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Boulevard of Blooms on Bronson, page 6 How much taller will get? page 5

MAY 18, 2012 VOL. 17 NO. 5 At the heart of since 1995 CENTRETOWNBUZZ.COM

Ka t h r y n Hu n t / Th e BUZZ The old wall of the Bronson Estate dates back to the 1830s, but concerns about its saftety have sparked a discussion about how best to preserve it. In one place, a hole completely through the wall has been boarded up to stop people climbing through it, but the solution is only temporary.

B uzz What to do about the wall Fate of historic Bronson Avenue retaining wall in dispute

KATHRYN HUNT the wall for reasons of safety. keep people from climbing through but stated that they felt the aesthetic Suggestions for what to do with —is an alarming illustration of just and heritage value of the wall de- The limestone wall on Bron- the wall range from reinforcement how unstable the wall is. manded it be reinforced rather than son Avenue, north of Laurier, is in to complete removal to construction Nanny Goat Hill gardener Clay- removed. trouble. The Bronson Rehabilitation of a replica using stronger building ton Mark remarked, “They should In response, the City consulted Project and its implications for traf- materials. Some of these decisions have taken it down 10, 20, 30 years with McIntosh Perry Consulting fic patterns north of Laurier, as well may depend on what is planned for ago,” pointing out the numerous, Engineers Ltd., who presented three as the deterioration of the wall itself, the reconstruction of Bronson north large trees growing close beside and options, all of which involve dis- have caused serious questions to be of Laurier, which does not fall under through the wall, further destabiliz- mantling the wall and rebuilding it raised about its safety. the scope of the current project. ing it. “One of these days that one’s .5m from the bedrock face. They The wall was originally part Councillor Diane Holmes has, going to come down into the street concluded that the bedrock sup- of the wall to the Bronson Estate, however, advised the Bronson and endanger someone,” he added, porting the wall is also insufficient which was Henry Bronson’s first Project that any replica of the wall pointing to a large tree which had to support the wall and presents a house before he built his better- would have to be constructed using already caused the top of the wall to threat to the public. known house on the site where the similar materials and professional bulge. It remains to be seen what im- Juliana now stands. stonemasons, due to the historical His opinion may not be repre- pact plans for Bronson north of Lau- By current building standards, significance of the wall to the his- sentative, however. In a letter to the rier—including possible widening the stone is “far from building grade tory of the street. Her office has also Bronson Rehabilitation Project from of the street and traffic redirection material,” according to Bruce Ken- suggested a frost fence. last October, members of the Nanny —will have on decisions regarding ney, manager of the Bronson Proj- A hole right through the wall just Goat Hill Community Garden noted the wall. ect, who has recommended either north of the Nanny Goat Hill Com- that the wall had been deteriorating temporary or permanent removal of munity Garden—now boarded up to noticeably over the last six months, Planning for heritage: protecting our heritage buildings

OPINION posed Community Design Plan ing is the one already standing. the Ontario Heritage Act, as well (CDP) for Centretown is an op- Knowledge is half the battle. as undesignated properties identi- by Nancy Oakley portunity to update the vision for Before an informed decision can fied as having historic interest. The our neighbourhood. It will help be made about a proposed develop- Reference List isn’t complete by ne of the biggest chal- guide future planning and devel- ment, it is important to understand any means, but is useful for “flag- lenges to conserving opment and will have an impact how it may impact the character of ging” possible heritage concerns O our heritage resources on how our heritage resources are an area—and what that character is. with any proposed development, is our own planning. Communi- conserved. Centretown is home to a variety of and is one tool available to our City ties across the province have seen Heritage conservation and devel- heritage resources, from monumen- Planners. Many resources on the list their heritage character eroded opment are often seen as conflicting tal institutions like the Canadian have been categorized according to e nby t insensitive r e tdevelopment o w n when forces, when in fact they work well Museum of Nature, to quiet streets perceived significance—a “category heritage is not effectively incor- together. When done right, the goals featuring turn of the century brick one” building has great heritage val- porated into planning processes. of intensification and heritage con- homes. ue and is worthy of individual des- It sounds simple, but this “death servation can be met through adap- These resources, along with ignation under the Ontario Heritage from a thousand cuts” can be tive reuse or sensitive infill. Heri- much of Ottawa’s built heritage, Act, while a “category four” build- avoided when planning is based tage also has the added bonus of are identified on the City’s Heri- ing has limited heritage value.

C on accurate information and a contributing to sustainable, liveable tage Reference List. The list in- balanced framework. The pro- cities—after all, the greenest build- cludes properties designated under Heritage, see page 3 2 CENTRETOWNBUZZ.COM MAY 18, 2012

May 18, 2012 — Vol. 17, No. 5 Letters to the Editor

What will more condos Ken Gray, asked the funda- provide the city coffers with folk of people freely chat- c e n t r e t o w n mean for our neighbour- mental question in his April yet another less cost-intensive ting with each other at street hood? 25 column “Who knows your source of public resources for level, whether they be pe- neighbourhood best?” And growth in the suburbs? destrians stopping for a chat Dear Editor, so who does? Do you? I live At the City Planning Sum- with a friend in street-level Buzz in Centretown and I certainly mit on April 26, there was lots cafes or looking in on public At the heart of Ottawa since 1995. Will our downtown work- know and treasure my imme- of good conversation between events in ground-level public ers and residents really enjoy diate neighbourhood, and I city planners, community as- spaces, or even chat between wind tunnels, heavier traffic, am certainly concerned about sociations, developers and fellow cyclists in bike lanes. 101-210 Gloucester St. less public parking, and more what all of the building, pop- various local interest groups. Is it now too late for all of Ottawa, ON anonymity in the midst of the ulation growth and increased I remember two soundbites: these parties to engage in cre- K2P 2K4 many new condos planned traffic will mean for the resi- first, that planning to date ating people friendly in- and Phone: 613-565-6012 for Centretown? Does Mark dents of my neighbourhood. has involved lots of com- outdoor living spaces on a Carney wake up in the morn- The April BUZZ also alert- munication with little effec- human scale at ground level, www.centretownbuzz.com ing breathing a little easier ed Centretown residents and tive consultation between the which encourage social inter- twitter.com/centretownbuzz knowing that right next to workers to the anticipated parties, and secondly, that action, pedestrian and bike facebook.com/centretownbuzz his Centretown desk there is June approval by city council people friendly work and liv- friendly transportation and yet another condo-building of a new community devel- ing spaces must be integral more parks and recreational frenzy underway? opment plan for Centretown. to the plan. One such model areas that are sadly lacking? Some journalists on the The important challenge for of the latter was identified by Your community associa- Ottawa Citizen have begun to readers to consider as they a participant in the CCOC tion invites you to find out Centretown BUZZ Staff monitor the number and con- peruse this month’s BUZZ terrace-style housing front- more and ask questions at 7 sequences of deep holes for is the real life, everyday im- ing Argyle Avenue as the p.m. on May 30 at the Mc- Managing editor new multi-storey condos, and pact of the city intensification new eight-storey Beaver Bar- Nabb Community Centre. Kathryn Hunt | [email protected] to write about the community policy on them as they go racks condo complex next to development plans related to about Centretown. Will the the McTaggert Y. Along the P Marsden-Dole Associate editor those new holes and towers increased heights and loss of same lines but in respect of Centretown resident and Eleanor Sawyer in Centretown and Westboro. open spaces create a people- traffic planning, one invited CCCA Board Member In response to much resident friendly environment at street speaker, an American tran- City editor angst over what is going on, level? Or will the residents of sit planner, emphasized the David Gladstone | [email protected] the Ottawa Citizen journalist, the condos merely be there to humanizing effect on city

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Mi c h e l l e Ki r km a n / Th e BUZZ Anke Fritzsche, Archie Campbell, Audrey Brewster, Bayne Pearen, Bill Filleter, Bill Hingston, Brian Gil- On May 6, the Trees and Greenspace Committee organized a “Jane’s Walk” to three parks in Centretown. Jane’s ligan, Carol Sissons, Carole Noel, Catherine Boucher, Walk celebrates the ideas and legacy of urbanist Jane Jacobs by getting people out exploring their neighbourhoods Charles Akben-Marchand, Charles Gregory, Chris Ed- and meeting their neighbours. Around 33 walkers, including a dog named Arlo, enjoyed the lovely gardens and wards, Craig Haynes, Craig Layng, David Blaine, Da- enthusiastic talks by Drina Wethey at McNabb Park, Natasha Beaudin and Heather Bryce at Arlington Park, and vid Gladstone, David Perkins, David Seaborn, Doug Susan Kerr at Dundonald Park. Bonnie Mabee, president of the Trees and Greenspace Committee of the Centretown Gabelmann, Drina Wethey, Eleanor Sawyer, Gabrielle Yensen, Georgia Lay, Glynda Newton, Gordon Hard- Citizens Community Association, provided a thought-provoking tour of the neighbourhood on the way to the various ing, Jennifer Bedwell, Joan Spice, Jordan Charbon- parks. Jane Jacobs would have approved of this walk and the way the neighbours have taken a great interest in their neau, Kim Malcolm, Maija Kagis, Martha Musgrove, parks. Michael Hatfield, Michael Powers, Michelle Kirkham, Murray Shaw, Pat Shaulis, Rob Byrne, Sean Darcy, ERRATUM: In the last issue of The BUZZ, an article entitled “Some good points, some changes needed in Design Plan” Shelley Pearen, Sue Stefko, Susan Kerr, Suzanne (by Judy Forrest) stated “…they (the consultants) are proposing that as much as 50% of the area in a building could Harding, Tim Young, Wendy Bennett, Matthew Young be for non-residential uses.” It should also have stated that the non-residential uses are restricted to the basement, Will Murray, Zsofia Orosz. ground and second floors. To join our distribution team, please call 613-565-6012 or email [email protected]

The Centretown BUZZ is published by the Centretown Advertise with The BUZZ BUZZ Board of Directors, a group consisting of community View our rate card at centretownbuzz.com members representing all residents of Centretown. Rates as low as $28 per issue The Centretown BUZZ operates under the guidelines of the Canadian Copyright Act. Distributed monthly to 10,000 homes and © 2012 Centretown BUZZ businesses across Centretown MAY 18, 2012 CENTRETOWNBUZZ.COM 3 Planning for heritage

(From page 1) exists on the ground and what in addition to the area around There are also several is considered in planning and Dundonald Park. While the ‘Listed’ buildings, which development decisions could CDP supports the retention have been identified, but have a major impact on how of the Heritage Overlay, it is whose heritage significance the neighbourhood’s built also too critical, stating that has not yet been established. heritage is protected and the overlay is a “disincentive In the proposed CDP, conserved in the future. for investment and improve- the scope of what is consid- The CDP also takes a ments.” Like the Heritage ered heritage differs from “street-by-street” approach Reference List, the Heritage the Centretown Secondary to the area’s heritage charac- Overlay is another planning Plan. While the Secondary ter. Without a broader vision tool available to the City to Plan takes a broad approach of Centretown’s heritage, ensure sustainable develop- to heritage as being any this approach could lead to ment in keeping with the building with architectural further erosion of the neigh- area’s character. It encour- or historical significance, or bourhood’s historic charac- ages the retention and reuse which contributes to the ar- ter, especially in the residen- of existing buildings, but ea’s character, the CDP only tial area north of Somerset also ensures that our heritage recognizes the “best” heri- and west of Bank, as well as planners are included in any tage resources, which have the Golden Triangle, both of applicable development de- received a category one or which are slated for upzon- cisions. two rating. ing. The feat is that should Centretown is one of This is problematic for a one incompatible develop- Ottawa’s oldest neighbour- few reasons. ment sneak through on a hoods. Our community These “best” heritage as- street, it could be used to jus- boasts a 35+ year commit- sets represent only one part tify the redevelopment of the ment to a proactive, com- of Centretown’s heritage entire block at the expense of prehensive approach to heri- character. More common the area’s existing heritage tage, and it’s important that historic homes may not war- character. our CDP incorporates this rant category one or two des- A final concern is how the legacy. ignations, yet taken together CDP incorporates existing form a significant part of guidance for Centretown’s

Ro b e r t Sm y t h e / Th e BUZZ what makes our neighbour- heritage. The Heritage Over- Heritage buildings on Gilmour. The heritage homes and buildings of a neighbourhood hood unique. This isn’t con- lay is a special zoning applied contribute to its character, give it a sense of history, and preserve individuality. sidered in the CDP, and the to Centretown’s two Heri- “disconnect” between what tage Conservation Districts, Is 70 the new 65? More and more seniors staying in the workforce by Georgia Lay and mem- As the report notes: When private pension What about workers who With almost a quarter the most active of them are bers of the CCCA Seniors “since 2000, participation plan and investment incomes cannot postpone retirement? of older workers forced out now slowing down in their Committee rates for men 65 to 69 have decline, as they did during A 2011 Statistics Canada of the labour market by ill “volunteer careers.” almost doubled, rising from the global financial crisis, the report on fully retired Ca- health, raising the eligibility So we must ask our- ast month’s Seniors’ 16 percent to 30 percent in obvious recourse is to post- nadians aged 55 and over age for OAS/GIS will disad- selves: what will be the im- Committee column 2011. Participation rates for pone retirement. (Retirement, Health and vantage a significant number pact on our communities L examined income women over 65 have more According to the CCPA Employment among those of seniors. when tomorrow’s seniors are and housing for seniors in than doubled over the same study, of the seniors who do 55 Plus) proposed various One downstream societal working part-time rather than Centretown. This month, time period, from 7 percent continue to be employed be- motivations for retiring. The impact of delayed retire- volunteering their “golden the CCCA Seniors Com- to 18 percent.” yond age 65, 35 percent of most frequently cited reasons ments, which the CCPA study years” to the community? mittee decided to explore The probable reasons men and 54 percent of wom- were: did not examine, is a reduced Frail seniors and the the financing of longer life cited for these increases in- en work part-time. They Financially possible number of senior volunteers marginalized who depend spans further. clude “a longer life span, the are more highly represented (34%) available to sustain commu- on volunteer services today The 2012 federal budget decline in workplace pension in sales and service occupa- Wanted to stop work nity life. The average num- could well be out of luck to- will delay by two years the coverage, and the changing tions than younger workers (33%) ber of hours volunteered is morrow. age at which OAS benefits nature of work by occupation (25 % for those aged 65 and Completed required years highest among seniors (Vol- commence for those born and industry.” over, as compared to 19.8 % of service (29%) unteer/Bénévoles Canada, after 1962. For this demo- For an increasing num- for those aged 25-54.) Health/disability (24%) Bridging the Gap, 2011) and graphic cohort, the loss could ber of seniors, working after be about $13,000 (present they start receiving CPP/QPP value) from their life-time and OAS benefits makes fi- incomes. How will they nancial sense, especially for make up this lost income? those with little or no income Provincial and federal from either private pension legislatures have, for the plans or investments such as most part, abolished manda- RRSPs. tory retirement ages. Dur- Statistics Canada re- ing the last decade, more ported that in 2006, seniors and more seniors have been across Canada relied on gov- working beyond what used ernment transfers (OAS/GIS, to be the mandatory retire- CPP/QPP and employment ment age. insurance) for almost one The Canadian Centre for third of their income. Private Policy Alternatives (CCPA) pension plan and investment has published a report, Work- income provided one quar- ing After Age 65, which ex- ter, and employment income plores why and which seniors accounted for another 12 work later in life. The chart percent of total income. (Sta- at the right illustrates the re- tistics Canada, 2007 Annual cent growth in the numbers Estimates for Census Fami- of working seniors. lies and Individuals) 4 CENTRETOWNBUZZ.COM MAY 18, 2012 The Draft Community Design Plan and tall buildings by Joan Spice to two zones: the Catherine ployment opportunities;” the the City has approved in re- lists 34 major developments iour which characterizes vital CCCA Planning and Devel- Street corridor and what is contribution that can be made cent years which have not since 2000 -- 15 completed, streets and city life. When opment Review Committee called the Apartment Neigh- by high-rise buildings “to been in accordance with the seven under construction we go high we abandon our bourhood, generally north a more socially sustainable Centretown Secondary Plan, (as of December 2011) and streets. And with the lack of The Centretown Citizens of Cooper but as far south city by providing a diver- current zoning or any ap- 12 approved for future de- accommodation for families, Community Association as MacLaren in the area be- sity of housing choice and a proved policy framework. velopment. Among the 15 the unsustainable extension (CCCA) will host a public tween Elgin and the Canal. broad range of affordability; Design: The draft CDP completed between 2000 and of the suburban experience is meeting on Wednesday, May How High: The high- the expectation that “dense, recommends that tall build- 2011, the tallest is 23 stories. guaranteed.” She concludes 30 at 7:00 p.m. at the Mc- est buildings in the Cath- well-designed mixed-use ur- ings “be given special at- Eleven are under 12. Among with this statement: “there Nabb Community Centre to erine Street corridor and the ban environments can help tention to produce well- the 12 approved for future are demonstrable ways Ot- examine the draft Commu- Apartment Neighbourhood create active and interesting proportioned buildings that development, only five are tawa can grow into a healthy nity Design Plan (CDP) for would be 25 and 27 storeys streets, are better able to sup- can integrate with their sur- under 12 stories. Seven are integrated mid-rise city with- Centretown. The CDP will respectively. In the Apart- port high frequency public roundings and contribute 17 stories and up; of these, out going high, but so far this be considered by the City’s ment Neighbourhood, the transit and allow people to to the enhancement of the three are 27 stories. When option has been absent from Planning Committee and recommended heights gradu- walk to their daily destina- area’s image.” It presents a complete, these 34 buildings the serious discussion among City Council as early as June ally transition down to lower tions of work, shopping and design strategy involving will have added 4606 units to the powers-that-be.” (Ottawa this year. heights in mid-rise zones entertainment” (p. 86.) “point towers built on podi- the community. Citizen, May 6 2012, Section This article focuses on (varying from five to nine Rationale for the maxi- ums” which are required ‘to Possible Negative Impacts A9) the draft CDP recommenda- storeys depending on the lo- mum heights: The draft CDP maintain access to light and of Tall Buildings In this article, Ms Jen- tions related to tall buildings cation) and to four storeys in recommends retaining the to minimize shadowing,” and Many of the recent de- nings cites Dutch architect and touches on issues that the low-rise residential areas “general height pattern for “a pedestrian-scaled façade.” velopments were opposed by Rem Koolhaus, quoted in the have been raised locally, as (east of Elgin and west of zones for high-, mid- and Photos in the document from Centretown residents and the New York Review of Books in well as some recent writings Kent.) In the Catherine Street low-rise developments” but other cities illustrate how CCCA. Tall buildings have late April. He characterizes by an Ottawa developer and corridor, there is one transi- suggests that “maximum much this would improve an impact on immediate big buildings as having an two internationally respected tion area. (See illustrations building heights may vary the current mediocre and neighbours, including loss impact which “is indepen- architects on the subject of and text, pp. 87-88.) from today’s permissions and oppressive block tower en- of privacy due to balconies dent of their quality” because tall buildings. The comments Why? The stated ratio- have taken their cues from vironment that dominates and windows, loss of light, they break “with scale, with and views expressed do not nale for tall buildings in- the existing built form con- the business district north of loss of greenspace and wind architectural composition, necessarily reflect the views cludes strong endorsement text and recent development Gloucester, if the design pa- effect. The CCCA and civic- with tradition, with transpar- of the CCCA. by provincial and municipal application approvals” (p. rameters are enforced. minded Centretown residents ency, with ethics. Bigness is The Draft CDP Rec- plans for “intensification in 86.) What this seems to mean Some facts and figures: have raised community-wide no longer part of any urban ommendations on High urban neighbourhoods such is that the maximum heights The pace of growth in Cen- concerns about parking and tissue. It exists; at best it co- Buildings as Centretown that are well recommended are based on tretown has been rapid and traffic, insufficient infra- exists.” Location: The highest supported by transit, social what now exists, including heights have been creeping structure (including transit) The internationally re- buildings would be restricted services, amenities and em- the many developments that up. The draft CDP (pp. 35-36) and the need for trees, parks spected Danish architect, Jan and greenspace. Some Cen- Gehl, who made an inspiring tretown residents are con- presentation at the Canadian cerned about the negative Museum of Nature in Octo- impact of high-rise living ber 2010, devotes much of on civic engagement, com- his recent book to the need munity life and the impor- to respect human scale and tance of attracting families human dimensions in urban with young children versus planning. With some ex- the likelihood of attracting a ceptions (e.g., Vancouver’s largely transient population. waterfront and Granville Is- Not all developers and land), Gehl makes the case architects agree that higher for low-rise residential build- is better or that tall build- ings, not above five stories. ings are necessarily good (Cities for People, October for people and communities 2010). even when they are well de- Come to the Meeting! signed. Listen! Ask Questions! Sarah Jennings’ article Speak Up! in the Ottawa Citizen a few If you would like more weeks ago expressed many information on the issues or concerns: “the high-rise the public meeting, please buildings being contemplated contact one of the following: and planned for our inner city Judy Forrest (judy.forrest@ will be suitable only as way- rogers.com) and Rob Dekker stations for young people, or (robert.dekker@sympatico. warehouses for the elderly, ca), Co-Chairs of the CCCA besides those few who genu- Planning and Development inely want to occupy and can Review Committee or Joan

Da n i e l Mu l l a ly / Th e BUZZ afford the topmost floors; … Spice ([email protected]), Construction is a fact of life in Centretown and foundation pits like this one at Bank and McLeod are a common it will be largely a transient Meeting Coordinator. sight. But as downtown intensification continues, what kinds of buildings do esidentsr want to see filling them? community that will not lay down the habits and tradi- tions and permanent behav- MAY 18, 2012 CENTRETOWNBUZZ.COM 5 More tall buildings in our future

by Dan Mullaly new condominiums, with prepared to spruce up the over 600 units approved in area, big changes could hap- he chairman of the past few months and the pen here as well, providing the Ottawa Plan- possibility of another 800 city staff is given the latitude T ning Committee, in the next year. The height to deal with proposals with a Councillor Peter Hume, of these buildings could be measure of flexibility. has been an ardent sup- as much as 27 storeys, with The Planning Committee porter of tall buildings for the majority of the units be- is not particularly concerned more than 10 years. He be- ing bachelor or one-bedroom that Centretown is not ser- lieves Ottawa cannot con- apartments. There is a declin- viced by the upgraded transit tinue to grow out and that ing need for family residenc- system. Although the City’s the only alternative is to es in Centretown, according plans had called for growth go up. He confirmed the to Chairman Hume, due to to be near the LRT, in the City’s growth strategy at changing demographics. words of one planning offi- the City’s Planning Sum- There really is no limit cial, who wished to remain mit, held at the newly built to the ultimate possible anonymous, “plans are in- one-storey Expo Centre, growth in Centretown. The tended to be adjusted to meet located at the end of the draft CDP had established changing opportunities.” Airport Parkway. To an au- a minimum density level of From the City’s point of dience of over 200 invited 220 persons per hectare but view, another benefit, be- guests, Councillor Hume that level has already been sides improving the neigh- admonished those who op- surpassed, even doubled, in bourhood, is financial. Last posed this strategy, saying mid-Centretown. The growth year the 4,000 new condo- there is no alternative! has been so rapid that plan- miniums built since 2006 Ka t h r y n Hu n t / Th e BUZZ It should not be a surprise ners have been struggling to paid $24,000,000 in new Greenspaces have been shown to improve the well-being of urban residents. These therefore that the growth change the City’s planning municipal taxes. This will are blooming in a residential garden in east Centretown. strategy for Centretown has documents in an effort to be recurring revenue for the but one option. It must build keep pace. City, with only a marginal up. We have all come to ac- While Centretown has increase in costs for services. cept the new high-rise con- not, to this point, been in- Effectively this allows the Trees and greenspaces in the draft dos on Nepean, Gloucester cluded as a growth area in City, according to one source, and McLeod Streets. Other the Official Plan, the CDP is to direct funds to less dense CDP: upgrades and new parks candidate locations are Met- more adaptable to changing areas that would not other- calfe and Cooper Streets, circumstances and market wise be able to have parks, by Bonnie Mabee the social benefits that it park came to be named after and higher buildings are also conditions. For example, schools and other amenities Chair of CCCA Trees and will provide should be high- Douglas MacKinnon Bail- expected for Argyle and Flo- two streets in need of upgrad- that residents in Centretown Greenspace Committee lighted in more detail. For lie Hamilton Cochrane, 12th ra Streets. Catherine Street ing are Gladstone and Som- either do not require or take example, studies suggest that Earl of Dundonald; a coor- has recently been redefined erset, west of Kent Street. If for granted. he CCCA welcomes greenspaces, including com- dinated palate for structures as residential and it is posi- the right development comes the “strength in the munity gardens, improve the and paving, and a historically tioned for the highest of the along and the proponent is T vision for enhancing mental well-being of resi- correct fountain in the centre and increasing greenspace” dents. There is no debate that of the park. contained in the draft CDP. they increase physical well- • Minto Park: The CCCA At the same time, it calls being and, more importantly, agrees with the statement that on the City to ensure that pull a community together. “This level of investment and the CDP include a long- Less well known is the maintenance should set the term greenspace plan for documented fact that green- standard for Centretown’s the community, with im- spaces act as traffic-calming other park spaces,” while plementation deadlines devices. bearing in mind that it is a and dedicated funding for The plan addresses a “passive park” and that oth- its recommendations. number of upgrades pro- ers are more heavily used. The CCCA suggests that posed for the six existing • Jack Purcell Park has this long-term plan be tied to Centretown parks: well established and wide- the cash-in-lieu fund paid by • Arlington Park, an ac- ly supported development developers. Further, it pro- tive pocket park for ages one plans that will be funded at poses that a priority list be to six years that is well used least in part from the Section established for greenspace– by neighbourhood residents. 37 funds to be collected by related capital spending, It needs a ramp to make it the City. drawing on Section 37 fund- accessible for strollers; play The CCCA is particularly ing. structures that are more tod- pleased to see the two “Hydro Recommendations relat- dler friendly; and leveling of Lands” listed as possible new ed to reclaiming Centretown the back mound towards the parks, as they are already streets include: plant trees south wall. green spaces that need only a wherever possible; where • St. Luke’s Park plans, small amount of furniture to street tree planting is not already developed in consul- become lovely shady pocket possible such as on Elgin tation with the community, parks. The CCCA encour- Street, consider planting are well-documented and ages the City to give priority vertically (i.e., hang flow- supported by the CCCA. to the Gladstone site. ers;) don’t allow garbage • McNabb Park plans For those who wish to to be stored adjacent to the primarily deal with access know more about what the sidewalk; and buffer parking issues, but it also needs dedi- draft CDP is recommend- lots from the sidewalks with cated basketball courts to ing, chapter 5.0 (“Greening planting. These proposals re- replace those now in a park- Centretown: Parks and Open quire more political will than ing lot. The active gardening Space”) provides additional money. A culture of greening group McNIB should be con- information on the recom- these small but significant ar- sulted. mendations referenced in eas should be accepted as the • Dundonald Park pro- this summary and others. norm by City Council. posals are excellent. Others The CDP can be found on the St o c k p h o t o / Ot t a w a c o n d o s .c o m The greening of Cen- might include support for city website www.ottawa.ca/ tretown is an excellent idea the impressive efforts of the midcentretown. The Minto Metropole is the second tallest building in Ottawa at 32 storeys: as intensifi- that will have economic and Friends of Dundonald Park; cation continues, might we see more tall buildings on our skyline? environmental benefits, but signage explaining how the 6 CENTRETOWNBUZZ.COM MAY 18, 2012 Boulevard of Blooms: Elgin Street blossoms by David Gladstone and “This is the kind of com- Kathryn Hunt munity business spirit that will ensure that the Thanks to Keith Loiselle, Festival continues to grow owner of Woody’s urban and delight residents and Pub, and his fellow Elgin visitors alike,” said David E. Street business owners, this Luxton, Volunteer Chair of year’s includes the Canadian Tulip Festival. fl owering and man-made tu- The painted statues and lips along Elgin Street: The planters full of purple tulips Boulevard of Blooms/Boule- will be on display from May vard des Fleurs. The display 4 to 21. Visitors will also fi nd is the result of a partnership designated business loca- between the Elgin Street BIA tions with clues to the Great Steering Committee and the Canadian Tulip Treasure Canadian Tulip Festival. In Hunt. Some of Elgin Street’s less than two weeks, Elgin restaurants and nightspots has gone from being “Sens will be featured locations as Da V i D Gl a D S t o n e / Th e BUZZ Mile.” to being a showcase part of “Embrace the Night” Remembering the Netherlands connection. for tulips, although the Sens celebrations throughout the are not completely absent festival. from the street; the Steer- Next step, establishment ing Committee unveiled the of the Elgin Street Business “Senators Tulip” on April Improvement Area (BIA.) 26.

Da V i D Gl a D S t o n e / Th e BUZZ Chris Blais, owner of Maxwell’s, poses with his favourite tulip.

Ka t h r y n hu n t / Th e BUZZ

Da V i D Gl a D S t o n e / Th e BUZZ

Ka t h r y n hu n t / Th e BUZZ Temporary pots of purple tulips will line Elgin alongside Da V i D Gl a D S t o n e / Th e BUZZ painted tulip statues until May 21. A jumble of friendly faces adorn this tulip outside Elgin Street Public School.

Progressive Massage Therapy

overuse injuries | strains & sprains | fibromyalgia chronic fatigue | stress reduction & relaxation Pamela Baillie, RMT 9 Balsam Street, Ottawa, ON K1R 6W6 613.238.0808 www.progressivemassage.ca Ka t h r y n hu n t / Th e BUZZ MAY 18, 2012 CENTRETOWNBUZZ.COM 7 Enriching the cultural scene Ground up: the Basement Artists by Nicholas Ruest

Doors Open Ottawa allows a look asement Artists is a collective of art- inside Enriched Bread Artists B ists from a wide variety of genres—argely by Vanessa Burguete EBA has been recognized back’ into our community music and visual art—that in the community for its his- by bringing people together, produces high quality lo- ut on your walking toric significance and design. fostering interest in contem- cal art that is displayed in shoes or ride the But it’s what happens inside porary art, and enriching Ot- Centretown galleries and P free shuttle bus* today that keeps people in- tawa’s cultural scene.” bars. and explore several ar- terested in the space. “We Once you’ve taken a tour Marcus Lamoureux is the chitecturally, historically, wouldn’t be here if there through EBA, be sure not to director of Basement Artists, and functionally interest- hadn’t been the bread fac- miss out on some of the 25 who gather regularly in Cen- ing buildings at this year’s tory,” says Karen Jordon, new and exciting buildings tretown on Bell Street. Lam- Doors Open Ottawa event! vice-president and artist at that are participating in the oureux has been involved in Over 125 locations across Enriched Bread Artists. event, including the Official music and art promotion and the city will be inviting In 1992, the space was Residence of the Ambassa- production in Centretown you to take a sneak-peek converted into what now dor of Sweden. for nearly seven years. He into some of Ottawa’s fin- houses more than 20 artists’ Don’t miss your chance is known for his style of est spaces, many of which studios, a place where old- to discover your local heri- art, which often involves re- specializes in acrylic and prints can be found in es- are not normally open to world charm meets edgy and tage on Saturday, June 2, and cycled materials coordinated mixed media art. Some of tablishments in the ByWard the public. creative appeal. “We’ve in- Sunday, June 3, during the with broken skateboards. Brodeur’s art can be found Market as well as in the up- This year’s event will herited a wonderful building. 11th edition of Doors Open His art is environmentally on the walls of local venues coming Babylon art shows take place on June 2 and 3 The pillars and solid con- Ottawa. friendly and in demand like Oh So Good, The Buzz in Centretown this July, Sep- and will showcase some ar- crete structure attest to how For more information among a local group of fol- Restaurant and Pilates Patio. tember and November. The chitectural classics as well central and important ‘daily about Doors Open Ottawa, lowers. As the director of When asked what keeps her latest place you may find her as some modern designs. bread’ was at the time,” says contact the event manager, Basement Artists, he is also artistic drive going she said, photo prints is the Morala Embassies, places of wor- Jordon. Siobhan Mitchell, at: 613- responsible for promoting “Being around other artists Cafe in . ship, museums, architectural During the Doors Open 580-9674. New building an- shows and exhibitions. On is the biggest inspiration for If you were unable to firms, green buildings, art- weekend, EBA will be giv- nouncements are posted on May 12, they held a success- me.” make it out to the art exhibit ist’s studios, and science labs ing the public an opportunity Twitter @doorsopenottawa ful event at Babylon Night- The Basement Artists featuring the Basement Art- are open for discovery. to talk to the artists, see their and Facebook or visit the club in Centretown to gain have a highly diverse portfo- ists at Babylon on May 12, The Enriched Bread Art- artwork, and listen to the in- website at www.ottawa.ca/ more exposure and support lio that features a variety of you should look forward to ists (EBA) have participated teresting history of the build- doorsopen. from Centretown residents. styles and artistic contribu- the next event which is slat- in Doors Open Ottawa annu- ing itself. The only thing * Free shuttle service will Carolyne Brodeur is tions from their members. ed for July 2012. For more ally for the past eight years that has changed within the provide access within walk- one of the major contribu- Kelsey Rose Gravelle is the information on upcoming and they’re back on the ros- space over the past 20 years ing distance to 43 sites in the tors to the Basement Artists head of photography in this events visit basementartists. ter. Jordan explains, is that “now downtown core: see website organization. Brodeur be- organization. She has been org. Perched on the hill above we cook up ideas rather than for details. came interested in doing art involved with the Basement (Image by Kelsey Rose Little Italy on the edge of bread and are more akin to a at about the same age most Artists since the beginning Gravelle.) Hintonburg, the home of creative factory; this ‘feeds children begin to read. She of 2012. Her eye-catching OT220888_v6

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Visit our website for the latest Centretown news and events www.centretownbuzz.com 8 CENTRETOWNBUZZ.COM MAY 18, 2012

BACKYARD BEAT Graffiti is not victimless Councillor Diane Holmes’

create a domino effect that make. will create more difficult The Ottawa Police Service problems to solve. would like to empower our Criminals who commit residents to take charge! It’s mischief by graffiti believe true, the more quickly graf- Minto they have a right to claim fiti is removed from an area, territory with their tags. Tag- the less likely it is to return. Come and ging over someone else’s These misfits can’t claim a by Const. Khoa Hoang graffiti is considered disre- property among the graffiti shop at over Ottawa Police Service spectful, which is ironic con- subculture if no one sees their 60 tables of sidering the crime itself. The work. Park subculture within the graf- Public transportation ser- household iving next to me is fiti community is very strong vices belonging to Canadians items, crafts a sweet little old and often leads to violent en- suffer millions in lost rev- lady who fits all of and artwork! L counters between criminals enue every year due to mis- the stereotypes that come who disrespect each other’s chief. Toronto’s TTC spends to mind. She has a strong work. a whopping $5 million annu- personality, a good sense Sale The individuals whom ally because of mischief, and of humour, and has lived I’ve arrested have shown no OC Transpo reports budget- Saturday, June 16, 2012 alone since her husband remorse for their actions and ing a significant amount for passed away years ago. In have a skewed belief that ev- similar repairs. Community Yard Sale many ways, she reminds ery property is available to Crime Stoppers (1-800- me of my grandmother, be claimed through tagging. 222-TIPS) is an excellent 8am - 2pm who was equally indepen- This includes property such service to use if you have dent and active within the as mailboxes, street signs, information to give but want community. buildings, busses, and even to remain anonymous. They Last month, someone de- our highways. This anti- even have an online service cided to tag the side of my social culture dictates that a (crimestoppers.ca) to make Proceeds go to neighbour’s house with black higher risk of getting caught submitting information quick Women’s Initiatives spray paint. Shortly after- equals a higher level of re- and easy. wards, a second tag appeared spect. The City of Ottawa has a For Safer in blue spray paint. Being a I have no patience for these Graffiti Management Team, Environments (WISE) good neighbour and police misguided criminals, typi- which should be contacted officer, I provided her with cally youths who are seeking immediately to report any www.wiseottawa.ca one of our graffiti removal acceptance and self-esteem, case of graffiti by calling kits (free at my office,) which who target our neighbour- 3-1-1 or by emailing them she used to remove the un- hood without care or consid- at graffitimanagement@ot- sightly tags. eration. The reality is that by tawa.ca. It’s important to do Inquiries: [email protected] or 613-580-2484 Within a week, three tags the time our police officers so because tracking graffiti is replaced the two that had arrest one suspect, 50 proper- half the battle in identifying just been removed. This not ties have been damaged, cost- the next potential target. only made me angry, but my ing everyone thousands in Our police officers use the natural protective side also repairs. Business owners are information you provide to Solar panels flourishing kicked in, wanting to catch forced by the City of Ottawa set up undercover operations. the person who would inten- to remove graffiti immediate- Last year, we conducted regu- tionally target such an inno- ly, or face an automatic bill lar projects that yielded mul- cent, vulnerable member of for the removal work. tiple arrests every time we in Ottawa our society. Some business owners went out. But enforcement Graffiti is a big problem in simply can’t afford to pay alone has never been enough our city for both residential $500 every week to have to reduce criminal activity. by Ian Mallov from installation, leaving owners the same rate for a and commercial properties. new graffiti removed. Unfor- Education such as this ar- the revenues for the remain- twenty years—are designed It’s a bigger problem than tunately, they are forced to ticle also plays an important enerating renew- ing 11 and a half years of his so that home and business most people are aware of and make the regular cleanup or role, and prevention begins at able energy at contract as profit. Should he owners are rewarded with costs all of us millions of dol- face expensive fines. Either home with parental support, G home is steadily choose to sell, the value will a significant profit over that lars every single year. Graf- way, it affects our economy, so that one day we might all gaining popularity in Ot- be in his house. timespan. fiti is not a victimless crime. leaving hard working busi- wake up in the morning and tawa. His story is not atypical. Enthusiasm for solar If left unattended within our ness and property owners to not have our home claimed Since Ontario’s introduc- Many see room for much power is not confined to busi- community it can spread and clean up a mess they did not by a criminal. tion in 2008 of the Feed-In- more growth as people begin ness and family buildings. Tariff (FIT) program pay- to view home solar panels as In Ottawa, several churches, ing homeowners for green not only lucrative, but easy. schools and municipal build- 40 Years of Building A Healthy Community power, home solar power in- Rooftop panels in urban ings are already using solar stallations in particular have neighbourhoods like Cen- panels as both a community Join us for our quickly caught on. tretown allow homeowners education tool and a revenue th “It all started (for me) to make a safe extra buck in source. Ecology Ottawa’s 40 Annual General Meeting when I went to the Green uncertain economic times. Janice Ashworth says that, & Anniversary Party! Ottawa show in April 2010 Facilitating this is re- with the spring and sum- when I was looking to put newed commitment by the mer seasons just beginning, in a new roof,” says resident provincial government to the timing is ideal for more Wednesday June 20, 2012, Dennis Jackson. Jackson FIT (the Feed-In Tariff pro- people to begin thinking so- 5-7 pm – Meeting For Registered Members Only began installing solar panels gram of the Ontario Power lar now. 6-9 pm – 40th Anniversary Street Party that fall and was selling pow- Authotrity, by which inde- Ottawa’s Second An- 55 Eccles St, corner of Booth St. er back to the grid by De- pendently owned renewable nual Solar Fair is upcoming cember. Now he volunteers power generators contribute on Saturday, June 16 at City to share his experience at to the provincial power grid) Hall from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 Food, Beverages, Entertainment, Awards and more! information sessions hosted as the program expands. p.m. If discussion on local For more information please call Rosemary at 613-238-8210 ext 2312 by Ecology Ottawa for those This means it will be quicker website 1000solarrooftops. interested in installing their and easier, government offi- com is any indication, it is al- own solar panels. cials have said, to complete ready generating ample buzz “The way I looked at it the three major steps in solar in a city rapidly realizing it Rates as low as $28 per issue was that it was much smarter installations: roof assess- has access to its own readily Advertise with the Buzz to invest the money in my ment, putting up the panels, accessible resource. roof than in the market,” and contracting with On- View our rate card at centretownbuzz.com Jackson says. He is on track tario Hydro. The guaranteed to recoup his original invest- contracts—Ontario Hydro ment eight-and-a-half years will pay home solar panel MAY 18, 2012 CENTRETOWNBUZZ.COM 9 Centretown Citizens Community The BUZZ, Association May Report briefly

By CCCA President Jordan nual barbeque (10:00 a.m. to Tree Fund. The Trees and tre for Policy Alternatives John sweep conducted Charbonneau 1:00 p.m.), a baked goods Greenspace Committee (CCPA). and plant sale and, new this would appreciate donations The committee follows In an ongoing effort to deal with community- Following is some infor- year, an electronic waste col- of perennials and seedlings many topics of interest, but identifi ed prostitution and prostitution-related mation on just a few of the lection service. Residents are for the plant sale. For more it was decided that this topic problems, the Ottawa Police Service conducted a many ongoing events and encouraged to bring in their information, or to arrange to would be a great sequel to two-day john sweep in Centertown, Lowertown initiatives in Centretown in unwanted electronic devices have donations picked up, the article on Centretown’s and Vanier on April 27 and 28, 2012. which the Centretown Citi- so that they can be recycled call Mavaia at 613-567-7955 housing costs and seniors’ A total of 20 males were arrested. Nineteen of zens Community Associa- responsibly. See the Recycle or email Bonnie at dbma- incomes that appeared in the the males qualifi ed for the Pre-charge Diversion tion is involved. For more in- Your Electronics website for [email protected]. April edition of The Buzz. Program which includes attending John School, a formation, contact us via the details on what we will be A Heritage Trees work- See elsewhere in this paper project which uses a restorative justice approach to information provided at the accepting. (www.recycley- shop, led by the Ontario ur- for the resulting article, writ- the effects of prostitution within our communities end of this article. ourelectronics.ca/Electron- ban Forest Council, will be ten by Georgia. and focuses on education. ics/WhatWeRecycle.aspx) held on June 8, 2012 at the The remaining male was charged with a vari- Centretown Community Central Experimental Farm. Museum of Nature West ety of offences including communicating for the Design Plan (CDP) Possible Development by The cost is $50 per partici- Lawn purpose of prostitution, mischief, and breaches of The April issue of The McGarry Funeral Home pant. Centretown has many The CCCA is continu- previous forms of judiciary release. A total of six Buzz had several articles The CCCA was surprised mature trees that might be ing to monitor the museum’s criminal charges were laid. by CCCA members regard- to hear that Brian McGarry, considered heritage due to west lawn parking situation. The Ottawa Police Service conducts John sweeps ing the draft Centretown owner of Hulse, Playfair and their history, beauty, size or We have received some traf- throughout the year and will continue to make this a CDP and advertised a public McGarry Funeral Home, signifi cance to the commu- fi c volume information from priority when developing enforcement strategies. meeting on this topic that the is proposing to develop a nity, but they lack documen- the City for the intersections CCCA will hold on May 30 25-storey building in the tation. The Trees and Green- surrounding the museum and (see further information else- parking lot beside the funeral space Committee would like have had meetings with mu- where in this issue.) Since home on McLeod Street. to help identify them. For seum representatives. It ap- Occupy Ottawa march then, the CCCA has learned This area is zoned for more details and registra- pears that the museum will that the CDP may not pro- seven stories, meaning that tion, visit the OuFC website. be having a public meeting Occupy Ottawa (now renamed Occupied Otta- ceed to the City’s Planning a 25-storey building would (www.oufc.org) about its plans for the prop- wa) marched through the streets on May 12. While Committee in June as was be completely out of scale On May 6, the Trees and erty in May, so watch for no- the group had stated an intent to re-occupy the thought, due to objections with the surrounding neigh- Greenspace Committee or- tices about that event. park, in the end the protest moved to the Park of the from some developers. bourhood. Apparently, the ganized a “Jane’s Walk in Provinces and Territories, then peacefully dispersed The CCCA believes that building would be similar Three Parks.” Jane Jacobs Next CCCA Board Meet- around 10:00 p.m. The protest organization was re- it is essential to have open to the Public Service Alli- would have approved of this ing moved from on November 23 public discussion about the ance of Canada’s building walk and the way members The next meeting of the of last year. CDP and any objections. on Gilmour Street in terms of the neighbourhood take an CCCA Board will take place Strong warnings from the City that anyone found Centretown residents are of its footprint but would be interest in their parks. at City Hall (Honeywell camping in the park after 11:00 p.m. may have urged to attend the CCCA’s twice as high. The CCCA has There were 28 walk- Room) on Tuesday, June 19 contributed to the group’s decision not to remain CDP meeting to learn more written to Mr. McGarry to ers who enjoyed the lovely from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. The in the park. City bylaws prohibit camping in public about how this plan will af- request a meeting to discuss gardens and talks by Drina meeting, as with all Board parks, or remaining in a park between the hours of fect your neighbourhood and plans for his property. Wethey at McNabb Park, meetings, is open to the pub- 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. The group is still planning voice your opinions about Natasha Beaudin at Arling- lic. We hope to see you there a number of General Assemblies to take place in how you would like to see Minto Park Games Tables ton Park and Susan Kerr at as we discuss these and other Confederation Park through the summer. development occur in Cen- The CCCA project to ac- Dundonald Park. The inter- important Centretown is- tretown. quire games tables for Minto action of the neighbourhoods sues. The CCCA requested a Park continues to attract do- and these parks was explored meeting with the chair of the nations. Watch for the CCCA and discussed. Contact Us Support Bronson businesses Planning Committee, Coun- bake sale table at the Minto You can keep up to date cillor Peter Hume, in early Park Sale on June 16. Pro- Seniors Committee on events in Centretown by Construction continues on Bronson Avenue, May to discuss the status of ceeds from the sale of baked The CCCA’s Seniors subscribing to our email which remains closed to through traffi c from Cath- the CDP. More about this goods will be earmarked for Committee met on April 23 newsletter (contact us at erine Street to Somerset Street. The BUZZ would meeting will be shared at the the games tables. to discuss its next contribu- ccca@centretowncitizens. like to encourage readers to make an extra effort to May 30 public meeting. tion to keeping seniors in ca,) following us on Twitter patronize businesses along this stretch of Bronson Trees and Greenspace Centretown informed about (twitter.com/CentretownC- during the closure, as the increased diffi culty of ac- CCCA Activities at the Committee affordable housing and ser- CA) or visiting our website cess and lack of through traffi c will negatively im- Minto Park Sale On June 16, the Trees and vices. Member Georgia Lay (www.centretowncitizens. pact customer numbers. This is a diffi cult time for Remember to mark your Greenspace Committee will brought in some very inter- ca.) We would be happy to Bronson businesses. Get out there and help support calendar on June 16 for Coun- hold its annual plant sale as esting information on the de- hear from you! our neighbours! cillor Diane Holmes’ Minto part of the Minto Park Sale. layed retirements of today’s Now get out and enjoy Park Sale! At the event, the Proceeds from the plant sale seniors, which had been pub- the beautiful spring weather! CCCA will be having its an- will be used for the CCCA’s lished by the Canadian Cen-

Yasir Naqvi, MPP Ottawa Centre

Here to help you!

Community Office 411 Roosevelt Avenue, Suite 204 Ottawa, ON K2A 3X9 T: 613-722-6414 | F: 613-722-6703 [email protected] www.yasirnaqvimpp.ca fb facebook.com/yasirnaqvimpp | tw @yasir_naqvi 10 CENTRETOWNBUZZ.COM MAY 18, 2012 Metcalfe Street to be redesigned? by Georgia Lay candidates for conversion. City will not find an addi- It currently consists of three tional 70 - 80 parking spots onverting Metcalfe lanes, one of which is used on the side streets adjacent to Street from a north- for on-street parking during Metcalfe Street. The park- C bound one-way off-peak periods. ing on those narrow mid- street to a two-way thor- Those of us who live on Centretown streets is already oughfare has been a dream Metcalfe Street can view the in heavy use by residents and of neighbourhood activists impact of reducing Metcalfe their guests, and by patrons and urban planners since Street to one northbound lane of Elgin and 1974 when the Centretown when construction on the businesses. Neighbourhood Develop- Tribeca site causes the tem- One of the patterns ment Plan was published. porary closure of two lanes. emerging from the Segregat- Wrongly characterized as The traffic backs up south ed Bicycle Lane pilot project a “high speed highway ramp” beyond Somerset Street and is that most of its users are, for almost 40 years, Metcalfe along the streets leading into like their car-bound counter- Street may finally fall victim Metcalfe. parts, weekday commuters to to the quest to make travel Idling cars and increased the Central Business District. through Centretown as unap- traffic congestion only add to But unlike car drivers, cy- pealing as possible for mo- the “unsafe and unpleasant clists are a seasonal lot. The torized vehicles. conditions” which the CDP overall benefit of maintaining The new Centretown notes that the existing street bicycle lanes throughout the Community Design Plan configuration produces. winter for a small number of perpetuates the impetus to The CDP proposes two riders is questionable. “fix” the traffic problem in options for a two-way Met- On the west side of Cen- Centretown by recommend- calfe Street. Option one tretown, cyclists are served ing the conversion of one- would see the third lane di- by south- and north-bound way north-south arterials vided up into bicycle lanes bicycle lanes on Percy and in Centretown to two-way. on both sides of the street Bay Streets – both quiet, res- Metcalfe Street is to be con- and no on-street parking. idential streets. Rather than verted first, with O’Connor, Under option two, the third piling another transportation Kent and, perhaps, Lyon lane would be devoted to use on a busy, narrow arte- Streets to follow. permanent parking on the rial such as Metcalfe Street, The inability of the Ca- east side of the street and no why not set up bicycle lanes nadian Museum of Nature lanes dedicated to bicycle on Cartier Street, on the east to provide visitor parking traffic. side of Centretown, for com- without encroaching on its Most of the apartment muters from southern ap- own greenspace also contrib- buildings on Metcalfe were proaches to the Central Busi- utes to the push to reorganize built before the demand for ness District? Metcalfe Street. The section off-street parking emerged. The CDP does caution of Metcalfe Street that runs And only a few of the older a measured approach to PROVINCIAL AFFAIRS through the east lawn of the apartment buildings have an the reorganization of Met- museum between Argyle and entrance where taxis, trucks calfe Street. It recommends McLeod Streets would be and ParaTranspo can pull up “a technical review of the Update on Ontario closed. on the property to load/un- highway ramping systems” According to a traffic load passengers and goods. before any two-way con- study by Delcan, Metcalfe With condo developments versions are undertaken, Budget 2012 Street currently accommo- replacing surface parking and that “a transportation dates between 800 and 1100 lots, the supply of off-street network analysis should be would be funded from within —an estimated $470 mil- vehicles per hour during the parking in Centretown is completed detailing the ex- by Yasir Naqvi the Ministry of Education’s lion next year—going di- morning rush as commuters dwindling. The CDP rec- isting and future conditions MPP, Ottawa Centre allocation, published in the rectly into deficit reduction. flood into offices in Cen- ognizes that public parking and impact on road capacity, 2012 Budget. I am confident This surtax would be effec- tretown on weekdays. will become an issue in the circulation and spill-over to he Ontario gov- that these funds will ensure tive July 1, 2012, which is Where will vehicular Centretown of tomorrow and adjacent streets” before Met- ernment is taking that the child care sector re- the same day the freeze on traffic exiting the Queen- suggests various strategies calfe Street in particular is T strong action in the mains strong and can help corporate income taxes is sway at Metcalfe Street end the City could adopt to deal altered. budget to eliminate the def- families experience a seam- proposed to take effect, and up? On Elgin Street? On with it. I would add that compe- icit by 2017-18, grow the less transition to full-day would be eliminated once the Bank Street? Will it revert Unlike its experience tition between cycling and economy and create jobs kindergarten. budget is balanced in 2017- to Metcalfe Street at some with the Laurier Segregated parking uses of our streets while protecting health Our government will 18. point between McLeod and Bicycle Lane pilot project, needs to be resolved before care and education. move immediately to lower With these proposed Wellington Streets? where there was some flex- any two-way conversions of It takes leadership and co- the cost we pay for the most changes, Ontario’s deficit is Metcalfe Street is, at 10.5 ibility to establish new park- one-way streets are under- operation to make a minority popular generic drugs, gen- now projected to be lower meters, the narrowest of the ing spots on side streets, the taken. government work. Passing erating an additional $55 than originally forecast in the the budget is a perfect exam- million a year in savings. 2012 Budget. The govern- ple of this. I am pleased that This will allow us to increase ment is projecting a deficit of our government has reached the social assistance rates— $15 billion in 2011-12, down an agreement with the NDP Ontario Disability Support from $15.3 billion. In 2017- that makes the 2012 Ontar- Program and Ontario Works 18, the year in which the io Budget even better, and —by one per cent respective- budget was initially forecast helps us to further reduce the ly in the fall of 2012. This to balance, the government is deficit. The measures agreed will be the eighth increase now projecting a $0.5 billion upon include no new overall our government has made to surplus. As a result of these spending and accelerate our social assistance since com- actions, provincial debt, five-year plan to eliminate ing to office. measured as the accumulated the deficit by 2017-18. We will also introduce deficit, would be reduced by We are providing ad- legislation to create a new $3.5 billion by 2017-18. ditional funding for child income tax bracket for indi- For more information care as we move towards the viduals with incomes over about the 2012 Ontario implementation of full-day $500,000. Subject to ap- Budget, please visit www. kindergarten by 2014-15. proval of the Legislature, the ontario.ca/budget or www. The total fiscal impact of top statutory Ontario income yasirnaqvimpp.ca, or call me this action will be $90 mil- tax rate on incomes over at my community office at lion in 2012-13, $68 million $500,000 would increase by 613-722-6414. in 2013-14 and $84 million two percentage points, with in 2014-15. This investment all new revenue generated Ka t h r y n Hu n t / Th e BUZZ MAY 18, 2012 CENTRETOWNBUZZ.COM 11 The Buzz Calendar of Events The Blessing of the sociation at www.glebeca. of age or size or ability. It Cemetery (280 Beechwood beth and in films by Oscar tion - and a Drama Desk Bikes, May 20, 2012, at ca was co-created thirty years Ave.) Award winner Ang Lee; Award for Outstanding Or- 12:00 p.m. at Church of ago by fitness pros Debbie For more information call violinist, Chris McKhool, chestration along the way. the Ascension, 253 Echo *** and Carlos Rosas who were Nicole at 613-741-9530 ext accompanied by fellow It has since been performed Drive (just south of Pre- tired of seeing their teach- 121. members of JUNO Award throughout North America, toria Bridge.) Once again, Please join us by sup- ers and students get injured Our event is outdoors. Nominees Sultans of String, the UK and in Australia; Church of the Ascension porting the “Path of Hope” and get bored. Nia won’t Refreshments will be thrills audiences with a son- and translated for success- is organizing a Blessing fundraising concert at St. hurt you. And Nia certainly served after the tour. En- ic tapestry of Spanish Fla- ful productions in France, of the Bikes service to cel- Andrew’s Church on May won’t bore you. In fact, Nia ter by Beechwood Avenue menco, Arabic folk, Cuban Belgium, Germany, Den- ebrate the blessing that cy- 26, 2012, to enjoy an eve- is the kind of exercise your entrance. Tour and parking rhythms, and French Gypsy mark, Holland and Japan. cling provides us (e.g. fun, ning of music and dance body actually craves. It’s are free. Wear good walk- jazz; Montreal’s Hua Yun The running time of the travel, adventure, exercise, and also to assist The Mar- based on moves that draw ing shoes. Artistique Troupe will per- show (including intermis- clean air!) and to pray for co Depestre Foundation of from dance, martial, and form the popular Chinese sion) is approximately two those who ride. There will Ottawa in fulfilling some of healing arts. What does that *** legend The Monkey King hours and 30 minutes. From be a brief blessing for riders its projects and work, par- mean? It means your body with its comical facial ex- the moment she struck the and bikes, a moment of si- ticularly in southern Haiti. will love doing it, it wants If you’re a book lover pression and movements, iceberg at 11:40 p.m. on lence to remember cyclists Tickets are $15/adult and to do it, it knows how to or a bargain hunter, don’t and also two dazzling Chi- Sunday, April 14, 1912, it who have been lost in the $5/child. St. Andrew’s do it. Nia puts “no pain, no miss Devonshire School’s nese folk dances; Maghan took the “unsinkable” ship past year, and a chance for Church, 82 Kent Street (at gain” to shame. There’s no “Book Bash” on June 15 McPhee, soprano and 2nd only two hours and 40 min- everyone to ring their bi- Wellington) 613-232-9042 reason to hurt your body and 16. Thousands of gently prize winner at the new- utes to disappear beneath cycle bells in celebration of - www.StAndrewsOttawa. while you’re trying to ul- used books will be sold for music Eckhardt-Gramatte the calm, but near-freezing cycling. All are welcome. ca timately help your body. a fraction of their original competition performs both North Atlantic. The service starts at 12:00 That simply doesn’t make cost. Adult fiction & non- popular Eastern and West- noon sharp; it is wonder- *** sense. And all of the moves fiction, kids’ books, special- ern folk songs and aria; *** ful but very brief, so come are done to music that you ty items. Silent Auction, Ottawa Turkish Music En- a little early! There will be Crafts, zines, live music, won’t be able to resist. For BBQ, bake sale and live semble and Montreal Turk- Divertimento Orchestra fair-trade espresso and live skill-sharing workshops more information contact entertainment. Great family ish Music Choir perform is an Ottawa-based group jazz too. and the Clothesline Proj- Steffi Retzlaff at 613-680- fun! Friday 3:00 -7:30 p.m. classical/folkloric Turkish of 68 musicians. It began ect: mark your calendars 7342 or visit www.niainot- and Saturday 9:00 a.m. - music conducted by award- in 1984 as a small ensemble *** for the 2012 Ravenswing tawa.com noon. Devonshire School, winning composer, Ismail in someone’s basement for DIY Fair on Sunday, May 100 Breezehill Ave. N. Call H. Fencioglu; and Ottawa their own pleasure and has The Great Glebe Ga- 27th in Minto Park on El- *** Jill Metcalf at 613-234- Tianyi Guzheng Studio per- evolved into a full-fledged rage Sale will take place gin Street. Everything at 0721. form exquisite pieces on community symphony. on Saturday, May 26. The Ravenswing is made from Come with your fam- multi-string Chinese zith- If you are interested sale, which takes place on a grass-roots, community, ily and friends to Beech- *** ers. A crowd favourite, the in joining the orchestra, streets and lawns through- DIY ethic. Take part in wood’s Annual Historical Indonesian Embassy will please call (613) 823-1200. out the Glebe, is a charita- hands-on craft and com- Walking Tour. This year’s Asian Heritage Month’s be back to present several The following positions ble event in support of the munity workshops, browse theme is the Performing 10th Anniversary Gala unique Indonesian dances. are currently open for au- Ottawa Food Bank. Since the stalls, shop for crafts, Arts at Beechwood. The Concert Presented by the Ottawa ditions: violin, viola, and the inception of the sale goodies, artwork and zines, tour includes seven stops at Saturday, June 2, 2012 Asian Heritage Month So- double bass. in 1986, the Glebe Com- listen to live local bands, the gravesites of men and 7:30pm - Grand Hall, Ca- ciety. Players of other instru- munity Association has and check out the Clothes- women who contributed to nadian Museum of Civili- ments are welcome to con- endorsed donations to the line Project, an interactive the world of the perform- zation (100 Laurier Street, *** tact us. You will be put on Ottawa Food Bank as part display against violence ing arts, through theatre, Gatineau, Quebec) our waiting list. of this incredibly festive toward women. (In case of dance and music. The tour Tickets: $25 at 10th.gala. Orpheus Theatre will For more information event. After all, it is about rain the fair moves to Jack will include Victorian stage [email protected] and mark the 100th anniversary please visit www.diverti- building community! We Purcell Community Cen- actress Ida Van Courtland ($3 sur- of the Titanic disaster with mento.ca have encouraged vendors tre; visit ravenswingottawa. Tavernier, composer Rex charge, 47 William St.) East our production of Titanic: to donate 10 per cent of com for details, schedules, Lelacheur and flamenco Wind (802 Bank St./361 The Musical in spring 2012. *** their proceeds, and bargain and more.) dancer Carmen Jolicoeur. Richmond Rd.) This award-winning musi- shoppers to donate some of Costumed actors will bring East meets west in a cul- cal (unrelated to the James Advertise your commu- their savings. In turn, the *** these historical figures to tural fusion of the tradition- Cameron movie) by Maury nity event for free in The Ottawa Food Bank issues life. Don’t miss this stroll al and the contemporary. Yeston and Peter Stone is BUZZ. Send your informa- receipts for donations of Nia Workshop at Pra- through beautiful and his- Performers include: Ron based on real passengers tion to editor@centretown- $10.00 or more and is bet- naShanti Yoga Centre on toric Beechwood, the Na- Korb, a Japanese-Canadian and events. buzz.com. Ads are subject to ter able to serve the 43,000 June 9 at 2:00 p.m. - Regular tional Cemetery of Canada. world renowned flautist, Titanic: The Musical won editing for style and space. people who need and use classes on Tuesdays and Fri- Date: Sunday, June 10, composer and international five Tony Awards - for Best First come, first served. their services each month. days- Nia is a fitness/dance 2012 recording artist known as Musical, Best Book, Best For more information visit class that anybody and ev- Time: 2:00 p.m. “Dragon Flute” in China, Original Score, Best Scenic the Glebe Community As- erybody can do regardless Location: Beechwood has played for Queen Eliza- Design and Best Orchestra-

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