May 10, 2024 Newsletter

A Message from Councillor King

As a member of the Ottawa Board of Health, I am happy that this year’s Mental Health Week theme is about the healing power of compassion: a call to be kind to others and yourself.

This week (May 6 -12, 2024) allows us to reflect on how being kind and compassionate can have positive impacts on well-being, happiness and reduces stigma while creating social connectedness and inclusivity. A recent study by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) showed that 92 per cent of Canadians identify themselves to be compassionate – and that giving, receiving and experiencing (self) compassion has proven to be very beneficial to mental health. This week, Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is encouraging everyone to show compassion through everyday actions and words. With so much going on in both our work and personal lives, it is important to make time to connect with others. Start with being kind to yourself and extend compassion to those around you who may be dealing with stressful situations and have difficulty coping. Ottawa Public Health also welcomes you to participate in OPH conversations and community activities for Mental Health Week:

• In partnership with the Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre, OPH will be hosting a mental health workshop for parents and caregivers. Join OPH in-person or virtually on May 15 from 6:30 to 8 pm to learn more on mental health wellness in children and youth including community supports and resources. RSVP to [email protected] for more details.
• OPH’s Stigma: How You Can Impact Change course is now available through Olearn.Ottawa.ca. This interactive training is available in English and French and takes about 20 minutes to complete. Take this course to learn more about stigma, what we can do to reduce stigma and how to communicate in a supportive way.

Self-compassion helps to build and maintain positive mental health and resilience. Remember to be kind to yourself and to celebrate what you accomplished in one day.

• Follow this link Mental Health, Addictions and Substance Use Health Services and Resources - Ottawa Public Health for a detailed list of mental health, addictions and substance use health resources for different populations. 
• Get the conversation started by watching one of the 13 National Standards for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace. Check out this video on Psychological Health and Social Support in the Workplace.   
• For additional videos and resources on the 13 factors, be sure to check out haveTHATtalk.ca   

 For more mental health information and supports, visit the following websites:  

• CMHA Mental Health Week - Canadian Mental Health Association 
• Responding to Stressful Events - Ottawa Public Health that includes tips for self-care and mindfulness activities. 

 Remember, a simple act of kindness will let someone know that they too, matter. 

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National Nurses Week also takes place from May 6 through May 12. It is a time to acknowledge the meaningful contributions of nurses from around the globe, the country, as well as right here in Ottawa.

This year’s theme, from the Canadian Nurses Association, is Changing Lives. Shaping Tomorrow. This highlights the role that nurses have in directly impacting the lives of individuals through nursing care, compassion, and expertise, as well as advocacy. Nurses shape tomorrow by being innovative and mentoring the next generation of nurses. Nurses at Ottawa Public Health are champions for community health. They contribute meaningfully to improving the health and well-being for the residents of Ottawa. Their dedication, expertise, and commitment make them invaluable assets in addressing the underlying determinants of health within communities and promoting health equity.

OPH nurses provide mentorship activities and nursing student placements. Through their clinical placements, nursing students learn about the health needs of diverse populations, develop culturally sensitive interventions, and collaborate with community members to promote wellness. Furthermore, nurses at OPH are leveraging opportunities for innovation in client care. For example, in partnership with the University of Ottawa, testing for sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections has become more accessible to the residents of Ottawa using the online platform GetaKit. This innovative program connects clients to care through OPH’s Sexual Health Clinic. Nurses in the Infectious Disease Program collaborated with epidemiologists and Digital Solutions to develop an innovative solution aimed at digitizing and automating contact tracing operations for potential measles cases. By leveraging technology, nurses are working to improve response times and client engagement.

In closing, we honour the contributions of nurses at OPH and their achievements in Changing lives, Shaping tomorrow.

 

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Your Councillor in the Community

I was pleased to attend the 21st Annual Breakfast with the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ottawa today, May 10, with a number of Council colleagues, including Somerset Councillor Ariel Troster and Alta Vista Councillor Marty Carr.

 

I was happy to attend an AlivEducation event at St. Laurent Complex last weekend. The group works to provide incredible after-school tutoring to youth in science, languages and mathematics in the Overbrook neighborhood and beyond!

 

Congratulations to the Sierra Leone Association of Ottawa for holding an incredible event celebrating 63 years of independence.

 

Thank you to the many volunteers and the Vanier BIA for organizing a community cleanup last weekend focused on Montreal Road and the surrounding neighborhood!

 

Excellent community cleanup in Rockcliffe Park last weekend. Thank you to the volunteers who keep our neighborhoods looking beautiful!

 

Amazing community cleanup last weekend in both Overbrook and Sandy Hill. Many thanks to the Overbook Community Association and other community groups for organizing. 

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Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities 

What to do if you find used needles, glass stems or other drug paraphernalia

If you find a discarded needle or other drug paraphernalia, you have two options to safely dispose of the item.

1. Call 3-1-1 to dispatch City staff to retrieve the item(s), or 
   
2. Dispose of the item(s) yourself in a needle drop box.
   • Follow the Safe Handling and Disposal Guidelines below.
   • Find the needle drop box nearest you. See the Needle Drop Box Map for the full list of locations.
   • Report the details of what you disposed of to Ottawa Public Health through the Public Reporting Form. Your reports help inform Ottawa Public Health's service planning

For more information, please visit Ottawa Public Health.

Rats, Wild Turkeys and other critters

Residents are reminded to not leave food out for animals, such as stray cats, pigeons, squirrels, rabbits or chipmunks, as this can attract rats and wild turkeys. This includes food from bird feeders. Please ensure your bird feeders are well maintained and that spillage is reduced, or consider removing the feeder. The first step to deal with rat issues is to contact 311. If the rat issue is on public property, including in sewers, a Service Request will be issued to City staff. If the issue is on private property, 311 staff will issue a Service Request for a Property Standards review from By-Law and Regulatory Services. Bylaw and Regulatory Services administers the Property Standards By-law, which requires that residential and non-residential properties be maintained free of vermin, including rats and rodents. Implementing control measures on one’s own property is the responsibility of the property owner. Ottawa Public Health's website features information on how to protect your property from rats and other rodents. This resource website also features a guide for property owners and tenants. 

With respect to Canada geese and wild turkeys, the growth in the populations of these species has created challenges for farmers, other residents and the City. Although they pose no direct risk to public safety, Canada geese and wild turkeys can cause economic losses, damage and impairment to City open spaces, and lost recreational opportunities and public enjoyment. Wild turkeys are generally not aggressive, but residents are reminded that all wild animals are unpredictable by nature. The size and behaviour of turkeys can intimidate people who may be unfamiliar with them. Many people find turkeys fascinating and amusing, even to the point of feeding them. Human–turkey conflicts are increasing and becoming more controversial. Please do not leave food out for wild turkeys.

Donald Street Watermain Repair - Completion Phase to begin in early May

What: The watermain repair work completed in December 2023 involved excavation in the eastbound lane and south boulevard of Donald Street, replacement of a section of watermain, and reinstatement of the road and boulevard. The project is now in the ‘Completion’ phase, during which reinstatement of final paving, concrete curbs, and landscaping will be completed. Two replacement trees will be planted.
Why: The City has a condition assessment program which undertakes to monitor the most critical watermain pipes within the City. Results indicated that a section of the watermain on Donald Street required replacement. The reinstatement work is required following the repair of the watermain.
When: The contractor is recommencing construction in May 2024 to complete reinstatement of final paving, concrete curbs, and landscaping. The work is expected to be complete in spring 2024.
Where: Construction will be on Donald Street from North River Road to 50 metres west of Marguerite Avenue.
Who: The City of Ottawa retained the contractor, R.W. Tomlinson Limited, to complete the work.

Residents in the surrounding neighbourhood will receive a construction notice in advance of the project. For more information about the project, please visit ottawa.ca/WoodroffeVanier

 

Oakhill, Corona and Carsdale Integrated Renewal Update 

The City of Ottawa is replacing the aging underground infrastructure on Oakhill Road and Corona Avenue as part of the City’s ongoing replacement of critical infrastructure. More information about the project can be found at ottawa.ca/OakhillRoadRenewal
What: Oakhill Road and Corona Avenue will be closed to through traffic. Road closure signage will be placed onsite. Local traffic access to private properties, in addition to pedestrian and cycling access, will be maintained throughout the construction period.
Why: The road closures are required to facilitate construction. The objective of this project is to rehabilitate underground and roadway infrastructure that is nearing the end of its lifespan.
When: The road closures were scheduled to begin May 6 and will re-open at the beginning of August.
Where: Oakhill Road (between Beechwood Avenue and Acacia Avenue) and Corona Avenue (between Beechwood Avenue and Acacia Avenue).

My office will be monitoring the road closures to ensure the facilitation of pedestrian and cyclist access.

 

Proposed fibre optic project - Donald Street - May 10

Hiboo Networks has requested the City's permission to perform fibre optic installation work along the City's right-of-way on Donald Street between Vanier Parkway and Beaudry Street starting May 10, 2024. The work would include trenching and bore work, placement of conduit and trace wire, as well as removal and replacement of concrete sidewalk bays. More details will be shared as they become available.

 

Donald Street Fire - Community Gathering Event - May 11

A fire impacting has impacted and displaced residents of an apartment building on Donald Street in neighbouring Beacon Hill-Cyrville Ward. Everyone is welcome to attend a community support gathering on Saturday, May 11, from 10 to 11 am at Ogilvie North Park (beside the Donald St. buildings). Your presence matters, whether or not you bring a donation. Make a sign, spread the word, and show your support for our community and those affected by the fire. Support will be available on site for residents and some light refreshments for the community.

How You Can Help: The Eastern Ottawa Resource Centre will be onsite accepting cash, cheque, and gift card donations. Please do not bring any household items or clothing as there is no place to store anything at this time. You can also donate online at eorc-creo.ca/donate/ or via e-transfer to [email protected]. Please specify your donation is for 'Donald St. Relief'. Every contribution counts! Let's stand together and show our resilience as a community. Thank you for your ongoing support and solidarity.

 

Rideau-Rockcliffe Roundtable event in New Edinburgh - May 11

My team and I are hosting a Rideau-Rockcliffe Roundtable event in New Edinburgh Park on May 11 from 10 am to 12 pm. New Edinburgh residents are invited to drop by to discuss City and neighbourhood issues as well as to ask questions about City services. Our event will coincide with the New Edinburgh Plant Sale at the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse.

 

New Edinburgh Plant Sale - May 11

For more than 20 years, residents of New Edinburgh and surrounding neighbourhoods have purchased their plants on the Fieldhouse’s front lawn, the Saturday before Mother’s Day: May 11, from 9 am to 1 pm. The Crichton Community Council will be selling unique hanging baskets and planters from Les Serres Oli-Ève. Proceeds support neighbourhood events and community initiatives, as well as for the purchase of equipment for public use. Ferme Lève-Tot will be selling edible plants for your gardens and answering questions about Community Supported Agriculture. Proponents of a proposed community garden in New Edinburgh Park will be on site to discuss this initiative with you and to receive your input. The CCC will be recruiting kids to help remove undesirable plants from the park’s flower bed. A few holes need to be dug for new trees to be planted in the park.  Bring your kids, some small shovels and gloves! The New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse is located at 203 Stanley Avenue. For details, please click here.

 

Mother's Day Tea - May 11

Join the African, Caribbean and Black Wellness Resource Centre at 610 Donald Street for an enchanting High Tea event filled with elegance, laughter, and love on May 11 from 11 am to 3 pm. For details, please call the ACB Centre at 613-801-7426 or email [email protected]. This is more than a tea party. All proceeds from this event will go directly to the centre's cupboard to continue to support the overwhelming need of food insecurity in our community. Get your ticket at this link. 

 

BIPOC Youth Job Fair - May 11

The Somali Centre for Family Services is hosting a BIPOC Youth Job Fair is scheduled for Saturday, May 11, from 1 to 4 pm at Ottawa City Hall! Meet over 30 employers and volunteer recruiters. Register now via this link.

Rideau Sports Centre Summer Kick-off Party - May 11

Celebrate the start of the outdoor season with the Rideau Sports Centre at its Summer Kick-Off Party on Saturday, May 11 from 4-7 pm. There will be tennis round robin, food, drinks, and social! Tickets are $30+hst for tennis passholders and $40+hst for non-passholders. They can be purchased online, at the front desk, or by calling the Centre at 613-749-6126. 

Enjoy NCC Weekend Bikedays - May 11 to Oct. 14

Enjoy the Capital on nearly 20 km of car-free roads! Weekends (and holiday Mondays from May 11 to October 14. Click here for details.

• Sir George-Étienne Cartier | 8 am to 4 pm  
• Kichi Zībī Mīkan | 8 am to 4 pm  
• Queen Elizabeth Driveway | 8 am to 8 pm

NEW | Canal parkway bike lanes study. The NCC will launch a study to explore the feasibility of installing bike lanes along the Queen Elizabeth Driveway and Colonel By Drive. Details to come.

New Edinburgh Parking Survey - open until May 13

My office is seeking feedback from New Edinburgh residents with the goal of understanding preferred parking regulations to enhance overall parking in the community. Your participation in the survey is appreciated by May 13, 2024. Please click here for the survey link. 

Hydro Ottawa project - Donald Street - May 15

My office has been advised that Hydro Ottawa will be conducting work in the City's right-of-way along Donald Street between Brant Street and Telford Avenue from May 15 to June 30. The project involves pole work and open trenching. 

 

Free Dental Screenings in Ward 13 - May 15 and 17

Ottawa Public Health hosts free dental screenings at its Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs. All ages welcome. No appointment needed. First-come, first-served basis. For details, please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/NeighbourhoodHub. Upcoming screening sessions in Ward 13 are scheduled for:

• African, Caribbean and Black Wellness Resource Centre, 610 Donald Street - May 15 from 12:30 to 4 pm
• Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard - May 17 from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm and from 1:30 to 4 pm

 

Spring Volunteer Expo - May 23

Volunteer Ottawa hosts a Spring Expo Volunteer Recruitment Fair on May 23 from 2 to 5 pm at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard. The event is open to the public, and will feature 40 not-for-profits from across Ottawa. For details, please visit volunteerottawa.ca.

 

Beechwood Cemetery events May 23 & 26

• RCMP Veterans' Association, Ottawa Division Annual Commemoration and Vigil - May 23 starting at 10:45 am www.beechwoodottawa.ca/en/foundation/events/rcmp-veterans-association-ottawa-division-annual-commemoration-and-vigil-1
• The Beechwood Stroll (West half) - May 26 starting at 1 pm. www.beechwoodottawa.ca/en/foundation/events/beechwood-stroll-26-may-2024-west-half

 

Overbrook Bicycle Day - May 25

Overbrook residents are invited to enjoy Overbrook Bicycle Day on May 25, from 11 am to 2 pm, at the Overbrook Community Centre, 33 Quill Street. There will be free popcorn, bike repair, a partners table, a cleaning station and a draw for a new bike. 

Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend road closures and volunteer opportunities - May 25 and 26

Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend will include the Ottawa Kids Marathon, as well as 2K, 5K and 10K races on Saturday, May 25. The Tartan Ottawa International Marathon and the Ottawa Half Marathon take place on Sunday, May 26. 

• The Tartan Ottawa Marathon will take runners through New Edinburgh, Rockcliffe Park and around Manor Park and beyond. Details about the running schedule and road closures are available at this link.
  • St. Patrick Street between Parent Ave and Sussex Drive 6:00 am – 1:45 pm
  • Sussex Drive between Rideau Street and Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway 6:00 am – 1:45 pm
  • Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway between Princess and Aviation Parkway 6:45 am – 1:30 pm
  • Princess Avenue between Sussex Drive and Lisgar Road 6:45 am – 1:30 pm
  • Lisgar Road between Rideau Terrace and Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway 6:45 am – 1:30 pm
  • Sandridge Road between Birch Avenue and Hillsdale Road: 6:45 am to 12:30 pm
  • Hillsdale Road between Sandridge Road and Cloverdale Road: 6:45 am to 12:30 pm
  • Cloverdale Road between Hillsdale Road and Mariposa Avenue: 6:45 am to 12:30 pm
  • Mariposa Avenue between Cloverdale Road and Glenwood Avenue: 6:45 am to 1 pm
  • Glenwood Avenue between Mariposa Avenue and Maple Lane: 6:45 am to 1 pm
  • Maple Lane between Glenwood Avenue and Lisgar Road: 6:45 am to 1 pm
  • Lisgar Road between Maple Lane and Dufferin Road: 6:45 am to 1 pm
  • Dufferin Road between Rideau Terrace and Stanley Avenue: 6:45 am to 1 pm
  • Stanley Avenue between Dufferin Road and Sussex Drive: 6:45 am to 1:30 pm

The race route will be closing the morning of May 26 between 6 and 7 am. If you need to cross the route on race morning, please consider approaching one of the intersections staffed by police. Although there may be some delays once the runners are on the course, the police will try their best to get cars across as soon as possible. During the heaviest runner traffic (8:30 to 11:30 am), vehicles will not be able to cross the route. Emergency vehicles will have access as required. if you must drive during the heaviest runner traffic, it is suggested that you park your vehicle outside the route the night before and walk across the route in the morning. Neighbourhood roads will reopen after the last runners have cleared the section and water stations are removed. 

Hydration & Cheer Stations - volunteers welcome

• The Manor Park Community Council is organizing a hydration station during the marathon on May 26, from 6 am to 1 pm, at Birch Avenue and the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway. Each year, it takes more than 50 volunteers to fill and serve 20,000 cups of water or electrolyte replacement. And – it’s fun! Perfect for teens, adults or families! Need high school volunteer hours? You can sign up early to volunteer by clicking here.
• The Crichton Community Council is once again organizing a cheering station in New Edinburgh during the marathon on May 26, from 8:30 am to 12 pm, at 203 Stanley Avenue, just around the bend from the 36-kilometre mark. Loud words of encouragement, noise makers, signs and costumes are all welcome. For details, please visit: newedinburgh.ca/event/marathon-cheering-station

 

Rockcliffe Park Speaker Series - May 29

The Rockcliffe Park Residents Association continues with its engaging Speaker Series on May 29 at 8 pm. Sean Silcoff, award-winning business journalist and author of The Spectacular Rise and Fall of BlackBerry, will speak on the book he co-authored and which inspired the motion picture BlackBerry. It is the riveting, never-before-told story of one of the most spectacular technological upsets of the 21st century. The Speaker Night takes place at the Rockcliffe Park Community Hall at 380 Springfield Road. For details, please click here.

 

Community Coffee Day - May 31 and June 28

The Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre, in partnership with incubator13, hosts a Community Coffee Day the last Friday of each month from January to June at The Rideau Community Hub, located at 815 St. Laurent Boulevard in Room 124. Enjoy coffee, tea, snacks and more. The next coffee days are May 31 and June 28, from 2 to 3 pm. For details, please visit www.crcrr.org.

 

New Edinburgh Concerts - June 1

The Crichton Community Council proudly presents two Jeremy Fisher concerts at the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse on Saturday, June 1.  

• Afternoon Youth Oriented Concert: Doors open at 2 pm. Music at 3 pm. Tickets are available for $25 from: Eventbrite (Jeremy-Fisher-afternoon.eventbrite.ca)
• Evening Adult Oriented Concert: Doors open at 7 pm. Music at 8 pm. Tickets are available for $35 from: Eventbrite (Jeremy-Fisher-evening.eventbrite.ca)

 

Nominations now accepted for VOscars Volunteer Awards - until June 14

Is there an individual or organization in your community who deserves a big pat on the back for making Ottawa a happier, healthier, more caring city? Recognize their volunteer contributions by nominating them for one of Volunteer Ottawa’s seven VOscars Volunteer Awards. Online submission forms are now available on the Volunteer Ottawa website and will be open until June 14. For details, please visit https://volunteerottawa.ca/events/voscars-awards.

 

Morin Street resurfacing - beginning early June

As part of the City of Ottawa’s annual infrastructure maintenance cycle, road resurfacing will occur along Morin Street to improve this roadway and the overall citywide transportation network.

What: Work will involve milling of existing roadway, the addition of granular A road base, concrete curb repairs, iron adjustments and paving of a binder course and surface asphalt. Increased noise levels and vibrations to be expected to facilitate the work.
Why: The City of Ottawa will be resurfacing roads as preventative maintenance aimed at extending the City's roadway network lifecycle.
When: This work is scheduled to start in early June 2024 and completion is anticipated by fall 2024. Work will take place between the hours of 7 am and 10 pm as required. Morin Street will remain open to traffic with lane closures expected.
Where: Work will occur along Morin Street from Côté Street to St-Laurent Boulevard.
Who: The City of Ottawa has retained the contractor, R.W. Tomlinson Limited, to resurface Morin Street.

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City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities 

Be prepared, know your risks if there’s an emergency

Over the past several years, Ottawa residents, businesses and visitors have experienced first-hand several different types of weather emergencies. For example, tornadoes and a derecho have damaged homes, uprooted trees, and downed power lines; flooding in 2017, 2019 and 2023 caused damage to water-side communities; and, a freezing rainstorm caused branches and power lines to freeze, impacting hydro infrastructure and leaving many residents in the dark. In the event of an emergency, everyone should aim to be able to take care of themselves and their families for up to 3 days (or 72 hours), at least. Click here for some guidelines that can help you get started.

72nd edition of the Canadian Tulip Festival - May 10 to 20 

The Canadian Tulip Festival was established to celebrate the historic Royal gift of tulips from the Dutch to Canadians immediately following the Second World War as a symbol of international friendship. The Festival preserves the memorable role of the Canadian troops in the liberation of the Netherlands and Europe, as well as commemorates the birth of Dutch Princess Margriet in Ottawa during World War II—the only royal personage ever born in Canada. Taking place May 10 to 20 at Commissioner's Park at Dow's Lake, with the opening ceremony scheduled for May 11 at 11 am. Details: tulipfestival.ca

City of Ottawa programs

• Summer programs are online today: Summer programs are now online to view. Aquatics programs open for registration on Tuesday, May 14 at 9 pm. All other recreation and culture programs open for registration on Thursday, May 16 at 9 pm. You can register for summer camps and Before and After School Programs now. 
• Tony Graham Youth Workout Pass: Don’t miss the Tony Graham youth workout pass this summer! Teens ages 13 to 17 can use the weight and cardio rooms for free at select facilities in July and August. Orientation sessions are online to view today and open to register on Thursday, May 16. 
• Free virtual sessions for 50+: If you are 50+, you can now enjoy special virtual programs at no cost. There are creative arts courses, such as drawing and painting and Zen doodling, interactive workshops, and discussion groups including virtual book club. 
• Join the Junior Waterfront Lifeguard Club: Learn waterfront lifesaving techniques, participate in first aid scenarios and develop leadership skills to fast-track your lifesaving qualifications. Camps are offered in one- or two-week formats at Mooney’s Bay and Britannia Beach for participants aged 8 to 18. Contact [email protected] for more information and register online. 
• Play Free: Plan your spring and summer with Play Free activities for those 17 and under. From drop-in Saturday swim sessions to free admission to City of Ottawa museums, Cumberland Heritage Village Museum and Billings Estate National Historic Site, you will be sure to find some fun activities for the family. 
• Young at Art exhibition: Enjoy the incredible artwork of Ottawa’s youth at the Young at Art exhibition held at Shenkman Arts Centre, Salons A and B of Trinity Art Gallery. The exhibition will run until Tuesday, May 21, 2024 - join us in meeting the artists at the vernissage on Thursday, May 2 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Award-winning artworks will also be featured online on the Young at Art Instagram account beginning in June
• Full moon Yoga returns to the Great Lawn at Lansdowne Park May 23 at 9 pm. Click here for information.

Rain Ready Ottawa Webinars - May 14

• Join Rain Ready Ottawa for an engaging online session with a landscaping professional on rain gardens on May 14 at 6 pm. The session will cover site selection, plant selection, installation, and maintenance. Information on the City’s Rain Ready Ottawa program will be provided, including an overview of rain garden rebates, additional learning opportunities, and resources. This will be the second session in a series of seminars exploring rain ready solutions for your home. Find out more and register.

 

Enjoy Ottawa’s Tulips while Nordic Walking with your local MPP Lucille Collard - May 15

DATE: Wednesday, May 15, 12:30-1:30 pm

SOCIAL HOUR: 1:30 -2:30 pm at Tavern at the Gallery

RSVP: [email protected]. RSVP required
Rain Date – Friday, May 17

Nordic Instruction & Enjoy Tulips: 12:30-1:15 pm

Social Coffee Hour 1.30pm-2.30pm

Crossing Guard of the Year Award - Contest runs until May 17

Nominate your community Crossing Guard for our Crossing Guard of the Year award. The top three guards will receive $500 each, and the three schools that cast the most votes will each win a $300 Canadian Tire gift card! It's win-win! Contest runs till May 17. Nominate your guard here: ottawasafetycouncil.ca/thank-you-ottawa

On The Road 4 Mental Health - May 19 to June 1

Greg MacPherson will begin his approximately 600km journey in Niagara Fall on May 19, 2024 and will arrive in Stittsville on May 31, 2024. The following day, June 1, he will complete his walk to Major’s Hill Park in downtown Ottawa, alongside his family and anyone who would like to join him. This walk is to bring awareness to the stigma surrounding the mental health and toxic drug crisis and to bring communities together in the fight. Visit otr4mentalhealth.com/finish-line for details about the Ottawa portion of the route and to join them along the way. The walk will be in support of the Youth Services Bureau of Ottawa. 

Climate Resiliency Strategy - Survey open until May 21

You can help shape Climate Ready Ottawa, the City of Ottawa's draft climate resiliency strategy. Visit engage.ottawa/climate-resiliency to review the draft strategy and to share your feedback in a survey before May 21. The series of planned public open houses has been postponed. New dates will be announced soon.

AccessAbility Day 2024 - Register by May 20

You are cordially invited to celebrate the City of Ottawa’s 21st annual AccessAbility Day event, held each year as part of National AccessAbility Week. This event will be in-person at Ottawa’s City Hall. The morning event will be livestreamed via the City’s YouTube channel.   

Date: Thursday, May 30, 2024   

Time: 10 am to 2:30 pm      

Location: Ottawa’s City Hall – 110 Laurier Ave. West 

For planning purposes, please register by Monday May 20 at this link.

Black Canadian Scholarship Fund - Apply before May 31

The Black Canadian Scholarship Fund was established in 1996 to encourage academic excellence and promote community leadership by providing annual scholarships to outstanding young black students in Ottawa. The deadline for applications is May 31, 2024. Download the application form. For more information, please visit bcsf.ca.

 

Special Event Bylaws - Survey closes May 31

The City has launched its third survey related to the Review of Special Event By-laws. This survey addresses solid waste reduction and environmental protection. The survey is available here until May 31. The first survey for special events, held during March, asked general questions about special events and demonstrations, to gauge public opinion about how well the City manages these events. The second survey, which just concluded, asked specific questions about accessibility, safety and inclusivity at special events. Resident input is important to the City’s by-law review process. We invite you to complete this survey on special events and the environment, and to follow this project to keep informed of future surveys and to review survey data and analysis as it becomes available.

 

Nominations are now being accepted for the annual Bruce Timmermans Cycling Awards - until May 31

Do you know someone or an organization who has been a local champion for cycling in our city? The City of Ottawa is once again accepting nominations for the Bruce Timmermans cycling awards! Two awards will be presented in June to recognize outstanding contributions to cycling in Ottawa. EnviroCentre is coordinating the 2024 awards. All nominations are treated as confidential and the deadline for submissions is May 31. Nominate an individual or organization you believe deserves recognition!  More information about the Bruce Timmermans awards and a list of past winners can be found on the City’s website.

 

Emergency Services News

Manor Park Homicide – one man charged, police seeking a second suspect

The Ottawa Police Service Homicide Unit has charged 20-year-old Tristan ETHIER, of Ottawa, in the shooting death that occurred on April 19 on Birch Avenue in Manor Park. ETHIER is charged with second degree murder. He is scheduled to appear in court later today, May 10. Homicide investigators are still attempting to identify a second suspect involved in the incident who was in the company of ETHIER. The unidentified suspect is described as a white male, 6’1” (185cm) to 6’2” (188 cm), 190 lbs (86kg) wearing dark clothing and a mask. Investigators believe the murder happened during the robbery of a weekly basement poker game after an ensuing struggle. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service Homicide Unit at 613-236-1222 ext. 5493. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.

Survey on the use of in-car cameras - Open until June 3

The Ottawa Police Service is launching a new public survey to seek feedback on the introduction of in-car camera pilot project. The OPS is conducting in-person consultations, but residents are encouraged to complete this short survey to offer their feedback at ottawapolice.ca/video. The survey will close on June 3, 2024. Once we have collected feedback, OPS will launch an initial pilot project to ensure the devices function as expected and identify any issues prior to expanding it Service-wide. This is part of the modernization of our Service with the introduction of our new Digital Evidence Information Management System (DEIMS). DEIMS is part of a program launched by the Solicitor General of Ontario and the Ministry of the Attorney General’s office to help create common resources for all police services across the province. Vehicles equipped with in-car cameras will also use wireless mics to capture audio when an officer exits the vehicle. Wireless mics are paired to the in-car camera and have a range of 1,000 feet (300 m). When recording, a red flashing light will be visible, as well, every two minutes the wireless mic will beep. Officers will attach the wireless mics to their vest (chest) utilizing a RapidLock mount. The OPS currently operates five vehicles with a three-external mounted camera ALPR system, that solely uses ALPR technology. More information about in-car cameras and ALPRs can be found at ottawapolice.ca/video. We want to thank residents for helping to provide feedback on the launch of our pilot project. If you have questions, you can email [email protected]. 

Enforcement continues to address impaired driving

The Ottawa Police Service Impaired Countermeasures Unit continues to see a consistent increase in impaired drivers on our roads. Driving while impaired, more commonly known as “drinking and driving”, also includes driving under the influence of any drugs. While cannabis is legal in Canada, consuming it and driving remains illegal. There is no circumstance where it is acceptable to consume cannabis or other drugs and get behind the wheel. Decisions like these not only endanger yourself as a driver, but everyone around you, including other drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and more. In 2023, Ottawa tragically lost 13 residents due to collisions where alcohol and/or drugs were believed to be a factor. 885 persons were charged with impaired driving related offences in 2023. These numbers are consistently increasing, year after year, having already seen 260 drivers charged in the first four months of 2024. For details, please click here.

Community Policing Strategy and District Deployment Model

On April 30, the Ottawa Police Services Board and the Ottawa Police Service hosted a joint technical briefing to provide Ottawa City Council with information on the Service’s new Community Policing Strategy and District Deployment Model, which has a targeted soft launch in early May. 

A key theme from the 2024 Budget community consultation process was the need for greater engagement and officer visibility in communities city-wide, particularly at the neighbourhood level where residents live, work, and play. One neighbourhood’s needs vary significantly from another’s, especially when comparing the needs of urban, suburban, and rural communities. To address these concerns and to help move towards Enhancing Community Safety and Building Trust and Stronger Relationships pillars of the Board Strategic Direction 2027, the OPS is developing a new District Deployment Model that will identify and respond to priorities unique to Ottawa's vast neighbourhoods and communities. The primary focus of the District Deployment Model is to serve each community better and work with City Councillors and their Community partners to resolve issues identified in their Wards. Communities and neighbourhoods will benefit from the transition to a district policing model as they will have more direct, open lines of communication to officers who understand the unique complexities and requirements of individual neighbourhoods, improved access in terms of how the OPS connects with the community, and the ability to participate in how District priorities are identified. The technical briefing can be viewed on Youtube. The Community Policing Strategy and District Deployment Model technical briefing presentation can be accessed here. For more information, please visit ottawapolice.ca. 

Ottawa Police Frontline Traffic Enforcement

Starting May 6, the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) Frontline will adjust their approach to traffic enforcement throughout the City of Ottawa to align enforcement with the Service’s Community Policing Strategy and District Deployment Model Pilot. As traffic enforcement needs can be different from neighbourhood to neighbourhood, OPS Frontline officers will use community and City Councillor feedback to strategically deploy to problem areas across the city. In addition to community feedback, officers will use information from the Fatal Collision Review Committee, speeding data and patrol observations to inform their enforcement strategies. With the support of the OPS District Traffic Manager, enforcement by Frontline officers will increase to focus on communities’ varying traffic concerns. Each quarter, Frontline officers will conduct 18 traffic enforcement initiatives, focusing on themes such as: 

• Speeding
• Stunt driving
• Impaired driving
• Disruptive vehicle noise
• Residential-area intersection compliance

In addition to enforcement, educating drivers on safe driving behaviours will be a core component of this new approach. For more information about this initiative, please visit ottawapolice.ca.