Kitchissippi Times December 2021 by Great River Media inc.

HOLIDAY GIVING GUIDE KitchissippiTimesw

Explore the shops and boutiques of Hintonburg and Wellington Village to find creative ideas for everyone on your list.

@Kitchissippi kitchissippitimes

May 2018 • 1

p.19-22

Jeff Leiper

Baking duo fundraise thousands Page 16-17

City Councillor conseiller municipal

613-580-2485 kitchissippiward.ca

December 2021

kitchissippi.com

@kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

19 • December 2021

Check out our full GIVING Guide at

WELLINGTONWEST.CA/GIVINGGUIDE2021

KitchissippiTimes

kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

kitchissippi.com

2021 EDITION

NOW ACCEPTING NEW SMILES www.wdentalstudio.com 613-564-3300 kitchissippitimes

100% LOCAL

PINE FOR MORE Pages 6-7

Sara Cleroux stands at the Parkdale Market. A holiday tree shortage is impacting North American retailers but there are still local trees to be found. PHOTO BY ALVIN TSANG

The festive season calls for the

freshest FLAVOURS

AT PRODUCE DEPOT.

For weekly specials, recipes, nutrition, preparation tips, and more visit producedepot.ca

December 2021 • 2

kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimes

COMMUNITY NEWS

(Left) Tunney’s Pasture station returned to regular service on Friday, Nov. 12. PHOTO BY ALVIN TSANG. (Top) Sarah WrightGilbert, citizen transit commissioner for the City of Ottawa, is frustrated by the state of public transit in Ottawa. PHOTO COURTESY OF SARAH WRIGHT-GILBERT.

Province calls for public inquiry into Ottawa’s LRT system BY ALVIN TSANG

he Ontario government is launching a public inquiry—an official investigation ordered by a government body—into the procedures and events surrounding Ottawa’s light rail transit (LRT) system. The office of Ontario Minister of Transportation Caroline Mulroney issued a statement Nov. 17. “The issues plaguing Stage 1 of the Ottawa LRT have been unacceptable and disappointing. As a funding partner for the project, we need certainty that the City of Ottawa will be able to successfully deliver the remaining phases of work for this project. Ottawa transit riders deserve and expect this certainty as well,” the statement reads. “To get to the bottom of these issues facing the Ottawa LRT, our government

will be launching a public inquiry,” the statement continues. “Our goal is to get this up and running as soon as possible. In the coming weeks, we will establish the scope of the inquiry and its terms of reference, with the intention of receiving a report on what has transpired and recommendations to prevent this from happening again.” The LRT opened in September 2019. Over the last two years, the LRT experienced a 54day shutdown, five derailments and many stoppages. The shutdown was caused by the largest derailment to date this fall, when a loose gearbox caused damage to the car, tracks and surrounding infrastructure on Sept. 19. The other derailments were caused by sinkholes, damages to the wheels, poor maintenance on tracks, and other issues. More recently, a stopped train delayed 50 passengers for 55 minutes on Nov. 18.

There was another train stoppage between the uOttawa and Hurdman stations on the night of Nov. 23. Sarah Wright-Gilbert, citizen transit commissioner for the City of Ottawa, said she believes that the public inquiry is a necessary step in restoring public confidence and trust in Ottawa. “The people of Ottawa have not only lost trust in our public transit system, specifically the LRT, but also in our elected officials and municipal government,” Wright-Gilbert told Kitchissippi Times. “A public inquiry is absolutely necessary to restore the public's trust in both entities.” Ottawa’s Confederation Line, costing $2.1 billion, stretches over a 12.5 km track and 13 stations. For two years now, it has replaced bus routes coming in and out of the downtown core. The line now serves as

Ottawa’s primary transit system. The provincial government is a funding partner of the LRT system. Currently, there are remaining phases of the project. Construction is already underway for the $4.6-billion Phase 2 (extending to Baseline, Moodie and Trim), and the $5.6-billion Phase 3 (extending to Barrhaven and Kanata) will follow. “The structure of the public-privatepartnership (P3) agreement with Rideau Transit Group, both for the construction and maintenance, is shrouded in secrecy and this does nothing to encourage public confidence,” Wright-Gilbert said. Transit riders, local politicians and now provincial politicians are demanding answers about the unreliable service and dysfunction. “The $2.1 billion first phase of the LRT was built using public money at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels, and the public deserves to know how we got to where we are today, and who was involved in the decision-making,” WrightGilbert said. “A public inquiry can provide these answers.”

YO U ’ R E I N V I T E D T O O U R

H O L I DAY LIGHTS TOUR All aboard the Amica holiday express! Amica Westboro Park, a senior lifestyles residence, invites holiday lights around Ottawa. All guests will receive a holiday gift bag. Kindly RSVP as space is limited.

@Kitchissippi

J O I N U S AT T H E E V E N T

kitchissippi.com

you to climb aboard our bus for a tour of the beautiful

Thursday, December 16 | 7:00pm 491 Richmond Road

kitchissippitimes

RSVP BY DECEMBER 13 E R I N O R G R AC E AT 6 1 3 - 7 2 8 - 9 2 7 4

KitchissippiTimes

3 • December 2021

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

12699AMI_WB_DecAd_FA.indd 1

2021-11-03 2:40 PM

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 Great River Media Inc PO Box 91585 Ottawa ON K1W 1K0 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

December 2021 • 4

kitchissippi.com

Meet Filip Etienne Trandafilovski

editor@kitchissippi.com

“I’m originally from Edmonton and moved to Ottawa in 2011. When my family moved into the Kitchissippi area, we realized how nice it is. My dad got a transfer over for work and I can say that Ottawa is a much more fun city than Edmonton. People call Ottawa ‘the city that fun forgot,’ but that’s totally untrue; there is a lot you can do in the city and it’s about how you can make it fun for yourself. The ward is very diverse and has many artistic types of people, so it’s really great because there is always something new in the Kitchissippi area. I study political science at Carleton University and I’ve always had an interest in politics. Coming from an immigrant family, politics [are] always talked about at the dinner table. I started my career working at the Parliament of Canada, where I worked as a legislative assistant to several members of Parliament, but then I localized myself a little bit more, and I’m working with Councillor Catherine Kitts as her communications coordinator. I love knowing what Ottawa residents are thinking and what their main concerns are. With the pandemic came a New Year’s resolution where I decided that I was going to start losing weight and start eating healthier. I’ve been cooking a lot more, and creating healthy meals for my family and I to enjoy. I’m also going to start taking martial arts because not only do I want to start learning self defence, but I want to continue my streak of weight loss. One thing that I love to do is listen to and learn different languages. I always watch foreign media, whether it be music or movies. I can identify languages quite easily by just hearing them. Aside from English, I speak Serbian because my family is originally from Serbia, but I’m also learning Russian right now as well. One of my favourite things to do in Kitchissippi ward, when the weather permits, is to go biking. I’ll bike either the entire Westboro area or find new routes to try.

Dave Allston, Judith van Berkom, Charlie Senack,

twitter.com/kitchissippi CONTRIBUTORS Alvin Tsang and Ted Simpson. PROOFREADER Karen-Luz Sison ADVERTISING SALES Eric Dupuis 613-696-9485 eric@kitchissippi.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Tanya Connolly-Holmes creative@greatriver.ca GRAPHIC DESIGNER

PHOTO COURTESY OF FILIP ETIENNE TRANDAFILOVSKI

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimes

Maureen McEwan

Another passion of mine is art, and Kitchissippi is a great community for any artist to live in. Since we have been living here for a decade now, every year, you start to see new art installations coming up and things are constantly changing. Every time I go down to Wellington Street West or Richmond Road, there is always a new store that has opened. You want to go in and see what they offer. I really enjoy how there is always somewhere new to explore. It’s also a very safe neighborhood and there is something for everyone of all ages to enjoy. There is a lot of green space and it’s the perfect community for young families.” Story collected by Charlie Senack

Celine Paquette celine@greatriver.ca FINANCE Cheryl Schunk, 613-696-9490 cheryl@greatriver.ca All other enquiries 613-696-9494 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

EDITOR'S LETTER Wrapping up the year with warm wishes BY MAUREEN MCEWAN Dear readers,

dovercourt.org 613.798.8950

REGISTER NOW: Winter Holiday Camps (Dec 20-24; Dec 27-31; Jan 3-7) Fall 2 Swim session (session runs Nov. 29 - Feb 6). UPCOMING REGISTRATIONS: Winter Program including fitness, sports, recreation .. Tue. Dec. 7 March Break Camps registration .............................. Tue. Dec. 7 January – June PD Day Camps .................................. Tue. Dec. 7 Winter swim lessons ...............................................Tue. Jan. 11 Summer camps & swim lessons 2022 ............ Wed. Feb. 2, 2022 FIT PASS – JOIN ANYTIME Our fitness participants —and instructors— love being back at inperson drop-in group fitness, aqua and spin classes! You can’t beat the energy, the music, and seeing fitness friends. Get your Dovercourt Fit Pass and get started!

AFTERSCHOOL After school classes for January 10-February 25 include Cake Decorating, Aerial Yoga, Lego Robotics, Skating, Rock Climbing, Basketball, and Swimming.

KitchissippiTimes

50% discount for After School Members!

kitchissippitimes

WINTER PROGRAMS START IN JANUARY Winter specialty fitness and aquafitness Dance, Basketball, Rock Climbing, Pottery, Art and more!

@Kitchissippi

5 • December 2021

Stay safe, Kitchissippi, and we’ll see you in the new year.

411 DOVERCOURT AVE., OTTAWA ON

kitchissippi.com

Happy holidays! We didn’t see much snow in November—just a light dusting here and there—but it looks like there’s several snowy days in the forecast for the first days of December. Kitchissippi will soon be a winter wonderland once again. I hope you are all staying warm and staying safe. As I write this, the first cases of the Omicron COVID-19 variant have been confirmed in Canada, and they were found in Ottawa. As we navigate this next development, please take care of yourself, your near and dear and your neighbours. To the December edition: We’re wrapping up 2021 with a medley of stories. The Ontario government has called for a public inquiry into Ottawa’s LRT system. Sarah Wright-Gilbert, citizen transit commissioner for the City of Ottawa, spoke with us about why she believes the inquiry is a necessary step moving forward. Did you know that there’s a holiday tree shortage right now? Shirley Brennan, executive director of the Canadian Christmas Trees Association, spoke to us about the supply chain disruption. We also caught up with Sara Cleroux, from the Christmas tree shop at Parkdale Market, about the local supply of trees. Exciting news: A grand menorah is being lit outdoors in Kitchissippi for the first time to celebrate Hanukkah. We spoke with Rabbi Moshe Caytak and Devora Caytak, with the Jewish Youth Library, to learn more about the event. Three generations of the Lauzon family have run Lauzon Music on Wellington Street West since 1945. We caught up with

Dave Lauzon about how the family business continues to evolve and have fun. Local author Donna Sharkey spoke with us about her second book, Falling Together: A family’s story of mental illness and grief, that was released this year. Sharkey’s book explores mental health and the impact it can have on a family. Westboro’s Batter Up Bakery competed on The Big Bake: Holiday television show on the Food Network recently. Owner JamieLynn Pokrzywka told us all about the experience. Margherita Marcone and daughter Julianna have raised over $10,000 for community organizations through their baking business. We caught up with the motherdaughter duo to hear more about Julianna Banana and the work they are doing. Early Days explores Christmastime in 1899 Westboro. The turn-of-the-century tale looks at the holiday traditions of the time and what the pivotal year did for the Kitchissippi community. For Humans of Kitchissippi, Filip Etienne Trandafilovski spoke with us. Trandafilovski works as communications coordinator for Coun. Catherine Kitts and told us about what he likes about living in Kitchissippi. And we’ve got our school columns from Nepean High School and Notre Dame High School running again, along with our political columns from Coun. Jeff Leiper and MPP Joel Harden. We’ve also got our first column from new Ottawa Centre MP Yasir Naqvi just in time for the holidays! And that’s all the news that’s fit to print. Thanks for reading and for your support during 2021.

Building a healthy, active and engaged community through recreation

COMMUNITY NEWS

FOR SALE

266 Breezehill Ave South • New Build 1,249,000 West Centre Town

Kelly Ebbs & Kerry Millican REALTOR®S

FOR SALE

Royal Lepage Team Realty 384 Richmond Rd Ottawa 613 290-2990

264 Breezehill Ave S 1,199,000 West Centre Town

Top 1% in Canada 2013-2020 Royal Lepage National Chairman’s Club 536 Courtenay 3,799,000 McKellar Park

FOR SALE

For celebrations big or small

Happy Holidays!

December 2021 • 6

kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimes

kellyandkerry.com

Sara Cleroux, daughter of the owner of Parkdale Public Market’s Christmas tree shop, explains that these trees were ordered from a farm in Sherbrooke. PHOTO BY ALVIN TSANG.

Christmas tree shortage affecting retailers this season BY ALVIN TSANG

T 1333 Wellington St. W • wellingtonbutchery.com

here is a Christmas tree shortage this year. Sara Cleroux, who helps her dad Manuel Cleroux run the Christmas tree shop at the Parkdale Public Market, says that the approximately 200 trees available for sale at the Parkdale Market is the whole supply for the season.

“Right now, a lot of the tree farmers don’t have enough trees,” Cleroux said. “Some of them are retiring, and a lot of trees are going to the U.S. because of various issues.” Shirley Brennan, executive director of the Canadian Christmas Trees Association, pinpoints exactly where the supply and demand chain is disrupted. “What’s happening is there is a shortage of trees all across North America,” Brennan

nationally. They can’t get their trees to market in B.C., and earlier this year, they had extreme heat and forest fires. Mother Nature hasn’t cooperated with us, and what we’re seeing is a decrease in farms.” The average Christmas tree farmer is in the age group of 70-75 years old, and not many have succession plans to include someone to take over the farm. “We’re seeing less farms, less trees and an aging population of farmers,” Brennan said. “So it’s a whole lot of things that have come to fruition all at once this year.” Surprisingly, the COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t been a negative factor for the Christmas tree supply and demand in any way, according to the association. “We’re seeing the same crowds,” she said. “As a whole, the Christmas tree shortage doesn’t have anything to do with the pandemic.” Brennan offers a piece of advice to anyone who might be worried they might

”It’s not just an

Ontario thing or a Kitchissippi thing.” – Shirley Brennan not be able to get a Christmas tree this year. “It’s okay to get your Christmas tree early if you’re worried about the shortage,” she said. “Just don’t bring the tree into your house. Keep it in a cool damp place and out of the elements. You don’t want it sitting in the sun or wind. A lot of people do this every year—they don’t bring the tree inside until the second week of December, and the tree will last until January with no problems.”

The Cleroux family Christmas trees are available for sale up until Christmas eve (while supplies last) at the Parkdale Market. PHOTO BY ALVIN TSANG.

@Kitchissippi

SPONSORED CONTENT

than living alone at home. “We’re proud that as of October 2021, 100 per cent of our team members have been vaccinated nationally,” says Andrea Prashad, Amica’s Senior Vice President, Resident Experience and Risk Management. Since many people confuse senior living residences with long-term care, they’re amazed when they learn what life is like now at Amica. “Residents are surrounded by peers, not isolated. We take care of meals and provide help where needed, so our residents are free to live life to the fullest,” says Prashad. Professional care, warmth and service Amica Westboro Park is well-equipped to accommodate independent seniors as well as those requiring advanced medical care aided by nurses and doctors available on-site. “At Amica, you can live life on your own terms,” says Prashad. “From medical care to activities, they’re all very personalized, and residents know we can accommodate their needs as they change.” As for Elaine and Timothy, they’ve felt at home from the moment they arrived. “People are very friendly here,” says Elaine. “The staff are fabulous, too. They know your name from day one.”

7 • December 2021

Helping seniors stay physically, mentally and socially active Amica Westboro Park residents are spoiled with activity choices. Upon arrival, residents receive a lifestyle assessment to discover their goals, interests, likes and dislikes, and efforts are made to customize a range of safe excursions and recreational activities on the premises, such as painting, wine-tasting and current events discussions. Residents also decide when and what they want to eat and help develop menus. Tailoring meals, fitness and enriching moments to your tastes is all part of Amica’s holistic approach to supporting your emotional, physical and cognitive health.

KitchissippiTimes

Safer than ever If you or your loved one is considering Independent Living or Assisted Living at Amica Westboro Park, you may be wondering about safety given COVID-19. Good news: thanks to leading-edge vaccination rates, emergency monitoring, on-site nurses available 24/7 and nutritious meals, senior living at Amica is likely better for your health

kitchissippitimes

Residents at private senior residences enjoying life again Amica Senior Lifestyles creates a protective bubble, thanks to robust safety measures Life is back to normal for Timothy and Elaine, residents at Amica Westboro Park, an Amica Senior Lifestyles residence. Within the residence’s protective bubble, the couple are doing things they enjoy, and COVID-19 seems a world away. “We’re in a safe environment and keeping active,” says Elaine. “They’re very good about safety rules and we feel well looked after.” Since moving in a year ago, Elaine and Timothy have enjoyed a full schedule, doing fitness classes in the morning, playing bridge and visiting with their family and grandson. Their children wanted the couple to be closer and enjoy the care and diverse programming that Amica Westboro Park offers. “I like walking around the outdoor patio and often meet someone for a little gab,” says Elaine. “You make friends here quickly.”

kitchissippi.com

said. “So it’s not just an Ontario thing or a Kitchissippi thing. It’s not even a Canadian thing.” Christmas tree farms operate on a 10-year cycle, unlike other farming commodities where seeds and saplings are planted in the spring and ready for harvest season. “A few things have happened to affect the supply and demand of the 10-year cycle,” Brennan said. The first was unexpected climate conditions, Brennan explained. In June 2018, unexpected frost damaged a large crop of trees in Nova Scotia—seedlings and younger trees were ruined and mature trees were damaged. The frost incident affected the Nova Scotia Christmas tree market during that year and all the following years, with the impact being felt across other regions, including Ontario. “And we all know what’s happening in B.C.,” Brennan said. “The floods right now are affecting farmers and wholesalers

COMMUNITY NEWS ‘Illuminating the darkness:’ Kitchissippi to host first Grand Menorah Lighting BY CHARLIE SENACK

December 2021 • 8

kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimes

giant menorah will light up Kitchissippi this year, during the community's upcoming first outdoor Hanukkah celebration. On Dec. 5, members of the public are being asked to gather in the Osgoode Properties Parking Lot located at 1285 Wellington Street West for the Grand Menorah Lighting. The event, hosted by the Jewish Youth Library of Ottawa, will start at 4 p.m. Rabbi Moshe Caytak, one of the event's organizers, said the community is in need of something joyful now more than ever. “Public menorah lightings are done every year throughout the world, and it is really signifying the freedom of religion,” he said. “It really signifies how to overcome darkness in the world, and how, with every good deed we do in the world, we are illuminating the darkness. It just takes a little bit— just one candle—to light up the whole room.” Community leaders including Mayor Jim Watson, Ottawa Centre MP Yasir Naqvi, and members of the Jewish community will be attending. There will be hot chocolate and potato latkes served while the nine-foot tall menorah is lit. The word “Hanukkah,” means “dedication” in Hebrew. The holiday begins on the 25th of the Kislev month on the Hebrew calendar—typically falling in November or December. Hanukkah is also known as the Festival of Lights, and the holiday is celebrated with the lighting of the menorah—one candle added every night for eight days—and with traditional foods, games and gifts. “Hanukkah is a very interesting holiday. The significance is over 2,000 years ago, when the Jewish temple in Jerusalem was broken into, all the oil became impure and contaminated,” said Rabbi Caytak. “They found one jug of oil and, from that jug, it

The location for the new library on Huron Avenue. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE JEWISH YOUTH LIBRARY. lasted for eight days. Every year since, we are not only just remembering history—we are actually reliving it by increasing the light everyday for eight nights.” With so much turbulence in the world right now, with the pandemic and beyond, Rabbi Caytak says it’s important to have the light shine even brighter this year. “This is something we have to focus on all year, really,” he said. “We can never stop—we can never feel comfortable with our efforts. We need to continue to spread goodness and kindness—that light—to the entire neighbourhood.” NEW LIBRARY The Jewish Youth Library of Ottawa has played a critical role in the community for almost

40 years. Founded in a local basement in the early 1980s, the library has now grown to house an extensive collection of books. Up until recently, the library ran out of the Chaya Mushka Building, located at 192 Switzer Ave. The building, which also houses a Jewish Montessori Preschool and a summer camp, closed shortly before the pandemic for renovations. Once completed, the centre had no room for the library. Devora Caytak—Rabbi Caytak’s mother, who founded the library alongside her husband Dr. Joseph Caytak—said they then needed to find a new home for their facility. In the summer of 2020, they came across a historic-designated home for sale at 166 Huron Ave. N. They fell in love with the location and purchased the property to open

This nine-foot tall menorah will be lit on Dec. 5 in Kitchissippi to celebrate Hanukkah. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE JEWISH YOUTH LIBRARY.

a new facility where they could keep Jewish history and education alive. “We are so happy to get our beautiful books, which have been in Dymon Storage for the past few years, back into circulation,”

of all ages,” said Devora Caytak. “It’s also zoned for an instructional facility so we will have many educational programs and really something for everybody in the community.” The school and camps will continue to operate out of their existing location, and this is being seen as an opportunity to expand the Jewish presence within Ottawa. The centre aims to be an inclusive learning space for all. “Rabbi Joseph Yitzhak of Lubavitch once wrote that the world says that where a light is shown, you can see hidden blemishes. What jewish teachings say is when a light is shown, you can see another hidden beauty,” Devora Caytak said. “A little bit of light dispels a lot of darkness, and Hanukkah is a symbol of religious freedom; that we all have a right to believe and pray the way that we want to, and unity through diversity.”

kitchissippi.com

said Devora Caytak. “We have thousands of books; some of them are rare, precious books that are not in print anymore. A library is an equalizer of goodness and kindness, and libraries build communities. This library is not going to be open only to the Jewish community, but to the community at large.” The site, a 100-year-old house which received unanimous support for its rezoning, is expected to open its door to the community in a few months. The original woodwork and stained glass windows will remain intact, but bookshelves have to be built. Devora Caytak says the library will feature bright lighting and comfortable seating, alongside a high-tech coffee machine to make the place a welcoming place for all in the community. “We are very excited to be in the Westboro and Wellington West neighbourhoods, and opening up this library where we will have wonderful programs for adults and children

To learn more, visit jewishyouthlibrary.com.

@Kitchissippi kitchissippitimes

f W @ @OueisDentistry

9 • December 2021

Book appointments for you and your family today, and let our team put a healthy smile on your face!

100-1525 Carling Avenue, 613-722-7272

KitchissippiTimes

Oueis Dentistry makes it easy for you to attend to all of your dental health needs in one convenient location.

Carlin�<:� Denlal•�

Patti Brown*

Susan Chell*

Sarah Toll*

Wishing you a safe and happy holiday! FOR RENT

COMING SOON

JUST SOLD

5 Briarway Private $2,800/month

PH6 – 515 Gladstone Ave Centretown

Central Park Drive Central Park

JUST SOLD

December 2021 • 10

Dave Lauzon at Lauzon Music in Hintonburg. PHOTO BY TED SIMPSON.

Family business Lauzon Music keeps evolving, having fun BY TED SIMPSON

kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimes

COMMUNITY NEWS

T Ruskin Street Civic Hospital

Harthill Way Barrhaven

Lauder Drive McKellar Park *Broker

hree generations of the Lauzon family have built the long-standing music store on Wellington West into a modern-day “candy store” for guitarists and pianists alike. Lauzon Music is one of the oldest businesses in Wellington West, opening in 1945. Only two others remain from that time period: Morris Home Hardware and Hillary’s Cleaners. Founded by Larry and Dorothy Lauzon, the business has always been known for having beautiful pianos on display in the front windows. In 1974, the business

passed down to their son Ken Lauzon. Now in its third iteration, the store is under the direction of grandson Dave Lauzon. “My grandfather was in the military. And when he came back, he started selling things out of his garage and selling musical instruments, as well as electronics and other things, radios and stuff,” Dave said. “And it just sort of, gradually, became more and more instruments and then he eventually moved it out of his garage into a storefront.” As the shop has moved through generations of the Lauzon family, their business model has evolved and expanded. “When I was growing up with my dad

techniques that go into these hand-built instruments from master luthiers. It can take a number of years for an instrument to be completed. Most recently, Lauzon Music has been making a new and bold statement on the streetscape of Wellington West with new red signage. There have been a few looks to the storefront over the decades, and their most recent update brings a new rock and roll edge to the brand. “We got a new website and we had that logo done at the same time and so the last step was really getting it out front. It's just investing in the business bit by bit to bring it together,” said Dave. “You know, we've just been at it for a long time, but where we are right now is the result of things we kind of put in motion 10 years ago or 15 years ago,” Dave added. “So, I feel like it evolves quite naturally: we just keep selling cool guitars and having fun.”

FREE In-Home Consultation

• Guaranteed fit – measured and specifically made for each individual window, door, or room divider, including specialty shapes

• 25 year warranty – durable UltraSatin™ finish, UV resistant, never fade or warp, dent resistant, fire retardant • Choice of manual or UltraPower™ motorized tilt system

• Improved energy efficiency – block out the sun’s hot rays in summer and cool drafts in winter • Large in-store gallery and FREE shop-at-home service

Home Improvement & Design Specialists

555 Bank St. (FREE parking behind store, off Isabella St.) randalls.ca | 613-233-8441 | bankst@randalls.ca

Paints | Stains | Epoxies Window Treatments Designer Wallpapers and Fabrics

kitchissippi.com

running the shop, it was more about pianos,” said Dave. “We got into the guitar business again when I was in high school and then it's kind of been my project since.” Dave went out for a few years to take his turn as a professional guitarist, touring the world and playing rock and roll. He came back to the family business in 2005 and has been shaping Lauzon Music into a very special place to buy a guitar. “We just try and make this jaw dropping candy store for guitar players to come in and see dream instruments,” says Dave. “Anyone can come in, they can try stuff out, they can get their hands on something that they might have only ever seen on the internet.” Many of the unique, custom shop guitars on the shop walls are one-off products that are carefully curated by Lauzon Music. In some cases, Dave even had the opportunity to select the timbers and finishing

@Kitchissippi

FRESH FOOD at its BEST

kitchissippitimes KitchissippiTimes

WHAT DOES LOCAL MEAN TO YOU?

VISIT us and EXPERIENCE a MARKET BRIMMING with DELECTABLE and NUTRITIOUS FOOD.

1310 WELLINGTON WEST • OPEN 9-6 7days/wk.

11 • December 2021

At the “HERB” it’s our vast array of local produce, dairy, baked goods, condiments, teas and freshly roasted coffee, available YEAR ROUND.

COMMUNITY NEWS Local author talks family, mental health in second book BY JUDITH VAN BERKOM

December 2021 • 12

kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimes

estboro author Donna McCart Sharkey had her second book— Falling Together: A family’s story of mental illness and grief—published in March of this year by Demeter Press. The book documents Donna’s personal experiences with the mental illness of her daughter, Alessandra, and how, as she describes it, mental illness lives within a family, moves in, and can create a train wreck amidst the good things. It also deals with what grief does to a family. Falling Together, as Donna describes, was written for several reasons: to see clearly

and make sense of the chaos and to speak to the silence—her own silence, the silence of others and the silence of society’s systems and institutions. There’s not a lot written about mental illness and the impact it has on families, so Donna says she wrote out of a sense of responsibility. The book was written in small increments, with Donna taking breaks in between, as the experience was painful and brought back many memories. The book describes a particular type of parenthood, both before and after Alessandra’s death. Who was Alessandra? Donna describes her daughter as an optimist whose strength lay in her desire to be happy. She was fun-loving and

full of energy and she was so much more than her mental illness. That was another reason for writing this book, Donna said: children who have mental illness are more than just children with mental illness. Children who have died are more than just children who have died. Alessandra was a daughter, a sister, a friend, niece, cousin, aunt. She loved sports and was good at them—basketball in particular—and good at fixing things. She was a giver of gifts, a generous woman. She loved animals and worked at the Wild Bird Centre and the Experimental Farm. She loved the holiday seasons. She had a really big smile. But when she wasn’t feeling good, she

would be very depressed. Alessandra died in November 2013 in a mental health hospital. She suffered from mental illness for most of her young life and passed away at age 36. People have asked Donna if writing this book helped her deal with the loss. Writing can be a way of healing but, in this case, for her it became more of a realization. “I had pushed a lot to my mind’s periphery. But, as I was writing, at one point I thought of what Jungians say: one becomes enlightened by making the darkness conscious, making what was on the periphery of the mind conscious. It opened part of the mind I had previously closed off—the benefit of excavating your life.” Falling Together: A family’s story of mental illness and grief is available through the Ottawa Public Library, where they have five copies. The book is also available for purchase through Demeter Press at demeterpress.org

CELEBRATING YESTERDAY, TODAY AND TOMORROW

Four decades ago, Liz and Joe watched as CHEO’s Emergency Department staff diagnosed their infant son with listeria meningitis. It was a terrifying time they never forgot. CHEO helped their child survive, inspiring them to give back. When Liz was faced with terminal cancer in 2019, she and Joe made creating the Waldron Family Endowment Fund a celebration.

A legacy gift to CHEO helps to build a healthy and happy future for our children and youth.

This gift, and the one included in their estate, will be a source of support from one generation of parents to the next, and the next, and forever.

Be part of CHEO’s life-saving work today and tomorrow.

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT MEGAN DOYLE RAY AT:

mdoyleray@cheofoundation.com or 613 297-2633

Visit cheofoundation.com to learn how you can make a forever difference.

Your one stop shop for fun & fabulous gifts for all Best stocking stuffers in town FLAMINGO BOUTIQUE 992 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2X8 | 613.792.8000

www.flamingoboutique.ca

BIZ ROUNDUP Season's greetings!

We wish you the best for the holiday season and encourage you to #ShopLocal at our Kitchissippi businesses. Now, here are the latest headlines:

New to the neighbourhood

BIA holiday events and contests

The Wellington West BIA’s 12 Days of Giving contest is on from Nov.30Dec.11. “You could WIN a $50 gift card to Wellington West merchants! Every day, for 12 days, we’ll post a video with new 12 Days of Giving lyrics on Facebook. Each video will have a different theme (example: coffee, mittens). Tag a Wellington West theme-related business in the comments on Facebook for where you would like to win a gift card, plus

tag a person you’d gift it to. You have 24 hours to enter! The next day we’ll pull a winner from the comments and post the next theme,” the BIA’s website states. To learn more, visit wellingtonwest.ca The BIA's #WelliWindows Holiday Display Contest is back this festive season. “We’re lighting up the streets of Hintonburg and Wellington Village. From November 26 to December 14, vote for your favourite holiday window display for the People’s Choice Award! Every vote is automatically entered to win a prize package including 3 gift cards from some of the participating #WelliWindows merchants, as well as random weekly draws for 1 of 4 gift cards,” the BIA’s website states. Visit wellingtonwest.ca to learn more! The Westboro Village BIA is illuminating the neighbourhood once again with Light Up the Village. Over 27,000 holiday lights and 104 wreaths have been installed. The

One of Kitchissippi’s last snowfalls in 2020. PHOTO BY ELLEN BOND.

Renaissance Carolers will be singing at All Saints Anglican Church Courtyard and Winston Square on Fridays (4-6 p.m.) and Sundays (1-4 p.m.) in the weeks leading up to Christmas. The BIA’s #LightUptheVillage annual event series also includes holiday giveaways at local businesses and more. Check out westborovillage.com to read all about it!

kitchissippi.com

At the end of November, Knix opened in Westboro at 369 Richmond Rd. “We are an intimate apparel brand on a mission to inspire all people to live unapologetically free,” Knix’s Facebook page states. This is the international company’s first location in Ottawa. Visit knix.ca to learn more about the business and its products! Pop-up alert! Wuxly has a location at 436 Richmond Rd. until March. “Hailing from Toronto, we are the innovators of the first animal-free and sustainable parka brand proudly manufactured in Canada,” the business’ website states. If you are looking for a new winter coat,

stop by the store or visit wuxly.com to learn more. Alicja Confections is hosting its grand opening at its new Westboro location (303 Richmond Rd.) on Dec. 4! The international company specializes in chocolate and other confections. “We use classic techniques of chocolate making, but we don’t leave it there. Every chocolate is a new, weird, interesting, funky, delicious flavour you won't normally find anywhere else,” the company’s website states. To learn more, visit alicjaconfections.com.

@Kitchissippi

for sale

515 EDISON AV, WESTBORO, 3+1 BED / 3.5 BATH, EXQUISITE URBAN HOME FROM AWARD WINNING SHERBROOKE DEVELOPMENTS

for sale

608 BYRON AV, WESTBORO 4 BED / 3.5 BATH, STUNNING MODERN DESIGN IN COVETED LOCATION

SOLD

1794 KERR AV MCKELLAR HEIGHTS

Rob Kearns

Sales Representative

for Royal LePage

613.238.2801

mail@morrishometeam.com

Broker

13 • December 2021

TOP 1% IN CANADA

Patrick Morris

KitchissippiTimes

265 AVONDALE AV, WESTBORO 3 BED / 3.5 BATH, CONTEMPORARY OPEN CONCEPT SEMI IN PRIME LOCATION

kitchissippitimes

for sale

COMMUNITY NEWS Batter Up Bakery competes on TV’s The Big Bake: Holiday

December 2021 • 14

kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimes

BY MAUREEN MCEWAN

local business recently enjoyed some time in the spotlight. Batter Up Bakery was featured on an episode of the Food Network’s television show The Big Bake: Holiday this fall. The show is a “larger-than-life baking competition series with themed episodes,” according to the Food Network’s website. Every episode, three professional baking teams have just five hours to design, bake and decorate a “grand-scale cake creation.” At the end of each episode, the winning team goes home with a $10,000 prize. The Batter Up team competed on the first episode of the second season—“12 Days of Cakemas”—which aired Nov. 1. “It was just so surreal. It was one of those things that you dreamt of doing and then it was finally happening,” said Jamie-Lynn Pokrzywka, owner of Batter Up Bakery. “You can’t help but take it all in—the lights, the camera, the set,” she added. “It’s so unbelievably cool to see that firsthand.” Batter Up Bakery opened its doors at 396 Athlone Ave. in October 2020. Pokrzywka

said she had applied to The Big Bake: Holiday even before she opened the Westboro storefront last year. With the COVID-19 pandemic, the show’s filming was put on hold temporarily, but she heard back about her application last November. The bakery team was selected to compete, and filming was set for February 2021. When the big day came around, Pokrzywka actually had two reasons to celebrate. “[They] filmed it on my birthday. It was my first COVID birthday, so if you are going to have a COVID birthday, you might as well do it on a TV set is the way I went with it!” she said, laughing. For her team, Pokrzywka had to choose two bakers to compete alongside her. Her first teammate selection was one of her closest friends, Kristin. “Kristin is one of my best friends from college. We’ve known each other [for a long time] and she happens to do cakes on the side for fun as well—but she has an interior design background like myself—and I know she works really well under the gun.” But Pokrzywka was then faced with a

STAY STRONG STAY HEALTHY

Fairlawn Plaza 2148 Carling Ave Suite 201

613-722-2148 integratedtouchphysiotherapy.ca

Covid-19: We remain open with procedures to protect your health and safety

Jamie-Lynn Pokrzywka, owner of Batter Up Bakery. PHOTO COURTESY OF PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA. tough decision when selecting the third and final teammate. Ultimately, she went with seniority on the Batter Up Bakery team and asked Fiona, the very first employee she hired. “We brought Fiona along and she was a champion and did a really amazing job,” Pokrzywka said. The trio worked well under pressure. When the five hour countdown began, Pokrzywka said each team member brought different strengths to the table. “We all got along really well—there was never any drama. It was easy to work together, we had really great ideas that jived together and we were all able to collaborate.”

And the team leader felt that they were represented well on the show. “I’m really happy with how they portrayed us because I like to have fun in the kitchen and we work hard, play hard,” she added. The show's judges included chef and author Eddie Jackson, chef and author Harry Eastwood and chef and cake designer Ron Ben-Israel. On the episode, each team’s cake had to feature a lyric from the well-known carol “12 Days of Christmas” in their overall design theme. Batter Up Bakery’s creation “Snowman’s Land” featured the “11 pipers piping” lyric. But the competition wasn’t a piece of cake.

ANY BUSINESS WORTH HAVING IS WORTH FIGHTING FOR.

The Mann Lawyers Commercial Litigation team will support your business through any dispute – be it with velvet glove or iron fist. Mann Lawyers Full Service Law Firm 613-722-1500 mannlawyers.com

Affordable, Clean, Secure, Central there to cheer each other on.” While Team Batter Up didn’t take home the $10,000, Pokrzywka said the competitors were all supportive of one another, no matter who took home the prize. “We were just so proud of all of us, [proud] of every team because we know we all conquered it. Even if you didn’t win, you achieved something that is so crazy and so magical,” she said. “It’s almost unbelievable because there’s not very many times you’re going to have an opportunity to have to create a cake in five hours and show off your skills.” And the Batter Up Bakery team is eager to compete on television once again. “My whole team is asking me when we’re applying for another one because they all want to do it,” Pokrzywka said. “All the girls are excited so hopefully we get an opportunity again to do this in the future. It will be a blast if we do get that chance again.”

To learn more about the “12 Days of Cakemas” episode or The Big Bake: Holiday show, visit foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-bigbake/holiday. New episodes of The Big Bake: Holiday air Mondays at 8 p.m. EST on Food Network Canada. Viewers can catch up on past episodes via StackTV.

√ Inside Storage √ Over 600 Lockers √ Climate Controlled √ Over 100 √ 7 Days/Week Different Sizes

340 Parkdale Avenue (between Wellington & Scott)

613-729-2130

www.parkdaleministorage.com

Joel Harden MPP, Ottawa Centre

kitchissippi.com

The biggest challenge throughout the day was managing the “unexpected” elements, Pokrzywka said, and staying creative. “It’s all the unexpected, right?” she said. “Everything that was happening that was out of your control and [there’s] a lot of problemsolving during the episode.” Thankfully, the team was competing against six friendly fellow bakers from across Canada. “We got really lucky. We hit the jackpot with our competitors for sure,” Pokrzywka said. Even with the pandemic restrictions, the teams were able to bond throughout the filming. It was a chance to build friendships with people they wouldn’t normally meet, Pokrzywka said, and one of the highlights of the experience. “We all keep in touch. We follow each other on Instagram. We’re our biggest supporters,” she added. “And everybody was

joelhardenmpp.ca 109 Catherine St. Ottawa, ON. K2P 2M8

JHarden-CO@ndp.on.ca 613-722-6414

1071 Ambleside Dr

Fitness Centre Laundry On-Site Storage Lockers Water Included Pet Friendly

• • • • •

Oversized Balconies with Views Hardwood & Ceramic Floors Walk-In Closets Ensuite Bathroom (select suites) Dishwasher (select suites)

2 Bedrooms

Available JAN 1 starting at $1,295

Available JAN 1 starting at $1,575

613-688-2222 | rentals@osgoode.ca 1284 Wellington St W

OsgoodeProperties.com

15 • December 2021

1 Bedrooms

Call us today to make Parkway Towers your new home!

KitchissippiTimes

Welcome to Parkway Towers!

• • • • •

Key Suite Amenities

kitchissippitimes

Key Property Amenities

@Kitchissippi

Set on beautifully landscaped grounds, Parkway Towers features bright, spacious suites with oversized balconies, many of them with spectacular views of the river and the Gatineau Hills. Down the street, Richmond Road offers grocery stores, restaurants, and access to bus routes and major roads. Nearby, Westboro Village bustles with charming shops, restaurants, and cafés. Residents also enjoy proximity to parks, schools, and walking and cycling trails along the river.

GIVING Mom and daughter baking business raises thousands for community organizations BY CHARLIE SENACK

December 2021 • 16

kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimes

mom and daughter baking duo from Westboro has raised over $10,000 for organizations in the community, after a personal goal turned into a business during the pandemic. In March 2020, Margherita Marcone, a lawyer by trade, graduated with a diploma from the Le Cordon Bleu culinary school. The Westboro mom decided to put her apron on after finding it difficult to find nut free desserts for her sweet-loving daughter, Julianna. “Julianna has a nut allergy and her favourite food is croissants and baked goods, and it’s not easy to find that stuff in bakeries,” she said. “I’d always wanted to up my game in recipes to make at home. I grew up in the kitchen and always enjoyed baking, so I took a class at Le Cordon Bleu, then another class, and another class, and next thing you know I got a diploma in pastry.” Marcone sits on the board of directors at Dovercourt, where she frequently brought the team homemade baked goodies. The executive director suggested Marcone start a business, but that didn’t seem sustainable while raising a family and working full-time.

A Julianna Banana Box. PHOTO COURTESY OF MARGHERITA MARCONE. But as Marcone received her diploma, the world around her was changing: COVID-19 was declared a worldwide pandemic, shops were shutting their doors, schools switched to remote learning and people were asked to stay home. “I found myself with this new skill set that I wanted to share,” Marcone said. “When everything started to shut down, it presented the opportunity to start doing some classes

with kids from the community. They would register through Dovercourt and we’d do classes together and raise money for the inclusion program because they do fabulous things for kids all over the city, and for children with special needs.” A few thousand dollars was raised, and Marcones’s efforts, with her daughter Julianna by her side, didn’t stop there. That’s when their new cooking company

“Julianna Banana” was formed. According to the business’ website, they aim “to inspire kids and families to get baking, cooking, and creating in the kitchen all while learning about food, having fun, and gaining an appreciation for the importance of community and giving back.” Julianna Banana now offers its own classes alongside partnering with other not-forprofit organizations, and has other chefs who came on board to teach classes—many of whom were Marcone’s classmates. In the past, Julianna Banana also worked closely with the Parkdale Food Centre, putting on cooking classes for the organization that feeds 1,045 households a month. “They are so progressive and they are so much more than just a food bank,” said Marcone. “The fact that they also do teaching is pretty neat. They are a part of the community, and they are an important part of our neighborhood.” The Parkdale Food Centre says it’s community-driven initiatives like this which goes a long way for their organization. Higher food costs means they are spending $22,000 a month on groceries, so any donation goes a long way.

sponsored by

December 2021 • 26

kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimes

Christmastime in 1899 Westboro Continues from page 25 As half of the houses in Westboro at the time were valued at $400 or less (approximately $13,000 in 2021 dollars), the majority of residents lived in poverty. There were, of course, no sewers or water service, no electricity and few conveniences. Most of the men in these families were farm labourers, or they obtained work in the area on the railroad or travelled away to lumber camps. Those who were well-off would have afforded a horse and buggy and could travel into Ottawa via Richmond Road (which included a toll charge to be paid at the toll house just before Carleton Avenue) to do their shopping. As far as businesses in Westboro at the time, there were very few. Forty-nine-year-old William Lowry operated a general store and was the village postmaster from 1892-1902 at the northeast corner of Richmond Road and Winona Avenue (on the site of Kitchenalia’s new location), while 57-year-old John Falls, who would soon become Carleton County Constable, operated a small bakery and butcher shop from his home on Picton Avenue, just behind Lowry’s store. Benjamin Read Whiteley was a 31-year-old jeweller and watchmaker who had a small shop in his home at the southwest corner of Richmond Road and Churchill Avenue (on the site of today’s LuluLemon), while Joseph Edey, brother of well-known Ottawa architect Moses Edey, had been operating a small grocery store (on the site of today’s Westboro Legion building), but he passed away on Dec. 5, just prior to Christmas. Thus, shopping within Westboro was limited, though it is likely that many of the gifts opened in Westboro on Christmas morning 1899 would have been purchased at one of these small settler businesses. Certainly the churches would have been a popular spot, as All Saints Church

Clockwise from top left: A photo of George and Alison Holland's home on Richmond Road taken around 1898-1899. PHOTO E008302145-V8 COURTESY OF LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES CANADA. An article describing the Christmastime snowfall in 1899 in the Ottawa Journal on Dec. 26, 1899. An article announcing Ottawa celebrating Boxing Day for the first time in the Ottawa Journal Dec. 26, 1899. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE OTTAWA JOURNAL.

”Several events occurred in 1899 to move

Westboro from a barely-there hamlet on the road to Richmond to a community with aspirations of so much more.” and the Methodist Church, on Richmond Road just east of Winona Avenue, and the old Presbyterian Church would have hosted their full congregations for Christmas services. Nearby, Christmas week was a sad one for the Hintonburg Public School as they bade farewell to their long-time beloved principal Miss. Elizabeth Tomkins on Friday, Dec. 22.

Meanwhile in Ottawa, parents were complaining to the school board about teachers telling students that there was no Santa Claus, some threatening to remove their children permanently. It was also reported in the Ottawa Journal, in an article titled “An Old Custom Dying” that few families had Christmas trees that year. The year 1899 was also notable as Boxing Day was celebrated in Ottawa for

the first time, when the Sons of England introduced the custom through a large celebration attended by over 500 people. Though life in Westboro would change significantly after Christmas 1899, much of what was important then is still important today, and bringing to life the excitement and optimism of 122 years ago certainly helps tell the story of how today’s Westboro came to be.

FOLLOW YOUR DREAM, HOME.

2079 Lenester Avenue Features every upgrade imaginable while keeping the charm of a traditional family home. Alexandra York $799,000

152 Spadina Avenue Award-winning and featured in local magazines, this Hintonburg gem is a must-see. John King

373 Berkley Avenue An enchanting property designed by Jason Flynn in the heart of Westboro Village. Sarah Grand $1,575,000

292 First Avenue Timeless elegance in this Barry Hobin-designed home on one of the Glebe's best streets. Deb Cherry

13 Panorama Private Built by Domicile & infused with Arts & Crafts influences with contemporary features. John King

41 Sweetland Avenue Charming semi in one of Ottawa's oldest and most walkable/bikeable neighbourhoods. Deb Cherry

402 Athlone Avenue Luxury is embodied in this modern Mediterranean-inspired Westboro home. John King

109-250 Lett Street This 1-bed condo with a walkable lifestyle is a fantastic opportunity to own at Lebreton Flats! Deb Cherry

423 Besserer Street Larger than it looks with additions & a third level. Investment opportunity in Sandy Hill. John King

278 Spencer Street Build your dream home in one of Ottawa’s most coveted neighborhoods! Plan & permits available. Karen McClintock $799,000

@Kitchissippi

PH4-1422 Wellington Street West Renovated penthouse offers fabulous lifestyle in Wellington West. Deb Cherry $1,050,000

kitchissippi.com

545 Westminster Avenue Located in the heart of McKellar Park, this single family home features luxury details throughout. Sarah Hunter $2,195,000

27 • December 2021

©2021 Engel & Völkers Ottawa Central, Brokerage. Each brokerage independently owned & operated. *To Realtor.ca John King, Deb Cherry, Karen McClintock, & Sarah Hunter, Brokers. Alexandra York & Sarah Grand, Sales Representatives.

KitchissippiTimes

Learn more at ottawacentral.evrealestate.com

kitchissippitimes

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

NEPEAN HIGH SCHOOL CORNER

De-streamed math classes: One teacher's first impressions BY HUGH KELLY

December 2021 • 28

to evaluate the effects of de-streaming. Students have entered her class with significant differences in knowledge, caused by wildly different experiences in Grade 8 math. With the pandemic, all courses are now taught in 2.5 hour periods, which she finds are too long for students to focus on math. Ms. Novotny says, “There is now a larger gap between my most and least proficient students, since in past years, they would have been in different streams. This is challenging for teachers, who have to keep their most adept students engaged, while making sure students who struggle a bit more are keeping up.” To deal with this, she’s had to prepare much more for her classes, with extra activities and multi-level worksheets for different students.

”There is now a larger gap between my most and least

proficient students, since in past years, they would have been in different streams.” – Leona Novotny

kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimes

tarting this school year, all Grade 9 math classes in Ontario are being offered in only one stream. In previous years, students chose one of three streams (academic, applied or essential) which had different curriculum expectations and assessment methods. Generally, students taking academic math in Grades 9 and 10 then took “university” level math in Grades 11 and 12, while applied students moved to “college” level math. Most subjects (English, French, sciences, and geography) are streamed in all grades, while some are not streamed at all, such as the arts, physical education and Spanish. The Government of Ontario is destreaming Grade 9 math in order to create more equitable education and “remove

barriers for all students, including racialized children in Ontario,” according to Caitlin Clark, a spokeswoman for Education Minister Stephen Lecce. Research has shown that Black, Indigenous and low-income students have been disproportionately moved into the applied stream, which limits their educational pathways during and after high school. Leona Novotny, head of Nepean High School's math department, has been teaching math for over 30 years, and she is now halfway through her first semester teaching a de-streamed Grade 9 class. In her opinion, the de-streaming seems to be overall beneficial to students, but some aspects of the change have been challenging. First, she observes that the pandemic is still having a considerable negative impact on learning, which makes it difficult

Further, a lack of course-specific resources has created issues for her department. The implementation of the de-streamed curriculum feels rushed because teachers do not have a textbook for this new course, and they havenʼt received much guidance on exactly how to manage classes of mixed-level students. This means Ms. Novotny and her colleagues have had to spend more time developing their own strategies and lesson plans. On the bright side, she likes the effect this new model is having on students with low confidence in their math abilities. She says they are being “brought up by the challenges of the curriculum and by the environment of the class,” and surprising themselves with their success. For many students, having a higher bar is pushing them to try harder, and thus, they achieve more. Since she’s only been teaching the de-streamed class for two months, Ms. Novotny said it is too early to say definitively if itʼs a positive change. But she hopes that, once the effects of COVID-19 wear off, and teachers have had more time to adjust to the new system, it will create a net gain for students. Recently, the Ontario government announced its plan to de-stream all other Grade 9 classes beginning next fall. As these math classes have shown, the new approach will create unique challenges for each subject, but, hopefully, it will also offer more equity and opportunities for all students.

Welcome Home!

Comfortable, affordable, retirement living in the heart of Kitchissippi!

1280 Wellington St. West | 783 Bank Street www.bloomfields.ca | 613-695-6434

Now accepting applications for our Retirement Floor

Call 613-722-6690

NOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL CORNER The new Afro Dance Company Club: Featuring guest artist Suzan Richards! BY JAYDEN JERIC CRUZ

Even now, she strives to teach the younger generation everything she has learned and inspire them to express themselves through Afro Caribbean dance. Using her own studio, and now the drama room at Notre Dame, she is trying to reach as many people as possible and share her love of cultural dance. MASC has worked in collaboration with ArtsND to bring Ms. Richards to the diverse school, and the school has been lucky enough to have Ms. Richards share her skills with students through the Afro Dance Company Club. Here, Ms. Richards hopes to provide an outlet for participants to celebrate and create a vision for themselves

we are dedicated

through Afro Caribbean dance. She believes in the importance of knowing your heritage or learning where other people gain their artistic perspective. With this in mind, the only expectations for members are to be committed and bring lots of energy! There is no experience required!

@Kitchissippi

At DeLuca Hair

Jayden Jeric Cruz (left) and Suzan Richards (right). PHOTO COURTESY OF SUZAN RICHARDS.

kitchissippi.com

otre Dame is a diverse, vibrant and thriving school community. We are always looking to grow and develop in ways that extend beyond the curriculum. The Notre Dame arts department is running with this idea and has had the honour of hosting Suzan Richards, an outstanding professional dance artist, who is currently sharing her creativity with the students of Notre Dame. Ms. Richards is running an afterschool Afro Dance Program. The program is open to all students and is intended to introduce participants to Afro-Caribbean dance. Ms. Richards has a wealth of experience

that she is ready to share with Notre Dame students. She has performed and toured with internationally renowned musicians and performers. Ms. Richards has also taught her style of Afro dance at various schools in the Ottawa and Outaouais region. Today, Ms. Richards is a professional artist with Multicultural Arts for Schools and Communities (MASC) and Notre Dame is so lucky to have her working with our students. Ms. Richards is the founder and owner of The Cultural Arts Studio in Ottawa (7-149 King George St.). “‘Cultural Arts’ is an umbrella name that encompasses all types of dance,” says Ms. Richards.

to offering superb

Our educated staff prides themselves in staying up to date with the latest trends and styles. We are happy to say that European products such as Eufora and Rica.

Happy Holidays!

We are now offering Hotheads hair extensions!

29 • December 2021

we use plant-based

KitchissippiTimes

267 Richmond Road Ottawa, ON K1Z 6X3 (613) 680-4247 Book your holiday appointment now at delucahair.ca

kitchissippitimes

professional hair services.

Happy Holidays!

WESTBORO VILLAGE • December 2021 • 30

kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimes

The business community of the Westboro Village BIA is proud to once again present Light Up the Village, our annual celebration for the holiday season! Here's what you can look forward to:

W Dental 270 Richmond Rd • (613) 564-3300

wdentalstudio.com

Mrs. Claus and Her Elf - Keep your eyes peeled! Rumour has it that each Saturday in December before Christmas, Mrs. Claus and her top elf will be roaming Westboro Village to help Santa find a few extra gifts from our great shops! If you see them, feel free to stop and take a photo. You might just get an early Christmas surprise... Renaissance Carolers - A Christmas tradition! Every Friday (4-6pm) and Sunday (1-4pm) in December before the 25th, enjoy the soothing sights and sounds of these traditional carolers singing holiday classics. Find them outside at All Saints Anglican Church courtyard, Frontline Credit Union, or Winston Square (in front of The Piggy Market).

Warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful holiday and a Happy New Year from our family to yours.

27,000 Holiday Lights - Light Up the Village, indeed! Enjoy the twinkling of lights under snowy nights throughout Westboro Village. You can smile knowing that our LED lights are 500 times more energy efficient than traditional bulbs, but are just as bright!

Dog treats, toys and accessories. From left to right we have Bosco and Roxy's Christmas advent calendar with bosco and Roxy's gourmet dog biscuits, below that is the individual bosco and Roxy cookies, a minimal stuffed crinkle reindeer, soda pup red present to stuff treats in, kanine kerchief holiday bandanas, and finally zippy paws rope and plush mitten toy.

Win One of Three $250 Gift Cards! - Stay tuned to our social media each weekday from December 1st to 19th for your chance to win big! Each week for three weeks, you'll be able to win a $250 gift card from a Westboro business featured here in this holiday gift guide. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter by looking up "Westboro Village." It is our pleasure to provide these spirit-lifting activities for you and yours. Thank you so much for supporting our businesses through another challenging year. For more details, please visit www.westborovillage.com/lightupthevillage

Cat toys and accessories. From left to right we have multipet catnip infused marshmallow and hot coco treats, bees handmade goods red bow that can attach to any collar, 2 blue boinks cat flicks, recreational narcatics premium catnip, rc breakaway cat collar in red plaid, multipet squeaky holiday mouse, spot flippin fish and another multipet hot coco and marshmallow. Human gifts! From left to right again we have comfies pet print slippers, petrageous mugs, hemp 4 paws cbd infused bath bombs, sock daddy breed specific one size fits most socks, Holly molly pet odor eliminating candles (in holiday themed scents) and primitives by Kathy breed specific totes.

Masters’n Dog 354 Richmond Rd (613) 792-3711

mastersndogs.ca

westborovillage.com

Bruno Racine Salon

Travel kits start at $35 and can be purchased in-salon or online at

www.brunoracinesalon.com

We have something for every budget including regularand mini-size cupcakes, cake pops, cakes, cookies, macarons and much more! Everything is available through our online store for contact-less local delivery and front-of-store pickup! www.thecupcakelounge.ca

Luxii Health Spa Located at 110 Richmond Road in front of Strawberry Blonde Bakery. 613-722-2441 | @luxiiwestboro

westborovillage.com

31 • December 2021 • WESTBORO VILLAGE

Looking for an original and most importantly, useful and pleasant gift this holiday season, buy a $100 gift certificate for any of the spa services and receive an additional complimentary $20 giftcard. Luxii Health Spa services include massage therapy, laser hair removal, facials and cryotherapy.

The holiday season is upon us, so why not enjoy a box of sweets and treats from The Cupcake Lounge! Perfect for a cozy night in, or for sending to your co-workers and loved ones!

KitchissippiTimes

The Cupcake Lounge

Our Holiday products are back and we’re HOLLY JOLLY about it!

kitchissippitimes

L.A. by Bru Travel Kits are perfect as a stocking stuffer or for your holiday travel needs! We have different kits for every skin type: oily, dry, combination, and normal to dry.

@Kitchissippi

236 Richmond Rd (613) 232-0202

kitchissippi.com

HELPING FAMILIES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON As a primary sponsor of Toy Mountain, Frontline's main branch located at 365 Richmond road will be a toy drop off centre for everyone in Kitchissippi. The deadline to drop off new, unwrapped toys is Dec 10th 2021. Thank you for helping make this Christmas a special one for girls and boys in need across the community

433 Richmond Rd 321-0401 613(613) 862 0926

Westboro 324 Richmond Road, K1Z 6X6 Byward Market 6 Byward Market Square, K1N 7A1

Continuum Fitness

kitchissippi.com

290 Picton Ave Suite 104 (613) 552-9498

In Ottawa exclusively at

Maverick 307a Richmond Rd (613) 421-0944

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimesw

thecupcakelounge.com brachic.ca

WESTBORO VILLAGE • December 2021 • 32

Brachic

Holiday 6 pack - $20 Available now until December 24th. Pre orders by email only to

hello@mavericksdonuts.com Westboro | Glebe | Rideau magpiejewellery.com | info@magpiejewellery.com

Specify Westboro pick up!

continuumfitness.ca Fitness Coaching: Our educated and experienced Registered Kinesiologists and Strength Coaches design customized strength and mobility programs based on in depth assessment techniques. Allow our team of professionals to help you feel better, reduce potential injuries, build a solid strength foundation, improve movement capability, optimize alignment and mobility, restore balance and improve overall function. Virtual Classes: Join us online for Posture Improvement (Fridays @ noon), Core Stability (Wednesdays @ noon) & Stretch (Mondays @ 12:45 pm). Classes begin January 10! Registered Massage Therapy: Registered Massage Therapists assess and treat physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints of the body, mostly by handson manipulation. Release tension, relieve physical stress and dysfunction, improve range of motion, increase circulation, and help recover from injuries and pain for overall improved mobility

westborovillage.com

Westboro Legion 391 Richmond Rd. 613-725-2778

E. R. Fisher Menswear

@erfishermenswear Superfine Lambswool & Angora Scarf by Begg & Co. Made in Scotland

Saje Natural Wellness 350 Richmond Rd (613) 725-6923

saje.com

Manhattan West

kitchissippitimes

322 Richmond Rd (613) 695-0517

manhattanwest.ca The perfect sweater to carry you through the holiday season and beyond. Give as a gift or grab it for yourself.

Canvas shopping tote $8.95 + tax

Ombël Salon

300 Richmond Rd. Ottawa ON K1Z 6X6

info@ombelsalon.com • (613) 728-7878 • @ombelsalon 300Richmind Rd.

(613) 728-7878

*Terms and conditions: This gift card contains a value which may only be used to purchase services and retail products at Ombel. Present this card to redeem it's value at the end of your appointment. Card will not be replaced if lost, stolen or destroyed. This card may not be redeemed for cash or online products.

info@ombelsalon @ombelsalon

Too many choices, not enough time. Why not give the gift of beauty this holiday season with a gift card to Ombël Salon. Spend $100 and receive a $15 bonus credit *Terms and conditions: This gift card contains a value which may only be used to purchase services and retail products at Ombel. Present this card to redeem it's value at the end of your appointment. Card will not be replaced if lost, stolen or destroyed. This card may not be redeemed for cash or online products.

westborovillage.com

33 • December 2021 • WESTBORO VILLAGE

$36 Reflexology Rituals ACUPRESSURE MAT & ROLL-ONS Step up your wellness rituals with our bestselling Reflexology Mat and Remedy Roll-on kit. A great way to give yourself a natural pick-me-up or relieve tension while you revive tired feet.

Tuque & scarf set $27.95 + tax

KitchissippiTimes

$50 Mindful Moments RELAXING BLENDS & DAILY JOURNAL Create a daily mindfulness practice with these tools for relaxation and reflection. Take a moment with a calming mist, a grounding roll-on and a daily self-care journal made in collaboration with Stil Classics.

Glass Poppy ornament $18.95 + tax

Ball cap $15.95 + tax

@Kitchissippi

While you’re there, check the catalogue for such popular Poppy gift items as men’s and women’s T-shirts, tote bags, birdbaths, umbrellas, ball caps, jewellery, tree ornaments, water bottles and more.

kitchissippi.com

Men’s & women’s Poppy gifts Two shopping options 1. Order via the national Poppy Store: www. poppystore.ca. Your package will be shipped to your home. 2. Between Dec. 8 and 12, order & pre-pay locally through the Westboro Legion then pick up your gift(s) at the branch. (No shipping fee)

Richmond Road at Kirkwood (613) 829 8313 info@erfisher.com

MUST Boutique

WESTBORO VILLAGE • December 2021 • 34

kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimesw

356B Richmond Rd (613) 722-0010

Wall Space 358 Richmond Rd 613-729-0003

@wallspacegallery Wall Space Gallery is excited to welcome you this holiday season! Shop the gallery for fine jewellery, contemporary Canadian art, and custom framing. Our feature exhibition is Julie Liger-Belair's The man who thought he was a mountain (and other parables), showcasing collages filled with folkloric fable. On display until December 24th. All artwork + jewellery available in person or online at wallspacegallery.ca. Free parking behind gallery via Danforth Ave.

SISTERHOOD613 371a Richmond Rd Suite 5 (613) 986-8410

sisterhood613.com

Find your holiday outfits and lovely gifts for your loved ones. We carry beautiful scarves and accessories, as well as our carefully curated clothing collection. Gift cards available. Seen here: Tulle & lace top, wide leg pants and handbag from Must Boutique. Happy holiday season and thank you for shopping local!

Perfect the gift for the person who wants the perfect lashes.

Bushtukah 203 Richmond Rd (613) 792-1170

Premium eyecare. Stylish eyewear.

shop.bushtukah.com

This pair of TOMFORD blue light ﬁlter glasses, makes for a perfect gift this Holiday season! Visit us in store for more Stylish and useful gift ideas !

The perfect gift of warmth for just about everything and everyone.

The Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody

438 Richmond Rd. 613 722- 4747

westborovillage.com

The Patagonia Down Sweater Jacket

346 Richmond Rd Unit 203 613 806-9623

pathwayyoga.ca

Batter Up Bakery 613-793-2253

Fashion United

_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ Pathway Yoga! _____________________________________________ Pathway Yoga! $50 Pathway Yoga! $50 $50

fashion-united.ca

Want to go basic? Our 1 to 3 sport colour printing is local and done by the best printers in the region! Pricing available upon request. Minimum order 24 pieces. For great ideas on Customize Branded Products and to check out what else we do, check out our Blog brougham.ca/brougham-blog/

Gift Cards available

Menu:

$ 25 $ 50 $100

Juice Dudez 91 Richmond Rd A order.koomi.com

westborovillage.com

.ca

Gift cards are sold and redeemed in-store this year

35 • December 2021 • WESTBORO VILLAGE

Celebrate the season by gifting these cozy 100% cotton roomy flannel Pyjama Sets! The best way to show your holiday spirit is with cozy jammies! Available in many prints and colours at Fashion United.

KitchissippiTimes

435 Richmond Rd (613) 728-2626

TO TO FROM TO FROM AMOUNT FROM AMOUNT AMOUNT

Gift Certificate Gift Gift Certificate Certificate

• Blank Cotton T-shirts S-XL - $4.83 ea. 2XL to 4 XL -add $1.34 each • Super Quality Fine-Cotton T-shirts S- XL - $8.25 ea. 2XL to 4 XL -add $1.25 each • Tri-blend T-shirts S- XL - $13.98 ea. 2XL to 4 XL -add $0.75 each

kitchissippitimes

From cookies to cupcakes, gingerbread houses and hot cocoa bombs, there is something for everyone to enjoy! Get in on the action or sit back and relax, either way Batter Up Bakery has got the holiday bases covered!

Let your imagination create any design for a T-shirt!

@Kitchissippi

batterupbakery.ca

What better gift than great local yoga in the of your favourite neighbourhood. Pathway Yoga is located in a spacious studio with gleaming hardwood floors and tons of natural light, right on Richmond Road between Lulu Lemon and MEC in Westboro. Don’t miss this one!

Brougham Promotional (613) 236-5879

kitchissippi.com

Pathway Yoga

PROVINCIAL UPDATE Please wear a mask and stay safe!

LRT public inquiry isJoel on Harden MPP, Ottawa Centre

SUBMITTED BY JOEL HARDEN, MPP FOR OTTAWA CENTRE

December 2021 • 36

kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimes

t’s been quite a trying time for Ottawa’s LRT. I’ve been asking the province to help fix our LRT for a long time. After two years of urging action, they’re finally beginning to listen. On Dec. 1, 2019, we held an LRT town hall in the basement of the Centretown United Church with transit users and workers. What we heard that day shocked us: doors that jammed; train wheels that cracked; stations that smelled of sewer gas. None of this made sense. So we called on the province to act.

MONDAY • 49 cent Wings all day + tax • $2.50 Montreal Style Jumbo Hot Dog cooked in Beer ($3.50 for take out) • Jumbo Hot Dog with Poutine $6.45 • $5.25 Caesar and Screwdriver cocktails

joelharden.ca We insisted they find out why this train metamorphosis with the doesn’t work, and why it is109 so Catherine challenging St. insect flipped on its back. Ottawa, ON. K2P 2M8 to investigate the secretive public-private This was a mess that only JHarden-CO@ndp.on.ca partnership (P3) behind our LRT. At that subsided briefly with decreased 613-722-6414 time, the province refused. They said this ridership under COVID-19, when was the city’s problem. many of us worked from home. Undeterred, some councillors But then, a sixth LRT derailment worked hard for answers but were met happened this year on Sept. 19. A train with excuses, obstruction and delays. entering Tremblay station travelled Councillor McKenney, a member of the across a rail bridge with 12 passengers as city’s Transit Commission, could only a wheel remained off the track. That sent review the LRT’s monthly maintenance shockwaves through our city. Our office contract in the City Solicitor’s Office was flooded with calls and emails from and was banned from taking photos or commuters who were left stranded. written notes. Calling this Kafkaesque In the two months since, as Joanne is an insult to a great novelist. There Chianello from CBC Ottawa continued was no subtlety here, no man-beetle her focus on finding the truth, more

223 Armstrong Street 613-728-4424

ESTABLISHED SINCE 1935

TUESDAY • 49 cent Wings all day + tax • $2.50 Montreal Style Jumbo Hot Dog cooked in Beer ($3.50 for take out) • Jumbo Hot Dog with Poutine $6.45 • Free pool starting at 1pm • $4.20 16oz Domestic Draft (tax incl) WEDNESDAY • $5.25 Glass of House Wine (tax incl) • $5.25 Caesar Cocktails (tax incl) • $2.50 Montreal Style Jumbo Hot Dog cooked in Beer ($3.50 for take out)

THURSDAY • $5.25 Glass of House Wine (tax incl) • $2.50 Montreal Style Jumbo Hot Dog cooked in Beer ($3.50 for take out)

FRIDAY • Live Entertainment • No Cover • $2.50 Montreal Style Jumbo Hot Dog cooked in Beer ($3.50 for take out) • Beer Battered Fish & Chips $9.50 tax incl.

SATURDAY • 8oz Striploin Steak and Fries with homemade coleslaw $11.95 taxes incl

SUNDAY • 49 cent wings starting at 1pm + tax • $2.50 Montreal Style Jumbo Hot Dog cooked in Beer ($3.50 for take out) $3.90 Shooters (tax incl)

Daily Specials: *Eat-in only with purchase of a beverage

Watch your favorite NFL, NHL, MLB, Soccer on our 11 large screen HD TVs.

Breakfast Special (Fri, Sat & Sun only) Starting at $5.95 includes 1 egg, ham or bacon, home fries & coffee with one refill. (endless coffee for $2.95 per customer) 8oz Strip Loin Steak & Fritz $10.60+tax all day, everyday In House Only.

Soup or Small Garden Salad + BLT or Grilled cheese sandwich $6.95 tax incl.

Montreal Smoked Meat Sandwich $8.95 or $12.20 for platter + tax

CHRISTMAS, PRIVATE OR RETIREMENT PARTIES! We can accommodate & cater to large groups TWO OUTDOOR PATIOS!

BEER PRICES (tax incl): Quarts ................ $9.90 12oz Bottles........ $5.45 8oz Draft ............ $2.60

concerns came to light. All of this traced back to our secretive P3 LRT deal. After previously insisting that this was our city’s problem, Caroline Mulroney, Ontario’s Transportation Minister announced a public inquiry on Nov. 17, after I spent two days asking her about it in Question Period. The dam finally broke. So there you have it, dear readers. The LRT public inquiry is on because some of us demanded more from politics. Some of us believe that fighting back and speaking out can make a difference. Let’s keep the pressure on—let’s get the answers and the LRT we deserve.

49 CENT CHICKEN WING SPECIAL Mon & Tues all day • Wed & Thurs starting at 3pm Sunday starting at 1pm (with purchase of beverage) tax not incl. GREY CUP PARTY Sunday December 12th on all 11 big screens! Complimentary bowl of chili Many, many prizes 49 cent wings + tax

NIGHTLY SPECIALS (all specials are in-house with the purchase of a beverage) MONDAY: 40% off Pizza from 4pm - 12am WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY 40% off appetizers from 4pm - 12am Gift certificates Zucchini / Nachos / Jalapeno Poppers available / Garlic Cheese Bread / Onion Rings FRIDAY NIGHTS Live entertainment starting at 8:45pm (no Cover) NEW YEARS EVE PARTY Live Music from 9pm - 1am Complimentary Champagne Toast at midnight

FEDERAL UPDATE

Holiday season is a time of giving SUBMITTED BY YASIR NAQVI, MP FOR OTTAWA CENTRE

613-946-8682, and let me know how we can help. Invite me to your holiday or charity events, or let me know what you think about important issues in our community—I look forward to connecting with you over the holiday season and beyond!

Affordable, Clean, Secure, Central √ Inside Storage √ Over 600 Lockers √ Climate Controlled √ Over 100 √ 7 Days/Week Different Sizes

340 Parkdale Avenue (between Wellington & Scott)

613-729-2130

www.parkdaleministorage.com

Our Family for Yours® Notre famille au service de la vôtre®

37 • December 2021

GEM Health Care Services Services de Santé GEM

KitchissippiTimes

We’re here to help, call us today 613-761-7474 or visit: gemhealthcare.com

kitchissippitimes

Exceptional care in the comfort of your own home

@Kitchissippi

Stay at home longer

kitchissippi.com

am thrilled to be submitting my first column this month as your new MP for Ottawa Centre. First and foremost, I’d like to thank you for putting your trust in me to represent you as Member of Parliament. My team and I have already hit the ground running, working on key issues that are important to the residents of our community. As we enter the holiday season, I want to wish everyone happy holidays, merry Christmas, happy Hanukkah and happy Kwanzaa. And, of course, a very happy new

year! I hope you are able to enjoy some quality time safely with family and friends. For some in our community, the holidays can be a difficult time. Please check in with your friends and family to make sure they are okay. Also, connect with our community. We have many amazing local organizations here in Ottawa Centre that continue to do great work to support those in need, but they cannot do it alone. If you can, please support them—whether that is by doing

something like volunteering with the Shepherds of Good Hope or participating in The Good Companions’ Santa 4 Seniors. There are so many ways we can come together and support our community during the holiday season. Here's a list of a few local organizations you can support: Shepherds of Good Hope; Parkdale Food Centre; Cornerstone Housing for Women; Meals on Wheels; The Good Companions; The Snowsuit Fund of Ottawa; Operation Come Home; The Ottawa Mission; Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa. I want you to know that being an MP who is accessible is of utmost importance to me. I am excited to share that my community office is officially up and running. It is located at 404-1066 Somerset Street West. I have a great team of individuals who are ready to assist constituents and provide exceptional service. Please reach out to me at Yasir.Naqvi@parl.gc.ca, or call us at

COUNCILLOR’S CORNER

Fostering community during the holidays SUBMITTED BY JEFF LEIPER, KITCHISSIPPI WARD COUNCILLOR

December 2021 • 38

kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

KitchissippiTimes

inter has arrived in Ottawa! Fortunately, the colder weather is accompanied by a number of public health measures to ensure the safety and health of our community. COVID-19 booster shots are available to frontline healthcare workers and residents over 70, with eligibility being expanded soon. The Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine has been approved for use by children five to 11 years old. Ottawa Public Health will make community clinics available for appointments, as well as provide numerous after-school pop-up clinics to speed up the process.

As if we all haven’t had enough shots by now, booking for the annual flu shot opened in early November: appointments are available at pharmacies and other clinics. Hopefully, this will help us keep Ottawa’s case levels low as the chilly weather pushes our outdoor gatherings inside. If you need assistance with finding a flu or COVID-19 vaccine, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office. It has been an exciting month at city hall. A Special Council meeting was convened on Nov. 10 to fill the vacant seat in Ward 4 (Kanata North). After a long day of questions and rounds of voting, I’d like to welcome Cathy Ann Greene Curry to city

council for the remainder of the 2018-2022 Term of Council. It was a privilege to attend this year’s Order of Ottawa ceremony and help invest Kitchissippi resident Dr. Danielle Lussier into the Order of Ottawa. Dr. Lussier is an Indigenous legal scholar and law professor at the University of Ottawa whose efforts have advanced the critical work of reconciliation through community building, alongside numerous other accomplishments in the legal field. This award is well deserved, and I again pass on my congratulations. The holiday season is upon us once again. The pandemic has changed the way many of us celebrate the holidays. These effects are even more pronounced for some of Kitchissippi’s more vulnerable residents. Santa Claus will be making his way through Westboro on Dec. 5,

Take a winter break! Relax and enjoy the winter months in a comfortable furnished suite in a vibrant community. While everyone on your block is out shoveling, shopping, and shivering, you’ll be warm inside enjoying fun and entertainment. • Offering a full continuum of care: Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care Reserve a Winter Stay by calling Brenda at 613-656-0333 No long-term commitment required

Located 5 minutes from the Carlingwood Shopping Centre, at 200 Lockhart Avenue in Carlingwood.

CarlingwoodRetirement.com

collecting donations for the Westboro Region Food Bank. He’ll start at Premier and Remic at 2 p.m. and merrily wind his way through the neighbourhood. Cornerstone Housing for Women has posted the details of their holiday gift program on their website. I’m a big supporter of these types of charity drives as they support those who need it and foster a sense of community amongst all Kitchissippi residents. If you receive my newsletter, keep an eye out for other similar events. If you’re looking for handmade holiday gifts or just some beautiful art pieces, The Loft Art Studios is hosting a holiday sale at the Standard Bread building, 951 Gladstone that opens on Dec. 3 from 5-9 p.m. and continues Dec. 4-5 from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Happy holidays, Kitchissippi!

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

For the full list of events please go to

kitchissippi.com.

KITCHISSIPPI MARKET PLACE To place a Classified or Marketplace ad, please call 613.238.1818

39 • December 2021

JAN. 1: NEW YEAR’S DAY LEVÉE The Westboro Legion invites members of the community to help kick off the new year. There’s no admission charge and attendees will receive a complimentary glass of moose milk for the traditional toasts at 1 p.m. The Upstairs Bar & Lounge, 391 Richmond Rd., will be open from noon to 6 p.m. Proof of full vaccination required. Other provincial

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

KitchissippiTimes

DEC.3-5: HOLIDAY SALE AT LORETTA STUDIOS AND GALLERY We are pleased to invite you to join us at Loretta Studios and Gallery for our Holiday Sale

DEC. 5-11: HILSON AVENUE PUBLIC SCHOOL ONLINE SILENT AUCTION FUNDRAISER The Hilson Avenue Public School yard at Richmond Road and Hilson Avenue is a mix of dirt and asphalt with no play equipment or shade. To fundraise for an outdoor classroom, the school council is hosting an online silent auction (32auctions.com/HilsonAvenuePS) from Dec. 5-11.This is a parent-led community initiative to create an enjoyable and greener space for students and the community. For more details about the outdoor classroom, and larger Yard Renewal Project, check out hilsonyardrenewal.wordpress.com.

TUESDAYS - BYTOWN VOICES COMMUNITY CHOIR Although the choir is not able to prepare for public performances, we will be meeting online each Tuesday evening at 7:30 p.m. We will be learning some new music and maintaining our vocal cords in a relaxed environment, with

WEDNESDAYS - SHOUT SISTER! CHOIR There are 25 chapters of Shout Sister! Choir in 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

kitchissippitimes

NOV. 30-DEC. 17: GREAT CANADIAN THEATRE COMPANY - “DAISY” Daisy is on stage at the Great Canadian Theatre Company (GCTC) this month. The play by Sean Devine is set in the 1960s. “A Canadian premiere based on true events, ‘Daisy’ tells the story of the Madison Avenue advertising team that set out to create the first modern political attack ad for the 1964 presidential campaign of Lyndon Johnson. Infamously known as the “Daisy ad,” it ran once and was immediately banned, but its impact is still felt. War was the objective. Peace was the bait. Everyone got duped,” the GCTC website states. Daisy runs Nov. 30 to Dec. 17 with showtimes at 8 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 4 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. To learn more about the show, visit gctc.ca/shows/daisy-2021

MONDAYS - ABOVE AND BEYOND TOASTMASTERS Every Monday at 6:45 p.m. (except holidays) Have the jitters each time you need to present a speech? Visit us online. Learn how to communicate better in a relaxed atmosphere and hone your leadership skills. Impromptu speaking is one of our highlights. It’s fun, fun, fun! We would love to have you join us on Mondays. Contact our club at aandbtoastmasters@gmail.com to receive the link.

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

@Kitchissippi

NOV. 25-DEC.3: VIRTUAL CHRISTMAS MARKET The Ukrainian Orthodox Church, located at 1000 Byron Avenue in Ottawa, is holding a virtual Christmas Market. Orders will be taken between Nov. 25 and Dec. 3, for pick-up at the church on Dec. 11. Traditional Ukrainian foods and baking will be available to order as well as unique gift items. To learn more, visit the church website at ukrainianorthodox.info/ announcements.html

DEC. 5: GRAND MENORAH LIGHTING For the first time ever, there will be a Grand Menorah Lighting in Kitchissippi hosted by the Jewish Youth Library of Ottawa. It will be held on the eighth night of Chanukah, on Sunday, Dec. 5, 2021 at 4 p.m.The lighting will be held in the Osgoode Properties parking lot at 1284 Wellington Street West. This event is open for all to attend with complimentary admission. COVID-19 protocols are in place. Visit jewishyouthlibrary.com or read the story on pages 8-9 in this edition of the paper!

restrictions in place then will be enforced. Visit rcl480.com to learn more.

kitchissippi.com

Stay safe and healthy, Kitchissippi!

event. Visit in person to see what our members and guest artists have been up to over the past year. Original artworks, unique sculptural glass art and jewellery, clay sculpture and more will be for sale during the event. The opening reception is on Dec. 3 from 5-9 p.m. and the exhibit continues on Dec. 4-5 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guests must be fully vaccinated, and masks must be worn to attend. Visit facebook.com/events/1051923962298624/ for more details.

WELLINGTONWEST.CA

December 2021 • 40 kitchissippi.com

@Kitchissippi

kitchissippitimes

12 DAYS OF GIVING

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12

KitchissippiTimes