volume 77 number 2 June 2017

A publication of the Recreation Association of the Public Service of Canada RA Centre, 2451 Riverside Drive, Ottawa, ON K1H 7X7 613.733.5100 June 2017 RA News

RACentreOttawa

House of Sport to Open this FallWe are thrilled to announce that things are going to get a lot more exciting at the RA as construction in the West Wing is set to resume the first week of June. As many members have noticed construction was paused on the House of Sport to provide adequate time for the National and Multi-Sport Organizations to finalize their architectural details. While anticipated completion is mid-Fall, we will be welcoming sport organizations into transition space as early as July 1. We thank you for your patience an we look forward to bringing this transformative project to life.

On April 27 the RA hosted an exciting public announcement with His Worship Jim Watson the Mayor of Ottawa, Councillor and Sport Commissioner Jody Mitic, Coaching Association of Canada Chief Operating Officer Keira Torkko, Ottawa Tourism Chief Executive Officer Michael Crockatt and John Smit, Director (A), Economic Development and Innovation for a special announcement. During this announcement the City of Ottawa shared their $500,000 investment in the House of Sport capital build and the joining of Coaching Association of Canada to the project.

“The House of Sport will benefit the growth of our young athletes and Ottawa’s competitive edge in sports. It will also be a great economic development asset that will increase Ottawa’s capacity to host major sporting events, conferences, and help our sport organizations retain creative and professional talent. It builds upon the foundation of our “Bid More, Win More, Host More” partnership with Ottawa Tourism,” shared Mayor Watson.

The Coaching Association of Canada, Taekwondo Canada, Shooting Federation of Canada, Canadian Cerebral Palsy Sport Association, Canoe Kayak Canada, Wrestling Canada Lutte and the Aboriginal Sport Circle have all finalized their office space in the House of Sport. These organizations believe that the House of Sport will offer an opportunity to connect, innovate and growth their associations.

“The RA has contributed to the local and national sport communities for 75 years. In addition to producing international podium results, we have provided opportunities in both traditional and non-traditional sport for high performance, recreational and grassroots athletes. The RA is uniquely positioned to partner on this exciting, transformative initiative with the City of Ottawa. We are thrilled to be at the forefront of sport administration in the country,” added Tosha Rhodenizer, RA CEO.

The RA is excited to have the City of Ottawa and Ottawa Tourism as partners and welcomes the innovative organizations who will be working with our Association in the future.

Councillor and Sport Commissioner Jody Mitic , Ottawa Tourism Chief Executive Officer Michael Crockatt, Coaching Association of Canada Chief Operating Officer Keira Torkko, RA's CEO Tosha Rhodenizer, Director (A), Economic Development and Innovation John Smit and His Worship Jim Watson the Mayor of Ottawa.

Who is calling the House of Sport home

We look forward to welcoming the following sport organizations who are committed to joining the exciting House of Sport. Over the next few weeks we plan on releasing

information on additional sport organizations that will joining the House of Sport initiative.

Stay Informed Visit www.House Of Sport.ca for progress updates

including What to Expect and possible Service Disruptions.

2 RA News June 2017

RA Summer Camps It's more than just a place – it is a life experience

Where Adventures Begin ...

Summer

CampsAges 4 to 17

Check out our Summer Camps on-linewww.racentre.com/camps

RA Centre | 2451 Riverside Drive, Ottawa, ON K1H 7X7 | 613.733.5100 www.racentre.com # not your average camp

Over 35 different camps to choose from! Junior Day Camps | RA Day Camps | Computer Camps | Mutli-Sports Camp

Girl-Centric Camp | Archery Camp | Badminton Camp | Soccer Camps Fencing Camps | Squash Camp | Tennis Camps | Ultimate Camp | Aqua Camps

New this year! Ultimate (Frisbee) CampsThe RA is proud to introduce our first ever Ultimate Camp! Ultimate is one of the fastest growing sports in Canada and the world. Ultimate (often commonly called Ultimate Frisbee) is a non-contact, co-ed, fast-paced, exciting disc sport. When not on the fields, Ultimate campers will take part in traditional camp activities and sports, along with a swim in the pool! In Ultimate, there’s a strong emphasis on “Spirit of the Game” – sportsmanship, integrity and respect. There will be individual skill development taught in small ability matched groups. Throughout the week campers will learn the basics of throwing, catching, cutting and defense while more experience players will work on skills such as the huck, flick and layout through a variety or drills, games and play!

Camp counsellors, James Moreira and Maya McGregor will be instructing the camp. Both James and Maya have been active in the Ultimate scene for a number of years, are co-captains of their Glebe Collegiate Institute team and have played competitively which has seen them travel across Canada for the sport. They are eager to introduce campers to the sport they know and love and will provide a great balance of Ultimate and non-Ultimate

Camp counsellors James Moreira and Maya McGregor.

activities all day long! The on-field Ultimate programming will be handled by Camp Coordinator Amy Roberts who has worked with the Ottawa-Carleton Ultimate Association (OCUA), as well as Karlis Bouse, an active coach in the city and the Youth Program Co-ordinator for the Ottawa Outlaws, a professional Ultimate team playing in the American Ultimate Disc League (AUDL). Each week, Outlaw team members will be on hand to conduct a special clinic and provide some awesome giveaways to campers. Come check out what this sport is all about and be one of the first to experience this camp!

Q &A with RA Camper Brayden and his Mom, KimAs part of sharing the RA Camp experience we sat down with Camper Brayden and his Mom, Kim to ask about their time at the RA Centre.

Q: How long has Brayden attended camps? A: This will be his second summer at the RA.

Q: Out of all the camps Brayden tried, what was his favourite? A: He liked the Star Wars themed Day Camp because he said "it was just the most fun and we spent a lot of time outdoors".

Q: What has been his best memory from camp? A: Getting to go to camp with his cousin Ben was great. Over the course of the summer he loved swimming and was thrilled when he earned his way into the deep end of the pool without needing a life jacket.

Q: What is he looking forward to most this year? A: He is registered for multiple weeks this year but he says it's the Minecraft Computer Camp!

Q: As a parent why do you send your child to RA Camps? A: As a kid myself, my parents took me to the RA day and sports camps for years. I had amazing experiences and I like that the quality of the camp is still the same! Brayden at the RA Summer Camp

June 2017 RA News 3

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Meet Melanie Turabian, RA Summer Camp Counsellor

Melanie is returning for her fifth summer at the RA Summer Camps. As many counsellors at the RA have, she began as a Counsellor-in-Training (CIT). After successfully completing the CIT program, she was hired as a Counsellor the following summer. It’s been five years, and Camp Coordinator Amy Roberts couldn’t be happier that Melanie (better known as Mel) will be returning. Sharing, “I couldn’t have been more thrilled when Mel told me she was able to return for this summer. She brings an incredible amount of experience and enthusiasm and has a very nurturing demeanor. Campers always request her, and her peers look to her for guidance and leadership. She’s a great team-player.”

Mel attends Carleton University, studying Cognitive Science with a concentration in Neuroscience. Some of her interests include sports, especially soccer and running. When it comes to camp, Mel loves all the different activities, sports, and crafts involved in our theme programming. When asked about her favourite memory she really had to think about that one! “Choosing a favourite memory is quite the task as there have been so many that I look back on so fondly. I’ll stick with last summer for this question. My day camp group and another group joined up to make a huge banner that all the kids could run through for an exciting entrance for our weekly camp-wide activity. All the kids had signed it, drew pictures and were excited to run through it to the Star Wars theme song. When the time came, we realized the paper was too thick for them to run through it, so needless to see we made an entrance, but not quite the one we had in mind! It did provide a lot of laughs for our groups and all around though!” This summer she is most looking forward to helping plan special camp events and seeing all the new and returning faces!

Kids Craft Zone!At the RA Summer Camps we understand that creative arts and crafts are an important part of your child's development and a wonderful way to help them grow their imagination. Check out our website at wwww.racentre.com/camps for craft and activity ideas. Not only are they easy to do but are a great way to spend quality time with your child.

Make a fire breathing dragon!You will need:• Cardboard toilet role• Coloured paper or colouring pencils• Glue / Tape• Tissue paper• Pompoms• Googly eyes

Complete instructions are available on our website at www.racentre.com/kidscraftzone.

4 RA News June 2017

Personal Training Equals Success? This is a discussion we have often with our LifeFIT members. Our answer is always the same….YES….however; we stress that one’s success and the value of the financial investment are 1) a result of the personal trainer providing the appropriate technical support and motivation and 2) the client understanding that effort and commitment must come from them.

Members hire Personal Trainers for many reasons. Some seek professional support when starting a new fitness routine, others to help safely rehabilitate from surgery, some wish to learn how to run, many wish to increase overall muscular strength and flexibility to stave off debilitating effects of arthritis, diabetes and osteoporosis.

To give you a peek into why we are so passionate about the benefits of personal training support, we are proud to share three member success stories. For the sake of privacy, we have changed their names, but these members are very real and have agreed for us to share their stories.

Member #1 – We’ll call her Perseverance. A female RA LifeFIT member of five plus years in her 40’s. The member was diagnosed with breast cancer last year and endured many grueling months of treatment. Throughout her treatment, she continued to come to fitness and yoga classes and when she felt well enough even trained in the LifeFIT Centre. As part of her recovery she purchased person training sessions to help her accomplish her new goal of running a half marathon. She is working through treatment under the watchful eye of her physicians and pursuing her running goal under the competent direction of her personal trainer. Her success is not measured by whether or not she completes the race, but on her sheer perseverance of life!

Member #2 – We’ll call him Determination. A male RA LifeFIT member of three years in his 20’s. Weight issues, lack of energy and low self-esteem, plagued his body and mind. The member recognized that coming to the gym was not enough in order to effect the changes he wanted so he hired one of our personal trainers. With undaunting determination, he set goals with his personal trainer, committed to every session and workout, has lost 40lbs, and has an abundance of new found energy and strength. His success is not only physical, but it has increased his personal confidence and has resulted in a complete change in life style and pursuance of health.

Member #3 – We’ll call him Continuance. A male RA LifeFIT member of 15 years and active RA racquet club member in his 60’s. Through over-use and undertraining member hurt his shoulder muscles and could no longer play his favourite sport, have a pain free sleep or do many activities like gardening or shoveling that needed to be done around the house. He hired one of our personal trainers after being released from physiotherapy so that he could safely rebuild his shoulder strength and learn proper training techniques. His success is measured by being able to once again play his sport and for continuance of a great quality of life without pain.

These members have changed their lives. The following two (2) important factors are the common thread to success: Excellent professional support and a Personal commitment to succeed.

Nutrition Note:Spring is a great time to “lighten up” your diet. Try this delicious recipe from Martha Stewart Living

Garden Linguine with RicottaIngredients• 2tablespoonscoarsesalt,plusmoretotaste• 1poundfreshfavabeans,shelled• 1poundfreshorfrozenpeas,shelled• 1poundlinguine• 1cupricottacheese• 1/2cupgratedParmesancheese• 1/4cupcoarselychoppedmintleaves, plus more leaves for garnish• 1/4teaspoonfreshlygroundpepper,plusmoretotaste• 2tablespoonsextra-virginoliveoil

Directions1. Fill a large stockpot with water, add 1 tablespoon salt, and bring to a boil; meanwhile, prepare an ice-water bath. Place fava beans in a sieve, and lower into water. Let water return to a boil, about 1 minute; blanch beans, 1 minute more. Remove sieve from water, and place beans in ice-water bath. Transfer to a colander; drain. Peel and discard tough skins; set beans aside.2. Using same blanching water and sieve, blanch peas until just tender and bright green, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove sieve from water; place peas in ice-water bath. Transfer to a colander, drain, and set aside.3. Discard blanching water; fill stockpot with fresh water. Bring to a boil, and add 1 tablespoon salt. Add pasta, and cook until al dente.4. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, chopped mint, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Just before pasta has finished cooking, add 1 cup cooking water to cheese mixture; stir to combine.5. Drain pasta, and transfer to a serving bowl. Add olive oil, and toss. Add cheese mixture, reserved fava beans, and reserved peas; toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper, sprinkle with mint leaves; serve.

Personal Training

613-733-5100 • www.racentre.com

On sale until June 20, 2017. Available to LifeFIT members. Limit of one package per person. All sessions must be used by August 31, 2017. Other restrictions may apply.

Special Spring into Fitness Personal Training Package!

6 one-hour sessionsfor only $240 plus tax.

June 2017 RA News 5

Maddy Venugopal, One of RA Judo Club's Bright Young Stars

female enjoy about the sport? “I actually enjoy the combative, physical nature of it,” Maddy said. She goes on to add, “It’s fun and even though it’s fighting it’s actually very strategic and scientific. More importantly, I also think it’s essential for girls to develop self-confidence, self-esteem. I wouldn’t want to be a part of a sport where men and women are treated differently. In judo, men and women are equal.”

The RA Judo Club members all have various idols and mentors to help them become the best they can be. Maddy has three role models. The first is Brittany Colpitts from her old club in Fredericton. “She never quits even though her division is full of girls that have been in Judo a lot longer than her, and beat her in competition. But she just keeps training and improving, and she refuses to give up.” The second is Shawn McManus, who is her old coach from Fredericton, whom Maddy says would do anything to put his athletes first, but the third may be one of the most important, Maddy’s father, Raj. Says Maddy, “He doubles as both my dad and my coach. He just doesn't seem to stop. Last year he trained really hard for a big tournament in Quebec. He got his shoulder dislocated, separated and fractured in his first fight when he took a bad fall, but he kept fighting and eventually won a bronze medal. Afterwards he said he didn't quit because he had given up too much to get there and wasn't about to give up. He pushes me in training, and is an incredible mat-side coach. I think I'm pretty lucky

The RA Judo Club has seen resurgence over the last year in both membership numbers and club spirit. Not only does the club run weekly instructional classes, giving members an opportunity to develop and test for their belt level, but the RA Judo Club is back on the map among competitions as well! At the Eastern Canadian Championships, a number of senior Judo people and competitors approached our RA Coaches and asked what’s happening at the RA Judo Club? Reason why they’re asking? The growth of the Club is earning quite the positive reputation at competitions!

One of the RA Judo Club’s members, Maddy Venugopal is one (of many) of the bright young stars in the club. Maddy first got involved in Judo at nine years old, and hasn’t looked back. What does this 17-year old young

to have all of these guys in my corner!"

The most fun Maddy’s had this year is going to competitions, “I love competing, and I’m starting to get to know people on the competition circuit. Although we’re there to fight, we’re also forming friendships. I really love that members of the RA Judo Club are starting to attend more and more tournaments. It's bringing us closer together as a club, even during our regular training sessions. You know, kind of like a family!"

Maddy, along with other members of the RA Judo Club have had many successes this season. Most recently at the Peel Judo Championships, Sebastien Godin won the Veteran’s Men’s Bronze and Aryanna Godin won the u10 Women’s Silver. Maddy Venugopal won the u18 Women’s Gold and her younger brother Kaden won the u16 Men’s Bronze at the Eastern Canadian Championships. Maddie’s biggest success so far has been winning the silver medal at the Elite 8 National Tournament. The Elite 8 is the tournament that Judo Canada uses to create its National Team. Maddy will be representing the RA Judo Club at the 2017 National Judo Championships in Calgary from May 24-28 in the u18 Women’s Division. After speaking with Sensei Glen, this is the first time the RA has been represented at the National level. Best of luck to Maddy at Nationals!

Maddy at the Eastern Canadian Championships

613-733-5100 | www.racentre.com* Not currently an RA member? Purchase the Summer Fitness Membership for $135 (plus tax).

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June 1 to August 31, 2017

6 RA News June 2017

Longtime RA Curling Club member Joan Semeniuk receives Curl Canada Certificate of RecognitionCurling Canada, the national organization for curling in Canada, honours people and organizations that have “significantly contributed to the betterment of the sport”. At the RA Curling Club, Riverside Ladies' Spring Luncheon on April 7, 2017, past Chair Rose Mary Murphy was pleased to present Joan Semeniuk with a Curling Canada Recognition Award given in appreciation for her “dedicated and outstanding service to the sport of Curling”. This reflects the many activities Joan has so competently undertaken – and continues to undertake – in the promotion of curling locally, regionally, provincially and nationally. Rose Mary also presented Joan with a bouquet of flowers from the Riverside Ladies, to mark the occasion. Joan has been active in Ladies Curling Association (LCA) events and has chaired the Crystal Heart committee for many years, which this year alone raised over $70,000 to support the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Rose Mary Murphy (right) presenting Joan Semeniuk (left) with the Curling Canada Recognition Award.

RA Photo Club to host Photographers Celebrating Canada’s 150th

When Canada turns 150 on July 1, the RA Photo Club (RAPC) will be hosting photography enthusiasts from across the country. Canadian Camera Conference 2017 (co-sponsored by the Canadian Association for Photographic Art) will be held at the Woodroffe campus of Algonquin College from June 28 to 30.

You don’t need to be a member of the RAPC to attend some or all of the conference offerings. Anyone interested in photography is welcome to register for the full conference or a single day. In addition, there’s a free trade show open to the public on Wednesday, June 28. The public is also invited to purchase tickets for “Canada Wild” an evening of live music and images of Canada and the Artic taking place in the Algonquin Commons Theatre on the evening of Friday, June 30.

Many presenters are ones no individual camera club could hope to attract, such as Serge Ramelli (of Los Angeles and Paris) whose presentations will illustrate why he has close to 400,000 YouTube followers. Readers of major photographic and geographic magazines will be familiar with Richard Martin, Michelle Valberg, Neil Ever Osborne and David Brosha, Jeffrey Wu, and Frank Gunn.

Special partnerships with the National Gallery of Canada and Library and Archives Canada mean you’ll have unique opportunities to hear from Andrea Kunard, curator of the Gallery’s 2017 special exhibit (Canadian Photography 1960-2000) and learn how archivists preserve Canada’s social and historical record through photographs. Attendees will also be invited to a special June 29th reception at Library and Archives Canada.

Beyond its offering of presentations and tours, the conference is your opportunity to meet other serious photographers like yourself from across the country for stimulating exchanges of ideas and future friendships. Those who have attended past conferences know you’ll have a ton of fun and come away with a headful of fresh ideas and inspiring images.

And, for those interested in an outstanding evening of entertainment, bring the conference to an unforgettable conclusion – and setting the mood for Canada Day’s huge 150th celebration the next day – is “Canada Wild” (Friday, June 30, 8:00PM) which marries spectacular images by the RA Photo Club’s own Bill Pratt with original music performed by the Raintree Earth Ensemble. This will be a unique way to launch the Canada Day celebrations, featuring images of remote parts of the country (the Yukon, Arctic, Algonquin Park) most of us have never experienced. It’s a family friendly event, and ideal for those with out-of-town guests. Tickets are available through the Algonquin Commons Theatre box office ($25 for adults; $15 for children/students - www.ccc2017.ca/canada-wild/).

Act Now: See the full schedule of events and learn more by visiting the conference website: www.ccc2017.ca.

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June 2017 RA News 7

RA Fencing Club Member Hannah Draper Getting Hooked on Fencing

Hannah Draper (third from the left)

When it comes to the sport of Fencing, the RA is the place to be in Ottawa! The RA found some time to catch up with the RA Fencing Club’s junior member, Hannah Draper. The first question asked is the most typical one when it comes to someone who gets involved in Fencing, “What was it that first got you involved in Fencing?” Hannah laughed and said “I first got involved in Fencing through summer camp here at the RA three years ago. It was something I had always wanted to try but until summer camp, I never really found any opportunity to do so.”

After experiencing RA Summer Camps, Hannah was hooked. “One of the things I enjoy most about Fencing is the mental challenge it provides. While it can be quite physically demanding as well, I really like that it’s so reactive and requires you to think and analyze as you go.”

The demands of Fencing aren’t the only challenges Hannah faces, “I suffer from unilateral profound hearing loss – I’m entirely deaf in my left ear.” How does that affect Hannah? “Usually I can live a pretty normal life, but when I started Fencing, I realized how much of a challenge it could be… Buzzers going off, referees talking, fencers screaming, blades engaging, the noise can be overwhelming and difficult to focus at times.”

It’s clear this challenge was something Hannah met head on and fought through. Earlier this year Hannah was able to capture bronze in the Junior (Under 20) Provincials at only 15 years old. “Winning a bronze medal was a really proud and happy moment for me. I would probably say it’s my biggest success yet because I had a chance to compete amongst the best of the province, so it was a pretty big deal for me to come out and do so well.”

Being in competitions are great, but when asked about the best parts it was hard for Hannah to put her finger on just one aspect. Says Hannah, “Travelling to my first US tournament has probably been some of the most fun this year. I went to Rochester, NY in March and it was such an amazing experience. I got to fence new people, and cheer on my clubmates. Having never fenced outside of Canada before it was truly an exhilarating experience.

For Hannah, she loves being actively involved in Fencing at the RA, “Having tried countless different sports, nothing compares. It’s super exciting and it’s unlike anything you’ve ever tried before. It’s a small and supportive community and you get to say you’re a fencer (which is a pretty cool thing to tell people).”

Congratulations RA Fencers!A number of RA Fencers competed in the Fencing Canada’s National Championships from April 21 to 23 in Gatineau, QC. The following Fencers received finished with strong results; Teo Lemay (Bronze in u17 Men’s Foil), Stephanie Prystupa Maule (Bronze in University Championships), Blake Nolan (6th, u15 Men’s Foil), Joel Gervais (8th in u15 Men’s Foil), and Dan Gervais (Bronze in Veteran’s Men’s Foil).

Head Coach Paul Apsimon, also won a prestigious award as the Canadian Fencing Federation’s 2017 Coach of the Year. Congrats to Paul, and the rest of the RA Fencing Club on another successful season!

Paul Apsimon, Coach of the YearA fired-up Teo Lemay.

• The RA Sundeck is now open for the season! Check us out on-line at www.racentre.com/socialhq for upcoming events and promotions in the Fieldhouse and on the Sundeck!

• The RA is now on Instagram! This is another opportunity for our members to interact with us and get a peek into our active and everchanging life.

Did You Know?

Facebook RACentreOttawa RideauTennisClub.RTC

Want to connect to our community?

Twitter @RACentreOttawa @RASportsLeagues @RideauTennis

Instagram / LinkedIn / YouTube / Google+ RACentreOttawa

Stay in touch and keep up-to-dateOur social media platforms are a great way to learn about our not for profit association, upcoming events, programs, promotions and more. Follow us and share your RA stories.

Get in touch on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and more social networks.

The RA Centre hosted the 2017 Ontario Open Chess ChampionshipOver the Victoria Day long weekend, the RA Centre hosted the 2017 Ontario Open Chess Championship, run by the RA Chess Club and the Eastern Ontario Chess Association. This annual Ontario tradition attracted 84 players from Ontario, Quebec, and the United States. After six tough rounds, 3rd place went to International Master Kaiqi Yang, 2nd place to International Master Michael Song, and the 2017 Ontario Open Chess Champion is International Grandmaster Bator Sambuev.

8 RA News June 2017

What's Happening!Time to sign up for our Spring and Summer Leagues and Spring Club sessions. Make new friends, learn new skills or improve on existing ones. Take a look at all we have to offer and register today over the phone at 613-733-5100, in person with our member service team or online at www.racentre.com.

CO-ED BALL HOCKEY - Spring Session Any skill level welcome. Monday and/or Thursday night options are available. Come out for some action packed fun and fitness. Bring a co-worker, friend, spouse, or meet and make some new friends, we’re an all-inclusive league!

For more information, contact Mark Fish at mfish@racentre.com.

FALL SOFTBALL LEAGUES The RA offers FALL Co-ed Slo-Pitch August through September. Our well established Softball program lights up the night with games held Tuesday to Thursday evening. Game times are shared, we provide balls, umpires and the best groomed fields in town.

For more information, contact Mark Fish at mfish@racentre.com.

JUDO Judo is a Japanese martial art consisting of throws, hold-downs, chokes and armlocks. It is an Olympic sport and was developed by Jigoro Kano as a safe alternative to Ju Jutsu. The RA has a large team of Black Belt instructors, eager to instruct their sport from beginners through those who have aspirations to compete in competitions.

Our summer session will begin July 4. If you haven’t tried Judo yet and are interested in seeing what it’s all about take advantage of a one-class free trial!

BEACH VOLLEYBALL Beginning in June, our beach volleyball courts are the scene of some high spirited Co-ed matches each weeknight. Centrally located next to the Fieldhouse deck, the long rallies, sights and sounds provide plenty of excitement until the end of August. The teams officiate their own games in the spirit of good sportsmanship.

This league, offering four levels of play, can accommodate new teams most years. Interested teams should apply to Kevin Ferguson, Coordinator, League Operations at kferguson@racentre.com.

CANADA 150RA’s FUN SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT

June 23 to 25, 2017Cash Prize for winning team* Entry Fee

per team150 $ All games will be played at the RA Centre. Teams will be guaranteed 2 games. Registration deadline: Sunday, June 18, 2017.

*Based on a minimum 24-team entry.Contact Mark Fish at 613-736-6237 or by email at m�sh@racentre.com

www.racentre.com/SoftballTournament

SUMMER HOCKEY LEAGUE NEW! Summer Men's Hockey LeagueFor the first time ever, the RA is offering a summer Men’s hockey league. This small mini-league will see 6 teams play Sunday and Monday evenings, June through September. For more information, contact Mark Fish at mfish@racentre.com.

June 2017 RA News 9

OUTDOOR POOL Opens Saturday, June 24, 2017Swimming is a great way for families to get moving and have fun together. Whether you want to swim laps, join an AquaFIT class, enrol the kids in swimming lessons or simply cool off, the RA’s Outdoor Pool is the place to be!

This outdoor facility offers a large, heated L-shaped pool with a diving section and a smaller teaching pool with a constant depth of 3.5 feet. The spacious pool deck is equipped with shady awnings, lounge chairs and picnic tables, and toys such as flutter boards and pool noodles.

An outstanding team of aquatics professionals lead programs and oversee the operations. All of this makes the RA outdoor pool the best place in Ottawa to spend a sunny afternoon.

Visit www.racentre.com for the complete schedule.

LEISURE & LANE SWIMS | AQUAFITDay passes and Season memberships available

RED CROSS SWIMMING LESSONS Red Cross Swim Pre-School Program - Sea Otter to Whale

Red Cross Swim Kids Program - Level 1 to 10

Private Swim Lessons

OUTDOOR POOL OPEN HOUSE

Join us to celebrate the opening of the outdoor pool for the season on

Saturday, June 24, 2017 11:00am to 6:00pm

FREE Admission & BBQMeet the Staff, Swim Level Assessment,

Games & Activities

AquaFIT Class 11:00am to 11:45am

BBQ: 12:00pm - 1:00pm

Leisure Swim: 11:00am - 6:00pm

(Large pool shared with AquaFIT class)

NEW! WATER VOLLEYBALL Are you looking for something different to do this summer? Introducing Co-ed Adult Recreational Water Volleyball League. Combine water and the game of volleyball for lots of outdoor fun. Choice of Sunday or Thursday games with action starting at 6:00pm and 7:00pm.

Sessions: Sundays; June 25 to August 13 Thursdays; June 29 to August 17

Fees (tax included): Team $200 (4 to 6 people/team) Individual $ 50For more information, contact Kevin Ferguson at kferguson@racentre.com.

SUMMER SQUASH MEMBERSHIPSeason: June 1 to August 31, 2017

• A community of friendly and active players

• Great camaraderie and after-play socials in the RA’s Fieldhouse Bar & Grill

• League and drop-in play

• On-line court booking

JUNIOR Membership $ 44 RA member | $ 63 non-member

INTERMEDIATE Membership (18 to 25 years) $ 74 RA Member | $ 93 non-member

ADULT Membership $104 RA member | $123 non-member

10 RA News June 2017

Friendly Competition…on and off the ice!

Check us out on-line at www.racentre.com/socialhq

for upcoming events and promotions in the Fieldhouse and on the Sundeck!

FieldhouseYour Social HQ

At the conclusion of this year’s RA Sports Leagues Hockey program, a new “cup” was awarded to the first place team. This award didn’t go to the team with the most goals or wins but to the team that had accumulated the most points in the Fieldhouse Restaurant Loyalty program.

The “Canadiens” accumulated a record high 9,457 points to win our inaugural “Stanley Cup”. This award was designed and built by Greg Dolhan, Senior Manager in the Hospitality Division with the RA and was made with recycled hockey sticks broken here in the Ray Kinsella Arena.

This year, weekly “Loyalty” standings were posted for each Division, creating a little friendly competition off the ice. “The competition and posting the result was key to wanting, no… needing to stay ahead of everyone else” said Guy from the Canadiens. “…then being able to lift the Cup…Worth it!”

Runner up to the Canadiens was Roy Black with a rental program and third place went to Kings of the Silver Division.

Nat Busa from the Saturday Saints, O50 Black J’s, Busa Hockey, Nat’s Loyalty, Giuseppe Spinella…. (all teams he is associated with!) added “The Loyalty program was a very smart move. I have been a member at the RA Centre and have frequented the Fieldhouse for years ( Ottawa’s best kept secret outside of the RA sports ) and found that this year there was a buzz about the loyalty points more than actual league standings. It is a fun program and posting it near the sports facility was ingenious. I must say that this was the most fun I have had playing hockey at the RA largely due to the loyalty program and the staff. Keep it up; we hope to win the trophy next year.”

The Loyalty program at the Fieldhouse was launched in 2013 as way to recognize the patronage of our teams and clubs who frequent the restaurant. Five percent of their spending in the restaurant comes back to the team or club to spend at the end of each year. “It is a great way for teams and groups to really celebrate and socialize over some great food and their favourite beverage,” says Lisa Vignola, Manager of the Fieldhouse.

This year over 420 teams participated in the program and the push is on now to get the spring and summer league teams registered in the Loyalty program. It’s a big job but Lisa is up for the challenge.

“We like a little friendly competition. With some luck we will be awarding a special trophy for the Summer Softball and Summer Soccer winners at the end of the season”

It sounds like Greg has his work cut out for him.

See you at the Fieldhouse and Sundeck this summer.

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June 2017 RA News 11

Q &A with Kim Atkins

New to the Game of Ball Hockey!David Wilson, Donates His Hair For GoodKudos to David Wilson, player in the RA's Silver Division Hockey League who grew his hair for over 3 years to donate it to the Canadian Cancer Society so that wigs can be made from it. David didn't stop there. He started a fundraising campaign through CanadaHelps.org and chose the following 3 charities: The Royal Ottawa Foundation For Mental Health, ALS Society of Canada and The Heart & Stroke Foundation.

David challenged his family and friends to raise money, by agreeing to let the person who donated the most amount of money cut his hair. On Saturday, April 1, 2017 in the RA's Fieldhouse, David with his Silver Division teamates cheering him on, cut his hair and shaved his beard off (which he has been growing since December). The Fundraising was a success with the RA's Silver Division donating $900 to the charities. David, now with his new look, is proud to be able to donate a grand total of $6,300 to his chosen charities. Congratulations David!

This Winter, Kim took part in the Co-Ed Adult Ball Hockey League on Friday nights and is currently playing in both Monday and Thursday nights in the spring session.

Kim loves the Co-Ed Ball Hockey program because the players are competitive but everyone always maintains a level of light-heartedness and fun. "Win or lose everyone always has a good time and gets a fair share of exercise. I also enjoy the program as I am able to play co-ed with players of varying ages and skill levels." says Kim.

Kim only started playing ball hockey in the Spring of 2016 with no prior hockey experience. She mentioned "At no point I felt out of place because of everyone’s welcoming and easy going nature. Through the support of the staff and fellow players, I am able to learn, watch, and improve upon my skills in a very comfortable environment".

When Kim was asked, how was her experiences here different than in other leagues, she replied, "Compared to other experiences I have had playing recreational sports, I have enjoyed my experience at the RA the most. Both the staff and players are exceptional and friendly people. In other leagues, I have experienced competitiveness that stifled fun and left certain teams and players feeling less than welcome or interested in returning to the sport. At the RA this has not been the case".

Kim mentioned that she previously knew of the RA, but was not aware of all the choices of programs that was offered to various ages.

This past winter, Kim enrolled in the RA Curling Club's Learn to Curl program, which she found really enjoyable. "The coaching staff all brought great experience and knowledge that helped me learn the very basics of the sport and improve throughout the program. The in-class lessons before the on-ice instruction was well done and definitely provided information that may have been harder to explain on the curling sheet to a large group. Being broken down into smaller groups with direct instruction made learning the sport easy and allowed the other learners to meet new people every couple of weeks".

When asked what she thought about the RA facility, Kim responded "I think the RA facility is great and has provided an exceptional place to play sports. However, it is nice to see renovations taking place to continue improving the facilities for the future that will benefit both the staff and community."

Kim described her best experience at the RA Centre is getting to know the people who she plays ball hockey with. She added "The fact that many players return session after session has made ball hockey nights something I look forward to. I enjoy the sport, but the players and staff have made it an experience worth returning to".

Having only recently visited the Fieldhouse restaurant, Kim commented that she should have taken the initiative to stop by sooner. "It’s a relaxing environment that includes a very kind staff and delicious meals. It’s a great place to meet up after a game and hang out with the people you are playing sports with."

Kim described the RA’s programs and facilities as being personable, professional, and pleasurable. She definitely recommends joining the RA.

David all ready for his hair cut. David with his new look.

Kim playing in the RA's Ball Hockey League.

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12 RA News June 2017

RA Wednesday Night Basketball League Season Wrap UpOur RA Competitive Basketball League season came to an end with an exciting and entertaining finish. The past season had its share of ups and downs with The Audio Shop and Mortgage Architects battling for the Championship. Both teams finished atop the regular season standings and seemed to be on a collision course to meet in the Championship series.

We began the season in the West Gymnasium before moving to our new home in early January. After overcoming a few construction hiccups and general adjustment to new surroundings the level of play and pace of the games increased to an impressive new level.

Some new, enthusiastic players joined this season bringing their love of the game and a will to win. This was evident on the Championship winning team, The Audio Shop, who picked up Mo Yousef, a sharp shooter from beyond the arc who was hard to stop. Yousef averaged more than 37 PPG during his regular season games. He then brought his game to a new level in the deciding game putting up 38 points in an 88-62 victory over Mortgage Architects. Also worthy of recognition is our season MVP Jon Arnold who finished second in scoring with 29 PPG and who led the league with 261 total points.

Thank you to all of the ball players who helped make the past six months such a great season. Running a sport league is the ‘easy’ part but the player experience and having happy and satisfied players is what we strive for. Now we turn our focus to the planning of next season building on the key ingredients that make players want to get back on the court here at the RA.

Basketball Fun!Sport trivia nights in the Fieldhouse are off to a great start. We held our first hockey trivia on February 21 and with great feedback and excitement we decided quickly to plan another one.

The second trivia was held on Tuesday April 4 and was geared towards basketball fans. Our in-house Basketball league teams came up after their playoff games to participate in the Basketball trivia. We did two rounds of trivia with 15 questions each. Congrats to Jason Gaudet (Team Royals) and Ryan Andress (Team Eagles) on both winning cash prizes for having the most answers correct.

While the trivia was in full effect RA members and friends came out to eat wings on special for $0.69 and watch the Toronto Raptors play the Indiana Pacers. Everyone in attendance were given the chance to fill out a ballot to win a pair of Raptors tickets to the game on Friday, April 7 in Toronto. Congrats to Kero on winning the tickets. Thank you to our RA sponsor Molson Coors for the tickets.

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Register as a team or an individual. Spring Co-ed Ball Hockey Summer Co-ed Softball (Three pitch & Slo pitch)Summer Co-ed Beach VolleyballSummer Ladies Hockey and Summer Men’s Hockey

Interested? Contact Mark Fish, Manager Sports Leagues Operations at mfish@racentre.com.

Answer SheetTuesday, April 4, 2017

NIGHTTRIVIA ?

# get in the game

Register Today!Spring/Summer Leagues

Name: _______________________________________________________________________________Phone #: ____________________________________________________________________________Team Name: ________________________________________________________________________

BasketballThank you to everyone who came out and supported this event. Next Sport Trivia Night will be held on Thursday, June 22 at 8:00pm on the Sundeck. Challenge your sports knowledge for a chance to Win Cash!

June 2017 RA News 13

Engel & Völkers Ottawa Central, Brokerage. Independently owned & operated.

Real Estate Sales Representative

ottawacentral.evcanada.comjoseph.rogers@evcanada.com +1 613-890-4313.

4 Ways to Maximize the Value of Your Home this SpringYear after year, the number one question I continue to receive from homeowners is the same: When should we bring our home to market?

If you are thinking of making a move this year, you should consider capitalizing on this period when more people are looking for property; more buyers looking for homes typically means that sellers can obtain a higher price and a quicker sale.

To ensure you do not miss the spring rush, consider the following steps:

• Meet with a professional Realtor to receive a property evaluation and an assessment of the market potential for your home.

• With your Realtor, put together an action plan to bring the home to market. This may include a quick paint job, simple repairs, or any other minor items that will help your house connect with the right buyer. Your Realtor can guide you on what cosmetic changes will maximize the value of your home.

• De-cluttering is always a good idea when you are thinking of putting your house up for sale. Less is always more! Take advantage of the time before you come to market to create clean, open spaces.

• If you are having difficulty in getting your home ready for sale, you might consider hiring a stager who can help you develop a plan to present your home in its best light. A professional Realtor will have preferred staging contacts that can get your home in tip-top shape.

If you have even the slightest inkling you may want to sell this year, my advice is this: Have your home evaluated and begin the process. Even if you do not end up listing this spring, a Realtor will be happy to help you begin moving in the right direction so you are prepared when the right moment strikes.

While many aspects of the selling process can be complicated, the answer to this question is fairly simple: Spring.

Over 44% of all Ottawa home sales occurred in the four months from March through June in 2016. While not all homeowners have the luxury of waiting for spring to come along, I typically advise my homeowners to list in this busy season if they have the option.

RA Tuesday Night Basketball League Season Wrap UpThe Tuesday Basketball league ended with a bang. The Finals saw defending Champs Troopers take on the Gunners. Gunners were looking for their first title in league history. Troopers won Game 1 by 13 pts while Gunners took Game 2 by 7 points. This was anyone’s series. Early on, Game 3 looked like it was going to be a blowout as Gunners had their foot on the gas right from tipoff. But... do not count the Troopers out. They chipped away and brought it to within two at the half. The second half was much of the same, as they went back and forth. Then it got nutty. Gunners captain Chris Merkley hit two big free throws to put them up 7 with 12.3 seconds left. Troopers then nailed a clutch three from Mike Faryniarz. Then with Gunners up by 2 with only a couple seconds left, MVP candidate Justin Scoffield sent the packed crowd into a frenzy as he nailed a shot at the buzzer to send it to OT.

In the OT, teams again went back and forth. In the end Troopers missed some key shots while Gunners kept their foot on the gas winning their first title 95-88. The trophy was presented to captain Merkley who proceeded to hand it off to an emotional Aaron McCluskey as loud cheers erupted from the bench. This was a team effort and a great one at that.

After the game, players made their way to the Fieldhouse for the end of year banquet and a chance to celebrate a successful year. This season saw the league expand to eight teams and move into the new West gymnasium. Players enjoyed food, drinks and some NBA playoff action on the TV’s. League awards were handed out for MVP, Most Sportsmanlike, Most Improved and League All-Stars. This season’s MVP was Payton Lemieux (Hitmen). This was a tight race as three players tied for the top spot. Special mention to Paul Beya (Royals) and Justin Schoffield (Troopers). Sportsmanlike went to Carey Assaf (Eagles) with Most Improved to Andrew Watson (Hitmen).

Highlight of the evening was announcing our Lifetime Achievement Award winner. This was presented to long-time league statistician and former player Terry Cartille. As he was presented with the award, each and every league player was standing and applauding... quite the sight! Terry has been with the league for over 20 years and it was an honour to present him with this award in appreciation of his hard work on behalf of the RA Basketball league members.

As we now turn our focus to next season we look to grow and expand this league and build upon the success of the last six months. Thank you to all players for your support and look forward to seeing you next season.

14 RA News June 2017

Flooding - How can you mitigate risk?This Spring, many of our neighbours endured flooding and the damages that resulted. These are difficult times for the victims and many questions have arisen. Canada's increasing severe weather means that basement flooding and water damage are becoming more common and many Canadians aren't even aware their homes are at risk of flooding or what to do if it happens.

But there are steps you can take to help mitigate risk.

Rideau Tennis Club Winter Club ChampionshipsBig thanks to Mark Armstrong, tournament chair for his continued support of Rideau Tennis Club events and to Zhenya Kondratovski for his ongoing exceptional tennis professional services and for his organization and promotion of this and other great Club activities.

The game of tennis places typical demands on the individual, regardless of one’s opponent. Demands such as finding the proper angle of the racquet head, finding the optimal speed of the stroke, getting to the right distance from the ball in time, maintaining good balance while moving and hitting. Add in an opponent and there are additional challenge elements including trying to outmanoeuver and outsmart your opponent - winning the strategy game, trying to anticipate your opponent's game and shots and tempering your emotional involvement.

The game of tennis with these types of challenges is demanding but there is the pleasure and satisfaction of overcoming them.

Seasonally Rideau Tennis Club Head Pro, Zhenya Kondratovski, organizes a quality Club Championships event. This year the Rideau Tennis Club Winter Championships resulted in 30 entries. Congratulations to all the players. Special mention to University of Ottawa tennis team member Curran Wearmouth, Men’s Singles winner after a high octane final. In the Men's Double final, Gary McMillan and Peter Hawkes prevailed. In the junior tournament finals, Alexandre Hnatovsky defeated Stefan Bjelakovic and Orson Vandenbos won against Lior Waldman for the bronze.

Win or lose, this event offers a chance to meet new players and enjoy the challenge of playing competitive tennis.

Learn how to protect your home and property. Talk to your local government. Visit the city of Ottawa’s website or contact the public works, utilities or building department to find out about their programs on reducing basement flooding. •Whatadvicedothey offer? •Arethereengineeringstudiesonyoursubdivision? •Howdoyoureportbasementfloodingtothem? •Whatdoesyourlocalgovernmentsuggestyoudo? •Dotheyofferanyfinancialassistanceprogramsfor plumbing installations? •Dotheyrecommend contractors or plumbers? •Whatpermitsdoyouneedinordertobegin?

Hire a plumber to conduct a plumbing investigation of your home. Each home is unique. A plumber or contractor who is fully versed in home and municipal drainage systems can help you protect your home. Understanding the risks of basement flooding and the nature of your plumbing and sewer connections will help to ensure the best course of action is taken to reduce future water damage in your home. Your municipality may help you find a plumber. Permits may be required for these drainage improvements and your municipality can help in this regard.

Rest Easier. Know What’s Covered. Call Smith, Petrie, Carr & Scott insurance brokers for more information about available water related coverage options. Trying to make a claim after you have suffered water damage is not a good way to find out that you don’t have the proper coverage. With the arrival of the new ‘Overland Water’ coverage option from Economical Select, we are better able to protect RA group members against such occurrences, as coverage for most rain and river flooding events is now available under the new “Waterwise endorsement”.