e've got character! That's the assessment of our governor general, Adrienne Clarkson.
On April 12, 2003, a story ran in the City section of The Ottawa Citizen entitled "Governor General warns of growth's hidden costs." Old Ottawa South is highlighted in the article, with the following comments attributed to Madame Clarkson: "Neighbourhoods such as Old Ottawa South, Lindenlea and New Edinburgh have character," she said. "In growing, you have to be very careful that you don't lose that."
We agree. We moved into Old Ottawa South 25 years ago this spring. Along with our three children, we have enjoyed the ambiance of an older, central neighbourhood, with a mix of families, seniors, and students and with ready access to education, recreation, commercial and sports' facilities.
But our community works for other, less tangible reasons. Among these is an enviable spirit of volunteerism that is essential to much of what matters here.
Volunteers are involved everywhere - scouts and guides, the schools, sports' teams, the churches, and the community association, to name a few.
The Bank Street reconstruction and a renovated Firehall will enhance the character of Old Ottawa South. The new Official Plan should do likewise. Let's hope Old Ottawa South is once again cited as a model 25 years from now!
Lynn and John Graham
Rosedale Avenue