The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 1 THE OSCAR www.BankDentistry.com 613.241.1010 The Ottawa South Community Association Review l The Community Voice Year 49, No. 2 February 2021

Pandemic puts age-old shinny temporarily on ice

Before the latest stay-at-home order was announced, local residents took the opportunity of early winter ice to skate – and play some shinny – on the Rideau River in front of Brighton Beach on Decmber 20, 2020. PHOTO BY KATE JAIMET

By David Wylynko confirmed COVID-19 cases dropping “The penalties are fierce. It can be people was made the limit at the top significantly. several hundred dollars.” of tobogganing hills, trail heads, and No sticks, no pucks, no nets. This is Within a few days, word had spread. Skating would remain permitted, access points to the amenity. getting serious. On a crisp Sunday morning, Jan. 10, with a maximum capacity of 25 people “I don’t know how long the rules In early January, shinny was banned volunteers working for the Ottawa on outdoor rinks. The rules required or the ice will last,” said the Pacers’ from outdoor Ottawa rinks. The sport Pacers Speed Skating Club were out skaters to remain two metres apart. The volunteer. “So get your skates and get that originated before the First Plague in full force, flooding all three ice city implemented a reservation system out here.” occurred in Classical times was surfaces at Brewer Park while at the for the four outdoor refrigerated rinks, temporarily put on ice; the timeline same time providing friendly words of the maximum time being 45 minutes Continued on pg. 4 for the restrictions depending on caution to would-be hockey players. of skating. The same capacity of 25

Everyone at OSCA, both staff & volunteers, thanks you once again for your generosity. Your pledges and contributions have surpassed $60K!

We still have a long way to go but you have made it possible to keep our doors open for an additional 6 weeks – that’s a lot to be proud of! Donate Today!

oldottawasouth.ca/donate #RingTheBell Page 2 The OSCAR l February 2021

BUSINESS BEAT Opening, closing, moving, and more And it looks like the move isn’t going Hemphill has been providing Ottawa to be too complicated as they are businesses and workspaces with a literally moving just across the street. premium coffee experience since 2013. Within the next few months (weeks?), But the closure of so many office they will be moving into 1063 Bank spaces since the start of the pandemic Street, the space previously occupied meant that his company – Bean Around by Roy Barber. According to their Town – has had to pivot. But with Facebook page, the new location is just the closing of one door, another one 97 steps from the old location (which often tends to open, and Ed realized makes me think they did the right thing, that many of the people who had and crossed at the light at Aylmer). been drinking his coffee at work are now working from home, likely still Yardley’s staying open longer drinking lots of coffee. So at the start of In an earlier BB last year, I reported the pandemic he launched Bean Around that Yardley’s was going to close their Town at Home. doors for good by the end of December Bean Around Town continues to 2020. On a recent walk I noticed that work with several local coffee roasters Phulero Dola, a flower shop, is now located in the Garden of Light. that date has changed and that for the (including Francesco’s and Bluebarn) to By Erik van der Torre make sure I was aware about the new time being they are going to remain offer locally, freshly roasted coffee. The opening and also to let me know that “it open. According to a notice on the door, “at Home” part means that all of the the plan is to close later in the year, coffees can be purchased individually, It’s a hodge-podge Business Beat this was my go to place for flowers when I likely by May. Stay tuned I guess. as part of a gift box, or through a month, with lots of miscellaneous worked downtown and the people who weekly or monthly subscription, all business news. run it are terrific.” It’s nice to see these kinds of Phulero Dola – new flower store collaborations between businesses Let’s start with an interesting addition where a larger business is able to to the neighbourhood. Sometime late provide space for a smaller, related last year, I noticed a new sign above the business. We saw the same when Garden of Light store for “Flowers - by Cosmic Comics moved into a small Phulero Dola.” I took a picture and space inside Black Squirrel Books, and meant to look up what that might be. now we see it with the Garden of Light But, as these things often go, before and Phulero Dola. I had a chance to do so, I received an email from Pat letting me know about Barley Mow – selling inventory a new flower store that had opened up Both OSCAR Editor Brendan and inside the Garden of Light. Phulero OSCA Web Editor Kathy Krywicki Dola has been operating since 1980 in alerted me in mid-January to the fact the downtown area and just recently that the Barley Mow has started selling moved into the back of the Garden of off their inventory, including most/all Light. They offer flowers, arrangement, of their furniture. This means that the and chocolates, both at their store and Barley Mow is now also closed (Siam for delivery. Kitchen closed back in November) They sold off everything from the furniture to the beer glasses at the Barley Mow. The fit with the Garden of Light ahead of the planned redevelopment on is an obvious one, as Phulero Dola the site. The good news is that, unlike PHOTOS BY BRENDAN MCCOY “is dedicated to the philosophy of Siam Kitchen, the Barley Mow will Sri Chinmoy, whose vision of world only close temporarily and will move Oat Couture – second location conveniently delivered to your door. peace and oneness is the inspiration back into the new building on the site While not strictly Old Ottawa The delivery service has been a great and guiding force behind our efforts to once construction is complete! South news, I was excited to see that, success and Ed mentioned that he is create a peaceful oasis where you can seemingly out of nowhere, Oat Couture currently in talks with several other enjoy the beauty and fragrance that Boomerang Kids – on the move has opened up a second location at local roasters that will likely be added flowers and plants have to offer.” What about Boomerang Kids, you 750 Gladstone. If you follow local in the near future. Another new addition A few days after Pat’s email alerting ask? Well, they too intend to move business news, you may have seen that to Bean Around Town’s offering me to the opening of the store, I also back into the new development once the much beloved Pressed Café closed is chocolates from Wabano Fine received an email from my neighbour, complete, but unlike the Barley Mow its doors late last year. Given that the Chocolates. This small operation runs Richard – who you may know as they are planning to temporarily space is already set up as a coffee store, out of the Wabano Abroginal Health OSCA’s President – who wanted to relocate to provide continuous service. it made sense for something similar Centre in Vanier and helps fund some to move in and it is exciting to see of their programming. By the time this that, despite these challenging times, OSCAR is published, the Valentine’s Oat Couture has taken the plunge and Day selection should be up on the Bean opened up this second location. What’s Around Town website, which can be even more exciting for those that loved found at beanaroundtown.ca Pressed Café, is that Montgomery Scotch Lounge will also become part Business Beat is a monthly feature of the new location and will continue that highlights new and existing to provide space for live performances businesses in Old Ottawa South. once restrictions allow it. Opinions are my own. If you know of any new businesses opening up or Bean Around Town - local coffee want to share your thoughts about delivered existing businesses, send a note to: Booking now for Fall 2020 In last month’s OSCAR, you may [email protected]. have read about Ricardo Forbes, an OOS based coffee entrepreneur who Erik van der Torre has lived in Old brings Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee Ottawa South with his wife and to Ottawa. His story reminded me three sons for over 11 years. He is a of another local coffee entrepreneur member of OSCA’s Traffic & Safety mainrenovations.com that I heard about some time ago. Ed Committee. The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 3

OSCAR ARCHIVES Neighbourhood watchdog and a community centre By Winnie Pietrykowski of why community organizations spring up to survive or dissolve. Old Ottawa South has a proud history “Community organizations are, above of being an engaged and connected all, voluntary organizations. Nobody community. The OSCAR invites you to has to work in them. Nobody has contribute to the paper and enter your to attend meetings. They take time, name into its archives – whether it’s energy and money, and for most by writing, volunteering or taking a people the demands on these things are photograph. endless.” We also invite you to “scroll” online According to Ms. Johnson many through OSCAR’s archives to discover community organizations begin in the issues, social topics, political response to specific issues that threaten debates, public meetings, fundraising “the existence of the community itself festivities, picnics, dances, children’s or the quality of life of people living camps, after-school programs, sports, within it.” recreational activities, and special What then motivates people to form events that have gone into the making a community organization? “Some of Old Ottawa South. of our motives are personal, from gut We would like to hear your take on feelings to intellectual commitments. the archives, what stories come to We want roots. We want to belong. We mind, the individuals who wrote them, want to walk down the street and know the issues that were near and dear to our neighbours and be known by them. The elaborate “Graham Station No. 10” cartouche located between the truck you. We want to put creative energy into our surroundings and then take pride in our doors on the Firehall. PHOTO BY ELI DUERN achievements. Maheux provides a short overview such an interesting building” by then “It doesn’t really matter whether of the contributions made by Chief Alderman Joe Cassey. After four years we expect to live here the rest of our John W. Graham, the first president of negotiations with the National lives or not; we still want to extend our of the newly formed Dominion Fire Capital Commission and the City involvement beyond our own house Chiefs’ Association. During his career, of Ottawa, and $160,000 worth of and yard and into the community. We John Graham made “great strides in renovations, the Graham Station No. have civic duties.” modernizing the fire department of 10 Firehall had been transformed into Joan Johnson’s article provides some Ottawa” including the Fire Inspection Ottawa South’s Community Centre. interesting insights into the need for System of 1910 and the Fire Prevention “The band played music from J. an organized community response Bureau of 1914. Strauss to E. Presley loud enough to in a world of competing priorities Chief Graham was also responsible put the renovated building to the test. where organizations representing for implementing new equipment Loud enough for us to notice, when we students, employees, professionals, and and techniques. “Before his term as left, a couple dancing on the corner of businesses express and defend their chief, hand and steam engines were Sunnyside and Bank.” interests in civil society. employed but motor-driven apparatus As OSCAR’s former editor, Gordon Read more about Joan Johnson’s was introduced during his tenure.” Hauser wrote: “It seems ages ago now ideas on community organizations The Firehall is “Ottawa’s only that negotiations began. To make this in OSCAR’ archives. Discover how remaining fire hall that was built to our Community Centre, three Past community pressure groups can evolve maintain horses.” The original cost Presidents of the Association wore to the function of neighbourhood Neighbourhood watchdog to build the Firehall was $45,000 themselves out in the ‘on-again-off- watchdog. This bold title on the front page of and when it opened in 1921 “the fire again’ bargaining that took place over OSCAR’s March 1975 issue catches department was still running a harness the years. Let us say thank you here to Firehall fanfare the browser’s eye immediately. It’s shop and some of the hall’s operational Elinor Reynolds, Nils Larson and John The $160,000 worth of renovations a thoughtful, rambling article by expenses for the year would include Manson for carrying much of the load included “a new roof, panelled interior, Joan Johnson, OSCAR editor, on the horsefeed, horseshoeing, and …” community room, activity room, nature and complexity of community veterinarian fees.” organizations. It’s an opinion piece, lounge, kitchen, office as well as an arts and crafts area in the basement.” allowing for the pros and cons of why Firehall opens to music Winnie Pietrykowski is the OSCA These details were reported in the community organizations are important On the front page of OSCAR’s Vice-President and Chair of the October 1977 Issue of OSCAR by Toni to her. February 1978 Issue, Ottawa South Communications Committee. Maheux. Ms. Johnson ponders on the motives was praised for having “recycled In his article “Firehall Fanfare,” Mr.

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Page 4 The OSCAR l February 2021

Pandemic puts age-old shinny temporarily on ice Continued from pg. 1

In imposing the new restrictions, Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Vera Etches, issued a class order limiting large crowds from gathering at popular recreation areas. The class order said the risk of COVID-19 transmission “is elevated in outdoor is the Capital Ward Cup, the annual Shawn Menard. PHOTO BY BRENDAN MCCOY spaces where there is crowding, close half-day shinny tournament that would Amid much community and city contact, prolonged exposure and usually be played in early February. controversy, the Mutchmor rink that community rinks, chopping across the forceful exhalation.” It would have been the 13th rendition hosted last year’s Cup, in the Glebe, ice while grasping a parent’s hands, One might question the wisdom of the event that former Capital Ward has yet to be even set up. The soccer collapsing on their knees, getting of banning shinny while allowing Councillor Clive Doucet started in posts that would have had to be up and trying again until eventually up to 25 people to skate around the 2008. The 2018 version was also removed are still intact and arching mastering the glides, turns, and same outdoor ice surfaces. Likely, cancelled, that time due to warm, over the would-be faceoff circle. crossovers essential to their eventual pond hockey does result in greater slushy conditions. Winter soccer, anyone? hockey careers. exertion and closer contact. But it’s a The Old Ottawa South Moose, For the very best – Gordie Howe, considerably different brand of hockey who were due to host the event this Bobby Orr, and yes, Wayne Gretzky than the indoor contact version of the year, will effectively retain the Cup as – how these origins led to some of the sport that has resulted in confirmed reigning champions, and presumably most renowned professional hockey cases of COVID-19 in Ottawa. bragging rights as the best annual careers and achievements of all time Yet this degree of caution has ragtag last-second shinny team in all are stuff of Canadian hockey lore. “My become typical of an unprecedented the Capital Ward. The Moose will first recollection of skating was on a health crisis, and a virus that presents remain stalled for another year at five frozen river which ran through the back experts with seemingly ever-changing wins, one behind the legendary Ottawa of my grandmother’s house,” recalled characteristics and spread – requiring East Hosers. Glebe has won once. Gretzky, arguably the greatest hockey constant re-evaluation of lockdown Fans demanding ticket refunds are player ever, in the 2008 documentary measures. encouraged to take up their cause with film Pond Hockey. Another casualty of COVID-19 the office of Capital Ward Councillor Many have similar memories. In the 2000s, schools in Canada have largely instituted designated days for outdoor hockey, with helmets mandatory. But OTTAWA SOUTH GROCETERIA back in “the day,” kids would bring SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL GROCETERIA! (613) 730 - 8667 only their skates and a stick to school and play every lunch hour and after PHOTO BY KATHY KRYWICKI class, often well into the evening. $4.49 $2.99 Weekends were similarly devoted to Diehard shinny enthusiasts aren’t pond hockey on rivers, lakes, outdoor SEALTEST discouraged. They’ll be back. Shinny 500ML community rinks, and frozen ice has legs. Pond hockey, or what is often surfaces in back yards. now called “pick up,” dramatically After hours of scrimmaging, their NATREL BUTTER 454G SOUR CREAM precedes the current pandemic, the feet sore and frozen, players planted last pandemic, the Black Death of the themselves soaked in the dark or Medieval Period and even the First moonlit snow, removed their skates $2.79 $4.99 Plague. Shinny dates back over 1,000 and then retied them to a loop over years, possibly originating in early their stick, which was strung over their ASSORTED Navajo Native American culture. It - NATURAL FLAVOURS shoulder for the walk home. The world - FRENCH VANILLA ICE CREAM might also find origins in the Scottish was right. 500ML game shinty, or before that hurling, Shinny will endure; it will outlast dating back 2,000 years. Others argue ASTRO YOGOURT 750G Ben & Jerry’s / Häagen Dazs the current health crisis and might it began in ancient Greece, Egypt and even survive climate change thanks to Persia, where it was played on grass artificial ice surfaces. Like canoeing, with sticks and a ball. baggataway (lacrosse), and the Toronto $2.99 $1.39 In Canada, where some argue Maple Leafs always finding a way to - SWISS the modern form of hockey as we - GOUDA SPARKLING lose, hockey is a Canadian tradition - HAVARTI WATER recognize it today was invented, the 750ML that’s bred in the bone. The biting - CHEDDAR origins of pond hockey are often sounds of the puck careening off the attributed to a site in Windsor, Nova crossbar, and the joyous screams of FRICO CHEESE ASSORTED PERRIER / SAN PELLEGRINO Scotia called Long Pond, where in players yelling “pass the puck” will the 1800s folks were known to play

. o l d t a w s u h c live again. Where minor hockey hockey-style game they called hurly. In players, beer leaguers, casual pick-up 59¢ $1.50 77¢ $2.99 turn, ice hockey’s first formal game is players, and indeed the superstars of thought to have occurred in Montreal tomorrow learn to play and love the in 1875, when the ball was replaced game of our lives. with a wooden disc, and later a rubber w puck. HEINZ CARNATION FRISKIES CAT FOOD From Windsor to the entire nation, David Wylynko is an Ottawa TOMATO SOUP EVAPORATED MILK ASSORTED VARIETIES FEBREZE 250G pond hockey caught on and became a writer. His satirical novel on minor TOILET PAPER great national pastime. Many a hockey hockey, Puck Luck, is available at $4.99 24 ROLLS 431 SUNNYSIDE AVENUE WEEKDAYS 9:00AM - MIDNIGHT player delights with tales of their first Black Squirrel Books and online at PAPER TOWELS WEEKENDS 10:00AM - MIDNIGHT skating experiences being on outdoor www.puckluck.hockey. $5.99 12 ROLLS The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 5

Some Ottawa South history

Cutting ice blocks for the icehouse at what’s now Riverdale and Bank St. in 1931. Ice was used for everyone’s iceboxes (which were a necessity before electric refrigeration). It was stored in an ice shed, buried in sawdust to keep it cool into the summer.

Looking south on Harvard at the corner of Harvard and Raleigh, during the spring flood in 1947.

George McDonald and his wife Beryl (nee Somerville) lived on Raleigh St. in a house her father built for the family. They are both now deceased; George pre-deceased Beryl who died in 2000 at the age of 95. They left photos, taken probably by George, which longtime resident Brenda Beryl in front of her house at the corner of Raleigh and Harvard during the 1947 spring flood. Small has shared with the OSCAR. PHOTOS BY GEORGE MCDONALD

Ottawa Real Estate Immune to Pandemic

ANDREW CARTER Sales Representative

What a fascinating year it's been for the residential real estate market, where a hot sellers market led to quick sales and record-high prices across the country, from coast to coast. The availability of five-year mortgages under 2 percent fueled buyer demand while the fear of COVID-19 kept the supply of listings low during spring, normally the season that brings the highest number of listings to the market. In late March of last year the Province of Ontario deemed real estate an essential service. By May, the number of listings started to gain Communities bordering the Rideau Canal remain hot spots for out-of-town buyers for their unique lifestyle, such as being able to skate and commute on the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink at 7.8 kilometers long. momentum as the public gained confidence that COVID-19 safety protocols were in place At the end of 2020, the average house price in and effective. However, buyer demand continued What can cause an increase in the number of homes Old Ottawa South, Old Ottawa East and Canal to outweigh supply for the balance of the listed this spring? communities was $932,006, whereas the average year. Ottawa realtors worked hard to make up for • Homeowners who planned to go to market last spring house price in the region was $582,267. the early spring pause and, by year end, the total but were deterred by COVID-19 may list this spring. sales volume set a record-breaking $10 billion Many out-of-town buyers, particularly those coming • New construction projects underway may provide the compared to $8.2 billion in 2019. The average sale from higher-valued markets, favour the communities alternate housing that many have been waiting for. price of residential properties in the entire Ottawa bordering the Canal and are not shy to compete with • Some homeowners may want to cash out rather than region increased by a whopping 19.7 percent. local buyers or to set record prices. Faulkner Real Estate’s marketing effectively reaches risk the uncertainty of what the future may hold. Unlike many other neighbourhoods in the Ottawa buyers all over the globe at the same time as local • Buyers may not be ready, willing and able to pay region and nation-wide, homeowners in Ottawa’s buyers. These far away buyers often need to rely on the prices that sellers want. urban, ‘walkable’ communities have been enjoying virtual viewings, as there isn't time for them to get here. robust seller market conditions in the nation’s If you would like to keep abreast of listing and sales capital for the better part of two decades. They are What will happen in 2021? I don't know, there are so activity, or you are seeking representation, please accustomed to aggressive buyers and nail-biting many variables. It comes down to the basic economic do not hesitate to contact me at 613- 231- 4663 or bidding wars. principle of supply and demand and affordability. [email protected]. Page 6 The OSCAR l February 2021

Missing Storytime at Sunnyside with your little ones? mid-January until mid-March there and PLAY. Robin offers more details may be starting kindergarten in the is the drop-in Zoom Parent-Baby on early literacy in her staff blog at fall in French, Robin offers French Connections program for young biblioottawalibrary.ca, just scroll down language learning tips on another children, aged 0 to 18 months. to “staff blogs.” blog post on the library’s website, Librarians explore memorable songs, If you’re not into more screen biblioottawalibrary.ca, scroll down to rhymes and resources to help you time, the library also offers Take “staff blogs” and search under “robin_ to bond with your baby. Parents Home Storytime. Next time you’re at library” for all her posts. are welcome to share experiences Sunnyside, keep your eyes peeled for The online children’s programing is with other parents and caregivers at five children’s books bundled in string popular for Ottawa parents. Rebekah the end of the program. Facilitators ready to go home. Librarians have McCallum said that most of the discuss topics such as sleep, nutrition, chosen books to recreate Storytime YouTube videos of librarians who playtime, communication, milestones, sessions in your own living room to participated in the Winter Words at and more. Find out more by visiting empower families to read, sing, play, Play series of songs and activities are the Ottawa Public Library website, talk and write together without waiting approaching 200 hits or more. Robin, one of Sunnyside Branch’s biblioottawalibrary.ca and clicking on for the next video or Zoom session. Stay tuned for March Break children’s librarians, sings the Mitten “Join us for our online storytimes.” Included in the bundle is a double- programing at the library. This year’s Song as part of the Winter Words “Early literacy is building in sided sheet promoting two bilingual theme is Imagine! Ottawa Public at Play program from the Ottawa babies and toddlers,” said Rebekah activities to improve early literacy and/ Library’s children’s programming staff Public Library. PHOTO FROM THE OPL McCallum, Acting Coordinator of or numeracy skills (such as linking a and guest presenters will be offering Program Development at the Ottawa letter to an image, finding and linking a variety of virtual programs where Ottawa Public Library brings Public Library. “Parents can foster words that rhyme, counting an element children will be able to socialize, play, books and songs to your early literacy by playing with the in an image, etc.). These activity sheets create, and learn new skills in a fun and home this winter sounds of words, singing, reading and are yours to keep. safe space. Watch for more details at discussing picture books together, OPL Online for Kids also has OPL online biblioottawalibrary.ca/en/ and learning rhymes with finger English, French & bilingual Family program. By Paige Raymond Kovach movements, for example.” Storytimes available via Zoom. Robin, one of the children’s The English Storytime for preschool The creative folks at the Ottawa librarians at Sunnyside, offers these and toddler children and caregivers Old Ottawa South resident Paige Public Library are reaching their tips on her blog post: “You can runs on Tuesdays at 10 am on Zoom. Raymond Kovach remembers community through engaging early start integrating these five types of Librarians read stories, sing songs, and learning new songs and hearing childhood literacy programs both interaction with your child from the recite rhymes, for children ages 6 and great stories with her babies from online and directly into homes during instant they are born, but it doesn’t under. Again, go to biblioottawalibrary. Jennifer at the Rosemount Branch, the pandemic even though we can only matter what age you start at or what ca and click on “Join us for our online and from Susan – wearing her magic visit the library to pick up or drop off language you speak or read as long as storytimes.” apron ­– at the Sunnyside Branch. books. you: TALK, SING, READ, WRITE, For children a little older and who On Thursday afternoons from

BEATS ON THE STREET Ten records for Valentine’s Day By Ian Boyd

1. George Gershwin – ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ Often coupled with ‘An American in Paris’ on recordings, this song works most any day of the year. ‘The man I Love’ is in there too. 2. Joni Mitchell – Blue Or Court and Spark, or Clouds, or Hejira, or Ladies of the Canyon or Miles of Aisles, or Turbulent Indigo or well any of Joni’s records. 3. Justin Bieber – Changes You may be surprised by this one but he really is a talent and the youngsters love him. 4. U2 – Achtung Baby High up on every U2 fans depth chart. It stands the test of time. 5. The Beatles – Abbey Road ‘She came in through the bathroom window’ from the ‘Octopus’s garden’ in the shade. 6. Tragically Hip – Fully Completely Definitely belongs on any list about anything in music. Well, maybe not a Heavy Metal greatest records list. 7. Motorhead – Ace of Spades No, No, No, this would never make it on Valentine’s Day. It just wouldn’t… 8. Kate Bush – The Kick Inside She’s just such an artist, too bad she doesn’t fly, as we may never see her perform live in Canada. 9. Peter Gabriel – Secret World Live A live concert of greatest hits. Gabriel’s voice rules! 10. Dolly Parton – Jolene ‘I will always love you’ is one of the best love songs written and recorded. Dolly is truly one of the greatest country songwriters. Ian Boyd, along with his brother James, owns Compact Music on Bank at Third. They have had the store in the Glebe since 1996. The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 7

on the existing site, which is designated as inside OSCA update on Windsor Park Fieldhouse the floodplain. It appears that there may be ways to accommodate the regulations while retaining enough design proposal and online survey floorspace to offer a reasonable range of facilities. In By Michael Jenkin, Following this exchange with residents and the interim, more detailed surveys of this part of the Chair of the OSCA Windsor Park Councillor Shawn Menard, the OSCA Working park will be carried out so that the working group can Group agrees that the location selected by the City Fieldhouse Working Group develop more specific design options. and the size of the facility has significant drawbacks. The OSCA Working Group, which is made up of As a result, the OSCA Working Group will not community and Board volunteers, will continue to In the January 2021 edition of The OSCAR, the proceed with the proposed community survey as keep the residents updated, both through the OSCAR OSCA Fieldhouse Working Group reported on outlined in the January 2021 issue of The OSCAR and OSCA’s social media channels, as we learn more progress with the proposed design and location of the and will engage in further design development and about where and how, a new fieldhouse might be Windsor Park Fieldhouse. Since the publication of community consultations once the Councillor has accommodated at Windsor Park. the article, Councillor Shawn Menard and OSCA met completed his discussions with officials and there is A Board decision on a final design, and seeking with local residents at Windsor Park. This meeting greater clarity about location opportunities for a new funding from various sources, will only take place was ad hoc and in response to concerns expressed fieldhouse. when the working group has completed its design by residents about the proposed location and design A teleconference was held with the RVCA, the work, has consulted with the community, and has of the fieldhouse. Several of the issues raised are as Councillor, the City and some members of the made a final recommendation to the Board. This will follows: working group on Friday, January 15, to see if there obviously take some time. may be ways to allow a new fieldhouse to be built • The location of the existing 60-year-old fieldhouse, which is where the Working Group wanted to locate the new fieldhouse, was discovered to be on the Rideau River floodplain. The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), which regulates any new construction on floodplain land, indicated that it does not normally approve such construction without significant mitigative measures that the Working Group judged difficult to meet. As a compromise, City officials proposed a new site outside the floodplain. This site is identified in the January edition of The OSCAR.

• The design proposal for the new fieldhouse was based on an 18-month consultation process seeking the community’s views on what facilities and programming activities a new fieldhouse should support.

• After reading The OSCAR article and outlining the proposed location on the park ground, a number of local residents expressed significant concerns about its location and size, its potential impact on greenspace and trees, and the impact of access requirements to the site from park entrances.

• After listening to residents’ concerns and the background of the proposal’s evolution provided by two OSCA committee members, Councillor Shawn Menard advised that he would meet with the RVCA and the City’s Recreation, Cultural and Facilities Services Department to see if some alternate solution is possible.

• The proposed new fieldhouse location – as reported in the January issue of the OSCAR – was selected by the City, not by the OSCA Fieldhouse Working Group. The existing 60-year-old Windsor Park fieldhouse. PHOTO BY BESS FRASER Pivot #23 Open 24/7 online at shop.theclothessecret.com 40-80% off all Fall and Winter. Please join us Monday through Saturday on Facebook for Live events. Curbside pick ups 11-1:00, Friday and Saturday and delivery available. Stay home. Stay safe. Support our small business neighbours online! For a comprehensive overview, please visit our web site: www.sandyhill.ca or call

Cochrane Photography Cochrane shop.theclothessecret.com Nathan Gurnham at (613) 832-1717 Temporarily closed • 1136 Bank Street, Ottawa ON K1S 3X6 613-730-9039 • theclothessecret.com Follow us: Page 8 The OSCAR l February 2021

CHRISTY’S CORNER Another lockdown. We’ve got this! Christy Savage, as an organization and in many do find ways to support others through OSCA Executive Director ways I think it’s safe to say we’ve all tough times. witnessed similar changes within our It is with this in mind that we have community. begun the exciting work of planning We’re almost there and we’ve come a I’ve watched the team inspire each for reopening. While we do not know long way together. other, share and be vulnerable. We’ve when this will be possible, we know As I write this, it’s mid-January expanded our roles and responsibilities, it will happen, and we’re planning to and we’ve just headed into another driven ourselves out of our comfort see you all again in person. We simply lockdown. zones, paid attention to the details can’t wait. We’re continuing with Admittedly, none of us wanted this, and kept a light on for creativity. And our online virtual programming, and and yet, here we are on the home we’ve had an opportunity to get closer will slowly move to onsite programs, stretch and determined. summer or fall). This has become to and work much more closely with building upon what works and As I look back over the past 11 much more than a work project for the our instructors and clients. In many feedback from the community. months it’s felt at times both long Firehall team; it is more a reflection ways this seems counter intuitive in We’re also excited to be launching and drawn out, and then it sometimes of our own need as a team serving, a virtual world and yet, despite so some new programs that focus resonates like a snow squall moving at engaging, and growing with you, our many barriers to connection, we have on needs we’ve witnessed in the a dizzying pace, blinding progress but community. found many ways to connect. And we community as a result of a new way forcing us into its surge nonetheless. So, it seems timely that 2021 is the

PHOTO BY GORD KING/CSV ARCHITECTS want to thank you, our community, for of relating and existing. We see more As I look back at OSCA, I 100th anniversary of the building of the connecting with us and supporting us need for connection, to simply sit and can clearly see that we’ve seized Firehall and with that I’d like to usher whether with words of encouragement, hold space for one another in addition opportunities for growth that never in the new by honouring the old and by signing up for a program, joining to programming activities, to reach could have been imagined nor looking back at where we’ve been and a committee, or making a donation. out and to support. And this theme fabricated. That’s a good sign. In these how far we’ve come. We’ve been reminded of the generosity will be behind a lot of what we do this circumstances you either grow, or risk We’re almost there. and thoughtfulness that makes OOS new year as we plan for a renewal and being trampled. I’ve watched OSCA unique. We are a community and we rebirth (whenever that takes place, become more cohesive and determined

Windsor Rink For information on ice conditions Go to: Instagram: windsor.rink Facebook: facebook.com/windsorparkrink Shack Hours The rink shack will be open (COVID-19 regulations and weather permitting): Monday - Friday 4:30 pm - 9:00 pm Saturday 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm Sunday 2:00 pm - 5:30 pm Extended hours may be added. Go to oldottawasouth.ca for updates. The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 9

OSCA PRESIDENT’S REPORT Two scoops of gelato, please … By Richard Slowikowski, For OSCA, this is the time when we There is still a distance to reach our OSCA President encourage local residents to consider goal of $300,000, however, funds volunteering as a member of the OSCA raised represents a tremendous step

Board or one of its Committees. This forward toward our goal. As well as Stella Luna’s. Ahhhh. Just the thought annual responsibility always snaps fundraising, we are applying for grants. of the gelato. The taste. The colour. me back into the reality of all of the Most notably, OSCA was awarded The choices. Ahhhh. And I am great things being accomplished a $45,000 grant administered by the already daydreaming. I search for by volunteers who are investing Red Cross. Key to our survival is my favourites… and suddenly, I find their energy into building a better fundraising and grant applications and myself asking for two scoops: one community for today and for the future. OSCA welcomes help. scoop of certainty and one of normalcy. your name stand for a position on Do you have skills and time to In addition, OSCA is looking for I am writing this for a January the Board or a Committee, or to find invest? volunteers for the OSCA Board and 15th publishing deadline amidst out more about OSCA, the Board This year, we are particularly looking Committees. Committees include: the craziness of new COVID-19 and the Committees, please contact for people who have experience in Communications, Environment and restrictions and the unsettling scenario [email protected] or fundraising and people interested in Climate Action, Finance, Governance, for our southern cousins. However, [email protected]. researching and applying for grants. Human Resources, Nominations and there is good news on the horizon. And what do you get in return? New As you are likely aware, the Elections, Operations, Planning and Though estimates vary, we gain friends, fun and purpose. Not a bad COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in Zoning, Senior Watch (SWOOS) and between 90 to 120 seconds of daylight deal. restrictions on in-person programs Traffic and Safety. Also, there are two each day in January. In February, things I hope you have a great day. which has substantially reduced OSCA Working Groups focused on Diversity get even better and we gain between revenue. Consequently, OSCA is and Inclusion and on the Windsor Park 120 second and 150 seconds. This fundraising to Save Our Firehall. To facility. happens every year; it is a scoop of date, we have raised over $60,000. If you would like to consider letting certainty and normalcy.

OSCA BOARD Consider contributing your skills to OSCA ! By Sue Neill so that it is a pleasant, fulfilling Governance, Human Resources, • Board and Committee members and meaningful place to live. Nominations and Elections, are expected to actively It’s that time of year again – time • The Board consists of 18 Operations, Planning and Zoning, contribute! Discussions at for OSCA, the Old Ottawa South Directors. In principle, each Senior Watch (SWOOS) and meetings are lively and respectful, Community Association, to start Director is elected for a three-year Traffic and Safety. In addition, and always undertaken with the looking for residents of Old Ottawa term. there are two Working Groups objective of making OSCA and South who are willing to step up and • In the event of vacancies arising focused on Diversity and Old Ottawa South even better! become a member of the Board or a between Annual General Meetings Inclusion and the Windsor Park Committee! (AGM), Board members are facility respectively. If you would like to consider letting Like everyone, OSCA has had empowered by the By-laws to • This year, we are particularly your name stand for a position on a tough year but the community appoint new Board Members looking for people who have the Board or a Committee, or find association remains strong and ready to fill vacant positions. These experience in fundraising and out more about OSCA, the Board to move forward in new and different appointments are then ratified at people interested in researching and the Committees, please contact ways. It will be an interesting time for the next AGM. and applying for grants. [email protected] or the Board and its Committees! • Candidates for the Board must • Board meetings are held on the [email protected]. Perhaps you would like to consider be members of OSCA. Adult third Tuesday of the month at the contributing your skills and enthusiasm residents of Old Ottawa South are Old Firehall and usually last about Sue Neill is a member of the for your community! eligible to become members and two hours. Committee meetings OSCA Board and Chair or the Here are a few facts about the OSCA membership is free. are held in agreement with OSCA Nominations and Elections Board and Committees: • All Committee Chairs are Committee members. During the Committee. • The objective of OSCA is to members of the Board. pandemic, Board and Committee promote the quality of life in the Committees include: meetings have been held via community of Old Ottawa South Communications, Environment Zoom as was the 2020 AGM in and Climate Action, Finance, October.

Do you have experience in fundraising or in researching and applying for grants? Put your skills to work in your community! OSCA is looking for individuals willing to stand for the OSCA Board who have skills and experience in fundraising, or in researching and applying for grants. If you are interested in contributing to your community through membership on the OSCA Board, please contact the OSCA Nominations and Elections Committee at: Board [email protected] Page 10 The OSCAR l February 2021

THE OSCAR 260 Sunnyside Ave, Ottawa Ontario, K1S 0R7 www.oldottawasouth.ca/oscar ISSN: 0715-5476 [email protected] Editor: Brendan McCoy [email protected] Layout and Design: Bess Fraser Business Manager: Susanne Ledbetter [email protected] Advertising Manager: Ari Kulidjian [email protected] 613-276-5116 Volunteer Proofreaders: Maura Giuliani, Mary Low, Kathy Krywicki, Scott Valentine, Roger Williams

NEXT DEADLINE: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12

The OSCAR is published eleven times per year. Upcoming deadlines: February 12 (March issue); March 19 (April issue); April 16 (May issue); May 14 (June issue); June 11 (July/August issue); August 13 (September issue).

The OSCAR is published by the Old Ottawa South Community Association Inc. (OSCA). Distribution is free to all Old Ottawa South homes and businesses. It is also available at selected locations in Old Ottawa South and the Glebe. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of The OSCAR or OSCA. Contributions should be in electronic format sent by e-mail to: [email protected]. All submissions will be acknowledged by e-mail. The Editor has the final say about style, format OSCAR / Glebe Report and content. The OSCAR Editorial Policy, and Guidelines for Submissions, are available on the OSCA website. The OSCAR is available online at Newspaper Boxes on Bank Street www.oldottawasouth.ca. Some articles will be posted on the OSCA website. In OOS: • On the S/E corner of Bank & Sunnyside The OSCAR is recipient of funding under the Special Measures for Journal- • (new) Bank & Belmont by the Senate Tavern ism component of the COVID-19 Emergency Support Fund for Culture, • In front of Hillary’s Dry Cleaners Heritage and Sport Organizations of the Department of Canadian Heritage, In the Glebe: Government of Canada. • Beside Patterson’s Creek Park • On the north side of the Shoppers Drug Mart on Glebe Ave.

Distribution inquiries e-mail: [email protected] The new OSCAR is in the boxes for the first half of the month, the new Glebe Report is in the boxes for the second half of Thanks to the many people who delivered The OSCAR this month: the month. (In the summer the new OSCAR will be available in July, the Glebe Report in August). ZONE A1: Kathy Krywicki (Coordinator), Mary Jo Lynch, Kim Barclay, Élie Cantin Nantel, Becky Sasaki, Sam & Aila McNeill-McKinnell, Christy The newspaper boxes are a collaboration between The Griffin, Rob Wong, Luke and Alex Vulanovic. OSCAR and The Glebe Report, and were painted by local ZONE B1: Ada Brzeski & Dave Drapeau (Coordinator), Zoe Walters, the artists Claire and Mairi Brascoupé, and Kate Solar. Montgomery family, Claire & Alex Gammon, Spencer, Will and Holt Lewis , D. Georgaras, Erika, Maria & Gabriela. ZONE B2: Craig Piche (Coordinator), Sandra Garland, Pat Eakins, Steve Mennill, Claire & Alex Gammon, Gillingham-Murray family, Tessa and Fiona Quinn-Crook, John Callan & Diana Carr, Esmé & Nora Perry. ZONE C1: Laura Johnson (Coordinator), the Williams family, Josh Rahaman, To book an OSCAR ad Jesper Lindeberg, Darcy McCoy, Bruce Grant, Bryan & Anneka Dallin call Ari at 613-276-5116 O’Grady, David Fisher, Susan Townley. ZONE C2: Craig Piche (Coordinator), Steve Mennill, Alan McCullough, [email protected] Charles & Phillip Kijek, Michael Jenkin, Michel & Christina Bridgeman, Melissa Johnson. ZONE D1: Mike McKay (Coordinator), Stephen Merriam, Marianne Keys, Gail Stewart, Gabe Teramura, Oliver & Claire Waddington, the Sprott family, Milo Barnett. INDEX ZONE D2: Dan Greco (Coordinator), Caitlin, Anna Chernushenko, the Stewart family, Sloane and Harrison Gilchrist, Will Creaghan. BUSINESS BEAT 2 ZONE E1: Brian Tansey (Coordinator), Karen Wolfe & Curt Labond, Norah Hutchinson, Steve Adamson & Nadine Dawson, Robert Trotter. OSCA 3,7-9 ZONE E2: Kathy Stewart (Coordinator), Marianne & Jim Kent, COUNCILLOR’S REPORT 12 the Brodkin-Haas family, Carolyn Inch, Chris Berry & Frida Kolster Berry, John Bell, Julie Stock, Joan Foster-Jones, Allan Paul. ENVIRONMENT 14-15 ZONE F1: Carol & Ferg O’Connor (Coordinator), Jenny O’Brien, Lyle Stern, Gerald Bailie, Paloma & Liliana Ruiz, Malachi Winter, the Goutte FILM REVIEW 21 family (Joshua, Leo and Alina), Kai Bramley, Calla Rose & Justin Connolly ZONE F2: Pierre Guevremont (Coordinator), Paulette Theriault, Alaster TRILLIUM 25 Ayson, Judy & Pierre Chamberland, Luc & Sydney Grenier, Mary Johnston, POLITICAL 26-27 the Walker Family, the Polkinghorne Family, the Kushner Family. MARKETPLACE & CLASSY ADS 31 ZONE G: Shehryar Sarwar (Coordinator), Caroline & Julia Twelves, Luke & Robin Eriksson, Joanne Monaghan, David Janssen, Chris & Andy GARDEN CLUB 34 Anand-Danek, Allan Paul, Peluso-Pope Family. TRAVEL 35 Bank Street: Tom Lawson, Paula Archer, Ross Imrie. The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 11

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The OSCAR welcomes letters on subjects of interest to the community or in response to previous articles. All letters must disclose the name of the writer, as well as their address. Letters may be edited for length, clarity, and libelous statements. The opinions of the writers are not necessarily those of the newspaper or its editor. Email your letters to [email protected]

Dear outdoor space, dear breathing space, dear green space, Windsor Park Fieldhouse

Have we told you lately how we love you? Regarding the OSCAR article in the January issue, I have some questions and concerns. I For years we’ve taken you for granted, we admit, as if we must admit I live at the cottage for most of the summer, and did not attend the meetings. thought you would always be there and we were too busy to I did walk down to see the City proposed and well-marked spot to the west. My first notice or check on the plans that were being made. Someone concern was how high would the new building be? I could not find that information on the else’s responsibility, we thought, and lazily, we left it to them. drawing. Length and width are there, but I wondered for those residents who have looked Sure, many of us voted for a representative who shared our out on the park and the river all these years if they were going to be looking at a big green and community values, and some of us wrote letters in industrial looking building. support of the city’s Climate Emergency resolution, and even The existing building is at the end of a short lane from Belmont. It does not impact marched in the global climate protests. Even so, it still felt anyone’s view, and is easily accessed from the street. somewhat theoretical and that there was still time. The fact that the existing building is “grandfathered” could actually be helpful. The And then the pandemic walloped us. Our perception of the plumbing for bathrooms is there, but not enough. A small new building was added recently value of our outdoor spaces soared. Remember last spring to the site that appears to be “electrical.” The “just inside” placement of the building might when the parks closed except to walk through? No playing, no mean raising it with fill could be an option…as would a creative solution to the need for mingling, no pausing. When they re-opened, we flooded back more space. to the parks and the paths and green corridors that connect My cottage is on flood plain, (in the city of Ottawa) as are all my neighbors, so any them, like never before. Children played, families and friends changes, renovations, constructions after a fire etc. require consultations with Rideau picnicked and played ball games, seniors strolled and rested on Valley Conservation Authority. There are lots of rules and cases are decided on an benches, youths met friends, puppies and their people socialized individual basis, but most projects appear to go ahead. – oh, it was glorious! Reading reports of the sparsely attended meetings, and considering how well used the In one of our hottest summers on record, people came to park is, it appears the main problem is lack of available bathroom facilities, and a need to our parks seeking shade and water, a bit of respite from the provide accessible facilities, and storage space. reflective heat of our built environment, and for many with Windsor is a small park relatively speaking, compared to Brewer or Brantwood. I limited access to indoor cool spaces – limited even further by imagine, as density increases just across Billings Bridge even more people will come to the pandemic – our parks were literally life-savers. enjoy it. Unlike the two other parks, it is on a residential street where many houses are Now, in the midst of surging infection rates, deteriorating close to 100 years old. We are seeing many renovations, and so far no teardowns. I would mental health, and increasingly desperate public health hope there would be much more public input. I realize with St Margaret Mary church measures, our rekindled love for our green spaces – now white gone, and changes at Southminster, there is a need for more space for OSCA but question with snow and ice – finds a new season. making it a part of a new or renovated fieldhouse. We’ll continue to flock to our parks to play, ski, sled, skate, and mingle safely outdoors. And in the spring, we may or may Thank you, not have to re-learn gratitude for the way our green spaces Patricia Kealey mitigate severe weather events and the flooding that in places Longtime Old Ottawa South resident and former OSCA board member. nearby has redrawn 100-year flood plain maps. As we “intensify” our urban spaces, building more and taller buildings to house and service more people in our city core, we see clearly how precious and irreplaceable our green spaces are. We understand that any decision to reduce an existing green space is a decision to willfully harm ourselves. Outdoor space, breathing space, green space, thank you for all you do, so beautifully, for our physical and mental and social wellbeing. We are only beginning to learn your true value, yet I think we have learned enough that we would deeply regret seeing any part of you sacrificed. And perhaps this horrible year has taught us to prioritize expanding you and repairing the Have your say on Ottawa’s damage we’ve done to you. Wouldn’t that be lovely. Community Safety and With love and gratitude and hope, Elizabeth Walker Well-Being Plan On behalf of the people of Old Ottawa South who love our green spaces. Join the conversation now! This winter please For more information: Visit ottawa.ca/CSWBP try to keep your steps and walkways safe. Add CSWB/[email protected] 613-580-2424, ext. 42489 some grit and or salt to keep the steps ice

free for both Canada 2020-087_03 Post and your local OSCAR deliver. Page 12 The OSCAR l February 2021

COUNCILLOR’S REPORT Work at City Hall continues By Shawn Menard, Bank Street Canal Bridge update with staff and the community to City Councillor Last summer, we worked make improvements to this key successfully with city traffic planners transportation link. to come up with a new design for the This past year has been tough, and this Bank Street Canal Bridge that would Windsor Park Update coming year will continue to pose more increase safety and serve the needs of Over the holidays, I held discussions challenges for residents of our city and all road users, pedestrians, bicyclists with the community and city staff the world. At the time of writing this, and drivers. about the new fieldhouse that is being the province has implemented new After much work and consultation, planned for Windsor Park. The current COVID-19 restrictions. we settled on a design that would fieldhouse is over 60 years old, and an And while we continue to fight reduce the automobile lanes to three upgrade is much needed. the pandemic, the work at City Hall (including two northbound lanes in Unfortunately, the current fieldhouse continues on. There are both local and order to accommodate bus service is located in the Rideau River transportation to housing – for the City city-wide issues that will be of interest during RedBlacks games). This design floodplain. As a general rule, we do of Ottawa. to residents of Old Ottawa South. was then approved unanimously by not want to build structures within Late last year, the city released a both the Transportation Committee and the floodplain. As a result, city staff draft version of the new Official Plan, New Tree By-Law City Council. proposed a different spot in the park for as well as an assortment of one-pager On January 1, city staff began From this design, staff are currently the new fieldhouse. documents explaining various aspects implementing the new tree protection working on detailed designs. These The new location is not ideal. of the new plan. bylaw. There have been many will be finalized by the springtime and Residents and the community The city has proposed a new important changes made to protect the new design will be implemented association have concerns, as do we. approach to planning and development. trees including hiring a new infill this coming construction season. These include concerns about the size They intend to split the city into five forester in the Planning department We continue to have discussions of the new fieldhouse, the effect it will different transects. Transects are to focus on trees at the earliest phases with staff to find more improvements have on the greenspace and trees, and different geographical areas within the of development; requiring tree for the bridge; this includes trying to the accessibility of the park. city. The five transects are: Downtown information to be submitted through find a way to provide proper separation Presently, we are meeting with the Core, Inner Urban, Outer Urban, the Committee of Adjustment process; between pedestrians, bicyclists and Rideau Valley Conservation Authority Greenbelt, Suburban and Rural. City better integration of tree information motor vehicles. as well as the city’s Recreation planning will now be tailored to each through the building permit process; The final detailed designs will be department to find an alternate solution, transect. a reduction of distinctive tree size; developed with consultation from in consultation with the OSCA working You can review these documents and ability to fine based on inadequate tree local stakeholders, including the city’s group. For more details see the OSCA provide feedback by visiting the city’s protection; and clear linkages with Accessibility Advisory Committee, fieldhouse update on page 7 of this website, engage.ottawa.ca and clicking new infill zoning requirements for soft the Glebe BIA and local community OSCAR. on ‘The New Official Plan.’ landscaping which will work to help associations, among others. in both tree retention and tree planting, This is an exciting project for our Official Plan Update depending on the site. Shawn Menard is City Councillor ward and the city. The current design The city is currently updating Look out for a more in-depth for Capital Ward. He can be reached of the bridge has failed vulnerable our Official Plan. This is the master piece on our website focusing on directly at Shawn.Menard@ottawa. road users, and we are very happy planning document that guides city- compensation requirements for private ca. that we have been able to collaborate building efforts – from development to trees.

GMSElemAdGR19BW.pdf 3 2019-10-18 3:52 PM DID YOU KNOW? Accessible Parking Permits A Montessori classroom is where the joy of learning

C comes M naturally Y

CM

MY Toddler, Preschool & Elementary CY Grades 1-6 Bilingual Education CMY

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Holders of a valid Accessible Parking Permit are entitled to special parking privileges in public parking areas and on public roadways. They may park in a “No Parking” zone for a period of four hours as 650 Lyon St. South long as no other parking regulations are being contravened. Ottawa, Ontario K1S 3Z7 Please contact us at: Submitted by the OSCA Traffic & Safety Committee. (613) 237-3824

www.glebemontessori.com The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 13

EN FRANÇAIS, S’IL VOUS PLAÎT! Ottawa Accueil: une porte d’entrée rassurante pour les francophones Par Fiona Collienne

Lorsque je suis arrivée à Ottawa avec ma famille en août 2018, j’ai tout de suite cherché à créer du lien. En quelques jours, j’avais trouvé une chorale dans le quartier. En quelques semaines, j’avais découvert un groupe de femmes extraordinaires, dont certaines vivent dans le Vieil Ottawa Sud. Ces femmes, qui sont devenues des amies, ont en commun le fait de venir d’ailleurs qu’Ottawa, que ce soit du Québec, d’Angleterre, de France ou de Nouvelle-Zélande, et de s’être installées ici. Ce groupe s’appelle WOW (Women of the World) et m’a apporté une incroyable chaleur humaine au cours de nos réunions au café que j’attendais avec une grande impatience. Pour les francophones qui s’installent dans le quartier, j’ai découvert qu’il y a une autre option pour créer un lien et se sentir entourés. L’organisme Ottawa Accueil peut servir de repère pour celles et ceux qui arrivent et se posent toute une série de questions sur les quartiers, les écoles, le système de santé ou qui ont envie de participer à Récemment, les membres d’Ottawa Accueil ont effectué une visite du centre-ville d’Ottawa. PHOTO DE STÉPHANIE CRESPY des activités de groupe. Montreal, propose des cours de cuisine baby-sitter ou vendre des vêtements qui ne cherche qu’à s’étendre. Moi, en Un réseau qui s’étoffe virtuel aux membres d’Ottawa Accueil. de seconde main, mais on souhaite tout cas, j’irai bien prendre un petit café « Nous avons environ 50 familles « Bûche de Noël, Tarte Tatin : on se aussi créer un annuaire avec des avec toutes ces familles francophones, qui adhèrent à notre association, des régale », se réjouit Stéphanie Crespy. professionnels francophones, comme une fois que la pandémie sera derrière Français, des Belges mais aussi des par exemple des médecins, ostéopathes nous. familles originaires du Maghreb », Un tremplin pour s’intégrer dans la ou encore agents immobiliers», ajoute, m’explique au téléphone Stéphanie ville enthousiaste, Stéphanie Crespy. Si vous avez des idées de reportages Crespy, la Secrétaire générale de L’intérêt d’adhérer à l’association est Le site internet d’Ottawa Accueil ou de francophones inspirants dans l’association Ottawa Accueil. Cette multiple : se créer un premier cercle propose aussi des outils comme un le quartier, vous pouvez lui écrire: Française est arrivée à Ottawa en de connaissances, tisser du lien social Guide du nouvel arrivant et un Guide [email protected]. famille il y a un an, et comme lors et trouver des réponses à toutes les de la conduite automobile au Canada, de ses précédentes expatriations au questions que l’on se pose en arrivant qui explique entre autres les panneaux Cameroun et au Panama, elle s’est dans une nouvelle ville, voire un routiers spécifiquement canadiens et Fiona Collienne, journaliste rapprochée de cet organisme d’accueil, nouveau pays. l’entretien des pneus hiver. Autant de originaire de Belgique, est heureuse qui existe dans 90 pays du monde. « La prochaine étape, ce sera d’offrir petits trucs qui peuvent faire gagner de contribuer à la vie francophone du « Nous organisons toute une sur notre site internet (https://www. du temps aux nouveaux arrivants. Et Vieil Ottawa Sud où elle vit avec son série d’activités, comme la visite du ottawaaccueil.org ) une rubrique de les francophones du Vieil Ottawa Sud mari et leurs deux enfants. centre-ville d’Ottawa ou du musée petites annonces pour trouver un sont les bienvenus dans l’association, Diefenbunker. Nous avons aussi un club de marche, un club de lecture, un club de patinage et nous organisons deux fois par mois un café rencontre chez l’un de nos membres », précise Stéphanie Crespy, qui ajoute que la pandémie de COVID-19 a forcé l’association à modifier ou de reporter certaines activités. En ce moment, Joris Larigaldie, le chef exécutif de l’hôtel le W

ADVERTISE IN THE OSCAR contact oscarads@ oldottawasouth.ca Page 14 The OSCAR l February 2021

ENVIRONMENT Single-use plastic, your time is up

By Shannon Young 15 billion bags! Did you know that Canadians use Enviro Crew of OOS launches “Nix 15 billion plastic shopping bags every the Six” campaign year? The Enviro Crew will kick off Last fall the federal government Nix the Six by targeting these bags. announced a ban on six single-use We’re declaring February bring your plastic items. By the end of 2021 own bag, bin or box month. regulations to ban plastic shopping Reusable bags aren’t new. Many of us bags, straws, stir sticks, six-pack rings, are dedicated users already, but we’re cutlery, and food containers made from challenging ourselves to up our game. hard-to-recycle plastics will be in effect. Maybe it’s using them more often. Or These items were identified because saying no to plastic produce bags. Or they are often not recycled and have encouraging a family member to get on readily available alternatives. board. This is an important initiative but there’s no reason to wait a year to Brag about your bag say good riddance to these six plastic Throughout February the Enviro polluters. The Enviro Crew of OOS is Crew of OOS will post bag-related launching a Nix the Six campaign to tips and information on our Facebook encourage residents and businesses to page. Join us online by posting a photo embrace sustainable alternatives before of you, your family, and your bag it’s legislated. alternatives. Share your ideas about Each month the Enviro Crew will breaking the plastic bag habit. Together, target one of these single-use plastic we can Nix the Six and have a little fun items and share ideas on ways to reduce while doing it. our use, find alternatives, and change Post your tips and photos on our our habits one step at a time. We hope Facebook page “Enviro Crew of Old to tap into the eco-friendly enthusiasm Ottawa South” or email them to us: and sustainable living know-how that [email protected]. abound in our neighbourhood. Keep a variety of reusable bags near your door to grab on the way out. Shannon Young is a resident of Old Ottawa South and a member of the PHOTO BY SANDY GARLAND Enviro Crew. New Climate Action Working Group By Stephanie Davis the city’s action plan for meeting the targets of reducing greenhouse gas Decorating Ottawa & area since 1948! January 2021 saw the formation of a (GHG) emissions from the community Residential ~ Commercial ~ Builders new Enviro Crew of OOS subgroup by 100% by 2050 and from city Paints | Stains | Window Treatments | Wallpaper | Designer Fabrics | Furniture focusing on the climate emergency. Its operations by 100% by 2040. We will strongly encourage the city to make Flooring | Granite & Quartz Countertops | Sound Reduction Wallcoverings main purpose is to pursue meaningful appropriate investments that will Paint Colour Matching (any brand) | Stain Matching | Decorating and Colour Consults action on climate change, specifically at the municipal level. ensure progress toward these targets. Although we are still in the process We will also advise the OSCA Board CONSULT WITH A SPECIALIST of working out our mandate, we have and the Old Ottawa South community FOR CUSTOM BLINDS, SHUTTERS, DRAPES & SHEERS identified several areas of focus. The on other municipal climate action first is to monitor meetings of the city’s initiatives. . Featuring Hunter Douglas, Shade-O-Matic, Altex and Maxxmar – quality Standing Committee on Environmental Our working group plans to choices for every price point, including motorized operating systems Protection, Water and Waste, as well collaborate with other community . Guaranteed fit and interest-free financing as other municipal initiatives related to climate action groups and with . Visit our in-store gallery or arrange for a FREE in-home or virtual climate change. Of particular interest Community Associations for consultation to us is progress on Energy Evolution, Environmental Sustainability (CAFES), a forum for representatives FOR DÉCOR of community and residents’ . Choose the decorating services you need – from complete interior or associations to engage with the exterior decorating services to specific projects, including full colour consult, City of Ottawa on environmental furniture selection and placement, designer upholstery fabrics and issues. Finally, it will also provide a wallpapers, custom and ready-made furniture, countertops, flooring, forum for discussion, planning, and and lighting implementation of local climate action . Ask about our $99 virtual consultation! initiatives, such as car sharing. FOR PAINT, STAIN & SUPPLIES If you are interested in joining the Climate Action Working Group or . Order ahead or last minute – prompt service have a climate-related idea for an . Poster-sized, real paint, take-home chips OSCAR article, please contact Jason . Ottawa’s go-to place for paint and stain matching – any brand Creaghan at [email protected]. . Professional in-store colour specialists We look forward to hearing from you!

PROMPT IN-STORE SERVICE, Stephanie Davis is a resident of Old TOUCH-FREE PICK-UP & FREE DELIVERY Ottawa South and member of the 783 Bank Street Enviro Crew. Shop Local 1280 Wellington St West www.oldottawasouth.ca 555 Bank St. (FREE parking behind store, off Isabella St.) www.bloomfields.ca | 613.230.6434 randalls.ca | 613-233-8441 | [email protected] The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 15

• Joined the founding board of other neighbourhoods (Glebe, Old The little green group that could – Ottawa’s Community Associations Ottawa East, Centretown, etc.) and For Environmental Sustainability leverage our joint efforts, to increase Enviro Crew’s first year (CAFES) awareness and local knowledge on By Ingrid Nielsen be involved in our little group. Would • Liaised with City Councillor current green issues, and to strengthen they have any energy left to still care? Shawn Menard, MPP Joel Harden, our voice at City Hall and demand that and MP Catherine McKenna all levels of government take strong There have been a lot dark jokes about But, just like wildflowers that • Launched a community plastics action now to protect our environment. 2020 being the worst year in recent magically grow between the cracks of challenge to reduce our collective As an OSCA Board member, I memory. But, to be honest, some really a cement sidewalk, those initial seeds plastic footprint will humbly accept the role of chair amazing things also happened during took root and started to flourish. At • Joined the Windsor Park of the new environment committee. 2020. For example, we launched the our first Zoom meeting in March only Fieldhouse Working Group Deputy chair will be the unstoppable Enviro Crew Old Ottawa South (OOS). three or four people attended. The next • Published monthly articles in Sandy Garland, and secretary will be Last February, a group of about 10 one had a few more. Over the rest of OSCAR and started a monthly Stephanie McNeely. Each subgroup neighbours met for the first time on the year, we met every two weeks on enewsletter also has an amazing chair to guide its a cold Saturday afternoon in Sandy Sunday evening by Zoom, and once • Started four subgroups to take efforts. Garland’s cozy living room. We in a backyard, socially distanced. We action more effectively: Trees, Please join us as we continue. discussed the need for a dedicated launched a Facebook group and a Plastic Reduction, Climate Action, Everyone is welcome. You don’t need environment group in OOS, and what Facebook page, thanks to Erin Maher’s and the Brewer Pond Working to be an expert or perfectly green – I’m we were going to do about that. We amazing design skills. We created an Group certainly not! You just need to care. agreed to create an independent group email account (envirocrewOOS@ You can join or start one of our that would end up being called the gmail.com) and T-shirts. Slowly we As this new year begins, we have subgroups, listen in on a meeting, lead Enviro Crew. grew. many more ideas and initiatives already or participate in a project, sign up and Right away, we started planning Below is some of what we have done underway. engage in our Facebook group and ambitious local projects to enhance our this past year: On January 19, we achieved another watch our Facebook page, sign up natural areas and greenspace, protect • Led several waste reduction and important milestone. We established for our monthly e-newsletter, or just our trees, and increase native plants collection efforts (plastic bags, the Environment and Climate Action cheer us on. Email to find out more and and pollinators. We started organizing takeout containers, plant pots, Committee (ECAC) and officially connect [email protected] ideas to encourage the community bottles, Brewer Park cleanup) became part of OSCA. We are truly stronger when we work to reduce plastics, decrease carbon • Led a weekly work group at OSCA has been without an together. Let’s make 2021 the greenest emissions, encourage green business Brewer Pond, planting native environment committee for several year ever! initiatives, and tackle climate change plants and removing invasive years because a previous effort lapsed. with individual and community efforts. species However, it has never been more Then COVID-19 hit. • Hosted fun and informative important that we have a dedicated Ingrid Nielsen is a founding member Many of us wondered if all was community zoom events (electric environment committee active in our of the Enviro Crew of OOS and will lost. Remembering what it was like vehicles, home energy efficiency, neighbourhood. be chair of OSCA’s new Environment in March and April 2020, we rightly environment book awards) ECAC will enable us to better and Climate Action Committee. wondered if anyone would still want to • Created a “Butterflyway” garden in Osborne Park engage with residents, to connect with

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Dig out the boas and bowties! It’s the Zoom event we’ve all been waiting for: the first Environment and Climate Action Book Awards Gala! GLEBE 1035 Bank St. Mark your calendar for Saturday, 6 March at 7 pm and join our GLEBE 1800 sq ft • 2 level celebrity panelists to dig into some inspiring books with your neighbours. Local luminaries David Chernushenko, Angela Keller-Herzog, Shawn Menard, and Robb Barnes will lead a discussion on our book nominees before we all vote to choose the winners. Check out the nominations on [email protected] the Enviro Crew Facebook page for some lockdown reading ideas, and choose your favourite books in our weekly polls through February. The View My Website: 855.728.9846 613.296.6060 Direct www.BarryHumphrey.ca chosen books will be at the heart of the discussion on March 6. See you then! Over 30 Years of Experience and Knowledge Holly Bickerton lives on Aylmer Avenue with her family and is a member Not intended to solicit Sellers or Buyers on contract. *Savings based on paying a hypothetical 5% commission. of the Enviro Crew of Old Ottawa South. Page 16 The OSCAR l February 2021

Kiltskate in a time of COVID-19 By Don Cummer at 6 am. He came wearing his kilt. He played It’s a tough balance: following the his bagpipes. The morning was cold. public health guidelines to stay indoors He reports that his knees could take it, and getting enough outdoor exercise. but the bagpipes were problematic. Old Ottawa South is blessed with David Johnston has been an recreation facilities that make skating enthusiastic supporter of the Great a favourite way to strike that balance: Canadian Kilt Skate ever since it was outdoor community rinks, private first held on the Rideau Canal in 2015. backyard rinks, a frozen river that even He’s now the Volunteers Director of Joni Mitchell could skate away on. And the Scottish Society of Ottawa (SSO), of course the world’s largest skating which has organized a national kilt rink: the Rideau Canal Skateway. skate for the past seven years. The NCC has announced it will keep Each winter, SSO hosts an OttScot its facilities open (including the canal). Festival that includes, in addition to the Masks will be required while on the kilt skate, a tutored whisky tasting, a Skateway, and the concession stands, Burns supper, and the largest Scottish- firepits and rentals will be closed. style New Year’s celebration in the At the time of this writing (mid- world outside of Scotland, Hogman- January), the City of Ottawa is eh! This year all these events have determining how the Province’s gone ahead – online in most instances. new protocols will affect its outdoor Check out ottscot.ca to see how SSO refrigerated rinks, including did it. Lansdowne Park. The current rules When it came to the annual kilt require skaters to book online for skate, it was clear that things would a 45-minute time slot for their turn have to be done differently. Ottawa’s on the ice. Masks are mandatory community kilt skate was scheduled within 15 metres of the ice, and are for January 16, but as the COVID-19 recommended while skating. Skaters numbers continued to rise after not from the same household must Christmas, Ottawa and each of 8 other keep two metres apart on and off the cities cancelled their community events ice. in favour of a new idea: the Great These rules went into place at 8 am Canadian Kilt Skate – Home Edition. on January 9. But one hearty soul rose The Home Edition includes a contest extra early that morning to get a skate to determine which city will be the in before there was a need to schedule 2021 Kilt Skate Capital of Canada. ice time. He showed up at Lansdowne David Johnston cast his vote for Kilt skater David Johnston at the Lansdowne rink on a cold January 9 at 6:00 am wearing his kilt and playing his bagpipes. PHOTO BY LINDA GALLAGHER JOHNSTON

Ottawa as the Kilt Skate Capital simply community and province. They have by taking a photo and posting it with an opportunity to celebrate Scotland’s these hashtags: contribution to Canada by getting out • #kiltskate2021OTT for some exercise during the lockdown. • #OttScot All they need to do to participate is • #ScotlandIsNow wear some tartan – a kilt is ideal, but not necessary – and post photos or Over that weekend, SSO received video with the hashtags. votes from kiltskaters across Canada Their faces may be masked, but their who added their community’s knees will be bare! abbreviation to #kiltskate2021. Early For more information, see the SSO reports indicate that the townships website or www.kiltskate.com. of Glengarry (North and South) are determined to make a bid for retaining the kiltskate crown by inundating SSO Don Cummer is locked down with with posts from #kiltskate2021GLEN. his wife and stepdaughter in Dublin, The Home Edition of the kiltskate Ireland, and he misses skating on the enables individuals and families to canal. www.kiltskate.com. participate while strictly observing the public health protocols in their

Project Sandbox

The parent committee at Hopewell Avenue Public School are currently raising money to rebuild the kindergarten yard. They’re calling it Project Sandbox, and if you’d like to help out, you can visit their fundraising site at: https://chimp.net/groups/project-s-a-n-d- box-at-hopewell-ave-p-s, or check them out on Twitter at @hopewellsandbox 37 FLORA AT BANK FLORAHALLBREWING.CA The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 17

“Amazing” ski trails - next door By John Dance north of the Queensway. Last winter, a full pilot with weekly grooms of “It was amazing,” commented Old the trails ran from mid-January to Ottawa East resident Jamie Brougham early March, supported by the City of after skiing the new groomed trails Ottawa and Councillors Fleury and on the east side of the Rideau River. Rawlson King, who had replaced Tobi “In areas that I’ve skied on for years Nussbaum who had become CEO of too often with my tracks being the the NCC. only ones, to having real trails is like a In November, Rideau Winter dream come true,” says Brougham. Trail of Ottawa, a not-for-profit, was In early January, the Rideau Winter established and building on the success Trail was extended from the Adàwe of the pilot, extended the trails south of footbridge in Overbrook to a turn point the Queensway. The new trails include just opposite the end of Centennial the “mountain” just to the southeast of Boulevard in Old Ottawa East. The Hurdman LRT station. groomed trail network goes about three Once a week the trails will be Skiers are enjoying the new groomed trails around the Hurdman LRT station kilometres along the river but with groomed and this will be supplemented and along the eastern side of the Rideau River. PHOTO BY JAMIE BROUGHAM numerous loops – especially in the wild with grooming after heavy snowfalls. for classic skiers. A. Macdonald Parkway. area opposite Old Ottawa East – there The trails are for all active winter Peter Nor, a resident of Overbrook, “We are so pleased to support the is a total of about nine kilometers of enthusiasts: skiers, snow-shoers, is the chair of Rideau Winter Trail. expansion of the groomed Rideau trail. walkers and fat-bike riders. The Although he’s a coach at Nakkertok, Winter Trail from the 417 into Capital The initiative is the result of a lot of machine used for grooming flattens a eastern Canada’s largest cross country Ward at Hurdman and Hospital Link hard work from dedicated volunteers wide swath of the trail for skate-skiers ski club, he and his two children road,” says Councillor Shawn Menard. and seed money from the National and others and also creates one track are enjoying having fine cross- “As we all stay close to home to limit country skiing now at their doorstep. the spread of COVID, it’s essential to He encourages people to give the have local spaces to ski, walk, and bike central winter trail a try and consider through the winter. This collaborative contributing to the crowd-funding that community-led effort is an exciting will keep it going and eventually allow addition to the winter trails in our the purchase of a grooming machine. ward, and so important for mental and Currently, grooming is being done by physical health.” the renowned Lafleur firm. Details on the new winter trail can be Nicki Bridgland, one of the trail’s found at: www.rideauwintertrail.ca. founders, said in a CBC article that they drew inspiration from SJAM, the popular 16-kilometer winter trail in the John Dance is a resident of Old west end of the city along the Sir John Ottawa East.

TESKEY - CARTWRIGHT - KEELEY

T H E M A R K E T I S M O V I N G . A R E Y O U ? The new Rideau Winter Trails run a total of nine kilometers and extend from We are a full-service creative, digital, marketing and real the Adàwe Footbridge to opposite the eastern end of Centennial Boulevard in estate agency. Connecting people with homes all over Old Ottawa East. MAP BY PETER NOR Canada, the America's, and the world. We have 30 years Capital Commission and the City focused experience in your area. of Ottawa, and donations from a number of politicians, businesses and Let's get you ready to show. individuals. PLEASE CALL US TO TALK ABOUT YOUR Although the trails do not yet run .. on the opposite side of the river from NEXT MOVE Old Ottawa South, the long-term goal is that the Rideau Winter Trail would run all the way to the Mooney’s Bay ski centre so that OOS residents would have a lovely, lengthy ski trail at their doorstep. Julie Stephanie Jennifer In 2019 Councillors Mathieu 613.859.6599 .. 6 1 3 . 2 9 6 . 6 7 0 8 613.791.6186 Fleury and Tobi Nussbaum and Nicki Bridgland, CEO of Rideau Sports real estate sales & services Centre on Donald Street, initiated a WWW.TESKEY.COM single groomed track along the river E N G E L & V O L K E R S O T T A W A C E N T R A L Page 18 The OSCAR l February 2021

Virtual business lessons: OCSB students create a business and support local

PHOTO BY SAMARA SOMERS By Molly Perkins charity of their choice. In the process, competencies and skills for the future. Once they had successfully collected students experience real-world The business coach is Betty Weil, their seed money, the students began For many students, school looks very business concepts and challenges such who works with the students twice a brainstorming and developing their different this year. The shift to online as acquiring seed money, production, week to help encourage and inspire business. The students landed on an school has come with many challenges marketing, time management, and the students during business meetings. idea for small gift bags containing and changes. Those challenges have profit margins. More importantly, the The social entrepreneurship program a collection of local products. They not stopped the curious minds of a students enhance their skills through introduces the students to the world have created Civitas Smile Bags with group of OCSB virtual grade three meaningful experiential learning far of entrepreneurship and business, a mission to give a bag of happiness students from learning important beyond classroom walls. to the community. Civitas means lessons about business during the The grade three virtual academy community in Latin, the community pandemic. The class is registered in class is composed of students from being the main pillar in the students’ a program initiated by the Ottawa Corpus Christi, St. Brigid and business. Each Civitas Bag contains Catholic School Board called the Assumption Schools. The class is chocolate from Cylie Artisan Social Entrepreneurship Program. taught by Samara Somers, who is Chocolates on Bank Street in Old The program is designed for students, a virtual teacher at Corpus Christi Ottawa South, a hand-made tie-dye teachers and their volunteer business School in the Glebe. She supports mask from local maker MamaDye, mentor to create a product or service the students and ensures they are and a shea butter lip balm from a with all profits being donated to a working hard on developing global local maker Twenty20 Skin Care. The profits earned from each purchase go to charity. The students decided to donate their profits to The Ottawa Mission and Furry Tales Animal Rescue. The OCSB social entrepreneurship giving them a new perspective and program has partnered with Ottawa- understanding of how their community based Shopify who donated stores works while introducing the students to the participating OCSB schools. to entrepreneurial leaders within the Civitas Smile Bags Shopify store community. can be found at https://civitasbags. The students learned about what myshopify.com. The website has comes with being an entrepreneur everything customers need to know and starting a business, as they had about the business including their story, to overcome many challenges in goals, purpose and product. developing their start-up. Just like JUST any other business, the students had SOLD to get seed money. The grade threes Molly Perkins is a volunteer mentor created video pitches to present with the Social Entrepreneurship Program grade three virtual academy Sun & Space in this Westboro Single Home their business to their local school 4-bedroom, 4 bath contemporary construction. 674B EDISON AVENUE | Listed at $1,250,000 principals and school councils. All class. She is also a student in the of the schools were impressed with Bachelor of Commerce program at the University of Ottawa. NEW their efforts and decided to support LISTING their business with start-up funds.

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NOMINATE A SENIOR. SHARE SOME LOVE.

In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, our team at Amica The Glebe would like to help share some love. Do you know a senior in the Glebe or Old Ottawa South area who has touched your heart? Tell us why they’re special and we’ll send them a feel-good gift. Because we could all use a little extra love these days.

Please submit your nominations by February 10 to Sarah at [email protected], LA at [email protected] or call 613-233-6363

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BOOKS Recommended reading: LeapTurkey…and Other Stories by Ken Shipley Reviewed by Stewart Geen paragraphs about a bear wanting your Africa myself, let alone with wife and The croquet stories are pretty funny breakfast, Ken’s stories hold you. kids. But I’ll read about it, wondering too. And by the way, it was a brilliant Another good thing about them is the what dreadful thing will happen next. editorial decision that placed the stories are all short. LeapTurkey is a big If you’ve read this far, you still croquet section at the end rather than at book, but it’s easy to read because each don’t know the main reason for the beginning. tale is so brief. Read a few pages, put reading LeapTurkey. In these days of But I must add that I think it’s a the book aside, go back to it again after COVID-19, you need to spend time bit unfair that with all Ken’s various a few days. You could take months with a book that will make you smile, talents (he can do plumbing, he can be reading LeapTurkey, finding it fresh will even make you laugh out loud. an administrator for CUSO, he can ride and engaging every time you open it, Ken Shipley has a gift for finding the a horse, he can sing, he can win the and be sorry when you’ve come to the pleasurable, the humorous, and the heart of a pretty girl), he can also write last page. hilarious in his eventful life. really well – as if writing was all he There are at least two kinds of And he’s a croquet player. I don’t ever did. Yes, it’s not fair. pleasure available to the reader: know what to think about that, except recognizing something familiar, and that we can be grateful that it was being exposed to something different. Ken’s urge to write a book about Stewart Geen is the author’s cousin Speaking personally, I enjoyed reading croquet that got him started writing, - by marriage – and is a former about Ken’s life on a farm in the 1930s and led to the book we now have. English teacher who lives in Paris, and 1940s. There aren’t many of us Ontario. now who remember that. There were hardships? Wonderful! Wouldn’t do it again, but it was great at the time. Author Ken Shipley has lived in the area for 40 years, 32 On the other hand, there are Ken’s years in an old fixer-upper house on Brown’s Inlet in the experiences camping and canoeing in Glebe and for the past 8 years and counting on beautiful Canada, his two years in Africa with tree-lined Avenue Road in Old Ottawa South. CUSO, along with subsequent travels through various African states. Then For more information visit Ken’s website at: leapturkey. How much suspense does a story need? South America and the Caribbean, then weeblysite.com. To buy Leap Turkey…and Other Stories, Just enough to keep you reading. Ken back in Ottawa renovating an old house contact Carol Shipley by email at [email protected] Shipley knows how to do that. Whether – I’d avoid all of that. For example, or by phone at 613-234-1862. You can also find the book at it’s a page and a half about herding I would never undertake a DIY that Octopus Books (116 - Third Avenue). The book costs $40. turkeys, or three pages about counting required a ladder. In fact, I’d avoid crocodile eggs while crocodiles are one even if it didn’t require a ladder. in the neighbourhood, or just two I wouldn’t travel up the east coast of

laid off. In times like this, what do The asterisk storm that was 2020 creative people do? They create. He started pulling together this By Layabout Hopewell Avenue Public School. unformed idea that he had about His task was to promote the the sh*tstorm that was 2020 and he I’m drawn to creative people; can’t Redblacks, the 67’s, events at TD uploaded it from his head to a file. The help it, that’s just the way it is. May Place and the controversial Lansdowne first draft was completed in the same I present Jon Sinden, self-published project to the public, no easy thing. day. author who has a story to tell. When COVID-19 arrived on the scene Jon looked on-line for an artist to Jon was a Director of Marketing and people stopped attending the illustrate this work and he found the for the Toronto Raptors, Toronto games, like so many others, he became right fit, which happened to be an FC and Toronto Maple Leafs, no expendable; his dismissal came to him illustrator in Florida recently put out of easy task given the win-loss record via a Zoom meeting while working work by the same pandemic. of those teams at the time. He was from home. His work at OSEG would The result is an ABC book, but not a head-hunted by the Ottawa Sports and be taken up by the people that he had children’s book. Nor is it a history with Entertainment Group (OSEG), the hired and trained. footnotes, endnotes and bibliography. developers of the Lansdowne Park Now, imagine Jon sitting before his No, it’s more a humorous read that project here in Ottawa. laptop, absorbing this “Thank you for reminds us of 2020 events that we may The new job brought him to Old your service” video call. He’s left his have forgotten and events that we are Ottawa South where he now lives with great job in Toronto, he’s moved with grateful to have survived. his wife Jess and two kids who attend his family to a new city and now he’s The self-published category is well known as a place where creative ideas go to die, but there are exceptions. Henry David Thoreau’s Walden, for example, became a best-selling philosophical guide for the back-to-the- Author Jon Sinden with his new book. land movement in the sixties and it was launched as a self-published work. That book was a good one and deserved to be published. Bruce Grant, retired Engineer and The Sh*tstorm that was 2020 is Layabout is a resident of Old Ottawa available at Black Squirrel Books and South. Other Layabout stories can be also at Framed just next door and can found at www.oldlayabout.wordpress. be obtained also from online sources. com. Time well wasted. For persons of delicate sensibilities who have difficulty saying sh*t in a bookstore, sh*t storm can be pronounced as sh-asterisk-storm. You can get more info at theshitstormthatwas2020.com The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 21

FILM REVIEW

One Night in Miami Gotham Award for his performance. The acting by Leslie Odom Junior is also exceptionally strong. The film opens in 1963, as a younger Cassius Clay fights a bout in London’s Wembley Stadium. Jim Brown, a running back for the Cleveland Browns, returns to his hometown of St. Simons, Georgia to visit a fan – only to encounter blatant racism. Sam Cooke headlines at the legendary Copacabana, where many in the audience leave world premiere at the 2020 Venice rather than be entertained by a black International Film Festival. Filmed on performer. Segregation and racism is location in New Orleans, Louisiana, alive and well in America. the running time is one hour and fifty- Canadian actor Ali Goree as Cassius Clay in One Night in Miami. In 1964, Cassius Clay defeated four minutes. Sonny Liston to become the I found One Night in Miami to be a Reviewed by Tony Wohlfarth Malcolm X to celebrate Cassius Clay’s heavyweight champion of the world. terrific film. boxing win over Sonny Liston on Malcolm X faced his own challenges The musical score by Terence Regina King is an emerging talent February 25, 1964. The get-together in the Nation of Islam. The party, Blanchard is exceptional. Blanchard in cinema. In 2019, she received an included the legendary singer Sam it turns out, is really a gathering in was nominated for an Academy Academy Award as best supporting Cooke, and celebrated football player Malcolm’s motel room in Miami. Award for best achievement in music actress for her performance in If Beale Jim Brown. The script is based on He challenges the “brothers” to step for Spike Lee’s Black Kkklansman in Street Could Talk. In her acceptance a 2013 play (of the same name) by up and be leaders in the civil rights 2019. speech, King challenged Hollywood Kemp Powers. Powers also wrote the movement. The dialogue is brutal There is considerable Oscar buzz for directors and producers to make more screenplay for the film. yet compelling. The foursome argues One Night in Miami. The nominations films featuring African Americans. One Night in Miami features an about what it takes to be a black leader. for the 2021 Academy Awards come King took up her own challenge in exceptional cast. Malcolm X is played Clearly Malcolm has his own agenda. out on March 15 and the awards her directorial debut: One Night in by Kingsley Ben-Adir, Cassius Clay I enjoyed the portrayal of Malcolm X, ceremony is scheduled to take place on Miami, which is currently streaming on (Mohammed Ali) is performed by Eli who was tragically assassinated in New April 25. Amazon Prime. Goree, Jim Brown by Aldis Hodge and York City the next year. One Night in Miami is a fictionalized Sam Cooke by Leslie Odom Junior. Ali Goree is a Canadian actor (born account of a “party” hosted by Ben-Adir won a breakthrough acting in Halifax). He gained forty pounds, Tony Wohlfarth is an Ottawa-based lifted weights and trained with a boxing freelance film writer. coach to play the role of Ali. One Night in Miami had its Film-lovers unite to support local business: Glebe Video International

Glebe International Video, upstairs at 779 Bank St. PHOTO BY BRENDAN MCCOY By Jennifer Veitch that enable great cities to provide “something for everybody” in the Jane BROKER OF RECORD Jacobs sense of a great city. These Film lovers in central Ottawa know SALES REPRESENTATIVES that Glebe Video International is an small stores are irreplaceable parts of 25 YEARS Rob Marland irreplaceable gem, the place where our community, but without our direct OF FOCUSED one can find thousands of films help they will not be there for us when Jane Forsyth EXCELLENCE from around the world and through this ordeal is over. Myha Ewart the decades – films no streaming A group of neighbours have banded Karen Gibson IN REAL ESTATE service offers. The store has over together to help support Glebe Haidyn Picco TOP 1% FOR ROYAL LEPAGE IN CANADA* 18,000 videos and continues to add Video International in this hour of to its collection, including many need. We’re inspired by something much larger than the immediate international and independent titles. *Based on closed and collected earnings With the rise of streaming services, pandemic: our sense of how much our of course it’s true that the competition communities lose when these sorts of for this niche store is stiff. However, unique and cherished stores, many of the pandemic and its repeated which have been with us for decades, MARLAND TEAM ROB MARLAND - BROKER OF RECORD lockdowns poses an unexpected are forced to close. threat. Many small stores don’t qualify You can help too! Please visit www. for government aid because they are gofundme.com/f/support-glebe-video- too small to meet the threshold for international 613.238.2801 | robmarland.com assistance. This is a problem because 165 Pretoria Ave. Ottawa, ON K1S 1X1 it is these tiny retail opportunities Jennifer Veitch is a resident of Old Ottawa South. Page 22 The OSCAR l February 2021

OTTAWA SOUTH COMMITTEE FOR REFUGEE SUPPORT Comfort and joy: Refugee family reunited on Christmas Eve By Cindy May country. Guido has been closely connected Some Christmas wishes really do come with Trinity Anglican Church true. For the last four years Guido throughout his time in Ottawa. The Niyokwizigira, who was forced to flee church has assisted him in both the eruption of violence in his native practical ways (helping with much Burundi, has been living and working needed items such as winter boots) and in Ottawa while waiting and praying the spiritual/emotional aspects of living for his family to be granted refugee by opening their hearts and community status in Canada. His hopes of being to him and his family. Under the reunited with his wife and two sons leadership of Reverend Arran Thorpe, came true this past Christmas Eve. The Trinity also actively supported Guido’s reunion with his family was especially efforts to obtain visas for his family joyous; it was his first time meeting his to allow them to come to Canada. youngest son Caleb as he was forced to Reverend Thorpe helped to connect flee before his birth. Guido with organizations in his field. Having lived, worked, and Guido is a trained economist. He was volunteered in Ottawa for the last four employed as a lecturer in economics at years, Guido is well prepared to help the public university in Burundi and he his family settle into their new home. has 10 years of experience in project Despite the additional hardship of evaluation/management. His goal is to dealing with COVID-19, he has wasted work for the Canadian government in no time in moving forward with laying the area of international development. the groundwork for his family’s future. In addition to working to earn enough He is working on finding language to sustain himself and his family, he training for his wife Marie-Claire and is also a volunteer at the Lowertown his oldest son Kenny, whose goal is to Community Resource Center. study computer engineering. Marie- Once receiving very last minute Claire is seeking to secure a volunteer word that Guido’s family had been position at their local community granted Canadian visas, Reverend centre. She is a trained accountant Thorpe called upon his congregation who hopes to secure employment in at Trinity Anglican and The Ottawa her field as soon as possible. As native South Committee for Refugee Support Burundians, the family’s first language (OSCRS) to help prepare a home is French, which will be of benefit to for the family. Good quality donated Marie-Claire, Guido and Caleb Niyokwizigira. PHOTO BY KENNY NIYOKWIZIGIRA them here in our bilingual city and furniture was offered and a group of volunteers came together to move the furniture and to help set up the family’s of refugee sponsorship. Currently, home. A clothing/household item drive OSCRS is actively working to help was held and many generous donations bring a Congolese refugee family Eggbakes were received and delivered to the waiting in South Africa. The ongoing Whole Egg family. Guido wishes to extend his need to advocate and raise desperately Patties heartfelt appreciation for the donations needed funds continues unabated. and assistance. He has said many times Donations are welcome. If you would that he “ cannot find enough words of like to contribute please write a cheque thanks.” He is an inspirational person. to Trinity Anglican Church and mark Organic Pasta Sauce 99 We are fortunate to have him and his it for refugee support. Cheques can be 9 Roasted Garlic, Red Pepper, family in our community. sent to 1230 Bank St., Ottawa, K1S Plain, Garden Vegetable, 9 Tomato Basil, Tuscan Veg, ea Spinach, or Sausage,190g ea Greens & Pepperoncini 680ml6 Trinity Anglican Church works in 3Y3 to receive a tax receipt. OSCRS 3 direct partnership with The Ottawa can also be found on Canada Helps. South Committee for Refugee www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/ Support and other community groups trinity-anglican-church Dry ready to eat: supporting refugees. Over the last Salami seven years, Trinity has helped to Calabrese, Parma sponsor 46 refugees and to raise over Cindy May is a resident of Old & Toscano $350,000 to help cover the basic costs Ottawa South and a member of 225g OSCRS. 99 99 CauliflowerCauliflower or BBeetrooteetro ea 9 ea Tortillas 430gr 4

Meat Lasagna 1lb11llb OrganicO Winter Radishes 1.5lb Organic Parsnips Frozen 2.27 kg 9 Life Smart 9 99 99 Vegetable Lasagna ea 7 ea 5 ea Frozen 2.27 kg 10 754 Bank Street (613) 232-9466 Monday to Friday 8:00am - 10:00pm Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm Sunday 9:00am - 8:00pm www.metroglebe.com The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 23

OTTAWA TENNIS AND LAWN BOWLING CLUB Newcomers welcomed at the OTLBC By Janet Uren more social context of round robins, bringing a lot of people together to Mariane Arrage and Tracy Turnbull meet and play. “Colin also introduced are two relatively new members of me to some fabulous players who the Ottawa Tennis and Lawn Bowling shared my mindset – fun, laugh-our- Club (OTLBC). Mariane joined five heads-off tennis – and Maria and years ago and Tracy in 2018. Morgan and all the people on the Tracy was aware of the club long management side made it easy too. You before she joined. As a student at can contact all sorts of folks through Carleton University, she used to walk the email and phone numbers that the through Brewer Park on her way home. club keeps.” “It reminded me of summer camp from The club also has a New Members my childhood, and I always yearned to Day, where long-time members greet go in.” the new arrivals, show them around In fact, Tracy was already a tennis and answer questions. “These members fan, if not a player. She had travelled are like ambassadors. They welcomed to many tournaments and had been me and invited me to play with them,” “ogling” Björn Borg for years. “I says Mariane. figured it would be awesome to watch Since joining the club, Mariane has local tennis from the balcony of the become an ambassador in her own Mariane with two of the club’s welcoming ambassadors. club and have lunch away from the right, bringing some of her friends and PHOTO BY MORGAN JOHNSON-DUGAY hustle and bustle.” In 2018 – after family on board. “My husband is a quitting smoking and feeling that she hockey player. He didn’t want to play opportunity there to see what an sport of tennis, to survive for future needed to get in shape – she took the tennis, but this year with COVID-19, excellent job Maria and her team are generations,” says Mariane. “This is plunge, literally. “I started with a pool there was no hockey, so he took up doing and how committed they are such a wonderful place to be outdoors, membership because I had not touched tennis instead. Now he is committed, to making sure that the members are to be active. I’m inspired to see such a racket in 30 years or so. Then I took really passionate,” says Mariane, “and happy and safe, especially during the diversity at our club – ranging from a bunch of beginners’ clinics. I loved has already enrolled for next year. pandemic, when they introduced a youth, students, professionals and Colin McAlpin, the club pro, and the Hockey is coming back, but he says he really great online booking system.” retirees – and to see how playing tennis way he embraced new players. In has to find time for tennis as well.” Mariane and Tracy are both builds valuable connections, keeps all 2019, I became a full-fledged tennis In Tracy’s case, it is horseback riding supporters of the club’s current of us connected and helps us to stay member.” that competes for time, and she divides restoration project, which is working healthy!” In Mariane’s case, she was already her recreational life between the club towards renovation of the OTLBC’s a tennis player when a friend and a farm where she keeps her horse. century-old clubhouse in time for recommended OTLBC to her. She These are the two pillars, she says, of a the building’s centennial in 2023. Janet Uren is a professional writer was attracted partly because of the happy, healthy lifestyle. “I’ve become “I want the building, but also the living in Ottawa. club’s high-quality clay courts – the much more confident in my game club has more such courts than any in the last two years, and I am a lot club in Canada – and partly because healthier too!” of convenience, as she lives just 10 Tracy has found a new social life minutes from the club. That is why she at the club, and, as well as the tennis decided to try OTLBC; she has stayed lessons, clinics and games, has thrown mostly because of the warm welcome herself into all kinds of activities – the she was given. end-of-the-year fashion show, for “People are so friendly,” says example, the silent auction and lunch Mariane, and she got involved right or dinner on the verandah. away in a system of “ladders.” As for Mariane, when not on the “Depending on your level,” Mariane court, she is an active volunteer. The explains, “you work through a list of OTLBC has professional managers players at the same level over a couple in place, working under Executive of weeks. If you win, you move up Director Maria Pierre-Noel. It also and get to meet new people. It’s great depends, however, on volunteer at first for someone who doesn’t know services provided by engaged anyone.” members. In just five years, Mariane For Tracy, the “ladders” were not her has become one of these, even serving “thing.” She preferred lessons and the on the board of directors. “I had an

Let’s support our friends and neighbours by continuing to buy local! Our community’s shops and restaurants need our help during these tough times, so let’s be there for them however we can.

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Tracy Turnbull celebrating the conclusion a safe and fun 2020 season. ©2021 Engel & Völkers Ottawa Central, Brokerage. Each brokerage independently owned & operated. Dominique Milne, Broker. Lyne Burton, Sales Representative. PHOTO BY MORGAN JOHNSON-DUGAY Page 24 The OSCAR l February 2021

REACHING SENIORS IN OLD OTTAWA SOUTH Celebrate Black History Month with RSOOS at ‘Seniors in Conversation’ By Paige Kahkonen We are also planning on hosting • Friday Feb. 5th – Your the community to consider making future speakers such as, a dietician, suggestions for ‘Seniors in a donation to help us ensure the Are you a senior living in Ottawa who a travel writer, a local MP, an MPP, Conversation’ longevity of the program, and continue feels isolated during this pandemic? a Senator and an Elder from the • Friday Feb. 19th – Suggestions for these weekly conversations. If you Do you want to make new friends Indigenous community. Please let us online games wish to make a donation to RSOOS, and meet more people in your know if these topics are of interest to • Friday Mar. 5th – Sharing your please do so by going to: www. community? Do you want to become you! personal positive and negative trinityottawa.ca/give more comfortable using Zoom and Reaching Seniors in Old Ottawa experiences of living through the If you are interested in becoming technology? Are you interested in South (RSOOS) is also continuing to Pandemic included in this service or to learning about new topics and hearing hold their bi-weekly Friday Coffee • Friday Mar. 19th – Liam Graham- participate in these ‘conversations’ from experts in their field? Conversations, which will take place Morton on Tuesdays or our bi-weekly Friday If you said yes to any of these, join on February 5th, and February 19th • Friday April 2nd – Books on your Conversations, please email seniors@ us at ‘Seniors in Conversation’ on from 2:30-3:30 pm. This series does bedside table trinityottawa.ca or call 613-733- 7536. Tuesday mornings. not require any registration! You can • Friday April 16th – Your You can also find us on Facebook, ‘Seniors in Conversation’ is an find the link for this by emailing us at gardening tips at @HealthyAgeingOS. We can also Interactive Speaker Series, encouraging [email protected], or you can provide you with a link to Connected older adults to establish an online find it on our Facebook page, RSOOS is made possible by ‘New Canadians to help you Zoom. presence, to become more comfortable @HealthyAgeingOS. Horizons for Seniors’ a grant program using Zoom while staying connected established by the federal government. Paige Kahkonen is a Carleton during isolation. Our upcoming themes for our Friday To continue the program, we are Journalism student who does Each ‘conversation’ takes place on Coffee Conversations are as follows: asking participants and members of communications for RSOOS. Tuesday morning from 10:15 am- 11:30 am, and has a variety of guest speakers who lead each session, and discuss a variety of topics tailored to the participants. The program is available for anyone Seniors in Conversation Tuesday 10:15 am-11:30 am interested, just a registration via email • Tuesday Feb. 2nd - Dr. Pamela Walker on women in the civil rights to [email protected] to receive the Zoom link each week. movement Now is the perfect time to sign up and check out our program, as we • Tuesday Feb. 9th – Tatanisha Riggan on anti-racism and strategies in celebrate Black History Month and hear a variety of speakers. becoming allies Our upcoming Tuesday schedule is as follows: • Tuesday Feb.16th – An Elvis entertainer to celebrate Valentine’s Day • Tuesday Feb. 2nd - Dr. Pamela Walker, a Carleton University • Tuesday Feb. 23rd - TBD Professor, to speak on women in the civil rights movement; Rosa Parks and her impact and other Friday Coffee Conversations 2:30-3:30 pm important women. • Tuesday Feb. 9th – Tatanisha • Friday Feb. 5th – Your suggestions for ‘Seniors in Conversation’ Riggan to talk about anti-racism • Friday Feb. 19th – Suggestions for online games and strategies in becoming allies • Tuesday Feb.16th – An Elvis entertainer to celebrate Valentine’s Get more information and the link by emailing: [email protected], Day call 613-733- 7536 or see the Facebook page at: @HealthyAgeingOS • Tuesday Feb. 23rd - TBD • Tuesday Mar. 2nd - TBD • Tuesday Mar. 16th - St. Patrick’s To make a donation to RSOOS go to: www.trinityottawa.ca/give Day Party with Spencer Scharff

Please wear a mask and stay safe! Joel Harden MPP, Ottawa Centre joelharden.ca 109 Catherine St. Ottawa, ON. K2P 2M8 [email protected] 613-722-6414 The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 25

TASTY TIDBITS FROM TRILLIUM BAKERY For the love of chocolate By Jocelyn LeRoy been mining for the hidden gifts and savoured and demolished. I love these Controlling your consumption of magic moments during the COVID-19 serendipitous chocolate moments. chocolate can be really good for your One of the greatest treasures ever lockdown again. But not wanting to be I always keep chocolate in my canoe character. The bakery is an excellent discovered was the bean of the tree insensitive to those who have suffered bailer kit, just in case. place to hone your willpower. Cutting, Theobroma cacao, the original source the loss of loved ones to the virus, It is my personal belief that a little measuring, stirring chocolate everyday of chocolate. lost jobs, and closure of businesses. chocolate treat now and then is not – walking past shelves of brownies Intense in taste, smooth in texture, Anxiety for the trouble in the US and only okay, but desirable. It really is a and cookies, you simply keep saying, elegant to behold, subtly perfumed Canada, and Ottawa’s nasty numbers, quintessential indulgence. It is good for “Later!” chocolate is a rich source of sensory is rampant. Even a walk in the park is your health too, one slim little square Jumpstarting the day with a little pleasure. Almost everyone adores no longer the refuge it was a few weeks per day. chocolate swirled into your coffee, chocolate as a sublime treat and ago. Despair prevails worldwide. Taking up the challenge, having yoghurt or just straight up to make exquisite indulgence. Translated from Whimsical chocolate dreams and the slashed my chocolate intake by about some mornings beautiful – it does Greek, theobroma means “food of the glorification of chocolate, pale in the ninety percent, my gratitude for it and wonders for morale. gods.” face of the formidable challenges propensity for thinking about it has Going out, a rare occurrence Over the centuries chocolate has of these perilous times. Yet, truth be deepened. The melting of chocolate these days, I know my home has its been consumed by all levels of society told, chocolate has become even more in the mouth produces exquisite chocolate treasures awaiting my return. in many nations and cultures. Its important. Think of it as an essential sensations every time, no matter how Valentine’s Day is near. Remember journey can be traced from the Maya in for survival. little you allow yourself. It never lets to give yourself a little treat. Perhaps Central America to Spain and the rest Writing a little on the rewards of you down. a note of truffles, or a moment – just of Europe, and back across the Atlantic. paying attention to those lovely little My mother always said, “chocolate a jiffy of chocolate happiness – In a rarefied world of fine chocolate, holiday parcels wrapped in foil can’t creates happiness.” This became an along with a heartwarming mug of there is a proper way to taste it. be a bad thing can it? Even though expectation that was satisfied with homemade hot chocolate. Thank you Sweetness and flavouring may vary chocolate can wreak havoc with one’s every bite. Theobroma! from country to country, but what best intentions and self-discipline. As chef Julia Child said of her unites them is that smooth sensuous As I write this, my brother is Chocolate and the mind chocolate mousse recipe: “It’s a sin, melt in the mouth quality that is so munching on chocolate, and he tells The French dietary expert Michelle wickedly rich and fattening, but every seductive and so pointless to resist. me it isn’t even his. (The love of Montigmac advises, “Be sure to limit spoonful is glory.” This sensation can lead us into the chocolate runs in the family.) He keeps yourself as chocolate is of an addictive realms of craving and addiction, stashes of high quality chocolate bars nature. To control your chocoholism, Jocelyn LeRoy is the owner of pleasure and passion; even nutrition! well protected from the mice, in our drink a tall glass of water.” Yeah right. Algonquin park cabin. He has a habit This has never been proven effective. Trillium Bakery in Old Ottawa South since 1980. My experience with chocolate of whipping out two bars when least Chocolate is a downfall, delight, joy, Like a lot of people, I am addicted expected. “Which one should we eat love, ecstasy. It can make us guilty, to chocolate, or at least the thought first?” he says. Being so inconvenient healthy, even chic. It can be with you of it. These last few months I have to re-hide the second one, it too, gets every single moment, pretend or not.

Recipe Mexican Hot Chocolate The City of Ottawa is reviewing its Serves 4 Winter Maintenance Quality Standards, Ingredients with a focus on: 4 cups milk • Residential roads • Cycling pathways 1 cinnamon stick • Multi-use pathways • Sidewalks 2 whole cloves 4 ounces dark chocolate chopped into small pieces 2 or 3 drops of almond extract. Virtual consultations Survey available January 25, 26, 27 and 28 January 18 to February 19 Directions 1. Heat the milk (or your choice of milk substitute) gently with the spices until almost boiling. Join the discussion 2. Stir in the chocolate over medium heat until at engage.ottawa.ca/wmqs melted. 2020-094_03 3. Strain into a blender, add almond extract, whiz for 30 seconds until frothy, or whisk vigorously. 4. Pour into warmed, heatproof glasses or mugs, and serve immediately.

Sip with Trillium’s double chocolate cookies or rum balls for an in-from-the-cold dose of happiness. Accessible formats and communication supports Follow with a nap. Wake refreshed and inspired. are available, upon request. Page 26 The OSCAR l February 2021

MP’S REPORT Providing support to businesses and individuals throughout the pandemic By Catherine McKenna, MP get us through these hard times. In employed or are not eligible for speaking with business owners, local Employment Insurance. Going into the new year with added organizations and many constituents, I • Canada Recovery Caregiver restrictions in Ontario and beyond has hear your frustration and I know how Benefit (CRCB): Income support not been easy, but has been necessary. challenging this has been. if you must stop work to care for Our COVID-19 case numbers in Our federal government programs dependents due to closures, high Ottawa spiked significantly over are available to provide support to risk and caregiver availability. the holidays and it is critical that businesses and individuals throughout • Canada Recovery Sickness we continue to follow public health the pandemic. Benefit (CRSB): up to two weeks constituency office at 613-946-8682 directives and stay home. of support if you are sick or must or email us at Catherine.McKenna@ In hopeful news, vaccines are being Federal Government Programs: self-isolate due to COVID-19. parl.gc.ca. My office continues to be administered in Ottawa Centre to • Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy • Please find more information on virtually open and my staff is ready to long-term health care residents and (CEWS): Maximum subsidy rate these programs at: Canada.ca/ help. essential public health workers, with a of 75% and it is extended until Coronavirus. As we reflect on the past year, I want total of 80 million doses arriving over June 2021 to thank all the healthcare professionals the coming months. Our government • Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy Provincial Government Programs: and essential workers, the non-profit is focused on supporting provinces (CERS): Rent and mortgage • Ontario Small Business Support organizations and the volunteers – who and territories so they can distribute support until June 2021. Grant: $10,000-$20,000 grant continue to work tirelessly during these vaccines as quickly as possible Additionally, eligible businesses which will help small businesses this unprecedented time. I know our to protect Canadians. As the Prime restricted by a mandatory public who must close or significantly community will continue to come Minister has said, we are on track to health order can receive an restrict services due to Province together to help those in need. give every Canadian who wants a additional 25% of rent support wide Shutdown. Let’s remember that we need to vaccine to receive one by September. through the Lockdown Support. • Rebates for PPE, property taxes take care of our mental health. It’s While this is good news, additional • Canada Emergency Business or energy bills: The province incredibly hard, and many of us are vaccines won’t help anyone who Account (CEBA): Loan of will provide grants for eligible struggling. Check in with your loved contracts COVID-19 now. Until $60,000 in which $20,000 is businesses to help cover the cost ones, call or Zoom a friend, go for everyone is protected from this virus, forgivable if paid before Dec 31, of personal protective equipment a walk. Also, know that there are we need to continue to follow public 2021. and property taxes and energy resources available in Ottawa Centre health advice, including wearing • Regional Recovery Relief Fund bills. such as the Distress Centre, a 24/7 help masks, downloading the COVID (RRRF): provides liquidity in • Main Street Relief Grant: will line you can reach at 613-238-3311. Alert app – and stay home whenever the form of loans for businesses help small businesses with 2-9 Let’s take it day by day. We will possible. I know this isn’t easy, but we unable to access relief benefits. employees with the cost of PPE. meet these challenges with resilience, will get through this. • Employment Insurance (EI): kindness and by working together to Throughout the pandemic, the program has changed to support Find out more about these programs support each other and our community. federal government listened to more Canadians through the at: covid-19.ontario.ca There is a more hopeful future coming Canadians. We developed programs pandemic. If you need assistance in accessing and remember that we’re in this to support businesses, workers, • Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB): any of these programs or need together. individuals and various sectors to Income support if you are self- further information, please call my

OPINION With population ageing is it time for nurse-practitioner led clinics? By Terrance Hunsley low-income people but are open to Led Clinics. There appear to be about more heavily in Nurse Practitioner-Led the public in their catchment area. twenty-five in the province. These Clinics. Many of the services provided As the baby boom retires, their doctors However, the Centretown Community clinics provide a wide range of primary by doctors can be effectively provided are also retiring. People who are used Health Centre is not unique in its care, with the nurse practitioners by nurse practitioners. They could to having a general practitioner who website notice that its primary care consulting with physicians or other also ensure continuity of care across gets to know them and their health service is at capacity. Also indicative specialists when they need to. They a variety of service needs, including issues, are having problems. And it is is its advice to disappointed residents, also provide and coordinate a range of home and community care. Moreover, happening at a time of their life that to try the provincial website intended other health services. if seniors are to live independently for a they need more health care, more to help people find a new family The province has also been trying longer time, they need an age-friendly wholistic care, more continuity. doctor. It suggests to keep checking it for many years to shift the bulk of community around them. These clinics But new doctors are tending to set every month or so. So it is clearly not continuing care for seniors from would fit nicely into that role. It would up in the suburbs, or in walk-in clinics meeting the need. hospitals and long-term care homes, to be nice to have one in OOS. Seniors where they maximize their income on The province has not established new serve as many as possible in their own Watch of Old Ottawa South (SWOOS) a fee-for-service basis. Some clinics community health centres for the past homes and communities. Canada is is exploring that possibility and would will only address one ailment per visit, ten years, partly because some doctors behind most of the OECD countries in like to hear from anyone who is making wholistic health care a myth. don’t want to be on salary. And since this regard. The main reason for being interested. Contact SWOOS at: These clinics do not always have your these centres provide their clients a behind is a great reluctance to spend [email protected] health records, nor maintain continuity wider range of services, they tend to money. Canada spends about 1.3% of of care provider. All of which makes have higher administrative overhead GDP on long-term care, compared to Terrance Hunsley is a resident of for expensive and ineffective care. and thus are not considered a cheaper an OECD average of about 1.75% (and Old Ottawa South and a member of In Ontario, there are a few alternative. (There is little evaluation over 3% in some countries). the SWOOS Housing Committee. He community health centres which of costs compared to overall health So many of us are having problems is the editor of SocialCanada.org, a provide a wide range of services. Their outcomes.) finding a new doctor. And seniors need Senior Fellow of The Pearson Centre doctors are on salary and they have But tentatively, over the past ten more access to service than they did and author of the report, A National other associated health professionals. years and often in areas where it is hard when younger. They also need a wider Goal for Care in Canada. They often serve marginalized and to get doctors to live, Ontario has been range of support services. Perhaps it experimenting with Nurse Practitioner- would be wise for Ontario to invest The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 27

MPP’S REPORT A government at sea: where is Premier Ford on long-term care? By Joel Harden, MPP Sheila Yakovishin, a Personal short, still lacking appropriate PPE, Support Worker from Windsor, Ontario and terrified of losing their lives or On December 9, the Ford government (with over 30 years seniority) died infecting their families. recessed the Legislature until February three days ago from COVID-19 at a What explains this situation? To 16, 2021. for-profit LTC home. This happened me, it is the cozy relationship between As 2021 approached, one could as Ontario sits on tens of thousands of for-profit LTC homes and the Ford identify a sense of hope and possibility. COVID-19 vaccines. government. At least five top Ford Vaccines were arriving, and people Where is the Ford government? Dr. staffers have worked as lobbyists for could imagine a post COVID-19 Vivian Stamatopolous, one of Ontario’s private LTC in recent months. Clearly, refused to guarantee paid sick leave, future. LTC experts, likens the Tendercare the piper is calling the tune. meaning that precarious workers face But in a short time, the picture has outbreak to a “downed plane,” We can’t let Premier Ford muddle his financial pressure to keep working dramatically changed. Instead, we but there has been no government way through this moment. even when ill. see evidence of a government at sea response. We hear brief expressions of We must demand better for seniors, We need a lockdown that helps – in literal terms for one of its former concern, but nothing by way of focused people with disabilities, and workers in people lock down safely. It’s not cabinet ministers. They are missing action. LTC. On the evening of January 25th, enough to simply tell people to in action when people need them the This is a “call in the military” we hosted a virtual town hall about the stay home. The government needs most. moment, but we see no urgency from state of LTC, and what must be done to provide working folks with the COVID-19 cases have now reached the Premier’s Office. Instead, we’ve to change it. A full video of the event is supports they need to do so. all-time highs in Ontario, and forty seen astounding decisions in the wrong available for viewing on our Facebook There were also no new per cent of long-term care (LTC) direction. page. commitments accompanying the state homes are in outbreak. The rollout and We learned that the Ford government of emergency to address the outbreaks distribution of COVID-19 vaccines has is withholding information from Stay-at-home order lacks supports in LTC. This is a crisis, and it must be been ham-fisted at best, or damaging at its hand-picked Long-Term Care The Ford government declared a treated like one. We need 10,000 more worst. Commission, and awarding former second state of emergency and issued personal support workers, infection Over 70 seniors have recently died Premier Mike Harris – widely seen a “stay-at-home” order that took control and prevention experts in every at Tendercare, a for-profit LTC home as the architect of profiteering in LTC effect on January 14. In doing so, nursing home, and assistance from the in Scarborough. On January 3, I heard – with the Order of Ontario for 2020. they ignored the advice of their own Canadian Armed Forces. the searing testimony of Reed Zhao This beggars belief. public health experts who warned that who lost his grandmother the previous LTC residents are dying, and some such measures would be less effective day at Tendercare, who complained of are still in wards with three or four to without new supports for people. being refused water. a room. LTC workers are still working Most notably, Premier Ford has

MAYOR’S REPORT City taking concrete action against racism By Jim Watson, Mayor in the workplace. on six priority areas: employment This can only end with sustained, equity, equity in governance, housing, In the past year, we have not only concrete action. Municipalities have a economic development, health been challenged by the COVID-19 role to play and that is why I supported outcomes and youth development. pandemic, but we have also the creation of the Anti-Racism Since the establishment of the seen the issues of racism and the Secretariat. Under the leadership of Secretariat in 2020, some of the disproportionate impacts of systemic Councillor Rawlson King, who has progress made by the City includes: inequity come into sharp focus, both at become the first Council Liaison • Initiating the creation of an Anti- home and abroad. for Anti-Racism and Ethnocultural Racism Advisory Table. The existence and complexity of Relations Initiatives, we are listening • Launching a public awareness place to live for all residents. Change systemic discrimination must be and acknowledging issues. social media campaign to is necessary in all our public service acknowledged by our institutions as I am also pleased that Ms. Yusra condemn anti-Asian racism. institutions. If we remain steadfast well as by us as individuals if we are Osman was hired as the City’s first • Launching the gender and race in our resolve, we can create a more going to effectively address these Anti-Racism Specialist to advance equity data baseline study together inclusive and responsive community issues head on. It starts with stating this work from within and across with the Women and Gender that is welcoming for all residents. uncomfortable truths. Indigenous departments. I have every confidence Equity Specialist. Only together, can we build a more Peoples, Black, Asian and other that Ms. Osman will advance the • Creating the “Coping with Racial equitable community for all residents racialized populations in Ottawa important work needed, including work Stress” pilot project for youth with of Ottawa. have disproportionately been, and that has been underway through the the Neighbourhood Ambassador For more information about the Anti- continue to be, the victims of violence, Somali Community Table since 2016. Program. Racism Secretariat, please visit: www. racist graffiti, racial slurs, excluded The secretariat will help ensure engage.ottawa.ca/anti-racism-and- from activities and employment that an anti-racist lens is applied As the Mayor of Ottawa, I remain ethnocultural-relations-initiatives opportunities and discriminated against to city policies, with an emphasis committed to making our city a better

ADVERTISE IN THE OSCAR contact ARI [email protected] Page 28 The OSCAR l February 2021

CARLETON CORNER Even if you are not venturing far from Board. Governors are recruited based Sucharov shows what a search for school, the workshops introduce home these days, Carleton University upon their demonstrated ability, political and emotional home looks students to the creative culture of offers programs that will help you stay experience and skills sets. This year, like. Sucharov suffered from childhood design studio. mentally and physically fit throughout the Board is seeking Community-at- phobias triggered by her parents’ the winter. Large candidates with knowledge in: divorce, and she sought emotional • LAB 101 – July 5 to July 9. • Capital planning, engineering and refuge in Jewish summer camp. But Emphasis on human scale, Lifelong learning at Carleton facilities management three years spent living in Israel multi-media drawing techniques, University • Accounting and finance (CPA in her 20s shook her to her core. architectural conventions, and Let the online, interactive, and designation) Ultimately, encounters with colleagues, physical modeling. affordable non-credit lectures and • Community leadership students, friends and lovers force her • LAB 102 – July 12 to workshops at Carleton University to confront what it means to be able 16. Emphasis on digital open a window into a new or Application deadline is Feb. 17, to write, advocate and teach about representation: Rhino 3D, already beloved topic! Our early 2021. More information can be found Israel/Palestine in a way that balances Illustrator, Photoshop, and spring program begins mid-March; at: carleton.ca/community-at-large-rep affirmation with authenticity. InDesign. registration opens mid-February. Date: February 25, 2021 from 7 p.m. • LAB 103 – July 19 to 23. Topics include rock music from 1951 Science Café to 8:30 p.m. on Zoom. Registration: Emphasis on diagrams and through 1966, pre-Raphaelite art, Explore science through Carleton carleton.ca/fpa/cu-events/borders-and- abstract architectural thinking, political current events commentary, University’s popular Science Café belonging-a-memoir/ urban space, and portfolio and beliefs about death and afterlife in series! All are welcome to attend via preparation workshops. Eastern traditions. You can also join Zoom webinar for a lively discussion Sprott Professional MBA Program Julian Armour for “A Voyage Through around a scientific issue of the day. Be The Sprott Professional MBA Information: architecture.carleton. Classical Music.” prepared to be informed, engaged and program is designed for working ca/non-degree-programs/imagine- The online ‘front row seat’ enables even amused, as our researchers share professionals with a minimum of architecture better viewing and hearing, surprising their scientific discoveries with you. five years of relevant professional those initially unsure about online On Feb. 10, don’t miss MicroRNA: experience who wish to continue in Carleton Athletics learning: “I like the format and feel it Can We Use Natural Gene Silencers to their careers while completing their Our athletics department will offer is every bit as successful as attending a Solve Human Problems? presented by degree. fitness classes and winter programs in real lecture. It is easy and there are no Biology PhD candidate Hanane Hadj- Structured in an intensive executive accordance with provincial guidelines. hassles with parking!” Moussa. For more information and format over 16 months, with Friday We invite you to visit our website See details, register, read to register, visit our website: science. and Saturday courses on alternating for up-to-date information: athletics. participants’ feedback about topics and carleton.ca/events/science-cafe weekends, the Professional MBA carleton.ca. format, join our mailing list, and buy program is designed to let you balance gift certificates through the Learning in Author Meets Readers life and work. For additional details Retirement (LinR) program: carleton. Author Meets Readers invites and webinar dates, we welcome you to Carleton Corner is written by ca/linr, 613-520-3699. Our program is the community to join an informal visit sprott.carleton.ca/mba. Carleton University’s Department open to all adults. discussion on books published by of University Communications. As members of the university’s Faculty Imagine Architecture your community university, Carleton Carleton University Board seeking of Public Affairs. February’s book Imagine Architecture is a summer has many exciting events of interest community-at-large members is Border and Belonging: A Memoir program for grade 10-12 students to Old Ottawa South. For more Carleton University’s Board of by Political Science Professor Mira interested in architecture, design, information about upcoming events, Governors is seeking two community- Sucharov. and building a portfolio. Taught by please go to carleton.ca/events. at-large members to serve on the In this gripping and honest memoir, instructors from Carleton’s architecture

The other side of clutter – reclaiming your dream By Martha Tobin homes. There are a few reasons for you think it’s going to take. Sorting to you. Getting rid of these items is this: we are loath to part with items through inherited items is emotional not a sign that you loved that person Ellen’s dream of a basement meditation that were beloved by someone who has and takes longer than expected. any less. In fact, keeping only a few space and workout room had been on passed away. Even though other family cherished items will make those hold for years because of all the dusty members don’t want these items, we 2. Boxes and bags treasures more meaningful and boxes that occupied that space. The don’t want to break the generational Have boxes and bags ready for you’ll be able to display them (vs. in boxes contained family heirlooms chain and discard them, and the time labelling with these categories: boxes in your basement). Note: save that she had inherited after her parents and effort required to determine if we SELL, DONATE, RECYCLE, photos, slides, cards and documents died. The seemingly monumental task should sell, donate, recycle or trash TRASH, SOMEWHERE ELSE till last. (See number 7) of tackling these ancestral treasures these items overwhelms us. and TO SOMEONE ELSE. Also weighed her down and made her dream Here are a few tips and tricks that have a box for PHOTOS and 5. Put it in its place impossible. might help: another for DOCUMENTS. Take the filled boxes and/or bags Ellen’s story is not unique. As it labelled for DONATION and TO turns out, inherited items are one of 1. Time 3. Put it together SOMEONE ELSE directly to the the biggest culprits of clutter in our Put aside at least double the time Gather all the inherited items trunk of your car. Drop those off (or any items you’ve chosen to respectively as soon as possible. declutter) in one space. Start to Take bags for RECYCLE and sort ‘like with like’. All china, TRASH to their locations outside silverware, serving sets and your home. Getting all of the filled glassware together. Furniture bags outside your home is key. For together. Clothing, bedding, and items that are going SOMEWHERE towels together. Tools together. ELSE in your home, take these Photos (slides, greeting cards, etc.) items to those specific places and together. Documents together, etc. find them a place to live (i.e. put up that painting, display that figurine 4. Categories on a shelf) Review each item and decide which category it falls into (i.e. to sell, to donate, recycle, etc. as per number 2). Remember that an item that was once important to someone else Continued on pg. 29 does not determine its importance The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 29

contents. For any photos, slides Cont. from pg. 28 or cards only keep those that truly remind you of the best days that 6. Sell they represent and place those For those items or collections that in a labelled box. Regarding the you want TO SELL, take photos documents, only keep what you and measurements. Do not rely need for tax purposes, file those and on family lore regarding their shred the rest. value but rather research these items to determine what others Congratulations, you did it! De- would currently pay. TV programs cluttering our homes involves more like Antiques Roadshow have than just freeing ourselves from those convinced us that our treasures are things that are holding us back and worth a great deal but often the final weighing us down; de-cluttering is negotiated price is substantially less. about transformation and renewal. As If the time and energy it takes to Tracy McCubbin writes in Making sell the item is equal or greater to Space Clutter Free, “making more the price you may receive, consider room for what we want to do in life donating the item and know – and freeing up time and space to someone else will love it. actually accomplish those things – always has a positive and inspiring De-cluttering is about transformation and renewal. PHOTOS BY MARTHA TOBIN 7. Photos and documents outcome even if the process of Regarding photos, slides, cards and letting go can feel overwhelming and Have a question regarding documents, without spending time daunting.” organization and de-cluttering? doing any review now, sort these Creating a home where you can Call 613-868-5197 or email me at items into their respective boxes more fully live and be the best version [email protected]. For before (see number 2). Put these boxes of yourself is just one way of creating and after photos and articles, go to beside your favourite chair. In the your ‘here’ so that you can realize your Room2Breathe.ca next few weeks every time you sit dreams. And if, like Ellen, your dream down, commit to reviewing their is a workout room and meditation space, they are now possible.

TECHNOLOGY TRICKS AND TIPS Wi-Fi woes – part 1 By Malcolm and John to buy and maintain their own router. accessing the router either wirelessly option. Harding, of Compu-Home Modems and routers, whether or with an Ethernet cable. Desktop Next time we shall have a look at separate or in combination, do fail from computers traditionally use Ethernet more connectivity problems that can time to time. If there is suddenly no and laptops are wireless although arise and ways to fix them. There has been a huge increase in Internet connection, Step 1 is always adapters are available to allow each of home Internet use in the past year. to re-boot the modem and router, them to use the alternative – desktops Contact Compu-Home at 613-731- The pandemic has resulted in people which is a simple job: disconnect their can be wireless and laptops can 5954 to discuss this column, share your working, studying, communicating electricity, wait for approximately connect with Ethernet. If home and opinions and suggest subjects for future and spending recreational time at their five minutes, re-connect, wait a few office arrangements and equipment columns. Our email address is info@ home computers to an extent we have minutes more and then see if the permit, Ethernet between the router compu-home.com and our website is never seen before. Many would say Internet is re-established. This often and computer, or between a computer www.compu-home.com. that our home connectivity has been solves the problem but if not, it is time and printer is generally faster and a lifesaver (sometimes literally) but it for a call to your Internet provider’s more reliable than the wireless signal. has not been without its challenges. technical support. Mobile devices rarely have an Ethernet Here are some of the basic facts If there is a wireless network in the and principles that it is helpful to home it is assigned a unique name understand, based on the frequent calls and there is always a password; this for help that we receive. information is stored in the router Most homes get their Internet signal and, we hope, in your desk drawer. through phone or cable wires. The Ethernet-connected computers do not device in your home to accept that require that password, but any devices signal and convert it for your use is like laptops, tablets, smartphones, called a modem. A modem is specific televisions and wireless printers must to your Internet provider and is usually choose the correct network and enter supplied by that company. If you have the password (usually only the first only one computer it can connect time) to gain access. This specific with a wire, called an Ethernet cable, connection is necessary because there directly to the modem and that is all may be several wireless networks in you need. your neighbourhood and it is important An additional device called a router that everyone is accessing their own. is found in most homes now. It is wired Many homes in recent months have to the modem and sends the signals found that the Internet speed and via Ethernet cables and also wirelessly power that was satisfactory in the past throughout the home, acting as a traffic is insufficient to service the increased cop to allow multiple computers, demand of several devices accessing portable devices, printers and the web simultaneously, and they have sometimes televisions to communicate bought a higher level of service from with each other and the world. Internet their provider. If this upgrade involved providers often offer a combination a new router (or modem/router) it may modem/router in one little box for a be necessary for all of the wireless small monthly fee and many people devices to re-enter their connections. choose that option, rather than having Computers often have the choice of Page 30 The OSCAR l February 2021

ABBOTSFORD AT THE GLEBE CENTRE Keeping connected and busy through Abbotsford House meet again’,” said Joan. first time: in fact, she has a packed For Barb Neilson the calls help beat schedule. the boredom that’s come with being in “I’m taking four art classes per a lockdown for so much of the winter. week: watercolour, sketching, collage “When I get with people I talk and & mixed media, and one on colour,” talk and talk,” said Neilson. “I love the said Haunton. “It’s very well organized conference call and enjoy the people. and very flexible when it comes to There are about ten or twelve of us, the materials you use. I like to have including two men, but they don’t have something to do four days a week.” too much to say.” Haunton, who is also recovering This telephone connection is just one from hip surgery earlier this winter, of the programs that Abbotsford at the says the classes have kept her busy at a Glebe Centre has adapted throughout time when her choice of activities has the pandemic. been very limited. This winter, 27 programs were While she looks forward to getting offered to the general membership back to her travels when the pandemic and 13 sold out. Realizing that both is over, Haunton says she’s so pleased inclement weather and lockdown with the selection of classes she’s conditions have made it difficult for found at the seniors’ centre. Marion Haunton holding up her ‘work in process’ on Zoom so that her seniors to exercise, the centre has “It’s a very nice recreational thing to Collage & Mixed Media class art teacher (Ariel Lyons) could see and suggest offered several fitness classes via do and Abbotsford does a wonderful next steps. PHOTO BY PATRICIA GOYECHE Zoom. Art, Language and dance job,” she said. classes seem to have struck a particular chord with the members this winter. Julie Ireton is a journalist with the By Julie Ireton who still lives in her own home, but Meditation, conversational French CBC, a lecturer at Carleton University has family nearby. and Spanish, memoir writing, yoga, and a resident of the Glebe. Joan Norvid, 100, always looks Joan’s daughter, Nicole Norvid, book club and several art classes are forward to the mini-bus picking her up visits and helps her mother daily. The also offered online with new eight- Abbotsford is your community support on Tuesdays and seeing her friends at luncheon club, even if it’s over the week sessions opening up for March centre for Adults 55+. We are the Abbotsford House’s luncheon club. phone, gives Nicole, the caregiver, a bit and April. community programs of The Glebe Since the pandemic arrived last of respite. Registration will be mid-February, Centre Inc., a charitable, not-for-profit, spring, the club now meets via “They maintain a connection, it’s a with classes open to all members of organization which includes a 254 bed teleconference, and while it’s not quite tight knit group,” said Nicole. “It’s nice Abbotsford House. It is the perfect time long term care home. Find out more the same, Joan still enjoys catching up to know every Tuesday we have that to join as the membership runs on a about our services by telephoning with the luncheon friends she initially call.” calendar year. us: Mon-Fri 9 am - 4 pm at 613-230- met at the seniors’ centre across from Every week, at the end of the Marion Haunton usually travels the 5730 or by checking out all of The Lansdowne Park. teleconference, Joan sings her friends a world every winter, but since that’s Glebe Centre facilities and Abbotsford “They’re a nice bunch of people. I well-known tune before signing off. not an option this year, she’s trying Community Programs on our website wouldn’t want to give it up,” said Joan, “I always sing Vera Lynn’s ‘We’ll out programs at Abbotsford for the www.glebecentre.ca

AROUND TOWN Doors Open For Music La Leche League Canada has a group in OOS. Are you breastfeeding/ chestfeeding your baby? Are you pregnant and planning to breastfeed? A La at Southminster Leche League meeting is a relaxed, supportive and non-judgmental place where you can meet other parents, learn about nursing your baby and ask Wednesdays at noon questions. Meetings every second Tuesday of the month from 7:00 to 8:30 Elevate and refresh your spirit during these 45-60 minute pm. Next planned meeting, on Zoom, is February 9th. For more information weekly presentations. call 613-238-5919 or go to www.lllc.ca All concerts are broadcast via our Music at Southminster facebook page: Ottawa Newcomers Club. Our club is a non-profit, social organization www.facebook.com/MusicatSouthminster/live_videos/ for women who have recently moved to this area (and those who have You do not need to have a facebook account to view the experienced a significant life change), and would like to meet new people of concert. similar interests by joining our many group activities. More information about us and what we do can be found on our website at: ottawanewcomersclub.ca Wed., Feb. 3 or by contacting [email protected] Gypsy Music Duo ft. David Renaud An eclectic mix of high energy swing, latin grooves, virtuosic fast tempo tunes and luscious ballads featuring Justin Duhaime (acoustic guitar & looper) & David Renaud (clarinets).

Dr. Pierre Isabelle Wed., Feb. 10 Two-Piano Expansions Dr MDar.t hi Petue rT Kreimmblay Brahms’s tragic two-piano sonata paired with a lesser known two-piano arrangement: British pianist Harold Bauer’s organ- GLEBE DENTAL CENTRE like expansion of Bach’s Italian Concerto. Carson Becke &

FIFTH AVENUE COURT-EVENING APPOINTMENTS Suren Barry, pianos. OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY Wed., Feb. 17 new elevator access at 841 Bank St. Telemann: The Art of Conversing and stairs on 4th and 5th Ave. A concert on two recorders paying homage to the creative genius of Baroque German composer Georg Philipp Telemann For appointments call 613-234-6405 who had a special flare for composing duos.

The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 31

MARKETPLACE CLASSY ADS CLASSY ADS are free for Old Ottawa South residents (except for businesses or for business activity) and must be submitted by email to [email protected]. The editor retains the right to edit or exclude submissions. The OSCAR takes no responsibility for items, services or accuracy.

For Rent House wanted to rent

Glebe: Furnished two bedroom 700 SF Home/semi/townhome wanted to rent: We apartment for rent in owner-occupied are looking for a place to rent while our home triplex. Short or long term rental; minimum undergoes a renovation May/June and likely into July (we can manage July if May/June two months. Parking, utilities, Wi-Fi, A/C are the only months available). Professional included. Private entrance and 100 SF roof couple, both working from home, non- deck. Contact Hugh at 613-233-9455 or smokers, no pets. Minimum two bedrooms. e-mail [email protected] Prefer to stay close to OOS. Please call Peggy GIBBON’S PAINTING & at 613-567-4121. DECORATING Kindergarten registration at Hopewell Avenue P.S. has begun. Children Local House Painter - Bonded With 27 years experience who will be four years old by December 31st, 2020 are eligible for Kin- Customer satisfaction dergarten. For more information about the program and registering for ALWAYS GUARANTEED For a free estimate please Kindergarten 2021, visit ocdsb.ca call Rory 322-0109 Hopewell Avenue P.S., 17 Hopewell Ave, Phone: 613-239-2348, Book now for your painting needs Email: [email protected]

POETRY Together, Into the Wind Metaphor 1 When Country Calls By Alexander Duncan By Susan McMaster (March 2020)

Two gentlemen, The metaphors fall By Colin Morton retired, away together on a Monday morning the wild illuminations 1. Come Home skating on the frozen canal. open In the packed departure lounge to bare woods, tree, bush, bird – a woman dressed like an astronaut Heading North, they pass maybe a late wren if I’m in parka, mitts, mask, and visor side by side sure of the sighting – glares at children playing tag talking well, leaves oh how they while their mother, baby on hip, baritone laughter – particulate looks on without a word. moving with ease, I thought. behind my new glasses each one reflecting Longer than doctors advise Later, heading South sun you remain seated with tray table locked, I moved slightly to my left on one side sharing as little as possible when the sound of sharp blades on ice earth with fellow passengers. rose up from behind. on the other A nod of greeting, faint regret and, at edges for what we are denied. Shooting past now, the shade and glow Deplaning families crowd the carousel here they are again of deeper greens. shifting bags till their own appear. in flawless speed skating form The cabbie lifts yours into his trunk, and formation, Bird song, traffic rumble and you slide in where others have been, silent. water rush, bicycle click – bring them home with you into the shower polyphony of here and, perhaps, your bed. The tall one leading now cutting the wind, for where I am 2. Stay Home the other close behind, and drafting in line where I feel the hard mesh hands clasped calmly in the small of their backs of the metal park seat This time all are called gliding beautifully under legs to stand and wait. and synchronized see a black squirrel Time out, apart, to look an air of purpose, nose among dry grasses from the other side of time. and discipline in their wake. feel the breeze move a few hairs across my face Time to soak and cook the beans Alone again, pick up a feather found in the back of the cupboard. I wondered for how many years for Ian’s fishing flies. they had shared these moments. To wash the walls and read the books Here I am, in the middle gathering dust on the shelves. Alexander Duncan is a former military officer and taking time To look in the closet and wonder poet living in OOS. to see and feel and name and write what you’re keeping all this for. for all those gone Time to write letters, return calls, and breathing, breathing to “reach out” and “keep in touch.” somehow Time to stand on the doorstep singing to let others know they’re not alone. Susan McMaster is an OOS poet and longtime resident. This poem was written for Christmas Colin Morton is a poet, author, teacher and an 2019. OOS resident. Page 32 The OSCAR l February 2021

ARTS & CULTURE Sundays at the Aberdeen Pavilion

Marc Da Costa and ‘Jambel JB Jerk Sauce.’ ‘Alpaca Tracks, Thread Lightly’ with Kathy Enright and her sheep.

By Maureen Korp needed, no admission charge. Grab Look, and look again. You might find Matthew designed the bottle labels, your mask. Come take a look. The portraiture, sculpture, humour, even black-and-white, to honour his parents Where to find art today? Where to “Winter Market 2021” at the Aberdeen a touch of the Bauhaus among the and the lands of their birth –Jamaica find any door open to a soul-satisfying Pavilion, Lansdowne Park awaits your goods on view. Stand back and look and Belgium. exhibition in these fraught times? visit every Sunday 10 am to 3 pm for at the signs, shelving, containers as Similarly, memories of summertime Lucky us. Look no further. Right here the next three months. compositions of colour, line, shape, back the beautiful array of wines in downtown Ottawa, every Sunday, Inside the spacious pavilion are more and story. The sign identifying Michel Villeneuve makes from the there is art to be found tucked in than 40 individual displays of artisanal “DiversiTea,” for example, is a green fruits of his farm. Villeneuve has among the groceries. No reservation foods, groceries, and handicrafts. and orange drawing of a marvelous bottled the “Les Vergers Villeneuve & teapot. Is this what became of Blueberry Farm” fruit wines in slender, Aladdin’s lamp, from another lifetime? elegant bottles, stoppered with real Could be. corks. Their labels are carefully drawn. Around one corner, fields of brown “Pear Chill,” for example, is identified potatoes and red tomatoes are carefully by a delicate drawing of pears and displayed on the tables of “Needham’s snowflakes. Yes, the pears have been Farm Fresh Produce.” In another harvested; summer is a memory. corner hangs a large landscape. Its Textile artist Joanne Dupuis exhibits mountains and waters serve to locate her work under the label “Tinkle “Thai Kitchen Nick-Lek” at the Berries.” At her stand, we see rows of Aberdeen. The actual scene? An inlet bright, white, idealized, anonymous in Thailand. Khabi, the chef, says his heads, all with closed eyes, all wearing memories of that faraway seacoast individuated face masks. Nearby are serve as inspiration for his kitchen soft sculptures of teeth. Might they be work here. lost wisdom teeth? Or, recollections Marc Da Costa and Michel of visits from the Tooth Fairy? Villeneuve share a stand for an Dupuis’ work is colourful, witty, and intriguing lot of their well-designed, thoughtful. Work to give comfort in tasty sauces and wines. Marc Da cold times. Costa’s “JAMBEL” bottles of JB Sheep have personalities, did you jerk sauce and JB aioli bring outdoor summertime tastes right to our locked- down, midwinter dinner tables. His son Continued on pg. 33

Michel Villeneuve and the wines of ‘Les Vergers Villeneuve & Blueberry Farm’. The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 33

ARTS & CULTURE

Aberdeen Pavillion, Lansdowne Park, Exhibition Way. PHOTOS BY HELENE LACELLE

end of the table. Each cone has been at the time, the pavilion was designed Maureen Korp, independent critic, Cont. from pg. 32 dipped in beeswax. Why? To start fires. nearly 125 years ago by Moses C. Edey curator, and historian, has lived long Where? In fireplaces, of course. Across for the Central Canada Exhibition. in Ottawa. know? Look at the expressions on the way, “Arabesque Pottery” features The “cattle castle,” as it is also called, their faces in the photographs on the work of ceramic sculptor Diane remains today an accessible delight. Go view at “Alpaca Tracks, Thread Sullivan—plates, bowls, cups sure to see. Pick up some groceries, too. Lightly.” Textile artist Kathy Enright brighten any table. photographed the sheep. She knows For many viewers, the most them well, every single one of them. surprising exhibit of the Winter Market They are her sheep, and it is their may well be Kevin Alexander’s alpaca wool which enables Kathy “Fungi Connection.” This is a table Enright and Corinne Cote to create the display chock-a-block with fantastical, panoply of socks, duvets, scarves, and colourful mushrooms. Here are hats bedecking the “Alpaca Tracks.” mushrooms that look like undersea “MiCocina|” means “my kitchen” coral. Mushrooms coloured green, in Spanish, and the work of Arisbe coral, silver. “Lion’s Mane” is softly Trust Ottawa’s Best* Castellanos. She has arranged bearded, fuzzy. No little, white, button To Safely Sell Your Home beautifully a quiet display of jars on mushrooms here. The Kevin Alexander simple wooden shelving. The jars collection is entirely edible. Want to are all the same size, each with a grow your own? Alexander will show soft brown label identifying the salsa you the way. His mushrooms grow within: seven different sorts, flavours easily. Here be the storied sites of trolls, ranging from mango to chipotle fairies, dwarves. Dali and Magritte WATERFRONT SOLD blends. The salsas are Castellanos’ own walked these woods, too. recipes. The Aberdeen Pavilion is large, airy, Foods to cheer us through winter. and well designed for indoor exhibition At “McCaig Natural Honey,” a large displays. Named after the Earl of 147 Winding Way - $3,290,000 275 Mariposa Ave - $2,950,000 basket filled with pine cones sits at one Aberdeen, Canada’s governor general Incredible, luxe home with multiple balconies Impressive family home on half acre lot

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Oscar_December2020.indd 1 2021-01-19 1:14 PM Page 34 The OSCAR l February 2021

NOTES FROM THE GARDEN CLUB Gardening on an organic farm in Hawaii By Colin Ashford delivers seminars and talks to garden clubs and horticultural societies. To help chase away the grey days of Lana learnt of the opportunity of January, Lana Doss took members volunteering on an organic farm of the Old Ottawa South Garden through a friend who introduced her Club (OOSGC) on an armchair tour to World-Wide Opportunities on of a tropical orchard on the island Organic Farms (WWOOF – www. of Molokai, Hawaii. Lana is the wwoofusa.org) and to the organic proprietor of The Fine Gardener (www. farm on the island of Molokai. The facebook.com/thefinegardener) and has farm is owned by Bobby Alcain, an continued (and shared) her childhood Hawaiian native who retired some passion for “playing in the dirt.” In years ago to “heal the land” by taking addition to helping others realize the up, and teaching, organic farming. full potential of their gardens, Lana Much of the western part of Molokai teaches at Algonquin College and has been eroded by land clearances

Gardenia Flower. PHOTOS BY LANA DOSS

for commercial crops such as sugar succession planting – as one crop is cane and pineapple. In return for her harvested another, planted nearby, volunteering, Lana received free room takes over and comes into fruition. The and board – although she admitted that Hawaiian Islands have suffered from the accommodation was quite basic. drought in the last few years and the Bobby expands upon his philosophy farm has had to institute some simple in a YouTube video. Watch it by irrigation techniques using soaker searching for: ‘Aina Pulapula.’ hoses. Star Fruit. Lana’s first comment (as she showed Lana wrapped up her tour noting that us pictures of luscious-looking fruit gardenias used to fill the rain forest, but such as papaya, bananas, avocados, many stunning examples remain. She and breadfruit) was the flavour of fruit had planned to make a similar trip to straight off the plant – so much better an organic farm in Costa Rica this year, than that to which we are accustomed but it had to be postponed because of in Canada. Sadly, she was not able to the current situation. sample pineapples – a summer fruit not The OOSGC will be meeting in season during her visit. (Although virtually this winter via Zoom. On Lana did get to plant a whole row of Tuesday 9 February at 7:00 pm, pineapple plants that had been started Elizabeth Schleicher, past-president in the nursery.) Hawaii used to export of the Canadian Rose Society, will large numbers of pineapples to the help take the mystery out of rose world, but it has now conceded their culture and care. To register for this export to other countries in Latin and other OOSGC programs go to: America, including Costa Rica. The www.oldottawasouth.ca and follow the farm also grows citrus fruits such as “Register Online” link. lemons, limes, and oranges. Although not native to Hawaii, citrus fruits have been grown on the islands for Colin Ashford is a member of the Old centuries; they originally come from Ottawa South Garden Club. Asia and Melanesia. The main crop of the farm is taro – a tropical plant grown primarily for its edible corm and a staple in African, Oceanic, and South Asian cultures. Additionally, the farm grows vegetables with which we are familiar in Canada (radish, onions, lettuce) but also those strange to us including wing beans and okra. Lana noted that, being an organic farm, insecticides and fungicides are eschewed, and other strategies have to be employed to combat plant pathogens, strategies that include mixed plantings, ringing leafy plants such as lettuce with strong-smelling plants such as garlic to deter insects, and encouraging beneficial insects such as ladybugs. The farm also practices Wing Bean. The OSCAR l February 2021 Page 35

DAY TRIPS Four Eastern Ontario sites with a story

affections of a teacher named Elizabeth Hughes. When the smoke cleared, Lyon lay dying. Two years later, Wilson married Hughes and he later became a member of Parliament. In 1973, Stompin’ Tom released his version of a song about the two men, “The Last Fatal Duel.” The following year, the pistols used in the duel were nicked from the Perth Museum and buried elsewhere in town. They’ve since been dug up and returned to Higginson Tower and St. John’s Anglican Church are two landmarks in Vankleek Hill. the museum, where they remain on By Laura Byrne Paquet its stone base and bright-blue top. It Canada’s last duel display. And the site of the 19th- traces its roots back to one Lieutenant- Thanks to the musical Hamilton, century altercation is now a park called, Since we’re not supposed to venture Colonel Thomas Higginson, an Irish interest has surged in the peculiar unsurprisingly, Last Duel Park. far from home these days without immigrant who built it as a wind- dispute-resolution process known as a very good reason, and since powered gristmill sometime around duelling. And if you head to Perth, Travel writer and OOS resident Laura virtually anything qualifying as a 1830. Despite the fact that it’s built about an hour southwest of Ottawa, Byrne Paquet runs OttawaRoadTrips. tourist attraction is currently closed, on one of the highest points of land in you can learn all about Ontario’s last com, where she offers tips and ideas this month’s column focuses on the the area, there wasn’t enough wind to fatal duel, which took place in the for independent day trips and weekend intriguing stories behind some Eastern keep the blades turning frequently. So picturesque town on June 13, 1833. getaways from Ottawa, and where Ontario sites. Read about them now – Higginson removed them and turned Two 20-something law students, a longer version of this article (with but don’t travel to see them until things the tower into a private astronomical Robert Lyon and John Wilson, faced links) is available. open up again. observatory. off in a romantic dispute over the After briefly using the structure as a Fulford House watchtower to spot Fenian raiders in Sure, there are lots of grand old the 1860s, Higginson’s son William mansions overlooking the St. Lawrence added the upper section. He then River in Brockville. The thing that opened the tower to students of the makes Fulford House stand out from village high school so they, too, could the pack is the source of the money observe the stars. The tower eventually used to construct it. Senator George fell into disrepair, but a community Taylor Fulford made his millions by group restored it in the early 2000s. selling “Pink Pills for Pale People” – a compound of ingredients such as St. Andrew’s West magnesia, powdered licorice and iron Another tall landmark, the 212- sulphate that promoters claimed cured foot steeple of St. Andrew’s Church, everything from heart palpitations to dominates its namesake village just neurological diseases. Coated in pink north of Cornwall. However, the most sugar, they were sold around the world fascinating thing about the village of and earned Fulford enough to build St. Andrew’s West isn’t the steeple but this 20,000-square-foot home between a nearby graveyard. It is the eternal 1899 and 1901. The Ontario Heritage resting place of both a famous explorer Trust owns it now and runs it as a (Simon Fraser, who gave his name museum. to a river and a university in British Columbia) and Ontario’s first premier Higginson Tower (John Sandford MacDonald, not to be One of the most eye-catching confused with his contemporary, Sir landmarks in the village of Vankleek John A. Macdonald). Hill is this unusual-looking tower, with

Perth is so picturesque and peaceful today that it’s hard to believe it was the site of Ontario’s last duel. PHOTOS BY LAURA BYRNE PAQUET Page 36 The OSCAR l February 2021

House of TARG still playing on

By Paige Raymond Kovach

Paul Granger (aka Yogi) is no stranger to adversity. In fact, in the last six years of co-owning the House of TARG on Bank Street, he has overcome many obstacles, and yet this centre of pinball and perogies stays open. “Some days I feel like a race car driver who runs out of fuel and pulls over. I’m always trying to get more fuel into the tank somehow, because TARG belongs to the community, it can’t close,” he said. Co-owners Mark McHale, Kevin Burger, Blake Jacobs, and Paul have worked full-time since the pandemic began to adapt the House of TARG to Paul Granger (aka Yogi) from the documentary Pinball and Perogies. PHOTO BY SAMMY LEWIS survive each wave of shutdowns and new regulations for restaurants and McEwen (www.mypuppetpal.ca) are about the House of TARG – aired on up!” pubs. sold out. But don’t fret, their TARG the Watertown, NY WPBS station on You can watch this short 7-minute Their entrepreneurial spirit has led Mart is open all the time at www. December 12, 2020. documentary on YouTube at www. them into all sorts of innovations. houseoftarg.com, and has other very According to the director: “House youtube.com/watch?v=kR-3ZE_V6is They have moved to take out frozen cool items. Take the Pat Buck Wizard of TARG is a magical place! I wanted and warm perogies. Take a night off T-shirt for example. Surely someone this documentary to showcase their Old Ottawa South resident Paige and let a wizard cook your dinner. needs a new t-shirt at your house. uniqueness and the positive impact Raymond Kovach is saving her Their take-out perogies menu make it they have on the local community. The loonies and twonies to challenge her very easy, just go to www.houseoftarg. House of TARG documentary documentary addresses the struggle teens to some pinball games when com. Their lockdown hours are Friday Algonquin College Film and Media small businesses are faced with during the House of TARG reopens for to Sunday from 4 – 9 pm. Production graduate Sammy Lewis’s the pandemic and why it’s so important customers. Unfortunately, the Pergoi Patch documentary Pinball and Perogies – to support local right now. Never give Pals, handmade by local artist Michael

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