February 8, 2010BY COUNCILLOR DOUG THOMPSON
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| Thursday, February 25th | 7:00 p.m. |
Osgoode Community Centre
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| Thursday, March 4th | 7:00 p.m. | Greely Community Centre |
The purpose of these meetings is to gather input from residents with regard to the recreational pathway stretching from Osgoode Village to the Ottawa Airport.
NEW FARM VALUE WORKSHOPS
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 |
Register by February 16 at www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/busdev/conference/quest/ottawa.htm or contact ruralaffairs@ottawa.ca or call (613) 580-2424 ext. 28352.
2010 CITY OF OTTAWA SUMMER STUDENT EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
Students interested in summer employment with the City of Ottawa can apply online at www.ottawa.ca/careers. The Summer Student Employment Program is a great opportunity to gain valuable work experience and insight into today's workforce, discover a career path, showcase skills and enhance academic goals.
For more information including eligibility criteria and other requirements, visit www.ottawa.ca/careers. Applications will be accepted until Monday, February 22, 2010.
COMMUNITY EVENTS IN RURAL OTTAWA
It is winter carnival season in rural Ottawa. Check out all the carnival activities and many other events on the Rural Connections Rural Events and Attractions page at ottawa.ca/rural. You can also submit your group's not-for-profit event online or by sending an email with all the details to ruralevent@ottawa.ca.
SOUTH NEPEAN BRIDGE GETS COUNCIL GO-AHEAD
Ottawa City Council has approved its share of the $48-million Strandherd-Armstrong bridge and construction is expected to start in the spring.
Construction of the bridge should start in May 2010 and be completed by 2012. The eight-lane bridge will span 125 metres across the Rideau River and connect River Road on the east bank with Prince of Wales Drive on the west bank.
The federal and provincial governments are chipping in two-thirds of the bridge’s cost.
- The Ottawa Citizen, January 29, 2010, Nepean/Barrhaven EMC
NEPEAN RIDEAU OSGOODE COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTRE
NROCRC is pleased to begin registration for our 2010 Community Volunteer Income Tax Clinics to the Nepean, Rideau and Osgoode area. We will have 33 tax clinics available across 6 different locations in our catchment area. We are currently only registering residents who live in the Nepean, Rideau & Osgoode area. Please call (613) 596-5626 for information.
For other residents, please call 2-1-1 for information.
UPDATE ON THE COYOTE PROBLEM
The coyote problem that has plagued our community for nearly three years is now receiving much needed political action. Our MPP Lisa MacLeod has convinced the Minister of Natural Resources, Linda Jeffrey, to allow the City to trap coyotes where needed in Osgoode Ward and in other areas of the City. As well, the City Community and Protective Services Committee has passed a number of motions regarding coyotes:
- Public Education on coyotes
- Development of a strategy with the Ministry of Natural Resources
- Use of trappers where needed
The Agricultural and Rural Affairs Committee will also be reviewing these motions before it all goes to Council.
My work on the Provincial Task Force dealing with Human-Wildlife Conflicts will continue over the next two months.
Community Meeting
Please join MPP Lisa MacLeod and myself for an informative town hall meeting on the coyote issues in Nepean-Carleton. Staff from the Ministry of Natural Resources and the City of Ottawa will be present. Residents are encouraged to attend, provide input and ask questions.
Event Information
| When: | Thursday, February 18, 2010 |
| Where: | Osgoode Community Centere (5560 Osgoode Main Street, Osgoode) |
| Time: | 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. |
For more information, please contact Alicia Noonan, Office of MPP Lisa MacLeod at (613) 823-2116 or contact our Office at (613) 580-2490.
Please continue to send any information with regard to coyote sightings to the following and then call 3-1-1 with this information.
| 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.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Castor Valley Raises Funds for Haiti
Students, Parents and Staff worked tirelessly over the past few weeks to raise funds for earthquake ravaged Haiti. On Monday, February 1, the entire school assembled to see a number of teachers, Principal Marnie Patterson and myself get a “pie in the face”. Following this hilarious event, it was announced that $3000 had been raised by the students. The Canadian Government has announced that it would “Match” money raised for Haiti. Therefore, Castor Valley's fundraising effort has contributed $6000 to the Haiti Relief Fund. Congratulations!
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.
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 20 and 21.
Osgoode Winter Carnival
The Osgoode Winter Carnival runs from Thursday, February 4 to Sunday, February 21.
2010 Osgoode Winter Carnival Highlights:
Sunday, February 14 & Sunday February 21
| 1:00 p.m. | Foodland Family Free Skate |
Stuart Holmes Arena
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| 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 |
Vernon Winter Carnival
The Vernon Winter Carnival runs Saturday and Sunday, February 20 and 21.
All events are held at the Vernon Recreation Centre
| Saturday, February 20 | |
| Time to be announced | Croquinole tournament hosted by and held at Osgoode Township Historical Society and Museum |
| 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. | Community Pot Luck Dinner - Bring your favourite dish to share |
| 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. | Family Evening - movies, adult ‘for fun’ poker, air hockey, table shuffleboard, social time and more $2 per person |
| Sunday, February 21 | |
| 8:00 – 11:00 a.m. | Pancake Breakfast $6 adults, $3 children hosted by the Metcalfe & District Lions Club |
| 11:00 a.m. | Ecumenical Church Service hosted by St. George's Anglican, Osgoode Presbyterian, Osgoode Baptist/Vernon United Churches |
| noon – 1:30 p.m. | Movie "Ice Age 3 Dawn of the Dinosaurs" hosted by Osgoode Township Historical Society & Museum |
| 2:00 – 4:00 p.m | Euchre Tournament $4 per player hosted by Vernon Friendship Club |
| Throughout the afternoon | Outdoor kids activities, bonfire, hot chocolate and hot dogs hosted by 1st Osgoode Venturers |
| 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. | Spaghetti Dinner $10 adults, $5 children hosted by Vernon Women's Institute |
Bring your skates - the rink is open! (weather permitting)
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Live & Learn Resource Centre
Our website is www.ruralfamilyconnections.ca.
Upcoming Events/Workshops:
| 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.
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.)
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 $100.
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.
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
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) 236-1222 ext. 3700 | Leitrim Information Desk |
| (613) 236-1222 ext. 3787 | Cst. Jennifer Finniss / finnissj@ottawapolice.ca |
Quote
“You have reached the pinnacle of success as soon as you become uninterested in money, compliments, or publicity.” Thomas Wolfe
