Ottawa is making a name for itself as a national venue for high-quality entertainment and it continues to grow as a tourist destination. Ottawa at Home goes behind the scenes with four men who work to make it all happen.
Glenn Duncan, Vice-President, Sales at Ottawa Tourism
Where are you from? When did you come to Ottawa? Edmonton, Alta. I moved to Ottawa in February 2011 and I am excited and proud to be a new Ottawan.
How would you describe the nation's capital to someone who has never visited? A world capital with amazing culture, history, stunning natural beauty and a funky urban vibe. Ottawa is a four-season city that boasts an incomparable Canadian experience, blending French and English with a dash of European flair.
When you have leisure time, what do you do? My family and I love football and we've embraced our new hometown hockey team. We take in cultural events - theatre and concerts - movies and dining out, and enjoy travel.
How would you like to see your field of entertainment grow? My field is within the ever-changing world of tourism. Embracing partnerships between communities and entertainment and events rights holders can set the stage for immense growth and success.
What is one area of growth you would like to see for the National Capital Region? Ottawa is poised to take its rightful place on the world stage. We have incredible tourism infrastructure and industry support that can see us grow, both as a convention and sport event/entertainment destination. The more Ottawans who support and believe, the easier and sooner this growth will be realized.
Cyril Leeder President, Senators Sports & Entertainment
Where are you from? When did you come to Ottawa? Born in Brockville, Ont. and moved to Ottawa in 1982.
How would you describe the nation's capital to someone who has never visited? A great place to live, work and play in a four-season climate. There is no better place in the world to raise a family. The quality of life here is second to none.
When you have leisure time, what do you do? I work at trying to stay fit, collecting wine and entertaining. In the summer, I spend time at the cottage with friends and family.
How would you like to see your field of entertainment grow? I believe that soccer is going to be the next big thing in North America. I would like to see an MLS franchise come to Ottawa. At Scotiabank Place, our wish list includes more A-type concerts, a future outdoor hockey game and the return of major international hockey events/competitions.
What is one area of growth you would like to see for the National Capital Region? The technology sector taking off to return to the days when Ottawa was a bright technological light in the Canadian economy. I look forward to the day when Ottawa's new light rail transit system will deliver guests to and from hockey games and events at Scotiabank Place.
Ian Forsyth, Managing Partner, Caneast Shows Inc.
Where are you from? When did you come to Ottawa? Toronto originally. I moved to Ottawa in May 2008.
How would you describe the nation's capital to someone who has never visited? An absolutely beautiful city with limitless opportunities for outdoor pursuits. I also believe that Ottawa has limitless unrealized potential to grow in so many areas, with the event business being one of them.
When you have leisure time, what do you do? For the most part I spend my time outdoors. Whether that means going on a road ride, skiing (both cross-country and downhill), playing hockey, maintaining the backyard rink or camping, it generally involves my family.
How would you like to see your field of entertainment grow? With the renovation of the Ottawa Convention Centre and the opening of the CE Centre, Ottawa is very much in a sweet spot right now as far as the event business goes. Trade shows, consumer shows, and large conventions now have Ottawa on their radar to a much greater degree.
What is one area of growth you would like to see for the National Capital Region? No deep thinking here: transit. Though new to Ottawa, I am aware of the history and believe the lack of a sophisticated and fully engaged transit system is holding this city back in many ways.
Richard Gray - Bell Media Regional Vice-President, Radio and TV Operations, Atlantic Canada, Quebec, Northern and Eastern Ontario. GM, CTV Ottawa, CTV Two Ottawa, Majic 100, 93.9 BOB FM, 580 CFRA, Team 1200
Where are you from? When did you come to Ottawa? I was born in Perth and grew up in Brockville. I moved back to Ottawa for the second time in September 2008 after living in Victoria, B.C.
How would you describe the nation's capital to someone who has never visited? Ottawa is the perfect mix of a big city and small town. You can do everything here you could ever want to, while knowing nearly everyone.
When you have leisure time, what do you do? It may sound odd, but I watch TV or listen to the radio to unwind, which I guessmeans I have the perfect job. I also read about 20 books a year, just for enjoyment.
How would you like to see your field of entertainment grow? By making it easier to access local TV and radio anywhere and at any time through smartphones or tablets. Thankfully, we're almost there.
What is one area of growth you would like to see for the National Capital Region? The creation of the National Capital Commission was pure genius because it has preserved so much incredible green space for public use, and the organization stages many great activities and events. That said, we need more restaurants and outdoor patios on NCC land, especially near the water, to truly take advantage of what makes this area so incredible.
