AUGUST 2013 NEWS/POLITICS/FOOD/ARTS/SPORTS/FASHION/LIFESTYLE $3.95

SouthAsianFestSouthAsianFest AA nightnight inin BollywoodBollywood withoutwithout thethe ticketticket toto India!India!

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Health-Care Series Nokia Lumia 920 * Wines of All Kinds * Amsterdam DISPLAY UNTIL AUGUST 30, 2013 RCR IS OTTAWA’S COMMUNITY PARTNER Specific community activities held at Rideau Carleton Raceway

Gloucester Fair (Last 13 years) Spartan Races (7,000 participants) 1000 Wishes: World's Biggest Golf Event fundraiser 1812 Military Celebrations 32 Company Night at the Races Fundraiser 3s Company Aboriginal Day at the Races Académie catholique Ange-Gabriel Fundraiser Algonquin College Fundraiser Alta Vista Veterinarian Aphasia Centre of Ottawa Arnprior Night at the Races Arts Court Night at the Races Fundraiser Association Emiliana Fundraiser Australia Aware (Animal Wellness Awareness Rescue Education) BARK – Bytown Association for Rescued Kanines Beckwith Township Night at the Races Big Bike for the Heart and Stroke Foundation Bikers Against Brain Cancer Fundraiser Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services Black Canadian Scholarship Fund Blossom Park Night at the Races Boys and Girls Club Breast Friends Club Weekend to End Breast Cancer Fundraiser Brinston Night at the Races Bruce House Bust a Move Fundraiser Bytown Storm Triathalon Fundraiser Canadian Blood Services Canadian Federation of chefs and cooks Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind Canadian Nurse Foundation Canadian Showtime Chorus Canadian Showtime Chorus Fundraiser Candle Lighters Caribbean Carnival Soiree Carleton Place Night at the Races Carleton Russell Holstein Club Carp Lynx Fundraiser Casselman Night at the Races HILL STUDS LTD PHOTO: TARA Corporation of the Town of Perth Edwardsburgh-Cardinal Night at the Races Centre Pauline Charon Night at the Races Cougars Embrun Night at the Races Fundraiser Council of Canadians with Disabilities Fundraiser Family Fun Day Centre Pauline- Charron Crohns and Colitis Foundation of Canada Federal Liberal party Fundraiser Night at the Races CESA-EO Fundraiser Cumberland Jr. Grads Hockey Fundraiser Findlay Creek Community Association CHBO – Canadian horse Breeders of Ontario Cumberland Ward Night at the Races Findlay Creek Night at the Races CHEO PKU – CHEO Phenylketonuria Dine ‘n Dash for Dom Friends of the Canadian War Museum Fundraiser Chesterville Night at the Races District A-4 Lions Club Fundraiser General Dynamics Christina Polifroni Down syndrome Association & Capital City Gloucester Rangers Hockey Team CIBC Run for the cure Condors Fundraiser Gloucester South Gate Night at the Races Clarence Rockland Night at the Races Early Childhood Partnership Gloucester South Nepean Night at the Races Cornwall Night at the Races Fundraiser for Team East Ottawa Chamber of Commerce Business Going to the Dogs Fundraiser Cornwall After Hours Fundraiser Greely Community Association Corporation de la cite de Clarence-Rockland/City Easter Seal Society Greely Night at the Races of Clarence Rockland Eastern Ottawa Resource Centre Guyana Rideau Vanier Night at the Races Riverbend Motorcoach Resort Night at the Races Ottawa’s Rideau Carleton Raceway would like to thank the Riverside South Night at the Races 120+ community organizations and charities from the National RMC Club Foundation- Ottawa Branch RONA fundraiser for CHEO Capital Region that have been a part of the Rideau Carleton Rotary Home Royal Canadian Legion Branch 314-Manotick Raceway family since 1962. We appreciate your support and Fundraiser we look forward to continuing to work with you in the coming Run for Military Families Fundraiser Russell Curling Club Fundraiser years. Horseracing is flourishing in Ontario as an exciting, Russell Raiders Soccer Sailors Night at the Races crowd-pleasing sports spectacle. More than 60,000 Ontarians Saltos Athletics Fundraiser are employed by Ontario’s horseracing and horse breeding Save the Children Canada Shawville/Pontiac Night at the Races industry, making it the second largest sub-sector of Ontario’s Shepherds of Good Hope Smart Vest for Sabrina agricultural economy. We are happy to be in an industry that Smiths Falls Night at the Races contributes so much to our great province and city. Sons of Scotland South Africa South Dundas Fundraiser Navan Fair Fundraiser Habitat for Humanity Nicaragua Fundraiser South Gloucester United Church North Gower Night at the Races Horseman's Auction South Ottawa Race Day Cancer Foundation North Grenville Night at the Races Huntingtons Spartan Race Nothing but a Child Indigenous Golf Summit Spencerville Night at the Races Operation Go Home Innes Ward Night at the Races Stand up for Kids Fundraiser Orleans Night at the Races Innovative Community Support Services Steve Clark Mpp Night at the Races ORMHA – Osgoode Rideau Minor Hockey Irish Society Stittsville Night at the Races Association Jamaica Survivor Ottawa OS Financial Institution for Cancer Journey to Czech Rebublic Night at the Races Team Diabetes OSFI - Office of the Superintendent of Financial Julianne’s Recovery Family Christmas Fundraiser The Arthritis Society Institutions Kaboom; Build A Park Fundraiser The Black Canadian Scholarship Fund Osgoode Minor Hockey Fundraiser Kanata Oldtimers Hockey Association The Glebe Centre Osgoode Ward Night at the Races Kars Night at the Races The Irish Society Osteoporosis Fundraiser Kemptville Campus University of Guelph The Men’s Project Ottawa Centre Fundraiser Fundraiser The National Institute of Jamaican-Canadians Ottawa Coalition of Community Houses Kemptville District Hospital Foundation The OK Clean Water Project Ottawa Fury Kiwanis Club The Pearl Ottawa Gaels Gaelic Football Club Knights Of Columbus The Royal Canadian Legion – Manotick Ottawa Humane Society La maison Mathieu-Froment-Savoie Fundraiser Fundraiser Ottawa Independent Living Resource Centre Ladies Night The Weekend to end Women’s Cancers Ottawa Irish Rugby Club Leeds Grenville United Way The Wish Lamp Fundraiser Ottawa Little Theatre Night at the Races Fundraiser Lena Ling – National Capital Regions Women Shelter Town of Mississippi Mills Ottawa Orleans Liberal Fundraiser Liberty Shots and Cougars Concurring Cancer Township of Beckwith Ottawa Rotary Home Fundraiser Township of Drummond-North Elmsley Ottawa Soccer Light the Night for Bill Watson Fundraiser Township of Lanark Highlands Ottawa South Conservative Association Lisa MacLeod Breakfast Township of Leeds and Thousand Isles Ottawa South NDP Riding Association Lisa Macloed MPP Night at the Races Township of Montague Ottawa South Race Day Lisa’s Fund for Cystic Fibrosis Fundraiser Township of North Dundas Ottawa Survivor Locks of Love Township of North Grenville Ottawa Swans Australian Football Club Make a Wish Golf Tournie Township of North Stormont Ottawa Swans Australian Football Fundraiser Manotick Community Association Township of Rideau Lakes Our Lady of the Angels Parish Fundraiser Manotick Night at the Races Township of South Stormont Out of the Gate Ottawa Football Honour Roll Mathieu Froment Savoie Night at the Races Township of Tay Valley Perley & Rideau Vetrans Health Centre (Gatineau Region Fundraiser) TROtt – Therapeutic Riding Association of Ottawa Perth Night at the Races Meet the Governor’s Cabinet Carleton Fundraising Dinner Philippine Mercer Relay for Life U16-Halifax Fundraiser Philippine Centre Canada Merivale Gardens Community Association United Way Philippine Community Centre Fundraiser University of Guelph Kemptville Campus Night at Phoebe Rose Fundraiser Merrickville Night the Races the Races PKD – Polycystic Kidney Disease – Cease and Metcalfe Curling Club Upper Canada Fundraiser Night at the Races Decyst Fundraiser Metcalfe Night at the Races Vanier Museopark Fundraiser Night at the Races Plantagenet Night at the Races Mississippi Mills Night at the Races (Almonte in Vanier Night at the Races PMRA – Pest Management Regulatory Agency Concert Fundraiser) Vankleek Hill Night at the Races Quota Club Fundraiser Motorcycle Ride for Dad Prostate Cancer Wacca- Walls and Ceilings Associations Night at R.C.M.P Musical Ride Movember the Races Reach Night at the Races Munster Elementary School Council Fundraise Wade Wallace Campaign Fundraiser Red Hat Society Munster Hamlet Night at the Races WaterCan Relay for Life National Capital Amateur Football Association Waupoos Foundation Renfrew Recreation Fundraising Committee National Capital Heavy Construction Association Weekend to end breast Cancer Richard Patten Fundraiser National Capital Skin Diseases Foundation West Carleton March Ward Night at the Races Richmond Night at the Races(Community Fundraiser) Fundraiser Williamsburg Night at the Races Ricky O'Connor Fundraiser National Institute of Jamaican- Canadians Winchester Night at the Races

July/August 2013 VOLUME 15 • NUMBER 4

AMNA HAKIM PHOTOGRAPHY

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PHOTOS

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Ottawa's Largest South Asian Event — August 16 -17 The Annual SouthAsianFest is the largest gathering of its kind in the National Capital Region. Over 10,000 people are expected to take in the exotic non-stop action over two days that include the Splash! Boat Cruise and food, music and fun for everyone.

PHOTO: PAUL COUVRETTE

.features columns Canada Loves Louboutin 16 Christian Louboutin’s shoes have adorned the & stories feet of the world’s most famous and glamorous Publisher’s Message ...... 6 women. His signature glossy red soles mark a blend of Capital Clips ...... 7 craftsmanship and distinct elegance that has helped build one of the most successful shoe brands in the world. Best Picks ...... 8 Thirst Impressions ...... 10 At Home with Houseplants 18 Andreas Østhage/The Arctic Institute... 13 Who doesn’t love the greenery that a living plant can bring to a space? Opinion: Rideau Carleton Raceway...... 15 Most people are afraid to make a grand statement but to achieve a greater impact with your decor, go for big! Homes: Gibson Timber Frames...... 20 Money Matters ...... 23 Waste 30 Healthy Living...... 25 The City of Ottawa is partnering with local firms Health Care...... 33 top develop innovative, environmentally-friendly and cost-saving methods to deal with waste. Health Care: NexJ...... 34 Reforming Prescription Drugs ...... 37 Amsterdam and The Hague: Canadian Coast Guard ...... 39 The Dutch Golden Age Continues 42 Opinion: Gary Corbett ...... 46 Amsterdam today is still arguably one of the intellectual and artistic centres of Europe and is considered one of the most progressive cities in the world. Holland’s capital city, The Hague, has undeniable charm with stunning monuments and chic livable neighbourhoods. Judging by the dynamism of these two cities, Holland has entered a new Golden Age. www.boomerslegacy.ca o Honour our troops 20 publisher’s message by dan donovan publisher/managing editor Dan Donovan

editor/head writer Harvey Chartrand

copy editor/features writer Jennifer Hartley SouthAsianFest Thrives manager of operations Alessandra Gerebizza While Eugene Melnyk Dives associate web publisher Rob Cornforth contributing writers ttawa is Festival City: TD Ottawa Jazz Festival, the RBC Royal Bank Harvey F. Chartrand, Tanya Collins, Gary Corbett, Christine Davis, Dan Donovan, OBluesfest, Rib Fest, Carnival of Cultures, Magnetic North Theatre Taylor Gibson, Alexandra Gunn, Stephen Frank Festival, Italian Week Festival, Ottawa Fringe Festival, the Ottawa Dragon Kimberly Lochhead, Michael Pinkus, Kash Pashootan, Dr. Chad Shank, Simon Vodrey Boat Race Festival, Ottawa Folk Festival, Escapade Music Festival, Music cover photo and Beyond, Ottawa International Chamber Music Festival, Summer Paul Couvrette Solstice Aboriginal Arts Festival, Ottawa Lumière Festival, Greekfest, Ottawa photographers Lebanese Festival and many more. Phylip Allain, Paul Couvrette, Pierre Crom, Jurjen Drenth, Ernesto Distefano, Arjan De Jager, Amna Hakim, Gordon King, All of these festivals are a mirror on the diversity of our great city. With all Chris Toala Olivares, Jon Poole, Michelle Valberg the strife in today's world between cultures, religions and political factions, it student intern Taylor Gibson, is really a gift to see the multiplicity of communities that decide to put on a Joanna Plucinska show and invite “the neighbours.” It is at the heart of what Canada is about fashion Alexandra Gunn and I can’t think of a better place to set the example for this than Ottawa. director of sales [email protected]

accounts Joe Colas C.G.A The other great thing about all these festivals is the amount of volunteer web administrator Clayton Andres time and community involvement that it takes to organize them. Thousands design Karen Temple of people commit a lot of hours to help pull these events together. And of course the third great thing about these festivals is that they are FUN. You’ll technical support John Temple corporate advisor J. Paul Harquail, see lots of moms, pops, granddads and grandmothers, kids, couples, cousins Charles Franklin

– everyone is out and about enjoying the moment. Often, we forget about corporate counsel Paul Champagne the police and other support services from the City of Ottawa who work advertising information with these groups to help pull off these events. We owe them a big thanks For information on advertising rates, visit www.ottawalife.com because, for all the challenges our city and council face, they can certainly call (613) 688-LIFE (5433) or stand tall when it comes to our festivals. e-mail [email protected] Canadian Publication Mail Product Sales Agreement #1199056. SouthAsianFest is certainly no slouch when it comes to putting on a great Ottawa Life Magazine, 301 Metcalfe St. show. Each August, this small but vibrant community of very proud Canadians Lower Level, Ottawa. Ontario K2P 1R9 tel: (613) 688-5433 fax: (613) 688-1994 really pulls together the largest admission-free South Asian gathering in the e-mail: [email protected] capital.This year, on the August 15 weekend, SouthAsianFest will attract Website: www.ottawalife.com over 10,000 visitors by showcasing different kinds of performing arts from Ottawa Life is listed in Canadian Advertising Rates & Data (CARD). big-name acts like Imran Khan to local artists. Organizers invite anyone Ottawa Life subscription rates: who attends to enjoy the music, culture and delicious variety of dishes of one year $30.00, includes postage, plus HST South Asian cuisine. SouthAsianFest is an open and inclusive weekend bash (six issues). Two years $50.00, includes post- age, plus HST (12 issues). Add $20 per year for that celebrates Canada’s diversity while promoting cultural integration and postage outside Canada. harmony. Subscriber service is 613-688-LIFE (5433). Ottawa Life Magazine is printed in Canada on Finally, there is a story in this issue, an update really, on the Rideau Carleton recycled paper. Raceway and Casino issue. Senators' owner Eugene Melnyk has been a great proponent of Ottawa and has done a masterful job with the Ottawa Senators. We owe him a great deal of thanks for this and all his charity work as well. However, Mr. Melnyk has really diminished himself, his reputation and his organization with his threats to city council related to the gaming issue. His "do what I want or I am taking my ball and going home" approach has stunned many of his biggest fans in the city. He should rethink his position. The mayor and city council don’t report to Melnyk – they work for us. And Jim Watson is on the right side of this issue to convert the Rideau Carleton Raceway into a gambling casino – as he is on the right side of most issues. n

6 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 capital clips PHOTO: MICHELLE VALBERG Michelle Valberg's Excellent Arctic Adventure Michelle Valberg’s Arctic Kaleidoscope: The People, Wildlife and Ever-Changing Landscape has a weighty pedigree, and not just because it's a 224- page coffee table book. It has taken five years of Valberg’s life and encompassed 27 trips that zigzagged to 40 remote Arctic locations—from Kugluktuk to Greenland and Resolute to Churchill—during which she took more than 100,000 images. To get them, she endured frostbite and raging northern winds, slept in tents on ice in polar bear country, tread through mountains of walrus dung and dived with narwhals. In the five years since Valberg first trekked North to photograph wildlife on the sinaaq or floe edge (where polar ice meets open sea), the Ottawa-based photographer has become utterly entranced with the North, its people, animals, landscape, vibrancy and mystery. In that time, she’s morphed from a renowned portrait photographer who took wildlife shots in her spare time to an internationally-recognized Arctic photographer who still relishes her studio work. Arctic Kaleidoscope: The People, Wildlife and Ever-Changing Landscape can be purchased at Valberg Imaging (111 Sherwood Drive, 613-521-3117) or online at www.michellevalberg.com

Sotheby’s gets a Warm Welcome from Ottawa Sotheby's International Realty Canada has hit the nation's capital. Sotheby's is located the heart of the ByWard Market at WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY ROBERT LEPAGE 12 York Street. “We think that Ottawa is the FAMILY 4-PACKS STARTING AT $178* OFFICIAL SPONSORS PRESENTED BY perfect city to benefit from our international recognition as a luxury real estate brand, OPENS JULY 11 our personalized marketing materials and our deep-rooted history of representing the UNDER THE BIG TOP sale of some of the world's most valuable NEXT TO SCOTIABANK PLACE possessions for over 230 years,” says Jeremy CIRQUEDUSOLEIL.COM/TOTEM Levitt, sales representative for the new *Price shown includes 2 adult and 2 child tickets with taxes and service fees. Visit cirquedusoleil.com/totem for more details. Ottawa office.n

7 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 best picks

Krups Makes Food Preparation Fun Jazz up your kitchen with Krups’ latest line of clean and classy appliances. Wake up to a delicious cappuccino with the help of the Krups EA9000 Barista. With a self-cleaning mechanism and automatic rinse already installed, along with a touch screen for customized recipes, your daily coffee routine can be fitted exactly to your needs. Have your coffee with some delicious Belgian-style waffles made using Krups’ waffle maker. Easy to clean and sleek, this waffle maker will help you prepare the perfect breakfast. Make a quick lunch or finish off your day using the Krups Panini maker, designed with a beautiful and easy-to-clean chrome exterior shell. The accompanying recipe book shows you tasty options to liven up your average sandwich. Beautifully designed and easy to use, these products complement each other and offer delicious food options to enhance any busy lifestyle. www.krups.ca Following in the Footsteps of Sverdrup Reliving history offers the perfect opportunity to rediscover an important explorer.

More than a century ago, a Norwegian shipmaster failed to circumnavigate through Baffin Bay, forcing him to winter on Ellesmere Island. While there, he explored countless fjords and passageways on the western part of the island, mapping them out for the first time. The shipmaster, Otto Sverdrup, quickly became a Norwegian legend. Today, Sverdrup is a distant memory, but a group of four modern-day polar explorers hopes to change this. Last winter, they retraced Sverdrup's travels through the New Land 2013 expedition in the hopes of reinvigorating the story of the Norwegian explorer. For 65 days, American John Huston, Norwegian Tobias Thorleifsson, Canadian Hugh Dale-Harris (pictured left) and South African filmmaker Kyle O’Donohue travelled across the landscape, tweeting, blogging and filming their experience. With this footage, the group has now been working hard to showcase and display their findings. Even with a diet of freeze- dried food and having to sleep in icy cold temperatures, the explorers were able to fulfill their final mission – to immortalize Ellesmere and Sverdrup for their loyal followers in Norway, Canada and the U.S., and show what the Norwegian shipmaster had only been able to map a century ago. Be sure to check out the book, Forward at http://forwardendeavors.com/

Beers for the Summer Innis & Gunn’s latest line of refreshing and delicious beers is perfect for summer drinking. Are you craving a classic India Pale Ale-style beer? Try the hoppy flavour and oaky character of the newest Scottish Pale Ale. For a sweeter finish, try Innis & Gunn’s distinctly Canadian brew. Aged in black cherrywood casks and sweetened with maple syrup, it’s a delicious way to celebrate summer in Canada. If you’re looking for something a little lighter, pick up Melville’s latest line of craft-brewed lagers. Made with real strawberry, raspberry and ginger, this line of beers is ideal when served over ice. For a more practical way to enjoy your favourite Innis & Gunn beers, buy a six pack of cans, now available in Ontario. It is perfect for camping. And you can now enjoy the flagship oak-aged brew wherever you go. Have a refreshingly delicious summer with Innis & Gunn. www. innisandgunn.com and www.melvillescraftlager.com

8 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 Nokia Lumia 920 With a 4.5inch LCD screen and HD display at 332 pixels per inch, the Nokia Lumia 920 is larger and sharper than other smart phones on the market, even Apple’s new iPhone 5. Perhaps the most impressive feature of the Lumia 920 is its new touch technology which allows users Physicians to manipulate the screen in dynamic ways. For music lovers, Nokia’s NFC Formula technology allows users to share If you want to skip the sun to get your faced tanned, data and music. By simply taping try Physicians Formula’s latest line of bronzers. With the Nokia Lumia 920 on music the latest Glow and Mood Illuminating Bronzer Veil and accessories, such as speakers and Baked Bronzer, build up the perfect bronze glow while headphones, music can be shared getting a happy boost. With mood-enhancing botanicals and transmitted to other devices. This technology also allows for infused into the formula, benefit from Colour, Aroma and wireless charging; by placing the phone on a wireless charging device, Texture therapy while building up a beautiful bronze tan. you can charge your device without worrying about annoying cords Looking for a more glamorous look for a night out? Try the new Sexy Booster getting in the way. Available in red, yellow and black in a sleek design, Sexy Glow bronzer. With an added gold sparkle, liven up any evening look with the Nokia Lumia 920 is the perfect phone for anyone who wants to take a shimmering tan glow. Complement this with Physicians Formula’s 100 per communication to the next level. www.nokia.com cent Natural Origin False Lash Effect for longer, thicker, curlier lashes, and you’re ready to go! www.physiciansformula.com. Weber’s Spirit Series Grills Weber’s Spirit Series consist of grills for grillers of all skill levels. The three key features include: classic fold-down tables that are perfect for preparing food; a built-in thermometer and gauge to easily read and manipulate the temperature; and an electronic cross-over ignition system that makes the grill easy to start. The Spirit E-320 is perfect for the griller who enjoys barbecuing a lot of meat at once. As the biggest grill in the series, the E-320 has three burners and has a cooking area of 529 square inches – big enough to comfortably fit 21 hamburger patties. With porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates and flavouring bars, the Spirit Series gas grills are perfect for creating quality barbequed cuisine at your convenience. The stainless steel work surfaces gives you space for slicing and seasoning the meat, while the six steel hooks, two swivel casters, and locking casters with an enclosed cabinet are the ideal storage for your equipment. Unlike charcoal grills, the Spirit Series gas grills are perfect for people who want a simple grilling experience with no messy clean- up. www.weber.com.

Modern Treasures Inspired by ancient treasures and the simplicity of modern architecture, the jewelry designs of Magdalena Tello are organized into six collections and feature quality materials from the world over. Born in Spain, Tello's love of traveling, fashion and crafts influenced her to study design and gemology in byLondon and Jaipur, whereDesign she learned the skills necessary to create her own jewelry line, now showcased in various jewelry exhibitions in Asia and Europe. With dynamic collections featuring humble and precious stones, diamonds, rubies and emeralds, Tello’s designs are flourishing in international markets. People from across the globe love the coloured stone in her dangling earrings and the rose-cut diamond sequences in her silver necklaces. Tello’s distinctive designs will beautify any jewellery collection. www.magdalenatello.com

9 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 thirst impressions by michael pinkus

Summertime Wines OF ALL KINDS

here are two wines that were ($18.95 - #183764) is refreshing, fruity “Garnacha” and you’ll want pick Treleased by the LCBO in June and bubbly with lime and apple as the up the Pinyolet Garnacha 2011 ($17.95 that you’ll need to do a little digging focus.(****). - #271791). This one’s sweet of fruit around for but they are well worth the with strawberry and cherry and even effort. Starting with a sweetie from White wine fans, and especially has hints of red licorice. There’s also Spain: Torres Floralis Moscatel Oro Sauvignon Blanc lovers, should fall a mineral component that keeps the ($16.95 / 500ml - #642173). over backwards for the Seresin fruit very much in check so as not to Why this one? Simply put, Sauvignon Blanc 2011 ($21.95 - overwhelm (****+). This one can it’s something you won’t #735043) from New Zealand. be enjoyed by those familiar with soon forget with candied- Now before you start saying: the grape and by novices. spiced and caramelized “I’ve had my share of New orange peel that are so Zealand Sauvignon Blanc”, Moving on to the July 20 release: silky and smooth and let me assure you this is not you’ll want to start your search of luscious in the mouth. your typical New Zealand the shelves for a Chardonnay out This wine makes its Sauvignon Blanc. It mixes of New Zealand by Nautilus, way into Vintages every grapefruit with some the 2011 to be exact ($24.95 - four to six months or so, tropical fruit, then adds #657569). Here you’ll find a real keeping your eye out touches of herbalness. It’s nice caramel apple sweetness in for it. You won’t regret more subtle than what the wine, but it's balanced with it. It’s underpriced for usually comes out of citrus-style acidity leading to what you get (****½). Marlborough (****+). a melon-vanilla finish; perfect It's a perfect after- for cool nights and seafood dinner indulgence, Looking to buy local? dinners – lobster with butter especially in the fall There are two reds from sauce or lemon-herb salmon and winter, so get Château des Charmes. anyone? (****+) some to have on hand. Both are worthy of a look My other back-dated and taste and both are from It has been some time since a selection is a little more the fabulous 2010 vintage. really juicy Merlot has crossed season-appropriate. The Old Vines Cabernet Merlot my palate but those looking It’s a Chardonnay from Burgundy, ($19.95 – #222372) and the for one may want to pick up Chardonnay’s traditional birthplace. Gamay Noir ‘Droit’ ($16.95 - #346742); the Sebastiani Merlot 2009 ($32.95 - Now, you usually hear Chardonnay one is for drinking now (the Gamay), #672659). It features juicy blueberry and Burgundy in the same sentence while the other can be held a few years and blackberry with generous notes of and open your wallet wide. But I – scoring is (****) and (****+), cherry (****). Speaking of juiciness, have found this exception: Mallory respectively. you’ll want to try Argentina’s second & Benjamin Talmard Mâcon-Uchizy gift to red wine lovers, next to Malbec, 2011 ($14.95 - #733956). It’s got Looking outside our borders? Bonarda. When done right, this can everything good Chardonnay The Two Hands 2010 Yesterday’s be a quaffable BBQ red for not a should have except the high price Hero Grenache ($29.95 - #009506) lot of money. The Las Moras Black tag. Search it out. You won’t be is a lush, smooth and supple Label Bonarda 2010 ($15.95 - #260901) disappointed (****+). affair that just sings of juiciness fits the bill nicely with cherries and in the glass (****). If you’ve chocolate, mocha and blackberry, all I like to kick things off with a never heard of Grenache, then with hints of vanilla backing it up. little bubbly. Always keeping you’ll want to try something This one is “juicy, juicy, juicy” (as an eye out for a good one a little more traditional in Cary Grant would say). You’ll want under $20. The July 6 release the Grenache department. to pick up a few bottles as it will go has just the one. A traditional Head to the Spanish section fast (****+). method from Burgundy, where you’ll find it to be a known as Crémant or staple grape of the country’s Shiraz drinkers need look no further Sparkling. This Crémant de winemaking (either as than the Sister’s Run Epiphany 2011, Bourgogne: Cave de Lugny a blend or stand-alone another $15.95 gem, (#269464). This Cuvée Millésime Brut 2010 grape) They refer to it as consistent Shiraz producer never fails

10 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 to put a little finesse into the bottle.

There’s always something intriguing NEW from Rosehall Run CLanOguNagVe ESeRrvSicAes about their wines that you just can’t quite put your finger on but you learn... know good when you taste it. This one really is a tour-de-force of French interesting flavours: eucalyptus leads things off, heads into the lots-of-fruit department before taking a hard right Upgrade your Career! into chocolate-town on the finish (****+). Spanish

I am a fan of Rhône Valley wines. The price-to-quality ratio is usually Available Travel, Enjoy, Live, Experience! outstanding, especially from the good at the LCBO producers. M. Chapoutier is one such Government Standards producer and the Domaine de Bila- Customized Programs Haut Occultum Lapidem 2010 ($24.95 Enhanced, Fast-track Learning - #643239) is one of those wines. It Private, Semi-Private, Groups is exquisite and complex with a fruit- to-tannin balance that’s near perfect, this bottle shows real finesse. Pull this F R E E one out to impress over the next five language assessment to seven years (****½). Conversa Language Services 154 MacLaren Street, 613 742-7251 Besides the Rhône, regular readers rosehallrun.com w w w . c o n v e r s a . c a will know my love of Zinfandel and the next best thing to California Zin is its kissing cousin, Primitivo, usually found in Puglia, Italy.Papale Linea Oro Primitivo di Manduria 2010 ($19.95 - #261784) Cherry and chocolate mix with cola and vanilla for a near Zinful experience – break out the BBQ ribs (****+). We’ll end with another Italian specialty wine, a style that’s starting to make an appearance here in Ontario winemaking: "appassimento" (the art of making wine by drying grapes). Farina Parziale 2011 ($15.95 - #326702) offers good value in this cherry-vanilla- chocolate-dominated wine before it finishes with white pepper – all with a fine acidity holding it together. belong here Enjoy the nice You already weather. Be sure to You just need to join. It’s time to rediscover your YMCA-YWCA, look for my weekly leaders in child, youth, and family fitness. recommendations on the Ottawa Life blog site to keep you well YMCA-YWCA of the hydrated in wine. n ymcaywca.ca National Capital Region

11 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 arctic series by andreas østhagen

ARCTIC OIL AND GAS: Assessing the Potential for Hydrocarbon Development in the Polar Region

he U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) term. The IEA also argues that the to the Arctic, it becomes increasingly Tworld petroleum assessment from cost of Arctic oil production will difficult for political decision makers, 2000 estimated that 25 per cent of the be very high, ranging anywhere cognizant on their public image, remaining recoverable undiscovered between forty to one hundred dollars to strike the right balance between oil and gas resources in the world were per barrel. Should these predictions economic interests on one hand and located in the Arctic region. Although come true, the profitability of Arctic environmental risk on the other. these figures proved inaccurate and oil extraction will be dramatically Discussions concerning Arctic oil and were subsequently revised downward, reduced. gas activities often inspire protests e.g. in the 2008 Circum-Arctic and public outcry and the power of Resource Appraisal, the assessment Similarly, the natural gas spot price civic engagement, in terms of halting was sufficient to brand the Arctic for the North American market has or delaying the processes of oil and region as a “new energy province.” seen a remarkable shift over the gas development, should not be In the following years a number of last decade. Natural gas prices rose underestimated. international oil companies, such as sharply prior to 2009, prompting Shell Oil, Total, and ExxonMobil, i n t e r e s t i n A r c t i c n a t u r a l g a s . I n 2 0 10 , A third hindrance comes from secured drilling rights during various however, following a sudden boom the friction caused when regional licensing rounds. The significant in domestic shale gas production, interests collide with those of the hydrocarbon reserves contributed to the United States embarked on a Federal government. The people the Arctic region being moved into path to self-sufficiency with price and local governments of Alaska, for the focus of world politics over the levels dropping subsequently for the example, are increasingly interested past decade. With the hope to gain whole of North America. As a result in mineral and oil extraction to boost access to the debate surrounding the natural gas from the High North local employment levels and tax quickly changing region a number of will not be as profitable as originally bases. Washington, D.C., however, countries, including China, Singapore predicted. is wary of the political consequences and Italy, submitted applications for of moving forward with unpopular permanent observer status on the A second obstacle to Arctic petroleum oil and gas projects. The deadlock Arctic Council. development is environmental between these two competing interests concerns. In the North American constitutes yet another hindrance for A closer examination of oil and gas Arctic, as elsewhere, the public is the rapid petroleum development in development in the “High North” concerned about the environmental the Arctic. reveals that despite significant risks related to oil and gas extraction. undiscovered reserves a nuanced The 1989 oil spill from the tanker Although the Arctic undoubtedly investigation of the concept of Arctic Exxon Valdez in Alaska, and more contains a vast amount of natural oil and gas is needed before any recently, the Deepwater Horizon resources, its status as a “new energy accurate and reliable predictions can accident in the Gulf of Mexico in province” should not go unquestioned. be made on the future of the region 2010, serve as public reminders of the As highlighted, there are significant hydrocarbon potential. potential consequences of drilling economic and political factors that activity in ecologically sensitive need to be considered before Arctic First, Arctic petroleum development is areas. Greenpeace’s “Save the Arctic” oil and gas development becomes a inherently dependent on commercial campaign has successfully taken reality. Awareness of these issues is profitability. Sustained high oil and advantage of this public sentiment. therefore essential, as the debate on gas price levels, in combination with Litigation and activism by indigenous drilling for oil and gas in the North the cost of extraction, are the main communities and local NGOs have American Arctic will only intensify determinants in the decision to invest also succeeded in halting much of the in the future. n in Arctic extraction. Price levels Chukchi Sea development in Alaska. for oil have remained at an annual Andreas Østhagen is the Senior Fellow of Arctic average of almost $100 per barrel As more and more attention is paid Energy at The Arctic Institute since 2008 allowing for an interest in Arctic resources to develop. The International Energy Agency (IEA), Canada’s Environment Minister Leona Aglukkaq became the Chair of the Arctic Council in May. and the world markets, however, She has provided Ottawa Life Magazine with an exclusive op-ed in her role as Chair which will be expect the price to fall in the long published in September 2013.

ILLUSTRATION: SHUTTERSTOCK 13 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 14 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 opinion by dan donovan

Rideau Carleton Raceway Beats the Odds Eugene Melnyk Upset as Mayor Jim Watson Makes Tough Call (but Wise Decision)

ust one year ago, the future looked out of business and thousands of horses and Horseracing Corporation) to Jbleak for the Rideau Carleton were sold to farms in the United show the industry the government is Raceway (RCR). Then-Ontario States. Over 13,000 healthy horses serious about the changes for the long Finance Minister Dwight Duncan were culled in the past months as a term. (Mills is also the person who announced the termination of the direct consequence of the McGuinty put together the 2003 SARS Rolling Slots at Racetracks Program (SARP) that government’s decision. Stones concert and early in his career had contributed billions of dollars was an aide to former Prime Minister in earnings to Ontario’s health- For her part, Premier Wynne says her Pierre Trudeau. He is connected and care and education systems. Duncan government “has committed up to an unabashed proponent for farming announced that the partnership $180 million to support the industry communities.) between the Ontario Lottery and over the next three years as it adapts to Gaming Corporation (OLG) and the a smaller and more sustainable model.” All of this is music to the ears of the province's racetracks was bad policy Wynne added that “agreements for Rideau Carleton Raceway. In June, because it was providing a subsidy to transition funding have been signed Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson announced the racetracks and would therefore be with 12 racetracks and there will be that any plans for a casino in Ottawa cancelled. The problem was that the horse racing at 15 tracks right across would only happen at Rideau successful Slots at Racetracks Program the province this season.” Carleton Raceway as an expansion of was a boon to the province, bringing their current operations. This did not in $1.6 billion per year in revenue of The Premier said she is supporting sit well with Ottawa Senators’ owner which $362 million went back to the a new market-driven model that Eugene Melynk who had been behind tracks. In addition, SARP had greatly includes integrating horse racing the scenes privately negotiating with strengthened Ontario’s equine and with modernizing the province’s the OLG earlier this year to bring a breeder industry which employed gaming strategy, which will casino to Kanata. Melnyk told The over 62,000 people, mostly in small provide additional revenue sources Ottawa Citizen that: “I played by towns and rural communities. for racetracks. This model was the rules and all of a sudden you’re recommended by a task force asked saying those rules don’t really count. Duncan had no replacement program to come up with alternatives to We worked on forecasts, submissions, other than a proposed plan by then help the industry. The idea was background checks, getting lawyers OLG President Paul Godfrey to open one suggested by Dennis Mills, a involved and meeting with the OLG more casinos in Ontario’s major cities passionate horseman and owner of — twice.” including Ottawa. Strong signals the web site Racing Future (www. were sent to the Rideau Carleton racingfuture.com) which is one of However, it became clear to Mayor Raceway from Toronto that its days Canada’s most popular and influential Watson when Godfrey was fired by were numbered. The RCR has a equine sites. Mills served 18 years as Premier Wynne that the rules for storied history in Ottawa and is a a Member of Parliament during the new casino expansion in Ontario had very popular racetrack. Community Chrétien era and is recognized for his changed. “I do not believe we should groups complained. The track report on sports that led to significant jeopardize the Rideau Carleton management team fought back and changes in the way sports are funded Raceway operation by not being customers let their MPPs know they in Canada. Mills is also a former Vice crystal clear to the OLG prior to the were not happy. A lot has changed Chair of Magna International and start of its RFP process,” Watson in a year. Dalton McGuinty resigned spent several years helping Magna’s wrote, referring to the Request for as Premier. Duncan left politics. horsetrack and gaming operations at Proposals the agency would send to its New Premier Kathleen Wynne fired Gulfstream in Florida and Santa Anita shortlist of bidders, seeking final bids. Godfrey and pressed the pause button in California. Many believe Mills’ Watson correctly read the tea leaves, on Duncan’s program. Wynne – Racing Future site was the catalyst that noting that “unless (Rideau Carleton who grew up on a farm – seemed to shut down the OLG program to kill Raceway) wins the bid, they would be realize the stupidity of the situation. off Ontario racetracks. Mills is now shut down.” He announced that the However, her decision came late and suggesting that with the new Wynne City of Ottawa would only support many in the industry say so much policy – which he calls a “Wynne for a bid for expansion of a casino at the damage has been done already that the industry” – the OLG brand should existing Rideau Carleton Raceway. it will be difficult to make a full now be changed and referred to as recovery. Many breeders have gone OLGH (Ontario Lottery Gaming continued >> page 17

15 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 in search of style by alexandra gunn

Follow Alex on Twitter: @ AlexandraGunn Alexandra Gunn is the Lifestyle reporter for Sun News Network.

A LOVE for LOUBOUTIN

hristian Louboutin’s shoes have way in design and creativity. His from the Cadorned the feet of the world’s business has expanded to include D e s i g n most famous and glamorous women. seventy-three stores worldwide, Museum in His signature glossy, red soles mark selling an average of seven-hundred London, the a blend of craftsmanship and distinct thousand pairs of shoes annually. a c c l a i m e d elegance that has helped build one of Women’s shoes account for more exhibit

the most successful shoe brands in the than ninety per cent of his sales but e x p l o r e s PHOTOS: ERNESTO DISTEFANO world. he also designs shoes for men. Louboutin’s colourful career. You can see his most Since launching his business over The North American debut of iconic creations and learn about the 20 years ago in Paris, the 50-year- the highly-anticipated Christian design process. “Ninety per cent of old has designed creations that Louboutin retrospective at Canada’s my shoes start with a drawing. The have become an integral part of the Design Exchange, in Toronto, has complicated but very important thing fashion landscape and have led the garnered a lot of attention. Travelling is to remain as faithful as possible to

leather separates. Take this beautiful Is leather making a comeback? Where turquoise snakeskin top from runway should I start? to real-way by pairing it with trousers for work or play it casual with jeans. ANSWER: Add some edge with a leather jacket! Derek Lam incorporated leather If you don’t want to come across as too ‘biker pairing a bright yellow leather skirt chic’, try something a bit more classic and with a tank and ankle booties. On the avoid stud detailing or too many buckles. Go Mugler runway, a striking pastel leather the modern route with this short trench coat skirt was paired with a simple blouse with leather accent sleeves. It is very simple allowing for the skirt to remain the focal yet incredibly stylish. piece. If you’re going the route of the skirt, make sure it is fitted but that it The leather trend was seen on the spring/ flares away from the body, because you summer runways at Hermes with leather-on- do not want a be too constrained.

16 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 the original design,” says Louboutin. MAYOR WATSON MAKES WISE DECISION >> from page 15

With over two hundred and fifty Watson also made it clear to the OLG I fully appreciate the challenges and shoes on display, the designs reflect and other interested parties that: “If what is at stake as it relates to the the progression in Louboutin’s career. they say ‘no,’ then there won’t be a future of Rideau Carleton Raceway “As a designer, my inspiration has gaming facility in the City of Ottawa, and the many employees and families remained the same over twenty years plain and simple.” Premier Wynne who are so closely associated with its but there has been a revolution in the supported Watson’s decision, noting operations. These are hard-working design of the shoe. During the first that: “The decisions about whether men and women who I respect ten years, I was creating shoes that to have a casino or not are made at immensely.” were much more dressy, now they the municipal level, and if there are are much more sexy. This is really additional concerns or issues, then Melnyk went on to list all the the ‘yin’ and ‘yang’ of my work – to the municipality needs to work reasons why the Senators Sports & combine sexiness with elegance.” with the OLG on that. But those are E n t e r t a i n m e n t s i t e s h o u l d b e t h e v e n u e fundamentally municipal decisions.” for Ottawa’s casino. The problem is The wide array of shoes at the exhibit that the selection of the Canadian details the designer’s theatrical spirit This decision upset Melnyk, who Tire Centre will irreparably harm and provides a glimpse into the artistry issued a very terse statement: "By RCR and throw all the horsemen behind the inspiration. Although the introducing this motion, the Mayor there out of work. As one long-time shoes are the focus, the exhibit also has effectively sole sourced the RCR horseman put it: “It sounds a features a shoe-adorned carousel, a casino’s location. That is not due tad disingenuous telling someone recreation of Louboutin’s Paris atelier process.” how much you appreciate and and the notable hologram of Dita von respect them while at the same time Teese. The atelier provides a glimpse Melnyk spoke about the unfairness of you are working on a plan that will into the design space and reinforces it all under the guise that the Kanata destroy their business and livelihood. Louboutin’s eclectic nature. “I have site was the only optimal site for The Rideau Carleton Raceway is a no sense of minimalism – it’s not at all casino expansion. “For those who viable, successful and beloved Ottawa me. I absolutely need objects around are unaware, I am an avid horseman. institution – sort of like the Ottawa me. I couldn’t live in an empty space I race thoroughbred horses all over Senators. Mayor Watson is on the – as far as I’m concerned, that’s the the world, including in Ontario, so right side of a tough issue.” n definition of prison.” The accurate to scale recreation of Louboutin’s working area in Paris features com ple t e d r aw i n g s a nd s ke t che s a l l t he while reinforcing his down-to-earth nature; “My life has been a succession of fortuitous coincidences”. n

The Christian Louboutin exhibition at the Design Exchange in Toronto runs until September 15, 2013.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Derek Lam Runway S/S 2013, Leather Marshalls Contrast Sleeves $129.99, Mugler Runway S/S 2013

PHOTOS: Runway photography by the Fashion Group International

17 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 homes by tanya collins At Home with Houseplants Who doesn’t love the greenery that a living plant can bring to a space? Most people are afraid to make a grand statement but to achieve a greater impact with your decor, go for something big. If your space is lacking that certain something, try a mid-sized palm tree that can be found at most garden or big box stores around $20. The key is the pot. Place your plant in an oversized pot at least 2 feet high off the floor. By putting an average-sized plant in a large vase or planter, your create a much more dramatic effect.

Where you place the plant is also important. An empty corner is a great spot or find an area that needs a focal point. Often, this is the corner of the room directly opposite the entry point. The concept is well illustrated in this client’s very modern space. Be careful not to have other smaller plants dotted around the same room as it will lessen the overall effect. If you do have a lot of smaller plants it is best to group them together on a tray atop a table or on a large window sill.

Perhaps you also wish to add a little more harmony or energy in a particular area of your home? According to Feng Shui philosophy, a house that architecturally has missing corners; that is, does not have a square or rectangular footprint will have less energy in this area. A plant is a great fix as it brings more energy to this deficient area – again the larger the better. For example, those concerned with prosperity and wealth may want to look at their far left corner of their house upon entry through their front door. The opposite far right corner relates to marriage and love. Think about it. Not only can a plant spice up your space, it just might create energy and impact far beyond the visual aesthetic. n

For more design and décor inspiration visit, www.tanyacollinsdesign.com

18 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 PHOTO: GORDON KING Don’tDon’t bebe BlindedBlinded byby EnergyEnergy Bills.Bills. GetGet KrumpersKrumpers SolarSolar BlindsBlinds && SeeSee thethe Light.Light.

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““CarefullyCarefully dismantled,dismantled, thethe framesframes havehave beenbeen re-erectedre-erected toto buildbuild aa beautifulbeautiful homehome”” COURTESY GIBSON TIMBER FRAMES COURTESY : PHOTOS

20 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 homes by harvey f. chartrand and joanna plucinska

Awe-inspiring, efficient home built using an antique barn frame

ewer isn’t always better. Jason century barns. They don’t fit current What is the main advantage of having NGibson, owner of Gibson agricultural practices... they don’t a beautiful antique barn frame like Timber Frames in Perth, believes that fit the machinery or the hay so he this in your home? one can find enormous potential in a wanted to see if there was any use well-constructed old barn. Over the for it. We made an agreement to “It looks great and it feels great,” says past 12 years, Gibson Timber Frames purchase and dismantle the building. Gibson. “We get different types of has dismantled and re-erected barn We carefully took all the parts and clients all the time in this business. frames across Eastern Ontario. pieces off and pulled the pegs out We do at least one barn frame a year. and brought a crane in to take it Most of our work is new construction. “We have finished a new show home down and then we brought it home The people who want the old barn using an antique barn frame,” Gibson to our shop. From there, we cleaned frames really love the craft... but they says. “The barn was discovered it up and looked for any problems also love the patina, the historical in Yarker (near Belleville) and is an and made some minor repairs. We feel that you get when you're inside.

excellent example of swing beam then re-erected the barn on its new You see the original cut marks and engineering and is a true piece of our foundation.” axing marks and it’s got a real special heritage.” The home sits on an eight- feel to it that awes people.” acre lot five kilometres from Perth. It The swing beam barn is a develop- is 1,600 square feet on the main floor ment of very early barns. The large “These old barn frames are built to with another 1,000 square feet of loft double beam that crosses the home last forever,” Gibson sums up. “They space. The home is heated with an was originally crafted to allow for the really are and as long as the roofs are ENERGY STAR air source heat pump elimination of the center post and cre- kept on them, and the sidings are and also features R 32 insulation in ate enough room for a horse and wag- fairly good, a barn will last forever. the walls, R 47 insulation in the on to enter the barn and swing around The reason we lose them in the area cathedral ceiling, a steel roof, pre- with no obstacles. Built circa 1850, it is they start to wear out and not get finished wood siding and a natural now serves as an attractive center piece repaired and as soon as water gets into white oak floor. Traditional and to this new home. The large pine tim- them, they start to fail. You look at modern building techniques used ber maintains a beautiful patina that similar buildings in Europe and they together have created an awe-inspiring can only be created by the passage of can be 500 to 800 years old even space that is unique. time. though they are just timber frame buildings. As long as they are covered “We got a call from the owner of One of the advantages of timber fram- and protected, that's key.”n the barn, who no longer needed ing is the longevity of construction. it,” Gibson tells Ottawa Life. “The Although this barn could no longer barn didn't suit his purposes, which service a modern farm, the work and For more information, visit is often the case with mid-17th craftsmanship were saved. www.gibsontimberframes.com/

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22 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 money matters by kash pashootan

Canadian Bank Stocks: Not Immune to Volatility

Canadian banks often receive positive press for being some of the safest banks in the world, a title that has been earned through the global financial crisis of 2008. However, as a diligent investor, it is important to realize that even well-run businesses carry risks which need to be managed on an ongoing basis.

How Banks Work investment banking, loans remain at the core of their businesses. A bank is a business that essentially buys and sells money just as a Headwind for Profit Growth clothing store buys and sells clothes. In its simplest form, a bank receives When it comes to a bank’s loan deposits from customers who would practices, a bank can increase its profit is important to remind investors that like to earn interest on their savings in two ways. First, it can increase the the Canadian bank stocks are not (i.e. savings accounts & GICs). The profit margin (net interest margin) immune to market volatility. One interest which depositors earn is it makes per loan, or, secondly, by simply needs to look back to 2008 the rate at which a bank “buys” its increasing the volume of loans it to see that these stocks previously merchandise (i.e. money). The bank makes. Currently, Canada is in a low experienced an average decline of then takes that merchandise (the interest rate environment designed 34 per cent of their market value in money) and “sells” (loans) the funds at to stimulate the economy (target one year. We don’t believe that this a marked-up rate to people who need rate is 1.0 per cent). When the target will happen any time soon, but we do to borrow money (i.e. mortgages & rate is low, banks aren’t able to take believe many investors have become loans). In reality, bank operations a very wide spread between the rate too comfortable collecting dividends involve inter-bank lending and paid to obtain funds and the rate and neglecting the volatility that can reserve ratios which complicate the charged when loaning out funds (as also come with the securities. With process but the premise remains the seen with the low interest rate on loan growth slowing combined with same; banks borrow money at a rate savings accounts and the low interest lean net interest margins, we believe and then lend it out at a marked-up rate charged on mortgages). In such the volatility of the share price for rate to make a profit. The difference an environment, banks must increase Canadian banks will be on the rise. n between the rate at which the bank loan volume to grow their earnings. borrows money and the greater rate This is what has occurred recently. Kash J. Pashootan is a Vice President and they lend it out at is the spread, or as The issue with loan growth is that Portfolio Manager with Raymond James Ltd. they call it in the banking industry, there is a limit to the amount of loans Information provided is not a solicitation and the net interest margin which is their consumers can bear. The Canadian although obtained from sources considered profit. household debt-to-income level is at reliable, is not guaranteed. The views and a record high with debt at over 165 opinions of the author do not necessarily A bank’s borrowing and lending rates per cent of income. At some point, reflect those of Raymond James Ltd. Securities revolve around the target overnight Canadian consumers will reach their offered through Raymond James Ltd., Member- rate set by the governing central debt ceiling and loan growth for Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Insurance bank (such as the Bank of Canada). banks will slow. The effects of lean offered through Raymond James Financial Generally, the target rate is low when net interest margins will then be Planning Ltd., not a Member-Canadian Investor the central bank wants to stimulate the more visible on earnings. Protection Fund. We are not tax advisors and economy and the target rate is higher we recommend that clients seek independent when the central bank wants to slow Conclusion advice from a professional advisor on tax- down the economy (i.e. if there is a related matters. Within the last 12 months, threat of inflation). While the large Canadian banks are well-run Raymond James Ltd. has undertaken an Canadian banks engage in more businesses with healthy dividends underwriting liability or has provided advice for than just lending activities, such as, and operate in a sector with high a fee with respect to the securities of National insurance, wealth management and barriers to entry. That being said, it Bank of Canada.

23 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 healthy living by dr. chad shank

Sage Advice for Injury Prevention

As we enter the dog days of summer, weekend 2. Balance training. Balance is a skill and warriors are in their element and gardeners can be trained. Improving your balance not only have an ever growing ‘to do’ list. Increased helps with fall prevention but research shows basic signals our bodies are sending. Learning activity can lead to a risk of injury. So what can it can also reduce non-contact, lower-limb to tune in to the moment, focusing on your you do to minimize the risk? Let’s take a quick injuries. Simply practice, practice, practice. breath and the various sensations your body look at the science of injury prevention and four One leg, two legs, eyes open, eyes closed, on a is providing may be your ultimate tool in injury strategies to keep you injury free. pillow, in the sand, at work, in the grocery store prevention. Try implementing a pre-activity line up, you name it! body scan, working from your toes to head, 1. Active neuromuscular warm up. This is assessing for unnecessary tension or pain. the best researched injury prevention strategy. 3. Load sharing. An injury is very simple; it Get in the habit of performing periodic quick It means spending a few minutes before your occurs when tissue load surpasses tissue scans while participating in your activity. Most activity getting muscles, joints and nervous tolerance. Predicting when such overload will importantly, respond to these body signals even system tuned up. Contrary to what we often occur varies from individual to individual. Any at the cost of your scheduled training plan. see, this injury-preventing warm up is not strategy that decreases total load on certain static stretching but rather a combination high-use muscles or joints makes sense. For These four strategies will keep you moving of progressive movements, agility drills and the endurance athlete, cross training is a great this summer. Of course, even with the best strengthening exercises. For a runner, this may example of load sharing. It is also helpful during execution, injuries can still happen. If and be some light jogging on the spot, some lunge an activity to find ways of load sharing. Mental when they do, start with some basic rest walks and core strength followed by some higher or verbal cues reduce peak loading in running and ice, and if after a few days there is not paced drills (high knees, heel kicks, strides, and jumping athletes. For gardeners, try using significant improvement, see your health-care etc). A gardener may start with some jumping your non-dominant arm or leg regularly while professional. n jacks, then transition to hands and knees for making frequent postural changes. some cat/camel back motions and arm and leg Dr. Chad Shank is a Chiropractor and lifts. To be fully effective, your warm up needs 4. Mindfulness. This is an often missing key in Registered Massage Therapist at Sage be sport specific and consistently done. injury prevention. We often choose to ignore the Wellness in Centretown. www.sagewellness.ca

Yoga Tips for Injury Prevention

oga is a holistic practice with numerous physical and psychological Ybenefits. It is no surprise that millions of people are flocking to yoga studios to practice their downward dogs, to breath deeply, and reap the benefits of this practice.

Like any other physical activity injuries can happen. Here are some tips for a safe and healthy practice.

1. Begin where you are: If you are new to practice choose a beginners 4. Everyday is different:Some days you might feel energetic and class to learn the foundations. Once familiar, find a class that suits your ready to conquer the world, other days you might feel tired and fitness level. slow. Adjust your practice accordingly.

2. Find a good Teacher: A good teacher will give modifications to suit 5. Yoga is non-competitive: Avoid looking around the room and everyones needs. They may also offer gentle adjusments. comparing yourself to others. Remember this is your practice.

3. Listen: Your body is constantly communicating with you. Allow it to 6. Be patient: Avoid pushing your body futher than guide your practice. If you experience pain or discomfort modify your it is ready to go. Strength and flexibility are gained posture to find ease. Listen to your teacher’s cues and modifications. over time with consistent practice.

342 Gladstone Ave. • Ottawa • ON •613.234.7974 • www.ottawayoga.com

24 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 healthy living by christine davis

A PARTNERSHIP for Prevention The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine and Brampton Civic Hospital partner to explore preventative and integrative models COURTESY CHRISTINE DAVIS COURTESY in Canada. : PHOTO ealth care is the Ontario obesity are heavily influenced by where this clinic will go and whether Hgovernment’s single biggest lifestyle choices. Naturopathic it can provide a model to not only spending program. In 2010-2011, medicine can help respond to these decrease costs, but also to optimize the province spent $44.77 billion health concerns. With a naturopathic patient care. on health, 40.3 per cent of its total doctor’s strength in nutrition, lifestyle spending on programs. With an aging and supplement recommendations, About the Canadian College of population, this number is bound to there is great potential for success Naturopathic Medicine increase unless we start to make some in reducing the burden of chronic significant changes in how we deliver disease. The Canadian College of Naturo- health care in Ontario. We need to start pathic Medicine (CCNM) is Canada's switching our focus to prevention. Bob Bernhardt, PhD, CCNM premier institute for education and If we can prevent chronic diseases President and CEO, has made a research in naturopathic medicine. before they occur, we can take a commitment to research at this CCNM offers a rigorous four-year, significant burden off the health-care facility. Based upon past research full-time doctor of naturopathic system. The question is how do we studies, he is confident that he medicine program. The College modify our current system to try and will be able to show a significant educates, develops and trains incorporate more prevention. The improvement in health outcomes and naturopathic doctors through Canadian College of Naturopathic a substantial cost savings. excellence in health education, Medicine and the Brampton Civic clinical services and research that Hospital have partnered to try to The naturopathic services provided integrate mind, body and spirit. make this happen. at Brampton Civic Hospital are being p r o v i d e d a t n o c o s t t o t h e p a t i e n t . T h i s In Ontario, naturopathic doctors The Canadian College of project is being underwritten by the (NDs) are regulated health- Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) College and its partners as community care practitioners. Currently, the has established a teaching clinic at the outreach. This project will not only profession is transitioning to new Brampton Civic Hospital. This is the be a great learning opportunity for regulation within the Regulated first naturopathic teaching hospital the naturopathic students, but also Health Professions Act. Visits to established in a hospital setting. The an invaluable learning opportunity naturopathic doctors are typically opening reflects the public’s growing for the province. Being able to half an hour or more in length, interest in integrative and preventative interact directly with other health- and involve standard medical health care. care providers at the hospital has diagnostic assessments as well as a allowed for better understanding range of therapies including lifestyle The Central West Local Health and has demystified many of the counselling, nutrition, botanical Integration Network (LHIN) reports misconceptions that may exist with medicine, acupuncture/Asian higher rates of obesity than the complementary care. medicine, homeopathic medicine, provincial average, with almost one in and hydrotherapy/massage. n five youths in the LHIN reported as The clinic has been open since overweight or obese. The percentage January, 2013 and has received very For further info, contact: of type 2 diabetes in this LHIN is also positive feedback. Clinic students Catherine Kenwell, Director, Marketing and higher than the provincial average. have seen conditions from fatigue Communications, Canadian College and anxiety to type 2 diabetes and of Naturopathic Medicine Heart disease, type 2 diabetes and arthritis. It will be interesting to see [email protected], 416-498-1255 ext: 243

25 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 cover by harvey f. chartrand

Get Ready for Ottawa's Largest South Asian Event SouthAsianFest!

26 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 he Annual SouthAsianFest is the been steadily growing since the first Tlargest gathering of its kind in festival in 2009. the National Capital Region. This admission-free festival is open to the When asked why the South Asian public and attracts crowds from all community felt there was a need cultural backgrounds. Up to 10,000 for such a festival in Ottawa, festival revellers are expected to take in the producer Hunsdeep Rangar who exotic non-stop action over two also produces CHIN RADIO’s daily days. MirchMasalaRadio had this to say.

The 2013 edition of SouthAsianFest “The South Asians are well will feature Splash! Boat Cruise (a established here. They have good three-hour tour on the Ottawa jobs, good homes and nice cars. River) on Friday, August 16 and an We’ve reached the second level, I all-day outdoor festival on Saturday, would say, of creating a home within Hunsdeep Rangar is SouthAsianFest’s lead August 17 at Confederation Park in our new home. Arts and culture are organizer and producer of South Asian downtown Ottawa (across from the often what happen after a community programming at CHIN RADIO in Ottawa. Lord Elgin Hotel). has installed itself in a certain way in society. This was something that The objective of this annual family- was lacking in Ottawa, despite the Rangar explains the genesis of the friendly event is to enhance Ottawa’s great number of South Asians here – festival. He said, “we (at CHIN cultural landscape by showcasing affluent in various sectors of society. RADIO) wanted to create a socio- different genres of South Asian cultural scene. How we did that was performing arts and supporting local Myself, being in the arts, being by looking at gaps that existed in the artists by providing them with a in music since I was a teenager, I city. Some of those gaps were in terms pl a t fo r m f r om w h ich t o s howc a s e t he i r had a pretty good idea of what was of no real annual festival to represent talents. SouthAsianFest also provides needed and what this involved. We South Asians. Apart from that, an opportunity to enjoy mouth- decided this was definitely a gap in we started out with a South Asian watering South Asian cuisine. the National Capital Region that we Wedding & Fashion Show. We also needed to fill. So essentially that’s started a spring event on Parliament The festival aims to promote the way SouthAsianFest came about Hill, where Prime Minister Stephen awareness of Ottawa’s 50,000-strong in 2009. It is aimed at raising the Harper attended a Punjabi Harvest South Asian community. Festival community's profile in the NCR in Festival known as Vaisakhi. These are highlights include face painting; terms of visibility and also to provide becoming annual events that showcase Indian classical music; Bhangra (a a platform for local talent. Kids who South Asian life in a different way. genre of joyful, celebratory Punjabi are learning how to dance or how to music) and Bollywood performances; sing aspire to be on stage some day, We at CHIN wanted to host more a soccer kicking cage; Midway family because we pick 20 to 25 artists to events, create something new. fun; and henna body art. showcase at the festival. They’ve seen We often support other groups the crowds. They've seen the setup. by becoming media sponsors, and The SouthAsianFest falls under the For them, these are the South Asian MC’ing at their events. We piggyback mandate of the Ontario South Asian Grammys in town. They’re excited by events and provide leverage, since Community Association (OSACA). the central presence of the big stage we have the media presence to The festival is the community’s and the feel of an event that’s very ensure success at fundraisers and gala

biggest event of the year and has much a part of the Ottawa fabric.” events, as well as smaller community

HY PHOTOGRAP HAKIM AMNA PHOTOS:

27 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 28 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 initiatives. We try and partner with So people are catching a glimpse of the visible minority in Canada according the movers and shakers who want entire Indian subcontinent glorified to the 2006 Census which estimated to bring positive change within the on stage at Confederation Park. We there were 1.3 million South Asian South Asian community in Ottawa also have people who are part of the people in Canada. by adding a marquee event to the Canadian fabric. They may be singing calendar. So part of that requires English songs or rhythm and blues. Rangar stated, "we're seeing South private-sector funding and funding So we have grass-roots coverage but Asians in every facet of society – from our sponsors on radio." we also cover the diaspora in terms of from professors to CEOs to MPs artists performing and whatnot. We to stand-up comedians. South Asia Among the major highlights of the are traditional, but we are not only not only consists of India and the 2013 SouthAsianFest is the boat traditional because people evolve and surrounding countries – Pakistan, cruise on. styles evolve and it’s great practice to Sri Lanka, but also the East Indian capture this evolution.” cultures of Trinidad and Tobago, “The Friday night cruise is a huge buzz Fiji, the Caribbean islands, and the kicking off SouthAsianFest,” Rangar Organizers are expecting close to United Kingdom (the largest source explains. “You will feel that you’re at 10,000 people at this year’s. The of Punjabi music catering to the a Bollywood nightclub. People of all headline act is making his first tastes of North America). There are ages enjoy a community event and appearance in Ottawa. Pakistani MPs of South Asian origin. Yasir are often draped in saris and Indian rapper, songwriter, record producer Naqvi, the MPP for Ottawa Centre, outfits as you feast on Indian food and and singer, Imran Khan, will rock is of South Asian origin. South Asians music as you cruise along the Ottawa the stage. Khan, who grew up in benefit from good values instilled in River. The SPLASH! cruise is an the Hague, was signed to Prestige every home, which are respect and event that's been selling out year after Records in late 2007. He released his learning. These are the core values. year. It is open to everyone: a good single Satisfya in 2013 and is currently I also feel South Asians appreciate one-third of people on board are not producing and recording a second the opportunities and the rewards South Asian. Guests are encouraged album which will be released later for education and honesty found in to dress in South Asian clothing, if this year. Canadian society and the Canadian they wish. Ladies wear Indian tops system. It’s a nice mix. South Asians with skirts.” South Asians are one of the most really do appreciate Ottawa and culturally vibrant communities in the Canada as a place to live and bring up Rangar explains what makes the country. In fact, they are the largest their families.” n festival in Confederation Park distinctively South Asian.

“The acts on stage make you feel that you could literally be watching this SouthAsianFest Ottawa Schedule of Events in any South Asian city because we have very popular Bollywood-style FRI AUG 16 (7PM) dances and a flash mob interacting SPLASH! Dinner and Dance Boat Cruise on the Ottawa River with the audience, but we also have Catered by the EAST INDIA COMPANY PUB & EATERY the artistic and traditional side of the tabla and sitar, the arts from around SAT AUG 17 (11AM – 9PM) Afghanistan and other regions of MirchMasalaMela: Confederation Park Outdoor FUN for the Family! South Asia, showcasing their talents. • Free Admission • Food & Retail Vendors • Live Performances • 613 ROCKS! • Local Talent • Midway Family Fun Park

For event information: (613) 291-8624 or [email protected]

AMNA HAKIM PHOTOGRAPHY HAKIM AMNA

: PHOTO

29 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 feature by kimberly lochhead

Emerging Waste Management Technologies: PHYLIP ALLAIN The Search for an Alternative : PHOTO

Waste management methods tend to vary by region, country and even county and is evolving towards limited use because of factors like economics and population density. Nevertheless, many of landfills. Countries export waste to other countries as a means to prolong different governments are arriving at the same conclusion: alternative sustainable the life of landfills or simply because practices need to be adopted—and soon! Landfills are reaching capacity and they don’t have enough land to dump facilities are grappling with increased expenses. Hazardous fumes and emissions on. In 2001, Germany exported more than 300,000 tonnes of waste to 14 continue to rise, causing cities to look at balancing long-term environmental countries, while importing one million benefits with cost-effective methods. tonnes from 38 countries, with the largest volumes of waste coming from The waste management industry management sector in developing neighbouring European nations. overlaps with other industries like countries is seeing increasing rates of forestry, architecture, transportation, privatization. Developing countries Ottawa has several waste management infrastructure and energy. There use a wide range of waste management initiatives in place, including the are also no standard definitions for practices and are evolving toward green bin program, which is expected industry terms like “municipal waste” using engineered sanitary landfills and to divert 70,000 to 80,000 tonnes of and “industrial waste,’ creating controlled composting. According waste from Ottawa’s landfills each implications for collecting data to the United Nations Environment year. The city also implemented bi- across countries. The most common Programme (UNEP), developing weekly household garbage pickup to waste treatment technologies are nations are generating large volumes encourage residents to recycle and composting, incineration, landfills of electrical and electronic equipment decrease the amount of garbage at the and recycling. All have their respec- waste, agricultural biomass and curb. tive advantages and disadvantages, waste plastics. UNEP has established including incineration, which pro- the Global Partnership on Waste Using a technology that converts duces emissions of dioxins and furans. Management for international solid waste into a synthetic gas, (Furan is a colourless, flammable, agencies, governments, businesses, Plasco partnered with the City of highly volatile liquid with a boiling academia and NGOs that aims to Ottawa and Sustainable Development point close to room temperature. It is “complement existing work in the area Technology Canada to build the soluble in common organic solvents, of waste” to reduce environmental Plasco Trail Road Facility, which including alcohol, ether and acetone, harm, while overcoming social and recycles metals, provides water for but is slightly soluble in water. It economic issues. reuse and recovers energy from waste is toxic and may be carcinogenic. otherwise destined for landfills. The Furan is used as a starting point to Dr. Bogner cited that nations includ- process begins with Plasco’s patented other specialty chemicals.) Alternative ing Canada, the United States, Mexico, technology that puts municipal solid methods are making their way to a Australia and New Zealand all use waste into a conversion chamber to city near you. sanitary landfills and recycling, with low produce crude synthetic gas, using use of incineration, anaerobic digestion recycled heat. That gas then flows Not surprising, waste management and Mechanical biological treatment into a refinement chamber where practices vary around the work. systems (MBT). Japan heavily uses plasma torches further refine it before According to a World Trade incineration, recycling and landfills. it is sent through a Gas Quality Organization Workshop report Europe uses incineration, MBT, Control Suite. Here, the sulphur, acid by Dr. Jean Bogner, the waste recycling and anaerobic digestion, gases and heavy metals are removed to

30 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 produce a clean, energetic synthetic build an anaerobic digester. Microbes triangular or trapezoidal cross section. gas, which is then used to fuel internal would devour the waste, producing a The windrows are regularly turned combustion engines and generate biogas with equal parts methane and to mix and expose new surfaces to electricity. Waste heat recovered from carbon dioxide, which can be used allow microorganisms in the material these engines is combined with waste to create energy like electricity or to convert the waste into compost. heat recovered from cooling the gas industrial fuel. The process takes eight to 20 weeks.) to produce steam, which can be used Together, Ebara Technologies and to generate more electricity. Miller’s current processing and waste windrow technology process 130,000 diversion efforts reduce 80 per cent tonnes of Source Separated Organics Ottawa is also testing a new of waste from landfills at its Compost and leaf yard waste annually. In 2008, commercial waste project proposed and Material Recovery Facilities Miller and Global Electric Electronic by Taggart Construction Limited and for municipalities and commercial Processing Inc. formed a partnership Miller Waste Systems Inc., which is customers. The company owns and to recycle electronic waste. now under review. The plan includes operates four compost sites nationwide recovering value from commercial that use indoor Ebara Technologies—a Toronto currently manages over one and industrial waste, using a range global, world-leading manufacturer million tonnes of waste annually and of innovative methods. Masonry of vacuum pumps—and windrow recycles or composts 47 per cent of waste can be used for roadbed or technology. (Windrow composting that waste. By 2034, Toronto hopes to other construction purposes, while involves taking shredded feedstock, reach a diversion goal of 70 per cent by wood can be turned into horticulture such as green waste, and forming it implementing initiatives like a green material like mulch or biofuel. For the into long rows—called windrows— bin organics program for apartments organic waste, Miller is proposing to up to 3m high and 6m wide with a and condos, enforcing a mandatory diversion by-law, improving recycling capacity and establishing a biogas Alternative methods include the following technologies: composting facility for mixed waste processing. Anaerobic digestion involves the use of microorganisms to break down biodegradable material when no oxygen is present. This method is commonly used for industrial waste. In the United Kingdom, Advanced Organic polymers that are insoluble, like carbohydrates, are broken down for bacteria to Plasma Power uses Gasplasma access. Acidogenic/acid-forming bacteria convert sugars and amino acids into carbon technology, a gasification and dioxide, hydrogen, ammonia and organic acids. Methanogens then convert these into plasma treatment, to convert waste methane and carbon dioxide. into clean, hydrogen-rich synthesis gas and a recyclate product called The bioconversion of biomass to mixed alcohol fuels converts biodegradable material Plasmarok. The synthesis gas can be into useful chemicals like carboxylic acids, ketones and biofuels. These acids include used to generate electricity in gas butyric acid, acetone, ethanol and propanol. engines or turbines. According to Advanced Plasma Power, Plasmarok Biodrying also uses biodegradable waste, but heats it up rapidly through composting to will be used commercially in fuel remove moisture and reduce the waste's weight. This method can take only eight days to cells within five years. Plasmarok is fully dry waste. used mostly in construction because it can be made into tiles, slabs and Gasification converts organic materials into carbon monoxide, hydrogen and carbon blocks, or granulated for insulation dioxide by reacting the material at extremely high temperatures using oxygen or steam. material. The Gasplasma technology The result is synthetic gas. can process about 150,000 tonnes of municipal and commercial waste each Also referred to as aerated static pile composting, in-vessel composting systems use year. metal, plastic tanks or concrete bunkers to control temperatures and circulate air through buried tubes. This method is commonly used for municipal organic waste. Alternative waste management technologies divert excess waste Mechanical biological treatment systems (MBT) combine a sorting facility with from landfills, recycle more material, composting or anaerobic digestion and are designed to process mixed household waste, generate energy and recover forms commercial waste and industrial waste. of heat. As countries continue to test these innovative practices to reduce Pyrolysis decomposes organic material at high temperatures without oxygen. Tyre pyrolysis their environmental impact, waste converts plastic waste and tires into industrial fuels like pyrolysis oil, carbon black and producers must support adoption hydrocarbon gas, which are used to generate heat, steam and electricity. of these advanced technologies and contribute to improving current A waste autoclave uses heat, steam and pressure from an industrial autoclave to process systems. Paperless banking, recycling waste in batches or a continuous flow. (An autoclave is a device used to sterilize equipment food containers and separating by subjecting it to high-pressure saturated steam.) For batches, steam is injected into the organic waste from other garbage autoclave at about 160º C and maintained for 45 minutes to cook the waste. This process are daily steps that make a collective also kills pathogens and viruses. difference. n 31 OTTAWALIFE JUNE 2013 When your child is sick. It matters.

When your aging parent needs a home. It matters.

When an emergency happens. It matters.

Quality Health Care Matters.

Choose a trusted health care organization accredited by

1-800-814-7769 • www.accreditation.ca health-care series by simon vodrey

When your child is sick. It matters.

INFORMATION: The Most Valuable Commodity in Health Care When your aging parent n Oliver Stone’s 1987 film Wall other medical professionals are the ABOVE: Wendy Nicklin is the President and CEO needs a home. IStreet, Gordon Gekko, the ruthless most reputable sources of health-care of Accreditation Canada. Jeffrey Simpson is corporate raider played by Michael information, Simpson also notes that the Globe & Mail’s national affairs columnist It matters. Douglas, explains that when picking with easy access, to the Internet, it is and health-care analyst. stocks, “the most valuable commodity fast becoming an important source I know of is information.” This same of health-care information. And this average Internet user to understand mantra should apply when it comes trend is having an impact on patients the complicated medical information to the serious business of making and their relationship with their on some web sites and to differentiate health-care decisions — but too health-care provider. between applicable information and often that advice goes unrecognized that which is not. In that light, like by Canadians. Nicklin says Canadians’ greater Simpson, Nicklin is adamant that use of the Internet as a health-care it is the physician or health-care What then is the origin of the information search tool is affecting practitioner who should decide if information used by Canadians the time-honoured patient-physician the information the patient brings is When an emergency happens. in shaping their opinions — and relationship. She explains that because indeed relevant to their situation and making their choices — about health of the easy accessibility to a wide what the diagnosis is. It matters. care? Generally speaking, there array of information online, “Many is no single, one-stop source that Canadians go to their physician armed Nicklin and the medical community Canadians uniformly consult. Wendy with a lot of information.” However, understand the attraction to the Nicklin, the President and CEO of she points out that they tend to do Internet as a resource. After all, Accreditation Canada, an organization this “without knowing whether the “human nature leads us to look for which functions at arm’s length from information is credible or applicable additional information to guide us government, develops standards and to their clinical situation.” Simpson and to clarify our thinking, but we assesses health-care providers to help has noticed a similar trend: “Some need to know that it all may, or may them improve their performance, Canadians go on to the Internet not, be accurate or relevant. People puts it this way: “Canadians get their and pull down information about should get rid of any preconceived Quality Health Care Matters. health-care information from many whatever they think ails them and ideas.” Nicklin says that: “Until an different sources. Some of these other information pursuant to what appropriate assessment is done and include health-care professionals, other medical personnel tell them.” conclusive diagnosis can occur, the such as family physicians and nurses, information being sought may be as as well as family members, friends, However, Nicklin explains that misleading as it is helpful.” the media and the Internet.” “some of the information garnered Choose a trusted health care organization accredited by from the internet may have actually A t t he e n d o f t he d ay, N ick l i n c a p t u r e s Jeffrey Simpson, The Globe and led them down an incorrect path the essence of the challenge associated Mail’s national affairs columnist with inaccurate information.” with the unbridled growing use of and longtime health-care analyst, Simpson expands. “Some physicians the Internet and justifiably warns maintains that, “most information and medical practitioners are cautious us all that: “Until an appropriate that Canadians get on the subject about having their patients search assessment is done by a health-care of health care comes from their the Internet prior to… appropriate practitioner, the information being physicians or other medical persons medical tests and, therefore, make a sought from other sources may be as 1-800-814-7769 • www.accreditation.ca such as pharmacists, nurses or nurse traditional medical diagnosis.” This misleading as it is helpful.” In other practitioners.” While physicians and is because it can be difficult for the words, trust your doctor. n

33 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 health-care series by harvey chartrand

PEOPLE CENTRED HEALTH CARE NexJ Systems Patient-Focused Care Project Could Revolutionize Canada’s Health-Care System

ary Goodyear is one of the Harper business executive, adjunct professor ABOVE: William Tatham is the CEO of Ggovernment's ministers tagged of health at York University and NexJ Systems with identifying opportunities that health-care visionary. Tatham has will help Canada’s competitiveness. an impressive record of achievement, coaches, physicians, specialists, other So when the Minister of State for including an honourary Doctor of providers and social communities – the Federal Economic Development Engineering from the University of all through the web-based software Agency announced, in November Waterloo. His first big success was or cloud solution. Tatham points out 2012, that the government was founding the software company Janna that “empowering the individual committing $15 million to support Systems and, as chairman and CEO, to take control of their wellness has the Connected Health and Wellness selling it to its largest competitor the potential of reducing illness and Project (CHWP) that could change Siebel Systems in 2000 in a record- therefore the strain on the health-care the way health care is delivered in value transaction for a Canadian system.” He says that NexJ technology Canada, people took notice. The software company. has the ability to revolutionize the CHWP is a people-centered software way health-care systems operate today and web technology created by NexJ Tatham then turned his business skills and that the CHWP will demonstrate Systems that integrates eHealth towards health-care solutions. After that. mobile technology, prevention and watching a family member muddle health care. their way through the complexities The federal government, York of the health-care system during University, McMaster University and Sixteen Ontario partners have come a difficult battle with cancer, it other partners seem to agree. All have together to use the NexJ Connected occurred to Tatham to try to apply stepped forward to support the project Wellness Platform for the CHWP; this some of the customer relationship with money, researchers and resources. futuristic technology will keep health management (CRM) principles he Harvey Skinner, Dean of the Faculty information from different hospitals was familiar with at Janna Systems to of Health at York University, says the or clinics in one place, and allow the health care setting. “I recognized “NexJ partnership is an important patients to decide who they can trust the need for the kind of informatics step forward for transforming and to see this information. The system support in health care that we had sustaining health care and wellness offers tools to help people better in financial services,” he said to a systems in Canada and globally.” manage their own health and wellness small but influential group of invited Skinner also points out that “The and more easily connect with health- guests from Ottawa’s health-care combination of mobile technology, care professionals. It greatly improves community at a breakfast meeting at electronic health records and behavior access to patient information, allowing Ottawa’s Westin Hotel. Tatham says change will help more people live hospitals, physicians and other health- the premise is simple: “Patients and healthier, longer and receive timely care professionals to access and update their doctors should be able to access access to effective health care.” patient information on an ongoing health-care records from anywhere.” basis. For example, patients with To achieve this, Tatham says “NexJ is Eric Gombrich is Senior Vice- diabetes will be able to track their bringing to health care the tools we President & General Manager, Health biometric measurements, such as meals created to make financial advisors Solutions at NexJ. He says that by and exercise, using smart phones, and more efficient and able to provide connecting individuals with their care then share this information easily more personalized advice.” team and their health information, we with their medical teams. can encourage collaborative care and The NexJ Connected Wellness foster strong, trusting relationships NexJ is well positioned to revolutionize Platform delivers health information between individuals and their care the way health-care records are directly to the patient. People can providers. “Engaging people in their managed in Canada. It is led by CEO then share that information with own health and wellness has the William Tatham – a design engineer, others: family, advocates, health potential to increase the quality and

34 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 safety of care and improve outcomes. Partners-Academic: George Brown College, Seneca College and Centennial College. Industry: NexJ and its partners deliver a solution RIM; Rogers; Tyze Personal Networks; OSCAR Service Providers; PryLynx Corporation and Trivaris. that can enable tremendous patient Healthcare providers: Southlake Regional Health Centre; North York General Hospital; Centre for engagement, produce healthier Global eHealth Innovation (University Health Network) and the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical populations, and ultimately lower the Center of Harvard Medical School Based in Toronto. NexJ has clients throughout North America costs of health-care delivery." and Europe. For more information, visit www.nexj.com

Other benefits of the project include NexJ Systems Inc. is a provider of cloud-based software, delivering enterprise solutions for increased health-care system the healthcare industry. Cloud computing is a colloquial expression used to describe a variety efficiency, better health outcomes and of different computing concepts that involve a large number of computers connected through economic growth through the creation a real-time communication network (typically the Internet). In science, cloud computing is a of personalized health-care services. synonym for distributed computing over a network and means the ability to run a program on Among the organizations currently many connected computers at the same time. NexJ's next-generation, people-centered software using the NexJ Connected Wellness combines industry-specific functionality with information from multiple applications and data Platform is the Beth Israel Deaconess stores to provide comprehensive knowledge of an individual's health files in a virtual location Medical Center (an affiliate of accessible from any point. Harvard Medical School), New York City Public Health, Saskatchewan communicate with their physicians At the end of the session at the Cancer Agency and the Black Creek as they visit different care providers. Westin Hotel, William Tatham, Community Health Centre. Dr. Freedman says the program's aim Dr. Freedman and Dr. Martin take is to create two-way communications questions from the gathered health- William Tatham has brought two between patients and physicians to care professionals. The interest is Harvard-based Doctors, Dr. Steven empower the patient and their health- high and it appears that Tatham has D. Freedman and Dr. Camilia Martin care provider to make informed convinced the health professionals in from the Beth Israel Deaconess decisions and implement a care plan the room of the benefits of the NexJ Medical Center to Ottawa to talk that can be readily accessed and acted platform. If things go his way, you’ll about their experience with the NexJ upon by patients and all of their feel his reach as you start to manage Passport to TRUST program, which providers. Dr. Martin notes that the your own health-care record. Count puts patients in the driver seats of program “helps reduce unnecessary on it –its coming. n their own health care by enabling readmissions and can lessen the stress them to access and manage their on patients and the demands on Next issue: eHealth –Why Australia leads medical records digitally as well as providers.” the world.

35 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 Ottawa Life Mag June 3:Layout 1 13-05-27 10:02 AM Page 1

Supporting health and financial security for almost 27 million Canadians

Canada’s life and health insurance industry pays out more than $1.2 billion weekly. From dental care to physiotherapy to annuities, Canadians rely on our industry to help them lead healthy and balanced lives. Visit clhia.ca health-care series by stephen frank

Reforming Prescription Drugs Creating A System That Works For All Canadians

othing is more confusing and purposes such as for saving for their Stephen Frank, Vice President, Nfrustrating for Canadians than retirement. Policy Development and Health, Canadian Life trying to understand why a particular and Health Insurance Association drug will be covered for a person in As administrators of the vast majority one province but not for someone in of drug benefits plans in Canada, the another province. Equally frustrating life and health insurance industry complexity that all of this creates, the is the fact that, even if they both are has a unique perspective on how the life and health insurance industry covered for a drug, the price they pay current system works and the kinds is urging that discussions between can be dramatically different. Yet, these of reforms that would make a positive governments and stakeholders begin as are situations that exist today across impact on Canadians. The industry soon as possible on creating a common, Canada. recently released a public policy paper, national, minimum formulary (or Ensuring the Accessibility, Affordability list of drugs). This would provide a The Impact of Rising Prices and Sustainability of Prescription Drugs much-needed degree of assurance for for Prescription Drugs in Canada, setting out 23 important, all Canadians that they will be able Canada’s approach to providing actionable recommendations. readily access many commonly-needed prescription drug coverage to its prescription drugs, while still allowing citizens relies on a mix of provincial A Prescription for Change — those who want additional coverage to public plans and private insurance the industry's recommendations be able make those arrangements. and traditionally there has been little In order to drive down costs for collaboration between them. The result Canadians, the life and health Finally, as a priority, the industry is is a complex system that results in insurance industry is recommending recommending that governments inequities for Canadians with respect that Canada fundamentally reform lead a discussion to work towards to both access and prices of drugs. how prices are regulated. Currently, the creation of a new, collaborative, Even more concerning for the future, the federal agency that regulates prices end-to-end approval and approach is the continued increase in costs due of new drugs (the Patent Medicine to paying for very rare orphan drugs. to the rise in the number of very high- Prices Review Board) sets prices so Currently, the federal government is cost drugs that treat rare diseases. As that they are “not excessive”. This is implementing a new approval regime the current prescription drug coverage simply not good enough. The industry to facilitate the approval of drugs for system becomes more financially believes that fundamental reform of very rare diseases. To date, however, unsustainable, it exacerbate inequities this federal agency is urgently needed no discussions are taking place about amongst Canadians. Consequently, so that it actively seeks the lowest how best to set prices for these drugs urgent fundamental reform is needed possible prices for Canadians, while or what the best funding approach to make sure that all Canadians will still ensuring that there is access to the would be to pay for them. A dialogue continue to be able to access the drugs breakthrough drugs that are needed. is urgently required to address these they need. We know Canadians expect this from issues before these types of drugs their governments. In a recent poll inevitably enter the market on a much Canada ranks second highest, behind conducted by Leger Marketing on larger scale than today. the U.S., in total per capita spending behalf of the Canadian Life and Health on drugs (both prescribed and non- Insurance Association (CLHIA), 91 Working Together prescribed) of 25 OECD countries. per cent of poll respondents said they for a Better System Clearly, there is room for significant want the government to make sure The cumulative effect of these improvement. If Canada’s spend was that all Canadians pay the lowest price recommendations, if implemented, equal to the median of the OECD for drugs. would be to bring significant countries we would save more than improvements to Canada’s prescrip- $9.6 billion a year in drug costs. These Currently, each province establishes its tion drug system. Governments and extra costs are ultimately borne by own list of drugs that it will pay for. stakeholders, including insurers, patient plan sponsors, typically employers, Layered on top of this, employers can groups and health-care professionals, and workers who pay for prescription also decide what list of drugs they will must work together to improve the drugs through copayments or directly cover. Therefore, drugs are covered current system in order to ensure that out-of-pocket. This is money that based on where an individual lives or, Canadians continue to benefit from employers can use to reinvest into potentially, who their employer is. a strong pharmacare system well into their businesses and create new jobs, the future. The CLHIA is keen to play and that employees can use for other In order to help reduce the costs and an important role in that reform. n 37 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 Ottawa Life July_Layout 1 6/16/13 5:24 PM Page 1

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38 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 from coast-to-coast-to-coast by simon vodrey

In our continuing series on the Canadian Coast Guard PHOTO: JON POOLE we look at some rescues and learn some valuable lessons about the power of the sea.

Never Turn Your Back on the Ocean

“Never turn your back on the ocean” is an old Hawaiian saying. It is sage Michel Vermette, Deputy Commissioner, Vessel advice for any mariner. Most sailors are aware that the ocean is a dangerous Procurement, Canadian Coast Guard and unforgiving place. Yet, as Thomas E. Appleton writes in Usque Ad Mare: Aspy, a scallop trawler, sailed out of Lunenburg on a calm sea headed for A History of the Canadian Coast Guard and Marine Services: “Seamen the fertile fishing grounds of Georges (of the past) were cynical about safety procedures which are nowadays Bank. The Cape Aspy would never reach its destination. According to considered appropriate. In fact, very few of them could swim.” It seems the Transportation Safety Board of Canada report, the Cape Aspy sailed unthinkable today but that was the case. “in a southwesterly direction at a speed of 10 knots, a course which gradually There are countless stories of survival Within 20 minutes of the first sign diverged from the protection of and battles with that mysterious of trouble, the Monte Galineiro was the coast, giving an increase in the and unpredictable force known as swallowed by the North Atlantic. Yet roughness of the seas.” To allow easy the sea. There is no other Canadian luck would have it that the Canadian movement by her crew, the Cape organization that knows this more Coast Guard’s CCGS Leonard J. Aspy sailed into these rougher seas than the Canadian Coast Guard Cowley was only about two miles with “many weathertight/watertight (CCG). away. Its captain, Derek LeRiche, had openings to the hull in the open or been observing the Monte Galineiro, in the closed but unsecured position.” On the morning of February 22, intending to board and inspect the As the trawler sailed on, its increased 2009, some 400 kilometres due east fishing trawler when he heard its speed, coupled with stronger wind of St. John’s, the Spanish fishing Mayday message. Ten minutes later, and spray and temperatures of minus trawler Monte Galineiro caught the Leonard J. Cowley was on the 20º, contributed to create a build-up fire and began listing violently to scene. of ice on its superstructure. The rough her port side. It soon became clear sea was positioning the increasingly that the trawler could no longer stay The CCG has provided search-and- top-heavy Cape Aspy for trouble. afloat, leading the crew to send out rescue services since its inception a distress message and abandon ship. in January 1962. Sometimes, luck Around 11 p.m., the Cape Aspy began Most crew members left without the combines with skill for optimal to list to starboard as ferocious waves protection of an immersion suit, a performance — as was the case with washed over its deck. Fifteen minutes lifejacket or, in one case, anything the Monte Galineiro — but at other later, “the vessel rolled heavily to other than underwear — proof times the sea has different plans. starboard, partially returned to the positive that the sea can catch you off upright and then rolled further to guard. Early on January 30, 1993, the Cape starboard; the list suddenly increased

39 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 to about 45 degrees and the vessel the southwest of Saint Pierre and port lifeboat were also fruitless. The appeared to be ‘settled by the head.’” Miquelon. Facing gale-force winds, crew’s last resort was to launch a life Cape Aspy was dying. the Flare was being pounded by waves raft over the ship’s stern, but before in excess of 16 metres. Carrying less the crew could climb in, the life raft As she filled with frigid water, all than the required minimum ballast was washed away. but two of her 16 crew members for an Atlantic crossing, the Flare managed to climb into thermal was riding dangerously high on the Within 30 minutes of the Flare immersion suits. When the order to water. Had the Flare been more breaking in two, the stern section had abandon the listing ship was given, heavily ballasted, she would have disappeared beneath the surface along these crew members, minus the ship’s ridden lower and better absorbed the with all but six members of the crew. master, inched their way toward an sea’s pounding. These six men clung to the capsized inflatable life raft on the port side port lifeboat, which had broken free of Cape Aspy’s stern by slipping and Around midnight, the ocean began of its moorings as the Flare sank. Two sliding along the ice-covered wall of to get the better of the Flare. A of the initial survivors succumbed the wheelhouse. deafening bang drowned out the to exhaustion and the sea. When a howling wind and roaring waves as search-and-rescue helicopter located As the life raft was inflating — a the hull began to flex more markedly. the remaining four survivors six process taking only a few seconds Yet, after investigation, the Flare hours after they had plunged into — a powerful wave swept it and 15 did not appear to be in immediate the frigid water, the magnitude of crew members into the sea. “Two of danger. That appraisal of the situation the destruction was fully visible. the crew members managed to enter changed four hours later. Additional helicopters, fixed-wing the life raft and they assisted others aircraft and CCG surface vessels to board from the sea. The mate and surveyed the Flare’s grave, a scene three crew members could not reach that included a lingering oil slick the life raft, and the strong winds extending some 10 miles to the west caused it to drift away. Reportedly, and about three miles in a north- the master did not manage to leave The search-and-rescue south direction, an empty lifeboat, the wheelhouse,” the inquiry found. system is built on two vacant life rafts and 15 oil-soaked Although the Cape Aspy sent out partnerships… The Royal bodies, as well as the bow section of distress messages, “they were not the Flare which remained afloat for received by any shipboard or shore- Canadian Air Force has the four days after its sundering. based radio station, probably due knowledge and experience to ice accretion on the Cape Aspy with their air assets, Before the crew abandoned ship, a antenna.” In fact, as the inquiry report while the Canadian Coast “hurried, indistinct and incomplete put it, “the only indication of distress Mayday” was sent out on a very high was provided by the vessel’s Class I Guard brings our knowledge frequency (VHF) radiotelephone. Yet, Emergency Position Indicating Radio of the marine environment that distress message appeared to be Beacon (EPIRB) which floated free and expertise. from an unidentified vessel. It would and activated automatically after the take some time before the vessel in vessel sank.” Once the EPIRB was WADE SPURRELL trouble would be identified as the activated, CCG and commercial CCG DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF OPERATIONS Flare and the incomplete information vessels together with search-and- could be analyzed. rescue aircraft began the search. At 1:45 a.m., an aircraft homed into CCG’s d i rector-genera l of operat ions, the EPIRB, sighting a life raft in Wa d e S pu r r el l , s ay s t h a t when it come s the rough water 40 minutes later. At At 4:30 a.m., a second bang echoed to search and rescue, many variables 3:42 a.m., surface vessels directed to through the ship, followed by violent are involved, especially when ships the scene by aircraft plucked 10 of hull vibrations. This time, the Flare don’t follow regulations or respect the the Cape Aspy’s crew members out had broken in two. The entire crew force and power of the sea. Normally, of the life raft. An hour or so later, was standing on the stern section as when a ship issues a distress call by another ship nearby scooped up an it suddenly listed to starboard. The radio, “that signal would be picked immersion-suit-clad survivor floating men watched helplessly as the bow up by the CCG radio traffic stations in the water. The bodies of three section floated away in the rough sea. and the information would be relayed crew members were later recovered, They slid along the snow-and-ice- to one of our rescue coordination but two men were never found. covered decks, making their way in centres. Once the call goes in and total darkness to the Flare’s lifeboats. the information is interpreted, the Tragedy struck again five years later Unfortunately, the ship’s increasing coordinator determines what assets when, on January 16, 1998, a bulk starboard list prevented the starboard are available and then tasks a primary carrier named the Flare encountered lifeboat from being launched. resource –usually a Coast Guard a violent winter storm 45 miles to Repeated attempts to launch the surface vessel or a search-and-rescue

40 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 aircraft functioning in coordination gap between the time when a distress with the Department of National signal comes in and the time when Defence. search-and-rescue technicians arrive on the scene of a vessel in distress are “The search-and-rescue system technological.” is built on partnerships,” Spurrell noted. “In an operational context, Some of these time-reducing, life- DND is the lead department. The saving technological advancements Royal Canadian Air Force has the include satellite positioning and more knowledge and experience with their accurate satellite-based emergency- air assets, while the Canadian Coast locating beacons; improvements in Guard brings our knowledge of the radar; infrared cameras which are used marine environment and expertise. to search for heat signals to help locate The typical response time for a missing sailors; night vision gear; primary asset is no more than thirty advancements in computer-based minutes. If it’s more, we would have programs to run search modeling; to investigate why it took longer than sophisticated drift buoys that can thirty minutes. Where it gets more be dropped from a ship or aircraft complicated is when we have only to simulate the drifting pattern of a a snippet of information [as was the lifeboat or a raft; and great advances situation with the Flare]. In those in rescue boats, personal floatation cases, the controller might decide to d e v i c e s a n d i m m e r s i o n ( s u r v i v a l ) s u i t s . task aircraft and ships to determine Nevertheless, as the Hawaiians know, the nature of the incident. Most of you should never underestimate the the advancements in reducing the power of the ocean. n

41 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 travel by dan donovan PHOTOS: AMSTERDAM MARKETING

PHOTO: CHRIS TOALA OLIVARES Amsterdam and The Hague: The Dutch Golden Age Continues

In the 11th century, a tiny community world’s most important cities. Master CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Celebrating 125 of fishers settled along the Amstel builders constructed the inner ring of years, the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra is River. By 1275, the residents had canals as the city’s population surged considered one of the very best orchestras gained access to the ocean through to 250,000. in the world. An aerial view of Amsterdam’s a canal – the Zuiderzee, now called canal system. The Golden Age exhibition at the the IJsselmeer. Thus began a 200- The world’s first stock exchange – the Amsterdam Museum showcases the city in the year period of canal building and the Dutch East India Company – opened 17th century — considered the birth of modern commerce that came with it to allow in 1602, trading its own shares, Amsterdam. the city to grow and flourish as a making Amsterdam the birthplace of destination for trade and as a centre capitalism and a magnet and meeting for business and commerce. While place for traders and their goods from with Amsterdam as its capital. By the power centre of Europe remained around the world. In keeping with 1813, with the collapse of Napoleon in Spain during the 13th and 14th its reputation as a progressive city, Bonaparte, William VI of the centuries, Dutch innovation was the world’s first weekly newspaper, House of Orange was crowned as slowly building a stealth empire in the Courante uyt Italien, Duytslandt, Dutch King William and the Dutch the north. As Amsterdam flourished, &c. (The Courante) was published in reclaimed their country. A second and it won control over the sea trade in 1618. That same year, Catholicism significant flurry of canal building the North Sea and gained access to – seen as a final remnant of Spanish occurred between 1865 and 1876. the Baltic Sea. rule – was outlawed as the official The North Sea Canal is dug. The religion, although it was still allowed Dutch railway system is expanded. In In 1519, King Charles V of Spain to be practiced privately. Over the 1889, Amsterdam’s impressive train ceded control of Amsterdam through next century, the Dutch, using station (Centraal Station) opens, a dynastic marriage – putting the city Amsterdam as their base, would instantly connecting Amsterdam by under the governance of the Spanish invade England, sail the seven seas, rail to the rest of Europe. Empire and the Catholic faith. Sixty colonize Indonesia and Surinam, years later, Spanish control was and establish a colony in North Amsterdam today is arguably still one forfeited in a bloodless coup and the America called New Amsterdam of the key intellectual and artistic Dutch Republic was born, made up (which became New York City). In centres of Europe and is still consider- of seven provinces led by William 1795, French troops occupied the ed one of the most progressive cities the Silent. From 1600 to 1800, Netherlands and installed the Batavian in the world. Its intertwining canals Amsterdam would have a Golden Republic. These fragmented United and waterways are recognized as an Age that would make it one of the Provinces become a centralized state, official UN World Heritage site.

42 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 travel by dan donovan When visiting the city, a great halcyon days of world trade, economic renowned guest conductors. When in starting point is the Museum Het growth, cultural and religious Amsterdam, do not miss the RCO. Grachtenhuis. Set in an actual canal diversity, flourishing science and the The tickets are not expensive and house, this interactive, multimedia construction of the Amsterdam canals. they are in constant demand. museum cleverly uses miniature- It also has some compelling displays scaled doll house reproductions of that examine Dutch involvement in Amsterdam’s famous canal houses to slavery and war during the 1600s. A Traveler's Delight illustrate the 400-year history of the Afterwards, I relaxed on a one-hour History, Art and Atmosphere in city. The sheer genius of the Dutch canal cruise (www.smidtje.nl). It was The Hague becomes apparent when you realize bitter cold but the boat was warm as Located near the beautiful North Sea the scale of the effort and planning we enjoyed a bird’s eye view of canal coastline, Den Haag (The Hague) is it took for these 17th-century canals merchants’ houses, baroque churches the third largest city in the Netherlands and homes to be built on land and bridges. If you are visiting and is also known as the Residence, reclaimed from the sea. A highlight Amsterdam in 2013, be sure to take the Royal Residence and the City of was looking at the three-dimensional in the new Rembrandt exhibition at Peace and Justice. The Hague earns its holograms inside the miniature canal Magna Plaza which brings all 325 of nicknames to housing the seat of the houses. The museum will give you Rembrandt’s paintings together in Dutch government, the Royal Family an understanding of the geography one place for the first time, as high- and many international organiza- of Amsterdam and it will help you quality reproductions. tions, mostly of a judicial nature, navigate your way around the city. including the International Court of The Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra Justice and the Permanent Court of There are so many museums, galleries Amsterdam is celebrating its 125th Arbitration. Due to the presence of and restaurants that you can easily anniversary this year. In addition embassies, international organizations, feel overwhelmed by options. Be sure to some 80 concerts performed at govern-ment bodies and the Royal to get an I amsterdam City Card: it the Concertgebouw, the Royal Family, The Hague is a popular offers amazing discounts on the city’s Concertgebouw Orchestra (RCO) destination for international travelers. world-class museums. Having been performs 40 concerts at leading This historic city has a large charm to the Amsterdam Hermitage and concert halls throughout the world factor with stunning monuments and Van Gogh exhibits on previous visits, each year. In fact, in the first half chic livable neighbourhoods. this time I went to the Amsterdam of this season, RCO Amsterdam Museum’s Dutch Golden Age exhibit completed its world tour of six Everyone seems to have a bicycle. which uses the latest multimedia continents in a single year – the only I spent a day walking through The techniques to showcase a treasure orchestra ever to do so. Reaching Hague and stopped to take in the trove of world-class works by artists some 250,000 concertgoers a year, pleasures of the Plein and Grote Markt such as Rembrandt, Pieter de Hooch, the orchestra has long been praised squares with their numerous cozy Marten de Vos, Dirck Hals and for its performances of the music of restaurants, eateries and coffee bars. Melchior d’Hondecoeter, alongside Gustav Mahler and Anton Bruckner. The city has seen an architectural historic pieces that explore those It also collaborates with world- building renaissance in the past 30 years and today its modern skyline seamlessly complements the more traditional buildings. The Hague SEE MORE & SAVE MORE WITH THE is also known for having more I amsterdam City Card courtyards than any city in Holland The I Amsterdam City Card is the most convenient and affordable and these courtyards are visible way to experience Amsterdam. Valid for 24, 48 or 72 hours, the everywhere as you walk about. 2013 City Card includes a detailed city map; unlimited use of Among the most beautiful courtyards GVB public transport (bus, tram & metro); free entrance to 38 of in The Hague are the Hof Van Amsterdam’s top museums & attractions; one free canal cruise; Wouw, Hof van Nieuwkoop and the discounts on attractions, concerts, theatre, rentals, restaurants and more; free giveaways, fun Rusthofje. Among the lesser known surprises & special monthly offers; free entrance to eight attractions & five discounts at the courtyards in and around the centre Zaanse Schans Museum; free entrance to three museums & four discounts in Haarlem. of The Hague are the Schuddegeest, www.iamsterdam.com Schelpstraat, Badhuisstraat and Paramaribostraat courtyards. There are some really nice, affordable boutique-style hotels in Amsterdam. You Since it is the political capital, I can’t go wrong with the Radisson Blu Hotel. wanted to visit the Dutch Parliament Located in the Canal House district, the (Het Binnenhof). All political matters hotel's historic exterior neatly complements and affairs of state are discussed its über-modern interior and exceptional here. You can take a guided tour services. through the Ridderzaal (Hall of www.radissonblu.com/hotel-amsterdam Knights) and either the First and/or

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ottawalife_flat_final.indd 1 13-06-26 4:04 PM the Second Chamber of Parliament. art collections. Het Mauritshuis has painted by Hendrik Willem Mesdag, The tour starts with an introductory a marvellous collection of art from his wife and a few friends. It shows video that explains the history of the the old masters of the 17th and 18th what The Hague looked like in 1880. Dutch parliament and parliamentary centuries. The Dutch Mona Lisa The beach is full of activity: fishing buildings. Tours are available all year or The Girl with a Pearl Earring by boats are pulled, military practice is round; however, on the day I visited, Johannes Vermeer can be seen here. taking place, and people are enjoying we could not visit all the rooms of (And yes, she does look just like the sun and the water. Mesdag’s Het Binnenhof due to political Scarlett Johansson in the movie of painting or spectacular illusion is an meetings. Even so, Het Binnenhof the same name!) A worthwhile stop experience in space and time that and its impressive architecture and is a small museum called Panorama seems to become reality. The museum rich history make a visit well worth Mesdag which features one of the isn’t expensive and a visit only takes your time. world’s finest and largest surviving half an hour. panorama paintings. It is 46 feet The Hague is home to the Royal high with a circumference of 395 Inspired by the painting, I decided Picture Gallery Mauritshuis and the feet and shows the sea, beach, dunes to take the 20-minute trip to visit Gemeentemuseum, which are two and fishing in the nearby village of the coastal town of Scheveningen on must-see museums with magnificent Scheveningen. The panorama was the edge of The Hague. It proved to be a highlight of the day. It’s easy to see why it’s the best known seaside resort on the Dutch coast. Even in the middle of January, the shops and hotels off the beach were booming with activity as people were out and about. It is worth dropping by one of the great grand hotels of Europe, the Steigenberger Kurhaus Hotel which is located right on the beach. Take a walk or use local transit to visit the Scheveningen Harbor Restaurant de Dagvisser (www.dedagvisser.nl). It is one of the best seafood restaurants in the region, featuring a variety of fresh-catch North Sea dishes – herring, cod sole, oysters, mussels – all done with exceptional Dutch gastronomique flair.

While I have been to the Netherlands many times, it is always an incredible treat to go back and experience the marvels of the past while bearing witness to the renaissance of this cultural powerhouse. n

Den Haag has lots of hotels and great restaurants. You can take a direct 40-minute train from Amsterdam for $12 return.

For a great lunch in Den Haag, go to Brasseries T-Ogenblik www.t-ogenblik.nl for a traditional Dutch lunch of herring and chowder.

The best travel web site for The Netherlands is www.holland.com and for Amsterdam, visit www.iamsterdam.com. For Den Haag, visit www.denhaag.nl.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Dutch parliament buildings and Mauritshuis along the Hofvijver. PHOTO: KLM (Royal Dutch Airlines) – www.klm.com/ – JURJEN DRENTH Winter scene of the Dutch parliament with skaters on the Hofvijver. PHOTO: ARJAN DE JAGER offers regular return flights from Canada. When The busy shopping area of Grote Markt Straat. PHOTO: JURJEN DRENTH The seaside resort of Scheveningen you arrive in Amsterdam, take a train or an with the famous Steigenberger Kurhaus Hotel PHOTO: PIERRE CROM. The Hague’s original coat of arms. electric car taxi (Taxi-E) to the city centre. PHOTO: JURJEN DRENTH. 45 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013 opinion by gary corbett

Performance Review

This spring, Canadians were virtually every single person that the Where once the public sector set the astonished to learn that the former federal government hires is going to standard for resolving many labour head of the Canadian Human Rights perform to the standard we expect,” relations issues, now the private sector Tribunal – the federal authority remarked Clement, referencing rates – with its supposed higher rates of responsible for investigating of dismissal in the private sector of dismissal and lower rates of unionized allegations of discrimination – was between five and 10 per cent. workers – is held up as the example fired for “gross mismanagement.” to follow. That this is happening at The report filed by the Public Coming midway through the the same time some Conservatives Integrity Commissioner, following Conservative government’s third federally and provincially are noisily a two-year investigation prompted term and massive government advocating for U.S.-style right-to- by a union complaint, found that the job cuts, the announcement left work laws and a rollback of legislated Conservative appointee “repeatedly the unmistakable impression that provisions that ensure all union harassed employees at all levels by “mandatory performance reviews” members pay their fair share of dues referring to them in derogatory terms, are downsizing by another name – a is no coincidence. by questioning their competencies in sort of permanent quota reduction the presence of their colleagues and system tied to private-sector rates The rights and protections of all by spreading misinformation about of dismissal. It’s not about you. It’s workers are under assault. For them in the workplace.” about cutting staff. evidence, one need look no further than Bill C-377, recently amended by To some, long accustomed to the the Senate, the private member’s bill Harper government’s ideological that claims to make union expenses aversion to accountability, this comes transparent (unions already make as no surprise. After all, a government The federal Conservatives’ their expenses available to members), that demonstrates so little regard for and which even Conservative the environment and the opinion of “mandatory performance Senator Hugh Segal has said “has an climate scientists should hardly be reviews” are downsizing anti-labour bias running rampant.” expected to care more for human After the parade of federal budget rights and the people hired to by another name – a and financial scandals of recent years investigate violations. sort of permanent quota – from exorbitant F-35 fighter jets to the missing $3.1 billion in funds It’s one reason why the announcement reduction system tied to earmarked for fighting terrorism – in late May by Treasury Board private-sector rates of the Harper government’s standards President Tony Clement that the of financial accountability are as government would be introducing dismissal. It’s not about tattered and hypocritical as its mandatory performance reviews improving service. It’s records on human rights and climate has raised such suspicions. The change. current government’s record simply about cutting staff. fails to reassure anyone that new Mandatory performance reviews, mandatory performance reviews will while good and necessary in principle, be implemented fairly or with actual are only the latest tool for a scandal- employee performance in mind. After all, it’s not as if managers have plagued Conservative government been deprived of the opportunity determined to divert attention Of course, mandatory performance to manage employee performance elsewhere, advance its smaller- reviews are exactly what professionals before now. And as long as managers government agenda, and reduce the in the union I represent want and perform their functions, unions will influence of unions. They misuse expect to receive. Feedback, negative continue to per form theirs. That’s the them at the risk of provoking larger and positive, is essential if one hopes way the system is supposed to work, disputes in the future. n to grow in any profession. But with reference to labour and human Clement’s May 28 press conference rights laws as the occasion warrants. Gary Corbett is President of the Professional gave cause for concern even before But there is something else in the air, Institute of the Public Service of Canada, the microphones were switched off. and unions both public and private the largest union of scientists and other “There is simply no way that know it. professionals in Canada.

46 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013

We believe Public education is the cornerstone of tolerance and democracy in Ontario To ensure student success, public education must provide – • Equal access to a comprehensive and well-rounded education • Class sizes that allow individual attention • Professional resources and programs provided by school board staff • A safe, positive and well-maintained learning environment • Shared decision-making with parents, teachers and education workers

A message from Ontario’s public high school teachers and education workers. 48 OTTAWALIFE AUGUST 2013

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Publication: Ottawa Life Trim: 8.125" x 10.875" Ad Name: We believe Insertion Date: November Issue Material Due Date: ASAP