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notllocal.com MARCH 31, 2021 Volume 3 • Issue 13 Supporting local businesses is important, and fun Penny Coles summer and fall last year, The Local he says. Bus traffic, U.S. and overseas tourists just weren’t Joe Pillitteri, local busi- there for them, after invest- nessman, stand-up comic ments many had made to and community supporter, accommodate larger groups is finding innovative ways of people. to help local restaurants and Like all businesses, they wineries. found ways to supplement And in doing so, he is what they were losing by encouraging his many social marketing to locals, with media followers to do the curbside pickup orders and same. free deliveries, trying to do The two industries, both whatever they could to bol- so important to the local ster their sales. Although it economy, and employers of helps, it doesn’t make up for many Niagara area people, what they’ve lost, he says. are struggling, he says, and So Pillitteri picked up need local support. on #openlocalwine, an ini- Pillitteri, known for his tiative of two friends of his, comedy routines, couldn’t “great wine industry peeps be more serious when he in Michigan who were kind asks for help for these lo- enough to include their Ca- Newark Neighbours gears up for Easter cal businesses. Recovery is nadian friends in the fun.” on its way, he says, but they This is the second year Newark Neighbours volunteers Cindy Grant, Pat Fryer and Susan need cash flow to hang in for the U.S. initiative, the Sparrow-Mace are set to dig in to mountains of food and begin packing until then, to ensure they’re first here in Niagara, thanks Easter hampers for clients who require help over the holiday. The ham- still in business when it to Pillitteri. pers will be delivered Thursday. (David Gilchrist) comes. It’s just one day, Satur- Wineries missed out on the tourist traffic of spring, Continued on page 3 More Niagara vaccination clinics being scheduled to book vaccination appoint- but with the region having to local telling her she was able lic Health is planning more Booking glitches have ments had trouble Monday, shoulder the responsibility to to get an appointment Mon- clinics for April 11 and 12 in but the rest were able to get fix them. day for the same day, and oth- Niagara Falls, at the MacBain a time and date for their first Although there were ers struggling to find any time Community Centre; April been frustrating shot. “thousands” of available ap- slots available. 13 and 14 in Port Colborne; Penny Coles It seemed hit-and-miss, He asked people not to pointments Monday morn- Although there are no April 15 and 16 in Grims- The Local with some people reporting call public health, explaining ing, Hirji said, by 3 p.m. new dates for NOTL clinics by; and April 17 and 18 in getting through and booking it’s the provincial system that Monday public health sent an at this time, she was hoping Welland. As the portal to book- appointments, and others be- is experiencing issues. email saying all appointments there will be in the next few More dates and locations ing vaccinations opened to ing told early in the day there Although some munici- for all Niagara clinics were weeks. will be added, but probably the 70-year-old age group was no availability. palities have developed their booked. There were expected to be not until the latter half of Monday, residents in Niag- Dr. Mustafa Hirji, Niaga- own online registration sys- Lord Mayor Betty Disero 8,500 new appointments for April, Hirji said. ara-on-the-Lake reported ra’s acting chief medical offi- tems, Hirji said he didn’t think said she was hearing “mixed Niagara clinics in the booking difficulties getting appoint- cer of health, estimated about that would help in Niagara — reviews” from those trying to system early this week, and ments. five per cent of seniors trying there would still be problems, book appointments, with one more later this week. Pub- Continued on page 2 2 March 31, 2021 THE NOTLLocal notllocal.com Lesson from long-term care homes: vaccinations work

Continued from page 1 There will be enough ap- pointments for all residents He suggested residents 70 years of age (27,000 more keep trying the provincial people) and up once Niaga- portal Ontario.ca/bookvac- ra Health and Public Health cine for availability, or if they both get their clinic schedules are having trouble finding a online, Hirji said. location, to call a booking op- During Monday’s weekly erator at 1-888-999-6488. meeting with reporters, he By Monday afternoon, spoke of “night and day” with residents were finding new the number of cases seen ear- dates and availability for lier this year in long-term care those 70 and over at the Sey- homes, and what happens if mour-Hannah clinic, from there is an infection now. April 5 to 11. A couple of months ago, an infection would spread quickly through long-term care and retirement homes, whereas, thanks to vaccina- tions, that isn’t happening now. “I hope this is a message everybody else in society takes, that these vaccines are really working, and we should all be taking them, so we can make sure we get out of this pandem- Bryon Dowd, town staff member at the community centre, finishes up Tuesday afternoon in preparation for the 500 people expect- Dr. Kevin Clark and ic,” he said. ing to be vaccinated by Public Health staff Wednesday. (Mike Balsom) Dr. Rebecca Zabek-Clark Dentists No job too small and their registered ($100 minimum) More restrictions will be Dental Hygiene Team Trimming, pruning and removal of all small 369 MARY STREET to medium sized trees. needed to stop variant spread NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE MICHAEL GRAY'S This includes clean up, ARBORICULTURE planting of trees and It is social activity which is We already know people travel www.niagaradental.ca assessments. Penny Coles The Local causing the current spike of in- from Hamilton to Niagara, says Michael Gray fection, he says. Hirji, and he fears the number NEW PATIENTS WELCOME ISA Certified Arborist EVENING HOURS AVAILABLE As cases of COVID-19 and With the numbers of cases of visitors might increase and [email protected] variants continue their upward caused by community spread, bring more cases of COVID 905-468-3009 trajectory, the region’s top med- rather than by outbreaks in with them. 905 964 3682 ical officer says he’s not opti- long-term care homes as they As cases increase, so does mistic that current restrictions were earlier in the pandemic, the number of people in hospi- will be enough to prevent hos- there are fewer people in the tal and in intensive care units. pitals and intensive care units 80-plus group becoming ill. Hamilton may begin sending from being overwhelmed. When there is a case in patients to Niagara hospitals, Dr. Mustafa Hirji, the re- long-term care, it tends to just if its system becomes over- gion’s acting medical officer “fizzle,” he says, due to the high whelmed, said Hirji. of health, says any further re- number of residents who are Toronto hospitals are al- strictions should be for the vaccinated. ready sending patients to hos- entire Golden Horseshoe. He While the majority of vari- pitals as far aways as Kingston, indicated with the “very sharp ant cases are the U.K. strain, and Toronto’s Sunnybrook upwards trend,” especially of Hirji says he’s concerned about Health Sciences Centre is in variants, which reproduce the P1 variant from Brazil, the process of setting up a mo- quickly, that may be necessary which seems to transmit the bile field hospital in its parking for the next couple of months, quickest, cause the most seri- lot, a process that began early April is diamond month and to buy time for more people to ous illnesses, and against which in March. The tents, which will be vaccinated. vaccines are the least effective. be able to handle up to 100 pa- “If we stay our course, the It has increased 30 per cent in tients, are expected to be ready diamonds are our specialty .... sharp increase will continue. cases across the province in just to receive patients in early The only hope of flattening it is two days. April. reducing social interaction,” he There were 132 new The sight of the hospital says, adding that “that current COVID-19 cases reported tents across the parking lot re- government decisions that are over the weekend in Niagara, flects the level of fear over what being made by the province,” are and Hamilton was placed in the third wave could bring, says not enough to reverse the trend. grey-lockdown zone Monday. Hirji. Province providing grants to help small businesses Penny Coles ic, tourism generated more parks, hunting and fishing The Local than $36 billion in econom- camps, and recreational and ic activity, and supported vacation camps. Businesses The Ontario government 400,000 jobs in Ontario. As a must demonstrate they have is providing $100 million to direct result of the pandem- experienced a minimum help small tourism business- ic, the tourism sector has 20 per cent revenue decline, es, and $100 million for a new lost more than $18 billion in and have less than 100 em- one-time recovery program. revenue alone and more than ployees to qualify. Premier Doug Ford, and 200,000 jobs. The Ontario Tourism Re- Lisa MacLeod, minister The grant will pro- covery Program will support of heritage, sport, tourism vide one-time payments of established and proven tour- Petar’s Jewellery and culture industries, were $10,000 to $20,000 to eligible ism businesses that have been 268 Geneva St., St. Catharines in Niagara Monday to an- small businesses, including hit hardest by COVID-19 nounce the funding. hotels, motels, travel agen- (opposite Fairview Mall) | 905-937-7340 Prior to the pandem- cies, amusement and water Continued on page 5 notllocal.com THE NOTLLocal March 31, 2021 3 Wineries, restaurants struggling to reach recovery Continued from page 1 through this. It’s so great to Equipment buys lunch from see the light at the end of the local restaurants for about day, April 10, to commit to tunnel, and with the arrival 20 staff members. drinking local wine, he says. of vaccines, and the reopen- They each make their And while many of us are al- ing of the border not too far choices from the menu, ready doing this, he adds, it’s off, we can help businesses lunch is ordered, and to a day to not only pick a local with their cash flow, so that encourage others to do the wine and enjoy it over din- when we get back to what- same, Pillitteri makes a vid- ner, but to also publicize it ever normal is, they’ll still be eo when he picks up the by posting photos on social h e re .” food to post on social me- media, to encourage others He’s doing what he can dia. to do the same, showing to help hard-hit local restau- Although he’s not crit- support for Niagara winer- rants as well, with his weekly icizing the restrictions in ies. staff lunches. place, he says the unpre- “When you think about Every Friday — Thurs- dictability has been hard on local wines and what they day this week due to the restaurants. mean to our economy, we Easter holiday — the presi- “You can open with 10 have to make sure they get dent of Lakeview Vineyard people, you can open now with 50, no, you can’t be open. How do you manage staff, make plans? We feel obligated to do what we can to help.” He’s been to many local restaurants in recent weeks, including Bricks & Barley, which opened less than three years ago by three lo- cal families, and was so pop- ular it was sometimes hard to get a table there. Rebecca Hagman and Joe Pillitteri are practising for #openlocalwine, coming up April 10, “It’s an awesome spot,” and joined by many others who want to support local wineries during the pandemic. (Photo says Pillitteri, a beautifully supplied) restored tractor dealership, and now with an enclosed, to people who are trying to nate we are to stay open, to put great reviews online, heated patio — an example keep going right now, and be an essential business. We and encourage people if they of what restaurants have to the restaurant business could recognize the importance feel like going out, to book a do, he adds. use any boost it can get.” of living in a safe place, and reservation, enjoy one of the Joe Pillitteri says his wife Rebecca Hagman doesn’t usually He asks his followers to When he and the Lakev- we recognize our friends in restaurants they’ve been go- want to appear in the restaurant lunch videos he posts on social “check out every restaurant iew staff sit down to eat, he the restaurant business. We ing to for years, or get take- media every week, but he captured her in the one he made last close to you, and get takeout says, “we have a little chat. support them from home, out. Support them any way week. (Screenshot) tonight. It means a great deal We recognize how fortu- as well, not just at work. We you can.”

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175 Lakeshore Rd., NOTL | 905.934.5066 | seawayfarms.ca We are open Monday - Saturday 9 am - 5 pm and Sunday 9 am - 4 pm 4 March 31, 2021 THE NOTLLocal notllocal.com NOTL is one of friendliest towns in Canada Local Staff the third highest percentage of visitors each year. Residents NOTL’s 2020 tourist season, diligently to ensure all pro- Marnie Cluckie said. of positive traveller reviews and visitors alike, enjoy the decreasing the number of vis- vincial regulations and pub- “I am hopeful that during mentioning words such as, town’s natural beauty, as well as itors and putting significant lic health recommendations this coming tourist season, According to Expedia us- “friendly, friendliest, amiable” the many historical landmarks strain on the local economy. are being followed to ensure residents and visitors will be ers, Niagara-on-the-Lake is from January 2019 to Decem- and local amenities. “While I cannot predict what our business community is able to safely enjoy the won- ranked the third friendliest ber 2020. As experienced by many provincial regulations will be supported, our visitors feel derful attractions, heritage town in Canada for 2021. While Niagara-on-the- municipalities around the in place over the spring and welcome and safe, and most and culture, and distinct beau- Described as “quaint,” Lake has 17,500 permanent globe, the COVID-19 pan- summer months, I am confi- importantly, the health of our ty of Niagara-on-the-Lake,” Niagara-on-the-Lake received residents, it welcomes millions demic greatly impacted dent that town staff will work residents is protected,” CAO said Lord Mayor Disero. Staff working on making town safe for visitors Local Staff town core, said CAO Mar- nie Cluckie. The Town of Niaga- “With the weather warm- ra-on-the-Lake is proac- ing, we’re seeing an increase tively preparing for the in the number of people anticipated increase in the coming to town and we want number of visitors to its to ensure we’re providing the downtown core by reopen- services they need during ing public washrooms in the their stay.” Staff is also assist- Heritage District, assigning ing with public education re- town staff to public educa- garding restrictions outlined tion and cleaning, and post- by the province, and period- ing safety signage. ically sanitizing high-touch Beginning last Saturday, the surfaces such as benches and public washrooms at Queen’s parking machines. Royal Park and Simcoe Park These extra precaution- will be open seven days a week, ary efforts will be made from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays Physical distance mark- throughout the spring ers will be established and and summer. “The arriv- signage posted, reminding al of spring always attracts Last summer the town organized volunteer ambassadors to welcome visitors to town and pass on pandemic protocols. There are the public to wear a mask, crowds to our beautiful plans for both staff and volunteers to do the same this year, making Queen Street friendly and safe. (File photo) sanitize their hands fre- Town,” says Lord Mayor Bet- quently, maintain a safe ty Disero. “While we love remember that COVID-19 formation Centre, located at that does not close during the COVID-19 pandemic, visit distance of two metres, and to see visitors experiencing still poses a significant risk Fort George, remain closed winter season, remains open notl.com/covid-19. avoid touching their face. our unique culture and heri- for our community, and at this time but will reopen daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. For the most up-to-date Staff is helping to support tage, our stunning parks and safety comes first.” later in the season. The Mar- For more information information from the pro- local businesses and those gardens, and our wonderful Public washrooms at Me- ket Street washroom, being about how NOTL continues vincial government, visit choosing to visit the down- local businesses, we must morial Park and at the In- the only public washroom to respond to the ongoing covid19.ontario.ca. OPEN TO SERVE YOU SAFELY

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1573 Four Mile Creek Road, Virgil notllocal.com THE NOTLLocal March 31, 2021 5 Legion reaching out to seniors Penny Coles long-lasting relationships be- is intended to continue as the The Local tween our seniors, the branch Legion develops supports and and local youth, who may partnerships in the communi- The Niagara-on-the-Lake volunteer to teach technolo- ty, she says. branch of the Royal Canadian gy skills to those who want to The first step is a community Legion is expanding its out- learn, says Richards. assessment survey, available on- reach program with a new ini- The program will help line, to determine what kinds of tiative to help local seniors. those 65 and over in the com- services are needed. Then they The program will help fulfill munity, not just members of will be able to allocate the budget the Legion’s mission, to serve the branch, she says. of $23,222 they’ve received, and veterans and their dependents, A committee is being if necessary, begin fundraising to promote remembrance and act formed to discover what kind of cover additional costs. in the service of Canada and its help seniors are looking for, and Anyone interested in vol- communities, says office man- how to deliver it, says Richards. unteering for the program or ager Elizabeth Richards. There are five Legion mem- for the committee please sign Branch 124 is receiving bers on the committee now, up at the branch, or call 905- funding from the New Hori- and she hopes to have at least 468-2353. zons Seniors Program to es- five more volunteers from the To access the survey on- tablish a Seniors Volunteer community. line visit at https://www. Outreach Program within the While this is an initiative surveymonkey.com/create/ branch. The goal of the project that evolved from the concern preview/?sm=SU6MFSQY is to combat social isolation over social isolation due to the rY1AWGjbttAUsxXXhPD amongst local seniors, fostering pandemic, it is something that jvKvvutvrOCWKIfA_3D Museum offers history of tennis Local Staff spectators. Plus there was the ident-elect for the North Amer- golf course, the bowling greens, ican Society for the Sociology and rowing boats for hire on the of Sport. He brings a wealth When world class tennis lake. The nearby military camp of sports history to his lecture, pros come to Canada today, they housed upwards of 10,000 sol- and the museum is indebted often head to Toronto or Mon- diers and their families, all who to Rosemary Goodwin, direc- treal for the Canadian Open of loved some entertainment. tor of the Niagara-on-the-Lake the National Bank Open. And four steamships and three Tennis Club, for facilitating this But in 1886 the tennis trains arrived daily. Niagara-on- lecture. world turned its eyes on Niaga- the-Lake was a social hub, ex- A History of Lawn Tennis ra-on-the-Lake, says NOTL Mu- plains Worthy. in Niagara-on-the-Lake is be- seum’s Barbara Worthy, “and for Robert J. Lake’s virtual lec- ing held Wednesday, April 7, the next 40 years the world had ture on Wednesday, April 7, will at 10:30 a.m. Registration is re- a front row seat at the fabulous turn the clock back on this pe- quired: www.nhsm.ca/events Queen’s Royal Hotel for some riod of tennis history, and detail of the most prestigious tennis the socio-economic influences championships of the time. and intricate sports dynamics The International and the that made it all happen, as well Canadian Open would both be as its demise following the after- hosted there, with many U.S, math of the First World War. Canadian, and Wimbledon Robert J. Lake is in the sport champions competing for ten- science department at Doug- nis glory. las College, B.C., where his re- When the world came, search focuses on the socio-his- they saw the beautiful six torical aspects of tennis. He is a grass courts belonging to the multi-published author, win- Queen’s Royal Hotel, balconies ning the Lord Aberdare Literary that overlooked Lake Ontar- Prize from the British Society of Robert Lake will give the last io and gave perfect viewing of Sports History for A Social His- lecture of the museum series, the courts, and enough space tory of Tennis in Britain. Among this one on the history of local all around for the hundreds of other positions he holds is pres- tennis. (Photo supplied) ‘Should help a lot of businesses’ Continued from page 2 Lord Mayor Betty Disero “The grant should help a was invited to be part of the lot of small businesses,” she pandemic restrictions, and announcement — the first said, encouraging business are key employers and tour- in-person meeting she has owners “to apply and get ism generators in all regions attended since December, whatever they can to help get of the province. she said. them through this.”

Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy, Mayor Sandra Easton, Premier Doug Ford, Coun. Vince Kerrio, Lisa MacLeod, minister of heritage, sport, tourism and culture industries, Lord Mayor Betty Disero, Joel Noden, Niagara Falls Attractions Operator, and (bottom) MPP Sam Oosterhoff, Joe DiCosimo (hotelier), and Mayor Jim Diodati were at Table Rock Monday for the provincial announcement of grants and recovery funding for the tourism industry. 6 March 31, 2021 THE NOTLLocal EDITORIAL notllocal.com Losing the race between vaccinations and COVID cases There doesn’t seem any Variants may be behind we’re receiving. waiting to deliver the shots, but macies in Toronto. We have a best we can do at this point. doubt the third wave is here, some of the demographic shift While it was great for those there is not enough vaccine. long way to go to get to herd im- And we can take the advice although there is still talk of cur- in hospitals, with a faster spread, 70 and over to learn they could However, not all the news is munity, and safety for all, but ev- of Joe Pillitteri: we can pick up tailing social activity to avoid it. including among younger peo- book an appointment, it was ex- bad. NOTL is holding two clin- ery shot takes us one step closer. a nice dinner from one of our Premier Doug Ford said ple. And they are spreading tremely discouraging for those ics this week, Wednesday and The weekend brings Easter, many favourite local restaurants, Tuesday he won’t lock things more quickly in Ontario, as of who found there were no ap- Thursday, and by the time they the wind-up of Passover, and maybe for some of us with a bot- down if he has to — sounds like Tuesday making up 67 per cent pointments available. And the are finished, there should be at the start of Ramadan next week. tle or two from any one of the a hint that could be coming, al- of all new infections, with much whole issue of problems with least 1,000 more locals vaccinat- We are being told not to gather great local wineries, and cele- though what lockdown means greater risk of being admitted to AstraZeneca is also unnerving. ed, with a third clinic and an- in large groups to celebrate, not brate being fortunate to live sur- now seems a little more flexible. hospitals or intensive care units. For those of us who haven’t fit other 500 shots to be delivered even to sit down around the rounded by so much beauty, so One of the biggest fears is That, and the increasing into any of the groups to have at the community centre next family dinner table with anyone many great opportunities, and hearing there are more patients frustration with vaccinations, is been vaccinated so far, and we’re Friday, April 9. outside our household, but we best of all, so many wonderful in their 40s, 50s, and 60s, be- what’s new with the pandemic. offered AstraZeneca, what do Many others have made can get outside, get some exer- people who make it a priority to coming seriously ill, some on In the race between a growing we do? One more difficult deci- their way to St. Catharines and cise and fresh air, and maybe sit look out for each other. ventilators. number of cases, and efforts to sion to make, at least for some. Niagara Falls clinics, and some around the backyard with fami- We’re definitely seeing a deliver more vaccinations, the We know Niagara is doing took advantage of vaccinations ly or friends, physically distanc- Penny Coles change in demographics. spike of infections seems to be its best with its vaccine rollout, for the 60-plus crowd at phar- ing of course. Not ideal, but the The Local The vast majority ofwinning out, and with the num- and any glitches so far have been COVID-19 deaths until now ber of variants and the news we’re due to the provincial booking has tragically been among se- hearing about the more serious system. If there is a delay go- niors in care homes, but with nature of the disease caused by ing forward, it could be more Local reporter earns most of those in that vulnerable variants, that’s very scary. glitches, or a result of vaccine age group vaccinated, the de- Meanwhile, we listen to shortage, or both. It’s frustrating mographics of serious and fatal news of issues with the quantity, to know pharmacies and some bus photo for Cogeco infections have shifted. and worse, quality of vaccines family doctors are ready and Auchterlonie on Astrology Bill Auchterlonie on the balcony of a motel in with not much happening. Special to The Local Memphis, Tennessee. Shaw Even if it seems like there is Festival mounted a stage play activity, it likely won’t amount The full week of Auchterlonie about this night and it played to much. So, enjoy the early on Astrology can be found on the to glowing audiences. good news! If she were still Facebook page for The NOTL Monday, April 5: Heart and here, Lady Day, aka Billie Hol- Local, and on the website www. mind are friendly today. Good iday, would be 106 years old. auchterlonieonastrology.ca. news can do that. An idea that Born April 7, 1915, she sold a Sunday, April 4: The Sun is makes life better can do it too. standing-room only capacity in Aries. The Moon is in Cap- It was April 5, 1987 that Fox audience at Carnegie Hall on ricorn. They are 90 degrees TV first aired two new shows: March 27, 1948, just 11 days Mike Balsom, reporter for The Local, earned having his photo on the side of a city bus to apart at 2:48 p.m. It’s the third The Tracey Ullman Show (fea- after being released from pris- promote his Cogeco cable TV show. (Photo supplied) quarter Moon, a challenging turing the Simpsons); and on. She was a tormented ge- time when seriousness stands Married with Children. nius, with even Frank Sinatra Penny Coles New shows debut Tues- A music lover, Mike says in the way of impulsive be- Wednesday, April 7: The modelling his style on her. The Local days, Thursdays and Satur- Hamilton musician Tom Wil- haviour. Be sure to wear a Moon in Aquarius is friendly That’s AonA for now. Next days at 5 p.m. on Cogeco cable son (Blackie & the Rodeo mask and do so with a smile. with Jupiter early on today. A week is the new Moon in Aries We won’t see this in Niaga- channel 10, or channel 700 in Kings, Junkhouse), was one of It was April 4, 1968 that the gift from the Cosmos makes on Sunday, April 11. ra-on-the-Lake, but when driv- HD. The show runs Monday to his favourite interviews. Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. for smiling faces, as wrongs get Until then, shine on! ing through Niagara Falls or St. Friday every half hour from 6 He’s also a huge sports fan was shot dead as he stood turned right. Then we get lazy, Catharines, you might notice a a.m. until 8:30 a.m., and from — he writes our sports stories familiar face on the side of a bus. 5 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. — and he also found former It’s The Local’s own reporter, Saturday’s schedule is every Toronto Maple Leafs captain Mike Balsom, although it is in half hour from 6 a.m. until 9 Rick Vaive a memorable inter- View from the couch his capacity as a Cogeco TV per- a.m, at 12 noon, and every half view. sonality that earned him the very hour from 5 p.m. until 6:30 Maryam Monsef, Minis- Donald Combe one last time for a celebra- English teacher who loves large advertisement on the bus. p.m., and Sundays every half ter for Women and Gender to go to movies. Until he re- Mike, also a high school hour from 6 a.m. until 9 a.m., Equality and Rural Economic Special to The Local tion of life. Susan Sarandon portrays this mother superb- sumes going to theatres, he business teacher, is the host of and from 5 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Development, was also one of Blackbird (Prime, 2019), ly well. Although somewhat has graciously agreed to share The Source, a half-hour package That’s a lot of choices, and his favourites. a powerful film about living contrived, this beautiful and his opinions, through “short of interviews with newsmakers it’s worth checking out for “We’ve also covered the life fully, focuses on a termi- disturbing film has a signifi- and sweet” exclusives, of and community organizations, those who have Cogeco cable. horse and carriage controversy nally ill mother who arranges cant message. Netflix series and movies for with a focus on COVID-19 in- Mike is a great interviewer, in NOTL, and had many guests to bring her family together Donald Combe is a retired The Local. formation as well. and with interesting guests. on who reside in town,” he says. “We went on the air with this show last March, shoot- NEEDNEED HELP?HELP? MAKEMAKE THETHE CALLCALL ing interviews via Skype from my home, and in September DISTRESS CENTRE KIDS HELP PHONE ASSAULTED moved into the studio. Since For depression, Service for youth WOMEN’S then we have done more than distress and crisis. 416-586-5437 HELPLINE 500 interviews, most of which 24 hour help line: 1-800-668-6868 Mobile calls to: 905-688-3711 (Crisis Line) #SAFE (#7233) are archived on the YourTV kidshelpphone.ca 1-866-863-0511 Niagara YouTube channel. MENTAL HEALTH (Toll Free) Of course, also right up AND ADDICTIONS ALCOHOLICS ACCESS ANONYMOUS CRIME STOPPERS there at the top of his list was Meetings every coverage of Prime Minister Jus- (Toll Free) Wednesday evening 1-800-222-8477 P.O. Box 430, 1596 Four Mile Creek Road, Virgil, L0S 1T0 1-866-550-5205 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. (TIPS) tin Trudeau, when he dropped Editor: Advertising Sales: St. Mark’s Parish Hall niagaratips.com into the NOTL community GAMBLER’S 41 Byron St., NOTL Text 274637 (CRIMES), Penny Coles Karen Skeoch ANONYMOUS or find a meeting keyword: Niagara, centre in the summer of 2019. [email protected] [email protected] • 905-641-5335 905-351-1616 905-682-2140 then your tip We’re proud to have Mike 905-246-5878 on our team at The Local! Julia Coles Publisher: [email protected] • 905-934-1040 The Niagara-on-the-Lake Local Helen Arsenault Letters! We want letters! Graphic Designer: Local Business Directory, If you have a letter to the editor you’d like to see published, Rosie Gowsell Local Happenings, Classified Sales please send it to [email protected]. Please try to keep it [email protected] [email protected] to about 350 words. Sorry, but we won’t publish anonymous letters. And please stick to the issue at hand, rather than notllocal.com facebook.com/notllocal instagram.com/thenotllocal @thenotllocal attacking those involved. The deadline is Monday at noon. notllocal.com THE NOTLLocal March 31, 2021 7 The opinions expressed in submitted commentary, and letters to the editor, are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of The NOTL Local. COMMENT Wellness committee provides update on vaccinations older (born in 1951 or earlier) appropriate age category) may AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD ness Committee at 905-246-3091 of protection in our community, are able to book their vaccina- not be able to receive a vacci- vaccine. This list of pharma- for assistance. Volunteers are it is vital for everyone to get their tion appointment through the nation. cies is expected to expand available to help residents book vaccination as soon as it is avail- provincial appointment book- Transportation to any of the in the coming weeks to the their vaccination appointment able for your age group. ing system available online at vaccine clinics throughout the Niagara Region and to our either in-person, using the com- Please remain calm and pa- Ontario.ca/bookvaccine or region can be arranged through local pharmacies. Until it is puters at the library, or by phone. tient. It is the intention that every Community Health and over the phone (1-888-999- one of two resources: available in this area, any el- Some key statistics on the NOTL resident who wishes to Wellness Committee 6488). • The regional On-Demand igible adult can visit ontario. progress of COVID-19 vaccina- receive a COVID-19 vaccination • The three scheduled dates for Transit Program will provide ca/pharmacycovidvaccine to tions in Niagara: will get one. This week’s article is the third the vaccine clinics (March 31, a ride free with proof of ap- find a participating pharmacy • As of Monday, March 22 near- What we can do now: in a series intended to provide April 1 and April 9) at the Com- pointment. Connections can and can contact the pharmacy ly 100 per cent of the 80+ age Continue to follow public timely and relevant information munity Centre in Niagara- be made to regional transit to make an appointment. group has either already been health measures to help stop the to Niagara-on-the-Lake resi- on-the-Lake are fully booked. at the Outlet Mall if it is nec- To answer questions about vaccinated or has an appoint- spread of COVID-19: dents about the status of vaccina- Additional dates are antici- essary to travel to a vaccine NOTL’s clinic and to help inform ment booked, as reported by • Practise frequent hand tions in NOTL and throughout pated shortly. The town and clinic in St. Catharines or the public about how to prepare Niagara Region Public Health. washing. the Niagara Region. Niagara Region Public Health Niagara Falls. To book a ride and what to expect throughout • As of March 28, over 63,000 • Wear a mask or face covering These updates are also pub- will be communicating up- with On-Demand Transit, the process, a frequently asked doses of the vaccine (approx. in indoor spaces and when lished on the town’s website dates as soon as new dates are call 289-302-2172 or down- questions page has been pub- 14 per cent of the regional two metres physical distanc- (notl.com/COVID-19). Niagara confirmed. Residents should load the app at NRT OnDe- lished on the town’s website (notl. population) have been ad- ing isn’t possible. Region Public Health continues check the on-line appointment mandTransit App. com/faq/vaccineclinic). Resi- ministered by the Niagara • Take a self-assessment if to lead the vaccination planning system or call the information • Community Support Service dents who do not have access to a Region Public Health and the you are feeling unwell. and distribution process. line frequently to determine Niagara – Transportation is computer or are not comfortable Niagara Health System. https://covid-19.ontario.ca/ Posters providing contact in- appointment availability. provided by this service to and navigating websites are invited to • The percentage of people vac- self-assessment/ formation regarding COVID-19 • Eligible residents are able to from any vaccine clinic in the call 905-468-4386 ext. 3 to hear a cinated in the Niagara Region • Stay up to date. Visit covid19. vaccinations are posted in book an appointment at any region for a nominal fee of $10. recorded message. is in line with the overall On- ontario.ca for the most up- the local post offices and oth- vaccination centre in the Niag- To request this transportation, If you are aware of an eligible tario percentage, which is ap- to-date information from the er frequently visited locations ara region and can bring an es- call 905-682-3800 x 709. NOTL resident who may require proximately 13 per cent. provincial government, niag- throughout the community. sential caregiver with them to • Residents 60 years of age and help in booking their appoint- This is reassuring informa- araregion.ca for information All NOTL residents should their appointment. However, over are eligible to book an ment, please reach out to them to tion, showing that we are moving from the Niagara Region, and be aware of the following: it’s important to note that es- appointment at any partici- offer your assistance. Alternative- closer to the time of overall pro- notl.com/COVID-19 for in- • As of Monday, March 29, all sential caregivers who are not pating pharmacy in selected ly, residents can call a representa- tection from COVID-19. But in formation regarding impacts residents 70 years of age and eligible for vaccination (in the areas of the province for the tive from the Community Well- order to reach an optimal level to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Library planning a busy week for April break can learn about the wide world of knowledge from the comfort of The relaunch of our popular colour. Spaces are limited in this kids aged six to 12 can join Kasia turtles, and create unique turtle their own home, and have a chance program, Tumble Tots, will also program, and we recommend for a virtual workshop focusing sculptures, again with materials to win a Pokemon Prize Pack. be happening that morning at registering early. on mindfulness, creativity and provided in an at-home kit. Both Wednesday, April 14 features 10:30 a.m. This program, geared Rain or shine, you’ll find us calming the mind through art. of these programs are offered free something special for the seven for ages two to four, with parent in The Wild on Friday morning Kids will learn fun and simple Kasia Dupuis of charge, and include a virtual to 14 crowd. Combine art and participation, will include story for the relaunch of this popular techniques to use a variety of NOTL Public Library meet-up as well an art kit to be science together to learn how to time, songs, rhymes and activi- outdoor preschool program. art materials and found items April Break will be a busy picked up at the library prior to make an interactive and dynamic ties all about bears, and also in- Modelled after forest and na- to make a mixed-media collage time at the NOTL Public Library. the workshop dates. piece of art, inspired by the pan- cludes a free kit of manipulatives ture-school ideas, kids aged three piece focusing on the joy and While this year’s break is a On Tuesday, April 13, we are demic-popular game, Among and materials for tots that will to five, with their caregivers, can process of creating, rather than little later than usual and will celebrating “Gotta Catch ’Em Us. All materials your creative help to foster engagement and join Rachel to explore “the wilds” the final product. This free pro- look a little different than others All” day, and we have a great kid will need are provided in a interaction during the virtual of NOTL as they hike, explore gram includes a kit with all ma- in the past, it will be no less fun, line-up of Pokemon-inspired kit to be picked up at the library, program. and discover together the chang- terials, which can be picked up at exciting and engaging for kids in programs for young Pokemon and they will join Kasia virtually Thursday afternoon, kids es spring is bringing our way. the library after registering. our community, because after all, enthusiasts. Starting at 11 a.m. to create their own Crewmate aged six-plus will be able to take Taking time for ourselves to Registration for all of these when school’s out, the library is for ages seven to 13, you can join (or Imposter) spinning in space. part in some virtual Trivia in- recharge, refocus and relax our great programs is available on the place to be. Kasia to learn how to paint pop- Spaces in this unique workshop spired by The Lego Movie, at 2 bodies and our brains has been our website www.notlpublicli- The Niagara-on-the-Lakeart-inspired Pikachu and Squirtle are limited, and we recommend p.m., with a chance to win a Lego immeasurably important during brary.org, and we look forward Public Library is offering a mix paintings using fun printmaking registering early. prize pack. Thursday is also home the past year, not only for our- to learning, creating and con- of programs on art, science, story techniques. This program in- Babies and toddlers are the to another exciting relaunch: Tin- selves but for our children too. necting with you and your fam- times, trivia and more, for ages cludes a kit with all of the materi- focus for the morning of Thurs- ker Thinker, Thursdays is back. On Friday, April 16 at 10:30 a.m., ilies this upcoming April Break. two to 14. als needed, and each participant day, April 15. Join Rachel to This popular program fo- Everyone’s favourite Mad will finish with two paintings of launch a brand new program cuses on exploring, discovering Science of Niagara will be offer- these popular Pokemon. For the called Welcome Baby, at 9:30 and problem-solving through ing two workshops, focusing on three to six age group and the a.m. on Zoom. This program will S.T.E.A.M. concepts and ideas, art and wildlife conservation. On youngest of Pokemon enthu- provide a welcoming place for and will provide kids aged eight Monday, April 12 at 1:30 p.m. siasts, Rachel, the library’s new new caregivers in our commu- to 12 with a fun, hands-on ac- children can “dive in” to learn all preschool programmer, will be nity to come together to bond, tivity to build along with Kasia. about jellyfish – the mysterious hosting a fun and interactive vir- share and learn. Shannon Eaves, Each month, starting this April, and curious creatures of the deep tual Pokemon Party via Zoom, a speech language pathologist, children can be registered for a – and then create their very own which also includes a kit of ma- will join the program as guest kit that includes two activities dancing jellyfish mixed media terials and activities to be picked speaker to give a speech develop- that will be explored during a project, with materials provided up at the library. ment presentation, as well as be virtual meet-up with Kasia. April in an at-home kit. Finally, at 6:30 p.m. kids available to answer parent ques- 15 will offer an opportunity to On Monday, April 12 children can dive in to learn all about jellyfish, Also happening on Friday aged seven and up can join us tions. Registration is required for explore circuits, and April 29 is and create their own dancing jellyfish mixed media project, with ma- April, 16, at 1:30 p.m., children for Pokemon Trivia to test their this event. for experimenting with light and terials provided in an at-home kit after registration. (Photo supplied)

Mistletoe Bride reading at Silversmith page 11 The trusted voice of our community. NOTL LOCAL Front and notllocal.com DECEMBER 12, 2019 Volume 1 • Issue 48 ‘Tis the season for Candlelight Stroll

Kim Wade sage for locals. Special to The Local “To the residents of Niag- ara-on-the-Lake, thank you “This is the season and for supporting this special YOU are the reason why evening. It is events such as we gather to celebrate the tonight that remind us how bounty of this year in our fortunate we are to live in community, said Town Crier such a generous and warm Tom Pekar, as he welcomed community. Attendance re- the hundreds of people who cords continue to be broken gathered at the Court House, every year and I can’t imag- wrapped in scarves, topped ine a place on earth at this with hats and holding can- moment where the human dles to this year’s Candlelight spirit is stronger. My heart is Stroll. full, being up here,” he said, “By the powers invested addressing the crowd from in me,7 I declare the open- the small balcony over the September 24, 2020ing of the 2019 Candlelight Court House steps. stroll. Huzzah! Huzzah! Editorial Banner Bookings THE NOTL LOCAL Thirty years ago, the Can- HUZZAH!” dlelight Stroll was started by Pekar introduced Paul local residents Arthur Nieu- MacIntyre, the chair of the wdorp and his wife Irene. board of directors for the Ni- Nieuwdorp developed the notllocal.com agara-on-the-Lake Chamber idea in 1988 during the lead- Emmy Wise and Will Marley pose with of Commerce. up to the Calgary Winter Father Christmas in front of the Court MacIntyre thanked the Olympics. He watched the The opinions expressed in submitted commentary, and letters to the editor,COMMENT House, as they wait for the Candlelight crowd for participating in are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of The NOTL Local. just yards away, out of reach, but Olympic torch relay as it Stroll to begin. (Fred Mercnik) the 30th anniversary of the kids on my left and right leaningnot really. travelled across the country My takeawaystroll, from and this visitors for attend- gently swept the five-inch insectin to see the praying mantis with ing, but had a special mes- maximum interest, their toes upexperience is that kids are truly Continued on page 4 back toward the building for in-off the wall, and from there, the meant to be with nature. praying mantis walked around against the white lines. Students look to naturedoor duties, and I see somefor kids playgroundAs I walk entertainmentbetween the rect- When they aren’t allowed within an urban schoolyard, on my hands and coffee cup 200-year-oldlooking at these “super giant stonesangular need cohorts, I notice protectiona pecu-to play tag, they resort to ripping to survive and hopefully leave a lasting im- mosquitoes” on the side of the while I showed it to all the kids up grass and throwing it at their pression on some kids during at recess. liar phenomenon. Only two of school portables. We’ve all seen them have access to a tree. friends. I was really impressed the two weeks I had Pennythere. Coles around four military I re- must have showed 100 While I was spray paint- them without knowing what 1853, he told councillors,It was a remarkable obser- with the creative approach. The Local serves, as ordered people, by John the praying mantis ed in the 1600s, Rumble The symbology is at the ing the lines that separate the they are. They show up in show- in areas that includevation the to see how much physi- ner of Johnson and Nassau seemingly understanding its explained, and the fingertips arrow of the youth when documented, repaired where cohorts of students out in the ers, corners Gravesof the barn, Simcoe and inon 1796. cal activity and curiosities cen- Streets has been damaged There are 11 ordinance universal truthformer that Mississagua it can be Re- they rip the grass up from the they are damaged, reposi- Owen Bjorgan soccer field for recess, I noticedthe cottage dock.Rumble These firstare to- discovered tred aroundon the them one tree.is a symbol It’s a called stones in the Old Town that part of an importantserve, now education- the NOTL Golf earth. Evenby when construction field trips equipment,and some divots in the ground. tally harmlessone crane of the flies. stones on the cor- little tree, too.a board Kids arrow,would meetused to des- tioned to their original height Special to The Local are 200 years old, and they I tell the kids, “these flies al moment.course; the Garrison Re- singing andhe playgrounds said, showing are councillorsde- Some of the younger kids had ner of Prideaux and Simcoe there and chat.ignate They’d the property hang off of the “so they can be properly ap- deserve to be celebrated and A few kidsserve, hover which around includes Fort nied, naturea stone is always with going a large to be chunk taken to digging into the grass. aren’t evenStreets, related and to mosqui- his curiosity the one orBritish two little government. branches, preciated,” and protected DON’T MISS OUT! Here’s a wild one for you. protected, council heardtoes. They just look like huge when I visitGeorge their cohort.and the The Commons, there as anchipped effervescent out of source, it. “It’s 200 There are no trees, sports toys, about its history and his fan the leaves,There and make is another leaf or beside by barriers erected around As an outdoor guide for the Monday. mosquitoes, but they’re not, praying mantisand four leaps other off lotsof mythat in- even duringyears these old,” strange he emphasized. times. or games of tag going on. So, to ensuing research led tohands the and then flies. Did you grass “hats.”the Let’s bench remember, at the entrance the them. District School Board of Niag- Ted Rumble, a mem-and they can’t even hurt peo- clude Simcoe Park. closed playground and gym are Rumble asked the Town ara, I was deployed out of the the soil they go. discovery that there wereknow they can fly? It’s rarely wit- to Simcoe Park, which has Two are on Parks Can- The berlittle ofkids the call Niagara me over Histor- ple. Look at how tall and skinny The best preserved to enlist its heritage and woods, and into a Niagara Falls originally 36 such stones.nessed, but they are more than sunk into the ground, as ada property, he said, sug- to the chunkical Society, of soil and was grass at council they are, like a crane. Mosqui- stone, he said, is at the cor- operations departments to elementary school to assist with toes can’tHe even has get only this been big, able ever!” tocapable. have some of the others, he gesting they would need to they’ve Mondaycarved up. to They ask the pull Town it to Thener visually of Simcoe terrifying and crea- Queen recognize the historic sig- the pandemic reopening. If youfind Google 11 remaining. crane fly, said — a stone by Queen’s work together, along with I could write scores of arti- over. Adocument, few worms repairand a beetle and pro- ture thenStreet, landed by onthe the Charles face of Inn. a nificance of the stones, and you’ll be surprisedThey are how solid many limestone, Royal Park has sunk so low the Friends of Fort George, larvae tect(grub) the lie stones, exposed which on the were Grade 2 kid.The He BOgoes engraved cross-eyed on celebrate them, “as a direct cles about what I did, saw, and times you’veengraved seen and this numbered, harmless it could disappear within a and the Niagara Historical experienced during these past dirt. Theirplaced curiosity as property is ramped markers and bug-eyedeach stone at once stands — for the the link between us and the “superand giant shown mosquito” on a map in your of couple of years. Society. two weeks. I was on the front- up for such a simple but creative look ofBoard surprise of Ordinance, and unsureness found- very founding of our town.” discovery. It made me happy to own house. The marker at the cor- line of the very situation that I go outside to my van in theequally as pronounced. Within He hopes to see them we’ve all been talking and hear-see this moment unfold. one second, he tried to swipe it Continued on page 3 While they gaze upon the parking lot, remove the mask ing about. I promised myself but chickened out. I reached out closed playground and gym justand sip some coffee on my I would be there for the kids break. The radio tells me how and grabbed it in an instant. The and teachers in the best capaci- yards away from where they boy then proceeded to run a few play, the kids get inventive with many COVID cases were re- ty I could, during a transitional ported in Ontario today, but mylaps within his area, laughing time. their environment. It’s probably and shrieking about the wild- been a long time since kids dug heart tells me to focus on what Although I was no longer matters, the next generation. ness of that experience. Contact us today. There are just a few dates up bugs in the soccer field and Phew! He handled it like a socializing with oaks and ma- Heading back indoors once ples, I felt welcomed and com- found it fascinating. champion. “Mr. B, why does this worm again, I see a giant praying man- fortable within an instant at this I later saw the same kid have . . . legs?” asks an excited tis on the wall of the school. It’s school. The staff and students just out of reach. I could catch ittalking to his vice-principal made the building feel like student. about the experience with that “It’s not a worm. It has thoseand do the ultimate show-and- home, with a seamless transi- classic story-telling grin. little legs and mouth parts be- tell for these kids. I kind of have As Owen Bjorgan relaxes against a tree near downtown NOTL, he tion. I feel both spiritually and I’ll never forget the visual (Owen Bjorgan) cause it’s actually a baby beetle, to. thinks about today’s youth learning about nature as school play- professionally fulfilled by these Imagine me, masked up and of walking up the invisible hall- basically.” grounds remain off limits to them. two weeks. leaping up and down the wall ways in the soccer field. I had It seems my hours logged in A couple shrieks, a couple helped spray paint these fields, oohs and aws, and they learned like a cat chasing a fly. Looks the woods have stuck to me, and like Spiderman gone wrong. I the woods follow me from time something new. As I wear a mask and walk to time. I was curious to see how ligions even within their own I could make the most of nature tion comes in all shapes, sizes, sect. Discrimination is prev- ethnicities, ages, genders and alent in every single group, lition demonstrates that Ni- something we need to recog- agara Region recognizes the sexual orientations. told The Local that signing the We often speak about how nize and call out. And it is this Region, mayors agree to join Coalitionimportance of inclusivity of and Inclusive Municipalitiestwo per cent that creates most left for these premium positions for 2O21! lition, Niagara Region and its declaration is, to her, “signifi- we need to stop discrimination cant on all levels. It is how we is committed to addressing of the issues within the groups communities are committing equity for the whole commu- of all kinds, but we seem to all should be living our lives, only be pointing to incidents that are the problem. to join others in fighting rac- nity.” Remember that Bible ism and discrimination in all with tolerance, understanding between groups. There is also Riley Zimak, director of quote that says we need to take its forms. Living in Niagara, I and compassion.” discrimination within groups To that end, the municipal- the Fort Erie Native Friend- the plank out of our eye before am looking forward to seeing that we need to address before ity has an inclusivity commit- ship Centre, also spoke at the we try to take the sliver out of the accomplishments that the event. “On behalf of the Fort we can solve this problem. tee, with members working Ninety-eight per cent of our neighbour’s eye? Ted Mouradian municipalities can make.” Erie Native Friendship Centre, So, my challenge to those With this signing, there are on a review of town policies. all of humanity is made up of Special to The Local we are very happy to see this who are fighting to get a seat now 83 municipalities across When completed, Disero said, good, caring individuals who day occur, where the ancestors at the table, please don’t stop On Friday, Sept. 18, I was Canada who have joined the the committee will be making simply want to get along as recommendations to town of those who helped form this others from getting their seat honoured to be a speaker at coalition. country, work with this com- they make their way through Jim Bradley, regional chair, council, a positive next step. this journey called life. But, at the same table. Do some the signing ceremony where Among the other speak- munity and continue to be the self-examination to see if you the Region and all 12 munic- said, “Those of us who hold there is a small minority that ers at the regional signing was inclusive community we all are part of the two per cent, or ipalities joined the Canadian elected positions must strive love,” said Zimak. creates problems for the rest Rashmi Biswas, a member of of us, yes, the two per cent. the 98 per cent. Coalition of Inclusive Munic- to hold ourselves to a higher Although this is a fantastic Ted Mouradian is the pres- standard, not only recognizing the Gender Equity Task Force These individuals are present ipalities. step forward, and it’s great to ident of the 2% Factor Inc. and Dr. Liette Vasseur applaud- privilege, but also strengthen- of Niagara. “We cannot talk in all groups in our society. about inequity without exam- see every single mayor repre- creator of the Law of Cooper- ed the move. “As president of ing our resolve to learn, listen There are LGBTQ people NOTL businesses: Call Karen at Businesses outside NOTL: Call Julia at ining intersectionality. Not all sented, I focused my remarks ative Action. He is an author the Canadian Commission for and take action to build an who discriminate within our women are mothers, married, more on what we must do next and professional speaker and UNESCO, I am thrilled that inclusive and welcoming Ni- community. There are blacks heterosexual, or white,” she than simply signing a piece of can be reached at ted@the2per- the Niagara Region has joined agara. This declaration is our who discriminate against said. “The pandemic has high- paper. centfactor.com this network, which includes shared commitment to work This is not just a black/ blacks. There are religions who lighted the social and econom- cities, regional governments, toward policies that eradicate discriminate against other re- ic inequities facing women in white issue. It must be seen as and smaller communities racism and discrimination, general, and women of colour more than that, as discrimina- across the country,” said Vas- and promote human rights in particular. Joining the coa- seur. “Sadly, racism continues and diversity.” to plague communities across Lord Mayor Betty Disero Canada. By joining our coa- Learn more at niagararegion.ca/waste 9O5.641.5335 or email [email protected] 9O5.934.1O4O or email [email protected] Waste Info-Line Starting October 19, 2020 905-356-4141 | 1-800-594-5542 Changes are coming to waste collection 8 March 31, 2021 THE NOTLLocal notllocal.com Spring adventure at Rondeau Provincial Park vincial park is home to more time at night. Driving through nationally rare or threatened the awkward, open gate into the species than the remainder of park, I was greeted by a maze of the province. cottages and deer in headlights. This is largely because it’s Literally. After rounding the located on Canada’s south corner on nearly a dozen non- Owen Bjorgan coast, which is essentially chalant deer, I tried to find a Special to The Local Lake Erie’s forever changing park backroad or two that I had shoreline. Just like here in Ni- previously scoped out on Goo- Losing daylight, I’m cruis- agara-on-the-Lake, Rondeau gle Earth. I just needed a place ing further west on Highway 3’s Provincial Park is part of the to park the van and crawl into endless straight roads. Depart- Carolinian Forest zone, where the back for a sleep, no trouble ing directly from work, the van we find the country’s highest to anyone or the hoofed night camp setup is in its prime for species richness. wanderers. spring exploration in Rondeau Five-lined skinks (our only Alas, I accepted that I would Provincial Park. lizard in the province), east- be bothered no matter where I The eight-kilometre giant ern hog-nose snakes, spiny parked in the area. Adapting This was snapped on the Mavic Mini drone at Rondeau Provincial Park, showing the sand ridge protrusion of land into the blue softshell turtles, and Ontario’s on the fly has been the theme forests with stagnant wetlands tucked in between, created by over 10,000 years of sand deposition. abyss of Lake Erie I’m heading largest population of breeding of the past year or so, so I em- toward is called a sand spit. prothonotary warblers are just braced the unusual plot twist bald eagle in flight. I thanked My draw to this unusu- a handful of rare species which of checking into a tiny motel at the motel owner aloud, and al peninsula, created by over call Rondeau Park’s habitats a around 10 p.m. hopped back into the van. 10,000 years of powerful waves protected home. At the crack of dawn, I I parked in the closest pub- and moving soil, was its ap- One way to set yourself up chiselled the icy film off of lic spot I could find near the preciably high biodiversity. for a world of surprises is to en- my windshield and headed park boundary, and then pro- Ontario’s second-oldest pro- ter a new location for the first back to the park. The friendly ceeded to hike in with a day’s motel owners tipped me off worth of food, two cameras, as to where I could find a res- and other gear in my backpack. ident eagle nest. They told me At first, you walk by a series that on the way to the park, of old, quaint cottages which I would have to make a left, a line the handful of beautiful left, a right, a quick right, by a backroads at the front of the house, and then you see the park. Already, the tulip trees bush, or something like that. and red oaks are appreciably Locals out here refer to tracts bigger than any tree stand I of forest as “the bush,” and that know in Niagara. was the conversational clue The cottages sit plunked in that allowed me to spot the gi- linear fashion along this pen- ant wooden nest from the road insula’s eastern shore. Here, the while driving. beach is idyllic and endlessly These exposed tree roots are evidence of Lake Erie’s con- I had the pleasure of pull- sandy. This is one of the few stant forces at work along Rondeau Park’s shores. (Photos by ing over on this backroad and provincial parks which allows a Owen Bjorgan) filming both the nest and the resident cottage establishment within park boundaries. This was evidenced by the modest dwellings and spooky churches The ancient, super compressed sand serves as a unique founda- tucked into the forests on the tion for our Carolinian Forests, and they require care while walk- park roads. One step in from ing at the base. the other side of the cottages puts you into a world of rolling has led me to standing in this impossibly linear trenches be- sand forests with stagnant wet- moment. Off the trails, I con- tween the sand ridge forests. lands sunken in between. tinue to stand still. The consistency in this land- As you can see in the pho- The sun was rising from the scape, plus some highly mem- to I snapped using a drone, east with a certain confidence. orable trees — the size of which the wetland and ridge features It is the first day of spring. still astounds me — helped of this enormous 32-square Without interruption, the ul- guide me through this eerie kilometre landscape stands traviolet rays and warm sun- and precious environment. I as southern Ontario’s largest light were being absorbed by found an eastern red-backed remaining tract of Carolinian the exposed leaf litter and dark salamander, more than a doz- Forest. Beach on one side, wet- logs. With an ear and hand en eastern garter snakes, and lands and woods in the middle, closer to the forest floor, all I listened to sandhill cranes and a gentle transition into a hear is a pitter patter, which re- and spring peepers tout their marsh on the opposite side. It sembles rain drops. The sound haunting, seasonal calls. sets the stage for a noteworthy is coming from the ground up, For two days, I floated around variety of habitats, and there- as worms, crickets, and sala- in these ancient slough forests, fore species, to coexist. manders begin to rummage which eventually led to a beach I love the graduating con- their energized bodies beneath with summer-like sand tempera- trasts of finding these places the leaves. In a couple hours, tures. I checked under logs, I sat on a map, seeing them from the forest floor will turn into and observed, and periodically above, and then exploring a giant heat pad. Snakes will filmed snippets for an ongoing them on foot. A satellite image, emerge out of hibernation and Hidden Corners episode. to a drone flight, to standing in bask on the toasty dry leaves, Sunday afternoon, I cruised the middle of it all in complete while birds, such as the na- back to Niagara with cameras silence by yourself. tionally rare acadian flycatcher, full of memory and a mind full Ultimately, these are my fa- might snack on the insects at- of memories. Their batteries vourite moments. That strange tracted to the sunny surface. had run out, but mine had cer- reality of how an exciting idea The vernal pools line the tainly recharged. On an end note, in case this is a thought someone needed ANDREWS LAW to hear, it never ceases to amaze PROFESSIONAL me how mentally and physi- cally refreshing time outdoors CORPORATION can be. Inhaling that beautiful Barristers & Solicitors spring air and experiencing the quietly noisy ecosystem had 905.468.0081 me feeling good to go for the work week ahead. [email protected] Right here in NOTL, we have our own tulip trees and REAL ESTATE WILLS BUSINESS free trails to access at anytime as well. notllocal.com THE NOTLLocal March 31, 2021 9 Local faith leaders delighted to receive vaccination Randy Klaassen viting us to be vaccinated was sunshine, while the atmosphere Special to The Local addressed to “spiritual leaders had a touch of festivity. of Niagara’s Faith Communi- It wasn’t long until a fellow When COVID vaccines be- ties,” from Robert Bond, coor- behind us began voicing his gan to be offered, I shared with dinator of spiritual and religious opinion. “This whole thing is others, “I’ll wait my turn, but care with Niagara Health. After totally disorganized!” when it’s offered to me, I’ll be wading through the informa- Renate and I looked at each quick to sign up.” tion, we were surprised to make other. “Disorganized?” Among So, when my wife, Renate, an appointment for the next the hundreds of people, waiting and I both received notices last day. patiently in their respective lines, week that as spiritual leaders Niagara Health administers with a helpful security person we were eligible to make an ap- the Pfizer vaccine to targeted giving direction for people to pointment, we both registered. groups at the Seymour-Han- find the correct line for appoint- As an ordained minister, nah Sports and Entertainment ments. What’s disorganized? Renate serves as associate pas- Centre in St. Catharines. As This fellow commented several tor for German Worship, with instructed, we arrived at the times, “Totally disorganized . . . Niagara United Mennonite arena 10 minutes prior to our and disgraceful . . . ” followed by Randy and Renate Klaassen were invited to receive their vaccinations. (Randy Klaassen) Church on Niagara Stone Road, appointment, only to see a a few adjectives not fit for print. which has a significant mem- mostly-full parking lot, and sev- Justification for his complaint entered information into a com- watch the needle, yet it was so cellphone buzzed, with an email bership of seniors, whose first eral long lines of people. With was that he was not receiving his puter. Next we followed arrows quick and painless, I felt a bit confirmation of my vaccine. language is German. our screening forms and identi- vaccination on time. All I could on the floor to the arena, where cheated. As of the date of our vac- Until the COVID pandemic, fication in hand, we picked one think of were the times I’ve wait- someone directed each of us to a With instructions to take cinations, the Niagara Health Renate and I went in opposite of the lines to join, and soon a ed at a doctor’s office, or times desk, where health professionals a seat in the waiting area, I website indicated they had directions on Sunday morn- security person confirmed we standing in line at a theme park. were giving the vaccination. thanked the doctor, who placed administered 40,424 vaccina- ings, as I serve the St. Catharines were in the correct line for our This was nothing. The person I met intro- a sticker with the time of the tions, of which 3,036 were a United Mennonite Church, on appointment. In succession, each of the duced himself as a medical injection on my shirt. Fifteen second dose. Considering the Linwell Road near Vine Street. As a vaccination site, the St. lines moved ahead, in bunches, doctor. We chatted briefly, as he minutes to wait, should there be thousands more vaccinations There, as associate pastor, I serve Catharines arena at that time my guess was about 20 peo- reviewed my documents and I any negative reaction. to provide, standing in line for with a focus on seniors, helping was currently serving mainly ple per time slot. When it was rolled up my sleeve. Across the After the allotted time, the a period of time seemed like a them to finish life well. Niagara residents 75 years and our turn, once inside, a person rink something visually dis- final step in the process was to minor issue to deal with. We are often called upon over. In the lineup we felt a bit checked our health card, and tracted me, and the next thing I be checked out, which included We both felt grateful to re- to provide spiritual support for out of place, as “younger” faith confirmed our appointment. knew the doctor was placing a receiving a Ministry of Health ceive the vaccine, and know that those in palliative care, and to leaders. We trusted our ap- We were then directed to a band-aid on my shoulder. I seri- receipt documenting various as a community, we have a long officiate at funerals. pointment confirmation, and station where a person conduct- ously doubted I had been given aspects of the vaccination. Be- way to go before the COVID The notice we received in- waited our turn in the warm ed the screening process, and the vaccine. I had intended to fore leaving the building my virus will no longer be a threat.

NEW LISTING NEW LISTING NEW LISTING NEW LISTING

539 SIMCOE STREET 84 QUEENSTON STREET 406 VICTORIA STREET 379 SCOTT STREET #103 $1,395,000 $968,000 $1,295,000 $480,000 MLS 40088294 • Christopher Bowron MLS 40088906 • Thomas Elltoft and Kim Elltoft MLS 40086720 • Thomas Elltoft and Viviane Elltoft MLS 40083001 • Viviane Elltoft and Jane Elltoft and Nicole Vanderperk

SOLD SOLD NEW LISTING NEW PRICE

124 ARTHUR STREET 15 SAMUEL STREET 169 KING STREET 7 TUSCANY COURT $524,900 $1,034,000 $898,000 $769,000 MLS 40081337 • Cheryl Carmichael MLS 40022549 • Christopher Bowron MLS 40072958 • Thomas Elltoft and Kim Elltoft MLS 40077512 • Thomas Elltoft and Kim Elltoft and Nicole Vanderperk

333 WILLIAM STREET 11 HARMONY DRIVE 14555 NIAGARA RIVER PARKWAY 94 TANBARK ROAD $1,049,000 $1,795,000 $1,065,000 $1,699,000 MLS 40076002 • Victoria Bolduc and Sarah Gleddie MLS 40022872 • Christopher Bowron MLS 40080386 • Christopher Bowron MLS 40061263 • Thomas Elltoft and Kim Elltoft and Nicole Vanderperk and Nicole Vanderperk

Christopher Bowron*** .....905-468-2269 Nicole Vanderperk* ...... 905-941-4585 Christine Bruce* ...... 905-328-9703 Kim Elltoft** ...... 905-380-8011 Viviane Elltoft* ...... 905-468-2142 Linda Williams* ...... 905-401-4240 Randall Armstrong** ...... 905-651-2977 Thomas Elltoft* ...... 905-380-8012 Caroline Polgrabia* ...... 905-933-4983 Victoria Bolduc* ...... 905-941-3726 Jane Elltoft* ...... 905-988-8776 Patricia Atherton* ...... 905-933-4983 Philip Bowron* ...... 905-348-7626 Cheryl Carmichael* ...... 905-941-0276 Weston Miller* ...... 289- 213-8681 Bonnie Grimm* ...... 905-468-1256 Sarah Gleddie* ...... 905-685-2458 ***Broker of Record ** Broker *Sales Representative 109 Queen Street 905-468-3205 • St. Davids Office 905-262-6996 10 March 31, 2021 THE NOTLLocal notllocal.com Kids of all ages, especially teens, struggle with pandemic Penny Coles which is considered a way The pandemic makes when he’s experimenting open conversations with can talk about what they’re The Local into Pathstone, has a wait- it more difficult to focus with groups of friends may teens, and try to do more worried about, ensure ing list at this point. on specific issues, and the not be able to have that op- with them, to spend more the child is not alone, and It’s no surprise the pan- Many of the families and pandemic itself also has to portunity, impacting his time with them. have some positive con- demic is adding an extra children looking for help are be addressed. development. It’s also important to versations about the good burden to children and new clients, and Pathstone is While there is no one Teenagers and young understand why teenagers things that are happening. teens, especially those al- seeing many more than they age group being affected adults are at a stage when are reaching out to their “This is another tran- ready suffering with men- were pre-pandemic. by the pandemic, it affects social interaction is very friends through social me- sition phase of life, this is tal health issues. Before the pandemic, different age groups differ- important to their devel- dia. Are they just seeking something no-one has ex- Pathstone Mental Pathstone clients tended to ently. opment. It’s a time when that social interaction, or perienced before, but we Health provides a wide be “more grounded” with A baby six months or a they’re formulating their are they fearful about the do have the ability to figure range of clinical services their struggles, Helmecz year old may be impacted identity, but they’re not pandemic and reaching some things out,” he says. and programs for children explains. Now, because by not getting the attention able to do that because out to friends to be con- The pandemic “is a up to the age of 18, and of the extra stress of what required from his mother, they’re not in school, or soled? scary thing, a terrible with Niagara in the red they’re living through, it and the mother/child at- school has been erratic, If they are fearful, par- thing, and people are dy- zone, is now able to open can be more difficult to get tachment can be negatively and they’re not allowed ents need to have more ing,” he says. its walk-in clinics. to the specific issues that impacted. The mother or to go out to be with their conversations with them to But parents can also The pandemic is hav- are bothering them. parents may have to share friends. allay those fears. tell their kids most people ing an impact on kids of all Picture walking down a their time with other chil- Teenagers, having lost If they’re spending too won’t get sick and won’t ages, says Pathstone direc- dark street in an unfamiliar dren at home, who would the opportunity for in-per- much time on social media die. tor Bill Helmecz, and on neighbourhood, Helmecz normally be at school, or son social interactions, because they have nothing “You don’t know what their parents. Throughout suggests. “You might be they themselves may be may now be replacing else to do, then try to find kids are thinking,” and hav- this difficult time, services anxious and worried and stressed, confused, and them with interactions on things for them to do ing conversations to find have been adjusted to help distracted, and having a dealing with all the life social media and with- Make time to do things out what they are thinking clients as quickly as possi- concise or coherent con- stresses they haven’t had drawing from family. together, such as games and answering their ques- ble, and only one of their versation becomes a little before the pandemic. Helmecz says it’s im- nights. Find ways to inter- tions is important. programs, the brief service, more difficult.” A 10-year-old at the age portant to continue having act with children, he says. Try to help them un- “It’s more and more dif- derstand, and get a good ficult for parents to do that. sense of what’s really going They have their own issues, on, with information such helping kids with home- as “we know we can get Walk-in clinic in NOTL closed permanently work, doing their own job, through this, the vaccina- or maybe they’re stressed tions are coming.” Another NOTL location support, which is required also receive help. Youth financially and looking for For adults struggling to operate a clinic, in part may be feeling sadness, jobs.” with difficult situations, could be successful funded by the municipali- worry or anger, may be There may be little time such as financial difficul- ties. bullied, getting into trou- available for those inter- ties or a marriage break- Penny Coles underused, says Rossi. The Red Roof Retreat pro- ble, or feel they may hurt actions with children, or ing down, it may seem like The Local walk-in clinics in other vided a newly-renovated themselves — those are not as often as they might there is no solution, it can communities were a huge space at no charge, but it some of the concerns clini- hope, he says. help to write things down, A walk-in mental success, but in NOTL, it never received the number cians hear. “It’s always about com- begin to make a plan. health clinic, offering free, may have just been the of walk-ins the other clin- Teenagers in other lo- munication, always about This is a process that one-on-one counselling wrong location. Pathstone ics did, some days not see- cations usually come in having open conversa- can be used to teach valu- sessions for youth, is no staff had looked at a few ing anyone. on their own, says Rossi, tions. Parents will often say able lessons to children, longer available in Niaga- sites, but Red Roof Retreat Rossi says it could be but with no transportation ‘there’s nothing I can do.’ Helmecz says, thinking ra-on-the-Lake. on Concession 6 was the because it was not easily in NOTL to that location, but that’s not really true.” positively and proactively Which is unfortunate, one they chose. accessible, with no public that wasn’t working. Even as children go to improve our current sit- with Pathstone Mental The Pathstone mod- transportation at the time, Rossi says she would be through adolescence, and uation. Health “inundated” during el for providing mental or whether the community interested in trying again peers become more and “We don’t want to see the pandemic, receiving a health care for kids has wasn’t aware of the clinic at a different location, but more important, research pandemic burnout in chil- large increase in crisis and shifted to community-fo- and all it offered, although she needs buy-in from the shows parents still have in- dren,” he says. support calls, and requests cused, one-on-one coun- she did everything she town. fluence on their child, says As we get fed up with for other programs for selling. They have learned, could to advertise it. Lord Mayor Betty Dis- Helmecz. wearing masks or follow- families, and children up since opening the first In NOTL, the Town ero says she understood “Always recognize you ing the rules, our children to 18 years old. walk-in clinic three years had committed $10,000, when Pathstone closed can have conversations will follow us. All Pathstone walk-in ago in St. Catharines, that matching the same com- their clinic in NOTL, given with your teenager, and lis- They are going to pick clinics were shut down for in many cases, one or two mitment from the Niagara how few clients it saw, and ten as well. up on us not following the a time, and have reopened. sessions can provide kids Community Foundation was disappointed it didn’t Kids, teenagers are still rules, he says, “and they Pathstone is now offering with the coping skills and — the break-even point meet its potential in town. looking to their parents for will see that we get to pick three services: the crisis problem-solving needed for a one-day-a-week clin- She felt Pathstone had open conversations, not and choose what rules we call hotline, in-person vis- to deal with issues such as ic, with donated space, is another location for the just talking, but listening fo l l ow.” its and virtual visits. stress, anxiety and depres- $20,000 a year, she says. Monday clinic that would t o o.” What parents have al- The crisis phone line sion. The clinics help elimi- fill up the week, and wasn’t “Parents may walk ways done is taught chil- has led to 911 calls, says St. Catharines Brans- nate the long wait times for interested in continuing in away thinking it’s not the dren about managed risk. Kim Rossi, director of combe Health Centre now other Pathstone services NOTL. conversation you wanted “At some point we make philanthropy and pub- offers clinics five days a and programs, says Rossi, She would support try- to have, or the results you a decision as parents that lic relations, in response week, and satellite loca- but the most significant ing again, she says, and wanted to have, but keep our child can cross the to young people talking tions have opened one day improvement of the walk- would be happy to bring that conversation going.” road without holding our about suicide, drugs and a week in Niagara Falls, in model is the ability to it to council, but thinks How do parents know hand, and then at some eating disorders, among Fort Erie, Welland, Grims- provide counselling when a good start would be to when it’s more than they point cross the road them- other issues. by, Port Colborne, Beams- kids need it. Waiting can involve the Lord Mayor’s can cope with, that their selves, or go to pool parties The clinic in Niaga- ville, and most recently cause more complex issues, Youth Advisory Council. kids need outside help? even if they’re not the best ra-on-the-Lake was shut Thorold. she says. If Pathstone is willing It goes back to commu- swimmers. Life is full of down before the end of When the NOTL clin- Youth up to the age of to give it another try at a nication, he says. risks, and we have to help the year-long pilot proj- ic was closed, Rossi says 18 are welcome, and par- different location, she says, Adults are more our children to manage ect, and pre-pandemic, she believed there was “no ents who have concerns “I can’t imagine it not hap- equipped to deal with a because it was consistently appetite” for municipal about young children can pening.” pandemic than kids. They Continued on page 11

ROBERTBRADLEY DECORATING Painting in Niagara-on-the-Lake for more than 40 years. Robert Bradley T: 905.380.0298 E: [email protected] notllocal.com THE NOTLLocal March 31, 2021 11 Four-week workshop deals with letting go Penny Coles and had to be cancelled. If learning to let go during a discovered they not only workshop, Thursday, April can be done online at The Local the pandemic has taught pandemic, when so much worked well, but are some- 8 from 7 to 9 p.m., and you https://notlpubliclibrary. us anything, it’s that men- is out of our control, is es- thing he may continue to will be registered for the org. When something diffi- tal health is a very, very pecially timely. offer post-pandemic. other three dates as well. For more information cult happens to us in life, important part of our “We can hold on to Register for the first Program registrations call 905-468-2023. how many times have we well-being, in addition to things for a long time, but been told to “just let it go?” our physical and economic then we find ourselves in a How often have wesituations. Mental health stressful situation, and al- wished we could just let it needs to be something though we might not think go, knowing it’s not that we talk about. We’re all in we’re struggling, we start simple? COVID fatigue, and that to become anxious or de- Can we learn to let it makes us less able to cope pressed. We’re faced with a go? with the hard stuff we’re challenge — the control we Darcy Patrick, author, facing.” thought we had, we’ve lost.” public speaker and well- Patrick’s workshops We might deal with that ness writing coach, be- may be timely, in that his by going out with friends, lieves we can, and wants to advice on how to let go and talking to people, but help by showing us how. of things we can’t control while that coping mecha- He’s written a book could be more import- nism might have worked called The Big Let Go, and ant now than ever, adds in the past it’s not always for some time, Debbie Krause. possible in a pandemic. Krause, program co-or- Patrick had written Other issues such as dinator of the Niaga- three books before the wearing a mask and phys- ra-on-the-Lake Public arrival of COVID, and ical distancing can also be Library, has been trying also worked as a music seen as ways we are losing to organize a series of instructor. A health prob- control, says Patrick. workshops Patrick offers lem forced him to give up But it’s not just about to show us how to let go, his work with the public the pandemic — we all move on past trauma, re- during the pandemic, and have issues we could let go, linquish control, and take helped move forward the he says, such as family dis- charge of our lives. schedule for completion of agreements that fester. He also shares his tools The Big Let Go, also giving Letting go, he says, al- to help us get there, he him time to create a work- lows us to accept who we says, including forgive- shop series. are and find peace within ness, setting boundaries, He has other workshops ourselves. acceptance, changing per- he does for the Canadian A St. Catharines resi- spectives, and having faith military, and the first series dent, he also does work- in ourselves. on letting go was spread shops for the St. Catha- The virtual, interactive for them over six weeks. rines Public Library. workshops can accommo- When Krause asked for When the pandemic date up to 30 people, and a four-week series, he says, cancelled public appear- are designed for registra- he took “what was best ances, one of the issues he tion to include all four in from each” to work with had to let go was his feeling the series, spread over four her schedule. a virtual meeting couldn’t weeks. He believes people accomplish what in-per- “He’s been on our ra- crave control, and think son workshops could, he dar for a long time,” says being in control is good says. Krause. “He was sched- for them. Losing control He agreed to do some uled to come last spring, builds anxiety, he says, so virtual workshops, and Three services offered Continued from page 10 says. session, Monday-Fri- Instead, we have to help day. those risks.” them understand decisions * Walk-in clinic, in-per- That includes following are being made on the best son sessions: Monday to COVID rules and restric- information that is avail- Friday in St. Catharines; tions, he says. able to us. Mondays in Welland For example, if we de- In the long term, we and Thorold; Tuesdays cide to drop off a birthday have no way of knowing in Fort Erie; Wednes- gift for a family member or what impact the pandemic days in Port Colborne Darcy Patrick will offer four virtual sessions, organized through the NOTL Public Library, about friend, we may decide to will have on children of all and Grimsby; and The Big Let Go. (Photo supplied) take our mask off if we’re ages, long past the point of Thursdays in Niagara six feet away and only go- vaccinations, he says. Falls and Beamsville. ing to be there for a few “We can only do our An appointment is re- minutes, and we’re out- best to be ready to address quired for in-person or side, where there is less risk issues as they come up.” video walk-in clinic ser- of transmission, he says. Pathstone Mental vices and can be made by “We’re teaching them to Health’s eight walk-in clin- calling 1-800-263-4944, problem-solve and manage ics are open across Niagara with same day or advance 28 Aberdeen Lane S., those risks in certain situ- for in-person counselling appointments available for Niagara-on-the-Lake ations, still staying within sessions, with appoint- off-site locations. Path- $1,399,000 the parameters of what is ments required. stone Mental Health is a allowed.” Pathstone offers free, lead agency and commu- Exquisite Townhome, Private It’s confusing for all of immediate, mental health nity-based organization Elevator, Spectacular view us, adults and children, support without a referral whose mission it is to pro- Overlooking Ravine when science is different or health card needed, for vide innovative and effec- around the world, science children and youth from tive treatment for all chil- Looking to Sell? is allowing us to do things birth to age 18. dren in Niagara diagnosed We have Buyers for differently in different You can visit Pathstone with mental health issues. every price range! countries, but the experts in any of three ways. Thanks to support from Call us! are not talking about cer- * The Crisis and Support our donors and volunteers, tain factors such as mar- Line at 1-800-263-4944 we are able to address and Will Miller, Broker gins of error, or density of connects to a Pathstone meet the needs of children Sally Miller, Sales Representative population, or probability, counsellor, 24/7, 365 and their families as the leaving out information to days a year. primary accredited provid- Matt Miller, Sales Representative explain why different areas * Walk-in clinics, ac- er of mental health services 416.476.3526 | www.millergroupproperties.com do things differently, he cessed through video for children in Niagara. 12 March 31, 2021 THE NOTLLocal notllocal.com Love and ice wine filmed at Peller Estates Mike Balsom required to check in with Special to The Local the company’s COVID medic. A series of clear- Though they wereance questions were asked blocked from shooting and answered, a mask was scenes on Queen Street required, and a face shield this week, a Toronto-based was provided for this re- crew of about 45 techni- porter to wear. The crew cians, builders, caterers was on a break at the time, and actors spent four days and it was clear that physi- filming a new movie at Pel- cal distancing was in effect. ler Estates. As well, major changes to Beginning on a warm their craft services means spring day last Wednes- all meals were served indi- day, the winery was vidually wrapped. transformed into a win- Despite his assuranc- try Hudson Valley, New es, Broughton’s request to York fictional destina- shoot the outdoor scenes tion named Hollingbrook on Queen and Market Vineyard. Streets was turned down. A new sign was hung CAO Marnie Cluckie said in the main entrance and Broughton’s application a carpet of fake snow was came through in mid- Associate producer Alex Broughton of Chesler Perlmutter Productions prepares to film at Peller Estates Winery last week.(Photos laid on the island round- March, and that these by Mike Balsom) about to set the scene for types of requests usually Love and Ice Wine, a Hall- take four to six weeks to mark Channel movie that review. began shooting Thursday. “We require a fair bit of Produced by Chesler Per- information, and it takes lmutter Productions, the time for the various groups made-for-TV film will pre- at the town to review,” ex- miere in winter, 2022. plained Cluckie. “We want Love and Ice Wine stars to make sure the busi- Nazneen Contractor as ness impact is minimized, Cristina, a food and wine that garbage collection is writer, who visits a win- addressed, that there’s a ery she had panned in the fire safety plan with ac- past, owned and operated cess, road closures are ad- by a single dad, Michael, dressed, and a number of played by Brennan Elliot. other things. At the time Both actors will be familiar that he submitted it, there to fans of Hallmark Chan- wasn’t adequate time for nel productions. Director that circulation.” Don McBrearty, a veteran On Tuesday last week, of the Canadian television Broughton moved on to and film industry (Mur- Plan B. He quickly reached doch Mysteries, Heartland, out to his contacts in Cam- Road to Avonlea, Magical bridge, and informed The Director Don McBrearty works with Nazneen Contractor as Cristina, and Michael, played by Brennan Elliot, in the vineyards Christmas Ornaments) is at Local he was expecting of Peller Estate Winery. the helm. an answer in 24 hours Associate producer and from that municipality. By location manager Alexan- Thursday, Cambridge had der Broughton expressed given him the go-ahead, frustration that plans to and the crew moved there shoot along Queen Street this week. this Monday and Tuesday In the meantime, shoot- were nixed last week by Ni- ing went on as planned agara-on-the-Lake council. last weekend at Peller. In “All the businesses I keeping with the theme of talked to (Just Christmas, the film’s title, rows of arti- Hatley Boutique, Cheese ficial ice wine grapes were Secrets),” claims Brough- set up next to the vineyard ton, “were super happy to just northwest of the Pel- have us. I was extremely ler building. Plump, juicy disappointed, and frustrat- grapes covered in frost ed. They (council) told me hung from vines, over an- I didn’t give them enough other carpet of fake snow. time to address all of the Though the scene did COVID concerns.” get rained on during last Speaking to council last Wednesday’s storm, the week, Broughton said that set-up certainly looked despite the lower budget convincing. for this particular film, a “The main characters Since the movie involves the stars picking grapes for ice wine, snow is an essential element of the outdoor set. lot of investment was made will be walking through, into COVID protocols. and they’ll be picking the which Elliot’s character is Broughton had chosen for Broughton added that a is such a beautiful town,” “We are the second grapes,” said Broughton. tutoring Contractor’s on the scene. number of local actors had he says. “The network, most heavily regulated “And we have a night scene the tricky, yet rewarding, “It’s beautiful, it’s (a) been enlisted to be in that Hallmark, really loved the industry outside of the tonight, as they usually details of growing grapes huge production value,” scene, though he was un- town, and we (Chesler healthcare industry. There pick the grapes at night for ice wine. It’s clear that, said Vaughn. “Everybody able to provide any names. Perlmutter Productions) hasn’t been a spread in our because of the frost. The keeping with the title once at Peller Estates has been Despite the frustration really love the town. I have industry because we take a whole scene will be about again, love seems to be lovely to deal with. It’s com- of having to move the shoot a good relationship with a lot of precautions,” he told eight minutes.” brewing between the two. pletely perfect. It’s romantic, to Cambridge Monday, lot of different towns. But council. “The amount of Camera operators, Executive producer it’s escapist, it’s all of that. It’s Broughton, whose position I’ve had Cambridge pull regulations that they (lo- sound technicians, script Robert Vaughn was on been a great experience.” as a location manager in- my permits before when cal businesses) go through assistants and sets and the set with director Mc- On Friday, the produc- volves scouting sites, nego- we went into lockdown, to open up isn’t nearly as props people gathered on Brearty. The veteran of tion went indoors for a tiating with local officials, and I had to go look for much as we go through on the white snow blanket. Hallmark productions, as wine tasting scene shot in and scheduling shooting, another town. It’s about a regular basis.” Contractor and Elliot, well as movies for Lifetime, the cellar room. An out- looks forward to someday building these new rela- Indeed, on a visit to both wearing masks, ap- Universal Pictures, and door party scene, requiring returning to town when the tionships with a town and the set at Peller Estates proached the vineyards Animal Planet, was im- a number of extras, was also situation calls for it. knowing what my limita- March 25, The Local was to block the scene, during pressed with the location planned for the weekend. “Niagara-on-the-Lake tions are and aren’t.” notllocal.com THE NOTLLocal March 31, 2021 13 LocalSPORTS Ice Dog star playing pro hockey in Germany Mike Balsom Special to The Local Former Niagara Ice Dog Alex Friesen is in the thick of his third season playing profes- sional hockey in Germany. The centre has notched six goals and nine assists in 17 games this year for the Fischtown Pinguins, who play out of the port city of Bremerhaven. The 30-year-old has missed more than a dozen games with a groin tear in a season already truncated by the pandemic. The Pinguins sit comfortably in sec- ond place in the Northern Divi- sion of the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL-2), the second tier German professional hockey league. With 10 games left to play, they are almost certainly assured of a spot in the short- ened playoffs, which begin after April 18. The son of Helmut and Lucy Friesen of Virgil has been play- ing professionally since his five years with the IceDogs came to an end in 2012. Drafted by Local Alex Friesen is in his third year of a professional German hockey league. (Photos supplied) the Vancouver Canucks in the sixth round in 2010, his sec- and play a little more, but it was at his grandparents’ business, Pil- of the DEL-2 teams to continue reworked. For next year some hockey. Options for the future ond year of eligibility, Friesen aw e s om e .” litteri Estates Winery. They were beyond this season without fans teams are now putting in clauses include starting a hockey school spent five years playing in the He remembers fondly his both enlisted by his brother-in- in the stands. where, if there’s 50 per cent or 25 back here in Canada, and im- American Hockey League, three seasons in Utica, only a few law, Michael Zappitelli, to sup- “I know next year, this league per cent fans, your salary is go- mersing himself more fully in three with the Utica Comets. He hours away in New York state. In port him with his BarrelHead needs to have fans in some ca- ing to reflect that.” the family’s wine business. crossed the Atlantic for a spot 2014-15 he helped the Com- Pizza operation. With the pan- pacity to play,” Friesen laments. Assuming the league can You can be sure if he runs with Leksands Idrottsförening ets reach the Calder Cup Final, demic still a factor in Germany, “The hope is that things go weather the pandemic storm, that hockey school out of Virgil’s in the top-tier Swedish Hock- where they fell in five games to they had an extended time at smoothly with the vaccine so and he can stay healthy, Friesen Centennial Sports Park, his pop- ey League in 2017-2018, then the Manchester Monarchs. home, as their return to Europe that come September we can plans to play a few more years ularity from his IceDogs days moved to Bremerhaven the fol- But his days with the IceDogs, was delayed until September. have some fans in the arenas. in Germany before considering and his professional experience lowing season. whose first year in Niagara coin- “We had exhibition games This year, all contracts were a career beyond professional will make it a popular choice. Friesen is enjoying the com- cided with Friesen’s first season and practices in November,” petition level in the league. “At with them, remain some of his Friesen recalls, “but the season the last Olympics, Germany favourite times. He and fellow didn’t start until December. Time to update for Spring 2021! came in second,” he says. “The NOTL native Johnson Andrews There are 14 teams, in two di- German talent pool has grown were two of the most popular visions, North and South. For over the last 15 years. Each team players amongst fans. the first 24 games all we did was Advertise can have nine import players. “It was definitely a fun five play the northern teams, so we We have players from Canada, years,” Friesen reflects. “Getting didn’t have to stay over in hotels. your business the USA, all over Europe.” drafted by them, having it be Now we’re playing the southern in our He continues, “Tim Stützle my hometown team, was a huge teams, playing one game away, played in our league. He was factor. In terms of community then one game at home.” drafted third overall last year. He outreach, every week we were Life is different for the cou- played for (Adler) Mannheim out at some school appearance ple this year with COVID-19 last year, and obviously he’s do- or community event.” of course. When they arrived in ing pretty well with Ottawa. The In 292 regular season OHL November they were still able to Spring league has a lot of good young games, Friesen notched 91 get out to restaurants and enjoy HOME and older German players, and goals and 244 points. He add- much of what Bremerhaven has Improvement players from around the world.” ed another 51 points, including to offer. But with cases spiking in Reflecting on his days in the 14 goals, in 61 playoff games. December, lockdowns became Section AHL, Friesen admits the goal was In Game 5 of the 2012 Eastern a reality, as traditions such as always to crack the roster of an Conference Final against Otta- the popular Christkindlmarkts NHL team. But he kept his op- wa, Friesen was the hometown were cancelled. tions open in the back of his mind. hero, scoring the game winner Normally the couple takes Headline Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt commodo quis imperdiet massa ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Arcu. Vitae elementum curabitur Elit scelerisque mauris pellen- vitae. Aliquam etiam erat velit suspendisse in est. tesque pulvinar pellentesque. “The best way to get a spot in the second period, sending scelerisque in dictum non. Sit amet tellus cras adipiscing Headline advantage of short breaks in the Ornare massa eget egestas purus Sit amet massa vitae tortor enim eu turpis. Interdum viverra accumsan. 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Vitae - amet, consectetur adipiscing donec et odio pellentesque diam quam vulputate dignissim leo urna molestie at elementum justo eget magna fermentum. elit, sed do eiusmod tempor volutpat commodo. Pharetra eu. Ligula ullamcorper malesua Turpis egestas maecenas pharetra incididunt ut labore et dolore diam sit amet nisl. Lobortis da proin libero nunc. Laoreet sit convallis posuere. magna aliqua. Elit scelerisque feugiat vivamus at augue eget - Sit amet tellus cras adipiscing mauris pellentesque pulvinar arcu dictum varius. Publication Dates: enim eu turpis. Interdum pellentesque. Ornare massa eget OHL Championship Series. Vulputate mi sit amet mauris velit laoreet id donec ultrices Friesen. “But it was always a ble this past year, but they are still egestas purus viverra accumsan. tincidunt. Sed risus pretium Pharetra convallis posuere morbi quam vulputate dignissim leo urna molestie at elementum eu. Ligula ullamcorper malesua da proin libero nunc. Laoreet sit thought that, later in the career, As well, Friesen received the enjoying their time in Germany. April 7, 14, 21 and 28 - if things didn’t work out that it 2008 Ivan Tennant Award, giv- “We live close to other fami-

FINANCING AVAILABLE could be a possibility to play en to the OHL’s top academic lies, guys from the team,” he says. Booking Deadline: Monday at ______www.niagarahottubs.com As low as 905.468.2412 $ 905. 684 . 077065/mo We’ve Moved up the Creek to Showroom Hours: Monday-Friday 9:30-5:30, 1573 Four Mile Creek Rd, Virgil over in Europe.” high school student. He was “We’ve been able to socialize Saturday 10-5, Sunday by appointment noon for each publication week Follow Us On Friesen did get the call from also named a third team all-star within the parameters of what is #upacreek the Canucks, making his NHL during his final OHL season, af- allowed with our teammates. It’s *Special Bonus For Minimum 1/4 Page Ad debut at home on February 15, ter recording 71 points (26 goals nice, because we have a kind of We will match your minimum quarter page ad size with equal space 2016 against the Minnesota and 45 assists) in 62 games. network around us.” for your submitted story about your product or service. Wild. It would be the only game “I’m still in touch with some Like in Canada, Friesen says he played in the league. of the guys,” he says. “Johnson the frustration in Germany of NOTL businesses contact “That was one of the high- and I have been friends since late has been with how slow- Karen at 905-641-5335 lights of my career,” he enthuses. we were five years old. Guys like ly the vaccines have been ad- or [email protected] “My parents, my girlfriend (now (Andrew) Aggozino, (Steven) ministered across the country. wife, Allie), my aunt, my sister, a Shipley, (Mike) Schwindt, we Though not in a complete lock- Businesses outside NOTL contact bunch of people all came out to get together at least once a sum- down as of press time, Friesen Julia at 905-934-1040 watch the game. It was a great mer for a round of golf.” says that only grocery stores are or [email protected] experience. Obviously it would Last summer, Friesen and Al- currently allowed to open. have been nice to stick around lie were back home helping out He worries about the ability 14 March 31, 2021 THE NOTLLocal notllocal.com LocalSPORTS Despite schedule changes, weekend works out for Friesen Mike Balsom Special to The Local For Niagara-on-the- Lake’s Stewart Friesen, a weekend that included an uncharacteristically large amount of downtime end- ed up in two relative suc- cesses and one very big disappointment in Bristol, Tennessee. Saturday was supposed to see the debut of Jessi- ca Friesen, Stewart’s wife, in the NASCAR Camp- ing World Truck Series. Jessica was able to get in some practice laps in her number 62 Toyota Friday, but that would be all the time she would have in the truck on the weekend. She needed to run a qualifying heat for the chance to end up in the main event, the Pinty’s Truck Race on Dirt. But rain and wind wreaked havoc on the track, forcing the cancellation of all qual- Stop #3 is complete, with both rear tires replaced, and 100 laps to go. (Screenshots) ifiers, after only one muddy lap that left the grilles and windshields of the trucks call off both of those races er via a Facebook video, the finish. “It was a long, covered with thick, red and push them to Monday. with the truck going from really tough, challenging mud. Without the qualifier, When conditions were a little tight on the track to racetrack. Daytime condi- Jessica was left out of the finally conducive for rac- too loose. “We were really tions were really tough, we race, and her number 62 ing Monday at noon, good early in the grip, and were able to make some truck was sent home. Stewart started off strong then just blew off and we passes early, get up on the NASCAR rejigged in the truck, holding the missed it.” top and get rolling, then the schedule, moving the fourth position after stage The finish earnedjumped the cushion once. Pinty’s Truck Race to an 1, and the seventh in stage Friesen enough points to We kind of lost visibility earlier time slot on Sun- 2. Martin Truex Jr. won continue his hold on fifth with the dust and the sun day, with Stewart’s debut the race, holding on to the place in the Truck Series on the windshield. All in in the NASCAR Cup Se- top spot for 105 of the 150 standings. all, we survived.” ries Food City Dirt Race laps. Friesen finished 12th. At 4 p.m., Friesen rolled Good news came Sun- scheduled for 3:30 p.m. “With the 52, we kind his Halmar Racing Sprite day, by the way, for Jes- that same day. Again, con- of missed the balance of Motorsports Cup car to sica. That day, Stewart ditions forced NASCAR to it a little bit,” he said lat- start in the 32nd position. announced on SiriusXM He entered his first stop NASCAR Radio’s Morning with a bit of damage to the Drive show that his wife sheet metal from contact, would be returning with HAPPENINGS but climbed to 25th with the number 62 Toyota Local 200 laps left. Tundra to qualify at Knox- Friesen continued to ville Raceway on July 9. It FISH FRY move up, and for a while will be another truck race Thursday, April 8 had cracked the top 20. on dirt, part of Knoxville’s 4 - 6:30 p.m. But he finished the race Corn Belt Weekend. Stewart Friesen explained his Monday races in a video. TAKEOUT ONLY placing 23rd. Thirty-year- And more good news CASH ONLY old Joey Logano of Con- followed the Cup Series 1 or 2 piece dinner necticut took the check- race on Monday. Friesen with fries and coleslaw “Hopefully it’s at night,” Cup Series patch on his Drive-thru to order ered flag. discovered NASCAR had he laughed. “Daytime dirt- shoulder, he added, “I’m “I’m pretty happy, I announced during the race track racing stinks. But happy to have this patch Join us for our first week back! brought the number 77 that Bristol would hold the it’s just the nature of the on my fire suit. It’s pretty Royal Canadian Legion Br. 124 | 410 King St., Halmark Chevy home with same race on the dirt again b e a s t .” darn cool. On to the next 905-468-2353 | [email protected] a top-25,” he said following in 2022. Patting the NASCAR on e .” THE BRAIN ~ 7 WEEK LECTURE SERIES WITH DR. BILL BROWN ~ 14+ WORSHIP April 7 @ 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. Join Dr. Brown for an informational and enlighten- Local ing lecture series about “The Brain”. This 7 week lec- ture series will be presented over Zoom on Wednes- days. Attendance is limited, please register as soon Friday, April 2 To advertise your as possible. Please visit https://notlpubliclibrary.org for details and to register. Zoom log-in information 10 a.m. Good Friday Service will be emailed to all participants at least 24 hours (Register at www.ccchurch.ca) before each event. Topics: Week I – The Evolution Sunday, April 4 Worship Services of the Brain. Week II – Tools for Studying the Brain. 9 a.m. & 11 a.m. Easter Sunday Service in this section, please contact: Week III – Simple Systems. Live stream available PLACE YOUR COMING EVENT Sundays at 10:00 am COMMUNITY SOCIAL HERE Please be advised that with the current state of COVID-19, your safety With or without a border, colour graphics optional. [email protected] is of utmost importance to us. Include your Logo! Prices starting at $20. Deadline: Monday 3 p.m. Call Karen 905-641-5335 www.ccchurch.ca or email: [email protected] notllocal.com THE NOTLLocal March 31, 2021 15 Compassionate Transparent No Pressure CLASSIFIEDS www.morganfuneral.com Local [email protected] CROSSWORD AND SUDOKU HELP WANTED

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Across: 48 Play on words 15 --- Building, now the 1 Sizable 49 Computer brains Comcast Building, N Y C 4 First Lady before Mamie 50 Some foreign Government 20 Graceful waterbird Sell your unwanted 8 Speedy heads 22 Lasting mark 12 Flintstone pet 51 Tree with a partridge at 26 Logical operator items or advertise your 13 Large international show Christmas 28 Viral genetic material EARN 14 “I am just --- boy, though 52 Adult female pig 29 Mary Jane garage sale in our my story’s seldom told ...” 55 Interlock 30 Flee EXTRA (Simon and Garfunkel, 58 --- Silvers or Collins 31 Court statement “The Boxer”) 60 Singer/songwriter --- Mars 32 Heavenly instrument CA$H CLASSIFIEDS 16 North of Tex. 62 Thespian 33 Fabric colors 17 Take --- Train (Duke 64 Line about which rotation 34 Hill dwellers Ellington song) occurs 35 Emblem of Wales To place your classified ad, contact Karen: 18 Upper story 66 M --- mouse 36 Large number 19 Totters 67 Formerly the Gold Coast 37 2,000 to a ton [email protected] 21 European mountain system 68 Model and actress --- Suvari 40 Arabic “son of” 23 “Copacabana” showgirl 69 Liquor measure 41 Slugger’s stat. 24 Tucson time 70 Adhere to 43 Common measure of Deadline: Mondays at 3 p.m. 25 Barrier 71 Toboggan pollutants 27 Holler 72 A T M ID 44 Turning point 29 Sheet of glass 45 Health club 30 Computer interconnection Down: 46 Edge of a street system 1 E.g. Schwinns 49 Singer --- Dion 31 Higher degree 2 Arm of the sea 50 Ring 34 Marzipan base 3 Target 51 Screen dot 37 Tomb Raider --- Croft 4 Gamble 52 Osaka fish dish 38 Not ordained 5 Breathe out 53 Aromatic bulbous vegetable 39 Undiluted 6 Incantation 54 Habit 40 Big Blue 7 Cleaner 55 Journal 41 This place 8 Aviation safety grp. 56 Reverberation 42 Sawbuck 9 Fittingly 57 Dagger thrust 43 Chemical pollutants 10 “Licence to Kill” Bond girl 59 Overactors banned in 1975 Talisa --- 61 Coarse file 45 Leftovers 11 Labor strenuously 63 Flat fish 47 Space viewed from below 12 Campus housing 65 Down

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