The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 1 THE OSCAR www.BankDentistry.com 613.241.1010 The Ottawa South Community Association Review l The Community Voice Year 48, No. 6 July-August 2020
The fiddling sisters on Glen spreading happiness in the neighbourhood OSCA'S SUMMER 2020 VIRTUAL
TheG Sugars-KeenUID sistersE are helping the community cope during the COVID-19 pandemic with their musical concerts. PHOTO BY ED KUCERAK By Ed Kucerak community cope during the COVID-19 Neve: I am currently going into since we were four. On the classical For our free pandemic and the many weeks of third year at Carleton University side, we’ve all been members of the Since mid-April Old Ottawa South isolation and physical distancing. and teaching fiddle classes with the Ottawa Youth Orchestra and Ottawa hasv beenir treatedtua tol a very special Intrigued by this dynamic musical Sunnyside Music School. Abbey is Suzuki Strings. And we’ve been musicalpr experience.ogra Performingms! outside trio and wanting to learn more about heading off to university to do a degree performing fiddle music with a group their Glen Avenue home the Sugars- them, I spoke to Neve (19), Abbey in Music and Science in the fall while called Fiddleheads Musical Theatre Keen sisters have been entertaining (17), and Morgan (14) after their May Morgan is heading into Grade 10 at in Chelsea, Quebec for more than a neighbours and passersby to a series 16 concert. Glebe Collegiate Institute, where she decade. of fiddle concerts and spreading their will be in the string music program and formRe ofg contagiousistratio happiness.n is op eTheirn a nd Can you briefly tell me about orchestra. concertsong o(Apriling 18,at April old 25,ot Maytaw asoutyourselves?h.ca We have each been playing classical Continued on pg. 4 16 and June 13) have helped the violin and traditional fiddle music OSCA'S SUMMER 2020 VIRTUAL GUIDE For our free virtual programs!
Registration is open and ongoing at oldottawasouth.ca Page 2 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
BUSINESS BEAT Reopening businesses in OOS
By Erik van der Torre House of TARG was selling their frozen perogies and some merchandise The submission deadline for the July- online, and by the time the OSCAR August OSCAR – Friday, June 12th comes out, there is a chance things – coincided with the start of Phase 2 of have changed again and they have Reopening Ontario. What that means started selling perogies again and/or for Old Ottawa South is that almost all have come up with other creative ways local businesses have now reopened in to generate some revenue. one way or another, including the many Similarly, in the May-June OSCAR “personal care” businesses like hair I reported how the Mayfair had “sold” salons, barbers, the nail salon, and the the naming rights to all their seats beauty spa. to supporters, as well as many other Many businesses of course remained items throughout the theatre. Now “open” in some way or another that all items are pretty much “sold”, throughout the shutdown by offering they too have branched out in different takeout, delivery, and/or curbside and creative ways, and for the past (Above) Patty’s Pub has opened their patio. (Below) Dollar It, and most other few weeks they have been teaming pick-up, but with Phases 1 and 2 of businesses on Bank Street, are now open. PHOTOS BY ELI DUERN reopening now here, there are only two up with several streaming services to offer exclusive content, and I would types of businesses left in Old Ottawa on June 12. And three – Patty’s, The definitely recommend checking out South that remain closed. Senate, and The Barley Mow – even what they have to offer. managed to extend their patios to serve “Venues” more customers. In addition, a few Restaurants Both the Mayfair Theatre and House places that didn’t have outdoor space By the end of May, pretty much all of TARG were among the very first before have creatively created some: restaurants in Old Ottawa South were businesses to close at the start of the both Tim Horton’s and Oat Couture offering takeout and/or delivery as a pandemic, as both closed several days now have a small outdoor seating area way to try and make it through the before an Emergency Order came into for customers to sit down and eat and/ shutdown, but restaurants themselves effect. And it now looks like these two or drink. By the time this OSCAR gets remain closed. venues will be among the very last published, it’s possible that other places Phase 2 of reopening means that bars to reopen. This is of course not too will have come up with some creative and restaurants can now start serving surprising, given the nature of each of ways to serve people outside, although food and drinks on patios. Those bars these two businesses. But even though for most there simply is no physical and restaurants that already have a both physical locations remain closed, space to do so. patio – Quinn’s, Patty’s, The Senate, that doesn’t mean these two businesses Another restaurant that is looking The Barley Mow – all opened them up haven’t been very active. For a while, to potentially reopen is The Cameron, the restaurant at the Ottawa Tennis and Lawn Bowling Club that is affiliated relative ease. And with many residents with The Belmont. If the upstairs contemplating staycations, they may veranda counts as an outdoor patio, attract more local business than ever. there is a good chance they may be able to reopen soon. In addition, last Closed by choice/necessity year The Cameron was able to get a There are of course also some stores large section of the lawn in front of that remain closed either by choice or the clubhouse licensed, so there is also necessity. Yardley’s, for instance, has a chance they might be able to serve a sign on the door suggesting that they drinks (and food?) there. will remain closed until the middle of June to then open 3 days a week. Stand-up paddleboarding Adamyk Bridal, in the meantime, has Another business that “reopened” decided to close the store until August recently is Ottawa SUP, the stand-up 5th, mainly because weddings are one paddleboard & kayak rental company of those social things that are currently that runs out of the parking lot next to on hold, so not too many people are Chef’s Paradise. As an outdoor and The Barley Mow extended their patio to serve more customers. individual activity it makes sense that Continued on pg. 3 this business was able to return with PHOTO BY BRENDAN MCCOY
La Fromentine will take the space Roost & Grills was in. The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 3
BUSINESS BEAT But what the pandemic does seem Continued from pg. 2 to have done is speed up the process of the transition to online for some shopping for a wedding dress right businesses and business types. A good now (they do remain available for example of this is the Planet of Sound, inquiries). Majestic Laundromat also who back in May announced they will has remained closed (at least until the close both of their brick-and-mortar point of this writing), primarily because stores and will continue as an online- the family that runs the place need to only store from now on. protect their health. La Fromentine opening Planet of Sounds moving online In the May-June OSCAR I Online shopping is nothing new, and mentioned that I thought Roost even before the current pandemic it & Grills had closed their doors was clear that online retail was going to permanently just before the pandemic impact and influence the way we shop. hit. Sadly it turns out I was right. But instead of a “For Lease” sign going
Happy Goat Coffee Company Cafe also has an new outdoor seating area.
up, a new business has already been Business Beat is a monthly feature announced. that highlights new and existing The announcement in the window, businesses in Old Ottawa South. and the new sign above, are for a Opinions are my own. If you know restaurant called La Fromentine. A of any new businesses opening up or bit of Googling suggests that this want to share your thoughts about restaurant currently has a location existing businesses, send a note to: on Saint-Joseph in Gatineau, but it is [email protected]. unclear if they are moving or opening up a second location. The sign in Erik van der Torre has lived in Old the window also promises a mix of Ottawa South with his wife and African, European and Canadian, three sons for over 11 years. He cuisine, so I am definitely intrigued! is a member of OSCA’s Traffic & Safety Committee and is OSCA’s Communications and Marketing There is a new outdoor seating area at Oat Couture. PHOTOS BY BRENDAN MCCOY Coordinator.
Advertising Manager Full Service Real Estate Barry Humphrey needed for Sales Representative PROFESSIONAL SERVICE The OSCAR DOESN’T HAVE TO BE EXPENSIVE! Listing
• Direct sales experience will be considered an Full Service Includes: ® asset ✔ Local MLS and Realtor.ca Websites Commission% ✔ Professional Photos ✔ Personal Website 1 • Excellent communication, organization and ✔ Open Houses ✔ Lawn Signs interpersonal skills ✔ Advertising ✔ Staging ✔ Market Updates • Self-starter with energy, ideas, and enthusiasm • Able to work independently, yet a strong team Just 3% Full Service Just 3% Full Service player • Computer competency a must, including email, Word, Excel, some knowledge of graphic design software an asset JUST SOLD JUST SOLD • Familiarity with local businesses and institutions MULTI OFFERS MULTI OFFERS is important • Would love to represent The OSCAR newspaper Just 3% Full Service WOW! • Prepared to make a long term commitment to the Just look at the Savings.* When you list with Barry you job receive Complete Full Service • Residents of Old Ottawa South will be given and Save* Thousands of $$$$ preference JUST SOLD in Commission Fees. Why are you paying more ? • Remuneration is a commission of sales MULTI OFFERS • The work is part-time with a busy period each
month just prior to the submission deadline [email protected] • If you are an enthusiastic individual who wants View My Website: to be involved with a community paper, please 613.230.8888 613.296.6060 Direct www.BarryHumphrey.ca submit your resume by Monday, August 3 to the editor at [email protected] Over 30 Years of Experience and Knowledge Not intended to solicit Sellers or Buyers on contract. *Savings based on paying a hypothetical 5% commission. Page 4 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
The fiddling sisters on Glen spreading happiness in the neighbourhood love! I like the traditional grassroots feel of it. It has catchy and energetic rhythms, with ancient and international roots. We really enjoy the sense of camaraderie in the fiddle community, from the Grand Masters Fiddle Camp that we attended for three summers to the different fiddle circles and fiddle competitions we’ve been part of. Abbey and I won third place in the twin fiddle category last year at the Richmond Fiddle and Stepdance Competition.
What are your future musical plans?
Neve: I’m not interested in having a career in music, but I would love to keep playing fiddle music and classical music on the side. We will also probably continue to fit in a couple of The Sugars-Keen sisters, (left to right) Abbey, Neve and Morgan are helping the community cope during the performances as a group now and then COVID-19 pandemic with their musical concerts. PHOTO BY ED KUCERAK for the fun of it!
for all the graduating music students. Abbey: I am considering doing a Continued from pg. 1 Morgan: We received a lot of Unfortunately, it will have to be held double degree in Biomedical Sciences positive comments over Facebook, online with pre-recorded versions of and Music at the University of Ottawa such as “Could you please thank our performances. and hope to play with the university We’ve performed in many different the girls for their music yesterday? orchestra. I would like to remain active venues such as the Ottawa International It’s a real treat to have a community Neve: I miss having the chance to play in the fiddle community however! Children’s Festival, the Ottawa event like this to help us get through with other people. I teach with the Fringe Festival, the Tulip Festival, the COVID-19 blues. It does make Sunnyside Music School, and I miss Morgan: I plan on keeping playing as the Lansdowne Farmers’ Market, a difference.” Robin Bresnahan also seeing my students in person, although an enjoyable hobby, though I am not and many local seniors’ homes. tweeted about it, saying “Please tell we’re making a valiant go of it online. planning a career in music. And we’ve also performed in many them they were wonderful. I cried. It It is sometimes a struggle to convey fundraising concerts, including Syrian was so beautiful. And my daughter’s my meaning and details about the What music plans do you have over Refugee Relief, Angels Share, and eyes were lit up with happiness.” violin as clearly virtually as it would the summer? Grandmothers for Africa. We’ve also been stopped on the street be in person, and I want to make sure by people in the neighbourhood asking that my students get as strong a musical Neve: We don’t have any other Why did you decide to hold these us to do it again. education as I can provide them. performances organized for concerts for the community? summer, but we played with some During this time of physical Morgan: I’ve lost many musical neighbours a couple of streets over, Neve: It’s great to have a chance distancing, what has been the most performance opportunities to practice which was fun! The COVID social to share our music and sense challenging aspect for you as musical and perform, like my end of year distancing restrictions make it hard of community with friends and artists? concert in the Ottawa Junior Youth to plan concerts on a larger scale, neighbours during the COVID Orchestra and the final concert for unfortunately. We may look into lockdown by doing these concerts from Abbey: I haven’t been able to take Stellae Boreales, a senior violin playing at the Lansdowne Farmer’s our front yard. part in the large group ensembles performance group that is part of the Market if that reopens over the We love helping to bring people which are an important part of my Ottawa Suzuki Strings Music School. summer. together in this tough time to enjoy musical experience. The Ottawa All my private music lessons have also As for our front yard concerts, themselves and have fun, albeit Youth Orchestra was ended early this been moved online, which is a very yes, we plan to do more. We haven’t from a distance. I can’t believe how season so my final concert with the different learning experience, and this planned them more than a couple . o l d t a w s u h c much people enjoyed it and the orchestra had to be cancelled. My has made it harder to prepare for my days in advance in the past, but there’s overwhelming support and interest school orchestra’s performance in the upcoming Royal Conservatory exam. been lots of encouragement from the we have received in follow-up Kiwanis Musical Festival was also neighbourhood! performances! cancelled, as well as my school music Although you play classical program’s trip to Germany. Also, my music are you more interested in How can people stay in touch with w music program usually has a recital performing traditional fiddling you about any future concerts and music? news that you may have?
Neve: I love performing traditional Neve: We don’t have any social media fiddling music myself, although Abbey platforms as a group; our COVID also really enjoys classical music. I concerts were posted in the Old Ottawa love the contagious happiness that South Community and the Parents of fiddle music seems to spread. It is also Old Ottawa South Facebook groups, easy to perform as a group, as fiddle 2020 PRORATED since we thought it might appeal to TENNIS MEMBERSHIP music is easy to prepare collectively parents who were looking for things and we have learned much of the same to do with their kids. We will post fiddle music, playing in groups like announcements in these groups for Fiddleheads Musical Theatre, which future concerts. People can also email has given us a good repertoire to draw me if they would like information: from when we perform fiddle music [email protected]. together! Fiddle music really helps to form OVER 1,000 COURT BOOKINGS Ed Kucerak lives in Old Ottawa AVAILABLE PER WEEK! vibrant and strong communities, to build connections, and it makes people South and loves writing about those feel happy when they listen to it! It has in the community who are making a a very strong positive energy which I difference. The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 5
REACHING SENIORS IN OLD OTTAWA SOUTH Seniors in conversation By Paige Kahkonen The topics already planned for July Friday drop-in Zoom call during the COVID-19 pandemic. include: Beginning in July, we will also If you are interested in being The leadership team of Reaching be hosting a drop-in Zoom call on included in the Friday drop-in call, or Seniors in Old Ottawa South • July 7th – Intentional Self Care Fridays, to offer a safe space for to participating in the ‘conversations’ (RSOOS) is introducing a new online with guest speaker Breanna discussions and conversations among on Tuesdays, please email seniors@ interactive speaker series entitled Pizzuto our community in order to stay trinityottawa.ca or call 613-733- “Seniors in Conversation.” • July 14th – Dealing with Loss connected and have the opportunity 7536. Anyone is welcome to join in the during COVID-19 with guest to learn and engage with speakers conversation on a variety of topics speaker Kayla Spagnoli and each other. Paige Kahkonen is a Carleton specifically designed for older adults. • July 21st – Caregiver Burnout If you are hesitant or have Journalism student who does These ‘conversations’ will be with guest speaker Breanna questions about how to use Zoom, communications for RSOOS. held through Zoom every Tuesday Pizzuto Connected Canadians is a tool from 10:15 am to 11:30 am. We • July 28th – Participants suggestion that provides a combination of are aiming for a variety of topics, TBD one-on-one support, instructor-led either educational or entertaining for workshops, and web-based resources. participants. Other speakers may It is available free of charge. Contact Participants are welcome and include professionals such as them at: www.connectedcanadians.ca encouraged to speak, but it is fine physiotherapists, chiropractors, RSOOS is made possible by to participate by listening only! We pharmacists, nutritionists or ‘New Horizons for Seniors,’ a grant welcome all suggestions. Planning dieticians, as per participant program established by the federal our ‘conversations’ include topics recommendations. We hope that government. The RSOOS program you are most interested in hearing speakers will be part of the Old was created in response to the about. Ottawa South neighborhood. restrictions experienced by seniors
Seniors in Conversation interactive speaker series Tuesday from 10:15 - 11:30 am • July 7th – Intentional Self Care with Breanna Pizzuto The pipes they are a calling • July 14th – Dealing with Loss during COVID-19 with Kayla Spagnoli • July 21st - Caregiver Burnout with Breanna Pizzuto • July 28th – Participants suggestion TBD
Interested in the speaker series or Friday Zoom drop-in? email [email protected] or call 613-733-7536
On a sunny June 14th afternoon, piper Andrew Roberts entertained residents and passersby on Hopewell Ave. with a selection of tunes on the bagpipes. The piper, in full dress uniform including medals, had been walking around the area putting on impromptu concerts. PHOTO BY BRENDAN MCCOY Page 6 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
PLANNING AND ZONING 860 Colonel By Drive By Laura Urrechaga only two days later, on June 11th. A motion was introduced at Planning On June 9th, 2020 the heritage professionals and Committee by Councillor Brockington on behalf City councillors that make up the Built Heritage of our councillor, Shawn Menard. The motion Subcommittee of the City of Ottawa voted six to asks City Council to instruct staff to investigate one to reject a staff report recommending that the further protections for the Heritage Overlay areas 111-year-old home at 860 Colonel By Drive not between the Bank and Bronson bridges on both be given heritage designation. Queen Elizabeth and Colonel By. The motion The home, already on the Heritage Inventory was carried. List and part of the Heritage Overlay that covers Unfortunately that was the only heritage win the houses between the Bank and Bronson for our community at Planning Committee that bridges along Colonel By Drive, fronts on the day. They voted unanimously to support the staff NCC path between Rosedale and Grovesnor. report recommending that 860 not be designated. The staff report had concluded that the home City Council is expected to agree with met the criteria for Part IV heritage designation, Planning Committee and the home that has though barely, and recommended that stood at 860 Colonel By Drive for 111 years will designation not be pursued. become yet another of the mounting losses to our All but one of the heritage professionals cultural heritage. and City Councillors on the Built Heritage Subcommittee who voted on this issue disagreed Laura Urrechaga is an OSCA Board Member with that assessment. In doing so, they granted and Co-Chair of the OSCA Planning and the home a last chance at heritage designation. Zoning Committee. A very shortened deadline, due to the 60-day window that is allowed for both assessment and a Council decision on heritage designation before demolition can proceed, meant that this case was heard at Planning Committee’s virtual meeting The 111-year-old home at 860 Colonel By Drive.
PHOTO BY LAURA URRECHAGA
TRAFFIC AND SAFETY Colonel By and Seneca pedestrian crossing is finally happening!
Work underway at the corner of Colonel By and Seneca for the construction of a signalized pedestrian crossing of Colonel By. PHOTO BY KATHY KRYWICKI
By Sue Neill
You may have noticed significant roadworks underway at the corner of Colonel By and Seneca. Since 2016, the OSCA Traffic and Safety Committee has been in active discussions and negotiation with the City, the Councillor(s) and the NCC about the need for the residents of Old Ottawa South to have a place to safely cross Colonel By Drive. Once an agreement was reached that there was indeed a need for some sort of crossing, the design details changed many times and the project was on life support more than a few times. But in the fall of 2019, we were finally assured by the City that the construction would proceed and that the budget was firm. Well, the shovels are finally in the ground and the construction of a half signalized crossing of Colonel By has started, and is scheduled for completion by the fall of 2020. There will be speed limit reductions on Colonel By Drive for the approaches. There will be a photo of the crossing in use in the fall issue of the OSCAR! Stay tuned.
Sue Neill is a member of the OSCA Board and Chair of the Traffic and Safety Committee. The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 7
OPINION It’s our neighbourhood: A citizen engagement (and enforcement) strategy By James Grant and Laurier bike lanes happen which are some great facilities – well done!) In the recent months as we continue to but political and cultural obstacles deal with COVID-19, the relationship seem to leave Ottawa as a laggard. we have between cars and foot/cycle traffic in our neighbourhoods has been Bank St. Bridge brought into sharper focus (including In the non-COVID-19 times with how we live in our neighbourhoods). four lanes, when I rode over the One of the few positives to take Bank St. Bridge in the shared lane away from this period is that we (i.e. painted with green and white Streets had very car light traffic during the pandemic shutdown. Bank have been given a glimpse of what “sharrows”) I would often ride looking Street at Belmont on a Friday morning in late April. PHOTO BY SUE NEILL our city looks like when it blossoms back over my shoulder to ready myself with pedestrians and cyclists. While to bail to the side should the need arise. community level. 3) Speeding and aggressive driving we all desire the threat of this virus I would regularly wave at people to If we take it at face value that the reporting blitz. Create a campaign to to be lifted from every person on the slow down who were driving 60km/ police are indeed more engaged with get OOS residents to know how to planet, I try to distract myself with hour and pulling up at high speed other important matters, that leaves make reports to OPS, and the City. what I can control, and it is obvious within inches of my bumper (FYI, we us with a need for engagement of we will all feel a desire to maintain the don’t have one – as they wield their individual residents to help resolve • Reports can be made over the parts of neighbourhood life that have three tonne weapon drivers seem to these traffic issues and see if there phone at 613-236-1222 ext. 7300 improved. What a treat it is to walk forget a cyclist only has their body as are ways to enforce sanctions on • Online reports with relevant across the Bank St. Bridge now with a a bumper). Or I may take to pointing aggressive driving at the individual and details can be made here: www. buffer for pedestrians from cars. What speeding drivers over to change lanes community level. ottawapolice.ca a joy to see people walking around our out of my lane, which they will only Some initial ideas in my mind to start neighbourhood as if strolling on a quiet do at the last minute and then waggling some individual resident engagement These are simple and do-able country lane. their middle finger at me. I daresay (marshaled at a community level) are: first steps. When Vancouver made there is not a reader of this article that its transition, it was on the backs What is possible? will speak of a positive experience 1) Bank St. Bridge volunteer of very active (but controversial) There is a big world outside going over the Bank St. Bridge either “Sentinels” – simply a rotating band advocacy. They pushed the bounds the Ottawa bubble… What else is walking or cycling (as compared to the of volunteers who are stationed on with critical mass bike rides that possible? civilized experience with the temporary the bridge at a few key times of day mired the downtown of Canada’s 3rd For the last three years since I moved lane buffer from high speed traffic). to wave down and educate motorists. largest city for hours every Friday with my family to Ottawa from B.C. The experience of being a pedestrian This could go on for months or years afternoon in protest; and this went on I have struggled with the strong car on the Bank St. Bridge yields a sense if need be. I believe a daily presence for many years. It did work – and I am culture of Ottawa and the reluctance of disappointment. Upon arrival in my on the bridge will make an impact. not suggesting taking it that far (and by the Council, City staff, and citizens new city I loved the idea of bringing Let’s become known in the media and hopefully we don’t need to), as that of Ottawa to demonstrate the courage out-of-town guests to the top of the raise awareness. For those people who was jarring to the city. Ottawa (and to imagine a world less tied to cars. arc of the Bank St. Bridge – to view want to flout the law and speed on the OOS) may not have that in us anyway, I lived through a similar transition, a the iconic canal and soak up what Bank Street Bridge, we’ll ensure they but we must make something happen decade ago in Vancouver as a walking should be the pride of the Nation’s grow to disdain us, then accept us, to improve street safety and comfort and cycling commuter. Vancouver capital. Instead, it is noisy and gritty then join us. (Maybe we could get the for all and prevent aggressive driving. underwent a transformative change for at almost any time of a normal day, police to participate with us?) transportation, and it may surprise you with an ongoing game of chicken as **This idea is pending a loss of the Let me and the OOS Traffic and that it was not always so friendly to the pedestrians jockey for safety within pedestrian-bike lanes back to the Safety Committee know how you feel pedestrian and cycling community. I inches of cars zipping along too fast in status quo. about these ideas. Do you have other used to travel into work on the six-lane the curb lane. It feels like the shoulder suggestions? Email: trafficandsafety@ Burrard Bridge taking my life in my of Highway 417. So instead of pride I 2) Producing mass volumes of oldottawasouth.ca hands on a narrow strip of sidewalk at experience a sense of embarrassment. cardboard “slow down” signs for the edge of a high curb hanging a foot residents/children/seniors who walk James Grant is member of the OOS above high-speed traffic (think Bank Future our neighbourhood to help educate on Traffic and Safety Committee, and Street Bridge with added high wire When car traffic returns to the the 30km/hr. Gateway Speed Zone. is passionate about cycling and the act), but over time this route and other usual volumes, I hope we won’t have Leave it in your backpack, stroller outdoors. When he was 22 years old he streets transformed to a human scale. allowed an opportunity to pass us by or carry it with you… When you see lived in Copenhagen, and discovered Strong local advocacy and a without trying to improve livability. someone driving above 30km/hour that cities can be designed at a human progressive/ visionary political We should take stock of how to move (or 40km/hr depending on your street) scale, and has been disappointed for movement pulled the streets back forward to improve the Bank St. then you simply wave them over with the 24 years since at how slowly these for human use, by both reducing the Bridge and our neighbourhood, instead an active sign movement. Everyone approaches are adopted in most of number of car lanes and re-designing of simply returning to the shameful will come to know what this sign is Canada. The views expressed here are roads to reduce car drivers’ ability to norm of “cars over people.” and ensure that anyone can be called his own. speed or drive aggressively. Cycling I also can’t help but feel that the out to respect their neighbours. became inclusive, in that everyone police enforcement of speeding and bought into the mindset that people aggressive driving is not where it could be both a cyclist and driver (not should be. We already know there is one or the other) in order to actually just a small traffic enforcement group Beautiful living naturally see each other (similar to the culture to focus on traffic issues across the in the Netherlands, Denmark, etc.). city, and perhaps our police force is Vancouver also looked outward to more focused on messier and more find expertise and inspiration from sinister activities in our city than traffic. Bloomfields Flowers those European centers. This is sorely However, that doesn’t mean that traffic needed here to enable us to see beyond is less of a threat to public safety. 783 Bank Street | 613-230-6434 barriers into what is actually possible… 1280 Wellington St. West | 613-695-6434 Now what? there are a few noble City staff and www.bloomfields.ca Councillors pushing on a rope (and Do any of these thoughts resonate? thankfully they made the O’Connor Then let us act. And act at the Page 8 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
CHRISTY’S CORNER Moving forward while also being still been working hard in the background to launch Amilia, train staff and set up a new registration system for staff, the organization and clients. This is not an easy feat and Matt has done this singlehandedly. Erik is our Communications Coordinator and has been fundamental in coordinating our social media channels, community newsletter, supporting staff and committees and helping us launch scent through the open windows. Amilia. Darcy and Katherine have Recently the wild daisies have stretched beyond limits they imagined blossomed to remind me of my mother and found their inspiration when who is far away with my father safe interacting with their participants and and sound in Vancouver: they are her implementing their creative program favourite flower and have an indelible planning. Kathy Krywicki and Chris place in my heart as a result. Finally we Lawson, OSCA’s Web Editor and Web are now enjoying my favourite flower Admin respectively, have implemented which reminds me of my childhood in many, often last minute, important England, the peonies in full bloom. changes to the website while keeping My partner Stephen is the gentle it up and running during this difficult nurturer of our garden, allowing nature time (I’m sure you’ve noticed some to take its course with wildflowers important changes to the website, blooming at will, he cuts the grass COVID-19 News and Resources portal around the daisies in the front yard. and newsletter). And last but not least, And in the back yard the birds, Stephen’s garden. PHOTO BY CHRISTY SAVAGE Sarah has kept herself grounded and butterflies, dragonflies, wild rabbits, creative through so many unknowns raccoons and even squirrels meander with programming, and has delivered a and sit, explore and simply be. It’s By Christy Savage, giving me inspiration to do other things variety of programming that is creative become my ‘happy place’ and during OSCA Executive Director for ‘me.’ I’m excited to participate in and flexible while we determine our the day I sit on the back porch simply a slew of programs and am already way forward with onsite children’s taking it in. It’s also a conversation feeling slightly spoiled by OSCA’s Being a person who tends toward programming for the fall, as well as piece in the neighbourhood and offerings. When you read this, I’ll forward-thinking, future planning onsite programming in fitness and people often stop and enjoy it with likely have better yoga nidra skill (no and being proactive, I find myself yoga, art, music and I-Gen activities me, chatting and telling their own snoring involved), be more adept at lately coming back to the present. and events. stories of how they notice the garden kundalini and hopefully have stronger It seems the only place to be when change, how its colours and scents are upper body strength and flexibility, future planning seems often, during although, as a cyclist, that’s doubtful. COVID-19, to require dizzying But where there’s hope there’s pivoting. I can appreciate the irony in creativity and inspiration. this. The summer programming in many With that, there are two key things ways has been the OSCA team’s opus, that seem to be keeping things moving with Sarah as our lead conductor. forward while also still at OSCA. We did not pressure ourselves to There is the incredible OSCA team of produce a guide, nor did the Board and staff who daily inspire and ground each Executive. In fact, what we did was other, who I am getting to know on a find a willingness to try new things, deeper level and growing with, who I encourage each other, have fun, find am seeing rise to challenges and soar. our inspiration, understand the gaps There is also my own quarantine story in our process and learn, and listen to which involves and a beautiful wild what our instructors and participants and weekly changing garden in my said worked and didn’t. Also, we backyard, that is not of my doing. reached a huge milestone and the entire While I write this in mid-June, by the guide was created in-house by Sarah. time you read this you will have had Every detail, from the colours to layout access to a beautiful on-line summer were created and designed to inspire, guide filled with virtual programming create calm and happiness, with a for all ages offered by OSCA staff reminder of summer and the hope that and instructors. I do hope that you the change in seasons brings. have had the opportunity to participate With this I want to thank the team I in and enjoy at least some of the am fortunate to work with and who are programming. As an introvert with a Stephen’s garden a daily or weekly joy. Stephen has now very much my work family, and who, busy work schedule, I am happy to The other quarantine story I planted a vegetable garden and the moreover are incredibly dedicated now feel able to participate in some of wanted to share is that of the garden back yard is positively overgrown with to their community. Everyone has the programs since the virtual aspect, I have lived with for a few years and life as it should be. This is my thanks had an important role. Luke keeps and the option of anonymity (turning have only this year really come to to Stephen for helping the stillness programs running, supports instructors off my video so no one is subjected experience. In early spring the tulips become a peaceful experience. It truly on Zoom and is the first person you to my poor yoga posture) with the flourished and bloomed. Soon after the is nice to stop and smell the flowers. reach when you email us. Matt has flexibility of working from home, is lilac bushes wafted their unforgettable
For OSCA’s news and information on COVID-19, as well as resources from Ottawa Public Health go to: oldottawasouth.ca/covid-news-and-resources The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 9
OSCA PRESIDENT’S REPORT Weird Times … By Richard Slowikowski, Pre-COVID, OSCA’s registration Governance; Nominations and OSCA President system was failing. It was difficult Elections; Operations; and, the to use and we were not receiving potential upgrade of the Windsor
adequate service from the system Park Facility. We have also launched There is no doubt that these are weird provider. Well, the pandemic has a new Human Resources Committee times and we are all trying to figure out afforded us the opportunity to make a to provide an ongoing focus on how it will all play out. This is true for change. We have tested and installed a supporting staff. me and all of my friends and I suspect new registration system called Amilia. Some things have not changed at for you too. It seems as if so much It is more intuitive and will provide all… and that is a good thing. You are has changed and yet, remarkably, so easier registration for OSCA programs. reading our monthly newspaper, the much remains the same. This is true for changed and lots remains the same. The advocacy work that OSCA does OSCAR, developed and delivered by OSCA also. OSCA is doing remarkably well … and in the community continues… now an awesome group of people. Similarly, As you probably know, OSCA that is largely because of the dedication mostly virtual, but at the same pace our online weekly newsletter, News programs have all been cancelled… and commitment of all the people and effectiveness. The Committees Between the Bridges, continues to except, in short order we have built stepping up to make a difference. responsible for Planning and Zoning, provide a weekly update of news and online programs and a virtual program I hope you have a great day. SWOOS and Traffic and Safety are not events. And then there are the Green guide. This speedy adjustment is due missing a beat. Dreamers dedicated to gardening, to an outstanding staff. The online OSCA has strengthened the especially on Bank Street, which the programming is working well for Committees responsible for City will not do. clients and OSCA is likely to continue Communications; Finance; Yes, these are weird times. Lots has providing this service after COVID-19.
AT THE FIREHALL Summer camp update By Christy Savage, willing to innovate and reinvent for all of us in the coming months, if, given this, will we be meeting OSCA Executive Director themselves, and to commit to the but we are up for the challenge, community need and interest; if incredible programs that we’ve preparing ourselves as best we can we can assure the community and launched. with the guidance of the City of campers that they are safe; and, if Like many of you, we have been We are working in uncharted Ottawa, Ottawa Public Health and we can offer camps that our children watching the world adjust to a new territory, and our Virtual Summer the Ontario Government. will find worthwhile and that are normal. And like many of you, we’ve Program Guide is a hopeful story of a On June 17th, 2020, we received affordable for their parents. We must been working hard to stay on top community, an organization, its staff, the City of Ottawa’s Operational be able to answer these questions, of changes to our familiar routines volunteers and instructors, coming Planning Guide for Summer Camps, before we make a commitment to while searching for a way forward. together. In many ways, this in and version 5. We had received Version proceed. If we do proceed, we will As I write this (mid-June) there is of itself is a success story. We’re 1 just one week prior. This should need to submit a detailed proposal no way to gauge what summer camps excited to continue our new normal give you an idea as to the amount of to the City with a plan of action will look like. Given this unknown, and consider it a testing ground to work and resources the City is also that incorporates the new rules and we are reinventing how we deliver determine what we’re capable of investing in updating its guidelines regulations. The City has asked us to programs. As you have probably accomplishing. We are prepared not only for its own Parks and give them our decision before the end seen with the release of our Virtual to pivot and adjust so that we can Recreation staff, but partners such of June. Summer Program Guide, we have continue to offer programming to our as OSCA in running summer camps As you can imagine, the new created a suite of virtual programs for community. while coping with a viral epidemic. regulations and safety measures all ages based on some experimental On June 18th, 2020, we are We appreciate the City’s support cover a lot of detail that we, as an programming we launched this planning a site visit to the Firehall and have a keen understanding of organization, must study, clarify, spring after closure. Some of these with City staff to assess whether the challenges in running camps in and apply conscientiously. We are summer programs could, if need be, the physical layout and facilities are a constantly changing public health excited about moving forward, but complement onsite summer camps, if compatible with the very stringent environment. everyone’s safety comes first. such programming becomes feasible. requirements for running day camps During the last half of June, we So, stay tuned. Follow us on We are also looking at options for a that the City, Ottawa Public Health will begin the process of assessing Facebook and Twitter, sign up for combination of in-person and virtual and the provincial Ministry of Health our preparedness to deliver on-site our newsletter, and regularly go to programming for all ages of clients in have laid out. We have not been in summer camps and/or programs. our website at oldottawasouth.ca the fall, should restrictions on on-site the centre since it closed in mid- We will be asking ourselves if we for updates about whether and how programming continue. March and this will be the first time are able to implement the kinds OSCA will offer camps this summer. We’re proud of the commitment as well that some of us will meet of changes necessary and at the We will keep you informed. from staff and instructors to work together in person (at a safe social same time support and train staff with so many unknowns, to be distance). There will be many firsts appropriately. We will be asking Page 10 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
THE OSCAR
260 Sunnyside Ave, Ottawa Ontario, K1S 0R7 NEXT DEADLINE: FRIDAY, AUGUST 14 www.oldottawasouth.ca/oscar ISSN: 0715-5476 The OSCAR is published eleven times per year. [email protected] Upcoming deadlines: August 14 (September issue); September 11 (October issue); October 16 (November issue); Editor: Brendan McCoy [email protected] November 13 (December issue) Layout and Design: Bess Fraser Business Manager: Susanne Ledbetter [email protected] Advertising Manager: Gayle Weitzman [email protected] To book an OSCAR ad 613-730-1058 (not classy ads) call Gayle at 613-730-1058
Volunteer Proofreaders: Maura Giuliani, Mary Low, [email protected] Kathy Krywicki, Scott Valentine, Roger Williams The OSCAR is printed by Winchester Print. The Old Firehall Ottawa South Community Centre The OSCAR is a community paper paid for entirely by advertising. It is published by the Old Ottawa South Community Association Inc. (OSCA). 260 Sunnyside Ave, Ottawa Ontario, K1S 0R7 Distribution is free to all Old Ottawa South homes and businesses. It is also e-mail: [email protected] available at selected locations in Old Ottawa South and the Glebe. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily of The OSCAR or OSCA website: www.oldottawasouth.ca OSCA. Contributions should be in electronic format sent by e-mail to: PHONE 613-247-4946 [email protected]. All submissions will be acknowledged by Monday To Thursday 8:00 am - 9:00 pm e-mail. The Editor has the final say about style, format and content. The FridayThe Firehall is8:00 closed am - 6:00 until pm OSCAR Editorial Policy, and Guidelines for Submissions, are available on the OSCA website. The OSCAR is available online at www.oldottawasouth. Saturday further notice.8:00 am - 5:00 pm ca. Some articles will be posted on the OSCA website. Sunday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
WHAT’S THAT NUMBER? WHAT’S THAT NUMBER? FOR DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES, E-MAIL: [email protected] Ottawa South Community Centre - The Old Firehall 613-247-4946 The OSCAR thanks the following people who Ottawa South Community Association (OSCA) 613-247-4872 Ottawa Public Library 613-580-2940 brought us to your door this month: Lyra Evans, English Public Board Trustee 613-913-1695 ([email protected]) Shelley Lawrence, Catholic Board Trustee 613-978-2644 ZONE A1: Kathy Krywicki (Coordinator), Mary Jo Lynch, Kim Barclay, Centretown Community Health Centre 613-233-4443 Élie Cantin Nantel, Becky Sasaki, Sam & Aila McNeill-McKinnell, Christy CARLETON UNIVERSITY Griffin, Rob Wong, Luke and Alex Vulanovic. ZONE B1: Ada Brzeski & Dave Drapeau (Coordinator), Zoe Walters, the CUSA (Carleton U Students Association) 613-520-6688 Montgomery family, Claire & Alex Gammon, Charlie and Maeve Georgeson, Graduate Students Association 613-520-6616 D. Georgaras, Erika, Maria & Gabriela. Community Liaison 613-520-3660 ZONE B2: Craig Piche (Coordinator), Sandra Garland, Pat Eakins, Athletics 613-520-4480 Steve Mennill, Claire & Alex Gammon, Gillingham-Murray family, Leslie CITY HALL Roster, John Callan & Diana Carr, Esmé & Nora Perry. Shawn Menard, City Councillor 613-580-2487 ZONE C1: Laura Johnson (Coordinator), the Williams family, Josh Rahaman, ([email protected]) Jesper Lindeberg, Darcy McCoy, Bruce Grant, Bryan & Anneka Dallin Main Number (24 hrs) for all departments 3-1-1 O’Grady, David Fisher. Community Police - non-emergencies 613-236-1222 ZONE C2: Craig Piche (Coordinator), Steve Mennill, Alan McCullough, Emergencies only 9-1-1 Charles & Phillip Kijek, Michael Jenkin, Michel & Christina Bridgeman, Serious Crimes 613-230-6211 Melissa Johnson. Ottawa Hydro 613-738-6400 ZONE D1: Mike McKay (Coordinator), Stephen Merriam, Marianne Keys, Streetlight Problems (burned out, always on, flickering) 3-1-1 Gail Stewart, Gabe Teramura, Oliver & Claire Waddington, Brewer Pool 613-580-2090 the Sprott family, Milo Barnett. Brewer Arena 613-247-4917 ZONE D2: Dan Greco (Coordinator), Caitlin, Anna Chernushenko, City of Ottawa website - www.ottawa.ca the Stewart family, Sloane and Harrison Gilchrist, Will Creaghan. ZONE E1: Brian Tansey (Coordinator), Karen Wolfe & Curt Labond, Norah Hutchinson, Steve Adamson & Nadine Dawson, Robert Trotter. INDEX ZONE E2: Kathy Stewart (Coordinator), Marianne & Jim Kent, the Brodkin-Haas family, Carolyn Inch, Chris Berry & Frida Kolster Berry, BUSINESS BEAT 2 John Bell, Julie Stock, Joan Foster-Jones, Allan Paul. ZONE F1: Carol & Ferg O’Connor (Coordinator), Jenny O’Brien, OSCA 6-9 Lyle Stern, Gerald Bailie, Paloma & Liliana Ruiz, Malachi Winter, the Goutte COUNCILLOR’S REPORT 12 family (Joshua, Leo and Alina), Kai Bramley, Calla Rose & Justin Connolly ZONE F2: Pierre Guevremont (Coordinator), Paulette Theriault, Alaster ENVIRONMENT 16-19 Ayson, Judy & Pierre Chamberland, Luc & Sydney Grenier, Mary Johnston, the Walker Family, the Polkinghorne Family, the Kushner Family. FILM REVIEW 24 ZONE G: Shehryar Sarwar (Coordinator), Caroline & Julia Twelves, Luke & Robin Eriksson, Joanne Monaghan, David Janssen, Chris & Andy POLITICAL 26-27 Anand-Danek, Allan Paul, Peluso-Pope Family. TRILLIUM 32 Bank Street-Old Ottawa South: Tom Lawson, Paula Archer, Ross Imrie. POETRY 33 Bank Street-Glebe: Brendan McCoy MARKETPLACE & CLASSY ADS 34 TRAVEL 38-39 The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 11
NEWS New Carleton footbridge: progress, modest cost and consultation By John Dance
Construction on the new footbridge over the Rideau River just west of the LRT / O-Train bridge is expected to begin next spring and will cost approximately $5 million. What it will look like remains a mystery but Councillor Shawn Menard asked city staff to consult this summer and a single session was scheduled for late June after The OSCAR went to print. As reported in The OSCAR a year ago, the new footbridge will link Carleton University to Vincent Massey Park, Heron Park, Confederation Heights and the multi-use pathway on the southeastern side of the river. And, critically, it will provide a new link Construction of the new $5 million footbridge at Carleton will begin next spring. PHOTO BY JOHN DANCE to the Trillium LRT Line at Carleton Station. City’s costs, risk, and stakeholder the width of the whole bridge to four been much appreciated for physical The process for the design of the impacts.” metres. The community pushed back distancing during the pandemic. new footbridge differs from what And indeed the costs have been and, while not successful in having residents saw with the Flora and reduced compared to other recent the observation area reinstated, did John Dance is a resident of Old Ottawa Corktown footbridges because, footbridges. The Carleton footbridge convince the City to restore a metre East. according to Michael Morgan, Director, will be about a quarter the cost of the to the width, something that has Rail Construction Program, “their Flora Footbridge and about half of the respective environmental assessment Adàwe Footbridge’s cost. planning processes closely preceded In February city staff provided a their construction and were standalone community information session on projects undertaken by the City.” Stage 2 of the LRT but, although “The Rideau River [Carleton] the Carleton footbridge is being pedestrian bridge, by contrast, built as part of the LRT expansion, is being delivered as a bundled no information was provided on project within a larger infrastructure the bridge. “Presently, designs of project,” says Horgan. “The formal the pedestrian bridge have not been planning of the pedestrian bridge was finalized to a state of sharing with the originally undertaken as part of the public,” says Horgan. 2006 North-South Corridor Project, “Given all the experience of our which ultimately did not proceed. The community in the past years with SOLD! FEATURE LISTING pedestrian bridge was later identified footbridge construction, I’m sure as a project to be bundled into the there would be helpful feedback to Lovely Glebe Character Home Sunny, Renovated Glebe Semi 56 FINDLAY AVENUE | Listed at $749,900 247 FIFTH AVENUE | Listed at $789,900 Stage 2 Project as a New Municipal incorporate,” says Councillor Menard. 3 full stories of space and light Infrastructure (NMI) project. NMI This was the case for the Flora projects are City infrastructure works Footbridge, when during the design JUST LISTED! that are delivered by the project process the City eliminated the planned constructor, in an effort to reduce the central observation portion and reduced
Beautifully Renovated Award Winning Urban Townhome Westboro Beach Bungalow in Hintonburg LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 267 ROYAL AVENUE | Listed at $939,900 74A BAYSWATER AVENUE | Listed at $1,029,900 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 their address. SOLD! Letters may be edited for length, clarity, and libelous statements. The opinions of the writ- ers are not necessarily those of the newspaper or its editor. Email your letters to oscar@ oldottawasouth.ca
Dear Editor, East Living in Centretown Condo Sunny, Modern Condo in Lindenlea 2-BEDROOM, 2-BATH AT 400 MCLEOD STREET | 2-BEDROOM, 2-BATH AT 39 VAUGHAN STREET | Listed at $449,900 Listed at $595,000 Just a note to say how wonderful and unexpected it was to receive a print *Based on sales of semis or townhouses in the Glebe from the Ottawa Real Estate Board MLS sales data. edition of the May-June OSCAR. Undoubtedly a major effort in this difficult Engel & Völkers Ottawa Central, Brokerage. Independently owned and operated time! The work of all involved – editor, contributors, managers, distributors Diane Allingham & Jennifer Stewart, Brokers, Engel & Völkers Ottawa Central – is much appreciated. And the Editor’s note re the careful distribution practices of OSCAR was comforting to know. Thank you! All the best to all MORE GREAT LISTINGS ONLINE: at OSCAR, keep well. dianeandjen.com
[email protected] Irena Bell, 613-422-8688 • OOS-er Page 12 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
COUNCILLOR’S REPORT Plan (CSWB) is now closed. However, Re-thinking our police force and residents are encouraged to provide ideas toward the development of the protecting heritage buildings Plan’s priorities in three ways: we could see includes a 24/7 team • By sharing a story about what By Shawn Menard of responders who are trained to de- safety and well-being means to escalate, provide support and guidance, them – this input will assist us in With recent events in such places and offer unarmed mental health gaining a better understanding as as Minneapolis, Toronto and New services. This has been done in other to why issues are important and Brunswick, along with ongoing issues cities already, such as the CAHOOTS what makes our city unique. of racial profiling, militarization program in Oregon, which has replaced • Residents may also sign up for and administrative HR issues here 17% of emergency calls. project updates to learn more in Ottawa, it is clear that we need to We need to question the about the Plan as it is developed, change our approach to policing. This militarization of police. We should including future engagement be considered at the very end – after includes acknowledging that we ask be questioning heavily armored tank- activities, as there will be other the owner had submitted plans, worked our police officers to respond to many like vehicles which are costly, and the opportunities to get involved. with city staff and gone through the types of situations that they themselves carrying of assault rifles at football • Finally, if a group would like to Committee of Adjustment and LPAT. may not be comfortable with or not games. I am also concerned about the host their own virtual discussion The house met the criteria for fully trained to manage. increased outfitting of weaponry such with a group or organization on heritage designation, but that does not That’s why, along with Councillor as Tasers, which the Police Board the CSWB, they can contact the guarantee it will receive it. Staff were Rawlson King, I have requested recently approved. city. reticent to confer heritage status on the options for a review of policing in We must shift our overall approach house at the end of the process. Ottawa. to policing, so that we focus on Residents can contact CSWB/ Clearly, the process is broken and Defunding the police can initially maintaining public health and well- [email protected] or 613-580-2424, the Heritage Register does not confer come across to some as questionable. being. ext 42489 for any questions about the the protection to possible heritage What it means to me is reallocating Unfortunately, the city can’t do all of Plan. buildings it is supposed to. some resources, and a comprehensive this alone. We will need help from the In order to help ensure that the look at programs, services and the province and the federal government Taking steps to preserve heritage in heritage character of areas in our ward professionals who are tasked to to make the full, wide-range of capital ward with a Heritage Overlay, I was able respond to emergencies, with the goal improvements we need to make. Recently, the Planning Committee to get my colleagues on the Planning of better outcomes for residents in need However, we can take the first steps in approved an application to tear down Committee to pass a motion directing of help. assisting a public process. the house at 860 Colonel By Drive. city staff to explore options to enhance Given that the police budget has Another way you can make an The house does not have heritage heritage protection for areas covered tripled over 19 years to $360 million, impact is through the Community status, but it is on the Heritage Register by the Heritage Overlay on both we should be assessing value and Safety and Well-Being Plan (CSWB). and it falls within a “Heritage Overlay” Colonel By Drive and Queen Elizabeth outcomes regularly. The online survey for the – a zoning regulation meant to protect Driveway. Examples of the type of reform Community Safety and Well-Being the heritage look and feel of an area. The process to re-develop this lot Staff are to report back with a was controversial. The plan for the new workplan at the beginning of next year. house went through the Committee I am confident this will lead to a better of Adjustment and the Land Planning process for heritage preservation in our Appeals Tribunal (LPAT). The Built- neighbourhoods. Heritage Sub-Committee voted to protect the house, but then the Planning Shawn Menard is City Councillor Committee overruled them and voted for Capital Ward. He can be reached to tear the house down. directly at Shawn.Menard@ottawa. This was a difficult and controversial ca. process, as the established city process meant that heritage status would only
You can keep up-to-date on the city response to COVID-19 at Ottawa Public Health’s website: www.ottawapublichealth.ca
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Private Zoom Tutoring & Virtual Homework Support
Math, French & English Literacy Girls & Boys -- Grade 1-8 The Homework Club Excellent local references 19 years of community experience [email protected] The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 13
FAITH COMMUNITY space. A few years ago, we estimated Southminster looks ahead in a time of pandemic that approximately 70,000 people per year enter our building, most of Cold Sunday Suppers, which recently them for secular activities taking place served their 25,000th meal to the during the week. Once public health needy in our community, will be able considerations allow, we expect the to continue. So too will all the other same level of use in our scaled-down disparate activities that take place in the abode. We will also be “renovating” church, from weekly meetings of five our exterior space, with a view to different Alcoholic Anonymous groups, creating a community garden outdoors, through the 17th Southminster Scout so watch for a new, more ecologically Group, to a wide variety of artists, friendly, look along Bank Street. yoga groups and others who use our As we plan for the future, we have been blessed with a generous bequest from long-time congregant and Old Ottawa South resident, the late Peter Kemp. Peter had a long career in CIDA and was passionately committed to issues related to international development and the environment. His will states that the bequest is to be used for an Events Series, with a focus on issues related to “international development, the environment and conservation, social justice, social enterprise, poverty, healthcare, By Chris Brown for artists willing to participate in the indigenous communities, and/or online series, he was deluged with bids, education.” Events could include In mid-March, Southminster United with over 300 artists expressing an high-profile speakers, such as the very Church had just embarked upon its interest in participating. In recognition successful lectures that Southminster “Green Lent” program. One action of the public interest in high quality sponsored in the recent past by Stephen was for congregants to give up plastic music, and with support from a Lewis and Gen. Romeo Dallaire, or produce bags and switch to home-made number of private local arts patrons, they could involve a wide variety of cloth bags and beeswax wrap as part Roland added a six-part Sunday activities such as performing arts, of a wider series of actions designed to afternoon series of piano recitals and workshops and panel discussions. encourage faithful stewardship of the has other musical offerings planned. Given the current pandemic, and the environment. Little did we know that All the musical events, as well as our necessity to plan properly for such we would soon be giving up not just Sunday services, are available for a series, we anticipate launching the plastic bags, but all in-person activities! ongoing viewing on Southminster’s Kemp Events Series in fall 2021. In the When the COVID-19 pandemic pages on Facebook (search “Music meanwhile, we will be soliciting ideas hit, the Church, like everyone else, at Southminster” or “Southminster The Ontario Local Planning Appeal and participation from congregants and was forced to adapt quickly to a United Church” and follow the links to Tribunal ruling in April means that the wider community, so stay tuned! new, exclusively on-line, life. While ‘videos’). the Southminster redevelopment challenging, this process has in many Looking to the future, an important project can now go ahead. A sign ways clarified what is important and development is the ruling by the went up in mid-June for the Windmill Chris Brown is the Council Chair at allowed us to think clearly about how Ontario Local Planning Appeal ‘Stone Abbey’ development. Southminster United Church. best to achieve our mission. It has Tribunal in April that Windmill’s GMSElemAdGR19BW.pdf 3 2019-10-18 3:52 PM reaffirmed our commitment to social severance application is not in PHOTOS BY BRENDAN MCCOY justice and serving the community in conflict with applicable zoning which we are located. bylaws. This means that the The immediate challenge was Southminster redevelopment project to transfer our activities on-line. can now go ahead. The COVID-19 A Montessori Sunday morning services are now live pandemic may slow down the streamed weekly at 10:30 am on our process slightly, but the current classroom Facebook page. We always knew it timetable is for the renovations to is where was there, but these services display the sanctuary building to take place for all to see the tremendous creative during the fall. This will mostly the joy vitality in the Church. In addition to involve a complete overhaul of thoughtful spiritual guidance from the current Fellowship Hall in the of learning Rev. Steve Moore and hymns led basement to create new meeting and C by Music Director Roland Graham, office space, but will also include comes there are beautifully mixed anthems upgrades to the sanctuary itself onM naturally from the church choir, folk spirituals the ground floor. All going well, Y from Ottawa folk legend Chris White, these renovations will be completedCM by the new year, at which point and delightful children’s stories MY Toddler, told through puppets by children’s the property will be severed, the Preschool & Elementary CY circle convener Darla Barrows. One Christian Development wing (the Grades 1-6 Bilingual Education unexpected benefit of going on-line current office and meeting spaceCMY at is that we are now regularly joined the rear of the church, facing GaltK by former congregants living in such St) will be transferred to Windmill, far-flung places such Trenton, Sharbot and development of that portion of Lake, Atlanta, Ga. and Victoria, B.C. the property will commence. Our music program has also The Church is committed to continuing to be a vital part of the 650 Lyon St. South successfully transitioned to the virtual Ottawa, Ontario K1S 3Z7 world. The Wednesday Doors Open for community in our renovated, down- Music Series (DOMS) continues at its sized, home. We have designed the Please contact us at: regular noon-time slot, with a virtual renovations with a view to creating (613) 237-3824 audience just as large as we had before space for as many activities, and as in-person and donations to match. many of our community partners, as www.glebemontessori.com Indeed, when Roland put out a call possible. The Centre 7 Out-of-the- Page 14 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
SENIOR WATCH OLD OTTAWA SOUTH Community Pillars for seniors in Old Ottawa South By Anna Cuylits vulnerable people. Library services (e-books, digital currently face and might face again Heather Maclachlan of Trinity audiobooks, online programs). when physically/socially isolated, such Who are the Community Pillars in Old Anglican Church talked about the as happens in wintertime. Ottawa South? now well publicized, New Horizon’s Abbotsford House They are the three churches, Trinity funded program for all seniors in our Karen Anne Blakely of Abbotsford Political Leaders Anglican, Wesleyan and Southminster community “Reaching Seniors in House explained that this mostly Miles Krauter, representing our United, the Sunnyside Library, Old Ottawa South” (RSOOS). One Local Health Integration Network Councillor Shawn Menard, and Joel Abbotsford House, the Community initiative of this program is a meal (LHIN) funded centre supports over Harden, our MPP and the official Association, our City Councillor, MPP delivery program. Each delivery is 1100 seniors. Some people in their opposition critic for Accessibility and and MP – Organizations and political followed by a call to ensure all is well. catchment area like support in the form Persons with Disabilities, Pensions, elements that have been here “forever.” On Tuesday, June 16, RSOOS launches of regular phone calls, others depend and Seniors’ Affairs, both commented As a watchdog for seniors, Senior its first Zoom “Speaker Series” on delivery of groceries and masks, that they found it helpful to learn at this Watch Old Ottawa South (SWOOS) meeting. The first of an ongoing series, arrangement of services and drives meeting the resources that are available organized a meeting on May 28 on every Tuesday from 10:00 am to to medical appointments. Abbotsford for seniors and other vulnerable Zoom to share and learn with one 11:30 am is a “Meet and Greet.” Share House also provides programming on persons. Some of these resources another outreach efforts and resources your ideas for speakers and hear about Zoom, YouTube channels and a phone- would be added to their websites. for seniors in Old Ottawa South living what has already been arranged. To based platform called Senior Centre under COVID-19 distancing and receive your invitation please e-mail Without Walls. Even though the ad hoc group of isolation restrictions. [email protected] or office@ Community Pillars for Seniors does Here is what we learned: trinityottawa.ca or phone 613-733- Carleton University not intend to meet on a regular basis, 7536 Students in the READi program participants were motivated to meet Churches at Carleton University, Dawson again as the need arises. All three churches offer not only OSCA Clarke and Neda Fayazi, described religious services on Zoom and on Christy Savage, Executive Director their investigation that addresses Anna Cuylits is a member of the OSCA Facebook, but also continue with of the Ottawa South Community “Social Barriers for Seniors Living Board and Senior Watch Old Ottawa choirs, bible studies and coffee socials Association (OSCA) talked about in Old Ottawa South in Response to South (SWOOS). using virtual technology. Within the well known and well used virtual COVID-19 Limitations.” It is hoped the churches, church leaders and presence on OSCA’s website that that the results of the study will other members help parishioners get includes not only programming for shed light on the challenges seniors connected to technology or, if they young and old, but also important prefer, help to participate by phone. In resource information on local all three churches there are outreach businesses and updates from Ottawa efforts to individual parishioners. Public Health and the Council On Phone numbers and links to useful Southminster United Church even Aging. resources: developed a loosely structured Initially, OSCA staff reached out to “telephone tree” to reach all their the seniors they could identify in their OSCA Ottawa Public Health parishioners to provide, but also to registration system, checked how they 613-247-4946 613-580-6744 receive support. Special attention is were doing and, if needed, connected oldottawasouth.ca www.ottawapublichealth.ca paid to the recently bereaved and other them with resources. Ottawa Public Library The Good Companions Seniors’ Library 613-580 2940 Centre Kelly Sirett from the Sunnyside biblioottawalibrary.ca 613-236-0428 Branch of the Ottawa Public Library thegoodcompanions.ca filled us in about all the resources Abbotsford at the Glebe Centre the OPL offers called “Aging Well 613-230 5730 A Friendly Voice together.” Have a look and you glebecentre.ca 613-692-9992 or 1-855-892 9992 will be surprised by the wonderful www.afriendlyvoice.ca variety! Councillor Shawn Menard When the OPL had to close its 613-580-2424 x 17017 Distress Centre of Ottawa and doors and return bins, late fines were www.shawnmenard.ca Region immediately frozen. The OPL can 613-238-3311 be contacted by phone at 613-580- MPP Joel Harden www.dcottawa.on.ca 2940 and connect you to bilingual 613-722 6414/416-326-7648 staff at the InfoService department. www.joelharden.ca Staff will also help members by phone to gain access to online
ZINN RICHARDSON DESIGN BUILD RENOVATE
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ENVIRONMENT Inaugural Enviro Crew neighbourhood meet and greet By Erin Maher neighbour-driven and based in, or How will we get there? For more information and to stay be of concern to residents of, Old Ideally, our vision is to form clear in touch: The Enviro Crew hosted its first ever Ottawa South. Projects will generally teams of neighbours who would like Please visit our Facebook page and community Meet and Greet on May fall into three focus areas: climate to take on projects in each of the be sure to join our Facebook group 28. The magic of Zoom allowed us change, natural environment, and focus areas. Each of the teams will – Enviro Crew of Old Ottawa South. to connect with other eco-conscious waste reduction. work toward goals that they think are There are a number of impromptu neighbours in the time of COVID, For example, climate change worthy and feasible given the team’s projects posted there at the moment to hear their concerns and ideas, projects could range from volunteer base. Projects can be small including a plastic garden pot and to share ideas about the types of encouraging electric vehicle uptake and casual or larger and longer term. collection, empties collection, and projects the Enviro Crew hopes to to electric car sharing in Old Ottawa Volunteers can commit to as little or physically distanced pollinator undertake in our community. South. Waste reduction projects as much as they would like. The idea planting events. You can also reach We were thrilled to have 15 could include collecting hard-to- is to take something on and we want us at [email protected]. people participate. Interestingly, recycle items at the community level. to encourage people to get involved We look forward to meeting you and most of us had never met before. It Natural environment projects include in whatever capacity they can. hearing your ideas. was lovely to connect in that way the Brewer Butterfly Meadow that For those who couldn’t make our with different neighbours and hear is already underway and doing Meet and Greet, don’t worry! We will Erin Maher is a member of the about their concerns and ideas for outreach and education to encourage be meeting again soon. Given the Enviro Crew of Old Ottawa South. our community. In the words of one pollinators and trees in private yards COVID-19 restrictions, it is likely As a mother of young children, she participant, “It was inspiring,” and and gardens. These are just examples that we will be meeting up on Zoom is passionate about stopping climate we thought so too. of how we can advance broader for the foreseeable future. Everyone environmental goals within our is welcome and encouraged to attend. change and creating a better future for us all. What types of projects will the immediate community. Our work will The more people we have, the more Enviro Crew pursue? have a visible impact. we can accomplish together for our First, they will generally be community and for the planet.
The Enviro Crew is YOU! A little encouragement and a few helpers By Erin Maher We want to let you in on a secret Although we currently have about The Enviro Crew of Old Ottawa South half a dozen core members, and have is growing! In less than 4 months, our sights set on eventually becoming we have had lots of interest from the a committee of OSCA, if you live community, a few projects on the in Old Ottawa South and care about go, and over 100 members in our the environment, then the Enviro Facebook group. Crew is YOU! A community goal of INSPIRING GIRLS Enviro Crew members have set up drop off spots to collect plastic garden pots for reuse. PHOTO BY ERIN MAHER the Enviro Crew is to help elevate We also helped a neighbour collect neighbour-driven environmental empties to be donated to Operation projects to make Old Ottawa South Come Home, which is much more greener, lower carbon, less wasteful, environmentally beneficial than simply and more sustainable. As we all know, recycling them as many people, an individual’s actions – multiplied by understandably, are doing these days. hundreds or even thousands – really Part of the beauty of this is that most start to have an impact. Although we of these Enviro Crew neighbours are definitely looking for volunteers in had never met each other before and a more formal capacity, you don’t have the projects took very little time to WE ARE EXPERTS IN HOW GIRLS to join or commit to make a difference. develop. LEARN, LEAD AND SUCCEED. Every action is important. With these projects, we believe we are building a culture of At Elmwood, each girl is encouraged to challenge herself How will we do this? neighbours helping neighbours. to excel in the classroom, develop confi dence and lead with Many of us have good ideas, but we We are empowering people to get strength. Supported by excellent educators, engaged peers and need a little encouragement and a few involved in the environment in ways a connected community, girls learn to be the best students, helpers to make it a reality. If you have that are tangible and community- leaders, and global citizens they can be. an idea for a simple environmental based. There is something really Discover more about our innovative approach to girls’ project, we suggest posting it to our amazing about having impromptu education— including what parents and students say about Facebook group. Include a picture if environmental projects pop up around “At Home Learning” with Elmwood—at elmwood.ca/at-home possible and a little description. Put the neighbourhood. We are looking it out there and your eco-conscious forward to seeing what comes next! neighbours will support you and help Our Facebook group is called Enviro you. Crew of Old Ottawa South. It is open We have seen this work for a number to all Old Ottawa South residents. You of projects so far. For example, we just can also email us at envirocrewOOS@ successfully launched a very casual gmail.com plastic gardening pot pickup/drop ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS off to divert hundreds of gardening Erin Maher is a member of the • All Girls FOR SEPTEMBER 2020 containers from landfill to be reused at Enviro Crew of Old Ottawa South. • Pre-K to Grade 12 the Fletcher Wildlife Garden for plant As a mother of young children, she • International Baccalaureate (613) 744-7783 distribution. Another member planted is passionate about stopping climate World School elmwood.ca/apply a small oak tree off Bronson Avenue change and creating a better future after someone offered up the sapling. for us all. The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 17
ENVIRONMENT Buy Nothing, share more for a greener, richer local community buying or selling (no cash exchange), especially plastic and long-life waste. no trades or bartering, and no hate or It also reduces the need to buy new illegal activity. stuff, which reduces production and To participate in Buy Nothing, you resource use. It saves you money and can post anything you’d like to give reduces the clutter in our homes when away, lend or share amongst your we need space. It also promotes a sense neighbours. You can also ask for of community and builds relationships anything you’d like to receive for free among neighbours in a world where or borrow. You can also simply watch this can no longer be taken for granted. the Facebook group’s feed, and state If you need something, just ask. If your interest in any item or service that you are getting rid of something, just is offered. It’s as simple as that. offer. No matter what it is, think twice The variety of stuff being shared is and consider this alternative option. truly amazing, and is only matched by You never know who will respond. the incredible generosity and kindness And the more you participate, whether of our neighbours. From almost-new in Buy Nothing or any other sharing/ furniture to baked goods to plants to gifting activities that reduce waste designer clothing to art to electronics, if and promote re-use, you are helping you can think of it, someone has shared to protect our environment, foster a it on Buy Nothing. healthier community, and bring about My personal favourite BN moment the change we desperately need for a was finding the exact glass coffee pot greener future. I needed for my coffee maker after I Check it out: buynothingproject. accidentally smashed it that morning. org or search for your local group on By the end of the day, my coffee maker Facebook. was back on line! I’ve seen people find missing ingredients for their dinner that night, share tools that they will only Ingrid Nielsen is on the team use once, delight their children with a launching the new Environment Crew new bike, and clean a rug with a carpet in Old Ottawa South. She enjoys washer that I think is still circulating living on the sunny side of the street. in Old Ottawa South, from house to house. Participating in Buy Nothing brings many good things to our community. First, it keeps stuff out of our landfill,
By Ingrid Nielsen many good reasons, it’s hard for me to know where to start. It was a sunny, late spring afternoon in More than 40 years later, we still the 1970s, and I was slowly making my put useful and interesting things out at way home from school in Woodbridge, the curb so others can find a good use Ontario. I was in Kindergarten at the for them. When I moved to Ottawa, time, and was on my own because it surprised me how common it is to we did things like that back then. As I do this here. I remember being too leisurely walked on the hot sidewalk, shy to pick anything up at first, and I had my eye out for treasures because then a friend told me I was being silly. this was also special garbage day. The “Literally everyone does it,” he said. neighbourhood had been encouraged to He was right. put out items that others might want to While putting things at the curb is Love Local Delivery is helping us support local restaurants, eat well, and keep reuse and rehome. still a tried and true method, we now the money in our community! Learn more at lovelocaldelivery.com And then there it was. It towered have other powerful ways to share and over me, and I thought it must be at reuse to reduce waste. One popular, fun least 20 feet tall. It was a wooden and growing option is known as the box about the size and shape of a Buy Nothing movement. refrigerator, painted in deep purple with Buy Nothing (BN) is the name sparkles, and it had a polka dot curtain for a global movement of sharing hiding the perfect-sized opening. This and free gifting locally on social was the puppet theatre of my dreams. media. The BN movement got off the At the saavy age of six years old, I ground in 2013 in Bainbridge Island, knew two things to be true: this beauty Washington State, when two friends, needed to be mine, and anyone who Rebecca Rockefeller and Liesl Clark, was throwing it out was clearly nuts. created an experimental “hyper-local I ran the rest of the way to get gift economy” using a Buy Nothing my Dad and he hauled the box Facebook group. What started with one home. The handmade plywood group of two people, has now spread to creation would host many magical 1.2 million participants in more than 25 performances that summer. Tickets countries, involving 6,000 volunteers were sold, neighbourhood kids shared who administer their local groups. in becoming famous, and finally my The basic premise is that you first beloved puppet collection had its ask to join your local Buy Nothing rightful stage. Facebook group (either Old Ottawa I don’t know who made memories South, Old Ottawa East, or Glebe). before or after me with this puppet You’ll be accepted based on your theatre, but I do know that this type of geographic location and a commitment to follow basic rules, which include no community sharing and reusing has so ©2020 Engel & Völkers Ottawa Central, Brokerage. Each brokerage independently owned & operated. Dominique Milne, Broker. Lyne Burton, Sales Representative. Page 18 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
ENVIRONMENT invasive species in Old Ottawa South, can continue seed production even after and you should know about them. they’ve been pulled out of the ground. Invaders in your garden The FWG also has more information Dog-strangling Vine about Garlic Mustard as well as a fact Dog-strangling Vine or Pale sheet. Just Google: “Fletcher Wildlife Swallow-wort (Vincetoxicum Garden Garlic mustard. “ rossicum) is one of the most difficult- to-control invasives and it’s popping up Other invasives in many gardens in our neighbourhood I wanted to tell you about DSV and parks. Google Dog-strangling Vine and Garlic Mustard because they are and you’ll find many photos of it at all showing up in our gardens. However, stages. Right now it’s blooming and its there are other invasive species in tiny, dark reddish flowers are found at our neighbourhood that are causing the top of a twining stem. As seeds start problems and spreading rapidly in to form, in thin pods like milkweed, some areas. As the Enviro Crew works the stems bend over and twist together. to introduce more native species into Try to walk through it and you’ll the Brewer Pond area, and later other immediately understand the reason for neighbourhood parks, we hope some of its common name. you will help with invasives control. If you find one or several plants in Other invasives in our area include: your garden, dig it out immediately. It’s Common Burdock (Arctum minus), important to remove the root crown – Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus that’s the place where all the roots and tuberosus), Elecampane (Inula shoots grow from. It’s not necessary racemosa), Comfrey (Symphytum to get all the little pieces of root; they officinale), Common and Glossy won’t regrow. If you can remove the Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica and A patch of Dog-strangling Vine in bloom at Brewer Pond. crown, the plant will be gone. R. frangula), Japanese Knotweed PHOTO BY SANDY GARLAND If you have a whole field of DSV (Reynoutria japonica), Creeping By Sandy Garland invasive species can be native, but it’s on your property – or as you’ll find Bellflower (Campanula rapunculoides). most often non-native. But just because at Brewer Park – getting rid of it is a If you have any questions about any “Invasive” is a word used to describe a plant is not native, doesn’t mean multi-year project. If the patch is small of these species – or want to add to the any plant or animal that is growing or it’s invasive. Most of the horticultural enough, cover it with a heavy tarpaulin list – please feel free to get in touch multiplying to the point of driving out varieties in our gardens are non-native, (landscape cloth does NOT work), and with us on Facebook (Enviro Crew other species. It’s out of control. It’s not but they behave themselves and don’t leave it in place for 2 years. If you’re of Old Ottawa South) or by emailing in balance with the rest of the plants spread all over your yard. They are not dealing with a whole field of DSV, use [email protected] and creatures in its ecosystem. An invasive. a tarpaulin on one area, then cut the rest However, there are some very using a scythe or weed whipper and do this several times to prevent the plants Sandy Garland is a longtime resident from going to seed. of OOS. She has been involved DSV multiplies only by seed. The in naturalizing Brewer Pond and existing plants do not grow new ones growing native plants for other from roots. If you can stop seeds from projects in our neighbourhood. forming, no new plants will appear and Decorating Ottawa & area since 1948! you can slowly deal with the existing Paints | Stains | Window Treatments | Wallpaper | Designer Fabrics | Furniture ones. Flooring | Granite & Quartz Countertops | Sound Reduction Wallcoverings | Paint More information is available on Colour Matching (any brand) | Stain Matching | Decorating and Colour Consults the Fletcher Wildlife Garden (FWG) web site, including control methods based on experience and a fact sheet FREE CONSULTATIONS in French and English. Just Google: “Fletcher Wildlife Garden Dog- FOR EXTERIOR WOOD and CEMENT SURFACES strangling vine.”
Our Randall’s exterior specialist will examine your deck, porch, fencing, the exterior of your house, your interlock Garlic Mustard and cement surfaces, including pools, and provide you Although not native, most members with a personalized prescription for good wood and of the mustard family are very cement health. beneficial. They include mustard, of course, but also broccoli, cauliflower, FOR BLINDS, SHUTTERS, DRAPES & SHEERS Brussels sprouts, and many other food crops. Many might be considered Randall’s is the largest independent supplier for Hunter invasive, but Garlic Mustard (Alliaria Douglas and we also feature Shade-O-Matic, Altex and Maxxmar so there are quality choices for every style and petiolata) is a particular problem price point, including motorized operating systems. Our because it can grow in shade. Its roots window treatment specialist will provide design advice also produce chemicals that destroy the and guarantee the fit. Interest-Free financing is available. mycorrhizae that many trees depend on Residential and Commercial. Visit our in-store gallery or arrange for a video or in-home consultation. to transport nutrients through the soil. Garlic Mustard is a biennial – it FOR PAINTS, STAINS & SUPPLIES grows a lot of leaves the first year, then flowers the second year and then We’ll meet your schedule whether you order ahead or last dies. Good news! However, the seeds minute. We are the go-to place for poster-sized, real paint it produces in that second year can chips and to colour match to any brand or to obtain remain dormant but viable in the soil a professional in-store colour consult. for many years and pop up just when Book or order at: randalls.ca | 613-233-8441 | [email protected] you think you’ve eliminated it from Garlic Mustard that has gone to PROMPT SERVICE – NO LINE-UPS your garden. So, it’s important to seed. It’s very important to get these pull out this plant before or while it’s TOUCH-FREE ORDER PICK-UP OR FREE DELIVERY plants into a garbage bag to prevent flowering to prevent it from releasing the seeds from self-sowing. Shop Local seeds. It’s also important to put the 555 Bank St. (FREE parking behind store, off Isabella St.) plants into a garbage bag because they PHOTO BY SANDY GARLAND The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 19
ENVIRONMENT “Zero Waste” meets a global pandemic: A sequel any form of packaging over plastic clear. Bike paths and parks are bustling or composite materials, and the most with activity, and kids are playing on easily recyclable plastics (usually safer streets. And like freckles in the 1 and 2) over non-recyclable ones summer sun, raised vegetable gardens (especially 6 and 7, and any plastic have been popping up all over the films). It’s a great time to review what neighborhood. Much of this could can go into the City of Ottawa’s blue never have been foreseen just a short and black bins. It’s still easy to avoid time ago. clamshell packaging, and to choose In the months ahead, we can commit loose fruits and veggies, although now to keeping those new habits that have I wash and rinse them at home. I’ve benefited the environment and our switched to washable cotton shopping community – our increased sharing bags, and have found that if you leave of resources, decreased use of fossil your bags in the shopping cart without fuels, support of local businesses and ever placing them on the counter, each other, and maybe even reduced some stores are willing to allow them. consumption. Let’s give ourselves Bags and masks get washed after some credit for what we have done, each shopping trip. Plastic gloves can and for what we now know is possible. usually be avoided with generous use As conditions permit, we’ll have to of hand sanitizer, or plain old soap slowly rebuild the systems that were and water. I am stubbornly saving in place pre-pandemic, and expand unavoidable plastic bags in the hopes them to regain and exceed our former Nu Grocery on Main Street. PHOTO BY HOLLY BICKERTON that one day, the recycling bin at Metro ground. After all, when this health will reappear. crisis has passed, we will still be By Holly Bickerton after my last article was printed. One In the meantime, this crisis has sharing a beautiful but finite planet. might think it would be an unfortunate shown us other ways to exercise other It was less than a year ago that I time to embark on such a venture, but environmental muscles. The OOS Holly Bickerton lives in OOS with penned an OSCAR article chronicling Nu Grocery has several unique virus- Buy Nothing group on Facebook is her family, and is a member of the our family’s efforts in household busting innovations that allow it to booming. Black Squirrel Books has Environment Crew of Old Ottawa waste reduction, and yet it seems like continue offering a refillable container supported voracious readers with South (ECOS). If you can offer local a decade has passed. At the time, I had program in these uncertain times. second-hand books in surprise packs, tips or initiatives to reduce waste in just sorted out our household systems First, only you will ever touch your and many have adapted to e-books the neighborhood, please visit the to reduce waste, local businesses had container. It has always been this from the library. With reduced car Facebook page of the Environment taken some great initiatives, and all way at Nu Grocery: customers weigh traffic, the air on the Bank Street Crew of Old Ottawa South. levels of government were starting their own containers on a scale, and Bridge at rush hour has been crystal to discuss bans or limits on harmful mark the weight on each. I bring my single-use plastics. Momentum was own washable marker. Second, many really building. dry goods are sold in closed vertical Enter COVID-19. How much the dispensers, rather than in open bins that ground has shifted; most of what may be more prone to contamination. I wrote is no longer the case. The Customers are now required to use reusable container programs at Bulk individual funnels for each item, so Barn, Cedars, Glebe Metro, Farm containers never come in contact with Boy, and the Glebe Meat Market have, the dispensers. Funnels are washed understandably but I hope temporarily, after a single use. Finally, you place been discontinued. The plastic bag your own items on the checkout scale. recycling bin at Glebe Metro has All the now-familiar modifications disappeared for the moment, and at the also apply: there is hand sanitizer same time, many stores have banned available, the staff wear masks, and the use of reusable bags. Even if I still a limited number of customers are frequented the neighborhood coffee allowed in the store to permit physical shops (remember that?), there are none distancing. A home-delivery service is that will take my mug to refill. And available for a small fee, with orders disposable masks and gloves have arriving in paper bags rather than started appearing on our streets, and plastic. In addition to dry goods, Nu ending up in our waterways. How does Grocery carries baked goods, bulk one navigate waste reduction during a cheese, oils and vinegars, and a wide global pandemic? No one can disagree selection of soaps, shampoos, and that health and safety are paramount. cleaning products – perhaps of special For a while, amid work, interest at the moment. And yes, they homeschooling, and an anxious have hand sanitizer, flour, and yeast! overconsumption of news, I just A recent bike trip there had me feeling once again like part of a solution, BROKER|SALES simply didn’t navigate it at all. It was REPRESENTATIVES too much. Why was everyone now however small. After all, although we bagging their bananas? Should I do that are currently facing another urgent too? What was safe? Within a couple crisis, our environmental crisis (in all of weeks, we had a lifetime supply its forms) has not gone anywhere. of plastic bags, and the garbage and Otherwise, I have no magic solutions recycling bins were filling up. to offer. It seems that waste reduction 25 YEARS OF FOCUSED Despite the many bleak changes, during a global pandemic does not EXCELLENCE IN REAL ESTATE there is a small ray of sunshine in involve making the best choices, the form of a recently opened Zero but in making the least bad ones. Ultimately, it’s better for more of us Waste grocery store in Old Ottawa TOP 1% FOR ROYAL LEPAGE IN CANADA* East, where you can still bring your to be imperfectly minimizing our waste, than for a tiny number of us own containers. Nu Grocery on Main 613.238.2801 | robmarland.com MARLAND Street opened last October, shortly actually hit zero anyway – if that were 165 Pretoria Ave. Ottawa, ON K1S 1X1 TEAM even possible! I try to choose almost Based on closed and collected earnings * Page 20 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
‘Little libraries’ – A big idea – Now in OOS Some of the OOS book boxes. (far left) On the west side of Riverdale Avenue, near Brighton. (middle) On the south side of Sunnyside Avenue between Riverdale & Brighton (A registered ‘Free Little Library’). (right) On the south side of Ossington Avenue just west of Bank Street.
PHOTOS BY BOYD MCBRIDE
By Boyd McBride South. And many more in adjacent well served by a municipal library? I Want to get involved, and show your neighbourhoods and across the city. In asked our neighbours what prompted support? The simplest option is to drop A year or so ago I noticed a new fact, these often-whimsical structures their desire to build and manage a little off a few of your own books at one of ‘book box’ at the end of our street. My have sprouted in neighbourhoods like library in their front yard. the boxes near you. In OOS you will neighbours had built a little library to ours across Canada and around the Mike’s response: “As a family of find boxes: encourage the free exchange of books world. readers and as an author, facilitating • On the south side of Belmont among us. “How great” I thought. Although only one of the six in OOS literacy is really important to our Avenue adjacent to the Rideau Then I began to notice them on other is actually branded as a ‘Little Free family.” His daughter said it was a River (the “Kaleidoscopic streets in our neighbourhood. And I Library,’ the name of the organisation fun construction project involving her Library”); saw many people checking them out. behind that brand now counts over grandfather too. Another book box • On the east side of Glencairn “Even better” I said. 100,000 library boxes registered in owner told me she got into it for her Avenue (children’s books) Perhaps you’ve seen them too. Or its data base. If our neighbourhood is young children. She wanted them to • On the west side of Riverdale maybe you’ve used one – giving or representative of the ratio of branded have easy, independent access to more Avenue, with one near Glenview taking from time to time – sharing to unbranded, the latest global estimate children’s books. and another near Brighton; books you’ve read and picking up the of little libraries could easily be Many book box owners simply • On the south side of Ossington odd one to bring home. approaching a million. want to show their support for literacy Avenue just west of Bank Street; Turns out we have at least six of Why do they exist in neighbourhoods while doing some ‘neighbourhood • On the south side of Sunnyside these free little libraries in Old Ottawa like ours, solidly middle class and building’ at the same time. Others see Avenue between Riverdale & the building and management of a little Brighton (this is the registered library as a great way to engage their Free Little Library). kids. What better messages to share Thinking about building one for your with children these days? Reading own street? The Little Free Library is important. Books open up whole website (littlefreelibrary.org) has lots of new worlds for us. Literacy is vital to unlocking our potential. Access to THE MAIN FARMERS’ books is a key piece of the literacy Continued on pg. 21 MARKET IS OPEN! puzzle. Sharing is good.
Choose how you want to shop! The market is now open for ONLINE PRE-ORDERS and SATURDAY SHOPPING. For up-to-date vendors and hours, and the link to our online shop, go to mainfarmersmarket.org.
Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon 210 Main Street
Online ordering is open from Monday to Thursday for Saturday pickup. More vendors are being added each week.
FARMERS’ MARKET
mainfarmersmarket.org Follow us on Facebook (@mainfarmmarket613) and Instagram (@mainmarketottawa)! Jilly, Penny and Mike Stewart at their Belmont Avenue little library, near the Rideau River. PHOTO BY BOYD MCBRIDE The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 21
they are making a difference. Cont. from pg. 20 So too is the Little Free Library organisation, which was recently Have you seen turtles nesting at Brewer? honoured with the 2020 World ideas. It has ‘how to’ video clips as Literacy Award for its significant well as plans and advice. They will contribution to global literacy. even sell you a kit and ship it to Is it time for you to get involved, your home. For inspiration, dozens for your street to have its own of their libraries can be viewed on book box? Pinterest. Too many children still have Boyd McBride is an avid reader little or no access to books and and member of the Ottawa Public school. I’m sorry to see our Library. He worked for several Sunnyside branch, and public years for CODE (code.ngo), an libraries generally, closed due international literacy organisation. to the COVID-19 crisis, even as He has lived in OOS for over schools themselves are shuttered. 30 years, and is wondering if a That’s why the boxes I’ve second box on his street might be a discovered in our neighbourhood good idea. inspire me. They are busy and
• If you want to use a Greg Bulté, an instructor in the If you can, please include the Books and book box, but are sick, Department of Biology at Carleton following information: COVID-19 refrain until you are fully University is studying the behaviour recovered. and conservation of turtles. He is • Date and approximate time of the Viral transmission on • Wash your hands or use paper and cardboard putting together a project blending observation. hand sanitizer every time citizen science, research, and • The species observed (if known). is not a concern. you use a little library. education centred on urban turtles, and • A brief description of the exact Nevertheless, for added • Set aside any books you it includes a nest protection program. location of the observation (if safety, these rules for take from a little library Our observations will provide valuable possible) or google map link. book box users will be for 24 hours before background information. • Ideally, a picture of the turtle, or helpful: handling them again. nest, and of the general area. • To maintain social How and where to share your • Any other information you think is • If you own a little library distancing, do not observations relevant. and are sick, stay away gather with others at If you see a turtle (of any species) from it until you are neighbourhood book making a nest, or a predated turtle Thank you for your help! symptom-free and out of boxes. nest, please send an email to: quarantine. [email protected]
eskey artwrightTeskey cartwright Tsales advisors c
House and Homes our new website www.teskey.com
613.859.6599 613.296.6708 [email protected] stephanie.cartwright@ sympatico.ca
344 O’connor St. Ottawa, Ont.
Real estate sales representative
Central Ottawa Page 22 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
Wagon restoration: A grade seven pandemic project
carry too much weight on several wood and metal and deepened my occasions, did not help its overall understanding about the difference condition. It was in a state of between oil and water-based paints, decrepitude. Looking at it made me wood conditioners and varnishes, and sad and I was inspired to fix it. I also about how to use them. saw in this ruin an opportunity to This wagon would have been raise money for a good cause. thrown out if I had not restored it. The wagon was from Lee Valley, It is now even sturdier and more and was composed of a metal chassis, attractive than before and I am proud four pneumatic wheels, a wooden of my work. I would probably not cart with guards, and a metal pull- have had the time to complete this handle. Each of these components project had I been in school all day. had to be either replaced or repainted. COVID-19 has its silver linings! I rebuilt the cart using cedar: this was My teachers asked us to keep in an improvement over the original’s mind both handiwork and social plywood base. I also repainted the leadership. By selling the restored guards and all the metal parts on the wagon to raise money for the Ottawa chassis, from frame to wheel hubs. Food Bank, I hope that my project I worked alongside my parents, will fulfill both goals. If you wish sometimes on my own and to participate in the auction, please sometimes with their help. I learned send an email bid to ourweedyway@ The restored and repainted wagon. PHOTO BY JANINE DEBANNÉ many skills throughout this project, gmail.com by July 18th at noon. including how to be precise and By Luc-Étienne Labiche to inspire our virtual community. careful, proper body position for Luc-Étienne Labiche loves Manual work is a big part of my every task, organization of tools and swimming, word games and pizza, materials, and cleaning up as often as and lives in OOS. I am auctioning off a child’s wagon school curriculum. In confinement possible. I learned about how to paint to raise money for the Ottawa Food we couldn’t do our usual watercolour Bank! Let me tell you all about it. painting and woodworking, which we I am a grade seven student at Trille normally do once or twice a week. des Bois public school. During the I decided to restore my childhood To participate in the auction of the pandemic confinement my teachers wagon – given to me by my wagon in support of the Ottawa Food assigned an interesting project to grandparents when I was three my class. Mme Gratton and Mme – which had been left in rusty and Bank, send an email bid by July 18th Arsenault asked each of us to do weathered tatters following years a “personal project” involving of use. One or two winters outside at noon to: [email protected] handiwork and/or social leadership and possibly having been asked to
Financial Wellness has a New Face at YCU
Your Credit Union is thrilled to announce that Christine Vieceli has joined our organization as our senior Financial Wellness Advisor. Christine lives in our community and has provided invaluable financial advice for over 20 years. As a Certified Financial Planner, Christine will work with you to integrate your lifestyle, income, and retirement goals into achievable plans for financial wellness and peace of mind.
You can reach Christine at (613) 238-8001 Ext. 4227 or via email at [email protected] The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 23
What you need to know about family medicine and why you could lose care By Dr. Nili Kaplan-Myrth patients registered with them, not by the number of people they see in a “I had no idea,” patients say, when day. FHOs provide income stability they’ve heard my medical colleagues to family doctors. In 2015, the and I talking about the risk of clinic Ontario Ministry of Health decided closures on the radio or read our that doctors could only form new articles in the papers. FHOs in suburban/rural areas. As a I’m a family doctor down the road new graduate at the time, there was from you, in the Glebe. I take care of no option for me to form a FHO and 1400 patients, many of whom live in all the spots in FHOs in Ottawa were Old Ottawa South. This is an issue taken. that affects everyone in Old Ottawa Why doesn’t the Ministry consider South. I used to live in Old Ottawa Ottawa’s urban populations “in need” South. I am part of your community of services? Who knows? Thousands network. I probably care for the staff of people in our cities don’t have a who work at your children’s day doctor. In Ottawa, FFS family docs cares and schools, or I take care of care for approximately 335,000 your friends and neighbours. If I’m Dr Nili Kaplan-Myrth. PHOTO BY TIA MACPHERSON patients. Those patients will be left not your doctor, then one of the 25 without care if we close our clinics to family doctors in our group in central Since the COVID-19 pandemic prescription renewals by fax, to fill in move out to suburbs/rural areas. Ottawa probably takes care of you, began, I’ve been working 8 am to forms, we’re not paid. Patients keep asking how I’m your colleagues, the owners of your 8 pm, phoning patients at home, We bill OHIP codes for each visit. doing. I don’t want to freak them local businesses. You also rely on trying to address all their primary When COVID-19 began, new OHIP out, so I say, “Don’t worry.” But I’m medical specialists in Ottawa whose care needs, and also triaging and codes were introduced for caring worried. clinics may close. managing symptoms of COVID-19, for patients by phone and video. Now you know. What can you Here’s a snapshot of family supporting patients through their But even with “virtual care,” our do? Write to the Ontario Minister medicine before the pandemic: isolation. I ration limited PPE to patient volume dropped substantially. of Health, Christine Elliott. Write I’d start at 9 am with my pediatric assess infants, give immunizations, Why? 1) PPE shortages. 2) Bringing to our MPP, Joel Harden. Write to patients, then I’d see the rest of my and other essential treatments. patients into the office is very slow Capital Ward City Councillor, Shawn patients (infections, injuries, chronic Patients wait in cars while we screen now. 3) Many revenue-generating Menard. Contact the media. Make it illnesses, addictions, women’s them. When they leave, I disinfect procedures had to be cancelled. 4) clear that it would be serious if you health issues, geriatrics, mental every surface. Telephone/video is frustrating when lost your family doctor. health concerns). I’d end my clinic My colleagues and I who work people don’t answer! Let’s address this before it is a day and I’d do home visits to my in central Ottawa are stuck in a fee- Why are we stuck in FFS? crisis. palliative patients. All of that is for-service (FFS) model of care. Some colleagues are working in a integral to family medicine. I’ve sat Approximately 235,000 people in better model, called Family Health Dr. Nili Kaplan-Myrth, MD, CCFP, in people’s living rooms with them Ottawa rely on fee-for-service family Organizations (FHOs). They receive PhD is a family doctor with a as they grieved the death of a family doctors for care. Most of us don’t “capitation” payments each month: practice in the Glebe. member, and stood at their side to want to be FFS. It’s a model that they are paid by the number of welcome newborns into their lives. prioritizes quantity over quality; we I work 50-60 hours per week. My have to see enough patients in a day commitment to my patients is to to pay our bills. If patients don’t maintain a long-term relationship show up, we don’t get paid. If we with them, give them a “safe” space, get sick or miss work for education, advocate for them. we’re not paid. When patients ask for We understand it’s not business as usual. That’s why we have implemented new procedures to help protect you. If you need to buy Art under the bridge or sell during this time, trust Ottawa’s best real estate team to help safely guide your journey.
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FILM REVIEW Films online comportment of homeless patrons. The Walrus & the Whistleblower The library hosts readings and talks An engaging Canadian by noted authors, including Ta-Neshi documentary film,The Walrus & the Coates and Elvis Costello. But the Whistleblower won the Audience real stars of this film are the library’s Award at the 2020 Hot Docs Film clients, as they undertake research, Festival. read or even play video games. We The film is directed by Nathalie learn about the extensive collections Bibeau, and this is her first feature of photos and maps. Many of the length film. She grew up in Niagara images are from the iconic reading Falls, near the themed zoo and an American living in Rome. He is room. I was fascinated to discover amusement park MarineLand. a proud older father, who seems to the Schomberg Center, an archive of One day, she met Phil Demers, do various do it yourself (DIY) work black history which includes records who was friend of her brother, and while caring for his daughter and dating from the days of slavery. he eventually became the main his Russian-born wife. A recovered Most of the film is set in midtown, protagonist in this film. alcoholic, he participates in AA but I also enjoyed the segments Demers began working at meetings as he rages jealously which showed branch operations in MarineLand as a trainer in 2000. about his younger partner’s social Harlem, the Bronx and the suburban The Walrus & the Whistleblower life. Dafoe appears in virtually Reviewed by Tony Wohlfarth communities of Westchester and tells Phil’s story and that of his every scene. Interviewed in Rome, Parkchester. The branches cater to the relationship with Smooshi, the Dafoe described his performance in Ex Libris: The New York Public local populations, including the large walrus. Phil worked there until 2012, Tommaso as unstructured, giving him Library input into the script. The New York Public Library is Rome has never looked so gritty. one of the oldest and largest in the Tommaso walks the back streets, world. It is now the subject of a travels by metro and takes the tiny lengthy documentary film, directed elevator to their apartment. Religious by Frederick Wiseman. symbols abound. Ex Libris opens with a large group of visitors listening attentively as a volunteer guide (known as a docent) conducts a public tour. The location is Fifth Avenue and 41st Street in Manhattan – the venerable main branch and headquarters of the New York Public Library. I make a point of visiting that library every time I go to the Big Apple, as it is a haven from the hustle and bustle of the city. Phil Demers, the central figure in the documentary The Walrus & the The central library is a landmark in Whistleblower. PHOTO BY JOSEPH MICHEL GRATTON midtown Manhattan and a friend of mine, Ellen, is one of the docents. Hispanic community. It’s a slow film, when he left in a disagreement over She describes it as the best volunteer but well worth watching. animal care issues. position she has ever undertaken. Ex Libris won the coveted jury MarineLand is one of the largest Ex Libris is a beautiful film to award, the FIPRESCI Prize (given tourist attractions in Niagara Falls. watch. The camera work (by John by the International Federation of Its owner, John Holer Sr., a reclusive Davey) features close ups of the Film Critics), following its world immigrant from Slovenia, is patrons and staff alike. The film also premiere in Venice in 2017. Frederick described as an “immigrant success captures meetings of the management Wiseman, the director has made story.” Holer died in 2018, and team and the Board of Governors as other outstanding docs, including In MarineLand declined to participate Dafoe is – full disclosure – one of they evaluate the role of the public Jackson Heights in 2015. in the film. MarineLand is suing my favourite actors. Strangely, his library, finances and programming in The running time is three hours and Demers for $1.5 million, in order he role in Tommaso is based on his real 2015 when the film was made. Many thirty-two minutes. Ex Libris is now says, to try and silence him. life, as an Italian speaker and yoga of the issues they discuss are familiar streaming for free on Kanopy. All The Walrus & The Whistleblower is fan who lives part-time in Rome with to Ottawa Public Library (OPL) OPL card holders can access Kanopy a powerful film which highlights the his partner and child. Some of his clients e.g. acquisition of electronic as one of the library’s extensive ethical dilemma of holding mammals most recent memorable performances resources, budgetary pressures, the collection of online resources. in theme parks. Its protagonist is a include The Florida Project (2017) committed animal rights’ activist and At Eternity’s Gate (2018). Dafoe who made many sacrifices to advance turns 65 on July 22 and he has never this cause. The film is unduly long, been busier as an actor. To date in recording a multi-year battle in the 2020, he is acting in seven films Senate to ban holding captive whales currently in production. and dolphins (Bill S-203 which was Tommaso is directed, much of it in passed in 2018). his own Rome apartment and staring The Walrus and The Whistleblower his own wife and child, by Abel had a limited release online via the Ferrara. The running time is one hour Hot Docs Festival and CBC Gem. and fifty-six minutes. The film won It should be released to on-demand awards at both the Cologne and the services in October. Lisbon Film Festivals. Tommaso is currently screening virtually in the Tommaso US at kinomarquee.com. Film buffs Booking now for Fall 2020 Willem Dafoe stars in Tommaso, are encouraged to watch this site for an entertaining feature film that was additional screenings in Canada. set to screen at the 2020 Cannes Film Festival, until the festival was Tony Wohlfarth is an Ottawa-based cancelled due to the pandemic, and is freelance film writer. now streaming online. mainrenovations.com Dafoe plays the role of Tommaso, The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 25
Art in a brave new world – Goop Mail Art By Helene Lacelle in participating in such a liberal endeavour. A FRESH More than a decade back I was Gallery of what ... mmmm Gallery pondering my low financial of Ornamental Posts since it’s fun art existence, like I’m sure many pieces sent through the mail...it’s sort Canadian artists do from time to time. of modern and old school wrapped PERSPECTIVE After all, our median annual wage – together with a postage stamp and according to Statistics Canada – is sent around the word, then held in an under $15,000. Enough to pay the online blog site for all to see. rent, put food in the fridge and buy Here, these many years later I’m a McDonald’s coffee (with one free sitting at my desk in my small home refill if you are lucky) but not enough studio looking at my iMac screen
(Above) Helene Lacelle looking at the Goop Mail Art web page. PHOTO BY PETER EVANCHUCK
(Below) Kevin Nickerson mail art from Canada. PHOTO BY HELENE LACELLE 33 MONK STREET
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To learn more contact Alison Keller at 613-233-6363 or email [email protected] to trade that for a fancy Starbucks adding another Goop Mail Art café au lait. postcard that I just received from The bulb in my brain flashed on France to our online Goop Mail Art and I thought ... one thing I know site, and being nostalgic about how most, is that almost all artists in time flies and how life changes. Then Canada are generous hardy souls I put on my COVID-19 mask to face who love to make and share their art a brave new world. without having to contend with those meager bucks that seldom come in. For more information on this What to do...what to do? The brain project contact: [email protected] scanned and settled on a means of a or visit the Goop Mail Art web site national and an international free art at: www.goopmailart.blogspot.com exchange between all artists at all levels.... now I need a name for this Helene Lacelle, and her partner free art exchange ... mmmm... after Peter Evanchuck, are Old Ottawa AMICA.CA/THEGLEBE all, if I’m going to become a curator South based artists and film makers. I need a name for what I’m going to send out to alert those interested
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MAYOR’S REPORT Kindness and COVID-19 By Jim Watson, Mayor I find it truly heartwarming and any other need they may from local restaurants to to see so many residents and have. frontline workers on the The residents of Ottawa have businesses in our community It’s local chefs like Joe job, every single day. experienced some drastic who are coming forward Thottungal of Thali and It’s musicians like changes over the last couple to assist others in this time Coconut Lagoon, Adam Dave Kalil, who plays of months. We’ve had to of great need. A few weeks Vettorel of North & Navy, live shows on Facebook make major adjustments to ago, I asked residents to Tim Stock of Thyme & every Wednesday and our lifestyles, adapt to new share stories of kindness and Again, and Patrick Garland Saturday to lift the work environments, and ingenuity, and the following of Absinthe, who are spirits of his friends. plan our days in an entirely examples make me so proud We can change the impact new manner. As a person to say I’m the Mayor of this that this pandemic has on who loves to get out in the great and compassionate city. Once again, my sincere thanks our city when we all work community and spend time It’s residents mobilizing together. We can’t forget that in all four corners of the behind groups like Nepean to the residents of Ottawa who COVID-19 affects everyone, city, these changes haven’t Neighbours, who are regardless of age and current been particularly easy for me matching volunteers with continue to do their part in health status. It is important either. residents in isolation who planking the curve by following for all of us to continue to Although much of the news need help running errands practice physical distancing. we’re reading and hearing like picking up groceries and Ottawa Public Health guidelines. Let’s remember there are about can take its toll on us, medication, dog walking, brighter days ahead. We will come out of this as a providing meals to homeless Dave raised $13,000 in less community, stronger than residents and low-income than an hour during a virtual ever. families. benefit concert in support of It is important to recognize It’s medicine students the Ottawa Food Bank. The that the COVID-19 like Pamela Bejjani, Jamie list goes on and on. situation is evolving very Ghossein, and Daniel Once again, my sincere quickly. Please refer to 3-1-1 (24h) Milad, who have created a thanks to the residents of OttawaPublicHealth. 613-580-2496 GoFundMe campaign called Ottawa who continue to do ca/Coronavirus to stay [email protected] “Frontline Feeds Ottawa/ their part in planking the up-to-date on the latest jimwatsonottawa.ca Gatineau” – with the goal of curve by following Ottawa information. @JimWatsonOttawa raising money to deliver food Public Health guidelines.
MP’S REPORT We need to do better By Catherine McKenna, MP more equitable society for all. racialized residents, to the creation In the past few weeks, Canadians of a Hate Crimes unit, building safer As Canadians, witnessing the of all backgrounds have come and more inclusive communities events in the United States has been together in support of changing the for everyone in our city requires worrisome. I am deeply saddened structures in our communities that collaboration. about the news of George Floyd’s have created systemic racism and death two weeks ago. We must injustice. Engaging in dialogue that acknowledge that racism and acknowledges the need to address discrimination are not exclusive barriers and systemic racism in our There is still more to the U.S.; it is a lived reality communities is more important than ever. Education on addressing work that needs to for Black, Indigenous and other for Ottawa Centre, I am not only systemic racism is essential in people of colour in Canada. As a be done, and there advocating and working towards practicing effective allyship. This government and as a country, we building a more inclusive and safe includes connecting with local need to do better, and work towards a are more important community for all our residents, I am organizations and businesses. For also listening in order to learn more instance, here in Ottawa Centre conversations that about the various experiences of we have a variety of Black-owned Black, Indigenous and other people businesses and organizations like must be had. of colour in our community, in order Black History Month Ottawa, Jaku to best serve them. Konbit, and the African Canadian My Constituency Office is virtually Association. There are many areas The value in investing in social open and ready to support and serve and opportunities for allyship when it infrastructure and communities is you. Phone: 613-946-8682 or email: comes to supporting these businesses essential. The Boys and Girls Club [email protected] and organizations. of Ottawa stands as an example of After speaking with Councillor how government funding can go a Rawlson King on his new role as long way in providing support for Council Liason for the Anti-Racism underprivileged youth who need it We’re here for you, and Ethnocultural Relations in most. Here in Ottawa Centre, the Ottawa Centre! Ottawa and interviewing Chief Peter Rochester Heights Clubhouse has Sloly about his first 100 days as been a major source in providing Catherine McKenna police chief for the Ottawa Police inclusive programs and services to MP, Ottawa Centre Service, both conversations provided our community’s youth. vital lessons. There is a need to There is still more work that Constituency Office invest in initiatives that help build needs to be done, and there are more Telephone: 613-946-8682 more inclusive communities. From important conversations that must Email: [email protected] city-specific programming supporting be had. As Member of Parliament The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 27
ABBOTSFORD AT THE GLEBE CENTRE Abbotsford is blooming and zooming! By Pat Goyeche burst forth in full bloom; and inside We also appreciate our community Keep vigilant, keep healthy, and we continue to connect by way of partners, in particular Evelyn take care of each other. Keep smiling Abbotsford Programing and Services landlines, cell towers and virtual Metcalfe and Amanda Brown of at strangers and asking if they need a at the Glebe Centre is blooming and means. We, like so many, are re- Colonel By Retirement Residence for hand, or something from the grocery zooming, both inside and outside of tooling ourselves in order to maintain adding a sweet treat. store. Enjoy the summer, join in a our physical walls. Nothing is the crucial links with our community of As we do service the elder class or two and know that though same, yet we are doing it! neighbours, members, clients and population (who are particularly the doors are locked, our hearts and The COVID-19 pandemic has, of volunteers. vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus) services remain open and engaged. course, brought enormous worry, We have a strong core of volunteers we will likely be amongst the last uncertainty and change, upending reaching out through telephone to re-open our physical doors. Yet Patricia Goyeche is the Coordinator each of our lives in ways that are trees, making sure everyone has we are by no means dormant in of Community Programs at both mundane and profound. We access to food, pharmacy, medical the meantime. The house is storing Abbotsford. have some common experiences as appointments and mental health up good vibes for the day when it a society but so many differences as supports. Beyond those ‘essential can once again open its doors to its Abbotsford is your Seniors Active well, that come with age, race, socio- services’ we are also connecting with community. While we wait there is Living Centre for Adults 55+. It economic and other realities. our folks through weekly e-mailed much on offer to help keep our folks houses the community programs of This is a big change for seniors. ‘blogs.’ Our volunteers are chatting fit, entertained, challenged, engaged The Glebe Centre Inc., a charitable, Abbotsford house has been serving with their ‘new friends,’ checking in and connected. not-for-profit, organization which ‘senior community members’ since and forming new connections. The Who knew that boomers would be includes a 254 bed long term care the 1890’s one way or another! It Community Support Services team blooming and zooming themselves? home. Find out more about our is used to the fitness pitter-patter is reaching out to our clients, whose So many folks are connecting with services by telephoning 613-230- of many feet and the chatter of needs vary, sharing information and family and friends in new ways, 5730 during regular business hours many voices. Alas, it is quiet as our engaging with their clientele. and we have all learned to be open or by checking out all of The Glebe in-house programming has been We have some amazing women to technology and the wonderful Centre facilities and community suspended, and many of our staff in our community of volunteers opportunities that it brings. Coffee programs on our website www. have been re-deployed to help in our who are making cotton masks for klatches are meeting, people are glebecentre.ca. long term care home. Only a few of our members and clients. We have learning Spanish, and there is lots of us are still working in the house. volunteers delivering packages and dancing to Broadway hits and Zumba Like so many facilities, Abbotsford reaching out through the telephone beats. We can still ‘work out’ with had to close its doors on March 16th. to do what they can to keep others our favourite teachers and chat with While the doors are closed, however, safe, secure and connected. We are friends, either in a conference call or our beautiful garden out front has so appreciative of their generosity. a virtual connection.
MPP’S REPORT Refusing colour-blindness (because Black Lives Matter) By Joel Harden, MPP good. But I am left with unsettling equality of opportunity. questions about the pace of progress. Canada began as a racist country, on We are heartbroken by recent events Why does Ottawa Police arrest data the backs of Indigenous peoples, and in the United States, and rightfully so. still reveal that Black and Middle we continue to struggle with racism. The ugly scenes of racism and brutality Eastern people are stopped more than We must face that with eyes wide open. from America are truly disturbing. white people? Why does our criminal One need only examine the working But let’s reject the “magical justice system disproportionately conditions of so many COVID-19 thinking” Desmond Cole notes is often interact with racialized and Indigenous heroes: cleaners, personal support present when we speak about race and people? workers, grocery clerks, farm workers, racism in Canada. Let’s also ask hard Why did a 142-page internal report meatpackers, nannies, and taxi drivers questions of ourselves. by the Ottawa Police in 2017 identify – a vast number of whom are Black or Let’s start by saying these names: widespread fear and mistrust from brown people who earn little despite an Regis Korchinski-Paquet, and many racialized communities? Why abundance of effort and skill. Abdirahman Abdi. did the report note that parents of Refusing to see race buries these On May 27, Regis fell from her racialized children were “greatly realities. It should surprise no one that balcony in Toronto to her death, from concerned for the safety of their youth our criminal justice system grapples 24 floors up. Her family had called and any interaction with police?” with the same racism that permeates the Toronto Police for help, but what And why was a racist meme recently our society. followed was a tragedy. circulating online among Ottawa police So if we agree that Black Lives Nearly four years ago, Abdirahman that targeted Black and brown officers? Matter, let’s refuse to be colour blind, died in police custody outside his Why did Sahada Alolo, co-chair of the and commit to an honest reckoning on apartment building in Hintonburg Ottawa Police’s Community Equity race. as his mother watched through the Council, make the following remarks glass doors. He also needed help, and in the wake of these revelations: tragically he too lost his life. “There must be something in their Two cases of Black people with culture and in their practices that mental health issues, and two deaths allowed for the creation of it [the in police custody, or with active police meme] and the distribution of it with presence. impunity, so there needs to be an Over 3000 people marched in overhaul and an investigation into that Toronto to demand justice for Regis, culture that allowed it.” and thousands joined a Black Lives Answers to these questions will not Matter march through downtown come by embracing colour-blindness. Ottawa on June 5. Canada has many strengths, but it is People want change, and this is not a place where everyone is given an Page 28 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
FINANCIAL PLANNING Can you improve your relationship with money? By Bob Jamieson, CFP Identify your money-related a path toward reaching them. Your you may also benefit from the help emotions. financial strategy should incorporate of a financial professional – someone In your life, you will have all sorts Try to recognize the emotions you a variety of factors, including your with the perspective, experience and of relationships – with your family, feel in connection with saving and age, risk tolerance, income level, skills necessary to help you make the your friends, your co-workers, and investing. Do you get nervous about family situation and more. Here is right moves. even with civic groups and charitable spending? Does putting away money the key point: By creating a long- Like all successful relationships, organizations you support. But have for the future give you satisfaction term strategy and sticking to it, you the one you have with money you ever considered another key or not? Do you worry that you will be far less likely to overreact requires work. But you will find it’s relationship – the one you have with don’t know how much you should to events such as market downturns worth the effort. money? be investing, or whether you’re and be less inclined to give in to Of course, this type of relationship investing in the right way? Clearly, impulsive and expensive purchases. If you would like some advice has several aspects, such as saving, these types of questions can cause And without such a strategy, you will in developing or reviewing your spending and investing. And your some anxiety – and, even more almost certainly have less chance of strategy, please feel free to give me a fellow Canadians clearly face importantly, they may lead you to achieving your important goals. no-obligation call at 613-526-3030. some challenges in these areas. make poor decisions. Emotions are For example, in a recent survey, obviously closely tied to money – Get an “accountability partner.” conducted by my financial services but they really should not play a big Your relationship with money firm, Edward Jones, almost 80% of role in your spending, saving and doesn’t have to be monogamous Gen Xers have financial concerns that investing choices. – you can get help from an keep them up at night. Thirty-three “accountability partner.” Too many percent of Canadians cited that they Develop a financial strategy. people keep their financial concerns don’t invest their money at all and By developing a sound financial and plans to themselves, not even in general Canadians are waiting too strategy, you can reduce money- sharing them with their partners or long to begin saving for retirement – related stress and help yourself feel other family members. But by being only 31.3% of Canadians aged 18-34 empowered as you look into the open about your finances to your invest in an RRSP. future. A comprehensive strategy can loved ones, you can not only avoid Do you share some of these help you identify your goals – a down misplaced expectations but also enlist concerns? Here are a few payment on a new home, college the help of someone who may be suggestions: for your children, a comfortable able to help keep you on track toward retirement, and so on – and identify your short and long-term goals. But
Dancing to salute sanitation workers
The neighbours on Wendover Ave. had a dance moment to salute sanitation workers one afternoon. It was also a chance for neighbours to say hello and have a bit of fun – with proper distancing precautions – as the dancers were separate into family pairs. PHOTO BY BRENDA SMALL The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 29
COMPUTER TRICKS AND TIPS Service people visiting your home during the pandemic By Malcolm and John that everyone can stay safe. that they might pose a danger to the an excellent blog post with detailed Harding, of Compu-Home Unfortunately, despite the great visitor. Go to www.consumerreports. information and suggestions that number of reasons for you to need org and search for “home service call are easily applied to other in-home service people to visit your home or during Coronavirus.” services. This article lists very We have been experiencing an office at this time, official guidance is specific suggestions (… which extended period when most everyone surprisingly scarce on the subject. Workplace Safety and Prevention might more accurately be considered has agreed that home visits by Services requirements) and although the service people were inadvisable Consumer Reports The only local “official” guidance basics are covered, such as hand except in true emergencies. We An online article from Consumer that we have seen to date is washing, physical distancing and at Compu-Home, for example, Reports, How to Handle a Home provided by the Workplace Safety wiping down contact surfaces, there discontinued house calls in mid- Service Call During the Coronavirus and Prevention Services (WSPS) are many additional details that it March, because we knew that they Pandemic, provides suggestions of Ontario: Guidance on Home might be easy to overlook, such as were just too dangerous for our for safe practices during a home Cleaning and Maintenance Services leaving the work area vacant for a customers, no matter how careful we service visit. The context and (Residential). These directions few hours beforehand if possible, and would be. Other kinds of businesses references are American, and the are oriented primarily toward the non-contact billing and payment. Go in the home-service sector were article first appeared in early April, safety of the worker, but it is easy to: francisplumbing.com/safe-home- obviously of the same opinion and but almost everything also applies to to deduce how careful practices by services. people like plumbers, electricians, us in Ottawa, and the advice is not the visitor and the homeowner result painters, telephone, television and outdated. in increased safety for both. Google Contact Compu-Home at 613-731- Internet technicians were doing their We feel that the most important “COVID-19 maintenance employees 5954 to share your opinions and best to help their people remotely, takeaway in this article is the health and safety guidance” or go to suggest subjects for future columns. unless the need was urgent and absolute requirement for honesty covid19.wsps.ca. Our email address is info@compu- essential. between the homeowner and the home.com and our website (under At the time of writing this, service person. Just as no firm Local blog revision) is www.compu-home.com. provincial guidelines are beginning should ever be sending out personnel Francis Plumbing and Heating is to imply that home visits will in questionable health, it is also a local business that has published resume before long, but we feel imperative that the homeowner that it is just as important now as cancel or reschedule the appointment, it was three months ago, that both despite the inconvenience, if they service visitors, and homeowners, become aware of any possibility follow strict protocols to ensure
DID YOU KNOW?
Speeding and dangerous driving enforcement For a comprehensive overview, please visit our web site: Are you concerned about the increase of speeding and www.sandyhill.ca or call dangerous driving in and Nathan Gurnham at (613) 832-1717 around the neighbourhood? The Traffic & Safety Committee reached out to our local Community Police Officer and she pledged to put in a word for increased enforcement. But did you Make the right call: know that the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) primarily • 911 – Crime in progress/ respond to data-driven Life threatening emergency enforcement? • 613-236-1222 ext. 7502 – Non-emergency but require From our Community Officer: patrol presence “To officially get our traffic • 613-236-1222 ext. 7300 – enforcement officers to attend Reports to be taken over those areas, I would need to the phone justify my request with reports • www.ottawapolice.ca – online reports from the community, that there is a problem, and thus a So if you are concerned need for them to attend. As we about increased speeding are ‘intelligence-led,’ we rely and dangerous driving, make on the reports to determine sure you report instances where to put our resources. you witness, either online So I would encourage you or by phone using the 7300 and the community of Old extension. Ottawa South to call police or Submitted by the OSCA Traffic make reports online for traffic & Safety Committee. complaints. I have listed OPS contact information below for reports/police attendance.” Page 30 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
CARLETON CORNER Carleton University invites you to that living on campus will be safe program for grade 10 to 12 students Online Youth Programs are available: its online events during the summer and will remain an exceptional interested in architecture, design, and Virtual Leadership Camp, Online months. You may also read about our experience for students. building a portfolio. Summer Conditioning Program and plans for the fall term. For all the details about working, The fun and intensive workshops, Lifesaving Society Certifications. studying and visiting Carleton taught by instructors from the Azrieli Find out more at athletics.carleton. Preparing for the fall now and into the fall term, visit the School of Architecture & Urbanism, ca/camps/online-youth-programs. Carleton University is preparing for COVID-19 website at newsroom. will introduce students to the creative a fall that will be mostly online and carleton.ca/coronavirus-covid-19. and collaborative culture of design Senior Ravens fitness free in July we have already guaranteed to our studio. Athletics is pleased to offer two incoming students that all first-year New students • LAB 101 – July 6 – July 10: free 60-minute land classes that courses will be online. We are also Carleton University invites all Emphasis on scale, drawing includes a thorough warm-up and putting everything in place to support new students and their families to techniques, domestic space, stretch, cardiovascular activity, all- student success in these exceptional visit us online in preparation for physical model important strengthening exercises circumstances. For example, we the fall semester. Get to know the • LAB 102 – July 13 – 17: and a relaxing cool-down. The aim can assure all students that Carleton Carleton community by learning Emphasis on digital drawing: of this class is to build and maintain will provide: Outstanding online more about online learning options, Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign physical functionality safely and courses from award-winning faculty expanded virtual resources, and by • LAB 103 – July 20 – 24: enjoyably. Find out more at athletics. and instructors; Quality online hearing directly from staff, faculty Emphasis on abstraction, carleton.ca/fitness/senior-ravens. academic advising; Easy-to-access and current Carleton students through architectural thinking, urban virtual mental health counselling live webinars and recordings! You space, portfolio preparation Carleton Corner is written by and support; Online peer-to-peer can experience Carleton virtually Carleton University’s Department mentorship programs; Creative and connect with the Undergraduate For information, visit carleton. of University Communications. As virtual social spaces and activities for Recruitment Office from the comfort ca/architecture/programs/imagine- your community university, Carleton students to help combat isolation; and and safety of your home. Please visit architecture. has many exciting events of interest an inclusive learning environment us at admissions.carleton.ca/carleton- to Old Ottawa South. For more that can be accessed from anywhere university-virtual-experience. Athletics summer programs information about upcoming events, in the world. Ravens Online Youth Programs: please go to carleton.ca/events. Carleton is also working closely Architecture’s high school summer These programs are online for the with Ottawa Public Health to adapt program summer beginning July 6! Focused its spaces in residence and ensure Imagine Architecture is an online on youth ages 13 to 16, the following
MUSIC
By Roland Graham, I’m pleased to announce details of traditional, pre-COVID-19 in-person Summer Choral Founding Director the forthcoming Summer Choral choir rehearsals, and will develop Workshop for amateur choral singers listening, breathing, and singing- Workshop 2020 seeking to make music together and in-harmony skills at the core of live develop musical skills. ensemble music making. The innovative six-week course has Group sessions will be streamed been specially developed to support to Facebook, but the format will people in sustaining artistic activity favour participants physically in light of COVID-19, employing present. People watching remotely a mix of private vocal coaching, will be able to follow the teaching, small-group rehearsal sessions – with participate in the warm-ups, and sing adequate social distancing – and along with the music played and live-streamed interactive rehearsal rehearsed. sessions online. As a final component, private The goals for the workshop are vocal coachings (with only two to promote a sense of community people present, the participant and through group music making, teach the instructor), will be offered in two inspiring pieces of choral music, offer formats: 1) as a pair of entrance/exit a safe place to meet for people keen sessions that will help participants to resume singing in small groups, identify specific areas of musical increase participants’ confidence development most needed at the using the internet as a medium outset of the course and to measure for interaction; and make artwork progress and make recommendations together exploring emerging forms of for future work at the end; and 2) virtual collaboration. as individual private voice lessons The course will entail six online organized at participants’ individual workshop sessions, streamed through request to support them in achieving the platform of Facebook, and the goals of the course. accessible to anyone with Internet The Summer Choral Workshop access. Having a Facebook account repertoire will be set based upon is not necessary, but it does make final enrollment numbers and balance participation smoother. Online of voices. Favoured selections workshop sessions will include vocal include Palestrina’s Sicut Cervus, warm-ups, remote group singing, Fauré’s Cantique de Jean Racine, guided study of workshop repertoire, Abendfeier in Venedig by Clara explanation and demonstration of Schumann and contemporary works the virtual performance process, by Laura Hawley and myself, Roland and group interaction through live Graham. chatting, among other areas of focus. Contact OttawaChoralWorkshops@ Optional small group in-person gmail.com or call 613-421-6352 to sessions will be held in the Sanctuary obtain workshop particulars. I hope of Southminster United Church, to hear from you. taking advantage of the vast space to support physical distancing. Small group sessions will feel much like The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 31
HEALTH AND WELLNESS Preventing the pandemic pounds – staying fit from home By Brad Lafortune, PT Cardiovascular can use your own body weight as It can be difficult to put ourselves Thankfully, the nicer weather resistance to exercise your muscle in the right mood and find the drive Exercising and staying fit during has come and is on our side groups. The Internet is filled with without the right atmosphere. If a pandemic can be a challenge. when it comes to working on our easy to follow at-home exercise you can, try setting up a space or Exercise can not only keep you cardiovascular health. Go for a walk routines using free weights, an environment dedicated to your physically healthy, but can also or jog through the neighbourhood resistance bands, and your body workouts. Get your equipment improve our mental health. and enjoy the sun, take a nice long weight. together in one space and put on an Unfortunately, many of us rely on bike ride, or go for a hike in one energizing playlist. If you’re trying services like gyms, yoga studios, of the many open NCC trails. Of Yoga yoga, light some candles and dim spin classes, and organized sports course, respect social distancing Yoga is an equipment-free exercise the lights to set the ambiance. Make to incorporate exercise into our while outside and around others and that can be done just about anywhere. it a routine, set yourself some goals, schedule. With most of these services stay home if you’re experiencing any At home or in a park, put on some and stay accountable to them. Make shut down for the time being or symptoms or not feeling well. stretchy clothes, grab a mat, and the most of this time at home while facing major changes once reopened, you’re all set. YouTube is full of staying active and enjoying our many are looking closer to home for Weight training tutorials of various difficulties neighbourhood. ways to stay active. If you’re one of the lucky people to ranging from yoga for beginners, There are a number of benefits to have an in-home gym, you’re all set! to yoga focused on stretching or Brad Lafortune is the owner and working out at home like no travel Unfortunately that is not the reality balance, and finally power yoga a physiotherapist at Function time and being able to watch your for most, but that shouldn’t stop for the challenge seekers. Some Physiotherapy located at 1185 Bank favourite TV show or blasting your you! Using simple and inexpensive local studios are also offering free Street. best tunes while breaking a sweat. free weights or resistance bands classes via Instagram, YouTube, and Thanks to the Internet and the free can provide you with an abundance Facebook. amenities just outside our doors, of workout options to keep your there are plenty of options for staying muscles strong. Don’t have access For many the most difficult part of active close to home. to those either? No worries! You staying fit from home is motivation.
Nordic walking a perfect activity during the COVID-19 pandemic By Susan Yungblut, PT lower body joints (back, hips, Early summer is the perfect time to knees, feet)? learn. Join me to find out why people COVID-19 has required everyone to • An athlete recovering from a walking with poles usually wear a make adjustments and sacrifices for lower body, spine, or shoulder big smile and why they plan to keep the health of our communities. While injury looking for a way to keep on Nordic walking as long as their progress has been made, significant up your cardio and upper body spirits urge them to move. challenges remain, which means we strength? Contact me at susan.yungblut@ all need to pay close attention to our • A person who loves walking rogers.com to arrange an self-care and that of our loved ones. outdoors but wants to get a little affordable private, semi-private Physical distancing is key. So too more oomph from your efforts? (if both participants live in the is mental health self-care including Maybe a bit more cardio impact, same household) lesson in our exercise; compelling research shows reduced strain on your hips/knees neighbourhood or to learn about exercise is essential to mental health. or better postural support? other local instruction opportunities. Nordic walking with poles is an • Someone who wants to start a For more information, please visit: excellent way to enjoy fresh air and walking program but needs to Ottawanordicwalks.ca exercise while maintaining safe build more confidence? Perhaps physical distancing. you desire more stability and need Susan Yungblut is a physiotherapist If you are missing your regular a bit more practical information? and avid Nordic walker and has gym, fitness classes or other exercise enjoyed living in OOS with her activities, you may be interested Most days, I could probably family for over 18 years. She serves to learn that, compared to walking identify with any one of these as secretary for the OTLBC Board of Susan Yungblut Nordic walking. without poles, Nordic walking scenarios. But above all, I Nordic Directors. PHOTO FROM THE CITY OF OTTAWA provides a better cardiovascular walk for the same reasons I do most workout, strengthens the upper body more. things: fun, fitness, friends, and fresh (core, triceps, lat muscles), burns There are different poles and air. more calories, improves upper body different techniques for people with bone health, and improves posture fitness vs rehabilitation needs. It’s all while reducing impact on your easy to learn but knowledgeable low back, hips, knees, ankles and instruction is key. Like any activity, Up to 60% off! feet. It’s a fun, safe, outdoor all-in- poor technique won’t bring the same one activity. And you can go as far benefits and may cause injury. The Summer Sale is on! or as fast as you like to create your I personally discovered Nordic personalized workout. walking 5 years ago and haven’t We’re open! and respecting social You may also be missing visits looked back. I incorporate it into distancing with new protocols in place for everyone’s safety. to your favourite physiotherapist. my varied fitness regime alongside We’ll be very happy to see you. Again, you may be interested to running, tennis, skiing, yoga… My hope is that the numerous therapeutic learn that Nordic walking is both Follow us on Facebook and Instagram fitness and therapy. I integrate Nordic benefits of Nordic walking will to see what’s new. walking, where indicated, within my enable me to enjoy the activities I professional physiotherapy patient love for many years to come. Happy summer! care. People with a broad range of So, if you recognize yourself in any diagnoses have benefitted including: of the following scenarios, Nordic chronic low back pain, Achilles walking may be for you: tendinitis, frozen shoulder or rotator • A runner looking for a cross Cochrane Photography Cochrane cuff pain, hip and knee arthritis, training activity that provides osteoporosis, multiple sclerosis and good cardio while sparing your Open 11:00 - 4:00 • 1136 Bank Street, Ottawa ON K1S 3X6 • 613-730-9039 • theclothessecret.com Page 32 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
TASTY TIDBITS FROM TRILLIUM BAKERY Discoveries and gifted moments in a time of fear and lockdown By Jocelyn LeRoy More importantly on a broader get back to my car. walking beside thousands. She spectrum, a huge shift in became so inspired being there with Here we are, most of us struggling consciousness – long overdue – is May her son after weeks of confinement. to keep business going, in isolation, happening. There are demands for Sat by the parkway on a recently She confided in me a personal some of us working from home or change, and a turning of tragedies sawed off stump. Did traffic count. moment, being a naturally born without a job. We are worrying how into purpose. Twenty empty buses, 106 bikes, 14 fashionista, that she had a fleeting it will all turn out, and when. The protests spreading all over the cars, 35 motor bikes, 20 joggers, in thought that kneeling on the street Our eyes are on the world and world in unprecedented numbers are 45 minutes. would ruin her carefully chosen COVID-19. We ask what the evolving into a movement which “look.” White shoes, pristine white real hope is for our future; for cannot, will not be ignored. Time’s May pants, and a black top. And she was divisiveness and injustices to be up. We are finally paying attention The snowbirds flew directly over surprised to notice that there were ended, for respect and connectedness and hope is springing. Will people me while walking in Hampton Park. more white people there than black to triumph. finally learn “to walk in another’s and brown. She was deeply moved A paper surfaced on my desk, shoes” and come to realize we are all May on this day. When parting, her son something I had written long before equally human, no more, no less, and Went imaginary shopping with blew her a six-foot kiss, their arms COVID-19 caused my sudden connected? granddaughter Rowan in Guelph. outstretched towards each other. She retirement. I’ve been keeping a little On the phone, while she picked said, “Mom, this was one of my best “In case I worry about not having COVID-19 journal since April. Not all the groceries for the week in days ever.” a purpose when I retire and possibly what you’d think. The only things I her favourite organic co-op store. becoming a victim of at least one jot down on most days are the weird Not expensive! She read me all of Gratitude ‘ism’. I am going to write exactly and wonderful little moments that the bread labels and prices, and Trillium Bakery is hugely what this worry encompasses. I wasn’t anticipating. Kindness, then we walked home together and appreciative of our customers who Not being taken seriously, ignored serendipity, something funny, or unwrapped the groceries. I’m grateful keep coming to support us with even. All the life adventures, unexpectedly inspiring. These she so cheerfully endured a crick in their orders and kind words. And for accomplishments, lessons, highs and jottings may appear superficial. But the neck carrying the groceries so Shannon and Iain, who have taken lows, challenges and education along they all give me pause and remind far while talking on the phone to her care to keep us all safe and who show the road. No longer relevant. Voice me of one of my best teachers’ wise Nana. Priceless. up every shift and do their best. They of experience? Perhaps even some sayings, “Say little; love much; give would like to thank you customers acquired wisdom?” all; judge no man; aspire to all that is May as well for your good conversation One thing I can control is I can pure and good – and keep on keeping Obama gave the best grad speech and positivity. I am grateful also for make sure my interactions are on.” That is said by White Eagle. to all of America’s students. No Mike’s unceasing care for the bakery, positive, loving, and uplifting, notes. Telling them they will figure it day in and out no matter what. I miss possibly inspiring or, at least helpful. April all out, and be our hope for a better all of you. My hope was in writing that I would After a long walk in a big forest, future. Agreed. (And good news! Alicia made be able to give pause, and make my legs were packing it in, I it home safely from New Zealand others feel good or better somehow, wondered how I’d get back to my May 26 Anniversary where she was locked down for over retired or not, whatever age. car. Uh oh, there’s an ice field ahead, Celebrated at six feet apart – picnic 2 months!) The upshot is, I am suddenly I’m in trouble now. I’m wishing a in the garden of the place where my retired like thousands of others, big hunk of a fireman would rescue husband got trapped in lockdown Jocelyn LeRoy is the owner/manager having more spare time. Locked me, toss me over his shoulder in while convalescing. Bare trees and of Trillium Bakery in Old Ottawa down by my caring kids who kindly the undignified fireman’s lift – my one lonely robin shared our semi South since 1980. bring me groceries, plants for my walking poles dangling and things private space. Weird. garden and little surprises to my door. falling out of my pockets. I painfully Life has changed, and the world is plod onwards. June reeling on so many levels. Suddenly out of nowhere a big Watched with fascination the On a lighter note, I am trying to hunk of a man appears with a perky demolition of a house across the master a few things I’ve never been little dog, not a fireman. “Can I offer street – birds eye view. 1.5 hours good at – procrastination, ironing, you an arm?” he asks me. We both to take it down in large chunks by and doing a lot less. Not taking on decide that the ice is too slippery enormous Hy-Hoe excavator, then it every challenge, cause, inspiration, or for the two of us, so I navigate the was clawed, minced up and trucked finishing everything right down to the branches and dodge the ‘twigs in away. Poof. A family home, history, last cookie. It’s not going very well, the eye’ along the edge. Hoping the gone. but the days I manage to do less are mud wouldn’t sink my boots. This increasing and opening up space for gentleman told me his dog had the June 11 new possibilities in consciousness, best day ever. Treed a raccoon. His Watching US protests on TV for in and outside of the mind. And the happy dog tale and kindness while many days, then Ottawa. My brown ironing got duly procrastinated, then waiting to see I emerged safely from skinned daughter and adult grandson done. the forest, gave me the fortitude to were there, six feet apart masked,
Dr. Pierre Isabelle RECIPE Dr MDar.t hi Petue rT Kreimmblay Rhubarb compote
GLEBE DENTAL CENTRE • Try to obtain young rhubarb stalks, bright red, and not tough.
FIFTH AVENUE COURT-EVENING APPOINTMENTS • Wash stalks and chop into one inch pieces. OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY • Barely cover with water in saucepan, simmer till tender.
new elevator access at 841 Bank St. • Taste before adding sugar. You may need hardly any. Add a little, and stairs on 4th and 5th Ave. gradually, and stir. • Optional – grated fresh ginger 1 ½ inch nub or a teaspoon of orange zest, For appointments call 613-234-6405 or add sliced strawberries. • Lovely over yoghurt, on toast, strawberry, vanilla ice cream, or oatmeal.
The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 33
POETRY Poetry and the world By Mary Lee Bragg Fraternidad. The YouTube video repeated four times, each time of Afonso singing Grandola vila to a different tune. (The form Wishful Anyone who has travelled to Morena (just search for “Jose is almost certainly why modern Portugal or spent time with Afonso Grândola vila Morena”) demonstrators get the lyrics This poem wants to be played on the radio Portuguese people has heard fado shows bell-bottomed young muddled when they link arms to announce the start of the uprising. – the guitar, the long melodic men with ferocious sideburns and try to sing it.) lines, the half sob of songs full embracing sailors, and young I first heard Grandola vila It wants people to link arms in the street of saudade. Fado is defined women with short skirts and long Morena when my son lived in and sing it, teary-eyed. by saudade, a nostalgia that hair giving them flowers. Portugal for two years. I loved goes beyond a sense of loss to Crowds sang Grandola vila it, and wondered why Canada This poem wants to believe in celebrate how irrevocably short Morena as the military pushed had nothing like it. Our closest is fraternity and equality but and broken our lives are. the fascist government out and possibly Un Canadien errant, but knows it can hardly say the words Zeca Afonso is recognized as started Portugal on the long regardless of its lovely melody without a smirk. one of the country’s great fado road to democratic government, that song doesn’t quite cut it. artists, but his most famous song in what became known as the For one thing, it’s about an exile It doesn’t admire skeptics. has escaped the form and become Carnation Revolution. sending his dying breath and a national anthem. Why this song? “mon regard languisant” toward Because it doesn’t admire skeptics, On April 25, 1974, Afonso’s Both its content and its form his native Canada. No oaths, this poem tries not to smirk song Grandola vila Morena lend themselves to popular equality or fraternity here. when it says the words played on the radio in Lisbon. uprising. Grandola vila Morena So, I wrote my tribute to fraternity and equality. With another song (Paulo de tells of fraternity among the Portugal, the poem Wishful. Carvalho’s E Depois do Adeus) people of the town of Grandola It wants to believe, but knows this signalled the beginning in the Alentejo region. Its Mary Lee Bragg lives in Old eyes will not tear up of a military coup against the vocabulary, intelligible even to Ottawa South. Her recent poetry as people link arms to sing it authoritarian government which an Anglophone non-speaker of collection, The Landscape in the street. had ruled Portugal since the Portuguese, includes friends, That Isn’t There, is available at 1930s. oaths and equality. The song is local independent bookstores, It will not announce the start of the uprising The people of Lisbon listening also easy to sing: each quatrain including Haven Books at when it is played on the radio. to their radios recognized the call is followed by one that repeats Sunnyside and Seneca. to insurgency. Thousands poured the same lines in reverse order, (From The Landscape That Isn’t There, into the streets, carrying banners and the second verse repeats Mary Lee Bragg, Aeolus House Press, calling for Libertidad and two lines of the first. The line 2019) “terra da fraternidade” ends up
Hopewell PS locker clean out
Our office is here for you with: Monthly Town Halls Canvasses Community Organizing Help Accessing Government Services (such as housing, ODSP/OW, healthcare, OSAP etc.) And more!
P: 613-722-6414 109 Catherine St. / rue Catherine E: [email protected] MPP / Député provincial, Ottawa, ON K2P 0P4 Ottawa Centre www.joelharden.ca
Hopewell Public School parent Kate Jaimet picks up her daughter’s locker items. With the school closed since March due to the pandemic, and the school year ending, parents picked up their children’s bagged items from a table outside the school. PHOTO BY BRENDAN MCCOY Page 34 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
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CLASSY ADS CLASSY ADS are free for Old Ottawa South residents (except for businesses or for business activity) and must be submitted by email to [email protected]. The editor retains the right to edit or exclude submissions. The OSCAR takes no responsibility for items, services or accuracy.
For Rent For Sale
For Rent: Gorgeous Basement Apartment, centre of OOS. Separate entrance past For Sale. Dining room table with three leaves and six chairs, china a lovely garden: living room, kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, storage unit (cold) and cabinet with glass doors, and buffet for sale. Dark wood with brass spare room - bedroom or office. Fully legal. Second window exit and washer/dryer. hardware. In good condition. Please see craigslist ad ID 7112500957 All utilities, including Internet and a shared driveway for off-street parking. $1050 all for photos. Asking $600 obo. Email [email protected] included. Contact: [email protected] ------For Rent: We are looking for responsible tenants for our furnished (or unfurnished) 4-bedroom house in OOS while were are away on sabbatical for one year, as of early August. Please call 613-415-0035.
AROUND TOWN Free online seminars for seniors at the OPL. How can we help seniors Unsafe at Home Ottawa. Unsafe at Home Ottawa is text and online chat prevent a fall, maintain their independence, and avoid a hospital visit? tool allows victims and survivors of domestic violence and abuse to get help Amanda Sterczyk, an independent author and personal trainer, will teach and support. The service was created for those who may find it impossible to participants about the balance “sweet spot,” the complexity of our balance reach out by calling a crisis line when trapped at home with their abuser due system, and how easy it is to incorporate exercise into their daily lives to to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and physical distancing measures. Text improve their balance and prevent falls. Amanda’s talk on July 10 will be and online chat service is available 7 days a week from 8:30 am to midnight. followed by her series of Seniors Fitness Online workouts on July 17, 24 and Safe, encrypted technology ensures conversations are confidential and secure. 31, all at 10 am. Register for the free talk and workouts at the OPL website Trained counsellors provide advice, referrals and support in English and biblioottawalibrary.ca/en/how-can-seniors-prevent-fall French. Text 613-704-5535 Chat online unsafeathomeottawa.ca
Kids’Help Phone. For those that may be looking for ways to help out and La Leche League Canada has a group in OOS. Are you breastfeeding/ volunteer with the current situation, while staying at home, the Kids’ Help chestfeeding your baby? Are you pregnant and planning to breastfeed? A La Phone is in desperate need of volunteers to man its texting service. This is a Leche League meeting is a relaxed, supportive and non-judgmental place vital resource for youth at anytime, but vulnerable youth are at heightened where you can meet other parents, learn about nursing your baby and ask risk of seriously worsening mental health at this time. They have also questions. Meetings every second Tuesday of the month from 7:00 to 8:30 pm extended their services to youth over 25 years old who are former youth in at 36 Glen Ave. Next planned meeting, possibly on Zoom, is July 14th. For care (of our child welfare system) and are particularly vulnerable to social more information call 613-238-5919 or go to www.lllc.ca isolation. Please consider volunteering. You don’t need any experience and only have to commit to four hours per week. Go to kidshelpphone.ca and CARP Ottawa’s goal is to strengthen Ontario’s Long-term Care Home click on “Get Involved.” system through a transformative culture change. The government has announced that an independent commission will be set up to review Ontario’s Support the United Way. Ottawa Public Health asked the United Way long-term care home system and propose improvements. CARP Ottawa has to help support the social needs of Ottawa residents while we deal with submitted a request to be involved in the Commission and has recommended COVID-19. The United Way has identified the following needs, while a transformative culture change for long-term care homes. A transformative anticipating they will continue to grow: help for seniors, basic needs, capacity culture change includes: a relationship-based approach to care; person and for community services, mental health support: support for volunteers. If you family-centred care; small home-like environments; higher staff to resident would wish to volunteer, donate to support this work, or if require assistance ratios; full time staff who are well-trained in empathy and culture change; and from the United Way, please visit their website: unitedwayeocovid19.ca an environment where residents, staff and families feel a part of a community. Support this grass-roots movement and get involved. Interested? Email: [email protected] The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 35
The Lansdowne Farmers’ Market – in the throes of survival once more are keeping the operation of the food, lost labour wages, etc.) are Market (in an open-air location) borne by our local farmers. on a pick-up-at-the-curb basis. Adding insult to injury, the City Ironically, if the Farmers’ Market staff’s tough “curbside delivery were operating on private land – like only” position means Andy and his the Kanata Farmers’ Market – they fellow farmers have to deal with would have been operating much like new sets of problems, such as time in previous years, albeit with more lost to processing and packaging rigorous queue management. orders, and managing delivery An additional challenge is that time slots for each online order. farmers in Ontario, much like in Andy tells me that online orders the rest of Canada, rely on seasonal for farm products are by nature temporary foreign workers to help fraught with miscommunication and them with labour-intensive farm misunderstanding. It’s equally lost work. Andy Terauds’ farm has been on City staff and our local politicians sponsoring three workers from St. that, as customers of fresh farm Lucia (a Caribbean Island) regularly. products, our interactions with local Due to the current epidemic, farmers are substantially different everything from obtaining visas to from those with supermarkets. We making travel arrangements from the do not purchase farm produce the Caribbean has been badly delayed. same way we purchase goods in The workers are not allowed on supermarkets. Customers who pre-ordered, and prepaid, for their produce online take turn commercial planes, buses, etc. As I In the meantime, City Council just to pick their packages in specified time slots at the Lansdowne Farmers’ write, arrangements are being made approved an extravagant expansion Market on May 31. PHOTO BY ALI RAMEZANI By Ali Ramezani return to an awkward location where it would operate for the next five The life of a farmer is one of hard years, with parking costs (not to physical and emotional labour in mention parking space) factored in the face of unpredictable forces of for customers as well as vendors. nature. Their battle against variable Amidst complaints from the farmers, weather and hitherto unknown pests City staff came up with a brilliant is legendary. Yet few of us, urban idea. Farmers were to load and dwellers who appreciate and seek unload their produce at Lansdowne, fresh local produce in our urban take their trucks to South Keys Mall farmers’ markets, are aware of the several kilometres away, and travel to extent to which City staff and our and from the Market by bus. local politicians can cause grief for Fast forward to the 2020 market our local farmers. season. Post-COVID-19 uncertainties When I last reported on the have thrown a new wrench into the Lansdowne Farmer’s Market for lives of our local farmers. Andy the Glebe Report in 2015, the Terauds, a principal founding market – merely nine years after its member of the Lansdowne Farmers’ establishment – had just reopened. In Market, told me that he has met with 2013, they had been forced to leave Ottawa Public Health staff and that Lansdowne for two years as a result they approved his safety and hygiene of Lansdowne’s redevelopment. plan for reopening the Market. The between the various administrations of Ottawa’s urban boundary, meaning During those two years, the Farmers’ Market would have rearranged its of the islands to agree on the more farmland will be lost to Market successfully thrived in an layout and put in place crowd and provision of a joint charter plane development. Are these two policies alternative location at Brewer Park in queue management plans. to transport seasonal workers to – alienating and impoverishing local Old Ottawa South, where an entirely However, this was not good various airports in Canada. Andy farmers and changing farming zones new customer base had embraced enough for the City staff with whom does not expect to see his workers to favour big developers – a mere it, and where there was plenty of Andy has met several times so far. until the end of June. This means coincidence? parking space for everyone – the They are the very same City staff, by much of the initial farm work has to vendors as well as clients who came the way, that the City, less than a year be done using volunteer help until Ali Ramezani is a social policy from other neighbourhoods farther ago, was planning to throw under the the seasonal workers arrive and have analyst, mediator, and member of away. The Market was contemplating bus in the process of handing over completed their two-week quarantine. two GCA committees. The views staying there for good. That was not the entire park to OSEG for free. Needless to say, the additional costs expressed here are his own. to be. While all grocery, supermarkets associated with quarantine (lodging, The City forced the Market to and vegetable and fruit stores have been allowed to reopen, City staff Page 36 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
THE CREATIVE CURRENT To make a great creative concoction you need... to experiment, tweak it, play with it, repeat it or discard it. It is a way of really engaging with your work in a deeply satisfying way that encourages future creative exploration. Bess Fraser is an Old Ottawa East resident who feels deeply about people and the world around her, and she channels this intensity into her paintings. Bess paints her visual responses to contemporary issues she paint them.” hears on the radio, from social media Creative sources are in our and what comes up in conversations fridge, our memories, and on the with friends. In the past her paintings news. For creatives, tapping into were visual expressions of her those wellsprings that speak to us, feelings regarding pollution and and working with them toward global warming. These paintings often an expressive outcome present portrayed wildlife in precarious or our greatest gifts and our biggest awkward backgrounds and landscapes. challenges. It is always worth the time, Recently she has been painting a effort and energy we put towards our series of portraits of strong Canadian creative endeavours. And we can chart women. In this “Women Study Series,” our process by asking questions. What she is also interested in expanding the worked before? What can I try this paintings to include her “best women time? How can I best manifest what friends.” Bess explains,” [they] are I want this piece/project to become? mostly teachers or caregivers.” She In the doing and the questioning wants to memorialize them in paint Painting by Bess Fraser from Bison series. comes a richness that is priceless. And “to recognize how strong they are and sometimes it starts with ice cream By Vanessa Coplan This is what made the look of it, the amazing accomplishments they the making of it, and the experience have achieved.” She speaks on the Vanessa Coplan is an artist, art background to her current work in the My Grandpa (Papa) was a dental of eating it, unique. The tastes and teacher, creative coach and a resident following way: “For a long time I have technician and always talked about the elements lived distinctly from each of OOS. been thinking about painting women, importance of good teeth. He’d always other while inhabiting the same space. many of my women friends are my look at mine and say, “yep, you’ll have Looking back I can’t help but heroes – it was a slew of reasons those for life” (said with thick Polish wonder... What if we had tried vanilla that I wanted to do the women’s accent). He also believed that drinking scoops of ice cream in chocolate milk? portraits, the Me Too Movement has lots of milk was what kept those pearly Or strawberry ice cream in regular been remarkable to move many long whites in great shape. And he included milk? In my mind, the possibilities are standing covered up crimes mostly ice cream in the category of milk. truly limitless, in Papa’s, not so much. against women. Me Too has helped One of my favourite memories Would the concoctions still have been make a cultural shift where women involves sitting on his big long sofa delicious if they had these different are able to say out loud crimes that when I was little waiting while he flavours? Perhaps different rations of they have suffered, now with more prepared our ‘concoctions’ in the ice cream to milk? Probably. But they recognition hopefully where some of kitchen, I couldn’t see him but I could wouldn’t have been Papa’s. the past wrongs are being addressed hear the clattering of tall spoon against To each his own. Satisfying creative and hopefully where some people will cool tall glass. Amidst that tinkling work is always about engaging what behave differently. I Finally started was born the most delicious treat; a most interests you. And with that painting the series when a successful glass of cold 2% milk with dollops often comes doing it ‘your way.’ This movie executive went on trial for his of chocolate ice cream loaded up the personal stamp or signature style is crimes against many women in the film middle. Absolutely no mixing allowed. often incorporated into the creative act. industry.” Bess’ creative recipe goes This was not a milkshake it was a ‘Unpacking’ one’s creative process; like this, “I hear about [these] issues, concoction. Cold milk kept separate following one’s thought, materials, Painting from Women Studies series, worry about them, digest them, learn from the balls of ice cream, and eaten and application to the finished work by Bess Fraser. about them and as a result sometimes spooned together in one mouthful. is a great way to hone one’s skills,
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Missing queens, fraudulent honey, and other beekeeping woes many hives throughout West Quebec. This parasite, which at first doesn’t sound so bad, (it is “small” after all) spoils honey through its excrement. Quebec was previously considered to be free of this pest, but now it’s a race against the clock to find all of the colonies that came through this supplier and try to contain this issue. Yikes. And yuck – their particular form of destruction apparently creates quite the mess to clean up.
Giant Asian Hornets In case you missed it – Giant Asian Hornets have made it to North America. According to Wikipedia, the Washington State Department of Agriculture has launched a ‘full-scale hunt’ for these large wasps who are intensely predatory towards bees and other large insects. My hope is that they have trouble surviving in our climate. My worry is that they won’t.
Checking a flow frame. PHOTO BY MICHAELA TOKARSKI Missing queens One of my queens is missing and is now presumed dead. So that’s not By Michaela Tokarski Why does this worry me? frequently, back to the beekeepers’ Beekeeping is tough. It is own areas to help the colonies good. expensive to get into, and it recover. I am a worrier. Even in ‘normal’ Worried too? Here’s what you can times. And the coronavirus has involves a lot of physical work. Not Bringing almost all of our honey to mention most beekeepers are bees into close proximity and then do: certainly added to the list of worries • Read/Learn/Talk to a beekeeper: that I carry with me each day. So regularly stung! (Sidebar, I saw an taking them back to their homes ad looking for beekeeping staff that seems to be an excellent way to The more you know about what have my bees. is going on in the worlds of I started keeping bees on a farm advertised that they would regularly spread disease and pests. be stung 50-100 times per night). In Canada, many commercial beekeeping and agriculture, the outside of the city last year. I started more you can help influence with 2 colonies and it has been With all of that in mind, competing operators take their hives out East to with people who are cheating makes pollinate blueberries, so we are not policy-makers and choose an adventure filled with so much government who understand the learning, so many interesting people, it really hard to make a living. immune to this issue here. You likely wouldn’t be able to complex issues and inter-relations and so much joy, that on the one in our ecosystems. hand, I would highly recommend tell that the honey you bought Small Hive Beetle & backyard it. On the other, it has brought me was altered (it likely tastes just beekeeping as sweet), but this false honey As more people read about the • Pollinator garden/Save your additional worries. dandelions: Help pollinators So. Many. Bee. Worries. likely doesn’t have the same Australian Flow Hive (as I did), properties as pure honey. ‘The and become interested in the idea of directly by planting a pollinator- attributes of honey depend upon the backyard beekeeping (as I did), more friendly garden. Pay special Fraudulent honey attention to adding flowers that Research was recently presented completed interactions of botanical people are hosting 1 or 2 hives in and zoological life’ (Phipps, R. their backyards in the city. bloom very early in spring. This at Apimondia (the world honey is controversial maybe, but the bee conference) by Federico Beron HiveLights, Spring 2020). I’m not super worried about those Without honey as a revenue stream, bees stinging people, although after dandelions on your lawn can that up to 1/3 of retail honey shows really help, so leave them be. indications of adulterations. ‘In July beekeepers may not be able to seeing how big my first 2 colonies continue keeping bees. It’s what pays got, there is no way I would want that 2019, the Canadian government • Insecticide use: Take great care released a report showing the 22% (some of) the bills. many bees in my back yard! What I am worried about is people in the use of any insecticides. of 244 honey samples from retail, Especially if your neighbours wholesale and bulk stocks were Biosecurity & mass pollination keeping bees who aren’t monitoring About 1.7 million colonies are and dealing with threats to the colony keep bees. Use them at night adulterated’ (Phipps, R. HiveLights, when the bees are in their homes Spring 2020). brought into California from around appropriately. The pests that Ontario the United States (Radimer, C. beekeepers worry about (varroa sleeping. And if you’re using in Canadian beekeepers are not the any great quantity, tell any nearby issue – 100% of Canadian samples Ontario Bee Journal Mar/Apr 2020) mites and tracheal mites being the each year for the month of February most concerning) can travel several beekeepers as there are ways they tested by the Canadian government can keep their bees inside while were real, genuine honey. to mass pollinate the almond groves. kilometres and move from hive to That represents about 2/3 of the bee hive, decimating each as they go. the insecticide does the job you But, samples tested using Nuclear need done. Magnetic Resonance (NMR) testing population in the US (McGivney A. Often, because these mites are small, and Carbon Isotope testing proved The Guardian Jan 2020). if a beekeeper isn’t actively looking Beekeepers who move their for them, they might miss the fact Bumblebeewatch.org: Love to that other honey which is sold in our take pictures? The good folks at stores has been altered – even though colonies around like this can garner that their colony is badly infected a somewhat lucrative additional until it’s too late and the colony Bumblebeewatch.org would love to it is labeled as honey. see them. Of bumble bees of course. How? Well, in some cases, revenue stream to help pay the rest collapses. At that point, the mites inexpensive sweeteners like beet, of their bills. They can make up to travel to the next apiary. If that’s a $200USD per colony. commercial apiary, and enough mites Buy Canadian honey. Odds are that rice, sugar, cane, and corn were it actually is real honey. used as fillers. In others, a new But then the bees need to be move at once, then that operation can ‘technology’ that bypasses having the moved because in our mono-cultural be wiped out as well. agricultural system, there is nothing Adding to the list of pests to worry Michaela Tokarski is an OOS bees actually finish off the honey was resident, mom, entrepreneur and used. left in those acres and acres of about, it seems that in May, in Carp almond groves for them to eat. So the Ontario, Small Hive Beetle has been beekeeper. beekeepers move them on to the next found. It also seems that it came from crop that needs pollination or, more a supplier who may have supplied Page 38 The OSCAR l July-August 2020
TRAVEL plans to travel to a little-known but Irish Decameron fascinating outpost of Irish culture. Shortly after it was founded in 1607, the college became renowned for scholarship, most particularly the Annals of the Four Masters, a compendium of early Irish history that has framed how we think of the Gaelic and medieval past. Today the Irish College Leuven continues the tradition of scholarship and learning. The choir arrived to find they were sharing the facility with scholars attending an international symposium on, of all things, biochemistry. After settling in, the choir members headed out to find lunch, and enjoyed the ambiance of a sunny spring day in a university town. The streets, pubs and sidewalk cafes were buzzing with people – no thought back then of social distancing; just don’t shake hands! A small but discerning audience. PHOTOS BY DON CUMMER But apprehensions were rising The difference an announcement urged that people do not shake hands, quickly. That day, Thursday, March makes: Saturday in Leuven. 12, the WHO declared a pandemic. By Don Cummer do not touch the face, and do wash their hands. Social distancing wasn’t The following day, Leuven’s municipal government would order held the line against the German In autumn 2019, when Dublin’s yet a “thing,” and self-isolation was attack. For Canadians, this is holy something reported from China, the pubs and restaurants to shut down People’s College Choir was invited as of midnight. ground. by the Irish College Leuven in Italy and Spain. The World Health The following day, Sunday, the Organization did not yet think At the Irish College, the Belgium to headline its 2020 biochemistry symposium dispersed. choir flew home from an eerily quiet celebrations for St. Patrick’s Day, the the planet was in the midst of a Brussels airport. The Thursday of pandemic. What was the choir to do? choir members had never heard of Having already spent a day their arrival, the airport had been as coronavirus. As a precaution, some choir busy as the sidewalk cafes of Leuven. members did cancel their Belgian together in the close confines of an They certainly had by March 10, Aer Lingus flight, the Dublin and The departure day, Leuven’s streets 2020, the night of their final rehearsal trip. The majority, however, decided were empty, the shops, pubs and to go ahead with long-anticipated Brussels airports, a 45-minute bus in Dublin. By then, social protocols ride to Leuven, and a hotel reception restaurants closed. area, the choir decided that staying Still open, however, was the chapel together for the rest of the weekend of St. Anthony where lie the remains would not add significantly to the of Father Damien of Molokai, the risk they had already encountered. Belgian saint who dedicated his That evening’s St. Patrick’s concert life to helping the leper colony was cancelled, but for the choir, in Hawaii. The chapel provided a the show would go on. The choir somber place of reflection about the outnumbered the family members heroism of otherwise ordinary people and Leuven Centre officials who who commit themselves to a life of Organic Lettuce Organic Kale Red, Black or Green comprised what Musical Director service. Frozen Pies 9 Within a week of returning to Lemon Cream, Keylime, 9 Paul Walsh described wryly as “a 99 49 ea Dublin, it was the front-line medical ea ea Coconut Cream 830g small but discerning audience of 6 3 9 workers, the shop clerks, the postal invited guests.” A YouTube video shows the workers, and truck drivers who also audience joining in heartily for the provided examples of courage in concert’s final number: a sing-along difficult times. BBq Sauce version of “Molly Malone.” That Sunday morning, the Google Smokey Bold The Irish choir was far from feeds contained videos of revelry Classic, in the crowded Dublin pubs the & Rib 350ml home and, like the storytellers of Boccaccio’s Decameron, they passed night before. By the time the choir the time together, apart from the returned, the Irish bars had been Tuna Burger, Wild Simon 99 9 community. In the 14th century closed. In the following days, new Burger, Shrimp Burger 9 protocols for social distancing and 340g Reg $9.99 ea ea Italian classic, the plague exiles tell 8 3 stories. In Leuven following the self-isolation were introduced. Everyone settled in at home to wait Spread concert, the travelers gathered around Delivery a long table to sing songs and recite out COVID-19, and think back on is back in Store! poetry. They reprised the session a wonderful weekend of poetry and again the following night. song that managed to ride ahead of Saturday morning, they proceeded the wave of pandemic. with plans to tour the Flanders battlefields and the nearly-empty Don Cummer lives in Dublin and Old Ottawa South. An expanded Mochi Balls streets of Ypres. During the First Nutty Dips (9x30ml Ice cream balls) World War, battalions marched version of this piece, with photos Queso Style, Caramelized 49 49 Strawberry, Chocolate, through Ypres’ Menin Gate on their as well as hyperlinks to the choir’s Onion, Spicy Thai ea Green Tea, Vanilla ea 5 6 way to the trenches. The names of performances, can be found at www. 754 Bank Street soldiers with no known grave are doncummer.com/blog. (613) 232-9466 inscribed on the gate’s walls. Monday to Friday 8:00am - 10:00pm The tour also made a stop in St. Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm Sunday 9:00am - 8:00pm Julien where, at the Second Battle www.metroglebe.com of Ypres, the 1st Canadian division withstood the first gas attack, and The OSCAR l July-August 2020 Page 39
ROAD TRIPS Frontenac, Bon Echo and Algonquin Five nearby road trips – has been permitted since June 1. Under Phase 2 of the province’s re- opening plan, private campgrounds and other provincial park campsites in Eastern Ontario will be allowed to open as of June 12 (however, actual opening dates will vary). Advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Paddling on the Rideau River and King Street East to admire some of Rideau Canal the huge Victorian mansions that Parks Canada opened the canal to overlook the river. Brockville is boaters on June 1. There are many roughly an hour and 10 minutes from places to put a canoe or kayak in OOS. the water along the 202-kilometre route. For a day trip, you could try And finally, three notes: First, the quiet 12-kilometre route along things are very fluid these days and the Tay Canal, which connects conditions could change. Please Perth to the Rideau Canal via the call or check the website of any Upper Beveridges Lockstation. I destination you’re thinking about kayaked part of it last summer and visiting before heading out, to make it’s a lovely route for birdwatching, sure it is open. especially in the early morning. Second, restrooms are among the If you’d like to explore the river amenities that may not be open even closer to home, you can rent a kayak if adjacent facilities, such as hiking The Mer Bleue boardwalk. PHOTOS BY LAURA BYRNE PAQUET or stand-up paddleboard from Ottawa trails, are – so plan accordingly. SUP at 1314 Bank Street (next to Third, a much-expanded version of By Laura Byrne Paquet eyes open for plants not usually Chef’s Paradise). this article, with links, is available on seen elsewhere in Ottawa, such as my website at ottawaroadtrips.com. As Eastern Ontario slowly re-opens, Labrador tea and bog laurel. Biking in Brockville our possibilities for day tripping are Once you’ve checked out the The 3,000-kilometre Great Lakes OOS resident Laura Byrne starting to expand. If you’re looking boardwalk, leave time to explore Waterfront Trail runs right through Paquet offers tips and ideas for for a change of scene, here are five more than 20 kilometres of easy, Brockville along the St. Lawrence daytrips and weekend getaways at options to consider. largely flat trails through forests River. Tackle as much of it as you OttawaRoadTrips.com. All of them are outdoors, but don’t along the ridge surrounding the bog. like, or just take a leisurely ride along forget that social distancing rules still Mer Bleue is about a 25-minute apply. Stay two metres from other drive from Old Ottawa South, in the people, follow directional signs on southeast corner of the Greenbelt. hiking trails and elsewhere, wear a mask (especially indoors), and wash Port Elmsley Drive-in those hands! This classic outdoor movie theatre, partway between Smiths Falls and Mer Bleue Perth, is now open a few nights a A 1.2-kilometre boardwalk week. You must buy your tickets through a peat bog is the star online in advance. The theatre is a attraction in this National Capital little over an hour’s drive from OOS. Commission greenspace. Due to a quirk of geography, the bog Camping has a microclimate more typical Backcountry camping in several of subarctic regions. Keep your Ontario provincial parks – including
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