In response to Google Maps renaming Lake Ontario to Lake America for U.S.-based users, a Niagara Falls restaurant has made a similar adjustment to its menu. The decision follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order to alter the lake’s name amidst rising tensions and a looming trade dispute.
Richard Carpenter, co-owner of Carson’s Pizzeria, expressed that if renaming is permissible for a country, they can do the same. Consequently, their former Buffalo chicken sandwich is now featured as the “Ontario wing sauce chicken sandwich.” Co-owner Jonathon Olszewsky also renamed their Chicago Deep Dish as the “Thorold-style Deep Dish Pizza.”
The pizzeria’s Facebook post unveiling the “little name change” has garnered support from Canadians nationwide, with Carpenter mentioning that the alteration is temporary and humor-driven. Carson’s Pizzeria is among various local businesses adopting such gestures to address the renaming.
Katherine McMichael, proprietor of Lady Lou Collective in Niagara-on-the-Lake, affirmed that it remains Lake Ontario and will not change. She criticized the notion of altering the lake’s name, emphasizing its historical significance.
McMichael, who specializes in Canadian-made artworks and gifts at her store, emphasized her commitment to supporting Canadian businesses and products. She acknowledged the impact of the Canada-U.S. trade conflict on her operations, including discontinuing shipments to the U.S.
Shauna Dickson, owner of Irish Design, a local boutique, noted the significance of Lake Ontario as a reference point for her business internationally. Despite the ongoing tensions between countries, Dickson strives to ensure American patrons feel welcomed at her establishment, aiming to maintain a positive atmosphere amid political strains.