Councillor’s Message
I hope this message finds you well. As we enter the holiday season, it’s a joyous time for many, but can also be a challenging time for others. I know many in our community continue to be deeply affected by tragic conflict in the Middle East. As a reminder to all who may be struggling, mental health resources are available. You can view a list that Ottawa Public Health has put together here.
Shifting focus to local matters, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in our recent east-end and rural 2024 budget community consultations. While it's "budget season" at City Hall, I consider budget consultations to be a year-round activity, and your engagement is crucial to shaping the future of our community.
Resounding applause to The Heart of Orléans BIA for kicking-off a memorable festive season! The tree-lighting ceremony at Centrum, complete with Santa, reindeer, and delightful treats from local favorites Cafe Latte Cino, The Dough Bros, and The Tortilla Maker of Canada, was nothing short of magical. A special mention goes to the talented School of Rock Orléans for serenading us with their musical prowess.
That set the stage for a fantastic time at Santa's Parade of Lights last Saturday! The east end was alive with energy, and it warmed my heart to see so many familiar faces in the crowd. A special thank you to everyone who came out and showcased the true spirit of Orléans. Kudos to Bob Rainboth and the Ottawa Professional Fire Fighters' Association for orchestrating 75 dazzling floats for the 26th consecutive year! Go Bob and team!
Please note, I extend my sincere apologies for an error in our last newsletter. I want to clarify that the new President for the Greater Avalon Community Association (GACA) is Faduma Wais and not Kadija Berry. I look forward to working with Faduma in her new role as President!
As the holiday season is in full swing, let's continue to foster the spirit of community, kindness, and togetherness. There are many ways to support the community, whether it be a food drive at Aquaview in support of OCCRC (more information below) or donating to a local cause, if you are in a position to do so.
Happy holidays and warm regards,
Reminder: Lane reductions on Renaud & Mer Bleue
Westboro Utilities has started installing a new natural gas line that’ll impact Renaud and Mer Bleue roads.
Construction activities are occurring between 9 AM and 3 PM (non-peak hours). One lane of traffic in each direction will be maintained on Renaud (from Mer Bleue to Ascender) and Mer Bleue (from Renaud to Willow Aster).
The installation is estimated to take three weeks (until mid-December).
Get ready for a weekend full of festive fun in Orléans South—Navan!
Tonight, in Navan at 6 pm, join Rural Firefighters at Station 71 for a special visit from Santa and Sparky. Bring an unwrapped toy for Toy Mountain, enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, caroling, and the lighting of the Christmas Trees.
Over in Cumberland, make memories at the Vintage Village of Lights this evening through to Sunday night. Enjoy the postcard-perfect scenery of a 1920s and 30s village on foot as you explore the festive light displays, seasonal decorations, and true-to-era buildings at Cumberland Heritage Village Museum. Advance registration is required here.
Staying in Cumberland, it’s time for the annual Christmas Market. The event is so big with over 100 vendors, it takes four separate venues to host. It goes tomorrow from 9 am to 3 pm at four different locations – 1115 Dunning Rd. (2 halls), 2620 Market St., 2557 Old Montreal Rd., and 2565 Old Montreal Rd.
Join Domaine Perrault for their holiday market tomorrow from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm filled with local vendors, live music, kids craft station, a visit from Santa and of course, incredible wine. Don't miss out on this opportunity to support this local Navan businesses. Get your free ticket here.
District 7 firefighters are putting on a donation drive at various locations around Orléans tomorrow, from 9 am to 4:30 pm at either Metro Convent Glen, Metro Fallingbrook, Metro Cumberland, Sobeys Orléans, Sobeys Trim & Innes, and FreshCo Orléans. Your support directly helps the OCCRC Food Bank provide emergency food to over 1000 individuals monthly.
There’s a ton to do in our community tomorrow and I hope you can take advantage. Have fun!
Ward 19 resident receives Order of Ottawa
I’m thrilled to share that one of our own Orléans South—Navan residents, Solange Tuyishime Keita, has been awarded the prestigious Order of Ottawa this year!
Solange is an extraordinary individual who has dedicated her life to making a positive impact on the world. Currently serving as the President and CEO of Elevate International, she is a true inspiration to us all.
Born and raised in East Africa, Solange faced the challenges of war and genocide in her early childhood. Moving between refugee camps, she demonstrated resilience and determination, refusing to let her story be defined by tragedy.
As the Co-Founder of Naylah’s Legacy and a UNICEF Canada Ambassador since 2010, Solange has been a relentless advocate for children's rights. For over 12 years, Solange Tuyishime Keita has been a dedicated ambassador for the United Nations Children's Fund, continuing to meet and empower brave and inspiring girls worldwide.
Congratulations, Solange, on receiving the Order of Ottawa! Your story is an inspiration to us all, and we are incredibly proud and honoured to call you our neighbour.
Community meeting at Bungalows of Chaperal Community Association
On Monday, I had the opportunity to attend a community meeting hosted by the Education Committee of the Bungalows of Chaperal Community Association. It was a great opportunity to connect and share some updates on what is happening in the Ward. Updates included some highlights from the 2024 Budget, crime prevention and speeding, transit update, and discussing development in the area. We had some great resident engagement and questions!
GACA Holiday Food Drive for the OCCRC
As the festive season is here, the Greater Avalon Community Association (GACA) is excited to host its Holiday Food Drive in support of the Orléans-Cumberland Community Resource Centre (OCCRC).
In the spirit of giving, they’re inviting community members to drop off items at Aquaview Community Centre (318 Aquaview Dr, Orléans) on Monday, December 11, from 9 am to 7 pm.
The OCCRC has reported a 30% increase in the usage of their food bank, emphasizing the growing need within our community. They’re looking for cereals, canned non-perishables, dry mixes, and baby formula to name a few.
Your contribution, whether big or small, can make a significant difference in brightening someone's holiday. Thank you for supporting GACA and OCCRC!
Cumberland Panthers U19 Women’s Fall Cup Champions
A huge congratulations to the Cumberland Panthers U19 women’s team!
They beat Peel 16-12 on November 17 to capture the Women’s Fall Cup.
Well done on an outstanding performance ladies!
Stay safe and protect your vehicle
Ottawa Police continue to urge residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their vehicles from the rising threat of theft. This year alone has seen a staggering 1200 reported vehicle thefts across various Ottawa neighborhoods including in Orléans South—Navan.
OPS is actively collaborating with their counterparts to disrupt criminal organizations behind this surge in vehicle theft. Frontline patrol efforts have resulted in over 80 arrests and the recovery of 315 stolen vehicles this year. District investigators are successfully prosecuting offenders and reinforcing the commitment to hold them accountable in the court of law.
While luxury SUVs and light trucks remain prime targets, thieves are not limiting themselves to specific brands. Vehicles equipped with proximity keys, including models like the Rav4, Honda CRV, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and higher trim levels of Ford F-Series trucks, are also being targeted. This trend extends beyond Ottawa, with increased vehicle thefts reported in Quebec and the Greater Toronto Area.
To minimize the risk of theft, vehicle owners are encouraged to consider preventive measures such as parking in a garage when possible, blocking vehicles in tightly, using steering wheel locks, installing after-market immobilizers and alarms, and employing tracking devices. However, caution is advised as thieves may detect tracking devices.
In addition to individual precautions, the community is urged to participate in neighborhood watch programs and report any suspicious activity promptly. The Ottawa Police can be reached at 613-236-1222, and emergencies should be reported to 911.
Safe trade spaces reminder during the holiday season
A reminder that earlier this fall I helped launch dedicated parking spots at three police stations intended to support safety when completing trades stemming from online marketplaces and websites or any other type of personal sales. You can access a Safe Trade location in Orléans at 3343 St-Joseph Boulevard (Orléans police station).
Safe Trade parking spots are clearly marked by signage and a blue logo to help you identify where to conduct a safe exchange.
When buying and selling items, prioritize safety by avoiding home invites, bringing a friend to public places with surveillance like shopping malls or police station Safe Trade spots, scheduling daylight meetings, being cautious of location changes, and steering clear of vacant areas during exchanges.
Be a Hydrant Hero this winter!
As winter approaches, help keep your community safe by becoming a Hydrant Hero! Clear snow to create a path to and 1.5 metres around your local fire hydrant. This ensures firefighters have access to the fire hydrant when responding to an emergency.
We've had a special request to help locate a Hydrant Hero for the Farincourt/Cabris area (seniors community). If you live in the area, and would like to adopt a hydrant, please email my office at catherine.kitts@ottawa.caand we will help coordinate!
Students can request confirmation of community involvement hours by emailing hydrants@ottawa.ca.
Prepping your home for winter
As the colder weather is upon us, the City has prepared some tips to help you survive the chilly Ottawa winter, help your community, and make a difference to the planet at the same time.
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