The Weather Network
May. 18, 2022 | Wednesday
Staff Profile
Evan Saunders, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Grayson Tataryn, Ruby Elltoft, Preston Bowslaugh, teacher Rachel Debon, Mia Phillips, Zara Phillips and head of school Julia Murray sit in front of Royal Oak School. (Evan Saunders)
News
Kids helping kids: Royal Oak students fundraise for summer camp
Dr. Mustafa Hirji. (File)
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COVID cases trending downward but not deaths, Hirji says
Candidate for Lord Mayor, Gary Zalepa. Zalepa says he wants to ensure the town has financial stability and advocates effectively to higher tiers of government. (File)
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Zalepa challenging Disero for mayoralty
Lord Mayor Betty Disero fills out her official application to run for Lord Mayor in the municipal election this fall. (Evan Saunders)
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More than 1,000 residents sign Disero's nomination papers
The intersection of Church and McNab is getting a four-way stop. (Evan Saunders)
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Four-way stop coming to Church and McNab
Madison Sabourin, Mallory Steinburg, Sophie Hawthorne and Meghan McMeekin won a hard-fought legal victory against Denis Morris at a mock trial held in the Superior Court of Justice on May 6. (Evan Saunders)
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NOTL teens help lead their high school to victory in mock trial
Terry Flynn has worked for Niagara EMS for decades and knows first hand the struggles frontline workers have gone through during the pandemic, he said.
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Terry Flynn representing Liberals in Niagara Centre
Kelyn Best, Elaina Jones and her mother Jean Marie Jones on reconciliation, residential schools and moving forward positively at the announcement of the founding of the Niagara Parks Foundation on April 22. (Evan Saunders)
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Niagara Parks Commission launches fundraising arm
Hockey, soccer, baseball, basketball, lacrosse — Mike Cwiertniewski has played them all. The father of two is now busy coaching soccer and hockey for NOTL's leagues. (Evan Saunders)
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The play's the thing: Award-winning NOTL hockey coach gets ready for soccer season
Steve Watson and Don Johnston from Global GPR Services and Jim Russell puzzle over a soil anomaly in the Negro Burial Ground on Mississauga Street. (Evan Saunders)
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Work begins to identify early Black Canadians buried in NOTL cemetery
Coun. Allan Bisback will be running for a second term. (Evan Saunders/File)
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Election season begins. Provincial and municipal races start ... now
The medals for the Canada Summer Games. Note the 13 waves at the bottom which represent Niagara Falls, the 13 territories and provinces and the 13 Niagara municipalities hosting the games. (Niagara 2022 Canada Summer Games)
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NOTL artist designs Canada Summer Games medals
The Negro Burial Ground on Mississauga Street is getting renamed as the Niagara Baptist Church Burial Ground by the Ontario Heritage Trust. (Evan Saunders)
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Heritage trust renames NOTL's historic Negro Burial Ground
Alicia Robinson digs the first of thousands of holes to plant saplings in Two Mile Creek on Monday. (Evan Saunders)
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4,700 trees being planted along Two Mile Creek
A coyote cross John Street West in Niagara-on-the-Lake. After more than 100 coyote sightings and several confrontations with people and pets, the Town of NOTL is trying to educate the public on the best ways to deal with the wild animals. (Richard Harley/File)
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Food sources need to removed or coyote problem will persist, experts agree
The curious canids are causing problems for residents and themselves as they increasingly search for food in residential neighbourhoods. (File)
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Town received more than 100 reports of coyote sightings in three weeks
Deputy Lord Mayor Clare Cameron will not seek re-election as a municipal councillor. (Sourced/Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake)
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Clare Cameron not running for re-election
Chamber president Minerva Ward said it is important for the town and chamber to engage with businesses and residents to con struct a sustainable tourism model for NOTL. (Supplied)
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Chamber president plans to address psychological strain of tourism on residents
Scott Robinson is encouraging the Town of NOTL to get up-to-speed on provincial requirements to allow secondary dwelling units in residential homes. He notes those unites cannot legally be used as short-term rentals. (Evan Saunders)
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Town urged to legalize basement apartments to ease housing crunch
Tom and Cathy Troke said they love seeing and hearing people use Virgil's outdoor pickleball courts, with Tom saying he has missed the sound since the courts were closed. (Evan Saunders)
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Pickleball can be noisy, but neighbours say they enjoy living next to courts
Rick Coyne, Tony Chisolm and Rick Meloen were slinging burgers and knowledge at a Heritage Trail fundraising barbecue on april 22. (Evan Saunders)
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Residents anticipate next phase of heritage trail reconstruction
Anastasia, Artur, Tatiana and Oleksandra Tymchyshyn take a family photo in front of Niagara Falls after arriving in Canada from Ukraine three weeks ago. (Photo supplied by Artur Tymchyshyn)
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Weekend garage sale to help Ukrainian refugee family in Niagara
Taylor's Bakery on Queen Street will re-open as a Dairy Queen. (Evan Saunders)
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Taylor's Bakery to reopen as a Dairy Queen
A father and son enjoy some pickleball at the Centennial Sports Park. (File)
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Neighbour claims pickleball noise is 'torture,' takes town and club to court
Coyotes are a long-time wild resident of Niagara-on-the-Lake and the Town will be hosting an information on April 27 to help residents b etter understand how wildlife authorities work to control their interactions with residential neighbourhoods. (File)
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Town to host coyote information session on April 27
Economist Tom McCormack presents an economic analysis of the town during a recent council meeting. (Sourced)
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Niagara-on-the-Lake an economically ‘unique’ town, consultant says-
Family and Children's Services Niagara Foundation is teaming up with Mountainview Building Group to raise money for kids across the region to attend camp this summer. (Sourced)
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Take a stand: Children's Services needs volunteers for summer camp fundraiser
Dr. Mustafa Hirji says a provincewide approach to dealing with the latest COVID-19 wave is essential, not just localized reactions. (File)
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Provincial action needed now, COVID situation will only worsen: Hirji
Resident of the Village, Brad Hamilton, says neighbours in the area no longer let their kids play outside as paranoia around a prowling coyote grows. Hamilton is pictured here with his dog Tanner and a large club for defence should a coyote try to go after his dog. (Evan Saunders)
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Walk tall and carry a big stick: Garrison resident fears more coyote confrontations
In response to a slew of encounters involving coyotes in residential neighbourhoods, the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake is planning an information session for residents. (File)
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Town plans information session on coyotes
Patrick Brown makes his case to NOTLers as his run for Conservative party leader ramps up. (Evan Saunders)
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Patrick Brown brings his Conservative leadership bid to NOTL
A coyote spotted casually roaming the streets of Garrison Village. (Helen Gadsby)
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Garrison Village residents living in fear of coyotes
Bonnie and Clair Boyda search through some of Liz Hawley's staging items at the sale on York Road on Sunday. (Evan Saunders)
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Hundreds turn out to support Hawley family's sale of treasures
Darah Adeyiwola performs a graceful pose after her routine. (Evan Saunders)
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After two-year hiatus, NOTL figure skaters get chance to show off their skills
Lynn Weiner and her painting "Balzac's Cafe." It's on display now at the NOTL Pumphouse Arts Centre. (Evan Saunders)
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New Pumphouse exhibit showcases NOTL Arts Collective members
The town has set out this list of goals to address climate change in Niagara-on-the-Lake. (Sourced)
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NOTL Adapts: Town unveils climate change plan
The intersection of York and Concession 6 roads is now an all-way stop. (Evan Saunders)
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Dangerous York and Con. 6 intersection getting four-way stop
A rendering of Stone Eagle Winery's main building. The cupola on the roof brings the total height to 22 metres, nearly seven metres higher than the next tallest building in the immediate area, the Garrison Village commercial centre. (Sourced)
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New Stone Eagle Winery will exceed height of nearby buildings, council told
A coyote tears into a bag of garbage in Garrison Village. (Supplied)
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Killing coyotes is not the answer, expert says
A coyote pops a squat on a Garrison Village lawn. (Supplied)
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Town doing all it can to address coyotes, CAO says
Lynne Hanna, Vlad Haltigin, Lord Mayor Betty Disero, Laurie Harley, Margaret Walker and Carrol Morris demonstrate the new outfits the NOTL ambassadors will be wearing this year. (Evan Saunders)
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NOTL ambassadors turn loving 'their' town into an art form
Maya Webster needs the help of Niagara-on-the-Lake to find a cure for type one diabetes. (Evan Saunders)
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NOTL hero Maya Webster needs help in quest to cure diabetes
Ken Reid is suing the town for severance pay, saying his lawyers are arguing he was a contract employee and not simply a contractor with the town. (Evan Saunders/File)
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Former canine control officer sues town for severance
The shelves at Newark Neighbours are uncommonly bare as Easter draws near. (Evan Saunders)
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Shelves are bare at Newark Neighbours food bank
Staff placed on leave because of the town's vaccination policy will be returning on April 4. (File)
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Suspended workers can return, as town ends mandatory vaccination policy
Ken Reid has launched Wilderness Animal Services to help NOTLers deal with any wildlife related issues. (Evan Saunders)
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Reid launches his own wild animal rescue service
Farmworkers pick out essential supplies and clothing from the Farmworker Hub. (Richard Harley)
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Overladen Farmworker Hub asks community to hold donations
Julian Trachsel at Newark Park on Niven Road. The park will soon be home to NOTL's newest community garden after a nearly year long push by Trachsel to make it happen. (Evan Saunders)
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One man's push brings community garden to Niven Road
Dr. Mustafa Hirji said paid sick days are essential in promoting a culture where people do not go into work if they are sick. (File)
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We've entered a new wave of COVID-19, Hirji warns
Lord Mayor Betty Disero and Pumphouse Arts Centre chair Lise Andreana admire some of the 1,400 hand-folded origami cranes on display at the NOTL Community Centre. (Evan Saunders)
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1,400 hand-folded cranes honour essential workers and pandemic heroes
Chris Wormwell and Lida Kowal Curtis became fast friends when raising donations for Ukraine brought them together. Both their fathers fled the Ukraine under soviet rule in the 1940s and feel their work to help the country carries on their parents' legacies. (Evan Saunders)
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United by war, they carry on fathers' legacies
The Niagara Alternative Learning Alliance will be reopening on April 4 after working with the Ministry of Education to function as a legitimate private school. (Evan Saunders)
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Niagara Alternative Learning Alliance reopening as legitimate private school
Dr. Mustafa Hirji said Canadians have had better protection against COVID-19 than other countries thanks to spreading out our vaccine doses. (File)
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Hirji says no plan yet for fourth vaccine shot, but he's wary of potential variant-driven surge
This map shows the number of short-term rentals in the Chautauqua neighbourhood. Based on available data from the Niagara Region, there are roughly 250 home's in Chautauqua, nearly 10 per cent are villas or cottage rentals which have no permanent resident. (Graphic by Evan Saunders/Richard Harley)
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Chautauqua risks being hollowed out by short-term rentals, council told
Tom Samolczyk said he is still wearing a mask because COVID-19 has not gone anywhere and there "will be" a spike in cases. (Evan Saunders)
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It's now optional but many are still wearing masks 
Joanne Young and Betty Knight asked council to engage in extensive collaboration with residents and organizations to enhance the Community Centre's green space. (File)
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Master gardeners want town to expand, enhance community centre green space
Advocates, residents and migrants workers march in front of NOTL's town hall to stand up against racism and call for permanent residency for all migrant workers. (Evan Saunders)
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Advocates march against racism, urge citizenship for migrant workers
The "Negro Burial Ground" on Mississauga Street is an important landmark of NOTL as a safe haven for enslaved Americans throughout the 19th century. (Evan Saunders)
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Honouring the dead: Town agrees to man's plan to identify early Black Canadians buried in NOTL
Director of operations Sheldon Randall is retiring after 25 years with the town. (Richard Harley/File)
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Sheldon Randall retiring after 25 years with the town
Daria Zakharchenko's mother, father and grandmother live in Kyiv. She says her parents sleep in their apartment hallway for protection from Russian bombs. (Evan Saunders)
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While bombs fall around her family, one Niagara woman staves off helplessness with action
The GO-VAXX mobile vaccine clinic will be at Niagara College from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., March 17. (Evan Saunders)
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GO-VAXX mobile vaccinations in NOTL today, hospital restrictions eased
After two years of lowered flags, the state of emergency in NOTL and the Niagara Region has been lifted, signalling a return to normalcy in many aspects of life. (File)
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Two years on, state of emergency lifted in NOTL
Hazel Norris pictured at her 'beloved Balls beach,' her mother Lauren O'Malley said. O'Malley and Norris have lived in Old Town for twenty years. O'Malley is worried she is getting priced out of her hometown and wants to provide stability for her daughter. (Supplied)
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NOTL's affordable housing shortage erodes 'sense of community'
Mike Barneveld agreed to vacate his home of almost 10 years when the new buyer said it was going to be their new permanent home. Two weeks later, the room Barneveld once rented was on the market to be rented again, only the price had increased by $1,000 and Barneveld is now struggling to find a home in Niagara-on-the-Lake. (Supplied)
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Goodbye NOTL, hello ... Disneyland? Renter struggles to afford a place in town
Dr. Azim Kasmani, associate medical officer of Health for the Niagara Region, says COVID is not going anywhere and people who still wish to wear masks should be supported. (Supplied)
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With mask mandates ending, 'There's a lot of uncertainty,' medical officer says
This map shows the 190 short-term rentals licensed to operate in NOTL's Old Town. (Graphic by Evan Saunders)
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10 per cent of all Old Town homes are short-term rentals
Airport chair Robin Garrett said the investment into equipment from the federal government will allow the small airport to focus its own resources on growth. (Evan Saunders)
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Federal money for new equipment will allow NOTL airport to focus on growth, chair says
John Foreman runs the Apple Tree Historic Bed and Breakfast, an example of a short-term rental where the operators are the permanent residents. (Supplied)
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B&B president wants governance structure for town's new accommodation tax
New town clerk Ralph Walton said he loves the feel of Niagara-on-the-Lake, referring to the town as a "gem." (Sourced)
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New municipal clerk has strong ties to NOTL
The Virgil Stampede is the carnival and fundraising event of the year in Niagara-on-the-Lake. (File)
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Expect official word on return of Virgil Stampede soon
Laryssa Doig and her daughter Alana in front of a tiny fraction of the donations coming in to help Ukraine. (Evan Saunders)
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Bulletproof vests and Kevlar helmets: Ukrainian church asks NOTLers to help embattled nation
Kirsten McCauley will start as NOTL's head of community and development services on March 28. (LinkedIn)
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Former regional staffer named new town planner
Lynne Gaetz with one of her paintings on display now at the Pumphouse Art Centre. (Evan Saunders)
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NOTL artists join forces to raise town's profile as visual arts centre
Artistic director Tim Carroll said the death of former director Christopher Newton was a personal blow as Newton had been a strong supporter of Carroll's work at the theatre. (Shaw Festival)
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Despite another pandemic year, Shaw posts $114,000 surplus
NOTL's own maya Webster proudly displays her continuous glucose monitoring system. She just succeeded in a years long campaign to get the device subsidized by by the Ontario government for many people with type 1 diabetes. (Evan Saunders)
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10-year-old NOTL hero improves lives of thousands of diabetics
Two Sisters is opening a new winery, the Stone Eagle Winery, on Niagara Stone Road near Garrison village. (Evan Saunders)
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Two Sisters opening new winery near Garrison Village
Don Metheral shears a sheep with surgical precision. (Evan Saunders)
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Sheepish-looking: 175 sheep shaved in pre-summer shear-a-thon
Capacity limit signs were still the norm on Tuesday even though such restrictions had been lifted for retailers and restaurants. They could soon become a piece of COVID memorabilia. (Evan Saunders)
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Local restrictions ineffective if cases come from outside region, Hirji says
Shuli Ramchandani, Sylvia Angelkotter, Brigitte Ediger and Elaine Doughty were happy to see COVID restrictions easing but fears of the war in Ukraine were at the front of the thoughts. (Evan Saunders)
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As COVID restrictions ease, fears of war in Europe are on the rise
A rainbow crosswalk will be coming to a NOTL intersection near you - but not before the town hosts a public consultation process. (File)
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Possible locations for NOTL's first rainbow crosswalk endorsed by council
Liberty Sites (3) is selling the former Parliament Oak property on King Street. NOTL residents have strongly opposed a plan to build a 71-unit apartment building on the historically-significant site, saying the proposed density is inappropriate for the surrounding neighbourhood. (Sourced)
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Parliament Oak for sale, 'Here we go again,' resident says
The Rand Estate is now a NOTL property of cultural heritage value. (File/Elizabeth Masson)
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Town officially gives Rand Estate cultural heritage designation
Niagara public health has changed the way it will report active COVID cases moving forward.
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Wacky Wednesday: Confusion arises as region changes how it reports COVID cases
The Irish Harp Pub owner Jovie Joki said the removal of COVID restrictions is an economic and mental relief for the restaurant and its staff. (File)
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Restaurateurs looking forward to financial relief as COVID restrictions ease
Peter Warrack at his home in NOTL. Warrack's work to raise awareness about human trafficking has him the Meritorious Service Cross from the Governor General. (Evan Saunders)
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Governor General honours NOTL man for work in fighting human trafficking
Lord Mayor Betty Disero said the town wants to get the Irvine Road drain project done but cannot infringe upon a residents' right to appeal. (File)
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Town waiting on appeals over drain project, mayor says
The van der Zalms helped the Hall family build a sandbag wall around their home last Thursday to protect it from potential flooding. Charlie said the home would have been inundated if not for the van der Zalm's and other neighbours help in setting up high-powered water pumps to keep the water moving. (Supplied)
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Irvine Road homes 'drowning in flood water and bureaucratic paper-pushing'
The first election provincial election sign has appeared along Niagara Stone Road in the form of a mobile billboard featuring Progressive Conservative candidate Bob Gale. (Evan Saunders)
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A sign of the times: Election season is coming
Jack Addams Williams, co-owner of F45 Niagara-on-the-Lake, says his gym will retain a modified version of the vaccine certificate. (Evan Saunders)
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Gym owner hopes end of vaccine mandate is for 'the right reasons'
The school where more than 40 children were gathering for unlicensed private schooling. (File)
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Superior Court orders Virgil learning pod to shut down
NOTL's population has grown 9 per cent since 2016, the latest census data shows. (File)
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NOTL's population grew 9% since 2016, census reveals
Dr. Mustafa Hirji says the province of Ontario is sending mixed signals about the importance of vaccination. (File)
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'Vaccination important as ever,' Hirji says as province scraps certificate
Tannin Driedger-Bradshaw, 15, was at the public library on Tuesday where she talked about her girl guide unit's project to collect menstrual products for charity. (Evan Saunders)
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Girl guides need communty's help gathering menstruation products
There are two community safety zones in NOTL. One near St. Davids Public Elementary School and this one, on Niagara Stone Rd. near Crossroads Public Elementary School. The region will be targeting such zones for implementation of photo radar.(Evan Saunders
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Region plans to expand use of red light cameras, photo radar
Soon Queen's Royal Park will have a Canadian flag flying proudly for all to see. It might look like this. (Photo illustration/Scott Robinson)
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Canadian flag will soon fly at Queen's Royal Park
Lori Davidson and Monica McCourt have been ordered to stop operating an unlicensed learning pod in Virgil. (File)
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Superior Court orders Virgil learning pod to cease operations
Dinah McGibbon's barn roof collapsed under the weight of snow and ice last weekend. (Supplied)
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Stable owner raising donations to repair collapsed roof
The Ministry of Education has ordered the Niagara Alternative Learning Alliance to limit its operation to no more than five children or face possible fines and jail time. (Evan Saunders) (Evan Saunders/File)
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EXCLUSIVE: Education ministry cracks down on maskless Virgil 'learning pod'
Ron Planche fires off a serve during a friendly game of badminton at the NOTL Community Centre on Friday. (Evan Saunders)
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Sharpening body and mind at the community centre and library
The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake is trying to help economic recovery for local businesses with its new ShopNotl.ca website. (file)
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Town launches 'ShopNOTL' to promote local businesses
The Willowbank School of Restoration Arts. (File)
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Willowbank students conduct survey about Parliament Oak
Fire Chief Nick Ruller is leaving NOTL to become platoon chief in Brampton. (Evan Saunders)
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Ruller resigns as fire chief, says he's always looking over the horizon
Councillors decided to use $20,000 to perform labour in the dock area rather than pay a consultant for a study. (Sourced)
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Council roundup: Councillors express concern about sale of Laura Secord school
Merritt, four, and her younger brother Malcolm, two, are all smiles as they toboggan at Simcoe Park. (Evan Saunders)
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Tobogganing at Simcoe Park family's first activity since COVID isolation
Niagara Alternative Learning Alliance co-founder Lori Davidson says the pod teaches quantum physics to four-year-olds. (Evan Saunders)
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A day in the pod: No homework and quantum physics for four-year-olds at Virgil private school
This graphic shows the breakdown of revenue included to fund the town's operating budget this year. (Sourced)
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Town tax rate rising 2.99%, about $44 on average home
Coun. Allan Bisback said he thinks the accommodation tax should be expanded to all types of rentals eventually. (Sourced)
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After years of debate, NOTL 2% hotel tax to begin July 1
Jen Phelan serving up drinks to the boys at the bar, Randy Debon, Frank Davis and the inscrutable Freduardo. (Evan Saunders)
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Restaurateur hopes this is final COVID reopening
Maged Elmadhoon, transportation manager for the Region of Niagara, says a roundabout is merely a traffic control tool and will not greatly impact the character of St. Davids. (Supplied)
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Roundabout is safest alternative, region's expert says
A cost breakdown by department for the 2022 capital budget. (Sourced)
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Capital budget totals $10.5 million
Sara Chojnicki volunteers and has a child attending the Niagara Alternative Learning Alliance. She said the learning pod is a "labour of love." (Evan Saunders)
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Parent says she fears COVID restrictions can cause 'lifelong trauma'
Children learning about plants at the Niagara Alternative Learning Alliance pod in Virgil. (Evan Saunders)
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Learning pod is a 'unique situation,' Ministry of Education says
Two classrooms in the old Virgil school are being rented out to the Niagara Alternative Learning Alliance. (Evan Saunders)
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Top doctor says rules are needed at Virgil alternative school
Maskless, non-physically distanced students learn about gardening at the Niagara Alternative Learning Alliance. (Evan Saunders)
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Exclusive: 50 children attending maskless, non-distanced 'learning pod'  in Virgil
An illustration of the proposed wall by Seferian Design Group. (Sourced)
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Old Town gateway design moving to tender
Ashlee Hale demonstrates what skill and hard work can accomplish on the ice. (Richard Harley)
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NOTL figure skater feels 'like myself again' thanks to backyard rink
Greg Walker is strongly in favour of a roundabout in St. Davids. His wife Dorothy has a different opinion. (Evan Saunders)
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Residents want traffic routed around St. Davids
Tony Hendriks owns Hendriks Independent Grocer on Queen Street. (Evan Saunders)
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Independent Grocers love being part of NOTL community
The NOTL Public Library will reopen on Feb. 1. (File)
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Library to reopen on Feb. 1
The provincial government has announced a three-step plan to remove most COVID-19 restrictions by mid-March.
News
Province to begin lifting COVID restrictions on Jan. 31
Parking will be restricted on both sides of East and West Line between Lakeshore and Townline Roads after a request from the Region of Niagara. (Sourced)
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Council OKs parking restrictions on East and West Line
This map created by NOTL staff shows where exactly the new parking restrictions will occur in Garrison Village. (Sourced)
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Parking restrictions coming to Village to make way for garbage trucks
Parking will be restricted near the intersections of Prideaux, and Regent and Victoria streets. (Sourced)
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Town says all-way stops not justified for Prideaux Street
A preliminary design for the $5 million St. Davids pool. (file)
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Mayor wants to sell land to fund St. Davids pool reconstruction
Ambassador volunteers Lois Chapman, Kim Mustill, Barbara Webber, Marlene Walther, Wendy Cheropita, Gary Burroughs, summer 2020. (Supplied)
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Federal grant supports ambassador program and rainbow bench downtown
Former director of community and development services with NOTL Craig Larmour. (Supplied)
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Retired planner will miss co-workers but not 'years' of council meetings
Thomas Elltoft outside his property at 247 Four Mile Creek Rd. Elltoft owns some 10 feet extending out from the building and is worried the Region of Niagara will expropriate it, pushing the regional sidewalk right up to the front of the business. (Evan Saunders)
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Roundabout could be costly, hurt businesses, owners say
Parking restrictions in Chautauqua have garnered strong support from the Friends of Ryerson Park and Chautauqua Residents Association. (File)
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Resident groups want Chautauqua parking restrictions made permanent
Magdalena Titian and Jean Stewart enjoy a piping hot cup of coffee outdoors as temperatures reach 15 below freezing. (Evan Saunders)
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Warm friendship fights freezing weather
Director of community and development services Craig Larmour.
News
NOTL planning chief Craig Larmour retiring
Canadian kids will be Canadian kids as a group of teens take to the newly built community rink in Virgil to play some hockey against the posted rules. (Evan Saunders)
News
Community rink needs volunteer supervisors
Parliament Oak's development into an apartment will destroy the town, residents say. (Sourced)
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Apartment project will be 'wholesale destruction' of Old Town, residents say
Cindy and John Simpson stand with Ashley's urn in the kitchen of their NOTL home. (Evan Saunders)
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Ashley Simpson makes the final trip home
A car zips up Niagara Stone Road between the Community Centre and St. Andrews Glen. The area could one day have a pedestrian crosswalk to help people on foot traverse NOTL's busiest roadway. (Evan Saunders)
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Town wants regional crosswalk near community centre
The Lincoln County Humane Society on Fourth Avenue in St. Catharines has taken over all animal issues in NOTL. (Evan Saunders)
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Lincoln County Humane Society takes over animal control in NOTL
Cory Abt said raising money to support the cadet program is essential and that it changed his sons direction in life. (Evan Saunders)
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Thousands of bottles collected in air cadet fundraiser
Alitura manager Ted Stones explains some of the changes coming to the store while staff paint and clean. (Evan Saunders)
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Alitura ready to reopen after phase one of renovations
Harriet Stairs outside her home in Niagara-on-the-Lake. (Supplied)
News
Notable NOTLer Harriet Stairs named to Order of Canada
Canadian broadcasting legend Duff Roman. (Supplied)
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Broadcasting legend Duff Roman appointed to Order of Canada
Sandtrap on Tuesday night. (Richard Harley)
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Last Dinner before lockdown
The Randwood Estate and surrounding lands will be subject to a $60,000 character study. (File)
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Town to spend $60,000 on Rand Estate study
Peter Shea and Juliet Dunn perform an impromptu set at Spirit in Niagara Tuesday night, the last before Ontario's three-week lockdown came into effect. (Evan Saunders)
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Swinging into lockdown with an impromptu performance before restrictions hit
Coun. Norm Arsenault voted in favour of MAT and supports implementing it as soon as possible. (Sourced)
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Expect accommodation tax to be approved soon: Mayor
This bed and breakfast is an example of an owner-occupied short-term rental in NOTL. Owner-occupied rentals are the only type allowed in many places, such as the City of Toronto. (Evan Saunders)
News
Growing Pains: Part 4 - Owner-occupied rentals cited as one solution
Regional Coun. Gary Zalepa and GO Transit's Matt Robinson joined council on Monday to discuss a consolidated the consolidated regional transit. (Sourced)
News
NOTL gives green light to region-wide transit plan
Four active COVID-19 cases have been reported in NOTL elementary schools.
News
COVID cases at Crossroads and St. Davids close classrooms
Mariitta Maavara is one of the newest volunteers with Newark Neighbours. Her peers say she has a huge heart and Maavara shed some tears on Friday when considering the amount of items donated in the spirit of Christmas. (Evan Saunders)
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Town staff Give Back and choose charity over paid Christmas dinner
Megan Dyck, Dylan Dietsch, Brooke Whyte and Felix Vollmer gathered to celebrate the opening of their school's inclusive playground. (Evan Saunders)
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With inclusive playground, no child gets left out at Crossroads
Ken Reid. (File)
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Reid not sure he wants to stay with town after handling of contract
NOTL has achieved a 99 per cent compliance rate with short-term rentals. (File)
News
Rental operators are now 99% compliant, CAO says
Josh Bivens, director of research at the Economic Policy Institute
News
Growing Pains: Part 3: Benefits of short-term rentals amid worries about their impact
Concession 6 Road between Queenston and York Roads could soon be a 60 km/h zone. (Sourced)
News
Speed limit to be cut near dangerous Con. 6 intersection 
John Simpson talks about his daughter Ashley Simpson at his home in NOTL. (Evan Saunders)
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Ashley Simpson's remains found, boyfriend charged with murder
Santa Around Town has been delayed until the morning of Dec. 12. (File)
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Santa Around the Town delayed until Sunday
BeauChapeau decorates its windows for the holidays every year. (Evan Saunders)
News
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas
Dorothy and Erwin with their decorated tractor. (Evan Saunders)
News
Virgil tractor parade scheduled for Dec. 16
Liz and George Bouwmeester appreciate some fine art at the Pumphouse. (Evan Saunders)
News
Hundreds of artworks find new homes at Pumphouse sale
Lucas and Adrian Rezza moved from Toronto to NOTL to open their studio, Gladiator Records, in 2015. Their most recent album has already passed 1 million streams on Spotify. (File)
News
Rezza Brothers top 1 million annual Spotify streams
Town council will be returning to the chamber on nDec. 20. (File)
News
In-person council meetings return Dec. 20, public and media still to attend virtually
The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake's vaccine policy came into effect on Dec. 1. The Lord Mayor could not publicly comment on whether any staff have been placed on leave for refusing to comply.
News
Three town employees suspended over NOTL's vaccine policy
Writers' Circle members Richard West, Sharon Frayne, Patricia Nicholls-Papernick, Paul Masson and Marie Kelly at the Books in a Barn event on Dec. 4. (Evan Saunders)
News
Writers' Circle fosters collaboration and inspiration
A short-term rental on Platoff Street in Niagara-on-the-Lake. (Evan Saunders)
News
Part 2: Growing Pains: Economic burden on residents and the hollowing out of communities
Kids from the Yellow Door Theatre Project entertain with songs from Disney and Christmas classics at the McArthur Estate on Saturday. (Evan Saunders)
News
Rotary's Holiday House Tour raises $120,000 for charity
Town employees will be welcoming the public back into municipal buildings come January. (File)
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Town hall plans to resume in-person services January
Devon Botbyl gives his mother a big hug as his father Scott, sister Elise, Betty Disero, Eduardo Lafforgue and Paul MacIntyre get ready to greet the crowd. (Evan Saunders
News
Thousands gather for Candlelight Stroll
Items are donated at the Community Centre for NOTL Gives Back. (File)
News
NOTL Gives Back again this season
Devon Botbyl plays some hockey with his dad Scott at their home in Virgil. (Evan Saunders)
News
Devon Botbyl in the spotlight for Candlelight Stroll
Kids receive their first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine at Simpson's Apothecary in Old Town on Tuesday. (Richard Harley)
News
Getting kids vaccinated offers best protection for all, Simpson says
The poppy display dries out at the Legion Hall. (Supplied)
News
Poppy display being stored at museum for use next year
Town council debates implementing a living wage for municipal employees. (Sourced)
News
Living wage proposal a divisive issue for council
This home at 244 Davy Street is one of four short-term rentals that occupy every corner of the intersection of Davy and Platoff Streets. (Evan Saunders)
News
Growing Pains: Short-term rentals are prompting concerns around the world
Signs were installed throughout Chautauqua earlier this year prohibiting parking along certain stretches of the neighbourhoods laneways. (Evan Saunders)
News
Chautauqua parking debate causes councillor confrontation
The Icewine Festival. (File)
News
Icewine Festival slated to return Jan. 21
Linda Pequegnhe searches for gooseberry jam at the Christmas Market on Saturday. (Evan Saunders)
News
Grace United market shows some of the best of NOTL
Lise Andreana at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Pumphouse was awarded for her work promoting culture in town. (Evan Saunders)
News
NOTL volunteers honoured by town
The NOTL Pumphouse Art Centre's upcoming sale will be it's largest ever. (File)
News
Pumphouse sale features 300 donated artworks
This photo shows the car hit the Avondale at an angle, bypassing protective bollards that are mounted on the curb near the stores entrance. (Supplied by Kathy Brown))
News
Mercedes crashes through Avondale storefront
Steve Gulley, Anthony Montagna and other Jeep Club members work to keep up with the donation supply. (Evan Saunders)
News
Jeep Club celebrates community with Newark Neighbours food drive
A conceptual top-down view of the roundabout presented by the Region of Niagara. (Sourced)
News
Like it or not, roundabout seems destined for St. Davids 
Council is looking at ideas to help protet NOTL from inappropriate developments. Pictured above is a proposed apartment design for the historic Parliament Oak site. Residents have strongly voiced that they don't think it is appropriate for the historic area of town, which is composed of mainly detached homes. (File photo)
News
Town considering 26 options to control development
Seniors roll into the Community Centre on Anderson Lane to get their COVID booster shot on Nov. 19. (Evan Saunders)
News
Seniors get their COVID booster at NOTL clinic
Dr. Mustafa Hirji noted that COVID-19 is the eighth leading cause of child death in the United States while encouraging parents to get their children vaccinated. (File)
News
All regional COVID clinics exclusively for kids now: Hirji
Trey House, 14, has been shooting darts since he was 8. He never expected to be on the path to making it his career, he said. (Supplied)
News
His aim is true: Dart player reps Team Canada
A group of friends of the Sandtrap helped build their temporary patio in 2020. Now it might be able to stay. (File)
News
NOTL extends patio program, considers making it permanent
Ken Reid at his home on Regent Street. He said he pays about $1,000 per month in property taxes and doesn't know how he'll afford his longtime home once his job with the town is done. (Evan Saunders)
News
Animal control officer feels abandoned by town
Jillian Best points to her name engraved on the plaque commemorating solo swims across Lake Ontario. A ceremony Sunday at Queen’s Royal Park celebrated the swims by Best and two other athletes. (Evan Saunders)
News
Marathon swims for good causes
Emily Hyde and other market-goers peruse the contents of the gift bags for sale at Grace United Church this past Saturday. (Evan Saunders)
News
Christmas arrives early thanks to Grace United Church market
Kandis and Kathy Klipich with their custom made cards and hand-knitted scrunchies and bandanas at the St. Davids Lioness market. (Evan Saunders)
News
Carrying on a family tradition at the Lioness market
The Lake Report has been distributing newspapers free to all NOTLers for more than three years. (File)
News
Town continues to support independent journalism
Parking will be free in Old Town for the month of December. (Evan Saunders)
News
Free parking in Old Town returns for December
A 10-year-old boy was pinned between two vehicles in the St. Michaels Catholic Elementary School parking lot this morning. He has suffered a broken leg but is stable, emergency medical services said. (File)
News
Boy pinned between two vehicles at St. Michael is stable, EMS says
John Gillepsie Magee Jr. (Sourced)
News
Remembrance Day: High Flight
Maj. Benjamin Geary getting carried off the battlefield by German prisoners of war after receiving three bullet wounds to the stomach, 1918. (National Library of Scotland, Colourized by DBColour)
News
Remembering heroics of Victoria Cross soldier buried in NOTL
A rendering of the proposed apartment building on the Old Parliament Oak School site. (Sourced)
News
Residents reject Parliament Oak redesign
Cinderella, a 16-year-old Pecheron horse working for Sentineal Carriages, stands in front of the museum's poppy display wearing a purple poppy of her own. The purple poppy is intended to pay homage to the millions of animals who died in active service during the first and second World Wars. (Evan Saunders)
News
NOTL pays tribute to animals-of-war
Carollers spread Christmas cheer at the Candlelight Stroll in 2019. (File)
News
Candlelight Stroll returns on Dec. 3
Volunteer Ken Eden loads some 25 bikes onto his trailer outside Gateway Community Church. More than 75 bikes were donated to the Bikes for Farmworkers charitable organization. (Evan Saunders)
News
Bike drive for seasonal workers exceeds expectations
Volunteers work together to string up a display of 3,500 hand-crocheted poppies at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum. (Evan Saunders)
News
Making 3,500 poppies felt like helping the war cause, volunteer says
Old Town resident Pamela Wilson wants to build an accessible community park behind the Community Centre on Anderson Lane. (Evan Saunders)
News
Resident wants accessible park behind community centre
Mocha the Labrador retriever and Scott Paines man the front desk at NPNG Fitness in Virgil. (Evan Saunders)
News
Gyms and restaurants welcome eased restrictions
Melanie Scott and her daughters Rachel and Rebecca hanging out at the Redbrick Church Trunk or Treat. (Evan Saunders)
News
COVID-safe Halloween lets kids get back to being kids, pastor says
One of the rooms illegally advertised for rent on Davy Street. (Sourced)
News
Council overrules committee, slaps illegal rentals with one-year licence ban
Lord Mayor Betty Disero and her mother Lena Disero discuss the new Village Medical Centre with developer John Hawley on Wednesday. (Evan Saunders)
News
Construction on new medical centre should start next week, developer says
Betsy Masson inspects a wooden box that was engraved using the Makery's new Glowforge. (Evan Saunders)
News
Don't have $4,500 for a 3D printer? Then head to the library
Dr. Mustafa Hirji, the highest authority on COVID-19 in the Niagara Region. (File)
News
COVID spikes elsewhere show preventive measures still needed, Hirji says
The Niagara Regional Police Services budget will potentially grow by 4.9 per cent next year. Though this won't directly affect NOTL's contribution, town treasurer Kyle Freeborn estimates a nearly identical increase due to growing property values. (File)
News
Police budget growing and that means higher costs for NOTL
Free public skating will return to the meridian Credit Union Arena on Oct. 30. (File)
News
Public skating returning on Oct. 30
Kids skate at a natural rink in Chautauqua. (File)
News
Volunteers want to build outdoor community rinks
Laurie Gunton lets out a hearty laugh as she plants End Polio Now tulips with the Rotary Club on Friday morning. (Evan Saunders)
News
American Rotarian visits to help with tulip planting
An accident in NOTL involving multiple vehicles. Work done by the fire department to clean up the collision was charged to the taxpayer. (File)
News
NOTL may charge at-fault drivers for collision costs
Lt.-Col Bernard Nehring dressed up as Lt.-Col Thomas Clark on the anniversary of the Battle of Queenston Heights. (Evan Saunders)
News
Canadian colonel honours Lt.-Col. Thomas Clark on anniversary of Queenston Heights battle
Rotarians Jeannie Manning, Paul Lalonde, Jolanta Janny and Patricia Murenbeeld pose on one of the nursery school’s playgrounds with staff members Candice Penny, Nicole Tissen and Amanda Mirabella. (Evan Saunders)
News
Expanded nursery school aims to help young families to flourish
NOTL resident Julie Clark was walking her dog on Oct. 13 when she noticed the tree planting gathering on the heritage trail. She grabbed a shovel and started lending a hand, saying she has been devastated by canopy loss in the municipality in recent years. (Evan Saunders)
News
Project plants 50 new trees along the heritage trail
A historic photo of the Rand Estate. (Sourced)
News
SORE wins heritage award for Randwood advocacy
NOTL Fire chief Nick Ruller. (Evan Saunders)
News
Council OKs plan to expand Old Town firehall
Two Sisters Winery co-proprietor Angela Marotta leads the vineyards staff on a mile-long walk to support Gillian’s Place, a non-profit organization that provides safe housing and legal counsel for women and children escaping domestic abuse. (Evan Saunders)
News
Winery staff take a walk to fight domestic violence
Signs are up warning of a ban on overnight parking near town parks. (Evan Saunders)
News
Town bans overnight parking in or near town parks
The Rand Estate has been owned by Two Sisters Resorts Corp. since 2017. (Sourced)
News
Most repairs to Rand Estate delayed till May
Shelley Baldwin says Thanksgiving dinner at the Farmhouse Cafe is the best you can get next to cooking yourself. Nine members of the Baldwin family gathered Monday afternoon at the cafe at Caroline Cellars. (Evan Saunders)
News
Grateful platefuls: NOTL restaurants sell out of turkey dinners
Sandie Bellows, chair of the Niagara Parks Commission, died Sunday night after a battle with cancer. Pictured, in July she was at the  opening of the commission's newest tourism attraction, the revamped Niagara Parks Power Station. (Evan Saunders)
News
Obituary: Sandie Bellows, Niagara Parks chair, dies of cancer
A road and parking lot now stand where protected woodland was at 524 York Rd. (Evan Saunders)
News
Saga of the conservation land illegally paved by developer
Sandie Bellows, chair of the Niagara Parks Commission, died Sunday night after a battle with cancer. Pictured, in July she was at the  opening of the commission's newest tourism attraction, the revamped Niagara Parks Power Station. (Evan Saunders)
News
Obituary: Sandie Bellows, Niagara Parks chair, dies of cancer
Anishinaabe Edler Albert Choken and his 14-year-old helper. (Evan Saunders)
News
A cleansing St. Davids smudging ceremony and a wandering spirit
All that can be seen of the Rand Estate behind the no trespassing signs and tarpaulin used to cover the estates entrance. (Evan Saunders)
News
Developer appeals Rand Estate repair order
A large group of NOTLers gather for a meeting to address the Rand Estate. (File)
News
SORE nominated for conservancy award
Kids at Crossroads Elementary school stand in front of 6,509 orange hands cut out to memorialize the thousands of Indigenous children who died in Canada's residential school system. (Supplied)
News
Education about reconciliation goes beyond holiday, principal says
NOTL Museum director Sarah Kaufman stands by the many unique gift items for sale in the museum. (Evan Saunders)
News
Museum asks town for $700,000 to help with expansion project
Phil Tregunno inspects some late-season grapes still on the vine at Tregunno Fruit Farms on the Niagara Parkway. (Evan Saunders)
News
Investment in Niagara tender fruit means lower prices, better quality, farmer says
Emma, Yvonne and Alan Plater have a burger after riding 30 kilometres to honour Alan's deceased friend and namesake of the event, Dr. Ron Mergl. (Evan Saunders)
News
Old friend honours Ron Mergl at Rotary polio ride
Fallon Farinacci grew up in Manitoba. When she was nine, her parents were murdered and her and her brothers made orphans. Police failed to intervene in the hostage situation that got her parents killed and she has recently started using her grief and story as a means to improve the lives and draw attention to the plight of missing and murdered Indigenous women. (Supplied)
News
Indigenous residents want Ontario to make Sept. 30 statutory holiday
A GO bus coming to a municipality near you. (File)
News
Region seeks feedback on massive consolidated transit plan
Julie Lumsden is a Winnipeg born Métis actress. She recently received the outstanding achievement in performing arts award at the Celebration of Nations. (Supplied)
News
Métis actress says Truth and Reconciliation Day is about education
David Laing looks at the new Upper Canada Heritage Trail plaque to commemorate donors for the project. He and wife Gwen were among the first to donate to the project and said preserving the heritage of NOTL is very important to them. (Evan Saunders)
News
Preserving NOTL's heritage is important, trail donors say
Darren Werner has been missing since Sept. 16. (Facebook)
News
Disappearance of Darren Werner baffles veteran detective
The new design for the gateway to Old Town approved in principle by NOTL town council
News
Council approves new-look for Old Town gateway
Susan baxter pours a cup of tea with Jody Evans and Ruth Denyer during the NOTL Museum’s Tea Party celebrating the woman chronicled in the new book “Making her Mark: The Women of Niagara-on-the-Lake.”
News
Raising their voices for women past and future
Jan King-Watson puts a copy of Khaled Hosseini's novel "The Kite Runner" into the new Little Free Library in St. Davids. King-Watson recently moved to St. Davids and has spared no time in becoming one of the stewards of the new little library. (Evan Saunders)
News
Little Free Library in St. Davids aims to boost childhood reading
Stage Coach Family Restaurant was packed on Wednesday afternoon with double-vaccinated patrons. (Evan Saunders)
News
Vaccine certificate makes indoor dining feel safer, patrons say
Darren Werner was last seen on Sept. 16 near Townline Road. (Supplied)
News
Police continue search for missing NOTL man, 58
Dr. Bill Rapley picks cleans up litter along Smuggler's Cover during NOTL's World Cleanup Day event on Sept. 18. (Evan Saunders)
News
World Cleanup Day scoops up bags of litter along parkway
Six-year-old Evan Rennette learns how to skate with the help of Jack Kirwin from CJ'S Skatepark during an open house on Saturday. (Evan Saunders)
News
Everybody helps everybody in skateboarding community, expert says
Heidi Sobol, left, and Joan King in front of a quilt made by Lynn Bishop. King was Sobol's Grade 4 teacher at Cardinal Newman Catholic Elementary School and hadn't seen her since the 1980's. (Evan Saunders)
News
Terry Fox Run sets stage for reunion 40 years in the making
Niagara Fit owner and physical trainer Robb Chrzaszcz and trainee Patrick Guidnard on Wednesday. (Evan Saunders)
News
Vaccine certificate necessary to prevent lockdowns, says Chamber president
Bonnie Bagnulo, Trish Anthony and Courtney MacGregor of NOTL Palliative Care. The organization has been participating in The Healing Cycle Foundation's charity ride for nine years. (Evan Saunders)
News
NOTL Palliative Care raising money for feel-good medicine, director says
This road was constructed through environmental conservation lands by by the Vrancor Group to connect Glendale Avenue to Counsell Street. (Evan Saunders)
News
Developer asks for approval after paving conservation land without permission
The Pedal Pub cruises downtown NOTL as passengers sing songs. (Richard Harley)
News
Council steers clear of changing Pedal Pub's downtown route
Darrell Boer waits with others at the NOTL community centre on Monday to cast his advance ballot and beat election day crowds. He said uncurbed government spending has him worried for his kids' futures. (Evan Saunders)
News
Voters complain of long lines, delays at some advance polls
A NOTL vacation rental on Delater Street that’s charging $1,120 per night on Airbnb will not be taxed, under council’s accommodation tax plan. (Sourced/Airbnb)
News
Only 12 of 255 short-term rentals eligible for new accommodation tax
Debbi Jamison and husband Jim are holed up at her family's cottage. Her kidney disease means she is at high risk of serious illness due to COVID-19. (Supplied)
News
Niagara woman searching for kidney donor
Nine year crossing guard veteran Victor Tee helps kids get safely home from St. Davids Public School after their first day of class. (Evan Saunders)
News
Slow down, deputy chief tells drivers on first day of school
Niagara Falls federal election candidates attend a virtual debate held by the Niagara Falls, Fort Erie and NOTL Chambers of Commerce. (Sourced)
News
Business and economy focus of Chamber debate
About 150 people attended The Lake Report’s debate at Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery on Tuesday night to hear from Niagara Falls riding candidates for the federal election Sept. 20. (Jessica Maxwell)
News
Candidates joust over vaccines, climate change and economic recovery
The town wants more rural bike lanes. (Evan Saunders)
News
Town wants to add more bike lanes in rural areas
The Gordon Hunter-Dick house is one of the oldest buildings in Virgil, originally built in 1796 by John Young. (David Hemmings)
News
NOTL to consider 20 Virgil buildings for historic value
NOTLers tried to free the sailboat Saturday afternoon. (Richard Harley)
News
Anatomy of a rescue: Sailboat freed from sandbar off Queen's Royal Park
An artist's rendering of the proposed obelisk. (Sourced)
News
Survey finds 75% dislike proposed gateway obelisk
Virgil's Niagara North Family Health Team will be temporarily relocating to the old hospital once their lease is up in December. (Jessica Maxwell)
News
Niagara North Health Team temporarily moving to old hospital
The town will be redesigning their website for $82,855. (File)
News
Town using provincial grant for $82,000 website upgrade
A-frame signs at the corner of Queen and Victoria streets help to guide visitors to some of Old Town's harder to find businesses. (Evan Saunders)
News
Town looking to reinstate ban on A-frame signs in Old Town
A sailboat has run aground on the sandbar just off the shore of Queen's Royal Beach. (Evan Saunders)
News
Sailboat stuck on sandbar at Queen's Royal Beach
The council chambers in the town hall will remain empty, at least until Ontario enters its full reopening. (File)
News
Council meetings to remain virtual
A six hour council meeting on Aug. 30 resulted in the approval of the municipal accommodation tax. (Sourced)
News
Town passes controversial hotel tax – again
Regional councillors voted in favour of a vaccine mandate for regional staff and councillors who wish to conduct in person business. (Evan Saunders)
News
NOTL will follow region's lead on vaccine mandate for staff
Joe Allevato is frustrated that no political party has attempted or even promised to change a Harper-era tax program for seniors that becomes a burden more than a boon once your spouse dies. (Evan Saunders)
News
Election '21: Picking sides in the election few people wanted
Tim Balasiuk, owner of Paddle Niagara, stands on an underutilized piece of waterfront on River Beach Drive. He is proposing to work with the town to turn the area into a paddleboard and kayak launch and to use the area to educate visitors and residents. (Evan Saunders)
News
Paddle Niagara wants to create boat launch
The breakwater constructed at Balls Beach in 2020 suffered a partial collapse due to extreme water flow coming from the Niagara River as a result of climate change, engineering group says. (File)
News
Breakwater failed due to extreme storm surge from river, council told
A division champion, Sonja Schindeler, returns a volley at the women's doubles tournament Sunday. (Evan Saunders)
News
Hot tennis matches on scorching weekend at NOTL club
Julian Trachsel wants to create a new community garden on one of the town's little used green spaces. (Evan Saunders)
News
Resident pushes town to create community garden
Leos Michaiah Ivri, Maya Dueck, Andrew Christie and Ezekiel Ivri handled all the money while the older Lions cooked the grub at the St. Davids Lions barbecue on Aug. 20. (Evan Saunders)
News
St. Davids Lions keep on cooking for Haiti relief
Martin Mazza, Kathy Whitmell-Brown, Stephanie Bjorgan, Blair Cowan and Daniel Turner stand outside of the Red Roof Retreat on Concession 6 after donating $1,400 to the non-profit organization. (Supplied)
News
Red Roof Retreat fundraiser brings community members together
From left, Tony Baldinelli, Conservative (incubment); Melanie Holm, Green Party; Andrea Kaiser, Liberal; Brian Barker, New Democratic Party; Peter Taras, People's Party of Canada. (File)
News
Election '21: Candidates' views on top issues
From left, Tony Baldinelli, Conservative (incubment); Melanie Holm, Green Party; Andrea Kaiser, Liberal; Brian Barker, New Democratic Party; Peter Taras, People's Party of Canada.
News
Election '21: Meet your federal candidates
Queen Street was packed on Monday afternoon but only one American licence plate was spotted on the busy road. (Evan Saunders)
News
Americans have been allowed into Canada for more than a week. Where are they?
A YouTube video uploaded by protester Elizabeth Sigrun shows a Sentineal Carriages employee and an unnamed protester getting into an argument after an alleged physical confrontation took place. (Sourced)
News
Horse protesters, carriage operator accuse each other of assault
Tobi Bath was happy to get her second dose of Pfizer unlike husband Chris McGregor. The two are on opposite sides of the vaccine debate, yet both are now on their way to full protection. (Evan Saunders)
News
Even naysayer gets second dose at walk-in vaccine clinic
Attendees applaud Steven Page's performance of his hit song "Brian Wilson." (Evan Saunders)
News
Niagara Symphony unveils 'pops' plan for new season
A commercial development at 135 Queen St. directly connects to a neighbouring residence on Gate Street, also owned by the developer. Some town councillors expressed fears the residential property will be used as an unofficial loading and unloading zone for the new commercial space. (Evan Saunders)
News
Marotta's Queen Street development likely to be approved
Spencer Rice presents "Spennaissance Man."
News, Entertainment
Spencer Rice: TV's 'Spenny' brings his schtick to Niagara
Brian Barker has been announced as the NDP's federal election candidate in Niagara Falls. (Supplied)
News
Election '21: Brian Barker chosen as Niagara Falls riding NDP candidate as snap federal election looms
The NOTL Museum is hosting its first of two movie nights on August 19. (supplied)
News
NOTL Museum hosting two silent movie nights
A body found floating 10 km offshore of NOTL has been confirmed as the male who drowned in the Niagara River Aug. 1. (File)
News
Body found in Lake Ontario confirmed as man who drowned trying to save friend in Niagara Gorge
Niagara Regional Native Centre's executive director Karl Dockstader. (File/Evan Saunders)
News
New governor general a role model, says Niagara Indigenous leader
Queenston Mile has been fighting to have commercial cooking equipment installed on site. (File/Richard Harley)
News
Diamond Estates buys Queenston Mile, Creekside and Shiny Apple Cider
Residents have expressed concerns about the bump out at the intersection of Queen and Mississagua streets, saying it’s a recipe for a collision. (Evan Saunders)
News
All-way stop elicits some negative reactions
Lord Mayor Betty Disero says "slow down" lawn signs are not permitted under the town's bylaw, but that could change. (Evan Saunders)
News
Free CAA 'slow down' lawn signs illegal under town bylaw
Niagara Regional Police Services say a body was discovered 10 kilometres offshore of Niagara-on-the-Lake. (File)
News
DNA tests needed to identify body found in lake off NOTL
Councillors are working on ways to take further control of development standards in NOTL. (File)
News
Region's slow approval of NOTL's official plan irks councillors
Municipal flags have been lowered since the discovery of a mass grave of Indigenous children in Saskatchewan in June. (Evan Saunders)
News
Town flags remain lowered after death of former premier Bill Davis
Town staff previously installed extra-large stop signs at the intersection of Concession 4 Road and East West Line. Lord Mayor Betty Disero says that change is not enough. (Evan Saunders)
News
Car crash prompts creation of four-way stop
Sentineal carriage driver Jade MacLaughlin and working horse Ethan, downtown Niagara-on-the-lake. (Evan Saunders)
News
Relationship between horses and humans is special and here to stay, says equine expert
Alexandra Montagnese and Mike Petersen perform "A Short History of Niagara" at the Shaw Festival. (Supplied)
News
Shaw puppet show is like 'skipping a stone across history'
Sheldon Randall and Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake staff check out the all-way stop newly installed at the Queen and Mississagua intersection. (Evan Saunders)
News
Mississagua and Queen is now all-way stop
The Garden City Skyway is getting an upgrade. (Evan Saunders)
News
Twinning of Garden City Skyway due to start in 2024
Chris Girard closely inspects a necklace she found at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum's Treasure Sale. (Evan Saunders)
News
Residents crowd museum for annual treasure sale
Marlene McCarthy and grandchildren Connor and Kaylee McCarthy enjoy a walk along the Upper Canada Heritage Trail with friend Linda Andres. (Evan Saunders)
News
New Heritage Trail proving popular walking destination
George Webber and Audrey Pellett have been giving away "Hate has no home here signs" in the hopes of reinforcing ideas of acceptance and love in Niagara-on-the-Lake. (Evan Saunders)
News
St. Andrews Glen couple proudly display anti-hate sign
Sandie Bellows, Karl Dockstader, Jim Bradley, Lisa MacLeod and other dignitaries celebrate the opening of the Niagara Parks Power Station. (Evan Saunders)
News
Historic power plant gets new life as tourist attraction
A new parking pass is coming through Honk Mobile. (Supplied)
News
Council considering monthly parking passes via Honk mobile
A video screen grab shows a float plane’s emergency landing at NOTL’s airport. (Dan Ellsworth/Facebook)
News
Pilot makes 'masterful' landing in emergency
A new program will help bring short-term rentals into compliance with bylaws as well as target unlicensed rental operators, Lord Mayor Betty Disero said. (Evan Saunders)
News
NOTL prepares for crackdown on short-term rentals
Gavin Robertson. (Supplied photo)
News
Niagara College wins double gold for Sauvignon Blanc
Debbie Krause says the veggies are coming and going daily. (Evan Saunders)
News
Free vegetables available at library, courtesy of Communities in Bloom
Ron Simkus carefully drives home the first railroad spike installed in NOTL in more than 60 years. (Evan Saunders)
News
The last spikes: Vintage rail laid at old repair pit
After demonstrating support from NOTL businesses and residents, it looks like Marlo Saganski and the Pedal Pub will become a permanent fixture in old town. (Evan Saunders)
News
Council Roundup: Pedal Pub gets another lease on life in NOTL
The Town of NOTL is considering a kayak launch near Balls Beach. (Evan Saunders)
News
Balls Beach parking stays closed, town looks for more shoreline launch areas
Rob Henderson and Kimberley Hall at their pro-carriage stand at the corner of Simcoe Park. The two have been collecting signatures from people who also support horse-drawn carriages. (Evan Saunders)
News
Carriage horses rescued from slaughterhouses, supporters say
Royal Oak students learning via zoom. (File)
News
Town OKs expansion of Royal Oak School
A three-way stop will be installed at Queen and Mississagua Streets on Aug. 3. (Evan Saunders)
News
Everybody needs to STOP! at Old Town entrance
The house at 115 Delater Street has reportedly been stained yellow by the presence of 150 dogs kept inside. A bad smell lingers, home owner Anthony Scauzillo says. (Evan Saunders)
News
150 rescued dogs doing well, humane society says
A proposed design for a new gateway into Old Town. (Sourced)
News
Council roundup: More feedback sought on gateway project
Ball's Beach. (File photo)
News
'Hammerhead' turnaround at Balls Beach rejected
David O’Reilly has the first pint at Bricks & Barley since indoor dining was closed in April. He was the first one to sit inside and has been such a loyal customer that staff emblazoned his name on his favourite chair. (Evan Saunders)
News
Indoor dining, gym workouts resume – finally
Uton poses next to a photo of his father in a grey suit back home in Portland, Jamaica. Photos of migrant workers families were collected by the Niagara-on-the-Lake Public Library in 2015 for an art exhibit. (Supplied/Julia Buxton-Cox)
News
Farm Workers Hub provides necessary items and community connections 
A photo of Uver Soopere from the Niagara Regional Police Services. She was reported missing at 10:45 this morning. Police and family are seeking help locating her. (Supplied)
News
NOTL woman reported missing
Onlookers said over 100 dogs may have been taken out of the house on Delater Street that was operating as a suspected puppy mill for the last month. (Evan Saunders)
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Suspected puppy mill raided In NOTL
Questions regarding development in Niagara-on-the-Lake led to some confrontation between councillors and town staff during an extended committee of the whole meeting. (Evan Saunders)
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Conflict mars busy council planning meeting
An artist's rendering of the future medical centre. (file)
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Council roundup: New medical centre aims for April opening
Danielle and Robert Begin share an intimate laugh amid the opening day fluster of their new brewery, the Grist in St. Davids. (Evan Saunders)
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Over a century later, the Grist carries on where Sleeman left off
Possible road disruptions loom for Niagara-on-the-Lake's busiest street. (File)
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Construction disruptions coming on Niagara Stone Road
Master distiller Joshua Beach poses with Spirit in Niagara's Sun Ripened Yellow Plum spirit, made from plums that would have gone to waste on local farms. (Evan Saunders)
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Newest NOTL distillery aims to reduce fruit waste
Anne Froese manages Serendipity on Queen. She says the vague guidelines around store capacities leave her wondering how to operate the store safely. (Evan Saunders)
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Businesses ready for more people indoors, but Hirji worries it is too soon
Katey Gatta performs at Jackson-Triggs on Friday. (Evan Saunders)
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Music returns to Jackson-Triggs with new summer series
Danielle and Robert Begin share an intimate laugh amid the opening day fluster of their new brewery, the Grist in St. Davids. (Evan Saunders)
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170 years later, the Grist carries on where Sleemans left off
$2 of every meal sold from the legion hall's fish fry on Canada Day will be donated to the Niagara Regional Native Centre. (File)
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Legion fish fry supports Indigenous community
Representatives and consultants with Liberty Sites (3) Ltd. listen to residents' comments during a virtual open house on July 6. (Evan Saunders)
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Parliament Oak plan 'outrageous,' incompatible with Old Town, residents say
Adrianna Rankin enjoys getting her hair cut by Cathy Cabral at Hypnotic Hair Salon on the first day of step two of Ontario's reopening plan. (Evan Saunders)
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Salons grateful to be open after extended COVID lockdown
On Canada Day, Leila Ridesic and Ruby Elltoft set up a shoe memorial for the thousands of Indigenous children that died while attending Canadian residential schools. (Evan Saunders)
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NOTL kids create shoe memorial for Indigenous children
St. David's resident Brent O'Connell used the Canada Day barbecue as an opportunity to buy lunch for migrant workers. (Evan Saunders)
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Rotary BBQ inspires lunch gift for migrant workers
After a driver was pulled over on July 1, officers said they found over $60,000 worth of fentanyl and methamphetamine in the vehicle. (File)
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Canada Day traffic stop leads to drug seizure
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PHOTOS: Happy NOTLers pick up their Canada Day packages from Fort George
Adrianna Rankin enjoys getting her hair cut by Cathy Cabral at Hypnotic Hair Salon on the first day of step two of Ontario's reopening plan. (Evan Saunders)
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As Ontario enters step two of reopening salons open their doors for customers
A proposed development at 325 King Street will build a 3-storey, 80-unit apartment building and 12 semi-detached homes on the old Parliament Oak School property. (Supplied)
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Parliament Oak development open house on July 6
A sacred fire is burning for seven days at the Niagara Regional Native Centre. (Evan Saunders)
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Self-educating and speaking out essential for reconciliation, Indigenous lecturer says
Firekeeper Ray Burns stokes the sacred fire at the Niagara Regional Native Centre on Tuesday. (Evan Saunders)
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Mounting child death toll from residential schools increases calls for justice, empathy
The town will consult with the Niagara Regional Native Centre on new name, says Lord Mayor Betty Disero. (File)
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Ryerson Park likely to get name change, mayor says
The Town of NOTL showed its support for the LGBTQ+ community by flying the Pride flag in June. (File)
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Town moving slowly toward rainbow crosswalk and benches
Ron Simkus stands atop the old train repair pit down by the NOTL docks. (Evan Saunders)
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Residents push town to restore historic train repair pit in dock district
File photo
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Contactless parking payments coming to Heritage District
Diner's enjoy lunch at the Shaw Cafe and Wine Bar. The Niagara Region announced today that members of separate households can dine at the same patio table with up to four people. (Evan Saunders)
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You can now dine with people from outside your household, medical officer says
A Niagara Freedom rally will include politician Maxime Bernier this Saturday at Brock's Monument. (File)
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People's Party leader Maxime Bernier to attend 'freedom' rally Saturday in NOTL
Stacy Cote and Shyann Jenkins run the lifelong care program at the Niagara Regional Native Centre. The two provide quality of life services for over 120 clients across the entire region (Evan Saunders)
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Care for anyone, anytime in the Indigenous community in Niagara
Gail and Ellwyn Campbell pictured at the back of their bungalow home, say the Parliament Oak development could drive them out of their family dwelling of 50 years. (Evan Saunders)
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Plan for Parliament Oak is too big, neighbours say
The Chautauqua Park is at the centre of Circle Street, which will now have parking restricted to its inner circle only. (File)
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Chautauqua parking restrictions, hefty fines approved by town
The Strawberry Social is back in drive-thru form on Monday, June 28. (File)
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'Tis the season: NOTL’s Strawberry Social returns Monday
Fire chief Nick Ruller presented a request to council to purchase two new tanker trucks to ensure the town has sufficient capacity to fight rural fires and save lives. (File)
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Fire department buying new tankers to fight fires in rural areas
The final episode in Niagara Parks' Indigenous series will focus on Indigenous involvement and repercussions from the Battle of Chippewa during the War of 1812.
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Necessity of survival at heart of final Niagara Parks Indigenous talk
The town is searching for a new clerk after Peter Todd was let go. (File)
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Peter Todd out as NOTL municipal clerk
The strawberry is considered the leader of fruits in Haudenosaunee culture making the Strawberry Moon an important time to express gratitude. (Sourced)
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Indigenous talk looks at cultural importance of the Strawberry Moon
A boy skips rocks at Queen's Royal Park while children swim and boats sail by. (Evan Saunders)
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NOTL a flurry of activity as patios and stores reopen
File photo
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Town to remove Ontario Courts from bylaw ticketing system
Town planner Mark Iamarino and developer representative Paul Lowes listen to comments from NOTL residents concerning a proposed subdivision on the Rand Estate. (Sourced)
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Residents critical of plans for development of Rand Estate
A shattered toilet sits on the lawn of the house raided by police. Neighbours said the suspects tried to flush illegal drugs when police raided. (Evan Saunders)
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Anxious neighbours watch as police raid St. Davids home
A man was bitten by a coyote on a farm near Virgil last Friday.
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Coyote attacks blamed on easy access to food
Reports of coyotes chasing people and being aggressive in NOTL are on the rise. (File photo/Piroska Bacso)
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Coyotes growing brazen in NOTL
A monument at Queenston Heights celebrates Indigenous in the battle. (File photo)
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Niagara Parks lecture explores Indigenous role in Battle of Queenston Heights
Veronica Puskas stands for a moment of silence in Simcoe Park on Sunday. (Richard Harley)
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Indigenous kids were taught to feel 'inferior' from young age
Megan Vanderlee and her children John, Claire and Sam place children’s shoes at St. Michael Catholic Elementary School on Tuesday. (Richard Harley)
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School memorial mourns deaths of 215 Indigenous children
The NOTL Legion Branch 124 has also lowered its flag at the clock tower cenotaph. (Evan Saunders)
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Town of NOTL, region lower flags in wake of tragedy
One of the talks will focus on Indigenous contributions and lasting effects from the Battle of Chippewa in 1814. (Sourced)
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Niagara Parks hosting virtual talks for Indigenous Month
Chayan Deheghan and Joe Shawana sing healing songs around a sacred fire Monday at the Niagara Regional Native Centre. (Evan Saunders)
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Sacred fire ceremony honours 215 dead Indigenous children
Mary Kilmer’s husband died in 2020. She says that her garden has been essential, not only in coping with the pandemic, but with her husband’s death. (Evan Saunders)
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A NOTL long weekend: Gardens, golfers and Queen Street promenades
The Niagara Community Fund has over $65 million in assets and donates to charities across the region. (Sourced)
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Community fund aims to grow in NOTL
Respect the neighbourhood signs were put up in Chautauqua by residents frustrated with increased traffic and speeding earlier this year (Evan Saunders)
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'Respect the Neighbourhood' signs stay up despite town's request to remove them
From left, Jim Filyer, Richard Connelly and Ardeth Staz stand by the new Little Library on Perez Street. Filyer and Connelly constructed the libraries that are now up and running in the Village. (Evan Saunders)
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Thinking big: Village gets two Little Libraries
Maple Leaf Fudge owner John Koldenhoff says his business is barely breaking even, and that he's one of the lucky ones (Evan Saunders)
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Residents frustrated, businesses struggling as lockdown gets extended
A fire caused $1.5 million in damage to a house in Niagara-on-the-Lake Tuesday afternoon. (Evan Saunders)
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Fire causes $1.5 million in damage to house in Old Town
Cars parked illegally at Shakespeare Avenue and Niagara Boulevard. (Richard Harley)
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Town orders parking restrictions, hikes fines near Ryerson Park
A mob of tourists was elbow-to-elbow on Queen Street during the weekend, despite an ongoing stay-at-home order in place to protect public safety. (Richard Harley)
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Ford government criticized for outdoor restrictions as thousands visit NOTL on weekend
The pickleball courts in Centennial Park, closed due to COVID, could soon have their useable hours reduced. (Evan Saunders)
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Town cuts pickleball court hours
A short-term rental at 575 Victoria St. was found by a Lake Report investigation to be operating illegally during pandemic lockdowns. (Sourced image)
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Council cuts short-term rental licensing fees by 33%
Sandra Maxwell, a 21-year resident of Niagara on the Green is one of many neighbourhood residents unhappy with current parking bylaws. (Brittney Cutler)
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Council rejects proposed parking bylaw moratorium 
The NOTL museum is trying to collect items from residents relating to the pandemic, in order to preserve the narrative for future generations.
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NOTL Museum wants pandemic memories and items for historical records
NOTL's yearly Step Challenge starts on June 1, with the town challenging residents to reach 20 million steps
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Town opens Step Challenge registration
Nurses have been holding the frontline against COVID for over a year, not just during National Nursing Week
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NOTL, region express thanks to nurses and long-term care workers
The intersection at Garrison Village Drive, Jordan Street, and Perez Street will be updated from a two-way stop to a four-way stop to curb local fears over increased traffic and reduced safety. (Evan Saunders)
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Council adds four-way stop in Village, despite staff suggestion for study first
With just a few cars parked on the street, emergency access is blocked. (Evan Saunders)
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Traffic, safety biggest concerns near Ryerson Park, survey finds
The region launched a supply chain directory hoping to connect local businesses
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Niagara launches online local business directory
Queenston Mile has installed an industrial-sized kitchen larger than some restaurants, despite claims that it only intends to serve light wine pairings. (Richard Harley/File)
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Neighbours fight Queenston Mile's bid for zoning change
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