O•S•C•A•R© the Community Voice of Old Ottawa South Year 39 , No

The

O•S•C•A•R© The Community Voice of Old Ottawa South Year 39 , No. 5 The Ottawa South Community Association Review MAY 2011 Soul Matters – Retail, Not As Much

By William Burr are placed on various parts of the body to promote healing, like an he strip between Sunnyside and amethyst on the right side to cure Glen is losing another store, as headaches. It sells wish stones such as health and wellness shop Soul Chalcedony, whose label says that it’s T a “sacred stone of Native American Matters closes its store to focus on its services, which include massage Indians, promoting stability.” Within therapy, nutritional counselling, ceremonies, it “provides a pathway shamanic work, and life coaching. for receiving thought transmissions.” At the beginning of June, Soul It also “encourages ‘brotherhood’ of Matters will move two doors down all.” With regard to services, Soul Bank Street to share a space with Matters counts Reiki, a Japanese the women’s clinic Anna Belanger & spiritual practice where practitioners Associates. place their palms on specific spots on Three Little Monkeys, Sue Fay, owner of Soul Matters a person’s body to promote healing. Kaleidoscope Kids, Rowland Leather, And a clairvoyant, or medium, has come by once a week to provide Phase 2 and West Coast Video are work she enjoys most. passing through. “I came here for the consultations. businesses in that area that have all Fay is a personal life coach by ambiance. Not for the services and Fay said that she was surprised at shuttered or moved in recent years. trade but she finds that she’s spending not for the products,” she said. how many people in the community When Soul Matters opened three most of her time behind the counter. “It’s laid back. It’s relaxed, it’s welcomed her arrival to the and half years ago, owner Sue Fay “As a personal life coach, you have to simple.” neighbourhood, given the alternative envisioned a store centred around walk your talk,” she said. But Fay seemed relieved to be nature of some of her products and health services complemented by The colourful crystals, jewellery, closing the store. “It frees me,” she services. “From the moment I moved a small retail business of relevant and other items at Soul Matters are said. She’s been at Soul Matters seven in, people walked in this door saying healing products. These products laid out very carefully, and they frame days a week, and said that she felt the to me ‘Oh my God, we are so happy included crystals, wish stones, totems, the cash counter in a symmetrical, recession as well as the loss in traffic you’re here. This is amazing.’ And essential oils, and eco-friendly items aesthetically pleasing way. The words through the store with the closure of those people for the past three and such as veggie soy candles and tree- “Life is beautiful” and “Dream” adorn retailers around her. “Retail is very, half years have continued to come,” free greeting cards. But Fay has the walls in big, italic letters, and very challenging,” she said. Fay used she said. found that the retail responsibilities a soothing, hymn-like music plays the language of personal training Shannon O’Hearn has been have prevented her from offering as in the background. It’s a peaceful to explain the move, saying that it’s a regular customer who comes in many services as she would like – and environment, said neighbourhood about the goal she wants to achieve, regularly for crystals. She said she they’ve prevented her from doing the resident Olga Matwin, who was a goal she has perhaps deviated from. isn’t sure what she’ll do when the At the same time, she seemed sad to retail store closes, since there are let go of a place she built from the certain products that can’t be found ground up. anywhere else in the city. With its alternative healing With Soul Matters’ retreat from products, the boutique is an eclectic retail, Old Ottawa South loses its little island in still conventional Old space for alternative healing products. Ottawa South. It sells crystals that But Fay gains a slice of freedom.

Upcoming Community Events

Tuesday, May 3, 7:00 pm – 9:00pm Annual AOSCA GM

Friday May 13 Lucky Lobster Supper at the Firejhall.

Wednesday May 25, 2011 Presentation by the Lansdowne Park Conservancy Mayfair Theatre 6:30 doors open - 6:50 – 8:05 presentation

Wednesday, May 22 Join the pro, Bruce DiLabio, for ECOS’ May 22 birding ramble in Old Ottawa South., see page for details

Thursday, June 23, 5:00pm – 8:00pm OSCA Spring/Summer BBQ

Find more events throughout OSCAR. Page 2 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 3

CONTRIBUTIONS The OSCAR The OTTAWA SOUTH COMMUNITY Contributions should be in electronic format sent either by e-mail to ASSOCIATION REVIEW [email protected] in either plain text or WORD format, or as a printed copy delivered to the Firehall office, 260 Sunnyside Avenue. 260 Sunnyside Ave, Ottawa Ontario, K1S 0R7 www.OldOttawaSouth.ca/oscar SUBSCRIPTIONS Please Note: OSCAR Has No Fax Moving away from Old Ottawa South? Know someone who would like E-mail: [email protected] to receive The OSCAR? We will send The OSCAR for one year for just $40 to Canadian addresses (including foreign service) and $80 outside Editor: Mary Anne Thompson of Canada. Drop us a letter with your name, address, postal code and [email protected] country. Please include a check made out to The OSCAR. Distribution Manager: Larry Ostler 613-327-9080 Business Manager: Susanne Ledbetter [email protected] SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS Advertising Manager: Gayle Weitzman 613-730-1058 The OSCAR is sponsored entirely from advertising. Our advertisers are [email protected] (not classy ads) often not aware that you are from Old Ottawa South when you patron- OSCAR is printed by Winchester Print ize them. Make the effort to let them know that you saw their ad in The OSCAR. They will be glad to know and The OSCAR will benefit from their support. If you know of someone providing a service in the community, tell them about The OSCAR. Our rates are reasonable. NEXT DEADLINE: FRIDAY, May 13 The OSCAR is a community association paper paid for entirely by ad- FUTURE OSCAR DEADLINES vertising. It is published for the Ottawa South Community Association Inc. (OSCA). Distribution is free to all Old Ottawa South homes and May 13 (June issue), June 10 (July/Aug issue), Aug 12 (Sept issue) businesses and selected locations in Old Ottawa South, the Glebe and Billings Bridge. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily of The OSCAR or OSCA. The editor retains the right to edit and include articles submitted for publication. The Old Firehall FOR DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES, Ottawa South Community Centre CALL 613-327-9080 or email: [email protected] The OSCAR thanks [email protected] the following people who brought us to your door this month: HOURS PHONE 613 247-4946 ZONE A1: Kathy Krywicki (Coordinator), Mary Jo Lynch, Brian Eames and Kim Barclay, Wendy Robbins, Jim and Carrol Robb, Terri-Lee Lefebvre, MONDAY TO THURSDAY 9 AM TO 9 PM Becky Sasaki, Kevin and Stephanie Williams. FRIDAY 9 AM TO 6 PM ZONE B1: Ross Imrie (Coordinator), Family Gref- Innes, Gabriela Gref-Innes and Fiona Fagan, the Montgomery family, Laurie Morrison, SATURDAY 9 AM TO 1 PM* Susanne Ledbetter. SUNDAY CLOSED ZONE B2: Craig Piche (Coordinator), Pat Eakins, Hayley Atkinson, Leslie *Open only when programs are operating, please call first. Roster, Melissa Johnson, and John Callan & Diana Carr ZONE C1: Laura Johnson (Coordinator), the Williams family, Josh Rahaman, Lynne Myers, Jeff Pouw, Brendan McCoy, Bruce Grant, and the Woroniuk-Ryan family. WHAT’S THAT NUMBER? ZONE C2: Craig Piche (Coordinator), Alan McCullough, Owain O’Connor, Charles and Phillip Kijek, Sam & Avery Piche, Kit Jenkin, Michel and Christina Bridgeman. Ottawa South Community Centre - The Old Firehall 247-4946 ZONE D1: Bert Hopkins (Coordinator), Emily Keys, the Lascelles family, Ottawa South Community Association (OSCA) 247-4872 Gail Stewart, Gabe Teramura, Oliver Waddington, Sullivan-Greene family, Ottawa Public Library - Sunnyside Branch 730-1082 the Sprott family. Rob Campbell - [email protected] 730-8128 ZONE D2: Janet Drysdale (Coordinator), The Adriaanse Family, Gaia Kathy Ablett, Catholic Board Trustee 526-9512 Chernushenko, The Rand family, Aidan and Willem Ray, the Stewart family. Centretown Community Health Centre 233-5430 ZONE E1:Brian Tansey(Coordinator), Karen and Curt Labond, Norah CARLETON UNIVERSITY Hutchinson, Steve Adamson, the Sanger/O’Neil family, John Sutherland CUSA (Carleton U Students Association) 520-6688 ZONE E2: Chris Berry (Coordinator), Mary-Ann Kent, Glen Elder and Graduate Students Association 520-6616 Lorraine Stewart, the Hunter family, Brodkin-Haas family, Allan Paul, Community Liaison 520-3660 Christina Bradley, Caroline Calvert, Larry Ostler. Mediation Centre 520-5765 ZONE F1: Carol and Ferg O’Connor (Coordinator), Jenny O’Brien, the Athletics 520-4480 Stern family, T. Liston, Ellen Bailie, Dante and Bianca Ruiz, Wendy Kemp, CITY HALL Kelly Haggart and Taiyan Roberts, Walter and Robbie Engert. ZONE F2: Bea Bol (Coordinator), Paulette Theriault, Ryan Zurakowski, David Chernushenko, City Councillor Susan McMaster, Paige Raymond, Pierre Guevremont, Judy and Pierre ([email protected]) 580-2487 Chamberland, Cheryl Hyslop. Main Number(24 hrs) for all departments 3-1-1 ZONE G: Bernie Zeisig(Coordinator), Claudia and Estelle Bourlon- Community Police - non-emergencies 236-1222 Albarracin, David Lum, Cindy MacLoghlin, Hannah and Emily Blackwell, Emergencies only 9-1-1 Katya and Mikka Zeisig. Serious Crimes 230-6211 Echo Drive: Alex Bissel. Ottawa Hydro 738-6400 Bank Street-Ottawa South: Rob Cook, Tom Lawson, Paula Archer. Streetlight Problems (burned out, always on, flickering) 3-1-1 Bank Street-Glebe: Larry Ostler. Brewer Pool 247-4938 Alta Vista Branch Library: Mary Anne Thompson Brewer Arena 247-4917 City of Ottawa web site - www.city.ottawa.on.ca Page 4 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 Brief Notes From the Firehall

MAY at the Firehall PROGRAMS Upcoming SPECIAL EVENTS

OSCA AGM – Tuesday, May 3 – 7:30 pm at the Firehall, Wine & GARDEN CLUB – May 7, 10:00 am – Spring Perennial Exchange Cheese – Brewer Park OSCA LOBSTER SUPPER – Friday, May 13 – at the Firehall. – SPRING SOCCER in Brewer Park – see the brochure for details – Tickets available– online at www.oldottawasouth.ca or drop in to the begins mid May. Firehall or call us at 613-247-4946/4872. Tickets are $65 each for dinner, music and entertainment at the Firehall. SUMMER CAMPS are filling up – some are full already. Call Deirdre McQuillan at 613-247-4872 to book a table for four or more. We would like to try new programs at the Firehall - what else would you like to participate in at the Firehall – contact us with your ideas? ------INFORMATION and REGISTRATION for all OSCA programs at: www.oldottawasouth.ca - just follow the RED registration signs or call us at 613-247-4946 or drop by the Firehall at 260 Sunnyside Avenue.

Notes From The Firehall OSCAR Needs

oga Fundraiser for Élisabeth Bruyère Hospital’s Volunteers Palliative Rehabilitation Program at the Ottawa “Ottawa South Strong Sisters”: Strength Train- For Monthly Distri- YSouth Community Centre ing for Women is back at the Firehall starting May 9 On Sunday, May 15, 12:00pm – 1:00pm one of the This motivating strength training class is designed bution in OOS Firehall’s favorite Yoga Instructors Andrea Robertson to engage women towards better health, stamina, bone density, metabolism, posture, balance and healthy weight. Various levels of exercise intensity will be offered to appeal to all fitness levels aimed at achieving Presentation by the individualized results. At the end of the 6 weeks, participants will have better knowledge of how to train safely Lansdowne Park and feel more motivated to adhere to a regular strength Conservancy training routine. Instructor: Guylaine Perreault is a CSEP Certified Exercise Physiologist and Registered Occupa- Wednesday May 25, 2011 tional Therapist. Mayfair Theatre Monday & Wednesday 7:15pm–8:15pm May 9 - 6:30 doors open June 15 (No class Victoria Day May 23) $89.15 6:50 – 8:05 presentation You can register on-line at www.oldottawasouth. 8:05 to 8:30 QA ca, by phone 613-247-4946 or at the Ottawa South Com- A World Class Facelift – munity Centre 260 Sunnyside Ave. Promoting Local Business, Farmers,

Artists, and Athletes Summer Camps at Ottawa South Community Granville Island with Stadium and Centre Greenspace will offer an all levels Hatha Yoga class for a minimum The Firehall has camps for preschoolers to youth All with a mandate of no taxpayer cost donation of $20 with all proceeds going towards Élisa- in a variety of interests from sports, art, music, dance, for the development of Lansdowne beth Bruyère’s Palliative Rehabilitation Program. All LEGO, pottery and more. Check our website www.oldot- Park monies collected will be matched by the Ottawa Regional tawasouth.ca for more information or call the centre at Come and meet and greet the founders/ Cancer Foundation. The Palliative Care Rehabilitation 613-247-4946. architect and design team of this self program is designed to help patients with cancer, even financing and innovative proposal and when it is incurable, to improve their quality of life, by Summer Camp Volunteers competitive bid for Lansdowne Park. enhancing their overall health condition through exer- Students with a genuine interest in volunteering in Free with donation please. cise, good nutrition, psychosocial care, and management our 2011 summer camps should attend the Firehall’s of medical complications. It is geared towards allowing Summer Volunteer Information session on Monday, May people to remain as active as possible in their daily lives 16, 6:30pm at the Ottawa South Community Centre. This for as long as possible. This is in keeping with the phil- is a great opportunity for youth to contribute to the com- osophy of palliative care as too many people still think munity while learning skills they can use in a variety of of palliative care as only for those persons in the last few environments. High School students can also use any days or weeks of life. Join Andrea and support this worth- hours of volunteer service at our camps to go towards while cause. Charitable Tax Receipts will be issued for Ontario’s High School Community Service Program. all donations above $20 by Élisabeth Bruyère. Reserve Minimum age for volunteers is 14. A police check will your spot by registering at www.oldottawasouth.ca, by be required for all volunteers prior to their placement. phone 613-247-4946 or at the Ottawa South Community Students should register for the session on line at www. Centre 260 Sunnyside Ave. Donations will be collected oldottawasouth.ca , by phone 613-247-4946 or at the Ot- the day of the class. tawa South Community Centre 260 Sunnyside Ave. MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 5

OSCA PRESIDENT’S REPORT Annual General Meeting - May 3, 7:30 pm

s many of you will know, Tues- programmes we can run in seeking to have been, in our view, ignored, cre- on community development and traffic day May 3rd is the date of meet new local needs. One of the big ate disturbing precedents for the future that is dealing with controversial and Aour Annual General Meeting, programming decisions we face in the of development in the City core. The time consuming issues; c) the publisher which is held at 7:30 at the Firehall. At coming year will be whether to invest City is a commercial partner with a pri- of a very successful community news- that meeting I usually present a written in a fitness centre in the large basement vate developer, and also the agency that paper with 48 pages a month and over report on the past year’s activities. For multipurpose room. makes the regulatory decisions about 4500 circulation; and c) running a vi- my column this month I am providing Our other major area of activity, whether the development meets the brant website that is winning accolades a slightly edited version of that report working to defend the community’s in- City’s planning framework and regu- across the city. To manage all of this for those of you who may not be able to terests on planning, traffic and develop- lations. This is clearly a situation that we need, as a Board, to spend more time make the meeting. ment, has been much more eventful and makes it difficult for the City to balance providing direction and management It has been a very active year for difficult. The issue of the design of in- its interests as a commercial partner in guidance to the organization. This will OSCA and there is much to report. I fill housing projects and the proposed a development and its role to ensure, as mean as well that we will need to rely will leave the details for the reports traffic management plan to improve a regulator, that developments meet the more on our staff to manage our day- from the individual chairs of our com- the safety of Sunnyside Avenue are two criteria of the public good as outlined in to-day operations and that we will need mittees, but we have finished the year key examples of issues in which the the City’s planning frameworks. to strengthen and probably increase the with much accomplished and our fi- community has a significant stake and With respect to our own future as staff support that we have. nances and operations are in good order. which have long term implications for an organization, we face a major set of As a community based organization The biggest challenge this year and the future development of our commun- issues with respect to our programming. we are critically dependent on the sup- the one that has had the largest impact ity. We have made much progress so We have had a successful partnership port of volunteers in our community to on our operations was the move back in far with respect to these two issues, but with the City for over 35 years, but that ensure that we can function and deliver to our newly renovated facilities at the much work remains to bring them to a is about to change as the City wants to the services you need. I would, there- Old Firehall Community Centre from successful conclusion. renegotiate the arrangement and estab- fore, like to thank all the Board mem- Southminister United Church. Luckily The biggest issue by far, however, lish a new relationship. I don’t think as bers for their hard work in helping to this happened in June at the end of our has been the Lansdowne Park develop- a Board we will have any problem re- make 2010-11 another successful year. regularly scheduled programming and ment which has taken up a good part sponding to the City’s need to be more In particular, I would like to thank those at the start of our summer camps, so we of the Board’s and OSWATCH’s time explicit about the kind of partnership we Board members who are leaving this had a bit of a chance to “test drive” the this year. While I will leave it to the have and about putting it into a written year after a number of years of service, centre over the summer before the start OSWATCH co-chairs to discuss in de- agreement. What will be more prob- including: John Calvert, especially for of regular programming in September. tail the issues on this file and where lematic I expect is the desire by the City his work on the web committee and the Like every new building the renovated we came out, I think the settlement we to have us take on more responsibility web site; Brenda Lee for all her dedi- Firehall was not without its deficien- reached with the City as a result of our in running the programmes, while they cated work that helped make our special cies and some of these did mean we had joint challenge with the Glebe Com- seek to reduce their staff resources at the events, “special”; Donna Lordon for to juggle our programming arrange- munity Association before the Ontario community centre. Determining what her work on the programme committee ments, but all in all it went reasonably Municipal Board, has at least got us is the right response in this regard, and and on the public art committee for the smoothly. All the fixes and touch ups some useful improvements to the de- more generally how we want to manage renovated Firehall, and Peter Reinecke were completed by the winter, although velopment and increased our ability to programming at the community centre and Michael Honeywell-Dobbin who we still do not have permanent room input on decisions on traffic manage- will be a major task for the new Board both had to leave due to growing family signs installed! More importantly, pro- ment. We do remain, however, deeply to be elected at our AGM. responsibilities. Thank you all for your gramme registrations have held up well troubled about the impact this develop- More generally, we will need to support and hard work! and are growing with our transfer to ment will have on traffic and the fu- determine the level of engagement the I would also like to take this oppor- the new facility, so our worries about ture commercial development on Bank Board needs to have with respect to tunity to thank our programming part- encountering programme declines as a Street, to say nothing of the inappropri- the detailed running of its operations. ners, the always dedicated City staff at result of the move out, and back into, ate manner in which the development Our various operations are becoming the Firehall, Cathie Buchanan and Di- the Firehall have been unfounded and was tendered and managed. quite complex and time consuming as nos Dafniotis, for their stalwart support. we have survived the transition in ex- The Lansdowne Park development we need to deal across a multiple range Last, but by no means least, I would like cellent shape. Indeed, we managed to raises significant governance issues of issues and operational decisions to thank Deirdre McQuillan, our Execu- accumulate a healthy surplus on our at the City. The closed nature of this covering: a) a programming base that tive Director, without whose help and programming operations for the 2010 deal and the benefits granted to the de- is growing and of significant financial guidance literally nothing would ever calendar year. We can now focus on velopers, along with the obvious ways complexity and size (over $400,000 an- get done! experimenting on what kinds of new in which the goals of the Official Plan nually now); b) a major oversight role May 22 half-day birding ramble in Dance Under the Stars - OOS with top-notch pro: Caribbean Night Bruce DiLabio ECOS UPDATE – By Judy Lascelles in Windsor Park

he Environment Committee of Old Ottawa South (ECOS) invites you to By Mary Martel-Cantelon experience the birds that live or migrate through your own neighbourhood. One of Ottawa’s most talented and experienced birders, Bruce DiLabio emember how much fun Havana Night was? Or did you miss out on that T fabulous event? Here is your chance ---- come and dance the night away (http://www.dilabiobirding.ca/), will take up to 10 adults and 5 children on a walk that promises to be amazing. Bruce regularly runs birding tours in North, Central, Ron Saturday, June 11 in Old Ottawa South! and South America. Bruce’s teenaged son Ben will also lend his very capable ears Featured will be the HOT rhythms of the Caridad Cruz Trio and the mellow tones of the Nepean Panharmonics Steel Band. and eyes to the OOS hunt for up to 80 species of birds. You can be on this birding A pig roast and Jamaican patties will be included with a cash bar. tour from 7:30 to 11 a.m. on May 22 (rain day May 23) for only $20 (children aged This unique dance party will start at 7 p.m. when the Windsor Park tennis ten or under for $10). ECOS is bringing this birding expertise to your doorstep so courts near the river will be magically transformed. All that is needed is your that you can learn about some of nature’s most exquisite animals without clocking presence! Bring your own lawn chair for relaxing. any expensive mileage on your car. You can open your eyes and ears to the beauty Tickets for $40 will be available after May 15th at the Old Firehall, Compact of birds while getting some walking exercise Music, Havana Cafe and the Ottawa Folklore Centre. Further information Participants should dress for the weather and bring binoculars if possible. To available at www.oldottawasouth.ca or call 613 247-4872. register, call ECOS’ Mike Lascelles at 613 737-6480 or email him at lascellm@ Encourage your friends, your relatives, your colleagues and your neighbours primus.ca. Registration is on a first come first served basis. Please let Mike know if to come and enjoy a wonderful evening dancing under the stars! you cannot bring binoculars so that he can try to line up a loaner. We hope to share Proceeds from this event are for the Friends of Lansdowne legal challenge. any snapshots taken by Bruce, and other able photographers on the ramble, at a future date. Page 6 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011

MAYOR’S MONTHLY COLUMN Ottawa Ranked Best City in Canada

By Jim Watson

am very happy to share with you that for the second year in a row Ottawa has been ranked as I the best city in the country to call home. Based on a number of indicators, including income, quality of life and access to health care, MoneySense magazine found our nation’s capital to be not only a great city, but the best in Canada. We are blessed here in Ottawa with a rich and vibrant culture; festivals and the beautiful outdoors; access to first rate resources and support networks and our steady and strong economy. The nation’s capital is truly a special place to live, work and play. As Mayor, I am humbled each and every time we are reminded by our good fortune. Speaking of which, recently I had the privilege to attend the grand opening of the new Ottawa Convention Cen- tre as a member of its Board of Directors. This un- believable building, known as “Canada’s Meeting Place,” opened its doors to people from all across the world just last month. A gem along the Rideau Canal, this wonderful facility will help revitalize Ottawa’s downtown core. And, it will be a major boost to tourism, business growth and investment in Ottawa for many years to come. Already over 91 conventions are Mayor Jim Watson and Councillor Mathieu Fleury inside the new Ottawa Convention Centre confirmed for the Ottawa Convention Centre, contributing over $200 million to the local economy as well as supporting almost 3,000 jobs. As the Convention Centre opens its doors, it I hope you and your families will be able to The new Ottawa Convention Centre is a very strikes me as fitting that we would be recognized visit the Convention Centre and take in its beauty welcome addition to our City. It will alter our city’s as the best city in the country to call home. While along the Canal this spring. architectural landscape for generations just like Par- we don’t need a magazine to remind us of our good liament and the War Museum. fortune, it never hurts. Letter To OOS From The Mayor

would like to take this opportunity BIA to help during the major road to thank the Glebe Community reconstruction project on Bank Street I Association, The Glebe Business this year and to ensure we continue Improvement Area (BIA), the to have a healthy commercial main residents of Holmwood and the street in the neighbourhood. Old Ottawa South Community During the election campaign I Association for their constructive said on numerous occasions that my and thoughtful work on behalf of biggest concern about the Lansdowne their respective constituents in order project was that local communities to help improve the Lansdowne Park were being treated as the enemy as revitalization project. opposed to partners who would be Last month, working with the most affected with any significant various partners and the City, these changes to the site. groups were able to reach a very Almost everyone agrees that we positive settlement that allowed need to revitalize Lansdowne with them to withdraw their appeal to its acres of asphalt and rundown the Ontario Municipal Board in buildings. At the same time, I am exchange for some very positive pleased to make sure our city staff changes to the plan, particularly understand that we too must be good affecting the residents of Holmwood neighbours as this revitalization Avenue. process unfolds. The settlement includes reducing As we await the court challenge, the height and density of the I will continue to work with residential units facing Holmwood your councillor and community Ave; reducing the height of the organizations to ensure the city is building at the corner of Holmwood much more sensitive to the concerns and Bank Streets; vehicular access to and aspirations of all residents Holmwood will be restricted and the surrounding Lansdowne. number of residential units will be capped at 280 units. Sincerely, In addition, a small public open space will be preserved at Bank and Jim Watson Holmwood, and the City will provide Mayor, Ottawa funds to the Community Groups and MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 7

CITY COUNCILLOR’S REPORT We All Contribute To A Safer Community

y national standards, Ottawa’s noise and, occasionally, fights. staff and with me. As the City pro- Changes include: crime rates are low and our Most people know alcohol and ceeds with solutions, the trick is to find Bsense of safety relatively high, drugs are forbidden at any time in Ot- a balance between maintaining access Eliminating mid-rise residential especially in Old Ottawa South. But tawa parks. But you may not be aware for local residents and reducing high- buildings facing Holmwood that didn’t just happen; it built up that our parks have an 11 p.m. curfew; speed through traffic on our streets. Reducing the height of the resi- over time through the efforts of local everyone, no matter how law-abiding, dential tower at Bank and Holmwood residents. If we wish to maintain the is required to leave by then. This rule Brewer Park update: I have au- from 14 to 12 storeys quality of life in our neighbourhoods, is meant to discourage unruly behav- thorized up to $90,000 from the Cap- Adding a small public space at we can’t take safety and security for iour and protect citizens from being ital Ward cash-in-lieu of parkland Bank and Holmwood granted. isolated after dark. fund to complete the upper water play Capping residential development A tightly knit community is vital There’s a tendency to turn a area improvements this summer. The at 280 units to crime prevention. We should get to blind eye to “kids being kids,” even revamp of this popular park feature Reducing the heights of two com- know our neighbours, organize street at night. But doing so makes us com- includes a custom-built water slide mercial buildings parties, clean up graffiti, watch out plicit in the potential decline of our and two more water squirters. Restricting vehicular access to for problem houses, and keep an eye parks’ safety. I encourage you to help Lansdowne from Holmwood on nearby streets and parks. These enforce the bylaws and reduce risk to Waste diversion: Ottawa will save The City will work with com- are among the suggestions in Crime your children and neighbours: millions by moving to bi-weekly gar- munity groups on traffic and parking Prevention Ottawa’s Neighbourhood Always know where your teen- bage pickup in November 2012. Com- issues. Toolkit, which you can download at aged children are after 11 p.m. and re- bined with weekly Green Bin pickup, The City will provide $300,000 crimepreventionottawa.ca or capital- mind them of the park curfew. If they the change should require only minor of assistance to the Glebe BIA and ward.ca. have a cell phone, get them to check adjustments for most people. $30,000 to community groups during The Toolkit came to my attention in, or call them to show you care. the reconstruction of Bank. in my new role on the board of Crime Report curfew infractions by call- Bank Street: Reconstruction of Prevention Ottawa. The old adage “an ing 3-1-1. If bylaw officers and/or Bank between the Queensway and the As of this writing, there are still ounce of prevention is worth a pound police are aware of the popular night- Canal begins in mid-May, and most of three outstanding appeals. An Ontario of cure” applies equally to our per- time hangouts, they can keep an eye that section will be closed to traffic in Municipal Board hearing is scheduled sonal, environmental and community out for trouble. 2011. It’s a major inconvenience, but for May 9. health. CPO, a city-funded agency, If you witness or suspect a violent it’s necessary to get Bank back to nor- plays a small but important role in the incident, call 9-1-1. mal as soon as possible. David Chernushenko latter. I hope you will check out the As we head into the warmer Neighbourhood Toolkit, and discuss The underground work will be Councillor for Capital Ward months, when so much activity moves it with your family and neighbours. done, the road base rebuilt and side- 613-580-2487 outdoors, I want to discuss how we It’s as much about promoting healthy walks hard-surfaced by Nov. 15. The David.Chernushenko@Ot- can be active players in the safety and community relations as it is about re- final paving, sidewalks and street- tawa.ca security of where we live. acting to unhealthy activity. scaping will be completed by June 30, Local parks like Brewer and 2012. www.capitalward.ca Windsor hum with activity at all Old Ottawa South Traffic: The hours, but nighttime is usually when April 7 open house for the OOS Area Lansdowne Redevelopment: problems arise. Parks are a natural Traffic Management Study was very Council recently approved a settle- place for young people to hang out. well attended. Residents discussed ment on zoning with a number of Unfortunately, this sometimes in- our community’s many traffic-related community groups, including the Ot- volves drinking or drug use, excessive headaches with City staff, with my tawa South Community Association.

May 13th – Lobster Supper and Maritime Kitchen Party

ay 13th will be a very special day this number! Bring a printed copy of your receipt with Tickets are $65 a person (but worth every year! Not only because we will be you the night of the event, and we will have Ron penny) on line at www.oldottawasouth.ca;, and you Mhosting, once again, a glorious Lobster Lavigne fiddle you into the Firehall with a jig and can call Deirdre at 613- 247-4872 to reserve your Supper and Maritime Kitchen Party at the Firehall, a smile. And Jen and Jane will gladly give you table for you and your friends if your group is six but also because two of the hostesses, Jen and Jane, directions to the bar. or more. will be celebrating their birthdays. Together. With We will have lots of entertainment – live music You. Neither Jane nor Jane expects you to bring with the Wandering Minstrels who perform East We can always need more friends or volunteers them any gifts for the occasion: they just want you Coast contemporary and traditional instrumental to help out, and you can reach any of us at the to come and have fun with them. music, witty repartee and guffaws on Old Ottawa following e-mails. Tickets are going fast and, as we mentioned South and other topics with Linda Russell and before, seating is limited to 160 places. So if you Wendy Robbins, and maybe even a game or two of Jane Allain ( [email protected]) are reading this article, and you want to not only “pigs” (and if you went to school in the Maritimes, come enjoy a terrific evening but also guess how you should know what a good game of pigs is… John Graham ([email protected]) old Jen and Jane will be, get on that OSCA website if not, ask one of your neighbours who went to (www.oldottawasouth.ca) and click on the link for Acadia, Mount Allison, St. FX, UNB…). The Deirdre McQuillan ( [email protected]) programs. Yes, we are listed in programs. Select the food, of course, will be fantastic and so will be the category “all programs” and scroll to near bottom of conversations at your table, if you remember to Jennifer Knight ( [email protected]) the list. And there you will find the Lobster Supper. bring along some friends. And even if you don’t, All OSCA really needs is some basic information you can always talk to Jen or Jane, and wish them a Peggi McNeil ( [email protected]) about you, but most importantly your credit card happy birthday.

OSCAR Needs Volunteers For Monthly Distribution in OOS Page 8 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 OSCA Signs Settlement of Lansdowne OMB Appeal

By Brendan McCoy on legal advice. Our lawyer judged access to up $30 000 to deal with an excellent professional planner OSWatch Co-Chair that these compromises were the best Bank and Lansdowne construction and a lawyer represent us, it proved that we were likely to obtain through The Glebe BIA, which negotiated very difficult to get a transportation SCA has signed a settlement negotiations, and furthermore, the separately, got $300 000 to help engineer. In Ottawa the two big with the City of Ottawa over chances were poor that we could Glebe businesses deal with Bank St. transportation engineering firms had its appeal to the Ontario obtain significantly improved reconstruction and the construction both worked on the Lansdowne project O conditions through pursuing the very of the Lansdowne project, plus for the City and its private partners. A Municipal Board (OMB) of the Lansdowne Park development. OSCA costly appeal before the OMB. reconstruction of Bank St. this year.I firm from outside this area might have signed this settlement together with The concessions we negotiated would not say I am happy with the been hired, but it would have lacked our partners the Glebe Community do address some of the issues that agreement, but I do feel satisfied the local experience, and been even more Association (GCA). OSCA, the were of concern to the community. two Community Associations did expensive. This was just one of the GCA, and the other appellants, who They include reductions in the height the best we could and got some real barriers we faced taking this case all have all been have been engaged of four key buildings, hard limits on improvements to this flawed project. the way to a full hearing. in negotiations with the City since the number of residential units, and I lead the negotiations and in the end OSCA’s settlement does not the first Pre-Hearing of the OMB a guarantee that a small public space recommended the OSCA Executive change the fact that we remain appeal on March 7. The aim of these will remain in the area of Bank and approve it, and with the approval of opposed to, and highly sceptical of the negotiations was to see if a settlement, Holmwood. The associations also the Executive I signed the Settlement Lansdowne project, and we made that which would reduce some of the negotiated an expanded involvement on behalf of OSCA. clear in the wake of the settlement. negative impacts of the development, for themselves in future talks on The OSCA board had originally Opposition to the project, and might be possible rather than traffic, transit, park planning and proceeded with the appeal to protect frustration with the city, remain deep continuing to the full hearing. After remediation, as well as stronger the interests of Old Ottawa South, and widespread in Old Ottawa South. weeks of difficult negotiations OSCA protection for the development area but we were also very sensitive to the OSCA is still asking the mayor and and the GCA were only able to come between the Aberdeen Pavilion and concerns of those in the Glebe living council to take a hard look at the cost to a final settlement at the last possible the Canal, known to planners as the in the immediate area of Lansdowne. and wisdom of this poorly conceived moment, with the deal signed on April “urban park” or the “front lawn”. Glebe residents, especially those living development which will damage local 11. The Glebe BIA and a group of The settlement’s 24 points includes: on Holmwood facing Lansdowne, had communities and burden the city with Holmwood residents also signed • Stronger protection for the urban a very immediate threat, including heavy debt loads for decades to come. settlements with the City. The various park (zoned now as O1-open space- two eight story residential towers The Community Associations’ Lansdowne OMB settlements, and the zoning) being built across the street from agreement with the city is not required changes to the Lansdowne • Eliminating the 8 story residential them. These towers were eliminated connected in any way with the zoning, passed at City Council on buildings facing Holmwood Avenue as part of the settlement. ongoing legal case against the City April 13. • Reducing the height of the The OMB appeal processes by the Friends of Lansdowne. The Both OSCA and the GCA continue residential tower at Bank Street and can be very expensive, difficult and Friends legal challenge continues, as to harbour profound reservations Holmwood Avenue to 12 stories (the unpredictable. While the final bills are does the fundraising for it. about the impact of the redevelopment same as the Lord Lansdowne across not in, it looks like OSCA and the GCA on their communities, particularly the street) together have spent approximately Editor’s Note: You can read the full with regards to traffic congestion, • Adding a public space to the $40 000 just to get to this point. To Minutes of Settlement on the OSCA parking and commercial development corner of Bank Street and Holmwood continue on to the full hearing, which website: http://www.oldottawasouth. on Bank Street. But we reluctantly Avenue was originally scheduled to last 5 ca/index.php/articles/1455-omb- agreed to drop our appeal in exchange • Capping the residential weeks, the cost would be well in settlement for the zoning modifications and some development at 280 units excess of $100 000, perhaps closer to specific changes to the design and • OSCA and the GCA get input $200 000. Costs such as these stack the layout of buildings on the site, based into traffic, safety and parking issues deck against community associations. • Giving OSCA and the GCA While OSCA was lucky to have both Blue Box Blues

The No Plastic Project and shapes and sizes. I see plastic (a.k.a Colette Stoeber and bags, clamshell packages, empty flower pots, Styrofoam, a watering Melissa MacLean) can, even plastic furniture! These overflowing, hopeful blue boxes sit uesday morning in OOS. happily beside almost-empty garbage Garbage day. cans. The picture of environmental TThe blue boxes are lined up on responsibility. the curbs, full of plastic of all sorts But when I go to the City of

Ottawa web page on plastic recycling, jug, jar, tub or tub lid out of our blue the first thing that hits my eye is the boxes and into the plain-old garbage shouted announcement: “IF IT’S pile. The land fill pile. Because it’s not NOT A PLASTIC BOTTLE, JUG, recyclable after all: it’s just garbage. JAR, TUB OR TUB LID — IT’S The message is pretty clear on the NOT RECYCLABLE!” Sounds like web page: they will only accept plastic they are miffed about our overflowing bottles (the ones that hold water, juice, blue boxes. etc.); jars and jugs (mayonnaise, Why are they so miffed? It’s because the City has to shift Cont’d on next page everything that’s not a plastic bottle, MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 9 Artisan Gelato Café Opening in June in Old Ottawa South!

ur Family’s Journey to Open ity Church where my grandmother ate gelato. We ate A LOT of gel- Italy, and a million innovative ideas, a Family Owned and Oper- sang in the choir. One of my sisters ato back on those days. And, THIS I am bursting at the seams and eager Oated Business in Old Ottawa still resides on Fulton Avenue. I got is how I became a gelato expert. to share them with the community. South my first pair of shoes from Art Brim- Alessandro and I moved back to Can- Gelato is both a passion and an art My husband and I are former resi- ley at Sagar’s Shoe Store - now the ada after about a decade in Rome to form. The secret to perfect gelato is in dents of Old Ottawa South who have Starbucks at Bank and Hopewell. start a family. Now, 25 years after our the art of meticulously balancing reci- returned to the neighbourhood to open Dr. Todd, who delivered me, held his story first began, alongside our - chil pes and paring food. Stella Luna gelato a family owned and operated business practice in the old white house on dren Zachary, Erica and Matthew, we and sorbetto is prepared fresh, on site, alongside our three children. Stella Sunnyside, near Bank which was re- are starting the business we’ve always from scratch, every day. We infuse all Luna Gelato Café, scheduled to open cently demolished (sigh!). My ances- dreamt about...making people fall our gelato bases for a minimum of 12 late June at 1103 Bank Street (former- tors helped to build the Rideau Canal helplessly, head-over-heels in love hours to naturally intensify the fla- ly Phase II), is an authentic, artisan and the “Cattle Castle” at Lansdowne with artisan gelato! vour. Each flavour has its own unique Gelato Café modeled after my hus- Park. Our children attended the play- Right from the start I loved every- recipe and is made using only the band’s family business in Rome, Italy groups at the Fire Hall, got their toes thing about true, artisan gelato. When freshest, premium ingredients without (est. 1926). Although artisan gelato is wet for the first time at Brewer Pool, I first dreamt of opening a gelateria any artificial flavour or colour. We in- our specialty, we’re more than “gela- joined the fun with Joanne at South- I knew what a good gelato should fuse the passion and pride we share for tomania”! We offer a full European side Pre-School, and listened to Tues- taste like; I knew what kind of con- well prepared food into each recipe. Coffee Bar, fresh fruit smoothies & day morning story time at the Sun- sistency it should have; when it was On the long and bumpy journey to frappé (which is an Italian milkshake nyside branch of the Ottawa Library. fresh and when it wasn’t. I knew open our business in Old Ottawa just sooo much more exotic sound- Our journey has been colourful how it should look and how, with the South, we’ve battled the big developing!!), Italian panini, crêpes and waf- and eventful one which began over right decorative topping, it could be- ers, and struggled with the challenges fles, specialty gelato cakes, desserts 25 years ago in Rome, Italy. Decades come a work of art. The only thing of renovating an old building. But and much, much more. before the book “Eat, Pray, Love” I didn’t know was how to make it! ours is a love story infused with pas- Our goal is to recreate a warm and was popular; my heart led me to ex- I dreamt of making gelato from simple sion - for both our family, our roots inviting European ambiance, where plore the sights, sounds and flavours and wholesome ingredients found in and our gelato business. It’s a story families, couples, university students of Italy. I was 19 years old and had my local market rather than with pre- about refusing to allow obstacles and friends can linger and socialize only just arrived in Rome when a measured powdered mixes...I wanted to stand in the way of making your over a gelato; where teens are encour- hot-blooded Roman, sporting a dark it to be an authentic artisan product. dreams become your reality. aged to “hang out” for some whole- grey Ducati, cruised up beside me and So last winter, I packed my bags and Stella Luna Gelato Café is sched- some fun on a Friday night; where the asked me to the movies. A few days left my family behind to travel back uled to open in June. I’d be honoured local poet can take the floor; where later he proposed over a pizza near to Italy - the cradle of gelato making, if you’d drop by for a visit to see how the staff is going to know your name the Spanish Steps and, three coins in to attend the most reputable and suc- true artisan gelato is made in the 21st and care about what’s happening in a fountain later, I was living in Rome, cessful Artisan Gelato Training Cen- Century. your life. my head in the clouds, not speak- tre in the world. I learned from Gelato Our roots in the neighbourhood ing a word of Italian but knowing Maestri whose families had been Gel- Arrivederci a presto! grow deep. My grandmother was that this is where I was meant to be. atieri for generations...some dating born and raised on Sunnyside Avenue The language barrier was never an ob- back to the mid 1800’s. Now, with my Tammy Giuliani and attended kindergarten through stacle. Whenever we couldn’t under- Master training under my belt, ridicu- 1103 Bank Street grade eight at Hopewell School. My stand each other, we just stopped lously expensive gelato production 613 222 3613 grandparents were married at Trin- talking, enjoyed being in love and equipment imported directly from slgelato.com

Blue Box Blues..... Cont’d from previous page vinegar, etc.); and tubs and tub lids have little to do with whether or not in our blue boxes that are being over-packaged stuff—Loblaws (yogurt—large size only—sour the thing will actually be recycled. recycled, the idea of a sustainable and Independent have easy-to-find cream, margarine). NOT clamshell The numbers (the SPI, or Society cycle —instilled by the endlessly websites and contact information. packages (the kind that strawberries, of the Plastics Industry codes) only circling arrows—is a myth. This And if we want to take it one step cherry tomatoes, and cakes and tell us what the plastic thing we are plastic is only being “down-cycled”— further, the City of Ottawa has good cookies come in). NOT coffee cup holding is made of. Its function is just made into another, lower-quality kind advice: lids or plastic cutlery. NOT plastic to help recyclers sort the collected of plastic, one that after one or maybe “If you question why non- egg cartons. NOT Styrofoam (like plastic garbage. two cycles will certainly no longer be recyclable plastic containers are meat packaging). NOT single-serving In truth, a plastic product is only recyclable, even theoretically. being manufactured and you wish yogurt or applesauce containers. And “recyclable” if someone out there All the plastic in our blue boxes is to help effect change in the plastics NOT plastic bags. will recycle it— that is, if someone ultimately just non-biodegradable and industry, you can provide your input “But hold on!” you say, pointing will buy it from you. So the symbol often toxic garbage. on plastics packaging and recyclables at the little symbol on the bottom of is only telling us that this particular to . . . the Environment and Plastics your mini-yogurt cup. “Look. It says kind of plastic is recyclable in theory. So it looks like we have been lulled Industry Council (EPIC) [which] is right here. It’s recyclable.” In reality, it is most often not. As the into a false sense of complacency the governing organization for the Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. City of Ottawa states on its blue box with our overflowing blue boxes. If plastics industry. (5925 Airport Road, Those little arrows chasing each web page: we were to transfer every item that Suite 500, Mississauga, ON, L4V other around a number—the universal “The City of Ottawa’s recycling will actually end up in the landfill out 1W1 www.plastics.ca/ or www.cpia. symbol for recycling—suggest a program can only accept high- of our blue boxes and into our garbage ca/” circular, sustainable life cycle. You density plastic materials because at cans, we might have to stop feeling Check out the No Plastic Project find them on the bottom of almost the present time there are no viable/ quite so comfortable. website—www.noplasticproject. any piece of plastic. They send the sustainable markets for lower density But what can we do? ca—for practical tips on avoiding message, “Don’t worry. It will be plastics. In other words, no one has As consumers we can choose packaging at the grocery store. And recycled when you are done with it. found a product to make out of the to buy things that have less plastic if you haven’t yet, sign our petition Buy another. Buy three next time.” lower density plastics, therefore they packaging, and then write to the asking Loblaws and Ontario Tender But this is a plastics industry cannot be recycled though the City’s producers to let them know why. We Fruit Producers to NOT package next message, and it is insidiously Blue Box Program.” can also write to the retailers to let season’s local fruit in plastic clamshell misleading. The symbol and number And really, even for those things them know we are fed up with buying packages.

OSCAR Needs Volunteers For Monthly Distribution in OOS Page 10 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 Pedestrian and Cyclist Needs Drive Push for New Canal Bridge By John Dance, Gary cycling connectivity,” as noted in the Hawkes, and Kathy terms of reference for the footbridge’s environmental assessment. To Krywicki this end, they commented that the footbridge location should be at pproximately 50 engineers, or near the Clegg-Fifth crossing, architects, agency and approximately midway between the Acommunity representatives Bank Street and Pretoria bridges, one spent an entire day together in late of the longest stretches of the canal March sharing perspectives on the (~2km) without a crossing. proposed footbridge that will provide The design charrette was organized the missing piece in an east-west by McCormack Rankin Corporation “active transportation” route through (MRC), the consulting firm which the city and a long sought after link won the city’s contract for completing between Old Ottawa East/South and the environmental assessment for the the Glebe. footbridge, and participation included In providing background on A preliminary design by architect Anthony Leaning shows an innovative community reps from Old Ottawa the quest for a bridge, community and elegant means of achieving the necessary ramping up to provide for South, the Glebe and Old Ottawa East representatives humorously noted that unrestricted boating passage. Community Associations, as well as the footbridge will satisfy one of the the Midtown Footbridge Group. ramps are required for universal who lives in Old Ottawa East and terms of the annexation of Ottawa Various perspectives were access which may be problematic, a participant in many community East by the City of Ottawa. In 1907 provided at the charrette on the options particularly on the eastern side where initiatives including the community the City agreed to pursue construction for the looks, location, landings, length there is little land between the canal design plan, sketched an “above- of a bridge between Clegg and Fifth. and linkages of the crossing. Research deck” option where on each side there The importance of respecting the pathway and Colonel By Drive. conducted by MRC will be presented would be a set of stairs and also a Rideau Canal and its adjacent lands as Design Issues at the first of three open houses on the U-shaped ramp over the water – rather a world heritage site was emphasized One key question will be whether proposed footbridge. At that time the than being on the land. These stairs by Pam Buell of Parks Canada and the footbridge is of an “above-deck” public will have the opportunity to and ramps would provide the height by Lori Thornton and Linda Dicaire or “below-deck” design. The former comment on the need for the bridge, for the necessary navigation envelope of the National Capital Commission. would have the actual deck held potential locations and design issues. and would provide access for people The design should make a positive up from above, for instance with a This open house is set for Thursday visual contribution and should not be suspension-type design, while the “on wheels.” June 2 at St. Paul’s University 5-8pm busy and complex, participants said. latter would be like the Corktown Community representatives with a presentation at 6:30pm. Check Engineers graphically showed the footbridge where the strength of the stressed that the footbridge should out the project website www.ottawa. challenge of building a bridge so that structure comes from support below. “foster healthy communities by ca/rideaucanalbridge for details. it would have the necessary height to Following the design charrette, promoting active transportation allow passage of boat traffic. Lengthy Anthony Leaning, an architect through enhanced pedestrian and MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 11 The Story Behind a Quaint English Cottage by the Rideau Canal by Lydia Oak, along Colonel By Drive from Grosvenor to Leonard a Neighbour of 9 Rosedale Avenues, it appears 9 Rosedale will be the next victim of modern infill. In this three-block area he English cottage at 9 Rosedale Avenue along historic and ceremonial Colonel By Drive no faces extinction. fewer than three demolitions have taken place in the In March of this year, 9 Rosedale Avenue last two years, with at least two more planned for T this year. In place of these five historic buildings was purchased by Prestwick Building Corporation. The company intends to completely demolish the there will be no fewer than 12 new dwellings. house and replace it with a rectangular, flat-roofed, While the new dwellings vary somewhat from each 34’ high semi-detached double with front-facing other, it appears 11 out of 12 of them are or would garages. be housed in flat-roofed, modern designs. 9 Rosedale is a building of considerable interest While there is nothing inherently wrong with to heritage buffs. former City of Nepean. It features 9” baseboards these designs, what is disconcerting is the loss of Built by Mr. Walter Frank Jones, Manager all around and in the dining room two original older structures that represented the character of of the Ottawa Dairy, circa 1925, the design and built-in corner cupboards with leaded glass and a Old Ottawa South. In their place are typically taller, architecture of 9 Rosedale is an outstanding butler’s door. The ground floor has original oak colder and boxier constructs with minimal setbacks example of English cottage style and may be one- flooring and retains the original brass window and that don’t seem to pay much homage to the origins of-a-kind in the neighbourhood (if not the city). door hardware. There are five original light fixtures of this community or the Canal they so closely A gabled roof with a steep pitch, “hot fired” non- (two sconces inside the front door, two sconces in proximate. Of particular concern is the seemingly porous bricks made to endure time, wood exterior the dining room and a cast iron lamp over the side endangered sloped roof of days gone by. trim and shakes, a large chimney, second story entrance). On the second floor are four good-sized For example, 858 Colonel By Drive, currently dormer windows front and rear, a front door made bedrooms and three bathrooms. The full-sized under development, is a five level conforming out of solid oak (4’ wide, 7.5’ tall and 2.5” thick basement is partly finished with a sitting room. triplex condominium. Its towering structure will featuring interior oak framing and inlaid leaded 9 Rosedale is situated facing east on Rosedale become a modern “landmark” along Colonel By glass), 32 lead glass windows on the ground floor Avenue with its northern side exposed to the Drive, as it is clearly visible from all directions. 9 framed in oak (with 6” by 3” interior oak sills) and historic Rideau Canal. The house has been owned Rosedale too will become a modern “landmark” the general appearance of warmth, stature, balance or occupied by diplomats in the Canadian Foreign if developed as planned. A 34’ modern double and livability characterize this remarkable house. Service and those visiting from France and the situated at the corner of Rosedale and Colonel By Surprisingly large and flowing inside, the United States. The building has been maintained directly across from the Canal will be hard to miss. ground floor boasts a grand living room, generous in very good condition and from 1999 until mere Many in the community will miss the old dining room and substantial kitchen. The local, weeks ago was the home of the successful “A Rose English cottage when it is demolished later this year first-growth oak wood used for detailing was milled on Colonel By” bed and breakfast. as “Old” Ottawa South continues its rapid trend of in the 1920s on the Andersen Dairy Farm in the Following the recent trend of development becoming “New” Ottawa South. When a Tree Falls in an Urban Forest, Does Anybody Hear? by Michael Patenaude Neighbour of 9 Rosedale

eighbours of 9 Rosedale Avenue at the corner of Nhistoric Colonel By Drive are dreading the sound of chainsaws this spring. 9 Rosedale, until last month a bed and breakfast, has been purchased by Prestwick Building Corporation, a company owned by local developer Allan Bateman. A recent meeting requested by the “Neighbours of 9 Rosedale” Nevertheless, this tree has stood with Mr. Bateman led to the in this location longer than the discovery that Mr. Bateman’s plans buildings that surround it. The tree to demolish 9 Rosedale and build a has managed to withstand the great 34’ high, flat-roofed semi-detached ice storm and the less than desirable double in its place. The draft plans ground cover. If it is destroyed, the he shared with the “Neighbours” plans for the new semi-detached clearly threaten a 100-year-old, do not currently appear to have 100+ cm circumference heritage oak enough green space available to tree. plant a replacement tree of similar Mr. Bateman has proposed to potential stature (set backs on all put the exterior wall of the southern sides are proposed between 4’ and side of the planned new structure a maximum of 5’ 10”). That’s not right where the tree is located. In enough space for a mature oak. response to a request from the One option would be to build the “Neighbours” to reconsider his plans new structure around the tree and to Mr. Bateman said he would try. carefully remove the asphalt in its Mr. Bateman has already had his vicinity, replacing it with drainable arborist over to look at the tree. To softer surfacing. The “Neighbours” be fair this Bur Oak does have some I am quite sure would appreciate challenges beyond its immediate this. survival: it appears to be deprived So the question remains: If of moisture and nutrients since it is this heritage oak tree is felled will encircled by a garage and pavement anybody hear? for a driveway and lane. Page 12 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The OSCAR welcomes letters on subjects of interest to the community or in Sudoku Solution response to previous articles. All letters must disclose the name of the writer, as well as the address and phone number. Lettters may be edited for length, clarity, and libelous statements. The opinions of the writers are not necessarily those of the newspaper or its editor. Email your letters to oscar@oldottawasouth.ca or leave in print at the Firehall.

Ottawa-Carleton Wildlife Centre

Letter to the Editor

e would like to congratulate those involved for the role that Oscar plays in helping to reconnect people to the natural world. There is a growing awareness that our disconnection from nature is exacting a

W Sudoku Puzzle is on page 15 significant toll on the quality of life within our communities. Fortunately, more people are speaking out to protect neighbourhood greenspaces and finding pleasure in the wild species we share that space with. We thoroughly enjoyed Linda Burr’s recent Backyard Naturalist column on Eastern Cottontail rabbits, finding it informative and interesting. It was also appreciated that our Centre was able to get out information on the wildlife birthing season as a guest in Tania & Michael’s Squirrel Talk column this month. Thanks to all those that contribute to making OSCAR a lively, engaging and well-rounded publication. To book an OSCAR ad Donna DuBreuil, President call Gayle 730-1058 Ottawa-Carleton Wildlife Centre [email protected]

Letter Sent to City of Ottawa Concerning Old Ottawa South Area Traffic Management Study – 2010-11 April 4, 2011 proposal to make Aylmer a one-way trol car monitors traffic flow on Sun- area lighting installed in 1971; and avenue, goes against the intentions nyside Avenue. I support all meas- finally with a reduction of the speed of all previous (old) Ottawa South ures to attempt to control the volume limit to 40 Km/hr. I know. Like Justin Swan community traffic plans, which were and the speed of traffic on Sunnyside many other home owners on Sun- meant to have a sharing of cross- Avenue. Traffic volume on adjacent nyside Avenue, I have lived through City of Ottawa community, and of into-the-com- avenues pales in comparison. it all. And here we go again! Dear Justin Swan: munity traffic flows. Accessibility Perhaps one means to deflect some A community respects its members to Aylmer Ave should remain as has east-west bound traffic flows from and sticks up for each of them. The Subject: (Old) Ottawa always been. the community, is to encourage spirit of past (old) Ottawa South South Area Traffic Man- Past community traffic plans made drivers to use the Colonel By Drive. traffic plans was, as a community, to agement Study – 2010-11 Euclid (or rather retained Euclid Using the “off” ramps can also be control traffic flows and volumes into Ave.) as a one-way east-bound = the used to gain entry into the neighbour- and through (old) Ottawa South. The Concerns about the (old) Ottawa purpose to discourage traffic taking hood. Carleton University should implementation of the present (old) South Area Traffic Management “short-cuts” into the community. contribute by opening up an entry/ Ottawa South Area Traffic Manage- Study have prompted me to write this Euclid should remain a one-way east- exit access, from their (next to Bron- ment plan/ study recommendations letter. bound avenue. son Ave Bridge) parking lot, onto should not be pitting neighbours I start from the premises that: And, the Glebe Community’s self- Colonel By Drive. That would be against neighbours. i) as a community/ neighbourhood, serving proposal to dump traffic from very neighbourly of Carleton Univer- Sincerely, every part / member must be respect- Bronson Ave onto Sunnyside Ave by sity. ed, and treated equally; restricting right-turns into its precious In early 1971, Sunnyside Avenue R. Ozga ii) any demands/ proposals which community is a selfish and divisive residents woke up one morning, with enhance a few streets (and potentially proposal. It should not be allowed. a one-page flyer left at their door, by one’s property value) at the cost of That city officials made a mistake the City’s tree-cutting crews. The c.c.: David Chernushenko, creating a nuisance to others (and in allowing a huge (visually ob- maple trees were cut down and Sun- Councillor-Ward 17 - Capital, City of potentially diminishing others’ prop- structing) building to be built at Sun- nyside Ave quickly degraded from Ottawa erty value), is selfish, divisive, and a nyside Ave & Bank (Shoppers Drug a beautiful one-way west-bound Michael Jenkin, President, very un-neighbourly like approach; Mart), opposite a primary school, is avenue into a mini-highway from Ottawa South Community Associa- iii) every property owner pays their not the fault of Sunnyside Ave home Bronson Ave to Bank Street. The tion fair share of property/ municipal owners, and they should not now be Ottawa South Community Associa- Mary Anne Thompson, taxes. No one set of property/ house made to pay the consequences of that tion was formed as a result of that Editor, Ottawa South Community owners should be given preferential mistake. Also, that business enter- unilaterally-decided intrusion into Asso. Review treatment, to be given special status prises at the “redesigned” Lansdowne the community. It has taken decades, Vern White, Chief, Ottawa over any other set of property/ house Park will attract more traffic, is again for residents of Sunnyside Ave and Police Services, City of Ottawa owners. not the fault of Sunnyside Ave (old) Ottawa South to give back to Marianne Wilkinson, Chair- I support all measures which encour- residents. Sunnyside Ave some semblance of a woman, City of Ottawa Council age a sharing of the volume of traffic Sunnyside Ave continues to have the residential street: with the introduc- Transportation Committee criss-crossing the (old) Ottawa South greatest share of traffic flow volume tion of four-way stop-signs (at Sen- Chair, City of Ottawa Pedes- area. There should be no diversion of in (old) Ottawa South. The Ot- eca, then at Grosvenor, and finally trian & Transit Advisory Committee traffic from some avenues in order to tawa Police Service can attest to the at Leonard); with needed narrowing dump such traffic onto other avenues, substantial number of “running a stop at some intersections; with warmer- including Sunnyside Avenue. sign” and/or “speeding” infraction neighbourly street lighting rather than It is my view that any measure/ tickets they hand out, whenever a pa- the original blue/ grey high-crime MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 13

BACKYARD NATURALIST Quiet Invasion

comes from weather radar scans, such detail on the website of a group called By Linda Burr as the type used in weather forecasting. FLAP, a Toronto-based organization At times, these scans reveal large, that raises awareness to help prevent quiet invasion is underway. mysterious “clouds” rising from the bird mortality during migration. It’s happening all around us, ground at sunset, and disappearing at During migration seasons, FLAP Aalthough most people are dawn. Songbird biologist and author volunteers patrol Toronto’s downtown unaware of it. There’s thousands upon Bridget Stuchbury states that in 1949 core in the early morning hours to thousands of them flying in from all when these images were first recorded, rescue live birds and collect the dead over South and Central America under observers didn’t know what they were ones. Through efforts such as these, we cover of night. But don’t call out the seeing. What could be causing these are beginning to understand the sheer National Guard – they’re only birds! clouds to appear on a clear night? They numbers of birds that fly by our cities Migrating songbirds pass through were described as “storms of angels”, while we sleep. (See the FLAP website each spring in the untold thousands, until they realized what they were at www.flap.org for more information but most of them go unseen and seeing was millions of migrating birds. on how to help migrating birds.) undetected. They mainly fly at night, Sometimes the only evidence we May is perhaps my favourite so these huge flocks of migrating find of the night passage of migrants month of the year, as I look forward songbirds are virtually invisible to the is a dead body. As a case in point, to the arrival and passage of some average person. But step outside on a one May morning last year I was of the most colourful songbirds. I’m warm, clear night in May, and listen astonished to find a tiny, lifeless bird looking forward to going out birding, a single observation point may detect carefully. If it is quiet enough, you can lying on my back deck. The pattern of in hopes that some of them will stop thousands of calls. The night-flight hear the small peeps and tiny chirps its soft feathers told me this songbird and hang around long enough for me calls of some species of passing birds of many birds passing in the dark sky was a female warbler, a beautiful bird to see them. For many of these birds, sound just like little cricket chirps, above. that nests in northern forests. Sadly, it’s the only time of year they’re in the and in some cases the sounds are of This mysterious passage was this one did not complete its journey. neighbourhood and we get to see their too high a frequency for humans to unknown until recent decades. By I rarely find dead birds like this beautiful colours and hear their songs. detect. But the use of special acoustic aiming microphones at the night sky, one around the house. But each spring, I can’t wait for the quiet invasion to monitoring software has allowed researchers began to gather data about it is estimated that many millions of begin! researchers to decipher just how many the numbers and types of birds that birds die during migration as a result Linda Burr is a biologist and birds are passing. pass us like “ships in the night”. Now of striking windows and buildings. avid backyard naturalist living in Old Another clue to the passage of we know that on a clear night in May, These grim statistics are revealed in Ottawa South. these large migrating flocks of birds Old Ottawa South Poet Pop into the Jazz of Spring Makes His Mark In Fiction A concert of pop music with Ottawa’s a cappella vocal ensemble Harmonic Generation, and their special guests, the award-winning Ot- he names of the finalists have theme of this year’s National Capital tawa Junior Jazz Band. been announced in the 2011 Writing Contest. National Capital Writing Contest, The poetry finalists are: Sylvia 7:30 pm Saturday May 14th 2010 T The First Baptist Church, 140 Laurier Avenue, West which had the theme “Inspiration Planet Adams for The Gardener; Michael Earth…Our natural environment is life.” Kearsley for African Dream; Ruth Latta Tickets: $15 Adults, $10 Children/Students/Seniors. OOS resident Colin Morton is a for Chill Mortal; Joan McKay for And A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Distress Centre finalist in the short story category for his there was light; Carol A. Stephen of of Ottawa and Region to help the tremendous work they do in story called Primavera. Better known as Carleton Place for Traffic on Highway our community. a poet, with nine published books to 7, and Margaret Malloch Zielinski for For more details please visit: www.harmonicgeneration.ca his credit, as well as one novel, Morton Tracking. wrote his story about the sudden advent The Short Story Contest finalists are of spring and the well-known influence Anne Kathleen McLaughlin for Cairo to To book an OSCAR ad the season can have on lovers young and Camelot; Colin Morton for Primavera; old. Tudor Robins for Winter Love ; Suzy call Gayle 730-1058 The annual writing contest is Royle of Perth for Musical Chairs; [email protected] sponsored by the NCR branch of the Gwen Smid for Sand, and Fraser White Canadian Authors Association. Winners for Thirst. will be announced at the 2011 Awards The Youth Short Story/Essay Evening and Book Launch on May 10th, Contest finalists are: Alison Griffith of 7 p.m., at the Ottawa Public Library Nepean for Question Grove - Bell High Main Branch auditorium, 120 Metcalfe School; Jennifer Kempster for Grey- at Laurier. The public is invited to Washed - Longfields-Davidson Heights attend. Secondary School; Holly Laurenzio for “Be prepared to be moved,” says The Thanksgiving Dinner Disaster - CAA-NCR president Sharyn Heagle, “by Homeschooled; Paisley Laurenzio for stirring short stories, essays and poetry Level One - Homeschooled; Christine that will bring the reader into natural Molnar for Going Outside - Ecole places remembered, environments that secondaire catholique Franco-Cité, and have been lost, and touching moments Christine Molnar for Breaking the Line experienced in Canada and beyond.” - Ecole secondaire catholique Franco- Much of the winning work will Cité. be included in a new anthology, “Inspiration Planet Earth…Our natural To find out more about the Canadian environment is life,” which will be Authors Association – National Capital published by the CAA-NCR in early Branch go to www.canauthors-ottawa. May. Kanata’s endangered Beaver Pond org. was the catalyst for the environmental Page 14 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 THE BIG PICTURE

Ottawa - a Royal Capital?

By Michael Dobbin haps renewing its romance with the So why not remain a constitutional political cockpit”. The resulting fire- monarchy. In the meantime, the pro- monarchy? storm caused governments to fall -- n 1866, at the height of Confed- file of William’s grandmother Eliza- There are many fine examples of but in the end, Bytown, renamed Ot- eration talks in London, future beth II dons our currency, the crown progressive and modern democrat- tawa would hold the title. By the time Prime Minister John A. Macdon- represents authority, we maintain a ic monarchies including Denmark, a sewer system was finally built some I Parliamentary tradition and the Union Sweden, Belgium, the Netherlands decades later, the tiny city was well on ald told Queen Victoria of his government’s “resolve to be under the Jack lingers on our coat-of-arms and and of course, the United Kingdom, the way to becoming civilized. Sovereignty of Your Majesty and your provincial emblems. In the context of where the Queen (yes, the same) pre- Ottawa has certainly transformed family for ever.” What the Fathers of the Commonwealth, Canada shares a sides over a modern and culturally itself since then. Anyone who’s recent- Confederation would actually call head-of-state with 19 other countries, diverse democracy. So why shouldn’t ly taken in the beauty of the capital: their new country remained a topic meaning few can dispute the unique- Canadians establish a monarchy to the breathtaking landscape, dreaming of debate. The ‘Kingdom’ of Can- ness of the institution. serve them? spires and eloquent architecture, and ada was a favourite, but ultimately Nevertheless, it’s argued by op- Our constitution already allows seen citadel of government perched deemed too inflammatory against the ponents that these symbols represent for it: Parliament is called and dis- high above the turbulent waters of anti-monarchical tendencies of the the irrelevant legacy of our Brit- solved by the monarch or their rep- the mighty Ottawa, would be hard- United States, who harboured active ish colonial past, and furthermore, a resentative complete with a ‘Speech pressed to imagine it any other way. resentment at Britain’s support of the head-of-state who is not even a Can- from the Throne’ and ‘Royal Ascent’, In short, although controversial at the secessionist South at the outbreak of adian resident seems quite absurd. and the elegance of Rideau Hall is al- time – perhaps Queen Vic had made the Civil War. For that reason, the This same issue was important ready well-established as the official the right decision. Colonial Office also recommended enough for Australians to go to the residence of the Governors General As the symbols of Empire have Her Majesty’s representative should polls in the last decade. Strangely, the and the Queen. In fact, a Canadian ebbed away, Canadians have taken be named the Governor General, over Australian question received surpris- monarch could take up duties in the slow but measured steps in establish- the prestigious title of ‘Viceroy’, as ingly little press here as Canadians daily functioning of the state without ing our own symbols of statehood. was used in India. Certainly not, it on both sides of the argument quietly much notice. What would the taxpayer The formation of the Mounties, the was made clear, because of any lack awaited the results -- and even then, have to say? There’s no way around it: CPR, the construction of a Canadian of royal sentiment in Canada. New few ventured to comment. every country needs a head-of-state, navy in the First World War, the Su- Brunswick’s Leonard Tilley won the Granted, the monarchy has served and there’s no proof that a monarch preme Court, the Maple Leaf, Can- day with the title of ‘Dominion’ of us well over the years, but proposals would cost any more that a president, adian citizenship, the patriation of the Canada, inspired by the 77th Psalm: exist to politely sever all formal ties or the Governor General already does. Constitution and the Charter of Rights “He shall have dominion also from at the end of Her Majesty’s reign. It’s the price of statehood – so why and Freedoms – all met with fiery op- sea to sea, and from the river unto the She’s now in her 80s, and as Canada not do it in style? position, and unabashed support in ends of the earth.” It would be this continues to struggle with her nation- So who would be offered the their day, yet all are treasured institu- brand of considered, closet-monarch- al identity, the issue will inevitably Throne of Canada? In the culturally tions today. ists that would set the tone for Canada come to a head. and regionally diverse federation, that In a modern age where the world well into the next century and beyond. The lacklustre result would see question alone could stop the issue grows smaller every day, multi-cul- The sun has since set on the British Canada becoming a republic by default dead -- But if Canadians wanted it turalism is in crisis, and the delicate Empire and Canada has transformed and our Queen would be swapped for enough, we could resort to one last balances of security vs. freedom have itself over from a frontier Dominion a president. Although that wouldn’t exercise in colonial formality. Parlia- forced us to take a long look at our- into an independent and culturally-di- necessarily mean we’d be subjected ment could defer the question to the selves as a nation – could a non-par- verse modern country – yet Sir John’s to a US-style of democracy, (Italy, present Queen. tisan monarch embody the leadership promise rings true. We are perhaps for example, functions with both a Parliament has resorted to this in and guidance to a discordant society still closet monarchists. Prime Minister, and President - the the past: In the mid-19th Century, after hungry for common symbols? Could If the number of Canadian eye- later taking on the more ceremonial years of dispute, the decision of estab- a Sovereign be the missing link, balls that were fixed on the marriage role of head-of-state, while the former lishing a permanent seat of govern- which could lead Canadians from all of Prince William and Kate Middle- is head of government), it wouldn’t ment was decided by Queen Victoria. backgrounds and languages out of the ton is any indication, Canada is per- exactly set us apart on the world stage. Kingston, Montreal, Toronto and closet to rally behind in times of cele- Quebec City had all, in turn, served as bration, or crisis? the capital of the Province of Canada, If Canadians are brave enough to and it was clear that issue couldn’t be face this character-building discus- decided by partisan politicians; in- sion: the Canadian Throne could be stead it was referred to an impartial the next measured step in the quest for and judicious monarch. When she national identity. chose the tiny, dusty, logging village It’s controversial, yes -- but if we named ‘Bytown’ on the Ottawa as the choose that route as a nation, maybe future capital of the Province (and given time, the institution of the Can- ultimately the Dominion) of Canada, adian monarchy could prove itself the politicians doubted their own wis- as an unmistakeable symbol of Can- dom in asking. Contemporary Wil- ada… as did the Mounties, the Maple liam Goldwyn bitterly described the Leaf and… little Bytown. town as a “sub-arctic lumber village transformed by royal mandate into a

OSCAR Needs Volunteers For Monthly Distribution in Old Ottawa South MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 15

THE WINDSOR CHRONICLE PART 23 GAMES

For nearly eight years, from complex. For one thing, we keep increasingly persistent barks and Ya Look.” We could start with a February 2000 to August 2008, score. There are several ways to win yelps, and is particularly effective in competition among the dogs of our OSCAR carried a monthly column. points and I’ve become very adept the Saturday morning games. neighbourhood, using the various The Windsor Chronicles, written by at scoring all possible combinations, But the real masters are able to restaurants and shops on Bank Street. Zoscha the Wonder Dog. Zoscha even if I do say so myself. score the touchdown for six points. We could field a team to take on the became something of a celebrity in our We play the game in many This happens when you make such dogs of Glebe and Alta Vista. Then neighbourhood, and her observations locations, but the best of all is the a fuss that a humanoid goes into the -- who knows? -- maybe Alpha will on the passing scene, from a canine Douvris pup kennel on the busy building to ask whether the people begin taking me on his trips instead perspective, attracted her share of street.(1) The place where all the there know that there’s been a dog of leaving me at the kennel. That way loyal readers as well as critics. humanoid pups come wearing their abandoned on the sidewalk outside. I’ll be able to test my mettle against OSCAR is reprinting some of white clothes with their white and You get a conversion for one point the best this country has to offer. (3) Zoscha’s musings from eight years yellow belts. Alpha and the Pup take if Alpha comes out to show these ago. The editors have annotated where me there every Friday and again the concerned people that everything is With dreams of glory, we feel that today’s readers may need following morning. I’m not allowed all right. At this point, it’s best to wag to be informed of references that may inside with the humanoids, so Alpha your tail, brighten your eyes, and give Zoscha no longer be remembered by readers ties me to a post on a shady place on him that smile that say, “Made Ya 1. Douvris Martial Arts continues today, or where recent scholarship the sidewalk. Then he and the Pup go Look!” to operate in the neighbourhood. has shed further light on the world inside and the game can begin. After the game, Alpha, the Pup Dogs are still not allowed in the described in the Windsor Chronicles.. The object of the game is to get and I go next door to the ice cream dojo, but the rules have been lifted as much attention from humanoids as place.(2) Alpha and the Pup go inside, since Zoscha’s day so that they are possible. Score two points if someone but the windows are big enough that I May, 2002 occasionally observed in the reception stops to pat you as they pass by on can see what they’re doing in there, area. Dear Boomer, the sidewalk. Score just one point if and they can keep an eye on me. They 2. The Dairy Queen also remains the person is waiting for the bus. Of don’t bother tying me up. I just wait on’t you just love to play at the same location. course, the best way to get a pat is to at the door, my leash at me feet, and “Made Ya Look!” That’s 3. No evidence has yet surfaced look entirely forlorn, as though you’ve I practice my technique on anyone what the Pup calls his version that Zoscha was able to organize a D been abandoned there to starve. I’m a who wants to get past me to go inside. of the game. He’ll tell Alpha he sees league beyond Old Ottawa South. master at scoring these easy points. I Sometimes I think of this as taking the something outside the window or have just the right eyebrows for that game into overtime, but really, it’s not across the street. The more outrageous woe-is-me look, especially when I such a match when Alpha and I can the better: a circus clown or a dragon combine this with drooping my ears. see each other through the glass. or the boy down the street eating a And once I’ve issued my piteous I think we should organize a live garter snake. When Alpha turns whine, there’s not a humanoid who cross-city league of doggie “Made to see for himself, the Pup peals into can resist. laughter, “I made you look, Daddy! So it’s easy to rack up these quick Made ya look!” points in ones and twos. You score Of course, we have a similar a three-point field goal if you get game. And, sophisticated beasts Alpha to come outside and tell you to that we are, the rules are much more be quiet. This can be done through

Sudoku Sudoku Solution on page 12 To complete the puzzle: 1. all rows must contain digits 1 to 9 only once 2. all columns must contain the digits 1 to 9 only once. 3. each of the nine boxes must contain the digits 1 to 9 only once Page 16 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011

TRINITY ANGLICAN CHURCH Spring Events at Trinity Anglican Church By Eli MacLaren a litter-vanquishing smile on your English cathedral music. Come and Organ Recital is also being planned, face. In beautifying our church and take part in a traditional Anglican date and time to be announced. he annual Trinity Spring its grounds, we beatify ourselves. And worship experience enriched by a Clean-Up and Chili Lunch if the praise of Jackie Johnston (our group of outstanding voices. Mark your calendars! The Trinity will occur on Saturday 14 May formidable organizer) is not enough, Trinity’s Word and Music Series Parish Pot Luck Picnic at Brewer T you will also earn a hearty lunch on will offer an hour of religious reflection Park will take place on Sunday 12 at 10:00 a.m. Ladies and gentlemen, this is nothing less than a chance to the house in thanks for volunteering and introspection, combining texts June at 10:00 a.m. become an angel, the easy way – with your time and energy. read aloud with musical performance. For more information on events none of the trials and tribulations The Cranmer Singers, directed The first event in the series will feature occurring at Trinity Anglican Church that the early Christian martyrs had by Frances Macdonnell, will perform Doug Small reading and Victoria please see our web site (www. to suffer to earn their halo. Simply at Trinity as part of the service of Scott playing organ and piano. Please trinityottawa.ca) and download our show up at Trinity Anglican Church Evensong (Book of Common Prayer) visit our web site (www.trinityottawa. newsletter, The Grapevine (PDF). (1230 Bank St.) with your sleeves on Sunday 15 May at 4:00 p.m. ca > Music) for more information as rolled up, your work gloves on, and The service will include traditional it becomes available. A Trumpet and

Battery Boy By Mary P. One morning, William and his They weren’t in a locked cabinet far Of course she does. daddy showed up without Gronk. above his head! They were right there “Could you…?” year or so ago, I cared for Just the two of them. Where was little in the dining room!! Of course I could. a pair of brothers. Brothers brother? HE was with his 8-months- Okay, they were on the table, so It wasn’t hard. I found the best whom we shall call William pregnant mommy, on his way to he had to push a chair out and climb technique was to press the … output… A Emergency. Not life-and-death, no, onto the table. And yeah, they were between my carefully-gloved fingers, and... let’s see... What name would convey the hale and hearty good but Gronk was strongly suspected of also inside the little lava lamp belong- seeking that tell-tale hard spot. At the cheer of the younger brother? The having ingested a battery. ing to his older brother. But hey, it end of the day, I was pleased to inform amiable, primal nature? His primitive I lie. Not just one battery. THREE. was the matter of a minute or two to dad that I had unearthed one of the bonhomie? The rock-em-sock-em, Now, if there’s a kid who’d eat three clamber onto the table, give that lamp missing batteries. bounce-off-the-furniture style of batteries, he’s your boy. Gronk does a solid whack or two, and then chow “Oh, that’s great! His mom will locomotion? (It’s not that he was par- love his food! But still, batteries?? down on the weeny little pills that fell be so relieved. One down, two to go!” ticularly fast (he wasn’t) nor that he How would a small child even get a out when the bottom fell off! Silver And mom was relieved. Only… was particularly rough (though you battery down? You can’t chew batter- pills. Shiny silver pills! She really needed to KNOW. couldn’t call him gentle, exactly). It’s ies, and they’re miles too big to swal- And then it was but the work of So picture Mary, kneeling on just that, once he chose a direction, low... aren’t they? a moment after that to scramble back the kitchen floor by the garbage can, nothing -- not other children, nor If you’re thinking of double-A off the table, leaving the dismantled wearing another pair of those surgical pets, nor furniture, nor even walls or batteries, they are... but these? They lava lamp behind, for mummy to find gloves, looking for the particular dia- door frames -- was going to deter him were button batteries! No chewing re- when she went to put breakfast on the per with its particularly toxic cargo. from his path. He didn’t ‘walk’ so quired. Those things slip right down, table. There had been more than one poopy much as ‘steamroll’.) just like… just like all those enticing When you are the parent of a child diaper that day, of course. Oh, yes, Gronk. That’ll do it. We’ll call him pills in the medicine cabinet which no like Gronk, it is NO stretch at all to there had. And even though I drop Gronk. one will ever let him near. But these? look at askew chair + dismantled lava what I can into the toilet, there are al- lamp – three of four button batteries ways remnants left behind. Remnants and immediately assume that = in- which have now been stewing in plas- gested batteries. They did a thorough tic for several hours... search of the room, of course, just to I opened three stench-filled pack- be sure. ages before I found The One. Dredged And then, just to be SUPER sure, out the battery, cleaned it off with a off they went to emergency for x-rays. baby wipe, and put it in a zipper bag. I Because that’s just what you do, isn’t hand it over to dad the next morning. it? “I can’t believe she asked you to Three hours later, mom brings do that.” He gives the teeny still-sil- Gronk to my door. The x-rays ver, non-corroded, entirely poop-free showed… nothing. No tell-tale spots button a wary glance through its hy- in the boy’s innards. This does not genic packaging. mean, however, that they’re not IN Now, I’m quite happy for dad to there. It could mean that they’re not think I’ve earned my Super Caregiver in there, yes. It could also mean that Gold Star for having gone the extra he ate them the previous evening, not mile. It’s always good when parents that morning, and they’ve travelled are astounded by your Willingness to far enough down the tract that the x- Give. If dad thinks I’m the next best ray didn’t catch them. No to worry, thing to Mary Poppins, I can deal with mom, says the tech: if they’re that far that. But you know what? down, they’ll be out too soon to do I get mom. Of course I do. She any damage. needed to KNOW. Something pot- THIS is absolutely NOT good entially lethal floating around inside enough! Mom NEEDS TO KNOW her baby boy? Of course she needed her baby is not going to die of cor- to know for 100% certain-sure that it roded innards when one of those shiny was OUT. silver buttons gets digested enough to Still, I am glad this was all on a leak battery acid into her baby’s gut. Thursday/Friday. The other two bat- She NEEDS to know this. Of course teries emerged on HER watch. The she does. boy lives to see another day. And, Which is why, in addition to her pretty please, to NOT eat any more battery boy, she hands me three pairs batteries... of surgical gloves. MAY 2011 Page 17 Hopewell Students Make Long Distance Call to Outer Space By William Burr

The hundreds of students who were gathered in the Hopewell Public School gym didn’t make a sound. They listened through loudspeakers to a radio operator in Honolulu trying to connect them with the International Space Station as it passed over Hawaii. But the operator kept sending her call out into space without getting any answer: “This is WH6PN Honolulu calling for a scheduled contact. Do you copy? Over.” She repeated the message five times, waiting several seconds in between. Finally, there was a staticky voice on the other end: “We hear you loud and clear.” It was Italian astronaut Paulo Nespoli. The operator in Honolulu quickly All the Hopewell students who got to speak to an astronaut. Photo by William Burr connected Nespoli with the Hopewell gymnasium. “Go, Hopewell!” she said. ARISS aims to foster kids’ dreams. diet in outer space. “It’s really gross the space station that each can only The school only had ten minutes. “It makes them believe that anything – the macaroni – you have to squeeze do it once. But Steve MacFarlane Hopewell was taking part in a program is possible,” said volunteer Steve it out of a tube,” she said. Shaw also says that all anyone needs to listen in that allows students to speak with MacFarlane. Steve’s motto is “A couldn’t imagine reducing the amount on astronauts making their own radio an astronaut for a few minutes using nation’s best measure of success is in its of fresh fruit that she eats, as she transmissions is a regular radio scanner, amateur radio. The program is run children’s opportunity to dream.” The discovered astronauts must do. And purchasable at an electronics store for by an international partnership of program also tries to encourage kids to yet, she was still inspired by the event: about 100 dollars. Set it to 145.800 amateur radio operators called ARISS pursue careers in science, technology, “I really want to go into space now. I megahertz when the space station is -- Amateur Radio on the International engineering and math. really want to, like, float,” she said. overhead. Outer space is remarkably Space Station. Lori MacFarlane remembered one girl As it stands, there are so many schools near. On April 13th, around noon, as the who got to talk to an astronaut who waiting to make a connection with space station passed over the Hawaiian never seemed to fit in with her peer islands, it become reachable by amateur group but who was so excited for the radio in Honolulu during a ten minute contact that she went out and bought a window. After that, the station, which whole new set of clothes for that day. travels at about 27 thousand kilometres Steve and Lori have became the per hour, would be out of reach. From champions of the program in Canada, Honolulu, standard telephone wires bringing contact with the space station relayed the radio transmission first to more than 30 schools across the to Virginia and then to Ottawa. In country. ARISS exists in eight other Virginia, sponsor Verizon Wireless countries as well. retransmitted the signal, allowing it to In Canada, ARISS relies on funding be listened in on by other radio operators from the Canadian Space Agency as around the world. Hawaii was chosen well as corporate sponsorships from as a transmission point for Hopewell First Air and Air Inuit. With more for scheduling reasons -- the space funding, Steve hopes to bring the station happened to be passing over the program to isolated places like Rankin American islands when Hopewell was Inlet, Nunavut. He and all the other available for the call. program organizers are volunteers. Two ARISS volunteers who are also Steve said he finds that most teachers husband and wife, Steve and Lori don’t believe making contact with outer MacFarlane, coached the school space is possible. “When you go into through the event. Lori stood on the a school and say ‘Do you want to do gym’s stage with a microphone while this?’ they look at you and they call about 15 students were whisked in and security right away,” he joked. out of a chair next to her to ask astronaut At Hopewell, it was a challenge Nespoli a question. to pick the kids who got to ask the “Hi, my name is Thomas. Did you feel questions from the many who wanted nervous when lifting off on the shuttle, to, according to teacher Monique Sack. and what did it feel like?” asked the “This was like winning the lottery for first one up. us,” she said, likening it to Christmas Nespoli cheerfully answered that he or Easter. Each class ended up sending was nervous but not too much. And one delegate, whom they chose in most that the shuttle ride lasted only eight cases by drawing a name out of a hat. minutes and felt like a rollercoaster. The lucky few who got to make contact Other students asked Nespoli about seemed to relish the chance. “It was sleeping and disposing of garbage in incredible to think that someone in outer zero gravity, and about how it felt when space could speak to an ordinary student he looked out a window onto the Earth in a school,” said Tristan Dearden. “I for the first time. Nespoli answered just thought it was amazing,” he said. poignantly: “Our planet Earth is really “I know that when I go home today and beautiful and very colourful, and the have dinner, my dad will ask me ‘What rest of the sky is black. I felt that it was did you do today?’ so that’s when I’ll priceless and delicate.” say ‘I talked to an astronaut in outer “What is the best part of being on the space.’” space station?” asked a student called “I’d do it any day,” said Noah Killeen. Noah. He still didn’t think he’d ever be an “I made my dream come true being astronaut, but he didn’t rule it out up here and working here,” Nespoli entirely. answered. Rachel Shaw was a bit unnerved by the th Page 18 The OSCAR - OUR 38 YEAR MAY 2011 AFTER THOUGHTS

Inner Space from Richard Ostrofsky hallucinations and optical illusions, man with a temperament and world- one’s own thoughts is probably not a of Second Thoughts sometimes in full awareness that what view less bleak than the Buddha’s, I waste of time. Rather than acting out we are seeing is not real at all. would like to stand his great insight one’s fantasies, there may be some Bookstore (now closed) In this month’s column, you on its head: It is true that in formal value just in getting to know them www.secthoughts.com are invited to follow the path of meditation or in my La-Z-Boy, intimately – where they come from, [email protected] psychotherapists and ‘mystics,’ what I find in the dream-world is an and what they are. to consider the possibility that the absence of essential Self, but rather Stuart Kauffman, a theoretical motion and fantasy are suspect. inner world of dream, fantasy and a self-construed (small-’s’) self, but biologist, has famously described We are supposed to be hard- meditation is, in one sense, more real I would see this self not as delusion the emergence of order out of chaos headed realists, always facing – not less so – than the world of daily but as a lifetime’s work of something (self-organization) as “a dance on E life. The world we actually live in is a approaching art. I go to that La-Z-Boy the edge of the possible.” Fantasy ‘facts.’ Yet everything we’ve learned about brains and minds in the last cognitive construction, spun from the to write, or think or indulge in fantasy, is just that dance – in the mind. But 40 years or so (and we have learned feelings and intentions of ourselves not usually to “free myself from new possibilities don’t need to be a tremendous amount) suggests that and others. The dream-world shows suffering,” but because I enjoy such imagined in advance. They exist the leap from sensation to perception us something of how this supposed mental activities, and the reclining and often get realized before anyone is precisely a matter of imagination, ‘reality’ is wrought. armchair itself. notices them. Fantasy, sometimes, is and that without emotion (which In his Song of Meditation, Hakuin The astronaut blasting off into just a recognition of possibilities not directs and colors attention) there can Zenji makes this claim in so many outer space reclines on an acceleration previously noticed. be no reasoned thought. Sensation is words: “As regards [meditation],” he couch. In my recliner, I ‘blast off’ for As a book dealer I was, in large news about what’s happening to your says, “we have no words to praise inner space – or so I like to imagine. part, a purveyor of fantasies. At least body. Perception is news about what’s it fully . . . [Those practicing it] I gain the occasional insight in that half the books I sold were fantasies of happening in the outside world. reflecting within themselves, testify armchair; sometimes I just relax and one sort or another; and I was amused Without guess-work based on memory to the truth . . . that Self-nature is no- fall asleep. Or I read, and try to follow when people used to apologize for and imagination as loaded (e.g.) by nature; they have really gone beyond the ideas of someone else. What I their ‘junk’ reading, because at least desire and fear, our eyes could only the ken of sophistry. mostly do is cruise and sightsee, half of my own reading came from the tell the brain about the light waves “The truth that Self-nature is no watching the thoughts as they stream fantasy sections as well. People who hitting them. The world of familiar nature” – an artifact of one’s own by. ‘Meditation’ is the fancy word for read do so not just for information and objects and people that we think we making, as I would put it in modern this non-activity, but there is nothing ideas but also for relaxation and sheer see is more correctly understood as language – might be called the key at all fancy about it. There’s hardly pleasure – and why shouldn’t we? imagined: a brain/mind’s attempt to idea of Buddhism. From it follow as anything simpler. What did and does bother me make cognitive sense of what its eyes corollary the so-called ‘Four Noble Does the pastime have any value? sometimes is when people confuse are taking in. Similarly with all the Truths’ and ‘Eight-fold Path’ which The only products of my time in that their private, pleasurable fantasies other senses, separately and together. all boil down to the simple point that La-Z-Boy are my writings in these – religious, political, sociological What they report is basically a each of us is his own worst enemy, columns and on the Web, and you must or sexual – with universal facts. The fantasy to which reality is attributed – and the cause of his own sufferings. judge by them. I am happy if anyone wish to stamp out or overwhelm other justifiably attributed most of the time. Freud, for one, would surely have gets something from these pieces, but people’s imaginary worlds does a But we have dreams, and sometimes agreed. have to say frankly that production great deal of harm; and the cure for I do myself, but as a modern and social good works are not the this must be to admit frankly and name of my game. There are lots of show by example to our children that people improving the world in their private fantasy and play are perfectly various ways, and a right hash they respectable adult activities, although are making. I’m not a WASP, but a reality is sometimes important too. Taoist in this respect. I think the shit Anyway, my column this month that is going to happen will happen, has a clear recommendation for whether I work harder or not. once: When you feel like it, just find The time spent in that chair has a comfortable place and sit there. value for me, whether or not it has Let your mind wander. And never any for others – though I want to say apologize to anyone for doing so. that in an increasingly crazy world of busy realists, just sitting still with

Area Church Service Times Sunnyside Wesleyan Church 58 Grosvenor Avenue (at Sun- St Margaret Mary’s Parish nyside) 7 Fairbairn (corner of Sunnyside) Sunday Worship Services at 9am Sunday Liturgies & 11am (one service at 10am May 9:30am and 11:30am 22 - Sept 4) Christian Meditation Children’s program offered during Mondays at 7:00 pm. worship services. Evening Prayer: Tuesday at 7 p.m.

Trinity Anglican Church Services Southminster United Church Sunday - 8 a.m. Holy eucharist 15 Aylmer Avenue (at Bank & the 10 a.m. Holy eucharist with Choir Canal) and Church School Sunday Worship Thursday - 10 a.m. Holy eucharist 10:30 a.m. (9:30 a.m. July & in the Chapel, August) followed by bible study Sunday School During worship, September - May MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 19

BOOK REVIEW GALORE by Michael Crummey

Publisher: Anchor Canada (July early eighteen hundreds, he brings any means, legal or not. The clans’ and introduces historical figures 6 2010). 352 pp. to life the early settler communities, dispute has a long history, going back (e.g. William Coaker, the founder of ISBN: 978-0385663151 shaped by strife between the Irish to Devine’s Widow and King-me the Fishermen’s Protective Union, and West-country English settlers, Seller, yet, over the generations it has FPU) into the fictional world he has Review by: and exposed to the diverging and turned into a constant, often violent, created. While the author never loses competing political and the religious rivalry between the Irish and the his interest in the local communities, Friederike Knabe influences. The description of the West-Country English, between the some of the (historical and other) sometimes bleak reality is softened poor fisher folks and the merchants/ side developments take away some by the author’s vibrantly evoked land owners. The different church of the magic of the narrative’s central harsh beauty of land- and seascapes. representatives also compete as best drive and creative imagination. To After a brief glimpse into later events, they can for the souls of the villagers. help the reader through the myriad of Crummey jumps quickly back in Much influence and talent rests with names that come to life in the story, time to Mary Tryphena’s childhood some of the local women; they play a genealogical chart is displayed when a whale beached itself on the an important role in both contributing upfront. Such a chart is useful, shore of Paradise Deep. The villagers, to and smoothing the generational given the wealth of characters, it desperate for food after another meager conflicts. Not only do they have does, however, reveal some linkages fishing season and an icy-cold winter a central role here, they are, very upfront that are better discovered only of scarcity, can hardly wait to cut into convincingly, depicted as the carriers in due course. All in all this is a rich the animal’s flesh. Just then, as Mary of tradition and, sometimes, magical tale that will attract many readers, and Tryphena’s grandmother, Devine’s powers... Newfoundland mythology have special meaning for those with Widow, pulls from the whale’s belly is liberally mixed in. The local dialect a particular interest in the history of something that looks like a body, of the time is prominent throughout Newfoundland. … it starts coughing up water, blood the frequent dialog sections and takes and small fishes! It is a fully grown some getting used to. It adds, however, * Most recently (April 2011), man who cuts an unusual figure a special flair to the atmosphere. “Galore” has been short listed for the ichael Crummey opens among the locals: he is completely The author weaves such an intricate International IMPAC Dublin award, his new novel, “Galore” white from head to toe, and his smell tapestry linking together six- the world’s richest literary prize for Mwith Judah, sitting in a of rotten fish is so overpowering generations of the two clans and a single work of fiction. Previously, “makeshift asylum cell, shut away that nobody wants to be near him... the people around them that it is Crummey’s novel was named best with the profligate stink of fish that The local fisher folks, God-fearing sometimes difficult not to get lost book in the Canada and Caribbean clung to him all his days.” Only yet illiterate, and with the itinerant in the interrelationships between category of the Commonwealth Mary Tryphena Devine comes near priest not due for a visit in the near characters, despite them being fully Writers’ Prize in 2010 and short listed him these days, urging him to take future, cannot agree which biblical developed. For his factual backdrop, for the GGs in 2009. a little food... Judah’s story is the name belongs to the “story with the the author touches on various political primary, yet not the only otherworldly whale” and, as a compromise, decide developments in Newfoundland theme that glides through this on “Judah”. Suspicion follows Judah multigenerational chronicle, set in one from the outset - not just physically of Newfoundland’s wild and rough is he an oddity, he also appears to be eastern coastal regions, and, more mute. The villagers openly blame him specifically, in two remote fishing for all the mishaps that are befalling villages, Paradise Deep and The Gut. them. Until, one day, Judah leads Crummey, himself a Newfoundlander them to the most amazing catch... and an award-winning author*, has Crumney’s narrative is primarily written this highly imaginative, focused on the ongoing strife superbly crafted folkloric tale that between the Devine family, the blends with great ease strands of most important clan in The Gut, supernatural magic of old fairy tales who have “adopted” Judah, and the and beliefs with a cultural and social Seller clan who controls Paradise history of Newfoundland’s isolated Deep: wealthy merchants who exert Outports. Spanning over more than their power over the communities by one hundred years, starting with the

Spring Clean-up on the Rideau River Saturday 7 May

pring is here and it’s time again for the annual Rideau River Clean- up. This year’s effort will take place on Saturday 7 May, simultan- Seously in New Edinburgh, Overbrook, Vanier, Sandy Hill, Ottawa East and Ottawa South, with the Urban Rideau Conservationists helping to mobilise the communities. The Ottawa South section will focus on the stretch of the Rideau River in Brewer Park, picking up the detritus of winter. Volunteers should gather at the Ottawa Tennis & Lawn-bowling Club at 9:00, and the clean-up will continue till noon, or until we run out of rub- bish. The City of Ottawa will provide equipment, while coffee is supplied by Starbuck’s. Last year’s clean-up was a great success, and we hope to surpass it this year. Come, meet your neighbours, enjoy the park, and help clean up our river. Page 20 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 Squirrel Talk

Raccoons 101 – Learning More about the ‘Procyon lotor’

Tania & Michaël with it was their special guest Donna. last meal, along with their purring, trilling and never ending curiosity. ania and I were awakened Raccoons are very social animals and around 2 a.m. one night last single babies coming into the Centre spring with what appeared would do poorly until they were put in T with buddies. They would then thrive to be a fight going on between two raccoons. They were in our large on each others company. oak tree out front, with one raccoon Although they are nocturnal, hanging down from the tip of a branch a raccoon may sometimes be seen hissing at the other approaching lounging about in the afternoon sun. raccoon. We weren’t sure if it was Not to worry – it is likely a female spring love or a fight to the death. taking a much-needed break from With raccoons again out and her nursing young, something that all about, it prompted us to want to learn mothers can relate to. As for diseases more about them. We asked Donna like rabies, in all the years and the DuBreuil at the Ottawa-Carleton many hundreds of raccoons we cared Wildlife Centre to give us a Raccoon for, there was not a single case of 101 course that we could share with rabies. our readers. April and the middle of May. confused by the rejection. They will Raccoons are omnivorous, eating Likely the aggression that Tania try to re-enter the den, only to continue both plant and animal material. In fact, Ottawa-Carleton Wildlife and Michael witnessed in May was to be aggressively pushed out. they have been highly successful in Centre www.wildlifeinfo.ca the female driving off a male as she Raccoons den in hollow trees, adapting because they take advantage was either ready to give birth or logs and vacant burrows. During of a wide variety of food sources. Well, the raccoons that awakened already had young nearby. Raccoon the birthing season, the female often Their diet includes insects, fruits, Tania and Michael last spring were families spend the winter together but moves closer to humans, choosing an fish, aquatic animals like crayfish and not flirting. The mating season when the birthing season arrives, the accessible attic, chimney or shed as a clams, bird eggs and, occasionally, occurs much earlier, anywhere from females drive off the males, as they temporary location to keep her young small animals like mice but they are late January to early March. After a pose a risk to tiny newborn kits. safe from predators. The babies, eyes not very effective hunters. As we all gestation period of sixty-three days, The males, who have been part closed and weighing only 75 grams at know, they will also take advantage of the young are born between early of the family, are understandably birth, continue to nurse until they are our unsecured garbage. [Michaël says: 8-10 weeks old, although they often our garbage can has a self-securing lid start venturing out with mother earlier and is anchored to the house with a to learn how to forage. little rope around one handle so we The raccoon is not an aggressive have no problems.] animal and it doesn’t pose a threat In late summer, foods such as to cats or dogs. Raccoons tend to corn, fruit, acorns and other nuts settle disagreements with each other help them to pack on the weight they by growling, screaming and snarling. need to get through a long winter. The vocalizations may sound scary Raccoons don’t hibernate but remain but this is usually the extent of the largely inactive during the coldest altercation. Intelligent animals like winter months, denning with family raccoons seldom risk a fight that could members for warmth. result in injury. Raccoons are at least as intelligent Raccoons employ more subtle as cats or dogs and far more dexterous. tactics to get what they need. On one Although the scientific name of occasion we watched a large skunk the raccoon “lotor” refers to the feeding out of a bowl of food left out “washing behaviour” demonstrated for a stray cat. Along came a raccoon, by its handling of food, it likely just moving ever so slowly, advancing on highlights how tactile this animal the bowl of food while pretending he is. was just passing by. He would extend Remember, this is the height of a discrete paw into the bowl gently the birthing season. Never trap and nudging his way closer until the skunk relocate or barricade a raccoon or took the hint and left, without so much any other wild animal seen around as a ‘bad’ word between them. your property. It is almost certainly Raccoon babies were always a mother with young stashed nearby. favourites when the Centre did This is a temporary situation that wildlife rehabilitation. How could will resolve itself. For advice on all you not find endearing a little masked wildlife concerns, check out www. face and velvet soft feet that would wildlifeinfo.ca BEFORE taking any grab onto a baby bottle and suck like action.

Submit articles about interesting people you know in Old Ottawa South to [email protected] MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 21 Best Value Comparison Chart for the City of Ottawa at Landsdowne Park The following is a best value comparison chart for the City of Ottawa at Lansdowne Park. The two proposals being examined are from the value to the City with the Lansdowne Park Conservancy and the value(cost) to the City proposal put forth by the developer consortium known as OSEG.

City/Conservancy City/OSEG Air Rights (Note no bidders for RFP) $0 $0 Total Operations Revenue $6,960,702 $5,478,000 Total Revenue after 40 years $513,012,625 $403,735,594 Avoided costs over 40 years $152,000,000 $152,000,000 City/Conservancy City/OSEG Stadium Final Totals South Stands 48,000,000 39,000,000 Project Capital Cost 267,286,000 433,742,000 North Stands/Arena 29,000,000 23,200,000 Total Expenses 398,134,280 476,478,760 Green Space and Grounds 16,040,000 32,000,000 Total Cost -665,420,280 -910,220,760 Horticulture Building Renovations 6,400,000 3,000,000 Total Revenue Operations 513,012,625 403,735,594 Coliseum Building 3,000,000 removed Total Lease Revenue Contributed 232,837,074 0 Concert Shell 1,200,000 none Total Revenue 749,008,898 415,451,674 Swimming Pool/Pavilion 5,000,000 none Avoided Costs 152,000,000 152,000,000 Parking zero, half of existing 22,523,000 Capital contributions 0 85,000,000 Horticulture Bldg Move zero, building remains 5,000,000 Profit/Loss after 40 years $235,588,618 -$257,769,086 Soccer Dome Move zero, building remains 5,000,000 Infrastructure 495,000 5,000,000 Conclusions Retail Space upgrades 500,000 (private developer cost) Net park and social benefits Improvements to Aberdeen 500,000 none Total Current Cost to City $110,135,000 $178,723,000 City with Conservancy City with OSEG 1. A public spacious heritage development 1. A private highrise/shopping centre Total Debenture Cost to City $267,286,000 $433,742,000 2. Sylvia Holden Park protected, maintained 2. Sylvia Holden park lost Financed over 40 years at 5.35% perimeter surface parking underground, attendants, 3. Less density means less traffic 3. Greater density means more traffic solar ticketing lighting, climate control – 4. All Heritage protected 4. Heritage ignored Expenses heating/air conditioning 5. A reserve fund ensuring no taxpayer cost. 5. No reserve fund. Annual Debenture Repayment 6,675,000 10,844,500 6. Greater tourism potential 6. Lower tourism potential 7. Promoting local business, profits local 7. Promoting chains, profits removed. Stadium/Arena Costs 3,702,000 3,702,000 8. Swimming pool and pavilion 8. No swimming Park and Maintenance Costs 1,500,000 1,500,000 9. Concert Shell and promotion of arts 9. No concert shell Operations Expense Parking 200,000 1,263,000 10. Outdoor winter skating, hockey, rinks 10. Curling rinks 11. Works within zoning, no OMB challenges 11. Contrary to Official Plan 12. Competitive bid, ready for RFP 12. Sole sourced bid, legal challenges 13. Stadium design, low maintenance steel 13. Stadium uses high maintenance wood Annual Avoided Costs -3,800,000 -3,800,000 14. Use of Solar, follows City/Province plan 14. No use of solar Total Expenses 8,277,000 13,509,500 15. Large space for Farmers to expand 15. No room for Farmers to expand 16. Profitable to City and Taxpayer 16. Taxpayers must pay $258M Revenue - Lease Operations 17. Less complicated, lower risk 17. Extremely complicated, higher risk Total Retail/Office lease space ft² 110,000 339,000 Net Lease space cost/ft² $28.72 sq/ft $28.72 sq/ft Conservancy profitable, no property tax OSEG proposal will require $258M of Annual Net Lease Revenue 3,159,200 9,736,080 needed to fund the project. taxation dollars to break even. Property Tax/ft² $5.00 $8.26 Total Tower lease space zero 90,000 sq/ft Final Note: Developer Profit. This will provides some context for the reader Net Lease space cost/sqft zero $22.00 sq/ft as to why the developers have such a great interest in the site. Annual Lease Revenue zero 1,980,000 The total profit for the developer over the 40 year term will be Total - Lease Operations 3,159,200 11,716,080 $909,490,060.00 This does not include the value of investing their profits.

Revenue - General Operations Developer Profit Calculations are provided below: Pool Revenue 75,000 zero Catering, Concessions, Other 100,000 zero Total Lease Revenue on 40 years $863,490,060 Small Trade Shows 315,000 zero Town homes on Holmwood 44 Number of public parking spots (Public Parking spots 1250) (Public Parking spots 900) Parking - Revenue 2,142,000 2,142,000 Sylvia Holden Park eliminated for private homes Price per town home 625,000 Lease Soccer Bubble 300,000 soccer bubble removed from park Solar Revenue South Stands 442,702 zero - no solar Construction cost per home 250,000 Profit per home 375,000 Concert Shell/Festivals 250,000 zero - no concert shell Farmer’s Market Summer 300,000 300,000 Total Value Town Homes 27,500,000 Farmer’s Market Winter 100,000 100,000 Total Profit Town Homes $16,500,000 Stadium Rental Fee CFL 300,000 300,000 Arena Rental Fee OHL 100,000 100,000 Condominiums above retail 176 Stadium/Arena 2,536,000 2,536,000 Construction cost per unit ft² 350 Total Revenue - Operations 6,960,702 5,478,000 Average condominium size ft² 1,000 Total Construction cost 61,600,000 Project Calculations after 40 Years, 2.5% annual growth Average price per unit 475,000 Total Cost $267,286,000 $433,742,000 Total Condominium sales 83,600,000 Annual Total Profit Condominiums $22,000,000 Property tax paid to City Retail 550,000 2,800,140 Property tax paid to City Tower zero 198,000 Condominium units in tower 60 Property tax to City Town Homes zero 345,530 Construction cost per unit ft² 350 Total Annual Property tax to City 550,000 3,343,670 Average condominium size ft² 1,000 Total Property Tax after 40 years $40,535,700 $246,432,740 Total Construction cost 21,000,000 Total Annual Expenses 5,402,000 6,465,000 Average price per unit 475,000 (excluding annual debenture Total Condominium sales 28,500,000 payment and avoided costs) Total Profit Tower Condos $7,500,000 Total Expenses after 40 years $398,134,280 $476,478,760 Total Lease Revenue $3,159,200 $11,716,080 Total $909,490,060 Total Lease Revenue after 40 years $232,837,074 $863,490,060 Lease Revenue to pay off debt $232,837,074 $0 Page 22 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 Southminster Choir Joins Ensemble Arkea to Sing the Fauré Requiem in Montreal

By Nancy E. Watters

arch 12th dawned bright and early as a caravan of Southminster singers traveled to Verdun Quebec to rehearse for our concert there Sunday Mevening March 13th at l’Eglise de Notre Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs. This was to be a busy and exciting weekend of rehearsals and performances with the young professional musicians of Ensemble Arkea conducted by Dina Gilbert and joining our director Roland Graham in his other “home base”. We were all present and on-time for choir rehearsal at 10 a.m. with Roland and Dina. For this special program, we needed an expanded choir which included several volunteers from choirs such as the Ottawa Youth Choir, First Baptist Church, St. Matthew’s Church and Christ Church Cathedral. In Montreal, members of a local group called Brouhaha also joined us for rehearsals and the Sunday evening performance. We had been rehearsing for the prior 2 months – many of us twice a week – so this was indeed the moment we had been waiting for!! We were all taken with the beauty of this grand church and perhaps a bit intimidated at the challenge of filling it with sound. Our biggest treat however, was the privilege of singing accompanied by the amazing musicians of Ensemble Arkea. We had been diligently “living” with our personal recordings of the Requiem as part of the lead up to the concert and were inspired by the recorded beauty of the orchestral arrangements. However, standing behind the live music and connecting with Dina Gilbert, who conducted both the orchestra and the choir, was a truly inspiring and a soul-filling privilege. This first rehearsal lasted until noon on Saturday and, as we drifted back from our lunch break, we were greeted to the gorgeous music of Ensemble Arkea rehearsing the first half of the program which did not involve the choir. Their first piece was the premiere of Spheres 1 by a local composer Marie-Claude Saindon commissioned for l’Ensemble Arkea. It was very modern with a string quartet positioned in the mid-aisle section of the church interfacing with the rest of the musicians on stage – making for a lively and beautiful dynamic. We enjoyed seeing our director, Roland, join the orchestra for a small percussion section of one of the pieces. Other orchestral pieces were by Debussy and Roussel with the Debussy Danse sacrée et danse profane featuring the gorgeous strains of local harpist Eveline Gregoire- Rousseau. About 2 pm, our real treat began as, for the first time, we sang, accompanied by the orchestra, both the Cantique de Jean Racine and the 7-part Requiem (both composed by Gabriel Fauré). The rehearsal went well and we had the evening off to explore Montreal, connect with old friends there and to remember to turn our clocks ahead for the seasonal time change. Choir members from Southminster returned with Roland for the 1000 am call on Sunday to rehearse and to sing 2 anthems during the 1100 mass at this Catholic church. We were warmly received by the local organist, pastor and congregation. By 1 pm, all were gathered for the full dress rehearsal including choir, orchestra and soloists Maghan McPhee (soprano) and Denis Lawlor (baritione). For most of us, this was our first experience being part of a truly professional concert production. It was fascinating and fun to see the interplay between conductor, musicians, soloists and choir in a truly working rehearsal. Roland, the organist for the Requiem, was positioned high up in the choir loft at the back of the church. He and Dina communicated in sign language via a small camera video link between the altar and the distant organ! The orchestra-only rehearsal for the first half of the program filled the remainder of the afternoon and several of us stayed to enjoy their music resting up for the evening performance. Verdun’s main street offers many choices for strolling out for either quick or longer meals – depending on the time available for those breaks – which became an enjoyable social aspect of our trip.

By 7 pm Sunday evening – all were assembled and ready – and the church started to fill up with attendees. Choir members enjoyed the first half of the program by Ensemble Arkea from the pews, as delighted listeners. At intermission, we assembled “back stage” for a vocal warm-up and organizing by the stage manager and then we were on!! By all accounts the performance went very well – we received a standing ovation – and our conductors Dina Gilbert and Roland Graham were also visibly thrilled. The music of Fauré’s Requiem is truly magical and there could not have been a more beautiful setting in which to perform this work. We, the choir members at Southminster, are grateful for the willing participation of our supporting guest singers to bolster our ranks including local

Cont’d on next page MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 23

Southminster ...Cont’d from previous page music professionals, Tracey Stabback and Kurt Ala-Kantti. As I write this, we are a day away from, once again, joining Ensemble Arkea and Dina to perform this wonderful music right here, on “home ground”, at Southminster. The support of the Southminster congregation and staff has been a great part of the success, so far. The work of so many who are involved in supporting this ambitious undertaking is much appreciated. We, the choir of Southminster, cannot express how privileged we feel to have been part of such a moving musical journey and we thank all involved – especially our courageous director Roland Graham and Dina Gilbert who believed we could do this. Concert organizers from Southminster extend their appreciation to a number of Old Ottawa South businesses whose sponsorship or services contributed to the success of this concert including Kerry Duff of Life of Pie and Bill Blackstone Photography (who were missed from the printed program). Fauré Requiem Makes a Splash on the Banks of the Rideau Canal by Margaret Macpherson ates who are starting their professional careers. The choral singing and a truly memorable experience. energy, commitment and expertise of the Ensemble The choir members I spoke to assured me that they ake note, Ottawa music lovers! Our Ottawa left the members of the audience in no doubt that had never worked so hard in their lives for a con- South community has its own amazing music- they were in for a special evening. cert. There were many extra rehearsals, and the choir al offerings, right in our neighbourhood. Sat- Speaking of the audience -that was another as- travelled to Montreal two weeks earlier to give an T tonishing aspect of the evening – more than 500 additional performance of the choral works. Every- urday night March 26th was a truly exciting day for Southminster, the fine old church which has stood people showed up to this concert. The organizers had one gave a lot of the credit to the drive and creative on the corner of Bank and the Canal since 1932. It to scramble for chairs to seat everyone; they even ran energy of their director Roland Graham. was the occasion of the joint concert presented by out of printed tickets and had to run for more. Ob- The Arkea Ensemble, we were informed in the the Southminster Choir, led by current organist and viously, Ottawa South is hungry for beautiful music program notes, is committed to showcasing up-and- choir director Roland Graham, and Ensemble Arkea, when it is provided right on the doorstep! coming local talent as soloists. This concert was no a string orchestra from Montreal led by conductor The second piece on the program was J.S. Bach’s exception. Two local soloists were featured in the Dina Gilbert. famous D Minor harpsichord concerto. The solo was Requiem. The famous Pie Jesu was sung by soprano Southminster’s Reverend Meg Illman-White played by Roland Graham on a nine foot Steinway Maghan McPhee and the baritone solos by Denis welcomed everyone to the church, and Rob Clipper- grand piano, which had its former home at the NAC. Lawlor. ton, well known CBC announcer, gave the opening The first and third movements consisted of a dizzy- A future collaboration between the orchestra remarks. The evening’s varied and interesting pro- ing array of intricate fingerwork for the keyboard. and the Southminster choir is in the works. You can Though in a minor key, these outer movements never count on the busy and dedicated volunteer team from managed to sound sombre, but showcased the energy the church to make it happen. Keep your eye out for and excitement typical in the works of J.S. Bach. news of the next concert. I am sure it will be worth The more reflective central movement had a lovely the effort to attend, but go early – Southminster may improvisatory feel, charmingly rendered by the pian- be bursting at the seams again. ist. Multi-talented Roland not only played as solo- This article is submitted by Margaret Macpher- ist in the concerto, but later in the program he was son. featured as conductor in the Cantique de Jean Racine Margaret Macpherson is a piano teacher and ac- and played the organ part for the Fauré Requiem. companist living in Ottawa South. Next on the program was Claude Debussy’s Contact information: Tel: 613 730 0049. mac- Danse Sacrée et Danse Profane played on the con- [email protected] cert harp by local harpist Robin Best, accompanied by the orchestra. This was truly one of the highlights of the evening. The young soloist’s command of the piece was complemented by her engaging stage presence. It was obvious that she enjoyed the music she was playing, and enjoyed sharing it with the audience. The remainder of the concert featured the two choral works by Gabriel Fauré: the Cantique de Jean Racine, and finally the major work of the gram began with the visiting string orchestra play- evening for the choir and ing the Mozart D Major Divertimento KV136. The orchestra, the Requiem orchestra is made up of 16 string players. All, along op. 48. Here the audience with their conductor, are recent music school gradu- was treated to some fine Page 24 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 People Helping Adventure in Ecuador people helping adventure occurred in a remote village in Ecuador from Feburary 17-27, 2011 that many Ottawa South neighbours supported and even a handful participated in. There were eight Carleton University students some of whom you may recognize from the neighbourhood, who travelled to ASanta Domingo de Onzole to help a community of 600 people build a community centre. This group of people living on the western side of the Andes mountains have mostly been neglected by the government based on the colour of their skin.

(Above left) the community centre partially built (Left) hauling gravel needed for cement (Above) let the adventure begin

everyone lending a hand

some fun at the worksight

To book an OSCAR ad call Gayle 730-1058 [email protected] MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 25

ABBOTSFORD HOUSE The Glebe Centre Celebrates Volunteerism By Pat Goyeche (Program Facilitator, seemed overwhelmed that they had reached such Abbotsford at The Glebe Centre) milestones... “It seems like just yesterday…” as they were presented with bouquets of flowers which were generously donated from our local Fines Flowers. hat a night! Well over a hundred volunteers The mood was palatably heartwarming as guests were feted at the Volunteer Reception held were greeted by enthusiastic staff, many of whom at Abbotsford House on Thursday April W commented that they would be unable to deliver the 14th. Lonelle Butler, the Volunteer Coordinator high quality of service without the support of the of The Glebe Centre who organized the event, volunteers. Several “group” awards were presented, was enthusiastic about the many volunteers who highlighting how important the roles of these groups contribute their time and talents to the organization. are in making the difference in the lives of seniors Bill Robertson, a member of Abbotsford who whether they are in care or living independently in takes fitness classes and also lends his musical talents, the community. It was also striking to see the varied was taken by how one does ones own activities and ages of the volunteers, and how many volunteers volunteerism without the full knowledge of how Doris Smith 33 years seen with Doritt Crosby, a expressed how “valued” they felt by the organization. others are also contributing to The Glebe Centre receptionist who has been working for Abbots- Hat’s off to our volunteers, you deserve our Community, and said “…it is an eye-opener to meet ford since 1975. Photo by Shirley Lee recognition and we appreciate your commitment! with and acknowledge the many ways volunteers Delicious food and refreshments, good will and contribute.” good company all lent to a very celebratory evening Lonelle Butler concurs when reflecting upon the were handed out to those who have been contributing indeed! success of the evening; she noted how touched she for 20, 25 and 30 plus years. Audible gasps were heard was to see the reaction of volunteers when certificates at the announcement of the nine individuals who fell into these categories. The volunteers themselves New Owners at Escape Clothing Store Make Spring Shopping a Joy By Nicola Maule clothes, casual wear and travel wear in sizes 4 to 16. “Our most popular lines ld Ottawa South resident are Nic & Zoe (the largest selection Leslie Fraser made her in Ottawa), Tribal, Robert Kitchen, Odream of being a business Royal Robbins, and great fitting jeans owner come true in January 2011. from Jag and French Dressing Jeans,” After working and managing Escape said Kenetha. Women of all ages shop clothing store for 22 years, she at Escape and Leslie and Kenetha’s decided the next logical step was helpful and no pressure sales approach to step up to the plate and purchase keeps their customers coming back! the store with her business partner Escape also sells a large selection Kenetha McNamee. “I have grown up of Pearls for Girls jewellery and the in this store. Our customers are like store alone has raised over $6,000 for family and I want the family to grow,” orphaned children in Lesotho. explained Leslie. The next six months are going to be a Escape is a woman’s clothing store challenge for all the stores in the Glebe geared to women looking for office due to the Bank St. reconstruction. For customers’ convenience, free weekend and open Monday to Wednesday and parking is available in the parking lot Saturday 10am to 6pm, Thursday and beside the store (entrance off First Friday 10am to 7pm and Sunday 11am Avenue) during the construction. “We to 5pm. Leslie and Kenetha invite you know shopping on Bank St. will be to come in and check out the new trying but we hope people will keep Spring fashions. A selection of their shopping in the Glebe and once the clothing will be appearing at a Spring construction is over we will have a big Fashion Show at Santé Restaurant on celebration,” said Leslie. May 14th. Please call 613-567-3898 Escape is located at 703 Bank St. in the for ticket information. Glebe (opposite Shoppers Drug Mart) Page 26 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 Tom Alfoldi Teaches Photography at the Firehall

These are some of the photos by some of the students in Tom Alfoldi’s photography class that was held this past winter at the Firehall. The course will return to the Firehall next winter. In the spring and fall, it will be at the Glebe Community Centre.

Photographer: Marie Hennessey Photographer: Taiyan Roberts Photographer: Carole Loop No camera details available. Camera: Samsung ES28 Camera: Canon EOS Digital Rebel Xsi F-stop: f/5.4, Shutter speed: 1/362 sec. F-stop: f/1.8, Shutter speed: 1/30 sec. ISO: 100, Focal length: 21 mm ISO: 800, Focal length: 50 mm

Photographer: Barbara Leduc Camera: Sony Cyber Shot DSC-TX1 Photographer: Yukiko Iwasaki Photographer: Lucie Pilon F-stop: f/4.6, Shutter speed: 1/100 sec. Camera: Canon PowerShot A570 Camera: Fujifilm FinePix F40fd, ISO: 125, Focal length: 24.7 mm F-stop: f/4.1, Shutter speed: 1/165 IS, F-stop: f/2.6 sec., ISO: 800, Shutter speed: 1/30 sec. Focal length: 16.3 mm ISO: 200, Focal length: 5.8 mm OSCADS Community Initiatives.

OSCAR is introducing, on an experimental basis, tions, resources and an idea. OSCADS try to help next month. a new section of free ads. bring them together. The purpose is to help members of the Old Ot- If you have any ideas to share, please send an If you have other interests, this is the place to ex- tawa South community take initiatives, whether busi- email to [email protected]. Mention that you press them, and perhaps find others who have similar ness, not-for-profit or informal voluntary initiatives. are responding to OSCADS Community Initiatives. interests. Most initiatives require three ingredients: ac- Responses I get can be published in this column 1. Resident is looking for help in identify- Participation will involve two interviews ing and mapping the tall trees in Old Ottawa with me of 30 to 60 minutes each, over a two South between the canal and the river, Bank month period this spring. and Bronson. (The inspiration for this came Interested? Email me (Wendy Robbins) from the initiative in Champlain Park with its at [email protected] or call me at 613- neat map and photos http://champlainoaks. 795-3050. com/ and from 2011 as the UN Year of the For- ests. [email protected] Subject line: Tall Trees. 3. I have an idea that “thinking globally, living locally” might generate some interest- 2. Are you a Baby Boomer, AND a public ing conversations in Old Ottawa South and library user, AND do you lend a hand to some- am planning an informal voluntary project for one older: a parent, neighbour, friend? the convening of such conversations. (More Interested in helping out with a research about these later.) I am currently looking for project for a Master’s Thesis (University of a volunteer communications person or persons Ottawa School of Information Studies)? who could help link these conversations, for My project is called “A place for us? Baby reporting and input purposes, to our Old Ot- boomers, their elders, and the public library.” tawa South community communications sys- The topic is how public libraries suit the needs tems (the OSCA website and OSCAR and of this particular group of users: baby boomers perhaps others, real and virtual, e.g. bulletin in a care relationship with elders; it’s a group boards), so everyone interested can partici- that is likely going to grow as the population pate. Thanks. Gail Stewart [email protected], ages. (613) 730-2796. OSCAR Needs Volunteers For Monthly Distribution in OOS MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 27 Local Veterinarian - Dr. Emily Black Emergency Medicine versus the General Practitioner

By Emily Black before. Usually, they have to rely on the word of a very stressed and very he plight or situation of the frazzled owner who is emotionally Emergency Veterinary Hospital involved in the patient. After one has been recently brought to of our clients has had a visit to an expensive of having to find a host T emergency hospital, we always have of qualified people who are able to my attention, and I have had to give the matter a fair bit of thought. Now, I a follow up visit with us. We do this work with a calm head under difficult am a General Practitioner in the same because we have learnt overtime conditions. These people are few and way that your family doctor may be a that in that moment, the panicked, far between and like all things in a free general practitioner, actually probably stressed horrible time at the emergency market, the cost of keeping them runs more similar to the small country quack hospital, that owner isn’t hearing or proportional to supply and demand. who used to act as doctor, dentist and remembering anything. More often Also, you want them to work when the therapist. At veterinary school we learnt than not they are nodding and trying to rest of us don’t want to, that costs more a proficiency in all of these aspects understand something very difficult in too. So although I may look at the of health, from internal medicine, a very difficult situation. medical record the following morning, to orthopedics, to dermatology, to This is hard for them but is equally and think to myself “why on earth?”, hard for that Emergency Veterinarian. I always am thankful that there was dentistry to behavioural modification. two or month or two. This is often the I can’t imagine the emotional drain someone there for my clients when I And I very much feel like that country most difficult thing for both the doctor of having to stay up all night and go was sleeping, when they needed a calm doctor, in my little neighborhood, and pet owner alike and especially from room to room and deal with one voice and a steady hand. I always try tending my flock from day to day, difficult when our patients can’t tell traumatic event after another, both and remember that the situation likely dispensing advice, watching progress us what is wrong, if they feel better or physically and emotionally. Also, looked much different then than it does and helping make difficult decisions. worse and we have to rely on a series for them, they are dealing with life now and their work went a long way This job has its own drawback, its of inscrutable physical parameters. or death. If they weren’t you would to clarifying it for me. Their job is own responsibilities but also has its Worse yet, all of this costs money; have waited to see me in the morning. difficult, and it’s not one I would want own benefits. I have time to watch for the visits, for the tests and for the As such they don’t have the time to and I want to thank them for it. Both progression, to move from clue to clue treatment. At least, in my position, pick and choose. They have to know me and my clients are lucky to have to get to a diagnosis, but also I know I can do my best to go only step by exactly what is going on now. The them when we need them. my patients, I know my clients, I see step. In waiting and matching my tests benefit of this is they can intervene Dr Emily Black owns and works them go through all stages of life, to situation, saving the owner money tonight, and your stabilized pet can at Centretown Veterinary Hospital. I know what they’ve eaten, I know if not time. That said, sometimes it’s live until morning. The drawbacks She herself is owned by three cats what’s come before and I know the just best to run everything at once and are twofold; firstly, in the harsh light (Binky(down 1.5 lbs) Podee, and particular hurdles each and every one getting the diagnosis quickly saves of the next day, some of what they did Kitten) and a new dog named Sid. of them face. These latter aspects are money in the long run. But that again may be superfluous, not needed in the the favorite part of my job. is what people pay me for, my advice grander scheme of thing, but you only (Photo above: Bink is sleeping on Sid) This broader understanding of and consul as to which is the best way know that in hindsight. Much of what situation, as well as the gift of time are to proceed. they did will have been crucial to save the key to many a resolution of many an And this is where I differ and in lives. Secondly, they will have been ailment. I will often say to a client that many ways consider myself far more expensive, because they don’t have I prescribe “a tincture of time”; letting fortunate to the Emergency Hospital the privilege of picking and choosing, things progress, either for the good Veterinarian. When you and your waiting and seeing, they need to act or for worse and finding the problem pet show up there, that doctor has no and they need to act now. more clearly defined after a day or idea of who you are, or what has come This expense is compounded by the Jumping for Solstice in June By Gail Stewart (with its longest night and shortest here in Old Ottawa South: a practice day) in December. In the Southern of jumping at the Spring and Winter he Earth’s axis is at a slight Hemisphere they do the reverse. Solstices “to help the world turn.” tilt to our path as we make our These Solstices take place at an Of course this is just a fiction. The yearly course around the sun. exact moment but at a slightly different world will turn anyway, bringing us T time on the clock each year. The to a new season, but it seems to me This means we experience the sun as seeming to move overhead from the exact moment in time can be and is that jumping at the Solstices could Equator toward one pole and then the calculated by astronomers to a fraction become a pleasant tradition. We have other and back again to the Equator of a second. These moments usually many ceremonial occasions in our during the year. (Carry an orange, occur around June 21st and December individual religions and nations but tilted on its axis, around a light bulb 21st but may vary by a day or even two. there are few moments in time, like the and you’ll see how it works.) At each The precise times, for years in advance, Solstices, when everyone everywhere turn, before the direction reverses, the can be obtained at the US Naval shares a special global experience. path of the sun’s overhead progress on Oceanography Portal: http://www. A concurrent social custom in which the Earth momentarily appears to come usno.navy.mil/USNO/astronomical- we might all participate, simply and to a stop. These turning points are the applications/data-services/earth- convivially, reminding us of where we Solstices, unique global events. seasons/?searchterm=solstice. are and how the world works, might I The angle of tilt of the Earth’s axis Wikipedia too offers a timetable for think have merit -- and be fun! is not sufficient for us in Old Ottawa the Solstices: On June 21st this year I would South ever to experience the sun directly http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ like to be walking past the schoolyard overhead. (Put a dot on the orange for Solstice. and see the children jumping during Old Ottawa South.) Only places nearer The moment of the Summer the noon hour. I would like to greet to the Equator ever see the sun directly Solstice this year, in our time zone in friends that way that day. I would like overhead. However, everywhere in the Old Ottawa South, is Tuesday, June to send or receive pictures of friends Northern Hemisphere, the Summer 21st, 2011, at 12.16 PM, i.e. shortly jumping for Solstice. Is anybody in Solstice brings us our longest day after noon. (The Winter Solstice takes favour of this idea? Do let me know. and shortest night and the beginning place Thursday, December 22, at 12:30 There might even be fun in spreading of a new season. We in the Northern AM, just after midnight.) it around! And some practice jumping Hemisphere celebrate our Summer Why am I mentioning all this? to be done? Solstice in June and our Winter Solstice Because I’d like us to start a ritual Gail [email protected] th Page 28 The OSCAR - OUR 38 YEAR MAY 2011 Celebrating Mother’s Day

By Anna Redman

ast year, over the course of the Mother’s Day weekend, my Lmum and I flew to New York to ‘Live Our Best Lives.’ Compli- ments of Oprah Winfrey, a rather expensive ticket earned you all exclusive access to the best event I have ever been to. It was motivational, in- spirational, and best of all, the ultim- ate mother/daughter weekend. It all began bright and early Fri- day morning. We boarded a plane at Pearson Airport and flew the short distance to New York. Upon arrival, we embarked on yet another journey, this time by bus, heading from Laguardia Airport to downtown Manhattan! Getting off the bus in central Manhattan we walked the 8 blocks to our hotel and checked in. Later that evening we had the first activity on Oprah’s jam packed agenda, but until then, we had a free afternoon in New York City, aka designated shopping time. We browsed for clothes in Macy’s and makeup at Sephora be- Anna and her mum at the walk fore heading over to Gotham Hall for the Welcome Reception. Here, we re- Berkus, an interior designer. Nate socks for each of us to remember the man, who officially ended the night ceived the first of our two gifts from gave great advice about reorgan- weekend: they were the only item with a toast to Oprah and her publi- Oprah. Friday night’s treat was a box, izing your rooms to make yourself left on the shelves at the Oprah Store cation. filled with Oprah themed and select- more cheerful. He suggested rearran- booth. People ahead of us were grap- The following morning we were ed goodies. We received lip gloss, ging photos and objects to give your pling over the last coffee mug, and up at 6:00 am. We had received strict recipes, an Oprah tote bag and pen, rooms a fresher feel and also making any sweats, shirts and pyjamas that instructions the previous evening that a guide book for the weekend and a required objects count towards mak- were previously stocked, had long we should be in situ by 7:00 am so bright green scarf covered in minute ing yourself a happier person. His since disappeared. that the walk could begin prompt- Os, amongst other things. Transfer- personal example was using a con- So we headed downstairs to rely at 7:30. The rest of the weekend ring our new items to our bags, we tainer that means something to you, ceive our second gift bag, this in the had been glorious, but that Sun- toted them around the reception cere- or sparks great memories, to hold form of a large Deux Luxe Aurora day morning, yawning, in our lime mony where you could meet Oprah’s your toothbrush. Simple and sens- Gunmetal Tote, alone valued at $86 green, Oprah stamped t-shirts, we makeup artist, have your photo taken ible. USD. Inside were more samples, our were freezing. The walk did not start against a professional backdrop, and Last, but certainly not least, was lime green t-shirts for the charity promptly at 7:30, nor did it start less enjoy hors d’oeuvres and very al- Martha Beck, life coach. Mum and walk the following morning and an than promptly at 8:00. It was more coholic strawberry lemonade. The I weren’t really aware of who she Oprah Winfrey journal. Lugging our like 8:15 by the time Oprah kicked weekend was off to a great start! was, prior to this weekend, but we newly received treats, mum and I re- off the walk for herself and the more The following day, the doors to actually found her the most influen- turned to the hotel to change, before than 30,000 participants who had the events opened bright and early at tial. Obviously, as a life coach, she dinner and the most anticipated part come out to support her staff’s 10 se- 8am. As the actual activities did not was discussing ways to approach of the weekend, Oprah Winfrey, live lected charities. begin until 9:30, mum and I opted life more positively. However, she at Radio City Music Hall. Following the walk Oprah had for a lie in and an extra cup of cof- included an emotional tale about her To say that Oprah was phenomen- organized a large bash in Times fee before making our way over to own ups and downs which centred al does not seem descriptive enough, Square featuring performances from the Jacob Javits Convention Center. around the birth of her son Adam, and no, I’m not an Oprah Winfrey celebrities like Mary J. Blige and Jen- Here we had a full day, running from who has Down’s Syndrome. The way junkie. Her performance was inter- nifer Hudson. However, with 30,000 8:30 (or optionally 9:15) till 4:00. she talked, by the end of her session, esting, heartfelt, heart wrenching and friends and no Oprah in site, the event Prior to arriving at the event you were you felt as though you knew Adam, emphatic. She talked to the audience, felt cramped, cold and not worth the required to register for 3 Lifeshops and that was when he appeared from not at them, and the famous cast of hassle. So instead, Mum and I opted (live your best life workshops) which offstage. He walked over to his moth- characters from the many years of for Pax Wholesome Foods where all took place on the Saturday after- er, amidst cheers and claps from the The Oprah Winfrey Show were all we enjoyed breakfast sandwiches noon. Mum and I began with Suze audience and clasped her hand before present and accounted for, front row and cupcakes, as by now it was only Orman, a feminist financial advisor the two walked off stage together. It and centre. Oprah talked about her 9:30am. Then we returned to the ho- and a frequent guest on The Oprah was a very emotional moment. childhood, her abuse as a young girl, tel, packed our things, and boarded Winfrey show. Medical expert, Dr. Ten minutes and a pack of Klee- the day she met her best friend, Gayle the bus to take us back to Laguardia, Oz, was our alternative choice for nex later, mum and I headed upstairs King, her past jobs, the people who out of New York, and home to Can- this time slot. to the Oprah Store and the booths hadn’t liked her, and the struggles ada. Following Suze’s spiel all guests set up by the sponsors of the event. she had to overcome to make it to The time span may have been were treated to lunch on Oprah. The L’Oreal Paris, Levi, Truvia and Wii the top. As someone just finishing up short, but the memories will last a well organized, cafeteria style, restau- fit were amongst the booths that their degree, and beginning to get a lifetime. It was a spectacular way rant featured an array of sandwiches, could be visited. Throughout the sense of what the real world is like, it to celebrate Mother’s Day and our sides, drinks and desserts to choose events on Friday and Saturday guests was particularly inspiring. first ever mother/daughter weekend. from. Each guest received one meal were randomly given tokens which She wrapped up with a musical Now, however, it has started a trad- item from each category. Following could be cashed in at the L’Oreal number, a cake, to celebrate the 10th ition. Oprah may not be joining us in lunch we returned to the auditorium booth for full sized makeup items. anniversary of O Magazine and a 2011, but this year, we’re off to Bos- for our second Lifeshop with Nate Mum also purchased a pair of Oprah surprise appearance from Hugh Jack- ton! MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 29 COMPUTER TRICKS AND TIPS Why Can’t I Open Email Attachments That My Friends Send Me? by Malcolm and John Harding, called the extension of that file.) Sometimes of Compu-Home recently you will see that the extension has added an x at the end, such as .docx .pptx 1. Maybe you really don’t want to! While .xlsx or whatever. This indicates that it is a the email messages themselves are rarely file created with a version of Microsoft Office dangerous, attachments are where viruses that is 2007 or newer. People who create such often lurk. Files with the extension .exe (see files would be better advised to save them below for an explanation of “extension”) in the older format, which is easy to do, for are so potentially dangerous that many the sake of the vast majority of people like email systems won’t even allow them to yourself, for whom it is inconvenient to try be transmitted as attachments. You should to open the newer ones. But they seldom never open any attachment without a quick do. Your solution is to download and install moment of suspicion - were you expecting the Compatibility Pack that Microsoft now this message, and is it from a trusted source? offers as a limited workaround for people with Microsoft Office 1997, 2000, XP and 2003, 2. People are often thoughtless about and allow them to open those newer format sending attachments. If it contains nothing files. This does NOT give you a new version but plain text, they should have copy-and- of Office, but just modifies the older version pasted it right into the body of the message, you already have. and avoided the attachment in the first place. Off on a tangent, I might also mention If they are sending photos, which are often that the 2007 and newer versions of Microsoft huge files, they should have posted them to a Office (2007, 2010, 2011) are VERY different website for viewing. (See our recent column from their predecessors in many other ways about Picasa Web.) If they are sending you too, and that there is often a lot of discomfort another corny movie or PowerPoint show with for people in learning the new ones. cute kittens, they should have realized that 16 of your friends have already sent you that one. 5. Sometimes it’s a bit confusing that an attachment behaves differently on one 3. Perhaps you don’t have on your computer than another. That could be because computer the program that created that that file type might be associated with a attachment and so you have no way of different program on the second computer. opening it. If your friend sends you a movie Music, photo and movie files can be displayed in Quicktime format, for example, and you by many different competing programs, don’t have Quicktime on your computer, you and photos that display on one computer may not be able to play it. If the secretary in Photoshop, for example, might show up of your club writes in WordPerfect and your in Irfanview or your camera software on word processor is Microsoft Word, then you another. Sometimes new programs change might not be able to open the file at all, or your file association automatically when they even if you can, its formatting may be wonky. are installing, and you have to change it back (Wonky is just a high-tech term for “Doesn’t again if you don’t like the new look. look right.”) Malcolm and John Harding are owners 4. It gets worse! Even though you appear of Compu-Home, assisting home and business to have the program you need to open the file, computer users. it’s possible that you have an incompatible Be sure to visit our web site for an archive version, perhaps simply because it is older. of our Columns. www.compu-home.com Microsoft, in its wisdom, has just made a Write to [email protected] or phone huge contribution to this messy situation. A 613-731-5954 to discuss computer issues, or Microsoft Word document filename is usually to suggest future columns. something like report.doc a PowerPoint show is a show.ppt and a spreadsheet is budget.xls (The digits after the . are

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To book an OSCAR ad call Gayle 730-1058 [email protected] Page 30 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 Sips from the Poetry Café Running on the Doorstep! by: Susan Atkinson Over the past few years, like many I love is that I can’t think of any other event to be a part of – just take a similar running events, the National athletic pursuits, which permit the minute or two out of the weekend here are many, many reasons Capital has grown exponentially in ‘average Joe’ to run alongside (well to walk up to the canal (right at the that Old Ottawa South is the its number of participants. Nowadays not literally! but rather just behind!) top of our ‘hood’) and cheer on those place to live. Amongst them most of the events sell out months World Class Olympic athletes? I think runners who are brimming with their T before the big day. The 10km and the that’s pretty cool! own stories. The air really does buzz is definitely the wonderful bike and footpaths, which surround our little ½ Marathon are the most popular of Over the ten years I’ve lived in with infectious electricity and you island. Whether it’s along the canal or the road races offered and attract not Ottawa I have participated in events never know you may just be lucky by the river I’ve noticed of late that only a huge number of locals but also from the 10km to the full marathon enough to catch a bit of that buzz and there’s a little more foot traffic. These many top international runners. It’s and each time I have felt that buzz who knows if you aren’t one already days there seems to be more people amazing that so many people run and of excitement as I run past our maybe it’ll make a runner out of you! out in the morning hours and I don’t the reasons and goals are as varied neighbourhood and see familiar faces mean coming home in the early hours as the speeds and styles of runners of friends and neighbours cheering on Spring but rather I mean going out! themselves. the runners. That’s more of the magic a cedar leaf waves It seems to me that more and more As an average lay person, who of living where we do. green fingers in the wind people are lacing up their running just happens to love running my joy I will be participating in this spring is back shoes, donning the latest in athletic in these races is two-fold. On the year’s race weekend but I have fashion and hitting the multitudes of one hand every runner that puts one changed my goals. This year I’m not As a short aside there will be pathways and routes, which make this foot in front of the other heading looking to complete a marathon or run a reading and evening of poetry area heavenly for runners. It could be towards that finish line has their own a personal best. This year I’m going to celebrate and enjoy the poetry that the weather is warmer (although I reason for doing it, everything from to run my first National Capital 5km. anthology In The Branches of a don’t think there’s much truth to that maintaining a healthy lifestyle, to But more than that I’m going to run Mango Tree on Thursday May 5th at considering it’s mid-April and the mental goals and personal glory to with one of my daughters and this is Mother Tongue Books. The evening early morning temperatures have still raising awareness for a certain cause new! After years and years of running will begin at 7pm and all monies been in the minuses). I think what’s or to support a loved one. Whatever I’m sharing the experience with one raised will go to help rebuild College most likely is that the date for the the reason there’s a little fire that of my favourite and one of the most Massillon Coicou, a K-12 elementary National Capital Race Weekend is fast burns within every runner who laces important people in my life. school in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. approaching. up and crosses that timing mat. The National Capital Marathon The other side of road racing that weekend, May 29 & 30, is a wonderful Cri de Cœur : Bonsoir Mama! I read with deep appreciation the at a filthy nylon stocking lawn s l o w m o t i o n young students’ poems inspired by the trailing from the wound drinking water daily that the conditions in Haiti. My experience in hot dust rest don’t have I suck in my breath, more dust that country was raw -- but hope and choking thirst cannot close my eyes shining spirits triumphed even in the worms are . . . cannot show my rage worst places and in the most desperate hospitality fly is . . . cannot withdraw from the hardship. shining smile colour rainbow rag is . . . fingers grasping my thigh to share all there is to drink – bowl upon head is . . . a brown trickle of water from policeman’s fetid breath Cri de Cœur : the spout. is about Haiti six inches from my face Bonsoir Mama! and about Tontons Macoutes broad heavy hand tightening on his better than the twelve coca-colas holding bayonets, staring me down bayonet yesterday – clenching my flesh Jocelyn LeRoy © July, 2009 cross my heart and hope not to die Station de Police undressing me with Oui? (foul breath inches from my face) penetrating eyes. going to Haiti is about dull eyes, avez-vouz un telephone? horror and joy outstretched arms Ssst! Ssst! starvation, pleading bare bone Ha! Là! - points a beating stick this is how you get off the ride, off the bloated belly naked sorrow towards a relic tap tap on a dust-riddled desk - get away from that grizzly fist. can I get there before her expiration starvation is . . . no plug, no use, no way out date? no way out of the Iron Market Everything “Our father who art Duvalier” or the poverty is about arriving at the hut . . . bloody abscess voilà! regardez! ” not papa Doc, baby Doc two percent of these humans can read heart stopping arrival . . . “Ko-ko té, ma tiny finger pointing the only ones with a golf green two percent are rich bébé?”

a few of the rest are rich in poverty – not too late! smile and sing and survive not many a whisper a universe no way out of this coastal hell hole love blooming island of leftover pirates, rape and in spite of the death pillage survivors none – rafts sinking my world suddenly rotates on its axis

bleating goat atop careening tap tap my melting heart moves blundering to encircle this fragility . . . through potholes traffic din a small brown hand touches my knee, broken wheel like a feather flies sucking liquid from infants’ eyes “Bonsoir Mama”

To book an OSCAR ad call Gayle 730-1058 [email protected] MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 31 Surround Circle Yoga Everyday Meditation By Maureen Fallis, cross road waiting for the light to recognize what it is to stop and smell Surround Circle Yoga change. Meditation can and should the roses! All of our questions will be be something that you reach for as answered. informally as you reach for a cup It’s been a delight to study the art Have You Ever… of tea, or an apple, or the phone to of meditation and to experiment with talk to a friend – in other words, as a many of the life-enhancing techniques. • Been moved so deeply by the direct response to sensing some need Sharing this journey with others is the melody, words and rhythm of music in your body or your heart. It can be real deal for me. At Surround Circle that your sense of self disappeared in something you look forward to when Yoga we practice meditation every the ocean of sound? you roll out of bed in the morning, Friday afternoon in a class called • Inhaled a fragrance so sweet that or it can be a something you find Meditation & Motion. The emphasis you almost swooned in ecstasy? yourself wanting to do when you walk is on cultivating ease and contentment • Tasted delicate flavours so divine in the door after work, to unwind and in the body, mind and soul. The asana that you felt a shiver come over you? revitalize yourself. It is not really that (sequence of yoga postures) is gentle, • Looked up on a clear crisp winter meditation is “better” than sitting on the pranayama (breathing exercises) night sky and felt utter wonder at the the couch watching TV, but it certainly potent, the meditation is directed vastness of the world? is a positive alternative. Taking this and deep, and the shavasana (end • Sat by a rushing river, conscious informal approach to being with relaxation) is sweet. of its steady and mighty flow, and Maureen Fallis yourself keeps meditation simple, a Whether you are new or entered into a state of stillness? Photo by Tom Alfoldi simple pleasure. experienced in meditation and • Breathed the breath of another So why not approach meditation breathwork, come and savour the and felt such love that your whole moments. Simply put, meditation as an everyday event, a pleasurable sanctuary of a community of like- body seemed to melt? really is nothing more that paying indulgence? If you did you’d soon find minded practitioners. My hope is … Then you have already attention to the rhythm of such an your intuition for what you want from that this weekly class will inspire experienced meditative awareness. experience, tracking it through all its life much clearer; your instincts for and reinforce a regular meditation These are all spontaneous experiences, phases, and returning again and again healthier living sharper. Meditation is practice – one that will help guide you typically lasting from a few seconds to be educated by it. Most of what about being intimate with your deepest in applying your skills and insights to a few minutes. Attention expands is meant by “practicing meditation” self. to the challenges and joys of daily beyond its confines and touches is just spending time being in the life. Great limberness and stamina are something greater, something of the presence of such a quality of attention Meditation is cultivating gratitude for not required. No yoga or meditation essence of life. We humans have been and then enjoying the effect on your stillness. experience is necessary. experiencing these sorts of things since daily life. To find out more about classes before there was a language to speak Meditation is the practice of By cultivating gratitude for offered at Surround Circle Yoga of them. developing the capacity for a rich stillness, something good happens at a please visit our NEW website www. The meditative experience is no experience whether it is on a cushion deep soulful level. Each one of us is surroundcircleyoga.com or call 613- different from these naturally occurring with legs crossed or standing at a a natural yogi – all we have to do is 730-6649. Page 32 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 OCCSB TRUSTEE REPORT “PUTTING STUDENTS FIRST” Kathy Ablett, R.N. http://www.ottawacatholicschools.ca/ Finance and Administration outlined Trustee Zone 9 Giving Healthy Choices to content.php?doc=7128 the budget development process Students and various aspects of the public Capital/River Wards School Profile – Social Justice A consultation that is part of the Board’s Telephone: 526-9512 The Ministry of Education’s Core Value for Staff budget process: School Food and Beverage policy • The Board’s Budget Council has Corpus Christi and Immaculata will be effective in all Board schools Superintendent Simone Oliver met/will meet 4 times February – May School News September 1, 2011. Superintendent was joined by John Legree, Principal, • Trustee and public budget input of Finance and Administration David Deirdre Quinn and Manon Lefebvre, sessions were advertised and held e are looking forward to Leach and the Cafeteria Committee teachers at Dr. F.J. McDonald March 22 Education Week 2011. have worked with schools and food and shared their commitment to • Budget information will be Students, staff and parents providers since this policy was volunteering at the Britannia Woods coming to the Board in sections at the W Community House. This activity is April to June meetings. have numerous activities planned and announced in January 2010, to get you are invited May 2 – 6th to visit ready for full implementation. an important part of their adult faith Once the budget is approved, a your community school and witness The new policy outlines nutrition journey. The Community House is a 2011/2012 budget brochure will be learning in its many different forms. standards for foods and beverages hub of activity offering a variety of prepared for distribution to the public Catholic Education week begins with where 80% of the items offered must programs to the children and youth in and updated information will be a liturgy at Notre Dame Basilica on be from the “healthiest” category of the area. One of the programs is a lunch posted on the Board’s website. Monday, May 2 at 7 p.m. foods and on 20% of items offered program. Two to three times a week, Other opportunities to celebrate are can be from the “healthy” category. school staff walks to the Community Long Term Vision for the Board on the horizon. Congratulations to Certain products are not permitted for House at 7 a.m. to help prepare the Mr. Phil Capobianco, Vice-Principal sale – items like soda pop and candy, lunches for the day. The lunches are The Board approved the Multi- of Immaculata High School who will items with little or no nutritional distributed to needy families in the Year Strategic Plan 2010-2013 receive the Director of Education value. community. For more information (MYSP). Director of Education Award following the mass on May 2nd. A principal may designate up to about Britannia Woods Community Julian Hanlon outlined a number of The following students from ten special event days on which food House go to brittaniawoods.com strategic directions, with an emphasis Immaculata have been nominated for and beverages sold in schools would on student achievement. Spirit of The Capital Youth Awards be exempt from the policy. The trustees were actively being presented on May 30, 2011. To develop the Board’s policies Grants for Student Needs – engaged in developing and confirming They are Kate Reeve, Grade 7 for the Cafeteria Committee has worked Board Budget Process for 2011- the strategic directions outlined in the the Young Activist Award; Charles with many partners, among them the 2012 MYSP. Kijck, Grade 12 for the Young Athlete Ministry of Education, Ottawa Public Through on-going consultation Award; and Moses Otim, Grade 12 for Health, Champlain Cardiovascular Every year the provincial with staff and parents, the plan is the Academic Perseverance Award. Disease Prevention Network, government releases details related to built on the Board Priorities: Success We’ll be watching – Good Luck! Chartwells School Dining Services, the Grants for Student Needs (GSN) for Students, Success for Staff, and Mrs. Barbara Westwick, a grade 4 Ventrex Vending Services and the and related topics so boards can Stewardship of Resources, priorities & 6 teacher at Corpus Christi School Catholic School Parents’ Association. finalize their budgets. that have remained consistent is a nominee for a Y Woman of The Cafeteria Committee has In general, the GSN release this over several years. This long- Distinction Award. This event will be worked on a comprehensive year outlines a 3% increase to salary term commitment has resulted in held on May 31, 2011. training/awareness program with ten benchmarks, monies for elementary improvements in student achievement “In our hearts, you are winners stakeholder groups and set into action preparation time and specialist and well-being, effective stewardship already. Thank you for all that you do a multi-faceted communications plan. teachers. There are also monies to of the Board’s resources, and the in our school communities. Each of To view the Board’s Healthy support class size reduction in grades delivery of effective and appropriate you has made a difference.” Schools website presence go to: 4-8, significant special education educational programs. Operational allocations and PD money for plans, such as the board Improvement elementary teachers. Plan for Student Achievement, flow For more detailed information out of the MYSP. This Strategic on the GSN allocations, go to: Plan can be updated annually and ottawacatholicschools.ca/media. will be reviewed with the Board php?mid=59791 see pages 40-46. each year. For more details go to: ottawacatholicschools.ca/content. 2011-2012 Budget Process and php?doc=7184 Guidelines If, at any time, I can be of The Ottawa Catholic School assistance to you please do not hesitate Board’s budget is developed each year to call me at 526-9512. in accordance with specific guidelines and must be submitted for the board Sincerely, of Trustees’ approval by the end of Kathy Ablett June 2011. The Board must submit a “Your Trustee” balanced budget that respects Board- wide average class sizes and many types of funding restrictions. David Leach, Superintendent of

To book an OSCAR ad call Gayle 730-1058 [email protected] MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 33

OCDSB TRUSTEE REPORT

Capital Ward Accommodations Planning Update

By Rob Campbell analysis. writing is tentatively set to be held as many of these meetings as I can The long term consultation process April 26th. It plans then to discuss though several are almost certain s readers will be aware, will be largely community-driven. how to communicate with the public, to conflict with other Board or we need to decide what The Board approved the formation interact with it or not at its meetings Committee meetings as well. I will sort of long term school of a working group composed of and / or web post proceedings, look need to assess and to communicate A reps from 7 school councils and 6 at the collated results (used really to with respect to all of this myself. accommodations solution will work best across schools in Capital Ward community associations covering stimulate discussion), and presumably Staff will be directly supporting for Old Ottawa South, the Glebe and most of Capital and Somerset Wards whatever other business the cochairs as noted and will help by presenting in several adjacent neighbourhoods. (up to two reps per school, and one propose after due consultation in the initial options the group can then set Some schools, Hopewell Avenue in per CA). draft agenda. aside, add to or change as it sees fit. Old Ottawa South, First Avenue in the It is meant to address both By the Board motion, all of Staff will also engage in whatever Glebe, are too crowded, while some overcrowding and depopulation these meetings must be minimally research or data production the group other schools have free space. Several concerns across several area publicly observable meetings in decides it needs within reason. options have been proposed for long downtown schools - a complicated order to ensure full transparency of The group must hold at least one term solutions and more will be and puzzle. It has a flexible mandate: this process. Some reps’ member major advertised public information meanwhile we needed a short term reps can drop out or get added in, the organizations may have their own evening but has the mandate to hold solution as First Avenue in particular group determines its agenda, appoints blogs or web updates to keep people more than one if and as it wishes. needed immediate relief. its own chair and makes independent informed as well. How, and how Again, the Board will provide support. After significant community recommendations to the Board. much, these organizations, or indeed If all goes according to plan consultation, the Board decided to OCDSB staff are providing support the working group itself, decide to and consensus can be reached then approve the staff-recommended for these meetings which may go on engage with their subcommunities or in the Fall next school year the option of moving First Avenue JK for several months. advertise these meetings is largely up group will deliver its autonomous students to Mutchmor for the interim The group can alter its rules of to them. The group will be setting its recommendations. If staff can live while long term options get discussed. procedure within reason. If looking own meetings schedule and will likely with them unaltered as well then they Community input on the options had a to recommend moving a majority rotate its meetings across the schools will likely have formal staff support as small majority in favour of this option of a school’s population, to close a involved. well, and if not then staff may submit as opposed to others but staff saw this school, or to significantly deviate If you want to make sure your their own separate recommendations. option as the least awkward for future from its mandate then it would have Council or Association reps know The Board is currently slated planning purposes, given that JK is to return to the Board to request a your opinion, to learn more, or to this coming December to make English and a fit for Mutchmor, is an changed mandate. However, within its observe or perhaps engage with the the final decision for Sep 2012 internal community-based solution, provided mandate it has considerable meetings then I urge you to contact implementation on consideration of etc. Staff suggest that, if needed, this flexibility. The detailed mandate either your School Council or the recommendations made to it. It could ‘hold’ for up to two-three years language can be reviewed online at Community Association, Hopewell is very likely that the Board would before growth made even this interim the e-address provided below. Avenue PS and OSCA in the case of approve a joint community and solution untenable. Its first meeting was held April Old Ottawa South. My hat goes off staff recommendation essentially The Board also approved the 14th at Lisgar Collegiate. During the to these volunteers. As well, there unaltered. setting up the process for consultation this meeting, group membership will be some staff information updates on long term solutions for a suggested was confirmed, the group had a staff on the District web site at http://www. If you have a suggestion or a implementation date of Sep 2012 - I presentation, discussed meetings ocdsb.ca under ‘Schools’ and then concern, or would like to be added don’t think that anyone wants to see protocols, asked questions, and ‘Accommodation Reviews’. to my e-newsletter list, then please a temporary situation drag on and on. appointed cochairs. Group members The Trustee role during the contact me via [email protected] or However, if arriving at a consensus also set out their individual planning community working group process is at 323-7803. Meeting and document long term solution proves elusive then priorities which will be collated by essentially limited to observing and info available at www.ocdsb.ca it may be we will need another school staff. perhaps indirectly supporting this year of discussion and scenarios Its next meeting, at the time of community work. I’ll be observing

To book an OSCAR ad Southside Preschool Launches Web Site call Gayle 730-1058 [email protected] By Jill Geddes the nursery school program for 2 year olds, can choose between 2 and 3 mornings a week. The outhside Preschool is proud to announce the nursery school program for 3 year olds is offered launch of its web site. The new site, www. both as a regular morning program or an extended Ssouthsidepreschool.ca, directly serves the program, which runs until 1:00pm and parents can needs of parents in our community with young choose between 2, 3, and 5 days per week. The after children looking for childcare for the 2011/2012 school program for children in grades 1 to 4 is run school year. Its easy-to-use navigation makes by a Registered Early Childhood Educator where finding program descriptions, the parent handbook, kids participate in indoor and outdoor play. These copies of newsletters, information about the staff, school age children are met at Hopewell School by and registration information an easy process. This Southside staff and walked to Southside each day. new web site also gives parents a feel for each As a reminder to parents looking for an of the programs for children age 2 to 9 through enriched and supportive learning environment parental testimonials. for your child this summer, Southside Preschool Registration for summer and fall programs offers camps throughout the month of July. At the opened to the community last month. There are still moment, there is only availability during the last spots available for the nursery school programs for 2 two weeks of the month. Call Joanne at 613-730- and 3 year olds, as well as the after school programs 5819 for more information about registration for for children in grades 1 to 4. Parents interested in these camps or any of the 2011/2012 programs. Page 34 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 AMICALEMENT VOTRE Ma vie avec Mozart par Jean-Claude Dubé raphie que l’auteur nous offre mais d’espoir avec ses crises religieuses et son entre l’art noble et l’art populaire plutôt quelques événements isolés sociales. démontre un élitisme qui n’est pas de a dernière rencontre de Cercle de sa vie. Il nous les présente au pe- 3. L’homme de 40 ans avec ses notre siècle. de lecture de l’Amicale franco- tit bonheur, comme ça, de façon for- peines et une réconciliation sociale et Tout compte fait, l’auteur manque phone a été des plus intéres- tuite, en écoutant des pièces de Mozart religieuse. aussi de discipline. Les sujets sont pré- L qui évoquent des souvenirs pour lui. 4. L’homme d’âge mûr sentés de façon inégale au plan de la santes car, en plus de discuter du livre Ma vie avec Mozart et de son auteur Et l’auteur nous demande d’y prêter C’est lorsqu’il est entre deux âges profondeur. Dans les quinze ans pré- Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt, nous avons l’oreille car son livre est accompagné que l’auteur devient le plus intéressant. cédant la publication de Ma vie avec étudié l’art d’écrire et les dilemmes d’un CD sur lequel sont gravés seize Il est moins nombriliste. Il se réconcilie Mozart, l’auteur avait déjà écrit neuf que doivent affronter les auteurs entre pièces de Mozart. avec les événements et il nous présente pièces de théâtre et huit romans. Il le choix d’une réussite de carrière et Cinq de ces pièces proviennent de un excellent essai sur la musique et le avait reçu le Grand Prix du Théâtre d’une réussite lucrative. La Flûte enchantée et trois des Noces théâtre. Ses réflexions et ses rêveries de l’Académie française en 2001 pour Dans Ma vie avec Mozart, l’auteur de Figaro. Les autres sont tirées de au rythme du maître compositeur sont l’ensemble de son œuvre. Des lauriers, se montre original et ingénieux. Il a divers concertos pour piano, violon et captivantes. De la perception des sens il en avait! C’est regrettable qu’il s’y encadré son œuvre de la compagnie clarinette en plus de la Petite Musique propre à la jeunesse, il évolue vers une soit un peu reposé pour écrire Ma vie du grand compositeur Mozart et de de nuit et d’une Grande Messe. Ce perception intuitive qui le fait disserter avec Mozart. Il aurait dû prendre le sa musique et il entretient avec lui un sont des pièces captivantes et touchan- candidement sur la pureté de l’amour temps de renforcer son œuvre et de lui monologue intime tout en réfléchissant tes et elles sont jouées et chantées par et la simplicité de l’enfance. L’homme donner de l’âme. Très souvent, le lec- sur maints sujets en ayant la musique différents interprètes et orchestres de d’âge mûr est un humaniste et pour le teur entre difficilement dans l’intimité d’Amadeus en arrière-plan. Il lui parle grande réputation. Nous entrons dans lecteur, c’est touchant. En vieillissant, du monologue car l’auteur s’adresse à comme si le jeune pianiste était là, l’état d’âme de l’auteur si nous nous il envisage la mort avec un fatalisme un fantôme dans son salon et le lecteur jouant derrière lui dans son salon. Le plions à sa demande d’accompagner courageux et simple à la fois. s’y sent exclu. lecteur devient ainsi un auditeur té- chacune de ses conversations avec Comme humaniste, l’auteur nous À lire pour son originalité lit- moin d’un monologue. Mozart de l’ambiance de telle ou telle fascine avec des pensées simples et téraire mais on ne doit pas s’attarder Par contre, même si ce monologue pièce sur le CD qu’il annote pour nous profondes : sur les débuts. À écouter aussi car se veut sincère, intime et touchant, il dans le texte. Comme procédé lit- « L’enfance est un pays que l’on le CD avec les interprétations des n’est pas révélateur. L’auteur regrette téraire, c’est ingénieux. traverse sans s’en rendre compte. Ar- oeuvres de Mozart ajoute à la valeur la mort de sa femme après six ans Dans cet encadrement de musique rivé à la frontière, on remarque le pay- du livre. de bonheur conjugal. Hors, c’est sa de Mozart et de ses réflexions sur sa sage mais c’est déjà trop tard. » Le Cercle de lecture prend ce souffrance qu’il décrit et non pas son vie, l’amour, l’enfance en plus du thé- « Avec la naissance nous est don- mois-ci un congé estival et nous amour. Qui est cette femme? Quel est âtre, le chagrin et la vieillesse, l’auteur née la mort » invitons tous et chacun à notre pro- son nom? Comment est-elle morte? glisse en douce les principaux passages « Il faut tant de temps pour être chaine rencontre au début de septem- Nous n’en savons rien. A t-il des êtres d’une vie humaine dans la société de simple ». bre. Nous vous aviserons dans les chers ou amis dans sa vie? Motus! tous les jours. L’auteur peut aussi être banal prochains mois sur la sélection des C’est un peu bizarre comme confi- 1. L’adolescence et son insécurité et méchant. Son dénigrement d’un lectures de l’automne prochain. Bon dence. et même une contemplation de suicide. « chanteur peroxydé au brushing vo- été et bonne lecture. En plus, ce n’est pas une biog- 2. L’homme de 20 ans plein lumineux » est vilain et sa comparai-

CARLETON CORNER

or five years, the Carleton about the project and a speech by Sen. on April 7. Ghods won for his work in journalism for almost 40 years University’s Rwanda Initiative Romeo Dallaire. Dallaire, a longtime in assisting engineers to mange civil as a reporter, foreign correspondent Fhas given more than 150 supporter of the Rwanda Initiative, infrastructure efficiently. His company and was an award-winning national Canadian journalists the opportunity commanded the United Nations provides scheduled maintenance, columnist and former executive to teach and work in Rwanda as media assistance mission for Rwanda in repairs and replacements to protect managing editor for the Toronto Star. interns and has brought Rwandan 1994. He has since spoken at numerous the engineers’ assets. The award Fourth-year engineering students journalists to Canada to study and universities across North America was given during the 2011 Ottawa Curtis Parks and Chris Polowick train. A reception was held to mark on conflict resolution, humanitarian Centre for Research and Innovation placed first at the national Nicol the fifth anniversary and was attended assistance and human rights. (OCRI) Gala. The gala is the premiere Entrepreneurial Award Competition by past participants, and featured a Carleton University alumnus awards event for Ottawa’s business, on March 29. Their winning business performance by traditional Rwandan Pouria Ghods received the 2011 research and academic community. A plan involved selling the services of dancers, a multimedia presentation Student Entrepreneur of the Year award Carleton professor and undergraduate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for student were also nominated. Michel commercial use to companies needing Nakhla, a Chancellor’s professor in aerial survey data. The competition electronics, was nominated in the involved a presentation of their project research category for his work on to a panel of judges along with a the development of computer-based recorded pitch summarizing their design automation tools for high-speed plan. Park and Polowick competed electronic systems. Paulina Masson, a against students from across Canada, fourth-year computer science student, with help and support from Carleton’s was nominated for the Student Sprott School of Business. The Entrepreneur Award. She developed Nicol Award was started 1997 by a community website called Contest Wes Nicol, an Ottawa businessman Mob for people who enter online and Carleton alumnus, to encourage contests on a daily or weekly basis. undergraduates in all disciplines to The R. James Travers Foreign think entrepreneurially. Corresponding Fellowship was Carleton Corner is written by established by Carleton’s School of Carleton University’s Department of Journalism and Communications University Communications. As your in honour of Travers’ renowned community university, Carleton hosts journalism career. The fellowship many exciting events of interest to offers a $25,000 annual award to any Ottawa South. For more information Canadian journalist and will cover about upcoming events, please go to the recipient’s travel, reporting and carleton.ca/events. research expenses. Jim Travers worked MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 35

Kaleidoscope Kids’ Books Pinkies Up – Time For Some Royally Great Teen Reads ith the excitement of the loids would’ve had a field day! and an enchanted stone garden--an royal wedding receding For a story of true love in the adventure that will change their lives Winto rosy memory, and the tiny European country of Schwerin- forever. firework displays honouring Queen borg, check out Royally Crushed by Of course, we recommend round- Victoria on the horizon, we recom- Niki Burnham. When Valerie’s par- mend diving into some tiara-wearing ents split up and she has to move to teen books. Schwerinborg, she’s pretty sure her In the Young Royals series by life is over. Then she meets Georg – Carolyn, we have two action-packed he’s smart, sweet and cute – not only titles. In Mary, Bloody Mary, we that, he’s a prince! Valerie soon dis- covers dating a prince isn’t the happily ever after she’d dreamed of – the press is watching their every move. Still, Georg has certainly swept her off her feet, and she’s not ready to give up her prince just yet…

year-old Allie, a self-professed music geek, who has her dream job working at Berkeley’s independent record store – Bob and Bob’s Records. It’s shaping up to be a summer like never ing out your royal reading collection before, what with her mother start- with a classic from Eva Ibbotson – ing to date again, business at Bob and The Secret Countess. This enchant- Bob’s getting dangerously slow, Allie ing story takes readers from Anna’s crushing on a handsome stranger and, life as a young countess in St. Peters- In A Royal Match by Tyne biggest of all, her new blog, The Vinyl burg, Russia in 1917. With the revo- O’Connell, the question to answer is: Princess, which seems to be gaining lution tearing Russia apart, her family “Can a normal American girl really interest one vinyl junkie at a time . . . must escape. The story picks up in read the account of Mary Tudor – a catch a prince?” When Calypso Kelly The Prince of Mist by Carlos Ruiz London, 1919, where Anna is one of beautiful young princess accustomed arrives at the exclusive all-girls Brit- Zafon takes readers on a masterful many penniless expatriates, working to sparkling jewels, lavish gowns and ish boarding school, she’s determined journey into horror. The Carver family as a servant for the aristocratic West- endless parties. Suddenly, she is ban- to become popular. And, though her has moved to a small coastal village, erholmes. As she begins to fall in ished by her father, King Henry VII, popularity comes at a price, it also and from the minute they cross the love with the young earl, keeping her to live in loneliness without money, comes with a prince … Still, when a threshold of their new home, strange true identity a secret becomes more new clothes or even her mother. photo of Calypso kissing England’s things begin to happen. The spirit of difficult… When Henry abandons her mother heir to the throne, Prince Freddie, Jacob, the previous owners’ son, who From teen princess dreams to and marries his mistress, Mary begins ends up in the tabloids, it will take died by drowning still lurks within the drama queens, we’ve got it all right to lose faith. Dressed in rags, she’s quick thinking to save her reputation house. Max and Alicia Carver begin here on the shelves. Open regular summoned back to the palace to be - and her relationship with the prince. to explore the strange circumstances hours, try not to mind the construc- a serving maid to her new baby half- For a completely different kind of his death and discover the exist- tion chaos! sister. Mary is a servant in her own of royalty, we recommend Yvonne ence of a mysterious being called the home – true story! Prinz’s The Vinyl Princess. Readers Prince of Mist--a diabolical character Kaleidoscope Kid’s Books is hap- Our next story takes us to the are treated to a view of the coming- who has returned from the shadows to pily located at 1018 Bank Street right teenage years of Mary’s half-sister of-age summer in the life of sixteen- collect on a debt from the past. Join across from Lansdowne Stadium. – in Beware, Princess Elizabeth, them in an adventure of sunken ships Henry VII has beheaded Eliza- beth’s mother and Mary has locked the teen away in the Tower of London. Readers will learn about the deep-seated rivalry between a determined girl who became one of England’s most powerful monarchs and the sister who tried everything to stop her. The tab- Page 36 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 Tasty Tidbits from Trillium Bakery Rite of Passage: Trillium’s Mike brings son Alex in for an all-nighter By Jocelyn LeRoy it was only six inches from the top of the bucket. Ocean tides take a lot longer than this to rise – most ost of you know our night baker Jean, nearly half a day.” Alex has seen oceans rise at each who has been with us for nearly 20 side of our continent. years. When he goes on holiday, Mike Alex also said, “At the beginning, the smell of M the fresh yeast made me feel kind of sick. But not (Jocelyn’s son) gets the job done. He’s been baking even longer than Jean. With a family, a flower shop, for long.” and in Spring a maple syrup forest to tap, he fills in Dad now shows Alex how to knead the dough when needed in all aspects of the bakery. into loaves. You tear off a chunk of the risen dough, This night was special. Eleven-year-old son weigh it, then knead it with the palm of your hand, Alex accompanied his father for his first night shift. turn the dough, press it out, turn it again and knead I remember when Mike was just a little older it. Mike is impressed with how quickly Alex than Alex. Mike loved getting his hands in the catches on. He seems to have a knack for bread- dough, with whatever night baker was making making. Just like his dad. bread at Trillium. He baked bread with his mom, his Mike shows Alex how to roll up the kneaded sister, his sister’s boyfriend, who I discovered while loaf and seal the edge. Place it gently in the pan and having a lovely ice cream cone on Elgin Street. knuckle it down lightly for an even surface. The boyfriend washed all our dishes for a while Now the dough needs to rest and rise farther in until curiosity got the better of him; he decided he their pans. wanted to learn to bake bread from scratch and Then the loaves are ready to go into the ovens. become a baker during his university years. He soon Alex watches closely as Mike slides the trays into fell in love with Mike’s sister Sonia. She worked each deck. for years in the bakery, at first bagging hundreds While the breads are baking, Mike and Alex of loaves of bread at 5 A.M., when we had a big prepare several trays of cookies and croissants, wholesale business. Later she graduated to baking filling up the rest of the ovens. and retail. Mike and his sister’s boyfriend got First break: 5 A.M. Off they go to make a bank their first apartment together, and Mike eventually deposit (it’s still dark), and to get a hot chocolate at managed “Trillium 2,” our Wellington Street store. the Quickie. It has been quite the family affair. Some of you They return to hear timers going off now. Alex may have become acquainted with Sonia’s daughter Next, on with the baker’s apron. Twice around slips his hands into Big Jean’s oven mitts, takes out Rowan, who has been “helping Nana” in the bakery the waist with the string and hike up the neck strap the cookie trays and places them on the cooling since she was five. – Alex is a kid, and they don’t usually work bread racks. 9 P.M. Saturday night. Alex is in his pyjamas shifts in bakeries. Next comes the bread, all golden and ready to heading for bed. He is excited about going to work Mike instructs his son how to line up the old- cool off. Mike and Alex carry the hot loaves, just with Dad. He has trouble falling asleep, thinking fashioned tin bread pans on the trays. Then he out of their pans, and places them on end on wooden about going to the bakery in only a few hours. shows Alex how to lightly oil the pans with the slats to finish cooling. Midnight. Alex wakes up and gets dressed, to special brush. Next, Mike tells Alex that Jean mops the floor be all ready for dad when he comes to wake him up. Now it’s time to load up the big steel mixer twice. Later, when it’s time to clean up, Alex Alex sits on the edge of the bed to wait. He falls bowl with stone-ground whole wheat flour, water mops the floor twice, with that thorough, dedicated asleep. In fact, he falls backwards onto the bed, all and a touch of fresh yeast. Alex helps measure and mopping of the entire floor, as far as he could reach twisted up – feet on the pillow, head at the wrong pour. He watches intently as the ingredients fold under the ovens. end of the bed. around the big dough hook as it moves in a figure-8 7 A.M. A customer comes in and pays $24.95 “Are you up to coming with me?” Dad gently pattern for the first mixing. The dough rolls itself for their shopping. But somehow the cash register shakes Alex’s shoulder. into a huge ball. Not a place you want to put your tape shows $24,950. Alex shot out of bed, and he and his dad went arm or even a finger! Alex told me when I called to find out how out the door into the - 10º C night. Dad scoops out the huge floppy mass, and, with things were going, “Imagine if they’d paid that Alex later told me, “When I woke up, I wasn’t Alex’s help, heaves it into a large white bucket to much! And if we made that much!” After such a tired, but cold. I wasn’t tired once. I felt wide rise. This process gets repeated for each kind of structured and disciplined lesson in the art of bread- awake like it was mid-day.” bread. baking, it’s nice to let loose and dream of a magical The cozy bakery soon warmed up Alex and Alex fetches sesame seeds, raisins, sunflower possibility. Dad. seeds and oats. He has been dying to learn how to Well done, Alex. First, the hand-washing. Left sink for washing. actually make the loaves. P.S. Alex had his first gluten-free power bar for Middle sink for rinsing. Right sink for air drying. But first, the dough has to rise. breakfast. He says he loves them. That’s for Later, when I asked Alex what was his favourite P.P.S Alex and Mike have just finished boiling hands, too! part of making bread, he told me, “Getting all the down and bottling about 90 litres of maple syrup. Alex is stuff together for the bread. It’s amazing how the It’s something they do each Spring with the whole following dough rises. I’ve never seen anything rise that family at their maple forest just past Bancroft. the rules so much. It was six inches high when we put it in the You can try this delicious maple syrup. We far. big bucket. Forty-five minutes to an hour later, have it available at Trillium – this year’s crop is just in! TRILLIUM RECIPES Alex’s Favourite Apple Crumble

Alex’s Favourite Apple Crumble ½ tsp cinnamon and/or butter or margarine. drizzle: ¼ cup or less, maple syrup Spread the crumbly oat mixture 5-6 cups apples: green, Ida red or over the apples. Bake for 45 min- Spartan Slice apples into a 9” x 9” glass utes at 350º F. ½ cup all purpose flour cake pan. Sprinkle with a drizzle Alex loves vanilla ice cream on ½ cup bown sugar of maple syrup and dot with small his. For an extra-special effect, 1 cup rolled oats bits of butter. Mix flour, oats, pour a little maple syrup over the 1 tbsp butter cinnamon, brown sugar, a little oil warm or cold apple crumble. Yum! MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 37 The Urban Woodland

By Claudia Reid-Musson ance. for dry acidic coniferous woodlands there is more sun. Woodland plantings are just one just as there are plants for the moist, Any woodland garden can bene- example of natural plantings. Evoking neutral humus of deciduous forests. fit from a three to four inch layer of calm and peaceful atmospheres, they Observe your garden’s soil by squeez- chopped leaves, compost or manure are regenerative antidotes to the mod- ing handfuls of it into a ball. Sandy spread under the plants in spring or ern urban lifestyle. Although most of soil will crumble easily, clay will hold fall. Allow any debris, such as peren- us idealize borders overflowing with a ball and loam forms a ball but can nial stalks and fallen leaves, to decom- colourful blooms, city gardens are also break apart easily. Test the soil’s pose; they sustain soil fertility levels most often shaded by neighbouring pH levels throughout the garden with and suppress weeds. A bark chip path homes, mature trees and high wooden a pH testing kit, available at local or steeping stones can add access and fences. The woodland perfectly suits nurseries. Note areas where the soil entice visitors into the garden. Fallen the shade of such gardens. Further, dries easily or holds water. The goal logs or stick piles add an authentic they can have local character. Histor- is simple: determine your garden’s look as well as providing habitat and ically, the Ottawa valley was covered growing conditions and choose plants food for wildlife. And of course, birds with forests. A weekend hike in the for those conditions. can be encouraged to visit the garden Gatineau Hills is all one needs to get Dogwoods (Cornus), Nannyber- with a few birdhouses and feeders. inspired. Fortunately, a woodland ries (Virburnums) and Summersweets Although requiring planning and does not have to imply an entire for- (Clethras) are excellent native wood- taking five years or more to mature, ot only are woodlands easy est. A single tree or overgown vine land shrubs. All have summer blooms woodland gardens are well worth the to maintain, they also attract can provide the ideal woodland con- and attractive bark and berries for win- wait for the peaceful, restorative and wildlife, have a subtle aes- ditions. ter interest. Some native perennials to low-maintenance gardens they later N To minimize your impact on a consider are Wild ginger (Asarum can- provide. thetic and suit the impossible small and shady garden. site, observe your garden’s existing adatum), Maidenhair ferns (Aclian- Claudia is an undergraduate art Self-sufficient, integral, locally conditions. Luckily, woodland condi- tum pedatum), Black snakeroot (Cim- history student and Old Ottawa South specific, harmonious... These are but tions vary widely. Deciduous wood- icifuga racemosa), False solomon seal resident. During the summer, she runs a few ways to describe naturally in- lands have summer shade, when the (Similacina racemosa), Jacob’s ladder Natural Creations, a gardening service spired gardens. Natural garden design trees have full canopies of leaves, and (Polemonium caeruleum), Trilliums, specializing in small urban garden de- involves working with existing grow- high winter and spring light levels, and Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia). sign, decorative planters and general ing conditions and imitating natural when the trees have no leaves. While Virginia creeper is a vigorous native garden maintenance. Look to www. growth patterns. It embraces seasonal woodlands often have humus rich vine for sun or shade (can be inva- naturalgardencreations.com for more change, letting it add interest to the soil, native woodland plants are var- sive). Look to asters, black-eyed su- information. garden rather than continual mainten- ied and adaptable. There are plants sans and goldenrods for areas where Sure On This Shining Night Sunday, May 1, 2011, 7:30 sembles with musicians of the Ottawa companied by a solo violin, in Larysa American impression, Samuel Bar- pm Dominion-Chalmers Music Company. Kuzmenko’s Dreams. ber’s Dover Beach, which will be Works: The Society is also very excited heard this evening in its original ver- United Church (O’Connor Samuel Barber - Sure on This to be presenting 22-year-old bass- sion for baritone solo and string quar- St. between Lisgar and Shining Night Hubert Parry - Songs baritone, Philippe Sly, a 2011 winner tet. Cooper) of Farewell Charles Villiers Stanford - of the Metropolitan Opera’s National Matthew Larkin appears as pian- The Bluebird Claude Debussy - Trois Council Auditions and fresh off the ist in chamber ensembles with the Please note: The previously an- Chansons de Charles d’Orléans Sam- stage of Lincoln Centre in his first leading instrumentalists of the Ottawa nounced May 2nd concert at the uel Barber - Dover Beach Ottawa appearance since that life- Music Company. Shenkman Centre has been cancelled Benjamin Britten - Five Flower defining moment in his young career. Tickets: Reserved $35, Gen- due to a conflict with the Federal Songs Larysa Kuzmenko - Dreams Philippe was a Grand Prize Winner eral $30; Students $10; 12 years and election. Morten Lauridsen - Sure on This of the Choral Society’s 2010 New under free. Groups -15% Online: Shining Night Discoveries Auditions so congratula- www.ottawachoralsociety.com Email: he Ottawa Choral Society pre- Artists: tions must go out to our distinguished [email protected] sents a concert of luminous Kevin Reeves, Matthew Larkin, jurists who knew a huge talent when Telephone: 613-725-2560 music suffused with the radi- conductors Charlotte Corwin - sop- they heard it! Philippe will be heard T rano Philippe Sly - bass-baritone in one of the most sublime pieces of ant beauty of the heavenly universe, the fragrance of the natural world in Piano Trio and String quartet: Mat- bloom, visions of nocturnal dreams, thew Larkin and musicians of the Ot- meditations on time and tide, and the tawa Music CompanyOttawa, Can- longings of the soul, that will rouse ada: On Sunday, May 1st at 7:30 pm, the slumbering senses from win- in the richly decorated ambience of ter’s hoary embrace. These superbly Dominion- Chalmers United Church, crafted songs by some of the giants the Ottawa Choral Society presents of modern musical impressionism are a concert of delicate songs that in- exquisite examples of music’s power habit the universe of the emotions, to fascinate the mind and refresh the search for truth in silent star-filled spirit. skies, echo the yearnings of the heart, Appearing on the programme and capture illusory images from the will be recent OCS ‘New Discovery’, world of dreams. stunning soprano Charlotte Corwin; The OCS is proud to present the and in his first Ottawa appearance young Canadian soprano Charlotte since winning this year’s Metropol- Corwin, who delighted the jury in itan Opera’s National Council Audi- her New Discovery Audition held in tions, 22-year-old bass-baritone Phil- Montreal in January 2010, when she ippe Sly, who grew up in Ottawa, and sang a charming Gavotte from Mas- is now on the road to an international senet’s Manon with a gorgeous floated career. OCS Music Director Matthew legato, and then delivered a complete- Larkin and Associate Director Kevin ly different persona with her selec- Reeves share the concert podium for tion from Johannes Brahms German this performance. Matthew Larkin Requiem. Charlotte will perform the also appears as pianist in chamber en- emotionally charged soprano role, ac- th Page 38 The OSCAR - OUR 38 YEAR MAY 2011 How Does Your Retirement Look? by Rick Sutherland, CLU, at your current expenses and decide you feel confident that you can count your plan. CFP, FDS, R.F.P how they may change at retirement. on these income sources. If you find this exercise too For example, if you currently pay Inflation will be your most fierce daunting you may want to consult n this example we will illustrate on a mortgage and you expect to be enemy in all these calculations. You with a professional. Many financial how to develop an investment mortgage free at retirement then this will want to make an estimate for the planners provide this service for their and savings strategy to meet your will reduce your income need. On the rate of inflation. Appreciate that the clients. Some will charge a fee and I other hand, if you expect to do more same basket of goods and services others will provide it free of charge retirement income objective. If you are comfortable with calculations and travel or take on new hobbies then that you buy today for a $1.00 will for their clients. computer software you can do this this may increase your income need at cost you close to $2.50 in thirty years yourself. Many financial planners retirement. Go through your current at 3% inflation. That’s no change in The foregoing is for general have access to retirement income spending on a monthly and annual lifestyle. It’s just maintaining your information purposes and is the planning software. basis and draw up a workable estimate current lifestyle. opinion of the writer. This information The first thing to do is come up of your income need at retirement. At this point it’s time to run the is not intended to provide personal with a planning time horizon. Decide Do it as if today is the first day of calculations and see how close or far advice including, without limitation, when you would like to retire and retirement. Don’t concern yourself you are from meeting your objective. investment, financial, legal, make an assumption for how long you with inflation yet. Hopefully you are on track and only accounting or tax advice. Please call will live. Due to modern medicine and Itemize your savings accounts minor adjustments will be needed to or write to Rick Sutherland CLU, healthy lifestyles an estimate into your that will be used to fund this objective. meet your goal. If there is a shortfall CFP, FDS, R.F.P., to discuss your nineties is not unreasonable. You may These could be RRSPs TSFAs or non- you may have to change some of your particular circumstances or suggest find that you will need to fund your registered accounts. Plug in the value assumptions such as working longer, a topic for future articles at 613- retirement income for thirty years or of your current savings and add in or saving more. You could strive for 798-2421 or E-mail rick@invested- longer. an estimate for monthly or annual a higher return, however, that may interest.ca. Mutual Funds provided The next step is to come up savings. Decide on a reasonable rate mean taking on more risk. through FundEX Investments Inc. with a retirement income objective. of return based on your investment Once you have completed this This is the lifestyle you want after policy. Add in an estimate for pensions process and have a working document retirement. Most people say they are if applicable. You can also include it should be kept and reviewed on a comfortable living a similar lifestyle the government pensions of Canada regular basis. When changes occur as they had before retirement. Look Pension Plan and Old Age Security if you will want to review and update

To book an OSCAR ad call Gayle 730-1058 Builders’ Additional oscarads@ Closing Charges oldottawasouth.ca By Anna Sundin

he Ontario government passed a regulation effective Jan. 1, 2011, Guidance, Protection which prevents builders from charging purchasers of new residential units closing charges in addition to the purchase price that the builder and Peace of Mind. hasT not actually incurred. The government changed the law as a result of two small claims court Barrister & Solicitor Anna E. Sundin, cases brought by purchasers of condominium units in one project who sued to GEnErAl PrActicE includinG: Family Law, Wills, Real Estate, Incorporations, Litigation and Collaborative Family Law recover thousands of dollars in additional closing charges the builder did not – A Cooperative and Dignified Approach to Separation and Divorce.– actually incur. The two claimants were among as many as 244 purchasers in the Rouge Residences project at 57 Upper Duke Cr., in Markham. The builder’s agreement of purchase and sale contained a typicak price adjustment clause. It provided that in the event of an increase in any existing municipal levies or development charges after the agreement was signed, “the purchaser shall pay the increase . . . as an adjustment” on closing. However in this case, the developer, decided to prepay to the Town of Markham more than $4 million in development charges at the then-current rates. By prepaying the charges, the developer was able to ensure that it would not have to pay any increases which might be imposed before the condominiums were sold. In spite of this, on closing the condominium purchasers were being Sundin-OSCAR-Ad-2006.indd 1 7/27/06 11:15:35 AM charged between $7,680 and $11,283 additional closing costs for increases in the development charges the town had imposed since the agreements were signed, but from which the builder of this particular project was exempt as the increased charges were not retroactive. The claimants took the position that the builder had no right to charge them for levies it had neither incurred nor paid. The builder insisted it was entitled to recover the increases that had been implemented by Markham according to the terms of the agreement of purchase and sale, which it had drafted. The cases were tried together before deputy judge Morris Winer. In his oral decision, Winer discussed the wording of the agreements of purchase and sale, and the fact that the builder had prepaid the development charges. The judge found the clause ambiguous but interpreted it to mean that though the rates had increased, the levies for taxes in this particular case had not as the increases had not been imposed. The judge awarded the purchasers damages for the charges they should not have had to pay on closing according to his interpretation of the clause. The builder has filed notices of appeal of the decision, citing what it claims are several errors made by the trial judge. The appeal has yet to be heard. A class action has also been commenced against the builder by purchasers of the units in the development. MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 39 Grandmothers Learn To Lobby By Jenny Wilson improve maternal health. You can’t change much without the medicines oomers and seniors were a to fight epidemic diseases like HIV/ force in this election. With AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis,” says energy and time to spare, they Peggy. “To really have an impact, B we must make it possible for African are working for positive change in our communities and our world, and all governments and organizations like parties were after their vote. Doctors Without Borders to purchase Two Old Ottawa South medicines at affordable prices.” grandmothers, Peggy Edwards If Peggy Edwards and Valerie and Valerie Swinton, are typical of Swinton are disillusioned with what is being accomplished by this the way politics operates, they are increasingly influential demographic. certainly undaunted. They promise Before the election was called, they they will do whatever it takes to and other grandmothers in the region resurrect legislation that will prevent and across the country lobbied hard Peg Edwards and Stephen Lewis the deaths of millions, including the in favour of a bill to get affordable grandmothers and orphans of Africa whose cause they uphold. “We older generic medicines to developing Without access to drugs, 50% of died in the Senate when Conservative- Canadians care deeply about the countries. They visited MPs and children born with HIV die before appointed Senators were instructed by next generation and care deeply Senators on Parliament Hill, sat in their second birthday and 80% die Industry Minister Tony Clement not about Canada’s role in international on Industry Committee meetings, before the age of five. Without a to support the bill. assistance. We will never give up,” carried placards and were a large significant increase in the availability “We are sadder but wiser about says Peggy. presence in the House and Senate of affordable medicines, it is estimated how our political system works,” says when the bill was discussed. It was that there will be 5 million more AIDS Valerie. “It looked like a deliberate The Grandmothers to a David and Goliath tale that pitted orphans in sub-Saharan Africa by strategy on the part of the government Grandmothers Campaign is a multi- a group of determined older women 2015. to let the bill pass in the House, partisan grassroots movement that and their partners in humanitarian In 2004, all parties unanimously because they could easily kill it in raises funds for projects that support agencies against a well-organized, passed Canada’s Access to Medicines the Senate where there is less public grandmothers in sub-Saharan well-connected pharmaceutical lobby. Regime (CAMR), which allowed attention. In fact, one Conservative Africa through the Stephen Lewis After the election was called, they generic manufacturers, under specific MP boldly stated just that.” Foundation. A separate group, the turned their attention to participating conditions, to supply affordable Strong opposition to this National Advocacy Committee, in phone-in shows and questioning equivalents to expensive brand- humanitarian bill – which costs speaks up for African grandmothers MPs at all-candidates meetings. name pharmaceuticals to designated taxpayers nothing, is consistent with by creating awareness of the issue and The Canadian grandmothers’ countries. Sadly, although it was World Trade Organization rules and supporting legislation such as CAMR. specific concern is the grandmothers well intentioned, the legislation was pays royalties to patent holders – Peggy Edwards and Valerie Swinton of sub-Saharan Africa who have flawed. In the ensuing seven years, came from those with pharmaceutical belong to One World Grannies, one of buried their children and, though only one Canadian company tried to influence in their ridings, like Liberal 28 grandmother groups in the Ottawa- desperately poor, are raising their provide generic drugs to Africa, and it MP Marc Garneau and ex-Senator, Gatineau region. Jenny Wilson is a orphaned grandchildren. There are an found the process so obstructive that now Conservative candidate, Larry member of Capital Grannies. astonishing 17 million AIDS orphans it concluded it could not afford to try Smith. If you are interested in joining in sub-Saharan Africa – that’s about again unless the process was fixed. “Making CAMR work is essential a group or getting involved, please half the population of Canada. They Peggy Edwards, Valerie Swinton if Canada is to deliver on its G8 contact Valerie Swinton at vswinton@ are orphans in large part because their and other grandmothers joined forces promise to fight child mortality and sympatico.ca parents could not afford the drugs with the HIV/AIDS Legal Network they needed to stay alive. But it’s and worked with the bill’s sponsors not only parents who are dying. An – Judy Wasylycia-Leis, Brian Masse, estimated 22.5 million people were and finally our Ottawa Centre MP living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa Paul Dewar – to get the necessary at the end of 2009, including 2.3 amendments passed. Their efforts million children. In that year alone, resulted in a remarkable outcome – an estimated 1.3 million Africans died against all odds, the bill was passed in from AIDS – that’s well over the total the House of Commons by a margin of number of men, women and children 61 votes. Despite this success, the bill in the entire City of Ottawa. Fitness Anywhere: New Boutique Fitness Studio Opens its Doors By Kathy Robitaille

itness Anywhere, known until now as the best source for personal fitness trainers who come to you in your home, opened its new personal Ftraining studio April 30th. Located at 175 Lisgar, just off Elgin, it offers the downtown area a private and intimate space, designed specifically as a boutique fitness centre. The studio differs from a traditional gym in that it is equipped to cater to individuals, couples, as well as small group classes. The 1600 square foot space offers a quiet, tranquil environment, equipped with the latest trends in fitness, as well as a few timeless classics to keep each session interesting, while getting you the results you want. If it’s group classes that you’re seeking, we have developed a series of classes, such as Bootcamp, Pre and Post Natal Fitness, 30 minute Core, and 30 minute Assisted Stretch, as well as the hottest trend in fitness at the moment- Group Suspension Training. Working with the Ottawa Fertility Centre, we are also very proud to offer Ottawa’s first Exercise class designed to help promote fertility and a healthy pre-pregnancy body. Visit our website for more information at www.fit-anywhere.ca Page 40 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 Your Insurance Checklist By Bob Jamieson illness or disability could leave you result from a death. Or you can use you enjoy today. Long-term care in- with little or no employment income, life insurance to leave more money to surance provides tax-free income to inancial security is important- as well as mounting bills. In just a heirs or charity. help offset the costs of long-term care not just for you, but for your short time a serious illness or disabil- Disability insurance: This type of services, whether they’re provided by family. Don’t let unforeseen ity can drain bank accounts, invest- coverage replaces a portion of your a facility or in your own home. Long- F ments and even your Registered Re- income if a serious illness or injury term care insurance can help cushion circumstances jeopardize that security. Make sure you have adequate in- tirement Savings Plan (RRSP). prevents you from working. Payments the financial, emotional and physical surance coverage in case of an emer- Here’s a look at the four basic provided by your policy can be used costs associated with chronic care. gency that could otherwise cause types of insurance and what they can to cover regular household expenses. How do you know what insurance financial hardship. do for you. Why do you need disability in- coverage is suitable for you and your Most people think of life insur- Life insurance: Life insurance surance? Because you have a one-in- family? It depends on factors such as ance when they consider insurance protection can provide funds to offset three chance of becoming disabled for your financial situation, savings and coverage. But there’s more to consid- the financial loss created by the death 90 days or more before age 65. In fact, investments, and current and future er. You can benefit from other types of a breadwinner. It can provide cash a Canadian is three times more likely financial requirements. Your financial of protection, including disability in- to replace lost income, provide educa- to suffer a long-term disability than to advisor can help assess your personal surance, critical illness insurance and tion funding and eliminate debt. Pro- die before age 65. circumstances and assist in determin- long-term care insurance. ceeds from life insurance policies are Critical illness insurance: If ing your insurance needs. Please give Life insurance provides security tax-free. you’re diagnosed with a serious med- me call at 613-526-3030 - I would be for your family in the event of your In addition, life insurance pro- ical condition, advances in medical glad to review your individual situa- death. But other insurance can help if ceeds can be used to offset potential science mean your chances of surviv- tion. you become ill or incapacitated. An tax liabilities on investments that can al are greater than ever. But recovery Bob Jamieson, CFP can result in significant costs. Critical Insurance is offered by Ed- illness insurance provides a tax-free ward Jones Insurance Agency (ex- lump sum, usually 30 days after you cept in Quebec). In Quebec, insur- are diagnosed with a covered condi- ance is offered by Edward Jones tion such as a heart attack, stroke or Insurance Agency (Quebec) Inc. cancer. You can use the money for whatever purpose you choose. Edward Jones - Member Canadian In- Long-term care insurance: A ser- vestor Protection Fund ious injury, or just growing older, can prevent you from enjoying the things

OSCAR Needs Volunteers For Monthly Distribution in OOS Ottawa Police Is Increasing Service Fees For Police Record And Criminal Record Checks

he Ottawa Police Services • Non-resident - $50 Board approved fee increases • Police Record Check “while you Tin the 2011 Budget. This wait” Express - $50 decision was based on that fact that • only available at 474 Elgin St. for an increase in requests for records those living in Ottawa for five years checks and other services had created • Criminal Record Check - $43 a large gap between the cost of pro- • Non-resident - $78 viding the services and the revenues • Copy of Police Report (e.g. acci- generated. These changes are consist- dents) - $48 ent with fees charged by other muni- • Adoption Application Letter and cipal police services in Ontario. Police Records Check - $58 Effective May 1, 2011, the Ottawa • Pardon Application - $54 Police Service (OPS) will increase For police station addresses and fees for services for: hours of operation, please visit our • Police Record Check for Service website at www.ottawapolice.ca with the Vulnerable Sector - $15 (free for volunteers with a volunteer letter)

Tell OSCAR Readers about your travel or your interests. Send text and photos to [email protected] MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 41

M.P.P. OTTAWA CENTRE Turning the Corner to a Better Tomorrow

By Yasir Naqvi evidence is everywhere around us: new going in our five-year Open Ontario recipients. or improved public spaces, upgrades plan, by investing in the key drivers The Budget also lays out $257 n March 29 the McGuinty to transportation infrastructure, of our prosperity and quality of life – million over three years for our government tabled Ontario’s revitalized social housing, and specifically education and healthcare. comprehensive Mental Health and 2011 Budget. We have more. We’ve also made necessary The 2011 Budget contains new Addictions Strategy, which will O investments in a clean, reliable and strategic investments to create more initially focus on children’s mental experienced difficult times since the 2008 world financial crisis, and we modern electricity system, a system than 60,000 new spaces at colleges health – an area of great need – and will face many challenges as we emerge that was in a serious state of disrepair and universities by 2015-16, with a soon be expanded to all age groups. from the first truly global recession in when we came to government. $64 million investment in universities For this program our government has over 80 years. But Ontario is turning We’re proud that the high school and colleges this year that will grow to committed $257 million over the next the corner and conditions are starting graduation rate is now 81%, a 13% $309 million in 2013-14. The Budget three years. to improve. Jobs are coming back, and increase since 2003; that we have also commits an additional $44 These proposals will make real we are focused on securing education, the shortest recorded wait times for million over three years for literacy differences in the lives of families. health care and other key public health services in Canada; and that we and basic skills programs. Full-day We understand that a well-educated services that ensure our high quality are continuing to upload costs from kindergarten will be available in and healthy workforce will strengthen of life, and make Ontario stronger for municipalities that were downloaded nearly 800 schools in September 2011, Ontario’s economy and attract the future. Results show that our plan by the previous government, a value and fully implemented in September investment and jobs. And working is working. Ontario has recovered of $125 million in 2010-11 for the 2014 – benefiting 247,000 children alongside Ontarians, we are ensuring 91 percent of jobs lost during the City of Ottawa alone. and their families across the province. that Ontario continues to make recession, 84% of which are full We are also working hard to Our government is also investing progress and turn the corner to a time, and the deficit for 2010–11 is manage your government responsibly, an additional $15 million over the next brighter future. projected to be $3 billion lower than through meaningful and thoughtful three years to provide 90,000 more To learn more you can visit www. forecast a year ago, at $16.7 billion. initiatives, not reckless cuts or breast cancer screening exams for ontario.ca/budget, visit my online As you know, Ontario, like careless attacks on our valued public women at risk, as early as age 30. We office at www.yasirnaqvimpp.ca, governments everywhere, undertook services and those who deliver them. are investing $100 million annually or you can contact my Community strong measures to stimulate our We have identified savings of nearly to enhance pharmacy services and Office at 613-722-6414. economy through investment in $1.5 billion across government over support available through the Ontario infrastructure and key sectors of our the next three fiscal years. Drug Benefit Program, benefitting economy during the recession. The We’re keeping the momentum seniors and social assistance It’s an eWaste Day - Sat. May 7 9am - 2pm ELECTRONICS RECYCLING What you can bring: at First Unitarian Congregation 30 Cleary Ave., * Televisions off Richmond Rd, first traf- * Computers of any kind fic light East of Woodroffe) . * Computer peripherals, e.g.modems, cables, mice, keyboards, etc.

* Printers, copiers, scanners, electric typewriters Bring your cast-off * Telephones and accessories incl. answering ma- »» COMPUTERS & everything related, including those chines, fax big monitors! * Cellular phones »» TELEPHONES * PDAs and pagers, hand-held computers »» TVs * Audio and video players incl. CD, DVD, tape cas-

sette * * Tell your friends and neighbours, family and col- * Cameras of all kinds leagues* * * Equalizers / (pre)amplifiers

* Radios, incl. vehicle radios Sorry - no microwaves, air conditioners, humidifi- * Receivers, Tuners, Speakers ers..... see details below. * Turntables

* Video players/projectors For information: * Video recorders John Turnbull 613-820-7259 <[email protected]> * Home theatre Katherine Gunn 613-729-0504 please, read carefully!

Material collected under this provincial program is reused, refurbished, or is recycled under environmentally responsible processes.

** The owner is responsible for destroying any data on a computer. ** Please box small parts together.

To book an OSCAR ad call Gayle 730-1058 [email protected] Page 42 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011

The Grosvenor Avenue Gastronomic Society “Life is too short to eat disappointing food.” Cat’s Meow, Pocketbook’s Yeow!

we were seated at a table, if making reservations strong and gamey in the most wonderful way. definitely try to score one of the roomy and slightly Thanks to the impeccable service, we enjoyed more private banquettes. our first course and wine in perfect timing before our We selected a bottle of Haywood Estate (2006) main dishes were served. The classic steak frites Zinfandel ‘Los Chamizal Vineyard’ from the was exactly as expected with an absolutely mouth- Sonoma Valley ($75) to get us started while we watering striploin steak and perfectly salted fries perused the menu. Although pricey, it was delicious cooked in peanut oil. We simply adored the black and got thumbs up from everyone around the table. pepper spatzle and mushrooms that accompanied We were also provided with complimentary chewy the truffle Québec chicken breast and the crispy fresh bread served with sugary cinnamon butter skin duck breast with its smoked potato purée was that was a huge nostalgic hit as it reminded us all perfect. The combination of in-house ground steak e’ve been meaning to visit Preston Street of Saturday morning breakfasts when we were kids. and secret sauce took “Richard’s” Angus burger for a GAGS outing for quite sometime The menu at the Black Cat Bistro is definitely over the top; it definitely beats any other gourmet now and for some reason we just never not for the meat-averse, with every single option burger we’ve tried. W including some sort of animal, except for the white All in all, our visit to the Black Cat Bistro was got around to it. Sure, we’ve been to Preston St. many times for ‘unofficial’ GAGS visits to a number bean soup and the heirloom beet salad starters. enjoyable and we thought the absolutely delicious of other restaurants, but one Thursday evening we Vegetarians shouldn’t despair however, as the Chef food was well worth the hefty price tag. decided to commit and stopped in at the Black Cat will prepare vegetarian mains to order if desired. First Course: $9 - $17 Bistro (www.blackcatbistro.ca). To start we ordered the white bean soup which Mains: $20 - $33 The Black Cat first opened its doors in 1979 was absolutely fantastic – best described as a soup Desserts and Cheese: $9 - $18 on the Rideau Canal, eventually moved to Murray latté topped with a big dollop of parmesan foam. Limited wines served by the glass, excellent Street, and since 2008 has been enjoying its third The shredded duck confit salad with arugula, honey, selection of wines by the bottle. life in the heart of Little Italy – ironically serving up sheep’s milk cheese, and shallots was quite good and As always if you have any comments or would modern French cuisine. The mood in the Black Cat was surprisingly light considering the ingredients. like to suggest a restaurant for us to review, please is trés chic with an iconic art deco feel, including its The albacore tuna tataki with its lemongrass and contact us at [email protected] logo that has stood the test of time. Their current miso emulsion, radishes, cucumbers, and jalapenos Happy Eating! location is attractive and spacious with oversized was beautiful and fresh, although tiny. The Alberta windows, a white and greys colour palette, and Bison Carpaccio was finished with pecorino, extra- The Grosvenor Avenue Gastronomic Society cushy, yet comfortable clean-lined chairs. Although strong Dijon, truffle oil, and lemon and tasted very (GAGS) MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 43

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE LIBRARY Sunnyside Branch Library

Sunnyside Branch Library days, 10:10 am ( 30 min.) Mother-Daughter Book Club for ages and constructive criticism from their 1049 Bank Street, Ottawa May 3, 10, 17 7-9 peers. Registration. Third Monday • Toddlertime C – Registration: A place for girls and the special of each month 613-730-1082, Thursdays 10:10 a.m. (30 min.) women in their lives to share books. Mondays, 6:00 p.m. (120 min.) Adult Services, May 5, 12, 19 Registration. , May 16 extension 22 Mondays, 7 p.m. (60 min.) Children’s Services, Toddlertime Biblingual/bilingue May 2 Conversation en Francais Tout-petits a la biblio Improve your spoken French and extension 29 For toddlers and a parent or care- Mother-Daughter Book Club for ages meet new friends in a relaxed setting. giver with stories, rhymes, songs and 10-12 Wednesdays, March 9 to June 29, Children’s Programs games. Ages 18-35 months. Registra- A place for girls and the special 7:00 pm (60 min.) Babytime tion / Contes, rimes et chansons pour women in their lives to share books. For babies and their parents or care- les bambins et un parent ou gardien. Registration. Sunnyside Book Club giver with stories, rhymes, songs and Pour les 18-35 mois. Inscription Mondays, 7 p.m. (60 min.) Meet new people and join in stimu- games. 0-18 months. Wednesdays, 2:15 p.m. (30 min.) May 9 lating discussions on selected titles in Thursdays, 9:15 a.m. (30 min.) May 4, 11, 18 a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. May 5, 12, 19 Teen Programs Last Friday of each month, 2:00 p.m. Storytime (Spring) Mother-Daughter Book Club for ages (60 min.) Babytime Bilingual/bilingue bébés a Stories, rhymes and songs for pre- 13-15 What Went Wrong by Bernard Lewis; la biblio schoolers and a parent or caregiver. A place for girls and the special May 27, 2011: Still Alice by Lisa Stories, rhymes and songs for babies Ages 3-6. women in their lives to share books. Genova; and June 24, 2011: Social and a parent or caregiver. Ages 0-18 Wednesdays 10:15 a.m. Registration. Lunch & Choose books for next year months. / Contes, rimes et chan- May 4, 11, 18 Mondays, 7 p.m. (60 min.) sons pour les bébés et un parent ou May 16 Cercle de lecture de l’Amicale gardien. Pour les 0-18 mois. Children’s Book Clubs francophone Tuesdays, 2:15 pm (30 min.) Maman et filles Adult Programs Partagez avec nous le plaisir des May 3, 10, 17 Mamans et filles venez discuter The Writing Workshop livres dans une ambiance détendue. ensemble des livres emballants. 8-11. An opportunity for writers of fiction, Inscription. Toddlertime (Spring) Inscription. non-fiction, poetry, and experimental Les mardis, 19 h (60 min.) For toddlers and a parent or care- Les mardis, 19 h (60 min.) forms to gather. Our emphasis will 10 mai giver with stories, rhymes, songs and 24 mai be on developing works-in-progress games. Ages 18-35 months. for publication. The workshop will Registration Required provide writers with encouragement • Toddlertime A – Registration: Tues- Alta Vista Branch Library Programs Offered At The May 5, 19 June 16: Firewall by Henning Alta Vista Library Mankell. Storytime Poets’ Corner Stories and rhymes and songs Programmes Offerts A La Share your love of poetry with Newcomers / Nouveaux arrivants for preschoolers and a parent or Bibliotheque Alta Vista others. English Conversation Group caregiver. Ages 3-6. Alta Vista Branch Read your own poems and share Practice your English language (Bilingual) Tuesdays, 2516 Alta Vista Drive comments. Please bring copies of conversation April 12 –May 17 , 10:30 a.m. (45 your work for the group. skills and meet new friends in a min.) Register: www. Registration. relaxed and Contes biblioottawalibrary.ca Monday, May 2, 6:30 p.m. (90 min.) friendly environment. This program Contes, comptines et chansons pour Or call 613-737-2837 x28 is offered les enfants d’âge préscolaire (3-6 Tuesday Book Group in partnership with Somali Family ans) et un parent ou responsable de Adult Programs Join us for a discussion of the best Services. garde. in non-fiction:Great Books (first Registration. (Bilingue) Les mardis, French Conversation Group series). Mondays, 6:30 p.m. (90 min.) 12 avril-17 mai , 10 h 30 (45 min.) Improve your spoken French Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m. (90 min.) and in a relaxed setting. This group May 3, 17 Tuesdays, 1:00 p.m. (120 min.) Special Programs For Children/ is for those at an intermediate level. Programmes Speciaux Pour Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. (90 min.) Infusions littéraires Programs Offered At The Alta Enfants May 3, 10, 17, 24 Partagez avec nous le plaisir des Vista Library livres Programmes Offerts A La Homework club Book Banter dans une ambience détendue. Bibliotheque Alta Vista Get tutoring and help with homework Share the enjoyment of good books Joignez-vous à nous pour une after school. Help is available in a relaxed atmosphere. Join us discussion. Pre-School/Prescolaire in math, reading and science in for a discussion. Les mardis, 14 h (60 min.) French and/or English. Offered in Thursdays, 2 p.m. (60 min.) 17 mai : Le violoncelliste de Sarajevo Babytime partnership with E.A.G.L.E. Center. May 5: The Girl with the Dragon de Steven Galloway. Stories, rhymes and songs for babies Ages 7-18. Tattoo by Stieg Larsson. 21 juin: Le mystérieux voyage de and a parent or caregiver. Ages 0-18 (Bilingual)Wednesday, 4:15 p.m. June 2: Crackpot by Adele Wiseman. Rien months. (120 min.)* de Antonine Maillet Wednesday May 4, 11, 18, 25 Knit 2 Together April 13 –May 18 , 10:30 a.m. (30 Love to knit? Bring your needles, Sleuth Hounds min.) Club de devoirs yarn and Share the enjoyment of good Reçois du tutorat et de l’aide avec good cheer. We knit for the pleasure mysteries Toddlertime les travaux scolaires. De l’aide of it. in a relaxed atmosphere. Join us for a Stories, rhymes and songs for babies disponible avec les mathématiques, Registration. discussion. and a parent or caregiver. Ages 18- la lecture et les sciences, en français Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. (90 min.) Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. (90 min.) 35 months. May 19: Any Carlotta Carlyle title Mondays, April 11 –May 16 , 10:30 May 14, 28 Cont’d on next page Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. (90 min.) by Linda Barnes. a.m. (30 min.) Page 44 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE LIBRARY

Alta Vista Branch Library ... Cont’d from previous page

et/ou anglais. Offert en partenariat Homework Club of the Alta Vista Library 613-737- avec E.A.G.L.E. Centre. Pour les Get tutoring and help with homework Teen Advisory Group 2837./ L’adresse de la bibliothèque 7-18 ans. after school. Help is available Join the Teen Advisory Group (TAG) Alta Vista est le 2516, promenade (Bilingue) Les mercredis, 16 h 15 in math, reading and science in to earn community involvements Alta Vista, Ottawa et son numéro de (120 min.)* French and/or English. Offered in hours and help design programs for téléphone est le 613-737-2837. 4, 11, 18, 25 mai partnership with E.A.G.L.E. Center. teens at the branch. Ages 14-18. Ages 7-18. May 27, 4 p.m. (60min.)* Program registration will be done The very hungry caterpillar (Bilingual) Wednesdays, 4:15 p.m. on-line only. Ottawa Public Library Stories, videos and crafts about your (120 min.)* N.B. Registration for winter cards are needed to register on- favorite insects. Age 3-7. May 4, 11, 18, 25 programs starts on January 5./ line. Children’s library cards (Bilingual) Saturday, May 14, 2 p.m. L’inscription pour les programmes are required for registration of (45 min.)* Club de devoirs d’hiver commence le 5 janvier./ children’s programs./ L’inscription La chenille qui fait des trous Reçois du tutorat et de l’aide avec Registration for March break des programmes est faite Contes, vidéos et bricolage. Pour les les travaux scolaires. De l’aide programs starts on February 9./ seulement en ligne. Les cartes de 3 à 7 ans. disponible avec les mathématiques, L’inscription pour les programmes la bibliothèque publique d’Ottawa (Bilingue) Samedi 14 mai, 14 h. (45 la lecture et les sciences, en français du congé d’hiver commence le 9 sont requises pour l’inscription en min.)* et/ou anglais. Offert en partenariat février./ Programs followed by an * ligne des programmes et les cartes avec E.A.G.L.E. Centre. Pour les require registration. / L’inscription de bibliothèque des enfants sont Special Programs For Teens/ 7-18 ans. est requise pour les programmes requises pour l’inscription aux Programmes Speciaux Pour (Bilingue) Les mercredis, 16 h 15 suivis d’un *. The address of the programmes d’enfants. Adolescents (120 min.)* Alta Vista Library is 2516 Alta Vista 4, 11, 18, 25 mai Drive, Ottawa and the phone number OSCAR Seeks Volunteers To Distribute Monthly OSCAR Newspaper In Old Ottawa South

1. south side of Sunnyside between Grosvenor and Leonard, east side of Leonard between Sunnyside and Hopewell (35 papers)

2. south side of Sunnyside between Bristol and Rideau River Drive (20 papers)

3. north side of Aylmer between Leonard and Roslyn, east side of Roslyn between Aylmer and Col. By, west side of Leonard between Aylmer and Col. By, Col. By between Leonard and Roslyn (21 papers)

4. north side of Aylmer between Grosvenor and Rosedale, west side of Grosvenor .. north of Aylmer, east side of Rosedale between Aylmer and Col. By (25 papers) Around Town Book Launch: “What My Georgia, Summertime, etc. Greenhouse on Maple Drive on the munity through our concerts and Grandma Means to Say,” Ot- Central Experimental Farm. Call special events, including the Gregor- tawa author JC Sulzenko’s First Baptist Church Annual Book 613-230-3276, info@friendsofthe- ian Chants for Meditation on Good storybook for kids 8-12 and families and Plant Sale. Laurier at Elgin. May farm.ca www.friendsofthefarm.ca Friday night, which over a thousand about a boy and his grandmother 5, 4-6pm; May 6, 12-6pm; May 7, Plant and Bake Sale May 14, 2011 people attend each year. with dementia, will be launched on 10am-1pm. Huge selection of books, - 9a.m.-11 a.m. St Stephen’s Presby- For more information, call 613- May 1 between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. plants, videos, CDs and DVDs. New terian Church, 579 Parkdale Avenue 567-7729 at CollectedWorks Bookstore, 1242 books and plants each day. Free park- (corner of Sherwood Drive) We will ------Wellington St. W. Info: (613) 722- ing on Saturday. 613-234-3261. More be selling a wide variety of plants - Perennial Plant Sale For Char- 1265);www.writersfestival.org; www. information at www.firstbaptistot- perennials, flowers, herbs, and pro- ity. May 21 @1 p.m. 126 Fentiman jcsulzenko.com tawa.ca. viding advice on how to grow them, Ave. (near Sunnyside and Riverdale) ------as well as lots of baked treats. Info. 613-730-7016 Pouring rain: There will be a reading and even- By the Book, a used bookstore ------we’ll see you Sunday! Large mature ing of poetry to celebrate and enjoy and cafe operated by the Friends of Choral Music Classes with Law- plants available for $5 or less! 250 the poetry anthology In The Branches the Ottawa Public Library Associa- rence Harris. Open House – Free plants available...come and pick up of a Mango Tree on Thursday May 5th tion (FOPLA), is holding its monthly Demonstration Class some phlox, columbine, coral bells, at Mother Tongue Books. The even- half-price book sale on Saturday, May Sunday, May 15 at 3pm. Join iris, primula or wild plants for your ing will begin at 7pm and all monies 7, from 10 to 4, at 363 Lorry Green- Lawrence Harris for a lively hour of garden. All proceeds to the Erythro- raised will go to help rebuild College berg Drive. Drop by for great buys on music-making, and find out about melalgia Research Fund Massillon Coicou, a K-12 elementary hundreds of books (most under $2). our spring and summer classes and ------school in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The following sale will be on June 4. events. Admission is free, so bring June 12, Sunday. Silence in the ------all your friends! Come to room 201 City. A meditation retreat for youth “Jazz for a Friday Night” with the Rare and Unusual Plant Sale. May of the Dominican University College, and young adults with Fr. Laurence Ottawa Regional Youth Choir and the 8, 9:00a.m. - 1:00 p.m.Entry Fee: 96 Empress Avenue, just off Somerset Freeman (spititual leader of the World Nepean All-City Jazz Band will be Food Bank Donation or $5.00. Pur- St., two traffic lights west of Bronson. Community of Christian Meditation). held on May 6th at 7:30 p.m. at the chase specialty plants for your garden Develop your vocal skills and Saint Paul University. 3 to 6 p.m. Sun- Canadian Martyrs Catholic Church, and Mother’s Day, from many grow- boost your confidence – and help day. Includes light meal. Everyone 100 Main Street. Tickets at the door: ers and nurseries gathered for this keep the wonderful repertoire of welcome. Free. Information: www. Adults: $20; Students: $10. Pieces event. Master Gardeners are avail- Gregorian chant and sacred polyph- meditatio.ca or email: christianMedi- will include: Fascinatin’ Rhythm, able to answer your questions. New ony alive. Help us share this deeply [email protected]. Smoke Gets in Your Eyes, Java Jive, location: parking lot beside Tropical spiritual music with the wider com- MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 45

CLASSY ADS

CLASSY ADS are free for Old Ottawa South residents (except for businesses or for business activity) and must be submitted in writing to: The OSCAR, at the Old Firehall, 260 Sunnyside, or sent by email to [email protected] by the deadline. Your name and contact information (phone number or email address) must be included. Only your contact info will appear unless you specify otherwise. The editor retains the right to edit or exclude submissions. The OSCAR takes no responsibility for items, services or accurary. For business advertising inquiries, call 730-1058.

For Sale House For Sale - Large, updated, Home For Sale On Belmont Ave Dir- provide a loving and nurturing home open-concept single-family home at ectly Facing Windsor Park. 4 Bed- environment where children experi- Mahogany Desk - 40” w x 30”h x 81 Sunnyside Avenue (the quiet end) room, 2 Story Extension, With 2nd ence both intellectual and emotional 20”d. Seven drawers, $150 2 Ma- in Old Ottawa South/Rideau Gar- Floor Deck. Central Air. No Agents growth and find self-fulfillment in a hogany & Cane Chairs - Cane on dens: - 3 + 1 bedrooms plus office Please. Call 613 295 5946. small group setting. References and back, side and seats. $150 & $100. - sunny eat-in kitchen - main-floor ------receipts provided. Call Brenda Lee at Solid Dark Wood Bookcase - 38”w x family room with 20 foot brick fire- Quiet, professional couple seeking 613 733 0608. 42”h x 12”d. Three shelves. Please place, skylight and ceiling fan with long-term, 2-bedroom accommoda- call Muriel at (613 231-7834 if you patio door to large covered back deck tion for July or very early August. We Looking For wish to view, in the Glebe. - bay windows, crown moldings, and are returning from an overseas career ------French doors in spacious principle post and would like to live in Old Ot- Beautiful girls’ bike for sale, 16-inch rooms - ensuite off master - double tawa South where we were previously Wanted to buy: used stationary bi- wheels, powder blue, comes with sinks in both bathrooms plus another established for several years. We are cycle in good working condition for training wheels, front carry basket powder room - central air - gas heat- looking for an apartment or house that small female. 613-730-5369. and streamers. Purchased new in ing - double-car garage with inside ac- has parking, storage, laundry access ------2009. $100. 730-7051. cess. Just steps to both river and canal or facilities, and an outdoor space; Looking For: We are looking to buy ------as well as parks, tennis courts and balcony or terrace. If you or anyone a bike attachment (kids trailer bi- For sale: Sofa cover - Ikea Ektorp pool - walking distance to Hopewell you know has an upcoming rental cycle) so our 4yr old can cycle be- two-seat, rust red. Never used. $40. P.S., Glebe Collegiate and both Uni- that would be suitable in our desired hind our bike. Please call 613-730- Futon sofa frame, hardwood - $40. versities. $844,900 - visit http://grape- neighborhood, please contact us at 5299 & ask for Rich or Sue or email: Ikea Gorm shelving, good for stor- vine.on.ca/listing.cgi?id=30342mail [email protected] [email protected] age areas, several disassembled units for more information - email oldot------best offer. Contact Karen at 613 236- [email protected] or call Looking for individuals interested in Looking For” (Educational Prod- 8080. 613-304-7856 to schedule a viewing. exploring installing solar panels on ucts) Barton Reading and Spelling ------Agents welcome @ 2%. their roof tops. One company that ap- System levels 4 through 8. Reflux wedge mattress for sale ------pears promising is ottawasolarpower. 730-3577 bought from Vita Care Medical Prod- Vacation House Rental - Lunenburg, com but would be willing to consider ------ucts (see website for photo). Pristine N.S. Charming century house over- other experienced companies. Also PARKING NEEDED: Looking for condition, hardly used as mattress looking the harbour of the Unesco interested in potential group purchase parking space near Bank and Sun- was bought as baby`s reflux was end- World Heritage town of Lunenburg. for savings. Email me at Francine@ nyside for one small car. Will gener- ing. Extremely effective for helping Stunning, westerly views. Walking hoddinott.ca or call at 730-1225. ally only be used overnight and on baby sleep. Asking price $150.00. distance to restaurants and shopping, weekends. Contact Chelsealynn.f@ Please call 613 730 8241 during day- easy access to beaches. Flexible gmail.com or 613-983-6113 Daycare time only. weekly or monthly rentals. Contact us at [email protected] or call 416-921-3212. In home day care provider (B.A. Accommodation ------in Child Development, E.C.E., 18 Tell OSCAR Readers House for rent, immed., OOS, 3+ years experience) has 1 full time about your travel Sublet: large, newly renovated 2-bed- bdrms, 2 baths, fin. bsmt; AC, gas, space available starting in Sept. or your interests. room apartment at Riverdale & Glen- hardwood both levels; renovated 2011 for children 18 months of age Send text and photos to view. Available June, July, August & charm, high ceilings, bright; 5 appli- and older. Activities include play- September. $1250/month & Hydro. ances; balcony, parking, shed; $1790 groups, library outings, museums, oscar@ 613-730-0206. per month. (613) 730-4804, fdoy@ parks, crafts, pottery, baking, gar- oldottawasouth.ca sympatico.ca dening, circle time and much more. I Library Improvements Benefit Alta Vista Community

lta Vista residents can now enjoy an enhanced Alibrary experience thanks to improvements at their branch of the Ottawa Public Library. Library patrons joined community leaders on April 2 to celebrate this important retrofit. Various renovations were made throughout the building, built in 1976 in one of Ottawa’s older suburbs. Thanks to these improvements, all visitors now have access to self- checkout stations, 24/7 external book return, accessible washrooms, and new community meeting rooms. The total project cost is $750,000. Under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund, the governments of Canada and Ontario, and the City of Ottawa each contributed $250,000 Front row from left: Amelita Armit, Jan Harder, Jim Watson, Peter Hume, Bob Chiarelli, Christine Langlois. toward this project. Back row: Howard Whittaker, Cindy Streefkerk, Rose Zeidan, Danielle Lussier-Meek, Jim Bennett, Barbara Clubb. Page 46 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 Carleton Sports Raven Basketball Players Turn Professional By Joe Scanlon spent at least part of one season play- brother, Hugh, who was in England took advantage of his dual nationality. ing professionally, mainly in Europe doing his doctorate at the University Ferguson played for Paul Armstrong fter finishing his basketball but also in Iceland. As well as Jeanty, of London, helped out for a year as on the 1987-88 team that defeated To- career at Carleton, Don Reid Turnbull, Doornekamp and McCleery, his assistant. Reid also – while still ronto in the OUA East finals and went headed to England where Jafeth Maseruka, Rob Smart, Ryan with Fiat – coached the women’s team to the National’s in Halifax. Ferguson A Bell and Daron Leonard all had a shot at Warwick University and that team dropped off the team briefly then re- he did a graduate degree in library science and joined the staff at the at professional basketball. won the UK women’s championship. turned to play again. In the summer Bodleian Library at Oxford. After fin- Three of the first four – Reid, Reid was in a sense a triple nation- of 1992 he and Paul Draper, his team ishing their five years with the Ravens’ Wells and Ferguson – had an advan- al. Since his parents came from Scot- mate on the team that went to the Na- basketball team, Geoff Wells and Bill tage over all but one of those who land he was able to play for Scotland tional’s, arranged to play in Romania. Holmes also headed to England became later: all three were dual nation- in UK competitions. But since Scot- They had made the contact through fore returning to Canada to careers in als. Reid was good enough to play land teamed up with England, Wales Andi Diaconescu who was assisting insurance and estate planning. For- for Scotland and England and almost and Northern Ireland for international Paul Armstrong as coach and whose mer Raven Wayne Ferguson returned make it to the Olympics; and Fer- competitions, Reid also played for son Luca was playing for Carleton. to Wales where he was born and re- guson was good enough to play for the English team that fell one game Andi had played for the Romanian mained there. He is now a chef and Wales. Holmes – who did not have short of qualifying for the Olympics. national team. Ferguson and Draper has worked for cruise lines and for the dual citizenship – impressed coaches He also played in two World Student were to join a Romanian team in Bar- British Army during the invasion of so much that he earned a starting pos- Games for the UK, in Bucharest and celona and even had their plane tick- Iraq. Two other former Ravens -- Paul ition on a British team despite the fact in Edmonton. ets when the plan fell through. Larmand and Josh Poirier -- moved that most foreigners were tall Amer- Several years later, in 1985-86, Ferguson who had been born in briefly to Australia. Both are now in icans who could play close in by the another former Raven, Wells followed Wales and had come to Canada when Canada, Larmand as a financial ad- basket. the same route. His father was born in he was eight years old decided to try visor with Investors’ Group, Poirier to Larmand and Poirier – like Sheffield so Wells, like Reid, was a his luck in Wales where he joined run his own landscaping business. Holmes – also made it by impressing dual national. After a try-out, he was Cardiff Heat in the English second Reid, Wells, Holmes, Ferguson, Lar- coaches; but they did the impress- signed by the Oldham Celtics where division. He was good enough to play mand and Poirier have something in ing in Taiwan and the coaches were he played for three seasons. Wells still for the Welch national team against common. All six left Canada – and not British but Australian. Larmand likes to say he played for the “Celtics” the national teams of England, Scot- played professional basketball. and Poirier were playing for Carleton skipping over the fact that his Celtics land and Northern Ireland. Ferguson’s Since Carleton has won seven of which was representing Canada at a were a second division team in Eng- home team, the Heat, made the second the last nine Canadian Interuniversity tournament in Taiwan and their play land not the NBA team in Boston. In division finals played at Wembley Sport (CIS) men`s basketball cham- impressed the Australians who were Oldham, Wells was a minor celebrity Arena in London. (It lost to a team pionships, it’s not surprising that now also in the tournament. not just for his basketball but for his from Doncaster.) some former Ravens go on – at least Don Reid, believed to be the first connections. His grandfather spent Wells, Reid, Ferguson and Holmes for a time -- to professional basket- Carleton player to turn professional, the Second World War as driver for all turned professional in the 1970’s ball.. This past season, four -- Osv- went to the UK to do his Masters’ de- Field Marshall Alexander who later and 1980’s. As far as is known they aldo Jeanty, Stuart Turnbull, Aaron gree at University College of North became Governor General of Can- were the only former Carleton players Doornekamp and Kevin McCleery Wales in 1987-88. Before leaving he ada and Wells’ family were invited to to make it as professionals from then – were playing in Europe, Jeanty and arranged a try-out with Team Fiat in Government House in Ottawa. until 2004 when two five-year Carle- Turnbull in Germany, Doornekamp in Coventry. They signed him to a pro- Wells gave a helping hand to a ton veterans who had been members Italy and McCleery in Holland. fessional contract and provided him a Carleton team-mate, Bill Holmes with of Carleton’s first two National cham- What is perhaps surprising is that car so he could commute between his whom he had played for four years. pionship teams, Paul Larmand and the first former Raven to play profes- university and Coventry. The car was Holmes did not have dual national- Josh Poirier, signed contracts to play sionally did so more than three dec- labelled on both sides, “Team Fiat – ity so he had to compete for a spot in Australia. Poirier was outstand- ades ago – long before Carleton estab- Pro Basketball -- Don Reid”. Team with US imports. However, Holmes ing as a post player (which means he lished itself as a basketball power. Fiat was good enough to make the finished his Carleton career as all- played inside under the basket) but Don Reid was the first. English national finals two years in a time top scorer in Ontario University despite being asked to stay on played He was followed by Geoff Wells row and Reid got a chance to play at basketball and had something the for only one year with the Kilsyth and Bill Holmes. Wembley Arena. English were not used to – a way of Cobras in Melbourne. Larmand land- Next came Wayne Ferguson. Fiat eventually moved to Bir- sliding between defensive players and ed a contract with the Ballarat Miners Then, after a 12-year gap, there mingham where Reid played for a scoring inside. Most US imports were in the South East Australian Basket- were two more: Paul Larmand and number of seasons before finishing his taller and slower: their forte was play- ball League. He stayed three years Josh Poirier. First Division career with the Man- ing under the basket. Wells persuaded and was good enough to make the Since then – as far as could be de- chester Giants. After that he became the Oldham coach to give Holmes league’s all-star team. He out-lasted termined – eight more former Carle- player coach with the second div- a chance to play in four pre-season some highly touted Americans. ton male basketball players have ision Milton Keynes Skyhawks. His games. Holmes was impressive What about the current season? enough that Middlesbrough invited Osvaldo Jeanty, until he got injured, him for a tryout. After watching him played for BBC Bayreuth in Germany on one game – he scored more than averaging 9.9 points a game and hit- 30 points playing against an American ting a good 33 per cent of his three from Villanova -- it signed him to a point shots. Aaron Doornekamp plays pro contract. The team was called the for Pepsi Caserta in Italy. Stuart Cleveland Comets because Middles- Turnbull is the leading scorer – 15.3 brough is in the County of Cleveland, points per game – with Hannover a major chemical centre. Holmes’ ex- UBC Tigers. And Kevin McCleery – perience in England was one reason who like Don Reid, Geoff Wells and he was able to make the national team. Wayne Ferguson is a dual national – is The fourth former Raven to play playing with Nijmegen in the Nether- professionally in Europe was Wayne lands where he is getting 18.4 minutes Ferguson, who like Reid and Wells, per game.

To book an OSCAR ad contact Gayle 730-1058 [email protected] MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 47

NOTES FROM THE GARDEN CLUB A to (almost) Z of Native Plants in the Ottawa Area By Colin Ashford shiny red berries—the fleshy taproots of the plant were used by First Nations’ or the (almost) last meeting of people as a vegetable. Other plants, Garden Club for this season, which Lee would suggest as desirable members and guests were treated were hawkeye (a vivid red meadow F plant), milkweed, and golden rod. to the humour and considerable expertise of Lee Boltwood on the subject of The presentation generated a num- native plants. Lee is a Master Gardener ber of questions including one on ob- and veteran of the Kanata and Stittsville taining wild-plant material. Lee admit- horticultural societies and gardens in a ted to not being a proponent of the a two-acre property west of Ottawa. meadow-in-a-can approach to cultivat- In trying to live up to her billing, ing wild flowers but rather a proponent Lee admitted that finding a native plant of visiting specialist plant sales such beginning with ‘z’ was a challenge, but as those held annually by the Central consulting Peterson’s Field Guide to Experimental Farm (www.friendsoft- Wild Flowers she found golden alex- hefarm.ca) and the Fletcher Wildlife Garden (www.ofnc.ca/fletcher). She anders (Zizia aurea)—a member of the Red trillium Photo by Tom Barnes, University of Kentucky. parsley family (Apiaceae). Lee rec- also mentioned the Carp Farmers’ Mar- ognized that plants native to Ottawa ket (www.carpfarmersmarket.com) as a should, in principle, survive well in the in a sunken container are not satisfac- again. Not being a purist she is happy good source. area—having had thousands of years tory for sustained growth of the plants. to combine native and non-native spe- to evolve—but she noted that the land Lee encouraged gardeners to let the nat- cies, for example non-native hosta and The Old Ottawa South Garden has been disturbed by development ural debris accumulate and not to be too bleeding heart with native trout lily and will round out the season with its an- and that this can compromise the abil- eager to tidy up. turtlehead. nual spring perennial exchange entitled ity of native plants to survive. Native On the selection of plant material, Lee continued the evening with an “Good Plants, Good Deals”. The plant plants won’t flourish unless the condi- Lee claimed to be very much a prag- entertaining slide show featuring native exchange starts at 10.00 am on Satur- tions they require are met exactly—as matist—recommending choices to be trees and plants mainly from her gar- day 7th May, 2011 in Brewer Park near is true for the most refined cultivars in based on personal taste, luck, and soil den. It included trilliums obviously, su- the shelter at the children’s playground. our gardens. Bog plants, for example, condition. Lee recounted her difficul- mac, blood root (used by First Nations’ Bring potted and labelled perennial need the conditions they enjoy in a real ties in growing both trilliums and lady people as a dye), solomon’s seal with plants to exchange at 9.30 am. bog where water and nutrients circulate slippers in her gardens. She noted that its delightfully odd-shaped flowers, and and re-nourish the soil; the conditions sometimes you just have to try and try the distinctive jack-in-the-pulpit with its More Lansdowne Follies with Juno winner Kellylee Evans

By Jeff Froggett

he campaign for an open and transparent revitalization of Lansdowne Park gets Tanother big boost on June 12 with the staging of Lansdowne Follies 2, at the Mayfair theatre. “The response to our February ‘follies’ production was so positive that we decided we would do it again,” says Stephen Richer, co-producer of the show. Ottawa’s own Kellylee Evans will tantalize with the soulful, sultry vocals that won her the 2011 Juno award for Vocal Jazz Album of the Year. From Shakespeare to stand-up comedy, Ottawa-based playwright and actor Pierre Brault will bring his unique and compelling Ottawa jazz sensation, Kellylee Evans, lends her support to Friends of Lansdowne. performance style to the Mayfair stage. The Friends of Lansdowne (FOL) legal challenge contends that the City of Ottawa broke the Ontario Municipal Act by sole sourcing an agreement with the Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group to re-develop these forty acres in the heart of our community. But this is also a fight for public spaces. Maude Barlow, co-founder of the Council of Canadians, is one of our generation’s most articulate voices for the protection and preservation of our shared public resources. She will inspire you with a message about saving ‘the commons.’ Be a part of the solution. Help FOL maintain momentum as lawyer Steven Shrybman brings a very strong case to the Ontario Superior Court later this month. Let’s Get It Right !!! Tickets for Lansdowne Follies 2 are on sale at Compact Music, the Ottawa Folklore Centre and the Mayfair Theatre. Page 48 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 49

The

O•S•C•A•R© The Community Voice of Old Ottawa South Section B Ottawa Centre Election Candidates for May 2, 2011 By Paige Raymond Kovach Each Ottawa Centre candidate was sent the same five questions. In alphabetical order, here are their responses: John Andrew Akpata, Marijuana Party Why did you choose to become a Party gives me complete freedom of loans that are charged interest. Just candidate? speech, complete freedom of action, paying the interest on the loans costs I originally became a candidate in and the ability to run my own cam- Billions of Billions of dollars, ef- 2004 because people asked me to. As paign with zero dollars. If you can fectively economically enslaving the a writer and poet I have often talked comprehend that the Government is population. Instead of wasting all of about and criticized politics and pol- lying about Marijuana, then you can our money and resources on institu- iticians. Many people suggested I run comprehend that they are lying about tions of war, we need to invest in the against them and debate them. So I other issues as well. The more money infrastructures of peace. have. I ran in 2004 in Ottawa South, that is involved, the bigger the lie. and have run in 2006, 2008 and now How will you balance the needs 2011 in Ottawa Centre. Although I What specific issues do you see are of your constituents with national could talk about Marijuana seemingly most important in Ottawa Centre interests? forever, during the election I feel it is and specifically Old Ottawa South? I would like to inform the con- necessary to talk about many Federal The most important issue is the stituents that THEY decide what the can’t fool all the people all the time. issues, especially our foreign policy, fact that the Government of Canada national interests are, not Members of i.e. war and the banking system that is has signed on to another war, this time Parliament. It is the public that should On May 3 and as the MP for Ot- responsible for the Billions of dollars in Libya, with no referendum, no de- determine what our economic policies tawa Centre, what one place on Canadians pay each year to private bate, and no discussion in Parliament. should be, and what our foreign policy Parliament Hill would you like to bankers. The Afghanistan War has lasted over should be. For those politicians who visit? 10 years, longer than World War One believe that they should be able to When elected on May 3 I would Why did you choose your party? and World War Two combined. These dictate what the public does, and the go to work early, and go straight to the I chose the Marijuana Party be- wars cost the Canadian taxpayers Bil- public must blindly obey, I would re- Prime Minister’s office. We need to cause I agree that Cannabis should not lions of Billions of dollars, and we mind those politicians that you can have a reasoning session. be criminalized. Also the Marijuana pay for those wars with private bank fool some people sometimes, but you Romeo Bellai, Independent Why did you choose to become a nesses, and the high price of gas. I youth are launched, and everyone is candidate? think the NDP had something in their on an equal footing. I remember Expo I couldn’t believe we were go- platform. But other issues like why 67. We were so proud to have that na- ing through another election. The married people do not have the same tional and long-term vision. I don’t party system doesn’t work. I watched benefits as two single people. There think Canadians want to be bribed the Parliamentary debates with my is no tax credit for my wife to stay at with our own money. What about our 12-year-old son and he couldn’t be- home and look after the family, but natural resources? Why should we sell lieve it. He said to me “you know people get a tax credit for daycare. our resources out to the Chinese when what those guys are, they’re a bunch we are not able to buy their resources? of bullies. They are doing what we How will you balance the needs If we have an open system, we should are told not to do in class. They are of your constituents with national have the same right to buy their re- just bickering and there’s a lack of interests? sources. What about the protection respect.” I want to show people by This country needs long-term vi- of our water resources? What about example. The party system is always sion. Vision like we had 50 or 100 the diversion of our rivers? Also the refugees general amnesty and let’s one-up-man-ship. years ago when we built a train across tax credit for special needs children is clear up the backlog. this country. We need a high-speed not enough, we need to increase the Why did you choose your party? train. It should not take four or five tax credit for families of children with On May 3 and as the MP for Ot- I chose to run as an independent hours to get from Ottawa to Toronto. special needs. When I go to the gro- tawa Centre, what one place on so there is no noose around my neck. A high-speed train would get us there cery store I want to know if the tomato Parliament Hill would you like to I do not have to follow a certain lead- in an hour and a half. How about vi- I’m buying is GMO. What is the toxin visit? er’s vision. I can speak my mind. I can sion? Canada should have 100% lit- level of the products I’m buying? I I would stand at the Eternal Flame vote the way my constituents want me eracy. I worked hard and paid my own should know. Finally, concerning im- with my family. This is why I am run- to. I can express my views and don’t way through university. But I think migrants and refugees. Refugees that ning for election. I want to show my have to tow the party line. we should have a national plan that have been in this country for three or kids what democracy is. I took my everyone should have free tuition for four or five years should be given am- two boys with me when I went door- What specific issues do you see are one time of post-secondary education nesty, we’d clear up the dockets and to-door to collect the 100 signatures I most important in Ottawa Centre and either through university, college or start fresh. My mom came to Canada needed. I wanted them to understand specifically Old Ottawa South? trade school. Everyone should have an as a refugee after World War II. My what our predecessors fought for. In the debates, no one spoke about option to get an education to get into father came from Italy when he was the real issues, the Mom and Pop busi- the domain of their choice. Then our 19 years old. So give law-abiding Page 50 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 Scott Bradley, Liberal

Why did you choose to become a we need to put families first – ahead Ottawa Centre residents the best pos- candidate? of mega-jails and fighter jets. I believe sible opportunity for success. This As an active volunteer and coach in equal opportunity - in a prosperous includes working to reinstate the in the community, I’m concerned Canada where all Canadians have the Harper government’s cuts to settle- about the future of Ottawa Centre. I opportunity to succeed. This means ment services and helping new Can- believe our community deserves a ensuring access to quality health care, adians integrate into the workforce by strong, local advocate who is focused education, childcare and pensions - giving them better access to language on issues in our riding. the fundamentals of a healthy society. training and mentorship programmes. People in the community know I believe that when the Gov- I will work to implement the Liberal me as someone that they can rely on; ernment of Canada—your Govern- Party’s Poverty Reduction Strategy, who rolls up his sleeves to get the job ment—is working well, the people and the Canadian Learning Strategy and done. I’ve lived in Ottawa for over 15 businesses of Ottawa Centre thrive. the Family Care Plan. I will always be years, working with seniors, children, Right now things are broken, and it’s a champion for families in Ottawa— local boards, and charities. I know time for Ottawa Centre to have an MP whether they are new Canadians or that local issues matter, especially in a standing up for the public service and long-time residents. riding dominated by the federal gov- our public institutions that have been I believe that we have a unique ernment. undermined and undervalued by the opportunity here in Ottawa to pro- As a father with three young chil- Harper government. mote cooperation between the fed- dren, I know how to multitask and pri- eral, provincial and municipal gov- oritize in order to deliver results. I’m What specific issues do you see are ernments. As an MP, I will push the constituents are the needs of the na- a family man who understands the most important in Ottawa Centre federal government to work with tion. Working as hard as possible for needs of families and the pressures of and specifically Old Ottawa South? private and academic labs to create Ottawa Centre residents should be the balancing work and family life. My campaign focuses on three lo- an innovation network in Ottawa. As number one job of the MP. National I’ve had a variety of jobs, from cal issues: renewing the federal pub- Ottawa’s largest employer, the federal interests are important, but Ottawa working on Parliament Hill to work- lic service, creating opportunities for government should be driving new Centre deserves an MP who puts con- ing in the pharmaceutical and airline Ottawa residents, and the role of the job growth in the private sector, and stituents first. industries. These experiences gave federal government in Ottawa. encouraging the economic prosperity I’m committed to working in me a broad perspective and insight Public servants shouldn’t have to of the city. ways that benefit both Ottawa Cen- into what’s important to the commun- worry about losing their jobs for do- tre and Canada. I’m both a dedicated ity of Ottawa Centre, and how these ing their jobs. Right now, our public How will you balance the needs Ottawa Centre resident and a proud local priorities fit into the overall eco- servants are being stifled by the Harp- of your constituents with national Canadian. As an MP, my job will be nomic prosperity of the country. er government – unable to provide interests? to make everyone stronger. I will stand up for the issues that expert advice and restricted in their When Ottawa Centre thrives, are important for our community: professional duties. Canada thrives. A well-respected On May 3 and as the MP for Ot- our public service and the role of the When our public service is work- and effective federal public service tawa Centre, what one place on federal government in building a bet- ing, Ottawa is working. As an MP, I provides high quality service to all Parliament Hill would you like to ter Ottawa, and ensuring families are will promote greater cooperation with Canadians. Ottawa Centre’s science visit? strong and have the resources they federal public servants and public and innovation economy can produce On May 3, I’m looking forward need to succeed. sector unions. I will establish a sub- technological benefits for all Can- to being out in the community talk- committee that focuses on public ser- adians. A strong network of social ing to constituents. I’m excited to be Why did you choose your party? vice issues and accountability, and programs enables our residents to be in the community, working directly Since my student days, I’ve been increase funding to existing programs more effective at work and business, with residents on local issues. For me, a member of the Liberal Party be- that promote dialogue, such as the creating new opportunities for people that is more important than walking cause I believe in equality, inclusive- Executive Exchange Program. in and outside the riding. through the front doors of Parliament ness and opportunity. I believe that I’m committed to working to give In other words, the needs of my Hill.

BACKYARD BEAT

By Khoa N. Hoang, Com- of having fun. No one ever com- I bet kids today wouldn’t even currently 33 with over 30% of gam- munity Officer plained back then that Mario didn’t play the games of my days. It’s not ers are under the age of eighteen. That look like a real plumber, or questioned fast enough, real enough, or violent means, that 1/3 of all people playing o you remember Nintendo why moving mushrooms and magical enough. A recent statistic revealed video games are young people, 90% when it was just Nintendo? flowers had such powerful effects on that over 72% of all video games of whom are being exposed to a tre- Long before it ever became the human body. Mario was Italian made now are classified as violent mendous amount of violence; vio- D with a thick accent and had a brother and players need to be at least eight- lence that goes beyond just killing (as Super, a cube, or Wii... Ah, the good old days when strategy, named Luigi. Those were the days een years of age or have parental ap- if that wasn’t bad enough). patience, and imagination were a part when video games were just that, proval. The industry is targeting its Characters, in video games, no video games. most popular audience, young men. longer just disappear when they’re Young impressionable men, many of killed. Software developers push the whom are teenagers and lack the par- envelope by allowing users to become ental structure to prevent exposure to more interactive than ever before. such violence. This industry is becoming increasing- The gaming industry has argued ly violent with fewer limitations. Yet that the connections between expos- we support them, every time we buy ure to violence and real life violence violent video games, just like we sup- are overblown; that those playing port drug dealers every time we buy il- the violent games know it’s a game. legal narcotics. There is a supply and Many have told me that it’s not video demand for violence that is reaching games killing people, it’s people kill- into our schools and communities and ing people... the National Rifle Asso- will undoubtedly find its way home in ciation of America would like to thank the form of domestic violence. them for their continued support! Current games are teaching play- Industry accepted numbers show ers to shoot people in the head, stab, 90% of gamers are male and 40% are female. The average age of gamers is Cont’d on next page MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 51

Paul Dewar, NDP Why did you choose to become a ada where no one is left behind, re- mate change by making green home candidate? defining Canada’s place in the world retrofits more affordable and cancel I chose to run for parliament to as a voice for peace, governing in subsidies to the big polluters. Finally, make a difference in our community an inclusive and fair Canada, and I will work to support young families and our country. I believe the best strengthening human rights. with the skyrocketing cost of child- way to do that is to work together with These values have guided us in care those who want to achieve positive our approach in parliament, not just In Old Ottawa South, in particu- change. That’s the principle that has as a party of opposition but a party lar, I will continue my role in assisting led my career since my first election of proposition. We have delivered the community in its work on Lans- in 2006. Together we have achieved concrete results for the communities downe redevelopment. I have joined a lot – but we have more to do. That’s we represent and advanced legisla- the community in the past to oppose why I’m running for re-election to tion to address the challenges faced the way the city conducted this file, continue our work both at the local by people in Canada and around the and I have worked with the NCC and and national level on issues that mat- world. At the same time, we have al- Parks Canada with regards to environ- office as my parliamentary office. ter to our community: protecting our ways stood up for what we believe in. mental issues surrounding the project. As the member for Ottawa Centre, environment, eradicating poverty, up- As part of my ongoing campaign I am almost always in Ottawa and holding human rights, and supporting What specific issues do you see are to promote cycling and pedestrian get the opportunity to attend numer- innovative community solutions. most important in Ottawa Centre infrastructure, I will support the build- ous community events every week. This election is about putting our and specifically Old Ottawa South? ing of another footbridge on our can- At the same time, as my party’s for- community first, making life more The economy has been a top pri- al. Bank Street reconstruction in the eign affairs critic I have been able to affordable and returning integrity to ority for our community – I worked Glebe will impact residents and busi- advance our community’s position politics. In the next parliament, I will with community groups to ensure our nesses in Old Ottawa South as well. I on peace, international development take practical steps to protect your riding received much-needed infra- will stay connected to the community and strengthening human rights. On pensions, tackle the urgent issues structure funding. associations to offer any assistance I environmental issues, in particular, I facing our frontline health care and Protecting public service jobs and can provide as the MP. have been able to work both locally on clean up the political process. I will public service employees is a major the preservation of the Ottawa River, work on affordable childcare, better concern for Ottawa Centre residents. How will you balance the needs the protection of Gatineau Park and housing and education, and a plan to We have an action plan to end partisan of your constituents with national the promotion of cycling and transit, combat climate change. meddling in the work of professional interests? while also taking a lead role in advan- public servants, protect the integrity I believe all the work I have done cing the battle against climate change Why did you choose your party? of our public service and invest in real as a member of parliament for Ot- in parliament. New Democrats know whom public service jobs with full benefits – tawa Centre has been a reflection of we represent and what we stand for. instead of the government’s growing our community’s needs and positions. On May 3 and as the MP for Ot- People trust New Democrats for reliance on temporary help services. Whether I have been advocating on tawa Centre, what one place on leadership on progressive values im- behalf of a single constituent, stand- Parliament Hill would you like to portant to our community. In Parlia- I will fight to strengthen pensions ing up for local community issues or visit? ment, we have proven a consistent and prevent another Nortel-style crisis working on an issue with global im- The Person’s Day statue to inspire ability to work with others to advance in Canada. I will take immediate ac- pact like climate change, I have been me and remind me of what people our community’s priorities: innovat- tion to train and hire more nurses and representing Ottawa Centre and the have done in the past to ensure our ing and prospering in a new energy family doctors, support front-line people who live in our communities. democracy is truly democratic. economy, building a clean and sus- health services and reduce the cost That said, I maintain the same tainable Canada, investing in a Can- of prescription drugs. I will fight cli- number of staff in my community

OSCAR Needs Volunteers For Monthly Distribution in OOS

Backyard ... cont’d saw and mutilate bodies. Victims scream as they are being assaulted, and raping women gives you extra points in Grand Theft Auto, sales of which exceed 100 million copies worldwide, making it one of the most successful gaming franchises in history. Every study that I’ve reviewed associated with developmental psychol- ogy points to a clear correlation between exposure to violence and frequency of violent behaviour. It is the primary fac- tor when examining violence in children, and we fail them every single time we allow further desensitization. We are all to blame for trash television, violence in schools, and a young generation that is being described as having the highest levels of narcissism in history. So, there I was last weekend at Bay- shore Mall. In front of me was a boy no older than 14, standing in line with his mother. He was purchasing a video game

Cont’d on page 54 Page 52 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 Jennifer Hunter, Green Why did you choose to become a in Vision Green. As a party, we have egy. We are the first to recognize that candidate? committed to six principles or care youth are hit hardest and longest by I love the potential of politics. I values along with Global Greens and the recent global recession and we have always felt that our Parliament- this makes sense to me. I believe all don’t think it is acceptable to sit idly ary system is something special with political parties and all organizations by when so many young people need real potential to be almost magical as are much more effective when they and are ready to work. Many Old Ot- it seeks to serve the common good for are grounded in core values. Our tawa South residents also demonstrate millions of Canadians. I believe ideas values are: Participatory Democracy, great leadership about how we can and words in this world really mat- Respect for Diversity, Ecological live sustainably. I would love to see ter and that the productive exchange Wisdom, Non-Violence, Social Jus- more good news stories shared and of ideas, experiences and wisdom is tice and Sustainability - these core best practices shared that not only of great value as we create our world values are essential and guide all our make sense for our households but together. When David Chernushenko decision-making. Finally, the Green also respect the limits to growth of our decided to step away from the won- Party of Canada is the only party that beautiful planet. I am a strong voice derful work he did as the voice of the is not mired in the past. Our party is for incorporating the green economy Green Party in Ottawa Centre I was oriented to the future, bringing new into Canada’s long-term strategy for together. thrilled to take on this role in a com- ideas and new solutions to support our our economy. I remain surprised that munity which respects and values country for the 21st century. I think our government has not capitalized How will you balance the needs the ideas and perspective and pro- this is why many people are telling on what may very well be the big- of your constituents with national fessionalism the Green Party offers me that when they do the CBC Voter gest economic opportunity of our interests? Canadians and particularly Ottawa Compass, they are Green. We are the lifetimes. I also know that there are Part of this balancing act is being Centre. I love our community, and to party of the future. many people living in Ottawa Centre aware of and having strong and sup- be able to play a role in shaping our and Old Ottawa South who have in- portive relationships with other levels collective future so it is financially, What specific issues do you see are vested great amounts of their careers of government. For me, the role of socially and environmentally sustain- most important in Ottawa Centre working hard for this country as part Member of Parliament requires clar- able, is a genuine honour. and specifically Old Ottawa South? of the federal civil service who in- ity and compassion to play this role There are many issues that are creasingly feel undervalued by their as well as possible. I would continue Why did you choose your party? very important to the residents of Ot- employer. I would like to see this to make myself available to members It was a simple choice for me, the tawa Centre including but certainly change! It is critical to acknowledge of our community with regular office Green Party of Canada is the party not limited to youth employment, the hard-working, talented and intel- hours both in the constituency as well which best reflects the vision of Can- health, education, a resilient econ- ligent people who make up Canada’s as at our office on Parliament and I ada and the values I believe in of any omy, transportation, and of course, the civil service and ensure they have a would also create a system where my national party. I read Vision Green environment. With Carleton Univer- workplace that honours and values staff was known and accessible to as I considered running for the nom- sity right in the neighbourhood, issues their contributions. In a community our community as well. In addition ination and it was like reading an ex- related to students and youth are top as diverse and engaged as ours - there to being available to participate in a cellent book. It is coherent, vision- of mind to many living in Ottawa are many other important issues and variety of community events, I would ary, practical, systemic, hopeful and South and I am very proud that the opportunities we need to be exploring also plan to play a leadership role in packed with wonderful ways to make Green Party of Canada has called for together. I would love your support to politics relevant to Canadians. I could attention to be given to the creation of see how we can navigate these com- really see the six core values reflected a National Youth Employment Strat- plex and turbulent times effectively Cont’d on next page MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 53

Jennifer Hunter, Green cont’d from previous page

quarterly community events designed seeing this seat for two key reasons: to engage and hear from people inter- 1) it would be an historic moment ested and engaged in creating the best for Canada created by citizens of Ot- place in the world to live, work and tawa Centre, there would be at least play, Ottawa Centre. one elected member of parliament for the Green Party of Canada; and, On May 3 and as the MP for Ot- 2) This actual seat would represent tawa Centre, what one place on where I would be bringing forward Parliament Hill would you like to critical questions on behalf of our rid- visit? ing which I know to be full of forward Interesting question. I think the thinking Canadians who care about place I would most want to visit would our community, our country and our be the green seat I would be occupy- world. It’s time. Vote Green! ing as the voice of Ottawa Centre in our parliament. I would be excited by

Damian Konstantinakos, Conservative Why did you choose to become a candidate? I’ve been working in the high tech sector for many years. In that time, I’ve observed the important relationship between smart public policy and companies that create jobs and economic growth for our communities. Parliament needs more representatives who understand how their decisions affect competitive advantage.

Why did you choose your party? Entrepreneurship and innovation are vital to Canada’s future, and the Harper Government has consist- ently implemented policies that make Canada competitive. The Economic Action Plan helped put Canada at the forefront of nations who have My focus is on ways to make emerged from the recession in good Canada globally competitive in a shape to create a better standard of knowledge-based economy. As a living for our people. I want to con- city, Ottawa is at the forefront. As the tinue that achievement. I want to home of students and entrepreneurs, build on it. government workers and professionals, Ottawa Centre is part of the solu- What specific issues do you see are tion: a community that helps to at- most important in Ottawa Centre tract the brightest and best to Canada, and specifically Old Ottawa South? and specifically, to Ottawa. I believe it to be enjoying the benefits of a stable majority govern- On May 3 and as the MP for Ot- ment that will continue building on tawa Centre, what one place on the policies that have brought Canada Parliament Hill would you like to international recognition as a country visit? on the right track to a full economic Tucked away behind the Centre recovery. The alternative is a coali- Block and partly hidden by the Li- tion dedicated to high taxes, punish- brary, a statue honours a man who ing small businesses, and partnering helped create Canada and give it a with a party committed to the breakup voice: Thomas D’Arcy McGee. As of Canada. the MP who first articulated a sense of Canadian identity and culture, Mc- How will you balance the needs of Gee is an inspiration to me. He was your constituents with national in- a great communicator. For more interests formation, visit www.votedamian.ca.

To book an OSCAR ad call Gayle 730-1058 oscarads@ oldottawasouth.ca Page 54 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR MAY 2011 Stuart Ryan, Communist Party of Canada Why did you choose to become a cause I believed we needed a party that than being a creature of the provincial candidate? saw the causes of the various crises as governments. I chose to be a candidate because the system itself and was dedicated I thought it was important in this elec- to work in popular organizations to How will you balance the needs tion to put forward the position that it bring an analysis that brought workers of your constituents with national is the capitalist economic system itself and people together to fight for social interests? that has caused the recession and that justice. As I do with my job as a union the recovery is fragile and it should representative at Carleton University, not be solved by supporting business What specific issues do you see are I will work to support the claims of tax cuts and trampling on the rights most important in Ottawa Centre individual members dealing with an of workers and the citizens of Ottawa and specifically Old Ottawa South? inert bureaucracy, while advocating and Canada. If the Conservatives get their ma- for a fully funded quality accessible jority they will cut public service jobs post-secondary education. I would Why did you choose your party? and cut funding for social services work for all citizens of Ottawa Centre, I had been an independent social- and post-secondary education, issues and advocate for a people’s agenda in- ist since my days as a student activist that affect the citizens in Ottawa Cen- stead of a government who supports in the late 1960s and as a worker in a tre and Ottawa South. We see cuts in Capital against the needs of the Can- I would visit the House of Com- steel factory in Windsor in the 1970s. municipal services as well, because adian people. mons, as it is supposed to be the I had participated in many different they must rely on a regressive prop- centre of the representatives of the social movements and saw them rise erty tax system. Our Party calls for On May 3 and as the MP for Ot- people, and I would visit the commit- and fade away as their issues faded recognition of municipalities as part tawa Centre, what one place on tee, where a lot of important work is away. I decided in 1997 to join the of the governing structure of Canada, Parliament Hill would you like to done by the Members of Parliament. Communist Party, warts and all, be- with their own taxing powers, rather visit? Pierre Soublière, Marxist-Leninist Party of Canada

Why did you choose to become a eral never get empowered. So as a can- ity to protect”. All Parties within Par- candidate? didate, I don’t feel that I am joining a liament agree with this decision and In order to answer why I am a Party whose aim is to prove its superi- yet they are supposed to represent the candidate I would have to answer ority and by doing so, create ill feel- people. This brings to light the im- why I chose the Marxist-Leninist ings and division among the people - portance of an anti-war government, Party of Canada (MLPC). The MLPC such as that expressed in the so-called which would be the concrete expres- is a Party of a new type, which does leaders’ debate - but rather that I am sion of the will of the Canadian people not seek power for itself. Its aim year joining a movement for the unity of for peace, for diplomacy rather than in year out is to empower the people the people on the basis of democratic settling conflicts within and between so that we can actually realize a basic renewal. The MLPC fights for fun- nations through force, etc. right we all have but of which we are damental reforms that enable people deprived, that is, the right to elect to actually be represented by one of How will you balance the needs and be elected. What is the point of their peers, and to actively participate of your constituents with national reaffirming this right? So that all of - within their respective collectives - interests? us who are involved in producing the in the various decisions affecting their In a sense, this answers the ques- tawa Centre, what one place on wealth of society, not to speak of all lives. The questions touch upon all tion of reconciling local and national Parliament Hill would you like to the services - social programs, health issues concerned with the social and issues. Both can only be dealt with by visit? care, education, etc. - can actually natural environment. empowering the people and making By voting for me as a MLPC can- have a say in how the economy and sure that their claim on social wealth - didate, you are voting not only against society itself are run. What specific issues do you see are what the Parties in Parliament loosely backward social trends such as those most important in Ottawa Centre refer to as the “Budget” (big mys- imposed on the whole of society by Why did you choose your party? and specifically Old Ottawa South? tery!) - is respected and met, as well the likes of Harper- and through Par- Cartel party politics such as they To give one example, we have no as their everyday needs in terms of liament, at that - but for a pro-social are practiced by the so-called major say in Canada now waging yet another jobs, social programs, etc. agenda which promotes a renewed Parties at this time are a scheme to military aggression, this time, against democracy as the basis for moving make sure workers and people in gen- Libya, all in the name of “responsibil- On May 3 and as the MP for Ot- forward.

Backyard Beat... cont’d Building A Food Community: New CSA called Left-4-Dead and came face to face with his greatest opponent, store staff. With Pick-Up In Old Ottawa South The man working at this store looked at the boy’s hese days you can find produce baring the a share of the harvest at the beginning of the season mother and said, “This game involves extreme names “Local” and “Organic” in almost any and in return receive a weekly basket of produce violence and is not recommended for anyone corporate grocery chain. However, there for a 16 week season. The basic idea behind a CSA under the age of eighteen. Do you understand T and consent to purchasing this game?” She said are other ways to get local and ecologically grown is that both consumers and producers share in the food that directly supports local farms in the Ot- risks and rewards of the harvest, and that togeth- without hesitation, “Yes, I’ll pay for it.” tawa area- make a date with your local farmer! er we build a participatory local food community The state of California is the first to fight back, The Veggie Underground is a non-certified organic where we are all invested and involved in the pro- leading the charge against violent video games vegetable farm located in Vars on the eastern edges duction (and consumption!) of our food. The week- by attempting to forbid the selling of it to minors, of Ottawa. We focus on growing in-season food ly CSA pick up locations are in Old Ottawa South period. There will be more unless we can trust for our local climate. Some readers may remember (near Sunnyside and Bronson) and in Hintonburg parents to be parents. Still, I find such govern- us from our stand at the Ottawa South Grocerteria (near Fairmont and Gladstone) and our season runs ment interventions to be a sad reflection on at Sunnyside and Alymer last year. Like a grow- from June 20th- Oct 7th 2011. Check out the Veg- society. ing number of local farmers, this year the Veggie gie Underground Blog for more information http:// Why can we no longer be trusted to do what is Underground is operating a CSA (Community theveggieunderground.wordpress.com/. right for the most precious investment of society, Supported Agriculture), where members purchase our children? MAY 2011 The OSCAR - OUR 38th YEAR Page 55 YourMarketplace

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