The Lake Report Iamarino During a Hear- Ing on Nov

Marotta addresses NOTL Lakereport.ca / Niagaranow.com LakeThe residents with letter Report| Page 6 Hyper-local news for Niagara-on-the-Lake Vol. 3, Issue 1 Niagara-on-the-Lake’s most respected newspaper January 9, 2020

Wells of Hope volunteers Town, Marotta face off in court pack shipping container over historic Rand Estate bound for Guatemala Judge reserves decision after hearing two days of legal arguments

Volunteers spend two days sorting and packing a shipping container full of useful items to send to the poor mountain regions of Guatemala. RICHARD HARLEY

Story on Page 8 Artist with NOTL roots turns focus back to town

Early plans for a hotel at the Rand Estate on John Street. SUPPLIED

Richard Harley want to build a conference the town could not properly appeals to the Conservation Editor centre/hotel and a subdi- identify heritage aspects Review Board, Melling said, vision on the combined in its notice of intention to and is involved in an ongo- After two days of hearing properties. designate and planned to ing pre-hearing settlement extensive legal arguments in Solmar, owned by change those aspects later conference. a St. Catharines courtroom, developer Benny Marot- in the process and that the Snider said there’s “no rea- a judge will now decide if ta, is challenging the town’s notice violates the town’s son to believe” town council the Town of Niagara-on- decision to declare a notice official plan. would ignore the conserva- the-Lake acted properly of intention to designate all Town lawyer Scott Snider tion board’s findings. when it announced plans for four properties as histori- asked the court to dismiss However, Melling pointed NOTL native Scott Steele is bringing his focus back to historical designation of the cally significant. Solmar’s claim entirely, ar- out council ignored the Niagara-on-the-Lake, with a gallery planned to open in Rand Estate. The development plans guing the case doesn’t actu- advice of its own heritage spring. RICHARD HARLEY The legal case over the are also opposed by resident ally belong in the Superior committee and staff. historic designation of the activist group SORE, which Court, but that instead the The Ontario Heritage Act Story on Page 20 property kicked off in full previously was granted developer should take any is not supposed to disregard force Monday and Tuesday party status in the case. requests to alter the land to a property owner’s rights, he in Superior Court, with the The courtroom was the Conservation Review told the court. Hometown Traveller: Town of NOTL and Save packed with Niagara-on- Board in the interim, where He said he concedes the Our Rand Estate (SORE) the-Lake residents as Two it would be reviewed by act exists to support heri- on one side and Two Sisters Sisters lawyer Michael experts on heritage issues. tage, but that’s only “half Caught up in Hungary Resorts and Solmar Devel- Melling urged Walters to He argued Solmar must the story.” The property opment Corp. on the other. order the town’s designation first seek administrative owner’s rights must also be Justice Linda Walters has notice be dropped. remedies before taking the balanced, he said. reserved her decision in the His multi-part argument matter to court and that the Melling argued there are case. included allegations that: court should refuse to make “little grounds to designate” The legal battle stems the town didn’t follow prop- the decision without “expert all four Rand Estate proper- from a contentious plan to er guidelines of the Ontario advice” from the Conserva- ties and that the town did develop the four properties Heritage Act, the outline tion Review Board. so illegally according to the of the Rand Estate, a five- of heritage features on the “There are no exceptional heritage act. hectare site located behind properties is unconstitution- aspects here to support the There was “no effort” a stone wall on John and ally vague and therefore it’s court’s interference,” Snider in staff reports to explain Statue of Stephen, first king of Hungary, in Fisherman’s Charlotte streets. impossible for the developer said. Bastion, a World Heritage Site in Budapest. DON CAMERON Two Sisters and Solmar to know what work is legal, Solmar has submitted Continued on Page 2 Story on Page 18 Page 2 Age has its privileges! January 9, 2019 20%* off for those over 60 Pharmacy: 1882 Niagara Stone Rd | Virgil| | 905.468.2121 TWICE a month third Wednesday AND last Thursday. Apothecary: 233 King St | Niagara-on-the-Lake | 905.468.8400 *Regular-priced merchandise only. Excludes prescriptions, Philips Sonicare & Muse products, MEET THE NEWS www.simpsonspharmacy.ca | Free Delivery From Both Locations special orders, lottery, transit passes and codeine products. Applicable to 60 and over. Town, Solmar face off in court over designation

Continued from Front Page “Council has no obliga- “The point is, these aren’t tion to take the advice of easy questions,” he said. how the heritage aspects the (review board),” he SORE lawyer Rich- meet the act’s criteria, he said, noting council added ard Stephenson challenged said, adding his client and attributes to the notice to the idea that Solmar doesn’t the public weren’t properly designate contrary to staff know the heritage aspects, informed about the plan to suggestions. citing a report from August designate. The town charged Solmar 2019 by Solmar’s heritage The description of heri- with illegally cutting down consultant Leah Wallace, tage aspects was only given trees, after nearly 200 trees which outlined specific after the fact and the town were cut down on one of the heritage aspects. only did its research after estate properties, sparking a He said Wallace found the notice was in place, public outcry. that the landscape is part from July 2018 to March Melling said his client of the heritage value of the 2019, he said. never received any informa- property and there’s just “If the town has not tion that the trees removed a disagreement on which One of the stone arch entrances to the Rand Estate. DARIYA BAIGUZHIYEVA/FILE PHOTO identified heritage aspects, were considered heritage parts need protecting. how can a (notice) meet the aspects of the Rand Estate, Solmar kept the docu- Solmar had a permit against Solmar to that of a from being destroyed.” criteria?” he said. “This, and that there was no map ment to itself for months from the Niagara Peninsula person receiving a speeding “Not everything in life FAMILY your honour, is the public from the town that properly before disclosing it to the Conservation Authority ticket without ever knowing can be regulated like a nu- record of the decision-mak- outlined which parts of town, court heard, after the (NPCA) to cut the trees, what the speed limit was, meric speed limit,” Snider ing process.” the estate were considered town requested the report Melling said, though the saying there’s no ground said. Snider argued that heritage attributes. be done. town claims it was expired. for criminality if there’s no Melling also said the whether the property meets “To this date, there is no If the heritage attributes He said the town should understanding of the crime. notice of intention is pre- the standard is a matter for way to tell what are and include the Dunnington- adopt a comprehensive tree “There can be no legal mature and is negatively the heritage bylaw, not the are not surviving elements Grubb landscape, and Sol- bylaw, as is common across debate. In order for that affecting his client. notice to designate, and that of the Dunnington-Grubb mar isn’t clear about what is the country. debate to happen, the town The town and SORE are Niagara’s since there is no bylaw yet, landscape,” Melling said. and is not legal, the com- Snider pointed out the and SORE needed to tell my now telling his client no the heritage act require- “Does this mean all ma- pany should refrain from NPCA has no authority over client what the illegal acts work can be done, he said, ments don’t apply. ture trees and plantings are doing work or apply to the the heritage act. are,” he said. even though so far the town He said it’s also not rel- heritage aspects?” municipality for projects it He said that when the Solmar agreed it would doesn’t have the ability or evant that the town ignored Melling argued the terms wishes to complete, Snider trees were cut, Solmar had designate the property at knowledge to advise Solmar advice from its own staff. in the notice to designate, said. only provided one day’s the site plan approval stage, about the heritage attributes, “If there was a lawsuit such as “mature trees and Certain aspects of the notice. But Melling argued which Melling said means nor does Solmar know what every time council didn’t planting” were not specific property have existed for that no notice was actually only after it’s approved. It’s the heritage aspects are, and follow staff’s advice, we’d enough, and that even the 100 years, Snider said, and required at all, and that one now in the design phase and it’s too early to know if the be knee-deep in bylaw town can’t specifically de- Solmar only purchased the day is sufficient time for the therefore the designation is notice of intention is valid legality,” he said. fine the heritage aspects. lands two years ago. town to send an email if it premature, he argued, and for much of the property. With regards to develop- The landscape elements “In the lifespan of those wanted Solmar to stop. No costing his client the ability Melling also pointed out Anticipated Release er’s rights, he said protec- “either are Dunnington- properties, that’s just yes- message was sent, he said. to be able to work on the the town has no map of the tions lie in the ability for Grubb or not … either terday,” he said. “And yet, On top of that, there are property. heritage aspects and that the most the developer to challenge are surviving or not,” he after declaring intention to widely used methods to Snider said the word- heritage aspects identified decisions and apply for argued. designate, (Solmar) signifi- protect trees that simply ing “approval stage” needs a in the notice of intention are modifications from the Con- “The character of mature cantly altered the landscape were not implemented here, “broad interpretation.” subject to change. servation Review Board. vegetation is important,” … so what was the urgency he said. He said Melling’s inter- All of those factors com- Melling said that’s not Snider said, adding that in cutting the trees down?” “The point is they didn’t pretation is “far too narrow, bined constitute non-com- effective, because the final the “language of heritage he asked. “The applicant say, ‘Stop doing that,’ ” that one line would prevent pliance with the heritage decision still goes back to conservation” is often not bought lands that it knew Melling said. a municipality from interim act designation procedure, town council. understood by people. had heritage features.” He likened the charges protection of heritage lands he said. Konzelmann Family Reserve Series Residents attended the courthouse to show support for town Richard Maxwell, who and Two Sisters Resort Corp. pressed with the initial designs with is the “clear-cutting that he said he thinks the town’s that he can push everybody lives on the Promenade, not “And I don’t like what of the hotel, or the subdivi- was done,” he said. argument is “very cogent.” around, including the citizens, far from the Rand Estate, they’re going to do with the sion planned to go behind the “You could not see a build- “I don’t see how the judge council and our mayor. And was among dozens of NOTL Randwood Estate. It’s totally development. ing on the Rand Estate from can rule any way other than it’s nice to see that we’re actu- residents who packed the wrong to have a seven-eight As of Tuesday afternoon he the heritage trail. Now you for dismissing the motion. ally banding together and say- courtroom Monday and Tues- storey hotel and 400 cars said as far as the court case can see everything,” he said. Apparently from what the ing, ’No, there’s a process.’ “ day to watch the proceedings parked in that area,” said was going, he thought the Bob Bader, who also lives lawyer was saying, it doesn’t If the property owners over the future of the historic Maxwell. submissions were “marginally in the vicinity of the develop- make any sense that we’re object to the town’s plan for Old Town property. His major concerns with the in SORE’s favour.” ment, said he was also in the even here.” a historical designation for For Maxwell, and many of project are “oversight on hous- “I think if (developer Benny courtroom to support of the He said the main thing that the site, then they should take the others, it was important es, the traffic increase that’s Marotta) had gone along the town and SORE. convinced him the town will their fight to the Conservation to be in the St. Catharines going to come along. There’s lines of Trisha Romance, with “This is an important deci- win is “simply that the notice Review Board, he said. “And court “just to show support for going to be an entrance off a boutique hotel rather than a sion for the town and I think of intention to designate is not then maybe you can work SORE,” the residents group Charlotte Street and then John Holiday Inn, I don’t think he it’s good for the people of the a bylaw.” with the town in the recom- that’s joined the town’s legal Street. It’s just not appropriate would have had any prob- town to support our council “The process has been mendations of the (board).” battle against the proposal by for the area.” lems.” and mayor,” Bader said. skewed from day one, because “It’s dumb as far as I’m Solmar Development Corp. He said he’s also not im- The other thing he disagrees From what he heard in court the developer seems to think concerned,” Bader said.

IN WINE COUNTRY

CELEBRATING ALL THINGS ICEWINE THROUGHOUT JANUARY winterVISIT KONZELMANN.CA FOR DETAILS Page 3 January 9, 2019 NEWS Councillors concerned after losing planning appeal

Dariya Baiguzhiyeva town’s senior planner Mark The Lake Report Iamarino during a hearing on Nov. 18, 2019, the After the Local Planning tribunal approved Arvinte’s Appeal Tribunal rejected a request as it was “minor decision of Niagara-on-the- in nature” and the infill Lake’s committee of adjust- development is compatible ment, some councillors are with the surrounding area in wondering how the town regard to the heritage char- should defend its decisions acter of the neighbourhood, at tribunal hearings. according to the report. New! Coun. Gary Burroughs “I think it’s a disas- raised a question Monday ter what we’ve just gone during a committee of the through and what we’re North American Classics Menu whole planning meeting on going to go through on that what could be done after the Coun. Stuart McCormack chairs the committee of the particular property and Come try all your favourites like: zoning application, which whole meeting Jan. 6. DARIYA BAIGUZHIYEVA how it’s going to affect that Sweet + Sour Pork | Chicken Balls | Beef with Vegetables was refused by the town’s whole area,” Burroughs said committee of adjustment, Monday. All made with the finest ingredients and the flavours you love. won approval at the tribunal ured to be lower in profile, the town’s committee of “When it’s brought Combination plates also available. hearing. as required by the town’s adjustment as the applica- forward, if a committee “I don’t know if I’m urban design policies. tion didn’t meet “the four of adjustment happens to outraged or extremely The applicant then sub- Planning Act tests” for a disagree with our planning chilijiao.com 905-468-6114 disappointed,” Burroughs mitted a revised application minor variance, according staff, we need to know what 271 Mary Street, Niagara-on-the Lake, ON said. “We can’t appeal it any that conformed to the Dock to the committee’s minutes that means if we’re going to further but it’s wrong.” Area plan and the zoning from the June 20 meeting. go to a hearing like this.” His comments came in bylaw and had eight vari- The applicant then appealed Coun. Clare Cameron regard to the application ances. Staff also recom- to the tribunal and won. said she shared Burroughs’ submitted by the owner mended approving the A town report to council concerns and “a sense of of 26 Delater St. requested variances. in October recommend- dismay.” The applicant, Andrei At a public hearing on ing retaining legal counsel “It’s unfortunate but Arvinte, proposed building June 20, 2019, one resident and a registered profes- hopefully this is a learning a new house and a detached spoke in favour and one sional planner to represent moment for all of us,” she garage, and applied for vari- person spoke in opposition the town at the hearing said. ances from the town’s zon- of the application, accord- to defend the committee “Before we get to this ing bylaw related to height, ing to the staff report. of adjustment’s decision. stage of appeals and lawyers lot coverage and setbacks The person who spoke Another recommendation and where we’re really up for the proposed dwelling. against the application was to send legal counsel to against the wall, this to me In a report prepared for commented on its height, reach a settlement with the is another example how an the urban design committee lot coverage, side yard applicant. early dialogue with an ap- review, town staff recom- setbacks, average finished Councillors voted down plicant is so important.” mended reducing the height grade, impacts to the the first recommendation Town council could also of the house to conform to streetscape and tree protec- and directed legal counsel look at hiring an outside the 8.5-metre maximum tion. to settle the matter and pres- planner who would defend height as set out in the Dock Despite staff’s recom- ent it to the tribunal. council’s decisions at the Area Secondary Plan and mendations, Arvinte’s Based on the planning hearings, Lord Mayor Betty that the roofline be reconfig- application was refused by evidence provided by the Disero told councillors. Hamilton woman charged after mall Boxing Day dispute over parking space that went viral online

Brittany Carter In the one-minute video, The Lake Report which was posted to Face- book, the assailant rais- A Hamilton resident has es her middle fingers and been charged with assault tells the second woman, “I and uttering threats after love you, too,” before hitting a video showed a wom- the phone in her hand. an making racial comments She proceeded to tell her toward an Asian woman and to “film me all you want,” hitting her in the parking lot after making a number of of the Outlet Collection at racial comments. Before the Niagara on Boxing Day. video cuts off, the assail- Niagara Regional Police ant asked someone in her said the incident began with vehicle for her phone so she a dispute over a parking could call 911. Patricia Zammit, 51, is to be in court on Feb. 3 to face spot at the mall, a media Patricia Zammit, 51, is to charges of assault and uttering threats. SUPPLIED release said. appear in court on Feb. 3. Page 4 January 9, 2019

The Lake Report EDITORIAL & OPINION Editorial Council’s history of ignoring expert advice

Richard Harley conclude the town is do- whose members ran on heri- Editor ing everything it can to stall tage values. Editor-In-Chief: Richard Harley Solmar’s progress on the We’re not attempting to be Managing Editor: Kevin MacLean During this week’s court property. pro Solmar or anti-NOTL Publisher: Niagara Now proceedings regarding the For instance: Snider seems heritage preservation, so Design & Layout: Richard Harley fight over historic designa- to ignore the fact that the town please don’t start claiming Advertising: Rob Lamond, Luke Archibald tion of the Rand Estate, the previously rejected advice otherwise. This is not about Staff: Brittany Carter, Dariya Baiguzhiyeva, case was made that if Solmar regarding the designation of choosing sides. Jill Troyer, Tim Taylor, Eunice Tang Development Corp. wants to heritage attributes on the Rand But the fact is NOTL coun- Contributors: Denise Ascenzo, Linda Fritz, alter aspects of the property, it Estate from its own heritage cil has a history of ignoring Ross Robinson, Brian Marshall, Tim Carroll, should seek remedy from the committee and town staff. the expert opinions of its own Susan Des Islets, NOTL Writers’ Circle, Conservation Review Board, He seems to ignore the staff and others (note also Jim Smith, Jaclyn Wilms, Collin Gooddine, which will then make a rec- massive pressure on the town the story this week on Page Plunger Patrol, and many more members ommendation to town council. from an active resident group 3 about the town’s defeat at a of the local community Town lawyer Scott Snider opposing work being done Local Planning Appeal Tribu- told the court, “There’s no on the property, to the point nal hearing). reason to believe town council that some people will call the In litigation, lawyers make a would ignore the (Conserva- authorities over the sound of lot of arguments to try to sway tion Review Board’s) find- lawnmowers. opinion in their client’s favour. ings.” Snider seems to ignore Sometimes those arguments Actually, there are more strong statements from council are valid, cogent and rooted in than a few reasons to believe about the preservation of heri- reality. Sometimes they are a that even if the conservation tage aspects, directed at the real stretch and maybe even a board did recommend al- Rand Estate situation. bit disingenuous. This seems Contributed by Norm Arsenault: lowing work on the property, And there’s also the to be one of those occasions. Be a selective consumer. Choose products that council wouldn’t approve it. fact our town elected an It doesn’t take a scholar to almost entirely new council [email protected] come with less plastic packaging, even if they’re a little bit more expensive or a little less convenient. If you do have to use single-use plastic, be sure it makes it into the blue recycling bin.

Contributed by Patty Garriock “A child of five could understand this. Fetch me a child of five.” NOTL tax rate is low but comparing it – Groucho Marx. to other municipalities is meaningless

Dear editor: The headline on the continuation of your main story in the Dec. 19 edition of The Lake Report said “Niagara-on-the- HOW TO GET IN TOUCH Lake still has one of lowest tax rates in region.” While that is factually correct at the municipal level, it is meaningless, and arguably misleading. Email: The residential tax rate is a simple mathematical calculation i.e. total revenue needs of the municipality divided by the Letters: [email protected] total assessed value of residential properties in the municipality. Story Ideas: [email protected] Therefore, if Town A and Town B had the same revenue needs and the assessment value of Town A was twice the assess- Advertising: [email protected] ment value of Town B, the tax rate in Town A would be half the tax rate in Town B. Phone This would largely explain the difference in tax rates between NOTL (0.23 per cent) and Niagara Falls (0.56 per cent). Newsroom: 905-359-2270 However, it’s more complex than that. Other factors include the makeup of the tax base (residential versus industrial / Advertising Department: 905-246-4671 commercial and agricultural – all of which have different tax rates), what other revenue sources the municipality has, what Office Address services the town provides its residents and the size of the town. 496 Mississauga St., NOTL, Ontario, Canada. A larger town has lower revenue needs per property owner for each individual service. Mailing Address Complexity is further illustrated and confused by looking at the regional tax rate. In 2019, NOTL residents were charged PO Box 724, Niagara-on-the-Lake, L0S1J0 0.73 per cent whereas Niagara Falls residents were charged 0.57 per cent. Go figure! Or NOTL residents paid 0.005 per cent (not a typo!) in education levies whereas Niagara Falls residents paid 0.16 per Have a lead on a story? cent! This is probably due to the relative number of students in each municipality. Call 905.359.2270 or send an email to [email protected] Clearly, a meaningful comparison of tax rates between municipalities requires a much fuller explanation than what was supplied in your article. Interest in advertising? Regards, Bob Wheatley Call 905.246.4671 or send an email to [email protected] NOTL Page 5 January 9, 2019 OPINION

Was it necessary to fire bird On budget, councillors bangers on Christmas Day? need to think like owners ARE YOU HAPPY Dear editor: Dear editor: Bernhard Mattern WITH YOUR Portfolio Manager, TFSA, RESP, I have read with interest the various letters in The Lake It’s budget season and here we go again. Mandeville Private Client Inc. RRSP & RRIF RETURNS? Eligible Report from all sides regarding the bird bangers used by the Float the possibility of a double-digit increase to rile up wineries. I have not felt I needed to add to the noise and the residents and then fine-tune the numbers down to a 9.48 * Since Inception clamour until Christmas Day. per cent “feel good” level hoping we are gullible enough to 8.8% While walking the dog on this most special of days I was buy in when it’s subsequently approved. appalled to hear the bird bangers. Hell, it worked in the past, it’s a tried and true political Portland Private Income Fund Portland Private Income Fund During the First World War the guns fell silent on Christ- shell game -- after all, we are all gullible, right? At least Private Debt Private Debt mas Day, not so lucky in Niagara-on-the-Lake in 2019. that’s what they think. Best 5 Year Sharpe Ratio Best 5 Year Return One can only assume that those particular winery owners I am a retired senior citizen, a former multi-plant inter- 1st Place** 1st Place** are either corporations whose principals live nowhere close national manufacturing owner with corporate business to town or are absentee owners who also live far away. turnaround experience. They obviously have no interest in their neighbours, in Accordingly, having business exposure in six continents, Portland Private Income Fund Investing Primarily in Private Debt Securities being a good neighbour or in the Town of Niagara-on-the- Antarctica excluded, I feel eminently qualified to speak to Lake at all. the budgeting process and all its gamesmanship nuances. At • CAPITAL PRESERVATION • REDUCED MARKET RISK Can you imagine what tourists thought who came for a 80 years young, you might say I have seen it all. • INCOME • ACCESS lovely, quiet, calm and peaceful stay in this pretty town? My charge or mission statement to all of my former man- Perhaps the town council should consider checking the agers, supervisors – in fact, all employees – was simple and TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FUND CALL: 905-708-8111 OR EMAIL: [email protected] noise levels of the bird bangers. I cannot believe that they direct, namely: “Think like an owner – That dollar you are are within the decibel levels allowed. about to spend is your own.” *Inception Date January 7, 2013, Annualized returns on Series F as at November 30, 2019 Brought to you in part by **The awards are based solely on quantitative performance data of 207 Canadian hedge funds Also perhaps we need a bylaw about noise on special, Sadly, politicians do not think like that. Rather it is spend, to June 30th, 2018 with Fundata Canada managing the collection and tabulation of the data to determine the winners. There is no nomination process or subjective assessment in identifying the religious days in this town. Yes, I am a Christian and I spend, spend, we can always increase taxes. winning hedge funds. The sharpe ratio is a measure for calculating risk-adjusted returns. The sharpe ratio is the portfolio return in excess of the risk-free rate divided by the volatility of the portfolio. understand that not everyone else is, however, the vast We presently have seated on council several current and The Fund is only available to certain investors who meet eligibility or minimum purchase requirements such as “accredited investors”. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investments. The Fund is not guaranteed, majority of this town is. Give us peace and quiet on this one former successful and distinguished business owners. its value changes frequently and past performance may not be repeated. The Fund is not publicly offered. A redemption fee of 5% within 18 months and 2% within 19 to 36 months applies. Mandeville Private Client Inc. is a Member of the Investment Industry Regulatory day of the year please! I would strongly suggest that none of them would approve Organization of Canada and a Member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Mandeville Private Client Inc. is a registered trademark of Portland Holdings Inc. and used under license by Mandeville Private Client Inc. PORTLAND, PORTLAND INVESTMENT COUNSEL and the Clock Kathy Recourt a 9.48 per cent increase in their own business budgets. Tower design are registered trademarks of Portland Holdings Inc. Used under licence by Portland Investment Counsel Inc. NOTL They need to think like owners and remember to treat municipal money as their money. There are two types of budgets: The business budget Town as whole has many (owners and stakeholders) and political budgets. Which one are we getting? active cemeteries In summation, there is fat and pork in every government budget. Annually, we have numerous interests looking for Dear editor: handouts, we know who they are and every year we accommo- I read with some interest the Dec. 12 article, “Town’s date them with ever increasing demands eg. our Chamber of online burial map lets you search cemetery plots.” Commerce, which our merchants should be supporting more. This new map is a great resource, however, the author My message to council: Let’s get serious – think like states in the article that the Lakeshore cemetery is the only owners – and cut this 9.48 per cent increase in half. active burial ground in town. Samuel A. Young I hasten to correct this statement but I know for certain NOTL that St. Mark’s, St. Vincent and St. Andrew’s all have active cemeteries. It is possible that you would consider St. Davids and Willowbank “active.” Donald Combe Sexton St. Mark’s Cemetery Editor’s note: Mr. Combe makes an excellent point. Our story should have pointed out that Lakeshore is the only active cemetery that is operated by the Town of NOTL. Red Roof needs support Dear editor: A letter from Santa: Thanks Good morning and happy 2020! This is my first email of the new year to all of our sup- for helping Palliative Care porters. It is perhaps, the most important one. We are wrapping up our Gifts from the Heart holiday campaign. This campaign is instrumental in the success Dear editor: and continuation of our respite programs for children with Each December, I wander around the community looking special needs. for opportunities to bring holiday cheer to everyone. Thank you to all that have already donated. For those of This year with the help of donations from many local you still wishing to consider, you can follow the link below businesses and families, Santa raised more than $3,000, in to make a contribution that could help us reach our goal of support of the wonderful work of the Niagara-on-the-Lake Have a lead on a story? $60,000. Community Palliative Care Service – an average of well Call 905.359.2270 or send an email to Every little bit helps, and if it’s not something you over $100 a visit! [email protected] are able to do now, perhaps you could share this link Thank you to everyone who participated. with anyone you think could help us out. Go to https:// And a special thanks to The Lake Report for help getting Want to grow and brand your business www.redroofretreat.com/giftsfromtheheart or simply the word out. through advertising? Google: Gifts from the heart Red Roof Retreat. Your community support looks good on you. Happy New All you need is love; all we need is your support. Year. Call 905.246.4671 or send an email to Steffanie Bjorgan Santa for Niagara Palliative Care [email protected] Red Roof Retreat NOTL Page 6 January 9, 2019 OPINION

The Lake Report welcomes your letters to the editor. Please, write early and often. Letters ideally should be under 400 words long. Occasionally, longer letters may be published. All letters may be edited for conciseness, accuracy, libel and defamation. Please include your full name, street address and a daytime telephone number so that authorship can be authenticated. Only names and general addresses (eg. Virgil, St. Davids, NOTL) will be published. Send your letters to [email protected] or drop them by our office at 724 Mississauga St., NOTL. The Lake Report

Developer Benny Marotta Mixing pot and responds to town’s growing legal bills hiking a crazy idea

Dear editor: Dear editor: Like so many other residents of Niagara-on-the-Lake, I read with interest the article published in The Lake Report and A front-page article on Dec. 26 in one of NOTL’s com- online at Niagara Now referencing the town’s budget for legal fees increasing by $1 million in 2020. munity newspapers was headlined, “New adventure tour to And while we agree with Lord Mayor Betty Disero that it is normal for municipalities to have ongoing lawsuits, we don’t pair cannabis and hiking in NOTL.” agree that spending this large sum of money is common for small municipalities such as ours. This is extremely disappointing. “Hiking and cannabis I would like to take this opportunity to address my fellow residents of Niagara-on-the-Lake to share our perspective on – the perfect combination?” Please tell me that this is a joke! the events of the last two years. For the last two years or so, Owen Bjorgan’s column in As an active member of the business community here in Niagara, it was our dream to build a hotel, so it is regrettable our local media have inspired and educated us about the that the dispute regarding the Randwood Estate has become more than a legal battle and political issue. It is deeply per- great natural resource that we have right here in the Niagara sonal, with attacks levied against our family by a vocal few. Region. I have truly appreciated his wealth of knowledge It is and has always been Solmar’s intention to work collaboratively with the town. It’s unfortunate that incomplete about the great outdoors and the biodiversity in our back- drawings of our plan for the Randwood Estate were shown at a heavily attended public meeting, causing a groundswell of yard. negative sentiment for a project that we are so passionate about. However, his latest scheme to provide cannabis for his The premature sharing of these designs is what prompted us to apply to LPAT – the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal hiking clients is truly beyond comprehension. In fact, it is – without the participation of the town’s design committee. It is our intention to submit new plans and work hand-in-hand crazy! with stakeholders to come to an agreement. He is quoted as saying that cannabis can help people see I’d also like to address the much-discussed cutting down of trees at 200 John St. to prepare the land behind the hotel site. nature in a different light or perspective. I can assure him Let me assure you that we would never proceed without approval. that this will certainly be the case. Solmar followed the required application process and was approved to commence the work. It was not until after the Throughout his many columns, Mr. Bjorgan has con- work was complete that charges were laid by the town for cutting trees. This information is available in the public affidavit stantly championed the personal benefits that our natural that has been filed. environment can provide – a healthy natural “high.” Now, Finally, the lands for Solmar’s planned community on the Rand Estate have already been zoned residential for years, his clients will be hiking and puffing pot to escalate that prior to the transfer of title by the previous owner of the lands, making the interim control bylaw on development in Old high. How sad. Town questionable. In light of the staggering statistics of impaired driving, Whether it is Solmar or another development company, the plan is for these lands to be built on. The interim control from alcohol and cannabis, I am shocked that this new bylaw is costing more in legal fees as it is hurting other developers as well. venture would even be a consideration. At this time, the town is facing more than 12 court battles, including a lawsuit from another developer calling for I would like Mr. Bjorgan to explain the following two $500,0000 in damages. It is in the best interest of everyone – residents and taxpayers of this great municipality – that the quotes to me: “I feel like cannabis and the outdoors pair town work collaboratively with developers, including Solmar, to resolve these issues. very well together,” and “I hope they walk out of the forest Over the past 30 years Solmar has built an impressive reputation developing and planning communities throughout with a greater appreciation of the biodiversity in Niagara.” southern Ontario, with excellent Tarion ratings along the way. They will be walking out of that forest with a greater In addition, we have worked closely and successfully with Niagara-on-the-Lake in the past to develop Cannery Park in appreciation of something, but it will certainly NOT be St. Davids, a well-planned community that is home to many families currently thriving in school and local businesses. biodiversity. These types of communities continue to help grow the economic viability allowing families the opportunity to continue For the sake of increased safety on our roads, I would en- to live here generationally, the future of every municipality. courage these hiking pot smokers to walk all the way home The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake spent hundreds of thousands on legal fees in 2019. In 2020 the fees will be much after their trek through the forest. higher than in 2019, and it’s the taxpayers who will pay the bill. It is my sincere hope that the councillors elected will con- Mr. Bjorgan, please reconsider this ill-considered venture, sider the future economic and tourism opportunities for the community as a whole, for today and tomorrow. and keep our forests free of pot. Benny Marotta Buddy Andres NOTL NOTL Tourism industry must contribute more to offset town’s costs

Dear editor: nificant tourist industry, There is considerable idle discourage overuse. employment and provide Commerce and its members I find it interesting that the supported by the town unused land in and around Four- or five-hour resident meaningful profits to offset to offset some of the costs only reported focus of Ni- in providing parks, floral Old Town, some owned by parking permits around maintenance costs of those of servicing the 3 million agara-on-the-Lake town maintenance, parking and the town, which could be the golf course ($100 per well-used tourist locations. tourists who visit Niagara- council in reviewing the conveniences for short-term used for additional parking, annum) would reflect actual As well, the town should on-the-Lake annually. 2020 budget was prun- visitors at a cost of probably with a shuttle service where use required by players and charge a modest levy on The budgetary aim should ing expenses to reduce an over $500,000. necessary, which could one-hour permits could be overnight visitors to Old be to have income and estimated 9.48 per cent The beneficiary of the charge a fee of at least $10 continued but at a cost of Town hotels, B&Bs and expenses related to tour- tax increase for the coming tourist activity is primarily per day. $40 per annum. private home short-term ism in balance so that the year. secured by the Queen Street Parking in Old Town, Town provision of rentals to recover promo- assessments on residents Town revenue should not businesses and landlords. three blocks on either side concessions in the parks tional expenses. relate only to the services be totally based on resident Why not make charges of commercial Queen (both Simcoe and Queen’s The municipality also provided for their benefit. assessment. directly to these visitors to Street, should be at a con- Royal) could increase visitor could require a contribu- Martin Richardson This town has a sig- offset those expenses? venience premium cost to enjoyment, create student tion from the Chamber of NOTL

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 7 January 9, 2019 OBITUARIES In memoriam

For obituary and memorial inquiries, please contact [email protected]. Desmond Bruce Regehr

It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of our dear, courageous son Desmond on Dec. 27, 2019. Born in Oakville, Ontario, Oct. 15, 1960, to proud parents Daniel and Anne Marie Regehr (nee Brennan). A brother to Heather (Mark Williams), Diane Haliski (Mark Holmes) and Teresa Regehr, attentive father to Cody and Bailey (Aaron Charles), ADORED grandpa to Lana, Eamonn and Aine, loving uncle to Devin Coppola, Noel Haliski, Cassidy Regehr and step-neice Tara Haliski. Cherished nephew to Kathleen Sharpe, Terry Brennan and Susie Regehr. Predeceased by Hannah Granger, Irma Anderson and Michael, Harry and Dennis Brennan. Des grew up in Niagara-on-the-Lake, attending Parliament Oak School, NDSS and Mohawk College. His love of mechanics brought him to Newark Motors (now Timmy’s) where he apprenticed and worked for many years. He was an extremely hands-on fellow, flipping houses and running a Snap-On Tool business, later driving the city bus for St. Catharines and doing computer repair. Desmond married Wendy Sexsmith in 1983. They had two children, Cody and Bailey, to whom Des was a conscientious and devoted father. He instilled in them strong morals, healthy lifestyle habits and a robust sense of humour. Tragically at age 35, Desmond suffered a spinal cord injury, leaving him to live out the next 24 years as a quadriplegic with limited function. On Feb. 14, 1997, we were humbled by the outpouring of support from our community as we all “opened our hearts to Des” at a fundraiser at the NOTL Court House. The family would like once again to thank all of you who so graciously donated your time and efforts to making the event the epic success it was, providing Des the necessities to move forward. ... friends, neighours, relatives, town residents, many local musicians, St. Andrew’s Church, the Rotary Club, and numerous local businesses. Thank you! Known as a prankster and the life of the party, Des was also very meticulous and always had his ducks in a row. He initiated, hosted and documented countless family reunions, before and after his injury, keeping us close to many cousins and extended family. Family meant the world to Des. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered. A private burial with family will take place at St. Andrew’s on Jan. 11, followed by a celebration of Des’ life at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Sailing Club for close friends and family of Des. In lieu of flowers, donations to Spinal Cord Injury Research of Ontario would be appreciated. https://sciontario.org

Neumann, Peter Michael

With very heavy hearts we announce the passing of our father, Peter Neumann on January 1, 2020, at the St. Catharines hospital in his 89th year. Predeceased by his wife Edith (2017). Brother to the late Joseph (Nancy) Neumann, Pauline (late John) Voyer, late Edna (late Dan) Ciancio, late Rudy (Jeanne) Neumann, Ron (Barbara) Neumann and the late Caroline (Vincent) Benvenutti. Brother-in- law late Ernie Schellenberg (Susan). Loving father to Nancy (Doug) Widdicombe, James (Kathleen) Neumann, Denise (Paul) Fuhr, Kristine Neumann, Peter (Cathy) Neumann. Wonderful grandfather to Kara (Aaron) Tate, Drew (Luna) Neumann, Logan (Cooper Robinson) Widdicombe, Chelsea Widdicombe. Andrea (Rene) Solis. Great-grandfather to Ayla Tate and Frankie Neumann, Siera and Kaiden Solis. He will always be missed by his puppy Cooper, who visited him daily. Loved by so many nieces and nephews. A bit about Pete: He started his football path playing for his hometown St. Catharines Collegiate. At 19 years old, he was recruited by both the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and the Toronto Argonauts. Pete not only made the team that first year in 1951 but ended up playing beside Ralph Sazio, who would one day be his coach. Peter, #74, had an illustrious fourteen-year career with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. During those years he was named a CFL Eastern All Star nine times, and a CFL All Canadian All Star in 1964. He played in eight Grey Cup games, winning three in 1953, 1957 and 1963, and was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 1979. In 2011, he was inducted into the Tiger-Cats Wall of Honour, whereby his name has been hung high in Ivor Wynne Stadium (Tim Hortons Field) and a plaque hung on the Tiger-Cat’s Walk of Fame. We want to offer a special thank you to the staff and Dr. Jayawardene at the Royal Henley. You have become our family. Your support and love for both Mom and Dad have given us such comfort every day when we walk through your doors. We laughed together, we cried together, but you have always had my (Nancy’s) back for four solid years. Both Mom and Dad loved and appreciated you more than you will ever know. Peter will be sadly missed by all who grew to know him. A true sports enthusiast, we know he will be continuing to watch every game. On Saturday, January 25, 2020, at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME, 585 Carlton St., St. Did you know? Catharines, there will be a visitation held from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. followed by a 2:30 p.m. funeral service in the chapel. The The Lake Report’s printer sources 100 per cent of family invites everyone to join them for a Celebration of Life of Peter held at 4:30 p.m. at White Oaks Conference Resort, its paper fibre from industry leading paper mills, 253 Taylor Rd,. Niagara-on-the-Lake. At a later date a private burial will take place. In lieu of flowers, donations to the which use quick-growth, sustainable, renewable Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Niagara Humane Society would be appreciated. plots of land, rather than clear-cutting forests. Online Guest Book - www.georgedartefuneralhome.com The ink is also vegetable-based.

SHAW FESTIVAL Enjoy gourmet eats For film line-up or to book tickets: ($) from GOODDINE CATERING before the SHAWFEST.COM/FILMS films, starting at 1:30pm. 905-468-2172

SATURDAYS STARTING JANUARY 4 AT 3PM • DOORS OPEN: 1:30PM • FESTIVAL THEATRE • SINGLE TICKETS $12 • 8-PACK FOR $80 Page 8 January 9, 2019 NEWS Wells of Hope: Shipping a container to mountains of Guatemala Seeing the difference we can make is ‘life-changing’ and ‘very humbling,’ says NOTL volunteer

Richard Harley some political pressure to entire nation. Editor get it released,” he says. “This year the empha- If the sorting and pack- sis was school desks and It starts with humble spir- ing isn’t enough work, chairs,” Maxwell says. “It’s its and ends with a shipping before any of that happens, not enough just to build container leaving Niagara- volunteers are tasked with the walls. You’ve got to Frank Memme, Don Evans and Mary Van der Zalm help sort two transport truck loads of on-the-Lake, destined to choosing what will go in the also provide the desks and items bound for the mountain regions of Guatemala. RICHARD HARLEY change lives forever. crate. Maxwell says the chairs.” That’s the goal for Wells group tries to find items that Along with about 170 of Hope volunteers, who are going to affect as many chairs and 80 desks, the spend the whole year track- lives as possible. group sent 550 backpacks, ing down useful items to “Because our shipping too. send to the poor mountain costs are so high, we want “For the backpacks, I regions of Guatemala, to ship things that are valu- mean that’s a Christmas that where the adage rings true: able and necessary, not just many of the kids won’t get, one man’s trash is another things that people in Niag- so it’s something that’s very man’s treasure. ara are casting off. The first special that way. But it also On Monday, Dec. 30, thing is we ask is, ‘What do demonstrates our contin- one of those containers the mountain people need?’ ued support to the schools left Meyer’s Fruit Farms Instead of us guessing at that we’ve created that we on Irvine Road packed what we think their needs provide the backpacks to with school desks, chairs, are, we ask them what their those schools. Same way medical supplies, firefight- needs are, and then we try that the schools that we’ve ing equipment, backpacks, to be as selective as we can expanded, we try to furnish bicycles, tools, clothes and to try to provide that.” them the best we can with 52,000 dry, packaged meals. The tools they give away desks and chairs.” “It’s a major operation,” are in many cases “the first He says the group is also Wells of Hope chair Scott Maxwell directs a complex operation of getting as much as can says Wells of Hope chair tools that people actually getting into curriculum possibly fit into the shipping container. RICHARD HARLEY Scott Maxwell. own personally,” he says. development, and hopes to It takes about 50 people “They don’t actually have put a library in each school and then ship it all out in a they used for desks. We ball and they’ll run out in two days to make it happen. tools of their own, so the as well. fairly efficient time. Today built them a new concrete the field. And what they First, the items are brought fact that we’re giving them It costs Wells of Hope we did it in two and a half school with a steel roof and typically might use for a to Meyer’s, so volunteers things like lineman’s pliers about $8,500 to send a hours.” that provided them an soccer ball is tape wrapped can sort and label them, to do fencing and wire fenc- shipping container, Maxwell From the loading dock, environment where their around an old sweatshirt or then there’s the heavy lifting ing and things like that are says. And that is less than it the container heads to Mon- books didn’t get wet. When something.” of loading a container with tremendously important.” would cost a company send- treal to be put on a ship, the rainy season came they “It’s very humbling,” he as much as it can possibly He says the tools often af- ing products to sell. Wells and then travels directly were able to continue going says. “It’s life-changing fit, like a game of Tetris. fect more than one person’s of Hope is able to ship the to Guatemala, where it’s to school. And these desks when you experience it. This year the contents of life, because the people container tax- and duty-free brought by a truck to Wells afford them a great deal of You walk away and you just two transport trucks were there will lend and borrow a after verifying the shipment of Hope’s permanent camp comfort. The more comfort- shake your head. You real- packed in. tool when needed. with Caratis, the economic and distributed by volun- able you are, of course, the ize how good you have it.” “Behind the scenes, there’s Wells of Hope has also arm of the Catholic church. teers there. less that’s distracting you Anyone wishing to help another 20 or 30 people that built schools, bridges and, “If it wasn’t, we couldn’t Marcel VanRuyven has from being able to learn.” out can sign up through collect things all year long, of course, water wells. What afford to actually pay the been to Guatemala six From that perspective, the Wells of Hope website do all the manifests, all the it builds is also driven by importation tax on it,” he times to help out. he says, the stuff Wells of at www.wellsofhope.com paperwork,” Maxwell says. a direct need in the chosen says. “What we in our society Hope sends down is “pretty and can volunteer specifi- “That’s a going concern. community. The group also ships might consider to be rub- important.” cally if they have skills and That it has to be done exactly In Guatemala, children one container per year to bish is extremely valuable He says he has directly attributes they think can be and correctly.” often face challenges and help people in the cities of to them, and reusable. Just seen the impact on people’s of use. If a container isn’t prop- dangerous conditions even Guatemala. because it’s got a scratch lives, though Guatemalans “But you can also help a erly packed, it can cause getting to school, so in 2019 “It’s a year-long process,” or it’s dirty or it’s out of are enduring. great deal just by going on delays and problems at the charity built a bridge to Maxwell says, and it takes a style doesn’t mean it doesn’t “You know what, you to our website and volun- customs. In the past, the help them cross a dangerous community to pull it off. serve an extremely valuable don’t need to bring them teering to be part of the charity faced trouble when a river that had claimed the “Meyer’s Fruit Farms is purpose,” he says. stuff to put a smile on their newsletter,” Maxwell says. bag of sugar somehow made lives of two children. essential to the success of On one trip there, the face. The funny thing is, “The newsletter is its way into the shipping With unsanitary drinking what we do. Because they volunteers were building a with the little they have, quarterly, and it regularly container. Sugar is forbid- water being a leading killer allow us to use the facility school to replace one whose they’re almost always smil- communicates what’s going den from being imported globally, the group also over a number of days, we walls were corn stalks tied ing anyhow. Whereas when on and how people can into Guatemala, and the drills wells to access clean can inventory everything together, with a loose piece you look around our society, specifically help with our mistake held up the ship- water for communities. Edu- properly, collecting it from of plastic overtop for the kids have got everything three fundraisers that we ment or months, Maxwell cation also is a priority, as a various locations and then roof, he says. and they’re not smiling a run throughout the year, as says. generation of well-educated make sure that the manifest “And underneath were bit.” well as the different drives “We even had to apply children can benefit an is as correct as possible like crates and things that “We bring them a soccer that we do.”

Come Break the Ice. “When the World Hands You Ice, Celebrate with Icewine” Jan 18th - 19th and Jan 24th - 26th

niagaraonthelake.com/the-icewine-festival For more details: 905-468-1950 Page 9 January 9, 2019 NEWS Buy Nothing Project for NOTL NOTL started by local resident resident donates Dariya Baiguzhiyeva The Lake Report ski jackets Niagara-on-the-Lake to migrant resident Julia Buxton-Cox Pat Klotz, Dianne Hughes, Mark Brown, Julia Buxton- says her newly launched workers Cox and Dorothy Wiens carry donated ski jackets to the Facebook group, Buy Noth- Cornerstone Community Church. DARIYA BAIGUZHIYEVA ing Niagara-on-the-Lake, Dariya Baiguzhiyeva has already exceeded all her The Lake Report used, while the majority told The Lake Report. expectations. haven’t been used at all, “More neighbours are in- Since its launch on Jan. Thanks to a Niagara- Brown said. volved now with the Peach 3, the group has attracted on-the-Lake resident, “Many of (the workers) Pickers Picnic and give more than 200 members. migrant workers arriving coming from the south donations. That kind of The purpose of the group is in NOTL will receive a don’t have winter clothing, thinking wasn’t there three to spread goodness in town Julia Buxton-Cox said she doesn’t want to see waste going little extra warm welcome. so we thought this would years ago. That’s so awe- and allow residents to get into the landfill.DARIYA BAIGUZHIYEVA Village resident Mark be a good cause,” Brown some.” together and have a face-to- Brown donated more than told The Lake Report. “Our Virgil’s Cornerstone face interaction. When something has various modules and how 50 yellow and blue ski jack- mission is to help people, Community Church has “So far, I’ve been re- been given away, the mem- to set up the page, deal with ets for the migrant workers’ so the fact that we’re able also provided a room for ally pleased to see people bers are asked to edit their various requests and solve welcome kits Tuesday. to help some visitors to storing items donated for offering to pick things post to indicate it’s been any problems. Brown, who is a presi- Canada is great.” the workers’ welcome kits. up or drive things over gifted and leave their posts Buxton-Cox encourages dent of the Canadian Brown said he decided Henry Schein Canada or get together to meet,” up to show other members everyone to get involved Ski Patrol Central Zone to donate the jackets to has donated toothbrushes, Buxton-Cox said in a phone what they can post and ask and be bold in asking for Ontario, said since the the workers after hearing toothpaste and dental floss. interview. for. things they’re looking for. patrollers’ uniform co- about their arrival from his NOTL residents, who have The group is a local Group members will also “It is a good way to meet lours changed from yellow neighbour Dianne Hughes, been organizing the wel- branch of a worldwide Buy be able to offer their time neighbours. We’re trying to and blue to red and white who said it was all about come bags, also purchased Nothing Project, where and skills, Buxton-Cox told encourage things other than about five years ago, vol- raising awareness. 500 gloves, while the St. group members can lend, The Lake Report. anonymous porch pickups, unteers weren’t able to use “Three years ago, you Andrews Glen Homeown- offer or look for services To be accepted in the like meet your neighbour old uniforms any more. couldn’t get anybody to ers Association donated and goods. group, people have to live if it’s something small or Some of the donated reach out and now they’re reflective safety vests and So far, NOTL residents within the boundaries of maybe meet for a coffee at jackets have been gently thinking of us first,” she safety harnesses. have gifted pots and pans, NOTL, not belong to any the community centre,” she paints and stains, bedsheets, other Buy Nothing Project said. tennis racquets with tennis groups and be 19 years or “There are no opinions balls, a pet bed, a crate, dish older. to give, there’s no fear of A very NOTL new year towels, jars and mini plastic Buxton-Cox noted there speaking out or asking for containers. has been a lot of interest what you need or sharing or One resident also offered from residents living in St. giving. It’s total acceptance the use of her a 14-foot Davids and on Concessions right from the beginning.” trailer. to join the group. The group can be found “It’s amazing, people are As a group administrator, by searching Buy Nothing posting really good things,” Buxton-Cox has completed Niagara-on-the-Lake on Buxton-Cox said. seven days of training on Facebook. A new year and Newark Neighbours needs donations to restock shelves

Brittany Carter The thrift store and food Clients must apply and are The Lake Report bank is located just off John accepted based on income. Street near the Riverbend She said clients – fami- Just before Christmas Inn & Vineyard. lies, couples or individuals the Newark Neighbours’ The small store doesn’t – come in to pick up food packed food bank signified have much extra storage every two weeks. the extensive giving spirit of space, she said, so the “We do Thanksgiving Niagara-on-the-Lake resi- bank fills quickly over the and all the major holidays,” dents, but the organization holidays. she said, as well as regular has a strong need for dona- But after all those dona- pickups through the year. tions now that the holiday tions are picked up, she said Ollerhead said the organi- season is over. the shelves are empty and it zation is “incredibly grate- “It’s Christmas, every- can be a struggle to restock ful” for all the donations it body’s been so generous. them for the almost 40 receives, adding that she’d We’ve got lots of treats, clients who rely on the food like to encourage people to lots of things for the kids,” bank to supplement their keep the food bank in mind food bank manager Marion meals. now that the holidays are Ollerhead said when she “The food bank looks over. was sorting final holiday very different after the She said it can take a long boxes for pickup by clients holiday. The bank gets time to restock over January before Christmas. depleted.” and February. Town crier Thomas Pekar gives a rousing huzzah to ring in the new year. RICHARD HARLEY The Lake Report COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Winter Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 10a.m. - 5 p.m. Exhibitions Education Events Gift Shop Free Parking Accessible 116 Queenston St., Queenston 905-262-4510 riverbrink.org

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. 9 10 11 Seniors Drop in: Casual Duplicate Bridge (ACBL Shaw Festival Film Series: Wild Pauline Reimer Gibson Bridge - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - NOTL Sanctioned) - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - Rose - 3 p.m. - Shaw Festival Book a complimentary Audiologist Community Centre NOTL Community Centre Theatre hearing test today at A global leader in Homeschooler Drop in - 9:30 Knit a Bit - 2 p.m. - NOTL Public Icewine Festival 905.468.9176 hearing healthcare. The a.m. to 11 a.m. - NOTL Public Library Purple Pedals Indoor CycleThon Library 504 Line 2 Road, Virgil ON Lake Report Coffee with the Curator - 11 a.m. for Black Tie Purple Ribbon - 10 - RiverBrink Art Museum a.m. to 6 p.m. - Vino Velo Iceeine Gala - 7 p.m. - Fallsview COMMUNITY FAVOURITES: Casino Niagara Falls Legion Fish Fry every Thursday Icewine Festival - - 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Duplicate Bridge at the Community Centre Tuesdays and Fridays at 1 p.m.

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Icewine Festival Committee of the Whole: Duplicate Bridge (ACBL NOTL Toastmasters - 7 p.m. - NLH Workshop: Learning to PA Day Fun at the Rink and Fort Icewine Festival Ukulele Workshop - 3 p.m. to 5 General - 6 p.m. - Council Sanctioned) - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - Niagara College Daniel J Patterson Improvise - 7:30 p.m. - NOTL George - 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. - Fort Shaw Festival Film Series: p.m. - NOTL Community Centre Chambers NOTL Community Centre Campus Community Centre George Woman at War - 3 p.m. - Shaw Fun Duplicate Bridge - 9 a.m. NOTL Rotary Club - Noon - STEAM Story Time - 11 a.m. to Seniors Drop in: Casual Icewine Festival Festival Theatre to noon - NOTL Community NOTL Community Centre 11:45 a.m. - NOTL Public Library Bridge - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - NOTL Duplicate Bridge (ACBL Talk: The Decline of Bees and Centre Niagara Golden Age Club: German Conversation Group Community Centre Sanctioned) - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - Pollinators - 2 p.m. - RiverBrink Babies and Books - 11 a.m. - Seniors Euchre - 1 p.m. - NOTL - 9:45 a.m. to 11:20 a.m. - NOTL Homeschooler Drop in - 9:30 NOTL Community Centre Art Museum NOTL Public Library Community Centre Community Centre a.m. to 11 a.m. - NOTL Public Knit a Bit - 2 p.m. - NOTL Public Great Winter Warm up: Transportation Committee - 2 Lord Mayor’s Economic Library Library Celebrate MCC 100 Anniversary p.m. - Council Chambers Advisory Committee - 7:30 p.m. - Open House for Gate Street PA Day Flix: Mulan - 2 p.m. - - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Bethany NLH Workshop: Developing Committee Room 1 Road Reconstruction Project - NOTL Public Library Mennonite Church My Personal Style - 7:30 p.m. - Grinder Pump Committee - 9 a.m. 4 p.m. - Operations Boardroom, Niagara Dinner Dance Club - 6 NOTL Community Centre - Council Chambers 3 Lorraine St. p.m. - Royal Niagara Golf Club Yoga with Melaina from Salt to Customer Experience and Tree - 9 a.m. - NOTL Community Technology Committee - 4 Centre p.m. - Council Chambers

19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Icewine Festival Council - 6 p.m. - Council Duplicate Bridge (ACBL NOTL Toastmasters - 7 p.m. - Agricultural Committee - 2 Icewine Festival Icewine Festival Ukulele Workshop - 3 p.m. to 5 Chambers Sanctioned) - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - Niagara College Daniel J Patterson p.m. - Council Chambers Duplicate Bridge (ACBL Shaw Festival Film Series: p.m. - NOTL Community Centre Fun Duplicate Bridge - 9 a.m. NOTL Community Centre Campus Seniors Drop in: Casual Sanctioned) - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - Rocketman - 3 p.m. - Shaw Festivl to noon - NOTL Community NOTL Rotary Club - Noon - Branch 124 General Membership Bridge - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - NOTL NOTL Community Centre Rocking for the Homeless - 3 Centre NOTL Community Centre Meeting - 7 p.m. - Legion Club Community Centre Knit a Bit - 2 p.m. - NOTL Public p.m. - Club 55 Babies and Books - 11 a.m. - Niagara Golden Age Club: Room Branch 124 Homeschooler Drop in - 9:30 Library NOTL Public Library Seniors Euchre - 1 p.m. - NOTL STEAM Story Time - 11 a.m. to a.m. to 11 a.m. - NOTL Public January 2020 Red Tent Event - Beer and Books: The Orphan Community Centre 11:45 a.m. - NOTL Public Library Library 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. - Red Roof Master’s Son - 7 p.m. - Old German Conversation Group NLH Workshop: Playing with Retreat Winery Restaurant - 9:45 a.m. to 11:20 a.m. - NOTL Rhythm - 7:30 p.m. - NOTL Community Centre Community Centre Chess Club - 5 p.m. - NOTL Public Library Yoga with Melaina from Salt to Tree - 9 a.m. - NOTL Community Centre

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 PIN ME UP!

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Jan. 9 - Jan. 25

Voted Best Retirement Community Inquire Today 905-935-1800

Independent Living, Assisted Living and Respite Care Available. 582 Ontario Street, St. Catharines www.RoyalHenley.com

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 9 10 11 Seniors Drop in: Casual Duplicate Bridge (ACBL Shaw Festival Film Series: Wild Bridge - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - NOTL Sanctioned) - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - Rose - 3 p.m. - Shaw Festival Community Centre NOTL Community Centre Theatre Homeschooler Drop in - 9:30 Knit a Bit - 2 p.m. - NOTL Public Icewine Festival a.m. to 11 a.m. - NOTL Public Library Purple Pedals Indoor CycleThon Library Coffee with the Curator - 11 a.m. for Black Tie Purple Ribbon - 10 - RiverBrink Art Museum a.m. to 6 p.m. - Vino Velo Iceeine Gala - 7 p.m. - Fallsview Casino Niagara Falls Icewine Festival - -

Know of a local event? Tell us. Submit it directly to www.niagaranow.com or send us an email at [email protected] Page 12 January 9, 2019 NEWS Icewine Festival returns to NOTL

Dariya Baiguzhiyeva The Lake Report

One of NOTL’s most beloved festivals, a celebration of icewine and all things wine, is returning to Niagara-on-the-Lake, offering a magical winter getaway for locals and visitors alike. The 25th annual Niagara Coffee with lord mayor Icewine Festival will kick off in Jordan on Jan. 10 and kicks off the new year switch over to NOTL for two weekends before end- The Icewine Festival brings out locals and tourists alike to enjoy the sweet drink. Dariya Baiguzhiyeva have to go to St. Catharines, The Lake Report ing on Jan. 26. Celebrations start on Jan. 10 in Jordan. SUPPLIED/MIKE SANSANO there’s just no availability The festival draws thou- of short-term rental. It’s sands of visitors to town, Niagara-on-the-Lake much more deep-rooted Nicole Cripps, events two weekends, Jan. 18-19 but samples are purchased Oban Inn. The groups will council is kicking off New than ‘this neighbourhood’s co-ordinator for the and on Jan. 25-26. Visi- using tokens. then switch locations for Year with a series of coffee struggling with that.’ This NOTL Chamber of Com- tors will be able to enjoy There will also be a the next two courses. meetings as part of its com- is a whole cultural shift.” merce, told The Lake icewine from 22 NOTL Flash and Panache Cock- Everyone will then come munity outreach efforts. She also said town Report. wineries paired with food tail Competition on Sat- back to the Icewine Village Monthly meetings will be council will be reviewing The festive activities samples from 13 Signature urday, Jan. 18, from 9 to on Queen Street to enjoy held across all five commu- four bylaws – in relation to in NOTL will start with Kitchen restaurants. 11 p.m. Admission is free, dessert and an icewine toast nities in NOTL: St. Davids, noise, short-term rentals, the Sparkle and Ice Gala at Live music will fill the sampling is by a token. while watching fireworks. Queenston, Virgil, Old cannabis and long-term the Court House ballroom historic Old Town street, The White on Ice Dinner “I’m very excited,” Town and Glendale. The rentals – and the commu- on Jan. 17 from 8 to 10 which also will feature a on Jan. 24 will see some Cripps said. “It’s a lot of idea is to get out into the nity will be able to engage p.m. There will be food variety of ice sculptures. At changes this year. The pro- work of organizing ev- community and by talking in discussing these issues. and wine samples from 16 the entrance to the village gressive-style dinner will erything but once they’re to residents find out their Another NOTL resident, different wineries and 10 will be two eight-foot-tall start with a welcome recep- happening and everyone is concerns, said Lord Mayor Julia Buxton-Cox, asked restaurants. Juliet Dunn of sculptures depicting icew- tion and hors d’oeuvres at there and you see everyone Betty Disero. how with the influx of the TD Niagara Jazz Festi- ine bottles. the Court House. enjoying it, it just makes it “I go to a lot of events tourism, NOTL can be an val will provide live music. The village will be open Guests will then split into all worthwhile.” and talk to people but usu- example of a green com- At 10 p.m., guests will head from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on three different groups and With the purchase of ally it’s a bit of a rush. I’ve munity. out for an icewine toast and Saturdays, and from noon each will be driven to one a Niagara Icewine Discov- brought people with me to- She also suggested fireworks. Tickets cost $95. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. of the three restaurants: ery Pass, guests receive day that are taking notes on installing more water- The Icewine Village will Tokens cost $6 and glasses Peller Estates Winery, an icewine glass and five everything, so I can refresh filling stations across the take over Queen Street for are $5. Admission is free Prince of Wales Hotel and tokens. at the end of it,” Disero told municipality. Disero said The Lake Report. “I just the town will try to put out like talking to people, going more recycling contain- out and meeting, and find- ers in the areas of bigger ing out what’s going on.” population and also asked New yoga at community centre “I think it’s a better residents to bring their own way to be able to repre- mugs to such coffee events. Brittany Carter During her new classes at sent (residents).” One resident shared her The Lake Report the community centre, Gas- The meetings are not concerns about people barrino said she wants to of- limited to lord mayor only moving out of the Glendale Take a deep breath and fer a slow, steady experience as other councillors have area, while another resident ground down – Melaina to ease people into it. been invited to attend as asked about water testing at Gasbarrino of Salt to Tree “It’ll start off a little more well, Disero said. The Ryerson Park. is bringing her passion for slow pace, but then rising events don’t cost the town Disero also encour- healing and her ideology to do different postures that or taxpayers any money, aged residents to use the of living with the Earth to will give you that stretch. I she said. town’s online complaint the Niagara-on-the-Lake do like to hold the postures The first meeting of the form, so that the staff can Community Centre, where for a little bit longer to pro- year drew about 25 people collect data and look at she will offer Wednesday vide that little extra stretch,” to Kirk Hall at St. Andrew’s trends of what’s happening morning yoga classes for Melaina Gasbarrino will be bringing her yoga teachings to she said. Church on Tuesday. Joined around the municipality. five weeks starting Jan. 15. the NOTL Community Centre. BRITTANY CARTER “So, it’s a varied scope for by Couns. Allan Bisback After the meeting, Chau- Soft-spoken Gasbarrino people that attend classes.” and Erwin Wiens, Disero tauqua resident Ian Gil- is a certified 200-hour yoga her classes, creating a more want to give that variety to As well as the 9 a.m. answered questions from lespie said having interac- teacher. After training in grounding practice. people. I find that there are community centre classes, the residents. tions with town councillors Costa Rica and teaching “Whenever I teach a class some days when I just want she is available for a private The hot topic among over coffee was a “great yoga and reiki, or energy it’s focusing on grounding to do a crazy intense yoga sound bath with reiki and residents seemed to be concept.” healing, around the world, yourself.” class and some days, I just yoga classes, and she will increased licensing fees “As a resident, we’re she said she wanted to offer She said she wants to want to lay in savasana for also hold reiki sessions for short-term rentals. learning what’s bothering lessons closer to home. provide variety while main- an hour.” at the Virgil Chiropractic “It’s a new homeless situ- other people and what areas “This area is lovely taining a healing, relaxing Savasana, or “corpse and Wellness Centre on ation for these young fami- (need to be) checked out,” because we’re surrounded tone. pose,” is a restorative pos- Tuesdays from 3 to 7 p.m. lies,” said NOTL resident he said. by nature all the time,” she “One class might be a ture that involves lying flat starting Feb. 4. Jane Andres. “We already A list of upcoming coffee said. little more of a flow and one on your back. It’s often used Visit her website at see what’s happening here meetings can be found at Her aim is to bring that might a little more ground- for relaxation at the end of a SaltoTree.com for class with young people, they www.niagaranow.com connection with nature into ing and restorative. I just yoga practice. details. Page 13 January 9, 2019 NEWS Richard West releases book ‘Recollections of War’

Brittany Carter of living through the blitz- ferent,” he says. The Lake Report ing of bombs back home in West, now 70, grew London. up in London in the ‘50s Do you remember the West says he compiled and some of his happiest stories your parents told his short stories into a col- memories are of playing in growing up, the impression lection instead of forming the “literal bomb sites” left they left and the impact they them into one story because over from his parents’ war. had on your life? he didn’t want each ex- The stories his mother and Niagara-on-the-Lake’s perience lost through too father told made him feel as Richard West recalls his much character development though he was a part of that parents’ wartime anecdotes and intricate plot lines. time in history. and has weaved them into a Instead, he wanted to “It left me with a real collection of 21 short stories convey the feeling of each feeling that I was close to in his new, self-published moment in time. But he this event that happened, book “Recollections of War.” says a sense who his parents even though it was before I West wanted to capture were and their personalities, was born. So, I’m left with a a snapshot of life during to the best of his memory, feeling about it.” the Second World War by can be seen through conver- Although he wasn’t alive revealing the way ordinary sations and interactions in during the war and he Richard West self-published his book “Recollections of War.” It is available now on people dealt with such a each piece. couldn’t portray in detail Amazon. BRITTANY CARTER substantial historical event. “I’m just trying to make how it actually felt to live “I think it paints a picture their recollections into through it – through his of how very ordinary people something bigger. And writing he says he tried ing, he says. “I was terrible says only three people have started writing more and deal with a very big thing, hopefully people get some- to convey the emotion his at spelling and terrible with read that first book, he’s getting involved with the something far bigger than thing from it.” parents passed on. grammar.” now since published three circle.” them. And they don’t go He says he hopes the sto- “I had these stories mess- But with a desire to get others through Amazon, has He says his creative running around screaming. ries will give people and, in ing about in my head for, his stories “out of his head,” had several excerpts from method might be different They just get up in the morn- particular, younger people, oh, 25 years, I suppose.” he decided to start writing “Recollections of War” than many other writers – ing and carry on with it.” a sense of how different life West spent his career as anyway. He picked up a printed in The Lake Re- he simply writes what he It was simply life and dur- was during the war – not an engineer and says he notebook and pen and dove port and submitted a couple likes and sort of “works it ing the moments captured just in the sense of techno- didn’t pick up a pen for into writing whenever he short stories on Commuter- out as he goes.” But he’s from 1939 to 1946 he dem- logical advances and the creative writing until much had time. lit.com. found a passion for the craft onstrates how different that transition from his memory later in life. While commut- “Over the next several He attributes joining of and is working on two more life was. of mostly horse and carts on ing one day, he says he real- years, from about 1993 to the NOTL Writers’ Circle books now. Most of the stories take the road to the rise of motor ized how much he liked to 2000, when I was on planes with pushing him to pur- Recollections of War” and readers through his father’s vehicles. read and wondered what it and things, I would write sue the craft more seriously. his other works can be found experience as a corporal in “It was much more than would take to write a book. and write – and I actually “You exchange your work through his personal website the British army, he says. that. The world was very With his engineering wrote a book,” he says. and people go, ‘Oh this at www.richardwest.ca or on But some centre around different. The way people background, he wasn’t That was his first foray is good,’ or ‘This could Amazon at www.amazon. his mother and the reality dealt with it I think was dif- particularly adept at writ- into writing, and though he use some work,’ etc. So, I com/author/westr. Regency Skate is fort’s newest tradition

Brittany Carter over the years he said he’s put on,” he said. he thinks people are looking The Lake Report spent a lot of time with Pe- “That’s what traditions are for. ter Martin, the fort’s event based on, right.” “I think it’s just a really Wholesome, old-fash- co-ordinator. McKay said he really wonderful old-fashioned ioned entertainment brought “He and I have worked liked the idea of showing thing to do, you know. families like the McKays to together for a decade. We the leisure side of reenact- You’ve got the bonfires the Vintage-Parks Canada just kind of come up with ing. going, you can go get hot skating rink Saturday for ideas for things that we can “For me, and for a lot of chocolate, take a ride in the the annual Regency Skate do here, and this was one of the reenactors, it’s nice to carriage,” he said. event. them. We were just sitting see an event that doesn’t Free carriage rides were Participating in reenact- around chatting, and I was necessarily focus on the offered from the rink to ments is very much in- like, ‘We have a skating military. I know it’s really the fort with admission to Chris McKay and Ryan Clark skate laps around the rink. grained in his family’s life, rink here. Have you ever popular to have guns and the fort during the event. BRITTANY CARTER Chris McKay said. Together thought of doing a Regency muskets and firing at the Skating at the outdoor rink with his wife Shayna and Skate party?’” forts, and we all certainly is free, but skates can be for the men. The rink will remain open two boys, David and Iain, Last year the first Re- like that as well. But there’s rented for $5. “Anyone brave enough to until March 22, weather the family donned their best gency Skate began the new another side to the regency After skaters and reenac- wear those skates deserves dependent. “regency wear” while skat- tradition and Parks Cana- and another side to the reen- tors flashed their intricate to win,” Finlay said. Family and evening skate: ing laps around the outdoor da’s corporate programming acting,” he said. period costumes while Land strapped traditional Friday – 5 to 9 p.m. rink. co-ordinator, Scott Finlay, He said he thinks that’s mingling and skating for period skates to his boots, Saturday – 10 a.m. to 1 But they’re more involved said he doesn’t think it will why the regency skate has a few hours, the best attire going a step above costume p.m., 2 to 5 p.m., 6 to 9 p.m. than just participating in die out any time soon. been such a success so far. was judged by Finlay and expectations. Sunday – 10 a.m. to 1 Niagara-on-the-Lake’s new- “I think that what we’ve “It’s the other leisure Julia Grcevic, an interpreta- “I wouldn’t expect anyone p.m., 2 to 5 p.m. est winter tradition – McK- established is actually a activities they would have tion co-ordinator for Parks to wear traditional skates,” Open skate: ay said he was the one who pretty good winning combi- done as well,” McKay said. Canada, in a quick fashion Finlay said before spotting Monday to Thursday – 10 suggested holding the event. nation of things. Everyone It’s that old-fashioned show. Land easing his way onto a.m. to 5 p.m. Through reenactment events seems to enjoy what we’ve atmosphere that Finlay said Abel Land took the prize the ice before judging time. Friday – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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SATURDAYS STARTING JANUARY 4 AT 3PM • DOORS OPEN: 1:30PM • FESTIVAL THEATRE • SINGLE TICKETS $12 • 8-PACK FOR $80 Page 14 January 9, 2019 Wayne Gates MPP Niagara Falls Riding Serving Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake & Fort Erie GAMES 905-357-0681 • WayneGates.com • [email protected]

The Lake Report is looking for puzzle makers who would like to help develop this page. We are seeking both standard and cryptic Have some fun crossword writers. [email protected]

Across Last issue’s answers 9. Georgia’s capital (7) Crossword Puzzle 10. An ancient one had a bird problem (7) 11. Banish (5) 12. Comparable (9) 13. Road journey refreshment break (3,4) 16. Wield (5) 17. Fish eggs (3) 18. Oddball (6) 19. Entirely (6) 22. Pre-DVD technology (1,1,1) 24. Dorian Gray’s vice (5) 26. Door knockers (7) 27. Seen behind the scenes (9) 29. Believer in karma (5) 31. Found between sea and shining sea (7) 32. Make clear (7) Down 1. Try (7) 2. Bluff King Hal’s regnal no. (4) 3. First-class (4-4) 4. View unfavourably (10) 5. Youth charity (1,1,1,1) 6. Monotonous routine (6) 7. Next? (6,4)

8. Adjusts beforehand (7) MILD 14. If it’s too hot, get out of it (3,7) 15.. New actress about spreading the word (10) 20. Last remaining chance of relief (4,4) 21. Tofu base (7) 23. Publishing (7) 25. Home of the Prado (6) 28. Oil-rich monarchy on the Arabian Peninsula (4) 30. Old boatman (4)

Huzzah! It’s the lord mayor’s annual New Year’s levee

Richard Harley By the powers bestowed also spoke at. Editor upon me as town crier, I More than 200 people declare today 2020 NOTL gathered to watch the clock Toasts were made and a New Year’s Day. Huzzah, strike midnight. cannon was fired as almost Huzzah, Huzzah,” he pro- Pekar said he and Lord 200 Niagara-on-the-Lake claimed. Mayor Betty Disero are residents rang in the new NOTL resident Gus aiming to get the clock year at the Lord Mayor’s Koroneos brought out his tower bells to ring for 2021. Levee at Navy Hall. whole family to join in the “We’re trying to organize The annual soiree sees celebrations. with (the lord mayor) to get the hall reception open to “It’s really nice, you the bells in both the Court anyone who wishes to stop know, nice festivities, all the House and the cenotaph to in, offering punch for both dignitaries here and the can- ring,” he said. kids and adults. non firing is always nice for This year they couldn’t As is tradition, NOTL’s the kids,” said Koroneos. make it happen in time, town crier Thomas Pekar While the cannon was so Pekar brought his town Eric Borrows, Suzanne Vaillant and James Rolston celebrate the new year at the town’s addressed the crowd before quite loud, he said the kids crier bell down to the steps annual levee at the Navy Hall. RICHARD HARLEY the cannon was lit. were prepared. of the courthouse. “For those who con- “They plugged their In true NOTL fashion, he accepted refugees from cial time of caring, the ways Friends of Fort George. template revelry, please ears,” he added. addressed his “lordships, gridlock and grind, the of love made clear. And it With the money raised, note the following insights “The most important part worships, parsnips and fish many new refugees from is the season of the spirit, “we underwrite the em- from your sheriff: Life about what we’re doing here n’ chips” before giving a the GTA who have watched the message, if you hear it, ployment of high school is too short, break some today is we’re having fun,” similar speech to the one too many episodes of Green makes it last all year.” students to work with Parks rules, forgive quickly, kiss said Pekar. above. Acres and come to settle in “We just started a new Canada. This year I believe slowly, love truly and laugh The festivities kicked off “We welcome our neigh- NOTL, where all is serene first event,” Pekar said. it was 14 high school stu- with abandon. Do not feel on New Year’s Eve with bours from all Niagara. and idyllic and boring. For The privilege of lighting dents,” said Pekar. guilty for anything that an “unofficial levee” at the Compassion we practice; my Muppet fans, it is the the cannon is auctioned off “All guys like to blow puts a smile on your face. clock tower, which Pekar we have welcomed and season of the hearty, a spe- each year via a donation to stuff up, make big noises.” Page 15 January 9, 2019 ENTERTAINMENT Wallbangers: Two major hockey games played a world apart

Ross Robinson include NOTL Golf Club (#9, Blue Team) men’s champion Joe Doria, Special to The Lake Report and Sean Simpson, who played in the final four- Sunday was another great some last summer. Also, day for hockey. Early in the assistant club professional morning in Virgil, Ont., and Ricky Watson is a fast and early in the evening in creative skater. One of his Ostrava, Czech Republic, golf highlights last summer two hockey games were de- was being a key member of cided by heart and luck, as the winning foursome at the well as skill and fitness lev- Chautauqua Open. els. When played properly, Perhaps Ricky should hockey is a magnificent bring his golf mentor Doug Wallbangers Red Team goalie Rob Vanderperk lost a game that can be enjoyed Garrett out for Wallbanger friendly bet with Dave and Mark Shantz early Sunday by players of all ages and morning. At Silk’s Country Kitchen after the game, Rob hockey. skill levels. bought them a hearty breakfast to settle up. The father, Traded for the game to Virgil is a small town in son and goalie host. SUPPLIED Red Team, to even up the the agricultural Niagara re- sides, Phil Torrel had a hat gion, home to the town hall exchanged. butter, socks and under- trick. One of his goals de- for Niagara-on-the-Lake. It was good to have Evan wear, knocked the water flected off his chest after a Ostrava is the industrialized McCaughey on the ice with bottle off the net, all that… high shot from captain Carl capital city of the Moravi- us, back from the disabled Blue Team defenceman Glauser, but hey, a goal is an-Silesian region, 275 kilo- list. His shiny new helmet Josh Wiwcharyk, always a goal. There were no fans metres east of Prague and and full face mask seemed an offensive threat, seemed to throw hats on the ice, only 15 kilometres from the to fit, and he is definitely to be in a creative mood, but we remember. No hats, border with Poland. a Top 3 defenceman. His successfully completing but Phil was treated to a At about 7:10 a.m. in the Red Team teammate Terry several Savardian Spinnera- cold and frothy Oast House Did you know? Meridian Credit Union Nord, and Blue Team’s J. mas on his zone entries. Barnraiser beer later in the The Lake Report’s printer sources Arena, the Wallbanger Blue R. Lewis, the pride of Petit Danny Gallivan, the legend- day, during the World Junior 100 per cent of its paper fibre from and Red Teams faced off, Rocher, on the north shore ary English voice of the Hockey gold medal game. industry leading paper mills, which with players aged 15 to 82. of New Brunswick, are two Montreal Canadiens, would Oh yes, who won the use quick-growth, sustainable, Wallbanger traditions con- prototype Top 6 forwards. have loved it. Wallbangers game that renewable plots of land, rather than tinued under the watchful These two athletes battled The Red Team is hoping morning? I can’t remember, clear-cutting forests. eyes of Commissioner Bill hard, each of them win- Pete Vanderperk returns but I do know there were The ink is also vegetable-based. Dickson. There were three ning about half of the puck soon. He has missed about no losers. The game is the father and son pairs out. As battles. four games, after banging thing. ever, no referees, ensuring J. R. tallied twice, and his his little toe on a coffee Please join me in con- a penalty-free and fairly second marker was a true table during the festive gratulating Canada’s junior clean contest. The laws of bewdy, eh? Roofed it past season. hockey team on their first the jungle have prevailed Red team goalie Rob Van- It seems that talented place result in Ostrava. for some 36 years now, and derperk, top shelf, where golfers are also fine hockey We are so fortunate to only rarely are angry words Momma keeps the peanut players. Wallbanger players live in Canada … in 2020. Winter Legion open mic going strong four months in Seat Sale For travel between November 1, 2019 Brittany Carter which is a repurposed First-timer Gail Hawkins me. I was super impressed and April 30, 2020. The Lake Report hockey stick fastened with said her friend Brenda with the crowd and super beer bottle caps. Parks had been giving her impressed with the quality New and returning per- “There’s no limit to what a gentle nudge to head to of performers. It’s such a formers are buzzing about you can play. (The open the Legion and step up to great atmosphere,” she said. the NOTL Legion’s Open mic) is not genre-specific,” the mic, and last Sunday Hawkins said other Mic as the monthly event he said. a group of her friends than being “famous in her keeps on rocking after its Crediting Randy Bus- decided to go. living room,” she really Return Transportation to Toronto Airport first four Sundays. bridge, aka “Buzz Hum- “I thought, ‘I’ll bring my hasn’t performed for an Holmes Hooke has mer,” for organizing and guitar and see how it goes.’” audience before, but the Your Only stepped up to the mic to hosting the event, Hooke But as she got to the Le- Legion’s open mic was perform his folky and said he would “love to see gion, she said she decided welcoming and encourag- * TERMS: spoken word renditions more people” coming out she would just go for it, ing. Booking required 72 hrs or more in advance. All guests travelling to and from the since the first day, and he and taking advantage of because “life’s too short.” “One hundred per cent same address on the same dates. says he’ll “definitely keep the space. Hawkins performed a I’ll be back,” she said. Round trip fare only. No other discounts apply. coming back.” The Legion offers a few original songs and The Open Mic is hosted Cancellations over 72 hours will receive “The venue is totally warm and encouraging played some classics, and by Busbridge on the first a future use credit of 85% valid for one year. 30RS comfortable and they have atmosphere, he added. she said she “felt really Sunday of every month Subject to change without notice. 30 YEA a really great sound sys- “It allows me to keep my good” about the experience from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Call your Agent or tem,” he said. chops honed and I get to afterward. Legion Banch 124 on King niagaraairbus.com 905-374-8111 24 hrs Hooke plays what he play in front of a receptive “I was really nervous. It Street in Niagara-on-the- calls a “jingle stick,” audience.” was a new experience for Lake. pm 4 mary st 242

Naples-on-the-Lake

| 289-819-0179 the old “rest” door the old “rest” wood-fired dining 289-272-1242 RuffinPASTA BARo’s & GRILL tuesday & wednesday

Page 16 January 9, 2019 FEATURED

Danielle Lepp and Jaclyn Willms perform a curtsy lunge. Lunges require no equipment and can be done anywhere, A sweet, spicy, sticky sauce anytime. STAY FIT NOTL

Collin Goodine Special to The Lake Report Consistency key Who doesn’t love chicken wings? This is a recipe that is a little out of the ordinary but allows all the pleasure of getting your fingers sticky and saucy eating chicken wings. It is an to getting in shape approachable sauce that is truly satisfying when completed. It is a sweet spicy sauce that can also be used for chicken satays, spring rolls and dump- lings. Jaclyn Willms an old injury, strengthen here is a lower body work- Special to The Lake Report your body or lose weight, out you can do anywhere, Thai Wing Sauce being consistent is going anytime with zero equip- This year I’m going to to be the deciding factor if ment. Ingredients: start exercising.” whether you’re going to be 1. Squats 1 white onion 2 Thai chilis “This year, I’m going to successful. 2. Alternating Reverse 4 limes, juiced 1 cup plum sauce lose all my extra weight.” You didn’t gain weight or Lunges 1 can pineapple chunks 1/2 cup soya sauce “This year I’m going to create bad posture over- 3. Curtsy Lunges 2 cans coconut milk 1 cup sweet chili sauce take better care of myself.” night. You didn’t develop 4. Plank with Alternat- 2 cups red chili paste 1 cup water If a healthier 2020 is one an unhealthy diet or life- ing Leg Lifts 2 cups sugar 1/2 cup peanut butter of your goals, showing up style in one day. Do each exercise 12-16 daily is key to making it At Niagara Fit and Fit- reps for 3 sets. Directions: last throughout the entire side Express, our specialty BONUS: Add an extra Chop onion and add everything (except the peanut butter) into a medium-sized, thick-bot- year. is making exercise and set or pulse to increase tomed pot. New habits are not clean eating easily acces- the burn. Simmer for 30 minutes. born overnight, but over sible in Niagara-on-the- Visit our instagram @ Place into a food processor and turn on high until smooth and strain through a fine-mesh time. Consistency is key Lake. niagarafit for the videos of strainer. for everything. To help you kickstart the exercises While still warm, whisk in the peanut butter. If you are trying to rehab your 2020 fitness goals, Shaw Festival Film Series a social hub on Saturdays

Brittany Carter time – but for the NOTLers Alfred selling raffle tickets They don’t just arrive on The Lake Report who attend each showing, before the film since the time and watch the film; it’s it’s become an anticipated series’ inception in 2006. become a gathering point The Shaw Festival’s hub of social gathering and The couple often vol- for people to catch up and Saturday afternoon Film entertainment. unteer their time and she spend the afternoon, she Series booted back up this Franca and Angelo Min- said this was a great way said. weekend with countless iaci, both sipping red wine to give back to the Shaw Mary Bullen arrived early seat-saving coats scattered in the lobby before the film, Festival. From their vantage with her husband Keith, like over auditorium chairs said they just discovered the point of the raffle table, she many in the crowded lobby, before showtime, marking series last year and plan to said she watches the lobby to claim their seats. She said the established tradition of continue attending. fill up as people greet and the film series is something arriving early, claiming a “The films are all ter- mingle before heading into they have been looking for- spot and socializing in the rific,” Franca Miniaci said, the theatre. ward to, and they have been Ken and Nancy Decker with Gloria and Bill Harman from lobby before the film’s 3 adding that she’s most “It’s interesting. You’ll coming for several years. Virgil before Saturday’s film screening at the Shaw Festival p.m. start. excited for the last film in see a woman come in alone “It’s such a community theatre. BRITTANY CARTER To the outsider, the film February: Once Upon a and she’ll grab a glass of thing. People come to meet of gourmet food for sale in of the Toronto Interna- series may seem to simply Time in … Hollywood. wine and meet up with other friends, it’s really nice,” she the lobby from 1:30 p.m. tional Film Festival will be be a medium for screening “It’s a great way to spend women.” said. Over the next seven screened. specially cultivated films a Saturday afternoon,” she Mouget said the films are “It’s really a village weeks, the remaining selec- Tickets are $12 each and from the Toronto Interna- said. all “really good,” but people event.” tion of films presented by can be purchased online at tional Film Festival during Nancy Mouget has vol- are coming out to socialize This year, Gooddine Ca- the Shaw Festival in as- ShawFest.com/films. the theatre’s winter down- unteered with her husband more than anything else. tering will offer selections sociation with Film Circuit Page 17 January 9, 2019 FEATURED

Niagara Home Bakery

Literally everyone in town knew John and Paul Albrechtsan of the Niagara Home Bakery. It was probably one of the most frequented stores in town. Up to the early 1960s, John would deliver bread and baked goods right to your door. Coming from Denmark, their father was the original baker. The store was eventually taken over by his sons. The recent passing of John leaves only one member of the family still living in town, Dianna, the youngest and only daughter. This composite picture shows John with the most famous long johns ever made and Paul holding an unsliced loaf of high boy bread, which would almost melt in your mouth

SUPPLIED PHOTO/JIM SMITH

associated with Niagara Georgians. Early Regency homes drew on the Georgian A colourful palette, but by the end of the style’s first decade of popu- history larity had shifted to both lighter and paler colours. Did you know? Creams, sage greens, pump- The Lake Report’s printer sources Brian Marshall kin hues, muted blues and 100 per cent of its paper fibre from Featured stoney greys were common industry leading paper mills, which on exteriors, while the in- use quick-growth, sustainable, For some reason there is a A paint colour blending wheel, frontispiece from the terior colours were brighter renewable plots of land, rather than commonly held opinion that Painter’s Handbook, published in 1887. SUPPLIED and complemented by pale clear-cutting forests. the homes of our immigrant trim in period whites. The ink is also vegetable-based. ancestors were boring and the paint, and the home’s turn of the 19th century, On the exterior of Neo- somewhat sombre places. architectural style, dictated a range of grey and peach classical (and subsequently When asked to visualize the colour choices. tones were accented with Greek Revival) houses the colours used in early White paint was a staple. deep, rich colours such as period white, off-white, gray 19th-century houses, most However, this was not the burgundy, gold and, for the or ochre paints were the picture muted earthy tones “white” we are used to affluent, blue. Blue pigment colours of choice. They all that were perhaps comple- today. Prior to the advent of being extremely rare and were meant to emulate the mented with white or dull titanium dioxide pigment costly made the colour a natural stone used in Roman green. in the early 1900s, white statement of financial suc- and Greek temples and if In fact, this impression paint was compounded us- cess. a contrast paint was used could not be further from ing white lead, chalk and/ As an interesting side- it would typically be either the truth. Colour, often or lime mixed with linseed note, paint made with Prus- dark green or black. Rich vibrant colour, was used oil, a thinner and hardener. sian blue pigment would, hues of gold and green were whenever and wherever it This produced a cream or under exposure to the sun reserved for interior use. was available. In real terms, off-white tonal quality that coupled with yellowing im- This brings us to colours more than any other factor, was often “warmer” than parted by aging linseed oil, of the Gothic Revival and cost of the limited number the brilliant white of today. gradually turn into the deep later styles, which we’ll look of pigments used to tint In Georgian homes at the grey-hued green commonly at in a future column. Page 18 January 9, 2019 FEATURED

Hometown Traveller: Our Hungarian border adventure That time in the Soviet era when we mistakenly drove to an unauthorized crossing

People from Niagara-on-the-Lake travel to some of the most interesting places on Earth and we’d like to hear about your vacations. So, if you have ever wanted to be a travel writer, here is your chance. Send us a travel- ogue story about your vacation, along with some photos. It’s impossible to include everything, but stories ideally should be 250 to 600 words and focus on a unique, quirky or particularly interesting aspect of your trip. It can be about a vacation you have just taken, one you’re on now (lucky you!), or a holiday you took a few years ago. Sometimes, just a picture is worth a thousand words. So, if you aren’t able to write a story about your trip, send us two or three snapshots from your holiday and we will try to publish some of them. In all cases, smartphone photos are perfectly acceptable. Just make sure each digital image you send us is around 1 to 2 MB in size. Include destination information and the names (from left) of everyone in each photo. And tell us who took the photo, if possible. As a bonus, bring along a copy of The Lake Report and include it in your photo! Send your stories and photos to editor@ niagaranow.com and be sure to write TRAVEL in the subject line. Happy trails. Vörösmarty Square in Budapest showing entrance to the famous café. DON CAMERON

Mickey and Don Cameron As the first member roof is an outdoor pool with resort towns. That called for an official colleague: “Look at that. Special to The Lake Report of my family to be born with the original wave- We were keen to sample permit, obtainable from a She lives in Canada but she in Canada I spoke only generating device installed fogas (pronounced foe- garage in Budapest. Eying still respects her husband.” No sooner had I met my Hungarian until I started in 1927. gatch), a fish related to the clunky Lada, the garage With that, the guns were Hungarian cousin, also school. It was pre-com- Not to be missed was the salmon family but a owner said, “You can’t take put down, the gates opened named Mickey, in Kapu- munist Hungarian which, the Vörösmarty Café on species found only in Lake a car like that out of Hun- and we were through. var, the small town in I was told by a student Vörösmarty Square, now Balaton. The whole fish is gary,” and upgraded us to a Of course, I did have the northwest where our friend, contained words known by its original placed in a U-shaped cage sleek Opel Ascona. money but it wasn’t accessi- families have lived for cen- that were not allowed. name of Gerbeaud. More and deep fried. It arrives “I’m not paying any ble. The night before, in the turies, than he asked me, When the communists took than 150 years old, it is at the table in that shape, more,” I told him, which he Hotel Claudius in Szom- “Would you like to change over, they “cleansed” the described on a current upright, the head and tail reluctantly accepted. Nev- bathely, so called because some dollars on the black language of any class or website as “rather touristy, standing tall. ertheless, he arranged for the town was founded by market?” social distinctions. In the crowded and slightly over- But now we sat in our us to stay at a friend’s B&B the Emperor Claudius, we I would and I did. It Budapest museum I chatted priced but worth a visit.” rented car at an unauthor- on our final night before had taken precautions. As seemed like a good idea at with an old security guard During the communist ized border crossing with flying home. a dressmaker I made most the time. who said, “Oh, please keep era the state took over gates closed front and back At the border two guards of my clothes, among them Hungary in 1979 was talking. It’s so nice to hear ownership and renamed it. where a soldier in front emerged from their kiosk, a denim skirt with a wide still under the Soviet yoke, that language again.” Some of its old grandeur and another behind pointed examined our papers and waistband. With my travel with strict regulation of the We had been in Hungary also was lost. Today it has rifles at us. Our maps had told us to get out of the sewing kit I cut open the currency, the forint. Every for about 10 days, spending regained its lustre, with somehow directed us to a car and open the trunk. waistband. We inserted official transaction was five basking in the spa of fine wood panelling, crystal military road. At a cross- After they emptied it and the folded currency and I accompanied by a detailed the Art Nouveau-style Gel- chandeliers, lavish brocade roads as we approached the did a thorough search we sewed it up again. chit that was to be retained, lért Hotel and Medicinal wall covers, and marble border we passed two sol- were allowed back in. Next Back at work in Toronto I along with all receipts for Baths. Every morning we tables. The lengthy display diers, one on the phone, and they asked for our receipts recounted my adventure to spending, and made avail- donned our dressing gowns case that spans most of a large guard dog. At least and any unused forints, friends. It reached the ears able when the visitor left and waltzed through the one wall offers a dizzying we had a comfortable car. which Don handed over of a manager who was or- the country. The exchange marble and tiled corridors array of pastries and cakes Our travel agent in to be reimbursed when we ganizing a group to launch rate was abysmal. to sit under a lion’s head — even, if you must, car- Toronto had arranged for a returned. a new project. He asked Forints were not to be pouring thermal water. rot cake. Russian Lada but when we A guard then turned to see me. “When I heard taken out of Hungary, The present building Before heading for the picked it up in Budapest to me: “Do you have any what you did in Hungary I making it not such a good dates from 1918 but as Yugoslav border we spent a we learned we hadn’t paid money?” thought ‘That’s somebody idea for Don and me to early as the 13th century it night at Lake Balaton, the enough and had to make “Oh, no,” I said, “I let my I want on my team.’ ” be trying to drive through was the site of a hospital. largest in central Europe. up the difference. They just husband handle all our mon- Overnight I went from be- Yugoslavia for a few days Patients were bathed in the The northern shore has happened to take dollars. ey.” In the old Hungarian I ing a temp to a permanent in Italy while carrying a spouting spring waters. been noted for its wine pro- Our plan was to drive was using “husband” which employee. large sum of unaccounted- Later, the Turks built bath- duction since Roman times, through Yugoslavia to also translates as “lord.” Never underestimate the for cash. ing establishments. On the the southern shore is lined spend a few days in Italy. The guard turned to his benefits of travel. Page 19 January 9, 2019 COMMUNITY

We invite you to submit photos and stories for consideration in this section. Send your submissions to [email protected] for a chance to be featured.

Hoping your new year was a blast!

Community photos

With Betty and Jane

Teenie Panini

Diane McCalla, Brenda Parks, Gail Hawkins and Phaedra Howell come out at the Legion’s Open Mic for the first time on Sunday. BRITTANY CARTER

Sam Futia accepts the award for Teenie Panini. THE GOLDEN PLUNGER

We went to Virgil looking for a panini. We stopped at a place that promised to have some teenie ones. We didn’t find a panini, large or teenie, but what we did find was an awesome washroom. The bathroom was large, bright and clean. The owners clearly are committed to and had given much consideration to accessibility. In this regard they set the standard. The café is in the old Virgil fire hall, which meant that a lot of prep work went into making the space suitable Albert Ho, Murray Wilcox, Judy McHattie, Diane Croker, Gail Hawkins performs some original songs at the Legion for a café. They did not skimp on their attention to Richard West and Gord Pollock of the Tribe of Seven. Not Open Mic Sunday. BRITTANY CARTER pictured is seventh member Marilynn Crow. the safety and accommodation of all their potential BRITTANY CARTER guests when they designed the restroom. Everyone was considered in the design of this bathroom and we think it should make everyone feel welcome and Tarot of confident in using the facilities. the week 4/5 Golden Plungers

Lisa Tache/Special

DATE: Jan. 9, 2020 Each week, dart teams face off at local The Star of hope and restaurants and pubs. Find scores here optimism. Wish upon a star. I have many hearts, but no other organs. weekly, exclusive to The Lake Report. Anything is possible. This is a time of personal growth and What am I? development. Dreams can come true. The Star offers restored Silks Jini 102 hope and faith, and a feeling that you are truly blessed. It is a Last Week: I have keys, but no locks, and no rooms. What am I? Legion Guzzlers 95 pleasant, loving period in your life, filled with positive ener- gies, emotional stability, and a deeper understanding of your- Answer: A piano/keyboard or maple tree Close Shavians 92 self and others around you. Your heart is full of hope. Allow Answered first by: Lynne Stewart Guyz 90 yourself to dream in any way possible so you can reach the Also answered correctly by: Alfred Mouget, Quinn stars. You are making some major changes in your life, turn- Tiller, Dinorah Centeno, Julia Klassen, Margie Enns, Legion Airs 82 ing yourself from the old you to the new you and bringing Chuck Jackson, Katie Reimer, Sheila Meloche, Gary Davis, Karen Davis, Jacob Willms, David Galvin, Legends 71 a new vision. “Out with the old and in with the new!” Live Marilyn Vann, Jennifer Lang, Wendy Bosela, your authentic self. Stay open to new ideas and development Email answers to [email protected] SandTrap 71 and listen to the voice that is inside you. for a chance to win a prize. ASK YOURSELF THIS. Dartbags 41 What gives you a renewed sense of hope and faith right now? MUSIC TRIVIA MONDAY NIGHTS @ 7PM THEIRISHHARPPUB.COM/ENTERTAINMENT Page 20 The January 9, 2019

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FEATURED LOCAL STORY Artist with NOTL roots brings focus back home Spring opening of Steele Gallery will see dozens of pieces of art available from a small pop-up location on John Street

Scott Steele holds one of his photorealism paintings. Steele will be opening an art gallery in NOTL in spring. RICHARD HARLEY

Brittany Carter “Oh my god, I get what he does give off a salt-of- that you can make a living he bounces from creating “I said, ‘This would be The Lake Report he was trying to do, with the-Earth, hard-working in art, or it’s very hard. It is intricate realistic paintings the perfect gallery.’ He the blues and the yellows. vibe. “Not that any of that very hard,” Steele confirms. to bold, stunning pieces. said this was supposed to Scott Steele is pragmatic And it helped me realize really matters,” he adds And it doesn’t come While he’s spent his life be something else, but the – he says he learned early if that I liked Van Gogh. By about appearances. without its sacrifices. working hard and honing lady backed out. he wanted to make a living seeing that stuff in real He is certainly no strang- In prioritizing his work his skills, he says he’s also Steele responded, “I’ll as an artist he would need life,” he says. er to hard work, though. he’s let other areas of his managed to seize oppor- take it.” to work hard; that’s exactly But seeing masterpieces “Initially you don’t think life fall short. tunities that came his way. “So, five minutes ago I what he’s done every day up close didn’t just garner you can make a living do- “I’m going through a di- Those opportunities didn’t wasn’t thinking of opening since realizing his artistic his artistic appreciation, ing art, but then I sort of vorce right now,” he says. always fall into his lap, but a gallery, and all of a sud- aspirations decades ago. he resolved that he could have,” he says. Would he make the same he learned to follow open den it’s available.” And though he says capture the beauty of what For him, it comes down choices and do it all again doors, often to his benefit, He ran that gallery for he’s been creating art his he saw on canvas himself. to putting in the time and if he had a do-over? He he says. seven years. whole life it wasn’t until he “I realized what I saw, I just painting, even when it says he’s not so sure. But Walking through the He has since closed that travelled to Europe during said, ‘Oh I can paint that.’” loses its fun. this is the road he’s on Distillery District in space but will soon be a two-year stint as a model Now at 54, Steele says “It’s still a job. If I want now and he says he’s going Toronto several years showing his work in gal- in his 20s that he learned to he could confidently call to get paid, I need to get to keep working and creat- ago, he noticed a vacant lery space at The Lake Re- really understand the craft. himself a working artist, the work done.” ing marketable art. space in a building, which port office on John Street “I never appreciated Van something many creatives He’s been able to make a Steele pays attention to sparked the idea of open- in NOTL. Gogh. Then, you go on a may not be able to say. He living wage off his art for the latest home décor, fol- ing a gallery. And although Steele Gallery will walking tour in the south grew up in Niagara-on-the- most of his career. Early lows colour trends and tries he didn’t leave the house feature his paintings of France, and you see a Lake and lives in Toronto. on, he says he owned and to create pieces that people that morning with plans alongside art from local plaque and a painting, and He says he doesn’t look operated an interior design would want to put in their of being a gallery owner, metal sculptor and Scott’s you look where he was like an artist, but quickly business with his wife, homes. He says if he paints after a chance encounter uncle Richard Steele. The painting.” retracts his comment, add- before leaving the business something that no one with one of the developers gallery is set to launch in Steele says seeing those ing, “What does an artist to her and diving deeper wants to buy, he’ll refocus while standing in front of the spring. paintings up against the even look like?” into his paintings. and try another style. the building that afternoon, Until then he can be backdrop of their origins Sitting casually in a flan- “Like you just do art as With his preferred medi- he ended the day with the found on Facebook at Scott reignited his creative spark. nel shirt and baseball cap, a hobby. You’re never told um painting with acrylics, contract in the works. Steele Artist.