The Lake Report

Check out Collin’s Christmas cannelloni recipe! Lakereport.ca / Niagaranow.com LakeThe Page 20 ReportHyper-local news for Niagara-on-the-Lake Vol. 2, Issue 49 Niagara-on-the-Lake’s most respected newspaper December 12, 2019

Candles burn brightly at annual NOTL stroll Page 24

Hannah Bodach, 6, watches the band play at the annual Candlelight Stroll. Find more photos on Page 24, at Niagaranow.com and on the Facebook page for The Lake Report. RICHARD HARLEY After 3 years, sewage plant is almost ready — again ... Contractor could face up to $3 million in penalties due to delays

Brittany Carter had several projected ra Region’s associate direc- The Lake Report “ready” dates since then, but tor of water and wastewater missed them all. In Novem- engineering Tony Cimino. After years of delays, ber 2014 the contractor re- With the project three the Niagara-on-the-Lake ceived the “go-ahead” from years overdue, that means sewage treatment plant the region to begin con- the region could be holding could finally be on the verge struction. back between $1 million of working properly as re- The delays could and $3 million. gional staff say all prob- prove expensive for Var- Cimino said he could not lems should be rectified by con Construction Co. Ltd. provide details on the exact the end of this month. Under its contract with the amount of money held back The $43.2-million facil- region, Varcon could for- as the region could be mov- ity, which originally was feit anywhere from $1,000 ing forward with litigation. supposed to be operational to $3,000 for every day the Doug Johnson is Niagara Region’s associate director of wastewater operations. about three years ago, has project is late, said Niaga- Continued on Page 2 BRITTANY CARTER Page 2 Pharmacy Apothecary Tues, Dec 24th . . . 8:30 am – 3 pm Tues, Dec 24th . . . 9:30 am – 3 pm December 12, 2019 Wed, Dec 25th . . . CLOSED Wed, Dec 25th . . . CLOSED Thurs, Dec 26th . . CLOSED Thurs, Dec 26th . . CLOSED Simpson’s Pharmacy Simpson’s Apothecary Tues, Dec 31st . . . 8:30 am – 3 pm Tues, Dec 31st . . . 9:30 am – 3 pm 1882 Niagara Stone Rd, Virgil 233 King St, Niagara-on-the-Lake Wed, January 1st . . CLOSED Wed, January 1st . . CLOSED NEWS 905.468.2121 905.468.8400 Regular hours resume Thursday, January 2nd Wastewater plant delays have been ongoing for more than three years Aerial photo of the new NOTL sewage treatment plant. RENE BERTSCHI

Continued from Front Page it with water. We’ll feed water treatment plant owned “It’s just a way for us to it and when we’re sure we’re by the region. control it while the plant “We may be proceeding happy with it we’ll start put- After being broken down is getting online in case into litigation with some of ting sludge through it. We’ll at Port Weller, the solid something was to go wrong the project stakeholders so start feeding the sludge into waste is then sent to the while we were construct- I would not be permitted it slowly,” Johnson said. Garner Road biosolids facil- ing. If it wasn’t operating to provide it to you at this Cimino said the plant ity in Niagara Falls, which properly, we always had the time,” he said in a state- has been accepting waste- stores all the “digested lagoon as a safeguard, and ment to The Lake Report. water from the town since sludge” from wastewater we could have it go through Regional officials say the June and has been meeting facilities across the region the lagoons for treatment,” new plant on Lakeshore all provincial compliance to be converted into soil Cimino said. Road has been operational standards. fertilizers. “That concern is now since June 25 of this year, However, former NOTL The new NOTL plant is gone.” but the region still isn’t sat- town councillor Paolo Miele “doing what it’s supposed Johnson said a traditional isfied with some technical said he has been closely to be doing. We just have an lagoon system usually has flaws in construction and following the plant’s slow issue with the last piece of two ponds. The sewage won’t sign off on its comple- progress and said it is not the treatment train,” Cimino comes into one pond and tion by Varcon until all ma- operating as it should. said, adding that the treated is broken down by germs in jor problems are fixed. “I can tell you for certain water is testing cleaner than A mechanical bar screen removes incoming large debris, the lagoon. The region’s associate that I’m involved still, and that of the old plant. or “rags” from the sewage. BRITTANY CARTER The sun and wind provide director of wastewater I’m keeping an eye on Problems over the last light, warmth and oxygen operations, Doug John- everything. It’s not accept- few years of construction on the company’s web- over the plant,” Cimino said. to the water to help grow son, said he expects final ing raw sewage – they’re included leaks in walls site stated the project was When a reporter toured bacteria and algae, which problems will be cleared up trucking the sewage away,” throughout the facility and expected to be complete by the plant with Cimino on breaks down the sewage, soon. Miele said. misaligned pumps, he said, December 2016. Monday of this week, there cleaning the water. The The digester, the machine Johnson said the plant is but the digester has been “We hold back the liqui- were few workers on site clean water overflows into used to break down or- in fact accepting and treat- a main concern from the dated damages off every except for the person who the second lagoon. ganic waste at the end of the ing all the town’s wastewa- beginning. payment certificate. Every oversees operations to “They’re just work- treatment cycle, has been ter and sewage – it’s just Despite the constant de- month’s payment we hold ensure everything continues ing like a digester would. “one of the biggest issues” the final step of the process, lays, Cimino said the project back some money match- to run smoothly. Once the The solids settle and then throughout the entire build which breaks down the solid is within its $43.2-million ing the number of days the facility is running, Johnson it moves over to the next of the plant, Johnson said. waste, that isn’t yet fully budget, though he added project has been delayed,” said there will typically be pond,” he said. “Getting it back up and operational. that it’s “tight” and the Cimino said. one systems operator on-site Now, the treated water running is our biggest con- “Construction is done, region won’t approve any “We’re virtually done – during the day, plus dedi- runs through the second cern,” he said. deficincies have been looked more money for the project. there’s no payment going cated maintenance staff. pond to the lake, but that Varcon has completed at and we’re re-doing some He said Varcon is ac- out anymore. It’s just the “When operation staff are will soon be bypassed and work on the digester and testing, and hopefully we countable for “liquidated deficiency work that (the not on-site the plant will be the lagoons will be decom- is now undergoing test- don’t run into anymore damages” as a result of the contractors) are cleaning monitored by the opera- missioned, he said. ing, he said. Barring any snags,” he said. delays. up.” tions staff at the Port Weller Lord Mayor Betty Disero further complications the The undigested sludge is The liquidated dam- When the region is plant as we do now with the said her main concern is digester should be opera- being transported to another ages clause in the contract satisfied that the plant is in lagoon plant,” Johnson said. that the plant must be fully tional “soon,” Johnson said, plant until the NOTL facil- between the region and “perfect working order,” he At this time, Cimino said, operational before the old though he said he doesn’t ity’s digester is finished Varcon penalizes the com- said officials will sign off the effluent water, or treated one is decommissioned. have an exact date the test- with testing and can be fully pany “from about $1,000 to on the project’s completion. water, is being run through “My point is – it’s got ing should be complete yet. commissioned, Johnson $3,000 a day for any delays At that time, Varcon will be the lagoon system of the to work or fix it before “Whether it will be up confirmed. past the date expected,” responsible for a one-year old plant, which is located you open it. That way our and running this week, “We are hauling all the Cimino said. warranty, which Johnson nearby. The water is treated residents won’t have to deal I can’t say, but it’s close. sewage to the factory in Representatives of Varcon said will cover “anything through the new plant and with a broken treatment We’re doing the commis- Port Weller and running it could not be reached for that breaks down electri- being run through the old plant. They’re working on sioning and testing, and it’s through their system,” John- comment despite several at- cally or mechanically.” plant as “backup.” It will it. As long as everybody’s close,” Johnson added. son said. The Port Weller tempts by The Lake Report, “They’re (the contractor) soon be redirected to the toilets continue to flush – “Right now, we’re filling facility is a similar waste- but a media announcement very eager for us to take new outfall to the lake. I’m happy,” she said. Page 3 December 12, 2019 NEWS

OUR AUTHENTIC SICHUAN & DIM SUM $25 ferry service proposed WILL BE YOUR NEW FAVOURITES! between NOTL and Toronto

Dariya Baiguzhiyeva “Any type of ferry service principle, subject to Parks The Lake Report has to be co-ordinated with Canada’s also approving the land transportation it. Couns. Clare Cameron Niagara-on-the-Lake system, with the train, with and Erwin Wiens voted residents could soon have a buses,” Caciagli said. “It against it. new, fast way of getting to cannot exist by itself.” A fast ferry can cover a A sketch of a proposed 80-passenger hovercraft. Toronto for only $25 – via The passenger-only 50-kilometre distance in SUPPLIED a ferry. service would help commut- about 40 to 45 minutes, Lake Ontario Ex- ers avoid traffic on QEW, Caciagli said. The vessels $ $ press president Bruno save time, and reduce travel would be powered by a hy- Inner Harbour, as well as 15.99 15.99 Caciagli asked town council costs and levels of CO2, drogen fuel cell or a diesel from Parks Canada, which Monday night to add said Caciagli, who has been engine with hydrogen injec- owns the pier at Navy Hall. Lunch Express Special Dinner Buffet NOTL as a terminal for a working on the project since tion in efforts to minimize “If Toronto says no, there (Mon – Thurs) (Tues) Waterlink Ferry Service 2014. emissions. will be no project, that’s that would connect the The idea is to use Navy Arrivals and departures it. You will never see me $18.99 $20.99 lower Niagara Peninsula Hall’s docks for arriv- would be co-ordinated again,” Caciagli told coun- – including NOTL, Port als and departures of two with local transit services. cillors Monday. Dinner Special Sunday Brunch Dalhousie and Beacon Har- 80-passenger vessels. These Caciagli said he’d also like Coun. Gary Burroughs (Sun – Thurs) bour – with Toronto. ferries, such as hovercraft or to have the service running said the service would be What makes Caciagli’s catamaran, would make 14 by April 2021 before the a great benefit to the town $ project different from other crossings a day and are pre- start of the Canada Sum- and he would support it, but 1 Takeout and delivery available. ferry services that have dicted to serve a total of mer Games, which will take he was concerned as there Dim Sum – All day, every day! been proposed and failed to 2,100 passengers daily. place in Niagara in August was not sufficient park- receive approval is he wants The cost of a one-way 2021. ing at Navy Hall. Caciagli chilijiao.com 905-468-6114 to integrate his service with ticket would be $25. Cross- Caciagli, who already said there would be off-site 271 Mary Street, Niagara-on-the Lake, ON Metrolinx, the provincial ings would be seven days a pitched the idea to the previ- parking for passengers. transit authority. Cacia- week, year-round, weather- ous council in 2017, said the Cameron said she was du- gli doesn’t want to compete permitting. project also needs approvals bious and couldn’t support with local transit services, In a 7 to 2 vote, council from the City of Toronto the project without having stdavidsvetclinic.com he said. approved the project in for a dedicated dock in the Parks Canada on hand. Heading south? Make sure your pet is Roads, traffic key concerns, ready to travel! budget survey finds NOTL council will finalize House-calls available 905.262.8777 Dariya Baiguzhiyeva strip malls,” was one of the finalizing the 2020 budget, its 2020 budget at the The Lake Report comments provided through town staff said in the report. special council meeting the survey. The 2019 operating bud- Monday, Dec. 16. DARIYA BAIGUZHIYEVA Niagara-on-the-Lake “It is disappointing to get was $11.5 million and council hopes to finalize find out that the (NOTL) the capital budget was $9.4 cent was spent on roads, 15 its 2020 budget with what Museum currently receives million. per cent on infrastructure, could be a marathon session almost the same amount of Property taxes in NOTL 13 per cent on corporate on Dec. 16. money as the beautification are split among three levels services and 11 per cent on Meanwhile, on Mon- of Queen Street does,” was of government: the town fire and emergency ser- day night, councillors another comment. “Spend of NOTL, the Region of vices. The rest was spent released the results of a less on the beautification.” Niagara and the province. on NOTL Public Library, survey that shows what Most responses also About 23 per cent of planning and development, some residents would like said the town should stop every property tax dollar is and council and administra- to see how the town spends or spend less on tourism spent on the town, the rest is tion – each receiving five taxpayers’ money next year. and beautification, as well divided between the region per cent. Street lighting had Out of 107 respondents, as legal fees and consultants and the province, the report four per cent of the revenue 55 per cent were between next year. says. allocated to it. the ages of 50 to 69. Fifty- “When we have a tight The majority of the town’s From the 2019 budget six per cent also lived in budget, the last thing you 2019 revenue – 39.6 per cent expenses, 35.6 per cent was Old Town. want to do is get into a – came from user fees and spent on salaries, benefits, When asked what the lawsuit. Pick the battle, can’t services, followed by 37 per protective clothing and town should start or spend win them all,” was another cent from property taxes. The development. The town more money on in 2020, the comment from the survey. rest accounted for reserve also spent 25.4 per cent on most common responses Residents also chose funding, federal and provin- contracted services, 23.5 were road infrastructure, newspapers as their pre- cial grants, bylaw charges and per cent on transfers to maintenance and traffic ferred source of informa- sales, and other sources. The reserves, and 10.8 per cent control, tourism strategy tion, followed by the town smallest amount of revenue on operational services and resident services. website and the Join The came from bylaw charges and and supplies. The rest was “Beautifying Niagara Conversation webpage. sales – it accounted for 2.2 allocated toward commu- Stone Road in Virgil would The purpose of the survey per cent. nity partners, boards and enhance NOTL by provid- was to help councillors take Twenty-one per cent of agencies, grants, financial ing a pleasant entrance comments and suggestions taxes went toward parks and expenses and interest on instead of the unattractive into consideration when recreation. Another 21 per long-term debt. Page 4 December 12, 2019

The Lake Report EDITORIAL & OPINION Editorial Don’t let social media spread misinformation

Brittany Carter after reading the town’s posting about isn’t fair!” and “Blame so-and-so!” The Lake Report parking enforcement for the month of and even remarks about council being Editor-In-Chief: Richard Harley December, people deserved answers. “greedy opportunists” flooded local Managing Editor: Kevin MacLean Social media is a wonderful The public was confused. Facebook groups. Publisher: Niagara Now resource for spreading news and That’s why as soon as The Lake Freedom of expression means many Design & Layout: Richard Harley information and connecting with the Report heard about enforced park- have no fear of voicing an opinion Advertising: Rob Lamond, Luke Archibald community. Every media organiza- ing this December, we immediately and that certainly can have its place. Staff: Brittany Carter, Dariya Baiguzhiyeva, tion, including The Lake Report, reached out to town staff, council And while some of the initial ques- Jill Troyer, Tim Taylor, Eunice Tang relies on social media to help dis- and the chamber for answers. We, tions about the demise of “free park- Contributors: Denise Ascenzo, Linda Fritz, seminate the news. like you, wanted to know why there ing” were expressed without rancour, Ross Robinson, Brian Marshall, Tim Carroll, It is a great tool that expedites the wouldn’t be free parking, as the post- the situation quickly morphed into Susan Des Islets, NOTL Writers’ Circle, sharing of relevant issues and helps ing suggested, and what had changed something else as reckless informants Jim Smith, Jaclyn Wilms, Collin Gooddine, create a well-informed, intelligent this year. ran wild with possible outcomes and Plunger Patrol, and many more members public – when used judiciously. During our research, we discovered suspected reasoning. All that does of the local community This week, I stood witness as social new Chamber of Commerce presi- is create more confusion and misin- media gave a platform to the rapid dent Eduardo Lafforgue immediately formation. spread of misinformation. It’s not a requested free parking as soon as he While some may call Monday’s new phenomenon, but when it hap- learned a formal request was re- decision a “win” for social media, the pens, speculation and rumours are quired. It was an oversight he was in a resolution was in the works regard- often touted as fact. He said, she said hurry to remedy, he said. less, and social media contributed to stands in for a reliable source when We discovered that council would be the confusion and havoc. quick-to-type keyboard warriors opt taking the matter to Monday night’s We can’t promise the answer will for posting their best guess about a council meeting and a resolution always come out exactly when you situation before waiting for the facts. would emerge then. While council want it, but we can guarantee if an Contributed by Norm Arsenault: Of course, not every NOTLer post- supported the idea of free parking, the issue is relevant and important for the Combine all your plastic bags and wraps into one ing on social media jumped to change requires action by councillors. residents of Niagara-on-the-Lake, The conclusions or used the medium Due process needs to be followed. Lake Report will actively pursue the single bag and tie them up. Put the tied bag in to gripe about perceived slights on We knew that in order to accu- answer. the grey bin on top of your paper products. Don’t this earth-shaking topic: After all, rately inform the public, we would Bring your concerns to us to find recycle them loosely. They clog up equipment it seemed free parking in Old Town need to wait for a resolution and the answer, write a letter to the editor, during the month of December had not publish our best guesses at the email us, and, by all means, continue and slow down the recycling process. been cancelled. results. While residents deserve quick voicing your concerns on social media. It’s understandable that residents answers, it can be irresponsible to pub- But please let’s not spread speculation, were frustrated at not having the lish information without all the facts. opinion and misinformation as fact. facts in a timely manner. I agree that, In the meantime, cries of “This [email protected]

Contributed by Patty Garriock “The true aim of everyone who aspires to be a teacher should be, not to impart his/her own opinion, but to kindle minds.” – F. W. Robertson.

HOW TO GET IN TOUCH

Email: Letters: [email protected] Story Ideas: [email protected] Advertising: [email protected] Phone Newsroom: 905-359-2270 Advertising Department: 905-246-4671 Office Address 496 Mississauga St., NOTL, Ontario, Canada. Mailing Address PO Box 724, Niagara-on-the-Lake, L0S1J0

Have a lead on a story? Call 905.359.2270 or send an email Thanks to NOTL Rotary to [email protected] The Lake Report’s Richard Harley and Kevin MacLean, centre, spoke at the December meeting of the Interest in advertising? Niagara-on-the-Lake Rotary Club this week. Rotarians Randy LeGallais and Ken Schander said the club Call 905.246.4671 or send an email made a donation to Rotary’s End Polio Now campaign on the paper’s behalf. The club also announced a to [email protected] $2,000 donation to the Raft, a youth agency in St. Catharines. DARIYA BAIGUZHIYEVA

Open Daily Year-Round Bring this ad in for a 10% Lunch Discount Valid Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday in December.

& For more details and hours, visit our website or give us a call. www.CarolineCellars.com 905.468.8814 1010 Line 2, Virgil Page 5 December 12, 2019 NEWS

Party over for short-term rentals ARE YOU HAPPY Dariya Baiguzhiyeva cabin, hospital, commercial Bernhard Mattern WITH YOUR Portfolio Manager, TFSA, RESP, The Lake Report resort unit or village com- Mandeville Private Client Inc. RRSP & RRIF RETURNS? Eligible mercial resort unit in town, The party might soon some of which fall under the ** Since Inception be over for operators of current bylaw. 9.0% some short-term rentals in Instead, a short-term Niagara-on-the-Lake. rental could be a building or Portland Private Income Fund Portland Private Income Fund After months of com- any part of a building that Private Debt Private Debt plaints from neighbours of rents out space for less than Best 5 Year Sharpe Ratio Best 5 Year Return Airbnb-style rentals about 28 days and is considered 1st Place** 1st Place** loud parties, poor behaviour commercial or non-residen- and parking problems, a tial, the committee said. committee of NOTL council Under the existing bylaw, Portland Private Income Fund Investing Primarily in Private Debt Securities came up with proposals that Town council is in the midst of reviewing the current short- a short-term rental is a build- will mean major revisions to term rental bylaw. DARIYA BAIGUZHIYEVA ing used for “overnight guest • CAPITAL PRESERVATION • REDUCED MARKET RISK the town’s bylaw governing lodging” for no more than • INCOME • ACCESS short-term rentals. lives NOTL and is available cottage rentals in residen- 28 days and includes bed On Monday night Dec. 24/7, 365 days a year to ad- tial areas, lack of account- and breakfast homes, cottage TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FUND CALL: 905-708-8111 OR EMAIL: [email protected] 9, councillors adopted the dress any concerns. ability and good neighbour rentals, villas, country inns recommendations produced Rental managers and own- agreements, and no code of and vacation apartments. *Inception Date January 7, 2013, Annualized returns on Series F as at April 30, 2019 Brought to you in part by **The awards are based solely on quantitative performance data of 207 Canadian hedge funds by the Glendale task force ers will be responsible for conduct for renters. At the committee of the to June 30th, 2018 with Fundata Canada managing the collection and tabulation of the data to determine the winners. There is no nomination process or subjective assessment in identifying the committee, the group given addressing any complaints or The proposed new whole meeting Monday, Dec. winning hedge funds. The sharpe ratio is a measure for calculating risk-adjusted returns. The sharpe ratio is the portfolio return in excess of the risk-free rate divided by the volatility of the portfolio. the job of trying to solve the bylaw infractions. bylaw includes provisions 2., Coun. Wendy Cheropita The Fund is only available to certain investors who meet eligibility or minimum purchase requirements such as “accredited investors”. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investments. The Fund is not guaranteed, short-term rental problem. The committee also rec- enacted by two other mu- complimented the staff and its value changes frequently and past performance may not be repeated. The Fund is not publicly offered. A redemption fee of 5% within 18 months and 2% within 19 to 36 months applies. Mandeville Private Client Inc. is a Member of the Investment Industry Regulatory “If we can get proper ommended restricting cot- nicipalities that attract a lot the committee, saying the Organization of Canada and a Member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Mandeville Private Client Inc. is a registered trademark of Portland Holdings Inc. and used under license by Mandeville Private Client Inc. PORTLAND, PORTLAND INVESTMENT COUNSEL and the Clock information out, proper tage rentals to a maximum of tourists, Kelowna, B.C., document had some “excel- Tower design are registered trademarks of Portland Holdings Inc. Used under licence by Portland Investment Counsel Inc. education out to people that of three bedrooms, requiring and the Town of Georgina, lent points.” are renting, make them un- cottages with pools to have on Lake Simcoe. “I was very impressed derstand we’re serious about a pool inspection, hiking an- The committee report with the revisions you were this kind of bylaw, we’re nual fees to cover increased suggests the updated bylaw making and the details that serious about controlling be- enforcement and requiring should ensure that homes you touched on that I think haviour, it will resolve itself cottage rental licences to be are not turned into “party will be very helpful. And I over time. This bylaw will renewed yearly. houses,” minimize public think you’re going to find need to have teeth, for sure,” If owners were to operate safety risks and reduce park- we’ll have great support Coun. Norm Arsenault said without a licence 60 days af- ing, trash and noise issues, from the residents,” she said, at the Glendale task force ter the new bylaw comes into ensure residential neighbour- also asking to make the lan- meeting on Nov. 12. effect, they would be hoods don’t become tourist guage in the document firm The proposal would mean charged, see their licence areas and that regulations and clear. a NOTL resident could use application denied and proof short-term rentals don’t Town staff is also in the their home as a cottage hibited from applying for a affect property values and process of reviewing a new rental if that property is new short-term rental licence property tax revenues. long-term rental draft bylaw. their main residence. Proof for five years, the task force “Not all rentals are like The town currently doesn’t of it being the owner’s prin- committee suggested. that, just some of them,” have any bylaws related to cipal residence would be There is a long list of Arsenault told The Lake long-term rentals. required before the town issues that prompted the Report. “They are doing a Following council’s ap- would issue a licence. bylaw changes, including great job but they need a bit proval, the town staff will Homes owned by non-resi- noise, overnight street park- of control and that’s what now circulate the document dents would only be allowed ing, lack of bylaw enforce- we’re trying to do.” to all town departments and to operate as a short-term ment on weekdays, evenings The proposed changes will bring forward an infor- rental if the property is man- and weekends, no limits would not affect any mo- mation report with recom- aged by a rental management on the number of guests tel, hotel, bed and break- mendations on how to move company or if the owner per unit, an abundance of fast establishment, tourist forward.

NOTL resident pushes for Harriet film screening at FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre’s Film House Brittany Carter tion to the Salem Chapel in need of money for the Sunday Special The Lake Report on Geneva Street which repairs.” was founded by Harriet and Masson reached out to Charcuterie Niagara-on-the-Lake’s other blacks in St. Catha- NOTL town staff, who then Betsy Masson took a stand rines,” Masson said in an forwarded the request to to mark Harriet Tubman’s email to The Lake Report. Sarah Fraser, program and Harriet will play this week per person charcuterie sommelier select * and cheese board wine (5 oz) local historical ties by rec- “Last time I visited was audience co-ordinator for and next. SUPPLIED $10 $5 ommending a screening of eight years ago and was told St. Catharines. 4 pm – 9 pm with purchase of any beverage the film Harriet, which was that there were only 14 mem- Fraser said in an email pears briefly in the movie. released in November. bers of the church at that response that she was “ex- Harriet will be screened *Selection of meat and cheese is Chef’s choice only – no substitutions. At Masson’s request, the point and they were all over cited” to be screening the on Dec. 12, 13, 14, 15 and film will have five showings 80 years old,” Masson said. film at Masson’s sugges- 17. Tickets are $9.50 or $7 vintage-hotels.com | 905-468-3246 from Dec. 12 to Dec. 17 at When she looked into the tion, noting the local ties to for children under 13 and 6 Picton Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON the FirstOntario Performing church recently, she discov- the Salem Chapel British Film House members and Arts Centre’s Film House. ered it no longer gave tours. Methodist Episcopal Church can be purchased online at “I wanted to draw atten- “They are very much in St. Catharines, which ap- the arts centre’s website. Page 6 December 12, 2019 NEWS AND OPINION

Correction: Our Dec. 5 review of the Shaw Festival’s presentation The Lake Report welcomes your letters to the editor. Please, write early and often. of “A Christmas Carol” contained Letters ideally should be under 400 words long. Occasionally, longer letters may be published. All letters some incorrect information. San- may be edited for conciseness, accuracy, libel and defamation. jay Talwar is playing the role Please include your full name, street address and a daytime telephone number so that authorship can be of Christmas Present and Peter authenticated. Fernandes portrays Scrooge’s Only names and general addresses (eg. Virgil, St. Davids, NOTL) will be published. nephew Fred. The roles were Send your letters to [email protected] or drop them by our office at 724 Mississauga St., NOTL. originated by Jeff Meadows and The Lake Report Jonathan Tan respectively.

A symbol of a town People with disabilities can’t escape bird cannons Dear editor: Maybe we need to alert those animal rights activ- I would like to respond to the past articles and ists to how the bird cannons are without a doubt clearly divided letters in The Lake Report regarding the issue of scaring all the wildlife in our community, includ- bird cannons. ing those of us humans who have moved here for a Firstly, to the gentleman’s response about using quiet life. cannons in the 1950s: They used DDT and other For myself, it is not OK to sit here day in and deadly sprays as well. Research is there in black day out for 16 weeks to have to be exposed to this and white. Did it help? Does the use of loud bird noise. cannons make the wine taste better? I am a writer and musician and a major part of Is this why some of you support the use of these my day needs to be dedicated to create and to rest. obnoxious and toxic units? It is my livelihood. If so, then please come sit with me with a bottle Did I mention that I am disabled and in a of bird-banged grape wine so that I may clearly wheelchair? Part of my healing is to meditate to understand and taste the difference. clear my mind, how can one do this when they are We also invite you to come to our home from 6 exposed continually to the sound of bird cannons? a.m. to 8 p.m. for 16 weeks of the year and tell me We live above Line 9 and Tanbark and have how calm you feel at the end of the day and I can five growers all with cannons going off continually guarantee you I know where that bottle of wine throughout the day. will end up. I cannot just get up and drive away to get away We won’t even touch Niagara wines, especially from the noise. I cannot even sit on our porch if we know that the grapes came from growers us- to breathe the air and enjoy the beauty around me. ing bird cannons. The sound of the cannons literally shakes me. Half the street seems brighter to Filomena Pisano. SUPPLIED To this day we are still being affected by the Continuous cannon blasts do affect one’s health mistakes, misconceptions and bad choices made in many ways. If my wife needs to go out she liter- Dear editor: ferences among its residents. by growers, using so-called deterrents, whether ally has to put headsets on me to deaden the sound Friday night’s Candlelight Stroll When I walk along the streets they are pesticides or cannons to aid in growing of bird cannons so I may rest. was lovely. I am in awe, I am in a perpetual crops. Would all of you who support the use of bird I usually take many photos state of gratitude. Bird cannons are not the solution. cannons like to be in my shoes or chair for a day to when I am at an event, my pho- While I gaze at the vineyards I personally prefer to live in a clean, quiet area learn how it feels to be violated continually. tographer self can’t help it. I am and fruit farms, I hear myself without feeling threatened by the very folks I have the right to become well and the use of compelled to record history. reciting prayers of gratitude. that originally farmed to grow food. bird cannons is literally paralyzing me. When one stands behind a lens There is so much beauty, so Bird Cannons are the DDT to our health. They I am not looking for pity. I ask that those of you as long as I have one begins to see much to be grateful for. are rude, scare wildlife, are unnecessary and do that support or use bird cannons understand clearly more than what is present. I am humbled and while I walk not help to feed the people. the impact that this has on those of us who do not This photo of people headed to you may hear me repeating my So, before you accuse someone of cooking have the ability to change our situation and that we the Stroll is nothing really, just a single prayer. their own goose, ask yourself how can one cook too have the right to be safe and happy. quick shot with my iPhone. Thank you. And, no, I’m not a goose that isn’t there because the bird cannons You have the power to change this. There are But, yes there is a but. For me crazy talking to myself. I’m just scare them as well. other ways to deter the birds. this photo exemplifies what I have so happy to be here. It shocks me how some of you are truly cynical I have the right to live out the rest of my time in observed as a recent resident of Who am I to speak, one may of someone’s human right to live in harmony. peace. Please respect that. this beautiful town. (The irony of think. I’ve only lived here for a We have activists that want to stop the horse car- Ray Auld this photo – the downtown area is year. I have been privvy to out- riages because they feel it is not fair to the animal. NOTL glorious, and a big shout out to the landish stares, have been told I’m volunteers who put up the decora- not a local. Of course not. I was tions. I wanted to join in this year not born and raised here. but was ill. I hope to next year!) But I am here now, with What is ironic in this photo is complete investment as it is my The sad assault of farmers’ bird cannons that one side of the street was forever home. Dear editor: whatsoever for the impact that loud explosive noise profusely lit up with glorious I hope that at some point I will I just read about two children who were able to can have on children with autism, and adults and lights, while the other was so dark see the street lit up on both sides, have their photos taken with Santa Claus. people struggling with, or being treated for PTSD, I could barely see the shops. and people casting aside their The boys have autism spectrum disorder, and living in Escarpment bench neighbourhoods and I stood in awe of this symbol- personal differences to become a their time and photos with Santa was made pos- adjoining lands. ism; a small town clearly divided. town united for the greater good. sible by an enlightened and thoughtful, Britney Three growers use cannons that impact the I take no sides as I am new and Perhaps I’m a dreamer. Re- Conlon, event co-ordinator at Seaway Mall in residents of the Escarpment from Queenston to do not understand the politics of gardless, I wish you all a joyous Welland. east St. Davids. Five other growers using cannons it all, but it’s been my observation season celebrating this beautiful Britney arranged for a quiet environment, prior impact the Escarpment west neighbourhoods of that the town is divided. I’ve lis- place. to the mall opening, so sensory triggers like noise, north Tanbark Road, Sandalwood Crescent and tened to many and I have watched Merry Christmas and, to those did not affect the children in a negative way. Stoneridge Crescent. and observed. who do not celebrate Christmas, This enlightened, thoughtful thinking and action What a sad assault on a landform that was desig- It’s all so sad. I didn’t expect to Happy Holidays. is in stark contrast with the uncaring, money-driv- nated in 1990 as a World Biosphere Reserve. What a see this in such a small town. Filomena Pisano en, unethical farming practices of growers who use violation of our human rights and property rights. For me, the landscape of this NOTL propane-fired cannons that sound like howitzers, Jim and Irene Fisher glorious town outweighs the dif- for three-plus months of the year, with no regard Queenston

Pauline Reimer Gibson is an Audiologist with over 20 years of experience who loves A global leader in helping people of all ages in the community. Julia Dick is the Front Office Coordinator and a longtime resident of Virgil. Call Julia today to book a complimentary hearing test. hearing healthcare. Book a complimentary hearing test today at 905.468.9176 Pauline Reimer Gibson Audiologist 504 Line 2 Road, Virgil ON Page 7 December 12, 2019 NEWS AND OBITUARIES

Obituary NOTL woman is on a mission Cheryl Ann Phillips to unite the town for good PHILLIPS, Cheryl Ann — With family by her side, on Dec. 4, 2019, lost her battle with pancreatic cancer at Dariya Baiguzhiyeva the age of 65. Beloved wife of the late Jim (2014). Loving The Lake Report mother of Michael (Sarah), Bobby (Erin) and Christo- pher. Proud Gramma of Adrianna, Madelynne, Eric and Niagara-on-the-Lake resi- Evie. Dear sister of Carol (Bert) and aunt of Brent (Andrea) dent Julia Buxton-Cox has and the late Adrienne. Caring niece of Irene. had enough of negativ- Cheryl happily retired to Niagara-on-the-Lake a year ago ity and division – and she and became an active member of the community. She will hopes to unite the town be missed by many friends. by creating a new social me- At her request, cremation has taken place and a celebration dia group on Facebook. of her life will be held in Niagara-on-the-Lake at a later date. “The town has struggled a For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the bit with some divisiveness, Julia Buxton-Cox is working on launching a new Facebook Canadian Cancer Society. Memories, photos and condolenc- so it’s time,” she said in a group where NOTL residents can look for and offer free es may be shared at www.morganfuneral.com. phone interview. items and services. SUPPLIED Having been an adminis- trator of the “NOTL Today” to spend my time doing in the next week and half. group on Facebook for al- something good that would Only NOTL residents who New online burial map lets people search most two years, Buxton-Cox bring people together.” have Facebook accounts said she has debated shut- Group members can pro- will be accepted to the cemetery plots around Niagara-on-the-Lake ting down the page for vide or ask for whatev- group. several months because of er they need as long as it’s Buxton-Cox said on top Dariya Baiguzhiyeva negativity and drama on the civil and legal, from asking of spreading goodness and The Lake Report social media platform. for a ride home and giving giving back to the commu- The appearance of copy- away a handcrafted item to nity, she also likes that the Finding the loca- cat Facebook pages that offering gardening services. project is an environmental tion of your loved ones’ mimic NOTL Today and The group is not about initiative that allows people burial plots at the Niagara another Facebook group business or self-promotion, to recycle and divert waste. Lakeshore Cemetery has – NOTL Bulletin Board, and no trades and barters “We have a lot of good become easier thanks to the run by Gail Kendall – has will be allowed, Buxton- people in this town and a Town of Niagara-on-the- prompted her to launch a Cox said. lot of good skills. I think Lake’s new online map. An online burial map shows the location of burial plots at new group to provide an op- One of the founding people are ready to jump on It allows people to look the Niagara Lakeshore Cemetery. SUPPLIED portunity for area residents principles of the hyperlocal board of something that’s up their family mem- to get together. group is also to “give where good and doesn’t have any- bers by simply search- on creating a geodata- connect with their loved The goal is to create you live.” thing to do with politics or ing their name. The results base and a web map. The ones (who) passed.” a Buy Nothing Group on “There’s nothing in it for money or business.” will show green markers students also spent about The Lakeshore cemetery Facebook, where people can me. I don’t get paid. I don’t There will be a learn- for the plot location, who 350 hours preparing a final is the only active burial look for, lend or offer free get advertising dollars. It’s ing curve as the project was interred there, their report, Kevin Turcotte, the ground in town. There are services and goods while about volunteering for the launches, Buxton-Cox said, death date and age, and a town’s manager of parks also 10 inactive cemeteries meeting and interacting community,” Buxton-Cox noting she hopes the group photo of the memorial. and recreation, told The within the municipality. with each other face-to-face. told The Lake Report. will bring something good The project came Lake Report. “We have proposed (to The Buy Nothing Proj- “I think the town is ready to NOTL and will last for about through a collabora- The town used its data- do) that project on the ect is a worldwide pro- for the goodness and unity many years to come. tion with two Niagara Col- base of interred people for abandoned cemeteries. gram started in 2013 by rather than anonymous “Maybe in this world of lege students, Kelsea Dawn the online site, he said. We’re just waiting to see if Rebecca Rockefeller and posts on Facebook.” social media where every- and Mireya Mosquera, who “It’s a great resource any of those gets selected Liesl Clark in Bainbridge Once she completes seven one’s sitting behind the got engaged in the work as for people interested in from the college program,” Island, Wash. The project days of training and is cho- keyboard, it’s time to come part of the thesis project for people who are interred Turcotte said in a phone now has 3,000 groups in 30 sen as a group admin, an back to the face-to-face their geospatial manage- in our cemetery,” Turcotte interview. nations. announcement will be made community and this allows ment program. said. “And it allows people The online map can “It is all about gratitude,” on NOTL Today and NOTL us the opportunity to do Dawn and Mosquera who can’t visit the site on be viewed here: bit. Buxton-Cox said. “I wanted Bulletin Board sometime that.” worked with town staff a regular basis a chance to ly/33QRg4b. Sweets and Swirls Café tries apple straws alternative

Brittany Carter possible, co-owner Erinn prohibitive. A small box of straws would be a “good Lockard added. The Lake Report Lockard said. the straws was provided for alternative” if they decide Cadeau said the use of The plastic-straw replace- the café to test out, he said. to stock them continually, straws seems to be more The Sweets and Swirls ment is the best alterna- Right now, Planet he said. habit than anything else. Café is sticking to its core tive that co-owner and Kitchen’s website sells In an effort to limit Now, the couple is gaug- values and experimenting husband James Cadeau said a bulk package of 1,200 waste, the café already ing the opinions of their with a new drinking straw they have tried out so far. straws for $119, or about 10 recently stopped offering customers and determining alternative made from The “Superstraw” sold cents each. plastic straws for beverages. if the apple straws will be apples. by Planet Kitchen is made While that may be too “We used up what we feasible to stock full-time. The café, located inside with wheat gluten and steep for many bars and had and haven’t gotten any “It has the right mouth- the Niagara-on-the-Lake apple fibre, and closely restaurants, Cadeau said more,” Cadeau said. feel,” Cadeau said. And the Community Centre, has resembles uncooked pasta. because of the nature of “We noticed once we straws will last much longer always favoured reusable Cadeau said he wasn’t the products they sell, they took the box of straws off than paper because when Alexis Smith shows off dishes, opting for washable sure of the cost yet but wouldn’t go through them the counter, people weren’t it does soften you can just apple straws. BRITTANY plates and cups whenever doesn’t think it would be too quickly. The apple as inclined to take one,” “take a bite” off the top. CARTER A BIG THANK YOU TO THIS YEAR’S ADVERTISERS.

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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of your friends at the newspaper! Page 10 December 12, 2019 SPONSORED Ruffino’s: New pop-up restaurant offers a taste of Napoli in Niagara-on-the-Lake

Richard Harley “Backhouse is focused Editor on hyperlocal Ontario SPONSORED foods. We don’t use lemons and limes, olives Looking for a taste of Ita- or olive oil, and I miss ly in Niagara-on-the-Lake? them, and I really missed Look no further, Chef Ryan making risotto, so we Crawford of Backhouse has said, ‘Hey, let’s do Italian you covered. a couple of days a week, This year for the first keep it cheap and cheerful time since the opening and make it accessible to of Backhouse, Crawford everyone.’ It’s a chance has decided to try some- for the chefs to kind of thing a little different, by play and have fun. Back- opening an Italian pop-up house doesn’t use vanilla restaurant during the win- or coffee in desserts, we ter downtime, instead of don’t use chocolates, but closing his restaurant for now anything is a go, and part of the week. as long as it’s Italian. It’s Starting Jan. 7, Craw- going to be different, but ford and staff are going to in a great way! We’re go- transform Backhouse into ing to keep our mandate Ruffino’s Pasta Bar & Grill of supporting local. We’re in “Naples-on-the-Lake” just going to do it Italian!! every Tuesday and Wednes- Crawford says he wants day for the winter season. the environment to be Having made 1,000 somewhere people can litres of tomato sauce this bring their kids for dinner Chef Ryan Crawford and the staff at Backhouse are busy preparing for the launch of the new pop-up Italian restaurant year alone from his home – they’ll have a children’s Ruffino’s on Jan. 7. The restaurant will offer a taste of Naples in Niagara-on-the-Lake.RICHARD HARLEY garden, Crawford says menu, crayons and reason- his love of all things Italy able prices for decent- more Italian-inspired is apparent. He has two sized portions. cocktails, and the wines Spinone Italiano dogs, one “I want to see kids will be mostly Italian, he of which he’s naming the come in and run around. says. Wine prices will be restaurant after – Ruf- We want people just to affordable, with bottles fino. He cures his own have fun, come in for a for $49, $59 and $69 and prosciutto, he’s learned quick pizza, come in for a glasses for around $10. how to make wood-fired family-style meal. We’re “Basically, I’m open- pizza from Pieza Pizze- just going to feed you like ing a new restaurant two ria’s Maurizio Cesta, and you’re in Nona’s house.” days a week — the kind of now he’s ready to roll up “We’re going to open restaurant I would love to his sleeves and roll out at like 4 p.m. so if there eat at with my family. It’s some home-cooked pasta are kids going to hockey the same space, but it’s a just like Nona does. or dance or whatever they different restaurant.” Crawford says the feel can come in before and “I want it to be for fami- of the restaurant will be have a snack — I want it lies. If I could bring Ruf- reminiscent of the for- to be completely differ- fino my dog in here, and mer Stone Road Grille, ent than Backhouse. We have him running around, where he made a name have pink checkered table I totally would … But I’m for himself as chef before clothes, Chianti wine not allowed to. We have a opening Backhouse. He’s bottle candle holders, Ruffino statue that’s going even bringing back the old we’re going to serve Ital- to come in instead.” front door to “REST,” as a ian wines. I want it to be Crawford says he hopes throwback to older times that little Italian trattoria to see more locals come in town. just around the corner into the restaurant, not The menu at Ruffino’s from your house.” just for special occasions is the real difference, Staff will wear T-shirts as they tend to do with though, with all traditional – no chef coats. “We Backhouse, but for every- Italian dishes including aren’t taking reservations, day meals as well. “I want wood-fired pizzas, home- unless it’s a party of six or them to come in all the made pasta, and Italian- more.” time, sit at the bar, have inspired grilled meats and “All the pasta is going amaro, have some grappa, fish. “We’re still going to to be hand-rolled. We even have a pizza or risotto, and use all the great vegetables have a chitarra, from our chat a bit. I want to invite from our farm – just in an friend Mike Commisso. them into my home. I want Italian way! It’s the same It looks like a guitar and to cook for them.” local love, except now makes great spaghetti-like Ruffino’s will be open we’re using olive oil and noodles.” Tuesdays and Wednesdays parmesan cheese.” The bar will also have from Jan. 7 until May. why not give the gift of HOLIDAY GIFT CARD PROMOTION RECEIVE UP TO 50% BACK IN BACKHOUSE GIFTS www.backhouse.xyz | 289-272-1242 Page 11 December 12, 2019 NEWS Council approves free parking in Old Town for December Brittany Carter Bisback. “But it’s important The Lake Report for residents to understand there’s been a lot of confu- A major car-tastrophe sion, a lot of misinforma- was barely averted in Old tion, but no tickets have Town this past week after been issued since Dec. 1.” NOTL shoppers were faced When asked by Bisback, with the prospect of no free Lafforgue told councillors parking for the month of he supports free parking. December. Following council’s A Facebook posting from approval, town staff will the Town of NOTL about review free parking every renewing residential park- year in October. ing permits warned that Randall said town staff “parking will be enforced will also reach out to throughout December” by Council approves free parking in Old Town for December. the chamber and major NOTL’s notoriously effi- BRITTANY CARTER industry leaders to get cient parking gendarmes. their “official opinions” on The post ignited a fire- free parking in December storm on social media that she said parking was free would be no free parking and will discuss whether took several days to quell. in December because it downtown this December. it benefits Queen Street Monday’s council meet- never went to council for a “When I was told a businesses. Staff will ing put rumours and specu- decision. request needed to be made then come back to coun- lations to rest: town council In previous years, park- I put the request in right cil with information next unanimously approved ing downtown was free all away,” he said. October or earlier. free parking in Old Town December at the request of Lafforgue said he made Disero said it’s nobody’s until the end of December, the Chamber of Commerce, an official request for fault. “It is what it is. We except for the old hospital town spokesperson Lauren free parking downtown in will correct it … Any site, where four parking Kruitbosch said early last December to Randall on inconvenience or concern machines will still be ac- week when the town’s Thursday. this has caused anybody in cepting payments. warning about enforced However, he added, park- the town, I would like to Paid metered parking parking was posted. ing meters were covered, apologize on behalf of all will remain at the hospital “The town did not and parking appeared to be of us for whatever’s hap- site because the Shaw Fes- receive a request from the free for the first few days of pened to add to discomfort tival is running additional chamber this year, nor was the month. to anyone’s life in the last programming this month, there any direction from “It’s hard to make a re- three or four days.” so the town doesn’t want council. Therefore, unless quest for free parking when Out of 54 parking ma- Shaw patrons “taking up otherwise advised by coun- parking is already free,” he chines, 50 have already the spaces” at the hospital cil, staff will continue to said. been programmed by an site, said interim chief ad- enforce parking throughout On Dec. 5, town staff outside consultant to not ministrative officer Sheldon December,” Kruitbosch received a letter requesting accept payments. Randall. said in an email response. free parking in Old Town Coun. Erwin Wiens said The process of approv- NOTL Chamber of Com- from the chamber. it was a miscommunica- ing free parking has been merce president Eduardo “I don’t want to get into tion and there was “no different every year, Lord Lafforgue said he wasn’t all social media stuff back blame to be laid here” but Winter Mayor Betty Disero said. aware a request needed to and forth on misinforma- councillors were “unfairly Last year, town council be made but added when he tion nor am I trying to attacked.” didn’t have meetings in spoke with town staff last point any fingers any- With files from Dariya Seat Sale October and November, so month he was told there where,” said Coun. Allan Baiguzhiyeva For travel between November 1, 2019 and April 30, 2020. Virgil tree lighting ceremony livens up town hall

Brittany Carter The Lake Report

Virgil brightened up on Thursday evening as the lights on Return Transportation to Toronto Airport the large pine tree in front of the town offices on Four Mile Your Only Creek Road were lit; a symbolic start to the holiday season in Virgil. * TERMS: The NOTL Ukesters performed a selection of festive Booking required 72 hrs or more in advance. songs to a small crowd. Hot apple cider and snacks, pro- All guests travelling to and from the same address on the same dates. vided by Dan Williams, were available to warm up onlook- Round trip fare only. ers as they eagerly awaited the tree’s lighting. No other discounts apply. Cancellations over 72 hours will receive Just as the lights on the tree were switched on, Santa a future use credit of 85% valid for one year. 30RS Claus appeared to take photos with the crowd. The tree Subject to change without notice. 30 YEA lighting was an initiative by the Virgil Business Association Virgil residents bundle up for the tree lighting last Call your Agent or which was adopted by the town this year. Thursday evening. BRITTANY CARTER niagaraairbus.com 905-374-8111 24 hrs The Lake Report COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

Pauline Reimer Gibson is an Audiologist with over 20 years of Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday experience who loves helping people of all ages in the community. 12 13 14 Seniors Drop in: Casual Duplicate Bridge (ACBL Christmas Parade-11 a.m. to Pauline Reimer Gibson Bridge-1 p.m. to 4 p.m.-NOTL Sanctioned)-1 p.m. to 4 p.m.- 2 p.m.-King Street, Castlereagh Book a complimentary Audiologist Community Centre NOTL Community Centre Street, Wellington Street, Byron hearing test today at A global leader in Willowbank Holiday Open Stuffy Sleepover-4 p.m. to 4:45 Street, Prideaux Street, Simcoe 905.468.9176 hearing healthcare. The House-7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.- p.m.-NOTL Public Library Street, Queen Street Willowbank Garrison Christmas--Fort George 504 Line 2 Road, Virgil ON Lake Report Holiday Open House - 11 a.m. to Community Christmas 2 p.m. - NOTL Denture Clinic Newark Singers and Orchestra - Dinner-5 p.m. to 7 p.m.-Niagara 7 p.m. - St. Mark’s Anglican Church COMMUNITY FAVOURITES: Regional Native Centre Pumphouse Annual General Legion Fish Fry every Thursday Meeting - 5 p.m. - Niagara 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. (CLOSED DEC. 19 - JAN. 9) Pumphouse Arts Centre Duplicate Bridge at the Community Centre Tuesdays and Fridays at 1 p.m.

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 S. Davids Lioness Breakfast Free Youth Walk in Mental Heritage Trail Committee - 2 STEAM Story Time - 11 a.m. to Seniors Drop in: Casual Duplicate Bridge (ACBL Ryan Langdon live at Club 55 - with Santa - 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. - Health Clinic - 11:30 a.m. to p.m. - Council Chambers 11:45 a.m. - NOTL Public Library Bridge - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - NOTL Sanctioned) - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. - Club 55 Newark Singers and Orchestra 7:30 p.m. - Red Roof Retreat Niagara-on-the-Lake Safety German Conversation Group Community Centre NOTL Community Centre Indoor Holiday Goat Yoga - 1 - 4 p.m. - St. Saviours Anglican Fun Duplicate Bridge - 9 a.m. Committee - 4:30 p.m. - - 9:45 a.m. to 11:20 a.m. - NOTL Niagara PF Support Group - 11 Heart of Christmas Past - 7:30 p.m. - Fox Den Yoga Church, Queenston to noon - NOTL Community Duplicate Bridge (ACBL Community Centre a.m. to 1 p.m. - NOTL Community p.m. - Grace United Church Art Exhibit and Sale - 11 a.m. to 4 Youth Advisory Council Centre Sanctioned) - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - NOTL Toastmasters - 7 p.m. - Centre Knit a Bit - 2 p.m. - NOTL Public p.m. - Gate Street Studio Holiday Event - 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Italian Conversation Group NOTL Community Centre Niagara College NOTL Campus Committee of Adjustment - Library - NOTL Community Centre - 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. - NOTL NOTL Rotary Club - Noon - 6:30 p.m. - Council Chambers The Wild: Firepits - 10:30 a.m. to Garrison Christmas - - Fort Community Centre NOTL Community Centre Parents and Tots Play Group 11:30 a.m. - NOTL Public Library George French Conversation Group Niagara Golden Age Club: - 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. - Art Exhibit and Sale - 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. - NOTL Seniors Euchre - 1 p.m. - NOTL GateWay Community Church to 4 p.m. - Gate Street Studio Community Centre Community Centre Special Council Meeting - 6 p.m. - Council Chambers

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Art Exhibit and Sale - 11 a.m. The Grinch Movie - 1 p.m. to 3 Library and Communiy Christmas Day Boxing Day Duplicate Bridge (ACBL Indoor Goat Yoaga - 1 p.m. - Fox to 4 p.m. - Gate Street Studio p.m. - NOTL Public Library Centre closed Library and Communiy Centre Library and Communiy Centre Sanctioned) - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. - Den Yoga Sunday Brunch - 11:30 a.m. - Free Youth Walk in Mental closed closed NOTL Community Centre Goodbye 2019: A Year of Beer Queen’s Landing Hotel Health Clinic - 11:30 a.m. to Knit a Bit - 2 p.m. - NOTL Public - 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. - Exchange 7:30 p.m. - Red Roof Retreat Library Brewery Fun Duplicate Bridge - 9 a.m. to noon - NOTL Community Centre Italian Conversation Group - 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. - NOTL Community Centre French Conversation Group - 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. - NOTL Community Centre

Know of a local event? Tell us. Submit it directly to www.niagaranow.com or send us an email at [email protected] The Lake Report PIN ME UP!

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Dec. 12 - Dec. 28

Voted Best Retirement Community Inquire Today 905-935-1800

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

C R E A T E Y O U R Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday O W N P L A N T E R Workshop! 12 13 14 Seniors Drop in: Casual Duplicate Bridge (ACBL Christmas Parade-11 a.m. to WED. AT 1PM Bridge-1 p.m. to 4 p.m.-NOTL Sanctioned)-1 p.m. to 4 p.m.- 2 p.m.-King Street, Castlereagh Community Centre NOTL Community Centre Street, Wellington Street, Byron SAT. AT 10AM Willowbank Holiday Open Stuffy Sleepover-4 p.m. to 4:45 Street, Prideaux Street, Simcoe S T A R T I N G A T $ 5 0 House-7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.- p.m.-NOTL Public Library Street, Queen Street B O O K B Y C A L L I N G ( 9 0 5 ) 4 6 8 - 7 8 6 3 Willowbank Holiday Open House - 11 a.m. to Garrison Christmas--Fort George Community Christmas 2 p.m. - NOTL Denture Clinic Newark Singers and Orchestra - Dinner-5 p.m. to 7 p.m.-Niagara 7 p.m. - St. Mark’s Anglican Church Regional Native Centre Pumphouse Annual General Meeting - 5 p.m. - Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre

Know of a local event? Tell us. Submit it directly to www.niagaranow.com or send us an email at [email protected] Page 14 December 12, 2019 NEWS

Scott Finlay visited St. Davids Public School in early November to talk about Brock’s life. DARIYA BAIGUZHIYEVA Tall boots to fill: Scott Finlay is Isaac Brock

Dariya Baiguzhiyeva attach a joke to it, they do,” getting the best out of men Tecumseh. reading books, he says. ing and doing leatherwork. The Lake Report he told The Lake Report. when you’re harsh with That was one of the most “That’s what history is “As you get involved, it’s His passion for storytell- them,” Finlay says. moving experiences, Finlay all about. We think we a really interesting process,” Scott Finlay wears many ing, great communica- Brock encouraged his says, because of people’s re- know it, but we know just Finlay says about working hats – although he probably tion skills and interest in soldiers to go fishing in the action and how re-enactors the big things. We don’t with leather. “There are so is best-known across Ni- history brought him to river in their downtime or kept everything “the way it know those nuances. That’s many different solutions agara as the man wearing Parks Canada in spring go hunting using their mus- was.” what’s fulfilling about it.” of how to use leather in the tall boots of Sir Isaac 2009 where he works as a kets, and he also created In Windsor, Ont., there is Was Brock better than a different ways. (When) you Brock. corporate programming co- recreational activities for a Tecumseh-Brock statue in lot of the men of his time? do something that works A Parks Canada em- ordinator and what he calls his soldiers by setting up a the middle of the Old Sand- Yes, Finlay says. out, there’s a real sense of ployee, Finlay, 64, says his “dream job.” court for a game. wich Town roundabout. “But would he stand up to accomplishment.” he’s been performing all He says ever since he “Nobody does that for an- It depicts chief Tecumseh scrutiny today in terms of He’s made a wide variety his life, from kindergarten was a child having picnics other 50 years. They don’t sitting on a horse and Brock what was expected? No.” of leather items: sword through high school and his with his family at Queen- think in those terms and standing beside him look- “He had a firm belief in belts, folios, telescope entire adult life. ston Heights, he’s been here he is, putting thought ing through a spyglass at the structure of the British cases, cross belts, a travel Born in Hamil- interested in Brock. forward,” Finlay says. Detroit. Empire and understands the book cover. Right now, he is ton, he lived in Bevan Finlay received his first “The impact on people When sculptor Mark concept of empire through working on a pistol holder Heights for three months general’s uniform in 1995. today is similar to what it Williams asked Finlay to the eyes of the people of the that soldiers used while rid- while attending Grade 1 at He wore it for corporate was then. He still resonates pose for the statue, Fin- time,” Finlay explains. ing a horse. St. Davids Public School. events but it wasn’t until that strongly.” lay agreed and together Audience reaction can Having four children and His family then moved to 2011 that he started volun- Finlay says Brock with his daughter drove to also vary depending on who three grandsons, Finlay Niagara Falls, where Finlay teering to play Brock. lived a big life and says Williams’ studio outside is watching – adults and says his household can also still lives. He is now a frequent if Brock could have chosen Amherstburg. children react differently, get busy. He graduated from York visitor to schools and com- how to die, he would have It took Williams more he says. When youngsters If he could give any ad- University with a degree munity events where he likely wanted to go while than two years to complete come to a place like Fort vice to anyone, he would tell in visual arts and, before shows up dressed in Brock’s leading soldiers. the project, which was un- George, they can get over- them to find their passion. joining Parks Canada, he full War of 1812 regalia. Brock was also a great veiled in September 2018. whelmed. “Find it and do it. There’s founded a company that Finlay sees Brock as a orator who could draw Finlay himself got to see “When kids first see no such thing as work,” performed at conferences great, fearless – even tragic people in. The general felt the statue this past summer. a musket demonstration Finlay says. “You come, by interacting with audiences – hero who had progressive his job was “to look big and “My Brock is about seven here, they’re like, ‘Wow!’” you show up at someplace and creating unique presen- views and was well ahead sound loud,” Finlay adds. feet high. Everyone said, ‘It Finlay says. “And parents and you can’t wait to get tations for the speakers. of his time. But, simultane- One of his best experi- kind of looks like you.’ And seem to be a little bit more there. For me, this experi- Incorporating humour in ously, he was a man of his ences portraying Brock oc- yes, it does kind of look jaded about it. At least, they ence has been very, very his work helped him to get time. curred during Bicentennial like me,” he says. “It’s kind might be thinking, ‘Wow’ much that.” corporate messages across While other leaders used celebrations at Fort Malden of fun that it took place.” inside, but they internalize “It’s very fulfilling, it’s to people, Finlay says. strict punishments, like National Historic Site in Preparing to play a it all.” so interesting and surpris- “People may not remem- whipping, for errant soldiers, Amherstburg, Ont., where historic character takes a In his spare time, Finlay ing sometimes. So, find that ber statistics – but you Brock realized, “You’re not Brock met Shawnee chief lot of time researching and reads a lot and likes paint- passion and hold on to it.” Page 15 December 12, 2019 NEWS Kids, adults have breakfast with Santa for Palliative Care Dariya Baiguzhiyeva versation with customers Angelakopoulos said she The Lake Report and posing for photos with was also very pleased and both adults and kids alike, happy with the turnout. Niagara-on-the-Lake while Gregory Upshaw “Getting into the spirit residents and tourists got and John Chisholm played and bringing the community treated to a special break- holiday tunes. together in order to raise the fast with Santa Claus NOTL resident Tim Tay- awareness of the Palliative on Saturday morning. lor was the jolly man in the Care in the area,” she told A portion of the pro- red suit. The Lake Report. “It’s just ceeds from a special Taylor, who also writes for the matter of everybody re- breakfast, which included The Lake Report, has been ally enjoying themselves for scrambled eggs, home attending many commu- a good reason. Smiles and fries, sausage, bacon, toast, nity events, organizations cheers are always a happy fruit and a drink, served at and businesses dressed as thing especially in times the Epicurean restau- Santa while raising money like these because there are rant went toward Niagara- for Palliative Care. This other people who are less on-the-Lake Palliative month, he has about 30 fortunate.” Care Service. gigs to attend as the iconic Santa Claus entertains Kennedy and Brooklyn Peressotti at the annual Breakfast with One of the Palliative Some diners said they Christmas character, with Santa event at The Epicurean Sunday. DARIYA BAIGUZHIYEVA Care volunteers, Margaret didn’t know about the chari- events spread out across the Walker, said she brought table drive behind the event, Niagara region. four friends with her to while others came out to “I like seeing smiles on Taylor said he connected The second annual break- the support,” she told The show support to her “favou- specifically show their sup- children’s faces,” Taylor said with the Epicurean owner fast had a “fantastic turn- Lake Report. “Thank you rite charity.” port – but all agreed it was about his experience dress- Gina Angelakopoulos last out” and drew more people to the many volunteers that Another volunteer, Mar- a great cause and they were ing up as Santa while sup- year and when he learned than last year, said Palliative came out and all the new lene Bridgman, said it was happy to support it. porting Palliative Care. “I she was looking for a Santa Care program manager faces in the community. a great cause and Palliative Santa handed out candy do it anyway but it’s nice to for the event, he offered his Bonnie Bagnulo. And a super huge thank you Care is very much needed in canes, striking up a con- have a reason behind it.” services. “I’m overwhelmed with to Gina and her staff.” the community. Town urged to preserve historic Tidbits ordnance boundary stones Town adopts ombudsman’s recommendations

Dariya Baiguzhiyeva disappears, he said. As the Town of NOTL is looking to hire a new chief The Lake Report A stone at the corner of administrative officer, town council approved 15 recom- Johnson and Nassau streets mendations from the provincial ombudsman’s report Some of the oldest his- has also been affected by Monday night to ensure transparency and “high ethical toric artifacts in Niagara- heavy equipment being used standards” during CAO’s recruitment process. Town staff on-the-Lake are being lost in construction in that area. will also report back on the progress of implementing the to heavy construction Rumble asked council recommendations. equipment and need to be to recognize the historical preserved, a Niagara His- value of the stones, repair Zalepa, region invited to speak about garbage changes torical Society official told and reposition them, and councillors Monday night. place a protective barrier Regional Coun. Gary Zalepa and regional staff have Ted Rumble, secretary around the stones to prevent been invited to speak to town council about the region’s of the Niagara Historical further damage. move to biweekly waste collection. Councillors said Society, asked the town “It would be necessary having regional officials speak in a public forum will to document, protect and for the town to work the allow the public to learn more about the every-other- celebrate the ordnance An ordnance boundary stone at the entrance of Simcoe Historical Society and week garbage collection, which was approved by Niagara boundary stones, which Park. DARIYA BAIGUZHIYEVA Parks Canada since three Region in October. were used to designate Brit- of these stones are on Parks ish military property. the reign of Charles II. The 80, 89 and 90, which had Canada land,” Rumble told Report will outline possible hotel tax options Twenty-five of the 36 arrow was used to designate four boundary stones. The councillors. original stones are missing. the property of the British Vacant Town Lot A, now “It’s an amazing part Town staff need to prepare a detailed report regarding Some of the 11 remaining government. known as Simcoe Park, also of history that I certainly a possible hotel room tax, town councillors decided Mon- stones in NOTL have sunk The British Army and the used to have four stones on didn’t know about and I day. The report will provide options to council regarding into the ground. royal engineers placed the its corners. think we all take pride in,” the possible implementation of the municipal accommoda- In 1796, John Graves boundary stones around the At Simcoe Park, one said Coun. Gary Burroughs. tion tax. No decision on instituting such a levy has been Simcoe ordered four perimeter. The four military remaining stone is located Lord Mayor Betty Disero made yet. parcels of land in Newark reserves in town were near a bench at the park’s said she will work with in- (now NOTL) to be set called Garrison, Mississa- entrance. terim chief administra- Nominate homes, businesses for holiday decor awards aside for military use, gua, Lots 79, 80, 89 and 90, “This stone is clearly tor Sheldon Randall and Rumble said. and Vacant Town Lot A. vulnerable to damage from will let councillors know Residents are being encouraged to nominate the best- The stones have initials The Garrison reserve is snow removal equipment whether Rumble’s presenta- decorated home or business in NOTL. Volunteer judges “B.O.” engraved on them known today as the Com- because it’s completely un- tion should be referred to from the town’s Communities in Bloom organization will with an arrow above on one mons. The Mississagua protected,” Rumble said. town’s municipal heritage be giving out Holiday Decoration Display Awards and local side, and a number on the reserve was located at what For another stone at committee or to a commit- winners will be announced in the local newspapers. The other side. The initials stand is now the NOTL Golf the entrance at Queen’s tee that’s already working contest will include daytime and nighttime decorations and for the Board of Ordnance, Club. Across from the golf Royal Park, it will only be on preserving Butler’s will run until Dec. 15. To nominate, go to the town’s Join founded in the 1600s under course were the lots 79, a couple of years before it Burial Ground. The Conversation webpage. Page 16 December 12, 2019 FEATURED Local snaps

Each week, the staff of Ravine Winery share their expertise and offer a brief explanation about an aspect of wine. So, whether you’re an expert oenophile or a newbie just finding your way around wine country, we trust you’ll enjoy. Cheers! Life cycle of the vine

Even the statue of Shaw is getting into the holiday spirit. RICHARD HARLEY

Grape vines covered in snow. BRITTANY CARTER

There is no rest in wine country for our vines or our winemakers. So the next time you enjoy a glass of your favourite vintage, think of the year the grapes had with Mother Nature and then moving into the hands of the winemaker and, finally, to you, so you can enjoy the fruits of their labour. When winter is coming Once the fall harvest is over, growers get the vines ready for winter. Vines are “hilled” with soil to insulate and protect them from harsh temperatures. Vineyard workers also create a sort of trench so excess water drains away from the vines as too much water can kill them. The key now is to hope for a winter that is not too harsh because at -22C vines will die. The wind machines in Niagara help circulate the air and move warmer temperatures down into the vineyard. Maltese Tom and Coton de Tulear Sawyer sit with Santa for pictures March to May: Pruning and bud break at St. Davids Vet Clinic Saturday morning. SUPPLIED When it seems the extreme cold of winter has passed, pruning starts to get the vines ready for the growing season. As the temperatures get milder and sap starts to flow in the vines, pruning gets the vines ready for bud break. Depending on where the vineyard is in the Niagara area, timing of bud break can vary. In Niagara, that usually means mid-May. You may notice that the soil gets turned in most vineyards. This is to help bring oxygen into the earth to enhance the upcoming rapid growth period. June: Flowering You will see rapid growth in June. If you look closely at the vines in mid-June you will notice little clusters of what looks like tiny grapes. They will actually become flowers soon (when we get enough heat and sun). These flowers will eventually lead to fruit set. Vines are self-pollinating and don’t need bees to make that magic happen. July: Fruit Set As flowering finishes, green fruit appears (just like apples/pears). At this time the fruit clusters are being watched for good health and growers may remove some bunches to pro- mote better quality in other fruit. Carol Shore and Fran Burdett at the annual NOTL Ukesters Christmas party August: Getting ready for Veraison held at the NOTL Community Centre Sunday. DARIYA BAIGUZHIYEVA Grapes become enlarged and develop sugars in August. This is also time to get ready for Veraison, (when the grapes turn colour and start maturing) which typically happens later in August. Growers will often cut back the leaves at this time to expose the grapes to more sun and wind to keep them dry (preventing fungus, etc.). All grapes start out green, however, as Veraison continues, white varietals become translucent green, with varying degrees of yellow and gold, while red varietals develop different shades of red to dark blue to black, depending on the grape. September: Maturation and maybe an early harvest for sparkling Fall is hugely important to growers. Starting with September, it is all about increasing the sugars and the development of flavour in the grapes. Warm and dry is the ideal weather at this time, as most of September winemakers are getting ready for harvest. Grapes used for sparkling wine are usually harvested first. October/November: The harvest This is the time of year our winemakers are testing the grapes to get that ideal chemistry of sugar and acid that indicates it is time for harvest. White varietals are harvested first and Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon are usually harvested last. Icewine grapes are kept on the vine and protected with nets to prevent birds from eating them. They are harvested anytime from December to March. Yvonne Newton browses the Queenston Annual Christmas Bake and Decor Sale on Saturday. BRITTANY CARTER Page 17 December 12, 2019 NEWS

A council Christmas poem By Coun. Clare Cameron

This NOTL rendition of “A Night Before Christmas,” by Coun. Clare Cam- So up to the region like councillors they flew, eron, was read at the Dec. 9 town council meeting. With a sleigh full of official plan amendments, and Gary Zalepa, too. This Christmas reading was written with good intentions, genuine affection And then in the clinking of empty wine glasses and festive wishes to everyone who makes Niagara-on-the-Lake such a fantas- Came a fresh crop of people from sommelier classes. tic place to live. All the best for a very merry holiday season! As they drew out a corkscrew and asked for more rounds Down to the cellar Donald Ziraldo came with a bound. ’Twas the last council before Christmas, when all through town hall He was dressed to the nines in a powder blue suit, No scandal was stirring, no drama at all. And his clothes were all tarnished with grape skins and juice. The agenda was prepared by the clerk with great care, A bundle of bottles was flung on the bar, In hopes that the ombudsman would not be there. And he laughed like a Kinsman in a really old car. The papers insisted, “Journalism isn’t dead!” His eyes – how they twinkled! His dimples, how merry! While visions of Grant LaFleche danced in their heads. His jokes were so funny, was this Joe Pillitteri? And some people in PJs, and some in their toques, He carried a magnum in each of his arms, Had just settled on a name for their new Facebook group. And on land use he said, “We need acreage for farms!” When out on Stone Road there arose such a clatter, Meanwhile in St. Davids under bright orange light I ran out to Silks for a cabbage roll platter. A new crop of something was growing all night. Then away to the Avondale I flew like a flash, As neighbours experienced an odour indelible, Tore open some corn chips and got out some cash. Snoop Dogg toured the site with a bowlful of edibles. The moon on the breast of the new traffic light He wasn’t chubby or plump, and at risk of being bored, Made Virgil look urban in the middle of the night. So got visitor tips from Eduardo Lafforgue. When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, With a promise to keep overtourism at bay, But a white BMW with a hatch in the rear! And a stack of brochures in a shiny red sleigh. With a little lady driver, with freshly done hair, I spoke not a word, but went straight to my work, I knew in a moment it must be the Lord Mayor. And read a few hundred emails; it’s a political perk. More rapid than mice fleeing a TTC train, And as Lord Mayor Disero saw this year’s legal bill, She whistled, and shouted, and called us by name: And giving a nod, said it is the people’s will; “Now, BURROUGHS! Now CHEROPITA! Now McCORMACK and WIENS! She sprang to her Beamer, with a nod to the feisty On, ARSENAULT! On, BISBACK! On, CAMERON and…that other WIENS! And away they all flew like the seeds of phrag- To the top of the clock tower! To the swish Outlet Mall! mites. Now dash away Costco and suburban sprawl! But I heard her exclaim, and it was no mistake, As people that disappear in Penner’s for hours HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO ALL, Fall under a spell from that store’s superpowers IN NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE!

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AffordAbility FundTM is a trade-mark of Affordability Fund Trust, used under license. The AffordAbility Fund is run by the Affordability Fund Trust and supported by funding from the Government of Ontario. Page 18 December 12, 2019 Wayne Gates MPP Niagara Falls Riding Serving Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake & Fort Erie GAMES 905-357-0681 • WayneGates.com • [email protected]

The Lake Report is looking for puzzle makers who would like to help develop this page. We are seeking both standard and cryptic crossword writers. [email protected] Across 8. Bucharest resident, for example (8) 9. To an excessive degree (6) 10. Company known as “Big Blue” (1,1,1) Have some fun 11. Hearty Sunday lunch (3,5) 12. Fan blade (4) 16. Mobs (7) Last issue’s answers 19. Close-cropped hair style (4,3) Crossword Puzzle 20. Solvent (7) 22. Before sunrise (7) 23. Piled carelessly (2,1,4) 24. As good as it gets (7) 28. Scotch partner (4) 32. Flattened (8) 34. Hard, durable wood (3) 35. Seller (6) 36. Science of heredity (8) Down 1. Game played on horseback (4) 2. Capital of Croatia (6) 3. He asked “What is truth?” (6) 4. One (5) 5. Knock (4) 6. Very detailed picture receiver (1-1,2) 7. Scheme (4) 11. Pictures of people (9) 13. Applaud (7) 14. Twisted into a confusing mass (9) 15. Command (6)

17. Pepper (7) MEDIUM 18. Morning assemblies (6) 19. Drinking vessel (3) 21. Salesperson (3) 25. Nosedive (6) 26. Cracked (6) 27. Wonky (5) 29. Singles (4) 30. Assistant (4) 31. Tender (4) 33. Apiece (4)

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240 John Street East, Niagara-on-the-Lake I Tel: 905.468.0592 ext. 3 I www.TWOSISTERSVINEYARDS.com Page 19 December 12, 2019 ENTERTAINMENT Wallbangers back on ice for season

Ross Robinson on the ice, fight them in the As an aside, the Blue Team lose the puck, we wanna get Special to The Lake Report pubs, but never surrender.” was treated to an impromptu it back.” (I am not making Several Wallbangers at- fashion show just after Black this up, folks. He said that, Yes, sports fans, the ir- tended the Induction, and Friday. and the media talking heads repressible Wallbangers are Dave spoke passionately To remind us all of all nodded, and rushed off to well into their 35th season about our town, our sports Christmas shopping, several file their stories.) of early Sunday morning volunteers, and his life and Brooks Brothers shirts were Coach Keefe then went hockey. family and friends. modelled, followed by the into more details, emphasiz- The teams started playing Since then, Dave passed very latest in striped boxer ing more focus in the D zone, in 1984 and Commissioner away, and we will attempt shorts. Reaction was mixed, intensity, creativity and confi- Bill Dickson ensures the to perpetuate his legacy of as players were trying to get dence, and more effort down After each early Sunday morning Wallbangers game the founding principles endure. love, fair play and sports- psyched for that morning’s low in the O zone. The Leafs teams and players line up to exchange clenched teeth It is intergenerational manship. contest. will work on the PP and PK, congratulations. SUPPLIED/ROSS ROBINSON (grandfathers, sons, grand- While listening to Dave’s Which brings us to the and try to get a Shorty. sons, Blue Team versus Red induction speech, I was re- current state of Canada’s Sorry, I got carried away rights to Carl Brewer.” over 30 years ago. They rode Team, with the teams being minded of Pinehurst founder favourite game. Hockey again. Wallbanger Blue Team Interesting, but that game that schtick to great fame and modified each week, depen- Richard Tufts, who penned culture is under serious pres- and Red Team have both won ended up a one-goal win by fortune. dent upon who shows up and, “The Creed of the Amateur.” sure, as “what was accepted three games, with one game Blue Team. Just like Howard Cosell as importantly, who doesn’t “An amateur is one who behaviour then is unaccept- undecided because of some Let’s end this article with a and the greatest, Muhammed show up.) competes in a sport for able now.” confusion at the score clock. comment on the Don Cherry Ali, Sonny and Cher, Johnny We have never had a the joy of playing, for the Revelations and accusa- Was the score 10 – 9 or 9-10? situation. This was a big deal, Carson and Ed McMahon, referee, on the premise that companionship it affords, tions are painful to hear and Does anybody really care? apparently, and my thoughts the Smothers Brothers, Payne they only enable players to for health-giving exercise, the path forward must be Early in that game, the on his espousal of Rock ‘Em, Stewart in his sartorially act dumb. and for relaxation from more more aligned with our base score was 5-1 for Red Team. Sock ‘Em hockey, violence effulgent plus fours, and the Self-policing, and in the serious matters. As a part of Canadian values. Team captains Mark Shantz and fighting are well known. list goes on. Good on them case of an offside or disputed this light-hearted approach to We can talk all we want and Carl Glauser had a short Migawd, is fighting really all, eh? goal, whichever team yells the game, he accepts cheer- about Maple Leaf land. meeting at the checkered allowed in the national game Just the other day I asked a first and loudest gets the call. fully all adverse breaks, is There can be no doubt that red line. My captain Mark of our wonderful, peaceful few people at Valu-mart what “The players know.” We will considerate of his opponent, better times are ahead, and gently and tenderly asked me nation? In 2019? they thought about the firing continue to take the high plays the game fairly and how reassuring it was to to change sweaters with Joe I never met Don Cherry, so of Cherry. Their responses: I road. squarely in accordance with listen to the post Mike Bab- Doria, a much younger and cannot comment. However, I didn’t agree with him all Our founder Dave Wall, the rules, maintains self- bler news conference, with more intense skater on the have been with Ron McLean time, but he was entertain- a.k.a. Captain Hook, was control, and strives to do his GM Kyle Dubas repeat- Red Team. He assured me twice, and he is a humble, ing. He spoke his mind, and inducted into the NOTL best, not in order to win, but edly calling MLSE president this move had nothing to do gracious, kind and very lik- really supported our military Sports Wall of Fame earlier rather as a test of his own Brendan Shanahan “Shanny.” with relative skill levels, so I able man. and our veterans. He seemed this year, and he seized the skill and ability.” Incoming coach Sheldon agreed to the trade as long as All things being said, I a bit old school. Don Who? opportunity to remind us to Sort of says it all, eh? Go Keefe then summarized his the Red Team would throw respect the fact that Don We are so fortunate to live “Never surrender. Fight them Wallbangers. coaching strategy, “When we in a bucket of pucks, and “the and Ron developed a schtick in Canada … in 2019. Page 20 December 12, 2019 FEATURED

Christmas Cannelloni is a family tradition

Collin Goodine traditions. sheets from a local vendor. Special to The Lake Report I have been blessed with the op- This is a time that old and young can portunity over the past five years to gather in the kitchen and sing and talk Christmas to many is about spend- share in one of my family’s favourite about everything and nothing at all. ing time with family, eating, drink- Christmas traditions – making the Each year I share this tradition with ing wine and being merry. It is about Christmas dinner. my wonderful mother-in-law and it is bringing together past and future There are a few recipes that I could by far one day that I cherish and look generations so they may share in the share for this meal but one that sticks forward to each year. way things were and welcoming in out the most is the Christmas cannel- I hope that this may inspire you new ideas. This time of year is about loni. You will need a pasta machine all to start the same family tradition. getting together and celebrating family for this recipe or can buy fresh pasta Enjoy.

Ingredients: Directions: add one egg at a time. Each time an egg is When you have pasta rolled out in a long added allow the mixture to absorb the egg. sheet, cut 3 by 3 or 4 by 4-inch squares Tomato Sauce For this recipe, I suggest making the Continue until all the eggs are gone and from the dough, removing any waste. 4 litres crushed tomatoes tomato sauce first, pasta second and filling the flour mixture looks like corn meal. Place the ricotta in the middle of the 1/3 litre water last. The tomato sauce can be made well Remove the contents onto a clean surface square 1/2-inch thick from one side of the 1 tsp salt in advance. and knead by hand until a smooth-textured square to the middle (to resemble a white 1 tbsp white sugar pasta dough is formed. belt across the pasta sheet). 2 oz vegetable stock Tomato sauce Wrap in plastic wrap and set aside for at Wet the top of the pasta square with a little 1 red pepper Place the tomatoes, water, salt, sugar and least an hour or two. While the dough is bit of water with a pastry brush. 1 white onion (halved) vegetable stock into a medium, thick-bot- resting, make the filling. Fold the bottom of the pasta over the 1 red onion (halved) tomed pot and simmer on low. ricotta and roll to the top of the pasta 2 oz olive oil In a second, smaller pot, saute the peppers, Filling sheet. The end result will be a pasta tube onions and olive oil until the vegetables Drain the ricotta and gently squeeze out filled with ricotta (cannelloni). Simple Pasta are tender. any moisture by hand or in cheese cloth. Continue this whole process until the de- 1 lb all-purpose flour Once the vegetables are soft, add them Add all ingredients into a large bowl with- sired number of cannellonis are made. Pinch salt to the simmering tomato sauce. Allow to out the egg and mix with a wooden spoon. 5 farm fresh eggs (large) simmer for about 45 minutes. Season to taste. To bake 1/2 cap full vinegar Add any fresh basil or oregano that you Once you are happy with the flavour, add Cover the bottom of a casserole dish with 1 tsp olive oil wish (if desired) at this point. the egg and mix. a thin layer of tomato sauce. Allow the tomato mixture to cool. Set aside in the fridge until ready to as- Place cannellonis from top to bottom, Filling Carefully pour the tomato sauce into a semble the cannelloni. touching each other, like a box of cigars. 1 litre Ricotta cheese blender and puree the sauce until complete. Making the cannelloni for baking Once the dish is filled, pour tomato 1/4 cup powdered Parmesan Jar the sauce and set aside in the fridge. Cut pasta dough into quarters. sauce over the top of the cannelloni until 1/4 cup grated Parmesan Roll out one quarter as flat as possible covered. 3 tbsp Italian parsley (chopped) Pasta with a rolling pin or wine bottle. Wrap with plastic wrap, then foil. 1 tsp black pepper In a food processor, add the flour and salt. Using a pasta machine, put the flattened Bake in oven at 350F for 45 minutes. 1 tsp garlic (pureed) Crack all the eggs into a bowl, removing dough in starting on setting 0 and continue Remove the cover, add cheese on top if Salt to taste any shells that may fall in. Add the vin- to run through each time going up on the desired. 1 farm fresh egg (large) egar and the olive oil to the eggs. settings until you reach desired thickness Serve at the table with grated Parmesan, 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar Turn on the food processor and slowly (usually 6 or 7). hot tomato sauce and basil pesto.

week and feel the change. ing on your core remember Complete as many reps as to brace by pulling your Core exercises possible of each exercise for belly button into your spine 30 seconds. to maintain a neutral spine Repeat for three rounds position. If you start to feel for all levels total, resting for 30 to 60 your back you may need to seconds between rounds, tone the exercises down to Jaclyn Willms strengthen the muscles in depending on your fitness ensure you are using your Special to The Lake Report your stomach. level. core not your back to per- Your core provides a Reminder: When work- form the exercises correctly. Want to learn how to- muscular framework that strengthen your core with protects your low back, pos- no equipment at all? ture, and helps control all 1. V-Up In fact, the best core the movement of your body 2. Russian Twists exercises are done with no while providing balance and 3. Bicycle Crunches equipment. stability to your whole body. 4. Plank Jacyln Willms demonstrates a bird-dog workout. Bodyweight exercises Try this circuit below at 5. Lying Butterfly kicks STAY FIT NOTL are a great way to tone and home or at the gym twice a 6. Bird-dog Page 21 December 12, 2019 FEATURED

McFarland House

The War of 1812 brought complete destruction to our town. Two members of the McFarland family, James and John, were very active in that conflict. However, John was taken prisoner at the battle of Fort George. This picture shows John McFarland’s home, which was used as a hospital for both sides of the conflict. The house was built in 1800 but was badly damaged by cannon fire, after which it was rebuilt to what we see today.

SUPPLIED PHOTO/JIM SMITH

so the end wall of the bungalow section presents to the street, shift the main entry and garage to the Compromising new facade, and finally, eliminate the all-important the Ranch inside/outside entertaining transition, which made the Ranch popular. Brian Marshall While this may sound Featured A classic side-split Ranch design. SUPPLIED PHOTO self-defeating, it accom- plished three important To suggest that urban Still, as a reflection of the the public space of the Ranch things. developers didn’t care for mid-20th century life- while shortening the overall First, it preserved the less- ranch bungalows might be style, it had become wildly length by pushing the family expensive build cost of the an understatement. popular across middle-class and utility rooms down onto sidesplit. The Ranch, requiring a lot North America. So, how the sunken first floor of the Second, it fit quite com- with at least 90 feet of front- does one provide all the two-storey section. fortably on the developers’ age and a depth sufficient livability elements of the Initially, the garage was then-current ideal target of a for backyard entertaining, Ranch interior, including its typically an extension of 50-foot lot. tended to wreak havoc on a inside/outside flow, but in a the public space, but the Finally, taken in combina- revenue model based on the smaller footprint? developer imperative toward tion, these factors allowed much smaller lot require- The answer was the an ever-smaller footprint the developers to offer a ment of the designs that sidesplit; essentially a ranch often led (where topography backsplit at a lower price preceded it. bungalow containing only allowed) to replacing the (per square foot) than Add to this the higher ex- the “public space” (kitchen/ first-floor family room with either the ranch bungalow pense of building a single- living/dining rooms) at- a garage. or the sidesplit while still storey house compared to a tached to a two-storey Then, in a perfect exam- tenuously leveraging on the one-and-half or two-storey section set partially below ple of pushing a workable popularity of both. form of equivalent square grade. compromise too far, some Ingenious? Yes, but as footage. And, the understat- This form retained the bright camper came up with always, designs born of ed design didn’t exactly lend low horizontal lines and the the backsplit. Simply take a compromise invariably itself to high-end pricing. inside/outside transition from sidesplit, turn it 90 degrees come up short. Page 22 December 12, 2019 FEATURED

Occupation, frustration and devastation Part 1: The Americans’ invasion of Canada during the War of 1812 met fierce resistance

Denise Ascenzo Exclusive/The Lake Report

On Dec. 13, 1813, the red glow in the sky could be seen from as far away as St. Davids. The smell of the smoke came shortly thereafter. Word soon arrived, the town of Niagara (now NOTL) was being burned to the ground by the re- treating American forces. Many wondered just what could have justi- fied this heinous act by the Americans, who had been occupying the town and region for over seven months. War at this time was supposed to only in- volve fighting armed men, not women and children. The town of Niagara had Fort George Squad members in U.S. uniforms representing the American occupation for the filming of 2013 video “Niagara on Fire.” been invaded by the Ameri- COURTESY TONY CHISHOLM cans on May 27, 1813, and they occupied the town from Lake Erie and the failure for the American who famously walked from of Lake Ontario became Americans. until December. Detroit Frontier. Seizing forces who suffered a Queenston through St. a cat and mouse game The first was Oct. 26, The town’s people, Burlington Heights would great loss. Davids and on to Beaver between the British and 1813, the Battle of the mostly women, children, effectively cut off the sec- Although York had been Dams to advise Lt. James American naval fleets. Chateauguay. The second the elderly and infirm, had ondary portage route that taken by the Americans on Fitzgibbons of a planned There were small skir- was the Battle of Chrysler to suffer the unwanted visi- was from Burlington to the April 27, 1813, it had been attack by the Americans. mishes back and forth, Farm (near Cornwall, Ont.) tors who took over homes. Grand River. abandoned after three days On June 24, 1813, with ships built, ships lost, but on Nov. 11, 1813. For the most part, the British forces retreat- of occupation. 500 American soldiers ad- no clear victory for either With these two losses American soldiers paid ing from the Battle of Fort It was part of the Ameri- vancing on Beaver Dams, side. The Americans Montreal would not be for everything, as looting George (May 27, 1813), can strategy that once 300 Indigenous allies sur- became more frustrated captured by the Americans. was not permitted within under Maj.-Gen. John Vin- Burlington Heights was rounded them. with their lack of victory The British would remain the town. However, the cent, had made their way to taken, they would march The Americans’ fear on the lake. in control of the St. Law- outlying farms were not Burlington Heights where to York and it would once of capture by Indigenous That became apparent rence River. so lucky. they were encamped. more be theirs. warriors prompted them when, in August of 1813, Next: Frustrated Amer- It might seem that the Burlington Heights was The frustrated American to willingly surrender to St. Andrew’s Presbyterian ican forces grew weary American forces should a naval supply hub on Lake forces, after their defeat at Fitzgibbons and his 50 church was burned down of being defeated by the have been satisfied with Ontario (where Dundurn Stoney Creek, had to retreat regular British soldiers. by the Americans. They British and their allies. their occupation of the Castle is located). to Niagara. Although A sad fact is that Fitzgib- claimed British troops I would like to thank Ron town but in fact the Word came to Vincent York was attacked by the bons was given credit for were using the bell tower Dale and the Niagara-on- strategy of the American that the American forces, Americans twice more in this win when in fact it to spy on the town. The the-Lake Museum for their government was to use who were in pursuit of the summer of 1813, it was was John Norton and the church we see today was continued support when Fort George as a launching the British, had reached never occupied by them Indigenous men who were built in the 1830s. researching my articles. centre to gain total control Stoney Creek. permanently. engaged against the Ameri- Two more battles, this More Niagara’s History over the Great Lakes. The British launched a The Battle of Beaver cans and had won – not the time at the eastern end of Unveiled articles about Taking Fort George bold attack, at night. The Dams was another failed British soldiers. Lake Ontario and into the the past of Niagara-on- did cut off the portage Battle of Stoney Creek, on attempt by the Americans, During the summer of St. Lawrence River, also the-Lake are available at: of supplies of the British June 6, 1813, was a dismal thanks to Laura Secord, 1813, the battle for control were failures for the www.niagaranow.com Page 23 December 12, 2019 COMMUNITY

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

Have a honkin’ holiday!

Community photos

With Betty and Jane

Bacchus Lounge

Samuel Challen and Wayne Renaud show a musket Frank and Michele Guglielmi peruse Sandra Iafrate’s paintings demonstration during Revolutionary War Winter Garrison during her Gate Street Studio open house last weekend. Sunday. DARIYA BAIGUZHIYEVA BRITTANY CARTER Michael Tomczuk accepts Golden Plunger award for Bacchus Lounge, Queens Landing. THE GOLDEN PLUNGER

This venue has married the old with the new by preserving bits of 1831 historical Georgian opulence and adding elegant, modern facilities. There were a number of full-service restrooms to choose from and all were accessible, privately located and welcoming. Each had ample room, soft soothing music, private stalls and beautiful marble countertops. The user could choose paper hand towels, or electronic hand dryers with plenty of warm H2O for the final handwashing ritual. The mirrors were sink to ceiling and provided the patron with an Dylan Baulcomb is tuckered after the morning waiting in line Eleven of the 13 Niagara Plein Air Artists who are showcasing excuse for a perfect must have “selfie,” which for the Holiday House Tours. BRITTANY CARTER their art all December at the library. BRITTANY CARTER we enjoyed. This venue provided the delightful opportunity to be “Queen for a day,” or at least Tarot of an hour or two. the week 4.5/5 Golden Plungers

Lisa Tache/Special

DATE: Dec. 12, 2019 Each week, dart teams face off at local The Sun gives you restaurants and pubs. Find scores here strength and assures you I’m an English word that has three weekly, exclusive to The Lake Report. that your good energies will accompany you and bring consecutive double letters. What am I? you happiness and pleasure Last Week: When I grow I get closer to the ground. Jini 94 no matter where you go. Radiate who you are and What am I? Guzzlers 83 what you stand for. Shine your love. The Sun brings you the Answer: An icicle Guyz 81 message that things will get better, a lot better! You’re con- Also accepted: Hair, grapes Close Shavians 78 fident and you know everything’s going to work out – Love Answered first by: Margie Enns Legion Airs 77 your life! This is an energetic card. It demonstrates a time Also answered correctly by: Gary Davis, Britiney when you can expect to experience a lot of physical energy, Legends 71 Turasz, Sadie Willms, Kathy Neufeld, Tammy vitality and general positivity. You explode with optimism DeRocco, Katie Reimer, Marilyn Milani Sandtrap 71 and are embracing good health, prosperity, optimism and Email answers to [email protected] Dartbags 33 abundance. for a chance to win a prize. ASK YOURSELF THIS. What do you feel really good about right now? Page 24 The December 12, 2019

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FEATURED LOCAL STORY

Candlelight Stroll benefits farmworker who had stroke

Brittany Carter this year’s benefit to him to “We repeat one word over Tim Taylor continue his recovery back and over. Then we do a The Lake Report home in Jamaica. sentence over and over and “This year Delroy’s story over.” Niagara-on-the-Lake’s just really struck a chord Cripps said she’s happy to annual Candlelight Stroll with everybody and just see the money this year go shone its light on longtime how important the migrant to such a meaningful cause. farmworker Delroy Castella workers are in all aspects of Each year, the chamber asks this year, raising $7,500 to Niagara-on-the-Lake. We’d for community involvement support him after a trau- be kind of lost without them to choose the recipient of matic stroke and arduous and I think they get forgot- the organization’s fundrais- recovery. ten sometimes,” Cripps said. ing event. In early September, “So, I think it’s really This year, the chamber Castella cycled to the Virgil important to focus on them is also donating a portion walk-in clinic immediately as well.” Derick Scarlet and Delroy Castella during the Candlelight Stroll Friday evening. of the money raised to pur- after working his entire Cripps said though the BRITTANY CARTER chase farmworker welcome shift, even though he was strol has been growing kits. feeling “distinctly unwell” steadily over the last few “Whatever we make throughout the workday. He years, this year wasn’t as meaningful,” he said. return to work in Niagara. harvesting a small market tonight, all of that will go to was quickly diagnosed at well attended as a couple For the past 35 years, His wife chalks up his garden. Delroy, but $1,000 will go the clinic as suffering from years ago, when more than 58-year-old Castella left his slow but steady recovery to “We plant the fields before to the welcome kits,” Cripps a stroke and taken to the 30,000 responded as “at- wife Joan and six chil- her own persistence and the Delroy leaves and then har- said. She added the chamber Greater Niagara General tending” to the Facebook dren in a small district of loving help he has received vest them when he returns.” was approached by Julia Hospital. event page. Clarendon Parish, called from local families who Before joining Castella Buxton-Cox about funding The stroke left most of his “We had probably about Longbough, west of Kings- shared their homes with in Canada, she discovered for the kits. She has recently strength and physical skills 15,000 that year,” she said. ton, Jamaica, to work in the the couple since his release he loved to hear her sing become involved with the intact, but it had stolen his Castella led the lighting of orchards and vineyards in from hospital. He continues hymns when she connected welcome kits through Ni- ability to speak. the candles before boarding Niagara for the season. his rehab at Shaver, twice by Skype. “I am a good agara Workers Welcome. After almost two months the horse-drawn carriage for He’s been in Niagara’s weekly. Christian,” she says. Lord Mayor Betty Disero at the Niagara hospital and a ride along the stroll route. fields longer than most of Joan managed to find “He had tears in his eyes. said she couldn’t think of a Hotel Dieu Shaver Hospital Chair of the board and Kon- the men he works with have enough money for airfare to So, I started to sing hymns better way to celebrate the in St. Catharines, he is just zelmann Estate Winery’s di- been alive. For the last six come to her husband’s side to him, ‘Be not dismayed, annual Candlelight Stroll now recovering some of his rector of marketing Andrew years, he has worked on in early October. She said God will take care of you.’ “ tradition than by “listening speech. Niven said it means a lot farms owned by George he has difficulty finding the Now she tries to get him to the beautiful carols and NOTL Chamber of Com- to people to have Castella Lepp. He lives with seven words to say sometimes. to sing as part of his recov- raising funds for a worthy merce’s events organizer there at the stroll. others in a house on Creek “He was a very big talker. ery, but he just shakes his cause.” Nicole Cripps said Cas- “They can really see Road, north of East West He get’s very frustrated.” head as if to say he never Find a full gallery of tella’s story resonated with who is benefitting from the Line. She is a farmer in their could sing, anyway. “We photos at Niagaranow.com, the board. She said it was money raised, it makes the Now, Castella faces a small community, raising practise speaking all the or on our Facebook page an easy decision to award whole thing more real and long recovery, and may not four pigs, 200 chickens and time,” she says. for The Lake Report.