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BARRHAVEN
Year 30 • issue 26
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FRIDAY • December 25 • 2020
2020 Christmas unlike any other for Barrhaven retailers By Charlie Senack
This Christmas will be one unlike any other ever seen before, but small businesses are hoping this will be their time to shine. After a year full of unexpected closures, lockdowns, and restrictions, local family owned businesses are hoping to make up some of their lost income. According to a study produced by the Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses in July, one in seven local businesses are expected to close because of a lack of business caused by the pandemic. Only 26 per cent of businesses are making normal sales, with only 37 per cent at normal staffing levels. They predict 158,000 small businesses will be forced to close permanently because of COVID-19, making up about 14 per cent of the country’s small businesses.
That number could be as high as 218,000 — or 19 per cent if nothing is done. Kiddie Kobbler located in Marketplace has just announced that they will be closing after 17 years in the Barrhaven community. Barrhaven business ‘Toys on Fire’ located at 3-130 Riocan Ave, say they have seen a large uptick in sales over the Christmas period. “At the beginning (of the pandemic) it was rather difficult — we had to close up for three months between March and July and that was a bit of a transition for us,” said Grayson Doherty, sales manager at Toys on Fire. “For a while we were operating with limited staff, but in the past couple of months — especially gearing up for Christmas — this has been the craziest Christmas season ever for us.”
RETAILERS
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Retail businesses in Barrhaven are facing a Christmas buying season that is much different from any other year.
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Happy Retirement, Kelly Ross 613-843-9413
Thank you Barrhaven for 18 greaT years
3777 strandherd Drive
Page 2 FRIDAY, December 25, 2020 BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT retailers continues from page 1 In-person traffic through the store is up this year over last year says Doherty, a surprise with online shopping becoming even more popular. The store has been filling online orders for 15 years, but ramped up their efforts when the pandemic started. Doherty says puzzles and games are hot ticket items this year, with families wanting to buy toys which can keep everyone busy during lockdown. The trends kids are into are changing and smaller stores can more easily pivot to adapt. “Because we are so small — we only have the one location here in Barrhaven — we are able to pivot very quickly unlike larger stores,” he said. “When we see a trend change — people don’t want toys anymore now they want model kits — we can switch to that very quickly.” Doherty also believes they have seen an increase in business this year because people feel more comfortable in smaller stores where there are less people. With the second wave of the pandemic continuing to worsen, shoppers are avoiding large box stores like Walmart and Costco which can be wall
to wall with people. While Toys on Fire has had a successful Christmas season, the same can’t be said for Exhalo Spa located at 130 Riocan Ave. Owner and Director Tanya Farlinger says usually by December 1st they are fully booked up until the end of the year. This year they have openings every day. “We still have openings which is unheard of,” she said. “Usually by the beginning of December we are booked solid, but there are daily bookings at any given time right now which is unfortunate.” Farlinger says the pandemic has not aligned well with their business seasons. March Break is almost as busy as Christmas, she says, but that’s when they had to close for the first time during the first wave of the pandemic. At that point Exhalo Spa started working on having a website where all their products could be purchased. That has proven to be successful this Christmas season as people look for last minute gifts. “We have definitely done a lot of shop local holiday sets. We have over 30 locally made
brands that we’ve already carried,” said Farlinger. “We have always been a little cheeky so there are some sets like one that is called ‘Baby it’s COVID outside’. At this point I think it’s important to make the most out of what a crappy year 2020 has been.” Many small businesses are hopeful that people will purchase gift cards as gifts this year because it’s an easy way to make money now. Farlinger admits many people seem to be worried with many small businesses going under, but says that won’t be happening to Exhalo Spa. “I would say many days we are losing money instead of making any type of profit, but I am confident that next year we will look back and be proud that we made it though,” she said. “I can 100 per cent guarantee that we will still be here. We are in a good financial position and we will survive this I’m sure.” The Barrhaven BIA has compiled a list of Barrhaven businesses which can count on your support during this holiday season and going into 2021. It can be found at www. BarrhavenBIA.ca.
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Pierre-Savard student Ryley Belanger of Barrhaven celebrate tended despite the hot weather, s Canada Day with a smile despite the record temperat 3 and 4. Don’t forget to check but a brawl at Sunday night’s celebration put a damper ures on the event and raised concerns and humid conditions. Barrhaven’s Canada Day was out our Facebook page for more Canada Day photos. well atabout security and safety. For more on Canada Day, see pages Reegan BelangeR Photo
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Page 4 FRIDAY, December 25, 2020 BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT
No one expected 2020 to be the year that it was
Happy New Year everyone, Bonne Annee a Tous! I am sure that none of us would have envisioned the year this has been and yet here we are at the end of 2020 and no more certain that this time next fall we will have successfully conquered COVID-19 or found a permanent way to live with this pandemic. I think our values have been re-shaped in all respects. I know that most of you who previously fought a three-hour hike to and from work daily have adopted this new norm and if truth were to be told love the change in your time management opportunities, more time with family, more time to think!!, more time to participate in outdoor activities including regular walks. Many of you have bought a dog and added it to your family in that way. Certainly, Barrhaven businesses have benefitted from having you here in the daytime. No longer a ghost town during the 9 - 4 period, now Barrhaven hums 24/7. I don’t know what next year will bring but I do know that our community will continue to grow and prosper. I look forward to sharing some of that next year with all of you. Stay safe and healthy, all the best from my family to yours.
City of Ottawa Messaging City of Ottawa upcoming key schedule changes for this holiday season more info at www.cityofottawa.ca The City of Ottawa reminds residents of the following schedule changes for the holiday season, between Thursday, December 24 and
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· Shortened days (8:30 am to 3:30 pm) Brewer TOH only December 28 to 31
BARRHAVEN Green bin, recycling and garbage collection
by Jan Harder
Saturday, January 2.
Client services
Client service centres, including the Government Service Centre at 110 Laurier Avenue West and the service centre at Ben Franklin Place, will be closed on Friday, December 25 and Friday, January 1, 2020. All other client service centres and the City’s Provincial Offences Court remain closed due to COVID19. The City’s 3-1-1 Contact Centre will be open for urgent matters that require the City’s immediate attention. Call 3-1-1 or 613-580-2400 (TTY: 613-580-2401) to speak to a customer service representative.
Ottawa Public Health Assessment Centre and Care Clinics: The Moodie Care Clinic will be closed: December 25 to 27, and January 2 to 3. The Heron Care Clinic will be closed: December 23 to 27, and January 1 to 3. The Ray Friel Care Clinic will be closed on December 25. The Brewer TOH/CHEO Assessment Centre: · Closed: December 25 and January 1 · Shortened days (8:30 am to 3:30 pm) both Brewer TOH & CHEO on December 24, 26, 27, 31, and January 2 and 3
Spend it here. Keep it here.
There will be no curbside or multi-residential green bin, recycling, garbage or bulky item collection on Friday, December 25 and Friday, January 1. Friday collections will take place on Saturday (Boxing Day), December 26 and Saturday, January 2. The Trail Waste Facility will be closed on Friday, December 25 and Friday, January 1. It will be open to the public on Saturday, December 26 from 9 am to 5 pm. Christmas trees will be picked up on your regular garbage day. Please remove all decorations. Christmas trees in plastic bags or frozen into a snowbank will not be collected. OC Transpo makes changes to winter service and adjusts schedules for the holidays Bus service improvements, bus stop changes and the return to Rideau Street start Sunday, December 20, as OC Transpo winter service takes effect. Holiday service starts December 21. New winter schedules and holiday schedules are available at octranspo.com or by calling 613-741-4390.
Reinstated service: As OC Transpo continues to make adjustments to service during the COVID-19 pandemic, trips will be restored on the following routes: 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 16, 18, 19, 40, 44, 46, 61, 63, 66, 75, 87, 88, 93, 99, 111, 179,
234, 236, 256, 257, 270, 272 and 277.
Learn to Skate programs take to the ice in January The City’s COVID-modified Learn to Skate programs will take to the ice in January at 10 indoor arenas and the outdoor Lansdowne Skating Court. The full listing of group or private skating lessons for the young and young-at-heart will be online at Join.ottawa. ca on Monday, December 14. Registration opens on Wednesday, December 16 at 9 pm. Classes have been modified with COVID-19 safety protocols and have a limit of 25 skaters on the ice, including coaches. The “Just You and Me” program requires adult accompaniment on the ice for the child for the duration of the program. All skaters, including an adult accompanying a child, must wear skates and a CSAcertified hockey helmet when on the ice. Visit ottawa.ca/ recreation for all of the safety protocols and measures in place at all City facilities.
Fire Service Urges Residents to Keep Fire Safety Top of Mind The threat of fire is real, let’s work together to keep our homes and our loved ones safe this year. Since January 1, nine residents have tragically died in fires in the City Of Ottawa. Over the past 20 years since
amalgamation, Ottawa Fire Services has seen an average of 4 fatalities per year. This year being over double the average is a tragic reminder of the importance of home fire safety and how quickly tragedy can strike. As we head into the holidays and winter months, Ottawa Fire Services urges residents to be vigilant in preventing fires in your home. Fire safety planning and early detection through smoke alarms are your best defenses. There are simple things that you can do to prevent a fire from happening in your home and ensure that everyone knows what to do if a fire starts.
How to protect yourself and your loved ones
Always stay in the kitchen when you are cooking. Unattended cooking is a leading cause of home fires. It is easy to get distracted while cooking, set a timer to remind you to check on your meal. Keep a close eye on anyone drinking alcohol and attempting to cook or smoke. Encourage smokers to smoke outside the home and outside the garage. Thoroughly extinguish all smoking materials in water or sand. If someone is smoking indoors ensure a smoke alarm is installed in the area you smoke. Use battery operated candles whenever possible, always blow out candles before leaving the room. Avoid overloading electrical outlets. Extension cords
should be used only as a temporary connection. Avoid running electrical cords under rugs, which can damage the cords and cause a fire. Ensure items that can burn are at least one metre away from space heaters. Chimneys and heating systems should be cleaned and maintained annually. Make sure your alarms work: Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly by pressing the test button. Only working alarms can give you the early warning you need to safely escape a fire in your home. Practice your home fire escape plan: Ensure everyone knows two ways out of each room, if possible. All exits must be unobstructed and easy to use. Determine who will be responsible for helping young children, older adults and anyone who needs assistance to escape. Choose a meeting place outside, such as a tree or a lamp post, where everyone can be accounted for. Call the fire department from outside the home, from a cell phone or a neighbour’s home. Once out, stay out. Never re-enter a burning building. If you live in an apartment or high-rise building talk to the building superintendent to learn about the emergency procedures outlined in the building’s fire safety plan.
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INDEPENDENT Editorial
How will Canadian households cope as food prices rise? Canada’s Food Price Report 2021 brought some disconcerting news to Canadians. We could see food prices rise by as much as five per cent in 2021, according to the recently-released report. That’s the highest increase ever predicted by the report’s authors, a group of 24 scholars from four universities. For a family of four, the food bill could go up by as much as $695 next year. That’s steep. Meat, bakery goods and vegetables are likely to rise by up to six per cent, the report says. Some will say there’s nothing wrong with food inflation, as long as income follows suit. That’s true but with a very low inflation rate in Canada, households face higher food bills with nothing more in their pockets. This has been going on for a while, which explains why food banks are busier than ever. Even though Canadians have access to one of the cheapest food baskets in the world, the pace of change is unmanageable for many. Keeping up is challenging. There are already rumours swirling about increasing taxes on wine, beer and spirits. Most provincial liquor boards have seen sales increase by three to four per cent since the beginning of the pandemic. The temptation by governments to increase revenue here will be significant. There are also suggestions about taxing sugary drinks and other food products with high sugar content. Not only can these measures be seen as regressive, but funds collected through these measures end up supporting other pet projects that often have nothing to do with nutrition or even health in general. Politics will skew how governments feel when public spending is involved. Provinces could increase income and sales taxes, as could the federal government. A federal capital gains tax on primary residences is a rumoured possibility. Municipalities could be tempted to increase property taxes. You get the picture. So the disposable income of most households could shrink as a result of massive COVID-19 relief programs. Most Canadian households went into the pandemic spending 10 to 11 per cent of their disposable income on food. That’s much higher than the American average, but much lower than that of our European counterparts. Higher food prices and low inflation, coupled with a much more imposing fiscal burden on Canadians, could make us all feel sandwiched. In a few years, most households could be spending 14 to 15 per cent of their disposable income on food. Some households can still cope but many Canadians will struggle in 2021. That’s why we need to think about the less fortunate and act out of kindness. Troy Media – Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is senior director of the agri-food analytics lab and a professor in food distribution and policy at Dalhousie University. BARRHAVEN
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The ghost of Christmas concerts past When I was a kid, I had a hard time with next verse and the next nervous member of perspective. I guess my most irritating trait the class. I relaxed, brushed my arm against as a child was that I thought I was a pretty my forehead to wipe off the sweat, and I big deal. And those of you who know me coasted through the rest of the songs that will probably laugh – or not – and note that we sang as a group. We sang ‘Oh Come All I never really grew out of that. Ye Faithful’ and we sang ‘Silent Night’ and Point taken. finished off with ‘Away in a Manger.’ But part of that came from the assumpAnd then, the Churchill Christmas Contion that everything I was involved with cert of 1970 became nothing but a memory. was a much bigger deal than it was. I reOver the years at Churchill, there were member in my first year of minor hockey in a few other Christmas plays and concerts, Prescott, assuming that but that is the one that seems because my team was to stand out in my memory. called the North Stars, FROM THE OTHER They were usually the same. that the Minnesota North The class would get on stage, Stars owned my rights. I we all took our spots, and we was disillusioned when I would sing a few Christmas Jeffrey Morris found out that wasn’t the songs. Chances are that you case. may have gone through the Clearly, the tyke same thing as a kid. house league wasn’t quite as big of a deal With the exception of the odd Catholic as I thought it was. school class, the Christmas concert seems And then there was the 1970 Christmas to be a right of passage that has faded away. concert at Churchill Public School. We did We have sacrificed one of the most treasthis song where we were the animals in the ured rituals of Canadian generations past manger during the birth of Christ. I was one out of our fear of offending religious minorof four kids in our class selected to COUNCIL do a ities. Of course this year, there are no conCORNER solo. I was the sheep. certs, unless done via Zoom. I thought I was a big deal, andMayor to Suzanne me, DodgeOf course, my mind is drifting back to the event was a huge deal. All three of the the 1970 Christmas concert. Santa made an school’s classes were taking part, and the appearance, and we all got a chance to visit gym was going to be packed. with him in the reception after the big show. It was a couple of days before my sev“It’s not the real Santa,” one kid said to enth birthday, and I was still at the stage me just before it was my turn. “You can see in my life when I couldn’t decide if I was the elastic for his beard.” going to be a football player or a singing We had a huddle to try to figure out who THE NOT SO cowboy when I grew up. If I nailed my Santa was that night, and we never did figNEW solo, I was destined to be a star. Maybe I GUY ure it out. Tim Ruhnke The Grade 5 kids went last. They were would even get to sing on Hee Haw. Everyone watched Hee Haw on Saturday night the oldest kids in the school. One of them before the hockey game. And besides, the provided another one of those never-gonnaChurchill Public School Christmas Concert forget-this moments when he hopped up on in Riverview Heights – population 249 (we Santa’s knee. counted one night and painted the popula“And what would you like for Christmas tion on the sign) – was a pretty big deal. this year, young man?” Glen Campbell must have been crapping “Ummm, Hot Wheels… and a carton of his pants, fully aware that this singing WALKER cow- HOUSE smokes. Macdonald Menthol. That’s the boy kid was going to replace him atop the kind me and my dad smoke.” country charts. That one caught Santa off guard, and the Susan Vallom When the concert began, the stage lights poor guy didn’t know what to say. And that were shining in our faces. I stared out into kid was a really big deal in the school. the audience but I just saw silhouettes of Okay, so maybe some customs and tradwhat seemed like hundreds of people. itions are best left behind in 1970. We all sang the first verse, and I had solo Churchill Public School was torn down number three. My stomach fluttered as the years ago. Where it stood is now just an first two soloists delivered their verses. My empty field along Merwin Lane. But every moment was coming. My mouth got dry.BLAKE’S time I drive by there, the memories come I swallowed. I took a deep breath. Here TAKES it flooding back. comes. Glen Campbell was probably relieved I Blake McKim “I, said the sheep with curly horn, tried to become a football player instead of “I gave Him my wool for His blanket a singing cowboy. warm; I hope this column triggers memories of “He wore my coat on Christmas morn. your Christmas concerts past. Even if your “I, said the sheep with curly horn.” concert wasn’t as big of a deal as the one at And then, just like that, it was on to the Churchill was ;)
SIDE
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FRIDAY, December 25, 2020 Page 7
BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT
Pandemic has made 2020 an historic year
When COVID-19 contaminated our way of life back in March, none of us would have believed we would still be doing battle at the end of the year. At least people worldwide are now being vaccinated – and if all goes as planned, this deadly virus won’t continue to impact our lives as it has done this year. However, COVID-19 will leave its mark. The year 2020 will be historic – known forever as the pandemic year. As your city councillor, I will remember this past year for what the virus cost us, in lives lost, of course, and the lost connections with residents. We were unable to
gather together for community events, birthdays, holidays and other special celebrations. No parades or flag waving on Canada Day, no holiday breakfasts or pictures of little ones sitting on Santa’s knee. I vow to make up for lost time next year, just as soon as it’s safe to do so. 2020 was also a learning year. It proved, without a doubt, that we could work from home. In 2018, when I cam-
paigned for this office, I talked extensively about decentralizing the Capital’s workforce to reduce traffic congestion. I was pushing for community work hubs to encourage federal public servants to work from home. Well, now we know it is possible. We must now push to re-design our bus system to move us around our communities, make shopping, appointments, and visits to see friends and family easier when using public transit. It’s a point I tried to make when I challenged OC Transpo’s decision to maintain full-service downtown when the buses were empty. Like most of you, my staff and I worked from home most
days. It wasn’t always easy, meetings tended to be longer on zoom, but I am pleased with what we accomplished. Residents who live along River Road will finally get a traffic light at Leitrim Road at a 1.3 million dollar cost. We also succeeded in reducing the speed limit to 60 km/h along the entire length of River Road, eliminating the confusion over various speed limits. We championed the construction of the South Campus of the Ottawa Police Station when others called for the project to be abandoned as too expensive. Work will ramp up soon at the site on Prince of Wales Drive.
I am pleased to tell you my push to have quarterly reports on outstanding Auditor General audit recommendations has been adopted. I was dismayed with how much money the taxpayer was losing when senior management had not implemented AG recommendations in a timely and efficient manner. Ottawa’s new intersection of choice, roundabouts, are getting greater design scrutiny after we called attention to problems with one under construction this spring on Longfields Drive. Two of the lanes had to be widened as a result. Other issues, such as collisions and speeding at roundabouts
that I am now focusing on. All this to say that despite being hampered by a pandemic, this past year was not without progress. After two years into the job, I know more about how challenging it is at City Hall to get things done. It has been a privilege to represent you around the council table for the past two years, and I am determined to continue to push for our community over the next two. For now, Good riddance 2020 and hello 2021! For a full list of current projects and ones in the planning stage in Gloucester-South Nepean, go to my website carolannemeehan.com
613-738-0330 grand.ca
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CLUES ACROSS 1. Crow species 4. Partner to flow 7. Male offspring 8. Sedate 10. Orange beverage 12. Pair of small hand drums 13. 12th month of Jewish civil year 14. Former Pirates star Jason 16. Computer company 17. Made angry 19. Beverage container 20. Charlize Theron film “__ Flux” 21. Localities 25. Consume 26. Don’t know when yet 27. Bed style 29. Make a low, continuous sound 30. Wrath 31. Pollinates flowers 32. Association 39. Prejudice 41. Unhealthy
42. Hasidic religious leader 43. Distinctive philosophy 44. Short-term memory 45. In a good way 46. Emperors of Ethiopia 48. Imaginary line 49. Of barium 50. One’s sense of self-esteem 51. Man who behaves dishonorably 52. Monetary unit CLUES DOWN 1. Rear of (nautical) 2. He minds the net 3. Ring-shaped objects 4. When you hope to get there 5. Young children 6. Beloved hobbit 8. Pigpen 9. Wish harm upon 11. Quick=eyed (Scottish)
14. Scrooge’s phrase “__ Humbug” 15. One more 18. A ballplayer who only hits 19. Once vital TV part 20. Sixth month of Jewish civil year 22. Advantage 23. Type of tree 24. Luke’s mentor __-Wan 27. Life stories 28. Vase 29. Tiny 31. Package (abbr.) 32. A photog’s tool 33. Wood 34. One of the six noble gases (abbr.) 35. Pueblo people of New Mexico 36. Wild goats 37. A way to comply 38. Horatio __, British admiral 39. Actress Leslie 40. Sir __ Newton 44. Pouch 47. Have already done
FRIDAY, December 25, 2020 Page 9
BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT
Barrhaven real estate boom expected to continue into 2021 If you drive around Barrhaven, it’s not uncommon to see ‘for sale’ signs on the lawns of people’s homes. Despite the pandemic, 2020 was a successful year in the real estate industry and that’s expected to continue into next year. Barrhaven, Orleans and Kanata-Stittsville are the hottest areas for real estate in Ottawa right now, with housing prices expected to rise another seven per cent in 2021. Barrhaven real estate agent Jason MacDonald from the MacDonald Property Group, says the housing market in Ottawa has been “frantic” this year, adding the pandemic is partly to blame. “Even during COVID-19 we saw a huge increase in the number of buyers that very quickly diminished the available inventory and so what we have been struggling with this year is a balance between the number of buyers and the number of properties that are actually available and for sale,” he said. So what is the cause? MacDonald says with more people being stuck in their homes this year due to the pandemic, they want a comfortable space to call their own. Items like pools which used to be a 50/50 when it came to being a piece of value are now in demand. “Now if you have a pool it has value because if you are going to be locked down in your house for a year, having the ability to have an oasis in your backyard or a place to go and do physical activity, it gives a little bit of respite from being cooped up in your home,” he said. As a result, many people who were living in condominiums or apartment buildings have opted for living in a townhouse or semi detached homes which are currently in demand. MacDonald also says he has seen many seniors who moved into a retirement residence move out because of their lack of independence during the lockdowns. “That is a shift we have
seen,” MacDonald said. “People that we had sold their last home and relocated into retirement homes or into senior living are now coming back out and they are buying because of the fear of being cooked down in their room again if this pandemic continues or if there’s another one.” One of the reasons which has led to more homes being on the market — particularly in Barrhaven— is bidding wards
which are now taking place — especially on townhomes. MacDonald says people are selling their townhomes in Toronto for about $1.6 million and purchase one here in Ottawa for somewhere between $400-$600 thousand. “It’s cheaper for them so they are very comfortable to overbid and outbid the local residents that are looking to move up,” he said. “If you would have told me two years
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ago that we would be selling townhouses for half a million dollars this year, I wouldn’t have believed it.” Barrhaven is seen as a popular community to live in given where it’s situated and its access to all amenities. The community has recreation complexes, stores, movie theatre, golf courses, parks, 27 schools, and a lot of green space. The soon to be built Amazon warehouse is also being seen as an attraction given its level of employment. MacDonald predicts this recent surge will continue for at least another year and credJason MacDonald of the MacDonald Property Group is its all time low interest rates one of the top Remax realtors in Canada. for making it easier for people to purchase a home. MacDonald says Ottawa is a very well educated city with many wellpaying jobs, and parents are DR. ANDREW C. WATSON also helping their children enter COUNSELLING PRACTICE the housing market. Ba (psych),M.D., CCFP. “Nobody could have pre• Adult (18+) individual counselling. dicted this during a global • Focus on people who have been affected (past or present) with another’s pandemic,” he said. “We are Alcoholism or drug addiction. looking at a very intense sell• Stable concurrent disorders or ers market and we are seeing problems welcome e.g. depression, growth in the Ottawa-Carleton complex PTSD, childhood trauma or neglect. • non ohip, private practice region which is anywhere between 15 and 30 per cent. The 613 316 3773 average for the city is 20 per or drandy224@gmail.com cent right now.”
CENTRETOWN OTTAWA
Page 10 FRIDAY, December 25, 2020 BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT
Students says working with kids ‘most rewarding thing in the world’
Name: Carly Doyle Age: 17 Address: Riverside South School: St. Francis Xavier High Grade: 12 Parents: Justin and Tanya Doyle Sisters: Annie (15), grade 10; Jamie (13), grade 8, both at St. Francis Xavier High Part-time Work: Moncion’s Independent Grocer (cashier) Pet-Peeves: “People who think they’re better than others, or act like it.” Favourite Subjects: “I’m taking Law, Criminology/ Paramedicine/Public Safety, Challenge and Change, Families in Canada, English, and Philosophy. Right now, my favourite class is Criminology. I’m interested in the subject matter, because I’m going to pursue a career in Law Enforcement. I also have a very good teacher, Mr. Shawn Ruest, who took Criminology himself, and teaches everything in a fun and engaging way. I’m also looking forward to Philosophy, which is taught by one of the best teachers I’ve ever had, Mr. Jerry Coccimiglio.” What do you enjoy reading for pleasure? “I enjoy reading books, under the genre of mystery, or historical fiction. My favourite book of all time is The Book Thief.” Who is your favourite author? “My favourite author
fOCUS ON
YOUTH by Phill Potter
is Markus Zusak, who wrote The Book Thief. The way he wrote The Book Thief is very unique, and he came up with a very interesting way to tell the story.” What is your greatest accomplishment? “My greatest accomplishment is working at Christie Lake Camp for two years. It’s a camp for underprivileged youth, and working there is the most rewarding thing in the world. As my cousin Mary Bagley can attest to. It’s a very fun way to spend a summer, because you meet so many new people. “I met David at camp, who is one of my best friends. It’s also extra special to me, because my parents met there. The staff are all super close, and the Camp Director Laura Stemp is the best boss I’ve ever had. “The connections you make with the campers will be connections you remember for the rest of your life. The most rewarding part is knowing that you played a role in giving those kids a fun summer of meeting friends and learning new skills for their futures.
“You’re the one who helped give them opportunities they might not have, based on their home lives, and it’s a really good feeling knowing you gave these kids something to look forward to every summer.” School Activities: “Due to Covid, there are no school activities. In my past years of high school, I was a part of the Social Justice Club.” Other Activities/Interests: “I enjoy swimming, boating, reading, and hanging out with my friends: Emily, Kendra, Sara, Anna, Vittoria, Kim and Lizzie, and my boyfriend Ryan.” Career Goals: “As I mentioned, I’m interested in pursuing a career in Law Enforcement. I’m hoping to go to university for a Criminology program. For my top choice I’m leaning towards applying to Carleton University. Eventually, I hope to go into a career of policing, and from there, detective work.” Comment: “The pandemic has had a huge impact on my life, like I’m sure it has on everyone’s. My mom works in healthcare, so she has been super cautious about the whole thing. For awhile I could only see my friends by going on walks or bike rides, which was definitely not as fun as before Covid. “School has been the most different, and had the great-
est impact. Before summer, Grade 11 came to a quick stop. It had to be continued and finished online, which was kind of hard to get used to. Now, for my Grade 12 year, I’m doing half-online/half-in class. “I don’t mind this learning layout, because I find it’s easier to get work done. I know that every second day I’ll be at home to complete whatever work I have. The most difficult thing to get used to, is the social aspect of it all. “My friends and I are split into different cohorts. There won’t be school wide activities that are iconic to a senior year. There’s no standing around at your friend’s lockers, or leaving to go buy lunch at the Plaza, or hanging out with your friends on your spare. Hopefully things will get better, so my grade can have a somewhat normal prom and High School Graduation.”
St. Francis Xavier High School student Carly Doyle is hoping to study law enforcement. Submitted photo
FRIDAY, December 25, 2020 Page 11
BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT
COVID numbers in Barrhaven remaining steady since Oct. By Charlie Senack As the number of new COVID-19 infections climb in the province of Ontario possibly forcing more lockdowns to be implemented, the City of Ottawa is ranking among the best cities in Canada for combating the pandemic, according to Mayor Jim Watson. Each community in Ottawa is still reporting active cases of the virus, but some are doing better than others. According to the Ottawa Neighbourhood Study, 39 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Old Barrhaven East in November, with a total of 170 cases since the pandemic first began in March. The Stonebridge/ Half Moon Bay/Hearts Desire community reported 24 new cases in November, with a total of 110 since the pandemic started. Old Barrhaven West reported 20 new cases in November, with a total of 112 since March. Rideau Crest-Davidson Heights reported 33 new cases of the novel coronavirus in November, with a total of 82 cases since March Lastly, Chapman Mills reported 11 new COVID-19 infections in November, with 86 since the pandemic began. In Barrhaven, the numbers are staying relatively the same as they were in October. The Province of Ontario however is now reporting over 2,000 new infections each day, saying it’s only expected to get worse. The Ontario Government recently gave hospitals in the province 48 hours notice to prepare for possible overcrowding with an influx in new COVID patients expected to flood the health care system. With Christmas just a week away, the holiday season is expected to be a superspreader event with health officials warning the darkest days of the pan-
demic are yet to come. Ontario Education Minister Stephen Lecce has urged staff and students at schools across the province to bring any essential learning tools home with them over the Christmas break in case schools are forced to close again. “We are recommending that boards encourage students and staff to take home any materials that they may require for remote learning before they leave school for the holiday period so that we can continue to be ready for all scenarios,” Lecce said in a memo sent to school boards Wednesday night. The Ontario Hospital Association is also urging the Ford provincial government to implement a four-week lockdown in all public health units which are currently in the red-level of spread. “We reluctantly and with deep regret recommend that as a minimum, the government implement and robustly enforce a four-week lockdown in every public health unit with an infection rate of 40/100,000 population or higher,” they said in a letter sent to government officials. The high counts of new daily COVID-19 infections come at the same time the first doses of a vaccine arrive in Canada. Hundreds of nurses in Ottawa are expected to receive the vaccine every day with more shipments on the way. The rollout has started with staff at 10 long-term care homes across Ottawa which were hit hard by the pandemic. Residents of Ottawa cant expected to get vaccinated until the spring, but Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says 80 per cent of Canadians will be vaccinated by September. Barrhaven resident Brianne Quarrell was one of the first residents of Ottawa to be infected with COVID-19 back in March. She believes
she caught it off her husband who got it at work. The virus almost took Quarrel’s life and hospitalized her for over four weeks, spending much of that time in a ventilator. Quarrell says the news of a vaccine is a much needed light at the end of the tunnel, but adds she has concerns. A vaccine has never been rushed this quickly before, and some minor side effects are already popping up in a handful of the first recipients in the United Kingdom. But with a rate of 95 per cent effectiveness, Quarrel says she will take the vaccine when it’s made available to the public. “I will wait with the rest of the regular folk,” she said. “I will get it 100 per cent, but I am going to wait just a little while just to wait and see what — if anything happens.” The news of a vaccine is also a sign that life will go back to the way it was again soon soon. Darrell Bartraw who runs Canada Day in Barrhaven says they are still optimistic that they can hold some sort of celebration in 2021. “We have started planning for next year already,” he said. “We put in some grants for Canada Day, we have been looking into City of Ottawa permits, and finding out the dates of events that will hopefully take place in Barrhaven.” Last year 10 major events had to be cancelled in Barrhaven causing a dull year for members of the community. Even if Canada Day can’t go ahead in 2021, Bartraw is hopeful that some sort of an event will. “We are hoping that in 2021 depending on how all the events go, there is certainly the possibility of having an end of COVID party,” he said. “The people of Barrhaven need to get out of their houses, they need to go to an event and have some fun things to do.”
OTT-AD-4353 Barrhaven Independant-5.125x12-Visions dance in their heads.indd 1
2020-10-22 2:26 PM
Page 12 FRIDAY, December 25, 2020 BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT
MacLeod launches province-wide ‘support local’ campaign The Ontario government is encouraging people to “show your love for local” by exploring new and creative ways to reconnect with the unique small businesses and places that make the province’s communities special. To promote this effort Destination Ontario, an agency of the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, is launching a new “Support Local” campaign. The campaign is designed to instill a sense of pride of place and encourage people to safely be a tourist in their own communities. Nepean MPP Lisa Mac-
Leod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, recognizes the importance of supporting Ontario’s entrepreneurs during this very difficult period. “COVID-19 has been a challenge for many local businesses that make up the fabric of our communities - we’ve all seen the anxiety in their eyes when we visit our favourite restaurant or artisan shop. We need local, as much as local needs us,” said Minister MacLeod. “That’s why this new marketing campaign is so important - it reminds us that there is an incredible commun-
ity right outside our doorstep that we can safely explore and reconnect with. Clearly, we need to support our locally owned businesses now, when they need us the most.” The new campaign will launch on TV, radio, digital and social media starting midDecember and run until midJanuary 2021. Advertisements will focus on the close-knit relationship between local businesses and the communities they serve. “COVID-19 has resulted in a ‘triple threat’ of health, economic and social crises in Ontario,” said Minister MacLeod.
“This campaign is a wonderful reminder for all of us that Ontario offers the world in one province, and that world begins just outside our door. By exploring our communities safely - whether it’s going to a local event or ordering takeout or delivery - we are not only providing much-needed support to our local businesses, we are helping to protect Ontario’s economic and social recovery.” “Local community businesses are the heart of what makes a destination special,” said Lisa LaVecchia, President and CEO, Destination Ontario.
“We recognize these businesses need Ontarians’ support right now to ensure the charm and wonderful experiences of these communities are there to welcome visitors back long after the pandemic.” For more information on the campaign, or Destination Ontario’s efforts to promote tourism in Ontario, please visit their website. A recent Destination Canada survey showed that about 69 per cent of Ontarians feel safe when thinking about travelling to nearby/local communities. Ontario recently invested
nearly $4.4 million to support the long-term sustainability of the province’s vital tourism industry through the Reconnect Festival and Event Program and the Tourism Economic Development Recovery Fund. This funding will help deliver innovative, safe experiences and support tourism operators as they deal with the impacts of COVID-19. Destination Ontario’s social channels, which can be followed via @ontariotravel, promote local Ontario tourism, and highlight many unique communities across the province.
Bus service improvements, bus stop changes and the return to Rideau Street start Sunday, December 20, as OC Transpo winter service takes effect. Holiday service starts December 21. New winter schedules and holiday schedules are available at octranspo.com or by calling 613-741-4390. To reduce travel times for customers, trips on Routes 14 and 53 leaving Tunney’s Pasture Station will operate east on Scott Street and south on Parkdale Avenue. The temporary routing through the Tunney’s Pasture campus will be removed. Moodie Station: Route 66 westbound will serve Stop B to allow customers to wait in comfort at a larger bus shelter and reduce walking distances. Afternoon supplementary trips from Tunney’s Pasture to Baseline Station on Route 75 will be adjusted to run every 10 minutes to match ridership. Combined with the through service to Barrhaven Centre and Cambrian, sufficient capacity will continue to be provided to accommodate all customers and allow for some physical distancing onboard. Route 16 and some trips on Route 56 will be modified near Saint Paul University. From Hazel Street, buses will now operate via Deschatelets Avenue and Oblats Avenue to Main Street. Morning trips on Route 164 will start at a new stop on Ac-
ceptance Place between Hope Side Road and Meadowbreeze Drive. Lincoln Fields Station: A reminder that as of December 6, the local platform has moved to a new temporary location to allow for construction of the future Stage 2 O-Train station. Lincoln Fields Shopping Centre: Detours will continue around the mall for Routes 11, 51 and 153. O-Train Line 2 remains closed as Stage 2 construction continues. While O-Train Line 2 is closed, Line 2 bus service will operate. OC Transpo special holiday service will run from December 21 to January 1. Customers are reminded to plan ahead using the Travel Planner on octranspo. com when riding on OC Transpo this holiday season. OC Transpo continues its commitment to keeping everyone as safe as possible when travelling on New Year’s Eve. In partnership with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Ottawa and the City’s Safer Roads Ottawa Program, OC Transpo is offering nocharge service on Para Transpo and OC Transpo after 8 pm on New Year’s Eve. Remember to celebrate with members of your household, to wear a mask when using transit and follow Ottawa Public Health recommendations to prevent the spread of COVID-19 during the holiday season.
Special Holiday Service: December 21-24: Reduced Weekday schedule December 25: Sunday Schedule December 26: Saturday schedule with extra service on busy routes December 28: Sat-
urday schedule December 29-30: Reduced weekday schedule December 31: Reduced weekday schedule with no-charge service after 8 pm January 1: Sunday schedule Shopper routes will operate
on a normal schedule throughout the holiday period, including Route 301 on December 28 and 304 on New Year’s Eve. However, Route 305 will not operate on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day. Visit octranspo.com for information on hours of operation, frequency adjustments
and schedules for bus routes, O-Train Line 1 and Line 2 buses during the holidays. Customers can get real-time schedule information, 24 hours a day, by calling 613-560-1000 or texting 560560 plus their four-digit bus stop number or first three letters of the station name.
OC Transpo adjusts schedules for winter, holidays
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BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT
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Page 14 FRIDAY, December 25, 2020 BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT
Barrhaven Independent 30 years, 30 people: Patrick Lin By Jeff Morris
As we celebrate our 30th Anniversary, the Barrhaven Independent will be featuring 30 people who have played a prominent role in building, shaping and inspiring our community from the time we were a sleepy little suburb in 1990 to the thriving city of more than 100,000 we are now. In this issue, we are featuring Patrick Lin. Since moving to Barrhaven from China, Lin has been instrumental in promoting both the arts community and business relationships between Ottawa and Beijing. As we celebrate our 30th Anniversary, the Barrhaven Independent will be featuring 30 people who have played a prominent role in building, shaping and inspiring our community from the time we were a sleepy little suburb in 1990 to the thriving city of more than 100,000 we are now. In this issue, we are featuring Patrick Lin. Since moving to Barrhaven from China, Lin has been instrumental in promoting both the arts community and business relationships between Ottawa and Beijing. As the founder of RideauStone Arts Centre, a not-for-profit organization based in Ottawa, Patrick Lin was recognized at City Hall in 2017 for promoting
cultural exchanges between Canada and China. Mr. Lin was also recognized for his work with the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation, Invest Ottawa, and with many programs to attract Chinese investment to Ottawa. Mr. Lin and his wife are active patrons of the NAC Foundation, and they are supporting partners of the NAC Orchestra Canada 150 Tour. Mr. Lin also organized a concert on February 12, 2017 for a musical celebration of Canada’s 150th anniversary by the Ottawa Symphony Orchestra with the Beijing Symphony Orchestra, Mr. Lin was born in 1966 in the People’s Republic of China and graduated with a Bachelor Degree of Laws from Beijing University of International Relations in 1989. He worked in the Central Government of China, and Beijing Municipal Government for 10 years in senior and key positions and in 1999 received his diploma of Business Administration from Sie-
Patrick Lin was presented with the Mayor’s City Builder Award in 2017 by Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson and Gloucester-South Nepean Councillor Michael Qaqish.
mens Management Institute, specializing in human resources management and strategic investment.
Mr. Lin and his family moved to Ottawa in 2011 and set up his investment company RideauStone In-
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FRIDAY, December 25, 2020 Page 15
BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT
LDHSS students make a difference during holiday season By Charlie Senack For grade 12 students getting ready to graduate, the COVID-19 pandemic has robbed them of a traditional graduating year full of memories to last a lifetime. But for two students at Longfields Davidson Heights High School, they are making the most of it. Neeharika Boni-Bangari and Ruqiya Ahmed say nothing could have prepared them for the year that was 2020. The two students are part of Longfields student council which in a normal year would run events around the school. But because of COVID-19 restrictions like social distancing and limiting person-to-person contact, it’s made the two 17-year-olds have to get creative. The school’s student council got up and running again about a month ago, deciding to hold a toy drive as one of their first initiatives. The drive is typically organized by Longfields athletic club which was unable to be formed this year due to restrictions. “During these times a lot of people have lost a lot and are struggling to maintain what they already have,” said Boni-Bangari. “Being able to supply toys over the holiday season makes us feel really good about what we could do even though we can’t do much. It’s still something.” The toys will have to be quarantined for two days in the schools display case before Toy Mountain can
bring a truck to pick them up. The student council also set up a page on their school website where people could donate famines which will be put towards new toys if they don’t feel comfortable donating in-person. “We were actually really surprised by the turnout,” states Boni-Bangari. “We have not counted the toys yet but we have at least 150 toys.” On top of being an active part of the schools student council, Boni-Bangari and Ahmed are also a part of the schools Diversity Club. Ahmed said she started the club alongside a few friends last year as a way of promoting social equity and social justice in the Longfields community, and to bring awareness to important issues such as racism and discrimination. “We started the club in September (2019) so our first year did get cut short, but we did manage to organize a Black History Month assembly in February and it was a big success,” she said. “We really wanted to make it bigger and better than before and we are going to wait until the new year to start promoting more.” Longfields is a very diverse and cultural school with well over 100 languages spoken among the student population. Walk through the halls and you will encounter people from virtually every walk of life, stretching to all contents around the world. With having such a diverse population, the Diversity Group
Neeharika Boni-Bangari and Ruqiya Ahmed organized a drive for Toy Mountain at their school.
aims to make everyone feel connected and have their cultures celebrated. “We celebrate Christmas but we have a big Jewish community and we do nothing for Haunakah; there is a big Muslim community, there is a large Hindu community, and we don’t celebrate and of their celebrations,” said Ahmed. “I think a lot of students want to feel well-represented in their school.” Both Boni-Bangari and Ahmed say they are a bit disappointed that they have been unable to do all the ac-
tivities they have dreamed of doing in their final year of high school, adding it’s still a challenge to keep up with the new pace. With a mix of in-person and online learning, Ahmed Says it’s hard to find motivation. “I think motivation is something that everyone is struggling with — especially during the at home days,” she said. “You really have to push yourself to want to do stuff.” “Depending on your course load it can be really tough,” added Boni-Bang-
ari. “For some classes you are on Google meet for four hours and you see your attention span is all over the place. Other classes are lighter or if you have a spare you have the week off so it’s a really weird contrast depending on what you have.” Having the ability to have in-person learning is something both teens appreciate, saying it’s a good way to stay connected to the school community — something other students are finding difficult to do during these times. Being a part of the stu-
dent council has been a good grounding tool, says the two Longfields students, who plan to organize even more activities in the new year. The student council plans to start off 2021 with a canned food drive to raise non-perishable food items which are in hot demand right now with more people falling on hard times. Later on in the year they would like to hold a mental health awareness week at their school because many people have been struggling with the effects of the pandemic.
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Page 16 FRIDAY, December 25, 2020 BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT