Doug Thompson - Councillor, Ward 20, Ottawa, Ontario

 

 

January 25, 2010

BY COUNCILLOR DOUG THOMPSON
Tel.: (613) 580-2490
Visit Doug's “Website” at www.dougthompson.ca

 

POLITICAL NEWS

CONFERENCE BOARD GIVES OTTAWA TOP MARKS
The Conference Board of Canada is giving the City of Ottawa top marks as a destination of choice for newcomers. A new report cites Ottawa's innovative and knowledge-based economy, lifestyle, environment and education as major bright spots when it comes to moving here.


This confirms what many of us already know, of course: Ottawa's a great place to live, work and play!


REGISTRATION FOR CITY'S MARCH BREAK PROGRAMS
The City of Ottawa is inviting residents to register now for March Break programs. Plenty of programming is available during the week of March 15 – 19, when most school-aged children are away from school. You can register your kids for programs like swimming, dance, arts and all sorts of other activities and interests for children of all ages.


You can register at ottawa.ca, by phone at (613) 580-2588, or in person at any Client Service Centre or recreation facility.


CITY SEEKS YOUNG ARTISTS FOR “YOUNG AT ART 2010”
The City of Ottawa invites young artists between 12 and 19 years-of-age to enter Young at Art 2010. Young at Art application forms are now available. For the fifth consecutive year, Young at Art will provide creative and talented youth an opportunity to showcase and celebrate their artistic abilities in a citywide event. Works selected for Young at Art 2010 will be displayed in Ottawa community galleries and will be recognized for outstanding work at award presentations in the east, west and central areas of the city.


New to this year’s event is the addition of the Young At Art Award Studios. Three Young at Art exhibitors will be awarded studio space at the Nepean Creative Arts Centre for the months of July and August to build their portfolios and develop their work.


Application forms are now available at secondary schools across the city as well as Ottawa Public Library branches. Application forms and guidelines can also be obtained by visiting ottawa.ca/youngatart or by contacting Mike Taylor, Young at Art Co-ordinator at (613) 580-2424, ext. 29288 or mike.taylor@ottawa.ca. The deadline for Young at Art 2010 submissions is Friday, March 5, 2010 at 4:00 p.m.


Young at Art is a juried art competition that brings the work of young visual artists to local art galleries across the city. This competition represents a tremendous opportunity for the public exhibition and recognition of the creative efforts of young local artists.


CITY COMMITTEE TO HEAR COYOTE CONCERNS
On Thursday, February 4, the Community and Protective Services will hear from residents about the coyote infestation in our Community. The meeting will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall beginning at 9:30 a.m. Please email Marc.Desjardins@ottawa.ca  to register to speak at the meeting.


I would encourage residents, farmers, hunters/trappers who have information to please attend. Our office will cover your parking charges at City Hall.


Please continue to send any information with regard to coyote sightings to the following:

 

Linda Jeffrey, Minister of Natural Resources (linda.jeffrey@ontario.ca)
Scott Smithers, Ministry of Natural Resources, Kemptville (scott.smithers@ontario.ca)
Lisa MacLeod, MPP (lisa.macleod@pc.ola.org)
Mayor Larry O’Brien (larry.obrien@ottawa.ca)
Derrick Moodie, Rural Affairs Office, City of Ottawa (derrick.moodie@ottawa.ca)
Councillor Doug Thompson, Ward 20 - Osgoode (doug.thompson@ottawa.ca)

 


NEW FARM PRODUCT AND SERVICE IDEAS WORKSHOP

Are you looking for or do you have a business idea for your farm? Not sure how to make your idea a reality? The City of Ottawa’s Rural Affairs Office, along with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) are offering a workshop to assist.


Over two days, the participants will identify their specific value-added ideas, put their ideas into action, evaluate market channels, the importance and components of a business plan, explore how to finance the stages of the business and manage risk.

 

 

Dates: Tuesday, February 23 and Tuesday, March 2
Times:  9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day
Location: West Carleton Community Complex, Council Chambers
5670 Carp Road, Kinburn

 


Who should attend these workshops?
Farm and rural based entrepreneurs who want to learn how to tap into new market place and value added opportunities.


Workshop Leaders:
Ontario farm business owners, entrepreneurs and advisors will share lessons learned and best practices to engage participants in evaluating new product and service ideas and steps to successfully bring them to market.


The workshop is limited to 25 participants. Pre-registration is required. Cost for the two days is $75.00 and includes lunch both days.


You will benefit from this workshop by learning how to:
· Identify, find and evaluate new value added ideas
· Put your ideas into action using the seven step value added development process
· Evaluate market channels
· Find innovative ways to market your products and services
· Build a business that can support your new idea
· Save time and money in the development process
· Price your products properly
· Manage your risk

 

Over the two days you will:
· Explore case studies of how innovative rural and farm businesses developed their value added  ideas and opportunities
· Explore how a new product evolves from conception to the marketplace
· Identify how a business plan is crucial to a value added venture
· Network with other participants and learn from their stories and experiences
· Take home practical and useful resources and tips
 
This training opportunity is eligible for cost-share funding through the Growing Forward Business Development for Farm Businesses program. For more information on program requirements, please visit http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/about/growingforward/busdev.htm or call 1 (877) 424-1300. 

 

Register by February 16, 2010 at  www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/busdev/conference/quest/ottawa.htm or contact ruralaffairs@ottawa.ca.


CITY OF OTTAWA 55+ SHORT STORY CONTEST NOW UNDERWAY
The City of Ottawa’s 13th Annual 55 + Short Story Contest invites submissions of original, unpublished short stories or memoirs of 2000 words or less by Ottawa residents 55 years or older.


Eight entrants will be named to the 2010 Winners Circle, sharing recognition and prize money of $400. They will be recognized at An Afternoon of Readings on Wednesday, April 28, 2010 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Heron Seniors’ Centre, 1480 Heron Road.


One of the winning stories will be selected for publication in the spring issue of Forever Young newspaper. Though contestants may submit multiple entries, they will only be eligible to win one prize.


An entry fee of $5 per story is applicable. Deadline for submissions is Monday, March 15, 2010.


This contest is co-sponsored by the Colonel By Retirement Residence and the Forever Young newspaper.


For full contest details, pick up a brochure at any City of Ottawa Client Service Centre or call the Heron Seniors' Centre at (613) 247-4808 ext.1.

 

COMMUNITY NEWS

Isle in the River Review Theatre Company: Call for Auditions!
Auditions will be held for our upcoming production of, "Said the Spider to the Spy", a farce by Fred Carmichael and directed by Gaenor Howe and Janice Marks, on Sunday, January 24 at 1:30 p.m. and Wednesday, January 27 at 7:00 p.m. at 5488 Osgoode Main Street, Osgoode. 

 
Roles available:  5 Females and 4 Males (all ages). 
Performance dates:  May 7 to 14, 2010 at the Osgoode Village Community Centre.  

 
For appointments or additional information, contact Gaenor Howe at (613) 826-1474 or gaenorj@sympatico.ca.  You can also  check our website at www.itrtheatrecompany.com.


Come on out and be a part of your local theatre group!


Lasagna Supper:  St. James United Church
On Friday, January 29 from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., a Lasagna Supper will be served at St. James United Church in Osgoode Village. You will have the choice of vegetarian or meat lasagna along with salads, homemade rolls or garlic bread, dessert and coffee.   All are welcome.   The cost is a donation.

 

Just Kiddin’ Theatre Presents “James Blond Gets Smart”
March 5 – 7, 2010


Join our company of young performers as we pay homage to our favorite spies of the 60’s in this globe-trotting es-spy-cade that is sure to entertain the whole family.  Meet Maxine Smart, daughter of the legendary Maxwell Smart, trying to carry on the family name.  “Try” is the operative word as she and British Intelligence agent James Blond are determined to prove who is the better spy while saving the world from imminent disaster. 


Tickets are $6.  Visit www.justkiddintheatre.com  to purchase online or order tickets through members of the cast and crew.


Osgoode Village Community Association
On Thursday, January 28 at 7:30 p.m., the Osgoode Village Community Association will hold their Annual General Meeting. All residents are welcome to come to the Osgoode Community Centre Hall to hear about the exciting events planned for 2010. As well, you might be interested in volunteering to help enhance the great work done by the Community Association. Residents who attend the meeting wil get a chance to win a $100 Foodland Gift Card. You must be present to win.


Congratulations to the hard working Executive and Directors!

 

President: Trudy Quinn
Vice-President: Lori Daneliak
Secretary: Cathy Albers
Treasurer: Elizabeth Kauffman
Directors: Richard Fisher, Linda Mendoza, Kyle Burry 

   
Nursery School Spaces Still Available
It’s not too late to register. The Osgoode Cooperative Nursery School is still accepting registrations for the 2 and 3 ½ day programs. It is a great way for your child to meet new friends, develop social skills and prepare for kindergarten.


For more information please call us at (613) 826-2528, e-mail us at ocns@live.ca  or visit us at www.osgoodevillage.com/ocns.


Our Lady of Visitation (OLV): 2010 Car Raffle
OLV's Fundraising Committee is holding its first ever car raffle with a 2010 Ford Focus valued at $21,500 as the first prize, along with a $200 and a $100 Gas Card prize PLUS a $50 cash prize. The draw will take place on Mother's Day 2010.


Tickets are $20 each or 3 for $50 (only 3000 printed) and can be purchased by cash, cheque, MasterCard or VISA. Ticket information is available at  www.olvis.ca  or call Peter at (613) 821-1232 or Marie at (613) 526-2366. 


Photos of the Metcalfe Santa Claus Parade
MetcalfeFair.com has posted an eight page album of photos of the 2009 Metcalfe Santa Claus Parade. You can find it in the Related Albums section of the Photo Gallery, or at http://www.metcalfefair.com/PG-Rel-SCP09-1.html.  The album contains a total of 96 pictures.


I would like to extend a huge thank you to Jim McCuaig, Webmaster for the Metcalfe Fair.


Greely Legion: Garage Sale
On  Saturday, January 30, the Greely Legion is holding an in-house Garage Sale.  So get rid of your unwanted clutter and gain a few loonies in return!  Table rentals are available. 

 
Contact Tom Keeley at (613) 822-4720 for rentals or further details.


Come Play Euchre
Come play euchre for the fun of it at Mother Theresa School,  1035 Concession Road,  Russell.
(In the Gym – Please use the side door.)

 

Date: Sunday, January 31, 2010 
Time: 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Prizes: For highest individual scores – partners not needed.
Cost: $10.00 per person

Light refreshments available – non-alcoholic


For more information, call Debbie at (613) 445-5491. This event is in support of Girl Guides of Canada – International Travel. Minty Cookies will be available for sale at $4.00 per box.


Osgoode Township Historical Society
The Annual General Meeting of the Osgoode Township Historical Society is to be held on Tuesday, February 2 at 7:30 p.m. at the Osgoode Township Historical Society and Museum, 7814 Lawrence Street in Vernon. Nominations and elections for all positions-President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Board of Directors- will take place at that time. Please join us and volunteer for the next year.


For more information, please call (613) 821-4062.


Spaghetti Dinner
A spaghetti dinner, sponsored by St.Paul's Anglican Church in Osgoode, will be held on Saturday, February 6  from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Osgoode Legion, 3284 Sunstrum Street. You can count on delicious homemade meat or vegetarian sauce, homemade pies and other delightful desserts. The cost for adults is $10 and children 5 and over, $5. Reserve a family table or a table with friends. Tickets may also be purchased at the door.

 
For information, contact Barbara at (613) 489-2881.

 



OSGOODE WARD WINTER CARNIVALS


We are so fortunate to have well organized Winter Carnivals to help us enjoy our winter season.
Our  Column will keep you updated as to the dates and events of the Village Carnivals as we receive the information.    

                                                                                                                                                 
Greely Winter Carnival
The Greely Winter Carnival runs from Thursday, January 28 to Sunday, January 31.


Thursday, January 28 12:00 - 2:30 p.m.  * Seniors' Luncheon, Catered by AJ's

· Tickets for the Thursday, January 28 Luncheon, a hot, buffet style meal catered by AJ's , are available now by contacting Shelagh at (613) 821-3611.  The cost of the luncheon is $15 per person.

  6:30 p.m. Texas Hold'em Tournament
Friday, January 29 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. Pizza Party, $3.00 per slice
  6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Pre-Teen Dance, $4.00
Saturday, January 30 8:00 – 10:30 a.m. Greely Firefighters' Pancake Breakfast
  10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Family Entertainment   -   Magician, Eric Leclerc
  12:00 – 4:30 p.m.  Greely Idol
  8:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. Dance - “Ambush”
* Tickets: $12.50  (Advance Tickets Only)

*Advance Ticket Sales for Ambush, playing Saturday January 30, are presently available at Campbell's Metcalfe Variety Store. The tickets are $12.50 per person and are on a first come first served basis. Tickets will not be held for people at the door. For information, contact Jim Heatlie at (613) 821-3611.
Sunday, January 31 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Greely Lions Club Brunch
  12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Free Sleigh Rides
  2:00 – 3:00 p.m. Greely Idol Finals
               


Kenmore Winter Carnival
The Kenmore Winter Carnival runs Saturday and Sunday, February 21 and 22.

 


Osgoode Winter Carnival
The Osgoode Winter Carnival runs from Thursday, February 4 to Sunday, February 21.


2010 Osgoode Winter Carnival Highlights

February  4-7 ORMHA Don Mott Minor Hockey Tournament – Stuart Holmes & Manotick Arenas

Saturday, February 6 8:00 a.m. Lions Pancake Breakfast with Lollipop Pancakes- Osgoode Community Centre
  4:30 p.m.  ACW “All You Can Eat” Spaghetti Dinner - Royal Canadian Legion
Sunday, February 7 11:00 a.m. 5th Annual Firefighters' Snowbowl (Football) Game – O-YA Centre
  12:00 p.m. Snowman Making in Taylor Park (Behind O-YA Centre)
  1:00 p.m. O-YA’s 1st Annual TEAMCOOK Chili Cook Off   
(to enter send email to oya-nicole@rogers.com
Thursday, February 11 6:30 p.m. Carnival Bingo - Royal Canadian Legion
Saturday, February 13 10:00 a.m. Kids Fun Games - Osgoode Community Centre
  1:00 p.m.  Cribbage Tournament - Royal Canadian Legion
  2:00 p.m.  The O-YA Winter Olympics (ages 12-18) – O-YA Centre
Sunday, February 14 1:00 p.m. Foodland Free Family Skate - Stuart Holmes Arena
Saturday, February 20 9:00 a.m. “Snowball” (Softball) Tournament - Osgoode Community Centre
  5:00 p.m. UCW Carnival Dinner & Silent Auction - Osgoode Community Centre
Sunday, February 21 1:00 p.m.  Foodland Free Family Skate - Stuart Holmes Arena


 

 


Vernon Winter Carnival
The Vernon Winter Carnival runs Saturday and Sunday, February 21 and 22.

 


 


Osgoode Youth Association: Chili Cook Off
(O-YA)
Do you make a mean chili? Pull out your chili pot and get ready to strut your culinary stuff! We're now accepting entries for O-YA's 1st Annual TEAMCOOK Chili Cook Off! The Chili Cook Off will take place on Sunday, February 7 during Osgoode's Winter Carnival from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the Osgoode Youth Association.


To enter, please send an email to oya-nicole@rogers.com or call (613) 826-0726. For rules and details please visit our website at www.o-ya.ca. Deadline for entries is Friday, January 29. There will be prizes for winners in two categories: Village Vote & Celebrity Judge Pick (Grilling Gourmet, Steph Legari). O-YA's Winter Carnival.

 

Activities proudly sponsored by: Cyril Cook, Janet Roffe and Neil Henderson, Salespersons TEAMCOOK, Royal LePage Team Realty (613) 692-3567.


Osgoode Youth Association: Seeks Help
(O-YA)

The Osgoode Youth Association (O-YA) is a youth led, volunteer driven youth centre in rural Ottawa.  Its home is in the renovated fire hall on Main Street.  Currently, we are looking for a few items to replace some old furniture.  We are looking for couches in good shape that will welcome the youth, and provide a comfortable place for community members.  We do not have the budget to buy this furniture, but we can pick it up and provide a tax receipt.


Wish list:
Couch, Loveseat, Mixer (for our great cooking and Global Kitchen programs), Hand mixer, Measuring cups/spoons, DVD player, Lap-top computers (in good condition with wireless capabilities for our After School program).


Thank you for thinking of us. Contact Jill Woodley, Executive Director, at o-yacentre@rogers.com.


Osgoode Branch, Ottawa Public Library
We are challenging our patrons to "Read 52 Books in 52 Weeks".  As part of this initiative, we are hosting a book club at the Osgoode branch once a month on the last Monday of the month. All are welcome, and coffee and supervision for children is being offered. Those interested should contact the branch at (613) 826-2227 or visit the website at www.biblioottawalibrary.ca.  


Elvis Is Coming!
Mark Saturday, February 13, 2010 on your calendar as that is when Elvis will be coming to the Greely Legion, 8021 Mitch Owens Road, to help us celebrate Valentine's 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 13, 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 $90.00



Live & Learn Resource Centre
Our website is www.ruralfamilyconnections.ca.


Please call the office if you are interested in or require more information about Ready to Learn. Sessions are every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon from January 5 – March 11.


SPORTS REPORTS


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.


Congratulations to the Metcalfe Hornets Junior B1 Team
Congratulations to the Metcalfe Hornets Junior B1 team who took the Gold at the Beaconsfield Ringette Tournament on January 15 – 17.  They won all 3 games and the final game was a shut-out!!  Coaches Leanna Johnston and Doug Adamson and players Brittany Bekkers, Lauren Hill, Chelsey Taylor, Erika Stolk, Elizabeth Harrison, Veronique Guilbeault, Kate Adamson, Kayleigh Green, Kayleigh Benoit-Hinz, Jenna van Koppen, Ashley Urban and Victoria Fogarty proudly brought home the banner!


Good work Girls!

 

OSGOODE / RIDEAU RECREATION INFORMATION

rea 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


WinterWalk 2009 / 2010 – Olympic Spirit
Join us as we virtually travel the route of the 2010 Olympic Torch Run. 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 1 to April 30, 2010


Join anytime.  Report your “kilometers walked” to your Public Health Nurse anytime up to April 30.  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.

 

COMMUNITY POLICING NEWS FROM CONSTABLE FINNISS

 

I will be away until February 8.  Here are the numbers to call:

 


(613) 263-1222    ext.  7500  dispatch
                             ext.  7300  to make a report
                             ext.  4839  Staff/Sgt. Rural.   


Thank you,
Cst. Jennifer Finniss

 

Quote

“Never giving up and pushing forward will unlock all the potential we are capable of.”    Christy Borgeld