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Jim Watson Profile
Jim Watson

@JimWatsonOttawa

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56th Mayor of the City of Ottawa / 56e maire de la Ville d'Ottawa 🏳️‍🌈

Ottawa, Ontario
Joined July 2009
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
Dear Ottawa residents and friends, I have some personal news I wish to share with you. I invite you to read my Op-Ed in today’s @OttawaCitizen : #Pride
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
Ottawa Police have confirmed cars parked on the grounds of the national Cenotaph have been removed. Parking on this sacred ground that includes the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was a sign of complete disrespect.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
6 years
Funny exchange at an apartment today while canvassing Me: knock Voter: thank God you're here Me: really? Why? Voter: yes because you're here to fix my tv Me : no I'm the mayor of ottawa Voter: well that's no use to me
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
NEW: I want to sincerely thank the team at @gofundme for listening to the plea made by the City and the Ottawa Police to no longer provide funds to the convoy organizers. 1/3
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
I have rejected the Russian embassy’s request to fly their flag at Ottawa City Hall for their Independence Day on June 12. I indicated that until the Russian army leaves Ukraine we will not have anything to do with the Russian government and their illegal invasion.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
Hey @Raptors forget the White House for a victory lap. Come to Ottawa and parliament hill so Canada can congratulate you! How about it @JustinTrudeau
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
I have been overwhelmed with so many kind and thoughtful messages over the past 12 hours. I want to apologize if I haven’t gotten back to you. I am reading all your messages and I thank you for making this day so meaningful and memorable
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
I have asked that effective Monday May 31 to June 8 the flags at City Hall be lowered to honour the lives and memories of the 215 children found in a mass grave at a residential school in Kamloops. The flags will remain lowered for one hour for every child whose life was taken
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
This is an absolute disgrace that you would come out & praise this illegal action that has caused stress and hardship to residents who have been putting up with horns blasting throughout the night and residents harassed for wearing a mask & businesses forced to close. Apologize
@KevinWaugh_CPC
Kevin Waugh
2 years
A few of our SK Caucus members went to show our appreciation for the hardworking, patriotic truckers who have kept our supply chains healthy & grocery shelves stocked for the past two years. It’s great to see Canadians championing freedom on Parliament Hill. #freedomconvoy22
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
I want to thank friends. colleagues and many people I have not had the pleasure of meeting for your thoughtful comments following a homophobic incident at my home. Your words of kindness and support are very much appreciated Merci beaucoup
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
Welcome to Ottawa, Bernie!
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
I’ve asked to have the Ukrainian flag raised at City Hall following the unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russia. I am thinking of the people of Ukraine & the many Ukrainian-Canadians. I encourage all mayors to raise the flag in their cities in solidarity with Ukraine.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
8 years
. @ReturnofKings Your pro-rape, misogynistic, homophobic garbage is not welcome in Ottawa​ ​ #its2016 ​​ #TurnAwayReturnOfKings
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
I find it unbelievable and appalling that so many anti mask and anti vaccine activists continue to compare public health guidelines to fight Covid 19 to the Holocaust and nazism. Please think about the millions of Jews and others murdered and tortured and stop using this analogy
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
1 year
Thank you Ottawa. Merci Ottawa
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
I’ve been made aware of a nation-wide protest around hospitals planned for tomorrow. As Canadians, we have the right to express our beliefs. However, when these protests get in the way of the critical work of our healthcare professionals during a pandemic, I won’t have it. 1/2
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
funding and resources will restrict their ability to remain in Ottawa. I am imploring similar crowdfunding platforms to take the same position and not enable the group in its fundraising efforts, which would deal a blow to our efforts to put an end to this occupation. 3/3
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
I want to thank @JustinTrudeau @BillBlair @marcomendicino for the constructive discussions this afternoon on the next steps we need to take together, including the commitment of additional resources, to put an end to the ongoing occupation in Ottawa’s downtown core.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
This is the community park in my neighbourhood with NO kids playing at all! I’m told that @fordnation is looking at rethinking the restrictions. Time to let kids be kids. We can promote physical distancing and still allow kids to get some fresh air and exercise
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
6 years
Thank you Ottawa for your vote of confidence. I am humbled and privileged to have the opportunity to serve you once again. I look forward to 4 more great year and to keep on #WorkingforabetterOttawa ! THANK YOU!
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
@MArsalidesCTV @ctvottawa I have asked senior staff to review this. We are a hockey nation and what can be wrong with playing hockey in your own backyard? I hope to have more information tomorrow to solve this so called problem!
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
NEW: Just received a great update from staff. We are expecting all LTCs in Ottawa to be finished their first round of vaccines by the end of today. I am so grateful to @OttawaParamedic @OttawaHealth and @OttawaHospital staff for making this possible.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
In light of the unlawful behaviour that has transpired in the last few days, they have come to the right decision in support of our city and our residents. These protesters have been holding our city hostage for a week now, and I'm hopeful that limiting their access to … 2/3
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
@SusanDelacourt Weather is a federal responsibility
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
@sghottawa @_rkgg Completely unacceptable behaviour by these convoy members. Harassing volunteers and staff at a homeless shelter is a new low and severely damages the credibility of these protesters. Where are the organizers to denounce these outrageous actions?
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
1/2 At the request of the Ottawa Mosque, to help our Muslim residents observe Ramadan in the absence of religious gatherings, the City is granting a Noise Bylaw exemption for Mosques to broadcast the evening call to prayer, which will go on for approx. 5 minutes at sunset.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
@fordnation please reconsider your decision to not allow splash-pads to open at the same time as other outdoor activities like golf and basketball. It’s going to be over 30 degrees this long weekend. Please RT and email your MPP. #splishsplash
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
Just finished grocery shopping and everyone in store but two were wearing masks! Well done Ottawa - To those who aren’t wearing a mask , please think of others. We’re not asking you to climb Mount Everest - we’re asking you to put on a mask that help save lives!
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
It was one year ago tomorrow that I came out as a gay man. The op-ed that I wrote in the @OttawaCitizen received more feedback than any other issue in my lifetime. Thanks to all who supported me since that day.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
All aboard Ottawa's LRT train! This incredible time lapse takes us through the entire #OttLRT Confederation Line, from Blair Station in the East to Tunney's Pasture in the West. I look forward to making this trip in the coming months. #Ready4Rail
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
We live in a beautiful city !
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
With the provincial shutdown in place many of our local restaurants ordered food for this long weekend and they can’t serve it on their premises. Please consider takeout or curb-side or delivery and help our friends and neighbours during a very, very difficult time. Please RT
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
Of our 145 splash pads , 137 will be opened by this evening and the remaining 8 have damage or maintenance issues that will be dealt with in the next few days. The splash pads are turned on automatically at 8 am and closed at 9 pm. Enjoy! #SplishSplash
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
Good morning. Bonjour Ottawa! Wearing my pride socks for the first time! A Christmas gift from my sister @nacgirl
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
6 years
Pleased to report that @hydroottawa has advised me that all homes now have electricity! Thank you to the amazing and dedicated hydro professionals
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
10 years
The Pride Flag will fly at Ottawa City Hall until the end of the Olympics. #Sochi2014 http://t.co/MW2qo3FsAS
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
During these difficult times, our most vulnerable #ottawa residents need our support. Today I spoke with @harleyf & @OttawaFoodBank CEO @MichaelMaidment about how we can help. Harley has agreed to donate $1—up to $10k— to @OttawaFoodBank for every RT this gets!
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
6 years
It's not easy stepping up and putting your life on hold and being subjected to a lot of hate and criticism as you run for public office. Thanks to all those provincial candidates - regardless of your party- for taking part in the democrat process. Now it's up to all of us to vote
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
10 years
@Awesomely11 if you have that point of view, I really don't want your vote.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
7 years
À great evening in support of Canadian musicians. Great to meet @ShawnMendes . Really nice guy!
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
In solidarity with the people of Lebanon
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
To those who intend to protest in Ottawa tomorrow: All I ask is that you respect essential healthcare services coming in and out of our hospitals. My office has engaged with @OttawaPolice and they have advised that they will be ready to respond as required. 2/2
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
I want to thank our city’s first responders, health professionals and the entire team at OC Transpo for responding to yesterday’s tragic accident with professionalism under very challenging circumstances and in frigid temperatures. We’re all very grateful for your efforts.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
I’m pleased to announce that, effective immediately, Ottawa residents will be able to enjoy fresh air and various outdoor activities in greenspaces at all City parks. We all want to enjoy the nice weather that is on its way to the nation’s capital - let’s do it responsibly. 1/2
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
9 years
Hey @JohnTory isn't it great that all the Canadian NHL teams are in the playoffs.....oh wait, sorry!
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
This is so well deserved. Ryan, your kindness and generosity has touched many in your former city of Ottawa - from your support to our food bank to doing an interview with three young podcasters @DudesInterview Congratulations and thank you for just being NICE
@VancityReynolds
Ryan Reynolds
2 years
Last night, Canada honoured me with a Governor General's Award and this video. I'm not crying. It's just maple syrup. @stevenpage is a friend and legend for wasting this amazing song on me. Thank you to Her Excellency, @GGCanada , Mary Simon. #GGAwards @CanadasNAC I'm a wreck.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
6 years
saw a guy going down Bank street taking down many of these posters and I told him to stop being an idiot and he ran away.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
Two weeks ago, I got an email from two teachers at a school in Haarlem, NL. They had read about my coming out and had shared the story with their students, who all wrote me nice letters with their well wishes. Today, I had the chance to meet them during a very special visit.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
I had someone contact me to say that I was yawning at Council yesterday and it didn’t look good. I’m dealing with sleep apnea which means I often don’t get a good nights sleep. I’m definitely not bored at work! Thanks for your understanding
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
As a show of solidarity for the people of Lebanon, the OTTAWA sign in the Market be lit up in the red, white and green colours of the Lebanese flag this evening and tomorrow. Our thoughts go out to the families and friends of all those affected by this terrible tragedy.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 months
To the guy who just yelled “F #*ck you faggot” I have two points: 1) why are you and other homophobes obsessed or angry with ones sexual orientation or identity? And 2) It’s 2024. Be Better.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
@JCharronCTV @CP24 @ctvottawa @CTVNews Threatening and intimidating the press like we have seen all weekend is disgraceful. These men and women are trying to do their job to inform Canadians about what is happening on the Hill. Stop the bully tactics and show some respect to fellow Canadians
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
Stop snowing !!! We want spring !
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
This morning, I was joined by @UKRinCAN Chargé D’Affaires, Andrii Bukvych, and @MathieuFleury to unveil streets signs along Charlotte in front of the Russian Embassy to denounce their government’s actions and to stand with the people of Ukraine. #FreeUkraine
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
Effective at 4pm, the State of Emergency for Ottawa is lifted. The State of Emergency was declared on February 6 in response to the serious danger and threat to the safety and security of residents posed by the occupation.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
Happy Pride Ottawa !
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
Happy Father’s Day. This is my favourite picture of my Dad and I after I broke my pelvis - he was living in a long term care home and I was convalescing at a retirement home, connected by a tunnel, so we could visit each other. Miss you Dad.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
It has been a brutal few weeks of snow and freezing rain and in some cases it's hard to keep up with sidewalk and road clearing. But let's take a minute to thank the city crews for some very hard work and long hours RT
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
6 years
I have asked that flags at city hall be lowered to honour the ten lives lost and 15 persons injured in the attacks earlier today in Toronto . #TorontoStrong
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
Dear friends, Please see a statement that I just released. Sincerely, Jim
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
Congratulations @JoeBiden and @KamalaHarris We hope you reinstate the tradition of visiting Canada as your first foreign visit - our nation’s capital looks forward to hosting you!
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
I got a cool pair of pride socks from my sister ! Thanks @nacgirl
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
80 percent of Ottawa residents 12 and older are now fully vaccinated. I am so proud that we have one of the highest vaccination rates among the largest cities in Canada. Thank you for doing your part, Ottawa!
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
8 years
Hate is not welcome anywhere. #TurnAwayReturnOfKings
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
@alamgirK Yes and towed
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
7 years
We're hosting a parade for our #GreyCup Champions, the Ottawa @REDBLACKS ! Tues. 12 p.m. at Pretoria bridge. #RNation , we'll see you there!
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
I believe I have now officially become addicted to these chips since I am spending so much time at home !
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
I would like to thank the thousands of Canadian diplomatic staff around the world and those working from Global Affairs who are working around the clock to help Canadians get back home during this pandemic. I appreciate your professionalism and dedication under challenging times
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
What an honour to pay tribute to a remarkable Canadian musician and philanthropist who left us too soon. Thanks to the winners of the “Name the Trains” contest, Gord Downie's memory will live on the #OTrain Confederation Line 1. You can see it now along the #ottLRT alignment.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
Thirty years ago today I met one of the world’s greatest leaders - Nelson Mandela just after he spoke to a joint sitting of Parliament. I was a young hill staffer working for Speaker John Fraser
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
Congratulations to @REDBLACKS who are on their way back to the Grey Cup! Looking for ideas for our regular cheesy bet with another mayor ! Ideas ?
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
Isn’t it nice to have sunshine at 5 pm !
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
I am happy to learn that travel restrictions will be lifted between Ontario and Québec this Wednesday. After months of wasted police resources to control travel around the NCR, our two highly integrated economic regions will greatly benefit from this decision.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
Unfortunately, my follow up COVID-19 test came back positive and I will remain in isolation for the next eight days. Thankfully, I am feeling ok and don’t have any symptoms. Please follow all @OttawaHealth guidelines, limit your contacts, and get your vaccine as soon as you can.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
23 people injured and 3 fatalities in the Westboro bus incident. Our hearts and condolences go out to all those injured, those who lost their lives as well as to their families. I’ve asked our staff to make available all necessary resources to help those affected by this tragedy.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
All flags at Ottawa City Hall are at half-mast in solidarity with the people of Nova Scotia following yesterday’s tragic events. #NovaScotiaStrong
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
BREAKING: Yesterday evening we surpassed a significant milestone in our #CommunityImmunity vaccination campaign. 50% of the population aged 18 or older have received their 1st dose of vaccine. A special thank you to staff and to everyone who has signed up for their vaccine!
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
It’s clear that Ottawa has a special place in Ryan's heart – and in his honour, I’ll be bringing forward a motion later today to have a street named after him. Ryan Reynolds Way will be located in a new subdivision in the east end. Look forward to seeing it open soon!
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
7 years
I've asked the city to lower the Canadian Flag at City Hall in solidarity with the Muslim community as a result of the tragedy in Quebec
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
Just watching @fordnation at his daily press conference and his plea to ask protesters not to harass his neighbours near his home. Politicians deserve to be left alone in their own neighbourhood
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
@denisebatters A really ridiculous tweet.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
6 years
@alliemmd This is true. It did happen !
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
Just got my Louis Pizza kit and made my dinner ! #BuyLocal
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
5 years
I finally won ! End of the dry spell
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
6 years
Congratulations to Ottawa’s very own @IamSandraOh on her Emmy nomination! Wishing you all the best!
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
6 years
Very sad to see @ErikKarlsson65 leave our City. He was always a tremendous leader on and off the ice. He and @MelindaCurrey will be very much missed. We thank him for 9 great seasons with the @Senators - All the best moving forward. #EK65
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
Let’s remember there are brighter days ahead. We’re all in this together. / Des jours meilleurs nous attendent. Ça va bien aller.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
I’m getting lots of ribbing about how I’m surviving without bake sales. - the answer is simple - I’ve now broken into my freezer supply from last Christmas !
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
What a beautiful surprise when I walked into my office today. Thanks to Catherine, Salima, Natalie, Gerry and Peter for their kind gestures. We live in a truly caring city. Thank you very much !
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
To our business community: @ottawahealth has accepted the recommendation from the Province's Chief Medical Officer of Health that all bars, theatres and entertainment venues should close temporarily, and that restaurants limit operations to take-out and delivery as of tomorrow.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
Today is the Int'l Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. On this day, and every day, we should continue to educate about LGBTQI2+ lived experiences and push for sensible public policies that take into account these perspectives.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
I just got my first dose of vaccine at the Nepean Sportsplex Community Clinic. Thank you to the wonderful staff who are running the clinics, in particular Nurse Caitlin who gave me my shot. With every vaccine delivered brings us one step closer to #CommunityImmunity !
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
6 years
The City is allowing and inviting all licensed food trucks to go serve the communities currently without power, especially Dunrobin, Craig Henry and Hunt Club-Riverside.
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
7 years
I am pleased to report that the anti abortion flag has been taken down. I have asked staff for a complete review of the city's flag policy
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
7 years
Pleased to announce I will seek re-election as Mayor of Ottawa during 2018 municipal elections. Read full statement:
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
4 years
Please note starting at 12:01am tomorrow you must wear a mask in an indoor public place. I would encourage you to review the attached link and FAQ section on the specific details.
@OttawaHealth
Ottawa Public Health
4 years
NEWS RELEASE: today Medical Officers of Health from @EOHU_tweet , @LGLHealthUnit , @RCDHealthUnit , and Ottawa Public Health announced a regional approach to the use of masks in their respective jurisdictions. Read the release here:
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
2 years
24 years ago today, I declared a State of Emergency in Ottawa as a result of the great ice storm of 1998. I had been Mayor for just over a month and this natural disaster struck massive portions of Quebec, Ontario and New Brunswick. It was my baptism by ice! photo: Postmedia
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@JimWatsonOttawa
Jim Watson
3 years
Please don’t snow tomorrow. Please!
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