Doug Thompson - Councillor, Ward 20, Ottawa, Ontario

 

 

February 1, 2010

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

 

POLITICAL NEWS

2010 BUDGET FINALIZED
Ottawa City Council has approved a 3.77% Property Tax increase for 2010.


The Draft Budget that was presented to Council in December was the subject of intense review and public consultation. Following two days of hearing from residents, City Council reviewed the entire budget on Thursday, January 28. While I would have preferred a smaller tax hike, 3.77% is this year's increased cost for managing the City.


The average tax increase since amalgamation (2001 – 2009) was 1.99% per year while the annual average rate of inflation rate during the same period was 2.18% per year.


UPDATE ON THE  COYOTE PROBLEM
Finally, we are getting some movement in dealing with coyote over population in our Community. Following my meeting in Aurora with MNR's (Ministry of Natural Resources) Human Wildlife Conflict Advisory Committee, a special meeting will be held in Aurora in March to make recommendations on controlling the coyote population.


On Thursday, February 4 at 9:30 a.m. at Ottawa City Hall, the Community and Protective Services Committee will hear from residents/organizations with regard to the coyote problem. Contact Marc.Desjardins@ottawa.ca to register to speak to the Committee.


Our MPP Lisa MacLeod is hosting a Community Meeting regarding the coyote issue on Thursday, February 18 at 7:00 p.m. at the Osgoode Community Centre.
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)


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 www.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 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

Councillor Will Dye Hair Green
Osgoode Councillor, Doug Thompson, promised to dye his hair green as part of a fundraiser for the Make A Wish Foundation. Doug said he'll do the dye job if he can collect $1000 in donations by the February 6 deadline. He was inspired by a young resident of his ward, Michael Bates, who appeared before City Council Monday with his mother, Kim Sheldrick. On Saturday, February 6  from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the Metcalfe Lions Den, heads will be shaved to raise funds for a local Make A Wish Fundraiser.


Donors wishing to see Doug Thompson sport a unique, green coiffe may call his office at (613) 580-2490 or email Doug at Doug.Thompson@ottawa.ca.


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.


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. 


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.   

                                                                                                                                                  
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. 6 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

 
Ticket price is $60 per guest and only 150 tickets are available. 

Get yours soon, they will go fast. For tickets, contact Steph at (stephthegrillinggourmet@yahoo.ca) or any member of the Osgoode Lions Club.

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

 

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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.


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


Upcoming Events/Workshops:

Thursday, January 28 10:30 a.m.

Family Literacy Day Challenge - A Community

Read-In, Chambers, Metcalfe Town Hall

Saturday, February 6 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Kids Make & Take: Domino magnet with gift box.

Fee $5.00. Registration required by calling Leigh at (613) 821-2899

Saturday, February 6 11:00 - 12:00 noon

Adult Make & Take: CD case photo cube.     Fee $15.00

Registration required by calling Leigh at(613) 821-2899

March 15 & 16 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Tax Clinics at Live & Learn Resource Centre.         

Please call Meaghann Darroch at (613) 596-5626 or mdarroch@nrocrc.org

Tuesday, March 23 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Workshop for Home Care Providers & ECE's         

- Early Identification & Intervention of Speech and Language Delays

Friday, April 16 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Baby Talk: a workshop for parents of young babies,  birth to 12 months.

This workshop will help you recognize that babies communicate in many ways.

Saturday, April 24 9:00 - 12:00 noon First Words Screening Clinic.


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.


The Parents as Teachers program is still accepting families into the program.  Please visit our website for further information or call us at (613) 821-2899.


Rural Family Connections, Inc.
The Board of Directors Meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 1 from 7:15 - 8:45 p.m.  All are  welcome.


Local Events
The Metcalfe Community Knit Together (Ktog) takes place the second Thursday of each month from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at the Live & Learn Resource Centre. All fibre artists are welcome.
For more information, call Christine at (613) 821-0231.


February 9, March 9 and April 13 are the dates set aside for Caregiver Connection:  Meetings for Private Home Child Care Providers and Families looking for child care options. (7:00 – 8:00  p.m.) 


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 until January 15 and $100 after that date.

 

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

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


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


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

“Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.”   Thomas Alva Edison