Raising the curtain on October 2011 arts centre designs The 3 Garden City

Scary fun at Pumpkinville 4 CurrA publication from the Cityent of St. Catharines A bright idea for downtown Downtown St. Catharines is being cast in a new light. A new, white energy-efficient light to be exact. This summer, the city began installing light emitting diode (LED) lights in its decorative lampposts lining St. Paul, Queen, James and Academy streets, making downtown more inviting for foot traffic while doing good by Mother Earth and the city’s budget. The lights replace the dingier metal halide bulbs that gave off a less becoming orange glow better suited to helping drivers pass through the city centre. “Orange light provides good target light for safety but from an aesthetics perspective, white light is better,” said Kris Jacobson, manager of transportation services. “White light allows one to see contrasts and colours. It’s clearer and crisper and mimics sunlight better than orange light does.” It’s also been on the wish lists of downtown businesses. The city began testing LED lights downtown last year, trying out three different models on streetlamps along James Street near City Hall with the hope of finding the perfect candidate to throw just the right light and save the city money. But, Jacobson said, as he was waiting on re- sults of the study, LED technology advanced, Inter-municipal transit launched last month, connecting St. Catharines to Niagara Falls, , Fort Erie and . For $5, people can ride the bus to where they need to leaving high pressure sodium lights, metal go and have transfers to municipal transit routes included. halides and even LEDs of a year ago in its shadows. It’s virtually impossible to tell the difference between the LED’s earth-friendly glow and its conventional counterparts now. City gets onboard regional transit “While we were doing tests, the industry St. Catharines residents needing to get to Some have argued bus routes connect- council with enough information to decide leapt over us,” Jacobson said. “It’s almost Welland or Niagara Falls no longer have ing as many municipalities as possible whether to continue the service. a forgone conclusion. If you’re going to do to spin their wheels in search of a ride. have been missing in Niagara’s economic “Three years is a suitable time for us to retrofitting, to use LED lights.” , an inter-munic- puzzle, enabling residents to commute get a feel for the market and for residents The new LEDs are also more competitively ipal transit service, launched last month, to work outside their home municipalities to become aware of us and determine if priced, making it even easier to flip the switch providing residents and visitors with a and being the key to secure year-round they’re going to use it or not,” Sherlock on energy efficient lighting. car-free way to get around the region. It’s GO train service for the region. said. Replacing the lamps in the 160 decorative a three-year long road test to see if public So far, riders on the gleaming new buses Niagara Region Transit runs Monday to posts downtown would have cost $160,000 if transit beyond the borders of individual have been sparse but Sherlock said it’s Saturday with routes to Welland via Hwy. the city opted for the energy-sucking metal municipalities’ bus routes has legs. too early to conclude whether the service 406 running every 40 minutes and routes halide version. The LED lights are $210,000. Niagara Region Transit has routes to ma- will be a success. to Niagara Falls via Stone Road Though there is still a price difference, Ja- jor destinations in St. Catharines, Niagara Trying inter-municipal transit for three For more information, including routes cobson said the energy savings provided by Falls and Welland and riders can also hop years allows for adjustments to schedul- and schedules, visit www.niagararegion. LEDs – they use about half as much energy on and off in Thorold, Port Colborne and ing and routes and will provide Regional ca as metal halides – and their 20-year life ex- Fort Erie. For $5, travellers can get from pectancy mean the new fixtures will pay for Point A to a far-flung Point B, transfers ARTICULATING BETTER BUS SERVICE themselves in six to eight years. for rides on local municipal transit buses In that same time, a metal halide bulb would included. The wheels are going ‘round on some full buses travelling through need to be changed twice. After six months, fares will rise to $6 but some much larger buses that have south St. Catharines. “It’s a no brainer,” Jacobson said. “We multi-ride discount ticket packages will be been added to the St. Catharines “Most trips, certainly in the morn- should be going with LEDs.” available. Children under 5 ride free. Transit fleet. ing, they’re full. Most trips, they have “We’ll do our best and hopefully, people Three articulated buses – long buses a good load on them. Most morn- will use it,” said Dave Sherlock, general that look like they have an accordion ings, it’s standing room only,” Sher- manager for St. Catharines Transit, one of in the centre, allowing buses to bend lock said. “It has certainly helped on three municipal transit systems participat- when rounding corners – hit the road Route 16. If we didn’t have these, the ing in the pilot. in September to shuttle riders on overcrowding would have been much “On the other hand, if very few people the busy Route 16 and Brock Bullets worse than we’ve ever seen.” use it, it’s very easy to dismantle. (St. between the downtown and Brock The buses were purchased used Catharines, Welland and Niagara Falls’ University. from OC Transpo in Ottawa. St. Catha- transit systems) would go back to doing Adding the “artics” as Dave Sherlock, rines Transit drivers took their longer our own thing again and we’ve got more St. Catharines Transit general man- sets of wheels out for practice spins than enough traffic in our municipalities to ager, calls them, means fewer 40-foot in August, readying for the September keep busy.” buses on the road at peak times. launch. The pilot and its eight accessible buses For car drivers, that’s less traf- Some riders may also need a crash were paid for by a $3.7-million grant to fic congestion to contend with. For course in using the new buses, par- the St. Catharines Transit Commission, transit users, it means getting where ticularly when it comes to getting off and . they need to be when they need to be the bus. The Region will provide about $2.7 million there. The back doors don’t open automati- in annual operating costs. The accessible, extended buses have cally. Instead riders wait for the green Inter-municipal transit has long been room for 60 people seated compared light and push them open. to 39 people in a regular bus. With For more information about bus Kris Jacobson, the city’s manager of transportation ser- lobbied for by many on Regional council despite differences in opinion in how it standing room, articulated buses can routes and scheduling, visit www. vices, with some of the lampposts downtown that have carry 100 riders. And there have been yourbus.com. been fitted with LED lights. should be rolled out. Making City Hall a model for accessible buildings in St. Catharines City Hall is a building becoming “It’s not just about accessibility,” are also wider. the Facility Accessibility Design “City Hall is somewhere we can even easier for people to use. said Diana Lecinski, accessibility This puts the count of washrooms Standards (FADS), a technical lead by example in the commu- The hub of civic activity has co-ordinator. “It’s for everyone.” at City Hall transformed to be design document used by the city nity,” Birchnall said. “Businesses recently undergone renovations, The biggest changes can be seen “good and functional” to five, said to enhance accessibility beyond or restaurants may hear from their with makeovers to washrooms and in the first floor washrooms, which Doug Birchnall, project supervisor. the minimal requirements of the customers that they can’t use the plans to revamp the clerk’s depart- now have contrasting colours on The counters in the clerk’s office Building Code. bathroom. It may be up to code but ment on the third floor. walls, floors and counters to help will be lowered, making them “Tangible changes have been it’s not functional. The changes, which include people with visual disabilities. easier to use for people who use a taking place since 2008 when we “It was (the accessibility commit- new counters to be installed in Handles on stall doors are deep- wheelchair or need to sit when fill- did an audit using FADS as a tem- tee’s) idea to use City Hall as the the clerk’s office and major layout er, making them easier to use for ing out documents or forms. Clerk’s plate,” Birchnall said. focus and say to the community, changes to the first-floor wash- those with low dexterity, strength or is the last department in the build- In addition to making City Hall ‘If we can do it in a building from rooms are being done to make reach to grasp. Entrance doors to ing to undergo the changes. easier for everyone to use, the 1937 … so many businesses say those areas more accessible. They the washroom can open automati- All the renovations were reviewed hope is the building will be a bea- it cannot be done, but with some and are the latest in a long list of cally, soap dispensers have been by the Mayor’s Advisory Committee con of accessibility from which lo- good designs and good ideas, it user-friendly alterations. placed within easy reach and stalls on Accessibility and comply with cal businesses can take their cues. can happen.” The Garden City Current is available at www.stcatharines.ca Page 2 The Garden City Current October 2011October 2011

MERRITTON NEWS road reduced to new children’s gin construction in the near future, From the desk of three lanes with playground further details on redevelopment We would like to congratulate the the addition of equipment will plans for the St. Catharines General Merritton Lions, CAW 199 and all bike lanes. The be installed in Hospital site and completion of the Mayor service clubs, businesses, unions intent is to main- Community first phase of a four-year plan to Brian McMulla n and community organizations who tain efficient Park. This is revitalize Centennial Park. made our Labour Day weekend traffic flow while long overdue We appreciate hearing from you another great success. The Lions making the road and will be an and welcome your input on these Community Days Carnival, third an- safer for motor- important first and other initiatives. nual Fireworks Display and Labour ists, cyclists and step in upgrad- – Jennie Stevens & Jeff Burch Day Parade, and Community Care pedestrians. ing and updat- COUN. JEFF BURCH Food Drive were all a great success. This is only the COUN. JEFF COUN. JENNIE ing this impor- BURCH STEVENS email: [email protected] Way to go Merritton! first step. There tant community phone: 905.327.5153 We are pleased to announce that will be greening projects in the near space. Hartzel Road will be repaved this future as well as other esthetic im- Other initiatives to look forward COUN. JENNIE STEVENS fall. City Council has approved traffic provements. to include our new fire station at email: [email protected] calming measures that will see this We are also pleased to see that Hartzel and Oakdale, due to be- phone: 905.328.6722 ST. ANDREW’S any questions The depart- ext. 3721 or email [email protected]. and inform them ment encour- I’ll provide details on my public NEWS how Brock’s Off- ages students meeting when they are finalized. I’d like to take this opportunity to Campus Living living off cam- In the meantime, I plan to petition update citizens about an issue I and Neighbour- pus to control city council to have staff investi- pledged to address during the elec- hood Relations noise, dispose gate if a rental housing, licensing tion campaign: problems that some- department can of garbage program and bylaw, similar to one times arise with student housing. assist them. properly, get approved in Waterloo, has any rel- I’ve had conversations with Curtis Mr. Gadula’s acquainted with evance to issues in St. Catharines. Gadula, manager of off-campus department has neighbours, The bylaw addresses rental hous- living and neighbourhood relations a flyer available drive with cau- ing in low-density areas of the city MAYOR BRIAN COUN. MATT COUN. JOE at Brock University, and I’m very im- that contains tion and obey and attempts to “limit the impact MCMULLAN HARRIS KUSHNER pressed with his positive approach relevant infor- bylaws. of large rental units on residential to preventing and solving ratepayers’ mation for both For landlords, neighbourhoods.” concerns. Niagara’s new inter-mu- residents and students. His depart- it has several suggestions for deal- – Matt Harris nicipal transit service is I’m confident that by working ment’s intention is to serve students, ing with student tenants and offers officially rolling through together, we can build a strong landlords and residents of Niagara a semi-annual, three-hour course COUN. MATT HARRIS the streets. relationship that will enable us to ad- and it’s committed to working hand- that addresses issues they may face email: [email protected] This new service will dress any student-landlord issue. in-hand with community partners to when renting. phone: 905.329.6802 provide residents and It is my intention to arrange a pub- ensure off-campus student resi- For further information, contact Off- visitors with affordable, lic meeting where Mr. Gadula and I COUN. JOE KUSHNER dence issues are dealt with appro- Campus living and Neighbourhood email: [email protected] reliable, accessible public can meet with ratepayers to answer priately. Relations at Brock at 905-688-5550, phone: 905.327.9638 or 905.685.1817 transportation between cities. It’s also a great way to do our part to help the ST. GEORGE’S water and en- address these munity through a sustainability lens ergy, enhances challenges and developing a personal/council environment and I would NEWS encourage residents to biodiversity with include imple- sustainability tool kit. consider reducing our In August, council unanimously native plantings, menting asset An important part of this process is carbon footprint today – endorsed an Integrated Community uses less haz- management a strategy to ensure this plan is not opt for a ride on public Sustainability Plan (ICSP) for the ardous materi- principles, just shelved but put into action to transit. city. The plan was completed with als and ensures developing a ensure sustainability principles are Municipalities in Niagara the help of citizen volunteers, city that the long- multi-modal followed in future decision making. see this as a valuable staff and council representatives. term operation transportation On another note, we would like to investment in our people. The plan did not involve the use of of the building network, creat- remind you that if you see any graffiti Regional transit will allow any outside consultants and there will be resilient COUN. PETER COUN. GREG ing compact, on private or public property, please residents to commute were more than 400 comments to energy price SECORD WAS H UTA livable communi- report it to the graffiti hotline at 905- between communities, received on the proposed plan. increases. ties, ensuring 688-5601, ext. 3138 or via email at which will reduce barri- The ICSP is based on the fact that Through consultation with the com- local food security, water protec- [email protected]. ers and enhance access the best decisions are made by the munity, six challenges that pose a tion and conservation, community –Peter Secord & Greg Washuta city when a variety of perspectives threat to the city’s livability, operabil- engagement and urban forestry to services, and employ- COUN. PETER SECORD ment and educational are considered. This concept is ity and sustainability in the long term management. known as integrated decision mak- were identified. They are: the global City councillors are currently in- email: [email protected] opportunities. phone: 905.327.9854 For inter-municipal ing; for example, efficient building economy, rising energy prices, cli- volved in integrated community sus- transit to be successful, design addresses the need to re- mate change, infrastructure, poverty tainability training sessions, which COUN. GREG WASHUTA residents and visitors duce emissions, minimizes impacts and resource scarcity. focus on three areas: introduction to email: [email protected] alike will need to support on natural resources by using less Priorities that were developed to sustainability, envisioning the com- phone: 905.327.9905 this enhanced service. The current regional ST. PATRICK’S NEWS The drawings and inclusive design, although modern in nature, transit system is con- reveal an attrac- playground for takes its design cues from both the venient to use. Riders August saw the introduction of tive arch design the children of heritage features and the built and will now be able to pay downtown’s newest festival as acts for this important Grapeview and natural forms of downtown. a single fare to travel from around the world captivated the connection and the surrounding The attractive glass and limestone from one municipality to crowds at the St. Catharines Interna- gateway be- community. facility will house four distinct ven- another within the region tional Busker Festival. tween downtown Councillors ues: a concert hall, a recital hall, a with the transfers covered The City partnered in this latest and the city’s Siscoe and El- theatre and dance venue and a film in the fee. festival as we continue to support west end. liott commend theatre. Early work will begin early Along the routes, re- revitalization, livability and economic Multi-modal the staff, par- in the new year. vitality within the core. transportation, ents, students Our next monthly ward meeting will be gional transit buses stop COUN. MARK COUN. MATHEW The family-friendly event drew accessibil- and supporters Oct. 18 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the base- at major destinations, ELLIOTT SISCOE including the St. Catha- thousands of people into the city ity, heritage, of Grapeview ment cafeteria at City Hall. Meetings are rines, Niagara Falls and centre during its three-day run. The aesthetics, durability and afford- School for their efforts in raising held the third Tuesday of the month. Welland transit terminals, festival is a great addition to th city’s ability were all considerations in the $100,000 to build the playground. –Mat Siscoe & Mark Elliott Niagara Regional Head- festival lineup downtown, which also design. Construction is scheduled to On Sept. 21, the conceptual de- COUN. MARK ELLIOTT quarters, the Seaway Mall includes Ribfest and the Niagara begin in 2014 or 2015. signs for the new Performing Arts email: [email protected] and the Pen Centre. Wine Festival. Sept. 9 saw the official opening Centre were revealed at an unveiling phone: 905.327.1763 St. Catharines Transit Your ward councillors have been of the Almeta Rodwin Playground hosted on the future site. Commission played a big actively involved in the process as at Grapeview School. The City The event saw hundreds of people COUN. MAT SISCOE part in getting the wheels the Region unveiled plans for the contributed $25,000 to this project, brave the rain to view plans for email: [email protected] in motion for this service replacement of the Burgoyne Bridge. which has provided an accessible this transformational project. The phone: 905.329.8162 and the City of St. Catha- rines, among other mu- GRANTHAM we incur?’ ticipated soon. the city didn’t have a major tenant at nicipalities, was excited to We have heard Some people the time that would draw more than see it officially launch on NEWS from residents say the new 1,000 spectators to a game. It was Sept. 16. The issue of whether we pass a who say ‘none complex will be the right decision at the time. This project was made motion to construct a new sports and we have a legacy from We are proceeding cautiously. We possible through a part- and entertainment facility this term heard from our generation are gathering as much information nership between the mu- will probably be the most controver- residents who to the next. as we can in order to make the right nicipal transit operators sial issue we will deal with during say ‘whatever Others ask decision. of St. Catharines, Niagara the next three years. it takes.’ If we ‘How many Many questions have been asked. Falls and Welland, as well The existing facility, the Jack Gate- came to you legacies do we The most important question will as the communities of cliff/Rex Stimers complex, is aging and said we COUN. DAWN COUN. BILL need to leave? probably be answered before Christ- Port Colborne and Fort and requires substantial annual can build it at a DODGE PHILLIPS We are building mas. Erie. Niagara Region is funding to maintain. It is one of the cost of $25 per the Performing –Dawn Dodge & Bill Phillips providing a $3.7 million oldest arenas operating in Canada. household per year for the next 20 Arts Centre and the Kiwanis Aquat- COUN. DAWN DODGE grant for the purchase A new complex, seating 5,000 years, would that be possible or are ics Centre.’ email: [email protected] of eight fully accessible people, will cost about $40 million. you stretched to the maximum? We are often asked the question, phone: 905.327.9704 Given the fact that we have incurred Funding from sources other than ‘Why wasn’t a facility this size built buses and will provide COUN. BILL PHILLIPS the estimated $2.7 million debt recently due to construction of the city will be important. Requests when the Seymour-Hanna Sports other new buildings raises the ques- have been made to other govern- and Entertainment Centre was con- email: [email protected] yearly operating costs for phone: 905.327.5363 the system. tion ‘How much more debt should ment levels and responses are an- structed?’ The answer to that is that More details, including PORT DALHOUSIE coming and challenge and I consultation is needed before a final route maps, schedules many people are applaud those decision. Be sure to get involved and travel information, NEWS excited about who continue to and express your thoughts. It’s time to have your say on the can be found at the It’s hard to believe we’ve said the prosper- try and estab- The city is bursting with new look and feel of downtown St. region’s website at www. farewell to another beautiful summer ity that could lish a prosper- projects: the Carlisle Street parking Catharines. niagararegion.ca. and are preparing for the many cel- accompany it. ous business garage will open soon, the Kiwanis After months in the works, the Regional transit is a true ebrations that accompany autumn As construction culture here. Aquatics Centre is well on its way first draft of the downtown de- collaboration that will and winter. Port Dalhousie was gets into full The big to completion, the Performing Arts sign guidelines is ready for public benefit our citizens and blessed with one of the warmest, swing, there will discussion at Centre is nearing its final planning perusal and a drop-in at Market future generations as we driest summers in a long time and be a lot of hustle council these stages and there is some very im- Square on Oct. 13 is planned with work to improve connec- with it came a variety of activities in and bustle. I COUN. LEN COUN. BRUCE days involves pressive private sector development. display boards and the author of tions to cities in Niagara. and around Port. ask for every- STACK WILLIAMSON the possibility Have a wonderful autumn and the newly drafted ground rules on It is a service that we A construction trailer is now parked one’s patience if of building a enjoy the many good things our city hand for questions. But the hope hope will meet the needs on the northwest side of the Port there is the odd traffic jam or other new spectator facility. My view on has to offer. is to also get feedback on this new of our citizens. Riders Place site – a sign that construction inconvenience. It will be worth it in this is simple: If the City can come – Len Stackvision for the core. are also encouraged to will be starting soon. Slowly but the end. up with the money using munici- “The guidelines are about try- provide feedback on the surely, Port Dalhousie’s waterfront For now, Port’s business area con- pal, provincial, federal and private COUN. LEN STACK ing to improve and build on the region’s website as to will be transformed into a mag- tinues to struggle and the crowds contributions, ensuring taxpayers email: [email protected] aesthetics downtown but also how to improve on this nificent area with condominiums, certainly haven’t been as big as pre- aren’t stuck with the majority of the phone: 905.327.5235 identifying how we can better help service. a beautiful theatre and a variety of vious years. Businesses are open as costs, then perhaps a new specta- COUN. BRUCE WILLIAMSON businesses to do good things,” said Together, we can accom- business and retail opportunities. usual, though. Running a successful tor facility isn’t out of reach. Much email: [email protected] Scott Ritchie, the urban design plish great things. This change has been a long time business in Port has always been a research, council debate and public phone: 905.934.2787 planner who wrote the guidelines. October 2011 The Garden City Current Page 3

gin construction in the near future, further details on redevelopment plans for the St. Catharines General Raising the curtain on Hospital site and completion of the first phase of a four-year plan to revitalize Centennial Park. We appreciate hearing from you and welcome your input on these arts centre designs and other initiatives. – Jennie Stevens & Jeff Burch

Steve Solski has no problem piling one location. praise on the conceptual designs of St. Since the designs were unveiled on a Catharines’ Performing Arts Centre. soggy night on the arts centre site a few As the centre’s executive director, his en- weeks ago, residents have been able thusiasm is palpable when asked what he to provide their feedback via email and thinks of the ideas drawn up for a building social media sites on what architect Gary that will be the cornerstone of downtown McCluskie of the Diamond and Schmitt revitalization. firm have come up with. “They look great. They capture the spirit Solski is hard-pressed to think of any- of St. Paul Street and the downtown en- thing too negative that was said. vironment where it’s being placed,” Solski “There were a lot of thoughtful sugges- said. tions. Generally speaking, the feedback From the Carlisle Street angle, Solski was all positive, constructive and all help- said the architects “created difference yet ful,” he said. munity through a sustainability lens similarity to the area architecture” with He has also never experienced such and developing a personal/council tiered elements. resounding support for a project. Solski, sustainability tool kit. The building looks like several venues who was the founding general manager of An important part of this process is as opposed to one. With a lobby encased the Rose Theatre in Brampton, said that a strategy to ensure this plan is not in glass, the action inside portrays the life project didn’t initially get the same support just shelved but put into action to and energy of the centre onto the street the St. Catharines’ edition is receiving. ensure sustainability principles are and into the downtown. “There’s a lot of positive energy in the followed in future decision making. “Our open house was basically held in community for this centre. The fact that On another note, we would like to the space that will be the lobby and really people came out in the rain to see (the remind you that if you see any graffiti gave people a sense of what that space conceptual designs) attests to the impor- on private or public property, please would be like,” Solski said. tance of the facility to this community,” report it to the graffiti hotline at 905- The back of the building has an “amaz- Solski said. 688-5601, ext. 3138 or via email at ing variety of structures that enhances the Now feedback will be handed over to the [email protected]. unique character of the back of St. Paul architect and considered as designs are –Peter Secord & Greg Washuta Street and creates a new skyline.” tweaked and finalized soon before going “I’m excited about the design,” Solski to council. added. “From a function standpoint, it Construction is expected to begin next works from the entrance points, its rela- spring and Solski predicts in about a year tion to the parking and downtown, the from now, the bones of the building will laying out of four venues but still feeling start to emerge. like one space.” It’s those milestones that will really start He’s not the only person who has had to excite the community, he said. lots to say about the designs either, which “When the community starts to see that roll a film theatre, dance and theatre is when the anticipation of its opening will venue, concert hall and recital hall into bee the topic of discussion.”

the city didn’t have a major tenant at The conceptual designs for the St. the time that would draw more than Catharines Performing Arts Centre 1,000 spectators to a game. It was were unveiled on Sept. 21. Clock- the right decision at the time. wise from top: View of the centre We are proceeding cautiously. We from the front, concert hall, film theatre, recital hall, view of the are gathering as much information raceway greenspace, view from as we can in order to make the right Carlisle Street, view from above decision. and behind, St. Paul Street view, Many questions have been asked. and plaza. The most important question will probably be answered before Christ- mas. –Dawn Dodge & Bill Phillips

New design rules will guide look of downtown buildings It’s time to have your say on the The guidelines will provide clear three or four storeys, using brick or Gateway and anchor buildings – look and feel of downtown St. expectations for what can and stone and having clearly defined those iconic landmarks denoting Catharines. should be done with buildings storefronts with office space or you’re entering the downtown – are After months in the works, the downtown. They urge attention housing above. also included in the guildelines, the DESIGN first draft of the downtown de- to site layout, architecture and In the civic cluster, which includes Geneva Street and Ontario Street sign guidelines is ready for public streetscaping from those planning city hall and surrounding buildings, earmarked for such opportunities. GUIDELINES perusal and a drop-in at Market to build or renovate a city centre the focus is on landscaping and Priority is also given to making OPEN HOUSE Square on Oct. 13 is planned with edifice. public spaces, with structures set downtown streets more bike and What: Draft Downtown De- display boards and the author of Think placement of a building on farther back from the sidewalk. pedestrian friendly, Ritchie noted. sign Guidelines Drop-in the newly drafted ground rules on a property, the materials and archi- “It’s not going to be one size fits Now he’s turning it over to resi- When: Thursday, Oct. 13, hand for questions. But the hope tectural style used for a building, all for downtown,” Ritchie assured. dents to have their say and use 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. is to also get feedback on this new placement of doors and windows, Another area of focus is the lower that input to fine tune the guide- Where: Market Square. vision for the core. transitions between buildings, level behind the city’s main drag. lines before presenting a final draft For more information, visit “The guidelines are about try- signage on storefronts and overall, “We want to hear people’s vi- to council in the new year. www.stcatharines.ca and ing to improve and build on the how it relates to the public realm. sion and ideas of how it could be “We’ll take all the feedback, con- click Projects and Studies aesthetics downtown but also There are also more targeted used and how they want it to look,” sider it all and make any changes in the Govern In section. identifying how we can better help guidelines for specific areas Ritchie said. “It’s fascinating to see we need to,” Ritchie said. “At the businesses to do good things,” said downtown. On St. Paul Street, all the layers of history. It’s a neat end of the day, this is about build- Scott Ritchie, the urban design for example, emphasis will be on space and there are opportunities ing on downtown’s strengths, not planner who wrote the guidelines. maintaining building heights at to do exciting things back there.” building anew.” Page 4 The Garden City Current October 2011

NOW ACCEPTING: NEW PATIENTS Picturing the future by painting the past Family physicians continue to make it their prac- Step onto the platform at the St. Catha- tice to set up practice in the Garden City. rines train station and step back into time. Two new doctors recently arrived in St. Catharines A large mural paying homage to train and are now accepting new patients. travel’s past in the Garden City is be- Dr. Mohamed Shaglouf, who hails from Libya origi- ing painted on the long station building, nally, comes to St. Catharines after spending five serving as a reminder of those who have years practising in rural Manitoba. He was drawn ridden the rails and relied on them for their here by the new hospital, proximity to and livelihood. the U.S. and the city’s kinder climate. But the giant painting, which depicts a He is now seeing patients at his practice at the royal visit, our troops, farmers and the Linwell Medical Centre, 282 Linwell Rd. For more circus of decades ago, also gives a boost information, call 905-934-4450. to a part of the city wanting to put its best Also making the move to St. Catharines via Mani- face forward when welcoming visitors to toba is Dr. Waled Alazragh. St. Catharines. Like Shaglouf, Alazragh was beckoned to the city “They didn’t feel safe, the people com- by the new hospital, weather and location, as well muting from the train station,” said Michael as the local Libyan community. Lethby, executive director of The RAFT, a He has opened his practice to keep Garden City youth outreach group involved in the mural residents healthy at Suite 204, 105 Queenston St. project. “They didn’t want to be there at and can be reached at 905-984-4477. night. There was graffiti and it didn’t lend itself to being safe.” SOMETHING CRAFTY AT That wasn’t lost on the residents of ST. CATHARINES MUSEUM Western Hill, where the train station, now Michael Lethby, executive director of The RAFT, stands in front of a mural in the works at the St. Catharines train station. The St. Catharines Museum is getting crafty with its welcoming GO service on summer week- The mural, being painted by artist Shawn Reimer with help from RAFT volunteers, will beautify an area of the city hit hard by the recent downturn in manufacturing. latest exhibit. ends, is abutted by large factories on its Ornamenting the Ordinary: Crafts of South Asia west side and an older residential area to opened last month, exposing museum visitors to the east. to reach them before crisis struck. to non-profit organizations for projects that the artistic styles, craftsmanship and crafting tradi- “The people in older Western Hill felt “If we can meet them before everything invest in arts, heritage and ethnoculture, tions of South Asia’s many diverse regions. insulted this was people’s first impression falls apart on them, we can keep them at all with the goal of bettering life for the The exhibit, produced by the Royal Ontario Muse- of their community,” Lethby said. home and keep them in their communi- city’s residents. um, uses rich visual imagery of India, Pakistan, Sri The mural is a collaboration between The ties,” he said. The mural was also supported by the Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Afghani- RAFT, which helps at-risk and homeless The RAFT applied to the Niagara Pros- city’s graffiti and public art advisory com- stan, Nepal and Tibet to show how artists transform youth, the Western Hill neighbourhood perity Council, which identified Western mittees. ordinary, functional objects into art. and artist Shawn Reimer. Hill as a priority neighbourhood, for a “Everyone thought it was a win-win,” said Divided into six sections, the exhibit explores the Reimer is known for transforming a grant to do a community development Rebecca Cann, cultural planning supervi- significance of light in South Asian art, innovations stretch of derelict industrial buildings in project. sor. in metal technology, indigo-dyeing and block- Thorold from eyesore to eye candy with A residents’ committee was struck last fall Given the transformative effect of murals, printing, the textile trade, religious symbolism, and his paint brush. In Western Hill, he has a and it decided to spruce up the landscap- Cann is looking to other cities known for spices and their uses in traditional Indian medicine. team of RAFT volunteers to help him do ing at the train station and cover a graffiti- reclaiming walls by putting paint brush to The exhibit runs until Jan. 1, 2012. The museum is the same with the train station coated wall with a mural to make it the brick with the hope of creating a similar open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is Given that Western Hill has been a gateway to the city they wanted it to be. mural program for St. Catharines. by donation. neighbourhood challenged in recent years Work started this summer and an un- But the positive effect of murals comes by the downturn of local manufacturing, veiling of the finished project is expected from more than having beautiful art to HAVE YOU VISITED… Lethby said it was an area in need of a later this month. Plans are also afoot for admire. pick me up. to include the group’s work in its “It’s meant a lot to the community that The loss of local industry has meant marketing, Lethby said. the city is so involved because that’s unemployment and the stress of trying to “There’s quite a lot of local support for it saying this is a community that deserves keep from slipping into poverty for many because it came from the community,” he attention,” Lethby said about Western Hill. families living there, Lethby explained. said. “That makes people feel good about the Those feelings of anxiety often trickle Part of the funding for the project also future, too. When people invest money in a down to youth, he noted, so the RAFT comes from the St. Catharines Cultural In- community, that says that community has saw working in Western Hill as a chance vestment Program, which provides grants worth. Scaring up fun at Pumpkinville Break out the plaid shirts and Participants are allowed to superhero getups. bring their own pumpkin to You’ll need them for the city’s carve and in previous years, annual ode to fall. they’ve had to. Pumpkinville LAKEBREEZE PARK Pumpkinville happens Satur- has drawn as many as 5,000 Where: 46A Butler Cres., off the end of Vine Street. day, Oct. 15 at Happy Rolph’s people. When: Lakebreeze Park is open daily from dawn Bird Sanctuary and Petting “It’s a fun event,” Askeland until dusk. Farm. With it comes the scare- said. “ What: Lakebreeze Park is a passive park on the crow building contest – a family When walking through the shore of Lake Ontario. The land for Lakebreeze competition bound to keep park and you see families was donated by Harold Henry Wright, whose fam- birds at bay but not creative Pumpkinville brings out the creativity in families, who can carve pumpkins, like those having a genuinely good time, ily owned a 64-acre farm on Vine Street, where minds seeking straw-filled above, or build scarecrows at the popular fall festival. genuine smiles on faces and the family raised cows, pigs and an orchard for 40 glory. means not coming up with a pumpkins – one per family – genuine laughter, that’s my years. The family’s farmhouse still stands at Old “We’ve seen everything from design or supplies on the fly, will be provided to be carved favourite part.” Coach Road and Vine Street. Lakebreeze Park the traditional scarecrow and though the city provides the into scary, funny and poignant Admission to Pumpkinville is boasts no playgrounds. It’s not even very large. jeans in a plaid shirt, we’ve straw for stuffing, twine and a creations. free. Parking is at surrounding But it does have loads of natural, rugged beauty had Spongebob, Super- frame to help bring the bird- Last year, one family turned businesses and the Grantham overlooking the lake. The Waterfront Trail also cuts man, Spiderman to the scary scarers to life. their pumpkin into an homage Lions Club on Niagara Street, a swath through the park. For those wanting to take scarecrow,” said Carolyn “Everyone loves to go through to the Chilean miners res- where a free shuttle will whisk load off, there are benches with a view to the water Askeland, recreation supervi- Scarecrow Alley and see the cued in 2010 after two months event goers to Happy Rolph’s. and pristine flower beds. sor and Pumpkinville organizer. awe in people’s faces as they trapped underground. Registration starts at 9:30 “It really is up to the families’ look at the scarecrows,” Askel- Choosing a winner is no easy a.m. and the event, which also GOT TAGGED? individual creativity.” and said. feat, Askeland said. features pony rides, food ven- To avoid drawing the short But that’s not all that Pump- “It is hard to pick. We really dors, bouncy castles and loads CALL GRAFFITI HOTLINE straw in a contest to create kinville promises. There is, of look for children’s input and of other children’s activities, The city wants to know when once-pristine walls, the best scarecrow, Askeland course, the flagship pumpkin creativity coming through,” she kicks off officially at 10 a.m. mailboxes, cable boxes and other surfaces become advises planning ahead. That carving contest. Five hundred said. and runs until 3 p.m. littered with spray-painted squiggles. To report graffiti on public or private property, call the Graffiti Information Line at 905-688-5601, ext. 3138. The city’s graffiti bylaw requires that graf- Events Calendar fiti be removed within seven days of the property owner being served notice by the city. Oct. 13 – Movies in Market Oct. 15 – Pumpkinville. 10 mydowntown.ca. Nov. 4-6 – 17th annual Craft Nov. 27 – St. Catharines Santa If the graffiti is on city property, it will be removed Square. Edward Scissorhands, a.m.-3 p.m. Happy Rolph’s Show, Hernder Estate Wines. Claus Parade. Parade route within 48 hours. City staff will also follow up with 7 p.m. Nightmare on Elm Bird Sanctuary and Petting Oct. 27 – Movies in Market 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission by downtown. Finishes at Market private property owners about removing the vandal- Street, 9 p.m. Free. 905-685- Farm. Free. 905-688-5601, Square. Witches, 7 p.m. Rocky cash donation or non-perish- Square with family activities. ism on time. 8424. www.mydowntown.ca. ext. 1563. Horror Picture Show, 9 p.m. able food item. 905-684-3300. 2:30 p.m. 905-688-5601, ext. Help is available when spray bombs hit, though. Free admission 905-685- www.hernder.com 1508. www.stcatharines.ca The city’s graffiti assistance program can help prop- Oct. 14-30 – Historic Ghost Oct. 20 – Movies in Market 8424. www.mydowntown.ca. erty owners remove unsightly scrawls by paying for Walks. 75-minute walking Square. The Great Pumpkin Nov. 19 – STRUTT Wear- Dec. 2-13 – 12 Days of Christ- as much as half the cost of cleanup by a qualified tours downtown. 7 p.m. $8. Charlie Brown, 7 p.m. Night- Oct. 29 – Haunted Pub Crawl. able Art Show. WS Tyler, 225 mas promotion. Downtown contractor to a maximum of $500 per incident, up to Reservations required. 905- mare Before Christmas, 7:30 Port Dalhousie. 905-937- Ontario St. $30. Students $20. streets and shops. 905-685- three incidents a year. 685-8424. www.mydowntown. p.m. Sleepy Hollow, 9 p.m. 4783. Visit www.portdalhou- 905-688-5550, ext. 3257. 8424 www.12daysdowntown. Call the Graffiti Information Line for a list of the ca Free. 905-685-8424. www. sie.com for more information. www.nac.org/strutt.html ca program’s qualified contractors. WARMING UP TO HEATING SAFETY Keep these facts about heating safety in mind when Market Recipe turning on the furnace or fireplace this year: RED CABBAGE AND PASTA Chopped parsley • Have all chimneys cleaned and inspected every Freshly grated Parmesan cheese year. Creosote is a major cause of chimney SOUP WITH BEANS fires. Have chimneys and flue pipes cleaned If you don’t have homemade broth for this quick Preparation: regularly. and easy soup, use canned. Toss cabbage with lemon juice and set aside. • Have your heating system inspected annually Preparation Time: 10 Minutes In medium saucepan, heat oil over medium heat; by a qualified service technician. Cooking Time: 12 Minutes cook onion for 3 min. • Install a carbon monoxide alarm to alert you to Add caggage and cook, stirring, until tender, about the presence of deadly carbon monoxide gas. Ingredients: 2 min. Stir in broth, tomatoes, 1 cup (250 mL) water • Give space heaters space. Keep them at least 2 cups (500 mL) chopped red Ontario Cabbage and hot pepper flakes; bring to a boil. one metre away from anything that can burn, 2 tbsp (25 mL) lemon juice Add pasta and beans, bring back to simmer and including curtains, upholstery, clothing and 4 tsp (20 mL) olive oil cook, uncovered, for 6 to 8 min., stirring occassion- people. 1 Ontario Onion, chopped ally. • Protect your home from sparks. Use a fire 2-1/2 cups (625 mL) vegetable or chicken broth Stir in salt and pepper to taste. Served in heated screen around the fireplace. 1 cup (250 mL) undrained canned tomatoes bowls sprinkled with parsley and lots of cheese. • Watch for smoke coming into the room. This A pinch of hot pepper flakes could indicate a blockage in the chimney or a 1/3 cup (75mL) orzo (rice-shaped pasta) faulty damper control mechanism. 1 can (19 oz/540 mL) Romano beans, drained • Allow the ashes from your woodstove or rinsed fireplace to cool before emptying them into a Salt and pepper metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Keep the container outside.