#ottawa_cm

The man, the legend, the rebel? We'll find out as one of the most prominent figures in Ottawa's music scene - Eugene Haslam - joins us as we take on the topic of Rebel. 

For those involved in the music scene in town, Mr. Haslam is no stranger. In 1995, he resurrected Barrymore's and hosted bands such as the Tragically Hip and Radiohead. In 1999 he gained full ownership of the institution Zaphod Beeblebrox and became a staple in the fabric of musical community. Zaphod's is about to celebrate its 22nd rockin anniversary and we're eager to hear Eugene's story from banker, to local rock legend, to politician and much more. 

The Rebel theme is presented by Shutterstock, and was chosen by the Portland chapter. This event is being hosted in a very special place, and we're excited to call the Enriched Bread Artists Studios - Ottawa's largest artist studio co-op - home this Friday morning. Rumour has it breakfast is taking on a bit of a rebellious spin and we're ditching coffee and pastries for some Gongfu Bao!

Our international January theme is Childhood. Pretty sure we've all been there, and some of us might even remember it, but childhood ain't necessarily easy. Thank goodness for some amazing initiatives (and our next speakers!) like Ottawa Rock Camp for Girls to foster some Ottawa based teens inner musical creativity. 

Ottawa Rock Camp for Girls (ORC4G) is a three-day camp held annually in Ottawa since 2006. The camp was first organized locally by the feminist arts collective, Ladyfest Ottawa. In 2012 camp, a small arts collective comprised of volunteer local female musicians and music lovers took over the project. Our camp seeks to empower young women aged 13 to 17 by offering them the chance to learn an instrument, meet new friends and perform at a showcase concert. 

ORC4G believes that all girls, regardless of age, race, economic status, gender expression, size, developmental ability, religion or sexual orientation, should be able to attend camp. As such, we fundraise extensively to allow a variety of girls to participate - our suggested donation for participating in the weekend is of 20$, which includes use of instrument, rehearsal space, all meals and a showcase concert. 

Their next camp will be held in the fall of 2014, and they are actively looking for more volunteers to help fundraise, plan new activities and outreach to more communities so they can make their next event the most successful yet!