Kitchissippi Times November 2020 by Great River Media inc.

Perfect Gifts p.32

Noor makes Westboro home Page 8

Jeff Leiper City Councillor conseiller municipal

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PLAY

#WelliWINGO TAKEOUT & DELIVERY BINGO

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Keeping art alive Art Director Sylvette Briere in the new NAK Gallery. Page 22

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St Scott

McRae ave

Studio, 1 and 2 bedroom apartments

St Scott

tweedsmuir ave

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1960 Scott Street Conveniently located across from the Westboro transit station.

EDITOR'S LETTER Remembering to ‘turn on the light’ BY MAUREEN MCEWAN

along Richmond Road. We caught up with the team at non-profit Work and Volunteer Experience (WAVE) Ottawa to hear how they’ve adapted during the pandemic. There’s a lot going on in the arts and entertainment section this edition. We’ve got a story on the new NAK Gallery in Wellington Village, an artwork by Kitchissippi artist Maura Doyle and a fun story on Brad the Balloon Guy that will surely leave you feeling elated. This month’s Early Days feature explores the history of Westboro's other “village” —

the local police village that existed during the 20th century. And in the latest Nepean High School Corner, Dina Efrem talks about diversity and why it is vital in schools. The paper explores somber topics this month (and rightfully so), but we’ve tried to strike a balance with some lighter stories. And speaking of light, I was tempted to leave you with a different quotation, but this one has been on my mind for several days. Here are some eternally wise words from Harry Potter’s Albus Dumbledore: “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” No matter how dark the days grow, readers, stay strong.

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BIZ ROUNDUP

WELCOME TO THE WARD

Possible Worlds set up shop at 1165 Wellington St. W. in Hintonburg. The company is a “community-driven, artist-run, independent art platform specializing in graphic art, print and electronic music,” the website states. Possible Worlds is a shop, gallery, project space, small press and more! Moissy Fine Jewellery is hosting the grand opening of its Ottawa Showroom on Nov. 5. This will be the second Canadian location for the company, described as a “trendsetting Moissanite Fine Jewellery Store.” Moissy Fine Jewellery is located at 431 Richmond Rd. in Westboro.

And Westboro has a new martial arts school and business. Direct Action Combat Performance Inc. is now open at 379 Danforth Ave. Check out our story on pages 17-18 in this edition!

Several new businesses (like MUST Boutique) are popping up along Richmond Road this fall. PHOTO BY MAUREEN MCEWAN.

3 • November 2020

Looking for more on style? Freelance design company VI Design — Vanessa Ilektra Design — has opened at 1116 Wellington St. W. The business offers “consultation & design work for any

small bathroom or kitchen renovation job to new multi-unit construction builds and everything in between.”

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A boutique furniture store now calls Hintonburg home. Flaunt Furniture offers “one of a kind, boutique pieces” and “one of the fastest purchaseto-doorstep delivery services in the country,” the company website states. Flaunt Furniture is located at 1130 Wellington St. W.

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We've checked in with our neighbourhood BIAs to learn about the latest business news in Kitchissippi. Here are some of the headlines!

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Dear readers, I sincerely hope that this letter finds you well. May your spirits stay high, even throughout this difficult second wave. No news here: November can be a solemn month. The days are shorter and the season turns sharply toward winter. As I write, Ottawa is experiencing its first snowfall since spring. Emotionally, the month can be reflective and serious. Annually, we commemorate National Aboriginal Veterans Day on Nov. 8 and Remembrance Day on Nov. 11 to honour those who have served throughout our history. On that note, this month’s Humans of Kitchissippi features veteran and medical

frontline worker Ramzy Galil. We’ve provided an update on the Westboro Legion’s Remembrance Day ceremonies and campaigns. And we spoke with veteran Randy Turner about his newly-opened martial arts business in Westboro. There is a story on the acquittal of Const. Daniel Montsion in connection to Abdirahman Abdi’s death in 2016 and the community’s strong response to the verdict. Noor Food Market has opened in Kitchissippi and the owners shared their 2020 journey with us — from launching Operation Ramzieh to setting up shop

HUMANS OF KITCHISSIPPI Humans of Kitchissippi is a special street photography project designed to introduce readers to some of the people who live, work and play in Kitchissippi. Each instalment of HOK contains three elements: a photo, a name and a quote from the subject that reveals a little bit about who they are. Go to kitchissippi.com to view our ongoing collection of humans.

KITCHISSIPPI TIMES 250 City Centre Ave., Suite 500 Ottawa ON K1R 6K7 www.kitchissippi.com Kitchissippi, meaning “the Grand River,” is the former Algonquin name for the Ottawa River. The name now identifies the urban community to the west of downtown Ottawa. EDITOR

Meet Ramzy Galil

Maureen McEwan editor@kitchissippi.com twitter.com/kitchissippi CONTRIBUTORS

November 2020 • 4

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Charlie Senack, Hollie Grace James, Judith van

“I think both of us really like that traditional main street that Westboro has — the chance to live in a home where almost everything you need is walkable was really big, and I’m a big user of public transit too. All those things were amazing and, on top of that, we were blown away that we could live in the middle of a city but have a river beach, and a really nice one, so close. This seemed to be the neighbourhood that had it all for us. We came from Victoria. I think both of us found it hard to live on an island because you always have to plan if you want off. I’m from London, Ontario and Melissa [my wife] is from Edmonton. We met when I was first posted to Edmonton and we’ve been married almost eight years. I’m a full-time member of the military, but I have a weird job because I was one of their primary care family doctors for six years. I joined when I was in med school. Through them, I was given the option to do another residency in anesthesiology and that’s really what brought us here. I was accepted to the residency program in Ottawa. Now, I’m a full-time military anesthesiologist — I finished just over a year ago. So now, if there’s any need for anesthesiologists to go overseas, I’ll be part of the group of people they look to. Otherwise, we work here in Ottawa, in the hospitals, to augment the hospitals and keep practicing our craft. I think [the military] has made my practice of medicine super interesting. I’ve had the chance to do things that if I had not joined, then I

Berkom, Ted Simpson, Kristin Perrin, Dave Allston and Matthew Horwood. PROOFREADER Alicia Lim ADVERTISING SALES Eric Dupuis 613-238-1818 x273 eric@kitchissippi.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Tanya Connolly-Holmes creative@greatriver.ca GRAPHIC DESIGNER Celine Paquette celine@greatriver.ca FINANCE Cheryl Schunk, 238-1818 ext. 250 cheryl@greatriver.ca

would have never done, including spending time in the Northwest Territories, responding to ships in distress at sea (that happened when I was in Victoria), [and] flying to interesting corners of the world. It’s been a really interesting practice of medicine. It’s an organization that I’m quite proud to be a part of, although I know I’m just one tiny corner of the healthcare side of things, so it’s also quite a privilege to take care of people who are doing the other stuff. I think Remembrance Day is, and should always stay, a solemn occurrence where we remember the people who are no longer with us and the things that they had to sacrifice in order to build the Canada that we have today. It makes me very happy when I turn out to the ceremony at the main war memorial to see how

many people come. And, inevitably, it’s very cold out, and yet so many people think it’s important to come and brave the cold and show that they do remember. I don’t think it’s a stretch at all to say that so much of the medicine that we have learned — how to do well for everybody in the community at large — was learned over many decades, unfortunately, but also truthfully, during war times. Considering they often come with a grave sacrifice of life or limb, it may [not be] surprising that’s where techniques are often developed that are applicable everywhere else as well. So, with that legacy, it’s cool to feel that you’re a little bit of a part of people on the vanguard of medicine and care in some ways.” Story and photo collected by Hollie Grace James.

All other enquiries 613-238-1818 info@kitchissippi.com Distribution A minimum of 15,000 copies are distributed from the Ottawa River to Carling Avenue between the O-Train tracks and Sherbourne Road. Most residents in this area will receive the Kitchissippi Times directly to their door. If you did not receive your copy, or would like additional copies, please contact us. Bulk copies are delivered to multi-unit dwellings and retail locations. Copies are available at Dovercourt Recreation Centre and Hintonburg Community Centre. info@kitchissippi.com The Kitchissippi Times is published by

PUBLISHER Mark Sutcliffe PRESIDENT Michael Curran

COMMUNITY NEWS

Building a healthy, active and engaged community through recreation

411 DOVERCOURT AVE., OTTAWA ON

dovercourt.org 613.798.8950

STAY SAFE AND ACTIVE! SWIM LESSONS Justice for Abdirahman Coalition organizers hold a banner outside of 55 Hilda St. on the fourth anniversary of Abdirahman Abdi’s death on July 24. PHOTO BY MAUREEN MCEWAN

Sports (including basketball and Taekwondo), music, art & dance programs.

FITNESS

We’ve added more online fitness classes (and looking forward to a return to in-person classes)

Fun, safe activities and dedicated staff!

5 • November 2020

AFTER SCHOOL

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1. Freeze police budget now 2. Reallocate funds to Indigenous and Black communities

The Coalition then organized a community assembly and press conference outside of City Hall for Oct. 28. Ottawa city councillors were set to discuss the “creation of non-police led response to calls which do not involve weapons or violence, such as those involving individuals experiencing mental health crises or drug addiction and where a police response is not necessary,” the meeting agenda stated. At the time of his death, Abdi was known to have mental health issues, according to the Coalition. Ottawa Police Service issued a statement on Oct. 20. The organization will be conducting an "incident, service, and policy review,” and the results will be made public. The Ottawa Police Service stated that it would continue “to address a range of systemic issues.” For more details on the five demands, visit Justice for Abdirahman’s social media channels and website.

SPORTS & ARTS

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n late October, Ottawa Police Services Const. Daniel Montsion was found not guilty in relation to Abdirahman Abdi’s death in 2016. Abdi, a 37-year-old Somali-Canadian, was killed during an altercation with Ottawa Police Service officers on July 24, 2016, outside of his home at 55 Hilda St. in Hintonburg. Montsion was facing manslaughter, aggravated assault and assault with a weapon charges in connection to the death. He was acquitted of all three on Oct. 20. After the verdict was read, the community response was immediate. The Justice for Abdirahman Coalition (“the Coalition”) held a protest at Confederation Park later that day. Another protest followed on Oct. 24 at McNabb Park and the Coalition issued five demands to the City of Ottawa (via Instagram):

3. Fire violent and racist police 4. Demand municipal control of police 5. Non-police mental health intervention

Enjoy a variety of camp activities with friendly and caring camp staff. Registration begins Nov 10.

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BY MAUREEN MCEWAN

HOLIDAY CAMPS

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Community protests after constable acquitted on all charges in Abdi death

COMMUNITY NEWS Honouring Remembrance Day 2020 BY JUDITH VAN BERKOM

November 2020 • 6

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emembrance Day celebrations this year will be scaled down significantly due to the pandemic. For the Westboro Legion Branch 480, Remembrance Day usually has three elements — the Poppy Campaign, Veterans Dinner and Remembrance Day ceremonies. The Poppy Campaign starts on Oct. 30 this year (the last Friday of October), and ends Nov. 10. It is the only time the Royal Canadian Legion asks the public for donations to help veterans in need. All money raised goes into a separate Poppy Trust Fund, used only to support veterans. The fund is strictly regulated — the money raised cannot be used for operating costs. Each region is responsible for distributing poppies within their area. Evelyn Brunton, president of the Westboro Legion, is responsible for all aspects of the Poppy Campaign this year. Brunton divided the area into nine routes, in addition to placing poppies in schools and long-term care facilities (if it is deemed safe for the drivers and for the residents of those facilities). Nine different drivers distribute poppies to all businesses on their route and some of the routes have been shortened to minimize the risk to the members. In years past, tables were set up and manned in Ikea, Walmart, Superstore and two in Carlingwood Mall for the Poppy Campaign. This year, only one table will be set up at Carlingwood Mall, in front of a closed store front, and there will be a Poppy Box at the mall’s courtesy desk. The annual Veterans Dinner, associated with Remembrance Day, was also cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions on indoor events. Unfortunately, the local Remembrance Day ceremony was cancelled this year due to safety concerns. Normally, the full ceremony at the Carlingwood Mall

Veterans Leonce Leblanc and Cecil Brown at the Remembrance Day ceremony at Carlingwood Mall on Nov. 11, 2019. PHOTO BY HELEN FLAHERTY, WESTBORO LEGION BRANCH PHOTOGRAPHER

A photo of the wreaths at the Westboro Cenotaph for Remembrance Day 2019. PHOTO BY CLAUDINE WILSON

— indoors and out of the cold — attracts about 200 people annually. It typically includes a bagpiper (Evelyn Brunton), and a trumpeter and wreaths are laid by Members of Parliament. The parade to the Westboro Cenotaph from the Legion is likely going to be

cancelled as well. The event is often attended by Mayor Watson, city councillors and close to 200 people, with the participation of cadets, active members of the military and veterans. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. To

honour this Nov. 11, the Royal Canadian Legion is encouraging people to watch the National Remembrance Day Ceremony at the National War Memorial on television or through the Legion’s Facebook livestream. Spectators are discouraged from attending in person. The national ceremony will be scaled back for safety: There will be no Canadian Armed Forces or veterans parade and there will be a small number of participants overall, including one trumpeter and one bagpiper to play the Lament, according to the Royal Canadian Legion. The Westboro Legion —and Legions across the country — need financial help to remain open during these difficult months. Brunton said it cost $2,500 to $3,000 a month to keep the facility open. A GoFundMe campaign launched at the end of April, to the end of September, raised $3,500. Many people, reluctant to give their financial information online, donated directly to the Westboro Legion, which raised an additional $6,000 (90 per cent of which were donations from members). The Westboro Legion exists on donations only at the moment. The organization has received permission to allocate two per cent of its income from the Lottery Fund, which is normally given to charities, to operational costs. Since the pandemic began, the highest number of people permitted in the building has been 50, so events have not been held and funding has stalled. Most of the Legion’s annual revenue comes from rentals of the space. In the past, events such as celebrations of life, or wedding receptions, usually hosted over 100 people. To donate, you can do so directly to the Westboro Legion (391 Richmond Rd., Ottawa, ON, K2A 0E7) and make a cheque payable to the Westboro Legion. To support the Poppy Trust Fund, please make a cheque payable to Westboro Legion, Poppy Trust Fund. For more information on Remembrance Day, or the Royal Canadian Legion, visit rcl480.com or legion.ca.

WA R M U P W I T H

HOT SOUP Enjoy a comforting bowl of seasonal soup, freshly prepared by our Red Seal Chef. Drive to our senior lifestyles residence through our front kitchissippi.com

entrance driveway where Julia and Erin will serve your individually packaged soup to-go so you can enjoy a cozy lunch from home. J O I N U S AT T H E E V E N T

491 Richmond Road, Ottawa

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J U L I A AT 6 1 3 - 7 2 8 - 9 2 74

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A M IC A .C A / W E S T B OROPA R K

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COMMUNITY NEWS ”What’s going

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to stand out at our store is our love for the community and the care we put into our products” – Nadin Kara, a managing partner at Noor Food Market From left to right: Nadin Kara, Sharon Bosley House and Abbis Mahmoud in front of Noor Food Market in Westboro. PHOTO COURTESY OF NOOR FOOD MARKET

Catering to community needs: Noor Food Market opens

November 2020 • 8

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BY CHARLIE SENACK

anadian businesses have had to adapt to COVID-19 and, for those in industries that have been hit hard by the pandemic, they are looking for new opportunities to make ends meet. That’s how one of Westboro's newest businesses was born. Noor Food Market, located at 332 Richmond Rd., was launched by a group of people who all had their respective careers torn apart because of the global pandemic. Donald Batal, who recently moved to Ottawa after operating successful restaurants in Dubai and Lebanon, and Abbis Mahmoud, president of

Dreammind Group (and main owner of Noor Food Market), had plans of opening a fine dining Lebanese restaurant in the space where Noor Food Market now stands. But those plans were quashed when the provincial government started closing down bars and restaurants during the first wave of the virus. Nadin Kara, a managing partner at Noor Food Market, said that’s when plans had to change and the idea of a grocery store came to light. “As businessmen, we have to think very fast,” he said. “We decided we would then go into food security because that will be very, very important going into the future. And it also provided quick

employment to lots of people whose entire industry could be obsolete for the next few years.” Kara, who has worked in the hospitality business and operated successful nightclubs in Toronto, said the idea was first founded back in March, when the government urged seniors to leave the house only for necessary outings. Multiple business owners saw this as a perfect opportunity to create a group which would cater to seniors’ needs — and so Operation Ramzieh was born. It saw such success, the group decided to start helping anyone who was struggling through the pandemic.

Sharon Bosley House, owner of AvantGarde Designs, a local events company which puts on many of the city’s top parties every year, saw her business take a hit in March with all events being cancelled. After she closed her doors, the popular local event planner joined Operation Ramzieh and, before long, there was talk of opening a grocery store: Noor Food Market. “I was excited about this because it definitely is good therapy to get you through everything that has been happening,” she said. “For me, this has been my pivot, leaving special events and going to a grocery store, when I [had] only had experience with one when I was 16 years old as a cashier.” Having the store to fall back on also helped cover the bills — Bosley House still had to pay for her events business, which is $15,000 a month alone for two warehouses. She admits the future is uncertain, but her priority right now is

store, is our love for the community and the care we put into our products,” said Kara. “We specialize in gluten-free items, sugar-free items; we always try to cater to the needs of everyone.” “We have really gotten to know the customers and we are listening to what they want and what they need,” echoed Bosley House. “There are a lot of people here who are organic, a lot [vegans] and a lot on the keto diet, so we are trying to have a bit of everything. The comments we are getting constantly are about how much love goes into our products.” The store is going back to a format which has not been seen in decades, focusing on love and community. Bosley House says the arrival of big box stores took away from that atmosphere, but it’s something customers still enjoy. One of Noor Food Market’s mandates

is to carry localized products as a way to support other small businesses that are struggling to put food on their families’ tables. Some of those products include milk, which is carried in bottles, and ready-made meals. As the cooler weather arrives and fewer people will be walking the streets, Kara admits that the business model will have to change. “We do need to pivot. Snow is going to be coming soon and a lot of people in the Westboro neighborhood don’t drive and walk everywhere,” he said. “We want to provide a service to all customers, especially our senior customers who might be afraid to leave the house because of COVID.” Prices are also reasonable, even with Westboro being a wealthy neighbourhood.

“They can [get] things here for the same prices as you would at the Walmarts of the world,” said Kara. “We actually price check.” The business will soon be offering delivery and curbside pickup services for those who are unable to make it to the store. As people’s anxiety increases during the second wave of the pandemic, Bosley House said they will be carrying special products, such as candles with positive expressions on them and hush blankets that offer comfort to those with anxiety or mental health issues. To find out more about the store and the products they carry, you can visit their Facebook Page at Noor Food Market. For those who live in the area, many of their products can be purchased through Uber Eats.

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solely on the store. At Noor Food Market, she is now the main purchaser for the store. “I am in limbo land right now and I’m not sure what I’m going to do with my events business,” Bosley House said. “Some people say hold onto it, things will come back; and then another part of me says to shut it all down. Even to sell it, I would lose a lot of money right now. It’s just not the right time.” The business is a 'Middle Easterninspired food for health grocery store,' its Facebook page states. Noor Food Market is a modern-day grocery store which fits perfectly into a trendy community like Westboro, say the owners, who pride themselves in carrying items customers want. “What’s going to stand out at our store, as opposed to going to a big box

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The tale of the Churchill Avenue police station

November 2020 • 14

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A photo of the Nepean police in 1947. PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVE ALLSTON.

”The local police also controlled the village curfew

for children, signified by the ringing town bell at 9 p.m. And, truly believe it, youngsters honoured and respected the curfew and if on the streets at 9 p.m. would run like the dickens home.”

Continues from page 13 Baker recalled a funny memory, that occasionally on the night beat they would take the “dog wagon” around (used during the day to catch stray dogs), when going to check the doors at Westgate or Carlingwood. Mostly, Kevin notes that the Westboro station was focused on community and prevention. Often they would rely on the community to aid the small detachment. In 1977, the station was slated for closure after the police commission recommended centralization of all staff and services into a new downtown headquarters. Churchill Avenue was the only sub-station left in Ottawa, which some officials referred to as “simply a wash-up place.” The Westboro BIA aggressively fought the closure, as did local residents, feeling the local station deterred crime. It was said that none of the four nearby Richmond Road banks ever had an armed robbery. The police department argued that centralization would not affect efficiency or crime rates, and that the number of officers and cars patrolling the area would not change after the closure. The new $22 million Elgin Street police headquarters opened on May 15, 1983. At 9:45 a.m. that day, the doors to the Churchill Avenue station were locked for the first time in 25 years. Rumour had it that there was a panic the week prior over whether a key even existed. A year later the 5,400 square foot building was put up for sale, which has hosted a variety of office tenants since. Today, Paterson & Company, an accounting firm, occupies the old police station, their front sign covering the old “Nepean Police” name chiselled into the front wall. Though a couple of old storage closets in the basement boast a more colourful history than their present appearance might convey, the nondescript building is a lasting legacy from Westboro’s true “village” days.

FOLLOW YOUR DREAM, HOME.

2202 Elder Street Captivating Frank Lloyd Wright-style detached family home overlooking the Ottawa River. John King $1,249,000

704-38 Metropole Private Urban living with style & views! The Metropole offers luxurious hotel-like living. Nancy O'Dea $539,900

SOLD

118 Stirling Avenue Sunny & spacious home with historic elements in desirable & hip Hintonburg. Diane & Jen $695,000

560 Highcroft Avenue Fabulous brick bungalow, meticulously maintained & updated, in the heart of Westboro! Deb Cherry $1,049,000

SOLD

12 Warren Avenue This gracious Arts & Crafts-style home is located in the heart of Wellington Village. John King

906-98 Richmond Road Treat yourself in this impeccably curated & furnished penthouse in desirable Westboro. Ty & AJ $799,900

2191 Deschenes Street Unparalleled design & craftsmanship. Situated in a secluded pocket off the Ottawa River. John King $1,650,000

123 Peridot Private New, exclusive community with unobstructed views of the Canal. Deb Cherry $1,650,000

404-99 Holland Avenue Completely renovated residence in an established condo building in Wellington Village. John King $419,900

164 Waverley Street A gorgeous 1900-era three-storey row in the heart of the Golden Triangle. Dean Caillier $947,000

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704 Brierwood Avenue 4-bed, 3.5 bath family home in Westboro with rare 2-car garage on a corner lot. Dean Caillier $1,449,500

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9-701 Richmond Road Gorgeous riverview unit in Westboro with a complete contemporary renovation. Deb Cherry

15 • November 2020

©2020 Engel & Völkers Ottawa Central, Brokerage. Each brokerage independently owned & operated. John King, Diane Allingham, Jennifer Stewart, & Deb Cherry, Brokers. Nancy O'Dea, Dean Caillier, Tyler Laird, & A.J. Kassem, Sales Representatives.

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Learn more at ottawacentral.evrealestate.com

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Engel & Völkers Ottawa Central 113-1433 Wellington Street West . Ottawa . K1Y 2X4 . (613) 422-8688

SCHOOL COMMUNITY & BUSINESS PARTNERS COLLABORATE TO IMPROVE BROADVIEW PS’S YARD Broadview Avenue P.S. Parent Council has galvanized the parent and business community to enhance their school yard. Now more than ever, school yards are doubling as classrooms and gymnasiums. Parent Council is working hard to help create safe outdoor learning environments where students can play and be active all year. With Ottawa’s long winters, the Parent Council focused its fundraising goals on all season play structures and enhancements to the school yard.

Thank You

A special thank you to the following Broadview families and community members who generously contributed a significant amount towards improving the school yard for students and children the community: ANONYMOUS FAMILY

November 2020 • 16

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Dr. Karen Fung Gosbee Family Graham Family Kubacki-Powadiuk Family Jennifer Tuthill and Charles Ng

Westminster Presbyterian Church in Westboro

Also a huge thank you to the following business partners that generously contributed to the Broadview Yard Campaign:

PLATINUM SPONSORS: John Bilder Real Estate, Kitchissippi Times, McNallyGervan LLP, and Ottawa Life Magazine GOLD SPONSOR: Uniform Developments, Ottawa West Orthodontics, Barry Hobin Architecture, EH Law SILVER SPONSORS: Dovercourt, Hamilton & Hamilton Insurance Broker Ltd, Haslett Construction, and Kelly & Kerry Real Estate, and Tangible Words The above community partners will be thanked for their contribution by having their company sign on the school fence. Displayed on the high traffic corner of Dovercourt and Broadview, participating companies are supporting the Westboro community while simultaneously highlighting their company with a key facet of their target market. If your company is interested in contributing to the Broadview Yard Campaign, please email broadviewfundraisingteam@gmail.com

COMMUNITY NEWS ”The business

There’s a new martial arts school in town

full-spectrum combative training which is designed for the general population and focuses on skills that can be used as selfdefence. Firearms training is offered offsite, in the outskirts of Ottawa, and the space on Danforth is used for mixed martial arts. “The business model, I believe, is going to do well because what I'm offering is different from any traditional martial arts,” states Turner. “What I’m doing is offering individual, personal, private one-on-one training, or for small groups in the size of six people.” Even at a time when businesses are shutting their doors because of COVID-19

challenges, Turner said he’s okay with taking risks. A takeaway from being in the military, he said, is being able to adapt to change. “During my time in the Canadian Armed Forces, there were a lot of great opportunities, and we were able to do a lot of great things as an armed force in places like Afghanistan,” he said. “Then there were a lot of missed [opportunities] and a lot of things we could have done. When I found myself trying to decide if I wanted to sign the contract for this place, I thought back to those moments.” Continues on page 18

17 • November 2020

new business has arrived in Westboro that can teach you skills to defend yourself in any situation. Longtime Canadian Armed Forces member Randy Turner said he always knew he wanted to pursue another career after serving. Just before his 20-year contract with the Forces was up, creative ideas began developing as he looked for another career option. The 42-year-old has only been retired for a year now and said that time out of work has been full of unexpected surprises,

including a global pandemic. When things began to shut down in midMarch, so did many of his contracts. That’s when a space was brought to his attention at the end of August. Turner said he knew he had to act fast. “I really was not sure with the idea, thinking there was no way I was going to do this now because it just was not the right time,” said Turner. “After I looked at the space, and realized it was in Westboro, which has a nice atmosphere, I started to put a little bit more thought into it.” Direct Action Combat Performance Inc. is located on Danforth Avenue. It offers

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BY CHARLIE SENACK

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PHOTO BY HARRISON KOYMAN/RAG & CARBON PHOTOGRAPHY AND COURTESY OF RANDY TURNER

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Randy Turner is the owner of the newly-opened Westboro business Direct Action Combat Performance Inc.

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model, I believe, is going to do well because what I'm offering is different from any traditional martial arts”

Continues from page 17 During his 21 years with the Forces, Turner went on eight operational tours and served in Afghanistan on six different occasions. While there, he worked on combative operations, which sometimes put him in dangerous situations. He also served as part of then-prime minister Stephen Harper's detail during a 2009 visit to Afghanistan. Turner is humble when he speaks about his time overseas and clarifies that many others who have served have been put in more dangerous situations. Born and raised in Halifax, Turner joined the military right out of high school, after feeling lost and looking for a purpose. His uncle, who was a longtime member of the navy, put a bug in his ear and the rest was history. It wasn't until 2007 that Turner became

interested in mixed martial arts, after wanting to excel further as an athlete and Forces member. “I was looking for an outlet to help complement the fitness that’s required to be a top soldier,” he said. “I started to get really good at it and my coaches asked me if I’d be interested in competing. Once they dropped the nugget into my head, I went through with it and had some success.” Now Turner is looking to share those skills with the rest of Ottawa, a city he has called home since 2004. It’s where he’s raising his 10-year-old daughter, Elizabeth, with wife, Natasha. To find out more about Direct Action Combat Performance Inc., visit directactions.ca. A photo of Randy Turner in uniform. PHOTO COURTESY OF RANDY TURNER.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

BONUS FRIDAYS

November 2020 • 18

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Photo credit (for all): Wellington West Retirement Community. @ComfortLife.ca

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19 • November 2020

“We want to attract and keep warm, friendly [staff] who really want to make a difference in people’s lives,” Meek said. “Seniors can age-in-place knowing they have access to qualified caring staff to make every day as comfortable and healthful as possible.” “Our community offers independence and empowerment in decision-making, peace of mind, and a worry-free lifestyle, not only for those who choose to reside with us, but also for their families,” she added. Meek acknowledged that making the transition to retirement living is a very personal decision for seniors. “For those that are feeling isolated, being challenged by the day-to-day maintenance of a long-time home, or have lost a loved one, it becomes an important part of a healthy independent lifestyle. That’s where we can help,” she said. “You can make a decision you won’t regret” It’s fun, it’s vibrant, it’s urban chic. It’s one big family — The Community looks forward to seeing you! The Wellington West Retirement Community presentation centre is now open, with move-ins scheduled for 2021.

KitchissippiTimes

theatre buffs and book worms, there will be a tranquil area to retreat to as well. “There is something for everyone,” Meek said. Meek has 15 years experience as executive director in retirement communities around Ottawa. She understands the importance of welcoming residents into the community, as though they are coming into her own home. “It is very important that each community member who lives with us, feels as though they are a part of our family,” she said. Meek is known for not only the excellent work she does within her retirement communities, but is also known for her efforts in surrounding the communities they’re established in. She served as vice president of regional affairs for the Ontario Retirement Home Association board of directors. She has previously advocated senior concerns to the board from all over Ontario. Over the past 15 years, Linda has worked with, and volunteered her time for, senior-centric causes, and remains a strong educator for the organization. Staff members at the Wellington West Retirement Community are being hand selected for their passion and compassion Meek said.

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families as well,” Meek added. The Wellington West Retirement Community is equipped with two floors of recreational and dining space, with independent living including alcoves. One bedroom, one bedroom with den in-suite and two bedroom options are available. “Our third floor studios on our assisted living floor allows you to age in place gracefully,” Meek said. “Our health and wellness team is dedicated to building a customized care plan that meets the unique individual needs or our future residents.” This all-inclusive retirement community will pamper you in every way! Nothing says dining elegance quite like being welcomed and personally escorted to your table by the gracious dining room Maître D. From the white linen tablecloths, to the fresh and delicious meals prepared by the Red Seal Chef, every meal of the day is a full-flavour dining experience. “Our open style dining room seating encourages new friends and interesting conversations,” Meek added. After an active morning participating in recreational activities such as yoga, Zumba or any other ClubFit programs, you can relax with a bridge game, afternoon tea or a wine and cheese pairing in the lounge. For

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A new and vibrant retirement community is on the rise in Wellington West, right in the heart of one of Ottawa’s most charming neighbourhoods, and historical villages, also known as Hintonburg! The Wellington West Retirement Community — located at the corner of Wellington Street and Parkdale Avenue — puts a worry-free senior-living community at the core of it all. “[Just] steps away from eclectic boutiques and restaurants, residents and families can take comfort in having access to hospitals, clinics and churches nearby,” said Executive Director Linda Meek. Opening soon, the boutique retirement community holds 111 suites and is offering special features, including gourmet kitchens with granite counter tops, walk in closets, balconies and state of the art finishing touches for that extra wow-factor! There’s also the option of having washers and dryers in-suite. It is designed to help make meaningful relationships with not only residents, but their family and support systems as well in this tight-knit community. “Our welcoming, intimate setting allows for not only our team members to truly get to know our residents but their extended

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Wellington West Retirement Community offers vibrant senior living in Hintonburg

SURVIVING AND THRIVING ON MAIN STREET DIGITAL MAIN STREET

November 2020 • 20

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@Kitchissippi

Digital Main Street (DMS) helps small businesses impacted by COVID-19 in Ontario to recover and grow. Through government-funded programs such as Future Proof, main street businesses (restaurant, retail shops, skilled trades, and home-based businesses) can access their own digital squad, business advisors and training resources – for free. Develop digital ads, create a new online business model, or set up a digital marketing strategy for your business – all free through Digital Main Street: investottawa.ca/digital-main-street

PHOTO CREDIT: PHOTO BY MARK HOLLERON

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KitchissippiTimes

PRESENTED BY INVEST OTTAWA.

Westboro’s Flowers Talk Tivoli turns online workshops into national sales BY MATTHEW HORWOOD

or Elizabeth Young of Flowers Talk Tivoli, what started as a simple series of online floral workshops aimed at home gardeners during the first COVID-19 wave this spring has blossomed into relationships with new customers from across the country. Young’s DIY workshops, in which participants learn to create their own terrariums, hanging gardens, planters and holiday displays, began as a way for the Richmond Road business to stay connected with local customers during the pandemic. But they’ve since grown so popular that Young is now shipping workshop kits across Canada.

“People enjoy it and feel a sense of normalcy in the workshops, because they are creating beauty for their homes,” she says. “It’s a relaxing and uplifting thing for them to do, instead of just worrying.”

PANDEMIC PIVOT

Young opened up her first flower shop, Flowers Talk, in 2005. After hearing that the owner of Tivoli Florist – Young’s personal “all-time favourite flower shop” – was looking to retire, she purchased the business in 2014 and renamed it Flowers Talk Tivoli. Like many small businesses, Young’s store was forced to lay off employees and close its doors to in-person shoppers when

most retailers were ordered to shut down in March in a bid to limit the spread of COVID-19. “That first week was terrible. Everybody was very confused and anxious, and some people thought we were closing the business for good,” she recalls. Young immediately pivoted. In March and April, Young was the only person in the store, taking orders over the phone, fulfilling online purchases and arranging curbside pickups and deliveries. “I created a chalkboard and instructions for people to text me their name from their car, and I would bring the order out with no contact. That is still how we operate,” she says.

Thinking back to that period, Young says she worked 16-hour days amid fears of accidentally running afoul of rapidly evolving public health guidelines. “I was stressed beyond belief, but I couldn’t just lock my doors and go home. I thought, ‘If I don’t keep up with this, then there won’t be a store for my staff to come back to once all of this clears up,’” she says. Operating her business was further complicated by restrictions placed on flower farmers across Ontario. This meant that Flowers Talk Tivoli – which normally receives 10 shipments of flowers from seven different suppliers each week – was limited to three weekly shipments from a single supplier. Thankfully, suppliers were able to reopen in preparation for Mother’s Day, which is also around the same time that Young was able to bring back many employees.

WORKSHOPS

Young has long hosted in-person workshops to deepen her relationships

Patti Brown* In the coming months, Young plans to expand her online product selection to include flowers, planters and giftware. And with her busiest quarter fast approaching, and 14 online workshops planned before the holidays, Young anticipates business will be “non-stop.” When it comes to posting online, Young says her philosophy has been to never obsess over trying to be perfect. “If I did that, I would never post anything on Instagram and Facebook, or do any live workshops,” she says. People are craving human interaction and a sense of normalcy now more than ever, Young notes. That is why she hopes her workshops will allow families and friends across Canada to “come together on Zoom and create something beautiful for the fall and winter.”

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with customers. But as soon as she realized she could no longer host 12 people in her store for the weekly sessions, she pivoted to streaming them on Facebook Live, and later on Zoom. “I didn’t want people to forget about us and go to the big-box stores or big flower websites and order from them,” she says. “We have such strong relationships with our customers, so I wanted them to still see my face, even though I couldn’t see them.” Young’s online reach became so wide that she started getting inquiries on Instagram from people in different provinces interested in buying the supplies necessary to participate in her workshops. With the help of local website developer Venture Creative Collective, Young set up her site to accept orders and ship DIY kits across the country.

Susan Chell **

@Kitchissippi kitchissippitimes KitchissippiTimes

21 • November 2020

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT ‘Room for everybody:’ NAK Gallery opens in Wellington Village

November 2020 • 22

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STORY AND PHOTOS BY TED SIMPSON

AK Gallery is an all-new showroom space keeping art alive in Wellington West as they take over the main street location that was vacated by the longstanding Cube Gallery last winter. The NAK Gallery is a branch of NAK Design Strategies, a landscape architecture and urban design firm that now owns the building at 1285 Wellington St. W. The founder of NAK Designs, Silvano Tardella, is a purveyor of the arts — his desire to promote and share the work of excellent contemporary artists brought him to open the gallery. NAK Art Director Sylvette Briere said she is working on setting a path for the gallery that is a little bit different from the pack. “I do not want to work in the same styles that other galleries are selling; I think there’s room for everybody,” said Briere. The artists featured at NAK include renowned national and international talents, with more on the way. Briere expects to receive work from as far away as Japan and Vietnam, as soon as the pieces make it through a heavily delayed transit. The variety of artwork and sculpture found at NAK is a real feast for the senses, with a selection of paintings that range from bright and youthful, to abstract, to erotic to surrealist. You’ll see modern techniques that blur the lines between analogue and digital, alongside classical and pop art inspired looks. “We want to be a little bit more unique, more exclusive, a little bit more on the edge,” said Briere. “It will always be contemporary, but with a little accent on the pop side.” The opportunity for a grand opening, meet and greet or a vernissage won’t be possible

any time soon, but the gallery is open for the public to enjoy from Tuesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. The paintings will change frequently, so there are lots of chances for new discovery with each visit. There is also a selection of work available for browsing and purchase on the gallery website at nakgallery.ca.

The interior of the newly-opened NAK Gallery in Kitchissippi.

”We want to

NAK Art Director Sylvette Briere in the new gallery on Wellington Street West.

kitchissippi.com

be a little bit more unique, more exclusive, a little bit more on the edge”

@Kitchissippi kitchissippitimes KitchissippiTimes

23 • November 2020

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT October 31, 2020

November 2020 • 24

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@Kitchissippi

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KitchissippiTimes

Dear Reader, I am offering a letter delivery service. This is a special service for a special river, The Kitchissippi. Perhaps you have a message for her? A message for her relentless cresting and furling forward? Or a letter that acknowledges her pocked limestone shore? The Kitchissippi flows and knows. She knows ducks. She knows eddies of light and the dragonfly’s boxy flight. The Kitchissippi is more than a stream of consciousness whose drama unfolds in rambling waves and pressing tales. Ducks! Ducks bite the surface line of water spiders, who straddle right and wrong, above and below. The Kitchissippi feeds and bleeds because she knows deeply love and loss. Your letter will remain private, known only to its writer (you), the messenger (myself) and the addressee (the Kitchissippi). Your letter can be anonymous—or sign your name—it’s up to you. On December 21st, I will hand-deliver your letter to her river bank, where it will be opened and read aloud at a secret spot. Afterwards, it will be destroyed by fire. Send your letter to: Kitchissippi / Great River a.k.a. Ottawa River PO Box 36076 Wellington Post Office Ottawa ON, K1Y 2Y7

With wet regards,

Maura Doyle (artist)

his artwork by Kitchissippi artist Maura Doyle is being published as part of the City of Ottawa’s Public Art Program Microcosm. “During this unprecedented time, the world is connecting more than ever, communities are forming in solidarity and around special interests all over the globe,” the City of Ottawa stated in a press release on July 31. “In response to this, the City of Ottawa’s Public Art Program is launching Microcosm this summer, as part of their COVID-19 pivot initiatives designed to meet the needs of the community and to support local professional artists. Microcosm supports the local creative community by engaging artists to produce work in their respective wards. 23 artist projects will be presented in non-traditional spaces for art across the city.” To learn more about the project, follow @publicartottawa and hashtags #microcosm #publicartottawa #artpublicottawa on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit ottawa.ca.

COMMUNITY

UPDATE MIDTERM REPORT

COVID-19 RESPONSE •

Working collaboratively with Dr. Etches and her team at Ottawa Public Health, local hospitals, and our federal and provincial partners

•

Working to improve access to COVID-19 testing

•

Creation of an Economic Partners Task Force to provide the City with “on the ground” feedback from the business community as the pandemic evolves

•

Implementation of a Property Tax Hardship Deferral Program and creation of a Business Reopening Toolkit

•

Opening self-isolation centres for our most vulnerable residents

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PUBLIC SAFETY

•

Progress on construction of Stage 2 LRT

•

Extending no-charge OC Transpo service for seniors to include Sundays in addition to Wednesdays

Hiring new paramedics to improve response times in all areas

•

Hiring additional community-based police officers

•

Launching the Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) pilot project, seeing 8 cameras installed in Community Safety Zones to encourage safer driving behaviours near schools

Keep life in Ottawa affordable while investing in essential services with a cap on taxes

•

Continuing to attract major events, sporting championships and film productions to Ottawa

•

Breaking ground on the new Central Library

•

Supporting job-creating projects like the Advanced Building Innovation Centre

$80-million investment to improve the state of roads across the city

•

Increasing cycling tourism opportunities in rural villages

AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND INCLUSIVITY

ENVIRONMENT

•

Partnering with Multifaith Housing to build 40 housing units for veterans at the new Wateridge Village

•

Increasing the amount of City land available for affordable housing along transit corridors

•

Appointing Liaisons for Veterans’ Affairs, Gender Equity and Anti-Racism

•

Achieving gender parity on agency boards and advisory committees

Ottawa Tourism

JIMWATSONOTTAWA.CA

•

Investing $3 million per year in energy retrofits to City facilities, with a seven to ten-year payback through energy savings, for a total investment of $12 million this term of Council

•

Growing the city’s urban tree canopy through partnership opportunities that will see an additional 500,000 trees planted over the term, with an initial focus on areas impacted by the recent tornadoes

•

Protecting Ottawa’s water environment for future generations through the Ottawa River Action Plan (ORAP) and the Combined Sewage and Storage Tunnel (CSST), now fully operational

JIM.WATSON@OTTAWA.CA

25 • November 2020

Partnering with Ottawa Community Housing and the federal government to build 700 housing units across three sites on Gladstone Avenue

KitchissippiTimes

•

@JIMWATSONOTTAWA

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TRANSPORTATION

•

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Brad the Balloon Guy helps beat pandemic blues BY HOLLIE GRACE JAMES

KitchissippiTimes

D Brad the Balloon Guy hangs out with his latest creation in late October: Spiderman!

November 2020 • 26

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PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAD THE BALLOON GUY.

espite the ever-changing COVID-19 restrictions, Brad the Balloon Guy is watching his popularity soar. For nearly 15 years, local Brad Wood has been entertaining the masses through balloon art and performances at birthday parties, corporate events, malls, daycares and summer camps. But in the spring, as the province mandated the cancellation of events, his livelihood was immediately threatened. “It took a few weeks to figure out what the

heck was going on,” Wood explained. “And since I follow science, unlike most people right now, I could sense this was going to be a bit of a long haul.” The self-professed “pop culture and 80s cartoon guy” said that a job surrounded by balloons is simply another way to recreate the nostalgia of his childhood. Wood kicked off the new year with helium-filled renditions of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe characters, which drew some devoted online fanfare. This strengthened Wood’s resolve to attempt “bigger and crazier stuff.”

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current member of Orbital Talent, a local live performance agency, the 45-year-old merges his passions, performing comedy shows that incorporate balloon artistry. In years past, Wood’s love for horror movies has inspired a consistent series of Halloween themed creations come October. With plenty of extra time and energy this year, he thought: Why not make this into a daily affair? At the beginning of October, Wood posted a photo of the Invisible Man (which was just his couch). All jokes aside, he’s been highlighting a new menacing monster each day since, from classics like Frankenstein to Freddy Kruger from A Nightmare on Elm Street. The intricate display posted on Oct. 22, inspired by Evil Dead 2, was the most time-consuming to date, taking five hours to pull together. “I’m not your typical balloon guy,” explained Brad. “Anyone can make a dog or

a butterfly or whatever. But I’m the guy who makes Ash [from Evil Dead 2] coming out of a cabin with a chainsaw and a shotgun. And it’s a lot of fun for me.” The community seems to have found just as much joy in this unique form of entertainment — Wood has watched his social media following jump to nearly 6,000 followers since the onset of the pandemic. He credits COVID-19 as the driving force behind his artistic evolution. “I want to push the envelope on my creativity. People can’t have parties or events but they still can do something fun,” he said. “If I can see a picture, I can probably figure it out. My favourite thing is making people smile and making people laugh. That keeps the spark going for me.” Check out Brad the Balloon Guy’s creations on Facebook or at ottawaballoon.com.

Jack, Sally and Zero from The Nightmare Before Christmas in a display on Oct. 18. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAD THE BALLOON GUY.

411 DOVERCOURT AVE. dovercourt.org 613.798.8950 @DovercourtRecreation @Dovercourt411 @dovercourt 411

27 • November 2020

The Afterschool program and Breakfast club have welcomed kids back to the Centre to enjoy fun activities in safe spaces. While it’s not without its challenges, it can be inspiring. “To see everyone working together to make things safe is a good reminder that we, as a community, can make a difference,” said Alanna Riordan, Dovercourt’s Inclusion Coordinator. “The kids and staff are often more resilient than we give them credit for. When faced with the challenges around masks and social distancing, they find a way to make it work. I am glad that we can be open to give that space for the kids to have fun and just be kids.”

KitchissippiTimes

sometimes amazed at what they have accomplished,” says Beverley. Giving feedback online is more complicated than in person but there are advantages to the format, including serving a broad age range of students and no geographic barriers to participation. Also, recordings are sent out after each class, allowing people to work at their convenience or repeat a lesson. Paul Hope, a Kitchissippi resident who has taught Tai Chi at Dovercourt for over 30 years, has brought his teaching skills to his weekly online class. It can be tricky to find a camera angle that allows full visibility of his movements, but online classes have their advantages too. “Students have always wanted videos of me doing tai chi; now I can provide them with a recording of each class. If students know they are going to miss a class, I can record instructions for them,” Paul says.

Since the pool reopened in July, swimming lessons have required significant changes as well. Instructors teach from the deck wearing face shields, there are fewer people in the pool and swimmers are well-spaced from each other. Dovercourt swim instructor and lifeguard Lia Taylor says the new format has been “very positive” in some ways. “With the small groups, I can direct all my attention to helping them with any weaknesses they may be having,” Lia said. “I think my favorite part is it has allowed me to become more creative in the way I teach because we don’t have access to the same resources.” A new 6-week session of swim lessons begins Nov. 9. So what are you waiting for? Take a class with one of Dovercourt’s great instructors.

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Dovercourt has always been about its people, both clients and staff. After its initial closure last March — and cancelling winter, spring and some summer activities — they’ve slowly reintroduced programs, both in-person and online. This has required redeveloping all programs and the way they are taught. Dovercourt’s staff has risen to the challenge, demonstrating adaptability in all program areas. Beverley Payne, a retired professional development consultant and adult educator for over 30 years, has been teaching community art classes for over 15 years. To teach her popular watercolour class online, Beverley uses a flexible holder for her iPad, tilted to display her work surface. She guides her students step-by-step as they learn composition, colour, value and painting techniques. “The Zoom classes have afforded me a teaching opportunity. The students are

Photo credit: Dovercourt

Committed Dovercourt staff rise to the COVID-19 challenges

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“You don’t expect to get more popular during a pandemic, but I guess people are looking for alternatives [since] you can’t do parties and you can’t have events,” he said. That’s okay though, Wood said, because you can have life-size, helium-filled Star Wars characters. “People are looking for fun. These are weird times, and people are dealing with it the best they can,” he said. Previously employed by Nortel, Wood said that the cubicle life was never a longterm interest for him, especially given his creative interests. After he lucked out and discovered the very last balloon making supply kit at a magic store, he spent the next couple of months making “the worst balloons you could ever imagine.” But he persisted, driving his roommates wild in the interim, and after the Nortel bubble burst, he officially made this his newfound trade. As a

NEPEAN HIGH SCHOOL CORNER

Racial diversity and inclusivity at Nepean High School BY DINA EFREM

November 2020 • 28

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KitchissippiTimes

y name is Dina Efrem, and I am overjoyed to be one of the student columnists from Nepean High School (NHS), contributing to Kitchissippi Times. In my final year at NHS, I am fortunate enough to be co-chair of our Diverse Student Union and co-editor of our school newspaper, Knightwatch. Throughout my journey at NHS, I have focused on the progression of racial diversity and inclusivity, and I hope to inform the readers of Kitchissippi Times about our efforts. When looking at NHS as a whole, many things quickly become apparent to you as a racialized student. NHS is predominantly white, with a socioeconomic spectrum ranging from middle class to upper middle class. Evidently, there is a large gap in the ratio of racialized to non-racialized students. These are all important factors in considering a school’s racial diversity. Diversity and representation are essential in the academic success of racialized students. Racial diversity within a school benefits not only racialized students, but also those that belong to the nonracialized group. Diversity allows students to navigate a space that offers a vast array of cultures, beliefs, opinions and ideologies. It teaches students how to agree, or disagree, with their peers, while respecting their beliefs that might be determined by their background and upbringing. If the importance of diversity and inclusion is stressed during high school, young adults will be better set up for the future, in the hope of creating a peacefully coexisting society. Although as students we cannot control representation in terms of staff and administrators, we can still work towards our school’s racial inclusivity. Exceedingly,

Nepean High School’s Diverse Student Union. PHOTO COURTESY OF DINA EFREM. when we observe the world’s current political climate, we can see how quickly hate and division can spread. Education is key, as it curbs ignorance and cultivates compassion and empathy. When students are exposed to the fundamentals regarding racial sensitivity and acceptance, you are instilling in them the right morals and ethics. The first step to racial inclusivity is acknowledging the racial bias within your school, because denial is a part of systemic racism. School is supposed to be one’s safe space, where everyone is seen equally: a place where marginalized voices are empowered. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. NHS as a whole is not racist, but both the administration that leads the school, and the student population, need to confront racial bias and the need for racial diversity. It commences with white teachers who neglect to address white student’s discriminatory comments and actions. As a racialized student in a predominantly white school, with an administration that has previously refused

to take non-performative action, you find yourself feeling like an outsider trying to navigate the white space alone. Racial exclusion also leads to the self-segregation of minorities. This is a topic I approached in my Grade 11 Anthropology summative assignment with the research question, “Do minorities tend to self-segregate?” I researched visual observations and conducted surveys with staff and students. The majority of staff believed that minorities do tend to self-segregate in the classroom and that there are barriers that stand in the way of students’ learning due to their racial background. Similarly, the vast majority of students believed that minorities did, in fact, selfsegregate and rated NHS’ racial diversity a 1-3 out of 10. From this, we can conclude that both the staff and students are aware of the racial divide in their school, which is a significant advancement. Selfsegregation of minorities stems from the environment of the school. If students feel as though they do not belong, it is human nature to surround themselves

Dina Efrem is one of the student columnists from Nepean High School contributing to Kitchissippi Times this year. PHOTO COURTESY OF DINA EFREM.

with those they identify with racially. If you grew up in a predominantly white area, you will most likely hang out with other people within your neighbourhood, or others who resemble and mirror your appearance. You become less inclined to understand minorities, their struggles and ways of life unless there are active interventions by the leaders of the school and society. Changes at NHS start with the people who make up our school community. Once people acknowledge the conscious, or unconscious, racial bias they hold, and once people reflect amongst themselves, their friend groups, their co-workers and the school board, change is attainable. Without the cooperation of the community as a whole, change is unachievable. My time at NHS has included various challenges, but also many successes. I continue to push myself and work with many students dedicated to the amelioration of racial diversity at our school. Where there is unity, there is victory — I am hopeful for NHS’ future!

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here are some things that just can’t be put on hold during a pandemic. At the top of the list are human rights, like the right to education. We know that right is not an easy box to check off a list, even with your children in online, or in-person, school. Many steps have to be taken to identify and address the systemic and structural barriers that prevent everyone from participating in school, excelling and feeling valued. The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) acknowledges that oppression and discrimination still exist within our systems, structures, policies and practices. It shows up as racism and, more specifically, anti-Indigenous and anti-Black racism; Islamophobia, antisemitism, and anti-Sikhism; ableism; sexism, transphobia and homophobia. We know that we have disproportionate representation in our staffing and leadership structures; a curriculum that does not reflect the rich ethnic and cultural diversity of our student population; we have overrepresentation of Indigenous, Black, minoritized, 2SLGBTQ+ and special education students in discipline, including suspensions, expulsions, exclusions and interactions with the police. The list goes on.

In my short time on the board, I am proud to say these steps to disrupt and address the systems, structures, policies and practices: this important work has not ceased. Rather, it has accelerated because the inequalities that exist have been magnified by the pandemic. We cannot pretend anymore that it doesn’t exist. It is in all of our backyards and people are rightfully feeling empowered to speak out and act. Through the “OCDSB Indigenous, Equity and Human Rights Roadmap 20202023,” we commit to deliberate actions; explicit milestones and actively engaging in an anti-oppression, anti-racism and human rights-based approach at all levels of organization to ensure that every student’s right to education is respected and realized. What does this mean for your local school? Check out the Roadmap on the OCDSB website, and please reach out to me any time to discuss how we can work together and ensure that our rights are exercised. It takes a community.

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SUBMITTED BY JUSTINE BELL, OCDSB SCHOOL TRUSTEE FOR SOMERSET-KITCHISSIPPI

WESTBORO VILLAGE • kitchissippi.com November 2020 @Kitchissippi • ?? @Kitchissippi kitchissippi.com kitchissippitimes November 2020 • 30 kitchissippitimes KitchissippiTimes

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WESTBORO VILLAGER

Remember

Get your

ovember is a time for Remembrance, and everyone across the Westboro Village BIA are incredibly thankful for the dedication and sacrifices of our service members and their families. Since 1948, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 480 – the Westboro Legion, has been a staple in our community. They have had a presence on our main street, since 1969. They continue to support our veterans and their families. Now, they need our support. We encourage you to make a donation, purchase a poppy or a mask from the Westboro Legion. As with many of our main street businesses, COVID has presented many financial challenges to Legion branches across the country, and our local branch in no different. In addition to supporting our veterans, they also have a community space right on our main street and were instrumental in seeing the vision of a public space, Winston Square, come to fruition. As I write this, we are in modified stage two, which has had a grave impact on our dining and gym establishments, and our local Legion branch. These businesses continue to adapt, offering take out, local delivery and online fitness options. They need your support to remain active members of the community. By buying a takeout meal, signing up for online fitness classes, and following the businesses on social media you can make a difference for them this month. Moving through November, we are

focussed on the light. Light Up the Village will look different this year. We will not share hot chocolate in the courtyard, or listen to carollers as they wander the village, but we will still have light. Westboro Village businesses are thankful to be able to present Light Up the Village this year, and we hope you enjoy the wreaths, lights in Winston Square, and at the All Saints Anglican Church courtyard. We are incredibly grateful to All Saints Anglican for sharing their beautiful space with us and the public and look forward to seeing your photos of the holiday lights. Stay healthy and stay safe,

Judy Lincoln Executive Director Westboro Village BIA

Veterans now

Donations welcome Westboro Legion 2020 Poppy Campaign

WESTBORO LEGION 2020 Poppy Campaign Oct. 30-Nov. 11 A poppy is a pledge to never forget Those who want to pay tribute to past and present Veterans can get their poppies at participating stores and other organizations in the area. Because of constraints in place to help stop the spread

of COVID-19, this year’s lone poppy table is at the Carlingwood Mall, and all necessary health precautions have been taken to protect branch volunteers and the public. In addition, the Westboro Legion Poppy Trust Fund will receive 15 per cent of all Carlingwood gift cards sales through November 11. To donate directly to the trust fund, send a cheque to the branch at 389-391 Richmond Rd, Ottawa K2A 0E7. Remembrance Day – November 11, 2020 Highlighting the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain and the 75th anniversaries of the end of the Second World War and the Liberation of the Netherlands A commitment to help stop the spread of COVID-19 has led the

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WEST END KIDS For all your WINTER ESSENTIALS, West End Kids has your KIDS covered! WEK 2020 IN-STORE SNOWSUIT PROMOTION IS NOW ON! • Promotion is applicable on regular-priced snowsuits, winter jackets or winter jacket & snow pant combos. • You will receive 15% of the value of your outerwear purchase to be used towards winter accessories &/or boots • PLUS - A free WEK fleece neck warmer (retail value of $10)

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Westboro Legion to modify the way it has always marked this solemn day. Specific details are available at www.rcl480.com. Because of strict limits on public gatherings, the branch advises neighbours to watch the National Remembrance Day Ceremony on television or via Facebook Live (Facebook.com/ CanadianLegion).

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UNIQUE CERAMICS These unique ceramic succulents and sea-like creatures are hand made works of art made to add a little beauty to any space in any home.

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COUNCILLOR’S CORNER It’s annual general meeting season for Kitchissippi community associations SUBMITTED BY JEFF LEIPER, KITCHISSIPPI WARD COUNCILLOR

will hold their AGM on Nov. 23. I will be on hand at these meetings to make some brief remarks and answer any questions you may have about your neighbourhood. Be sure to check out your local community association’s websites or social media to learn more about their AGM plans and get ready to participate. I know that, due to case numbers, our public health guidelines have been changing quickly. I urge you to keep abreast of the latest information by

keeping an eye on the Ottawa Public Health website and social media. You can also download the free COVID Alert app on almost any smartphone; the app will alert you if you’ve been in proximity to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. This year, it’s more important than ever to get your flu shot, so make sure you contact your local pharmacy or health care provider to schedule your shot. Don’t forget to visit kitchissippiward.ca and subscribe to my newsletter for weekly ward and city updates.

@Kitchissippi

PROVINCIAL UPDATE

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ur city’s health care system is in crisis, with hospitals and long-term care homes stretched to capacity. We are currently in the second wave, and we need to brace for the impact of this to become worse, especially on our province’s most vulnerable. Rest assured, we will keep pushing this government to spend the money we need to stave off tragedy before it’s too late. With that in mind, I want to highlight some of the “caremongering” efforts in Ottawa Centre that started as a result of our community coming together in the

first wave, and will now be needed more than ever in this second wave. One of those projects is Cooking for a Cause Ottawa, an initiative that unites restaurants, caterers, bakeries and community agencies in an effort to support those who are food insecure in our city, run in partnership with the great folks at Parkdale Food Centre. Cooking for a Cause Ottawa was started by the Ottawa Community Food Partnership (OCFP), and it leverages the expertise of small businesses in the food sector facing financial crises now, and community

businesses the opportunity to keep working by paying for their incredible talents,” Braunovan said. “Today, Cooking for a Cause Ottawa delivers 4,000 healthy, delicious, culturally appropriate meals a week across the city.” We know access to good food is a key agencies who work with people who are determinant of health. It is now more marginalized on a daily basis. important than ever for us to ensure those The Wellington Gastropub and the Red in our city, who are food insecure or may Apron, for example, have made face food insecurity in this second wave, nutritious soups and meals for are taken care of. isolated seniors, served by We must also all do our part in community nurses from the limiting our close contacts, staying Somerset West Community home when sick and being “COVID Health Centre, while Urban wise” so organizations doing critical care Element makes 400 hot work, like the Ottawa Community Food meals a week for their harmis here Partnership and with: their staff, can continue Our office for you reduction services. to work safely in the community. Monthly Town Halls The results have been tremendous If you’d like to find out more about the according to Erica Braunovan,Canvasses who works Ottawa Community Food Partnership, Community Organizing as OFCP’s Coordinator. or support their work, visit www. Help Accessing Government Services “Within one week of the COVID-19 ottawacommunityfoodpartnership.ca/ shutdown, we were offering food cfac.

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We must protect our most vulnerable in the second wave SUBMITTED BY JOEL HARDEN, MPP OTTAWA CENTRE

kitchissippi.com

elcome to November, Kitchissippi! A new month brings new changes, and I want to start by thanking you all for continuing to follow public health guidelines and doing your part to keep our communities safe. The city is seeking community input on the Sherwood Drive traffic-calming study. In response to the concerns raised by residents of the area, this study will investigate traffic conditions and driver behaviour with the aim of developing new traffic-calming recommendations.

You can fill out an online survey to share your perspectives on what would make Sherwood Drive safer for all road users; the survey will remain open until Nov. 16. You can find the survey and more information about the possible traffic-calming measures at ottawa.ca/ sherwooddrive. November is community association annual general meeting (AGM) season! According to our calendar, the Civic Hospital Neighbourhood Association will have their AGM on Nov. 5, the Westboro Community Association will have their AGM on Nov. 18 and the McKellar Park Community Association

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he last few months have been very challenging with the resurgence of COVID-19 numbers in Ottawa. This is challenging for individuals, organizations, businesses and the community overall. I want to thank everyone for following public health advice, supporting local businesses and for supporting each other, especially our most vulnerable. I am in constant contact with Dr. Vera Etches and Ottawa Public Health, the mayor and local councillors, local community and business organizations and others to look at how we can help support the health and economic response to COVID-19.

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Through the Safe Restart Agreement, we’ve invested over $5 billion in Ontario. This includes $2.3 billion towards testing, contact tracing and PPE, $287 million for vulnerable communities and $1 billion towards public transit. Below, I note some of the new programs to support individuals and businesses amid COVID-19. National updates: There are several new programs and modified existing programs that will help support residents of Ottawa Centre. • Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit will provide two one-week periods of benefits. • Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit provides 26 weeks of benefits. • Canada Recovery Benefit provides 13 twoweek periods of benefits. The federal government has also introduced a new Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy which responds to concerns, including from businesses in Ottawa Centre, about challenges accessing rent support through landlords. The new rent subsidy will provide easy-to-access rent and mortgage support until June 2021 for qualifying organizations. The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy has been extended until June 2021 and will continue to protect jobs by helping businesses keep employees on the payroll and encourage employers to re-hire their workers. An expanded Canada Emergency

Business Account (CEBA) will enable businesses, and not-for-profits eligible for CEBA loans, to access an interest-free loan of up to $20,000, in addition to the original CEBA loan of $40,000. Local updates: In September, I was joined by Minister Hussen to make an exciting announcement for Ottawa. We announced the largest investment in affordable housing in our city’s history. This $167.9 million investment in Ottawa Community Housing for three sites on Gladstone Avenue will create 698 affordable, energy efficient units while creating 2,600 jobs. We are committed to tackling the housing and homelessness crisis in Ottawa, including working with the city on modular housing and the possibility of acquiring hotels. Another exciting update was when I was joined by Mayor Watson and others to break ground to start the construction for Stage 2 of the LRT. Our government recognizes the critical role of public transit in getting essential workers and employees to and from work and children to school. Notably, 77 per cent of Ottawa residents will live within 5 km of the LRT, and Stage 2 will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 110,000 tonnes, helping to get cars off the roads. As Ottawans already know, Ottawa is Canada’s tech hub with an ecosystem of established and start-up technology companies. I joined Minister Joly, Mayor Watson and Invest Ottawa to announce a $7 million federal investment through FedDev Ontario to help launch Invest Ottawa’s Area XO, a world-class facility to develop and test autonomous vehicles. This will support the next generation of digital infrastructure and help to grow our regional economy, drive innovation and create good local jobs. A reminder that I am here with my staff to support you. If you need any help navigating federal support programs, please reach out. You can email us at Catherine.McKenna@ parl.gc.ca or call us at 613-996-5322. We are going through very hard times. We will get through this pandemic and emerge stronger by supporting each other and working together. — Catherine

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

NOV. 5 - CIVIC HOSPITAL NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION AGM The Civic Hospital Neighbourhood Association (CHNA) Virtual Annual General Meeting will be held on Thursday, Nov. 5 from 7-9 p.m. For more information, visit chnaottawa.ca.

Ontario and we are constantly growing. Shout Sister! takes an unorthodox approach to choral singing. We learn from recorded tracks, so we require no reading of music. Our method is fresh and fun, and we are a warm and welcoming community. We use Zoom to meet virtually every Wednesday afternoon (1-3 p.m.) and Thursday evening (7-9 p.m.). Everyone is welcome. We would love to have you join us! For information on joining, please contact members@shoutsisterchoir.ca or visit shoutsisterchoir.ca.

Got a Kitchissippi-area virtual or COVID-19 safe event to share? We’d love to hear about it. Send your info to editor@kitchissippi.com

FRIDAYS - CHASE THE ACE RAFFLE Due to COVID-19 closures of the “sales” outlets, the Highland Park Lawn Bowling Club “Keep Westboro Green” Chase the Ace raffle, and therefore sale of tickets, has been suspended until further notice.

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TUESDAYS - BYTOWN VOICES COMMUNITY CHOIR Although the choir is not able to prepare for a December Concert this fall, we will be meeting online each Tuesday evening from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (from Sept. 8 to Dec. 8). We will be learning some new music and maintaining our vocal cords in a relaxed environment, with plenty of musical and technological help. We will all be experiencing this new way of meeting and singing together and are happy to welcome new members, men and women, to join us. For more information, see our website at bytownvoices.com

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NOV. 7-10 - ALL SAINTS’ WESTBORO ANGLICAN CHURCH - A VERY VIRTUAL VILLAGE FAIR The annual event you know, now online! Purchase a selection of preserves, original crafts, curated book bundles, themed gift baskets, sweet and savoury food baskets, vintage linens, jewellery, knitting, and donated treasures and book your contactless pickup, all through our website. Call 613-725-9487 or visit allsaintswestboro.com for details. Nov. 11 - Remembrance Day This year, with COVID-19 restrictions, many Remembrance Day ceremonies have been cancelled locally. The Royal Canadian Legion is encouraging Canadians to watch the National Remembrance Day Ceremony at the National War Memorial in Ottawa through the Legion’s Facebook Live stream or on television. For more information, read our story on page 6 in this edition.

MONDAYS - ABOVE AND BEYOND TOASTMASTERS Every Monday at 6:45 p.m. (except holidays) Visit us online to enjoy time with members learning to communicate better while honing your leadership skills. This new reality has taught us much. We are learning new skills and still relating great stories. Join our family of joy by contacting Sharon at 45sharong@gmail.com or Lucille, our webmaster, at l_bouthillier@ yahoo.ca to receive the link.

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COVID-19 note: This page has been updated to reflect the developments in Kitchissippi during the pandemic.

NOV. 23 - MCKELLAR PARK COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION AGM McKellar Park Community Association (MPCA) is holding its Annual General Meeting virtually by Zoom and Zoom telephone (long distance charges may apply) on Nov. 23 due to COVID-19 restrictions. The event is scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. Anyone is allowed to attend, but only residents who live within the MPCA boundaries are eligible to vote. Coun. Jeff Leiper will be our guest speaker. Pre-registration is required. For more information and how to register go to www.mckellarpark.ca.

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