_ A monthly column written by Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson. _ As the holiday season becomes distant in the rear-view mirror, people begin to resume their usual rhythm. With that in mind, I am very excited to continuing to work towards our city’s future, while keeping perspective from the lessons of the past. ...

leMeow’s newly released debut EP reveals a soulful sound infused with modern appeal and unique instrumentation. Recorded in Ottawa at Johnny Hall Productions , the three-song EP is the brainchild of multi-instrumentalist and stand-up bassist, James Rooke and lead vocalist and xylophonist, Gin Bourgeois. ...

Ottawa Public Health (OPH) has issued a _ Frostbite Warning _ to ensure people take appropriate precautions before going outside and to encourage homeless people to seek indoor shelter from the cold. This warning is in effect from overnight Friday January 16, 2015 until Saturday January 17, 2015. ...

The Lunch Out Loud podcast looks to promote the amazing talent, food, events and music Ottawa has to offer. Every week we will introduce you to new things about Ottawa you never knew existed. ** This week: ** We meet up with Mark Blevis, founder of fullduplex. ...

If you are a fan of the world’s most widely consumed beverage (no guys, it’s not beer) this one is a must for you: a tea blending workshop! Tea is beneficial for you as it contains vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. While it may not give you the same kick you get from a cup of coffee (tea contains less than half the caffeine you find in coffee), it will definitely boost your energy levels while being much gentler on the body. ...

_ Our crowdsourced list of the best events in Ottawa this week. You can find even more events on our Ottawa Event Calendar . _ Friday, January 16: Ashleys, Elementals and Future States at Mugshots This Friday night, the good people of Ottawa Showbox present Ashleys live at Mugshots inside the Ottawa Jail Hostel. ...

The City of Ottawa has a unique opportunity to coordinate dramatic future improvements to Rideau Street and neighbouring streets in the Rideau Arts Precinct. Residents can now review and comment on a proposed plan for these public realm improvements.  The Rideau Arts Precinct is the area bordered by Rideau Street to the north, Laurier Avenue to the south, Colonel By Drive to the west and Waller Street to the east. ...

“I met with Police Chief Charles Bordeleau this afternoon to discuss the recent incidents involving guns and gangs in Ottawa. I am deeply concerned about the shootings that have taken place in recent weeks.  I have full confidence in Chief Bordeleau, and the men and women of the Ottawa Police Service, in the steps they are taking to make our city safer. ...

The National Capital Commission (NCC) announces that as of tomorrow, January 13 at 8 am, 4.6 kilometres of the Rideau Canal Skateway, between the Queen Street entry points (National Arts Centre) and the Bank Street Bridge will be open. Skaters will be able to access the Skateway by using all the entrances along the opened section ...

Starting January 13, 2015, lane reductions during off-peak hours will affect vehicular traffic between Ottawa and Gatineau on the Macdonald-Cartier Bridge. These lane reductions are required to complete some construction activities on the Sussex Drive overpass at King Edward Avenue. ...