News + Events

Last week was OXA’s annual Golf Event at Emerald Links Golf & Country Club. Despite a cool breeze, the weather was perfect for a great day on the course. Afterward, everyone enjoyed a delicious dinner of chicken, ribs, and all the fixings, with prizes awarded for on-course achievements and raffle draws for items generously donated by OXA members.

A big thank you to the Pattersons and the Emerald Links staff for hosting us again this year. We’re already looking forward to next year’s event and hope to see even more members, friends and colleagues join in the fun!

This year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) was attended by over 40 members. New President David Dugas of D.E. Systems welcomed Paul O’Reilly of Avenue North Realty and Martin Patterson of Emerald Links Golf & Country Club to the board as well as François Beauvais of Art Woods Office Supplies to the role of Board Advisor. Congratulations to the new 2024-2025 board.

Last week, OXA hosted an Open House luncheon that successfully brought together 18 guests and over 40 members to introduce attendees to the Ottawa Executives’ Association (OXA). David Dugas, our Membership Recruitment Chair, highlighted the association’s rich history 88-year history (est. 1936), including a nod to founding member Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, and shared the numerous benefits of OXA membership. Members Thom Bourne of Nutri-lawn Ottawa and Melissa Gardner Webb of Relax Massage Group offered testimonials about their experiences and the valuable connections they have forged through OXA. Additionally, an HR panel featuring OXA members Karen Brownrigg of iHR Advisory Services, Diane Craig of Corporate Class Inc., and Graham Young of CAPCORP Financial shared their insights with attendees. Thank you to all those who contributed to making this year’s Open House luncheon a resounding success!

Last week’s meeting was our annual Christmas luncheon, a festive gathering where members enjoyed a holiday meal, took photos with St. Nick, participated in holiday-themed activities, and networked during the Contact Period. The highlight of the meeting was the return of the Ebert Ralph Executive of the Year award, presented to two deserving members: François Beauvais of Art Woods Office Supplies and Paul O’Reilly of Avenue North Realty. Congratulations to both! This final meeting of 2023 concluded with members exchanging Thank yous and well wishes.

Last week, we held our first OXA Volunteer Thank You Luncheon, celebrating and honoring the invaluable contributions of our dedicated volunteers, who are integral to the sustainability and success of our organization. President Stephanie Applejohn acknowledged each volunteer for their efforts and expressed heartfelt gratitude for their hard work in helping to keep the organization thriving.

This year’s Annual President’s Summer Social was a vibrant celebration hosted by President Stephanie Applejohn of Merry Maids of Ottawa in the Riverview Salon at the Canadian Museum of History. Members and guests were greeted by dazzling Brazilian Samba dancers, setting a lively tone for the evening. Inside, attendees mingled over drinks and hors d’oeuvres while taking in the breathtaking views of the Ottawa River and Parliament Hill. Photographer Josh Storm captured memorable moments on the terrace. Stephanie’s opening remarks introduced the evening’s theme, leading to a culinary adventure with food stations featuring delicious Brazilian and Canadian dishes. The night culminated in thrilling Samba performances and delightful Brazilian desserts. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of this fun-filled event!

Last week, OXA members came together to celebrate long-time member Dr. Roly Armitage with a surprise luncheon in his honour. Roly’s family and friends were on hand to share the day with his OXA colleagues and to help make it extra special. OXA President Graham Young and Vice-President Stephanie Applejohn awarded Roly the distinction of OXA Lifetime Member.

This year, just over 60 members and guests attended the OXA’s annual Christmas Event at member restaurant, NeXT.

Upon arrival, members and their guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and drinks while mingling and networking with one another. Sports & Social Chair, Will Pearl kicked off the evening by welcoming everyone before turning things over to Chef Michael Blackie and his staff who prepared a delicious four-course meal.

After dinner, participants were entertained by musician John Allaire, whose performance was enjoyed by all. Throughout the evening there were draws for various prizes. Once again this annual event was a resounding success and a fabulous time was had by everyone in attendance.

This year’s President’s Summer Social event was hosted by President Graham Young and his wife, Lindsay at Beyond the Pale Brewing Company.

Upon arrival, members and their guests enjoyed networking and mingling. After opening remarks from Graham, attendees sampled mini lobster rolls and oysters from Supply and Demand and a BBQ Buffet from The SmoQue Shack.

The event was a resounding success and a great time was had by all! The laid-back atmosphere was the perfect way to mark the return of this fabulous annual event after a two-year hiatus.