa. Caitlyn donated about 80 percent of all the books her in a block or two, four more made this worse: many cof- There appears to be little Pascal, who runs a free library on McLeod LFL has given away. These books are from high rises over 25 storeys are fee shops, restaurants, and constructive dialogue or col- Street, has published it at https://goo.gl/ people who bring in books to the store that to be built, with a few other other stores have perma- lective planning between maps/8BLyXgx17R5QAxAN7 (also linked cannot be sold and who don’t want them properties ready for redevel- nently closed. Will enough parties. The real planning is from twitter.com/LFL_McLeod.). back, so the bookstore donates them to chari- opment but on hold at the new ones open up quickly done in isolation by a few The reason? She’d like the little librar- ties and to free libraries. moment. as the pandemic gets under people, and many of the ies to become destinations for people as they Most of the libraries on the map Pascal Even when there are control? city’s own rules are not being walk around their neighbourhoods. They en- found by stumbling upon them, she said. breaks between towers to let All these factors increas- followed. Consideration and courage people “to stop in front of houses She’s happy to add more locations: tweet her light through, other towers ingly place pressures on the dialogue on social issues, that aren’t theirs, in the same way a bench at @LFL_McLeod. behind fill the gaps. We can social aspects of neighbour- community impact, environ- invites pedestrians to stop. Most times, we “I really like the idea of having the LFL only barely see some of the hoods. Many seniors now ment and beauty of buildings travel along a vector until we reach a destina- map as a destination because it gives a old high rises because of the live downtown and a grow- are still kept at a minimum. tion, but things that get us to slow down in- chance to make a plan that involves explor- new ones. Where once office ing number of vulnerable If the city does intend to crease the chances of seeing neighbours and ing the city and maybe finding something workers and residents in high people are here as well–but move into a new enriched, noticing the city around us,” she said. awesome, but it doesn’t cost a cent. It’s not rises had spectacular views, affordable housing is not enlivened and beautiful city, “When you’re out walking a dog, it’s going out for a fancy drink or something that they may within a few years keeping up. Families are al- new and real relationships, very difficult to not take a moment and peek costs admission. Just pick some spots on the be staring into the windows ready being squeezed into dialogues, and decision- at new books.” map, go check the libraries, and you might of other high rises. apartments or condos that making processes need to The LFLs also offer “a constant sugges- find something you or a friend will enjoy. The high-rise and sky- are too small for their family be established between city tion to return to books as an activity,” she said, And worst-case scenario you’ve had a great scraper “wall” running east- size. As singles marry and administrators, developers, and encourage people “to purge their books by trip and maybe seen some parts of the city west through northwestern couples have children, will small businesses, and resi- giving a low-effort place for them to go.” you might not have poked your head into.” Centretown between Laurier they be able to stay here? dents. MARCH 12, 2021 AT THE HEART OF OTTAWA 7 Mindy Sichel: “I’m often the first person to raise my hand“ Alayne McGregor the beginning of the year, to hen Mindy Si- more than 200 by the Janu- chel walks down ary 19 AGM. The associa- W her street, she’s tion now has 249 members, reminded of the power of Sichel said. citizen action and commu- The association’s elderly CCA report nity associations. website–which the CCA is Jack Hanna bourhood of residential and Three years ago, she and working to replace–had prob- mid-rise buildings. her neighbours, with the help lems. On the day of the AGM, Ottawa’s New Official Plan The developer is apply- of the Centretown Commu- there were 30 to 40 people The city is creating a new ing under the city’s Land- nity Association (CCA), suc- who had technical problems Official Plan (OP), which mark Buildings Policy, cessfully persuaded a devel- with registration and might will define its vision for its which allows a builder to oper to change the proposed not be able to vote. future growth and the poli- hugely exceed zoning height design of a nearby building. Sichel and Brenchley cy direction for its physical maximums in return for cre- It was proposed to be flush went through the list and development in the next 25 ating an extraordinary piece to the sidewalk, leaving no called or emailed each per- years. City Council is cur- of architecture. room for greenspace, no- son individually to ensure rently scheduled to approve The CCA argues the where to pile snow in the their membership payment Mindy Sichel was elected as CCA President in January. the plan this fall. developer’s design “fails winter, and with icicles fall- went through. ized minorities in general.” attention to different things, The CCA is not com- to honour the trade-off at ing down on the sidewalk. Although Sichel won the As CCA president, she like the Anti-Racism Work- pletely happy with the results the heart of the (Landmark The building now going up election, she and Brenchley said, she wants to continue ing Group is an important so far. Buildings) Policy. at Kent and McLeod was rede- have kept working together supporting the Planning start. We’re also talking more The CCA’s OP Working “The proposed towers signed to have a five-foot set- closely, she said, develop- Committee and the very about affordable housing.” Group says the draft plan are ordinary and outdated,” back from the sidewalk, which ing a CCA Communications practical work of volunteer Sichel said she was excit- fails to adequately consider the CCA says, “and resemble gives room to breathe, she said. Committee. gardeners. She’s also reviv- ed by the enthusiasm of CCA the aftermath of the pandemic towers common in cities for That success persuaded During the election, ing the CCA’s Transportation members. and the demographic shift several decades.” Sichel to join the CCA board Brenchley told the AGM that Committee under new board “What’s really excit- towards more seniors. The Landmark Buildings in 2018, and then to become “there are people who want to member Ward Verschaeve. ing about the CCA is how If some form of CO- Policy also requires “lead- CCA president this January. be part of this organization. “Our board has grown in many people are getting in- VID-19 is here to stay, what ership” in environmental Sichel and her part- They just don’t necessarily diversity, and having more volved and how many people sort of buildings will people design. The CCA says the ner bought their house on feel represented at the table.” people from different com- care enough to show up and want to live in–skyscrapers developer is offering only McLeod Street 20 years ago Sichel said she responded munities and from different come out and want to discuss or walk-ups? “a minor reduction in en- (“before it was cool”), and to this criticism by being wel- places. I think it’s also paying things.” If the overall population ergy usage” and this is “not live there with their 10-year- coming and open to different of Centretown is going to tilt enough to meet the policy.” old child. Sichel has worked people. She pointed out that towards seniors, what ser- in the high-tech sector since new members on the current vices need to be developed Tax Vacant Homes moving to Ottawa in 1997. CCA board “are more dy- to support older residents? The city is studying What does she love about namic and diverse than we’ve The working group wants a tax on houses, condos, Centretown? “The walkabil- ever had before, pulling in the new plan to have teeth and apartments left vacant ity of the neighbourhood and from different parts of the and drive real change. It longterm, with proceeds from how basically anything you community. Younger people, suggests the plan have five- the proposed levy going to need is within that 15 min- more diverse people, and year targets that will drive finance affordable housing. utes, or in most cases even that’s how we go about being the city to create 15-minute The CCA has written less. The diversity of the representative. More renters, neighbourhoods; more green supporting such a measure. people. My neighbours come more LGBTQ, more racial- spaces; sustainable sources Until the end of March, from all kinds of different of electricity; affordable you can fill out a city online backgrounds and do all kinds housing; improved walking, survey to say what you think of really cool things.” cycling and transit; and resil- of the idea of a vacant home She says she’s “always iency in the face of climate tax. The survey is at https:// been interested in what’s go- change. engage.ottawa.ca/VUT or ing on. I’m the kind of per- In particular, so that citi- search for “Engage Ottawa son who stops and reads the zens can ascertain progress Residential Vacant Unit panels on those development towards these goals, public Tax.” application signs. I love talk- engagement needs to be on- Some investors simply ing to people, when I’m out- going and robust. leave properties vacant for side and walking around.” long periods, which contrib- At the CCA, she joined 267 O’Connor utes to a housing shortage, the Planning and Trees and The CCA has written the and may also mean they be- Greenspace committees. Her city opposing proposed sky- come neglected and an eye- experiences there confirmed scrapers at O’Connor and sore in the community. to her that “by getting in- Gilmour. Vancouver and Toronto volved you can actually ef- Taggart O’Connor Corp. introduced Vacant Home fect change and make things plans to build two towers of Taxes last year, and the CCA happen. That for me is the 28 and 30 storeys in a neigh- hopes Ottawa will join them. coolest thing about a com- munity association.” Sichel said that CCA board Cooper Child Care members encouraged her to run for president. “I thought, ‘Well, • Small Private Home Daycare with maximum 3 children this seems like an exciting, im- • Nutritious Snacks and Hot Lunch daily portant thing to do.’ I also joke • Currently we have space for one 1yr old and one 2yr I have volunteer-itis! When • Main floor with dedicated space for children to explore and learn there’s a call for volunteers, • Play Based learning people to get involved, I’m of- • No before and after care due to covid-19 ten the first person to raise my Contact Tracy at 613-797-2675 hand and say that I’ll do it. Now that I have a kid to take care of and a job, I try to balance it Centretown Ottawa Counselling Practice a little bit and sit on my hands Dr. Andrew C. Watson, BA (psych), M.D., CCFP sometimes because otherwise I get involved in too many things • Adult (18+) individual counselling and I can’t do everything.” • Focus on people who have been affected (past or present) or concerned with another’s alcoholism or drug addiction There was a contest for • Stable concurrent disorders/problems welcome: CCA president this year, Si- e.g. complex PTSD, depression, childhood trauma/neglect chel running against local • Non-OHIP, private practice activist Charlie Brenchley. At the same time there was [email protected] a large spike in association memberships, from 130 at 8 AT THE HEART OF OTTAWA MARCH 12, 2021 What’s on(line) this month in Ottawa and beyond Tony Wohlfarth own Blakdenim on March 26. See all NAC performances this month at https://nac-cna.ca/en/calendar/list/2021/03 Margaret Atwood olk Alliance International (FAI) is the world’s larg- Easter 2021 est gathering of folk artists from around the world. Purdy’s Chocolates is running an Easter fundraising F Led by a Canadian, Aengus Finnan, FAI took its event, in support of the local Guide Dogs for the Blind: annual conference online last month at www.folk.org www.guidedogs.ca/2021/01/18/easter-chocolate-fundraiser- Folk Unlocked 2021 kicked off on February 22 with Cana- 2021-ottawa-area/ dian author Margaret Atwood. Atwood’s talk was a discussion with Anaïs Mitchell, singer-songwriter and Tony Award-winning The Gladstone Theatre director of Hadestown (www.anaismitchell.com/) On March 19, the Gladstone Theatre (910 Gladstone Ave- Atwood’s conversation with Mitchell (30 minutes) can be nue) will livestream the 10-year anniversary concert by Ottawa seen at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4FxjykdfCk rock/metal/world band Red Heaven. Tickets: redheaven.ca

Sundance 2021: My Name is Pauli Murray The Reverend Pauli Murray courtesy of Pauli Murray Foundation Anne Frank – A History for Today Last month, the Sundance Film Festival welcomed film The (1 Vimy Place) has a new exhibit buffs to virtual theatres and The Centretown BUZZ was there. Murray died in 1985 at the age of 74. What is remarkable about Anne Frank, whose diary of her time hiding from the Nazis From the directors of RBG – the 2018 Oscar-nominated is that few Americans know about her. It’s about time they did. with her family in an attic in Amsterdam during the Holocaust has documentary about US Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader This 2017 profile fromThe New Yorker gives a more detailed become a world-renowned classic. The in-person and virtual ex- Ginsburg – comes another remarkable story, about the life of picture of Murray: www.newyorker.com/magazine/2017/04/17/ hibit is available until April 25: www.warmuseum.ca/annefrank/ Pauli Murray. the-many-lives-of-pauli-murray Pauli Murray was a transgender law professor from Durham, Irene’s North Carolina. She challenged segregation practices on buses Remembering the ByTowne Cinema Irene’s Pub (885 Bank) is back–at least virtually. The in 1940–15 years before Rosa Parks fought this battle. Murray When the ByTowne closed in late December, Ottawa’s kitchen is open and Irene’s has live music on Fridays and Sat- went on to be the first woman to study law at Howard Univer- own Lynn Miles wrote a song, “Goodbye ByTowne” in trib- urdays. On Friday, March 19, it’s Corduroy Moon and on the sity and became a close friend of Eleanor Roosevelt. Her legal ute to the iconic theatre. You can view the video at https:// 26th, Mikhael Laxton. Saturdays feature the Saturday Night analysis was relied upon by Ginsburg in briefs before the US www.youtube.com/watch?v=oo2gU3c6ny0 Revue with multiple musicians providing family-style music. Supreme Court in landmark cases overturning Jim Crow segre- Limited in-person seats are available, or you can buy tick- gation laws, such as Plessy v. Ferguson and Brown v. Board of International Film Festival of Ottawa (IFFO) ets to see the shows online at https://irenes-pub-restaurant. Education. Murray went on to receive a Doctorate in Law from From March 11 to 21, the Canadian Film Institute (CFI) myshopify.com/ Yale University, and facing discrimination as a lawyer, worked launches the new International Film Festival of Ottawa Tony Wohlfarth is an Ottawa-based freelance film, arts overseas teaching law in Ghana. (IFFO). The program includes 21 films along with Q & A ses- and entertainment writer. He participated in the online The film deals sensitively with the gender issue. Murray sions with key directors. Sundance Film Festival in January and the Folk Alliance was diagnosed with undescended testicles. While the condi- On March 15, IFFO screens Mouthpiece, the 2018 film International Folk Unlocked Conference in February. tion was not treated, she led a successful career as a law profes- by Canadian director Patricia Rozema. After the screening, sor and non-binary professional. Then, in 1977, Murray went Rozema will participate in a discussion with the audience. on to study at a seminary college and became the first African- All the screenings are accessible online. American woman to become an Episcopalian minister. The complete schedule is available at: www.iffo.ca My Name is Pauli Murray is a richly textured film, draw- ing on personal diaries and 141 boxes of files which Murray National Arts Centre (NAC) left to Harvard University’s Schlesinger Library. Talleah Mc- Performances at the NAC (1 Elgin) are available via live Mahon, one of the producers, combed through these archival stream. This month, you can see Kadeema (March 12), Shawn records to paint a vibrant biography. Jobin (March 19), Le Vent du Nord (March 20), and Ottawa’s

Catherine McKenney City Councillor for Somerset Ward

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