December 21, 2009
BY COUNCILLOR DOUG THOMPSON
Tel.: (613) 580-2490
Visit Doug's “Website” at www.dougthompson.ca
CHRISTMAS MESSAGE
I want to take this opportunity to wish one and all
a Very Merry Christmas
and a Joyous New Year.
Thank you for your kind support in 2009 and
I look forward to a prosperous 2010 for our Community.
Sincerely,
Doug
POLITICAL NEWS
HOLIDAY OFFICE HOURS
During the Christmas / New Year Holiday, our office will be closed on December 24th and will reopen on Monday, January 4th. Please continue to send Column material to Doug.thompson@ottawa.ca during this period.
Please call 3-1-1 for high priority municipal needs.
CITY OF OTTAWA POPULATION REACHES 900,000
The City of Ottawa marked a new population milestone with a sign unveiling ceremony at LeBreton Flats Park. Mayor Larry O’Brien, Councillor Peter Hume, Chair of the Planning and Environment Committee, and Somerset Councillor Diane Holmes were joined by John Moser, General Manager of Planning and Growth Management, and community partners to commemorate the city’s population reaching 900,000.
“This marks a significant milestone for the City of Ottawa,” said Mayor Larry O’Brien. “With our rich history and culture, abundant recreational facilities and pathways, strong economy and vibrant people, it is no surprise that more individuals and businesses are choosing to call Ottawa home.”
All City boundary signs have been updated to reflect this new milestone, and a new sign will be placed on Booth Street between Ottawa and Gatineau.
Since 2001, the City’s population has grown by about 12 per cent with the addition of 103,000 new citizens. It is anticipated that by 2031, Ottawa will have more than 1.1 million people and will be at the centre of a metropolitan area of more than 1.7 million people.
Through the Official Plan, City Council and staff are committed to ensuring that the city’s population is growing towards a more sustainable and resilient future. One of the pillars of this “smart growth” is residential intensification, which encourages development at a higher density through the redevelopment of “brownfield” sites, redevelopment or development of vacant or underutilized lots within previously developed areas, infill development, and the expansion or conversion of existing buildings.
OTTAWA PUBLIC HEALTH’S FESTIVE FOOD SAFETY TIPS
Over the busy holiday season, it can be tempting to fall back on faster and improper food preparation techniques, which can create unnecessary health issues. Ottawa Public Health (OPH) reminds residents that improperly storing and preparing foods is commonly associated with foodborne illness.
People who are most vulnerable (pregnant women, seniors, newborns and persons with weakened immune systems) are susceptible to developing complications from foodborne illness. Common symptoms to look for include: diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, and cramps.
Here are some tips that will make this holiday season safer for you, your loved ones and your guests.
Turkey - Turkey and dressing should be cooked separately. Cooked turkey should register an internal temperature of 82C/180F on a cooking thermometer for 15 seconds. Turkey should be thawed in the refrigerator and never at room temperature. Refrigerate leftovers promptly in a shallow food safe container within two hours of cooking. Illness causing germs, such as Salmonella and Campylobacter jejuni can grow on improperly cooked, thawed and stored turkey.
Salmon/Deli Meat/Soft Cheeses/Appetizers - Fish products, including salmon must be cooked and register an internal temperature of 70C/158F on a cooking thermometer for 15 seconds. Listeria monocytogenes is an illness-causing bacteria that grows on some foods, including raw or contaminated milk, soft cheeses, vegetables and ready to eat meats and seafood, such as salmon and smoked salmon.
Raw Egg Products - Foods like eggnog, homemade hollandaise sauce and Caesar salad dressing may contain raw eggs. OPH strongly recommends preparing these products fresh every day and using pasteurized eggs in these products to reduce the risk of contamination by Salmonella.
Pork - In order to prevent staphylococcus (“staph”) and parasitic infections, pork products, including ham and pork tourtiere must be cooked to register an internal temperature of 71C/160F on a cooking thermometer for 15 seconds. To avoid contamination of these products it is important to properly wash hands and limit hand contact during preparation and serving.
In general ensure that hands, knives and cutting boards are cleaned and sanitized after handling raw products. Also, organize your refrigerator with all raw products stored below cooked or ready to eat products.
For further information on food safety tips, please go to www.ottawa.ca/health.
CITY OF OTTAWA – 2010 BUDGET
Ottawa City Council approved a DRAFT 2010 Budget that sits at 3.9%.
Public delegations are invited to make presentations to City Council from January 25th - 29th at City Hall. Contact Dawn.Whelan@ottawa.ca to reserve a time slot if you wish to make a budget presentation.
COYOTE PROBLEMS IN OUR COMMUNITY
Recently, I met with our MPP Lisa MacLeod and Mayor O’Brien with regard to the coyote infestation in Osgoode Ward. The Mayor has committed to support our efforts to pressure the Ministry of Natural Resources to take strong action to reduce the coyote problem. In January, I will be attending the final meeting of the Human – Wildlife Conflict Strategy Working Group. I expect the Ministry will announce plans to resolve our concerns over the serious problems with coyotes.
GREEN BIN UPDATE
The Green Bin Program begins the week of January 4th. During the winter months, collections are made every two weeks until the end of March. Weekly Green Bin collection runs from April until the end of November.
If you require more information on the Green Bin Program, visit www.ottawa.ca where there is a link on the City's homepage. You may also call 3-1-1 or contact our office at (613) 580-2490.
Points of Clarification
- You will not be fined for not using the Green Bin. There are no garbage police.
- Organics are not part of the future Plasco Gasification Operations.
- The Garbage Collection contracts will be reviewed for the new contract in 2012 and it is expected that significant savings will be realized from reduced collection requirements.
- Green Bins have been constructed to ensure they are animal-resistant.
- Leaf and yard waste will be picked up every week with the Green Bin from spring until fall.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Christmas Is Just Around The Corner
'Tis the season for laughing, singing, wishing ...
'Tis The Season for Gifting
Give a gift that really matters, make a difference in the world. There are 1,700 people in Ontario on waiting lists for a transplant. Consider Organ Donation. Register your consent at www.giftoflife.com . You can change a life!
Holiday Fun at Osgoode Township Historical Society and Museum
On Tuesday, December 22nd from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., come out to the museum to build and decorate delicious gingerbread houses before enjoying a Christmas treat and storytime with local storyteller, Cathy Graham. The cost is $5.00 per child.
For more information or to register, please call (613) 821-4062.
Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!
On behalf of all of us at the Osgoode Cooperative Nursery School, we would like to thank everyone who came to our 17th Annual Breakfast with Santa. Thank you for your support and your generous contributions. The event was a great success this year, and we couldn’t have done it without your help. Wishing you all the best in 2010!
Christmas Exchange / Snowsuit Fund
The Christmas Exchange is open and the Ottawa Snowsuit Fund continues to accept clients. If you know clients or community members in Nepean , Rideau or Osgoode requiring help, they can call (613) 596-5626 ext. 257 and Kim will be happy to help them.
Osgoode Ward Home Support
Looking for a gift for a hard to buy friend or family member. Make a donation in their name through Osgoode Ward Home Support. They will receive a Christmas Card and you will receive the tax receipt.
Call Home Support at (613) 821-1101 for more information.
Merry Christmas and Holiday Wishes from the Home Support Staff,
the Volunteers and the Board of Directors to
Everyone in the Osgoode Ward Community
For information regarding Home Support, please call (613) 821-1101.
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Metcalfe Jets Alumni Game
The Metcalfe Jets Junior B Stars will be shining again on Saturday, January 2nd beginning at 8:00 p.m. at the Metcalfe Arena. Proceeds from this game will go to fund the Home Support programs. Rumour has it that I may lace up the skates for at least one shift!
Metcalfe Daycare Wins First Prize
During Fire Prevention Week in October of this year, the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs ran a contest called “Great Canadian Fire Drill – Plan Your Escape”. Nearly 1,900 educators signed up for this important campaign aimed at educating young children and their families about important fire safety behaviours.
Greely First Steps Daycare Centre in Metcalfe won the first place prize! Their prize and a plaque will be presented to them by OFS Sector Chief Paul Hutt on Monday, December 21st at 9:30 a.m. at 6631 Bank Street South.
The Ottawa Fire Services in partnership with the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs continue to try an prevent fires by educating the young and old about the importance of having a working smoke alarm, an escape plan and doing home fire drills.
Home Support Program Needs Help
Home Support needs you!! The Home Support Program (serving Osgoode Ward) is in need of Home Help workers. Home Help workers go to the homes of seniors and assist with house keeping duties including laundry. The wage is $15.00 per hour with a minimum of a 2 hour shift.
If you are interested or would like more information, please call the Home Support Program at (613) 821-1101.
ITR Spring Production
ITR is currently in the process of choosing a director and producer for their upcoming Spring production--"Said the Spider to the Spy", a farce by Fred Carmichael. Production dates are May 7th -15th, 2010.
Please contact Lynn Jolicoeur at fh133@ncf.ca or by phone at (613) 821-3362 by December 18th to schedule an interview. Come on out and be part of a fun group!
Julee's Homecrafts: Closing
On December 24th of this year, Julee's Homecrafts of Osgoode Village will be closing its doors for the last time, ending another chapter in the History of Osgoode Village. It has been sixteen terrific years and Judy would like to thank everyone for their friendship and support.
Merry Christmas to All!
New Year's Eve!!! New Year's Eve!!! New Year's Eve!!!
If you haven’t already made plans for New Year's Eve, why not consider the dinner and dance at the Greely Legion, 8021 Mitch Owens Road. This dance will feature the live music of the W.R.D. Band playing easy listening music for your dancing pleasure. The evening begins with cocktails at 6:00 p.m. followed by a scrumptious roast beef dinner at 7:00 p.m. and then music and dancing until next year.
The cost for this event is a reasonable $35.00 per person if purchased before December 20th and $45.00 after that date. Tickets should be purchased in advance to allow our caterers to prepare enough food. Come one, come all and enjoy this wonderful way to welcome 2010!
Worship United Community Choir
Registration dates for the Second Semester of the Worship United Community Choir are January 5th, 12th and 19th. You are able to register from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. at Parkway Road Church in Greely.
For more information, please visit the website at www.Parkwayroad.com and click on the Worship United banner.
Elvis Is Coming!
Mark Saturday, February 13th, 2010 on your calendar as that is when Elvis will be coming to the Greely Legion, 8021 Mitch Owens Road, to help us celebrate Valentines Day. At a cost of only $20.00 per person, you will enjoy a scrumptious dinner followed by the musical renditions of Elvis performed by Tribute Artist, Sylvain Simard who was the 2007 Peoples Choice Award winner at the Hilton and Casino du Lac Leamy. Tickets may be obtained at the Legion Lounge Bar. Bring your sweetheart and enjoy the show.
Hopewell “LOVE YOUR LIFE” Valentine’s Gala Fundraiser
On Saturday, February 13th, 2010 at the Hilton Garden Inn (Airport), come celebrate with your sweetheart while raising funds for Ottawa’s own Hopewell Eating Disorders Support Centre. The evening includes a 4-course dinner, live band (www.ShowtimePartyBand.com), silent auction, on-site photographer and raffle tickets for a grand “Everything Hilton” weekend getaway.
For information and / or tickets, please call (613) 241-3428 or visit www.Hopewell.ca. Tickets are $90 until January 15th and $100 after that date.
Volunteers Needed for Greely Winter Carnival
Greely Winter Carnival Committee would like to invite volunteers to help organize and run the 2009 / 2010 Winter Carnival. It will run January 28th - 31st, 2010.
Please contact Bruce at wealth@brucebrayman.com.
Osgoode Branch, Ottawa Public Library
In the new year, we are challenging our patrons to "Read 52 Books in 52 Weeks". As part of this initiative, we are going to try to start a book club at the library, based on the response we receive.
For more information, contact Sherri Ryan, Children's Programs and Public Service Assistant, at the Osgoode Branch of the Ottawa Public Library at (613) 826-2227.
Osgoode Cooperative Nursery School
Osgoode Cooperative Nursery School is still accepting registrations for the Mon./Wed./Fri. and Tues./Thurs. programs. This is a great way to prepare your child for kindergarten. Please e-mail OCNS@live.ca or call (613) 826-2528 for more information.
Live & Learn Resource Centre
Our website is www.ruralfamilyconnections.ca.
Playgroups:
| Tuesday |
9:00 – 11:00 a.m. |
Regular Playgroup |
| Wednesday |
9:00 – 11:00 a.m. |
Lullababies |
| Thursday |
9:00 – 11:00 a.m. |
Regular Playgroup |
| Friday |
9:00 – 11:00 a.m. |
9:00 – 11:00 a.m. Happy Babies - Focus on Infant Massage and PAT
1st Friday and 3rd Friday of the month |
| Friday Playgroup in Kenmore |
9:00 - 11:00 a.m. |
| Wednesday & Friday Playgroups in Osgoode |
9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
|
Ready to Learn - Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Please call to register for next session in January.
Are you a childcare provider in your own home? Are you a nanny providing care? The Live & Learn Resource Centre invites you to meet fellow providers at the Centre every Monday morning. Arrange your playgroup to meet at the L & L Resource Centre. We'll provide the craft supplies, the space and resources. Bring a craft idea or use ours. Share childcare tips and issues with other caregivers.
Metcalfe Co-operative Nursery School
Nursery School still accepting registrations in the preschool program. Check the website at www.mcns.kids.org.
Metcalfe Home Daycare Agency
Childcare subsidies are available - please connect with our main office at (613) 821-2899.
SPORTS REPORTS
Beginning this week, we are introducing a new section to our column. The “Sports Reports” will highlight special achievements of minor sports teams from our Ward. Send us your story in 200 words or less.
Metcalfe Petite B1 Hornets
The Metcalfe Petite B1 Hornets battled their way to silver at the Arnprior ringette tournament from December 11th – 13th. The tournament was a great success for all who attended. The Hornets started with their first game on Friday in Arnprior taking the lead early off in the game and eventually beating the very strong team from Gatineau 3-1. On Saturday morning December 12th, the girls then took on the powerful West Ottawa team; again the girls showed their strength and determination winning 7-3. Later on in the afternoon on Saturday, the Metcalfe Petite B1 Hornets took on the fearless Upper Ottawa Valley team. This was a hard fought game, with again the Hornets coming out victorious with a 7-3 win.
On Sunday morning, the Metcalfe Petite B1 Hornets found themselves first place overall, with one game left against Timmins for gold or silver. The Metcalfe Petite B1 girls found themselves up against a very strong and relentless Timmins team. In the end the Metcalfe Petite B1 Hornets took the silver, still a very respectable finish.
The coaches, team manager, and trainers are very proud of each and every girl on the team and what they were able to accomplish. Go Hornets Go!!
OSGOODE / RIDEAU RECREATION INFORMATION
Area Program information now available at URL link: www.manotick.net/cityrecreation. For more information on area programs and services, please contact (613) 580-2424 ext. 30235.
Citywide Recreation Guides are available at the Client Services Centre or online at www.ottawa.ca.
COMMUNITY HEALTH NEWS
For more information or to register for programs, call Barbara O’Brien-Litten, Public Health Nurse, (613) 580-6744 ext. 26173 or email Barbara.obrien-litten@ottawa.ca.
Community Office: Lower Level of Metcalfe Client Service Centre
Healthy Holidays Group
This group is for adult men and women to discuss topics such as:
feeling alone, stressed, coping with pressures, self-care, building resources, stress & wellness, and establishing traditions.
Healthy Holidays Group meets on Mondays 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. beginning November 30th through to January 11th at the Nepean, Rideau and Osgoode Community Resource Centre (In the Merivale Mall).
For more information, please call Sheila Norquay at (613) 596-5626 ext. 228 or Alicia Bastin at ext. 253.
WinterWalk 2009 / 2010 – The 2010 Olympic Torch Run
Join us as we virtually travel the route of the 2010 Olympic Torch Run as it passes through Ontario. Keep track of your total monthly minutes of physical activity and contribute them to the total “kilometers walked” by Osgoode Ward Residents. All activity and steps count including planned exercise and household chores.
(20 minutes – 1 km) (1250 pedometer steps – 1 km)
December 1st to April 30th, 2010
Join anytime. Report your “kilometers walked” to your Public Health Nurse anytime up to April 30th. Include all activity, whenever and wherever you are physically active: at home or at the office, indoors and outdoors, doing chores or having fun. There is no cost for this event.
Greely Walking Club
An indoor walking club that runs from October to May / June. There is no cost for this event.
Mondays and Wednesdays 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Greely Community Centre
1448 Meadow Drive, Greely
Osgoode Walking Club
An indoor walking club that runs from September to May / June. There is no cost for this event.
Mondays 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Osgoode Community Centre
5560 Main Street, Osgoode
Vernon Walking Club
An indoor walking club that runs year around. There is no cost for this event.
Monday and Thursdays 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Vernon Community Centre
7950 Lawrence Street, Vernon
COMMUNITY POLICING NEWS FROM CONSTABLE FINNISS
Merry Christmas & Happy Holiday
When out shopping this holiday season please remember, always lock your doors, store your gifts in the trunk when shopping and not in a visible part of your car. Remove GPS and satellite radios from your vehicles. Do not make several trips to the car to "unload" while you are shopping as people could be watching. Protect your debit and credit cards. Always protect your PIN number. Remember where you parked so you're not walking around with a large number of parcels.
After Christmas, take precaution when putting your recycled cardboard on the curb, especially when it's a box that clearly advertises that you have received expensive gifts. Boxes that contain expensive laptops, plasma TV's, stereo equipment, video games and power tools and other desirable items should be cut up and turned inside out and taped together so that there is no clear indication of what you have received for Christmas.
If you are going away, ensure that you have someone shovelling your lane and walk way, picking of the mail and entering your house on a daily basis. Check with your insurance company as to what is required for full coverage. Get timers for lights and radios.
'Tis the season for fun and festivities. Please drink responsibly. As the host, you are responsible for everyone until they are sober. PARENTS PLEASE pay attention to where your kids are going. There will be lots of parties and underage drinking. PLEASE do not provide your teens with alcohol and allow them to have friends over to drink. This is a very dangerous situation. This seems to be the trend.
Merry Christmas and have a safe and happy Holiday Season.
Cst. Finniss
Let's continue to report and make those calls.
| (613) 236-1222 ext. 7300 |
Call Centre to report vandalism, theft from vehicles |
| 9-1-1 |
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 |
Quote
“Real joy comes not from ease or riches or from the praise of men, but from doing something worthwhile.” Sir Wilfred Grenfell
