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Lake Report How to reduce waste | Page 14 Vol. 4, Issue 17 SPECIAL EDITION: Pandemic Heroes | Page 15 April 29, 2021 Virgil pharmacy offers the jab But pharmacist unsure when the next batch of AstraZeneca will arrive

The iconic old town clock tower cenotaph. FILE PHOTO 30% of NOTL newcomers face hostility, survey finds

Evan Saunders The inclusion committee The Lake Report reported the results of its January online survey on About 30 per cent of diversity and inclusivity in Niagara-on-the-Lake resi- NOTL at Monday’s council dents say they face hostility meeting and laid out the based on how long they next steps for dealing with have lived here, according the issues. to a survey conducted by The immediate next the town’s inclusion and step on these issues is the Pharmacist Julie Dyck prepares a dose of AstraZeneca vaccine for her evening clinic Tuesday. JESSICA MAXWELL PHOTO diversity committee. creation of focus groups While 97.6 per cent of to meet in May and more Jessica Maxwell 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. COVID vaccines it received Simpson’s Pharmacies two the 173 survey respondents clearly gather feedback, The Lake Report “For evening clinics I’m in one week, averaging 40 locations are also dispens- agreed NOTL would ben- experience and sugges- able to squeeze people in shots per day. ing vaccines. efit from more inclusion and tions from the community, Stone Road Pharmacy in a lot faster. You don’t have Dyck said she is not sure “I think we are very diversity, 24 per cent said committee member Kiera Virgil has started holding the same foot traffic coming when the next shipment will lucky,” Dyck said. “Cur- they have felt unwelcome Sangster told council in a evening vaccination clinics in, so it can just be vaccina- arrive, telling The Lake rently, a city like Thorold has as customers or employ- detailed presentation. to try to reach more people tions,” Dyck said. Report that the Ministry none, so this is pretty special ees, or have heard about or The focus groups will who want to get the jab. People can call the phar- of Health isn’t giving any that people have three differ- witnessed discrimination in revolve around four areas Head pharmacist and macy at 905-468-3000 to be answers and “has asked us ent opportunities.” area businesses. in which the survey showed owner Julie Dyck said the put on the waitlist for when not to ask them.” St. Catharines resi- Among other concerns, NOTL needs to improve. pharmacy received 300 more vaccines are available. Despite that, she said dent Barb Armstrong ar- the survey also highlighted These include: the treat- doses of the AstraZeneca There already are hundreds Stone Road Pharmacy feels rived early for the first complaints about ho- ment of migratory and vaccine on April 15. of people on the list, she fortunate to be one of three vaccine clinic on Monday mophobia directed at Shaw seasonal farm workers; ra- Evening vaccine clin- said. pharmacies in Niagara-on- night. Festival staff and a lack of cialized residents, workers ics at the pharmacy started The pharmacy admin- the-Lake that is able to offer women on town-appointed on Monday and run from istered two-thirds of the COVID-19 vaccinations. Continued on Page 3 committees. Continued on Page 2 Hooked on Hiking: Trails should come with a Town allows propane warning to users: ‘Hiking may be addictive’ barbecues in three parks

Jill Troyer there were some rocky bits, Evan Saunders Park in Virgil, St. Davids The Lake Report a slightly treacherous sec- The Lake Report Lions Park and Memorial tion close to a steep drop Park in Old Town. It started small. A long off, and some stairs. Well, Propane barbecues will be The decision to allow stroll on the Upper Cana- 118 stairs actually. But hey, allowed in three of Niagara- propane barbecues in only da Heritage Trail in Niaga- we were in the forest, there on-the-Lake’s parks after three parks is “based on ra-on-the-Lake, or through was a fast-running stream, an outright ban of them the sizes and different the Commons and along the and not one, but two, count sparked a community back- characteristics of our parks, Parkway. It seemed so in- ‘em, TWO waterfalls to lash – but some councillors and after consultation with nocent. COVID lockdowns gawk at. feel that a prohibition on our staff,” Coun. Sandra and restrictions made out- Now, this hike felt chal- barbecues in any parks is O’Connor told council. door walking more appeal- lenging, so I stayed with it exclusionary. “We have some small ing than ever. for several weeks as late An amendment to the parks or parkettes with Then came the teaser – a summer slipped into fall. month-old park’s bylaw was minimal facilities,” she said. sweet little 90-minute hike One of the other hikers was passed by council Monday A further amendment Happy hiker in a tree at Calcium Pits, in the Iroquoia with the Niagara Bruce allowing propane barbecues section of the Bruce Trail. SUPPLIED Trail Club in Jordan. Sure, Continued on Page 10 to be used in Centennial Continued on Page 2 Page 2 Shop from the comfort of home April 29, 2021 www.simpsonspharmacy.ca Pharmacy: 905.468.2121 In-store and curbside pick-up or free local delivery NEWS Apothecary: 905.468.8400 30% of NOTL newcomers face hostility, survey finds

Continued from Front Page “The solution will be up to all of us,” Cheropita told and visitors; the treatment council. “You certainly have of Shaw artists and employ- my heart in doing whatever ees; and a lack of acces- is necessary to make these sibility for the visually and changes here, so that every- mobility impaired. one feels included.” Coun. Erwin Wiens, in Thanks to the Acces- speaking about a plan to sibility for Ontarians with allow propane barbecues Disabilities Act, the town in some town parks, made will see quick movement some impassioned comments on accessibility issues, about exclusion in NOTL. Cheropita said. The dead- He lambasted unnamed line for businesses and groups that complain non-profits to file a report about others “monopoliz- to the provincial govern- ing our parks” and called ment is June 30, according out “very white, very to the act’s website. wealthy and very privi- Members of the inclusivity committee brief councillors on a recent survey and the next steps on dealing with issues of “With an aging popula- leged” residents for trying diversity and inclusivity in NOTL. SOURCED IMAGE tion here, it becomes even to exclude people. more important,” she said. “We should be mak- per cent have felt that,” Coun. discrimination in town: “I “I just wanted to comment Most of the worrisome Another immediate issue ing people inclusive,” said Norm Arsenault said, with am appalled at the stories I on the increase in gender di- results were in the 20 per for Cheropita, as outlined Wiens, who as a farmer Coun. Wendy Cheropita have heard about people of versity in the appointments cent to 30 per cent range, in the town’s strategic employs migrant workers. adding it is “one that really colour having racial slurs here, and I’d like to thank she said, “which is not plan and highlighted by “My wife feels it, as a vis- disturbs me terribly.” hurled at them or things those who applied and also good. We would prefer to the inclusivity survey as a ible minority, and my kids The survey also featured thrown at them based solely the committee for making have zero. But I think it weakness, is attracting and feel it as visible minorities, extensive written feedback on the colour of their skin. that happen,” Coun. Sandra shows us just where the retaining younger families and the people that work for from respondents. One The prejudice specifically O’Connor said. opportunities lie to be able and people to the town. me are all visible minorities. person, who said she and toward migrant farm work- It wasn’t all negative news to correct the situations “We’re looking to attract And they feel it,” he said. her husband work in human ers is unacceptable and in the survey and Chero- where it’s not a positive young families and that’s Among the bevvy of resources, noted: “I defi- needs to be called out. We pita noted in an interview experience, such as with to have a more diversified revealing data collected by nitely think the town has an need to expose this unac- Tuesday that 72 per cent of our migrant workers.” population,” she said. the town from the survey, inclusion problem. Just look ceptable behaviour and en- people felt they do belong in Other positives from “That comes with councillors homed in on at the Facebook group com- sure the community knows NOTL. the survey were that 97.6 certain expectations for question 26, which asked ments today, again people it will not be tolerated.” “That made me happy. per cent said they believe education, for accessibility if respondents had experi- complaining (about) too In the wake of the report, Because I think we are a that diversity and inclu- to recreational activities, enced hostility in the town many Toronto people … (if) councillors also passed a community that strives sivity benefit NOTL and to creating entrepreneurial based on how long they you pay tax here, you are a motion to fill eight vacan- from a town perspective 92.4 per cent thought it is activities that are attrac- have lived here. NOTL resident.” cies on town committees. and through our committees important for the town to tive to young people and “That’s a pretty stark slide, Sangster also highlighted Eight women were appoint- towards being inclusive,” promote inclusivity and affordable accommoda- quite frankly, to see that 30 a comment about racial ed to those positions. she said. diversity. tions.” Wiens has problem with park ‘exclusivity’

Continued from Front Page would start a fire. It’s a feedback from residents.” community acting as if the safety factor,” O’Connor But the decision, though parks are solely for them. by Lord Mayor Betty Disero said in an interview Tues- popular with councillors, He said parks are an es- that would allow town staff day. wasn’t enough for Coun. sential public space and his to add other parks to the list Since there already has Erwin Wiens. impassioned speech con- will be debated at the next been a lot of debate on the After decades of al- vinced fellow councillors meeting. idea of barbecues in parks, lowing families to have Allan Bisback and Wendy O’Connor told The some councillors were barbecues in NOTL’s parks, Cheropita to abstain from Lake Report she thinks curious what initiated the only allowing three parks the vote, a route that Wiens more parks will be added amendment. to continue is an exclusion- took himself. provided people barbecue “Is this as a result of ary policy for families who “If I voted against this responsibly. feedback that we were can’t afford to only shop motion then what would Small propane barbecues receiving through various and dine out in NOTL, happen is (it would look are seen as a minor fire channels?” Coun. Allan Wiens said. like) I’m not in favour of risk as opposed to charcoal Bisback asked. “I’m just “I am somewhat troubled barbecues. That’s not true. barbecues, which remain wondering what drove the by this, but in a larger But if I vote for it, as a banned under the new decision.” picture,” he said. “The compromise, that means bylaw. “I did hear feedback from only problem that’s ever that I’m compromising my “The problem with coal various people with regards come up with any of our principles and I won’t do is that the heat stays in coal to that,” O’Connor said. parks over time has been that,” Wiens told council- for such a long time. Nor- O’Connor said it was coals, leaving behind coals. lors. mally people are leaving based on “feedback from There’s never been an issue The three abstained votes the park before the coal has various people.” with people having (pro- were marked as “no’s” by cooled down. As a result, “Some from when I was pane) barbecues in parks.” the town and council ap- where do you dispose of at the agricultural commit- Wiens framed the issue proved allowing propane them? You can’t put them tee, asking ‘Why was this as one of wealthy, privi- barbecues in the three in the garbage, ‘cause that done?’ As well as other leged members of NOTL’s parks. Families gather at Simcoe Park. JESSICA MAXWELL Page 3 April 29, 2021 NEWS NOTL seeks feedback on Ryerson Park Richard Harley “I’ve been speaking The Lake Report up against this since I’ve heard all the delegations The Town of Niagara-on- of all of this, none of them the-Lake wants to hear from has been inclusive, none of residents about the use of it. It’s all been exclusive, Ryerson Park, located along and by very wealthy, very Niagara Boulevard in the privileged, very white Chautauqua neighbourhood. people who live next door A town survey is asking to parks, who feel that they residents their thoughts on have their parks and they what should be done to miti- have more of a use to that gate complaints about over- park than anybody else. use of the small park due to And that’s not true.” its growing popularity. “None of that ever gets The survey comes after called out, because the resident group Friends of people who are saying it are Ryerson Park has claimed Ryerson Park’s small beach and sunset views have been big privileged, they’re wealthy, the park is being overused attractions for many years. JESSICA MAXWELL they’re educated, they’re by visitors to town, creating well-spoken, and they can parking and traffic head- ileged, well-educated and for people to use them, to do that. And so we don’t aches, and unsanitary condi- they can speak and they’ve come to them, to enjoy them speak out against it,” Wiens tions because the park has used words like overcrowd- and if we want to attack said. no public washrooms. ing, or overuse, but they’ve people who come to this “So, what we do is we The survey, available also used words like ‘our town, we’re going to attack compromise by saying, through the Town’s Join the park.’ We need to take back people that don’t have the ‘We’ll give you this park,’ Conversation platform, is ‘our park,’ “ he said. money that all of us have,” so it was separate but equal. open until Tuesday, May 4. Wiens said, “Whether you he said. It didn’t work in the ‘60s During Monday’s council live next door to a park, or “It’s going to be people in the Deep South and it meeting, Coun. Erwin across town from a park or that rent places, and they doesn’t work here. This Wiens took exception to even in British Columbia, want to feel welcome, not is not inclusion, and our the general attitude of parks are a public issue and have pictures taken of them parks bylaw should be the some residents who feel the entity.” that are sent to us because last bastion of the use of parks should be limited to “Parks are supposed to be they’re ‘monopolizing’ our our Charter of where we residents, saying he believes inclusionary for everybody.” parks.” say everybody should be a public park should be Many of the concerns He said “people cannot welcome.” available to everyone. about overuse of the parks monopolize a park” and Wiens noted his wife and He abstained from voting come from wealthy, educat- doesn’t agree that people children are visible minori- on a plan to allow propane ed white people, who aren’t should be stopped from ties, as are workers on his barbecues in some parks, focused on inclusivity, but “having fun and listening farm, and they all “feel saying it was being done to exclusivity, pointing out the to kids screaming” in the that” pressure. mitigate use of some parks. town now has a committee parks. Some of the suggestions “There’s never been an to look at inclusion in town. “God forbid somebody from the Friends of Ryerson issue with people have any “When we talk about changes a diaper in public, Park have included enforc- barbecues in parks, but then inclusion, inclusion is much or somebody breastfeeds,” ing and restricting park- since parks are becoming more than just the commit- Wiens said. ing in the neighbourhood. more and more popular, tee or a report,” Wiens said. He said council needs to Safety concerns about emer- we’ve had a very a vocal “There is no such thing focus on calling out exclu- gency vehicles accessing group, a very large group, as overuse. There is no such sive attitudes when it comes Chautauqua’s narrow streets and they’re well-heeled, priv- thing. We build these things to parks. also have been raised. Pharmacy unsure when more shots coming

Continued from Front Page she wanted her vaccine as soon as possible. Originally the closest “I have a lot of friends place her husband could in the health care profes- find a vaccine appoint- sion who said, ‘You know, ment was in Mississauga getting this one is better before getting a call for a than none at the moment,’ ” spot in Niagara. Armstrong said. “Shortly after, he was “I’m excited, though. It’s able to get us closer to step one towards maybe home, which was here, so normal.” Content provided by: that’s awesome,” Arm- Dyck said she’s been giv- strong said. “He got his ing flu shots for 10 years. Dyck plans to build a pyramid to show how many vaccines in St. Catharines Satur- “And that’s been great to have been given so far. JESSICA MAXWELL day and I’m getting mine help the community. But today.” this is rewarding to another up. “And when they come COVID-19 vaccines, Dyck Though she did have level.” in you can’t see their smile, said she is happy that she mixed feelings because of People are so excited but you can feel it.” can help give some answers Advertising inquiries? negative publicity about the they’re showing up with Though people still have and advice to people in the Email [email protected] AstraZeneca shot, she knew their sleeves already rolled many questions about community. Editorial: The ‘stay home’ stretch

Page 4 April 29, 2021

The Lake Report OPINION Editorial Newcomers are proud to be NOTLers

Richard Harley absolutely should celebrate (Well, maybe during a pan- Editor-In-Chief: Richard Harley Editor your heritage and tell stories demic, but that is another Managing Editor: Kevin MacLean of how the town was. We issue entirely.) Publisher: Niagara Now From the beginning of The publish historical retrospec- But don’t blame people Design & Layout: Richard Harley Lake Report, three years tives every week. coming to live here. Blame Advertising: Rob Lamond, Lisa Jeffrey ago next week, one of our And you can even dis- the real problems that start- Contributors: Brittany Carter, Jessica Maxwell, goals was to begin to bridge agree with the way the town ed to hollow out the town Jill Troyer, Tim Taylor, Denise Ascenzo, the gap between longtime has become a tourism and and force locals out, like the Linda Fritz, Dr. William Brown, Brian Marshall, Niagara-on-the-Lake resi- towns, only to find your retirement destination. But municipality allowing the NOTL Museum, Susan Des Islets, Gail Kendall, dents and newcomers. neighbours hold a grudge what would NOTL be with- short-term rental industry Norm Arsenault, Patty Garriock, In our front-page edito- because you’re new, or from out them? to devastate neighbour- Steve Hardaker, Ross Robinson, Tim Carroll, rial in Issue 1, in May of Toronto, or Oakville or Newcomers have often hoods and artificially inflate NOTL Writers’ Circle, Penny-Lynn Cookson 2018, we wrote that “The whatever. heard that they’ll never be housing prices, or the school Megan Vanderlee, and many more members Lake Report intends to While there is evidence considered locals unless board closing the high of the NOTL community quench the thirst for a print that many complaints to the they were born here or can school so a younger genera- newspaper in NOTL. Part town are from phones with trace their NOTL bona tion lost its ties to NOTL. of that includes featuring 416 area codes, it shouldn’t fides back generations. That The vast majority of stories about locals, both paint all Toronto people as quaint joke isn’t so funny NOTL residents are proud new and old.” griping quidnuncs. when you read some of the to live here, no matter when So it’s disappointing to Anyone from anywhere nasty online comments they arrived, so there’s no COVID hear from a town sur- can be a jerk of a neighbour. whenever a newcomer room for discrimination vey that people are still feel- Plus that doesn’t mean their dares question the status based on how long someone ing discriminated against complaints are not val- quo. Start with bird can- has been in town. Tracker because they aren’t born id. (And many people who nons: The “not-so-friendly” The world has changed, and bred in town. have “come from away” side of NOTL quickly rears NOTL has changed. Accept Imagine buying a home years ago have retained 416 its head. it, because change is a con- NOTL active cases: 67 in Niagara-on-the-Lake mobile numbers.) A former NOTL council- stant in life. Meanwhile, to Region active cases: 2,853 because you genuinely It’s not to say you can’t lor once told us that “People paraphrase the late Rodney want to live in what various or shouldn’t be proud to be move here and want to pull King, “Can’t we all get Region deaths: 391 surveys have declared one a longtime, generational up the drawbridge behind along?” Region total cases: 13,551 of Canada’s “friendliest” NOTL resident — you them so no one follows.” [email protected] Region resolved cases: 10,307 Region variant cases: 2,516 *April 28 data per Niagara Region Public Health

Thanks for keeping us questioning our opinions Dear editor: knew that his opinion was that weekly to see if you are for a much better paper and Contributed by Patty Garriock A letter writer wrote of one person’s extreme view. totally wrong or a genius, makes me question my posi- “ If you want light to come into your life, you to express his frustration I read your paper because i.e. obviously a genius when tion on issues. need to stand where it is shining. “ that your paper seemed to I disagree with you half the we agree! Forcing readers to think - Guy Finley criticize our prime min- time and agree the other I suggest the letter writer is worth the odd critic. Hell, ister, (“Keep opinions in half. If you only write based is accustomed to the CBC/ it might be me complaining the opinion section,” April on appeasing one political Toronto Star approach to next time. That won’t mean 15). Apparently he felt that viewpoint, then you become journalism: full coverage of I am right, but it will mean HOW TO GET IN TOUCH gave concern you were be- what the letter professes to one side of every issue. you made me think. coming a political hack. be opposed to. Please keep me question- Mike Macdonald Email: I wanted to ensure you I now have to read you ing my viewpoint. It makes Glendale Letters: [email protected] Story Ideas: [email protected] Advertising: [email protected] I witness isolation at many levels in care facilities Phone Newsroom: 905-359-2270 Dear editor: Manor in Virgil, I witness ings of staff, with no oppor- quality of life – just to keep Advertising Department: 905-246-4671 Sincere thanks to Dr. isolation at many levels, not tunity to walk the corridors, the statistics down, but Office Address William Brown and his only in the long-term care visit common spaces or watch our loved ones fade 496 Mississagua St., NOTL, Ontario, Canada. family for sharing their own area but also those who try perhaps even get outside for away? Mailing Address personal journey through to “behave” but are con- a walk in a fenced space.” Several of my peers are PO Box 724, Niagara-on-the-Lake, L0S1J0 the unimaginable effects fused with so many ongoing Further imagine not even dealing with a loved one in of isolation, (“Imagine restrictions and rules. being able to open a win- isolation. Their heartache Have a lead on a story? isolation in care homes, Indeed just imagine “be- dow, just a few inches, for is beyond understanding. Call 905.359.2270 or send an email especially for those with ing shut up in one room for just a few minutes. They just have to watch it. to [email protected] dementia,” The Lake Re- weeks on end with little The abundance of caution I admire them all. to [email protected] port, April 22). social interaction except for no longer makes any sense Ingrid Regier As a resident of Pleasant meals, the comings and go- at all. At what price is the Virgil takeout & delivery 289-819-0179 | daily 12pm - 8pm PASTA BAR & GRILL italian wood-fired | pizza | pasta | wine | beer Page 5 April 29, 2021 OPINION Liberal budget shortchanges tourism sector

came to prioritizing what is 4. For the Canada Recovery away and pretend we have needed to get us out of this Benefit, the $500 payment already made it to the pandemic crisis and return usually received will be other side. As all Canadians life to normal as quicky as reduced to $300 for the last know, we aren’t there yet. possible. eight weeks of the benefit. We are still waging this war I continue to worry for Those who have been against COVID. those small businesses and hardest hit in our travel and It is a shame the federal workers involved in the tourism industry have been government used its budget travel and tourism sectors, asking for these essential announcement as a flashy including those in Niagara- programs to be extended attempt to turn the channel Tony Baldinelli on-the-Lake. right through until the end on a devastating pandemic, Special to The Lake Report The 2021 budget will of 2021. at a time when it is the see the federal govern- They provided ample worst it has ever been. On April 19, the federal ment extend the Canadian warning that travel and Canadians deserve far government unveiled their Emergency Wage Subsidy tourism will not resume better federal leadership long-awaited budget. (CEWS) and the Canadian right away as if switching than we are getting from Last Thursday, I had the Emergency Rent Subsidy on a light, yet the Liberal this government. As your opportunity to participate (CERS) until Sept. 25 of government has chosen this member of Parliament, I in debate in the House of this year, while an addition- arbitrary timeline, which will continue to stand up Commons to respond to the al 12 weeks is being added will reduce supports all for our local interests in budget and address its many to the Canada Recovery while the sector is on the Ottawa. shortfalls. Benefit (CRB). verge of losing another sum- Tony Baldinelli is the In addition to being However, the subsidy rates mer tourism season. Conservative MP for Ni- overdue by more than two for both CEWS and CERS It is as if through this agara Falls riding, which years, this budget was will begin to gradually budget, the Liberals simply includes Niagara-on-the- well off the mark when it decrease beginning on July want to wish this pandemic Lake and Fort Erie. More public consultation needed for old hospital

Dear editor: site steering committee and/ The lack of public consul- or council before proceed- tation on the future of the ing further with the short- former hospital site in Old listed proponents to the next Town is concerning. stage.” During the 2018 mu- The process outlined to nicipal election campaign, council does not include which took place just over public consultation on the a year after NOTL pur- proposals prior to the de- chased the site, a number of velopment of the short list, residents asked candidates nor was there any public what their plans were for the consultation (to the best of property. my knowledge) on the types While the responses from of projects that might be candidates varied – from deemed an appropriate fit creating a facility to meet for the former hospital site Proud to the needs of seniors that The old NOTL hospital building. JESSICA MAXWELL in advance of the RFEI be- Support our might incorporate space for ing finalized. programs geared toward been demolished at taxpay- cess, NOTL is “seeking I will be dismayed, and Local News children, to turning it into a ers’ expense, apparently responses that clearly dem- angry, if residents are only parking lot – most candi- to make that portion of onstrate the nature of the informed about the plans dates, including the current the property more attrac- proposed operations and for the former hospital site lord mayor, were adamant tive to prospective buyers, use of the site” and how after they are finalized and MPP Wayne Gates Niagara Falls riding representing Niagara-on-the-Lake that there would be public and council is engaging a that would: benefit the lo- construction is set to begin,  WayneGates.com  905-357-0681 consultation before any final fairness monitor as part of cal economy and town, en- as was the case with the decisions were made. its plans to eventually sell hance the heritage district new nursery school being Several organizations and the remainder of the former and distinct character of built as an addition to the Did you know? individuals from NOTL hospital site. Old Town, advance the NOTL Community Centre. The Lake Report’s printer sources 100 per cent of also put forward ideas on As part of that process, town’s vision – “Work- It would also be reason- its paper fibre from industry leading paper mills, possible uses for the old it is also preparing to issue ing together to maintain able, I believe, given that which use quick-growth, sustainable, renewable hospital site, which in- a request for expression our heritage, agriculture council has continued to plots of land, rather than clear-cutting forests. cluded the construction of of interest (RFEI) to seek and distinct beauty while impose annual municipal a public art gallery as well proposals and concepts for creating vibrant sustain- tax increases, despite not The ink is also vegetable-based. as creating a new theatre for the property. All of this is able communities for all” having an urgent need Advertising inquiries? the Shaw Festival. But the being guided by a hospital – and contribute to the for the COVID-19 relief Email us at common theme at the time site steering committee advancement of the town’s funding it received from [email protected] was that those suggestions made up of town council- strategic plan. the province this year, for or call Rob at 905-246-4671 should rightly be considered lors and town staff. There is Town staff will evalu- taxpayers to be told what during a broader public no public representation on ate the responses received NOTL intends to do with consultation process on the the committee. based on categories and the significant revenues that Have an opinion site’s future. In a presentation to weightings as outlined in will almost certainly be That public consultation council at its March the criteria of the RFEI, realized through the sale of you want heard? has not occurred. Yet the 22 meeting, town clerk and a “selection committee the former hospital site. Send a letter to the editor to former doctors and nurses’ Peter Todd explained that will make recommenda- Terry Davis [email protected] residence on the site has through the RFEI pro- tions to the town’s hospital NOTL Page 6 April 29, 2021 OPINION Flowers keep vanishing from parents’ graves Hummel lawsuit

Knauer (my father), at Lake- Easter, when I removed the disturbed that anyone would shore Cemetery. Christmas wreaths, I bought do that. not worthy of She planted beautiful some beautiful, high-qual- I replaced them yet one pots with fresh flowers and ity silk flowers and placed more time and hope that in the height of the sum- some arrangements in the whoever took all my flowers citizen of the year mer watered them at least vases at their graves. is feeling at least a twinge three times a week. I secured them so they of a guilty conscience when opinions are similar to those As she got older, when I wouldn’t get blown away, looking at them. expressed in greater detail was in Niagara-on-the-Lake yet when I went to check on Who does that? by Justice James Ramsay of on Sundays, I watered them them a week later my par- I’m disgusted and I’m the Ontario Superior Court, to give her a break. ents’ flowers were gone. afraid my belief that all who has dismissed Hum- She once told me, when I looked all around but people are inherently good mel’s claims as contrived I’m gone, don’t feel you found nothing, so apparently has been challenged. and invalid in their entirety. Dear editor: have to do this. You can’t they hadn’t blown away but I hope that common de- Now, of course, as one For many years, my get here every other day had walked away. cency will prevail and this might expect, he plans to mother Brigitte Knauer when it’s hot. Just put some I replaced them and a will not happen to anyone appeal this decision. (After lovingly tended the graves silk flowers there. week later they were gone else. Respect the deceased all, is this not within his of her mother, mother-in- Well, last September my again as well as one of my and those who mourn them. legal rights and is there not law and sister, as well as dear mother passed away grandmother’s arrange- Christine Beatty still a chance even now for that of her husband Harry at age 85 and, just before ments. I was sick and was Niagara Falls him to reach into the pock- ets of the resident taxpayer!) Rainer Hummel wins citizen of the year in 2018. FILE To me this is very regret- table coming from someone Could retired police help out NOTL bylaw officers? Dear editor: who received an award as In a letter to The Lake citizen of the year in 2018. Dear editor: tourists masks, places staff time delays when calling or 15 minutes to the Old Report on April 15, (“Town How on earth did this Having lived in NOTL at parks,” April 8). the police for back-up, the Town. This is just a sug- was right to impose devel- individual with his obvious for 31 years, which included In our B&B years we idea occurred that surely gestion. After all, a large opment freeze”), I expressed interest in personal enrich- 23 years as the owner/ had wonderful guests who within our four villages portion of our taxes go to my personal opinions ment (at the expense of the operator of Linden House have become friends and there could be Region of policing. concerning developer resident taxpayer), regard- B&B, we were perplexed still call us to meet them for Niagara police or even It is too bad that visitors Rainer Hummel and his rea- less of other factors that to read in the last two Lake lunch or dinner when they retired police living. want to come to our town sons for the legal action that may or may not be related, Reports about the prob- are coming to town for the We wondered if one could but don’t want to follow the he launched against town become a recipient of this lems being faced by our theatre – although we have be “on-call” during the pandemic requirements. council and the resident award? bylaw officers, who have missed them for a couple of weekends in the busy tourist It seems as though this taxpayers of Niagara-on- As I see it, this is simply taken on a thankless job, years now. season should the local by- situation has brought out the the-Lake over the interim not the action of a citizen of (“Bylaw officers harassed When we thought about law people need assistance. worst in some people. control bylaw. the year. for enforcing restrictions,” the problem the bylaw The response time Elaine and Phil Landray It is now a matter of Derek Collins April 15 and “Town offers officers are facing and the would be much less – 10 NOTL record that these general NOTL

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Colours: Cyan Magenta Yellow Black Page 7 April 29, 2021 OPINION People dying from COVID are more than just statistics

Dear editor: emergency room. Like me, the situation. COVID. If my circumstanc- Today the province re- she had to leave family and As it happens, I am a fan es were less privileged, it ported 40 deaths from CO- friends at the door. of statistics and my profes- could have been me or one VID-19. If these people had She stood alone, eyes sional life relies on them. of the people I dearly love died from a bus accident, wide with fear, struggling Even still, I know that in this world. plane crash, or by the hands to breathe. I both wanted to statistics don’t bridge the If the choice were be- of a shooter, their names, hug this stranger and hoped gap between those pro- tween my freedom to live faces, life stories would be she’d be whisked out of tected from real knowledge as I used to or the lives of posted all over the media. my presence as quickly as of COVID and those who those I know and love — or A mountain of flow- possible. (She was.) Since live with it daily. Nor does my own life — that decision ers and tributes would be that encounter, I’ve been discussing the pandemic in would be a no-brainer. heaped somewhere. Instead, prepared to do whatever it a dispassionate tone with Instead, the choice is be- they are just an impersonal takes to not get what she the occasional flash of smile tween my freedom and the statistic. And therein lies had. to the camera. lives of those I don’t know, one contributor to the cur- There’s a lot of frustration Statistics provide cold but who are loved (I hope) rent resistance to public toward people marching information; emotion and by others. Should still be a health measures. maskless in the street – and stories convey meaning no-brainer … but it would The pandemic has divided I share that. For one thing, it and significance. If we are help if we were routinely our world in so many ways. probably extends my period to grasp the dire reality of given more meaningful in- One colossal division is of COVID-incarceration. this pandemic, we need to formation than impersonal between those of us who That said, I understand hear more stories of actual statistics. are at arm’s-length from the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake signs at the entrances to Old some of where they are people who have suffered In the absence of that, Town advise visitors of pandemic orders, to wear a mask carnage of COVID and the coming from. We are all and died. though, let’s pause when and be kind. RICHARD HARLEY health care workers who frustrated and looking for a At a minimum, we need we hear the daily toll and aren’t; and between those of for their “freedom.” They’re very afraid. Why? Because righteous and visible reason to see authentic, meaningful imagine that one of those us who work at home and fearing for their lives. her world is not filled with to be angry. It’s hard to emotion in our experts and nameless people is someone those who are employed There’s my niece, a impersonal statistics, but the express anger at an invisible leaders. Why did Dr. Bonnie we’d dearly miss. It might in high person-contact set- hospitalist physician in B.C. concrete reality of COVID threat, especially when that Henry become an interna- make those COVID priva- tings. She’s the most fearless per- and its effects. threat is more present in tional hero at the beginning tions a little easier to bear. The people who live with son I know, who as a young There’s also the young others’ lives than ours. of the pandemic? Because Dr. Kathryn Belicki the daily fear that they adult travelled by herself woman who was behind me There is also an informa- she wept on camera. Professor emeritus may be gasping for oxygen throughout the Third at the triage desk the night tion gap that can lead us to Forty people died yester- of psychology tomorrow aren’t marching World. She’s afraid now, I had to go to the hospital underestimate the gravity of day in this province from Brock University Ford puts economy ahead of people’s lives Table legs missing Dear editor: to implement a sick leave a critical point. Besides the tise. Ford is a populist proud in famous painting As I write this on April program as an alternative to rollout of vaccines immuni- of his simplistic approach. 23, Ontario is registering the inadequate program of zation, it is becoming clear He is a political animal Dear editor: I first learned about this in between 3,000 and 4,000 the federal government. The that we need tighter control who is aware of the votes I was surprised to find an art history course that I new positive cases of CO- federal government only in some areas and less in instead of listening to the that Penny-Lynn Cookson took many a year ago. VID-19 daily with some 700 provides a salary a week others. health experts. What is in her detailed description Since then, whenever people in intensive care units later, with the requirement The Ford government the point of closing parks, of “L’Absinthe” by Degas I have visited the Musée and overworked health care to reapply each time the should redistribute vac- playgrounds and golf (Eye for Art, April 22) did du Jeu de Paume in Paris, workers in need of rescue. employee requests new sick cines from areas with high courses when workplaces not mention the detail that I where Impressionist art was For humanitarian rea- leave. income, but few COVID-19 are often contaminated by have always found the most housed until 1986, or the sons, I support Premier Essential workers often infections, to low-income COVID-19? intriguing about the paint- Musee d’Orsay, where it is Doug Ford’s request for work in low-paying jobs. areas, with high incidences • Fortunately there are ing: there are no table legs. today, I make it a point to help from other Canadian They frequently have to of this virus. doctors who have the cour- Below the table to the seek out “L’Absinthe.” provinces. Help is needed live from paycheque to High-income areas in the age to contradict him and right, one sees two pairs of The lack of table legs is for people in low-income paycheque. Not getting im- GTA have pharmacies to act for the good of the less- legs. Below the one to the very evident when viewing communities, hospitals, mediate help could mean not administer the AstraZeneca protected who do not vote left, which holds a carafe the 68- x 92-centimetre oil ICUs and wherever the gov- being able to put food on the vaccine, compared to few Conservative. Some have of water, there is nothing. It painting in person. ernment has refused to bring table. or no pharmacies able to issued guidelines ordering is as if the table is floating Elizabeth Masson in paid sick leave. Sick leave in Ontario was do so in low-income areas. businesses with five or more in air. NOTL It is obvious to me that abolished after the Ford gov- Unfortunately, these neigh- cases of COVID-19 in the Ford and his cabinet are ernment came to power. So bourhoods voted NDP in past two weeks to shut down catering to major corporate what is important? Health the 2018 provincial election. for 10 days. iClean and now iPhone funders, the private sector or the economy? To have a (Note that Ford’s Conserva- The absence of sick days and their base. It is clear that healthy economy, don’t you tives won 76 out of 124 seats under provincial law is the economy comes before have to have a healthy work- with 40 per cent of the vote.) clearly a major factor in the charges just fine the lives of people. force? Will he finally see the • Doug Ford waited until spread of the pandemic. Yet However, Ford must take light of common sense and the vaccine arrived to fix the premier told us he has Dear editor: disrupt the connections to responsibility, for the follow- do an about-face? problems in long-term care the best brains to work on My iPhone wouldn’t the USB cable. ing reasons: Dr. Theresa Tam, Can- homes, especially for-profit the pandemic. It was then charge properly. Cleaning out the port with • His government does not ada’s chief public health ones. that a reporter asked this The internet deluged me a suitable thin implement take seriously what health officer, recently said that in • We see the result of question: “So where have with reasons and fixes as to works wonders. Don’t be professionals recommend. Ontario, one of the CO- electing someone who they gone?” why. Then I found what the surprised how much lint For ideological reasons, VID-19 variants appears to made labels to oppose the Let’s hope they show up most common reason for gets in there! arguably supported by the be a clear winner. The race carbon tax by insisting they soon. this is. Cheers, private sector, he refuses between the vaccine and be stuck on gas pumps. He Gilbert Comeault Lint from pockets can get Richard West (for the moment, anyway) the variants is therefore at has no health care exper- NOTL into the charging port and NOTL

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MICHELLE REYNOLDS 905-468-4214 STEFAN REGIER BROKER SALES REPRESENTATIVE Page 8 April 29, 2021 NEWS Garden plots at B-Y’s Honey Farm prove popular

Fatima Baig ing his grandchildren eat land for gardens is a great Special to The Lake Report the vegetables out of the way for people to see those garden and learn from him benefits first-hand, he said. It’s a good thing B-Y’s about growing vegetables. “We have 52 acres here, Honey Farm has lots of They learn “a little bit from so we just see what’s go- space – because its 50 rental me as far as where the veg- ing on with land prices plots for people to grow etables come from and how and food prices going up their own organic food are they grow.” and with what’s going on. almost sold out. Shanks said he shares the People want to get outside As of this week, owner vegetables he grows with and stuff, so we decided Ed Unger said only one family and friends. we wanted to offer a natu- plot was still available for “When our friends found ral approach for people to rent. And the success of out that I got one of the come out and grow their the endeavour means he’ll allotments they all com- own food,” said Chris consider expanding the mented that they were all Chabot, marketing man- number of plots available in looking forward to seeing ager at B-Y’s. the future. the vegetables that I am go- Unger said renting out Unger says people can use ing to bring and be handing plots allows for more food the plots to produce their over to them this year. So, to be grown on the farm own food with only one they obviously look forward and gives people the abil- condition: no pesticides to the fresh vegetables out ity to produce their own or chemical sprays can be of the garden as well,” he food. used. said. “There are many people He said the goal is to pro- Plots of land ready to be used for summer gardens. JESSICA MAXWELL At B-Y’s, Unger is also the who live in apartments and vide a space for people who beekeeper. He said he has don’t have a place where otherwise wouldn’t have an healthier than buying food, kids to get muddy and dirty. food. He is growing veg- been doing beekeeping his they can actually grow area to grow their own food. since many foods are grown They need to know a little etables in his home garden whole life and comes from things. We have plenty of The plots cost $80 for a 10- using pesticides, he said. bit about nature and get but also rented out a plot on three-plus generations of land here, so we’ll give by-20 foot space and $50 for “We don’t allow any involved and a lot of parents B-Y’s to grow more. beekeepers who have kept them an opportunity to do a 10-by-10 spot. pesticides to be used here, say that’s what they are Shanks grew up in Eng- bees in Russia and South something with their fam- Unger attributes the suc- so everything is grown looking forward to.” land, where community America. ily,” he said. cess of the plots to people naturally.” Graham Shanks is among garden plots are common. He wants to encour- The work and labour is understanding the idea of He also said parents and those renting a plot from “It was a great way to feed age people to grow their left to whoever rents the organic and healthy living. families are interested in B-Y’s Honey Farm. families and cut back on own food, which he says plot. However, for those new “I think people really get renting out plots because The Old Town resident the cost of vegetables and has both financial and to gardening or planting, the idea to get real products they want to be able to get first got into growing his the food that you put on the health benefits compared people who work on the out there and stay natural.” outside with their kids. own food for the enjoyment table,” he said. to store-bought fruits and farm are available to of- Growing organic food is “I find it very good for – and the fresher taste of the He also enjoys see- vegetables. Renting plots of fer tips and advice.

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Evan Saunders travel a whole lot farther. ing at automating the gate Special to The Lake Report So, they end up having to so it’s controlled more from pay more cost as they go the app, so we don’t have Niagara-on-the-Lake’s downstream, because they to spend time getting staff irrigation infrastructure affect more residents as it to come out for a four-hour is incapable of supplying all goes down.” call out just to lift the gate a farms when demand is high- “It’s always the guy at the half-inch,” he said. est and the system needs a bottom of the hill who will As Coun. Allan Bisback major overhaul, town coun- scream the second loudest, put it, “to me, (that) means cillors were told last week. because the guy at the top labour.” After more than a year of Angela Peck presents the doesn’t understand why And so the report recom- collecting data and stake- irrigation master plan to I’m charging assessment so mends that the system be holder opinions, Brett Ruck, council. SOURCED high.” upgraded and automated, environmental services su- The report also found is- with data being collected pervisor, outlined the town’s ly, and another high-stress sue with some of the town’s and sent to the town digi- new draft irrigation master test that simulated a 10-year bylaws, which prevent the tally instead of manually by plan and it calls for a 20 per drought had farms run at town from properly penal- staff. cent fee increase for farmers three inches instead of two. izing farmers who use too The draft master plan this year. These tests found that much water. presents two paths to im- That would bring farm- “the level of service pro- “It almost took us prove the irrigation system: ers’ costs to $40.02 per acre vided by the existing system seven days to place a fine a costlier and possibly un- for 2021. is inadequate to supply the on somebody. And, by that installable 25-year plan and The sweeping plan also complete system during time, they’ve already taken a more feasible and cheaper says fees will have to those two target scenarios,” the water, gone, and they 10-year plan. rise an extra one per cent consultant Angela Peck told said, ‘OK, I won’t use it for The 25-year plan was every year until 2030 to councillors. the rest of the summer,’” more general, with its final pay for its recommenda- The test found that water Ruck told councillors. goal being to “meet ultimate tions. It includes a 10- and shortages begin halfway “The bylaw really needs levels of service,” according 25-year plan for the town to through the system, with to be set up so we can give a to the report. The plan also follow in order to improve the farms farthest from fine immediately.” pledges to create a secure irrigation services. the water source losing the The report doesn’t just water source for farmers, “This irrigation plan is most. seek to increase water have sustainable assets and long overdue, I think we “No one ever draws (wa- capacity to ensure farmers commit to all the improve- can all agree,” Ruck told ter) an inch an acre and is get what they need – it also ments recommended for the council’s committee of the being neighbourly. They all includes several key updates irrigation system. whole meeting. want it at the same time and to create ease of use for the Ruck and Peck also The plan highlights the then there’s nothing left. So, town. presented a more focused major deficiencies in the it’s very difficult to manage The report found that the 10-year plan, with specific town’s current irrigation that (with the current infra- system is entirely manual, goals and rate increases. system and provides several structure),” Ruck said. causing the town to spend This scenario includes paths for fixing things and As a result, farmers far- more by sending out staff improving the pumping improving the whole system thest from the water source on foot to do ground work capacity at East Chester in the future. don’t know if they will have and check the system and and Whirlpool, repairing si- Associated Engineering enough water for their crops water usage. phons, securing a water per- worked with the town on the when they need it most. One example that Ruck mit along the canal to draw irrigation master plan and And those same farmers on put forward was lifting more water, and a myriad ran tests on the system that the far end of the irrigation an irrigation weir gate. of engineering upgrades simulated average con- channel pay the highest cost The gates are “where among other things. sumption of water in two for their water. we spend a lot of time and Regardless of which op- scenarios. “And the reason for that,” energy. Out at the gates, tion council chooses, the One was based around Ruck said, “is that droplet lifting them a quarter-inch, report notes that town and an average demand of two of water that comes off the half-inch, down, up, down – irrigator co-operation will inches for two days biweek- most extreme end has to it’s constant. So we’re look- be essential for success. Errant car strikes home on Queen Street

Staff tima, struck 157 Queen St. The Lake Report at about 2:20 p.m. “Officers attended to a Have a lead on a story? A car struck a house on home in the area of Queen Queen Street on Saturday, Street and Simcoe Street and Call 905.359.2270 or send an email to but police haven’t said how found a 2017 Nissan Altima [email protected] it happened. had left the road way and A Lake Report reader struck a Queen Street house,” Want to grow and brand your business emailed about the incident, said police Const. Phil Gavin. through advertising? saying they believed the There were no inju- Call 905.246.4671 or send an email to incident was racing related. ries and the investigation is [email protected] The car, a 2017 Nissan Al- ongoing, he said. A dent in the house. RICHARD HARLEY

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Continued from Front Page about to turn 90 and I made it my mission to keep up with him. It was tough, but I did it and felt a small swell of pride. Those steps never got easier, but the forest was incessantly charming. Soon the cycle of lock- downs spelled an end to those organized hikes, so as winter settled in, I set out to explore some local sections of the trail with my hiking buddy. Never great naviga- tors, we stuck to going out and back at Queenston and Woodend, two spots with easy access to the trail. We enjoyed tromping along the escarpment, Spring sun on Twenty Mile Creek in Jordan, part of the Niagara section of the Bruce Trail. marvelling at the massive SUPPLIED boulders and thrilling to the exhilarating winter air. The conspired to tempt me. the bait, not really knowing trudging on even near the joy of sunshine and fresh Just as I was feeling the the consequences. end when my feet were sore snow even inspired some pangs of withdrawal from A casual mention was and my pack heavy, I felt snow angels along the way. my regular hikes with made, no pressure, no the fulfillment of finishing Then it happened. In a flash, my now-injured friend, persuasion. Just a dangle something that wasn’t easy, a moment faster than time. an invitation came to tag … “We’re doing an end- but was worth the effort. We had just ventured along with a small group to-end of the Toronto There was a buzz even in onto the trail at Woodend, on a three-hour hike. Three section of the trail. It’ll be the physical weariness. fresh snow dusting some hours?? I thought. In the three days a week, about 15 And if all of that wasn’t Nature’s beauty on the Bruce Trail through Rockway, part ice patches. A kindly man deep snow?? kilometres each hike. Come enough to ensnare me, my of the Niagara section of the Bruce Trail. SUPPLIED coming toward us paused to I don’t think I can do along if you like.” fellow hikers added an say hello and to tell us the this. I don’t think I should Why not, I thought. I’ll irresistible layer of easy lyte drinks, and I studied Then came the chance trail ahead was a bit icy. As do this. I don’t think I will just try it, I thought. I can camaraderie, light laugh- tree species and tips to to join another end-to-end my friend stopped to make do this. quit anytime, I thought. ter and kindness. identify wildflowers. marathon, even longer than room for him to pass with And then, I did it. And so it began. Early I was all in. Even my home workouts the last! I didn’t think twice. safe space, distracted by his There were moments of morning drives to obscure And my obsession ex- took on a new intensity, as The trout lilies were bloom- comments and the need to winter splendour and for- co-ordinates, parking on the tended beyond my hours on I now saw the exercise as ing, the blackbirds were move away, she slipped on est wonder, but they were edges of remote roads and the trail. enabling my habit. trilling and we were explor- the ice, and in that instant, followed with the misery heading out on the trail. Soon my Facebook feed As that marathon end- ing more of the escarpment. broke her leg. of plodding along an open I felt like I’d entered a was filled with endless pic- to-end hike neared a close, We had finished six hikes Tea, sympathy and medi- berm in snow up to my secret world of enchanted tures of mossy rocks, gnarly with more than 100 kilo- and covered 124 kilome- cal treatment ensued for my knees into gale-force winds. forests, sweetly flowing tree roots and cascading metres logged, I felt an im- tres when the most recent friend. And perhaps this That may have dissuaded streams, and on some days, waterfalls. pending melancholy. Where round of COVID restrictions turn of events ought to have others from further winter gushing waterfalls. The air I jumped every time the would that rush come from forced us to cancel the rest. been a warning to me. Go hikes, but instead of feeling was fresh and bracing, the doorbell rang, anticipating once it was over? For now, I’m reverting to back! Give it up! Hiking is discouraged, I felt a stub- smells were woodsy and wet, delivery of coveted new I scaled back to shorter solitary jogs for my outdoor dangerous! born satisfaction at finish- and I drank in the scenery poles or the perfect new hikes just twice a week, exercise, but the moment But, no. Apparently the ing despite the conditions. deeply. I experienced a rush knapsack, to bring a burst of exploring some of the it’s safe to get back on the lure was too strong. Here’s what happened of wonder I came to crave. joy on those days I was not many beautiful trails in and trails with a friend or two, Scheduled hikes were still next. Crunching along on the hiking. around NOTL, as wintry ice I’ll be packing my poles and on hold due to COVID. But In hindsight, I can see ice, climbing sometimes My focus on food turned retreated and spring mud checking my map for the recent hiking acquaintances this was the moment I took treacherous slopes, and to trail snacks and electro- emerged. next adventure. Page 11 April 29, 2021 NEWS

I can be heard and caught but never seen. What am I?

Last issue: I have 13 hearts, but no other organs? What am I? Answer: A deck of cards Answered first by: Sheelah Young Also answered correctly (in order) by: Jennifer Risdon, Bob Campbell, Shirley Holroyd, Downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake. RICHARD HARLEY Wade Durling, Brenda Bartley, Bob Stevens, David Steele, Mike Berlis, Tami Lepp, Sheila Meloche, Johanne Drolet, Ardeth Staz, Jack Pentesco, Pam Dowling, Roger Marcos, NOTL voted most ‘beautiful and sustainable’ Patricia (plad1956), Maria Janeiro, Mary Drost, Katie Reimer, Sadie Willms, Elaine Landray, events destination by industry group Sylvia Wiens, Debbie MacIntyre, June Pozzebon, Tee Bucci, Chris Van de Laar, Staff with about 450 people “For example, Stra- She said organizations Carol Von Pasecky, Janice Taylor, Margie Enns The Lake Report taking part in the event. tus Winery was the first like Parks Canada also Email answers, with your name, to editor@ Most attendees were winery in Canada to earn embody sustainability “by niagaranow.com for a chance to win a prize. Niagara-on-the-Lake from the meeting profes- the LEED (Leadership in preserving and protect- (Subject line: Riddle me this) was voted Canada’s most sion – hotels, destination Energy and Environmental ing historic sites, like Fort beautiful and sustainable management organizations Design) Canada Certifica- George” and the agency’s destination for events dur- and meeting planners from tion. NOTL is home to sustainable development ing a virtual Earth Day across Canada. many wineries that engage strategy outlines its plan event hosted by the Sus- NOTL received about in natural, biodynamic, to take effective action on tainable Events Forum. 35 per cent of all the votes and/or organic winemak- climate change. NOTL chief administra- cast, said Natalie Lowe, ing, such as Southbrook Cluckie noted, “Sustain- tive officer Marnie Cluckie president of the Sustainable Vineyard, Frogpond ability is not something called it “a spectacular Events Forum. Farm Winery and Ravine that is achieved, but rather surprise and honour.” Following its nomina- Vineyard. These winer- a state for which we con- “Niagara-on-the-Lake tion, NOTL, along with ies, and others, are the tinually strive. Niagara-on- had some fierce and very fellow nominees St. John’s, perfect place to host an the-Lake is committed to worthy competition for this Charlottetown, Halifax, event,” said town engage- continuous improvements, great distinction and we Quebec City, Montreal, ment co-ordinator Lauren including reducing our are thrilled to have been Banff, Vancouver, Victoria Kruitbosch. carbon footprint and being chosen.” and Whitehorse, were as- “There are also many good stewards of this beau- For Lord Mayor Betty signed a champion to rep- amazing restaurants in tiful environment in which Disero, “This is such a resent the town and attest Niagara-on-the-Lake that we live, work and play.” great honour to be voted to how it exhibits beauty make sustainability efforts. The Sustainable Events Canada’s most beautiful and sustainability. For example, Ryan Craw- Forum is an industry orga- and sustainable events Shari Bricks, managing ford focuses on reducing nization that started as a destination,” director of Bond Asso- food waste and grows single event 19 months ago. “I look forward to wel- ciation Management in many of his ingredients in The organization’s goal coming tourists and visitors Toronto, hosted a short his own garden. Treadwell is to increase awareness in back to experience all that video highlighting NOTL’s has been doing farm-to- the event sector on sustain- is beautiful, unique and beauty and sustainability. table cuisine since 2006 ability. wonderful about our town, A town official said and also focuses on local Bricks’ video promot- once it is safe to do so.” NOTL tried to “highlight ingredients and local sup- ing NOTL can be found Only registered par- sustainability leaders in pliers. Again, these are all at www.youtube.com/ ticipants were able to vote, the community.” great event locations.” watch?v=z63B58hDNnE.

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A sign outlining park rules looms over Chautauqua Park. ROSS ROBINSON Ross’ Ramblings: Signs of the times grow wordy, verbose and palaverous

Ross Robinson But back to our piece of Hopefully I am not being Special to The Lake Report geographical and cultural whiny. Just observin’ and paradise. com menti n’. Back in Canada’s What used to be simple This global pandemic is wonderful and chest- and direct has become forcing new thoughts and expanding 1967 Centennial verbose, euphuistic (look up actions by various levels of Year, which was also my euphemism) and a bit too government. second year of Grade 13 much. Our leaders have so at Sir Winston Churchill For example, I recently many responsibilities. To Secondary School in St. saw a metal sign indicating name a few: Safe water, Catharines, our precise a “Tow Away Zone.” It read, safe roads, education, and eloguent British-born and I’m not making this up, parks and recreation, English teacher Mr. Bartlett “All Vehicles noted to be in libraries, policing and the would ask us, “Why use violation of Parking Policies list goes on. just one or two simple will be Relocated.” I thank them, but re- words to emphasize a point, Right here on Niag- spectfully ask that poten- when two or three less ara-on-the-Lake’s high tial liabilities and potential well-known words would street, Queen Street, in front legal fees do not totally suffice?” of an ice cream shoppe, we rule the day. During the current see temporary metal fencing How about providing our lockdown, many of us and professionally made beleaguered bylaw officers have too much time on signs reading, “Cows Stag- with colourful, unique uni- our hands. So, indulge me ing Area.” Huh? Where forms? Perhaps the great while I ramble about wordy should we line up? Angie Strauss could design signs. In a local public park, new clothing more welcoming To be clear,our local and laminated signs read, than the current dark blue signs should obey the Ryerson Park SURVEY. We militaristic uniforms? Just concept of K.I.S.S. Keep it want your feedback. “The thinkin’. simple and straightforward. Town of Niagara-on-the- And while I am express- Instead of “This Outdoor Lake is soliciting public ing gratitude, let’s have a Amenity is closed,” how engagement regarding the shout out for the hardwork- about “Playground Closed” use of this park (Ryerson ing, happy and courteous or “Tennis Courts Closed.” Park).” Soliciting public crew from Circle P Pav- It seems that sign makers engagement? Sheesh, eh? ing. They started at 7:01 and sign authors are paid The newest “Welcome a.m. on Monday, April 19, by the word. I learned this Signs” at our playgrounds and except for two snow in 1972 while working at include some 14 instruc- days, haven’t stopped the Olympic Games Vil- tions. To pass muster, we upgrading our streets in lage in Munich for three must use parks only during Chautauqua. It has been months. The host city had daylight hours, inspect play amazing to watch. As the to provide all signage in equipment before using, foreman said, “This is three languages. French, we cannot run, push or what we do, eh? to remember Baron Pierre shove,and we must wear So, in the year 2021, I de Coubertin, the vision- proper footwear at all cannot find words or energy ary (misogynist) founder times. We must stay away to talk about the “Alcohol in of the modern Olympics from moving swings and the the Parks” kerfuffle. in 1896, English, as a bottom of slides. My late mother would widely used international Do they think citizens say, “Goodness gracious language, and German, for using these playgrounds are me. Grow up.” obvious reasons. children? With no common As ever, she gets the last Hundreds of taxi stands sense? No skipping ropes and word. were verbosely signed adult supervision is recom- Think positive. Test nega- “Taxi, Taxis, Taxi.” mended. Not required? tive. Page 13 April 29, 2021 OPINON Season interrupted: NOTL’s Brandon Skubel plays hockey for McGill Right winger from St. Davids spent three years in Quebec junior league

Brittney Cutler “We had a discussion Special to The Lake Report at the dinner table where I asked him, ‘Were you NOTL vineyards. FILE PHOTO Brandon Skubel had high happy with your game?’ hopes for his first season and he said no,” Bruno playing university hockey told The Lake Report in an History in the Vineyard this year. And like every- email. one else, the Niagara-on- “I told him the best thing fundraiser returns the-Lake native is hoping to do was to skate against life returns to normal soon. the fastest player on his Staff More than 200 tickets The talented right team during practice and The Lake Report were sold for the last one, winger, who grew up play- he went out next practice on Feb. 11. It brought in ing hockey in Niagara, and did exactly what we The Friends of Fort “thousands of needed dol- joined the McGill Univer- talked about. I think this George, NOTL Muse- lars for both organizations, sity men’s varsity team this is where he accepted that um and Ravine Vineyard while also supporting three year after a stellar three he had to work hard to Estate Winery are host- local restaurants: Ravine years playing in Quebec’s achieve what he needed to ing another History in Vineyard Estate Winery, the major junior league. do.” the Vineyard (at home) Garrison House, and Ruf- His first season of uni- He says Brandon applies fundraiser on May 20, just fino’s Pasta Bar & Grill,” versity hockey in Montreal the same work ethic to his in time for the Victoria Day says Chisholm. was frustratingly short- schooling. “As parents, long weekend. COVID restrictions lived, though. we are very proud of his “With this dinner, we mean it will again be a “September and October, Right-winger Brandon Skubel grew up playing hockey in accomplishments and will be commemorating the take-out/delivered event. we practised for a couple of Niagara-on-the-Lake. SUPPLIED PHOTOS continue to support him,” 209th anniversary of the The three chefs have weeks and then COVID got says Bruno. Battle of Fort George with prepared a special menu really bad again and then Drummondville and says teams. He spent the 2015- This off-season, Skubel a special video presentation with lots of choices. The everything just shut down, he instantly recognized 16 season at Ridley Col- is committed to training that is being prepared by food will be distributed in our season got cancelled,” he wanted him to play at lege and the following he for hockey, but COVID our volunteer committee,” special containers that can says Skubel, 21. McGill. was with the Junior B St. makes it difficult. notes Amy Klassen, the go directly in the oven to He is enrolled in the “I knew right away this Catharines Falcons. “Right now, it’s definitely Niagara-on-the-Lake Mu- be warmed up. arts program at McGill, was a person we wanted “I went out to Drum- tricky because everything seum’s director of finance With each ticket purchase, but says he is aiming for a on our team. He had a high mondville in the summer is kind of shut down,” he and marketing. you can also purchase up to major in economics and a level of respect and posi- and I met up with their says, but he usually works Previous History in the two bottles of Ravine’s Sand minor in social entrepre- tive regard for everyone on coaches and general man- out about an hour a day. Vineyard fundraisers have & Gravel wine for $10 per neurship. his team in Drummond- agers. Then we had a talk Skubel likes to spend his been a great source of in- bottle. The evening will This summer, while he’s ville,” says Heelis. about what they had for us free time with his family: come for both museum and feature a historical presenta- home in St. Davids, he “For us, what makes and then I chose to go to his mother Donna, dad the Friends of Fort George, tion about the Battle of Fort is putting that into prac- Brandon special is how Drummondville. I thought and sister. He also likes to says Friends president Tony George. tice by operating his own he conducts himself and they had a better program watch a lot of live games Chisholm. Tickets at $100 per per- business, Niagara Student treats others,” Heelis told and I really liked their and tries to stay as active All proceeds from the son, are now on sale and can Painters. The Lake Report. coach,” says Skubel. as possible and keep his evening will help to sup- be purchased at www.nhsm. Because he played three “He has a unique pres- At age 18, he attended hockey skills sharp when port ongoing projects of the ca or friendsoffortgeorge. seasons for the Drum- ence around him, a pres- a 10-day tryout camp and he’s not on the rink. Friends and the museum/ ca. The price includes mondville Voltigeurs of ence that his teammates made the team. With Niagara Student historical society. a $40 tax receipt. the Quebec Major Junior want to be around. His Hockey is in his blood, Painters, he hopes to stay Hockey League, he has good habits are contagious he says, as his father and busy this summer and three years of post-second- for his teammates.” uncles play the game, notes he is looking to ary schooling paid for. Heelis says that as a which motivated him to hire some hard-working Kendall’s Corner “My junior career, it was team player, Skubel is a play it as well. His sister, students to help them a grind. It was a lot of hard strong communicator and a Maddy, played a little when gain marketing, sales and work, really busy but a lot natural leader, even though she was younger. labour experience doing of fun, and there were no he is a first-year student- “This is something that interior and exterior paint- regrets,” says Skubel. athlete. I am super fortunate about ing around Niagara. In 178 games with the Besides his commit- and it keeps me passionate Skubel credits his strong Voltigeurs, he had 41 goals ment, Skubel is the type of as well as getting to see my work ethic for his accom- and 74 assists for 115 reg- player to practise his skills uncles still play hockey at plishments and hopes to ular-season career points. religiously and expresses their age,” Skubel says in motivate young people Skubel also won the team’s his ideas in a way that is an email. who aspire to achieve defensive player of the year clear for his teammates to His father Bruno says similar success. award in his final season. understand, the coach says. Brandon has relied on his “Wherever you are, you Liam Heelis, head coach Skubel, who has played hustle and hard work to have to work hard for it. of the McGill Redbirds, hockey for most of his life, succeed. He particularly The biggest thing is to says he’s really happy to says he began playing in recalls one time after a make sure you’re working have a player of Skubel’s Virgil when he was about AAA hockey game around hard for it and looking to talent and demeanour on four years old. He went on the peewee age when Bran- improve,” he says. the team. to play elite AAA hockey don did not have a good To contact Skubel’s He first met Skubel for the Niagara North Stars game and ended being fledgling company, search Spring is in the air and flowers are ready to bloom. in his last junior year at but wasn’t drafted by any moved onto a different line Niagara Student Painters GAIL KENDALL Marcel Dionne Arena in Ontario Hockey League by the coach. on Facebook. Page 14 April 29, 2021 FEATURED

Ship slips past Toronto

One of the great sights on Lake Ontario is watching the canal ships navigate their way up to the St. Lawrence River, or various destinations. This photograph shows the McKeil Spirit, a cement ship on its way to Toronto from Port Weller on Sunday RICHARD HARLEY PHOTO Going Green: How you can help reduce climate change

Robin Jinchereau the recycling of their waste Biden has embarked on a nine years. But you reduce Special to The Lake Report to 99 per cent from 38 per campaign of trying to drive your carbon footprint by 28 cent. This has allowed Swe- green energy. tonnes of CO2. Most of us are aware den to be a net importer of As well, consider buy- Over the next few weeks, that carbon emissions are garbage from the European ing a battery-operated I will explore how you increasing globally and this Union. car. According to Natural could reduce your impact results in global climate From each tonne of Resources Canada, the cost on global climate change – change. garbage the Swedes im- of a Honda Accord 1.5L and perhaps create a better The International Energy port (and they get paid $43 gas car is about $26,000. It world for your children and Agency in its 2021 an- USD to import it), they costs about $1,500 per year your grandchildren by curb- nual report estimates global biologically recycle 15.5 to buy gas to cover 20,000 ing your waste levels. energy-related carbon per cent, while 33.8 per kilometres, the car emits We’ll look at how to dioxide emissions will have cent goes to material recy- 214 grams of CO2 per kilo- reduce, reuse and recycle their second-largest ever Avid recycler Robin Jinchereau and his wife produce only cling and 50.2 per cent is metre driven. with a goal to try to get annual increase as Asian one small kitchen-size garbage bag every two weeks. used for energy recovery. The same car with a you to reduce your waste countries will increase their GLORIA JINCHEREAU PHOTO Their estimate is that for battery engine (EV car) is level from two garbage coal use by 50 per cent to each one tonne of waste priced at about $45,000. It bags every two weeks to allow them to produce the 2020 said half of what gets this would lower the rate at recycled, they reduce carbon costs about $500 to charge one small kitchen bag goods that we will consume put into a garbage bag could which climate change oc- dioxide emissions by 500 it to drive 20,000 kilome- every garbage day. when we eventually exit the go into the green bin. curs. Most of the stuff that kilograms. tres but the CO2 emissions Niagara-on-the-Lake pandemic. In fact, the Ontario gov- goes into green bins gets If Ontario adopted are zero. resident Robin Jinchereau If we committed to reus- ernment estimates that as composted and reused Sweden’s methodology we While the upfront cost of has degrees in human biol- ing items that we normally a province we produce 3.5 within our region. could reduce our carbon an EV car after subsidies ogy and business adminis- throw away, we could po- million tonnes of garbage Sweden has one of the dioxide emissions by of $7,500 is about $11,500 tration. He is retired from a tentially reduce our carbon per year – enough to fill the lowest waste levels in the 875,000 tonnes annually. higher, if you take into ac- long career in the phar- footprint by 50 per cent. Rogers Centre five times. world. According to that This would have a definite count lower annual fuel and maceuticals industry and The Niagara Region waste Reducing organics in our country’s waste manage- impact on slowing climate repair costs, it is estimated has been fascinated for the management authority in its waste would mean that less ment agency, from 1975 to change. In part this is why that the cost break even last 45 years about how to latest waste audit in August methane is produced and 2019, the Swedes increased the new U.S. President Joe point is between eight and reduce waste. The Lake Report wants to help recognize NOTL’s Pandemic Heroes — people who have made a difference, big or small, in a positive way. You can help us recognize someone in the community by sending a bit about the person and why they’re a Pandemic Hero. Please send your nominations early to [email protected]. A special thanks to Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery for provid- ing a bottle of sparkling wine to each of our pandemic heroes. That’s the spirit! Penner Building Centre staff

The staff at Penner Building Centre, with John to the left. FILE PHOTO/RICHARD HARLEY

This week’s Pandemic Heroes the staff have adapted and gone tioning managers John and Judy. He said a simple good deed pandemic restrictions began. nomination comes from chef out of their way to help fill or- “I have Judy’s cellphone. I text deserves to be recognized during “I just want to say these two Ryan Crawford, who wanted ders for residents. her, ‘Hey, I need this.’ And she’s the pandemic. people are like keeping it going. to celebrate the staff at Penner “I want to nominate Penner’s like ‘Got it’ and gets it, and then He also commends the staff, They help everybody out, they’re Building Centre in Virgil. because they’re awesome,” it’s getting late in the day, she’ll who, like many, got “ripped on” the friendliest people,” Crawford He said through the pandemic, Crawford said, specifically men- come and drop it off for me.” by some customers when the said. Page 16 April 29, 2021 GAMES

Across 9. Al fresco (4-3) 10. Deadly intestinal ailment (7) 11. What Rapunzel grew (5) Have some fun 12. Collection point for passage fees (9) 13. Retained (4) Last issue’s answers 14. It might be proscribed or prescribed (4) Crossword Puzzle 15. Winger sliced bread (5) 19. Furrowed (6) 20. Face hardship bravely (4,2) 23. Despise (5) 24. Sullen (4) 25. Yield (4) 27. Community tunes and songs (4,5) 29. Rock bottom (5) 30. Entourage (7) 31. John ---, tempestuous court star (7) Down 1. On one side of a notorious DM Z (5,5) 2. High level of excitement (5,5) 3. Your personal “equator”? (5) 4. Rhetorical skill (7) 5. Greenery? (7) 6. Out (9) 7. Turn down (4) 8. Unwise (4) MEDIUM 16. They can mix zombies (10) 17. Sources of Dabinetts, for example (5,5) 18. Gaiety (9) 21. Eventful trip (7) 22. Give in (7) 26. Lay to rest (5) 27. Grange (4) 28. Mandolin-like instrument (4) Large white ‘coywolf ’ seen in NOTL Betsy Masson Special to The Lake Report

A large white coyote or wolf-like animal has been spotted several times wan- NOTICE OF APPROVAL dering around Niagara-on- the-Lake. OF TAX & RATE BY-LAW The first known sighting took place on the morning 2021 TAX RATES FOR GENERAL LEVY of March 24 when home- & SPECIAL AREA LEVIES owners who back onto One Mile Creek saw what they TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the described as a white animal Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake will consider a report for the resembling a wolf. This image of a “coywolf” resembles the animal Betsy They reported this to their Masson saw. WIKIMEDIA COMMONS 2021 Tax Rates for General Levy and Special Area Levies neighbours and urged them to at the Council meeting on: be careful when out garden- ed that the animal had been According to informa- ing. On the same morning, a in a fight with its prey. tion found online, coyotes, group of schoolchildren spot- Niagara-on-the-Lake as such, no longer exist Committee of the Whole General Meeting ted the animal while walking animal control officer Ken in Ontario. DNA stud- Monday, May 10, 2021 to their bus stop. Reid says two such animals ies done in the 1990s Nearly a month later, a have been seen at the corner showed that they are now 6:00 p.m. similar-looking animal was of King and Mary streets a genetic hybrid of east- seen coming from the direc- and that he, himself, has ern coyotes and western Electronic Participation Meeting Only tion of One Mile Creek and seen one. He thinks the wolves and should be crossing Simcoe Street. It animal is a large coyote. termed “coywolves.” A copy of the report will be available on the Town website was last seen in the grave- Coyotes are afraid of hu- They are most frequently at www.notl.com on Thursday May 6, 2021. Delegation yard behind St. Andrew’s mans, Reid noted, and when out at dusk, during the requests to speak to the report must be arranged prior Church, headed toward Mis- he saw it, he yelled and the night and in the early sissagua Street. animal ran off. morning hours. People to the meeting date. Registrations to speak must be Most recently, the animal Reid thinks there must with dogs and small submitted to the Office of the Town Clerk in writing no was seen on the evening of be a den in the swampy children are advisied to later than 12:00 p.m. on May 10, 2021. April 23 accompanied by a area of One Mile Creek be particularly careful at smaller one near One Mile on the Commons. He also those times. Final approval of the By-law will be considered at the May Creek. They passed within believes these animals have There are no known pho- 17, 2021, Council Meeting. six feet of people in their become bold now because tos of this coywolf, but if backyard. That night, their there is not as much activ- anyone obtains one, please For further information, please contact the Corporate neighbours heard a loud ity in town now due to the contact The Lake Report at Services Department at 905 468-3266. howling sound and conclud- pandemic. [email protected]. Peter Todd Town Clerk #SPREADKINDNESS Page 17 April 29, 2021 FEATURED

dancing cross-rhythms. a style from 1904-1910 The composition is a although the group only series of frames within remained cohesive from frames; the wall holding 1904-1907. the window, the window Fauvism was the first Opening the windows framing the exterior, avant-garde movement of the the balcony containing 20th century. For Matisse, Penny-Lynn Cookson of the tubes. He disregards the sailboats, sea and the greatest of modernists, Special to The Lake Report chiaroscuro, light and sky. Masterful. intense colour was inde- shadow, to contrast instead “Open Window” was pendent, it was liberating, a We’re opening windows broad areas of green and exhibited at the Salon means to establish structure, to spring and flowers and red, the complementary op- d’automne of 1905 with to unify, to describe light blossoming trees, just as posites on the colour wheel. works by Derain and other and space, to project a mood Matisse wants us to do with The contrast also appears artists such as Dufy, de and communicate the artist’s him in his dazzling “Open in the terracotta pots on the Vlaminck and Braque. Al- emotional state. Window, Collioure.” wrought-iron balcony with though they were influenced There is no anxiety, fear, It’s 1905 and Matisse their red flowers, surround- by Post-Impressionists such alienation or conflict in his has left Paris with fellow ing green foliage and the as Van Gogh, Gauguin and work. In “Open Win- artist Andre Derain to red awning seen through Seurat, they now moved dow” we share his spiri- soak up the sun, sea, palm smaller window panes. We beyond their values of tual, joyous and optimistic trees and warm breezes of look out to the red masts of representation to emphasize response to nature and life, the Cote d’Azur. serenely bobbing sailboats, strong colour, dissonance just as he intended. He sits in his hotel room, the masts casting pink and urgent bold brushwork. Penny-Lynn Cookson is doors open into the interior, reflections in the sea. The paintings of Matisse an art historian who taught picks up his brushes and He uses a dazzling vari- and the others were not at the University of Toronto creates a work that commu- ety of brushstrokes from well-received by critics or for 10 years. She also was nicates the positive aspects long broad sweeps on the public. One art critic, Lou- head of extension ser- of life, spontaneity and his interior walls to the short, is Vauxcelle, wrote that vices at the Art Gallery of own joie de vivre. In this staccato dots and lines of a sculpture in the room Ontario. See her lecture painting, he button-holes the exterior. Each area from was surrounded by “les series “Art and Revolution, us saying: “You have to be the interior to the balcony fauves” (the wild beasts). From Cave Art to the Fu- here and see this with me!” to the harbour has a differ- The name stuck and the ture” Thursdays on Zoom Matisse goes to the ent handling of the brushes, movement became known until April 29 at RiverBrink Henri Matisse, “Open Window, Collioure,” 1905, oil on max, using colour right out resulting in an effect of as Fauvism. It lasted as Art Museum in Queenston. canvas, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C. SUPPLIED Dr. Brown: Not as nimble as we age, falls are major danger

Dr. William Brown or ankle – or perhaps a head such as atrial fibrillation or chair. Google it to get the Special to The Lake Report injury or maybe several of bradycardia and other risk details. the above. factors – often in variable Physiotherapists and When we were children Falls in the elderly ac- combinations. physicians in geriatric and teenagers, we often count for roughly 300,000 All of these concerns, and clinics use this test to fell. And if we had much to ER visits annually in others, are important risk assess your speed and do with rough and tumble Canada. That’s a lot of factors for falling – some of balance and, hence, risk sports, falls were part of the falls and they’re probably which can be changed for for falling. Simply watch- game with nothing more to underreported by patients the better by, for example, ing someone walk pro- show for them than a few to members of their family cutting out certain medica- vides other useful clues to scrapes and bruises. or family doctor because, tions known to increase impairments the subject By the time we were “I don’t want to make a the risk of falls, managing might not be aware of. adults our falling days were fuss” or “I don’t want any postural hypotension and Falls are an important over, except perhaps for the pressure from my family to cardiac arrythmias, and subject because of the risks odd fall skiing after which move into a long-term care strength-training programs of serious fall-related inju- we brushed ourselves off facility” or “I’ll be more to improve weakness and ries. For that reason falls and kept going. careful next time.” impaired balance. are the first subject to be Then, much later in life, And some of those “fall- Anyone over the age of addressed by the Infohealth falls became more com- Dr. William Brown. SUPPLIED ers,” without saying much 65 who has fallen two or series, which returns on mon and more likely to be to anyone, begin to curtail more times needs to be as- May 5 at 2 p.m. using Zoom associated with sprains or Sally had a history of at the cat darting in front of their activities and social sessed to determine which and YouTube. worse. That happened to least one minor symptom- us or our ankle turns when lives out of fear that they risk factors might have June’s Infohealth session my sister in B.C. who, at 86, atic stroke several years we’re walking or gardening might have another fall. contributed to the falls, in- is on lumbar stenosis. No was an active walker and before and a CT scan had – and when we least expect, A higher risk of falling cluding checking the home sessions are planned for doer, but one day fell off a shown evidence of sev- we’re down, without the can be related to many environment to look for July and August but Info- ladder and fractured her hip. eral other clinically silent quick reflexes of our youth factors – weakness chiefly obvious risks for falls. health returns in the fall. Unfortunately, a few weeks small strokes. When she to check our fall or failing affecting the trunk (core) One simple test you McMaster medical stu- later following hip surgery, was told about them, she that, soften our landing. and leg muscles, significant might want to try at home dents rejoin the program in she developed a clot in one dismissed them, despite The numbers are worry- drops in blood pressure – with someone there to January 2022. leg and a few days later died feeling a little off-balance ing. Roughly 30 per cent of when standing up (postural keep their eye on you – Please remember to regis- from a sudden pulmonary from time to time. those 65 or older experience hypotension), dehydration, is the TUG test, which ter for the sessions with the embolus. And that’s the problem one fall a year and 10 per medications (especially sed- stands for Timed Up and Niagara-on-the-Lake Public Looking back, at 86 she isn’t it. We’re not as nimble cent have two or more falls atives), impaired walking Go. This test measures Library – and stay safe. shouldn’t have climbed that and sure-footed as we once in a year. related to degenerative spine the time between when Dr. William Brown is a ladder, but like many of us were but ignore the risks. Some of those falls are disease, movement disorders you get up from a chair, professor of neurology at probably assumed that what Too often, we fall – per- associated with a significant such as Parkinson’s disease, walk 10 feet (three me- McMaster University and she had been doing for years haps a slip on a wet floor sprain or worse, such as cognitive impairment of tres), cross the line, turn co-founder of the Infohealth without a second thought was or ice, catching a foot on dislocation of the shoulder any kind, impaired vision, around and return to sit series at the Niagara-on- still OK. It wasn’t. a carpet edge, tripped by or fracture of the wrist, hip arrythmias of the heart down again in the same the-Lake Public Library. Page 18 April 29, 2021 FEATURED

A late-April snow last week left young fruit buds covered — farmers say the white blanket may have saved the buds from harmful sub-zero temperatures. RICHARD HARLEY 1955 Blossom Blessing Festival Cold weather interrupts We are all enjoying the beautiful blossoms on the fruit trees this spring. This week’s photo is of the 1955 Blossom Blessing Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Little is known about this festival, so it may have been short-lived. What early farming season has been gathered is that the community would come together for a parade to celebrate spring and have the religious leaders offer a blessing for a successful fruit season. This photo in particular shows children riding on one of the floats, Bernard Lansbergen “It’s temperatures. At -2.7 with blossoms attached, heading down Picton Street toward King Street. The Moffat Inn building can be seen on the The Lake Report degrees, you lose about 10 left. There is no doubt we are very fortunate to live in a strong fruit-farming community and we are sure we would all per cent of the blooms, and be more than willing to get together to bless the fruit of the Earth as soon as it is safe to do so. Despite warmer weather at -5 (degrees) you lose 90 of late, last week still saw per cent.” the Niagara region covered For now it’s too early to in about 15 centimetres of say what effect the tempera- Protestant church) gilded snow. tures will have had on the sun emblem. Limestone It was a cozy “winter- blooms, because a few hot quoins, watertable and lude” for some and a real days are necessary before semi-circular keyed arches headache for others, espe- the damage can be assessed, Two churches, above the windows and cially local farmers whose but the hope is that the snow main entry set off a brick crops had already started will have prevented most two styles field laid in a modified blooming. damage. Flemish bond pattern. “When the blossoms “The idea is that the Rising high above the are out every year, you snow covered the bloom Brian Marshall church itself is the steeple kind of worry about it,” completely and, (because) Columnist with its copper-clad roof says Maureen MacSween snow is zero degrees, hope- supported by four pairs of from MacSween Farms, fully the bloom was at zero It’s 1852 in Niagara-on- Ionic columns. This was a where apricots, plums, cher- degrees,” he told The Lake the-Lake and the second Left: Grace United Church - Romanesque style. Right: church designed to impress. ries, nectarines and peaches Report. Presbyterian church in St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church - Greek Revival style. The answer to why the are starting to grow. This kind of fluctuating town had just opened its SUPPLIED/BRIAN MARSHALL second church was built, “We were worried when weather isn’t that strange for doors. Built a mere five- I’ll leave to the historians, we did have cold tempera- a place like NOTL. “The minute walk from St. tall semi-circular arched A mere 20 years earlier, but it was not likely due to tures,” she said. “It’s one climate is always changing,” Andrew’s Presbyterian windows. in 1831, St. Andrew’s had too many congregants in St. of those things a farmer said Wiens, pointing out he Church, it was a very dif- On the facade, the win- been completed in the then Andrew’s. It was subse- has to contend with every also had snow in his blooms ferent building. dows and entry door were cutting-edge Greek Revival quently sold to the Method- year.” back in 1990. The new church was de- capped by smooth, stylized style. With capacity for 600 ists in 1874. Then, when the “We’re quite confident “If we have an early signed by William Thomas cable and tassle mouldings. people, it was the largest Methodists merged with there wasn’t any damage,” season, that’s good for us,” who, just a few years Following the facade’s church in town. others to form the United said MacSween, adding that said Wiens, adding that earlier, had designed the gable roof line, set proud Its facade is dressed with Church, the building be- the pink of the blossoms, this year’s season started town’s new Court House of the main field in the six Doric columns, which came Grace United Church. paired with the white of 10 days early. “I think it’s and town hall. contrasting pink brick of rise to support a clean, sim- Both buildings represent- the snow made for quite a going to be a really good Despite being of fairly the piers, was the repetition ple entablature undecorated ing two 19th-century ar- magnificent view. (one).” modest dimensions, this of the semi-circular arch except for 11 triglyphs and chitectural expressions are Snow itself isn’t the is- MacSween noted church followed the styling pattern typical of the style. broken dentil mouldings. worthy of viewing. And, sue, explained Kai Wiens “There’s a lot of blooms cues of the early Roman- In all, a very clever and These mouldings are if the doors are open, the from Queenston-based Kai out there. We have beehives esque Revival. A series striking rendition of an used again on the raked original interior of St. An- Wiens Family Farm, whose and they’ve been pollinat- of proportionally massive architectural style typi- edges of the pediment drew’s with its box pews, crops consist of peaches, ing all of the fruit so it piers flanked each side of cally meant for much larger centred within which is the high pulpit and preserved nectarines, cherries, and looks like it’s going to be a the building, dividing the buildings. striking (but unusual for a elements is a special treat. plums. spectacular year.” FRESH. L CAL. 1822 NIAGARA STONE ROAD 905-468-3224 HARVESTBARN.CA MONDAY TO SATURDAY 9-6 AND SUNDAY 9-5

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