"For citizens who can’t add a small porch without a permit (that will likely be denied) ... watching builders and developers raze entire historic structures, erect hulking developments in sensitive areas and enjoy almost-free use of public infrastructure seems wrong," writes Garth Turner.
"Jennifer and Joel run a tight ship. I understand the eatery opened in 1995, and they took over the reins 17 years ago. They have the Midas touch of attracting highly talented, loyal and classy employees," writes Ross Robinson.
Six property owners have filed appeals to the Ontario Land Tribunal, stalling and potentially killing the expansion of Old Town's heritage district, writes Brian Marshall.
"In the 18th century, instability, wars and social change were the norm," writes Penny-Lynn Cookson. "The function of music socially and politically was to represent the social values held by the royals, the aristocrats and the wealthy bourgeoisie."
"Earlier Ontarians understood that public ownership, pastoral landscapes, gardens, historical preservation and architecturally serious infrastructure could be forms of economic development," writes Keith McNenly.
"Fresh greenery is scarce and overpriced (due to the fires), as a nonprofit, we cannot afford to purchase fresh boughs. We’re hoping to source from NOTL properties — we donate 100 per cent to animal rescue," writes Tanya Rice.
"As a local photographer who often documents the heritage and beauty of Niagara-on-the-Lake, receiving this flag feels like a full-circle moment," writes Dave van de Laar.
"We are being asked to accept the partial destruction of the Queen-Picton heritage district’s place identity on the very questionable altar of a cultural institution’s ask," writes Brian Marshall.
"The buyer of a $1.9-million house needs $400,000 in cash and an income of about $220,000 to handle the $8,400 monthly mortgage payment, plus property tax and utilities. Ouch," writes Garth Turner.
"It takes villages, towns and cities of scientists working together, whether directly or simply by sharing insights and data, to make most science work in our time," writes Dr. William Brown.
The following column was written by the late Joanne Young, garden expert and coach, and was originally published in the Oct. 5, 2023 edition of The Lake Report.
"When only 16, Maria fled her homeland in 1944 to Germany, sometimes riding with all their belongings in a horse-drawn carriage. A tough life happened during and after the Second World War," writes Ross Robinson.
"If you choose candidates who promise quick fixes or politically motivated crusades, don’t be surprised when the law catches up and the bill arrives at your doorstep," writes Rainer Hummel.
"Preservation is not nostalgia. It is an act of respect — for the people who came before us, and for the generations who will follow," write the Friends of Laura Secord.
"Now people who flock to see old, quaint, authentic and irreplaceable architecture are greeted by a fine example of the Mississauga Industrial school of design," writes Garth Turner.
"Properly executed, the restoration of this vital and unique piece of heritage will stand as a lasting legacy bequeathed to all Canadians," writes Brian Marshall of the restoration of the David Secord House.
"Bradley’s political style was as effective as his personal style was, well, dull. He was modest, polite, thoughtful and hardly ever used the teacher voice he had at his disposal. He didn’t need to," writes David Israelson.
The following column was written by the late Joanne Young, garden expert and coach, and was originally published in the Nov. 7, 2024 edition of The Lake Report.
"Understanding the recently regularly mentioned notwithstanding clause had never been a priority in my life," writes Ross Robinson. "It's pretty dry stuff."
"This council marches to its own drummer — to hell with their constituents' opinions, which oftimes have been supported by professional, well-documented solutions," writes Samuel Young.
"Even now, when we cross the pond, we often find in other countries, along paths and beaches, equipment painted in joyous colours that invite fun," writes Kathy Belicki.
"This is the Old Town’s new signature gateway project. And some people wonder what the heck went wrong with our planning process. How did we turn into Mississauga?" writes Garth Turner.
"As citizens, we have only two formal venues through which we can express our opinion. The first is our vote, once every four years. The second is through our voice," writes Brian Marshall.
