REP RTERan all-volunteer, non-profit, monthly community newspaper since 2005VOLUME 5 No 2 FEB. EDITION 2009

POSITIVE VOICES IN TIGHT POSITIVE VOICES IN TIGHT

ECONOMIC TIMES ECONOMIC TIMES

On Friday, January 30th, Mayor Brian McMullan delivered his third State of theCity address in which he reviewed his expectations for 2009. While recognizing thesevere economic challenges faced by the City and the country, Mayor McMullanwas particularly upbeat and positive about 2009. He emphasized that this is not thetime to retrench and go into a cocoon but rather to move forward with initiatives thatwill build for the future and restore economic growth. The Mayor outlined a numberof such initiatives and the corresponding economic benefits. In particular, he empha-sized the importance of proceeding with the Performing Arts Centre and School andother projects to revitalize our downtown.

MAYOR DELIVERS HIS STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS FOR 2009

PROUD members joined others from across the city in responding positively to Mayor McMullan's State of the City Address at Club Romaand enthusiastically supporting his"YES WE CAN" call to the audience.

This page sponsored by Dr. David Bergen

INSIDE...........

Strategic Lawsuits against Public

Participation

OMB dismisses the developer's lawsuit 2

Poet's Place

Thoughts of Valentines 2

A Community's Extraordinary

Struggle 3

Valentine's Recipes 3

Trivia Night-another

Outstanding EventJan. 31st brought people together from all

across the City 4

Trivia QuestionsTrivia Night Sample Questions to encour-

age you to attend a Trivia Night 4

Black History Month 5

Excerpts - Presentation to

Council by PALZ

Leash-Free Dog Park 5

The Climate in Niagara 6

Trivia Answers 6

What's Up? 7

50 Winters Later

The Day the Music Died 8

Holly, Valens, the Big Bopper 8

Conclusion -PALZ presentation 8

ACO Fundraising Pledge Form 8

Kids Define Love ..."When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn't bend over and paint her toenailsanymore. So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got

arthritis too. That's love." Rebecca- age 8

Port Dalhousie Seniors CentrePort Dalhousie Senior Citizens Centre19 Brock Street 905-646-8000

Monday 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. ... Bingo 12:00 noon - 4:00 p.m. ... Quilting

Tuesday 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. ... Crafts and Social Time

Wednesday 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. ... Euchre

Thursday 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. ... Bingo

Saturday (1st Saturday of each month) 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. ... Euchre

Note: Foot clinic every 6th Thursday.Call for dates and time - $10.00

(646-8000)

STRATEGIC LAWSUITS AGAINST PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

Excerpts from Article in Built

Heritage News

Globe and Mail: OMB Dismisses SLAPP suitJohn Barber

Win whets appetite of green warriorsYou'd think that Rick Smith and David Don-

nelly would be happier. OMB

The two green warriors - Dr. Smith as head of Environmental DefenceCanada, Mr. Donnelly as scrappy lawyer in the same cause - won the pro-vincial policy lottery last week when the Ontario Municipal Board dis-missed a developer's demand that they and their allies pay more than $3-million to cover the alleged cost of their opposition to a huge resort devel-opment on Lake Simcoe.

It turned out that the board agreed with everything the two had alwayssaid: that they hadn't acted unreasonably in opposing the marina at BigBay Point, that the developer had no right to recover costs and that itsextravagant claim was meant to have a "chilling effect" on other individu-als and groups opposing development.

"Our hope now is that the province moves to introduce an anti-SLAPPstatute," Dr. Smith said. The victory at the OMB came despite "the indif-ference of the provincial government," according to Mr. Donnelly,"which was a party throughout this matter, had two lawyers taking notesthe whole time but did not have one thing to say about it."

Just as disturbing to the two environmentalists is the spectre of historyrepeating itself just down Highway 400 near the towns of Bradford andBond Head, where the province is once again vacillating in the face of amajor development proposal that appears to contradict its much-laudednew planning laws and policies.

"It's very clear the government is chickening out," Dr. Smith said, addingthat the Big Bay Point development "is only a symptom of a larger prob-lem" in southern Simcoe County involving "some of the largest, mostdestructive development projects in Ontario history."............................

Editor's Note (Built Heritage News): SLAPP suits or not, it is veryexpensive for citizens to participate at the OMB, wins are almost unheardof. The next big one for heritage advocates is the upcoming decision onthe proposed tower in Port Dalhousie, in a Heritage Conservation District.

Editor's Note (Port Reporter). While the Big Bay Point development

eventually received OMB approval, the developer there did make some

very significant changes and reductions in the face of community opposi-

tion -unlike the Port Dalhousie developer who stated early on "it is not

negotiable" and refused to make changes. Also, the Big Bay Point devel-

opment was NOT in a designated heritage district.

POET'S PLACEFEBRUARY 2009

Already, the days grow noticeably longer. If you don’t believe it ask any blackbird - here in Freiburg, at least,

they are always among the first to remember that winter didn’t come to stay. At dawn and at dusk, when their

yellowing beaks are poised to the sky to sing, you may be lucky and hear an answer.

I never think of blackbirds without thinking of Wallace Stevens (1879-1955), American poet, whose body of

work includes THIRTEEN WAYS OF LOOKING AT A BLACKBIRD.

Wallace Stevens studied law and actually enjoyed a long and successful professional life in the employ of an

insurance company while pursuing as well a career in poetry. I like that improbable juxtaposition and find it a

good fit to the central theme of Stevens’ writing, that of imagination and its place in reality. Whimsical, impres-

sionistic poems took form in Stevens’ mind on his way to and from the office. Essays in prose were written

which discussed his topic and instigated dialogue with other artists. Throughout his life as a poet Stevens con-

cerned himself with the question of how to regard the world now that the old notions of religion no longer seem

to suffice. The transformative power of imagination infused his quiet, uneventful life. Let’s see if it can do the

same for us - who can see the blackbird as Wallace Stevens saw it? We’ll never really know for sure, but here are

seven out of thirteen ways to try::

I II

Among twenty snowy mountains, I was of three minds,The only moving thing Like a tree Was the eye of a blackbird. In which there are three blackbirds.

IV V

A man and a woman I do not know which to prefer, Are one. The beauty of inflections A man and a woman and a blackbird Or the beauty of innuendoes, Are one. The blackbird whistling

Or just after.

VIII XIII know noble accents The river is moving.And lucid, inescapable rhythms; The blackbird must be flying.But I know, too,

That the blackbird is involved

In what I know.

XIII

It was evening all afternoon.

It was snowing

And it was going to snow.

The blackbird sat

In the cedar limbs.

Not only does the light which motivates the blackbird brighten up the month of February, so does the cele!bration of love known as Valentine"s Day. Of all the legends that surround the saint for whom this day wasnamed I best like the one that has him, under threat of death, secretly uniting young couples in marriage.Claudius II had ordered young men to remain unmarried, believing that lovers make poor soldiers. Foundout by the emperor, the saint!to!be was jailed and subsequently executed for the crime of encouragingyoung men to make love rather than war. Legend, further, finds in the cell where he had been imprisoned anote, addressed to a young woman and signed, #from your Valentine$. Widely observed in the world %andnot just with commerce&, Valentine"s Day now celebrates not only romantic love, but also the bond offriendship. Think of it: On February 14th, all around our globe, heart!shaped cards, red roses and choco!lates, acts of appreciation, anonymous gifts and dinner invitations will take over for a moment or an hourfrom the latest negative news. Now, if it were me you"d want to please, you could best do it like Americanwriter Gertrude Stein %1874!1946&, with a poem. Gertrude Stein spent most of her adult life in Paris. Shecollected art of the new century %impressionistic and cubist& and attracted a large circle of artists and writ!ers, including Picasso and Hemingway, to the hospitable table and cultural salon kept by herself and AliceB. Toklas. Stein wrote in a new way which later came to be called #stream of consciousness$, and only inEnglish. She once said that she needed to be outside the circle of her own language in order really to writeit, and was heard to pose the question #If it can be done, why do it?$ Here"s Gertrude Stein"s own valentine,a poem which could well pay honour to anybody"s sweetheart or best friend. Remembering that words aremore than meaning alone %sounds! born of breath! travelling on waves!& do read this aloud, or at very leastwhispered, to yourself, to your nearest and dearest, or to your favourite blackbird, to get ! and to give ' ataste of poetry"s full flavour:

A Very Valentine

Very fine is my valentine.Very fine and very mine.Very mine is my valentine very mine and very fine.Very fine is my valentine and mine, very fine very mine and

mine is my valentine

PAGE 2PORT REPORTER FEBRUARY 2009

Hazardous Waste CollectionSt. Catharines / ThoroldNiagara Region Environmental Centre Parking Lot, 3501 Schmon Pkwy, Thorold * Saturday, April 11, 2009, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. * Saturday, May 9, 2009, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. * Saturday, June 13, 2009, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. * Saturday, July 11, 2009, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. * Saturday, August 8, 2009, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. * Saturday, September 12, 2009, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. * Saturday, October 10, 2009, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

* Saturday, November 14, 2009, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m

Baking Soda is Good for Your Hair

Posting by Lori Deschene

There are a couple ways you could introduce baking soda to your hair care routine:

1. Clean your brushes and combs:

“Hairbrushes and combs pick up not only loose hair, but they also get oily. Clean yours once a month by soak-

ing them in a solution of warm water and a teaspoon or two of baking soda. Scrub them with a soft brush, if

needed, then rinse them with clean water and let them air dry.”

2. Rinse product build-up out of your hair:

“Is your hair dull and dingy? Maybe you have a build-up of shampoo, spray, mousse, and other products in your

hair. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda in with your shampoo the next time you wash your hair. The soda will

remove any build up and leave your hair soft.

Kate Egetmeyer

Kate Egetmeyer. grew up in St. Catharines and

has lived near Freiburg in the southwest of Ger-

many for twenty-plus years. Her sister, Judith

Frugier, lives on Canal Street.

ACTIVITIES

FOR

SENIORS

PAGE 3PORT REPORTER FEBRUARY 2009

Everyone should be “proud” of the case Jane Pepino, one of Ontario’s foremost municipal lawyers has presented on behalf of our community organization. She did an outstanding jobcross-examining the developers’ expert witnesses who claimed the tower fits in with a low-rise heritage district. Jane's colleague Patrick Harrington led off our case with his skillful exami-nation-in-chief of leading theatre expert Janis Barlow. Jane brought out the best from the rest of our expert witnesses who included: Wayne Morgan, one of the Province’s most experi-enced heritage planners; David Cuming, also a highly-experienced heritage planner and the expert who drafted the heritage guidelines for Port; Phil Goldsmith, one of the top heritagearchitects in Canada; Herb Stovel, an internationally-renowned expert on heritage policies and processes and; Corwin Cambray, the former Commissioner of Planning for the NiagaraRegion.

It has been an extraordinary group effort by a community that lawyer Jane Pepino recognized early on is A VERY EXTRAORDINARY COMMUNITY.

From what we know, it is unprecedented in Ontario for a volunteer community organization to be able to professionally stand up to a developer with deep pockets throughout a verylengthy OMB Hearing. We thank the many volunteers who made it happen by helping with fundraisers, attending the hearing and sending us so many expressions of support. We particu-larly thank those volunteers who gave their time to be at the Hearing most days. including: Hank Beekhuis, Eleanor Lancaster, Pat Waters, Jeff Loucks, Phil Baranowski, Dorothy and KenMackenzie and Deborah Kehler. Deborah deserves special recognition as she took time off work to take detailed notes of the full Hearing and assist Jane Pepino - an effort which saved thecommunity considerable money.

We also express deep appreciation to Mayor Brian McMullan and our City Council for standing up for appropriate development consistent with the approved policies in the city's Official Plan, Secondary Plan and Heritage Guidelines. These policies were very aptly and professionally defended by City SolicitorAnnette Poulin in her case against the tower proposal. While it is impossible to guarantee what the final ruling will be, we feel confident that we have collectively presented a cogent and compelling case and have an excellent chance ofsuccess at the OMB. We are quite hopeful for a ruling upholding the existing Heritage Guidelines for all time and this will be very timely given the recent discovery of Lock 1 of the firstWelland Canal in Lakeside Park. Such a ruling will also help protect the other 91 heritage districts in the Province.

PORT PAGE

THE PORT REPORTERPublisher: Ted Gould

theportreporter@gmail.com

Editorial BoardCarlos Garcia

Deborah KehlerFrank Caplan

Advertising - DistributionJimVanderburghBruce CordnerColin JohnstonJudy Frugier

Staff WritersCarlos Garcia

Deborah KehlerLorraine CordnerBruce Cordner

Environment-Jane Hanlon

Graphic Support

Todd Hildebrand

PORT REPORTER CONTACT NUMBER

905-935-1168

DISCLAIMERThe Port Reporter does not accept responsibility, or legalliability, for information submitted by our advertisers. ThePort Reporter makes no warranty in respect of the contentsof this newspaper and accepts no liability for any loss ordamage whatsoever and however arising in respect of thecontent of any third party material appearing in the paperwhether directly or indirectly as a result of access to and useof this Paper including without limitation acting or failing toact in reliance on any information contained herein.

Deadline for posting of community events andadvertising for the next issue is February 27,

2009.

A COMMUNITY'S EXTRAORDINARY STRUGGLE FOR APPROPRIATE DEVELOPMENT

OMB TOWER HEARING: YOUR DONATION WILL HELP

As you will surmise, putting forth this case has been very costly –particularly given the longer than expected hearing. Wenow know the total cost of the full defence of Port heritage at the OMB will exceed $400,000 -significantly over our origi-nal estimate of $300,000. We have already raised over 80% of the funds required and are now in the process of raising theremainder. Many of you (hundreds) have already made very generous contributions and we really appreciate your support.We still need your help and ask that you please consider a 2009 contribution to ACO-St. Catharines’ Port Dalhousie Heri-tage Fund. Please donate only to your own ability and donate from the heart. Donations are made to ACO-St. Catharines(The Architectural Conservancy of Ontario, a registered charity established in 1933), and will receive a tax receipt. Pleasefill out and mail the Pledge Card on page 8 with your donation or phone 905-935-9407 if you have questions. NOTE: Youcan also donate on-line at www.saveport.ca. Like the vast majority of Niagara residents, our 600 members from throughout he Region strongly support developmentin the commercial core of Port Dalhousie's Heritage Conservation District. We support appropriate development that is con-sistent with applicable regulations and will not unduly restrict access by all residents or negatively impact traffic and park-ing. A development that preserves the 'village feel' and historic character will truly revitalize Port Dalhousie and generatemajor economic benefits for our City and Region.David Bergen and Carlos Garcia

PROUD Port Dalhousie

Citizens of Niagara:

As most of you know, the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) Hear-ing on the future of historic Port Dalhousie got underway on Feb-ruary 20, 2008 and November 19th was the final and 71st day ofthe Hearing. We now await the Board's decision which wasexpected in late January or early February. For the past 4 years, and particularly during the 21 weeks ofthe Hearing, many of our residents have volunteered hundreds ofhours of their time to battle a developer who wants to convert thedowntown core of Port Dalhousie, our 19th century, historic canalvillage and public beach, into a massive modern developmentincluding a condo tower the height of a 20-storey building. Thiscondo tower, initially 326 feet and now 207 feet – ("currently thetallest building in the downtown core of the Heritage District is 3storeys, about 39 feet") will forever change the historic village weall love and, if approved, could be just the first tower. At the OMB, the developers' witnesses, including their archi-tects, have claimed that this project is exactly what is required torevitalize our village and that no other alternatives could possiblywork. The voters of St. Catharines think otherwise and have pre-viously spoken loudly and clearly. At the last election, six out ofthe seven Councillors that initially favoured the project were notreturned to office (and of those that were opposed to the project,all were returned). The new Council passed several key measuresexpressing their disapproval of the project, rejected their HeritagePermit and Site Plan Applications and, the City Solicitor was atthe Hearing fighting the project alongside the appellants from thecommunity. However, despite Council's stand and widespreadpublic opposition, the developer has always refused to makechanges and forged ahead with this extremely expensive OMB

Hearing.

Will Port retain its village charm????

VALENTINES DAY SPECIAL RECIPESGlazed Sweet PotatoesServes 6

Lime and subtly spiced Peach Chutney are a perfect accent tocolourful sweet potatoes. Serve this accompaniment withroasted chicken, pork or beef.

• 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled & diced into 1-inch pieces • 3 Tbsp olive oil • juice of 1 lime • 1/2 c Peach Chutney • salt & pepper

Preheat oven to 350 F. Toss diced sweet potatoes with oliveoil, lime juice, Peach Chutney and season with salt and pep-per. Pour into a baking dish and roast uncovered for 30 min-utes, stirring occasionally. Serve immediately.

Baked Brie with Raspberry Coulis for Two1 small wheel brie, cut in half horizontally2 sheets phyllo dough, cut in half1/4 cup clarified butter1/4 cup sweetened raspberry puree (seedless)

Place a half sheet of the phyllo on a flat surface.Brush with butter, and place the 2nd sheet over the first,at a right angle to it.Place half the brie in the center and pull up the sides ofthe dough, then twist the ends gently. Repeat for secondbrie.Place these phyllo "purses" on a nonstick baking sheetand bake at 450 degrees F for about 5 minutes, untilgolden brown.Present on a plate with drizzled raspberry puree, anddrizzle more over the purses.Garnish with fresh berries and mint leaf

PAGE 4PORT REPORTER FEBRUARY 2009

TRIVIA NIGHT - YET ANOTHER OUTSTANDING EVENT

"It is just amazing the way people come out to these events and the great community spirit"

Hello volunteers and Friends of Port Dalhousie everywhere, The January 31st, 2009 TRIVIA NIGHT at the Black Sea Hall was yet another outstanding event. The

community spirit our city is known for was at its best.

Trivia players started arriving right as the doors opened at 6 pm and, thanks to so many of you having

prepaid, there was no huge line-up at the front door. Table numbers were already pre-assigned and

check-in proceeded very smoothly. By the time the game started at approximately 7:15 (our apologies

for being a few minutes late) we had approximately 250 friends from throughout the Region there.

These friends included City Councillors Bruce Williamson, Andrew Gill and Heather Foss. Former City

Councillor Carol Disher was also there. We thank them for their ongoing support.

There were six rounds of tough questions including a music round. Trivia Master Len Dieleman and his

team did a great job and we really appreciate their work and help. In between each round, door prizes

were awarded and there was a break for pizza at around 9 pm. Everyone had a great time in this friendly

competition but, as you know, these events don't just happen -it took the work and organization skills of

many volunteers. These included Marianne Kond and Ed and Gord Szaszi, Bruce and Lorrie Cordner,

Colin and Ruth Johnston, Rick and Kristine Broughton, Marion and Kelly Hepworth, Nancy Beckon,

Ruth Barclay, Carol Brittan-Jones, Sheridan Alder, Pat Waters, Esther Chadwick, Barb McLeod, Atty

Anker, Jackie Szymansky, Carolanne McIntyre and perhaps others we might have missed. We thank

you all.

Our thanks also to the young people who helped as Runners collecting the answer sheets including:

Tory and Teddy Lancaster, Joey and Laura DeLuca and India and Sierra Fowler. A very special thanks

to Irene Newton and the Black Sea Hall which is just a great venue.

As someone remarked: "It is just amazing the way people come out to these events and the great com-

munity spirit"

Trivia Night Questions - to encourage you to attend a Trivia NightRemember, it is a team effort with up to eight people working together to get correct answers

The following questions were posed in Round 5 of the Jan. 31 event.

1. What is the diameter in inches of an official NHL hockey puck?

2. What is the longest river in the United States?

3. In the world of transportation, what do the initials NS&T stand for?

4.What game show host replaced Bob Barker on the Price is Right?

5. What movie starred Mel Gibson as William Wallace?

6. What creature has the world's largest eyes by diameter? -be specific.

7. What age is dawning in the musical Hair?

8. What author wrote the Rainmaker and a Painted House?

9. What does PDA stand for in computer terminology?

10. What country did the Romans call Hibernia?

11. What was the name of Colonel Potter's wife on MASH?

12. What date were Pierre Elliot Trudeau's first two sons born on?

13. Who was the second man to set foot on the moon?

14. What Saturday Night Live star is the voice of Shrek?

15. What European country was the site for the Battle of Waterloo? (Answers-page 7)

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Parks Canada Website

The St. Catharines BME Church (better known as Salem Chapel) hasstrong associations with the famous Underground Railroad conductor

Harriet Tubman.

The growing city of St. Catharineswas close to the border, it was onthe train lines, and it offeredemployment opportunities. Notsurprisingly, a large refugee popu-lation developed here. In 1855, thecommunity was able to replacetheir first small log church withthis larger and more finished build-ing. It is an open hall plan with athree-sided balcony, providingseating capacity for the large num-bers of people who regularly

attended services.

PAGE 5PORT REPORTER FEBRUARY 2009

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The congregation often included newly arrived refugees who had been ledto freedom by the renowned conductor Harriet Tubman. Her passengerssheltered initially in a house just behind the church where Tubman livedduring the 1850s. Thanks to her fame, the church has become a frequentstopping point on the travels of many of the leading abolitionists fromaround the world.

The "Underground Railroad" (UGR) serves as an apt description for a realHIDING network of people, places, and secret routes that spirited south-ern slaves from captivity to freedom, and as a metaphor for a peopleforced to live underground, in the shadows, and on the margins. The dan-gers involved in fleeing, in exodus, were real; the consequences of cap-ture, cruel and immediate. But unjust imprisonment as chattel slavesnecessitated a belief in a better world, in a world of deliverance from evil.And so they ran.

St. Catharines was a common destination for the former fugitives, includ-ing Harriet Tubman, who lived there from 1851 to 1857. Many of the peo-ple she rescued were relatives of those already in St. Catharines includingher own parents, brothers and sisters and their families.

Canada Post is issuing two stamps in 2009 to recognize Canada's blackhistory. One of them honours Rosemary Brown, the first Black woman tobe elected to public office. She was also the first woman to run for theleadership of a Canadian federal political party.

On Sunday, February 1, the National Congress of Black Women Founda-tion hosted the stamp launch, as well as presenting a short play on slaveryand two films on Abraham Doras Shadd and Rosemary Brown.

Abraham Doras Shadd played a major role in the Underground Railroad.He’s reported to be the first Black person to hold a political office in Can-ada. A stamp has also been issued in his honour.

FALSE

HOPES?

Excerpts from PALZ (People Advocating

Leash-Free Zones) presentation to St.

Catharines city council Jan. 19, 2008

Re: request for a new leash-free dog park and report

on the success of the Burgoyne Woods Park

Mayor McMullan.........It’s been almost three years

since PALZ first came to council to ask you to considerhelping us establish the city’s first leash-free dog parkat Burgoyne Woods. I am back tonight to report on the

success of this park and request your support for a new

park in the downtown area.

Burgoyne Woods Park

I will start with a brief report on the BurgoyneWoods park which officially opened in December,2006. The leash-free park is a happy place for own-

ers and their dogs! One couple even held their wed-

ding at the park to celebrate the place where they metand there was a costume party for pugs last Hallow-een.Attendance has continued to grow and some dogowners, including seniors and disabled people, visitthe park on a daily basis. PALZ has a Facebook siteto share news about the park and the membershipnow stands at over 200.

The PALZ committee schedules maintenance days tospread bark mulch around the high-traffic areas whenthey become muddy. We held our first annual gen-eral meeting in October 2007 at the pavilion near theleash-free park. Over 75 people attended and newpositions on the committee were filled – large andsmall dog park representatives, accessibility coordi-nator and an expansion subcommittee to look intopotential locations for a new park. At our last AGM,in September 2008, we held a barbecue and a silentauction and raised over $1,000!(cont'd on page 8)

History gathered from the internet February is Black History Month, an annual remembrance of the struggleand the achievements of black Canadians, who have played a vital role inCanada's history.

Planning For the Future 2008 was a year to sit up and take notice. It was only a couple of

years ago that Europe had that sweltering heat wave that killed

35,000 people. Last year BC experienced unprecedented winds that

brought new construction toppling. A cyclone hit Burma that killed

tens of thousands. Flooding on the St Lawrence River cost dearly

and China continues to be riddled with earthquakes. Two years

ago, much of central Britain was under water and the fish didn’t

spawn around Greece, the water was just too warm. Australia is

even now, enduring its worst heat wave ever with temperatures

remaining above 43 degrees for over a week.

It’s encouraging that Ontario has offered Niagara the structure and

possible funding to ensure water quality and arable land takes prece-

dence to urban expansion. As federal funds become available, we

trust that Niagara will benefit as so many forward-thinking regions

have.

Concern deepened January 29th at the Committee of the Whole as

municipalities continued to present for urban expansion, and devel-

opers were awarded multiple presenters, each given 10 minutes for

the same project. Those concerned for the welfare and benefit of

the entire region waited until late in the day. Some even used his-

torical data for low density demand to presume the need for future

growth.

TRANSIT/AIR QUALITYMembers of Climate Action Now have great awareness of the

urgency for inner and inter-city transit requirements within a 2 year

time frame to ensure that Niagara’s population can get to their

employment areas. We also have serious concerns whereby the

Region considers placing industry in one locale, business in another

while the growth centre and administrative is in a 3rd, making trans-

portation more costly, less fuel efficient, and increases our carbon

output. Niagara’s air quality requires better planning than 'growing

south’. Employment centres alongside big box stores aren’t much

better. We require walkable neighbourhoods that are vibrant with

public capacity. Regional roads throughout municipalities are noto-

rious for reduced urban tree canopy, overly widened heat-sinking

roadways, and commercial needs first.

Dr Homer-Dixon and Clive Rock, Transit Greater Vancouver

addressed the Smarter Niagara Climate discussions in Welland last

year. Homer-Dixon updated us to the imperative to prepare for fuel

shortages and the urgency needed to reduce our carbon footprint and

consumption. Clive Rock followed with practical transit strategies

that can be quickly implemented, using a scenario from the Greater

Vancouver area which aligns with Niagara, in that it consist of 3 cit-

ies, and multiple municipalities that employ through 1/3 agriculture

and 1/3 manufacturing.

Public transit between cities is a continuous loop provided in both

directions with hubs at existing city bus terminals and linkages feed-

ing into the main circle. This is eminently do-able for Niagara

while waiting for light rail to replace it. It would provide a north-

south line that also ties into Niagara Falls. Port Colborne and Wain-

fleet can tie into Welland’s terminal and Grimsby can link into St

Catharines. Students of Brock and Niagara College may have a

shelter at roadside. Major employers can be provided with incen-

tives that can increase ridership. At only 2%, our public ridership

levels are appalling.

Consensus at the Transportation segment of the Niagara Economic

Forum this past year, stated that the days of super-highways are

over and that by the time any east west link was constructed, peak

oil will be well upon us, rendering it a colossal waste of public

funds. It’s time to separate the transportation of people from mov-

ing goods. It’s time to get Port status for St Catharines, to improve

our shipping capacity, to re-link our rail, to provide light rail and to

assist municipalities to better transit.

THE CLIMATE IN NIAGARAFOOD SECURITY/WATER QUALITYForty-one countries declared to the United Nations, an inability to

provide sufficient food to their residents, up from twenty-three the

previous year. As potable water supply dwindles the world over,

the irrigation of food crops is now illegal in several countries

(many of which export food to Canada). The Colorado River,

which feeds much of the Californian food production land, is

down to 25% of its 1950’s levels.

It takes one thousand years to create 1” of arable soil. The soil and

temperate clime of Niagara have historically been revered how-

ever, the past fifty years has seen much damage to the quality of

our soil. Still considered the best in Canada, pesticides and contin-

ual chemical fertilization and over-tilling have stripped our capac-

ity to maintain current production. Soil structure breaks down and

nutrient deficiencies become more common. Climate Action Now

members believe that we owe it to the generations yet to come, to

leave the planet better than we found it and that land use planning

is of prime importance.

Currently, Canada is the only G8 country without food security

policy. The loss of CanGro was a serious blow to the perception

of individual security and of concern to all who call Niagara home.

Since 1960, I have witnessed 34 profitable food related industries

leave Niagara, either through foreign ownership then closure, or

through foreign ownership and interference in suppliers or shelf

space.

It’s also time to discuss the true loss of capacity to soil health and

healthy tree cover through the leveling of land for subdivisions

and culverts. Land formation loss leads to water quality deteriora-

tion. Where in all this do two new golf courses fit? They don’t.

The current ones are not filled to capacity and it’s a terrible pesti-

cide ridden waste of land. How can we put a stop to yet another

golf course surrounded by detached housing and an 18,000 square

foot recreational centre? How could this land be better used?

Climate Action Now members and friends oppose agriculturally

downgraded lands in the northwest of Niagara Falls that would

enable further degradation of arable land. This area is susceptible

to groundwater contamination as is the surrounding area of Smith-

ville. Toronto’s water and waste water infrastructure was unable to

handle the increased flows two summers ago, saddling the city

with massive repairs and contaminating rivers and shorelines.

With increasing storm surges expected in our near and distant

future, Niagara will be providing increasingly expensive infra-

structure. Let’s ensure that it’s not wasted on low density areas.

An increase in seniors and youth and the move to fewer residents

per unit have left us with a glut of costly infrastructure with low

density and very few upscale urban condo complexes of medium

density or high. 5 storey units with commercial on the 1st is popu-

lar in Oakville, Mississauga, Toronto, Stoney Creek, Waterloo,

Guelph, etc.

FOREST COVERAccording to the work of Natural Resources Canada and the Cana-

dian Forestry Association and the Urban Forestry Association, the

leading work of Dan McKenna and team is the prime indicator of

the heat and drought tolerances of trees and along with their natu-

ral migration and reproductive rates, we in Niagara should see a

25% reduction in the health of our current urban street trees. Inter-

vention is required in short order to ensure the health of residents

during periods of drought, to ensure at least our current air quality

remains stable, to ensure at least stable rates of melanoma, and to

provide heat relief. Energy conservation is enabled with adequate

tree coverage. We can no longer simply rely on our current selec-

tion of species or even sexes of species. Trees that normally live

for one hundred to one hundred and fifty years are struggling,

especially along the lakes where the soil is sandier with less capac-

ity to retain water. Pests and disease are rampant among our cur-

rent street trees, an indicator of reaching their upper limits of heat

and drought tolerance. Rather than attempt to be all things to all

people, we suggest that the Region increases the capacity of Land

Care Niagara and the Niagara Restoration Council and other non

profit organizations to educate and infill urban areas using smaller,

more affordable, and hardier trees.

PORT REPORTER JANUARY 2009PAGE 6

While none can prepare for all emergencies, our generation is ill

equipped for natural disasters or even extreme storms or power

outs. Television and entertainments beckon to us to forget that

we’re dependant upon the natural order. The sooner we look at cli-

mate change, the sooner we can mitigate, accommodate and

develop a plan B.

EMPLOYMENT* CAN members recognize that diversification is imperative in

changing climes and believe that attracting tourists or youth hinges

on the same requirements as does providing the best possible qual-

ity of life. That is, a healthier Niagara. When we focus on what’s

best for the land that we’ve been entrusted with, the beauty, the

temperature, the bounty, and the recreation fall into place. Add to

that the supporting industries, such as a few CanGro replacements,

following examples from the Holland Marsh for agricultural inno-

vations, the health industry, the arts, and agriculture, and we’re

almost there. Niagara is still famous for our energy. Let’s capital-

ize on that with renewable energies instead of reinventing the wheel

with restrictions that hamper innovators. I’m referencing here the

undue restrictions on wind energy road setback requirements. Let’s

not hamstring the innovators. The public is seeking to support

greener businesses with their purchasing power, and it’s not a Niag-

ara phenomena.

Currently, some municipalities are ‘using up’ remaining greenfields

with the presumption that within 5 years, we’ll all be at the table

again. The province, wisely, is sending a very clear signal that fur-

ther expansions are exceedingly unlikely, even for municipalities

that use their current greenfields to support anything less than high

density. It cannot be overstated that the problem is not the ‘amount

of land’ but the ‘use of land’.

Climate Action Now advocates a moratorium on single story com-

mercial and recognizes our glut of low density residential. We

encourage expropriation where necessary for inner city health to be

replaced with high density, with reduced set-backs, which include

commercial on the main floors. Current planning practices presume

that our generation has every right to build right up to existing

boundaries without concern for future generations.

Clearly, these are times where ‘business as usual’ cannot support

our future residents and impacts our current cancers and respiratory

ailment rates. Niagara requires your leadership to refuse boundary

expansions. Although our original preference was for Plan C with

Smithville Greenbelt expansion, we recognize that West Lincoln is

unlikely to protect its own backyard. Therefore, Climate Action

Now supports Plan D for the protection and growth of Niagara.

The 2008 United Nations Food Summit declaration states,

“We firmly resolve to use all means to alleviate the suffering

caused by the current crisis, to stimulate food production,

and to increase investment in agriculture, to address obsolete

obstacles to food access, and to use the planet’s resources

sustainably for present and future generations”. With the

wealth and health of Niagara at stake, we can do no less

In these tough economic times, please support our

advertisers. Next month we will be listing those busi-

nesses who have supported our all-volunteer commu-

nity newspaper with their advertising. Those businesses

need and deserve our support through these difficult

economic times

Look for the list in the March edition.Jane Hanlon is an environmental writer and the Chair of St

Catharines CLIMATE ACTION NOW, a group of Niagara

residents committed to furthering sustainable practices. For

more information, to become a member or to support their

work, she can be contacted at 905-938-8882 or by email at

janehanlon@cogeco.ca

In these tough economic times, please sup-

port our advertisers. Next month we will be

listing those businesses who have supported

our all-volunteer community newspaper

with their advertising. Those businesses

need and deserve our support through these

difficult economic times

Look for the list in the March edition.

Jane Hanlon is an environmental writer and the Chair of St

Catharines CLIMATE ACTION NOW, a group of Niagara

residents committed to furthering sustainable practices. For

more information, to become a member or to support their

work, she can be contacted at 905-938-8882 or by email at

janehanlon@cogeco.ca

PAGE 7PORT REPORTER FEBRUARY 2009

JOIN US FOR SUNDAY SERVICE

10:30 a.m.

ALL WILL BE

WARMLY WELCOMED

Meet our new Minister

Rev. Dr. Philip Gardner

St. Andrews

United Church

92 Main Street

Port Dalhousie

935-7231

ST. CATHARINES

Brock University Centre

for the Arts

Compadres - Oscar LopezCompadres - Oscar LopezCompadres - Oscar LopezCompadres - Oscar Lopez

and James Keelaghanand James Keelaghanand James Keelaghanand James Keelaghan Sean O'Sullivan Theatre2008 JunoNominee for Roots and TraditionalAlbum of the Year (Group) James Kee-lahgan is one of Canada's best knownsongwriters with deep roots in Canadianand Celtic traditions. Oscar Lopez is oneof Canada's most acclaimed Latin guitarplayers.Two worlds. Two cultures. One voice.Music without boundaries - two brilliantperformers at their best.

• Platinum $28 • Gold $32 • Regular $38Thursday, February 19, 2009 7:30p.m.

Dhoad Gypsies from

RajasthanSean O'Sullivan TheatreIn the past six years, these global cul-tural ambassadors have played over 500concerts in over 40 different countries.

The Thar Desert in India's northwestRajasthan state is home to the DhoadGypsies who deliver an authentic cul-tural feast for the senses. Led by artisticdirector, Rahis Bharti, the troupe makesfull use of Indian instruments andembraces the ancient and colourful folktraditions of fakirs (dancers, perform-ers), langas (bard poets), manganyars(troubadours) and snake charmers fromdifferent communities, religions andartistic tastes.

Bharti's vision to bring to life the spiri-tual and mystical heritage of Rajasthanis evident as this religiously and musi-cally diverse group delivers hauntingvocals, heart-stirring rhythms, vibrantdancers and snake charmers in the whirl-wind shimmer of Dhoad celebration andperformance. The Dhoad Gypsies bringto life the passion and epic heroism oftheir forefathers and transform themonotony of everyday life with theenchanting sounds of mystical desertlands. An authentic and magical experi-ence, these artists create an atmosphereof enchantment and an extravaganza ofsound expressed through a whirlwind ofglittering colours, sounds and dance.

• Platinum $31 • Gold $35 • Regular $39Wednesday, February 25, 2009

7:30 p.m.

Endless Summer: Music of The

Beach Boys & Brian WilsonSean O'Sullivan TheatreThe Jeans ‘n Classics Band and theNiagara Symphony will bring goodvibrations to this evening devoted to thesmooth sounds of Brian Wilson and TheBeach Boys featuring such hits as “Cali-fornia Girls,” “Help Me Rhonda,”“Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” “Good Vibra-tions” and many more. Peter Brennan’sconcept of combining rock musiciansand headlining vocalists with world-class symphony orchestras has drawnrecord-setting capacity crowds.

Programme:California Girls Sail on Sailor Help me RhondaPlease Let Me Wonder In My Room Do it Again Don't Worry BabyThe Warmth of the Sun Darlin' (20 Minute Intermission)Neck 'n Neck Medley Wouldn't it be Nice Sloop John BDance, Dance, Dance The Girls of the Beach God Only KnowsSurfer Girl Good Vibrations Kokomo• Platinum $42 • Gold $46 • Regular $49Saturday, February 28, 2009 7:30p.m.

Downtown Chili Cook OffFeb. 20, 2009 Friday February 20, 2009The aroma of chili will be filling the air over lunch hour, in downtown St. Catharineson Friday February 20, as the third annual Downtown Chili Cook-off gets under way.This event is open from 11am – 2pm, at Market Square in Downtown St. Catharines.Tasting kits will be sold for $10.00 each at the door, with all proceeds going to Com-munity Care. Tasting kits will contain a ballot to enable the holder to vote for his or her favoritePeoples' Choice chili, along with 10 tickets to sample competitor’s entries, and a bot-tle of water. Niagara's Best Beer has joined in the fun, and will be onsite this yearwith their Niagara's Best Blonde Ale for people to cool their taste buds down with. Allproceeds going to Community Care.A panel of judges, including St. Catharines dignitaries and community personalities,will judge the competition chili. In the spirit of fair competition, the judges do notknow which team's chili they are rating. The winners for the judged and people’schoice awards will be announced at the end of the event. The cook-off will benefitCommunity Care programs in St. Catharines, and Community Care will be on hand atthe event selling pop & water, toques, and taking donations. # 905-685-8424

PORT DALHOUSIE

FEBRUARY Fridays – Fish Fry Royal Canadian Legion BR.350 4-7 pm

Jessie Allen is celebrating her 90th birthday!!In honour of Jessie's birthday, her family is hosting an Open House at the Port Dalhousie Legion on Sunday , March 8th from 2 pm to 4pm.Best Wishes Only, please

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE

Stephen Lewis to Speak at the Shaw Festival TheatreStephen Lewis, whose passionate, articulate vision has galvanized tremendous change

speak about Gender Equality: The Single Most Important Struggle on the Planet,

on Saturday, March 7 at 3:00pm at the Shaw Festival Theatre.

For tickets and information, please call the box office at 1-800-511-7429.

WILLOWBANK LECTURE SERIESJoin us as 8 prominent Canadians share their insights on weaving together .past, pre-sent and futureFebruary 21 . 10 am . William German

A Craftsman's view of history

March 7 . 10 am . Jill Taylor . Toronto

An Architect’s view of history

March 21 . 10 am . Christina Cameron . Montreal

UNESCO’s perspective on cultural history and identity

Lecture Series generously sponsored by:

McLean Foundation and Dr. E. Oliver-Malone and Dr. R. Malone

To register contact Helena Copeland:

905.262.1239 x 21 or willowbank@willowbank.ca

The Niagara Symphony 2008-2009 SeasonPOPS: February 21-22,2009A World Premiere - Louise DiTullio, flute

Louise Di Tullio is one of the most widely heard flutists today, having performed onover a thousand motion picture and television scores in a career that spans four dec-ades. Though her name may not be immediately recognizable, years of recordingshave brought her artistry to a vast, if unwitting, audience.Tickets: Please call 905-688-5550 ext 3257

NIAGARA FALLSThe River`s Passion7:00 PM - 9:00 PM The Niagara Gallery (HistoricNiagara Artistic Exhibition Center)The River`s Passion features the works of photogra-pher Joe Calleja. See the Whirlpool Rapids on theNiagara River as you`ve never seen them before.Joe`s keen eye and camera have captured anastounding collection of images that you won`tbelieve are photographs. Come share his passion forthe river as he celebrates the opening of this newexhibition.Opening reception is Friday, February 13, 2009 at7:00 pm until 9:00 pm.Niagara Gallery is located at 4323 Queen St. Niag-ara Falls, Ontario. 289 296 6251Website: http://www.niagaragallery.comEmail: Niagaragallery@hotmail.com Phone: 289-296-6351

St. Catharines Public Library

Thursday, February 19th 7:00pm - 8:30pmDISCOVER YOUR ROOTSThis program provides a basic overview of themany genealogical resources and how to access anduse them. Call 905-688-6103, ext. 220 to register.Space is limited. • FREELocation: CENTRAL LIBRARY

February 24, 2009 ( Tuesday ) 2:00pmCHARITABLE FRAUD AND EFFECTIVE DONATINGLance Wiebe of Investors Group, Niagara Falls willprovide a presentation on researching charities' trackrecords, and how to effectively donate using thenew federal tax changes with lawyer Steve Nagyaddressing issues of fraud. For more informationplease call, 905-688-6103, ext. 227. • FREELocation: CENTRAL LIBRARY

Native Drum Workshop - Sun, Feb. 22, 2009Families, groups, and individuals interested in learn-ing how to make a Cree-style hand drum are invitedto the Centre for Conservation at Ball's Falls for aone day workshop. Native teachings will also beexplored. For ages 10 and up.Location: Balls Falls Conservation Area - Centre forConservation 3292 Sixth Ave JordanTime: 10:00am - 4:00pmAdmission: Fee applies 905.562.5235 ext. 26

Lincoln Garden Club - February 21, 2009The Lincoln Garden Club meets Saturday February21st, at Rittenhouse Hall, Vineland Research Sta-tion, Victoria Ave N., Vineland. Coffee hour is 9.30am (please bring a mug). Meeting starts at 10 am,and features a demonstration on the construction ofHypertufa Garden Ornaments, conducted by theGrimsby Garden Club. Everyone welcome-garden-ers and non-gardeners alike.Time: Coffee: 9:30am / Meeting 10amMore Info: 905-563-7108

TRIViA ANSWERS FROM PAGE 51. 3 inches 2. Missouri3. Niagara, St. Catharines & Toronto Railway4. Drew Carey5. Braveheart6. Giant Squid7. Aquarius8. John Grisham9. Personal Digital Assistant10. Ireland 11. Mildred12. Christmas Day or December 2513. Edward (Buzz) Aldrin 14. Mike Myers

15. Belgium

PAGE 8PORT REPORTER FEBRUARY 2009

The Surf Ballroom and The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame andMuseum commemorated the 50th Anniversary of the WinterDance Party during a weeklong celebration at the Surf Ball-room on Wednesday, January 28, 2009 honoring the lives,music, and influence of rock and roll pioneers Buddy Holly,J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson and Ritchie Valens, con-cluding on Monday February 2nd, with a special landmark trib-ute concert 50 Winters Later....to the day.

For nearly six decades, The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowahas hosted an amazing array of legendary national artists, fromthe big band and country swing greats, to the popular rock androllers of the day. Today, restored to the original vintagedesign, the Surf Ballroom stands proudly as one of the fewremaining venues of its kind in the nation. Throughout it’s col-orful history there is no association with The Surf that isstronger than the fateful last performance of rock and roll starsBuddy Holly, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson and RitchieValens on February 2, 1959. The annual Winter Dance Partycommemoration planned for 2009 marks the calendar of rockand roll history, reflecting on the special nature of this moment,paying tribute to music and artists of the past and present, and,the obvious fact that the music did not die February 3rd, 1959.

The Surf Ballroom and Museum, Inc is a non for profit organi-zation dedicated to the preservation and accurate representationof this historic event Musical royalty turned out at the Surf Ball-room Monday night to honor the memories of three young musi-cians who died in a plane crash 50 years ago.

Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richard-son and pilot Roger Peterson were killed when their planecrashed just north of the Mason City Municipal Airport on Feb.3, 1959.

http://www.globegazette.com/newsys/holly/

50 WINTERS LATER

Excerpts from PALZ presentation to St. Catharines city council Jan.

19, 2008 (continued from page 5)PALZ met its commitment to the city to pay for 20 per cent of the fencing costs throughfundraisers and donations. In March 2007, Kaz’s Pub invited us to do a fundraiser at theclub and we used the proceeds to bring water lines into the parks for use in the warm

weather.

Challenges

The most challenging issue our committee has faced is making the park more accessible toelderly and disabled users. The location and terrain at Burgoyne Woods has made it diffi-cult for these users to access the park, especially during the winter.......Another problematicissue has been the swampy areas in the two parks.Future leash-free dog park

Informal surveys by PALZ members at the park have shown that a large proportion ofusers live in the north and central areas of the city. We visited over a dozen parks in theseareas and ranked them based on various criteria, the most important one being accessibil-ity. Checklists were submitted to the recreation and community services department andwe met with Stuart Green to discuss our findings. We agreed with his suggestion that aone-acre portion of St. Patrick’s Park on Catherine Street containing a ball diamond nolonger used by the city is a good choice because of its accessibility, on-site parking andunder-utilization.

We’ve also noted that it is partially fenced, has good drainage and a hard-packed graveltrail leading to the ball diamond. Families would be able to use the splash pad across thestreet as well as visit the dog park. Since the neighbourhood is largely residential, weexpect that many users would walk to the park via the Terry Fox Trail. Even neighbour-hood residents without dogs could enjoy watching the dogs play if benches were put out-side the fencing for the park.Costs for a new park

We contacted Sheppard Fencing, the company that installed the fencing at BurgoyneWoods. Gary Sheppard estimated the cost for enclosing the one-acre site at St. Patrick’sPark including a double-gated entrance and a maintenance gate for city vehicles would be$17,900 plus GST. He said the company would also donate two benches as they did for thefirst park.

PALZ is willing to contribute 20 per cent of the capital costs again and continue fundrais-ing to pay for any future improvements to the park. And of course, we would provide stew-ardship and maintenance for the new park.Submitted by Suzanne Mason, on behalf of the PALZ committee - Heather Fyfe, Doug and

Carol Disher, Jim Steel, Cathy Steel-Ewert, Sheryl Stewart, Andrew Niznik, Marilyn

Leczczynski, Crystal Dracz, Kevin DeGruchy, Eugene Tendean and Martin Howe

(full presentation on the PROUD website-www.saveport.ca)