In this episode of Ottawa Business Matters, host Sam Laprade discusses the significant efforts to revitalize Ottawa's downtown post-pandemic with Sueling Ching, President and CEO of the Ottawa Board of Trade. They delve into the recently launched 'Living Capital' action agenda, its vision for a live, work, and play environment, and the necessity of community involvement to achieve its four major goals. Later, Kevin McHale, Executive Director of Spark Street BIA, shares insights on the history and current initiatives aimed at making Spark Street a vibrant community hub. The episode also highlights the success story of Pam and Grant Hooker, founders of Beaver Tails, from their humble beginnings to receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award. Finally, Neil Malhotra from Claridge discusses the future of housing in Ottawa, the downtown action agenda, and the importance of making downtown living more affordable and desirable.   00:00 Welcome to Ottawa Business Matters 00:53 Spotlight on Ottawa's Downtown Action Agenda 04:54 Community Engagement and the Importance of Downtown for Everyone 12:53 The Spark Street Revival: A Conversation with Kevin McHale 24:40 Beaver Tails: A Sweet Success Story 28:02 The Humble Beginnings of a Festival Favorite 29:05 Presidential Tastes: Serving Beaver Tails to Obama and Clinton 31:01 A Lifetime of Achievement: The Better Ottawa Business Awards 33:05 Reviving the Canadian Tulip Festival 35:15 No Regrets: Reflecting on 44 Years of Business and Life 38:31 Building a Future: The Vision of Claridge Homes 41:35 Downtown Revitalization: A New Vision for Ottawa 45:41 The Challenges and Changes in Home Building 48:58 Claridge's Commitment to Community and Philanthropy   Read the full transcript here Read the full report here