Niagara-On-The-Lake's Smart New Transit System

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Lake Report Vince Pillitteri honoured| Page 14

Vol. 3, Issue 48 Niagara-on-the-Lake’s first independent newspaper December 3, 2020 Golf pros run for men’s health Run through snowstorm caps phenomenal Movember fundraiser

Santa in NOTL’s 2018 Christmas Parade. FILE PHOTO Santa is coming to your neighbourhood

Staff Santa Around the Town is The Lake Report a “targeted local event” only for Niagara-on-the-Lake Santa Claus is coming to residents, the town said. town, after all. The jolly old fellow won’t Santa Around the Town, be able to hit every street the alternative to Niagara- but a map of his route is on-the-Lake’s traditional available online at notl.com/ Christmas parade, will bring Christmas. St. Nicholas to all five Niaga- The town asks that resi- ra-on-the-Lake communities dents stay within their com- on Saturday, Dec. 12. munity and, if you need to Santa will begin his jour- drive to get to the nearest ney at 9:30 a.m. and residents route, avoid gathering by can find out when he will waving to Santa from within reach their area by following your vehicle. Club champion James Grigjanis-Meusel, left, and associate pro Ricky Watson hit the finish line on the ninth hole as pro his progress via the town’s “Thank you to the Christ- Billy Simkin clocks them in at 1 hour and 47 minutes. KEVIN MACLEAN Facebook page. mas parade committee “We worked hard to create members for thinking outside Kevin MacLean and Billy Simkin, and club “Our goal was $2,000 and about after the PGA of On- an experience that people can the box this year to keep Managing Editor champion James Grigjanis- to get over $7,000 is incred- tario encouraged golf pros enjoy safely, while maintain- the Christmas spirit alive in Meusel, a greenskeeper at ible,” Watson said after across the province to take ing social distance, yet one Niagara-on-the-Lake,” said It started as a simple chal- the NOTL club, sloshed the run. As of Wednesday part in a collective team that will still fill our com- Lord Mayor Betty Disero. lenge to help raise money their way through the sleet afternoon, the total stood at fundraising effort, Simkin munity with holiday spirit,” “We are thrilled to have for men’s health and ended as they ran from the Floral $7,150. told The Lake Report. said Kevin Turcotte, acting Santa travel around the town in the snow and rain Tues- Clock high up in Queenston “The support from “While sitting in our of- director of operations and giving our residents a special day morning in the middle all the way to Old Town. our community and club fice, I said to Ricky, ‘If you a member of the Christmas personal holiday greeting!” of the first winter storm of Their 18-kilometre jour- members has been over- grow the moustache, I will parade committee. The town thanked Sentin- the season. ney, which finished with a whelming. The members run five yards for every dol- “We encourage all Niaga- eal Carriages for donating And it was a runaway lap of the nine-hole lakeside and community deserve so lar raised,’” Simkin said. ra-on-the-Lake residents to Santa’s sleigh. success. golf course, raised more than much recognition and credit Watson immediately said step outside for some Christ- In case of rain, Santa’s Niagara-on-the-Lake $7,000 for the Movember for this.” mas cheer,” Turcotte said in a journey around town will golf pros Ricky Watson campaign for men’s health. The fundraiser came Continued on Page 12 town announcement. happen on Sunday, Dec. 13. NOTL councillor pushes debunked claims about 5G health effects

Richard Harley unscientific claims about 5G open discussion and share week,” she said. The Lake Report during a council meeting a little bit of information” “Health Canada to this on Nov. 25, claiming that about 5G, which refers to point, apparently, is using Niagara-on-the-Lake town because it operates at a the fifth generation of wire- 1920s data in order to assess councillor Wendy Cheropita higher frequency than other less communications. the implications of 5G and has some concerns about networks, the signals can “Number one, 5G is at a there are serious, serious the safety of 5G cellular be harmful to children and much higher frequency than concerns that have been networks, but they ap- pregnant mothers. any other cell frequency. It identified,” she claimed. pear to be based on widely These claims have been requires also significantly Health Canada says oth- debunked, fringe conspiracy widely debunked, includ- more antennas than any erwise. theories. ing in a New York Times other form before it, includ- “And there’s some re- And last week she came investigation into where the ing places like light posts, ally smart people working within one vote of getting false claims about 5G are which could be in residen- behind the scenes, including NOTL council to explore coming from. tial areas, near schools, and the World Health Organi- those theories. Still, Cheropita told coun- they are obviously operating Cheropita began spouting cil she wanted to “have an 24 hours a day, seven days a Continued on Page 2 Coun. Wendy Cheropita. SUPPLIED Page 2 Shop from the comfort of home December 3, 2020 www.simpsonspharmacy.store Pharmacy: 905.468.2121 In-store and curbside pick-up or free delivery Apothecary: 905.468.8400 Christmas gifts and confectionary now available ! NEWS We will do everything we can to support you. Councillor makes false claims about effects of 5G

Continued from Front Page with at least some specific evidence so that we can zation, a former CAO of open up some discussions,” Microsoft,” Cheropita said. she said. “And what they have Her motion was narrowly discovered in hundreds of defeated, with Couns. Gary scientific studies is that 5G Burroughs, Norm Arsenault, will suppress the immune O’Connor and Cheropita system of human beings. voting to explore the un- It has a negative effect on founded claims of 5G health pregnant women and chil- concerns. dren, it can cause physical The federal government system changes, as well as website recommends a num- cognitive changes, and cell ber of studies on its 5G page damage affecting the cellu- and clarifies a bit about the lar processes that play a role scientific process. in cancer development.” “There are criteria that There is no evidence to scientists use in order to support any of those claims establish scientific evidence and 5G is widely considered for the existence of an safe by the science com- adverse health effect. The munity. evidence needs to be repro- While it is true 5G does Left: Coun. Wendy Cheropita. Right: An infographic on the government of Canada’s website. FILE/SUPPLIED ducible to ensure the results operate at a higher radio- were not random or due to frequency (RF) and that comprehensive review” However, fiber optic is motions forwarded from “(She) beat me to it. She other factors. The evidence effects can be harmful at of 5G health implications a form of cable and 5G is the City of Niagara Falls re- articulated all my com- needs to be consistent high exposures, there are and “transparency of the a wireless network. Cell- garding 5G, which sparked ments and my views clearly. across studies; for example, established exposure limits potential health effects phones cannot run on fibre the discussion, were about Until we have the medical the evidence is stronger if in Canada, “with a safety and to investigate and have optic alone and use net- the height of the towers, professionals coming to talk different types of studies margin of at least 50-fold Health Canada report on works like 5G to connect to asking the federal govern- to us, I think we should be (epidemiology and labora- from the threshold for pos- the specific health concerns the fiber backbone. ment to be involved in as- very careful in what we’re tory) point to the same sible adverse health effects,” that have already been Cheropita was under the sessing health concerns, and doing here. So I can’t sup- conclusion. The evidence according to available identified.” impression that additional asking city staff to provide port this,” he said. needs to be evaluated in its government information on However, Health Canada 5G towers would be placed a report on liability if there Cheropita continued to totality, meaning that both radiofrequency. has already said it has no in NOTL by Telus, saying is a 5G health claim on the try to convince council positive and negative results According to Health concerns with the radio fre- she got the information city’s insurance. there are health concerns are evaluated on their own Canada, “5G will operate quency associated with 5G. from a story in the Niagara However, Coun. Clare with 5G. merit and then evaluated using both the frequencies “Another frequent con- Advance. Cameron fired back in “Given that there’s obvi- as a whole. Finally, the used by current mobile cern is the potential for Interim chief administra- defence of science. ously not a consensus as to evidence needs to be gener- devices (e.g., 3G and 4G) as radiofrequency EMF to tor Sheldon Randall clari- “Not quite sure how to how people feel about 5G, ally accepted by the broader well as frequencies above increase risks of cancer. fied that as far as he was put this except to say that and there are many, many, scientific community.” 6GHz, also known as mil- The scientific evidence does aware, there are no plans I do not share any of these many scientific journals that Despite Cheropita’s limetre waves.” not support a link between for additional 5G towers in health concerns,” she said. have been produced that claims about the World But those high frequen- exposure to radiofrequency NOTL. “And somebody has come from the scientific Health Organization find- cies have been used for EMF and cancer at the lev- “I think some companies to stick up for science, community” that she would ing hundreds of studies years “in many applications, els permitted by Canadian will be primarily using the especially in the time that like to see “an open public on 5G, the WHO infor- such as security-screening exposure guidelines,” the infrastructure in the towers we’re living in. And I’m discussion to bring forward mation page on 5G says units at airports, police government website says. that they already have,” he going back through his- some of the scientific proof “to date, and after much radar, remote sensors and “While there have been said, adding it’s not up to tory, people have expressed about the dangers of 5G.” research performed, no technology in medicine,” some studies reporting an the municipality to decide concerns about mysterious She did not mention any adverse health effect has says a government of increase in incidence of acceptable radiofrequency health ailments even from specific scientific journal been causally linked with Canada information page brain cancer among long- levels. when electricity started go- that says there is any health exposure to wireless tech- about 5G. term, heavy cellphone us- “Unfortunately, we don’t ing into people’s homes.” concern with 5G at ap- nologies. Health-related “Based on the available ers, other studies conducted have a say in whether the She said her only con- proved Canadian levels. conclusions are drawn scientific evidence, there in many countries around technology is considered cerns about 5G antennas Coun. Erwin Wiens point- from studies performed are no health risks from the world, including stud- safe or not. That is Health in our community would ed out the town has already across the entire radio exposures to the low levels ies assessing brain cancer Canada. We’d be more than be primarily aesthetic and signed a contract with Telus spectrum but, so far, only a of radiofrequency EMF trends among large popula- happy to work with any logistical, “not one related for 5G services. few studies have been car- emitted by cellphones and tions, do not find changes in councillors that would like to health concerns.” “So it’s almost sending ried out at the frequencies antenna installations,” it brain cancer incidence. This to put out any letters or “Until a medical doctor is out a mixed message,” to be used by 5G.” continues. is despite widespread use of ask for further clarity from speaking to us about a prov- he said, adding he agrees Niagara’s acting chief The issue of misinforma- cellphones over the past 25 Health Canada on what they en, scientifically proven, with Cameron and Bisback medical officer Dr. Mustafa tion surrounding 5G is also years.” consider to be safe or not concern, I just, I’m a little about scientific evidence Hirji told The Lake Report addressed. Cheropita suggested other safe for 5G.” bit stunned that we’ve spent and thinks the issue is that people need to be care- “Misinformation and types of networks are safer. Coun. Sandra O’Connor so much time even hearing “outside the realm of the ful about the information opinions on the health risks “There are other options said she thought Cheropita this tonight,” she said. municipality.” they share. from exposure to radiofre- besides cell towers, like did a “a good job of talking “But I simply want to Cheropita continued to “There is unfortunately quency EMF are increasing Bell Canada is putting in about some new health express my confidence that say there are “lots of stud- a large volume of incorrect on social media and on the fibre optics right now. And concerns of 5G,” though there is not a mysterious ies” that support her claims information being spread internet.” that is much better and does she admitted she doesn’t health threat posed to our and that there should be during this pandemic – what Cheropita suggested coun- not produce any of the same “pretend to understand” its community by 5G.” “some kind of discussion.” the World Health Organiza- cil “demand that Health health implications as 5G,” complexities. Coun. Allan Bisback was “Perhaps I should think tion has dubbed the Info- Canada do some kind of she said. She pointed out that quick to agree with Cameron. about it and come back demic.” SAVE UP TO $36 ON FRIDAY SELECT CASES BLACK AVAILABLE IN-STORE & ONLINE. konzelze mannn.ca CASE SALE Sale Extended to December 12 · Visit konzelmann.ca Page 3 Proud to support our local news! December 3, 2020

MPP Niagara Falls riding proudly 905-357-0681 Wayne Gates representing Niagara-on-the-Lake www.WayneGates.com NEWS Road test: NOTL’s new on-demand transit service delivers — for just $3

Richard Harley She said drivers all have The Lake Report to undergo background checks and take training A $3 ride, for real? before starting the service. With Niagara-on-the- “We do accommodate Lake’s new NRT On- wheelchairs, so we also had Demand transit system to take an extra course for just launched, The Lake that.” Report decided to see first- Ridership is growing hand how the new ride- slowly and she expects share system works and more people will use it as what the experience is like An NRT OnDemad van. RICHARD HARLEY they learn about the ser- for users. Here’s how it vice. The Lake Report was went. driven in other Niagara allowed, she said. her first ride on Thursday. First of all, the ride was municipalities that also As far as COVID safety, “It’s only been a few $3 as promised. The same offer the same on-de- she said the drivers are days,” Pye said. “One girl ride in an Uber would cost mand system. fully equipped with sani- told me she’s been quite $30. Things have been going tizer, extra face masks and busy but then another gen- We decided to use the smoothly since the service they wipe down the vehicle tleman that I took over for NRT app to book a trip launched less than two after each ride. today said he sat for like from Glendale near the weeks ago, though she’s The new service has pretty much his whole shift outlet mall to our office on still getting used to the new some advantages over con- just waiting for a ride.” John Street West in Old routes. We took the ride at ventional transit, she said. Grimsby has taken to the Town. about 2 p.m., and she had “I’m not gonna call new transit, she said. “They After selecting the pick- started her first shift in bus drivers lazy, because love it.” up location and destination NOTL at 1 p.m. they’re not by any means, “Another thing, too, the in the app, it quickly said She’s excited to be driv- but they don’t have time af- kids in Grimsby are loving a vehicle could be there in ing in NOTL, she said, not- ter every passenger to wipe it. I had these girls just four minutes — not bad, ing she took all the shifts down where they could take it just to go to McDon- considering there are only she could get working here. have been.” ald’s,” she said. two buses serving Glen- In other muncipalities, “So in that aspect it’s re- “You just kind of have dale, Old Town and Virgil. she said people sometimes ally good so far.” to think of this as like a The app requires you to book all the seats to ensure For drivers, she said the little bus, except a lot more create an account and pro- they’re the only ones travel- only problem is they need clean. Everything in the vide a credit card info for ling in the bus, or to make to stretch once in a while. back is adjustable as far as payment, but it’s a pretty room for groceries, etc. “A bus driver laughed at like temperature and things simple setup. (Tip: Until “It’s hard for people that me, I got out of the van to like that so in the sum- Dec. 31, the transit service understand the rideshare fill up one day and I was mertime there’s AC, in the is offering a $10 account concept — they kind really busy and she saw the winter there’s heat.” credit to first-time users.) of think we’re a cab, so stretch ... She’s like ‘Yeah, Drivers are stationed at PREMIUM 3 PLY FABRIC MASKS The “bus” — a 2020 Toy- they can show up with all drove a bus for 40 years, two terminals, she said, BLANK OR WITH LOGO ota Sienna minivan – picks their groceries and their Sweetie. That’s what’s one at the outlet mall and you up from the nearest walker and things like that, gonna happen.’ I’m like, another on Queen’s Parade. corner and will take you which so far hasn’t been ‘Oh no, better start doing In the end, the ser- directly to your destination a problem for me, but I some pilates.’” vice delivered precisely in Glendale, Old Town or also have another lady, she As far as the routes as promised, right to the Virgil. books three seats, so that and app goes, she thinks driveway of our office, for Friendly driver Samantha she can have her walker they’ve worked out most of just $3. logo Pye said it was her first and things like that,” Pye the glitches. The service runs from 7 BEST PRICES here time driving the route in said. “With everything new, a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday to 289-241-5955 NOTL, but said she has Booking all three seats is you’re gonna get bugs.” Saturday, except holidays. 32 FRONT ST. S,THOROLD,ON Cheropita stands by 5G misinformation

Richard Harley When asked to supply the its information, which says written in that way. It was The Lake Report evidence she received, she 5G is not hazardous, she written with credibility,” she sent a YouTube video of said she thinks lobbyists said. After being contacted Frank Clegg, a former presi- may have been to blame and “Health Canada autho- by The Lake Report with dent of Microsoft Canada, that the agency has made rized smoking and the use questions about where she which contained more mistakes before. of asbestos and it’s not like received false information sketchy claims about 5G. She said her information there haven’t been mistakes about 5G hazards, Coun. “They started sending on 5G is “coming from made along the way. And Wendy Cheropita said it was both Sandra (O’Connor) good sources” but could so, I would think that it’s Did you know? from information sent by a and I a lot of articles, and not name any sources when important for all of us to do The Lake Report’s printer sources 100 per resident. then some videos ... they asked to do so on the phone. our own homework.” cent of its paper fibre from industry-leading Cheropita stands by her are extremely compelling,” “I know there’s always When asked if that means paper mills, which use quick-growth, advocation for council to Cheropita said. people (that) will say, con- she didn’t trust Health sustainable, renewable plots of land, rather than clear-cutting forests. “look into” the health haz- When asked if she thinks spiracy theories, and I didn’t Canada, she said no and The ink is also vegetable-based. ards of 5G networks. Health Canada is wrong in find the information to be ended the call. Page 4 December 3, 2020

The Lake Report OPINION Editorial: Council is no place for misinformation

Richard Harley Tube videos and their own Editor-In-Chief half-baked opinions instead of medical professionals with Unfortunately, misinforma- mountains of credentials. tion is everywhere in 2020. It’s also not the town’s role And unfortunately, some to be expending time and Editor-In-Chief: Richard Harley of that misinformation made energy on the health effects Managing Editor: Kevin MacLean it into a public meeting of of 5G, when organizations Publisher: Niagara Now Niagara-on-the-Lake council like Health Canada and the Design & Layout: Richard Harley last week thanks to some of World Health Organization Advertising: Rob Lamond, Lisa Jeffrey our elected officials. have been so clear. Contributors: Brittany Carter, Jessica Maxwell, While we understand So, we ask Cheropita and Jill Troyer, Tim Taylor, Denise Ascenzo, Couns. Wendy Cheropita and O’Connor to give some so- Linda Fritz, Dr. William Brown, Brian Marshall, Sandra O’Connor have the ber second thought to NOTL Museum, Susan Des Islets, best interests of the commu- whether they wish to in Leslie Moulson, Norm Arsenault, nity at heart, it is worrisome effect question the legitimacy Patty Garriock, Steve Hardaker, Plunger Patrol, to hear them advocating in sure they’ve fully done their We are all for tilting at of Heath Canada experts Ross Robinson, Tim Carroll, NOTL Writers’ favour of debunked conspira- homework before bringing windmills occasionally, but based largely on a YouTube Circle, Lisa Tache, Megan Vanderlee, and many cy theories. unfounded claims to council to challenge the scientific video and questionable “re- more members of the NOTL community Misinformation is indeed and potentially wasting tax experts is to challenge the search” sent to them. readily available on the inter- dollars to find out what is entire system — a system we If you’re into doing your net. When it is passed along already widely known. are fortunate to have and be own research, that’s fine. by our elected officials, it is Health Canada and able to trust. But explore all sides before deeply concerning. other expert organizations The problem with ques- you bring such unscientific In this case, NOTL was have been clear: there are tioning those experts and ideas to a public setting. considering jumping on no health risks associated authorities, especially when A large body of research the bandwagon of a motion with 5G, especially at the it is a respected council- shows the concerns over 5G passed unanimously by Niag- exposure limits set by the lor doing so, is that other are unwarranted. Contributed by Patty Garriock ara Falls council, asking for Canadian government. Just people could jump on the We sincerely wish Cheropi- more study by Health Canada because wacky theories and same bandwagon. Question- ta and O’Connor the best and “Enjoy the satisfaction on the already-debunked allegations can be found on ing authority is to be com- respect the job they do, but from doing little things well.” concerns some people have the internet doesn’t mean mended, but not when it is we also hope they give more about 5G. they should be investigated misguided and lacks critical thought to issues that are Holding office as an elected (or propogated by council- analysis. little more than conspiracy official is a sacred duty and lors), especially when they We’ve seen enough of that theories before bringing them trust. So, it is the responsibil- have already been widely throughout this pandemic, to council. ity of councillors to make debunked. with people trusting You- [email protected]

Contributed by Norm Arsenault: Did you know? In Canada, single-use plastics make up most of plastic litter that is found in freshwater environments. In Canada, up to 15 billion plastic bags are used every year and Town needs to act faster on rental bylaw close to 57 million straws are used daily. The Dear editor: tourists.com, plus our have other, better priorities. with no prior warning. Hap- Government of Canada will ban harmful single- First let me preface this Chautauqua neighbourhood The action on the short- pened to me. use plastics as early as 2021 (such as plastic letter by strongly stating representative group . term rentals is an excellent To the lord mayor and bags, straws, cutlery, plates, and stir sticks). that the taxpayers, not tour- The residents are fed up. first step. Kudos all around. council, I say more aggres- ists from Texas nor Ham- It’s time for action, no need I agree 100 per cent with sive and immediate action (World Wildlife Organization) ilton etc., elect the lord for any more dog-and-pony the proposed new bylaw, on matters already dis- mayor and town council of show meetings. The issues with the following caveat: cussed is being demanded NOTL. have been voiced repeatedly the 2024 effective date will by your electorate. We elect them – we can and spelled out clearly. It’s only encourage any poten- We want our town back. HOW TO GET IN TOUCH remove them. In other becoming a broken record. tial investor to buy and open You have heard how Queen words, they serve at the We are also tired of a rental property. Street, etc. has been lost Email: pleasure of their constitu- being threatened by the An additional three years to the taxpayer from April Letters: [email protected] ents. B&B, Airbnb, hotel owners, is too long to further hollow through October. Do we Story Ideas: [email protected] Accordingly, the jury is etc. about what will happen out our neighbourhoods. have to wait and elect a Advertising: [email protected] in on both the short-term if we don’t keep flooding Make the effective date new slate of officials to get Phone rental and other attendant NOTL with even more January 2022 and tightly things done? Newsroom: 905-359-2270 problems associated with tourists. We are already a control any issuance of As noted above, you all Advertising Department: 905-246-4671 tourist saturation. world-known destination operating licences. serve at the pleasure of your Office Address The residents have spo- spot. Visitors will keep Additionally, a proposed constituents -- their ongoing 496 Mississagua St., NOTL, Ontario, Canada. ken. Our local newspapers coming. rental posting should be backlash and frustrations Mailing Address have been inundated in As proposed by a visible, at the property, gives one the sense you are PO Box 724, Niagara-on-the-Lake, L0S1J0 recent years with protests writer from Queenston, to afford any adjacent tone deaf to their pleas. Not to our elected officials, not we should defund the property owner the op- a good scenario for re- Have a lead on a story? to mention the numerous $118,000 we give to the portunity to challenge the election. Call 905.359.2270 or send an email editorials. “The residents Chamber of Commerce. application. To all, happy holidays, to [email protected] speak” section of the Group Overtourism does not speak Currently, a property wear a mask and stay safe. to [email protected] for Sustainable Tourism to spending more taxpayer is sold and bingo a rental Samuel Young newsletter, votersbefore- dollars to attract more. We springs up next door NOTL Page 5 December 3, 2020 OPINION A request from Santa for parade

Dear parents: We will start in the Glen- dren and hold up a sign with Santa Claus is coming dale area, then head to St. their names so perhaps Santa to town on Saturday, Dec. Davids, then to Queenston, can call them by name. 12 (the bad weather date is on to the Old Town and finish Santa’s eyesight isn’t what Sunday, Dec. 13). up in Virgil. it used to be, so please make There will not be a large Go to the town’s web- the sign large and legible. Incubator Office Space parade in downtown Niagara- site, notl.com/Christmas, to Merry Christmas to all and for Entrepreneurs on-the-Lake, so Santa is see a map. we’ll see you on Dec. 12. coming out to tour the town’s Santa is asking that parents Santa Claus five neighbourhoods. can stand behind their chil- North Pole

Short-term rental restrictions are not the way to go • • Dear editor: day in January. hosted rentals, particularly their rubbish and disre- • I have followed the We shop in your super- when these already have spect churches, which they recent discussion regarding markets, eat in your cafes, to meet stringent criteria see simply as places to get proposals to limit short- pubs and restaurants, and and constitute only a tiny a selfie. Contact Emma Beckmann term rentals to owner- visit your vineyards and percentage of your housing The “backwash” as you @ occupied properties, with breweries. Our grandchil- stock. put it, from Niagara Falls interest and sadness. dren play in the play- In your editorial you will not keep your vibrant We have visited Niagara- ground and pester us to choose to do a compari- restaurants, pubs and cafes on-the-Lake on a number buy things in the local son with the problems in open to provide local jobs of occasions, since our shops. Venice. As someone who and for you to enjoy, it eldest son decided to build We are very conscious has visited Venice often, will simply clog up Queen his life in Canada and to of the time, energy, money for 40 years, I can tell you Street. get married in NOTL. and, dare I say it, love that the biggest complaints The very real issues Like others of your ploughed back into these from residents relate not to arising from the explosion correspondents, we have often historic properties, to those who rent apartments of the Airbnb phenomenon rented licensed cottages to maintain them to the high- or stay in the city’s hotels, across the world are not enable extended family est standards. but the hordes of day trip- going to be dealt with by GREEN PEPPER CLUB.CA get togethers for special We wouldn’t come if pers, who don’t contribute destroying your small, occasions, when family the only accommodations by spending money in or- highly regulated, licensed H E A L T H Y M E A L P R E P members from across the were sterile hotel rooms or dinary shops, hotels, cafes, rental sector. D E L I V E R Y S E R V I C E Atlantic could join those owner-occupied bed and bars and restaurants, but Those of us who are re- who live in Canada. breakfasts. treat the city as if it was peat visitors do care about HUNGRY ? In fact, if it were not I fully appreciate the Disneyland. the health of your lovely for the current COVID frustration caused to Residents see their community and hope we pandemic, we had planned residents by rude, anti- grocers, butchers, bakers are not to be excluded. . to be renting at least one social visitors, but fail to and pharmacies replaced Dr. Sally Carman cottage for a celebration of understand why you would by shops selling tourist tat, Rochester, Kent CHEF-CRAFTED MOUTH-WATERING MEALS my husband’s 70th birth- wish to ban licensed, non- whilst day trippers drop England AT YOUR DOOR STEP ONE CLICK AWAY , I support making short-term rentals owner-occupied Niagara-On-The-Lake and St.Catharines

Dear editor: visitors. are empty during the win- lovers. The purchase of , I am happy with the There are instances of ter and do not necessarily houses by out-of-town town’s proposal that short- people renting houses for a contribute to the economy investors for the purpose eat, repeat term rental houses should couple of families and then but create a shortage of of short-term rental opera- be owner-occupied and filling them up with more residences. This makes it tions may create unpleas- their licences should be people than declared on difficult for families or re- ant changes in the ambi- issued only to NOTL resi- the rental contract – and tirees to make their homes ance of this town, similar dents. This way the land- then end up disturbing in this beautiful town. to what has happened in +1-905-226-2514 lord can be responsible for the neighbours with wild There are many places Venice. www.greenpepperclub.CA enforcing good behaviour parties. to stay for Shaw theatrical Maria Morriss of noisy and disruptive Most short-term rentals productions and for winery NOTL Town’s proposal not the answer to short-term rental problems

Dear editor: rental will be untenable. This themselves to longer stays or by the municipality. If it is the intention of the is not the best way to deal families. The responsibility of Town of Niagara-on-the- with the problem. The problem is unlicensed the town is a budget, now Lake to eliminate short-term The attraction of cottage (and licensed), unsupervised lacking, for the appropriate cottage rentals, its plan is rentals is obvious. Privacy is party houses. bylaws, and the enforcement exactly the way to do it. paramount. The experience The solution to the officers, now lacking, to If the decision to limit should be a home away from problem, clearly, is a well- make it work. short-term rentals solely to home. managed, well-directed Owners residing alongside properties with owners in Remaining accommoda- short-term rental model with guests is NOT the answer. residence is implemented, tion will be hotels and B&Bs responsible ownership and Chris and Jane Hutchings the concept of a cottage only, which do not lend well thought-out regulation NOTL Page 6 December 3, 2020 OPINION

Community centre’s Sweets and Swirls cafe is an essential service

Dear editor: is a safe, cheerful, welcom- A recent letter to The ing and comforting connec- Lake Report extolled the tion for a great many senior virtues of Sweets and residents, my husband and I Swirls, the NOTL Commu- included. nity Centre cafe. It is a very important part Pick up your trash The writer felt the cafe’s of life in this community. closure on Saturdays, relat- I propose it be declared Niagara-on-the-Lake resident Jean Grimble sent us this ed to the latest COVID re- “an essential service” for picture of a pile of trash left along the Upper Canada Heri- strictions, was an overreach the mental welfare of NOTL tage Trail. on the part of the town. locals. “It was all heaped together. No attempt to clean up the I absolutely agree that Ann Handels mess!” Grimble said. there are no tourists here. It NOTL Vaccine, yes. But fix long-term care

Dear editor: specific place instead of I’m really tired of hear- cine a way to circumvent Remember someone working in different centres ing the media ask when what is needed in long-term repeating COVID, COVID, to make a living wage, ad- the vaccine is going to be care homes? Why not start Did you know? COVID over and over equate protective clothing ready. preparing now for the next The Lake Report’s printer again? and equipment, sick leave When it arrives, it should pandemic? sources 100 per cent of its paper Now Premier Doug Ford benefits, weekly testing of be first given to the people I also find inconsistencies fibre from industry leading paper and other premiers keep residents and staff to those who are the most vulner- in the premier’s decision to mills, which use quick-growth, saying vaccine, vaccine, he calls our heroes. able, the elderly and the keep open revenue-gener- sustainable, renewable plots of vaccine! And Ford wants a These also include people caregivers (doctors, nurses, ating government agencies, land, rather than clear-cutting forests. specific delivery date. working in grocery stores. people working in hos- such as the LCBO, and big If he wants to deliver As to the vaccine, I’d pitals and in long-term box stores while closing The ink is also vegetable-based. something, let him start rather wait and see what care homes) and essential small businesses and res- with long-term care homes will be happening to those workers. taurants. Advertising inquiries? giving caregivers full em- who receive it, maybe as Not to be too cynical Gilbert Comeault Email [email protected] ployment, working in one early as mid-December. is Ford’s rush for a vac- NOTL Rental bylaw review ignored sound governance practices

Dear editor: diligence by first initiating a analysis is carried out. I we think we can do this in I am very concerned comprehensive consultative have seen no such reports. a few weeks? about the process undertak- process with all stakehold- Federal and provincial Short-term rentals support en by the Town of Niagara- ers to identify all the issues governments have published economic activity in NOTL on-the-Lake with respect to from a “governance” per- several reports urging mu- and provide a source of its proposed changes to the spective. It is then expected nicipalities to revisit regula- income for many. Tourism short-term rental bylaw. to report on its findings. tions surrounding short-term remains a pillar of econom- Discussing specific I have seen no such report. rentals in consideration of ic sustainability in our town. changes to the bylaw as Usually a situation analy- the changes in our socio- Council must exercise its a first step in regulatory sis on the issue follows, economic environment. governance leadership now. reform is totally inappropri- along with a market analy- The criteria describing It must establish a realistic ate and premature. We are sis, using evidence-based the types of accommoda- time line to carry out its being asked to comment on data, reports from various tion has not been updated to due diligence. A formal, Rotary’s Enchanted proposed changes without sources, including mapping reflect existing concerns or non-partisan consultative the benefit of any documen- and reference to our collec- new realities in the market. process that respects pro- Wonderland Stroll cancelled tation on the matter from a tive vision for the future of Why are we not talking cedural fairness and that is Dear editor: else involved, we are governance perspective. our community. about this? inclusive of all stakeholders Unfortunately the En- deeply disappointed. This approach pushes us Municipalities also Other municipalities must be carried out before chanted Wonderland Stroll The Holiday House Si- into an emotional debate typically review current or have also struggled. It has we can even discuss proof Dec. 4 and 5 has been lent Auction will proceed that fuels “populist” precon- upcoming legislation and taken several months of posed changes to the current cancelled due to CO- as planned Dec. 4 to 12 at ceptions. It unnecessarily regulations to ensure that consultations and even years bylaw. VID-19 restrictions. Regal Florist and Garden divides us. proposed changes don’t for Kingston and Ottawa, Let’s get it done! The We thank the McAr- Centre. Typically when a munici- conflict. Options are then who will be taking a year community deserves better thurs for offering to share Lorna Penman, Rose pality decides to review the analyzed to determine their to rewrite the short-term governance practices. their beautiful property Campbell, Fran Boot regulatory framework on an impact on all facets of the rental bylaw, after two years Claire Cronier with us. The Rotary Holiday House issue, it carries out its due community. A cost-benefit of deliberations. Why do NOTL Along with everyone Tour committee

REYNOLDSREGIER.COM

MICHELLE REYNOLDS 905-468-4214 STEFAN REGIER BROKER SALES REPRESENTATIVE Lake Report COVID-19 has taken its toll on Niagara-on-the-Lake, and The Lake Report wants to help businesses during these times. We’re offering FREE short stories to help remind residents about local businesses. If you would like to be included, simply SHOP LOCAL send us 150 words about your business and a photo to go with the story. We know everyone is suffering and this is just our small part to give back to the SUPPORTING OUR BUSINESS COMMUNITY THROUGH COVID community that supports us.Send stories to [email protected] Bliss Aveda Salon Irish Design

Submitted Submitted The Lake Report The Lake Report

At Bliss Aveda Salon Irish Design has been pro- in Virgil, owner Sandra moting the finest Irish craft Cocetti and her team have and design for over 34 years a combined 80-plus years here in Niagara-on-the-Lake. of expertise in hair styl- We offer an unrivalled col- ing, colouring and educa- lection of beautiful merino tion. Sandra’s dream for wool aran sweaters and knit- Bliss has always been to The Cocetti family. SUPPLIED wear in an array of colours have a space that promotes and stunning contemporary kindness, acceptance, pro- her team time with family challenging times, they found designs that are suitable for Maureen and Paul Dickson in front of the shop. SUPPLIED fessionalism and joy. and a chance to reflect and control in their sense of fam- the whole family. Just a month after Sandra recharge. ily, the amount of love and In addition, we proudly tweed bags. we are grateful to and want hosted a 20-hour Hair-A- June 2020 marked a “re- positivity they bring every sell tweed coats and jackets Our products are about to thank our customers here Thon, donating all proceeds opening” for Bliss and it was day with each other and their from iconic Irish companies connection to our homeland, in Canada for their contin- to Red Roof Retreat, the important that they main- beloved guests. like Magee of Donegal, with its rugged coastline ued support. We now offer salon, along with multiple tain on-going communication More than a hair salon, Jimmy Hourihan and Jack and wild landscapes and the our annual sale with store- other local businesses, with their guests. Despite the Bliss cares about their Murphy. Our gift selection comfort, warmth and style of wide reductions. We hope was forced to close due to realization that there may guests’ mind, body and extends from fine Belleek its people. you are staying healthy and COVID-19. Having the time not be much control over soul. Call us at 905-468- china and Celtic jewelry to In a year where the world we look forward to serving away, gifted Sandra and what happens during these 5344, www.blissniagara.com hats, scarves, blankets and has been under severe stress, you this winter season. St. David’s Veterinary Clinic Ferox and Icellars Submitted Submitted The Lake Report The Lake Report

St. David’s Veterinary Despite difficult economic Clinic provides high-quali- times, the spirit of giving is ty, evidence-based medicine alive this season. Two local in a warm, welcoming envi- businesses decided that mu- ronment. Our clinic offers a tual support and charitable range of services including activity are now especially vaccines, senior pet care, important in our commu- radiology, surgery, dentistry nities, and to the family and more. companies that constitute an Dr. Stephanie Hall, a integral part of them. graduate of the Ontario Dr. Steph and Dr. Jess. SUPPLIED Icellars and Ferox wineries SUPPLIED Veterinary College, opened have chosen to aid Bethle- St. David’s Veterinary dedicated team. be delivered directly to you. hem Housing and Support With offering a holiday Ferox and Icellars greatly Clinic in 2011, and with the Currently we offer our St. David’s Veterinary Services, a Niagara charity gift pack ($250) featuring welcome your support for support of the community full spectrum of veterinary Clinic strives to provide the severely impacted by the three bottles from each local business and residents has grown the clinic to meet care with drop-off appoint- community with top-notch current circumstances. This winery, $10 will be donated in need. the needs of thousands of ments and provide curbside veterinary care, combined organization, in tandem to Bethlehem Housing and Gift packs are available pets in the NOTL area. This pick up for pet food and with excellent communica- with the community, helps Support Services from every at both Icellars and Ferox September we welcomed medication refills. Our tion and compassion. We individuals and families in one sold. As well, we offer retails stores and online Dr. Jessica Kilkenny, a fel- online boutique is stocked look forward to meeting despair find affordable hous- free delivery of the six-pack wine shops: icellars.ca and low OVC graduate, to our with food, toys and treats to you. ing and services. in Niagara. Ferox.ca.

A BIG THANKS TO OUR PARTNER SPONSORS Page 8 December 3, 2020 NEWS $53M Glendale/QEW interchange project about to begin Steve Hardaker Zalepa said the amount re- Community Correspondent quired from the region “is Glendale not in final form. The MTO project has several adjust- The Ministry of Trans- ments that require rework- portation is working in ing” and the region expects partnership with Niagara a more precise amount will Region on a major road be available soon. construction project in The town has so far Glendale that will provide a committed to contributing unique experience to those $334,300 to the regional travelling into Niagara-on- total. the-Lake. The construction phase The $53.8 million project will start immediately after will replace the current the design is finished next Glendale Avenue over- spring and will be done in pass over the QEW with a five separate stages. The diverging diamond inter- interchange is expected to change. open in late 2022 and the The ministry has award- project will be completed ed the contract to Brennan by late 2023. Paving and Construc- During the construction tion Ltd., with Morrison phase, the existing over- Hershfield providing design A visual of the diverging diamond interchange. SUPPLIED pass and interchange will support. The project is in continue to be used before the design phase, which is study for improvements at The interchange will al- car sharing and future GO route to the historic Old being demolished when the expected to conclude by the the QEW/Glendale Avenue low traffic to enter or exit Transit for people travel- Town tourist area. diverging diamond inter- spring of 2021. interchange in Niagara-on- the QEW without having to ling toward the Greater There will also be lane change is ready for use in Three levels of govern- the-Lake.” turn through lanes of on- Toronto and Hamilton area modifications on Glendale 2022. ment – provincial, regional “Through this study, coming traffic, lowering for work. Avenue westbound from A public education ses- and municipal – are fund- several interchange alterna- the number of potential Another component of Taylor Road to Niagara on sion is planned for the fall ing the project, which will tives were identified and vehicle conflict points thus the project will see a new the Green Boulevard, as of 2022, just before the new be the first of its kind for evaluated using a number making it safer for vehicles single-lane roundabout well as on the QEW be- interchange is opened. any highway in Ontario of different environmental occupants. constructed at the intersec- tween Highway 405 and With this aggressive and only the third diverg- factors and criteria with re- A shared four-metre- tion of Glendale Avenue the base of the Garden City schedule, the town has ing diamond interchange in spect to the socioeconomic, wide pedestrian and and York Road providing Skyway. granted the ministry a tem- Canada. cultural and natural envi- cycling path will also run unrestricted right-turn The Town of Niagara-on- porary exemption from its The other two are in ronments. Also considered through the middle of movement of traffic. the-Lake will contribute noise bylaw in order to Calgary and Regina, and a were future transportation the bridge structure with A third element of the money for the streetscap- permit construction to second for Ontario is also needs and traffic opera- dedicated signal crossings project will be the con- ing, including landscaping continue overnight and on planned in Barrie. tions, in conjunction with at each end. struction of a new road and irrigation within the Sundays. In a response to a safety.” “Pedestrians/cyclists are connection from Glendale roundabout and decora- With this QEW inter- question as to why the “The diverging diamond accommodated via this Avenue to Airport Road. tive LED lighting on the change being the only province chose the diverg- interchange met these cri- multiuse path and there are The connection will first overpass. one for visitors accessing ing diamond interchange teria, considering engineer- fewer vehicle/pedestrian loop around from north- The province has com- Niagara-on-the-Lake, the over other configurations, ing factors and cost.” crossing points,” according bound Glendale Avenue mitted to fund 80 per completion of this unique Astrid Poei, communica- According to project to project documents. under the new bridge cent of the cost of the project will provide for a tions co-ordinator for the documentation, the inter- There will also be a new structure just north of the project. Niagara Region new gateway into the town. ministry stated: “In fall change will reduce “vehicle commuter carpool lot cre- interchange then connect to was unable to provide the Steve Hardaker has lived 2017, MTO initiated an conflict points along with ated in the northwest quad- the intersection of Airport funding it will supply. in Glendale for 10 years environmental assessment allowing unrestricted turn- rant of the interchange, Road and York Road, thus In an emailed state- and is active in many com- and preliminary design ing movements.” providing opportunities for providing a more direct ment, Regional Coun. Gary munity organizations. Council formally thanks Sheldon Randall for time as interim CAO

Richard Harley formal thank you to Ran- year,” Disero said. my personal thanks to the The Lake Report dall last Wednesday for his “I can tell you that it was interim CAO for the work time as interim CAO. not easy with all the work that he did, his leadership Being the chief admin- The motion by Coun. that we did as a council and through COVID,” he said. istrator of a municipal- Clare Cameron came at also having to deal with “I think you did a great ity is a tough job to begin the same time as council COVID and everything job and I know you’ll work with, even before a global officially approved Marnie else we did throughout the well with Miss Cluckie.” pandemic was thrown into Cluckie as the town’s new year. In an interview, Disero the mix. CAO. “People’s tensions were said the challenges pre- But interim CAO Shel- Lord Mayor Betty Disero high. A lot of frustration in sented this year would be don Randall stuck with said she has increased re- some cases, and I just want difficult for even a veteran it, spending hundreds of spect for the work Randall to say, Sheldon, I am every CAO. hours serving the Town of has done for the town while day, more and more appre- “It’s hard enough for a Niagara-on-the-Lake while filling the role of CAO. ciative of the work that you seasoned CAO to work the hunt for a new per- “I would also like to ex- do for this town.” their way through it. manent chief administra- press gratitude and thanks Coun. Allan Bisback Sheldon just stepped up tor was underway. to Sheldon Randall on all also thanked Randall. (and) took on the task with Interim CAO Sheldon Randall will resume his job as Town council offered a the work that he’s done this “I would like to extend vigilance.” director of operations Dec. 9. SUPPLIED Page 9 December 3, 2020 NEWS Noisy grate a nuisance for neighbours

Editor’s note: Since the transportation service, in an interview for this story, the emailed response. neighbours said asphalt “Staff also investigated SANTA was put down in some areas John Street West and there SANTA of the street. They say it has appears to be two catchba- AROUND THE TOWN reduced the noise problem, sins (four lids in total) that but not resolved the issue do make noise when driven completely. over. No deficiency was noted. However, staff will Richard Harley investigate the lids further The Lake Report and repair as required.” Ryall said the region is Two NOTLers who live “confirming ownership and near the intersection of will repair if it is regional Mississagua Street and John A loose grate on Mississagua Street is giving neigbours a infrastructure.” Street West say they’re fed headache. RICHARD HARLEY “If under the jurisdiction up with a loud banging from of the municipality, they Santa Claus is coming to Niagara-on-the-Lake! traffic hitting a loose grate. NOTL post office. “I said, happening.’” will be notified of the re- Rather than the traditional parade, Santa will be “It’s made me crazy since ‘How come nobody else A Region of Niagara of- quest to investigate further.” driving through all five Villages on December 12, I moved in. And I don’t hears this except me. I’m ficial said she was unaware Disero says she’s had 2020, to wave to residents and wish everyone a hear the traffic, I don’t hear going deaf!’” of the grate before receiving to bring her dog in before Merry Christmas! anything but that — Ba-dun- “It keeps me awake at an inquiry from The Lake because of the sound. ka-dun — ba-dun-ka-dun,” night sometimes,” Aeby Report, but sent workers “She was scared one day. Visit notl.com/christmas for more information. says Katie Aeby. “Every says. down right away to check It is not right. If there is a single time a car goes over it.” “I wear hearing aids. I it out. flaw on the road they should “Every time,” agrees Lena mean I wear the plugs at “This is the first that be able to fill it and make it Disero, who lives diagonally night but I still hear it. transportation at Niagara solid.” across from Aeby. That’s how loud it is,” Di- Region has been made “It’s bothered me from the “And the trucks are worse, sero says. aware of this. There was time I’ve moved, honest to especially ones with the Disero says she called nothing logged within our God. I moved from a nice trailers.” the region about the grate, system. Upon receipt of area in Aurora to a major The two say the sound has but says no action has been your email, staff imme- highway.” been an issue for five years taken yet. diately went on-site this The two are hoping and want it fixed. “They said, ‘Oh yeah, afternoon (Dec. 1) to in- something is done to fix the “I thought I was the only OK we’ll put it on record’ vestigate and they found no sound for good. one,” Disero says, chatting but no record ever showed. issues related to infrastruc- “It’s obviously a loose with Aeby during a chance They said, ‘Leave it with us ture on Mississagua Street,” plate. It’s not brain surgery,” encounter in front of the and we’ll go and see what’s said Carolyn Ryall, director Aeby says.

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Nancy Bailey . Engel & Völkers Oakville, Brokerage Broker . Private Office Advisor 226 Lakeshore Road East . Oakville . Ontario . L6J 1H8 905-371-4234 ENGEL&VÖLKERS [email protected] NANCY BAILEY ©2020 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the ANN-MARIE SHIRLEY principles of the Fair Housing Act. Last week: Two in a corner, one in a room, zero in a house, but one in a shelter. What am I? Answer: The letter “r” Answered first by: Sheelah Young Also answered correctly (in order) by: Julia Klassen, Susan Hamilton, When it comes to me, you go on red Howard Jones, Sylvia Wiens, Sheila Meloche, Wade Durling, Judy Stanley, Pam Dowling, Josh Langendoen, James Langendoen, PIN ME UP! and stop on green. What am I? Pat Young, Kristen Bastien, Katie Reimer, Margie Enns, Kathy Neufeld Email answers, with your name, to [email protected] for a chance to win a prize. (Subject line: Riddle me this)

Pauline Reimer Gibson is an Audiologist with over 20 years of Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday experience who loves helping people of all ages in the community. 3 4 5 Environmental Advisory LIVE Stream.LOVE.JAZZ Series: Artful Treasures - 10 a.m. to 4 Pauline Reimer Gibson Committee - 6 p.m. - Virtual: Faith Amour Duo - 7 p.m. - @ p.m. - Niagara Pumphouse Arts Book a complimentary Audiologist COVID-19 livestream.com/notl jazzniagara/live Centre (online only until Dec. 31) hearing test today at A global leader in Due to COVID-19, many events are now virtual. Minecraft Club: Virtual NOTL Cats Donation Drive - 5 Open Studio Art Exhibit and 905.468.9176 hearing healthcare. Find a list of NOTL events here week to week. Mini Game - 4 p.m. - Virtual: p.m. to 8 p.m. - 456 Line 2 Rd Sale - 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. - 358 Gate notlpubliclibrary.com Virtual Candlelight Stroll - 7 St. 504 Line 2 Road, Virgil ON Stay safe, wash your hands, wear a mask and distance whenever possible. p.m. - Virtual: www.yourtv.tv/ Holiday House Silent Auction niagara - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Regal Florist Artful Treasures - 1 p.m. to 4 and Garden Centre p.m. - Niagara Pumphouse Arts NOTL Give Back Christmas LEGION FISH FRY EVERY THURSDAY! Centre Drive - 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. - NOTL Community Centre From 4 to 6:30 p.m. | Drive-thru only | Cash only St. Davids Lions Fish Fry - 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. - St. Davids Lions Club

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Artful Treasures - 10 a.m. to 4 Holiday House Silent Auction Transportation Advisory German Conversation Group - 10 History in the Vineyard - 6 Coffee with the Curator:Adopt Shaw Festival Me and My Girl p.m. - Niagara Pumphouse Arts - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Regal Florist Committee - 2 p.m. - Virtual: a.m. - Virtual: contact avocanotl@ p.m. to 9 p.m. - Ravine Vineyard an Artwork - 11 a.m. - Virtual: pre/post show entertainment - 6 Centre (online only until Dec. 31) and Garden Centre livestream.com/notl aol.com Estate Winery [email protected] p.m. - Queen’s Landing Hotel Shaw Festival Me and My Girl Committee of the Whole: Municipal Heritage - 6:30 Communities in Bloom - 2 p.m. - MINECRAFT Club Virtual: Mini Holiday House Silent Auction Knitting for Beginners: pre/post show entertainment Planning - 6 p.m. - Virtual: p.m. - Virtual: livestream.com/ Virtual: livestream.com/notl Game - 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. - Virtual: - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Regal Florist Infinity Cowl - 10 a.m. - Niagara - 6 p.m. - Queen’s Landing Hotel livestream.com/notl notl Virtual STEAM Storytime - 11 notlpubliclibrary.org and Garden Centre Pumphouse Arts Centre Niagara’s Name that Tune - 7 Rhyme Time: Virtual a.m. to 11:30 a.m. - Virtual: Holiday House Silent Auction Holiday House Silent Auction - p.m. - The Irish Harp circle time for infants and notlpubliclibrary.org - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Regal Florist 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Regal Florist toddlers - 11 a.m. - Virtual: Nobel Prize - Zoom Lecture and Garden Centre and Garden Centre notlpubliclibrary.org Series - 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. - Virtual: RiverBrink Reads: Katherine Holiday Wreath Workshop - 6 notlpubliclibrary.org Ashenburg, Sofie & Cecilia p.m. - Lakeview Wine Co. Holiday House Silent Auction - 10 - 7 p.m. - Virtual: manager@ Holiday House Silent Auction a.m. to 4 p.m. - Regal Florist and riverbrink.org - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Regal Florist Garden Centre and Garden Centre

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 GOC Bike Nights - 2 p.m. - Club ETFO First Virtual Winter Rhyme Time: Virtual St. Davids Pool Fundraising Comittee of Adjustment - 6:30 Drinks at Home: with Sarah and Shaw Festival Me and My Girl 55 Festravaganza - 3 p.m. - Virtual: circle time for infants and Committee - 2 p.m. - Virtual: p.m. - Virtual: livestream.com/ Debbie on Zoom - 4 p.m. to 5 Pre/Post Show Entertainment - 6 Knitting for Beginners: etfoniagara.ca toddlers - 11 a.m. - Virtual: livestream.com/notl notl p.m. - Virtual: notlpubliclibrary.org p.m. - Queen’s Landing Hotel Infinity Cowl - 1 p.m. - Niagara Committee of the Whole: notlpubliclibrary.org Fireside Reads: Virtual St. Davids Lions Fish Fry - 4:30 Pumphouse Arts Centre General - 6 p.m. - Virtual: Heritage Trail Committee - 2 Book Club - 5 p.m. - Virtual: p.m. to 7 p.m. - St. Davids Lions Soul Jame - 5 p.m. - Club 55 livestream.com/notl p.m. - Virtual: livestream.com/ notlpubliclibrary.org Club Niagara’s Name that Tune - 7 notl German Conversation Group - 10 p.m. - The Irish Harp Holiday Wreath Workshop - 6 a.m. - Virtual: contact avocanotl@ p.m. - Lakeview Wine Co. aol.com

Know of a local event? Tell us. Submit it directly to www.niagaranow.com or send us an email at [email protected] The Lake Report COMMUNITY CALENDAR Dec. 3 - Dec. 19

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 3 4 5 Environmental Advisory LIVE Stream.LOVE.JAZZ Series: Artful Treasures - 10 a.m. to 4 Committee - 6 p.m. - Virtual: Faith Amour Duo - 7 p.m. - @ p.m. - Niagara Pumphouse Arts COVID-19 livestream.com/notl jazzniagara/live Centre (online only until Dec. 31) Due to COVID-19, many events are now virtual. Minecraft Club: Virtual NOTL Cats Donation Drive - 5 Open Studio Art Exhibit and Find a list of NOTL events here week to week. Mini Game - 4 p.m. - Virtual: p.m. to 8 p.m. - 456 Line 2 Rd Sale - 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. - 358 Gate notlpubliclibrary.com Virtual Candlelight Stroll - 7 St. Stay safe, wash your hands, wear a mask and distance whenever possible. p.m. - Virtual: www.yourtv.tv/ Holiday House Silent Auction niagara - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Regal Florist Artful Treasures - 1 p.m. to 4 and Garden Centre p.m. - Niagara Pumphouse Arts NOTL Give Back Christmas LEGION FISH FRY EVERY THURSDAY! Centre Drive - 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. - NOTL Community Centre From 4 to 6:30 p.m. | Drive-thru only | Cash only St. Davids Lions Fish Fry - 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. - St. Davids Lions Club

www.niagaranow.com / www.lakereport.ca Know of a local event? Tell us. Submit it directly to www.niagaranow.com or send us an email at [email protected] Page 12 December 3, 2020 NEWS Fresh coat of Dec. 1 snow brings out fun-seekers

Left: Svea Barton, 2, builds a snowman at Simcoe Park on Dec. 1, after the town’s first big snowfall of the season. Top Right: Svea Barton goes for a toboggan ride down the hill at Simcoe Park. Bottom right: Britney Goertz of Virgil toboggans on the hill at Fort George. PHOTOS BY JESSICA MAXWELL/RICHARD HARLEY

Left: The clock tower cenotaph with a fresh coat of snow. Middle: Snow-covered trees along Ricardo Street. Right: Be careful on trails that have no winter maintenance, like this one in Niagara on the Green. PHOTOS BY RICHARD HARLEY Money raised will help fund mental health and cancer research

Continued from Front Page him en route but they never plastic bag over your socks and offering them water, did, hitting the finish line a inside your shoes to keep Watson said. he would run, too – and the few minutes apart. your feet dry. The participating mem- race was on. Simkin covered the route “That was a lifesaver. The bers of the PGA of Ontario But why five yards? “Basi- along the Niagara Parkway conditions were terrible,” raised about $11,000 in cally, we figured raising in two hours 16 minutes Watson said. total, but $7,000 of that was $1,000 would equate to us while the other two finished “The majority of the run by the NOTL team. doing two laps of the course, in one hour 47 minutes. was wet and into the wind “The next closest fun- so that was our goal.” The lanky Grigjanis- with snow blowing into us, draiser to us was around They quickly learned how Meusel, an avid runner and but we ran at a comfortable $1,200,” Simkin said. “We supportive the club’s mem- biker, got recruited to the pace and had minimal is- lapped everyone.” bers and the community team only a couple of weeks sues,” he said. “I feel really good about are – and the goal doubled Friends and club members applaud the runners James ago when Watson joked that “The toughest part of the what Ricky and I accom- to $2,000. Grigjanis-Meusel, Ricky Watson and Billy Simkin after they they should run together. run was the nine-hole lap on plished. This puts us on the hit the finish line.KEVIN MACLEAN “As donations started pil- Afterward, Grigjanis-Meu- the course as the snow was map as a club, as a town and ing in, Ricky and I realized Movember, a campaign prostate cancer made this a sel said he felt great and extremely wet on the grass.” as professionals,” he said. that this was more than held every November, great charity,” said Watson. marvelled, “My socks are They were not the only “My legs truly hurt, but some ‘fun run’ and began encourages men to grow a On Tuesday, with heavy completely dry.” ones out on the Parkway that will go away. The fact our training,” Simkin said. moustache and raise money snow mixed with rain, the While their shoes and during their trek. St. Davids we did this in such a short “We only had one month for men’s health, including run was set for the Floral clothes were soaked Wat- resident Dow Wright, a club time is a memory that will to prepare so it was pretty mental health, prostate and Clock around 8:30 a.m. son said golf club member member, walked the entire last forever.” tough, but we got there.” testicular cancer. “Being a bit older, I Paul Battaglia, who has distance and Maureen Fundraising is still open Watson said he ran about “Knowing many people, started at 7:45,” Simkin completed gruelling Iron- Dickson, Tina Stewart and and if people wish to donate 120 kilometres this past including NOTL Golf Club said. Watson and Grigjanis- man competitions, gave Ria Rosenberg drove along, just search for Watson’s ac- month to get ready. members who have had Meusel thought they’d catch them a valuable tip: wear a checking on the runners count at ca.movember.com. Page 13 December 3, 2020 OPINION

Ross’ Ravings: Woodend hike a welcome escape from COVID cabin fever

Ross Robinson rhymed, “The snows that involved in program- or small groups. Such a Special to The Lake Report are older than history, The ming. This is definitely “feel healthy amenity for nearby woods where the weird good.” Niagara College and Brock After the wonderful shadows slant. The stillness, We continue on the trails, University. A great alterna- discovery of the Winter the moonlight, the mys- walking past dramatic tive to pubs? Festival of Lights in Niagara tery, I’ve bade ‘em good’by, stratified limestone and After a wonderful morn- Falls last weekend, I have but I can’t.” shale cliffs. All this started ing, back to reality. Many again struck it rich right About 10 minutes into some 450,000,000 (that’s more cars in the parking lot. next door in our beautiful the forest, we came upon 450 million!) years ago, Bewdy, eh? We pause by a Niagara. Bring it on, global the magnificent Walker as the bed of a tropical cool red Jeep to admire the pandemic. Living Campus. A work- sea. The sediments have new blue Ontario licence We need to hunker down ing partnership that works been compressed into rock, plate. I take a picture of the and be safe, but we also for outdoor environmental magnesium-rich limestone slogan, “A Place to Grow.” need fresh air and exer- Thousands of Niagara students learn in the forests at the education, with the conser- and shale. (To put it simply, The husky driver gets cise. Physically distance, but unique and inspiring Walker Living Campus off of Townline vation authority, the District a geologist I am not.) out and asks, “What’s up?” don’t live on the couch. Road. ROSS ROBINSON School Board of Niagara, Again, great directional We ask him about the Sunday was a perfect the Bruce Trail Club and signage. Only two traf- Whistler and Banff decals late autumn day. Very cool, It was a short drive to the along safe, rooty, gently up other groups no doubt too fic signs, both “No Parking on his window. They just sunny and fresh. After a well-signed parking area and down, twisting trails. numerous to list. – Fire Lane.” Huh? got back from a long driving hearty, physically distanced and already about 40 cars Instinctively I started to When my children were At the height of land at vacation out west. “B.C. and COVID-19 protocol- were there at 9:30 a.m. The yodel, remembering long students at Parliament Oak the east end of Woodend, people were cool. They observing breakfast at Good Niagara Peninsula Con- ago wanderwegs in Swit- Public School and Laura we look down at the Queen were just happy to take our Eats Diner by the Homer versation Authority has zerland’s Jungfrau and Ba- Secord Secondary School, Elizabeth Way and the money. Some Alberta peo- Bridge, son Scott suggested closed the Woodend office varia’s Schwarzwald. “I love every year they would continuous hum of rushing ple were a bit weird about we take a hike at the nearby and public washrooms and to go a-wandering, along the excitedly tell us about their vehicles, each driver hurling visitors from Ontario.” Woodend Conversation the Walker Living Cam- mountain track.” school trips to Woodend. I their car or truck toward O Canada, my Home and Area. pus. The many trails are Son Scott suggested I was always a bit ho hum, some important destination. Native Land. Gotta love it. I had not been to Wood- easy to access and well- contribute to the silence and since my memories were A really good number of Please, take a hike. Visit end since 1986, when Don- maintained. Hurray. stop yodelling. of a pretty nice little nature folks are out on the Woo- Woodend and the other ald Ziraldo and I did a The conservation author- The forest floors are area. dend trails enjoying this jewels in our region. Even training run from then-new ity and the Bruce Trail Club blanketed with dead leaves Who knew? The build- day and such a variety of after it has snowed. The White Oaks up the hill and have ensured the directional and fallen trees, lying every ings are large, but fit in so ages. Older hikers with their late Gordie Howe told us, along a trail or two. Since arrows and marks are clear which way. Squirrels, birds well with the surrounding Nordic poles, young fami- “There is no such thing then, I have driven past it on and well-placed. Staff and other locals all busy, forests. Native rocks, rug- lies with kids in backpack, as cold weather. Just cold Townline Road hundreds of and volunteers keep the going about their late No- ged wood furniture, turf or tagging along trying to clothing.” times. Never really gave a chainsaws busy when trees vember business. The sun roofs. Easy to understand keep up. Use COVID-19 as a rea- thought to stopping in. I had fall down across trails. This warmly peeping through. interpretive panel, and lists And a refreshing number son to get out and revel in been there, done that. all makes for perfect hikes, As Robert Service of all the Niagara schools of younger people, in pairs Canada’s nature. Page 14 December 3, 2020 NEWS Vince Pillitteri honoured for lifetime in fruit industry Founder of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Seaway Farms says family is reason for all his hard work

Brittany Carter they’ve all helped the cause, The Lake Report have tried to make it better,” he says of the grower com- “On a farm, there’s always munity. something to eat.” Vince Pil- “I have learned to be litteri says he took his father humble, be quick to help, Charles Pillitteri’s words to compete but remain fair, heart, driving his commit- don’t fear change, express ment to farming over the last gratitude, have an opin- 60 years. ion, rise early, work hard, On Nov. 19, he re- use your talents, and most ceived the Ontario Produce importantly, value family,” Marketing Association’s Eileen says. Lifetime Achievement “These are many life les- Award for his career with sons that I hope to carry out Seaway Farms in Niagara- with my children and my on-the-Lake. family as well, thanks to his He says his passion for example,” she adds. tending the land was influ- Now, her father says Eileen enced by his father. Vince Pillitteri received a lifetime achievement award from the Ontario Produce Marketing Assocciation. SUPPLIED has taken over operations of “My father started work- the farm. His family spans ing when he was six years our bond,” he says. times with interest rates and Marketing Board and the learned a lot from her father throughout NOTL with vari- old in Italy. You know what He says he never expected marketing, and all kinds of Ontario Produce Market- over the years – and valuing ous businesses and wineries he always said to me? He the lifetime achievement goodies. But we survived ing Association to further family is the most important. in the area. said, “You know Vince, award, but he is “very grate- it all, changed things as we support the industry. It was His other two children are And this area is unlike on a farm, there’s always ful” to have received the went along, a little bit at a by attending industry events Joe Pillitteri and Caroline any other in the world, Pil- something to eat.” Because distinction. time. Rome wasn’t built in a that he secured relation- Martinelli. litteri says. he lived through a couple “If someone had said to day,” he says. ships with customers like “I have learned to assist “There’s not a better wars … and he said no mat- me, ‘You know, you’ll die But he met each chal- Metro Inc. and Sobeys, your neighbour when- place in the world to live, ter how bad it gets, there’s first before you get that lenge with determina- which Seaway Farms still ever possible, as this is an other than here. I’m being always something there (on award,’ I would have said, ‘I tion and he continued to supplies today. industry where you want to honest. I’ve been all over, a farm).” know I’ll die first. I won’t get grow his business. And while advancing his help your fellow farmers,” and I wouldn’t trade this Pillitteri has been active in that award,’” Pillitteri says. After the fire in the 1980s, business has always been a she says. spot for anywhere in the Niagara’s tender fruit indus- At 77, he has continued to he rebuilt Seaway Farms priority, Pillitteri says family Her dad says he may have world. There are good try since before 1970, when persevere through the years. with a larger fruit market is the most important thing, had his difference with other people, there’s four distinct he opened Seaway Farms He faced many challenges and a garden centre. He con- and the reason for all his growers in the industry but seasons, we’ve got fruit. with his wife Margaret on throughout his career, from tinued to farm strawberries, hard work over the years. there’s a common thread of We’ve got everything that a small parcel of land on rising interest rates to the plums, cherries and peaches “If you haven’t got family, respect between them. you could possibly want in Lakeshore Road in NOTL. destruction of his first fruit and sold fruit to the Toronto you haven’t got much,” he “It meant a lot to me life,” he says. “We try to get a good stand and greenhouse in an Food Terminal. says. because all the people that I “We’re very fortunate to product out and meet our electrical fire. He eventually joined Eileen Pillitteri, one of have known over the years, be where we are, and we’re commitments. Our word is “There were some rough the Ontario Tender Fruit three children, says she’s they’ve all helped a lot. And not going anywhere.” History in the Vineyard adapts with take-out dinner fundraiser Brittany Carter in multiples of two. Orders year to move to a takeout demic has made fundraising The Lake Report can be placed online at model,” she said. “extremely difficult.” https://www.canadahelps. Although people will not “The fact that it is sup- The second annual org/en/charities/niagara- be able to gather in per- porting two local charities History in the Vineyard historical-society/events/ son and celebrate together that you know really need will carry on despite history-in-the-vineyard/ and as they did last year, she the revenue at this point in increased restrictions on specific pickup times will said the new model will time because of the lack restaurants to ease the be scheduled for Dec. 10 still offer the experience of of fundraising all year. It’s spread of the coronavirus, from 4 to 6 p.m. coming together. And she made it difficult for both of but a take-home dinner and The event, in support of stressed how meaningful these charities to keep go- virtual presentation will the Friends of Fort George participating in this event ing,” he said. replace the original plan of and the NOTL Historical can be for the charities Although people won’t an in-person event this year. From last year’s event. BRITTANY CARTER/FILE Society, also coincides with involved, which have not be able come together in “This year we really had the society’s 125-year an- been able to hold many person, organizers still plan to adapt to the situation tation that they can watch at will include a three-course, niversary on Dec. 12. regular fundraisers this year to “dress it up as much as which seems to be getting home,” Chisholm said. gourmet take-home meal “The Friends of Fort because of the pandemic. possible.” increasingly worse all the “It will be unique to prepared by either Ruffino’s George were kind to let us “It’s important to these “It’s kind of a unique time,” said Tony Chisholm, Niagara-on-the-Lake, but it Pasta Bar and Grill, The piggyback on this event,” charities and it’s a great way event and people are going president of the Friends of will also involve the history Garrison House or Ravine said Amy Klassen, the to support local businesses to have some sort of a pre- Fort George. of the area and what Christ- Vineyard Estate Winery, a NOTL Museum’s director and help these charities,” sentation to go along with it. They’ve tried to put mas was like,” he said. “It link to the special YouTube of finance and marketing. Klassen said. We’re going to try and make together “something that’s should be a fun event. And presentation, and a $40 tax “With the recent changes The museum will also be as much of a fun event as still interesting to peo- it’s so close to Christmas, receipt. to restaurant (COVID including a small treat with possible by being dressed up ple and give them a wider we thought that was ap- Paul Harber of Ra- restrictions) we thought it the pickup orders to com- in costume as the cars ar- choice of food, and also give propriate.” vine will also donate a would be in the best inter- memorate its anniversary. rive and that type of thing,” them some sort of a presen- Tickets cost $100 and bottle of wine for orders ests, easier and safer, this Chisholm said the pan- he said. Page 15 December 3, 2020 NEWS Pleasant Manor approved for 160-bed facility Existing home will be converted to community housing for seniors

Richard Harley The Lake Report

Pleasant Manor long-term care home in Niagara-on- the-Lake now has all the pieces in order for its new 160-bed facility, after being granted 38 additional bed licences. The new facility will replace the existing long-term care home in Virgil. Radiant Care Pleasant Manor CEO Tim Siemens. A new 160-bed facility is planned as an In 2018, when contruc- addition to Pleasant Manor. RICHARD HARLEY/FILE tion of a new facility at the home was given a green project “viable and ready to the new facility when it our community, which is a light, the province had only to go.” is constructed. The facility desperate need as well.” allotted 122 bed licences He said he’s excited the with the original 41 beds Siemens said the project (including 41 already at the project can move forward as will be converted into com- will also bring about 200 facility). The 38 additional planned. munity housing for seniors. jobs to the municipality. beds brings the total of new “We’ve been waiting a The additional beds “That’s really huge,” beds in the new facility to long time for this. The plan will help Pleasant Manor Siemens said. “And that is 160. itself is 22 years in the “respond to current and pro- something from an econom- Tim Siemens, CEO of Ra- making and that extends be- jected demand for long-term ic standpoint.” diant Care Pleasant Manor, yond the 20 years I’ve been care in our community,” “Not everybody will live said he’s been pushing hard with the organization.” Siemens said. in Niagara-on-the-Lake. to get the new bed licences. He said the new facility “We know that our Some people will be com- “Back in April of 2018, will have a positive impact community of Niagara-on- ing from outlying commu- the government allocated 81 on the community, offering the-Lake has the highest nities, but the fact remains new bed licences to Pleasant more long-term care beds percentage of people 65 that we will need to hire Manor. And when we do to people who need them, years of age and over, I about 200 new employees,” the math, 81 plus 41 is 122. and take up some of the loss think, in the country. I think he said. We were 38 beds shy of from the closing of Upper it’s over 31 per cent now and “When the new home is reaching that number of 160 Canada Lodge (a facility that will continue for the opened up, the 41 residents that we were approved for,” operated by the Region foreseeable future.” from Pleasant Manor’s he said. of Niagara). “Extending beyond the existing long-term care “And so we’ve been push- The expansion will see long-term care project, it al- home will move across the ing hard since that time 119 new beds created at lows Pleasant Manor to ret- property into the brand new in 2018 to obtain another Pleasant Manor. The other rofit the existing long-term long-term care home. And 38 licences. That’s the big 41 beds will be taken by care home, once it’s vacated, then we will welcome 119 change since 2018,” he said current Pleasant Manor to create semi-independent new family members to the Advertising inquiries? and it makes the 160-bed residents, who will switch housing for our seniors in Pleasant Manor family.” Email [email protected]

Niagara-on-the-Lake’s smart new transit system. Welcome to NRT OnDemand! We are a dynamic ride-share service that will allow residents to book a trip using a smartphone. $10 credit with promo code: NOTLPRINT

*New users only. Expires 12/31/20 .

Transit for Everyone. Download and Ride Learn more at niagararegion.ca/transit/on-demand. Download the NRT OnDemand app or call 289-302-2172 to book a ride. Page 16 December 3, 2020 GAMES

Across Have some fun 1. Hang loosely (6) Last issue’s answers 5. Church songbook (7) 10. Under an assumed name (9) Crossword Puzzle 11. Strictly accurate (5) 12. Ogle (4) 13. Not merely local (8) 16. Efflux (7) 17. Stevedore (6) 18. Period of history (3) 20. Bother (6) 22. Not this one and not that one (7) 25. Supporter of a monarch (8) 26. Fijian capital (4) 29. Between (5) 30. Take turns (9) 31. Phantom (7) 32. Pedlar (6) Down 2. Aged (7) 3. Jokes (4) 4. Send forth (4) 5. Fuel (10) 6. Constituent of vinegar (6,4) 7. Learner (7) 8. Child’s toy (6) EXTRA SPICY EXTRA 9. Crest (7) 14. Torch (10) 15. Lottery (10) 19. Unrealistic person (7) 21. From now on (3,4) 23. Transport charge (7) 24. Keyboard instruments (6) 27. Where many land speed records have been attempted (4) 28. Fill out (4) Page 17 December 3, 2020 NEWS

Scaled-down Rotary Holiday House Tours cancelled

Brittany Carter The Lake Report THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

This year’s already GIVE THE GIFT OF THEATRE pared down version of the Niagara-on-the-Lake Ro- tary Club’s annual holiday house tours has been cancelled. The last-minute decision was made this week after event organizers further examined the Ontario government’s COVID-19 regulations, which placed An interior shot of the McArthur Estate. RICHARD HARLEY Niagara-on-the-Lake in the orange-restrict level along The provincial govern- to our attention at the down areas, right into with the rest of the Niagara ment’s COVID response last minute. It’s just one of Niagara-on-the-Lake,” she region on Nov.16. framework states limits for these things,” she said. said. All refunds have been organized public events She said the decision to Rotary fundraising may made through Eventbrite, and gatherings in staffed cancel was “very upsetting” be at an all-time low this Order your Shaw Festival where tickets were initially businesses and facilities are for everyone involved, but it year with COVID-19, but gift certificate today! purchased, the Rotary Club 50 people indoors and 100 was necessary. spirits are high as the (available in any denomination) said. outdoors under the orange- “The owners are dev- group carries on with its TIM CARROLL, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR | TIM JENNINGS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR | MAY 1 – DECEMBER 23 Lorna Penman, chair of restrict level. Those are astated. Brenda and Blair other holiday fundraising 905-468-2172 | SHAWFEST.COM the NOTL Rotary’s Holiday the limits Penman said the McArthur and all the staff plans this holiday season. Jenny L. Wright and Kyle Blair in Holiday Inn (2019). Photo by Emily Cooper. House Tours, said the deci- NOTL Rotary planned for. worked so hard to make the The silent auction will sion to cancel wasn’t made But because the tours place absolutely beautiful. take place every day except lightly. were to be held on a private And we had it all worked Sundays from Dec. 4 to 12, Client: SHAW FESTIVAL Publication: The Lake Report Insertion Date: Dec 3, 2020 “It just came to light that residence at the McArthur out, all the COVID restric- at Regal Florist and Garden Size: 5 x 7.875 Contact: [email protected] | Key Gordon Communications we just couldn’t do it. It was Estate on John Street, Pen- tions, etc.,” she said. Centre, 1616 Niagara Stone against COVID restric- man said the limit for per- The fact that many Rd. in Virgil. tions,” Penman said. mitted functions is lower. ticketholders were possibly And the Ho Ho Ho! She said there was a bit of Limits for functions, coming from locked down Holiday House Totes are a “grey area” in the regula- parties, dinners, gather- areas also played a part in still available for sale at tions regarding the event. ings, barbeques or wedding the decision to cancel, Pen- niagaraonthelakerotary.ca. Had the tour been held in a receptions held in private man said. Penman said donations staffed business or facility, residences, backyards, or “One of the other reasons are always appreciated so it would likely have been parks are 10 people indoors that we thought long and the service club can con- able to go on as planned, and 25 outdoors. hard about this cancellation tinue supporting the local with strict adherence to “It was just a bit of a grey is because a lot of people and international commu- COVID regulations. area that was just brought were coming from locked nities. Dr. Brown: What’s the best choice — exercise or exercise machine? Dr. William Brown with surprisingly little prevent a fall. Some purists deride road as many muscle groups Special to The Lake Report impact on the joints. And, Most new users gave up biking in Niagara because as possible with intense much to my surprise, when too soon and as a result, of the absence of challeng- enough intervals to keep A friend asked, what’s the I began to run again eight many a machine was later ing hills, except for the my heart and lungs in good best exercise machine? Cut weeks later, my fitness had found curbside waiting for escarpment. Maybe, but the shape. off as we’ve been for nine barely skipped a beat – the someone one to cart it away. area is beautiful in all sea- These days my exercise months from the workout machine had done the job But whatever its shortcom- sons and well worth a brisk routines involve one or two facilities at the Prince of while I recovered from the ings for beginners, like walk, run or bike ride – or short runs outside a week, Wales or Pillar and Post, his knee surgery. cross-country skiing, the mixing two or all three even the NordicTrack machine question was timely. The NordicTrack machine NordicTrack machine offers in the winter when condi- first thing every morning It wasn’t so long ago that I own, like me these days, is an efficient way to become tions allow. and, for good measure soon, fitness for me was as simple showing its age, what with aerobically fit and work all We’re in the season of an elliptical trainer to pro- as lacing up my running occasional slipping belts the body’s major muscle starkness – the tiniest of vide some indoor variety. shoes, wearing whatever and loose connections, but groups with one machine, skeletal tree branches, no So, in answer to the clothes suited the weather PIXABAY PHOTO well worth the morning unlike stationary bikes. longer hidden by leaves – a question posed by my and heading outdoors to put effort for maintaining my For me, all indoor fitness season of whites and som- friend – an elliptical trainer my miles in. recovering from yet another overall fitness. machines are just that – bre greys but still beautiful. makes sense because, like Unfortunately, creeping surgical fix for one of my That said, occasionally I indoors. And for that reason That’s what I miss most the NordicTrack machine, degenerative changes in my knees and resorted to a was reminded of why those I took up road biking this about training indoors - the it conditions the arms, legs knees forced me to cut back NordicTrack machine built simple machines never re- summer and enjoyed every beauty of the outdoors, and trunk muscles without on running and increase my to simulate cross-country ally caught with the public minute of it, whatever the whatever the season. the trickiness of the latter time on eliptical trainers skiing, to keep fit. despite their training poten- headwinds and even the odd So for me, the way for- to worry about. To that I and to a lesser extent, sta- It was a rugged, simple tial. Unlike stationary bikes storm. ward with my exercise and add a variety of stretching tionary bikes – that is until I affair made mostly of wood and elliptical trainers, learn- In the Niagara region fitness, is a compromise. and strength training floor discovered my old Nordic- with some steel parts and ing to use a NordicTrack we’re blessed with lots of Indoors for those days that exercises. Track machine gathering which, like cross-country machine was fraught with concession and line roads are thoroughly miserable Next, we’ll explore the dust in the basement. skiing, engaged all the the odd sudden unexpected where road traffic is light outside and a combination science of exercise as an Twenty-five years ago major muscle groups in backward slip and frantic except for other bikers often of indoor and outdoor exer- aid to picking and choosing when I was in Boston, I was my arms, legs and trunk, clutches of the handles to strung out in single file. cises that combine training what may work for you. BISTECCHERIA TUESDAYS ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE PESCHERIA FRIDAYS CLASSIC ITALIAN SEAFOOD OPEN 12-9 DAILY | DINE-IN | TAKEOUT | DELIVERY | 289-819-0179 Page 18 December 3, 2020 FEATURED

This image of Woodlawn, the home built at 176 John St. by Robert Dickson in 1822, is from a 1905 booklet titled “Illustrated Niagara-on-on-the-Lake, Canada,” published by John S. Clarke. COURTESY NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE MUSEUM The famous personages of Randwood

This story is one in a se- attached to Fort George, May of 1813, the invad- The two men counted off Of interest is the fact that the Rands later opened up. ries about the history of the which one can see on the ing Americans took him 10 paces, turned and fired Langdon Hall, the Relais While Lansing visited Rand Estate, about 35 acres Commons today. prisoner and along with a almost simultaneously. His & Chateaux property in Niagara only in the sum- of land lying behind the Russell, forced to move to number of other prominent opponent, a Mr. Weekes, Cambridge, Ont., was built mer, his sons Livingston stone wall on John and York when Simcoe decided Niagarans, he was sent missed but Dickson’s ball by William Dickson’s and Watts, settled perma- Charlotte streets, along the it would take the place of to East Greenbush, N.Y., went through Weekes’s great-granddaughter and nently in town and both Heritage Trail and whose Niagara as the capital of near Albany. body and he died the next the great-grandson of John were buried at St. Mark’s. eastern boundary is a hedge Upper Canada, sold his On Dec. 10, 1813, when day. Jacob Astor. Watts Lansing built three between the properties at Crown grant in August the town of Niagara was Dickson’s wife Charlotte The eastern portion of houses in town, two of 176 and 210 John St. 1798 to William Dickson. burned by the retreating was ill at the time the town Dickson’s John Street prop- which are still standing: Dickson, from Dumfries, Americans, Dickson’s was burned and was carried erty went to son William one opposite the Charles Elizabeth Masson Scotland had been recruit- house is said to have been outside in her bed where who in turn sold it to Inn on Queen Street is cur- Special to The Lake Report ed by his cousin Robert the first one torched. It was she watched the house burn Capt. Robert Melville, pres- rently owned by developer Hamilton, the founder of burned, not by the regular down on a bitterly cold ident of the Niagara Harbor Rainer Hummel. The other, No other estate in Niag- Queenston, to join him in American army soldiers, December night. Charlotte and Dock Company. opposite the golf course at ara-on-the-Lake has been his business ventures in but by the Canadian Volun- Street is named after her. Melville built Brunswick 284 Queen St., was lived in owned by so many famous Canada. Dickson’s first teers, under the command Following the War of Place, which stands today by his daughter Sara who personages as that of Rand- house, at King and Pride- of Joseph Willcocks. 1812, Dickson gave a por- at 210 John St. Son Robert died in 1974 at age 87. wood on John Street. aux streets, was the first Willcocks was a distant tion of his land to the town Dickson built the present In 1910, the Lansings The land upon which to- one in the province to be relative of Peter Russell and to build a courthouse on brick house at 176 John sold their property on John day’s Rand Estate sits was made of brick. Dickson, had stayed with Russell and what is now Rye Street, St. in 1822 on the founda- Street to George Rand, who originally part of a 160- who became one of Upper his sister (to whom he made sold off other sections, and tion of his father’s house; was a self-made millionaire acre tract granted to Peter Canada’s first lawyers, “amorous advances”) when then divided the remainder he named it Woodlawn. and the chair of Marine Russell in 1796. Russell married Charlotte Adlam, he first moved to Niagara between his two oldest In 1873, William Dick- Trust Co. of Buffalo. was receiver general and who had come to Niagara from Ireland. sons, giving each about 500 son’s youngest son Wal- Elizabeth (Betsy) Masson a member of the executive as governess to another The targeted burning feet of frontage on John ter sold Woodlawn for has been a research volun- council of Upper Canada. member of the executive was because Dickson had Street. $18,000 to American Civil teer at the Niagara-on-the- He and his half-sister council, William Jarvis. fought a duel and killed William Dickson then War Gen. Henry Lansing; lake Museum for more than Elizabeth built a comfort- In 1811, on the part of a friend of Willcocks’ in moved to Galt (now Cam- he was at that time, the 15 years. able house on a small Russell’s Crown grant New York state in 1806; bridge) and developed his secretary-treasurer of the More Niagara’s History farm located in the middle which is now John duelling was illegal in Up- land holdings there. He Buffalo and Erie Railroad. Unveiled articles about the of today’s Commons. That Street, Dickson then built a per Canada then. The duel returned to Niagara in 1836 Lansing added the third past of Niagara-on-the- house is believed to be the large house with a library occurred near Fort Niagara to live out the “remnant” of floor, the mansard roof, and Lake are available at: foundation of the hospital holding 1,000 books. In at 7 a.m. his life. an enclosed tower which www.niagaranow.com

Pauline Reimer Gibson is an Audiologist with over 20 years of experience who loves A global leader in helping people of all ages in the community. Julia Dick is the Front Office Coordinator and a longtime resident of Virgil. Call Julia today to book a complimentary hearing test. hearing healthcare. Book a complimentary hearing test today at 905.468.9176 Pauline Reimer Gibson Audiologist 504 Line 2 Road, Virgil ON Page 19 December 3, 2020 NEWS

Help those less-fortunate in Niagara. We are accepting food and new unwrapped toy donations at our ofﬁce at 8 Henegan Road until Friday December 11, 2020. Food donations will support Newark Neighbours and are in great need. Toy donations will support other local charities where accepted.

We normally get the bulk of our donations at the NOTL Christmas Parade. If you are not able to drop off a donation, we will pick it up on December 9th. Call our office at 905-468-4235 or email us at [email protected] to arrange a pickup. Please leave your donation outside your front door as our staff will not enter households.

Bell hops at Queen’s Royal

This photograph is a new addition to our collection. It shows the bell hops, and their supervisors, of the Queen’s Royal Hotel lined up along the end of King Street. The former lawn bowling and tennis greens are fenced off behind them. Today you would see the gazebo and Queen’s Royal Park from this perspective. We know that the man fifth from the left is Walter Reid, but do you recognize anyone else in this photo? This first-class hotel opened in 1869 as the Royal Niagara Hotel. It was a destination for many wanting to escape the confines of the city and enjoy a peaceful time by the lake. The advancement of roads and cars and the beginning of the Depression era led to the demise of the hotel in 1927. After several furnishings were auctioned off, the building was demolished in 1930.

back with a simple exten- sion of the roofline was an economical way to expand the house. Not only was the form A saltbox? practical, but it eminently suited the colonial lifestyle, which led to a popular- ity that saw it built across Brian Marshall eastern North America well Columnist into the 19th century. Niagara-on-the-Lake As many who know me has several fine examples can attest, I have a tenden- of saltboxes built in the cy to be irked by the casual A fine asymmetrical saltbox.BRIAN MARSHALL 1800s. These include a misuse of architectural classic symmetrical (entry terminology. may have been built as an the wall height (from grade centred with windows to It’s not that I’d stop a original part of the build- to eaves) required to create either side) presentation in conversation to correct the ing footprint or added at a the continuous rear roof Old Town, a lovingly cared individual speaking, but it later date. The roof may be (cat-slide or broken-back) for (and more uncommon) starts an itch that sooner a single pitch from ridge to was much taller than typi- asymmetrical four-bay or later I simply have to eave (commonly referred to cal. Keep in mind that folks beauty in Queenston, and, scratch, particularly if the as a “cat-slide” roof) or two built a storey and a half to as rare as hen’s teeth, a term is one that is com- pitches, with the steeper save money! Stackhouse in a saltbox monly used incorrectly. In pitch over the two storeys Historically, it has been form embodied in the Content provided by: this case, I’m talking about and a lower pitch over the broadly accepted that the plaqued Steward House. “saltbox.” single storey (a broken- saltbox form originated in As to why it’s called a So, what is a saltbox back roof) changing at the colonial New England dur- saltbox, the answer’s pretty house? junction point. ing the mid 17th century. straightforward: the form In general, it is a two-sto- Now, although there Common settlers’ houses of has a very strong resem- rey house with a gable roof were one-and-a-half-storey the time were small, often blance to the small, finely that extends on the rear houses in the saltbox form, only one room deep, and crafted wooden boxes Advertising inquiries? above a one-storey section. these tended to be the the addition of a single- which, at that time, were Email [email protected] This one-storey section exception to the rule since storey addition across the used to store salt. HELP GIVE NIAGARA’S HOMELESS SHELTER DIGNITY AND POSSIBILITY

HELP US HELP THEM The new YWCA Niagara Region Home for Good provides 24 units of hope, safety and supported housing for women and their children.

THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS FINANCIAL SUPPORTERS Ann-Louise Branscombe (Honourary Chair) Cindi LoForti-Lepp (Campaign Co-Chair) Dr. June Mergl

Learn more and set up a tour at: www.ywcaniagararegion.ca T | 905-329-3187

every child deserves a stable start in a safe and secure home.

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