Barrhaven Independent February 21, 2020

BARRHAVEN

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FRIDAY • February 21 • 2020

The Masked Teachers Barrhaven elementary school teachers picketed in front of the Greenbank Road office of Nepean MPP and Cabinet Minister Lisa MacLeod last week. The rotating strikes are increasing in frequency among both the pubic and Catholic elementary and high school teachers. Teachers from all publicly funded boards will be off the job Fri., Feb. 21.

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Page 2 FRIDAY, February 21, 2020 BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT

The IndependentNEWS Caivan development clears zoning hurdle at Planning Committee

The City of Ottawa’s Planning Committee has approved a zoning amendment that will pave the way for Caivan’s housing development in Barrhaven.

The Ridge is a planned 500-home subdivision on land that was formally the Brazeau Pit. Caivan ran into an obstacle as to weather the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry had confirmed the site had been mined of its sand and gravel.

In January, CBC reported that although a City of Ottawa planning report said the Ministry confirmed the site had been fully mined, the Ministry denied the report.

Caivan is now waiting for the mining license on the property to be retired by the Ministry.

The property is located east of Highway 416, west of the future Greenbank Road alignment, south of

Cambrian Road, and south of the former Costello sand and gravel pit. The surrounding lands are currently undeveloped, but several parcels of land to the north, east, and south of the site are in various stages of Plan of Subdivision and zoning by-law amendment applications. The surrounding lands and planned developments within the area are predominantly low-rise residential.

To the west of the lands is Highway 416, and on the west side of the highway is the eastern property boundary of the Trail Road Landfill Facility. The portion of the subject property that is within 500 metres of the Trail Road Landfill Facility is outside of the urban boundary and is to be rezoned to the Rural Countryside zoning designation.

A public consultation was held on Wednesday May 29,

2019 at the Minto Recreation Complex in Barrhaven.

The applicant and staff were in attendance to discuss the proposal and application process. Two public members attended the meeting; however, no comments were provided. Additionally, no comments were received on the application through the public notification process.

The subdivision proposal includes single-detached and townhouse dwellings, as well as a centrally located park block. Access to the site will be from a westward extension of Dundonald and Kilbirnie drives, and a to be constructed connection to Cambrian Road named Delphinus Avenue which will be constructed at the time of the two residential subdivisions to the north. Additionally, a temporary roadway connection has been identified to potentially connect the proposed subdivision to Bor-

risokane Road, should the other roadway connections not be completed prior to the development of the subject lands. In time, the future Greenbank Road alignment will run along the eastern boundary of the proposed subdivision. The proposed land use, road network, and block patterns had been reviewed through the associated plan of subdivision and were regarded as consistent with the surrounding context and the Community Design Plan.

Amending the zoning will allow for residential uses, a park, and formally acknowledge the exhaustion of the aggregate pits outside of the urban boundary.

Additionally, the applicant has requested that houses on corner lots not be required to have an active frontage, but that detached dwellings on corner lots should be consistent in the quality and

detail of the front elevation.

This change will still ensure that the corner yard will remain visually appealing.

The Plan of Subdivision identifies townhouse lots on the eastern portion of the subject lands, providing higher-density residential development closer to the future Greenbank Road realignment, which is consistent with the Community Design Plan.

The lands were previously utilized for mineral resource extraction operations.

The extraction operation has recently ended as the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has deemed the site to be exhausted of aggregate and no longer requiring protection.

The subject property is adjacent to an existing mineral resource extraction site known as the Drummond Pit. Initial studies completed as part of the ap-

plication submission identified lands to be restricted from development within the subject property due to noise restrictions. However, following the submission of the application, it has been determined that the aggregate resources on the adjacent property have been exhausted and the pit will subsequently be retired.

Therefore, the development of the subject land will not negatively impact any active aggregate operations.

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Walter Baker Centre, 100 Malvern Drive Nepean, ON K2J 2G5

613-580-2473

• JOIN IN ON THE CONVERSATION AROUND THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTAL HEALTH AND HOW TO COPE WITH DIFFICULT SITUATIONS •

Symposium on Youth Mental Health April 4, 2020

www.janharder.ca

jan.harder@ottawa.ca Find us on: https://twitter.com/BarrhavenJan https://www.facebook.com/BarrhavenJanHarder

Food Information Booths Guest Speakers School Performers safeTalk Training

Location & Time for both Events: Walter Baker Sports Centre 100 Malvern Dr. 10:00am - 3:00pm For more details follow or email: @BarrhavenJan @BarrhavenJanHarder Jan.Harder@Ottawa.ca

Pop-Up Day May 2, 2020 Music Food Activities Information Booths (Sports, Wellness etc.)

Guest Speakers

BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT

The IndependentCOMMUNITY

FRIDAY, February 21, 2020 Page 3

Youth Health and Wellness Day planned for Walter Baker Ctr I hope you are enjoying our warm-ish winter so far. What a treat this has been! The NCC said this week that for the first time in over 50 years the full length of the Rideau Canal may not open.

I wanted to let you know about two events we are going to be hosting this spring around youth mental health. The first will be a Parent Info and Resource day on Saturday, April 4, 2020. That will be followed by a Youth Health and Wellness Day on Saturday, May 2, 2020. Both events will be held at the Walter Baker Centre from 10am to 3pm and will feature presentations, workshops, activities and motivational guest speakers -- focusing on the importance of mental health and how to cope with difficult situations. Stay tuned for more details and a full agenda for both events. We are also looking to get youth involved in this initiative. Have any ideas?

Please send me an email at jan. harder@ottawa.ca.

Community Events

Try Kids’ Lacrosse for Free with Nepean Knights The Nepean Knights are offering a great chance for your kids to try lacrosse for free! Kids from 3-16yrs old are welcome to give it a go at the Sooners Megadome February 22, from 12pm – 1pm for girls and 1pm – 2pm for the boys. Event is taking

LET’S TALK

BARRHAVEN

by Jan Harder

place at 5315 Abbott Street.

Clinics will be 60 minutes in length and a will be led by certified league coaches as well as the Nepean Knights Junior C and Capital Axemen Sr. B Lacrosse teams.

Lacrosse is played with a stick and ball. Players will be introduced to the key skills of scooping, catching and throwing. It is a game of speed and a combination of basketball, soccer and hockey. Anyone can play – big or small. Check out the fastest game on two feet! For more visit www.knightslacrosse. ca.

Kids Night Out

Art Haven (200 Kennevale Drive, Unit 102) is hosting a Kids Night Out event. Drop the kids off for a fun-filled evening of creativity. Art Haven will instruct your child through a specific 12” X 12” canvas image. They will come home with their own masterpiece. Materials, instruction and aprons will be provided. Pizza and juice are included as well. Please send your children in clothing that

can get dirty, Ages: 6+. Movie: to be declared closer to date.

Event will be held on Friday, February 28 from 6pm - 8pm.

More information can be found on Art Haven’s Facebook page.

Trivia Night at Anabia Cupcakes

On February 29 from 7pm - 9pm, spend an evening full of fun games with family and friends to enjoy together a glass of wine, beer, charcuterie and/ or a variety of treats for the sweet tooth at Anabia Cupcakes (3570 Strandherd). Seats must be reserved prior and tables are capped at a max of 6ppl. Please call us to reserve your seats at 613.823.1022.

the content may not be suitable for children in the lower grades.

West Barrhaven Community Association

Come out and join in the conversation on how to make West Barrhaven an even better place to live. The next meetings are scheduled for March 2 all starting at 7:30pm. Meetings are held at 76 Larkin Drive.

March Break Courses & Camps at the Walter Baker

The Walter Baker Centre is offering March Break courses which include Camp Ottawa

Adventure & Swim. Hip Hop Camp, Pre and Post Care & Swim Explorer Junior. For more information call the Walter Baker Centre at (613) 580-2788 or see the courses online at join. ottawa.ca.

Community Police Message Break and Enters

The Ottawa Police Break and Enter Section is currently investigating a series of daytime residential Break and Enters in the areas of Kanata, Stittsville, Barrhaven and Orleans that have occurred over several days this

week.

This is a reminder to the public that if you are going to keep your valuables at home, store them in a proper safe, in a properly secured location. Use a location other than the bedroom or closet for your valuables.

Signs that indicate that someone is in the home are also a deterrent. More home crime-proofing tips are available. Anyone with information is asked to call Ottawa Police Break and Enter Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 4533.

Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.

Paul Davis ++ Social Networking & Online Safety

Join Paul Davis at Cedarveiw Middle School (2760 Cedarview Road) Thursday, March 5th at 7pm (90min + Q&A) to learn about online safety, social media, cyberbullying, smartphones, privacy and more. Paul Davis has delivered his message to over 560,000 students along with the Ontario Provincial Police, Department of Defence and Canada Border Services. This event is free for all to attend. Please note that this event is geared towards adults and students who are in grades 7 and up. The delivery of

Rideau River ice breaking begins February 11 Rideau River flood control operations begin February 14 with the cutting of the keys, weather permitting. Ice breaking operations, including blasting, are set to begin February 29, weather and ice conditions permitting, on the Rideau River between Rideau Falls and Hog’s Back.

A Reminder to Parents and Teachers Ice breaking operations will create open water.

Children should be supervised at all times around water and should be warned of the dangers of open water.

The City, in partnership with the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority, undertakes ice breaking operations each year to alleviate possible spring flooding in flood-prone areas. Once started, these operations will be carried out daily, weather and ice conditions permitting.

Rogers Hometown Hockey was in Barrhaven last week and paid a visit to Monsignor Paul Baxter Elementary School on Feb. 6. Rogers Hometown Hockey Tour travels across the country to celebrate local hockey stories and the game’s biggest stars.

All residents are asked to keep away from the river until operations are completed.

Page 4 FRIDAY, February 21, 2020 BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT

The IndependentCOMMUNITY

Expert outlines six easy steps to avoid conflicts with coyotes One of the world’s foremost experts on coyotes was at City Hall last week to give a presentation on co-existing with coyotes.

Dr. Stanley D. Gehrt, Professor & Wildlife Extension Specialist, School of Environment and Natural Resources, The Ohio State University and Chair of Research, Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation, was in Ottawa to talk about coyotes. Although the problem has been an issue in the Rideau-Goulbourn and Osgoode Ward for decades, there are more and more instances of coyotes being aggressive in suburbs like Barrhaven.

Last month, a coyote attacked and killed a dog in a field near the RCMP headquarters at Prince of Wales Drive and Merivale Road.

Dr. Gehrt is regarded as an international expert of urban wildlife and is the senior editor of the volume ‘Urban Carnivores’ published by Johns Hopkins University Press. Research interests focus on various aspects of mammalian ecology, especially in urban systems, and dynamics of wildlife disease.

“It is important to stress that our relationship with coyotes is directly affected by our behavior — coyotes react to us, and we can foster mutual respect or a lack of respect through cues we send to them,” Dr. Gehrt says. “Coyote removal is best employed as a solution only after education has been attempted or if there is an immediate, and obvious, threat to human safety.”

Although coyotes have been known to attack humans and pets, and as such are a potential danger to people, especially children, Dr. Gehrt says the majority of attack incidents could be reduced or prevented through modification of human behavior.

On his website, rubancoyoteresearch.com, he sites six easy steps to avoid conflicts with coyotes.

1. Do not feed coyotes

The number one most effective way to prevent coyote attacks in your neighborhood is to eliminate wildlife feeding. Coyotes that are fed in residential neighborhoods can lose their fear of people

and may eventually test humans (and pets) as possible prey. Intentional feeding, such as bait stations in yards or parks, should be strictly avoided.

However, many people unintentionally feed coyotes by leaving pet food or garbage out at night or having large bird feeders. Coyotes are usually not interested in bird food, but bird feeders often attract rodents, especially squirrels, which then attract coyotes.

If you are seeing an increase in coyotes, you should additionally review your own actions to ensure compost piles and trash bins are not allowed to be a source of food. Although coyotes seem to have a natural inclination to avoid human-related food, this can change when prey populations are low, or if the coyotes are young and haven’t yet learned to hunt effectively.

2. Do not let pets run loose

Coyotes probably live nearby, even if you don’t know it, so do not let pets run loose. When hiking in parks, keep dogs on leashes. Pets left outside, even

with fencing, remain at risk for predation and unnecessary conflict. Do not leave your pets unattended outside, not even for a second. Remember, electric fences may keep your pets contained but do not keep other animals away.

Free-ranging domestic cats and feral cat colonies may also serve to attract coyotes; it is important that domestic cats be kept indoors and that feral cats be spayed or neutered to control this population.

Bringing food inside when outdoor cats are not feeding might alleviate part of this coyote attractant.

3. Do not run from a coyote

When you encounter a coyote, shout or throw something in its direction.

Do not run away. Do not play victim if you can help it. If a coyote seems intent on defending a certain area, particularly around pupping season (May), your best bet may be to alter your route to avoid conflict with a normally calm animal; understand that there may be seasonal patterns of behavioral changes and act accordingly

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4. Repellents or fencing may help

Some repellents may work in keeping coyotes out of small areas such as yards, although these have not been tested thoroughly for coyotes. Repellents may involve remotely activated lights or sound-making devices. Fencing may keep coyotes out of a yard, particularly if it is more than six feet in height with a roll bar across the top.

Spray repellents (pepper spray, etc) that you can carry with you have been reported with only moder-

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5. Do not create conflict where it does not exist

If a coyote is acting as a coyote should by avoiding humans and pets, do not seek out opportunities to haze or otherwise aggravate the animal. Embracing communal respect is key.

6. Report aggressive, fearless coyotes immediately

When a coyote fails to exhibit fear of humans or acts aggressively, the animal should be reported as soon as possible to the appropriate officials. It is recommended that towns have a procedure in place to handle these reports.

Signs of aggression are similar to those shown by domestic dogs and include agitated barking (unprovoked), raised hackles, snarling, growling, and lunging. These behaviors are usually preceded by other indications as shown in the chart below, though may change seasonally (see “suggestion 3” above).

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(see Coyote 748’s story).

We recommend if you are out walking that you carry some sort of noise maker with you (some have reported success scaring off coyotes by shaking a can of rocks).

If you see a coyote during the daytime, you should exhibit caution, as that coyote may have become habituated to humans (and may be more likely to attack). If you are approached by a coyote, you should yell, wave your arms, and/or throw something at the coyote (do not run away).

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The IndependentCOMMUNITY

FRIDAY, February 21, 2020 Page 5

Nobody knows Barrhaven like Jason MacDonald Barrhaven Independent Staff

To say that Barrhaven is a seller’s market would be an understatement.

In fact, it would be a huge understatement – kind of like saying that you might have to wait a couple minutes for the 95 bus on some mornings.

“The Barrhaven market is insane right now,” said Jason MacDonald of the MacDonald Property Group. “Inventory levels are so low right now. There will be more inventory available in the spring, but right now, the supply does not come close to meeting the demand.”

MacDonald has been a fixture in Barrahven for the last decade. He has been recognized as one of Canada’s top realtors. As the Chair of the Barrhaven BIA, he has a handle on what is happening in the local business community.

As a citizen, he has been one of the most visible and generous philanthropists in Barrhaven.

Last month, he rebranded his realty business as he is growing and

moving forward. What was once the MacDonald-Moussa Team is now the MacDonald Property Group. They are still located on Greenbank Road beside the fire station just north of Berrigan Road, and the same team is still in place. Jason’s wife, Renee, has officially joined the team and is the Director of Marketing. “She was already doing that before, but we just wanted to make it official,” he said.

From a business standpoint, MacDonald’s company is moving forward in a number of ways in which he can better serve his clients. Moving forward also means strengthening an already solid bond with the community.

“Giving back to the community has always been a priority for me,” MacDonald said. “Sometimes it’s big things, but more often it’s little things that no one knows about.

We don’t do things just to get our names out there.

We do things because we love the community, and we see it as a responsibility to build and grow the community that has been so

Don’t rush into buying, says MacDonald

While the real estate market in Barrhaven is breaking records, Jason MacDonald said that now is not the time for homebuyers to panic and rush into anything. Being patient is important in a seller’s market.

“Homes that are listing are getting prices way above ask. But a market like this does not last forever,” said MacDonald, who added that the seller’s market began in 2018 after a four-and-a-half-year buyer’s market.

MacDonald pointed out that the pendulum has swung in the direction of the seller, but for a long time it was a buyer’s market.

“Most of the buyers we see are not from Barrhaven,” MacDonald said. “We have buyers who are new to Ottawa, and in many cases, new to Canada. Barrhaven is an area that is hot right now, and the supply shortage has created that demand. When there is what is considered six months worth of inventory or less, it is considered a seller’s market.

Right now, we are actually in a market where we only have two days of inventory.”

The hot market, however, is not across all levels of housing. MacDonald said the rest of the market has to catch up to the townhomes and semis.

“People are finding that for a townhome or semi, the prices might be approaching $500,000,” MacDonald said.

“But people are realizing that they can get a single detached home with four bedrooms and a garage for not a lot more.

The low end of housing always drives up the next level, but we haven’t seen that happen yet.”

Jason MacDonald of the MacDonald Property Group is a leader in both Barrhaven’s real estate industry and in Barrhaven’s business community.

Jeff Morris photo good to us and has helped us build and grow.”

Over the years, MacDonald has been a big supporter of the Barrhaven Legion, the Barrhaven Food Cupboard, numerous youth sports teams and organizations, the Children’s Miracle Network, and the Hopes Rising Event. His bowling fundraiser, SpareA-Night for QCH, has raised more than $60,000 for the Queensway Carleton Hospital. He has also been the emcee of the Barrhaven Santa Claus Parade for the past three years.

As the Chair of the Barrhaven BIA, MacDonald is also plugged into the direction of growth within the community and the impacts of infrastructure developments.

In 2017, MacDonald was recognized as a community builder and contributor during Canada 150 celebrations held by both MPP Lisa MacLeod and MP Chandra Arya.

MacDonald’s passion and commitment to the community is evident in the way that he handles his real estate clients.

“I’m not here to sell your house,” he said. “I’m here to bring as many potential buyers to you as I can, and I am here to give you the best advice on which buyer and sale is right for you.

The highest bidder is not always the best buyer. You have to look at things like closing dates and what the conditions are on an offer.”

MacDonald said that one of the first things he asks sellers is sometimes overlooked by other agents.

“The first thing I want to know is why someone is selling,” he said. “A lot of realtors don’t care about that. They just want to make a sale. But I think it’s important. I am advising you on a huge decision, and I want to have as much information as possible.”

Sometimes, going through that process may even sway potential sellers to remain in their home.

“I have seen situations where people are carrying debt and they feel the need to sell to avoid a bankruptcy,” he said. “A lot of realtors will help them sell their home, but clients

like this need someone to really sit down with them and determine if that’s the best thing for them. Maybe the best thing to do is to consolidate debts and get a loan and remain in their home.”

While the sell-yourself craze driven by Grapevine and Purple Bricks was a big factor in the market over the past decade, he says most sellers are coming back to realtors.

“The percentage of homes for sale by owner is dropping,” MacDonald said, noting only two of the last 27 homes sold in Barrhaven were sold by the owners. “People believe they will walk away with more money buy selling themselves, but when you factor in everything, they are not. A standard commission is five per cent, which is split between the realtors representing the seller and the buyer. So even if you sell yourself, you will still pay 2.5 per cent to the buyer’s realtor.

Also, there are the fees, and the fees for listings.

So maybe by this point you are paying close to four per

cent instead of five.

“And then you have to look at the sale price. On average, a home sold by a realtor brings in 6.5 per cent more money. On a $450,000 house, that’s almost $30,000.”

MacDonald said what people overlook when they look at potential savings is the experience factor.

“I have sold millions upon millions of dollars worth of real estate,” said MacDonald.

“So why would you not want to have that expertise and experience working for you? Would you pull your own teeth instead of going to a dentist to save a few bucks? Would you do your own surgery to save money? Probably not. So why would you try to cut corners on one of the most important financial transactions of your life?”

The MacDonald Property Group handles residential, commercial and farm property sales. You can visit them at www. mpgrealty.ca. You can also contact them by phone at 613.596.4321 or by email at Jason@MPGRealty.ca.

Page 6 FRIDAY, February 21, 2020 BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT

IndependentEditorial

INDEPENDENT Editorial

Via blockade has big impact on Barrhaven When we see the clips of the train blockade near Belleville in the news, we don’t automatically think of Barrhaven.

But the blockade is having a huge impact on Barrhaven.

The Via Rail station at Greenbank and Fallowfield is in sleep mode these days.

Many commuters and business people who rely on the train to get to Toronto on a regular basis have had to look for alternative ways to get into Toronto. The most common thing we are hearing from local residents is that they work remotely and head into the Big Smoke once or twice a week for meetings and appointments and then take the train home at night. The blockade has taken away their most convenient commute, and many are driving to Oshawa or Whitby and taking the Go Train in from there.

If you want to really get local in this dispute, consider the fact that the RCMP, headquartered in Barrhaven, are right in the middle of the problem. Members of the Mohawk nation are demanding that no trains cross their Territory at Tyendinaga until the RCMP leave Wet’suwet’en Territory, where the government is using the militarized police force to escort Coastal Gas Link employees who are building a new fracked gas pipeline.

The blockade in the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory began to show solidarity with the hereditary chiefs of the Wet’suwet’en First Nation in British Columbia, who oppose the development of a liquefied natural gas project that crosses their traditional territory. The blockades in BC, Ontario and Quebec have resulted in a national shut down for train services. Via has suspended passenger train service nationwide and Canadian National Railway Co. has shut down freight operations.

Certainly, it’s a delicate issue any time the government deals with a protest from our indigenous peoples. But eventually, our government is going to have to step up and resolve this, either by negotiation or by force.

Outgoing Conservative leader Andrew Scheer is taking a hard line on the protest, acting like a leader we actually may have voted for in last year’s election.

Scheer claimed that law enforcement should enforce the law, and added that the government had court orders and court injunctions that need to be respected.

The Trudeau Government, predictably, wants to take a delicate approach.

Unfortunately, neither the Conservative nor the Liberal approaches will work in this situation.

In case we are missing something, what we haven’t seen is any activity out of the Kennevale Road offices of Nepean Liberal MP Chandra Arya. He was criticized locally in the last election campaign for being invisible and uninvolved in federal issues that affect the community.

This is clearly one of them.

BARRHAVEN

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The Barrhaven Independent is published by Manotick Messenger Inc. biweekly at P.O. Box 567 in Manotick, Ontario. The Barrhaven Independent is not responsible for the loss of unsolicited manuscripts, photos, or other material used for publication purposes. Letters will be edited for length, clarity and libellous statements. Display, National and Classified rates are available on request.

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I don’t even have an Uncle Bob It’s been a decade-and-a-half since I worked Hansard in 1599 when he travelled to Hungary. in Corporate America, slaving away in a cube The Hungarians would earn a feather in their cap farm in an office building, spending most of my for killing a Turk. Native Americans also had the time re-communicating decisions to hundreds of tradition, though far less barbaric, as they would co-workers while having my own decisions tied be presented a feather for their head dress for an act of bravery. up by levels upon levels of approvals.

Sometimes when Gary is meeting a client he So, on the days when I work in my Manotick will say he has an “ace in the office, the fact that there hole.” That expression, which are only two of us makes means he has something that the communication and FROM THE OTHER will ensure a victory, dates approval process easy, back to 1886. It comes from and, as Gary would say, poker, where a card dealt face Bob’s your uncle. down and hidden is called the Gary Coulombe, for Jeffrey Morris “hole card.” Thus, having an the record, is one of the ace in the hole means you most dedicated and valuable people we have ever had working for our have a hidden asset that you can access at any company. He is passionate about what he does time to endure victory.

He may also say that doing business with us and he works his tail off. Because we were friends before working together, we pick on each “will not cost an arm and a leg.” That expression has a couple of theories of origin, but its first other a bit.

On phone calls, Gary has this habit of using use in print was in the Long Beach Independent COUNCIL the expression, “Bob’s your uncle”. It’s just his 1949. Their food editor used the phrase in a column about 10 ideas for homemakers for Christway of being friendly.

CORNER mas that “won’t cost her an arm and a leg.”

One day, after he dropped about three Bob’s Mayor Suzanne Dodge The phrase refers to something that would your uncles in a row, I started wondering. What does that even mean? Then I thought about other cost a large amount of money, and grew in popuexpressions we use and thought about where lar culture in the days following World War II when so many veterans returned home having they come from.

So I did what every other award-winning re- paid a huge price of sacrifice by losing limbs.

There are examples of a similar phrase that go porter and journalist would do. I Googled it.

THE NOT SO to 19th Century for giving their right arm back As it turns out, “Bob’s your uncle” is an interfor something, or even a leg for something, but jection often used in Britain and the CommonNEW GUY that is a different expression. wealth countries.

Tim Ruhnke Sometimes, when things don’t go well with The most popular theory of the origin of the expression comes from Victorian Prime Min- a meeting, we say that we have to get back to ister, Lord Salisbury. In 1887, Lord Salisbury, square one.

Although I know that it means to start all over, whose real name was Robert Cecil, appointed his nephew, Arthur Balfour, to a succession of I’ve never really thought about what square one posts. One of those appointments for Balfour was until now.

It was first used in a BBC soccer broadcast. that was particularly unpopular with the popuTheir commentators liked to divide the pitch into lous was when he was named Chief Secretary of WALKER HOUSE Ireland by his uncle. eight grids to help describe action to listeners.

Having Bob as your uncle was seen as a kind “Square one” was the square closest and to the Susan Vallom left of your own goal. A team could work down of guarantee of success among some. Thus, “Bob’s your uncle” became a slogan of prosper- the field, but if the opposition cleared the ball, the team was often “back to square one.” The term ity.

But what about the other phrases we use in is also believed to have origins from the games Snakes and Ladders, and from Hopscotch. our office that you may use in yours?

And have you ever used the term “If it ain’t We like to tell our advertisers that they get “a broke, don’t fix it”? I used it in a sales presentabigger bang for their buck” with us. That expres-BLAKE’S sion actually has roots in the U.S. military and tion once in Dallas and nearly had my head torn TAKES off by our VP of Sales. Although it seems like coincided with discussions on nuclear warfare.

Blake McKim it’s been around for centuries, that expression US Defence Secretary Charles Wilson is credited as the first to use the term officially back actually was first used publicly in 1977 by Bert Lance, the Director of the Office of Management in 1953.

When we do something worthy of praise and Budget in Jimmy Carter’s administration.

So there you have it. You are now armed either in the community or within our business, I will often say to Gary that it is a “feather in the with the meaning of what may have seemed like meaningless expression. Go ahead, use them, cap” for us.

This tradition of earning a feather for your impress your friends, and, well, Bob’s your hat was first recorded by English writer Richard uncle!

SIDE

NEWS

Letters to the Editor welcome – email to newsfile@bellnet.ca

FRIDAY, February 21, 2020 Page 7

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The IndependentCOMMUNITY Hair today…

Barrhaven stylist Sarah Love shaves the head of Monsignor Paul Baxter Elementary School Principal Mark Kennedy last week while the entire school was watching. Kennedy and several male staff members at the school shaved their heads and beards in support of MPB Delicious Tea_Diversitea Ad Johnson, 12/20/19 10:42 AM in Page 1 Grade 6 teacher Rob pictured background, who is undergoing cancer treatments. The teachers wore #JohnsonStrong t-shirts, and the students raised more than $1500 for the Ottawa Hospital.

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FRIDAY, February 21, 2020 Page 9

BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT

Independent a finalist for five OCNA provincial newspaper awards Special to the Independent

TORONTO – The Barrhaven Independent is a finalist for 2019 Ontario Community Newspaper Association Awards in five different categories.

The OCNA announced the three finalists in each category for its 2019 Better Newspaper Awards Competition on Friday.

The Independent is a finalist in five categories – the most among Eastern Ontario community newspapers. There are more than 200 OCNA member newspapers in Ontario.

A story written by Jeff Morris on the Kraft family of Barrhaven is a finalist for Best Feature Story. In January, 2019, Kielli Kraft donated a kidney to her mother, Wendy, whose life was at risk if she did not receive a transplant. The donation of the kidney was made as a Christmas gift.

“I am glad this story won a nomination because it is so special,” Morris said. “The gesture of what Kielli did for her mom was one of the most beautiful and inspirational gestures I have ever seen in this community. It was an honour to be able to tell their story.”

The other finalists in the Best Feature Story are the Manitoulin Expositor and the Minden Times.

An editorial on Nepean Eagles football coach Carlos

Blizzard is up for Best Editorial. After an opposing team was caught cheating in an NCAFA football game, Blizzard pursued the issue in the name of doing what is right.

“Football is not about wins and losses,” Blizzard said in the editorial. “It’s 100 per cent about life lessons. What kind of life lessons are we teaching the kids if someone cheats on us and we don’t stand up for ourselves?”

The Eganville Leader and Haliburton Highlander are the other finalists.

A photo by Mike Carroccetto of the East Nepean Eagles Intermediate Little League team celebrating their Ontario championship by drenching coach Matt Hamer with water is a finalist for Best Sports Photo.

The other finalists in the category are the Blyth/Brussels Citizen and the Brampton Guardian.

The From the Other Side column by Jeff Morris is a finalist in two categories. Morris is a finalist in both the Columnist of the Year and Humour Columnist of the Year categories.

His column has been a finalist for either of these categories 11 times in the last 15 years. He has won the province’s top humour columnist award twice, and the Columnist of the Year Award once.

The other finalists in the Humour Columnist of the Year

Award are Steve Galea of the Haliburton County Echo and James Culic of Niagara This Week. For the Columnist of the Year Award, Morris is a finalist with Culic and John Stewart of the Mississauga News.

“It’s an honour to be recognized by our peers for the From the Other Side column,” Morris said. “It’s also an honour to be nominated with some of the other talented and popular columnists like Steve Galea and James Culic. Steve usually beats me for these awards and I always joke with him when I see him that he is my nemesis.”

The OCNA Awards Gala takes place in Vaughn April 3.

Michael Harry Swan

March 25 1990-February 22 2010

It is so hard to believe that 10 years ago you were tragically taken from us.

Of all the special gifts in life, however great or small To have you as our son and brother was the greatest gift of all.

We miss you dearly, Forever loved Mom, Dad and Alex

OTT-AD-4353 Barrhaven Independant-5.125x12-January-Big.indd 1

2020-01-03 10:08 AM

Page 10 FRIDAY, February 21, 2020 BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT

The IndependentCommunity

‘Political foes’ come together on a contentious issue Here’s the inside story on that Ottawa City Council meeting of Feb. 12th that has so many people talking.

Councillor Shawn Menard and I were prepared for what we thought would be a lost cause to convince our colleagues and the Mayor to vote in favour of our motion asking for an independent audit of the Stage Two LRT procurement process.

GLOUCESTERSOUTH NEPEAN

WARD REPORT

by Carol Anne Meehan

The motion was ready, vetted and changed at least twice in consultation with the City’s lawyer. We had asked that a big spotlight be put on the process which

allowed the worst technical bid to go through and win the contract for the Trillium Line. The Mayor and City staff knew for two weeks our motion was coming.

Less than an hour before the council meeting began we were asked to meet with the Mayor’s Chief of Staff.

I was about to witness the Mayor’s political astuteness in action.

Councillor Menard and I were handed a substitute

motion that Mayor Watson intended to introduce himself, one essentially identical to ours, but with more details. Shawn and I were given minutes to read it over; we made a few changes and agreed we could support it. We insisted that Councillor Menard had to be the seconder, not Councillor Gower, who was originally offered by the Mayor.

No surprise, the Wat-

son-Menard motion passed council unanimously.

That is how two “political foes” ended up working together on a very contentious issue.

Our original motion put the Mayor and our colleagues in a corner, and would never have been passed by Council. By authoring his own motion, Mayor Watson was able to position himself on the right side of what has been

a messy debacle. By agreeing to make public documents that many suspect hold dark secrets, the Mayor looks like he’s willing to more transparent.

Who knows what we will learn from these documents?

This I do know. By teaming up as we did, Councillor Menard and I put pressure in the right places to finally open up a far too secretive process.

Hearing Loss or Selective Hearing?

There is only one way to find out… undergo a hearing assessment!

All joking aside, a hearing assessment is an invaluable part of your overall health review. Much like eyes and teeth, ears should also be looked at regularly. This is particularly important now that studies have shown links between untreated hearing loss and memory, cognition, falls, social engagement, annual earnings and depression, not to mention its impact on your relationships. There is no doubt you will want to be proactive with even the slightest hearing loss!

Hearing is surprisingly complex and individualized and so finding that right solution is not as simple a process as one might think. What works for one may not necessarily work for another. The good news is that there are many manufacturers allowing for a great variety of solutions to meet the multitude of unique hearing needs. The key to success is a thorough assessment followed by a customized solution.

Offering just that is Hearing Freedom, a locally owned, grown, and operated clinic.

Their grass-roots approach is unfortunately rare in today’s retail settings, larger clinics and manufacturer owned chains.

The unique and refreshing approach that sets Hearing Freedom apart from other providers was established nearly 20 years ago

by Rosanne McNamee, Doctor of Audiology. After seeking employment, she was disheartened by interviews that had nothing to do with her knowledge and skills, but rather focused on the requirement to hit certain sales targets, to cut assessments short for efficiency and to limit prescriptions to one or two “preferred Manufacturers” for greater profit margins.

“That was not my idea of proper hearing health care,” says McNamee. “Each and every individual deserves what is best for them and their unique needs. The assessment must be thorough because it is the basis for everything else. In addition, there must be consideration for everything available in the market or you risk missing out on the ideal solution.” And so she decided

to set up her own business, doing it her way and putting patients first.

At Hearing Freedom, the patient is an active part of the whole process and there is no predetermined product or plan. Each and every patient’s intervention plan is truly as unique as they are. The experience begins with a 60 minute hearing assessment which is followed by a detailed needs assessment. Then, keeping both the assessment outcomes and the unique individual needs in mind, the Audiologist will take the time to research the market, considering ALL makes and models, so as to select the right product for that specific patient. This is followed by a 90-day trial period. This extensive trial gives patients the confidence that they have the right solution for them, their lifestyle and their unique hearing needs.

In addition, there are no Hearing Instrument Practitioners or Hearing Instrument Specialists at Hearing Freedom. Patients are rather seen by experienced bilingual Audiologists, University trained clini-

cians qualified to service both children and adults, whether they are private pay or third party supported (WCB, VAC, etc).

“Not only is hearing complex, so are today’s hearing aids,” McNamee explains.

“And Manufacturers differ in what they offer. Dealing with the most qualified health care professional, in the most independent setting, is crucial to successfully addressing hearing loss.” At Hearing Freedom you can be certain that you have chosen the best place to trust with your hearing needs.

So, if you believe in your right to the best, fullest and most customized service available, make sure you book your appointment with Hearing Freedom. You will not regret your short drive to Manotick.

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Like us on Facebook - Barrhaven Independent www.facebook.com/Barrhaven-Independent-142393275816516/

Follow us on Twitter @BarrhavenIndy

FRIDAY, February 21, 2020 Page 11

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The IndependentCOMMUNITY Eagles among local athletes honoured at Ottawa Sports Awards

A number of local athletes were among those honoured at the Ottawa Sports Awards, which took place in January.

Corey Townder of the Ottawa Swans, who play their Ontario Australian Rules Football League games at Bankfield and 416 between Manotick and Barrhaven, was honoured with the Australian Football Award. There were also a number of teams with local players recognized, including the Nepean Artistic Swim Club, the East Nepean Eagles Intermediate Baseball (11-13 years) provincial champions, the Nepean Eagles Senior Little League (15-16) team, the Team Bryan Cochrane Curling Rink (Senior Men’s Ontario, national and World Champions), the Team Deschenes Curling Rink (U18 Ontario Women’s Champions and Canadian Silver Medalists), the uOttawa Gee Gees Equestrian team, the Ottawa Sooners Bantam football team, the Ottawa Junior Riders Quebec Junior Football League cham-

pions, the Ottawa Swans Australian Rules Football team, the Nepean Wildcats Pee Wee AA and Pee Wee A Girls Hockey provincial championship teams, and the Ottawa South United 2003 Girls Soccer team.

Major Award winners on the evening were speedskater Ivanie Blondin, who won the Kristina Groves Trophy as Female Athlete of the Year; and shot putter Tim Nedow, who won the Male Athlete of the Year Award. UOttawa Gee Gees women’s soccer coach Jen Boyd was the Female Coach of the Year, while Ottawa Jr. Senators coach Martin Dagenais was the Male Coach of the Year. The Junior Senators were the Male Team of the Year after winning the Fred Page Cup as Eastern Canadian Junior Hockey Champions, while the Gee Gees women’s soccer team was the Female Team of the Year after winning the inaugural FISU World University Championships in China.

Also receiving major awards were Fernando

The East Nepean Eagles Senior Little League team receives their Ottawa Sports Award.

Henderson of the Nepean Diving Club, who won the Brian Kilrea Lifetime Achievement Award; squash official Penny Glover, winner of the Lifetime Achievement Technical Official Award; National Capital Baseball League Commissioner and Past President of the Nepean Eagles Bill Beelan, who won the Lifetime

Achievement Award; and L.A. and Bevin Schmidt of the Ottawa River Canoe Club, who won the Mayor’s Cup. Also recognized on the evening were Special Recognition Award winner Andy Binda of the Ottawa Rowing Club; Lifetime Award for Media Excellence Richard Starnes of the Ottawa Citizen and

TSN 1200; and Spirit of Sport Award winner Stan Banville, who is an Ottawa 67s super fan.

Cory Townder led the Ottawa Swans Australian Rules Football Men’s Team back to the AFL Ontario Grand Final, which resulted in the Men’s 2nd win. In doing so he was named the League’s MVP – only the second Ot-

Greg Mason photo

tawa Swan to receive that distinction. He was also named to the AFLO Men’s All-Ontario Team, and was Ottawa Swans Men’s Best & Fairest, and club leader in goalkicking. In addition to his onfield accolades, he also spent considerable time working with newer players, both men and women, to help develop skills.

Barrhaven Independent 30 years, 30 people: David Rattray

As we celebrate our 30th Anniversary, the Barrhaven Independent will be featuring 30 people who have played a prominent role in building and shaping 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 David Rattray, who has been a relentless community builder and volunteer.

The 2016 Barrhaven Independent Person of the Year, Rattray was invested into the Order of Ottawa during a ceremony at City Hall in 2018.

Rattray, who has resided in Barrhaven for four decades (and lived in Stonebridge since 2010), founded the Scouts Canada Foundation and served as its National Chair and Past Chair until November 2004.

He also co-founded the Christmas Cheer Founda-

tion in 2007, co-founded the Ottawa Heart Support Group through the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, and was a 10-year Director of The Unforgettables Fund, a fund used

by CHEO Social Workers to assist young families in providing a dignified funeral service for their deceased children.

Prior to his work as a management consultant, David Rattray was an Assistant Auditor General of Canada for 16 years and a Senior Principal for five years. For six years, until 2014, he was a Treasury Board of Canada appoin-

tee to the audit committees for the Department of National Defence and Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

He is a past or current board member of several boards and foundations, notably the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Foundation, the Ottawa Senators Foundation, the Ottawa Children’s Treatment Foundation, the University of Ottawa Heart Institute Foundation, Order of St. George Foundation, member of Rotary International, an Affiliate Member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 641, the Fundraising Committee for Roger Neilson House, and was co-founder of Socks for the Homeless with his wife Marion, who incidentally, was invested with an Order of Ottawa in 2015.

Mr. Rattray is a recipient of the 125 Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada Medal as well as the

David Rattray receives the Order of Ottawa from Mayor Jim Watson and Councillor Jan Harder.

BI file photo Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilee medals and the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers. He is a Cheva-

lier Commander of the Order of St. George. He is an international Baden-Powell Fellow, was awarded

the Paul Harris medal from Rotary International, and holds several other awards for his community service.

BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT

The IndependentCommunity

FRIDAY, February 21, 2020 Page 13

~Barrhaven Business Advantage~

Discover the Advantage!

For March Break, your travel agent can be your best friend

If you are thinking of getting away either for March Break or just because you have had enough of the snow and cold and need a break, you don’t have to figure it out on your own.

Many think they will find the best deals if they book their own travel online, but that is not the reality. Using a travel agent can save you precious time, as well as money.

“People don’t always realize it, but travel agents also have access to the best deals that are out there,” said Norma Wheeler, Your Travel Coach at the Travel Experts.

Wheeler said a travel agent can help with requests

both big and small. It might be finding that all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean, or perhaps a great deal on a cruise, or it could simply be flights, hotels, rental cars, and maybe even it’s just travel insurance.

“What we will do is find out exactly what your preferences are – things you like, things you don’t want, the dates you want to travel – and we will provide you with the best options within your budget,” Wheeler said.

“We can save you a lot of time that you would spend searching and comparing and get the same or even a better deal.”

In addition to be able to locate the ideal vacation,

Wheeler said that one of the most important things you are gaining when you use a travel agent is experience.

“Travel agents are advisors,” she said. “We know the different areas and the popular resorts, and we know that what is the perfect spot for one family might be totally different from what another family or couple want.”

Aside from the experience and from saving time and money, perhaps the most important thing a travel agent can do for you is to be an advocate on your trip. When something goes not-as-planned, that may be the most important reason to have a travel agent.

For example, if you are on a Sunwing Vacation and your flight is delayed by a day, your travel agent is your most important advocate.

“Things don’t always work out on a trip,” Wheeler said. “Maybe there is a weather delay or missed connection. Maybe your flight is delayed. That’s why it’s important to have a travel agent. We can be your voice and if something does go wrong, and we can intervene and make sure you are taken care of.”

Wheeler said that one of the most overlooked elements of travel is insurance.

With the recent changes in OHIP coverage for travellers, having travel insurance

is essential.

“It’s not just for vacations,” Wheeler said. “Even for something as simple as heading over to Ogdensburg or Watertown to go shopping, travel insurance is something that will become very important if you have

a medical emergency or you are in a car accident.”

For more information on planning your March Break getaway or for other travel needs, contact Norma Wheeler at 613-741-2001 or email her at norma.wheeler@travelexperts.ca.

BARRHAVEN 613-823-9699 10 Green Street, Suite 300 Ottawa HUNT CLUB 613-737-5487 224 Hunt Club Road, Unit 2 Ottawa EAGLESON 613-271-8222 500 Eagleson Rd, Unit 30 Kanata

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Page 14 FRIDAY, February 21, 2020 BARRHAVEN INDEPENDENT

The IndependentFOCUS ON YOUTH St. Joe’s student a youth ambassador for Children’s First Canada Name: Sagni Kuma Age: 17 Address: Barrhaven School: St. Joseph High Grade: 12

Parents: “Lalis Dinka (mother) Works as a PSW for the Perley & Rideau Veteran’s Health Center, St. Patrick’s Nursing Home, and March of Dimes Canada.”

Brother: “Hundey Kuma, grade 11, St. Joseph High. He plays on the Varsity Football Team. We are extremely close, probably because of our proximate age.”

Pet Peeves: “Lack of communication, especially when planning for big projects/ events; when people are disrespectful, especially to those who are older than them (or in a position of authority). For some weird reason, I don’t like people whispering to me, and gossip/bad mouthing others makes me cringe.”

Favourite Subjects: “I’ve loved the sciences ever since elementary school. I have a passion for Biology and Chemistry, but also have a keen interest in Law, as well as World Issues.”

What do you enjoy reading for pleasure? “I love reading non-fiction novels, or novels based on true-stories. I love realistic fiction, and also enjoy travel novels. Stories set in remote or foreign locations with rich culture and diverse people are my favourite.”

Who is your favourite author? “Not sure, but Leo Tolstoy is incredible (I read War and Peace, and it is by far the best novel I’ve ever read).”

What is your Greatest Accomplishment?

“Since entering junior high in 7th grade, I’ve always been very involved in my school community. Working with new and unique individuals was mental stimulus for me; I couldn’t go a day without saying “Hi” to a new face, or going to a club meeting.

In grade 9, I joined Student Council, and proactively involved myself with setting

FOCUS ON

YOUTH

by Phill Potter

up and planning for events, promoting school spirit, and creating a general sense of community within the student body. It wasn’t long before I realized I deeply admired student government. I loved advocating for those who couldn’t do so for themselves, and I intensely valued teamwork and communication. I found that the way I treated people struck an important balance between confident leadership and respect, which I found a shocking lack of (from both adult and student leaders).

As I was discovering more about myself, the chance at becoming one of the two Ottawa Catholic School Board ‘Student Trustees’ opened up.

I didn’t know much about the position, but had heard about it prior; in 9th grade, I saw a student trustee featured in a video produced by OCSB’s communications department.

I thought, “What’s that? What do they do? Can I become one too?”. I didn’t hear about it again until the 11th grade, when students who were willing to be nominated for the position were asked to offer their names. After hearing more about what Student Trustees do, I jumped at the opportunity – it was as if the role was calling to me.

I ended up being nominated by my school, and entered a rigorous election process.

Each high school in the Ottawa Catholic School Board sent in one nominee, who was asked to prepare a speech beforehand. We were to present our speeches, and spontaneously answer their questions in front of the school board’s Student Senate. This comprised of the two Co-Presidents from every high school in the board. If elected, we (the two Student Trustees) would run the senate.

I tried to think of a way to get the senate members to remember me, but to also take me seriously. With the help of some friends and Ms. Amanda Lord, I whipped up a comedic but memorable speech.

I also wore my school’s mascot costume to the election!

After reading our speeches,

and undergoing three rounds of elimination (rapid-response questions that ranged from “If you could have dinner with one person, dead or alive, who would it be?”, to “If schools were to teach one subject, which should it be?”, and “If you were elected, what would you change, and how would you best represent student voice?”). The 15-student nominee pool was narrowed down to two successful winners – myself, and my colleague Carlos Sanchez from St. Mark High School.

Our official inauguration was this past September. We attend bi-weekly board meetings, and events throughout the Ottawa community. I recently attended the United Way Launch, where I got to meet Jim Watson, Stefan Keyes, and Mathieu Fleury, the Operation Come Home breakfast event, the Archbishop’s Charity Dinner, and the Christmas Cheer Breakfast at the Shaw Center.

We also coordinate the Student Senate meetings, where CoPresidents are encouraged to share the things that are working – and not working – in their schools. Overall, our role is to represent student voice at the board level.

This year I also completed a five-month co-op placement with the United Nations Association in Canada (UNAC), and was invited to host this year’s National Child Day event in downtown Ottawa. I co-MC’ed with Lisa DeWilde, and got to meet with many young and passionate individuals. I now act as a youth ambassador for Children’s First Canada; in early February, I accompanied CEO Sara Austin, former Ontario Youth Advocate Irwin Elman, and two of my youth ambassador colleagues (Amina Sanogo and Kiah Heneke-Flindall) for two days worth of lobby meetings with various members of government.”

Activities and Interests: “I’m involved in many school activities. I’m in LINK Team (a group that focuses on mental health awareness) that is run by our amazing guidance counselors, Ms. TaraLynn White and Ms. Giulia Briglio; Student Council, under the authority of our incredible Co-Presidents, Sasha Rogers and Dan Nguyen (with the help of our engaged and

passionate teacher advisor, Ms. Meaghan Bennett); and finally, I’ve helped spearhead our newest club, Diversity Team, that aims to promote inclusivity within our school community (run by our proactive Law/History teacher, Ms. Erin Stokes, and our new chaplain leader, Ms. Lindsay Moore-Chung).

With the help of our teacher supervisors, Ms. Mary-Lou Tirabasso and Mrs. Caleidgh Porter, I also run our school’s Quilts for Cancer club, where students help sew quilts for those fighting cancer, and receive community service hours in return. Quilts was first run

by Mrs. Kathy Lee, who retired three years ago (Hey Mrs. Lee!). The club was kept alive by my personal mentor, Ms. Sarah Murray. She contributed so much to the St. Joe’s community before switching schools this past year. She ran so many clubs, during and after school, and always encouraged deep thinking and continuous learning amongst students. I miss you so much Ms. Murray! In terms of interests, I am a massive theater geek, and absolutely love acting. This past year I was in St. Joseph’s production, Murder’s in the Heir, where I played a ‘southern belle’ with a sassy attitude. That production class was a blast to be a part of, and I look forward to our 2020 production, called All I Need Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten. Definitely come check it out!! Tentative performance dates are April 2nd and 3rd at St. Joseph High School...!

I’ve also been a member of the Royal Canadian Army Cadets program since the 8th grade, and although I’ve taken a leave of absence since September 2019, I hope to return once second semester rolls around. Through the cadet program, I’ve successfully completed my Bronze Standard for the Duke of Edinburgh International Award. I would be doing a disservice to the program if I didn’t admit that my involvement with such an engaging organization played a massive role in making me the person I am today.

I also recently found out that I am a recipient of Global Youth Alliance’s Youth Achievement Award, and will be attending the Gala on February 29th at the Sheraton Ho-

St. Joseph student Sagni Kuma is involved in many school activities, including the Cappies play, the LINK Team, the Diversity Team and is also an Ottawa Catholic School Board student trustee.

Phill Potter photo tel to accept my award.”

Why did you get involved in what you do?

“I love meeting new people. I’m passionate about being involved, getting things done, and making a difference within my own community. I like seeing tangible results, and making everyone – regardless of social group, cultural background, likes/dislikes, etc – feel included and recognized.”

Career goals: “My goal is to work for the World Health Organization (WHO), focusing on global health and public health policy. My dream is to conduct research and find medical cures/vaccines for infectious diseases, and help combat outbreaks similar to ones we’ve seen in recent years (like the Ebola outbreak, the Dengue outbreak, Zika virus, Malaria, HIV/AIDS, and coronavirus).

It’s been my dream to be an epidemiologist since the 8th grade.

In university, I hope to minor in Political Science, while taking a major in Immunology & Microbiology. Post-undergrad, I hope to pursue a Master’s in Epidemiology with a focus on Global Health.”

Shout-outs: “It goes without saying, there are many people supporting me in my ambitions and life endeavours. My mom is first and foremost my #1 supporter; she works hard -

day and night - to support my brother and I. Through all the hardships and difficulties, she always manages to be positive and joyful. I really don’t know how she does it. She is my inspiration and my best friend, someone I can turn to for everything from fashion advice, to reality checks, and motivational speeches. All my achievements are because of her. I will forever be indebted to my mom, and the sacrifices she’s made for my brother and I. She’s my strong, spectacular, awe-inspiring, unsung hero.

I would also like to recognize my grade 11 and 12 Chemistry teacher Mrs. Sandra Warren, for building my character in more ways than she knows. Her course, being the most challenging class I’ve ever taken, taught me how to persevere in spite of failure (literally), how to manage my time, and of course, she taught me a WHOLE LOT of chemistry. She is the most respected educator I know, and her work ethic is beyond belief.

I would also like to thank my guidance counselor Mr. Duane MacNeil, for offering me advice and helping me navigate through the crazy transition from grade eight to high school. He was always open to meeting me whenever I needed direction, and answered every weird question I came, and still come to his office with. You’ve helped me with a lot. Thank you.

youth

continues on page 15

FRIDAY, February 21, 2020 Page 15

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Marlene L. Grant Professional Corporation The IndependentFOCUS ON YOUTH

• youth continues from page 14 In addition, I would like to thank Ms. Anna Mastrogiacomo, a teacher I can trust with whatever issue I have. She took the time to not only get to know me, but to also meet my mom. To this day, my mom will never stop asking me, “So, how is Anna?”. Ms. Mastro, your love, compassion, energy, and support mean so much, and there’s really no way for

Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) me to put my gratitude into dismissive of the things I had to Accountant say, and took(CGA) the time words. Thank you. Certi�ed General Finally, it’s my honour to to answer any questions thank the Director of Educa- I (or our student senate) www.mlgpc.ca policy, unions, tion for OCSB, Mrs. Denise had about

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Andre, for being such an inspirational role model. She is a spectacular leader, and in the short time that I’ve had the privilege of working with her, I can personally testify to her genuine, attentive nature. She is never

and the board in general.

Mrs. Andre, I wish you all the best in your retirement (after working 41 years for our board!). You will truly be missed. Thanks for all your encouragement and support.”

Marlene L. Grant Professional Corporation

Contact Marlene L. GrantChartered Professional ProfessionalCorporation Accountant (CPA) General Accountant (CGA) for all your corporateCerti�ed and personal www.mlgpc.ca accounting and taxation needs.

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