June 15, 2009

BY COUNCILLOR DOUG THOMPSON
Tel.: (613) 580-2490
 www.dougthompson.ca 

All material for the weekly newsletter must be received in our office by NOON on Friday to be included in the column of the following week.

OUR NEW AND IMPROVED WEBSITE  

 

Please register for our weekly newsletter if you are not already receiving it.
www.dougthompson.ca 

 

The long awaited reconstruction of 8th Line Road in Metcalfe from the Royal Bank to the Fairgrounds will begin this Fall.

 

This is a major project involving digging up the street, replacing storm sewers, building new sidewalks on the east side and replacing the existing sidewalk on the west side of 8th Line Road. As well, some of the side streets will be resurfaced in the four million dollar cost.

 

Again, this is Infrastructure Funding from the Federal, Provincial and Municipal Governments.

 

 

I am pleased to report that a Provincial Committee to review the major issue of Human – Wildlife Conflict will meet this week in Toronto.

 

This Committee will study the issue of nuisance coyotes in residential areas along with a number of other wildlife issues that are occurring across the Province. The Rural Ontario Municipal Association has appointed me to be part of the Steering Committee that will make recommendations to the Provincial Government.

 

  
YOUTH EMPLOYMENT CENTRE COUNSELLING

The Youth Employment Resource Centre offers free employment counselling services to Ontario residents who are unemployed or working less than 20 hours a week, not attending school full-time and not receiving EI. Any member of the community is welcome to come to our centre and access our Resource Room for assistance with job searching, resume development, access to computers and general employment information. Our main focus is 16-24 years, and we serve a small number of adults.

 

Please feel free to contact us at any time at (613) 828-2123 ext. 228  for further details.

 

 
CONSULTATION ON THE FUTURE OF PARKS AND RECREATION

What do you think about recreations services? Do you walk in the park, ice skate or swim? Do your children attend City camps? Do you look forward to an active retirement?

 

To provide better services for everyone in our City, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services will develop a Master Plan that will direct the future of Parks and Recreation. Three white papers are now on Ottawa.ca until August 15th, 2009 to gather feedback from residents and staff on what needs should be addressed. Each white paper provides background information and a few questions. The three white papers focus on service delivery, accessibility and inclusion, tax support, revenue generation and subsidization. Ottawa continues to grow as a diverse and unique City, and its residents have varying interests and expectations. As such, it is important that future recreation services be balanced and inclusive. Your participation today is key to the success of Parks and Recreation tomorrow. Help us create dynamic opportunities in recreation for everyone. Have your say!

 

For more information, please contact Diane Huffman at (613) 580-2424 ext.27585 or by e-mail at recreationmasterplan@ottawa.ca.

 

 
ROADSIDE GARBAGE COLLECTION INFORMATION

A friendly reminder to homeowners that household garbage must be placed at the end of your driveway by 7:00 a.m. on pick up day (Friday). Please do not put garbage out until after 7:00 p.m. on Thursday evening. It is highly recommended that residents place garbage bags inside metal /plastic containers.

 

 

To some, graffiti is an unsightly blight on the urban landscape but to many, including local business owners, graffiti is not just an aggravating nuisance – it takes significant amounts of time, money and effort to address.   Graffiti includes all types of markings or writing with paint, markers, scratches and even acid-based etching on glass.

 

The City is raising awareness of the problem and is working with stakeholders to remove and prevent graffiti year-round through its Graffiti Management Program. Graffiti vandalism is a crime with serious consequences and residents are encouraged to help.  Prevent it. Report it. Remove it.  Studies show that quick removal of graffiti is the best way to discourage further acts of vandalism.

 
Don’t ignore graffiti – report it! To report existing graffiti on any property (public or private), complete the online form at ottawa.ca/graffiti or call the City of Ottawa at 3-1-1 (TTY: (613) 580-2401).  Hate-related graffiti constitutes an additional criminal offence other than vandalism and should be reported immediately.  If you see graffiti vandalism happening, call 9-1-1. It is considered a crime in progress.  Graffiti vandals risk being charged under the Graffiti Management By-law as well.  

 
Private property owners are responsible for the removal of graffiti on their own property.   Under the by-law, all property owners are required to keep their property graffiti-free.  If your property has been vandalized with graffiti, be sure to file a police report by calling the Ottawa Police Service Call Centre at (613) 236-1222, extension 7300 (TTY (613) 760-8100) and remove it from your property as soon as possible. Visit ottawa.ca/graffiti or call 3-1-1 to learn more about removal and prevention.

 

Graffiti – Prevent it. Report it. Remove it. And help keep Ottawa beautiful!

 

 
NEW LIBRARY FOR GREELY

Thanks to the GREAT work of our MP Pierre Poilievre, the Honourable Jim Watson and Councillor Jan Harder, $1.2 million dollars was approved for a new Library in Greely. The Federal Government, the Provincial Government and the City will each invest $400,000 into this project. I would expect construction to begin early in 2010. What incredible news!

 

The City of Ottawa invites rural business organizations, fairs and farmers markets to apply for the second round of funding through the 2009 Rural Association Partnership Program. The Rural Association Partnership Program is aimed at supporting the rural economy through access to one common funding program.  Eligible projects include strategic planning on a local level, research and feasibility studies, tourism initiatives, and events as well as small-scale technology or capital projects. Submissions that demonstrate active partnerships are encouraged. Funding is granted on a matching basis of 50 per cent of the eligible project expenses, up to $7,500 per project.

 

Applications will be assessed on a competitive basis using a peer evaluation process and must be received by Monday, June 15th, 2009 at 4:00 p.m. Detailed program guidelines and the application can be downloaded from the City’s website at www.ottawa.ca/rural.

 

 
CITY COUNCIL SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT ON GOVERNANCE

Ottawa City Council is working towards enhancing public engagement and input as part of an overall review of its decision-making process. Most recently, an online forum has been developed to provide residents an opportunity to offer their thoughts and feedback on how the public can become more involved in the development of policy as well as the overall governance process.

 

As part of the review, a series of discussion papers have been produced to support and encourage an exchange of ideas that could change the way City Council and its related bodies operate. Residents can view the discussion papers through the online forum at www.ottawa.ca/governance_review.

 
For more information:
Media contact
(613) 580-2450

 
Public inquiries
3-1-1

 

Osgoode Ward Seniors' Dinner  

                                                                                                         

On Wednesday, June 17th at the Greely Community Centre, Kay Johnston and I are hosting the Annual Osgoode Ward Seniors' Dinner. Join us at 6:00 p.m. for a fine dinner and lots of fun. Tickets are $10.00 per person.

 
For details, please call Kay Johnston at (613) 821-2666 or our office at (613) 580-2490

 

 

 Family Fun Fair: St. Mary's School

Everyone is invited to attend the Family Fun Fair at St. Mary's School on Wednesday, June 17th  from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. This community event attracted over 100 families last year, and  even more participation is anticipated this year.

 
Fun Fair events include a barbecue (Knights of Columbus will be barbecuing for us), an inflatable jumping structure, and carnival-type games for the kids.

 

  

Terlin Construction is proud to be sponsoring our 2nd Annual Invitational Golf Tournament for The CHEO Foundation.  The tournament this year will be held on Thursday, June 25th  at Dragonfly Golf Links.

 

Thanks in part to all who participated in last year’s tournament, we managed to raise over
$26, 000 to help the CHEO Foundation. Once again this year, we are aiming to raise even more funds.  We are proud to welcome A Channel’s Sandra Blaikie as our emcee for the day’s events. There are many ways that you can help this year from being a sponsor, or by simply participating in the tournament. 

Due to the overwhelming success of last year’s tournament, we are expecting a sell out, so register soon!! COME AND ENJOY A DIFFERENT KIND OF WORK DAY! For further information about this tournament, please feel free to contact Beverly at (613) 821-0768 ext. 241 or at beverly@terlin.ca.  

 

                    .
Metcalfe & District Lions Community Sign

The Metcalfe & District Lions have a new sign in Vernon. Any non-profit group can advertise  upcoming events on it for free.

For further information, please call Lion Kim at (613) 821-3033.

 

 

 Metcalfe Co-operative Nursery School News
 
Kindercamp
Metcalfe Co-op Nursery School's Kindercamp still has openings for the summer session.  Please call the school at (613) 821-3196 or check the website www.mcnskids.org for more information.

 

  
Metcalfe Home Daycare Agency

A reminder to everyone that we are always looking for providers in the Osgoode / Rideau Ward areas.  We have subsidized spaces for children who need care.  Please feel free to call us for more information.

 

 

 Ogoode Ward Volunteer Appreciation Awards & Corn Roast

Our "Annual Osgoode Ward Volunteer Appreciation Awards & Corn Roast Dinner" is scheduled for August 27th  at the Metcalfe Community Centre.
 
The categories for nominations are:
        Youth Volunteer Award
        Community Volunteer Award
        Senior Award - HR Dick McLaughlin Memorial Award
        Outstanding Community Service Award
 
Please include with your nomination a short biography, if possible, and forward to florence.moffatt@ottawa.ca or telephone (613) 580-2490.

The closing date for nominations is July 31st.   

                                                                                                                      

  

The Isle in the River Review Theatre Company (ITR) recently held its Annual General Meeting. ITR’s new executive was elected for 2009.

Members include Tracy Howe and Ian Bell (Presidents), Gaenor Howe (First Vice President), Lynn Jolicoeur (Second Vice President), Linda Thomas-Fisher (Secretary), Debby Hawkes and Rich Fisher (Treasurers) and Janice Jenness (Past President).

 

The local theatre company is in the process of choosing a Director and Producer for the upcoming production that runs from November 6th - 14th this fall.

You can contact ITR at (613) 860-1291 or by e-mail at justjannie@rogers.com.

 

  

                                                                                                                                     
An exciting Strawberry Festival will be held on June 27th from  11:00 a.m. -  4:00 p.m. at Ovens Berry Farm in Osgoode.  You can count on lots of delicious berries! Activities include face painting, clowns, live music, charity BBQ with proceeds to the Osgoode Care Centre & O-YA.  

 

  

Angels in Action will be tempting your taste buds on Sunday, June 28th as they host their first Strawberry Social at Ottawa City Hall’s Jean Piggott Hall.  In celebration of Angels in Action Day, as proclaimed by the City of Ottawa, guests will be treated to heavenly desserts and a “strawberry dessert challenge” featuring culinary students from Algonquin College and local chefs.

 

The cost is adults $10 (children under 10 - $5) with proceeds going to Ovarian Cancer Research and Patient Care.  Sittings are available at noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

 

For tickets, information or to volunteer, please call (613) 826-0906 or (613) 596-5077 or visit www.angelsinaction.ca.

 

   

4:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Lions BBQ (burgers, hotdogs, drinks)
4:00 pm -Dusk KidsActivities
6:00 pm – 8:00pm - Live Band BacTrac
7:00 – 9:00 pm - Euchre
7:00 pm - Dusk canteen (popcorn, freezies, drinks)
Dusk fireworks
Lots of socializing
We would love if you could attend and we have no particular preference as to when since we know how busy you all are.
Thanks and hope to see you there!
PS Yard Sale Day this Sat all through town!!

 

 

The Osgoode Village Community Association
will be hosting its Second Annual
 
The Kingdom of Osgoode Village
Medieval Festival
July 10th, 11th & 12th, 2009
taking place throughout the
Village of Osgoode
 
It is now the year of our Lord, 1200 A.D....
King Kevin and Queen Francis rule over the great
Kingdom of Osgoode Village.  The much anticipated
Grand Festival is about to begin.  Our good king must
be ever watchful of enemies feigning friendship...such as
Sir John  the Inept, whom, if you remember from last year, poisoned the King
 in an effort to take over the throne.
Will the same fate await our good King Kevin???
Join us for a weekend of fun filled adventure.
 
Weekend events include:
The Royal Procession starting at 9:30a.m.
Opening Court, Proclamation of the Prince and Princess
Knights Jousting on Horseback; Knights in Hand Combat
Highland Dancing; Boffer and Grappling Tournaments,
Archery; Medieval Dance; Scottish Country Dance;
Catapults; Blacksmith Demo's; Swordplay;
Homing Pigeons; Gypsies; Merchants; Weapons Toss;
Textile & Armour Displays; Belly Dancing;
Knighting Ceremony; Handfasting;
Children's Activities at Osgoode Youth Centre
Friday Movie in the Park - by the Legion Hall(A Knights Tale)
There is no charge for the events above, however,
there will be tax collectors mingling throughout the crowd
looking for donations!!
 
Saturday - Medieval Feast
Friday - BBQ at the Legion
For information or tickets for the Feast, call Judy
 (613) 826-1243  or carey002@sympatico.ca .

  

Greely Legion – 2009 Executive
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 627 recently elected their 2009 Executive. Ivan Wyman is now Past President after 9 years as President.

Jack Johnson (President), Linda Wyman (1st Vice President), Ralph Toll (2nd Vice President), Doris Kerr (3rd Vice President), and Howard Keck (Treasurer) are now in charge of the very active Greely Legion. Verna Peterson, Gail Burgess, Betty Bull, Dave Brush, and Sheilah Barkley round out the Committee.

 

  

 
The Greely Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion is hosting another annual Country Music Jamboree from July 24th to July 26th with Charlie Kitts  as the MC. The proceeds will be directed to the Winchester Hospital.  Advance tickets are available locally through Linda Wyman (613) 822-0233. Dan Paul Rogers and Darlene Thibault are the headliners this year but the lineup includes a lot of known performers. Rough camping is available - FREE.  Bring your own lawn chairs and musical instruments as there will be lots of field pickin' going on that weekend.  Camping area will be open on July 21st after 3 p.m.

 

 
9th Annual Charity Classic Golf Tournament

Date:	Wednesday, July 15th
Time:	2:00 -Shotgun Start
Location:	Metcalfe Golf & Country Club

 

Presented by Flagstick Golf Magazine, this tournament is in aid of the Osgoode Township Care Centre. Over $37,900 has been raised to date. Please join us to SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY. The cost is $80.00 per person, $65.00 without cart.

 

The Day Includes:
-18 Holes of Golf
- Registration Gift for Every Golfer
- Door Prizes (1 for every 2 Golfers)
- Roast Beef Dinner in Hickories Restaurant
- Silent Auction
- Hole In One, Putting, Trivia, Hit the Green and other Contests

Register by calling (613) 821-3673 or emailing info@metcalfegolf.com.

 

 

 Live & Learn Resource Centre

 
First Words Screening Clinic
First Words Screening Clinic will be held on Saturday, June 20th from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. at the Live & Learn Resource Centre, 8243 Victoria Street. First come, first served.

 

Summer Fun Day!
Come join us for our year end celebration on Friday, June 26th from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. in the courtyard at 8243 Victoria Street. 

 

Playgroup: Friday
June 19th  - Toddler Playgroup

 

Resource Centre Schedule for July, August
 
June 29th - July 3rd Closed
July 6th - 10th  Closed
July 13th - 17th  Open
July 20th - 24th  Open
July 27th - 31st  Open
Aug 4th - 7th  Open
Aug 10th - 14th  Closed
Aug 17th  - 21st  Closed
Aug 24th - 29th  Closed
Aug 31st - Sept 4th Open

 

 

Metcalfe and District Ringette Registration: Now Being Accepted 

                                                                                       

You may register in one of two ways: by mail or in person.

 

Mail:  

Registration forms and general information about registration can be found on the MDRA website under Resources www.mdra.ca. Registrations and payment can be mailed to:

MDRA                                                                                                                                                 

P.O. Box 429                                                                                                    

Metcalfe, ON  K0A 2P0
 
In Person:         Saturday, June 27th at the Metcalfe Community Centre, Hall, 9:00 a.m. - 12 noon.

The registration deadline is June 30th. After that date, registrations will be placed on a waiting list. Hurry and register soon, spaces are limited!

 
For more information on the MDRA, please go to www.mdra.ca or call Registrar, Pat Johnston at (613) 821-1157 or registrar@mdra.ca .

 

 

613.236.1222 ext. 7300

Call Centre to report vandalism, theft from vehicles.

911

Crime in Progress/Life Threatening

613.230.6211

Dispatcher all other Emergencies

613.236.1222 ext. 3700

Leitrim Information Desk

613.236.1222 ext. 3787

Cst. Jennifer Finniss   finnissj@ottawapolice.ca

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more,
you are a leader.”   John Quincy Adams