Weight Loss and Muscle Development Tips Ottawa Fitness Buff Should Know

By Beverly Baker | Health and Diet

Have you been looking for ideal ways to shed your body weight and develop some muscle to no avail? Do you read all sorts of Ottawa-related instructional articles telling you to do this and do that and have even consumed various shades of slimming drugs, yet, there’s been no positive result? You need to rest and worry less. For many people, losing weight is an almost impossible task to achieve. No matter what they do or use, there doesn’t seem to be an improvement. 

“Drink this particular juice,” “Jog for six hours every morning.” etc. are some of the ridiculous weight loss pieces of advice people will dish out to you. What makes it more absurd is that many of these suggestions usually come from individuals with no health expertise or formal knowledge whatsoever. Everyone merely wants to give an opinion. Even many fitness coaches in gyms are short of constructive ideas.

Losing bodyweight and developing muscle isn’t as tricky as they may sound, as long as you keep to a particular routine to those effects. They’re processes that require little hard work and more of determination and commitment. If you want to lose weight and develop some shiny muscle, you need a plan, and it goes beyond starving yourself of much-needed food nutrients or merely busting some dibs. There’re specific actions and steps you need to take to achieve your goals.

This article will be giving some tips on some of those actions to take to achieve these. They will also inform Ottawa fitness buffs on the best weight loss and muscle development routines to recommend their clients.

1.  Go Low on Carb

The journey to losing weight starts with a reduction or total avoidance of sugar and starch. According to modern studies, diets low in carbohydrates are the most effective ways to shed weight. While it’s no news that losing weight on any other diet by merely consuming fewer calories than you burn is possible, many tend to forget quickly that many of those diets promote hunger. Hunger has a way of making you eat more than you should, for someone planning to lose weight, thereby making it harder to attain your goals.

On the other hand, consuming low-carb diets helps fight hunger as those diets contain less sugar and starch, making you want to eat less. A low-carb diet also increases the rate of fat burning and works perfectly for weight loss.

2.  Pop Some Shark Tank Keto Pills

Although some people doubt their effectiveness, studies show that some of the products in this category work well. If you’re looking to get your body into ketosis, these pills are the ideal supplements you should consider. Made with high-quality ingredients, they help keep your body in great shape during the ketosis period.

Shark Tank Keto pills contain beta-hydroxybutyrate, which accelerates weight loss, increases energy, and overall body functions. Unique products from this brand include Keto Advanced Weight Loss, Trim Pill Keto, Keto Burn, Purefit Keto, AlkaTone Keto, etc., all FDA-approved.

3.  Consume More Fruits and Vegetables

Running a weight loss diet plan usually involves eating fewer calories than your body uses. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be consuming less food. Fruits and vegetables are food items low in calories and fat but high in fiber- which are three essential ingredients required for an effective weight loss plan. Besides, they’re also rich in vitamins and minerals that will give your body the necessary nutrients to function correctly.

Consuming more fruits and vegetables helps reduce cholesterol levels and regulates blood pressure. Some of the best fruits to eat for weight loss include grapefruits, apples, berries, kiwifruits, melons, oranges, bananas, etc.

4.  Get an LGD-4033 or RAD-140

LGD-4033 is a health product initially deployed in correcting such conditions as muscle wasting, osteoporosis, cancer, etc. But, bodybuilders and weightlifters have since adopted it due to its muscle development ability and the fact that it acts as a risk-free alternative to testosterone.

RAD-140, on the other hand, is a non-steroidal product with testosterone-like effects, which was instrumental in tackling conditions like muscle loss and weakened bone density (typical of patients of breast cancer), but has found favor with bodybuilder.

Due to their similar properties, several RAD-140 vs. LGD-4033 comparative analyses exist to determine which is better. However, the results of the investigations show that the decision on which to choose depends on your eventual goal. If you plan to add some quality muscle mass, then go for LGD-4033. But, if you’re looking to improve stamina and physical endurance, RAD-140 would be the better choice.

Conclusion

Running a gym isn’t as crucial as helping customers achieve their weight loss or muscle development goals. As an Ottawa fitness buff, you need to stay updated on premium information, to be able to guide folks appropriately.

How to Enjoy Your Vacation in Ottawa Despite the Summer Heat

By Beverly Baker | Fun and Relaxation

Ottawa is the capital city of Canada. It sits on the south bank of the Ottawa River and is divided by the Rideau River and the Rideau Canal. This city can be called a bilingual city as most of its locals speak both English and French. It’s rich in culture and Canada’s heritage. Ottawa is filled with cultures from all over the world. As one of the most beautiful tourist and vacation destinations, people from diverse nationalities love it.

As a capital city, Ottawa has many beautiful national attractions. There are numerous sights for you to see and tons of things to occupy you while enjoying your vacation despite the summer heat this period.

Although Ottawa is a beautiful city all year round, its summer periods can be quite hot and humid. A dehumidifier is necessary during this season. You’ll also want to ensure that you get an accommodation that’ll keep power running to ensure the sweltering summer heat doesn’t make you uncomfortable.

Read on to learn how to have fun and enjoy your vacation alone, with your partner or your kids in Ottawa this summer season without the summer heat dulling your enjoyment.

1. Make a Boat Trip Along Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a canal that stretches over 202 kilometers in length and connects Ottawa to Lake Ontario and the Saint Lawrence River in Kingston.

A ride through this canal will ensure you see some historical landmarks along the way, and you’ll be armed with more local knowledge at the end of the boat trip. You can explore on your own by renting a canoe or kayak, or join a Rideau Canal Cruise, which is more fun.

2. Cool Off at Calypso Waterpark

Beat the summer heat by having a big splash at the most significant theme waterpark in Canada- the Calypso Waterpark at Ottawa. There are more than 35 waterslides for you to choose from. You can go for the Aqua loops, a roller-coaster kind of slide, or laze around and enjoy the sunny weather at the big wave pool.

3. Ensure You Visit Parliament Hill

Parliament Hill, with its gothic-style architecture, is home to the Parliament of Canada. You don’t need to be a politics lover before you can explore these three magnificent structures. Parliament Hill is one of the favorite attractions for tourists. It’s where the changing of guards takes place every summer. The Parliamentary Library at the back of the building is a beautiful sight to behold for book lovers.

4. See the Colorful ByWard Market

Your tour of Ottawa isn’t complete if you haven’t visited ByWard Market. This market is renowned for its divine food stores and stalls where you can buy Canadian delicacies. It’s surrounded by bars, restaurants, and vendors selling different things, from fresh fruit to flowers.

5. Learn Canadian History by Visiting the Museums

You don’t need to be a historian to learn history. If you’re curious about Canada’s history, consider exploring the Canadian Museum of History, The Canadian War Museum, the Canadian Museum of Nature, and the Bytown Museum. You can also visit the National Gallery of Canada, ensure to take amazing pictures for your social media handles. If you’re a nerd or choose to get nerdy, there’s the Science and Technology Museum and the Canada Aviation and Space Museum.

6. Engage in Their Summer Festivals

Every summer, there are many events and festivals lined up to entertain tourists and Ottawa Citizens alike. There are the upcoming Ottawa Beer Fest and an Escapade Music Festival for music lovers.

7. Try Out Their Exotic Restaurants

Ensure you dine in some of the top restaurants in the city. El Camino in Elgin Street serves the best taco and tequila. Their in-house favorite taco called the ox tongue taco is absolutely yummy. Riviera, located at Sparks Street in a former bank building, serves delicious Canadian cuisines and drinks.

8. Witness the Changing of the Guards

Ensure you don’t miss out on this impressive ceremony usually held during the summertime on Parliament Hill. It’s one of Canada’s top attractions for tourists, and it’s complete with regimental bands and pipers.

Conclusion

Moving through Ottawa, you’ll realize the city was made with tourists in mind. Its historical site, with the blessing of nature and beautiful festivals, has made it one of Canada’s top tourist attractions during summer.

So when thinking of a destination for your summer vacation, consider Ottawa first. The remarkable hotels there ensure there’s steady power to help cool the rooms so you wouldn’t be affected by the summer heat when you retire indoors after a fun day out in the sun.

 

6 Health Tips While Holidaying In Ottawa

By Beverly Baker | Uncategorized

Ottawa, Canada, is a famous holiday destination loved by people from all walks of life. It’s a place kids, teens, and the adults have something to enjoy. The beautiful sceneries by the Ottawa River and spectacular architectural designs are among the things you can enjoy while on this visit. However, you can only have the best time and moment when in good health; if not, you can have one of the horrible experiences. The million-dollar question here is, as an international tourist, what are the health insurance options you have? Can it be of help to access excellent hospitals while in this part of the continent? It shouldn’t be a verbal thought; as part of your preparations, you need to ensure it’s a fact on the ground. If not, you need to register in one before you make that maiden trip to Ottawa for your holidays. Remember, you are there for a holiday, and in most cases, you are in the remote parts enjoying all nature has to offer. You need an additional product to come to your aid at that particular time. The fact that you are in a far country complicates the whole process. A medical alert system is one such product out there that offers distinct benefits. You don’t have to worry about the online tool; at your location in case of any medical emergency, they are a phone call away. If you are looking for another option, then Great Call is also a sought-after product, thanks to their efficiency in medical service delivery.

“Prevention is better than cure,” a common English saying. Before you make that trip to the doctor instead of enjoying beautiful sceneries in Canada, it’s better to practice health tips to keep the doctor’s appointment at bay.

6 Health Tips While Holidaying In Ottawa

1. Stay hydrated always

Dehydration leads to fatigue. You can collapse as you climb the famous Gatineau Hills, and the next stop is at the health facility. A water bottle is a must-have when out there holidaying. The reason for this is that since you have all the time, you can have a change of plan and go to a place you never intended. With water on your hand or bag, you get the required energy.

2. Be energized by eating healthy foods regularly

As much as you are on holiday, never compromise on health when it comes to diet. It’s time people tend to indulge, but take note; it’s easy to add weight but takes ages to remove the excess fat unless you opt for a weight-loss crash program which isn’t healthy according to health experts.

Healthy foods ideal for holiday

• Fruits and vegetables
• Energy bars
• Lean animal protein- fish, chicken
• Plant proteins- nuts, beans, green grams

Foods to avoid

• Fast foods including chips and fries
• Processed food with high sugars
• Refined foods with high salts like crisps

3. Focus on eating a balanced diet as you exercise portion control

There is a thin line between healthy foods and a balanced diet. All healthy foods must be balanced, containing all the essential nutrients proteins, vegetables, and whole-grain carbohydrates. Portion control is virtue holidaymakers need to practice. Canadian cuisine is enticing, delicious, and tasty. The possibility of overindulging is very high. Therefore, as you sample what the hospitality industry offers, take note of the number of calories you consume. Is its equilibrium to the output– physical exercise, if not performance?

4. Engage in physical activities to burn excess calories

What do you do after a hard day treating your eyes with spectacular natural features? As you retire to your hotel/apartment, it’s essential to give yourself a gentle massage if you spent most of the time in substantial physical activity during the day. If the opposite was the scenario, you need to engage in physical activity. Here are a few ideas

• Take a walk and enjoy the natural phenomenon
• Hire a bike to improve body circulation
• Visit the gym to burn excess fat
• Run around the apartment to stay active

5. Sit, relax and enjoy the moment

The main aim of going on holiday is to change the environment to have that sweet time. Not all the time, you want to go out. You can still have fun on the hotel premises. That explains why holiday inns are situated along the beachfront. It accommodates such holidaymakers who want to relax with minimal activity. Some relaxing activities in Ottawa include mediating, visiting a massage parlor or spa, playing golf or chess, lying upward, enjoying the cool breeze from the waters, taking a walk along the beach. The list is endless.

6. Avoid meals at night

You have all the time to yourself. You can easily engage in unhealthy eating habits now that you are “idle”. Therefore, it’s essential to avoid meals at night, which interfere with your regular metabolic activity. When you choose to sample nightlife activities, do that when you have taken dinner to avoid temptation. When going to bed immediately after eating, the food is stored as fat. The body also needs that rest to digest and manufacture input (what you consume). A holiday in Ottawa doesn’t mean you are in a fattening camp. Never leave your fitness goals at home instead of having them at your fingertips to give you healthy practice even when treating your body and mind through a holiday.

Vacationing With The Kids In Ottawa

By Beverly Baker | Featured , Fun and Relaxation

Ottawa is a pretty great place to take a vacation because there are plenty of things that you can do there with the kids. The one thing that sets this place apart from so many others is that it was designed with tourists in mind. Everything that you could possibly ever want to do is just a short walk away from where you may be staying. Ottawa is a very budget-friendly tourist area, so don’t be afraid to take the kids to see some amazing landscapes and museums.

Getting To Ottawa

The traveling portion of your vacation may give you a headache if your kids aren’t handling the transition well. If you’re traveling in an RV, sleeping arrangements are going to be a tad better since there are actual beds for the kids to sleep in. They can lay down at their leisure and they’ll be comfortable. Unfortunately, if you’re traveling in a car and you have to stop occasionally to sleep if it’s a long journey, it’ll be tougher to get them comfortable.

If you want to enjoy the great outdoors while on your journey, why not try some camping? You can spend a little less on a bed if you decide to camp rather than take an RV and investing in all new mattresses and you’ll have much more family time. Personally, I would rather camp than sleep in an RV, plus Ottawa is full of campgrounds!

Sight Seeing

Once you get to Ottawa, you’ll be surrounded by some magnificent landmarks, museums, and national parks. The National Gallery of Canada is one of the many stops you could make. If your child is a fan of art, this is where they’ll want to be. It features work from da Vinci, Michelangelo and Picasso. It faces Parliament Hill, which acts as the anchor of downtown Ottawa. This is a beautiful place to visit if you love historic landmarks.

If you’re more of a history buff, check out the Canadian War Museum. This spectacular place frames the Ottawa River and pays tribute to those who served in the long and violent history of wars. If you want something a little less violent and sad, check out the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum. This has the country’s largest collection of vintage aircraft. I think the kids would love it there, especially if they’re fans of space.

The Rideau Canal is a top choice among visitors and travelers. You can spend 2 hours to half a day here riding through the Canal. It’s 125 miles long and snakes through the center of Ottawa. It’s definitely one of the best ways to see the sights along the river.

Conclusion

I would love to visit Ottawa some day. It seems like such a peaceful place and there is so much for the kids to do. It is full of history, art, monuments, museums, and so much more. Honestly. It’s probably not going to cost you much to tour Ottawa, maybe see a hockey game. Just make sure you keep those kids comfortable on that long car ride. Maybe you’ll want to move there someday.

Moving To Ottawa? You’ll Need That Dehumidifier In The Summer

By Beverly Baker | Featured

Ottawa, for those of you who don’t already know, is the capital city of beautiful Canada. It’s the home of the Ottawa Senators, Parliament hill, and the Rideau Canal. You can also find yourself visiting a lot of the local restaurants and museums that it has to offer, but why move there? Why not just visit? Well, there are quite a few reasons as to why one would want to go there and stay there, here are a few.

The Economy Is Fantastic

Unfortunately in most places, the economy is shot. If you are planning to move to Ottawa, you’re in luck. The economy there is in great shape. Ottawa is a government town, which means that there is a wide variety of departments that are looking for different types of skilled workers. This also means that they are a bit more stable, economy wise, because a lot of their employment isn’t dependent on resources, services, or manufacturing.

Lot’s Of Green!

No, I don’t mean money. By “green” I mean parks and trees. In Ottawa, especially during the summer and spring months, there is an abundance of green land and dozens of parks where you can ride your bike, take the kids to play, or even play a game of football.
For those who love to get their daily exercise, you can use one of the many bike paths that lay along the rivers. It’s been scientifically proven that being in nature is healthy for you, and here’s why!

• Sun gives you Vitamin D
• Good for the eyes
• Improves sleep
• “Grounding” has an anti-inflammatory & energizing effect on the body
• Good for the psychological health

You’ll Want That Dehumidifier

You should also know that during the summer and early fall months, it does tend to get a tad humid. You should try to keep a dehumidifier in your house or apartment. This will work to keep the humidity levels in your home at a tolerable level and keep mold away.

These do require that you empty the reservoir, so if you don’t have time or just don’t want to, you may prefer one with a pump. These will keep you from having to lift your dehumidifier to drain because the pump will take the water out for you. These are great for basements, homes, and garages. These are also ideal for the elderly who may have issues with the humidity affecting their health. They won’t have to worry about maintaining them as often or lifting them.

Low Crime Rates

Ottawa is known for having one of the lowest crime rates in Canada. There have only been 799 violent crimes reported per 100,000 people in 2012. The only other area that has a lower rate is Calgary, which is only a few incidents behind. If you have kids, it’s obvious that you would want to move to a location that is low on the crime rate. You can’t have your kids walking to school in a bad neighborhood or even you worrying about whether you are going to get to work safely or not. Safety is important today, the world is a very scary place.

Conclusion

There you have it! These are some pretty great reasons to want to move to Ottawa. If you aren’t planning to move there, no problem! You can still enjoy everything here just by visiting. They are known for their good food, museums, hockey team, low traffic congestion, and very green terrain. It’s an all around beautiful place to visit or move to!

Firearms Safety and Gun Safe Storage – What You Need to Know

By Beverly Baker | Featured

Firearms have a bad reputation, and, with reports in the media such as terrorist attacks and school shootings constantly making our news feed, it can be easy to assume guns are to blame. However, a few bad apples really can spoil the whole barrel as the large majority of gun owners are responsible citizens just looking to add an extra layer of protection for themselves and their families.

If you own a gun or are thinking about getting one, it’s important to keep in mind that there are a number of risks involved with owning a firearm. These dangers are increased if you have young children in the home. However, rather than dismissing your sincere desire to own a gun for your peace-of-mind and security, consider employing a few helpful firearms safety tips to best ensure everyone stays safe.

Ensure Proper Storage

You aren’t likely going to use your gun all that often. Even if you use it for hunting, the majority of the life of your firearm will be spent idle. That’s why is’t so important that you make considerations for just how you will be storing your gun.

A great option to take into consideration is to invest in a quality gun safe. This option not only allows you to safely and securely store your firearms with a gun safe,  but you can also take advantage of a number of other benefits such as:

• Prevent burglars from accessing your gun to use against you in your own home
• Prevent the possibility of damage to your firearms in the event of a house fire or other natural disaster
• Possible insurance discounts for taking preventive measures
• Can also provide for a great place to store other valuable items such as:
  • Family heirlooms
  • Photos
  • Tax records
  • Collectibles
  • Stock certificates
  • Deeds
  • Bonds
  • Passports

Don’t Shroud Your Guns in Mystery

As a parent, you’ve likely said “because I said so” a time or two. However, when it comes to explaining to your children why they are not to handle your firearms, you should sit them down and explain just why they need to employ caution. Children are curious, and the things you tell them to stay away from are often the ones they explore first when you’re not looking.

Every parent has their own style, but it’s well worth considering sitting your kids down and discussing firearms safety. This gives them a chance to release their curiosities, ask questions, and feel like they’re on the same page. If you feel they are mature enough, you may even consider taking them out for supervised target practice. This gives them the chance not only to learn how to properly operate the gun, but it also allows them the opportunity to see just how much damage it can inflict.

Don’t Forget Common Sense

There are many things that can help prevent an accident from occurring that sound like no-brainers. However, it’s often these very things that are neglected that can lead to yet another grim statistic. Make sure to always be aware of the seemingly simple things that can make all the difference such as:

• Ensuring your gun is always unloaded when not in uses
• Making sure the safety is on when not in use
• Keeping fingers off of the trigger until you’re sure you want to shoot
• Ensuring you have the proper ammunition
• Not focusing solely on a target but also what’s beyond it

Prevention is Key

It’s not just acts of violence that leads to injury and death involving firearms. Sometimes, accidents happen. In fact, in 2013, 505 deaths occurred in the United States due to accidental discharge or neglect. These situations are unfortunate because there are so many things that can be done to prevent them from occurring.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and, when you’re dealing with something as serious as firearms, you owe it to yourself to make the minimal investment of time in assuring you and your loved ones are safe. By following these tips, you can increase firearms safety in your household and enjoy the protection that comes along with responsible gun ownership.

Ottawa’s Top Foodie Stops

By Beverly Baker | Foodie Stops

When touring downtown Ottawa, either as a first time tourist, or as a local just visiting for the evening, you won’t be disappointed with time spent at any of these cool foodie locals. These top ten restaurants of downtown Ottawa include stops both classic and trendy, all are innovative.

Absinthe

For lunch and dinner, very modern and casual, but never disappointing at 1208 Wellington St. West. With bilingual menu proudly sourcing fares from local farms and fisheries. Absinth chefs are happy to showcase, so watch for special events like pop-up dinners at theatre venues, giving away burgers at Taste of Wellington, and the inaugural Knives Out Ottawa foodie festival.

Black Cat Bistro

A neighborhood bistro at 428 Preston Street serving modern French food, self proclaimed “simple, classic, inspired,” with top rating from the Huffpost Living. You’ll especially enjoy the Wednesday night special, “Burger and Bordeaux.” Closed Mondays, but otherwise open for dinner 5-9PM.

Fraser Cafe

Breakfast, lunch and dinner at 7 Springfield Road. A “seasonal kitchen” of the best traditional Canadian fare with kids menu and gluten free options. Be sure to check out the weekend brunch. Vegans will feel especially welcome here.

Gezellig

Lunch and dinner in the Dutch tradition of “everything convivial and cozy, with belonging, general togetherness, or time spent with loved ones…”

337 Richmond Road hosting free BYO every Monday evening.

NeXT

Uniquely Asian-Canadian cuisine at 6400 Hazeldean Road. Seriously surprising casual fun dining is the “Brunch Board,” fifteen clever dishes on one solid piece of wood that serves two. Also open for lunch and dinner.

Origin Trade

Coffee House and Lounge, with soup/sandwich menu and bar. A trendy meeting place at 111 York Street, especially on Soiree Thursdays 5-9PM happy hour with music. Fulfill your snacking dreams here with special Charcuterie Board.

Restaurant 18

Named for its historic house at 18 York Street, Restaurant 18 has earned the AAA 4 Diamond rating. For seasonal bests request the Chef’s Tasting Menu, a five course dinner. Happy Hour 5-7PM, even on Mondays.

Shore Club

Steak, Seafood, Cocktails, and wait – an art collection? Yes, at 11 Colonel By Drive, all dining and cocktail areas feature paintings amid wood and suede walls, with emphasis on locally renowned artists. Dress Smart and enjoy lunch or dinner within a unique ambience.

Sidedoor

What can be better than Thai Tacos? Nothing, according to Anne DesBrisay’s Capital Dining. This surprisingly cozy contemporary kitchen and bar of 18b York Street, proclaims “make tacos not war,” with an earlier 4:30-6:30 happy hour.

The Whalebone

There are four locations for “Ottawa’s best seafood,” but 430 Bank Street is the original spot. All locations are welcoming for lunch and dinner daily. And if someone in your party isn’t in the mood for scallops ceviche, lobster or steelhead trout (go figure), then they can order a Hanger Steak with blue cheese butter and fries.

Music in Ottawa: From Dancing to Relaxing

By Beverly Baker | Fun and Relaxation

The capital city of Canada, Ottawa, is rich in history and activities for residents and visitors alike. Like any major city, the arts and culture of Ottawa are a large part of its appeal, and the vibrant music scene is one of the very best examples of this.

If you ever make a summer trip to Ottawa, it might be for its annual Ottawa Bluesfest. Now in its 23rd year, the RBC Bluesfest brings some of music’s biggest names and thousands of music fans out to Ottawa. This year’s iteration was the first to sell out in advance. With a lineup including funk rock legends Red Hot Chilli Peppers, country superstar Brad Paisley, and critically acclaimed rappers Future and Schoolboy Q, it’s not hard to see why.

That doesn’t mean Ottawa is only worth visiting for one big summer festival, however. Maybe you prefer more intimate spaces. If so, Ottawa is packed with music venues off the beaten path that you won’t be able to shut up about when talking to your friends. If you consider yourself something of a punk (or just want to cut loose in the mosh pit one night), visit Mavericks, where hardcore and metal shines.

Weary of the thought of getting bumped and bruised or simply prefer more mellow, feel-good music? Fear not! At Mercury Lounge, there is a great deal of laid-back, low-key performers. If you have had an active night out on the town and just want to kick back a bit before calling it a night, have a lounge at the Mercury Lounge.

Few things go hand in hand like music and dancing, and Ottawa has events that’ll make you dance like there’s no tomorrow. Zaphod Beeblebrox, while not exclusively a dance club, has Electric Ballroom with DJ Floodzi every Saturday, and, it’s safe to say, the best name for a music venue you’ve ever heard. Another hot dance spot in the city is Babylon, with DJ nights dedicated to Kanye West, Drake, Beyonce, Rihanna, and others.

Are you a music fan on a budget, or one who loves the idea of catching something under the radar, years before they get big? Check out a show at Cafe Dekcur. Here you can catch a great deal of local Ottawa bands for a price that does not break the bank. A lineup of 4-5 bands typically costs around $10. You don’t need to be a master of math to know that’s a great deal.

The best thing that can be said about the music scene in Ottawa is how diverse it is. Not only is the city widespread in terms of music venues and genres featured, but so are the venues and events themselves. Just look at the lineup for the annual Ottawa Bluesfest and how many genres it spans and you’ll see what we mean. If you are a music fan who wants a new city to explore, consider taking a trip up to Ottawa sometime in the very near future.

US Exodus to Canada?

By Beverly Baker | Featured

The recent Presidential election in the United States was one of the most stressful and controversial in the nation’s history. Many US citizens, including famous celebrities, vowed to move to Canada if Donald Trump defeated Hillary Clinton and became the President of their country.

Before the election took place, celebrities Lena Dunham, Amy Schumer, Snoop Dog, Miley Cyrus, Whoopi Goldberg, Bryan Cranston, Chelsea Handler, Chloe Sevigny and Ne-Yo all vowed to move to Canada if Trump won the presidency, publically announcing their intentions in the hopes of convincing their fans to vote for Hillary.

After Donald Trump won, many Republicans wondered if the celebrities would make good on their vows to run for the border. Unsurprisingly, the stars backtracked and insisted that their threats to leave were only said in jest, and that they would stay in the US to fight the good fight against Trump through social media.

Mainstream media outlets forgave the stars for going back on their promises, although some of the more skeptical journalists wondered if this reneging had anything to do with Trump’s promised tax cut.

Inspired by their favorite celebrities’ threats to escape to the Great White North, millions of left-leaning US citizens also made plans to move to Canada if Trump won the electoral college. When the tide turned in Trump’s favor on election day, these surprised and dismayed citizens actually crashed the Canadian immigration information website by flocking to it en masse.

It’s easy to understand why disillusioned Democrats felt tempted to move to Canada. Their friendly neighbor to the North offers socialist programs they could only dream of in the United States, like universal healthcare, outstanding employment insurance, and Old Age Security. Canada also has strict gun laws and a generally-liberal atmosphere that fulfills the political ideologies of most US leftists.

Unfortunately for these US citizens, it’s not so easy to immigrate to Canada from the United States. While it’s certainly not impossible, it’s not as casual as simply driving across the border and purchasing a home. For example, if an applicant has a serious health or financial problem, or if they have ever been convicted of a crime, they will not be allowed to immigrate to Canada.

Even if the applicant was never convicted of a crime, they will be found ineligible if they ever committed an act that would be considered a crime in Canada, or if one of their family members is not allowed into the country. Considering the infamous harshness of the US justice system, these restrictions affect a good amount of US residents applying for Canadian citizenship. For example, one conviction for Driving While Intoxicated closes the door on the subject.

It is estimated that at least a couple hundred thousand US citizens are still planning to escape Trump’s America for Canada, even though their celebrity icons decided to stick around. It will probably be a good match, since the values of these future immigrants and those of their country of choice align perfectly. The Canadian government has expressed its willingness to accept up to 250 thousand US citizens.