Rezza brothers run music business from Old Town music studio page 12

The trusted voice of our community. notllocal.com JANUARY 23, 2020 Volume 2 • Issue 4 Sparkle and Ice Gala twinkles into the night Kim Wade One look up at the Court Special to The Local House windows, and the sight of the faint blue glow The Sparkle and Ice Gala that emanated from the sec- on Friday night celebrated ond storey, was reassurance the 25th anniversary of the that this night was going to be Icewine Festival in Niaga- a special night. Upon entering ra-on-the-Lake, with all the the building, the warm ambi- glimmer and shine expected ence of the glowing candles in for such an occasion. the stairway set the mood for Set in the ball room of the what was to come. Court House, icewine enthu- Upon ascending the stairs, siasts were treated to featured guests were transported into a wines and icewines from winter wonderland, complete participating local wineries, with twinkling lights and lay- as well as icewine-inspired ers of sparkling drapery, and tastings offered by Signature interspersed with hanging chefs from area restaurants. snowflakes. White roses and The event was capped off with snowflakes adorned the ta- more icewine tastings when it bles, while more snowflakes moved outside to the Icewine and sparkling ornaments cas- Village, with a spectacular caded from the branches of a fireworks display to add to the spectacular white tree centre theme of the night. piece in the main room. Off Have you ever had that in the far end of the room, the feeling when you arrived at jazz stylings of local vocalist an event and just knew this Juliet Dunn enhanced the el- is going to be good, that the Michael and JoAnn Perry have a photo to remember from their honeymoon in NOTL, at the Icewine Festival. (Fred Mercnik) night was going to be special? Continued on page 14 Operating budget approved with 8.6 per cent levy increase

Penny Coles weeks,” a little longer than an- water of $437,199, a 2.48% in- among councillors, the MAT tion, including that it would cil could have chosen, as out- The Local ticipated, says Kyle Freeborn, crease, which hasn’t changed was not approved. discourage longer visitor lined in the staff report, was to director of corporate services, since the budget was present- Had it passed, the staff re- stays, which should instead be send the budget back to senior Council has approved the the operating levy increase ed in December. port said the $400,000 could encouraged for the benefit of staff to look for more savings, Town’s 2020 operating budget, has been reduced to $1.167 The staff report that came have funded operating ex- all local businesses, and that as it did in December, a rec- but not without a struggle. million, down from the to council Monday also rec- penses that directly support the tax was being suggested as ommendation supported by By adding another $1.267 that was before council ommended the operating tourism, by paying for items a crutch to reduce taxes, not to Coun. Stuart McCormack. $100,000 of interest revenue in December. budget be further reduced such as fleet support and help market tourism, as it was But interim CAO Shel- to the budget, the increase in While the 2020 capital by $400,000, revenue from a property administration; and created to do. don Randall said istaff would the operating levy has been budget was approved at a spe- municipal accommodation maintenance for washrooms, The levy increase as ap- need direction as to where to reduced to 8.61 per cent, cial council meeting held Dec. tax, that would bring the levy Queen Street, the Court proved represents an increase look, asking if McCormack down from the 9.48 per cent 16, council had decided to increase down to 5.14 per House, parks and Town facil- of about $92 on a residential was asking for services to be increase discussed in Decem- defer the operating budget to cent, but after listening to sev- ities. assessment of $530,900, or cut. He suggested staff have ber. allow staff to look for savings. eral angry people represent- Those arguing against the $96 for those in urban areas worked hard with the audit With interest that can stay Council also approved ing various accommodation accommodation tax had sev- paying for storm water. in the bank “for a number of a special area levy for storm sectors, and a lengthy debate eral reasons for their opposi- One of the options coun- Continued on page 3 2 January 23, 2020 THE NOTL LOCAL notllocal.com Council votes to defer municipal accommodation tax Strength of opposition succeeds by one vote

Penny Coles commodation tax, which is The Local split by the municipality and an administrator who would Six passionate speakers distribute the remainder of representing a variety of ac- the money to tourism-relat- commodation sectors con- ed businesses for marketing. vinced council to forego the In NOTL, that was expected $400,000 in municipal ac- to be the Chamber of Com- commodation tax that could merce, although there were have decreased taxes, at least still several details of the tax for now. to be worked out A staff report before Paul MacIntyre and Car- council Monday said the tax lo Robazza of Vintage Ho- Paul MacIntyre of Vintage Hotels and several others convinced councillors, including Wendy Cheropita and Gary Burroughs, not could provide additional rev- tels, Jason Clements of Ni- to support a municipal accommodation tax. (Penny Coles) enue for the Town’s operating agara Holiday Rentals, Tony budget, and could offset the Chisholm with a cottage costs of tourism by funding rental, Janet Jones, owner an accommodation tax, in- MacIntyre debunked a prove the MAT in principle travelling with their dogs. infrastructure maintenance. of a bed and breakfast, and tended to boost tourism staff assertion, saying “32 and form another commit- “With the current selec- The report listed 32 oth- Tim Jennings, executive di- marketing, would do more municipalities are calling for tee, again with stakeholders, tion available, people have a er municipalities that have rector of the Shaw Festival, harm than good in Niagara- urgent reform, to deal with to work out the details, with choice,” said Jones. successfully adopted an ac- spoke of the many reasons on-the-Lake. the great amount of discon- the intention of adopting the “B&B and vacation own- tent created by the MAT im- tax by June. ers are private concierges for plementation.” “Please do not vote this our guests. The introduction In some of those munici- forward, even in principle of a MAT will damage the re- palities, revenue for tourism right now. There has not lationship.” every night in January marketing boards may be been near enough properly There are about 400 from 4:30 - CLOSE reduced, and the accom- focused discussion or an- short-term rentals in NOTL, modation tax would be ex- swers around the impact she said, and no way to know Dinner pected to replace their fund- of the legislation, and it can whether property manage- $ ing, rather than increasing never be undone,” said Mac- ment systems can be adapted current funding levels, said Intyre. “There will be an im- to a new tax. for 2 95 MacIntyre. pact on our economy which She also suggested with- for three courses “Ontario municipalities will put a strain on everyone out a request from the tour- including wine. are working with the Tour- who lives here: on our cul- ism industry for the tax, “the ism Association of Ontario ture, employment, heritage assumption is that the Town to force a restriction stat- and services to residents, ag- needs the 50 per cent portion SUNDAYS 11 - 4 p.m. ing that MAT funds cannot riculture and tour operators.” they would be allocated in be used to replace existing Bed and breakfast owner order to balance the budget.” join us for sources of tourism funding Jones called the short-term If that’s the case, she added, in a community,” he told rental industry in NOTL “a “stop representing it as any- council. tourist attraction in of itself.” thing else.” MacIntyre sat on a Town Guests consider B&Bs in She recommended that committee charged with in- NOTL “their world standard instead of dividing the town vestigating the municipal ac- by which they judge their fu- between residents and busi- commodation tax, which all ture B&B stays,” she said. nesses, council reach out to JAZZ stakeholders on the commit- Cottage rentals are equal- tee opposed, he said, yet the ly highly-regarded, and are & Brunch recommendation was to ap- attractive to families, often Continued on page 3 BRUNCH is served 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. LIVE JAZZ MUSIC SaveIcewine up to $10 per 375 Sale! mL bottle! 12 p.m. - 3 p.m. Vidal Icewine now $24.95 Riesling Icewine now $29.95 RETRO FRIDAY NIGHTS Cabernet Franc Icewine now $29.95 with JAMES GAY & FRIENDS 6 - 9 p.m. Tasting Bar & Wine Boutique Open 10 am to 5 pm Sunday through Friday 10 am to 6 pm Saturday The Farmhouse Café Open for Lunch Daily 11:30 to 4 Sunday to Friday 11:30 to 5 Saturday Bring this ad in for a OLiV Tasting Room & Restaurant located in Strewn Winery 10% Lunch Discount 1339 Lakeshore Road, NOTL • olivtapasnotl.com Valid Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday in January Call to reserve 905.468.1222 notllocal.com THE NOTL LOCAL January 23, 2020 3 Tourism strategy will look at facts and figures Continued from page 2 accommodation sector, was “I don’t think we can let it in information we need to point would be premature, Allan Bisback. against the tax being intro- go through. I think we need address.” including Couns. Gary Bur- “I stand by the fact that duced. to engage with the business Cameron made a motion roughs, Stuart McCormack, 18,000 people can’t continue the community for ideas, There is a concern the tax community.” to defer the accommodation John Wiens, and Cheropita. to pay for infrastructure for and show how much can be will become a crutch — shor- The tax will put NOTL tax until the Town can com- Lord Mayor Betty Disero three million tourists,” said achieved with residents and ing up the operating budget, businesses at a disadvantage, plete a tourism strategy, and voted against the deferral, Disero. businesses working together. and driving away overnight she added. “We can’t have was supported by others who along with Couns. Erwin “We have to look at lon- Clements told councillors visitors, some of whom come that level of discontent from thought approving it at this Wiens, Norm Arsenault and ger-term revenues.” many of the homes he man- as a family for one, two or our top businesses.” ages are weekend getaways three weeks. She recommended coun- for owners who plan to He suggested the Town cil “take a pause to do more retire to NOTL. Fees and form a working group of work on the impact of the Canopy Growth taxes have increased in re- hospitality industry repre- tax.” cent years, he said, “and I’m sentatives to present their Coun. Clare Cameron not sure we can handle an ideas and solutions, saying wasn’t buying some of the extra tax.” he’s willing to sit down and arguments she heard — His rentals are licensed, “help make a difference.” she said adapting systems he explained, and the accom- Jennings too asked the to chart the tax wouldn’t modation tax would give an Town to continue working be complicated, and she additional unfair advantage out more details before con- wasn’t accepting the doom to unlicensed rentals. sidering the new tax. He said and gloom forecasts about He suggested if it be- if the number of people vis- it ending the tourism in- comes even more expen- iting the Shaw decreases by dustry. sive to stay in NOTL, more even one per cent, all local She pointed out that visitors will choose accom- tourism sectors will suffer, “everyone who has expressed modations in Niagara Falls. and smaller businesses will opposition relies on the “Council needs to fully un- be hit the hardest. tourism industry for their derstand the impact before Coun. Wendy Cheropita livelihood, may have a moving forward with the told councillors she found self-interest, and may not M AT.” the presentations “very represent the majority of the Vacation rental owner compelling,” and suggested community.” Tony Chisholm told council going back to the drawing However, she agreed the he sat on the Town’s MAT board on the tax. Too many tax targets the tourists NOTL committee as a stakehold- businesses are talking about wants to attract, and suggest- er, and like the others in the a negative impact, she said. ed “there may be critical gaps Newark Neighbours board members Pat Fryer, Susan Sparrow-Mace, Suzanne Vaillant, and chair Laura Gibson received a donation of $5,000 from Canopy ‘Nothing left’ to cut, says interim CAO Growth Corporation director Sean Webster and manager Michelle Fanning. As Continued from page 1 part of the NOTL community, Webster said Canopy Growth is proud to support budget, and Coun. Wendy committee for 2021,” said Newark Neighbours, which serves the community with compassion, care and con- Cheropita suggested staff go Cameron. cern. The donation is a part of Canopy Grown’s commitment to giving back to the committee to find savings. back to the budget and elim- “I think it’s our responsi- community. (Randy Klaassen) “There’s nothing left,” he said. inate the purchase of “one bility to keep this town oper- McCormack’s motion more corporate printer, or one ating, and to finalize this so we was lost, with the majority of more van.” can get some work done.” councillors seeing no point Randall said while the The budget was approved, in sending the budget back to purchase of a piece of equip- with just Cheropita and Lord staff to go over the same items ment could be delayed for a Mayor Betty Disero voting they’ve been looking at since year, “you’re not saving the against it. December. cost, you’re just putting it off.” Disero said she thought Coun. Allan Bisback sug- “During our last discus- they were looking for short gested cutting all discretion- sion of the operating budget,” and long-term ways to make PRE-INVENTORY ary grants, which support said Coun. Clare Cameron, the budget sustainable, and organizations such as the Ni- “every member of council that didn’t happen. agara-on-the-Lake Museum was welcome to make sugges- “It was an 11th hour bud- CLEARANCE and the Niagara Pumphouse tions.” Despite an 8.6 per cent get to get through 2020, not a Arts Centre. increase, she said, NOTL still long-term budget. This is the Before there could be a has one of the lowest tax costs first time ever in my career E V E N T vote on eliminating the grants, in the region. “It seems like a I’ve voted against a budget. Freeborn reminded coun- fool’s errand and incredibly But I’ll support the position cillors the money to pay for unproductive” to send the of council going forward, and them is coming out of parking budget back to staff again to move forward as best we can.” reserves, so would not affect look for reductions, she said. The 2020 Niagara Region the levy increase. “I would respectfully sug- operating budget was ap- Bisback also wanted to gest you take all your ideas proved in December, with a ask staff to find a reduction and great suggestions to be property tax increase of 5.92 of $300,000 in the operating first in line with the audit per cent. HUGE SAVINGS on hundreds of items On Now until Saturday, February 1st CLOSED Sundays & Mondays

GRANTHAM PLAZA 400 Scott Street (at Scott & Vine) St. Catharines

vandendooljewellers.com 905 937 8833 4 January 23, 2020 THE NOTL LOCAL notllocal.com Wellness Gala a lot committee of laughs Lord Mayor Betty Disero, reports to Erica and Richard Reid (general manager of White Oaks Resort and Spa), and council Dan Williams chat at the Icebreakers Comedy Festi- programming; Niagara val Gala at White Oaks Sat- Penny Coles The Local Region EMS Mobile In- urday. (Penny Coles) tegrated Health program The Town’s wellnessand services; support committee, new under through promotion and this term of council, has marketing of recreation prioritized nine catego- and sports programs in all ries for improvements five villages, and preven- to the health of Niaga- tative health education. ra-on-the-Lake residents, “If our committee l l with recommendations heard once, we heard on how to achieve them. many, many times: ‘we IT’S BACK Chosen based on need x, we already have feedback from a website that, I didn’t know that.’ $ survey and a public fo- We need to work at get- rum held in September, ting a bigger message or Cindy Grant, chair of the more information out.” 5 February committee, presented Grant also suggested the categories to council the need for an environ- Monday. They were pri- mental advisory com- oritized in the order of mittee, for education and importance as decided awareness. by the committee: com- The report addresses munication; the envi- the issues of bird bangers ronment; pedestrian and and chemical sprays, bicycle safety; housing also calling for practic- options; transportation es and policies to reduce services; lifelong learning; single-use plastics and lifelong physical activi- mitigate noise and light ty; social connectiveness; pollution. The report also and health services. recommends a plan for “The state of wellness the mitigation of climate in NOTL is good,” Grant control. assured council. Recommendations for “The recommenda- housing options consider tions are for improve- looking at what is needed ment.” to suit all ages, including After a year’s work, supportive care, adopting the recommendations in “age in place” strategies, a summary of the com- and investigating transi- w w mittee’s report require a tional housing. PINTS WINES BY THE GLASS variety of effort and re- To improve transpor- courses, and some may be tation, Grant asked coun- w SELECT APPS & PIZZAS (EAT IN ONLY) better handled by other cil to strongly support the Town committees, Grant Region’s investigation of ALL STARTING AT $5 BEFORE TAX said. an on-demand, point-to- “Where applicable, point system. specific committees,Once Grant had com- DOMESTIC BEER BOTTLES ON SPECIAL Town departments or pleted presenting the other organizations have summary, she asked been referenced as the council, “where do we go most appropriate mecha- from here?” As a commit- J nism for potential imple- tee of council, she said, mentation.” “We have another three The recommendations years. How do we start ALL DAY EVERYDAY support the strategic pil- working on this?” lars council has chosen She suggested improv- for its term, in particu- ing physical activity is im- lar, strong environmental portant, and might be an in February stewardship; an inclu- area the committee can sive, integrated, healthy focus on more easily than J town; a centre of culture, some of the others. heritage and recreation; The report and its mobility choices; and a recommendations were well-planned built envi- received, although the fi- 358 Mary Street, NOTL ronment, she said. nal ones on health care, In the area of commu- which is under the juris- nication, the report sug- diction of the Province, 905-468-TRAP (8727) gests improvements to the will be forwarded to the NOTL Community Guide riding MPP. Hours: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and the Town website: Grant and the commit- promotion of Niagara tee were recognized for sandtrappub.com 211, a database of com- the importance of their munity organizations and recommendations, and agencies in the region; thanked for the amount sports and recreation of work they’ve done. notllocal.com THE NOTL LOCAL January 23, 2020 5

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Conveniently located at 1573 Four Mile Creek Road in Virgil. 6 January 23, 2020 THE NOTL LOCAL EDITORIAL notllocal.com Queen Street is magical; at LOCAL FINDS Town Hall it’s back to reality What could be prettier, magic, a dose of reality. of fees promised before next more magical, than a light Five and a half hours in year’s budget. snow fall on the Icewine Vil- the council chamber Monday, Then, the municipal ac- lage nestled between artistic ice much of it balancing the needs commodation tax. Business sculptures lining Queen Street? of residents with tourism-re- owners are angry. Not just What could be more fun lated businesses, and the Town those whose business is accom- on a cold winter’s night sitting trying to find the resources to modations, but all those who with a glass of wine or local support both, without one be- rely on tourism, on sustaining craft beer (or two) while be- ing at the expense of the other. NOTL’s brand as a destination. ing entertained in some of the First council dealt with the They made their case. town’s most prestigious venues harsh reality of tightening up There was strong emotion, by some of the country’s best policies and codes to deal with and also facts, or rather a lack comics, during the annual Ice- privacy, confidentiality and hir- of facts. breakers Comedy Festival. ing issues, as a result of the In- It may not be gone forever, The outdoor magic might side Job report on the Region’s but it’s not expected to resur- have been disrupted just a tee- hiring fiasco. As Coun. Gary face any time soon, at least not ny tiny bit by protesters, when Burroughs, who was a region- until council has more detail they started pouring wine over al councillor during that term, and a better case before them. their heads to make a point that said, you believe the policies are Finally, the budget. Not really people should avoid drinking in place, and that they will be one to make anyone happy. The NOTL wine, I think in the mis- followed. Then they’re not. And tax increase is steep, but it was a taken notion that might put an the lesson is to take precautions, matter of bite the bullet for this end to the operation of horse- even if it’s not something you year and hope for better next. drawn carriages. expect to ever happen in your There will be debriefing, Visitors might be forgiven own bailiwick. and then look for talk of next for thinking they were more Next on the agenda, after year’s budget to surface soon, likely part of the comedy festi- a big hike this year, short-term hopefully with better times val than a protest, their actions rental owners want licence fees ahead. were so silly. reduced. A compromise was But we digress. Following found, allowing them to pay in Penny Coles close on the heels of a bit of two instalments, with a review The Local NEEDNEED HELP?HELP? MAKEMAKE THETHE CALLCALL

DISTRESS CENTRE KIDS HELP PHONE ASSAULTED For depression, Service for youth WOMEN’S HEATHER distress and crisis. HELPLINE 416-586-5437 TIENS LE DROIT 24 hour help line: 1-800-668-6868 Mobile calls to: 905-688-3711 (Crisis Line) #SAFE (#7233) MAJOR GEORGE A. HEATHER, R.F.A. kidshelpphone.ca 1-866-863-0511 DUKE OF CONNAUGHT’S OWN SLIGO ARTILLERY MENTAL HEALTH (Toll Free) OF KNOCKADOO, COUNTY SLIGO, IRELAND AND ADDICTIONS ALCOHOLICS AND KITCHENER, ONTARIO, CANADA ACCESS ANONYMOUS CRIME STOPPERS BORN AT DUGORT, ACHILL, COUNTY MAYO, IRELAND. JANUARY 8,1868 Meetings every (Toll Free) Wednesday evening 1-800-222-8477 SON OF THE VERY REVEREND G.A. HEATHER, M.A. 1-866-550-5205 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. (TIPS) DEAN OF ACHONRY, SLIGO, IRELAND St. Mark’s Parish Hall niagaratips.com AND MRS. H.J. HEATHER. “ERRISLANEN MANOR” GAMBLER’S 41 Byron St., NOTL Text 274637 (CRIMES), CLIFDEN, COUNTY GALWAY, IRELAND ANONYMOUS or find a meeting keyword: Niagara, DIED AT KITCHENER, ONTARIO, MAY 18, 1957 905-351-1616 905-682-2140 then your tip HIS WIFE WILLIAMINA HEATHER F.R.E.S. BORN AT FERGUS, ONTARIO, DECEMBER 15,1866 The NOTL Local acknowledges the land on which we gather is the traditional territory of the DAUGHTER OF THE LATE Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples, many of whom continue to live and work here today. WILLIAM AND ANN ARCHIBALD PATTISON This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties and is within the land protected by the DIED AT KITCHENER, ONTARIO, MARCH 18, 1946 Dish With One Spoon Wampum agreement. Today this gathering place is home to many First PAST PRESIDENT QUEEN MARY’S LONDON NEEDLEWORK GUILD Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples and acknowledging reminds us that our great standard of living VICE-PRESIDENT HER MAJESTY’S PERSONAL GROUP is directly related to the resources and friendship of Indigenous peoples. LIFE MEMBER NATION COUNCIL OF WOMEN OF GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND IMMIGRATION CONVENER NATIONAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN OF CANADA MEMBER OF THE COMMITTEE SOCIETY OF OVERSEAS SETTLEMENT OF BRITISH WOMEN, LONDON, ENG. MEMBER IMPERIAL COUNCIL GIRL GUIDES ASSOCIATION HON.VICE-PRESIDENT ONTARIO COUNCIL GIRL GUIDES ASSOCIATION DIVISIONAL COMMISSIONER WATERLOO COUNTY GIRL GUIDES ASSOCIATION. “O blessed communion fellowship divine we feebly struggle, they in glory shine. The trusted voice of our community Yet all are one in Thee, for all are Thine. Alleluia.” P.O. Box 430, 1596 Four Mile Creek Road, Virgil, L0S 1T0 Editor: Advertising Sales: Waterloo residents buried in NOTL Penny Coles Karen Skeoch [email protected] [email protected] • 905-641-5335 by Donald Combe 905-246-5878 Julia Coles Special to The Local Publisher: [email protected] • 905-934-1040 The Niagara-on-the-Lake Local The inscription on this mausoleum provides abundant details much in contrast to Helen Arsenault Graphic Designer: Local Business Directory, most cemetery monuments that provide little more than names and dates. It seems Rosie Gowsell Local Happenings, Classified Sales strange that these significant residents of Waterloo chose to be interred in this mauso- [email protected] [email protected] leum in Niagara-on-the-Lake. St. Mark’s rector from 1918-1954 was C.H.E. Smith. His notllocal.com facebook.com/notllocal instagram.com/thenotllocal @thenotllocal wife was Madeline Pattison, sister of Williamina (Pattison) Heather. notllocal.com COMMENT THE NOTL LOCAL January 23, 2020 7 Australia’s bushfires have global implications ister of Australia supposed to So the dry tinder and kin- able to rely on our government lies for some time. It may even suffering losses, hopelessness, do about that? When you are dling are sitting still, almost leaders to make positive adjust- circumnavigate the world. and fear during these challeng- voted to represent a country, just waiting to be sparked. By ments for our country and the These fires will likely al- ing times. you can expect your face to lightning, a cigarette butt, or an world’s well-being. Absolute- ter the way Australia’s climate I know Aussies. I’ve been show up on signs during pro- irresponsible person. With the ly, charge those who exhibit self-regulates itself for some among them in times of nat- tests, as it has. However, what is Australian authorities recently behaviours reckless enough time to follow. This may have ural disaster before. With the Owen Bjorgan one person realistically expect- charging 24 people for ignit- to start massive fires. We defi- influences on neighbouring environment, community, and Special to The Local ed to do? ing these fires, others might be nitely need to acknowledge the countries and their climates, personal lives hit so hard, I Our news headlines in I believe a lot of people in scratching their heads and ask- coincidence that other oceanic spawning a domino effect of know one thing — Aussies are 2020 included scenes of hellish democratic societies see their ing, why do we need climate influences are at play, but also interconnected climate pat- as resilient as they come, and infernos from Australia, which leader as a representation of change protests? not dismiss that they were terns being tilted off-centre. will pull together in the best ca- have global implications. their own national identity, es- Furthermore, natural oce- dealing with a record-broken, The Earth itself is like one pacity humanly possible. There are two types of cli- pecially when that leader is on anic climate variations such as hot and dry Australia. enormous ecosystem, with all Meanwhile, we can only mate change occurring right the world stage. Australia has El Nino and the Indian Ocean The smoke is literally blow- parts connected. It may not be hope that my favourite hero, now. One is related to weather not been on track for curbing Dipole have naturally dehy- ing across the globe. Satellite directly observable, but these Australian wildlife expert and and environmental patterns, the its climate change impacts and drated Australia this year, and images have picked up on fires will literally have ripple ef- environmentalist Steve Irwin, other to do with political climate. carbon emissions, despite its dumped lethal floods onto Ken- the clouds being pushed over fects around the world. who died in 2006, will shed a There are two types of heat goals and the Paris Agreement. ya at the same time. This adds South America, and will con- I end with this: Bless our tear from above and give Aus- in the air right now. One type is Who, ultimately, regulates another considerable variable to tinue to travel with the Wester- Australian friends and families tralia the soaking it needs. the actual scorching tempera- what is done with a nation’s the origin of these fires. ture from the flames and em- resources and landscape at the The bottom line is that bers of Australia’s bushfire crisis. large scale? Your top-tier poli- many Australians and others The other heat is on the streets ticians. So here comes the pres- around the world are terrified, of Sydney, steaming from the sure, but with a complex twist. at a deeper level, for what fire heads of about 30,000 people Climate change is said to events this size imply. demanding answers and action have propelled Australia into We know science shows the from their government. its worst memorable bushfire parts per million of carbon rising You may be asking, what crisis in modern history by unreasonably high for the first are 30,000 people standing out drying up a continent that al- time in 650,000 years. We know there for, while Australia’s larg- ready holds the title for “world’s that we, as humans, are respon- est city has smoke periodically driest continent” (after An- sible for what is dubbed the Ho- blow through its skyscrapers? tartica, technically). Australia locene extinction event, which The questions and points of is also the least forested conti- translates to extinction caused anger are stirring, for obvious nent, so with the vast majority by human activity. We know reasons, but from multiple angles. of the nation’s trees sitting on Australian agricultural soils and Lives and homes have been the eastern edge of the country, native vegetation will no longer lost. Australia’s unique wildlife it’s a shame that this geograph- be able to work together as effec- is taking an all-time critical ical area is experiencing the tively after the flames. blow. Millions of tonnes of car- worst of the fires. The eastern If we want to look at answers bon has been released into the side of Australia also holds the regarding who and what started atmosphere. An area the size of country’s highest biodiversity the catastrophic fires, there are Nova Scotia has been burned. and human population. Dou- several correct answers. Owen Bjorgan was on a beach on Australia’s east coast last year when he snapped this photo of So, what is the Prime Min- ble whammy. Of course, we should be a bushfire, a drop in the bucket compared to this year’s fires, he says. Auchterlonie on Astrology morrow, Jan. 24. There are two Friday, Jan. 24: It is all new, Mars and the Moon are very close ebrates birthday number 59. that may hurt your feet. Or your Bill Auchterlonie astro-events today that are very starting at 4:41 p.m., when the together today, all in the constel- Monday, Jan. 27: This has hips. Or both. And try to turn a Special to The Local significant. One is the Sun mak- Sun and the Moon are at the lation of Aquarius. It’s an intense the potential to be one of the tense situation positive, by being This week on Auchterlonie ing a challenging ninety-de- same place in the sky for the new Saturday with forward-look- sweetest days ever, as Venus open to change. Singing superstar on Astrology I’ll look at the gree (square) aspect to Uranus Moon in Aquarius. It’s the begin- ing ideas, especially ideas about and Neptune connect in imag- Sarah McLachlin celebrates birth- period from Thursday, Jan. 23, just past midnight, which may ning of a month of surprises, and health and work matters. It was inative Pisces, promising warm day number 52 today. to Wednesday, Jan. 29, and the make for some exciting dreams, also includes long-range plan- Jan. 25, 1759, that the Scottish turns in relationships and even Wednesday, Jan. 29: Af- new Moon in Aquarius on Fri- or which may wake us up with ning changes that promise to be poet, Robbie Burns was born. with the potential of good fi- ter all the activity of yester- day, Jan. 24. visions and ideas for the future. better than what we’ve currently Sunday, Jan. 26: While the nancial news. And the light day, here’s a day where there’s On my podcast I’ve got The second astro-event is at got in mind. It’s a good plan to Moon moves from futuristic bulb and the TV both celebrate not a lot going on, although a look at Indigenous North breakfast, when Venus in Pi- make an ongoing list this month Aquarius into imaginative Pi- birthdays today. Edison pat- the Moon is in energetic Ari- American astrology, and sces gets a friendly bump from of short, medium and long-term sces at 6:43 p.m., the big astro ented the light bulb on Jan. 27, es from the early morning to the week of Sunday, Jan. 26, Jupiter in Capricorn. This has goals, and look at and revise the news is Venus in Pisces mak- 1880. And the first TV broad- the dark of night. Today is the through Saturday, Feb. 1. The positive connotations for health list at least once a day. It’s also a ing a ninety degree connection cast was this day in 1926. birthday of Coca Cola — the website is https://www.looking and relationship matters. Jan. particularly busy Friday, with the with Mars in the early eve- Tuesday, Jan. 28: It’s anoth- company was incorporated upwithbill.com/podcasts.html. 23, 1986, was the first induc- Moon making eight connections ning. Venus is feminine. Mars er super-active Tuesday, as the Jan. 29, 1892. Now, the week ahead. tion into the Rock and Roll Hall before the day is done. It was is masculine. This could be a Moon in Pisces makes eight con- Next week is the First Thursday, Jan. 23: Today is of Fame. Inductees included Jan. 24, 1984, that the Macin- showdown. Or it could be an nections while Mars in Sagittarius Quarter Moon in Taurus, on the end of the Moon in Capri- Chuck Berry, James Brown, Ray tosh family of personal comput- adjustment in one or more re- is ninety degrees from Neptune in Saturday, Feb. 1. corn for this month. And the Charles, Fats Domino, the Ever- ers designed, manufactured and lationships, an adjustment that Pisces, and Venus in Pisces makes As Joni Mitchell said: “We end of this Lunar Cycle as the ly Brothers, Buddy Holly, Jerry sold by Apple Inc. went on sale. is long overdue. And today, the a stressful hook-up with Uranus are stardust. We are golden.” So New Moon in Aquarius is to- Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley. Saturday, Jan. 25: Mercury, Great One, Wayne Gretzky, cel- in Taurus. Be aware of accidents shine on! NOTL LOCAL Front and Editorial Banner Bookings There are just a few dates left for these premium Mistletoe The trusted voice of our community. Bride reading at Silversmith page 11 Thomson notllocal.com DECEMBER 12, 2019 Volume 1 • Issue 48 shares experience of open-heart surgery ‘Tis the season for page 4 positions for 2020! Contact us today! Candlelight Stroll Kim Wade notllocal.com October 24, 2019 Volume 1 • Issue 41 Special to The Local sage for locals. “This is the season and “To the residents of Niag- YOU are the reason why ara-on-the-Lake, thank you we gather to celebrate the for supporting this special bounty of this year in our evening. It is events such as The trusted voice of our community. Baldinelli dream community, said Town Crier tonight that remind us how Tom Pekar, as he welcomed fortunate we are to live in the hundreds of people who such a generous and warm gathered at the Court House, community. Attendance re- fulfilled with cords continue to be broken wrapped in scarves, topped with hats and holding can- every year and I can’t imag- dles to this year’s Candlelight ine a place on earth at this election winFor most of the night, Stroll. moment where the human spirit is stronger. My heart is Baldinelli had been holed “By the powers invested full, being up here,” he said, Mike Balsom up with his staff in a back in me, I declare the open- addressing the crowd from Special to The Local room at his campaign head- ing of the 2019 Candlelight quarters on Montrose Road stroll. Huzzah! Huzzah! the small balcony over the It didn’t take long for in Niagara Falls, eagerly HUZZAH!” Court House steps. Tony Baldinelli to choke up consulting the polling re- Pekar introduced Paul Thirty years ago, the Can- in his thank you speech to sults as they were coming MacIntyre, the chair of the dlelight Stroll was started by local residents Arthur Nieu- supporters Monday night. Emmyin. He rarelyWise and emerged Will Marley into pose with board of directors for the Ni- Surrounded by about 75 the larger room, where agara-on-the-Lake Chamber wdorp and his wife Irene. Father Christmas in front of the Court Nieuwdorp developed the family members, friends, House,his followers as they werewait keepingfor the Candlelight of Commerce. Conservative Party mem- track of the national results idea in 1988 during the lead- Stroll to begin. MacIntyre thanked the up to the Calgary Winter bers and campaign support through the (Fred night Mercnik) on two crowd for participating in staff, the new Member of big-screen televisions. the 30th anniversary of the Olympics. He watched the 200-year-old stones need protection to surviveOlympic torch relay as it Don’t miss out! Parliament for the Niagara stroll, and visitors for attend- Continued on page 2 Falls riding became emo- ing, but had a special mes- travelled across the country Penny Coles tional only 30 seconds in. The Local around four military re- Continued on page 4 serves, as ordered by John There are 11 ordinance Graves Simcoe in 1796. 1853, he told councillors, stones in the Old Town that in areas that include the Rumble first discovered are 200 years old, and they former Mississagua Re- ed in the 1600s, Rumble Mike Balsom) one of the stones on the cor- explained, and the arrow Conservative Tony Baldinelli, Niagara Falls riding MP, shakes deservethe hand to of be Brian celebrated Barker, and the NDP candidate who came in serve, now the NOTL Golf ner of Prideaux and Simcoe on them is a symbol called ner of Johnson and Nassau third in Monday’s federal election. ( protected, council heard course; the Garrison Re- Monday. Streets, and his curiosity a board arrow, used to des- Streets has been damaged about its history and his serve, which includes Fort by construction equipment, documented, repaired where Ted Rumble, a mem- George and the Commons, ignate the property of the they are damaged, reposi- ber of the Niagara Histor- ensuing research led to the British government. he said, showing councillors discovery that there were and four other lots that in- a stone with a large chunk tioned to their original height ical Society, was at council clude Simcoe Park. There is another beside “so they can be properly ap- Monday to ask the Town to originally 36 such stones. the bench at the entrance chipped out of it. “It’s 200 Kaiser vows to continue The best preserved preciated,” and protected NOTL businesses: call at document, repair and pro- He has only been able to to Simcoe Park, which has years old,” he emphasized. Karen stone, he said, is at the cor- by barriers erected around 905.641.5335 tect the stones, which were find 11 remaining. sunk into the ground, as Rumble asked the Town ner of Simcoe and Queen to enlist its heritage and them. placedporters, as property “I feel markers like I let you They are solid limestone, have some of the others, he engraved and numbered, Street, by the Charles Inn. operations departments to Two are on Parks Can- working for Liberalsdown,” the smile quickly re- said — a stone by Queen’s ada property, he said, sug- party win a minority gov- and shown on a map of The BO engraved on recognize the historic sig- ernment while the Niagara turned along with her com- each stone stands for the Royal Park has sunk so low gesting they would need to Penny Coles it could disappear within a nificance of the stones, and The Local Falls riding remained Con- posure. Board of Ordinance, found- celebrate them, “as a direct work together, along with “I’m truly proud of the couple of years. servative. link between us and the the Friends of Fort George, The marker at the cor- A short burst of elation But when news spread campaign we ran, and tru- very founding of our town.” and the Niagara Historical ly proud of the work we’ve Society. quickly turned somber the Liberal candidate was He hopes to see them about to arrive and support- done,” said Kaiser. among friends and family “I was committed to of Liberal candidate An- ers moved into the larger Continued on page 3 running a campaign that drea Kaiser, as the Niaga- area that was intended for would bring some positiv- ra-on-the-Lake woman fell a victory celebration, Kaiser ity, a positive spirit and a behind in votes Monday entered the room to loud or email applause, and with a huge positive energy, and it was [email protected] night and it became clear so amazing. I had a ton of Conservative Tony Baldi- smile headed to give her fun,” she said, “and met nelli was going to Ottawa to mother, sister and daughter some incredible people.” represent the Niagara Falls hugs before heading to the podium to thank all those “I’m so proud of the riding. (Penny Coles) The room grew quiet as who had worked to turn the team we built and the new Liberal family that we have,” Kaiser’s group of support- riding red. Although she allowed ers and campaign workers Liberal candidate Andrea Kaiser addresses supporters Monday night. a glimpse of her emotions huddled around a tiny bar Continued on page 3 and two small televisions at to show when she told the the Old Stone Inn, watch- crowd of about 60 sup- outside NOTL: call Julia at 905.934.1040 ing Justin Trudeau’s Liberal or email [email protected] 8 January 23, 2020 THE NOTL LOCAL notllocal.com How to deal with anger without taking it personally they honestly believe they are interaction with a friend or rel- fected you, the proper words, to us as we travel the river of Ted Mouradian is the Pres- right, or at least what they did ative. without hate or anger, will be life, but we are 100 per cent in ident of the 2% Factor Inc. and was not that bad, so we should First, you might, using your more acceptable to that person control of how we act and react. creator of the Law of Cooperative just get over it. What can we do inside voice, say, “really!” Then than name-calling or yelling. Don’t let your loud, screaming Action. He is an author and profes- to neutralize how their actions you would silence your mego Keep in mind, we are never mego make you the next You- sional speaker and can be reached are affecting us? and analyze what just happened. in control over what happens Tube celebrity. at [email protected]. Ted Mouradian You all know the word ego. As you become more ad- Special to The Local Put an M in front of ego to form ept at silencing your mego, this Many of us go through our a new word: mego. Here’s why: analysis will happen in seconds. LETTERS day angry or disappointed in it’s me who gets angry. It’s me Then you will decide whether or the actions of others. Someone who is disappointed. It’s me who not you need to say something. is driving under the speed limit gets frustrated. It’s me who is You will find that in many cases Wish list for Queenston residents on Niagara Stone Road when upset, and it’s me who is 100 per nothing needs to be said because This wish list is meant to more appropriately sized ones, dents’ property/driveways, since we are in a hurry, or someone cent in charge of how I act and you will come to the realization bring some peace, quietness and as discussed between WJBT, the there is no sidewalk. pulls out in front of us from one react to what people do to me. that they, in fact, did not do it to health back to many Queenston Lord Mayor and the Town’s in- -Please stop driving after 5 of the roads or concessions. Or, Therefore, when something you, they just did it. residents. terim CAO. p.m. We are not a tourist village remember that lady at the out- or someone adversely affects If you feel you need to say Dumfries Street in Queen- -Work towards a plan to keep with stores or attractions open let mall who was so upset that me while I am minding my own something, then simply tell the ston is overrun with WJBT all coach tour buses out of the vil- after 5 p.m. There is no associ- someone got ‘her’ parking spot business as I navigate the river of person how their action has (Jetboat) related buses, between lage. Please find another place on ated benefit from the WJBT to that she became a YouTube celeb. life, I will first silence my mego, affected you, not what they did 60 and 80 bus movements per the Niagara River for them. Queenston; no taxes paid or local This is the “how could you then take a deep breath and re- wrong. Example: “I know you day, seven days a week for many -Don’t run the shuttle buses businesses that will benefit from do that to me” syndrome. Well, flect on what just happened. Can believed that when you did X months. The season is now six empty, and why run a full-size bus them. Therefore, please, give us I have to tell you that in many I get angry or disappointed in you didn’t think it was wrong, months long, May to October. for only a few passengers at a time? peace and quiet hours after 5 p.m. cases they actually didn’t do it what just happened? Of course. but here is how it affected me.” Communication with the WJBT -Drive all buses with a maxi- We hope that most of these to you. The fact is, they just did If a bird just pooped on my nice Ninety-eight per cent of the peo- is not easy, therefore this is a pub- mum 30km/h speed through the wishes will come true this year. it. Now, was what they did bad? clean car, I am going to be upset. ple will apologize, whereas the lic wish list. village, in order to be safe while Probably. But we tend to take Silencing your mego does two per cent will not and prob- -Replace the old, noisy, sooty driving around (dog) walkers, The Dumfries Group everything that adversely affects not mean you cannot show ably give you half the peace sign. buses with quieter, cleaner and children, gardeners and resi- Adrian Schoot Uiterkamp us as a personal affront which emotion. What it does mean is Still keep the mego silenced and can create stress, anxiety, and in that I will not yell and scream walk away, as there will be no many cases over-the-top conflict. and make this two per cent inci- win in trying to convince that Please don’t treat B&Bs as short-term rentals The two per cent go about dent my 98 per cent by telling ev- person that they did wrong. I’d like to share some Around 2000, a bylaw was intent to pursue legal action if their business totally ambivalent eryone I meet about the bird that You see, when you can learn thoughts regarding unlicensed passed that anyone renovating their operation is continued. to how their actions are adverse- will be affecting their day as well. to silence your mego, when you short-term rentals and the de- or building for the purpose of It is important to under- ly affecting the world around Let’s move this discussion do need to confront someone cision to triple the 2020 licence using it as a B&B, would have stand that Airbnb has taken on them, and in many instances, from a bird or a stranger to an about how their action has af- fees for bed and breakfasts. to use it for four years personal- a life of its own and is not just I appreciate the concerns ly before they could apply. Why another brand or marketing expressed by the lord mayor are short-term rentals of vacant tool, as many would suggest. Comic relief and found her description of the houses or apartments able to Multinational corporations “hollowing out” of our neigh- circumvent this bylaw? such as Airbnb answer to their bourhoods to be very fitting. Owner-occupied B&Bs investors and stakeholders for When we bought our prop- compliant with Town regula- short sighted profits. The num- erty 25 years ago, it was a career tions are not responsible for the ber of cities around the world choice with the intention of “hollowing out” of our neigh- that no longer have affordable long-term investment, not just bourhoods. housing for their own residents financially but in close relation- Taking legal action against is growing exponentially be- ships within our neighbours. unlicensed businesses is pro- cause of the commodification We have owned and operated hibitively expensive for the of residential areas. our B&B, Applewood Hollow, Town, with the resulting fines They do not require mem- for 21 years. We take serious- going to the Province instead bers to adhere to local bylaws. ly the opportunity to promote of the affected municipalities. Airbnb has steadfastly refused local agriculture with every Is there a better way? Here’s a to communicate with munici- breakfast we serve. few suggestions to consider: palities regarding their flagrant B&B owners are front-line 1. Recognition of two dif- disregard of these issues. The ambassadors for all this area ferent categories, B&B applica- resulting growth of illegal op- has to offer. Our purpose is tions versus short-term rentals erations to show a quick profit about actively creating human of apartments or houses; demands that the rest of the connection in ways that edu- 2. Identification of rental community bear the costs to a cate, enrich the visitors’ expe- homes and apartments on the healthy, functioning town. rience and encourage them to street similar to the signs from We look forward to solving St. Davids native Jeff Paul, one of the orga- Shaun Majumder tackled several subjects return because of the relation- the Town that B&Bs use; these issues together, in a way nizers of the annual Icebreakers Comedy at the Icebreakers Comedy Festival, in- ship formed. 3. Property owners of illegal that encourages healthy rela- Festival, hosted the gala at White Oaks, cluding being a new dad, being fired from I believe B&Bs should not businesses receive an invoice tionships in welcoming, caring with K. Trevor Wilson opening and Shaun CBC, and being a mixed-race Newfound- be classified the same as short- and appropriate application neighbourhoods. Majumder headlining. lander. (Photos by Penny Coles) term rental units that are not from the Town. It would be owner-occupied. time-sensitive, with notice of Jane Andres notllocal.com THE NOTL LOCAL January 23, 2020 9 Crime Stoppers to study elder abuse Penny Coles is under-reported, and by abuse, there is also some con- emotional; it can be active drawals from bank accounts, Niagara Regional Police: The Local streamlining services, and fusion about what it is. or passive neglect, purposely or personal bank statements 905-688-4111 offering a more coordinated As defined by the World withholding care or failing to and credit cards missing; Senior Support Alzheimer Crime Stoppers is “step- response, the community can Health Organization, elder provide basic care due to lack lack of food, clothing or oth- Society of Niagara Region: ping outside its box” in taking do a better job of keeping se- abuse is any action, or delib- of knowledge or ability: it can er necessities; poor hygiene; 905-687-3914 on the prevention of elder niors safe. erate inaction, by a person in be sexual, or financial. unexplained weight loss; or Home and Community abuse, says volunteer Ernie This is something Crime position of trust which causes Signs of abuse include un- depression, anxiety and fear. Care: 905-684-9441 Sibbett, past chair of Crime Stoppers has been talking harm to an older person. The explained injuries; unusual If you or someone you Niagara Gatekeeper Stoppers of Niagara. about for some time, says abuser can be a spouse, child, legal activity related to wills know is in danger, call 911. Program: 905-684-0968 With a large senior pop- Stevens, but the program is family member, friend or or other documents; unnec- Seniors’ Community ulation in Niagara of 78,000, just being rolled out now, and caregiver. essary purchases to home or Agencies to call to report Programs, Niagara Region: and increasing, it’s a growing they are grateful to be given Abuse can be physical or property; unexplained with- elder abuse: 905-984-6900 problem, says Sibbett, who the opportunity to protect the believes by getting involved, elder community. “we will make a difference.” “Our bread and butter is As the chair of Crime solving crimes, but if we can Stoppers of Niagara’s Elder help to prevent them, all the Abuse Committee, he and better.” program coordinator Sara According to a provincial Stevens have been making study going back to 2009, four the rounds through Niagara to 10 per cent of seniors in municipalities to raise a flag Ontario reported some form for Crime Stoppers Month, of elder abuse, but it is known and are taking the oppor- to be underreported, due to tunity to talk about a new fear, isolation, dependency study launched this month and shame. to map elder abuse report- With Crime Stoppers’ ing, including how data is Tips, callers are guaranteed collected and the eventual anonymity and those tips are outcomes. shared with the police for in- The agency has been giv- vestigation. The end goal of en a $53,500 grant from the this study is to make it easier Ontario Trillium Foundation to report abuse. to fund a one-year study. The In addition to uncertain- Lord Mayor Betty Disero, with Coun. Erwin Wiens, Crime Stoppers volunteer Ernie Sibbett, Coun. Norm Arsenault and concern is that elder abuse ty about how to report elder Crime Stoppers program coordinator Sara Stevens, raise a flag at the Town Hall for Crime Stoppers Month.(Penny Coles)

NEW LISTING NEW LISTING NEW PRICE FOR LEASE

157 QUEEN STREET 5 MOSEBY STREET 1890 LAKESHORE ROAD 355 MARY STREET

$3,250,000 $1,249,900 $859,000 Exclusive – Victoria Bolduc and Sarah Gleddie MLS 30784489 • Thomas Elltoft and Viviane Elltoft MLS 30785078 • Adam Hawley MLS 30770725 • Sarah Gleddie and Victoria Bolduc

16 NORTON STREET 196 TANBARK ROAD 1060 CONCESSION 2 ROAD 112 DELATER STREET $1,169,000 $1,250,000 $998,000 $1,149,000 MLS 30763415 • Thomas Elltoft and Kim Elltoft MLS 30781742 • Cheryl Carmichael MLS 30768722 • Randy Armstrong MLS 30758804 • Thomas Elltoft and Kim Elltoft and Viviane Elltoft

18 COOLEY LANE 12 FIRELANE 14D 8 DIXIE ROAD – LOT 2 7N VICTORIA STREET $1,269,000 $1,199,000 $598,000 $1,199,000 MLS 30765401 • Christopher Bowron, Audrey Wright MLS 30738478 • Christopher Bowron, Audrey Wright MLS 30751442 • Thomas Elltoft and Kim Elltoft MLS 30781840. Christopher Bowron, Audrey Wright & Nicole Vanderperk and Nicole Vanderperk and Nicole Vanderperk

Christopher Bowron*** ...... 905-468-2269 Nicole Vanderperk* ...... 905-941-4585 Linda Williams* ...... 905-401-4240 Victoria Bolduc* ...... 905-941-3726 Viviane Elltoft* ...... 905-468-2142 Caroline Polgrabia* ...... 905-933-4983 Philip Bowron* ...... 905-348-7626 Thomas Elltoft* ...... 905-380-8012 Patricia Atherton* ...... 905-933-4983 OPEN HOUSES Bonnie Grimm* ...... 905-468-1256 Cheryl Carmichael* ...... 905-941-0276 Kim Elltoft** ...... 905-380-8011 Sarah Gleddie* ...... 905-685-2458 SUNDAY Randall Armstrong** ...... 905-651-2977 Christine Bruce* ...... 905-328-9703 Audrey Wright* ...... 289-241-0212 Marilyn Francis**...... 905-932-1266 ***Broker of Record ** Broker *Sales Representative 2-4 PM 109 Queen Street 905-468-3205 • St. Davids Office 905-262-6996 1890 LAKESHORE 10 January 23, 2020 THE NOTL LOCAL notllocal.com Museum free for February and lots going on Local Staff rise as a prime tourist destination that enabled money and supplies — or human evil. lin (part 2), presented by David museum building is the town’s in the 20th century. to be sent over to Europe. The program is free and is set Aurandt original high school, preserved February is the time for Visitors can also watch short As well as free February, the up to be an informal and animat- July 27: Kim Philby, presented since it closed in the late 1940s by locals to explore the Niaga- videos that illustrate this history, in- museum offers free community ed discussion. by Gus Calderone the Niagara Historical Society. ra-on-the-Lake Museum and cluding the nostalgia of the SS Ca- days on the fourth Monday of The 2020 schedule for Fa- Aug. 24: Simon Bolivar (part The museum houses over learn more about the history of yuga, the Great Ice Jam of 1955, or each month, and an opportuni- mous and Infamous – People and 1), presented by Michael Clark 50,000 artefacts, archival docu- the town, when admission is free the early days of the Shaw Festival. ty to participate in the popular Events is: Sept. 28: Pioneer Aviation: ments and photos, and is one of for the month. The museum presents two monthly biography program, Jan. 27: Louis Armstrong, Alcock & Brown presented by the best local history collections It’s the time to perhaps visit the main exhibitions each year. Its Famous and Infamous – People presented by David Sydor Julian Rance in this country due to the histor- Castlereagh Street museum for current exhibit is A Piece of Her and Events. The program, which Feb. 24: Harry Nyquist, pre- Oct. 26: Benjamin Lett, pre- ical significance of NOTL and the the first time, or to take family and Mind, an exploration of Women’s is planned and organized by local sented by Peter Kemball sented by Ron Dale work of the Historical Society and friends to view the exhibits, which history through textiles, on dis- residents David Murray and Liz March 23: The Medicis (part Nov. 23: Magda Goebbels Museum’s founder, Janet Carno- detail the chronological history of play until April 25. Surtees, has residents present, 1), presented by Suzanne Hebert (and infanticide), presented by chan, a powerhouse of a woman, the town, from its First Nations Included in the exhibit is the discuss and learn about histori- April 27: Somerset Maugham, Lewis Ford who started the collection in 1896. roots to its rise as the first capital 1917 Red Cross Quilt, a perfect- cal characters or events from the presented by Linda Fritz The NOTL Museum is the The museum is open 1 p.m. of Upper Canada, the effects of ly-preserved example of the work world of crime, politics, scientific May 25: Roger Casement, first purpose-built museum in to 5 p.m. daily. For more informa- the War of 1812, the burning of achieved by the Women’s Insti- invention, literature, exploration, presented by Richard Ficek Ontario. It has been here since tion, visit www.nhsm.ca or call the town in 1815, and its eventual tute during the First World War or any field of human endeavour June 22: Col. Sam McLaugh- 1907. Attached to the original 905-468-3912.

l Babies in Review l

Keighan Draper l l March Beaudoin 17th, 2019 2019 7 lbs 9 oz

Maven Gracie-Lynn Elizabeth Marie Claire Elizabeth McGuire April 10, 2019 AnnApril 15, Rowe 2019 AprilStaz 24, 2019 7 lbs 2 oz 7 lbs 5 oz 8lbs 6.5oz

William David Thomas Kenneth Luke Reginald

AprilFunk 25th, 2019 NovemberScott 7th, 2019 NovemberThwaites 30th, 2019 9lbs 3ozs. 7 lbs 3 oz 8 lbs 3 oz notllocal.com THE NOTL LOCAL January 23, 2020 11 Local farmer will visit workers’ families in Jamaica Penny Coles outweighs the negative for me. The Local It makes a huge difference in their lives. They have houses Erwin and Dorothy Wiens at home, they have vehicles, have been travelling to Jamaica and that’s because they work every winter for the last decade. here. They can send their kids They have come to love every- to school — they have to pay thing about it — the climate, for school in Jamaica. The next the “unbelievable views,” the generation will be educated. food, and especially the people. They couldn’t do that if they A big part of the trip is vis- didn’t work here.” iting the men who work on his The men understand that farm, and over the years he has sometimes they have to work a come to know their families, lot of hours, and they take per- and consider them friends. sonal pride in the work they do, Wiens says as a smaller says Wiens. “They do a good farmer, he has only six offshore job because it’s important to workers, “and because we’re a them. And I make it clear it’s a smaller farm, we work togeth- two-way street, that their work er,” he says. is important to me. They need “It’s hard not to become in- the job, and I need them.” volved in their personal lives.” Wiens says if he wants to Dee Trivett, Dianne Hughes, Dorothy Soo Wiens, Helen Arsenault, Erwin Wiens, Susan Ventresca, Shirley Eden, Patricia Working closely with them, get away for a week, they can do Murenbeeld, Stuart McCormack and Pat Klotz gathered at Cornerstone to remove badges from jackets that will be part of he hears about their families, the job without him. “They’ll a welcome kit for farm workers when they return, another example of community support. (Jane Andres) and when they go home, he never let me down.” says, “they tell their families One worker, Ivan Dillion, able to work the ground without week with their seam rippers come here have been residents Living conditions are also about us.” who has been working on his them. And as a farmer, you be- to ensure the jackets are ready of NOTL eight months of the improving. “There are strict His relationship with his farm for 36 years, another al- come invested in their lives and when the men and women ar- year for more than 30 years. regulations, and they should offshore workers, and their re- most 20. The more recent addi- family just like you would with rive to work. They’ve lived here longer than be highly enforced. We get in- lationships with each other, he tion to the Wiens team started any co-worker.” “We’re doing a better job they’ve spent at home, and they spected every year. We’ve come says, is no different than any in 2007. There is still some work to now of acknowledging them as have created a whole subcul- a long way in the last 10 years, group of employees working He’s not the only farmer do, he adds, toward better un- part of the community, of mak- ture with people from other but there is always room for together. who has developed relation- derstanding, and the need to ing them more a part of the farms, because they’ve known improvement,” says Wiens. “I consider myself lucky ships with his workers, who treat all farmworkers with the community,” Wiens says. them for 30 years or more,” says “These men and women that we’re a smaller shop, and understands the importance of respect and dignity they de- “Some of the workers who Wiens. are irreplaceable.” that the guys like each other. treating them well and values serve. “We all have to live up to I’m so blessed to have such their work. this responsibility,” he says. good guys. Their families are But he acknowledges not all He commends individu- Surprise by the lake great, and they’re fun people. workers have the same positive als such as Jane Andres, and We all get along.” experience, or the same good organizations, including Cor- Over the years, says Wiens, living conditions. nerstone Church and other “the dynamics of the offshore “There are still some neg- agencies such as the Caribbe- workers have changed. The ative things out there,” he says. an Workers Outreach Project respect factor has changed. Ev- “But if you take the attitude that which are helping to improve erybody gets now that we’re not these men and women are here the quality of life of farm work- going to get anywhere without to help us, you realize they’re no ers while they’re in Niagara, them.” different from anyone else, just and also making the commu- When they come to NOTL working to put food on the ta- nity more aware of the role it to work, they have credit cards, ble. They leave their family for can play in their lives. they have driver’s licences, and upwards of eight months to do NOTL resident Mark he makes sure they have vehi- a really hard job. They work in Brown recently dropped off cles, he says. cold, in heat, sometimes in real- about 70 ski patrol jackets to “I want them to be able to ly crappy conditions, and if we Cornerstone Church for the drive, not ride bicycles. I want didn’t have the offshore work offshore workers when they them to be safe,” he says. program, this town wouldn’t be arrive. Brown, president of the They have a house to share the same. We have 18,000 peo- Canadian Ski Patrol, Central which was built in 2005, each ple in town, and there is an in- Zone, said the uniform colours with their own room, and sat- flux of thousands of people ev- have changed to red and white, Delater Street resident Debi Pratt was walking in Queen’s Royal Park Friday when she came ellite TV — he doesn’t believe ery year to work on our farms. so the older version of blue upon an Inukshuk. She considers them “a significant Canadian art treasure and marker from farm workers should be living They’re adding to the economy and yellow jackets couldn’t be the past,” she says, and was pleased to see a recognizable Inuit symbol on the beach. Inuk- in conditions that a farmer not only through their work used. Some were gently used, shuks were originally used as directional markers, and in the shape of a person, are said to wouldn’t want to live in him- but in the money they spend but most were new. However, be a symbol of safety, hope and friendship. “They have been transformed into a symbol that self. while they’re here. And in this the badges had to be removed, transcends borders to reach people all over the world. How appropriate that someone built The raise in minimum industry, they are the farmer’s and a group of locals, including this one on the shores of Lake Ontario at NOTL, where it looks out on the U.S. So nice for wage, while not easy to ab- number one asset. The ground Wiens and his wife Dorothy, our many residents to enjoy along with our Canadian and international visitors.” (Debi Pratt) sorb, “was huge for them, and is important, but we wouldn’t be gathered at Cornerstone last

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12 January 23, 2020 THE NOTL LOCAL notllocal.com Brothers busy moving ahead in music business Mike Balsom Between all the roles they Special to The Local play, the Rezza brothers also hold down full-time perma- The level of energy emit- nent jobs. Lucas is a district ted by Lucas and Adrian manager and product am- Rezza when discussing their bassador for Yamaha Music. plans for 2020 seems to be Adrian, meanwhile, teaches enough to power an entire music at Roselands Junior Niagara-on-the-Lake block Public School in Toronto. for a week. Each evening, they meet And they’ll need to main- at Lucas’ home in the Old tain that energy level — the Town, where they have built year has already kicked off a studio to ply their trade. A with a bang. raised floor, two to three lay- The brothers, who moved ers of drywall, sound damp- to NOTL five years ago, fol- ers and more, make the stu- lowing their parents from dio completely soundproof. Vaughan, recently produced When they are cranking the and co-wrote the new song volume while recording, from British star Tina Barrett, producing, mixing and mas- formerly of worldwide music/ tering in the space, Lucas’ television sensation S Club 7. wife and two children, nine Mwah Mwah is a catchy hip and six years old, don’t hear a hop/dance-pop number that sound. The brothers spend up name-checks Coco Chanel, to six hours a night here, fu- Anna Wintour, Donatella elled by espresso, working on Versace and Vanessa Par- their music. adis. The paean to shopping, Lucas, 41, is the pro- fashion week and having her ducer and the beatmaster, Lucas and Adrian Rezza in their Old Town music studio. (Mike Balsom) “black card maxed out,” was working with the keyboard, released last Sunday. Over- the computer, and racks of Over the past few years, 80 McVay, of Eminem’s D12 ing all four of the brothers’ with whom they have col- night, it hit number 29 on the sound equipment to create Empire had been concentrat- crew, in St. Catharines in late children (Adrian and his wife laborated in the past. The iTunes pop charts in Mexico. the tracks. Adrian, 43, is the ing on house music, a sound 2018, however, that rekindled have two girls, aged 13 and Rezza family originates from That’s just the tip of the writer and singer. It’s his fal- that originated in Chicago the Rezza brothers’ love of hip 11), who attend St. Michael the Puglia region of Italy, of iceberg for the brothers, who setto punctuating the songs clubs in the early 1980s. The hop. Their new focus was ce- Catholic Elementary School. which Bari is the capital. are known professionally that will appear on their new amalgamation of soul, funk mented with an opening slot As well, they’ve recorded a They’ve produced Balistic around the world as 80 Em- album, Legacy, which will and disco with synthesizers, last May for Snoop Dogg in new version of the Commo- Man’s new album Guilty, as pire. They’re musicians, song- drop on all streaming services repetitive vocals, and a “four- Sudbury. And a new connec- dores’ 1985 hit song Night- well as tracks for a new EP writers, producers, script- in late February. to-the-floor” kick drum beat, tion with a group of rappers shift, with the song’s original by Swifty McVay. As well, a writers, film scorers, clothing The brothers have dab- was designed to keep people from Buffalo comes to frui- singer, Walter “Clyde” Or- collaboration with Toronto designers, and record mo- bled in all sorts of music styles dancing all night. tion with the new release. ange. The original eulogized singer/dancer/actress Tavee- guls, the creative team behind since their teen days, grow- It was a chance to open for Those influences are all Marvin Gaye and Jackie Wil- ta Szymanowicz (from the Gladiator Records. ing up outside of Toronto. rappers Obie Trice and Swifty over Legacy. Though the track son. The 80 Empire collabora- Family Channel program The list is not finalized, the broth- tion with Orange remembers Next Step), who is signed to ers know the album will con- late hip hop legends Eazy-E, their label, will be coming lat- tain between 20 and 30 tracks, Tupac Shakur, Biggie Smalls er in 2020. and will feature collaborations and Jam Master Jay. It has the And the brothers are col- with Buffalo rappers Conway potential to be a huge hit. laborating on another film the Machine and Benny the Beyond the Legacy album, project, this one a documen- Butcher, who are linked with they have a number of irons tary of Mario Machete Perez, both Eminem and Jay-Z. in the 2020 fire. who was linked to rapper Another Buffalo rapper They speak enthusiastical- Bushwick Bill. Perez spent 27 known as Balistic Man, Frank ly of a film project they have years in prison for a crime he Castle from New York City, in the works, involving Rob- did not commit. Lucas and DMC (from Run-DMC), Ali ert Funaro (The Sopranos, Adrian are co-producing and Vegas, Masta Ace, Krayzie The Irishman, Ray Donovan) writing the score for the film. Bone (of Bone Thugs-n-Har- and potentially Jill Kimmel, With January not even mony) and Jadakiss, among sister of late-night host Jim- finished yet, the Rezza broth- others, are also featured on my. Though the script is not ers’ calendar is quickly filling the album. yet completed, the story is an up. But with at least six hours The songs they play for urban update of the Little Red of work a night, and lots of The Local in the studio are Riding Hood fairy tale. espresso, they are sure they both gritty and wistful, mix- Their production work have plenty of time to take on ing stories of life on the streets will be featured on an EP by more projects. with catchy hip hop beats, rapper Frank Castle later this The video for Tina Bar- punctuated with hooks sung year. They plan to release an- rett’s Mwah Mwah, by the way, mostly by Adrian. Much of other 80 Empire house music drops Friday. Give it a listen New Year-New Home Interiors the album runs on the Legacy project, and look forward to and a look on YouTube. You theme, which is evidenced by working with the Italian rap may recognize your neigh- *SPECIAL BONUS FOR the song Family Love, featur- artists Bari Jungle Brothers, bours, Lucas and Adrian. Publication Dates: MINIMUM 1/4 PAGE AD Headline

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed suspendisse in est. Sit amet January 30 & February 6 do eiusmod tempor incididunt tellus cras adipiscing enim eu Headline ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. neque gravida in fermentum. turpis. Interdum velit laoreet Velit sed ullamcorper morbi Elit scelerisque mauris pellen Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, id donec ultrices tincidunt. Sed tincidunt tesque pulvinar pellentesque. - ornare. Suscipit adipiscing consectetur adipiscing elit, sed risus pretium quam vulputate bibendum est ultricies integer eros. Pellentesque diam volutpat We will match Ornare massa eget egestas purus dignissim suspendisse in est. do eiusmod tempor incididunt commodo sed egestas egestas viverra accumsan. Pharetra quis auctor. Et malesuada tincidunt. Sed risus pretium ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. fringilla phasellus. Purus in convallis posuere morbi leo quam vulputate . Vitae elementum curabitur Elit scelerisque mauris pellen- mollis nunc sed. Gravida dictum Sit amet volutpat urna molestie at elementum eu. Sit amet tellus cras adipiscing consequat mauris nunc congue. vitae. Aliquam etiam erat velit tesque pulvinar pellentesque. fusce ut placerat orci nulla. Ut Ligula ullamcorper malesuada enim eu turpis. Interdum velit Elit at imperdiet dui accumsan sit scelerisque in dictum non. Ornare massa eget egestas purus enim blandit volutpat maecenas. proin libero nunc. Laoreet sit laoreet id donec ultrices tinci- amet nulla. Nisl nisi scelerisque Sit amet massa vitae tortor viverra accumsan. Pharetra Quam pellentesque nec nam amet cursus sit amet dictum dunt. Sed risus pretium quam eu ultrices. Amet aliquam id diam condimentum lacinia quis vel convallis posuere morbi leo aliquam. Nibh ipsum consequat sit. Blandit volutpat maecenas vulputate dignissim suspendisse maecenas. At erat pellentesque eros. Pellentesque diam volutpat urna molestie at elementum eu. nisl vel pretium. Sed pulvinar volutpat blandit aliquam etiam in est. Sit amet tellus cras adip- adipiscing commodo elit at commodo sed egestas egestas Ligula ullamcorper malesuada proin gravida hendrerit lectus. erat velit scelerisque. Amet iscing enim eu turpis. Interdum imperdiet dui accumsan. Vitae fringilla phasellus. Purus in proin libero nunc. Laoreet sit Senectus et netus et malesuada. luctus venenatis lectus magna velit laoreet id donec ultrices sapien pellentesque habitant mor- mollis nunc sed. Gravida dictum amet cursus sit amet dictum Amet purus gravida quis blandit your minimum fringilla. Est lorem ipsum dolor tincidunt. Sed risus pretium bi tristique. Varius sit amet mattis fusce ut placerat orci nulla. Ut sit. Blandit volutpat maecenas turpis cursus in hac habitasse. sit amet consectetur adipiscing quam vulputate dignissim vulputate. Integer eget aliquet enim blandit volutpat maecenas. volutpatSAMPLE blandit aliquam etiam Cras semper auctorARTICLE neque vitae. nibh praesent tristique magna sit elit. Porttitor rhoncus dolor erat velit scelerisque. Amet Quam pellentesque nec nam suspendisse in est. Sit amet Ut eu sem integer vitae justo amet. Eu tincidunt tortor aliquam purus non enim praesent ele luctus venenatis lectus magna aliquam. Nibh ipsum consequat tellus cras adipiscing enim eu eget. Augue mauris augue neque nulla facilisi cras fermentum odio. mentum facilisis leo. Vitae sapien- fringilla. Est lorem ipsum dolor nisl vel pretium. Sed pulvinar turpis. Interdum velit laoreet gravida in fermentum. Velit sed Mauris commodo quis imperdiet pellentesque. sit amet consectetur adipiscing proin gravida hendrerit lectus. id donec ultrices tincidunt. Sed ullamcorper morbi tincidunt massa tincidunt. Booking Deadlines: elit. Porttitor rhoncus dolor ornare. Suscipit adipiscing Amet facilisis magna etiam risus pretium quam vulputate Senectus et netus et malesuada. purus non enim praesent ele bibendum est ultricies integer tempor orci eu lobortis. Mi dignissim suspendisse in est. Sit Tincidunt augue interdum velit Amet purus gravida quis blandit mentum facilisis leo. Vitae sapien- quis auctor. Et malesuada fames bibendum neque egestas congue amet tellus cras adipiscing enim euismod in pellentesque massa turpis cursus in hac habitasse. pellentesque. ac turpis egestas sed. Quam id quisque egestas. Lacus laoreet eu turpis. Interdum velit laoreet placerat duis. Pellentesque habi quarter page Cras semper auctor neque id donec ultrices tincidunt. Sed leo in vitae turpis massa sed. A tant morbi tristique senectus et. - non curabitur gravida arcu vitae. Ut eu sem integer vitae Amet facilisis magna etiam scelerisque purus semper eget ac tortor dignissim. Egestas risus pretium quam vulputate justo eget. Augue mauris augue tempor orci eu lobortis. Mi duis. Et magnis dis parturient diam in arcu cursus euismod dignissim suspendisse in est. Convallis tellus id interdum velit. bibendum neque egestas congue montes nascetur ridiculus mus Nisl nunc mi ipsum faucibus. quis viverra nibh. Ac feugiat quisque egestas. Lacus laoreet mauris vitae. Molestie a iaculis Aliquet eget sit amet tellus cras sed lectus vestibulum mattis non curabitur gravida arcu at erat pellentesque. Vitae adipiscing enim eu. Magna ullamcorper velit sed. Ac felis ac tortor dignissim. Egestas justo eget magna fermentum. fringilla urna porttitor rhoncus donec et odio pellentesque diam diam in arcu cursus euismod Turpis egestas maecenas pharetra dolor purus non. Viverra vitae volutpat commodo. Pharetra quis viverra nibh. Ac feugiat convallis posuere. congue eu consequat. Velit egestas diam sit amet nisl. Lobortis sed lectus vestibulum mattis dui id ornare arcu. feugiat vivamus at augue eget ullamcorper velit sed. Ac felis Sit amet tellus cras adipiscing arcu dictum varius. ad size with donec et odio pellentesque diam Egestas erat imperdiet sed enim eu turpis. Interdum volutpat commodo. Pharetra velit laoreet id donec ultrices euismod nisi porta lorem Fridays prior to each Vulputate mi sit amet mauris diam sit amet nisl. Lobortis tincidunt. Sed risus pretium mollis. Egestas maecenas pharetra commodo quis imperdiet massa feugiat vivamus at augue eget quam vulputate dignissim convallis posuere morbi leo urna Arcu. Sit amet tellus cras adipi arcu dictum varius. suspendisse in est. molestie. A diam maecenas sed scing enim eu turpis. Interdum - enim ut sem viverra. Ipsum a velit laoreet id donec ultrices Vulputate mi sit amet mauris Sit amet tellus cras adipiscing arcu cursus vitae congue mauris. tincidunt. Sed risus pretium commodo quis imperdiet enim eu turpis. Interdum velit quam vulputate massa Arcu. Vitae elementum laoreet id donec ultrices tinci Ultrices eros in cursus turpis. dignissim curabitur vitae. Aliquam etiam dunt. Sed risus pretium quam - Lacus laoreet non curabitur erat velit scelerisque in dictum vulputate dignissim suspendisse gravida. Maecenas volutpat equal space for non. Sit amet massa vitae tortor in est. Sit amet tellus cras adip- blandit aliquam etiam erat velit condimentum lacinia quis vel iscing enim eu turpis. Interdum scelerisque in dictum. Luctus velit laoreet id donec ultrices venenatis lectus magna fringilla publication date at noon your submitted urna. Justo laoreet sit amet cursus. story about First Deadline: your product Friday, January 24 or service. NOTL businesses contact Karen at 905-641-5335 or [email protected] Businesses outside NOTL contact Julia at 905-934-1040 or [email protected] Lucas and Adrian Rezza with Tina Barrett, whose current song they wrote. (Photo supplied) I’m LOCALnotllocal.com THE NOTL LOCAL January 23, 2020 13

Membership Bonus

Name I’m 2 FREE CLASSIFIED ADS 3 easy ways to pay Card Number Expiry date LOCAL PER YEAR. 1. Buy online at notllocal.com/membership

Local membership specials cannot be combined Value $40! with other offers. Memberships are valid for one 2. In Person year from date of purchase. Non-transferable. private advertisers only Visit

www.notllocal.com/membership Visit or call our office. We’re located at for your monthly specials. 1596 Four Mile Creek Rd., Virgil

Name Payment may be made by cash, cheque or credit card. You may also call us at 905-641-5335 to pay by credit card.

LOCALExpiry MEMBERSHIP date CARDS 3. By Mail Card Number are now available! Send a cheque for $39.95 + HST (= $45.14) made payable to

Local membership specials cannot be combined The Niagara-on-the-Lake Local with other offers. Memberships are valid for one notllocal.com/membershipyear from date of purchase. Non-transferable. Visit NOTL LOCAL www.notllocal.com/membership $ for your monthly specials. P.O. Box 430, Virgil L0S 1T0 39.95 per year plus HST ($45.14) January Membership Specials Kurtz Culinary Creations Get $5 off a premium bottle of wine, with 20% off all regular-priced merchandise 10% off a minimum purchase of $15 Get a Free Roller Sleeve with the purchase of the purchase of two dinner entrees any gallon of Aura. (1 sleeve per transaction)

Swag manicure and pedicure for $65 Half price infrared sauna 10% off shareable sandwich Complete auto detailing $99 (reg. $199)

15% off Antrim, Stanton, Rosecore and Buy one Southbrook Organic Vineyards Complimentary Hydra Jelly Mask 50% off a bottle of wine with each Hibernia factory-finished area rugs. Grand Tasting and get one free added to any Facial treatment Local card, valid Sunday to Thursday

Buy one, get one free, tours and seminars. 10% off gift certificates 1/2 price appetizer with purchase Present your card for $5 pints Valid for up to 4 guests. which can be used any time. of an entree 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday.

NF Method just for January. Buy $100 gift card and receive a Regular price $99 $25 gift certificate to use anywhere Free Love Child (Dessert wine) tasting Initial session $139 FREE DESSERT with purchase of an entree on the property. (valid for one per person)

Buy one, get one free, tours and seminars. Buy any Pharmasave brand product, get a 10% off on all regular-priced items Buy one, get one free, tours and seminars. Valid for up to 4 guests. 2nd product of equal or lesser value FREE Valid for up to 4 guests.

$10 off per one hour treatment. Complimentary Lakefront Series tasting Spend $50 before tax on regular-priced 10% off regular-priced merchandise Call 905-371-6442 for appointment ($20 value) merchandise, receive 10% off your purchase (except seasonal) Interested in having your business be a Card holder is entitled to two free bike Local Membership partner? rentals for a day, Monday through Thursday, Online ordering fee waived No Corkage Fee with purchase of an entree during normal seasonal and business hours. Call Karen at 905-641-5335 or Pick-up and return to Vino Velo. email [email protected]. 14 January 23, 2020 THE NOTL LOCAL notllocal.com Icewine Festival continues this weekend Continued from page 1 Locals and out-of-town niversary. They heard about lage. Soon after, guests were wine, and the crowd watched local restaurants. Admission guests wondered around the the event from the host of invited to bundle up and head as fireworks shimmered in is free but wine and food egant note of the atmosphere. two beautifully decorated their bed and breakfast and outside, where they were giv- the night sky — fitting finale samples are one token each. The room was filled with rooms, imbibing in sump- were so pleased they decided en a new icewine tasting glass to an evening filled with spar- Glasses sell for $5 and tokens delicious aromas from the tuous wines and spectacular to attend. carved from ice. The wineries kle and ice. are $6 each. The village will be 10 participating Signature food. Some locals well known Area wineries uncorked began to exclusively offer tast- The Icewine Festival con- open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. restaurants. Equipped with a to the community, such as their signature red, whites, ings of their signature icew- tinues this weekend. Visitors on Saturday and Sunday, and glass, guests set out to smell, Lord Mayor Betty Disero and rosés and sparkling wines ines, while event coordinators can enjoy icewine from local is equipped with fire pits to taste and sample what was NOTL Chamber of Com- and, of course a wonderful se- passed out gift-wrapped bot- wineries and icewine-in- warm yourself and ice sculp- on offer. Tables adorned with merce president Eduardo lection of icewines for guests. tles of sparkling wine and ice- spired food tastings from tures to admire. white tree branches, drip- Lafforgue were in attendance, Just before 10 o’clock, the ping with garland, were set while the gala also welcomed wine vendors began to don around the room for guests guests such as Jamie Ching their coats, hats and mitts and to congregate and enjoy their and Atsushi Kinoshita from moved outside to set up for icewine-inspired tastings and Toronto, who were celebrat- the continuation of the cel- wine samples. ing their fourth wedding an- ebration in the Icewine Vil-

Icewine is poured at Sparkle and Ice inside the Court House Friday event. (Photos by Kim Wade)

Kami McCallum of Reif Estate Winery serves icewine. The icewine party moved outside to Queen Street for one more icewine tasting while watch- ing fireworks.

1594 Concession 6 Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake 289-868-9800 | redroofretreat.com notllocal.com THE NOTL LOCAL January 23, 2020 15

Cassandra Costello, Anna McCusker, Vannessa Monteiro and Alison McBride warm up by the fire as they celebrate and toast future bride Linda McBride (centre). (Photos by Fred Mercnik)

Max the dog is fascinated with Icewine.

The Strolling Jazz Cats played some warm, sweet Dixieland music on Queen Street for Jackson Triggs/Inniskillin server Savanna Stirrett poured Vidal and Cabernet Franc Ice- the crowds attending the annual Icewine Festival. wine.

905.468.2412

We’ve Moved up the Creek to 1573 Four Mile Creek Rd, Virgil

Follow Us On #upacreek Julie Roberto, Janine Fioretti, Lauren Smith and Jessica Sullivan toast the icewine cele- bration, while Dazzling Darren Bedford entertains as he moves through the crowd on stilts. 14 January 23, 2020 THE NOTL LOCAL notllocal.com ST. DAVIDS PUBLIC SCHOOL St. Davids students raising money for Australia Lindsay Parravicino ing hot chocolate, taking have them understand we Kindergarten teacher money, giving change and are all connected, wheth- serving their customers. er at the community level The Kindergarten stu- We learned the names and or globally, and that if we dents at St. Davids Public features of Canadian coins work together, even young School have been learning and bills and played a va- children can make a huge about Australia and the riety of games in order to difference. terrible fires that have been prepare children for our Other students in the devastating the country. fundraiser. school have also been in- One of the students Last week, we host- spired to help. Some stu- in our class was visiting ed our hot chocolate sale. dents in Grade 3 asked their Australia the first week in Classes were given a time teacher if they could host January, and students were to visit our Tim Hortons a used book sale in order very concerned about his and the Kindergarten stu- to raise more money for safety. This led to an inqui- dents took turns serving Australia. The sale will take ry about Australia, forest and collecting money. The place next week and the fires and the animals and fundraiser was a huge suc- funds they raise will be add- people being affected. The cess, earning us more than ed to our larger donation. children investigated the $1,300 that will be donated Thank you to everyone wide variety of animals to the World Wildlife Fund in our St. Davids communi- and landscapes that are Australia. ty for supporting these two found there, and were par- Part of the Kindergar- fundraising initiatives. We ticularly interested in the ten program (and char- couldn’t do it without such koalas. acter-building programs a caring group of people! Over the next few days, in the older grades), is to we talked about ways we teach and give students op- St. Davids students in- could help the koalas that portunities to understand cluding Alyssa and Avayah are being injured, and de- they are part of a larger (top), Vivienne and Coco cided that we would host a community. This experi- (centre), and Jack, Char- hot chocolate sale to raise ence in Kindergarten gave lotte and Rick (bottom), money for the people help- our friends ownership over create a Tim Hortons ta- ing our furry friends. We their learning, and as a ble, selling hot chocolate set up a “Tim Hortons” in result, they were very in- to raise money to help the our dramatic play area, and vested and engaged in the koalas in Australia. (Photos students practised prepar- process. We were able to supplied) Feature your business in our

20 January 24, 2019 THE NOTL LOCAL notllocal.com

In the beginning, was being overrun with showcase local live en- a delicious quality meal they were neighbours, trees and other vegeta- tertainment. The bever- is a focal point of the two families living a tion (growing inside!). age menu is highlighted restaurant. couple of blocks apart in This was to become by the best in local wine Bricks and Barley, a a new neighbourhood in the site of both a new and craft beer. new establishment built the small town of Virgil. restaurant and the re- Before opening its to revive a site and born The Eymanns andbirth of a historic Virgil doors Bricks & Barley from a love and passion Spiones have long his- building. became a sponsor and for food, family and tories in the region and Their shared strong supporter of local sports friends. large extended fami- family focus drove teams. The desire to pro- They welcome you to lies. Both families have them to aspire to open vide the perfect meeting their family, their kitch- The full page is strong family bonds a restaurant in which spot for sports teams en, their hearts and hope and over time, the fam- their guests would feel and sports fans to come to be a part of your fam- ilies developed strong warm and welcomed, as unwind, bond and share ily as you grow together! bonds with each other. though they too were a They have shared values part of the family. including a passion for The kitchen would their community and a be open and visible to passion for good food create the sense of be- and drink. ing welcomed into their made up of a In time, the circle home. grew and came to in- The families also clude another cousin share a desire to pro- and family. vide the best in all as- As time passed, all pects of the restaurant. shared a growing pas- The attention to detail sion and drive to open a in the ambiance, the unique, quality restau- decor, the equipment rant in their own back- and the menu is evi- yard, the town of Virgil. dent and designed to They focused on a long showcase their passion unused and somewhat for the restaurant. derelict building. One Bricks & Barley that, although centrally sources local ingredi- HALF PAGE AD located, had been un- ents directly from local occupied by any busi- farms. Executive Chef Jeremy (Clark) Gilligan, Owner John Eymann, Owner Marco Spione, and General Manager Christie Devos. ness for decades and A stage is included to Missing from the photo is owner Michael Frendo. and HALF PAGE ARTICLE

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20 January 31, 2019 THE NOTL LOCAL notllocal.com

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[email protected] from its modern design, vice clients to the best da, Goldwell and RICA Cristina is passionate layout and the products of her ability. She has a hair colour, her pas- about hair and it can offered, right down to very holistic approach, sion for her profession be seen through her the music played. Not believing in natural, is shown through her excitement, creativity, only does the salon nontoxic products such techniques and creative knowledge and profes- offer the latest in hair as RICA, Zoya and talent. Nadia specializes sionalism. trends for men and Wild Craft Skin Care. in all aspects of colour “We’ve got you cov- women, but it also Pamper yourself with a and is constantly keep- ered, let our team pam- provides a full-service spa treatment with ing up to date with on- per you from head to REAL ESTATE WILLS BUSINESS spa. The team at Swag Whitney and enjoy a going education so she toe!” says Cristina. 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She has cutting, razor cutting, Swag Hair Compa- experience in aesthet- trained with some of the colouring and beau- Dentists ny has been in business ics and four years in most prestigious names, tifying in the hair in- since October 2016 and lashing services. such as L’Oreal, Redken, dustry. With train- is growing rapidly. “We Her bubbly personal- and Schwarzkopf and is ing in RICA, Toni & are thankful for the ity has her going above certified in hair exten- Guy, Vidal Sassoon, amazing support from and beyond for her sions. With her attention Cezanne and many Cristina Nadia NOTL Businesses contact and their registered at Dental Hygiene Team The Lash & Brow Bar Karen 905•641•5335 at [email protected] 369 MARY STREET Available at Linda Attoe, RP NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE SPECIALIZING IN • Lash Extensions • Lash Lifts • Tinting • Brow Design • Facials • Spray Tans www.niagaradental.ca • Manicures • Pedicures - amongst many other esthetic services Businesses outside NOTL contact 905•468•0046 | www.lindaattoe.com Bring this in and Receive 20% OFF any esthetic service *Cannot be combined with any other offer *One per client Walk, cycle, drive to Psychotherapy Julia at 905•934•1040 NEW PATIENTS WELCOME Reserve your appointments today! www.swaghaircompany.ca Swag Hair Co. swaghairco504 in the Old Town. Free Parking. EVENING HOURS AVAILABLE 504 Line 2 Rd, Virgil | 289 868 8600 | [email protected] at [email protected] Serving the Niagara Region since 2005 905-468-3009 notllocal.com THE NOTL LOCAL January 23, 2020 17 Many Hands Project to provide LOCAL HAPPENINGS bursaries for students in need AA MEETING To advertise your event in Penny Coles ting donations for prizes, and rector of the Education Foun- ing field for students by lower- every LOCAL The Local rounding up volunteers to help. dation of Niagara. ing barriers to post-secondary Wednesday evening, They also enlist the help of stu- Being the recipient of the school education. And there is HAPPENINGS The Education Foundation dents in several other Niagara Many Hands Project indicates no greater resource than hu- at 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. Contact of Niagara, which helps local College programs, so the proj- the value Niagara College and man potential.” [email protected] students, is receiving support ect benefits a larger group than its students see in the work Byers spoke of the impact at this year from Niagara College event management, she says. of the education foundation, the project is expected to have St. Mark’s Parish Hall students. But the “feel-good mo- says Byers. on the foundation. “There is 41 Byron St. Visit us online at: Now in its 23rd year, the ment” of this particular proj- “Support from the Many a widening gap between what Niagara-on-the-Lake www.notllocal.com college’s annual Many Hands ect, she adds, was the students Hands Project demonstrates we can afford to do and need Project partners event man- realizing they were helping true leadership, and is a pow- to do, and as a result, the Many agement students with a dif- young people much like erful role model of students Hands Project support will ferent local non-profit orga- themselves. giving back. Students under- ensure our students have ac- 7TH ANNUAL ICEBREAKERS nization each year, to provide “This project is unique stand that investing in young cess to all of the enriching op- support with fundraising, in that we hope to follow students’ lives supports the portunities a post-secondary COMEDY FESTIVAL marketing and public aware- the journey and success of success of future Niagara Col- education at Niagara College January 23-25 @ 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. ness of the chosen agency. students while they’re here,” lege students and the future has to offer,” Byers says. “This Choosing to support the says Blane. prosperity of Niagara.” is a model that will make a dif- Now in its seventh year, the annual Icebreakers Education Foundation gives The college students are in- The money raised through ference for those who need it Comedy Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake is Niagara’s Niagara College students an volved in the project from the the upcoming events will fund the most.” best live comedy festival in the region! We pair with opportunity to help other beginning, including choosing bursaries for District School While the Niagara College the fabulous Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Festival students in the community. the agency to be the recipient Board of Niagara high school partnership is aimed at pro- for five hilarious nights every January. Icebreakers Funds raised from this year’s of their fundraising events. graduates in need, for years to viding bursaries, donations features some of the best comedians in Canada, Many Hands Project events Each year, they look at pro- come, as determined by the to the education foundation as seen at all the major comedy festivals in film and will help graduating high grams that help those in need college, says Byers. help students in other ways, TV. This year, we are adding a second weekend to school students, who apply — children, seniors, new- Pathstone Mental Health including providing financial our SOLD OUT annual festival. Book your tickets at: and are accepted at Niagara comers to the country — and was last year’s recipient of the assistance for basic necessi- www.icebreakerscomedy.com. College, pursue their studies, they always have a hard time event management students’ ties, after-school activities, through bursaries to students choosing. “They want to help project, which raised $35,858 nutritional programs, and in need. them all,” says Blane. “But this by hosting the series of fund- improving their over-all edu- Christine Blane, coordina- year, this project touched them raising events. Canadian Tire cation experience. FIRST ONTARIO PERFORMING tor of the event management in a special way. They saw it as Bank, a long-time sponsor It also provides a Swim program, calls the project “a a chance to help other students and supporter of the Many to Survive program for all ARTS CENTRE showcase example of experi- do what they’re doing.” Hands Project, donated an Grade 3 students, to teach January 24 ential learning.” Events will include a additional $5,000. them water and life-saving Mosaique Project The students plan and exe- burger festival and a Las “We’re hoping for some- skills, says Byers. cute three fundraisers, looking Vegas-themed night, both thing similar,” says Byers. “That And one of her favourites January 26 after everything from market- coming up in March, and a would be amazing for us. A is the upcoming March Prom The 26 Letter Dance ing, sponsorship, finding ven- pop-culture trivia in April, Niagara College Many Hands Project, which gives students February 3 ues, the financial details, get- says Laura Byers, executive di- Bursary will help level the play- a chance to shop for prom NSO presents Masterworks 4 dresses, suits and new shoes, www.FirstOntarioPAC.ca even giving out hair coupons so students can have that fairy-tale experience — all for free, through donations and GRASSROOTS COMMUNITY sponsors. BUILDING “It’s amazing to see the look on the kids’ faces, when January 28 @ 7:30 p.m. they leave with a dress and a NOTL Community Centre. Presented by Tricia and brand new pair of shoes,” says David Daley, Educators, Adventurers, Travellers. Byers. This event is organized Around the world, people of all ages are making to help students from the DSBN and the Catholic board. efforts to improve their communities. What can we The Education Foundation learn from them as they use their unique talents in of Niagara is a registered char- the service of others? Sponsored by the Niagara- ity supporting DSBN students on-the-Lake Baha’i Community. Everyone welcome. by engaging the community Sponsored by NotL Baha’i Community to provide funds and resourc- es where government fund- ing is not available, including St. Andrews helps Red Roof student financial and med- St. Andrews Society of Niagara-on-the-Lake held its annual dinner recently at the NOTL Golf ical needs and bursaries for EMBRACEABLE YOU Club, and through the generosity of its members raised $500 for Red Roof Retreat toward their qualified students requiring February 9 @ 4:00 p.m. Gifts from the Heart Holiday Campaign. Member Jacqueline Donnelly also generously donat- financial assistance. For more ed back her share of the 50/50 draw. Steffanie Bjorgan, executive director of Red Roof, was information visit efnniagara. Love songs from the Great American Songbook. on hand to accept the cheque from Alan Dickson of the St. Andrews Society (Photo supplied) dsbn.org/. Featuring Melissa-Marie Shriner & Roger Wyatt, vocalists. Dan Kozar, guitar, Clark Johnson, bass. Sunday, February 9, 4:00 p.m. St. Mark’s Anglican Church, 41 Byron St., NOTL. Tickets: $25 available LOCAL WORSHIP through the church: 905-468-3123 PLACE YOUR COMING EVENT Sunday, January 26th COMMUNITY SOCIAL HERE Message by: To advertise your Kevin Bayne - Is Heaven Like a Really Long Church Service? WORSHIP SERVICES With or without a border, colour graphics optional. Kids Ministry Sign In Include your Logo! Prices starting at $20. (Grade 8 & under) in this section, please contact: Deadline: Monday 3 p.m. Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. at 434 Hunter Rd. Call Karen 905-641-5335 or Offices at email: [email protected] 1570 Niagara Stone Rd. [email protected] www.ccchurch.ca 18 January 23, 2020 THE NOTL LOCAL notllocal.com Helping home owners for more than 20 years. office:905-468-4214 cell: 905-321-8126 LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS www.cudmorehomes.com [email protected] CLASSIFIEDS FUNERAL SERVICES IN MEMORIAM

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DO YOU NEED TO CLEAN YOUR BASEMENT? Sam --- of men ...” (Shakespeare: 48 Pleasant 38 Great weight “Julius Caesar”) 50 Collection of facts Get it sold in the Local Classified section! Call or email for details. 39 Legion 8 Syncopated piano piece 51 Pole at sea or 40 Oater baddie chasers 9 With uniform service 54 Butterfly catcher 905-641-5335 [email protected] 41 Firefighter’s water source throughout 55 Astern Deadline: Mondays 3 p.m. notllocal.com THE NOTL LOCAL January 23, 2020 19 Local author writes about Australian bushfires Valmai Elkins veggie garden, and the patch of Mother talked about cutting head slowly. I could see they Special to The Local lawn turned brown. down the ghost gum. were getting impatient. They Sunsets blazed red across “Its branches touch the roof, tried another tactic. “Think of BUSHFIRE the bush and large black crows Ava,” she told me. “If the fires your little girl. Do you want her (Bushfire is an excerpt from gathered on the dead branch at come we’ll lose everything.” burned to death?” “I am think- Valmai Elkins’ third novel, Des- the top of our oldest gum tree. “But it’s your favourite tree. ing of my little girl. As long as tiny Detective, which she is just “The rain must come soon,” What about your kookaburras?” I’m here no fire will ever burn completing, It’s a double narra- said Mother, shading her eyes The three plump birds down my house or touch my tive of a mother and daughter, with her hand as she scanned Mother fed each morning daughter.” set in the Australian outback, the horizon. When we turned spent most of their time in the The men looked at each London and Santa Fe. Elkins is on the wireless, the news of ghost gum. When she offered other. Then the older one, his a published author of fiction and the day revolved around the them scraps of meat they’d face tanned and sooty, said, non-fiction, living in NOTL, drought. Hundreds of sheep swoop down and feed from “You’re being a bloody fool, who spent her childhood in Mel- and cattle were dying, their wa- her hands. Then they’d return Alice Trent, but if that’s what bourne. She says she remembers terholes dried mud. to their tree and laugh like ma- you want it’s a free country.” vividly the night sky over the city The swagman who’d passed niacs. “Let’s hope it won’t come They jumped in the truck and turning red for several weeks by in the winter for a cup of tea to that.” slammed the doors. We watched Valmai Elkins is just finishing her second novel set in Australia, each summer, and the air smell- and a chat returned. His face We saw the small cloud of the red dust until it settled. where she spent her childhood. (Penny Coles) ing of smoke. She would lie in was thinner than I remem- dust before we heard the truck. “We’re not going to be not refuse. For the next hour kangaroos, wallabies, bandi- bed at night and think about the bered and he no longer whis- Two men in khaki shorts and burned, are we Mummy?” we carried buckets from the coots, snakes and a koala. They koalas and kangaroos trapped tled. Mother made him tea and bush hats hurried up our path. “Ava, would I ever let anything well and hurled water against paid no attention to each other in the blaze, and has seen bush- sent him down the dusty red “Get your things Mrs. Trent, happen to you?” the verandah, all around the or to us. fires and the devastation left track with a bag of plums from the fire’s heading up this way.” At dawn I heard the ring wooden house until it steamed. Mother opened her eyes. behind. The excerpt is set in our tree. Mother’s face was flushed. of the axe and I knew she was Then, in the distance, we “Let’s play alphabetical ani- Queensland, 1977.) When the fires started west “I’m not leaving.” cutting down the ghost gum. saw the fire. It was curling mals,” she suggested. “I’ll start. The bushfires were among of Brisbane, the wireless gave “Everyone’s going to the It didn’t occur to her to find a through the tops of the gum A is for anteater.” “A is for ant. I the worst in Queensland’s his- reports every hour. At first they Hall. You’ll be right as rain up man to chop down the tree; trees fanned by the relentless can have that, can’t I? An ant is tory. There’d been no rain for were too far away to be a threat to t h e re .” there wasn’t a man anywhere wind, a giant wave of red and different from an anteater.” “B weeks and each day the wind us in Boonawarra. We were the Mother hesitated. “Where near our track and Mother was orange. Moments later the is for bandicoot.” “And bat.” blew until the big ghost gum last railway station on the line. is the fire?” a bush woman. Bush women rabbits appeared, hundreds We were up to W when we by the house began to groan But at night the sky was a thick “She’s down by Kalawari. don’t ask for help. I wished I of them, running towards us, heard a sudden gust of wind against the tin roof. At night, red and we smelled the pungent We reckon if the wind don’t were stronger, but at seven, my skipping crazily, their eyes in the gum trees above us. Mother and I carried buckets smoke of burning eucalyptus. change she’ll be up here to- arms were thin and scrawny. bulging in terror. We heard the Mother looked up. “the wind’s of water from the well to the I knew it was serious when morrow.” Mother shook her I tried to get Mother to roar of the flames. changed,” she whispered. drink the tea I took her but she I looked at Mother. She “Thank you, St. Michael.” didn’t touch it. The long braid took my hand, not running, but “W is for watchdog,” I said Icebreaker fundraiser she wore down her back had walking quickly, through the triumphantly. come loose and was blowing in backyard where she opened the Mother kept us by the wa- her eyes. gate to the hen house. We passed ter ’til the sun went down. We Hours later I heard the crash the woodshed and climbed knew the danger had passed of the tree as it fell away from the fence into the bush. When when the animals began to the house, ripping into the un- we came to the water hole she disappear into the bush. We re- dergrowth. Mother’s dress was took her knife and cut a reed; turned to the house. soaked and her eyes had a wild bullrushes, we called them. She The wind had turned right expression. There was no sign of handed me a length. at the mouth of our track. Be- the three kookaburras. “If the fire comes, we’ll yond was nothing but a des- Mother was opening a tin hide in the water and breathe olation of smouldering black of tomato soup when we heard through our reeds. This is an vegetation. The smell hurt my the bell. It was not the Sunday adventure, isn’t it?” And she nose and a dust of fine black tolling of St. Aidan’s. It was the smiled. I was sure we would be soot covered our house. bell at the Shire Hall and we safe. Mother was smiling. Then Just after dark the two knew it was clanging to sum- she closed her eyes and I could men returned. “Jeez, you were mon the volunteer firefighters. see her lips moving. I knew she lucky!” said the one who’d She placed the tin on the wood- was asking St. Michael to keep called Mother a bloody fool. en table. her house safe. But Mother and I knew it was Rainer Hummel, Janice Thomson and Karen Skeoch enjoy the VIP event before the “You do it, Ava, I’m going We crouched by the billa- not luck. Mother did not be- comedy show at White Oaks Resort and Spa Saturday. The gala event was a fundraiser to water the house.” “No. I’m bong. Terrified animals kept lieve in luck, but her faith in for Pathstone Mental Health. (Penny Coles) coming to help.” Mother did coming out of the bush: rabbits, St. Michael never wavered.

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Painting in Niagara-on-the-Lake for more than 40 years. LOCAL BUSINESS Robert Bradley Tony McCafferty contact: [email protected] T: 905.380.0298 T: 905.353.6815 E: [email protected] or 905.641.5335 20 January 23, 2020 THE NOTL LOCAL notllocal.com