Features
Moving south (i.e., from the north end to the south end)
By ARTHUR CHAPMAN We did it – making a change we thought we’d never do. We moved south.
My wife (Jo-Ann) and I both grew up in Garden City. After getting married we lived in The Maples for five years, before buying a home in Seven Oaks Crossing (near the Seven Oaks Hospital), where we resided for 28 years. We loved it there, having moved on to a street with lots of girls for our daughter to play with, not to mention friends of our own.
But our daughter has been on her own for more than ten years. Jo-Ann and I both have had health issues that made us realize we wouldn’t be able to climb stairs to the second floor forever. Having had to clear out our parents’ residences on relatively short notice, we were determined not to repeat that experience. So, even before we decided to move – let alone where – we began to downsize.
But where to go? We didn’t want another house. Nor did we want a condo, not wanting to pay condo fees and property taxes, and worrying about being hit for building repairs. (Three months after moving into my parents’ condo, the new owners had to pay $15,000.)
If only we could find a condo-style apartment we could rent. To be sure, there are condo owners who rent out their units, but what if they change their minds when the lease expires?
Then, in 2020, we were at a “break-the-fast” dinner at Jo-Ann’s cousin’s condo and she told us about the Taylor Claire apartments being built on – you guessed it: Taylor Avenue. She and her husband were moving there, and she showed us a promotional brochure. It sounded perfect.
Long story short: less than one week later we put down a deposit and, since last April, we’ve been happily residing here.
But let’s get back to this “north to south” thing.
Years ago I read a “moving to Winnipeg” type of publication that described the cultures of the different neighbourhoods. Garden City was at the time a predominantly Eastern European area (i.e., Jewish and Ukrainian) whose families had initially settled in the North End, and who took pride in still living “north.”.According to this magazine, we Garden City folk were proud of our “anti-snob snobbishness”.
But at times it was a mystery as to whether living in Garden City made you a “northender.” I took pride in the term until one summer at BB Camp when a fellow camper, who both lived near and attended St. John’s High School, said “Chapman, Garden City is not the North End.” And, someone else said “you’re a Garden City liberal. You drive down Main Street with the car doors locked”. That wasn’t fair – sometimes I’d forget to lock the doors.
From 1981-83 I worked for a community paper in The Pas. (Talk about being a “north”ender.) While there I got to meet the late Eugene Kostyra, Minister of Practically Everything in Howard Pawley’s NDP government. He was a St. John’s High School dropout, became a journeyman electrician and union activist before entering politics. Who was more qualified to judge North End bona fides?
“So where are you from?” he asked.
“Winnipeg,” I answered.
“But what part?” he asked
“Garden City,” I said
“So, you’re a northender! ” he said.
I explained how I wasn’t sure if Garden City residents could use that term. Yes you can, he replied. SO THERE!
Anyway, when we told other “northenders” we were moving south, some would say, tongue-in-cheek (I think), “you’re not going to become like them, are you?” And when we got here, a neighbour, River Heights born and raised, asked if living south felt different to us, like moving to another city. Seriously?
Construction delays meant we couldn’t move into our apartment right away so, after selling our house, we rented a condo in St. Vital for over a year, and that did feel like a different city. I never expected there to be bilingual store announcements at the local liquor store, or that I could practise my French with the cashiers.
And, who knew you could find so many halal restaurants there, and a large Hindu temple on St. Anne’s Road? An,d I was amazed when I volunteered to deliver yahrtzeit candles for Yom Hashoah to St. Vital members of Congregation Etz Chaim -and there were five members living there.
So, why “south?” It wasn’t a great “why can’t I live south?” obsession. It was about finding accommodation that matched our needs. I spent plenty of time in River Heights and Tuxedo growing up, notably from USY programs. It was hardly foreign territory to me. It had a high concentration of Jewish residents then, and more now.
Garden City, conversely, had changed. The days of getting classic North End Deli – Simon’s, Oscar’s, Garry’s – are long gone. What was once a predominantly Jewish and Ukrainian area is now heavily Filipino and East Indian, and as I’d drive by Garden City Collegiate I’d silently hope the students’ memories of that school and neighbourhood would be as positive as mine. Being gastronomically adventurous, I will say the new Garden City and environs provides great new experiences. The Punjab Sweet Shop on Mandalay serves, in my opinion, Winnipeg’s best samosas – probably the biggest. The Asian food take out at the Save-on Foods on McPhillips is incredible. There is (or was) a terrific sushi place in the strip mall outside the McPhillips Street Superstore.
Jo-Ann accused me of being obsessed with food, as I would tell everyone how much I was looking forward to going to Meyer’s, Bernstein’s and the Falafel Place. Truth be told, I’ve only been to Meyer’s, and only once, but trust me, that will change.
But moving south wasn’t about ethnicity or restaurants. Much of it has to do with convenience. Garden City seemed further removed from everything. Though there’s a wide array of supermarkets and a Walmart and Home Depot, shopping options are limited, and there aren’t a lot of good restaurants. The Garden City Shopping Centre no longer has major department stores. (It does have a huge, fascinating Filipino supermarket.) There’s no Costco, let alone IKEA.
Congregation Etz Chaim is moving to Wilkes. I’m within walking distance of McNally Robinson. We find that we’re closer to just about everything.
There are, of course, pluses and minuses. Driving home after work from downtown to Seven Oaks Crossing usually took about 20-25 minutes. Traffic coming this way seems much heavier and slower.
Despite this, I like living here. But for the record, deep down I still think of myself as a northender – and I don’t apologize for it.
Features
Best Jewish Neighbourhoods to Live in Ottawa
Ottawa’s Jewish community comprises a series of neighbourhoods that offer a range of amenities, community infrastructure, and housing options. Each area presents unique characteristics that cater to different lifestyle preferences and family needs.
Alta Vista: Supportive Community Near Healthcare and Recreational Facilities
Alta Vista stands out for its close-knit Jewish community, largely centered around Congregation Machzikei Hadas, an Orthodox synagogue. This neighbourhood provides easy access to healthcare facilities, including the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario and the Ottawa Hospital’s General Campus. Residents also enjoy nearby recreational opportunities, such as the Rideau Canal, Mooney’s Bay Park, and the Rideau River Pathway.
Housing options in Alta Vista range from single-family homes to more affordable townhouses and rental apartments. For families raising children in the Jewish tradition, school bus services to Torah Day School of Ottawa and Ottawa Jewish Community School add to the area’s appeal. While not the most densely Jewish neighbourhood, Alta Vista fosters a supportive and active sense of community life. Its proximity to downtown Ottawa also makes it a convenient choice for professionals who value both community and accessibility. Adding to its charm is the abundance of green spaces and quiet streets, perfect for families seeking a peaceful environment.
Centrepointe/Craig Henry: Highest Jewish Population in Ottawa
As the neighbourhood with the highest concentration of Jewish residents in Ottawa—comprising around 1,700 people—Centrepointe and Craig Henry offer a balance of housing choices, from single-family homes to townhomes and row houses. This area is home to the Torah Day School of Ottawa, a local recreation center, and access to the Greenbelt, making it particularly attractive to families.
The availability of light rail transit further connects Centrepointe/Craig Henry to Ottawa’s downtown core, creating a convenient commuting route. Access to kosher facilities, such as College Square Loblaws and Greenbank Metro, enhances everyday living for observant Jewish households. In addition, the neighbourhood’s libraries, parks, and community events contribute to a vibrant and welcoming environment for residents of all ages. With its family-friendly amenities and growing popularity, it remains a top choice for Jewish families moving to Ottawa.
Exploring Jewish Community Centers and Everyday Amenities
Jewish community centers across Ottawa serve not only as hubs for cultural and religious events but as practical connectors to local neighborhoods. For example, the Soloway Jewish Community Centre in Westboro/Carlington provides easy access to activities and programs for all ages. This proximity to cultural and educational facilities makes the neighborhood appealing for those seeking a close-knit community atmosphere.
In Centrepointe/Craig Henry, amenities such as nearby libraries, parks, and kosher sections at stores like College Square Loblaws enhance the appeal of the area. Those searching for homes for sale in Ottawa might find these neighborhoods offer a balance of community resources and lifestyle conveniences. The presence of Jewish schools and synagogues ensures that residents can maintain a deeply connected lifestyle without extensive travel across the city. Additionally, the Soloway Jewish Community Centre frequently hosts events, fostering connections among residents and enriching the cultural fabric of the area.
Westboro/Carlington: Hub of Organized Jewish Life
Westboro and Carlington are central to Jewish life in Ottawa, hosting the Jewish Community Campus, which includes the Soloway Jewish Community Centre, Ottawa Jewish Community School, and Hillel Lodge Retirement Residence. The neighbourhood is also home to multiple synagogues, a mikvah, and several Jewish camps.
Beyond its Jewish infrastructure, Westboro/Carlington provides proximity to Gatineau via bridge connections and access to green spaces along the Rideau Canal. A mix of apartment buildings, townhomes, and single-family properties characterizes the housing market in this area, offering options for a range of budgets. Community members often benefit from the area’s cohesive environment as a focal point for everything from religious services to family-friendly activities. With its walkable streets and bustling local businesses, this area attracts families and young professionals alike. Its location also offers convenient access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, making it a vibrant and dynamic choice.
Additional Insights on Ottawa’s Jewish Community
Ottawa’s Jewish population is estimated to be around 14,000, representing 1.2% of the city’s total population. Demographically, the community skews slightly older than the overall Jewish population in Canada, with a median age of 41.7 years. Between 2001 and 2011, the Jewish population in Ottawa showed modest growth of 2.8%, adding 375 people during that period.
Several smaller Jewish hubs, such as Orleans, Kanata/Stittsville, and downtown Ottawa, also exist. However, these areas lack the strong community infrastructure found in Alta Vista, Centrepointe/Craig Henry, and Westboro/Carlington. Orleans offers spacious suburban homes and access to outdoor spaces, while Kanata/Stittsville is known for its family-friendly vibe and growing commercial sector. Downtown Ottawa, though not a primary Jewish hub, offers urban conveniences and proximity to cultural institutions, making it a viable option for younger professionals and those seeking a more cosmopolitan lifestyle.
Tips for Prospective Residents
When exploring Jewish-friendly neighborhoods in Ottawa, consider factors such as proximity to schools, synagogues, and kosher facilities. Families may prioritize areas like Centrepointe/Craig Henry or Westboro/Carlington for their established community resources, while professionals might lean toward Alta Vista or downtown for convenience and accessibility. Additionally, understanding the housing market trends and visiting community centers can provide valuable insights into which neighborhood best fits your needs. For those considering a move, scheduling a tour of these neighborhoods can provide first-hand experience of their community feel and amenities.
Conclusion
Ottawa offers a variety of neighborhoods that cater to the needs of its Jewish community, each with its own distinct advantages. Whether you’re drawn to the supportive community of Alta Vista, the family-friendly environment of Centrepointe/Craig Henry, or the organized hub of Jewish life in Westboro/Carlington, there’s a neighborhood to suit every lifestyle. Smaller hubs like Orleans and Kanata/Stittsville also provide unique opportunities for those seeking quieter suburban living.
Choosing the right neighborhood involves balancing proximity to community resources with personal lifestyle preferences. From access to synagogues and schools to recreational opportunities and housing options, Ottawa’s Jewish neighborhoods provide a rich tapestry of choices. No matter which area you select, you’ll find a welcoming community ready to support and connect you. Start exploring today to discover the perfect place to call home in Ottawa’s vibrant Jewish community.
Features
“Braunsteins on the broom” revisited
By GERRY POSNER Step back in time to 1958. It’s February and the Manitoba Curing Championships are starting in Winnipeg for the right to play in the McDonald Brier. Who should be competing but two Jewish boys from the south end of Winnipeg, Terry and Ron Braunstein? Terry was all of 18 while Ron was only 17. Also on the team were Ray Turnbull and Jack Van Hellemond.
The team competing for the Manitoba championship was skipped by Marno Frederickson. Although few expected the youngsters to have gotten this far, there they were in the final and, ultimately, they prevailed. As Manitoba champs they were entitled to compete in Victoria, BC in March of that year in the McDonald Brier.
Now, just getting to participate in the Manitoba playdowns was by itself a bit of good fortune. First, It was only because Terry came home from school in Texas where he was on a track scholarship in Houston that allowed him even to be around, available, and ready to play. Events in Texas had soured him on the University of Houston and that was exacerbated by his asking a black athlete, a running star, for some running tips. The coaches disapproved of that interaction, told Terry so warned him not to do it again. That – plus other factors led Terry to abandon the track programme.
So, Terry packed up, came home to Winnipeg and was out of school for that year as a result. But he had time to curl and the Maple Leaf rink as well as the Granite Club were inviting. It did not hurt that the uncle of the Braunstein boys was Eph Portigal, a mover and shaker at the Maple Leaf Club. In fact, Terry has always made clear, as did Ron, that their uncle Eph was instrumental in teaching the boys some curling strategy, a significant part of every curling game.
To be clear, the boys had curled some before as they grew up for a chunk of their early years in Binscarth, Manitoba where their father, Dr. David Braunstein was a physician.The boys, as they were then, had (and always have had) what might be called some serious athletic genes. Anyone who can remember Dr. Dave will recall that, among his many abilities in sports, he was a fastball star.
That the athletic gene was prominent in the Braunsteins became evident to me long ago. I recall the day when I first came across the Braunstein brothers and was in awe of what they could do athletically. It was about 1955 and the Braunstein family had moved to Winnipeg. They were living temporarily with the Portigals on Wellington Crescent – near my home on Cordova Street. Up until that time, I fancied myself as a bit of an athlete. Then I met Ron and Terry Braunstein. I saw them playing baseball on Wellington Crescent so easily and smoothly as if they were born with a glove in utero. Right then and there, at age 12, I realized, just how lousy I really was. I have always commented that, of the people I knew personally, the Braunsteins were the best athletes I had ever seen to that point. Of course, in truth, the range of my relationships at that time was slender, so they had few to compete with on my radar screen.
Now, the story of even getting to compete for the Manitoba Curling Championships was more complicated as the team had their lead drop out at the last minute. The rest of the team needed a replacement and had about 24 hours to submit a new name or they would not be allowed to enter. Terry remembered playing against a young kid earlier who had impressed him, but didn’t know how to reach him. “Him” was Jack Van Hellemond, not yet 16. Terry thought that Jack curled at the Belgian Club so he went there that night and luckily found Jack, invited him to play on his team. Jack agreed, but Terry still had to get consent from Jack’s parents and the principal at his school. All of that happened in less than 24 hours.
In any event, the boys did get in, with Ray Turnbull as second, Ron as third and Terry as skip. Not for a second did any of them think they would win the Manitoba Curling Championship event. In the end though, they were victorious at the Winnipeg Arena. I was there and that is a memory etched in my mind.
Off to Victoria in March of 1958 they went and again, nobody thought they had a real chance of winning the Brier. Yet, they played so well that at the end of the week, their team ended in a tie with one of the legends of the game, Alberta’s Matt Baldwin. That forced a sudden death championship, winner take all. I recall sitting close to my radio following every shot as the game progressed. I was crestfallen when they lost in a very tight match. But, as a sports writer then for the Kelvin High School Et Cetera newspaper, as it was then called, I had the chance to write a column for the paper which had the headline “ Braunsteins on the Broom.” It was my first real writing experience that led to the publication of an article about the trip to the Brier for the Braunstein rink. Terry had graduated from Kelvin while Ron was still a student there. I thank Ron and Terry for the part they played, even if was inadvertent, in my budding writing career. This article just revisits that time and place.
The entry of the young Braunsteins into what was then the main event in the world of curling in 1958 caused a major change in the rules of the Canadian Curling Association. That a team with two 18-year-olds, as in Terry and Ray, a 17-year-old in Ron, and the 16-year-old Jack, could compete with adult men was too much for the veterans of the game, so a separate junior competition was created, which exists to this day. Thank the Braunsteins for that rule change.
And yet, that defeat in 1958 did not deter the Braunstein brothers at all as they continued to compete for many more years, ultimately winning Manitoba again in 1965 and going once more to the Brier, this time in Saskatoon. They had an almost unblemished record and won the Canadian championship with a team consisting of Terry as skip, the very well known Don Duguid as third, Ron at second and Ray Turnbull as lead. That was a big day for the boys, the Granite Curling Club and indeed Jews all over the Province of Manitoba who shared the moment vicariously with the Braunsteins. Unfortunately, the team lost in the World Championship in Scotland to a USA team skipped by Bud Somerville. That Ron had to bow out of the event owing to his medial school obligations might have been the factor that caused that loss. We will never know. What we can suggest however, is the fact that the USA win jump started the game in the USA, eventually createing an impetus to get Curling recognized officially as a sport in the 1998 Winter Olympics. Thank the Braunsteins (even in defeat) for that contribution.
The Braunsteins also changed the game slightly when they adopted a more finesse style rather than the hitting game so prevalent until that time. Maybe that change allowed the team to be so dominant. Whatever the reason, what is certain is that when Terry Braunstein won the Canadian Curling Championship in 1965 he was then the youngest skip to win it at age 25, also the first Jewish skip to win. My best guess is that brother Ron Braunstein was the first Jew to win as a second. Prove me wrong.
Even after 1965, Terry continued to be a major player in Manitoba for many years in the curling community. He had to play without Ron, as Ron had continued his medical career and ended up, after a stint in L.A., moving to Vancouver. Terry participated in 14 Manitoba Provincial Championships. He won three car bonspiels and several cash bonspiels, as well as the Grand Aggregate for most victories in the Provincial play downs in 1969, 1971 and 1977. And there were other honours bestowed upon him throughout his carer, including an induction into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame, an honour given later to Ron in 2013. Even as a senior Terry Braunstein excelled, competing in several Provincial Championships. In 1994 and 1995 his rink won the Manitoba Seniors’ Championionship. He even participated in the Master’s competition in 2006.
Now, curling was far from the only sport the brothers starred in, as baseball was at least as great a passion for them – and they played at a high level. They loved baseball as they were raised on it by their father. Moreover, both Ron and Terry became very good golfers ( though Ron was quite clear that he was never in Terry’s league). Of course, during all this time, both brothers had careers in which they were involved for a long time. Ron was a prominent psychiatrist in Vancouver, working in a Vancouver hospital for most of his career in the outpatient child and adolescent department. During his career he was significantly committed to the training of young psychiatrists. Given that there is so much thinking in the world of curling, I suggest that it is not such a long stretch from curling to psychiatry. That suggestion would need input from Ron and others who have had two kinds of careers. Save that thought for another article.
Ron only recently retired after over 50 years of medical practice. He and his first wife, the lated Sue Harris, had three children, all of whom live in the Vancouver area. And to nobody’s surprise, the kids are seriously athletic. The eldest, Jon Braunstein, was, and is still a serious runner, as in marathons. Daughter Amy played competitive soccer in British Columbia. Son Dave, the youngest, competes regularly in Ultima. Some genes never change.
As for Terry, he was the founder and head honcho for Danli Promotions, a specialty advertising firm in Winnipeg and beyond. Danli, of course was named for son Danny and daughter Lisa, the children of Terry and his wife, the former Andrea Greenberg. Danny ultimately joined him in the business and is still active in the promotional industry to this day. My son Ari tells me that Danny is a star on the Squash court.
The Braunsteins have achieved much in sport, particularly curling. But if you talked to both of the brothers, you would know little of their accomplishments, as they remain very humble about what they did. That too is a Braunstein gene. They may be quiet about it. I am not.
Features
Canadian Fashion: Style That Speaks of Versatility and Culture
It’s so easy when the topic of fashion comes up to look toward Paris and Milan as the high fashion Meccas – but there are some other places that have some great fashion and are doing some cool things with said fashion. Places like Canada! Yes, you had that right, Canada. With its diverse cultures, immigrants, history, and influence from the globe, there is quite a lot of fashion that is absolutely something any self-respecting, curious, and creative fashion person would want to look at. Let’s peek into Canadian fashion, shall we?
A Celebration of Seasons
The climate is one of the essential contributors to Canadian style. Bound to an environment that shifts between freezing winters and cool summers, designers have figured out how to plan outfits that suit any period of the year. Beanies and lofty sweaters keep you warm in the lifeless of winter and light breezy materials for a blistering July.
When it comes to Canadian fashion, you need to pay attention to the elements. In Canada, you can never have too many coats! Look for top-quality options that will last you years. When you want to take on the Rockies or downtown Vancouver you’re going to need a trim-fitting parka or a chic wool coat. Whatever the weather, be prepared!
The Influence of Indigenous Art
Indigenous art is a cornerstone of Canadian fashion. Many designers incorporate traditional patterns, beadwork, and textiles in modern designs that speak to the cultural legacy of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people.
Buying Indigenous-owned brands is a way to bring an extra layer of authenticity and purpose to your wardrobe. Plus, you’ll find these pieces give the style a whole new meaning with clothes that make a powerful statement.
Urban Meets Nature
Canada has several metropolitan fashion hubs – such as Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal, where street-savvy style meets the great outdoors. Layering is a must-have for Canadian clothing; mixing slim fits with practical accessories such as scarves and boots means you’re covered in case the weather throws you a curveball.
For those who draw style inspiration from easy, breezy coastal cities, aim for casual cool with denim and flannel, plus off-duty sneakers that go well with everything. Meanwhile, the style-savvy women of Montreal gravitate toward lively prints, fitted jackets, and daring looks that dare to be different.
Canadian Fashion on the Global Stage
Canadian designers have been taking over the world fashion stage, from the modern simplicity of Smythe Blazers to the avant-garde vision of Erdem Moralıoğlu. The Canadian-style aesthetic hits the nail on the head while appealing to a global audience.
Style That Draws From Casino/Gambler Culture
If you find yourself attracted to the odd casino visit or you often find yourself on https://ca.crazyvegas.com/online-blackjack/, then you probably not only like the games themselves but the aesthetic and the fashion. Canadian fashion draws from this high-roller, over-the-top, yet luxury fashion. Think of the Oceans 11 here — and looking dapper like George Clooney!
Embrace the Canadian Fashion Spirit
There is a lot bubbling in the fashion scene in Canada that is often overlooked – but it really shouldn’t be. Between the Indigenous, global, and modern mixes that are coming together to create quite the unique fashion concoction – there is really a lot to love, draw some inspiration from and well – wear!
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