February 15, 2018: A City That Fosters Innovation?; Long-term strategy needed for Libraries.

February 15, 2018: A City That Fosters Innovation?;
Long-term strategy needed for Libraries.

By Blaine Marchand, R.E.A.D.

The City’s budget was very much in the news in November and December of 2017 due to criticism of the Council’s obsession with keeping taxes low at all costs. This debate was partially sparked by projected underspending for snow removal this winter and the lack of funds for infrastructure. The issue was suddenly resolved when an additional $10 million materialized on the day the budget was voted on. But it is more than snow removal that is impacted by an artificially low tax rate. Over the years, it has obstructed the maintenance of public and social services, such as libraries.

Ottawa is touted as a centre of innovation, which fosters creativity and imagination, where people learn and exchange new ideas via modern technology. On paper, the city cites libraries as integral to our vibrant community, the heart of each diverse neighbourhood making up our rapidly growing municipality. Libraries are acknowledged in city documents as hubs for information, as safe and inviting focal points for different cultural groups, as fostering greater tolerance through knowledge and understanding.

Across the city, urban neighbourhoods are intensifying – condos are rising around transit stations, streetscapes are seeing multi-family units replace single family homes. More people in these areas place greater demand on infrastructure, including their local libraries.

The Rosemount Expansion and Development (READ) Group has pressed the city on the need for a new library in our community. READ also believes that the Ottawa Public Library (OPL) board needs to position itself strategically and advocate for quality library services across Ottawa.

A comprehensive long-term capital plan that would fund and initiate a blueprint for library renewals and new construction is now more critical than ever. This would allow City Council to ensure that there is sufficient long-range and more predictable funding for the library system. Currently, the OPL relies on a complex array of funding sources. And those sources are not always certain.

Libraries are places where everyone – young and old, well-heeled and the socially and physically challenged and all in between – goes. They are places of inspiration and creativity, where reading opens up the world to all and accessible computers bring the worldwide web of information to one’s fingertips.

The Rosemount Library, despite being a priority on the OPL list for years, is now slated to receive a mere face-lift to make cosmetic improvements and provide band-aid solutions to a building in its 100th year. That is not acceptable and why READ supports a comprehensive long-term funding strategy for the renewal of existing libraries and the development of new branches.

Next month’s article will discuss the strategies being implemented in other Canadian cities and show how they have successfully built and redeveloped the libraries in their neighbourhoods.

February 15, 2018: IODE Annual Home Tour; Westboro Homes on the Tour.

February 15, 2018: IODE Annual Home Tour;
Westboro Homes on the Tour.

By Elanor Brodie.

IODE Laurentian Chapter’s 57th Annual House and Garden Tour is sure to appeal to people who love house and garden design. This year’s tour features 2 very interesting properties in Westboro, along with four others from across the city.

The first is a wonderful home on Hilcrest Avenue that was originally small but has seen additions made to it over the years. The second homeowners added an extension for a new living room and the current owners added a second story to this extension in 2001, for a master bedroom suite. The old summer kitchen has been incorporated into the house with a side door bricked-in with glass, and the kitchen modernized with built-in cabinetry to divide some of the rooms. Windows are custom-made from fir by Lowen Windows of Manitoba with a stained finish. The exterior was completely refinished to replace miss-matched brickwork. Original cedar shingle garage and hen-coop were replaced by a garage and garden-shed, designed to harmonize with the house.

Outdoors the garden features a cowboy statue from Yardley’s, Ottawa. Owners put in a water feature and they have retained the large trees.

Second is a modern house on a corner lot on Highland Avenue completed in 2015. Architect Alex Diaz of Arthouse Developments and Interior Designer Candice Sutcliffe responded to the desires of the owners – with an airy, open plan house, centered around the kitchen; its clean lines, limited colour palette and “rustic” fixtures expressing their taste.

The patio area is designed for outdoor entertaining and is adjacent to the kitchen. It features a very private outdoor room, sheltered from the elements but open to the pool area. The pool echoes the linear design of the whole house.

The four other homes across the city include:

• A charming home in Alta Vista located on a large, treed lot which was designed and built by the owners in 1996. This house is filled with a mixture ranging from antiques and family heirlooms to thrift store purchases and curb side finds. The result of this eclectic blend is a house that is both interesting and easy to live in. The gardens are large and fairly natural for both ease of care and to attract wildlife.
• Two older homes – one in New Edinburgh dating from the 1890s and one in Rockcliffe from the pre-war 1930s building boom both of which feature kitchen renovations and interesting art collections.
• And the last home off of Prince of Wales Drive that is a well appointed family home with a Rideau River view and a small indoor pool.

The focus recipient for the funds raised is the Youth Services Bureau of Ottawa. IODE Laurentian Chapter is partnering with them to support their Mattress Program which will ensure homeless youth have a safe place to sleep.
Tickets are $35 and will be available as of mid March at retailers across Ottawa and on-line.

For updated news about our tour please visit our website at http://laurentian.iode.ca

Photo Caption: A Highland Avenue home, the work of Architect Alex Diaz of Arthouse Developments is one of two Westboro homes featured on the IODE Annual House and Garden Tour. Photo courtesy of Arthouse Developments.

February 15, 2018: Photo Inset: Ottawa West Golden Knights Prevail; Major Midget “B” team proves consistent winners.

February 15, 2018: Photo Inset: Ottawa West Golden Knights Prevail;
Major Midget “B” team proves consistent winners.

Photo Caption: Gabriel Kohlruss plays Right Wing for the Ottawa West Golden Knights (not to be confused with the Las Vegas Golden Knights of the NHL) at the level of Major Midget “B”. The year-2000 cohort for which Gab plays, has won the league championship for the past 8 years running. The Ottawa West Golden Knights are currently ranked #5 in the province and their local standing has them tied for 1st place with the Kanata Blazers. Their current record is 29 wins, 6 losses, 4 ties. Photo courtesy of Steven Chase.

February 15, 2018: Kitchissippi Nights; “Some of us are looking at the stars.”

February 15, 2018: Kitchissippi Nights;
“Some of us are looking at the stars.”

With a large portion of Kitchissippi Ward bordering on the Ottawa River, our residents have a better chance than many in Ottawa to see what goes on in the skies above us against a relatively dark background.

To take advantage of this opportunity, Newswest has asked local astronomer Mark Narwa, of AMeN_Observatory, to point out some of the more interesting celestial events that brighten both our nights and our understanding of the space we occupy. The accompanying chart shows noteworthy celestial events occurring between February 15 and the arrival of spring, the Vernal Equinox, March 20. Subsequent columns will deal with relevant events and phenomena as they occur.

Photo Caption: Sky chart courtesy of M. Narwa.

Text appearing in chart;

DATE	TIME	EVENT
February 15, 2018	4:05p.m.	New Moon.
February 16, 2018	20 minutes after sunset	Venus is 2.3° below Moon in WSW horizon.
February 23, 2018	3:09a.m.	First Quarter Moon.
March 1, 2018	7:51p.m.	Full Moon.
March 2, 2018	20 minutes after sunset	Venus and Mercury 1.3° apart in western horizon.
March 3, 2018	20 minutes after sunset	Venus and Mercury 1.1° apart in western horizon.
March 4, 2018	20 minutes after sunset	Venus and Mercury 1.2° apart in western horizon.
March 9, 2018	6:20a.m.	Last Quarter Moon.
March 10, 2018	1 hour before sunrise	Moon close to Mars in SSE sky.
March 11, 2018	1 hour before sunrise	Moon close to Saturn in SSE sky.
March 17, 2018	9:12a.m.	New Moon
March 18, 2018	30 minutes after sunset	Moon close to Venus in western horizon.
March 18, 2018	30 minutes after sunset	Venus is 3.5° apart from Mercury in western horizon.
March 20, 2018	12:15p.m.	ernal Equinox – Spring Begins. Equal Day and Night.
March 24, 2018	11:35a.m.	First Quarter Moon.
March 24, 2018	8:42p.m. – 8:48p.m.	ISS passes over Kitchissippi from SW horizon.
March 25, 2018	7:50p.m. – 7:58p.m.	ISS passes over Kitchissippi from SSW horizon.
March 26, 2018	8:33p.m. – 8:41p.m.	ISS passes over Kitchissippi from SW horizon.
March 27, 2018	7:40p.m. – 7:50p.m.	ISS passes over Kitchissippi from SW horizon.
March 28, 2018	8:24p.m. – 8:32p.m.	ISS passes over Kitchissippi from WSW horizon.
March 29, 2018	7:31p.m. – 7:42p.m.	ISS passes over Kitchissippi from WSW horizon.
March 30, 2018	8:15p.m. – 8:24p.m.	ISS passes over Kitchissippi from west horizon.
March 31, 2018	8:37a.m.	Full Moon, *Second Blue Moon of 2018.
March 31, 2018	8:59p.m. – 9:06p.m.	ISS passes over Kitchissippi from WNW horizon.

* ISS – International Space Station

* Blue Moon is a rare occasion when a full Moon occurs twice in the same calendar month.

February 15, 2018: Letters to Newswest; Rochester Park Decision Deferred.

February 15, 2018: Letters to Newswest;
Rochester Park Decision Deferred.

By Gary Ludington.

On January 23rd Planning Committee heard from quite a few residents regarding the NCC’s new proposal for Rochester Park. The agreement between the City and the NCC had no development on the West part of the Park property. What was passed by Committee was at a minimum a six storey wall along Richmond Road from the Keg Manor to the back yards of the homes on Fraser Ave. – something similar to the Ashcroft development blocking the views of the convent.

In essence, we went from having a major green open corridor to the Ottawa River to having a wall blocking our enviable view.

This item went to Council on January 31st where we have no opportunity to speak. But the community could and did send letters and emails to the Mayor and Council asking that the proposal go back to staff so the community could be engaged in perhaps a planning charrette with the City and the NCC to see if there wasn’t a better solution that was a win/win for all. Council agreed up to a point. The final decision has been deferred so City and NCC staff can meet to see if there is a solution that comes closer to what was presented in 2016. Let’s hope we don’t end up with a wall spoiling the vista we have enjoyed for longer than we can remember.

February 15, 2018: Back Yard Artistry; Life is short. Art is long.

February 15, 2018: Back Yard Artistry;
Life is short. Art is long.

By Anna Borris.

“My plan was to build a beautiful horse complete with saddle and bridle so I could gallop through the sagebrush covered hills chasing the rustlers just like my hero Adam on Bonanza.”

We ten year-olds were used to being evicted from the house when my mom had what we called a cleaning fit. These attacks happened frequently, and during the latest one, Karen, Judy and I tumbled out into my backyard in search of something to do.

“This winter will never be over” Judy moaned. “What should we do?” We were unrecognizable in our hats, hoods, scarves snow pants and brown galoshes. The February sky was deep blue and the snow was just sticky enough for some kind of construction.

“I’m going to make a beautiful snow lady”, Karen decided, as she started rolling a giant snowball. Judy got started on a fort in the corner of the yard using one of my mom’s loaf plans to form bricks. My plan was to build a beautiful horse complete with saddle and bridle so I could gallop through the sagebrush covered hills chasing the rustlers just like my hero Adam on Bonanza. Adam was much handsomer and so much more mature than his brother Little Joe.

The big snowballs weighed a ton but soon my horse started to take shape. Carefully, I sculpted his head and his saddle, then found a rope in the garage to use as a bridle. After a few finishing touches I climbed on his back. At ten and with little experience in horseback riding, I felt as though I was sitting on a real horse, and looked forward to many happy trail rides together.

Karen’s snow lady was now dressed in a ball gown, complete with train. “There’s a wig in the basement from Halloween. Should I get it?” I asked her. “Sure” she giggled, “she needs some hair – or a hat.” I found a long black wig and a matching black slouch hat in the basement and we fitted them on her head. “She looks so much better.” Karen said happily.

We went to help Judy with her upscale fort which had a snow couch and two snow chairs. She was busily trying to build windows without the whole thing collapsing. With the combined architectural experience of three ten year olds, we managed to finish it successfully.

“Let’s go in, I’m soaked” Judy said. “Can we put our clothes in the dryer?”
“We don’t have a dryer, we’ll have to hang them up in the basement.” I suggested.

The previous day my dad had walked up to the Laura Secord store at Wellington and Holland, and brought back a two pound box of chocolates for my mom for Valentine’s day. They were passed around once or twice, then we were told to stay out of them. They were for a treat for the family, but there they were sitting on top of the fridge. “Let’s each have one” I said. “Karen keep an eye out for my mom”. We tiptoed into the kitchen and each sneaked a chocolate before heading to the basement to dry off and play Clue.

A few days later a warm wind from the south caused some damage to our creations. The window frames in Judy’s fort collapsed which caused the main wall to fall down. Karen’s lovely snow lady had turned into a creepy witch. Her hat had blown away, and her wig had fallen to one side on her melted head. It was quite disturbing to see her peering through the kitchen window of our house. My horse’s handsome head had developed a long, pointed, snarly beak, and he suddenly had a serious sway back. Our entire backyard looked like a house of horrors. I found this all very distressing, so I went out and knocked them all over.

On the bright side though, spring clothes, chocolate Easter rabbits, eggs and chickens and rubber boots started to appear in the stores, cheering us up and turning our minds toward a new season.

February 15, 2018: Community Calendar Plus.

February 15, 2018: Community Calendar Plus.

DRAFT UPDATED February 15th. See bottom for late additions.

++++ => extra/notices not in print issue.

Newswest Volunteers. ++++
Newswest is seeking volunteers to help with its monthly digital on-line content. Experience with Facebook or WordPress ideal, but eager learners welcome. Email editor@newswest.org or come to a board meeting. (Next meeting is Tuesday February 27, 2018 at 7p.m. in the Hintonburg Community Centre.)

February 14-24 – “The Clean House”. ++++
Three Sisters Theatre Company, Ottawa’s own indie theatre company dedicated to promoting local opportunities for women in theatre, opens its first show this season with Sarah Ruhl’s “The Clean House”. An unsentimental romantic comedy about love, loss, change, and redemption. It opens at The Gladstone Theatre, 910 Gladstone Avenue, Ottawa on Wednesday February 14, and runs evenings at 7:30p.m. (except Sunday and Monday nights) and afternoons 2:30p.m. on Saturdays and Sunday, until Saturday February 24th. https://threesisterstheatre.ca .

February 16 – PD Day program (games, Lego and crafts)!
Children age 4-12 are welcome to join us at the Carlingwood branch of the Ottawa Public Library for board games, crafts, and Lego during your PD day! Drop-in. For more information go to https://biblioottawalibrary.ca .

February 17 – Family Movie Special Event! ++++
Saturday February 17th at 2p.m. Come to the Pokemon 4 Ever Movie and Trading Event (Movie rated G). Bring your Pokémon hero cards and trade with others and watch the cinema’s latest Pokémon adventure on the big screen! (Plus Cartoon and Door Prizes.) Ottawa Family Cinema, Notre Dame Auditorium, 710 Broadview Avenue (north of Carling) Ottawa 613-722-8218 or visit http://www.familycinema.ca for this and other family movies in the coming weeks.

February 22 – Southern Italy & Sicily.
In Sicily visit Greek and Roman archaeological sites, smoking Mount Etna and explore charming Taormina. Crossing to the mainland, we will visit Matera, Lecce, Sorrento, Amalfi and Capri. The scenery, history and culture is amazing, but with a different feel from the north. Explore this with Alex Bissett! Happening at the Carlingwood Library on Thursday February 22 at 7 p.m. Registration is required. For more information go to: https://biblioottawalibrary.ca/en/event/southern-italy-sicily .

February 23 – Arts Night.
Arts Night takes place at First Unitarian Church (30 Cleary Ave., off Richmond Road) at 7:30 p.m. You are invited to come and see artists demonstrate or perform their art. This month’s guests include Janice Tait, writer; Ruth Tait, painter; Ruby Jin, pianist. Admission is $5. For information call 613-725-1066 . For more info see the Newswest Web-extra for February (bottom link).

February 23 & 24 – Elmdale Public School BookFest 2018.
BookFest, Elmdale’s iconic annual second-hand book sale, is an opportunity to find a great read while supporting a good cause. With more than 25,000 titles there’s something for everyone, all at very low prices (cash only) complete with raffles and a bake sale. BookFest will take place in Elmdale Public School’s gymnasium (49 Iona St.) on Fri., Feb. 23, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on Sat., Feb. 24, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Have a box of books you’d like to donate? We’d be glad to come and get them. Email Traceylyn at elmdalebookfest@gmail.com . Like and share us on Facebook!

February 24 Somerset Square Bonfire.
The Kitchissippi Ward Councillor will be working with the Wellington West BIA to put on a community bonfire in Somerset Square Park from 5 to 7 p.m. on February 24th. It will be our last bonfire of the season and it’s shaping up to be a fun one, so don’t miss out! (Weather Permitting.)

February 26 – Cloud Computing 101.
The “cloud” has become a ubiquitous term in the modern computing vernacular. In a nutshell, cloud computing is merely the practice of using an Internet hosted server to store, manage or process data rather than relying on a local network server or personal computer. Jeff Dubois, Publicity Chair, Ottawa PC Users’ Group, will examine a number of cloud-based practical applications, services and features that may be of interest to the consumer market. Happening at the Carlingwood Library on Monday February 26 at 6 p.m. Registration is required. For more information go to https://biblioottawalibrary.ca/en/event/cloud-computing-101-6 .

February 27 – Hintonburg Supper Club. ++++
The next Hintonburg Supper Club event will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 27th at The Third (former location of the Black Pepper Pub). Reservations will be accepted until February 23rd on a first-come, first-served basis. More info: supper@hintonburg.com .

February 27 – Come contra dance in Hintonburg! ++++
Never heard of contra dance? Think super-fun folk social dance with awesome live music (fiddles+) and a really vibrant community!. Everyone welcome, no experience necessary (beginners very welcome!), all dances taught, and you can come alone, with friends or family. 7p.m. intro lesson, dance 7:30-10p.m. Rosemount Hall – 41 Rosemount. More details: http://www.ottawacontra.ca .

February 27 – Kitchissippi Ward Councillor’s Pop-up. Office
The Kitchissippi Ward Councillor’s next pop-up office hours will be at Happy Goat (at 35 Laurel) on February 27th from 4-7 p.m.

February 28 – Friends of Churchill Event Series: Take a trip to Bolivia.
Come experience Bolivia through lens and commentary with Erin Courtney, Community Relations Manager, Amica Westboro. Bolivia is home to over 40% if all Earth’s known wildlife.Taking place at the Churchill Seniors Centre (345 Richmond Rd.) from 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. No cost; refreshments will be served. For more information and to indicate attendance, please call 613-798-8927 .

February 28 – What Privacy Means in the Digital Age.
Contrary to what you may hear and read, privacy is not dead. It has however changed in our digital and social media age. It affects how we interact with each other as citizens, employees and consumers. Learn about some of the legal dimensions around these issues, and how you can better protect yourself with lawyer Jean Nelson, who holds a number of roles with the Canadian Medical Association including that of Chief Privacy Officer. Come with your questions. This session is part of Ottawa Public Library’s Law at the Library series provided by the Ontario Bar Association. Disclaimer: This session is informational only and does not include legal advice. Happening at the Carlingwood Library on Wednesday, February 28 at 6:30 p.m. Registration is required. For more information go to https://biblioottawalibrary.ca .

March 2 – World Day of Prayer.
World Day of Prayer is an ecumenical prayer service which is held on the first Friday in March world wide and focuses on a certain country. This year the focus is Suriname and the theme is “All God’s Creation is Good.” In our area, the service is being held at St. George’s Catholic Church (415 Piccadilly Ave.) at 7 p.m. on Friday March 2nd. All are welcome.

March 3 – Spring Art Exhibition. ++++
Art Lending of Ottawa, a not for profit organization since 1970, presents its spring exhibition on Saturday, March 3rd. One may lease, lease to purchase and purchase original, fine visual art at reasonable prices. Local artists. Large selection. RA Centre, 2451 Riverside Drive (Outaouais, East entrance) 10:00a.m. to 5:00p.m. Free admission and parking.Visit us at http://www.artlendingofottawa.ca .

March 5 – First Time Home-buyer.
Thinking about buying a home? This seminar is presented by Susan Sowah, of BuyHerself and Houses&Co, for all first-time home-buyers. Let us walk you through the entire process from beginning to end, sharing valuable tips and straight talk on how to purchase property and what you need to consider for your lifestyle and future plans. Topics include updates on new government regulations, credit scores, mortgages, home buyer incentives, property types, financial and emotional readiness, what you should expect from your Realtor and Mortgage Advisor, and much more as we help make home ownership a reality for you! Happening at the Carlingwood Library on Monday, March 5 at 6:30 p.m. Registration is required. For more information go to https://biblioottawalibrary.ca .

March 8 – “Godspell”. ++++
This play will bring Jesus and his disciples to life for Easter at Centrepointe Theatres starting March 8th with a fresh approach, suitable for the whole family. Godspell is 9th Hour Theatre Company’s 20th production since the non-profit was founded in 2009. Moderated discussions will precede some of the performances, and frame for the audience some themes explored in the Ottawa production. There will be a reception after the opening night performance at 10p.m. on Thursday, March 8 in the studio’s lobby at Centrepointe Theatres. The Ottawa production of Godspell will be raising funds after every performance for the Ottawa Innercity Ministries art program for homeless and street engaged youth. http://www.9th-hour.ca .

March 10 (and onward) – Urban Organic Gardening Seminars.
The Ottawa chapter of the Canadian Organic Growers is hosting a series of urban organic gardening seminars at the Hintonburg Community Centre (1064 Wellington St W.) Saturday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on March 10, April 14, and May 12. Seed sale to follow at 1:30 p.m. One day passes are available, which includes three full seminars. Discounts are available with registration for full package passes; nine seminars in all. Student discounts are available too! March topics include: Growing Organic Vegetables; Herbs & Edible Flowers; Container, Small Space, and Labour Saving Urban Garden; Starting Seeds Indoors and Out. For more information and to sign up go to http://cog.ca .

March 15 – St Patrick’s Friendship Luncheon.
At the Churchill Seniors Recreation Centre (345 Richmond Rd.) on Thursday March 15 from 11:50 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Featuring the Sue Fay Healy Irish Dancers. Catered sandwiches, salads, desserts, tea or coffee Cost: $12.50 (over 65) or $13.75 ( under 65). Deadline to register is March 6. For more information, please call 613-798-8927 .

March 21 – Afternoon Tea Dance.
At the Churchill Seniors Recreation Centre (345 Richmond Rd.) on Wednesday March 21, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Ballroom, line, and Latin dance in a social setting on large wood spring floor. No partner required. Cost: $3.75. For more information, please call 613-798-8927 .

April 10 – Friends of the Farm Master Gardener Lecture. ++++
from 7 to 9p.m. “Gardening with Wildlife” with Rebecca Last. Learn plant and garden design to create a wildlife-friendly garden. FCEF members $12, non-members $15, Bldg 72 CEF Arboretum, east exit off Prince of Wales roundabout. 613-230-3276 http://friendsofthefarm.ca/master-gardener-lectures-2018/ .

April 14 (and onward) – Urban Organic Gardening Seminars.
The Ottawa chapter of the Canadian Organic Growers hosts a series of urban organic gardening seminars at the Hintonburg Community Centre (1064 Wellington St W.) Saturday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on March 10, April 14, and May 12. Seed sale to follow at 1:30 p.m. One day passes are available, which includes three full seminars. For more information and to sign up go to http://cog.ca .

April 18 – Friends of the Farm Annual General Meeting. ++++
From 7 to 9 p.m. Public welcome, membership not required. Free event. Guest speaker is Dr. Paul Villeneuve, presenting “Environmental Impacts of the Farm.” Meeting and presentation at K.W. Neatby Bldg with free parking. Registration is required, 613-230-3276 or http://friendsofthefarm.ca/event/annual-general-meeting-2018/ .

April 21 – Introduction to Hiking. ++++
Saturday, April 21st, a full-day course for new hikers and those interested in tips to make hiking safe and enjoyable. Topics include hike planning, preparation, packing, outfitting and on-trail procedures, plus an orientation to hiking with a guided group. The day includes a short hike to practice your new skills. Nepean Sportsplex, $85 (includes one-year RTA membership). (RTA means The Rideau Trail Association, a volunteer-based hiking club active in Eastern Ontario). To register or for information: e-mail introtohiking@rideautrail.org .

April 24 – Friends of the Farm Master Gardener Lecture. ++++
From 7 to 9p.m. “Flowers and Vegetables ” with Judith Cox. Add beauty to your vegetable garden and reap the rewards. FCEF members $12, non-members $15, Bldg 72 CEF Arboretum, east exit off Prince of Wales roundabout. 613-230-3276 or http://friendsofthefarm.ca/master-gardener-lectures-2018/ .

May 8 Friends of the Farm Master Gardener Lecture. ++++
From 7 to 9p.m. “Unusual Edibles” with Esther Bryan. Come and learn about all sorts of weird and wonderful edibles. FCEF members $12, non-members $15, Bldg 72 CEF Arboretum, east exit off Prince of Wales roundabout. 613-230-3276 or http://friendsofthefarm.ca/master-gardener-lectures-2018/ .

May 12 – Urban Organic Gardening Seminars.
The Ottawa chapter of the Canadian Organic Growers hosts a final series of urban organic gardening seminars at the Hintonburg Community Centre (1064 Wellington St W.) Saturday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on March 10, April 14, and May 12. Seed sale to follow at 1:30 p.m. One day passes are available, which includes three full seminars. For more information and to sign up go to http://cog.ca .

May 22 – Friends of the Farm Master Gardener Lecture. ++++
From 7 to 9p.m. “A Garden for the Bees” with Julianne Labreche. Learn how to attract bees and why they are necessary for pollination. FCEF members $12, non-members $15, Bldg 72 CEF Arboretum, east exit off Prince of Wales roundabout. 613-230-3276 or http://friendsofthefarm.ca/master-gardener-lectures-2018/ .

Westboro Legion’s Bingo and Leagues.
Bingo every Wednesday night at the Westboro Legion. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. for Café 480 and games begin at 6:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Join us with your friends, or come and meet new friends. Funds raised are donated back to community organizations. We also have bid euchre, darts, pool and sandbag leagues on a weekly basis. For more information visit http://www.rcl480.com or call 613-725-2778 .

Westboro Legion’s Saturday Pool.
Free Pool from noon to closing upstairs at the Westboro Legion. Everyone is welcome. For more information visit http://www.rcl480.com or call 613-725-2778 .

Toastmasters.
Learn confidence and hone your leadership skills. Above and Beyond Toastmasters will help you get there. We meet every Monday at 7 p.m. except holidays at the Civic campus of The Ottawa Hospital in the Bickell Room on the main floor (across from Tim Hortons). Our next guest night is January 22. Everyone is welcome. For more information, please see abottawa.toastmastersclubs.org or contact toastmasters.iwona.bm@gmail.com .

Churchill Seniors Centre.
Drop- in bridge and mahjong at the Churchill Seniors Centre (345 Richmond Rd.) every Wednesday from noon to 3 p.m. Come and play. No partner required in either of these games Cost: $1.75. For more information, please call 613-798-8927 .

Drop-in Ukulele,
at the Churchill Seniors Centre on the last Wednesday of the month from
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Bring your own ukulele. This is a beginner drop-in but all players welcome! Cost: $1.75 .

The OWCS Grocery Bus. ++++
For Seniors in Hintonburg, Carlington and Westboro who need assistance with grocery shopping. For only $6 Ottawa West Community Support (OWCS) provides door to door transportation and help with bagging and carrying of purchases. Each Tuesday and Wednesday, the bus departs OWCS at 9am, picks up seniors from their homes and takes them shopping at local supermarkets. For more information about the Grocery Bus and other OWCS programs, please contact the office at 613-728-6016 ( and look for their September 1st article here in Newswest On-line ).

Ottawa Tool Library – Shop Night. ++++
Every first Wednesday of the month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. come book our benches to grind away at your projects with tools from our library. Book on line at http://www.ottawatoollibrary.com and then come to your bench for the might in Makerspace North, 250 City Centre Avenue, Bay 216 (upper level). Just $5 for members and free for members 55 or older, with lots of parking.

Ottawa Tool Library – Community and Demo night. ++++
Connect and chat with other makers around Ottawa at our tool library. Learn and observe with live demonstrations starting at 6 p.m. on topics such as Bikes, Gardening, Carpentry, Painting, Canning, Wiring etc. We are a volunteer-run nonprofit providing endless opportunities to create, garden and cook. Located in Makerspace north, 250 City Centre Avenue in Bay 216 (upper level), we are open Mondays 6 to 9 p.m., Wednesdays 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Find us on Twitter and Facebook, @yowtoollibrary.

Bytown Swing. ++++
Come dance Lindy Hop and West Coast Swing with us on Saturday nights in Ottawa. Grab a pair of indoor shoes and get ready to hit the dance floor. Non-profit, holds a dance every Saturday at Studio X, 122-250 City Center Avenue ( 3 minute walk from the Bayview Transitway stop ). Parking available. Beginner lessons start at 8:15 p.m., DJ’d social dancing starts at 9:00 p.m. Cost is just $7 cash at the door and $5 for students and seniors.
Starting in 2017 there will be no more bi-weekly dances: we’re moving to one-off Lindy Hop events like bar nights, pop-up dances, and special live band events. The Westie Underground will be hosting bi-weekly WCS dances under a new name. Stay tuned for future announcements on dates and details! See http://bytownswing.com or https://www.facebook.com/bytownswing/ .

Friends of the Farm’s new book ‘Blooms’ ++++
Is about the Ornamental Gardens at Ottawa’s Central Experimental Farm A wonderful gift for anyone who loves gardens and flowers, as well as a treat for those interested in Canadian history. Friends of the Farm has several books now available for purchase highlighting Ottawa’s Farm, Ornamental Gardens, and Arboretum at the Central Experimental Farm. By local authors, they are for anyone who loves gardens and flowers, as well as a treat for those interested in Canadian horticultural history. Available at http://friendsofthefarm.ca/ and local bookstores.

Friends of the Farm’s “Join Us”. ++++
Join the Friends of the Farm to influence decision-makers to preserve the integrity of this cherished National Historic Site and its exceptional setting in the heart of Ottawa.
The future of the Farm as we know it is more important than ever. While the core research areas remain, the Farm lands, Dominion Arboretum, Ornamental Gardens and historical buildings still need constant care and protection. If lost, this jewel can never be replaced.
Become a member today and support the Friends’ mission to bring the Arboretum and Ornamental Gardens to their full potential. Membership benefits include free admission to the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, a quarterly newsletter, discounted events, and more. http://friendsofthefarm.ca/

Your Community Associations.
For up-to-date news on your neighbourhood, stay in touch with your community association. Information about events, traffic changes, development, neighbourhood clubs, volunteer opportunities and board meetings is available from the following Community Association websites.

Champlain Park Community Association
champlainpark.org

Civic Hospital Neighbourhood Association
Chnaottawa.ca

Friends of Churchill Seniors Centre
friendsofchurchill.com

Hintonburg Community Association
hintonburg.com

Hampton-Iona Community Group
hamptoniona.wordpress.com

Island Park Community Association
islandpark.wordpress.com

McKellar Park Community Association
mckellarparkcommunity.wordpress.com

Mechanicsville Community Association
facebook.com/MechanicsvilleCA

Wellington Village Community Association
wvca.ca

Westboro Beach Community Association
westborobeach.ca

Westboro Community Association
lovewestboro.wordpress.com

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Late Additions:

Web-extra (February 15, 2018): Photo Inset: Triple the Arts at First Unitarian; Next Arts Night is on Friday February 23rd.

Web-extra (February 15, 2018): Photo Inset: Triple the Arts at First Unitarian;
Next Arts Night is on Friday February 23rd.

Photo Caption: This month’s “Arts Night” Poster provided by the church.
The Artists this month:
Literary artist is Janice Tait a published author with a book entitled “The Devil’s Snare” on her experience living in Vietnam with her husband Richard who was working in External Affairs. She is now putting together a chap book of vignettes written over the last 40 years, some of which she will share with you.
Visual artist is Ruth Tait a professional painter. She also has years of observational drawing to work as a storyboard artist. Painting remains an anchor for strength, renewal and a way back to the natural world for her. Her engagement with the Unitarian faith is an extension of that spiritual path.
Musical artist Is Ruby Jin. As an avid recitalist and chamber musician, Ruby Jin performs regularly at various venues across Canada, such as Music and Beyond Festival and DOMS series in Ottawa, plus events in Edmonton, Vancouver, and Montreal. She has also appeared in international musical scenes in China, South Korea, Germany, and UK. In recent years, she has been exploring new music, premiering a number of chamber and solo works. She maintains a dynamic and active teaching studio, sharing her passion and knowledge with a group of young pianists.

Text appearing in the image:

Friday, February 23, 2018,
First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa,
38 Cleary Avenue, 613-725-1066,
7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.,
$5.00 or pay what you can.

“Arts Night”
Featuring…
Literary Artist: Writer, Janice Tait
Visual Artist: Painter, Ruth Tait
Musical Artist: Pianist, Ruby Jin

The evening begins with an open set where anyone
may perform in the art of their choice
The guest Artists will then talk about, demonstrate or
perform their art for 30 minutes each.
Refreshments will be served.

Poster by Paula Theetge.

Web-extra (February 15, 2018): Ten Tips For Managing Stress; Celebrate Heart Month by living healthier, happier.

Web-extra (February 15, 2018): Ten Tips For Managing Stress;
Celebrate Heart Month by living healthier, happier.

P.S.A. from the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.

The one thing we can rely on in the 21st century is stress. Whether happy eustress, or unhappy, distress, we do need some degree of stress to keep us alert and alive. But too much stress can have a damaging effect on our minds and bodies. In a world of constant noises, lights, screens and increasingly intrusive stimuli, stress has an easy entrance into modern lives.

Esther Doucette, social worker in Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation at The University of Ottawa Heart Institute offers these 10 tips to reduce stress in day-to-day life:

• Exercise regularly. Exercising at least three to five times a week helps to relax and condition your body and mind.
• Breathe deeply. Take a few deep breaths. Notice how it changes how you feel.
• Be aware of quick fixes. Try to avoid the tendency to consume more alcohol and non-prescribed drugs in stressful times.
• Notice your thoughts. Reflect on how you think about what’s causing you stress. A trusted person or a counsellor can help you see things in a new way.
• Relax the muscles in your body. Stress can make your body tense. Try to relax the areas where you carry the most stress.
• Recognize what you can’t control. Reflect on what you can control, and let go of things beyond your control.
• Take a break. Give yourself permission to nap, listen to music, read, meditate or just have some quiet time.
• Make time for things you enjoy. Set time aside for hobbies or learning something new.
• Avoid exposure to stress. If possible, avoid unnecessary triggers for stress, such as distressing TV shows.
• Evaluate your commitments. Consider how you spend your time and letting go of some committments.

With these tips and mindful awareness of our surroundings and how we are reacting to daily stresses, we can enhance the duration of our lives and our loves.

 

Web-extra (January 25, 2018): Theatre Review: What a Young Wife Ought to Know; at the GCTC until February 4, 2018.

Web-extra (January 25, 2018): What a Young Wife Ought to Know ;
at the GCTC until February 4, 2018.

By Allyson Domanski, Newswest Theatre Reviewer.

Greeting you on arrival is beguiling illumination that blankets an eerily smoky set. Plain antique furnishing indicates that this is neither a contemporary piece nor a story about the well-to-do. The set by Andrew Cull and lighting by Leigh Ann Vardy befit both the period and the apparition alluded to from the start of GCTC’s latest offering, What a Young Wife Ought to Know.

Sophie, the young wife in question, opens the play by addressing the audience in a disarmingly forthright manner, her diction a throwback to a bygone era. Dressed in a fetching old-fashioned frock (costumes by Leesa Hamilton), the young lady speaks as if intimately acquainted with us.

Her sister’s taken to talking to her, she tells us, but since her sister’s dead, Sophie thinks she may be going mad. That doesn’t worry her; the insane asylum is just down the road so luckily, she won’t have to go far. Supplicating to us as if soliciting advice from a physician or a wizened woman-friend, Sophie dares to share the otherwise unspeakable. What troubles her is a sin: she knows it’s wicked to use unnatural means to stop a natural child from coming into the world.

Her dilemma in those opening lines had to arch a brow or two for how unthinkingly commonplace such ‘unnatural means’ prevent childbirth today. They not only thwart reproduction, they permit desire as justification alone for sex, known as ‘the marital act’ in the first decades of the twentieth century, the backdrop for this play penned by celebrated Canadian playwright Hannah Moscovitch.

Indeed, back in the day, birth prevention was illegal and talk of sex was taboo. All a young wife like Sophie knew was learned from an older sister like Alma. Alma is hardly worldly – let’s get real, this is a play about fuddy-duddy Ottawa – but her work at the hotel has taught her a thing or two about men. She berates and beats Sophie for mercy-kissing the post-boy who’s about to die of consumption, and for ogling the handsome stable-hand with the Irish brogue named Johnny who asks if she’s a “feckin’ eejit for staring so”. Alma, admonishing Sophie for such brazenness but also to show that she has the upper hand, imparts to innocent Sophie some rather vital technical information: when you have union with a man, you lie down, he puts his organ in and you have a child.

More detailed mechanics of the act would be unavailable for another half century until publication of “Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex * But Were Afraid to Ask.”

Sophie later finds Alma vomiting but she’s not sick. Either having flouted her own good advice while working at the hotel, or having decided to snag Johnny before her prettier, younger sister does, Alma lies to Sophie that she had union with a Mr. Sutherland and for doing something God didn’t like, she now finds herself in the family way.

Desperate not to be found out, Alma beseeches Sophie for help to scrape it out. (Such were the options at the time.) Bewildered Sophie pokes around until she feels something dislodge. What follows, the audience is thankfully left to only presume, are the catastrophic flows of the red sea.

By then, you could’ve heard the proverbial pin-drop in the packed house of the theatre, such were we gripped.

Re-enter Johnny. Distraught, feeling as responsible for Alma’s death as Sophie, he is suddenly more attractive to Sophie for the emotional sensitivity he displays than for his physical attributes (which are ample, I might add). The two find solace in each other and the play’s unflinching look at love, sex, and fertility shifts to focus on Sophie and Johnny, whose knowledge of how that all works is abysmal and attests that We’ve Come A Long Way, Baby.

Christian Barry directs this extraordinary 2b Theatre Company production. Liisa Repo-Martell as Sophie is movingly rendered, transforming Sophie from inexperienced naïveté to weathered resilience in all of 75 intermission-less minutes. Her terrific performance not only conveys the affect of yore and has the down-home lilt of an Ottawa Valley-girl down pat, but she lustily sizzles in what can rightly be called sex scenes with Johnny. He is interpreted by David Patrick Fleming with spot-on emotion, physicality and the nimble timing of a comic. Rebecca Parent astutely portrays Alma, both keenly cunning when alive and guileless when dead, haunting Sophie as the apparition.

This small cast of new faces to the GCTC stage compellingly delivers Moscovitch’s vision inspired by real stories from the bedrooms and lives of young mothers of a century ago. By the end, you’re left wondering how similar the circumstances faced by our great- or great-great-grandmothers, many of whom bore six, eight, sometimes twelve children, not all of them surviving, were to those captured on stage.

Taut, heavy-hitting, yet imbued with moments of tenderness and levity, this play is very well done. Highly recommended.

What a Young Wife Ought to Know runs at the GCTC until February 4, 2018.

CAST (Actor: character):

• David Patrick Fleming: Johnny;
• Rebecca Parent: Alma;
• Liisa Repo-Martell: Sophie.

CREATIVE TEAM:

• Hannah Moscovitch: Playwright;
• Christian Barry: Director;
• Leigh Ann Vardy: Lighting Designer;
• Leesa Hamilton: Costume Designer;
• Andrew Cull: Set Designer;
• Fiona Jones: Stage Manager;
• Daniel Oulton: Production Manager;
• Louisa Adamson: Director of Production.

January 18, 2018: Meals, Music and Christmas Magic; Carleton Tavern Dinner 2017.

January 18, 2018: Meals, Music and Christmas Magic;
Carleton Tavern Dinner 2017.

By Hintonburg Economic Development Committee.

How do you turn one of the loneliest days of the year into a day filled with good food, kindness, wonderful human interaction and live music? You work with the amazing Saikaley family, owners of the Carleton Tavern, to throw open the doors and invite everyone in for the best Christmas Day possible.

The Carleton has opened their doors for 17 years now to provide a free meal to those in the community right on Christmas Day. Lots of great food is provided but possibly more important is the companionship and fellowship that happens there that day. There are only a few locations that provide a meal right on Dec. 25. Christmas used to be the only day in the year the Carleton closed, now as opposed to a day off, the owners are there at 5:00 a.m. getting ready for the day.

What does it take to make this day happen? 35 cooked turkeys, 25 kg of ham, 18 giant tortieres, baked beans, a vegetarian meal, lots of home baked goodies, 18 musicians, lots of volunteers, the generosity of this community (businesses and residents) to donate food and gifts and of course what would Christmas be without Santa and Mrs. Claus.

How many people had a better Christmas? Close to 1000 meals were provided. There were at least 465 meals served to people who came in, another 100 meals delivered and about 250 meals taken out for those who could not come. Any food left at the end of the day was distributed within the local community to the local shelter and several rooming houses.

Many, many volunteers are required to make this day happen – about 125 volunteers starting a month in advance. By 3:00 p.m. on Christmas Day the weariness of the volunteers melts away and the comments that come through that day from those attending or having a meal delivered make you realize that this effort has made someone else’s day much better, as well as your own.

It is an entire community who make this day happen. Thanks to: Allegro, Artistic Cake Design, Bridgehead at Fairmont, Canadian Linen & Uniform Service, Carleton Tavern Hockey Leagues, Carlingwood Dental Centre, City of Ottawa, CYR, Devonshire Grade 6 Class, Farm Boy, Fil’s Diner, Global Pet Food, Grafik Visuals, GT Express, Happy Goat Coffee, Herb & Spice, Hintonburg Economic Devel.Committee, Holland’s Cake & Shake, Holland Cross Dental Centre, Holy Rosary Church, Indian Express, Karma Cravings, Laroche Park Sports Assoc., Merge Design Print & Promo, Metro Island Park, Musicians from Open Stage Revue, Ottawa Fit, Ottawa Nepean Sports Club, Pasticceria Gelateria, Precision Snow Removal, Purple Dog Consulting, Rideau Bakery, Royal Lepage Gale Real Estate, SDM Albert & O’Connor, SDM Rockland, Tannis Food Distributors, Transition House, WWBIA, Yuk Yuk’s (Elgin St), 10061620 Canada Inc., Collin & Michelle and the very many individual “Friends of the Carleton”. Thanks to you all.

Photo Caption: Mr and Mrs Claus dropped by the Carleton Tavern on Christmas Day to bring smiles and good wishes to nearly 500 guests. Photo by T. Hairbach.

January 18, 2018: How Well Do We Regard Our Past?; Taking Stock of Our Built Heritage.

January 18, 2018: How Well Do We Regard Our Past?;
Taking Stock of Our Built Heritage.

By A. Marsha.ll, A. Phillips and A. Polywkan, Built Heritage Researchers, City of Ottawa.

The goal of the Heritage Inventory Project is to create certainty around Ottawa’s heritage resources.

The City of Ottawa is undertaking a major project identifying buildings, structures and other built resources of cultural heritage value.

The ‘Heritage Inventory Project’ is a city-wide project involving the surveying and evaluation of a vast array of Ottawa’s built resources, from the modest worker’s houses of Lowertown, to the fine Arts and Crafts homes in Brantwood Place, to the century-old barns of Kinburn, and even the numerous bridges that span our city’s many waterways.

The goal of the Heritage Inventory Project is to create certainty around Ottawa’s heritage resources. Properties identified through the project will not be designated under the Ontario Heritage Act, rather they will be added to the City’s Heritage Register.

A rigorous update to the City’s Heritage Register will be beneficial for property owners, developers, heritage advocates, elected officials, planning staff, community groups and all concerned residents.

The research method for the project includes photographing, describing architectural characteristics and evaluating thousands of built resources throughout the city.

We’re asking Newswest readers to share information about their properties or other buildings or structures in their neighbourhood. We would love to know who designed your home or the original use of a particular building.

Please connect with the City of Ottawa’s built heritage researchers: Avery Marshall, Adrian Phillips and Amber Polywkan at HeritageInventory@ottawa.ca or say hello if you see us in the neighbourhood.

More information about the Heritage Inventory Project is available at ottawa.ca/heritageinventory.

The City of Ottawa Heritage Inventory Project uses a GIS software tool to collect heritage data on neighbourhood buildings. Readers are invited to get in touch with the authors and share information about your house and your neighbourhood.

January 18, 2018: Wellington Village Community Association; Logo Design Contest.

January 18, 2018: Wellington Village Community Association; Logo Design Contest.

January 18, 2018: Trustee’s Report; OCSB School News.

January 18, 2018: Trustee’s Report;
OCSB School News.

By Jeremy Wittet, OCSB Trustee Kitchissippi/Bay.

Happy New Year! Wishing you and your family the very best for a safe, healthy and happy 2018.

Team Canada Special Olympics Visit – Notre Dame High School:
On November 29th, the Canadian Special Olympic Team visited Notre Dame High School to join staff and students for a pep rally in the gym along with the Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities. The school community helped celebrate the outstanding achievements of our athletes and students with special needs. An exhibition basketball game was also held between the NDHS Eagles and Glebe Collegiate Institute.

Lighting up the Grace:
The Salvation Army’s Grace Manor held its annual “Light up the Grace” on December 1. It was a pleasure to attend along with MPP Yasir Naqvi and Kitchissippi Councillor Jeff Leiper. Everyone was in the festive spirit with hot cocoa and Christmas carols accompanied by the Salvation Army Band.

Advent Mass and Christmas Potluck St George’s Parish:
St. George’s Parish held its annual Christmas Potluck and Advent Mass on December 17th. Many Kitchissippi families were in attendance to enjoy the children’s concert as part of the third Sunday of Advent which culminated with a delicious potluck meal in the parish hall.

OCSB Childrens’ Choir Christmas Concert – St. Basil’s Church:
On December 18th, the award winning Ottawa Catholic School Board Children’s Choir along with the St. Basil’s Church Choir put on a Christmas concert to remember. Many well-known pieces were performed, as well as some new numbers for the packed house to enjoy. One notable selection featured the OCSB Boys Choir teaming up with their dads to perform some holiday favourites.

Christmas Lunch – St. Rose of Lima School:
As 2017 ended and the Christmas Break was on the horizon, St. Rose of Lima School in Bayshore hosted their annual Christmas Lunch for students. Parents and community members were kind enough to prepare a lunch with all the fixings. It was a pleasure to help serve lunch on and chat with over 150 students, staff and community volunteers.

Jeremy Wittet is the Zone 7 (Kitchissippi /Bay Wards) Trustee for the Ottawa Catholic School Board. He can be reached by email at Jeremy.Wittet@ocsb.ca , or telephone 613–721-2376 . Jeremy Wittet is also accessible on Twitter: @OCSBWittet .

Photo Caption: Ottawa Catholic School Board Trustee Jeremy Wittet. Photo courtesy of OCSB.

January 18, 2018: Provincial Report; OC150 Award.

January 18, 2018: Provincial Report;
OC150 Award.

By Yasir Naqvi MPP, Ottawa Centre.

On December 2nd, I was proud to recognize 50 women, 50 men and 50 youth with the #OC150 Award.

2017 has been a very special year for our country as we commemorated 150 years of Canada’s Confederation. Much like Expo ’67 was for Canada’s 100th birthday, 2017 has been a historic year and one to be remembered for generations to come.

In the past 150 years Canada has grown to become one of the most welcoming, diverse and peaceful nations in the world. This would not have been possible without nation’s most important asset — our people.

In a year focused on celebrating our province and country, as your MPP I wanted to honour local residents who embody the qualities and values that make Ottawa, Ontario and Canada great.

On December 2nd, I was proud to recognize 50 women, 50 men and 50 youth with the #OC150 Award. These dedicated volunteers have committed their time and talent to our community and continue to serve Ottawa Centre making Canada one of the greatest country to live in.

The award ceremony was emceed by CTV Ottawa’s Stefan Keyes, and the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, the Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, delivered a keynote speech at a special reception hosted by Carleton University.

#OC150 Award recognized community members who have contributed Ottawa Centre in one of the following ways:

1. Celebrating diversity/inclusion,
2. Building community/capacity,
3. Protecting the heritage of,
4. Promoting a healthy community.

The 150 recipients we have recognized are true community builders whose contributions have made our national capital a place we are all proud to call home. It is thanks to them that we can enjoy Ottawa Centre as one of the most welcoming, diverse and accessible communities in Canada.
A full list of recipients is available at http://www.yasirnaqvimpp.ca .

Thank you to all the nominators for taking the time to help recognize the efforts of many deserving community leaders in Ottawa Centre. It has been an honour to celebrate our recipients vital contributions to our community.

Please accept my best wishes for a healthy and prosperous 2018. As always, do not hesitate to contact me at the Community Office at 613-722-6414 or email at ynaqvi.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org .

Photo Caption: The #OC150 Awards recognized contributions from community members to improve life in communities across Canada. Ottawa Centre MPP Yasir Naqvi recognozsed 150 recipients. Photos courtesy of Y. Naqvi.