The Voice, November 30 2022

Santa stops by Fenwick tree lighting

BY VOICE STAFF

After checking the weather fore-

cast,

til it’s go-time,” said the jolly bringer of cheer. “No time to dilly-dally!” Santa Claus will travel some 510,000,000 kilometres around the globe on Christmas Eve, moving at a speed of 10,703,437 KPH. Mr. Claus and his reindeer visit 390,000 homes every minute, sometimes stopping to eat a cookie or two if they are left

out

For information on all of Pelham’s seasonal activities, see www.pelham. ca/christmas

Column Six Seen but not noticed A brief history of the Fonthill sign

BY BILL LAMB Special to the Voice

Many years ago, before the Region existed and when “Pelham” was still five distinct villages, a sign was erected along Canboro Road to indicate to the foreigners from Fenwick, and other places that made up the Township of Pelham, that they were entering the Village of Fonthill. The sign was a wooden board about three feet long, bolted to a ten-foot timber post, with the word “FONTHILL” proudly painted upon it. The fact that the boundary at this location ran along Canboro Road and the sign was on the Pelham Township side of the road was conveniently ignored by all. So there the sign stood for all to see, while it watched over Canboro Road and Clifford Haist’s fruit farm to the south. In 1970, the Niagara Region came in existence and overnight the Township and villages became the Town of Pelham and the citizens were united. But a few things with their roots in the Village of Fonthill or before managed to survive, including the sign, Fonthill Hydro, Fonthill Post Office,

The Fabulous Fenwick Lions Club treated residents to their annual Christmas tree lighting party last Saturday, November 26, with free hot dogs, hot chocolate, and hot apple cider provided in downtown Fenwick.

Santa Claus flew down from the North Pole to make an appearance for the kids, and Mayor Marvin Junkin and a host of elected officials were on hand to join in the merriment. Above, Becky Schonewille and her daughter Willow enjoy a chat with Mr. Claus before he whisked back north to his workshop. “Only four more weeks un-

for him. Santa usually starts in the South Pacific, then heads to New Zealand and Australia, Asia, across to Africa, then Western Europe, North America, and finally Central and South America.

St. Nick pops ‘round: The jolly man himself once again found time in his busy schedule to drop by the Fenwick Lions Christmas tree lighting event last Saturday, delighting everyone and especially those who still have their baby teeth. Christmas is definitely in the air, with home decorations going up everywhere—more so than last year, I think, possibly a polite but defiant finger in the face of Covid. This year we’re going to enjoy the holiday! According to preliminary numbers, apparently seasonal gift shopping is up, too, despite inflation. This certainly appears to be the case for this week’s paper, which is packed full of fine advertisements from fine businesses from here to Niagara-on-the-Lake. It’s another issue we’re doing for the bank, as we are (perpetually) in need of those life-giving ad dollars. This does mean that some articles and submitted service club photos and sundry are still sitting patiently on the shelf, waiting for their week. It will come!...

Delicious and nutritious: That’s not to say there isn’t still plenty to read this week, with a Column Six that I suspect will surprise many, as it did me. John Swart (p.18) looks into the exploding “esports” industry and its corollary “exergaming.” He doesn’t mention it in his column, but an example of the latter would be Wii Sports, the Nintendo game that runs on its own console, simulating various sports which the user plays with handheld motion-sensors. It was released in 2006 and not too long after that we bought one, then we picked up an updated version about ten years ago. It is actually a fair bit of fun, and at least gets users minimally exercising. What it isn’t is any real substitute for actual exertion—even a walk around the block will get the blood flowing better...The record-holder: Still on J. Swart, you may remember a column of his from back in June, “Nostalgia—a more complicated emotion than you think,” which centered on a quadraphonic audio system and a few hundred record albums that had landed in his lap. He was looking to sell the whole shebang and I called dibs. Well, a couple of weeks ago it was finally time to fork over some cash. I ended up not taking the audio system but I did snag the records—45s, 33s, 78s—all now sitting downstairs in the rec room, awaiting our Christmas break to be explored. I had thought that a small record player we bought at Canadian Tire a few years ago, and then hardly used, would be adequate, but now I’m thinking maybe I should pay our friends at Thomas TV (p.12) a visit to see what better options there are. Well, cue up the coincidence of this week’s column by syndicated humour writer Tom Purcell (p.4) on the comeback of vinyl. We’re on the cutting edge!...A disappearing species: Having trouble finding a contractor to plow your drive? Insurance rates have gone through the roof in recent years, causing contractors to sit winter out. One company still in the game and a new Voice advertiser is Jackpot Yard Maintenance. See their ad in the Service Directory, p. 17...More media reading: Thanks for the book, Brian!...Bundle up: See you next week. 4

PORTAGE

Arts Group members.

14

for the last four years, both in person and throughout the pandemic via Zoom, sharing ideas on creativity, artistry, and education.

“We love painting, drawing, and sculpture,” he said. “But even more, we love working with young artists, helping them discover and express how they perceive the world. We are hikers, canoeists, and kayakers, and the Northern wilderness has seeped into our imagery in various ways.

The Northern landscape itself has also nurtured us and seen us through many difficult circumstances in various parts of the world, for we are all trauma survivors in varying ways.”

Tughan said that here are some very good pieces of artwork currently on display in the lower foyer at the MCC, created by Portage

COUNCIL

continued from next page

“This isn’t the first time I’ve followed my CAOs advice, but it’s the first time I’ve followed his advice when it comes to speech writing,” Junkin said. “He told me as soon as he got here about three years ago, he said, ‘Mr. Mayor if you want to become a great public speaker … you don’t write the whole speech out, you write out the highlights and talk to the highlights.’”

Junkin jokingly said he wrote out the notes on his wife’s recipe cards and be-

“A young lady who was a student of mine paints on wooden paddles. It’s pretty incredible.”

What's That

SIREN

Pelham Fire Department Weekly Calls

The Pelham Fire Department responded to 12 calls for assistance from Friday, November 18 to Friday, November 25.

NRPS impaired driving charges

When working with young people, Tughan said that the members provide exercises which help to identify their individual style.

For online information on the Portage Arts Group, see www.portagesemaphore.ca

gan his speech with a cooking reference.

The only piece of true council business discussed at the inauguration was the process for selecting a Deputy Mayor at the first regular meeting of the group next Monday, Dec. 5.

Ontario municipalities generally use one of three formats — electing a deputy mayor at large by the electorate; having a mayor or council elect or appoint one; or rotating the role through all councillors, which Pelham has done for several years, giving each council member eight months in the position.

Saturday, November 19

Motor vehicle collision, Rice Rd., Station 1

Carbon monoxide alarm, Station St., Station 1

Emergency assistance call, Effingham St., Station 3

Monday, November 21

Medical assistance, Station 1

Medical assistance, Station 1

Medical assistance, Station 1

Motor vehicle collision, Sixteen Rd., Station 3

Tuesday, November 22

Motor vehicle collision, Hwy 20 E, Station 1

Wednesday, November 23

Remote alarm, Welland Rd., Station 1

Motor vehicle collision, Silverdale Rd., Station 3

Medical assistance, Station 1 Thursday, November 24 Motor vehicle collision, Centre St., Station 1

Lowes back in court Dec. 23

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor

Mark Evans, lawyer for accused Richard Lowes, briefly appeared before Justice of the Peace R.J. Whalen via Zoom in a Welland courtroom last Friday, November 25. He told the court that he had arranged a Crown pre-trial meeting (CPT) late last week, and that the Crown was soliciting input from the complainants in the case with respect to what was discussed in the CPT.

Evans said that he was “hopeful that it would lead to a resolution,” and asked for a new court date on December 23. Justice Whalen allowed the request.

November 25 was the 23rd proceeding in the mat-

ter, which has now been 20 months before the courts.

In March of 2021, Lowes, 66, was charged with three counts of sexual assault and one count of sexual interference with a person under the age of 16. He owns and operates the Country Corner Market, at Quaker Road and Line Avenue in Fonthill, and has supported numerous charitable causes in Pelham and Niagara with food donations in the past. Lowes was named the 2008 Fonthill and District Kinsmen Club’s Citizen of the Year.

A publication ban prohibits the disclosure of any information about the alleged victims that may lead to their identification.

In an effort to bring further attention and deterrence to driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, the Niagara Regional Police Service reports the names of those people who are charged with an alleged criminal impaired driving offence in the Region. None of the following charges have been proved in court. In addition to being charged, these individuals are also bound by a Ministry of Transportation 90-Day Administrative Driver’s License Suspension and are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle on a roadway. The public is encouraged to contact the Niagara Regional Police Service Traffic Safety Hotline or Crime Stoppers to report those who are driving in contravention of the suspension. The following individuals have been charged criminally with impaired driving by alcohol or drugs, driving with a blood alcohol concentration above 80 mgs of alcohol in 100 ml of blood, or refusing to provide a breath / blood sample.

William J. GRIST, 59, Port Colborne Muzzamil HUSSAIN, 32, Brooklyn, New York

Brittany WISEMAN, 25, St. Catharines

Michee K. NKULU, 21, St. Catharines

Mark A. DOERR, 44, Niagara Falls

Delaney S. GIBBS, 42, Pelham

Marco A. MARAZITA, 28, St. Catharines

Ryan J. VONK, 47, Welland

John J. ZACHAR, 54, Lincoln

Christian W. VAN HEZEWYK, 57, Welland

Trystan D. HINKS, 24, Port Colborne Ja V. KOO, 32, Palisades Park, New Jersey

Derek M. HOMER-HORAN, 29, Welland

Madeleine CAUGHILL, 20, Niagara-on-the-Lake

Kevin D. EDWARDS, 43, Niagara Falls

Daniel WONCH, 19, Niagara Falls

Brock E. FAUGHT, 28, St. Catharines

Alexander D. CUKIERSKI, 21, St. Catharines

Stephanie L. FISCHER, 30, St. Catharines Hung P. NGUYEN, 28, Hamilton Stuart KELLY, 33, Niagara Falls

The

every year.

(905) 892-8690

Find the Voice at these locations:

Indulgence Bakery

Pelham Street Grille

Peter Piper’s Pubhouse

DeVries Fruit Farm

Beamer’s Hardware Pelham Libraries

Bob’s Boys Antiques

PharmaChoice Pharmacy

Fonthill Fitness

Fenwick Pie Company McDonald’s

Duffin Appleworks Fonthill Legion

Semenuk’s Gas Bar

Shoppers Drug Mart

Tim Horton’s Giant Tiger

Fonthill LCBO

Zee Lube Express Care Food Basics

Minor Bros Stores

Avondale Stores A-1 Market

Boggio's IDA

Sobeys South Pelham Grill on Canboro Shell on Hwy 20 Circle-K

Niagara Regional Police Service is committed to reducing impaired driving offences through education and the apprehension of offenders through enforcement programs like RIDE. Impaired driving is still the leading cause of criminal deaths in Canada and destroys thousands of lives

"But even more, we love working with young artists"

New Pelham Town Council sworn in

BY JOHN CHICK Voice Correspondent

The 2022-26 Pelham Town Council was sworn in Nov. 21 at the Meridian Community Centre, with three new members taking their declarations of office alongside an incumbent mayor and three returning councillors.

Following the Processional, led by the 613 Royal Canadian Army Cadets and Piper, the national anthem was sung by the Glynn A. Green Public School Choir.

Justice of the Peace Bruce Phillips administered the declarations for Mayor Marvin Junkin, Ward 1 Councillors Wayne Olson and Kevin Ker, Ward 2’s John Wink and Brian Eckhardt, and Ward 3’s Bob Hildebrandt and Shellee Niznik.

Junkin was the only elected official to speak to the gathering, saying that this council should, in theory, run smoother than the last.

“This council, of course, has a more conventional makeup than we did back in 2018, when we had six new councillors and one new mayor,” Junkin said. “In 2022, we have three new teammates … and three old councillors—wait not old, but experienced councillors.”

The humorous touch drew a chuckle from the comparatively small audience of senior Town staff, family members, and members of the public.

That dynamic may help, as the Mayor acknowledged that there are challenges ahead — starting with the 2023 budget.

“With inflation at close to seven percent, maybe even over seven percent, it will be a very challenging budget,” Junkin said. “We have many tasks ahead of us. One of our first tasks is going to be the Strategic Plan.”

Junkin also credited CAO David Cribbs for giving him tips on public speaking.

See COUNCIL previous page

Mayor Marvin Junkin speaking to members of the new Pelham Town Council after they were sworn into office on Monday evening, Nov. 21

JOHN CHICK

PURCELL'SPONDERINGS

Tom Purcell

Vinyl records are making a comeback, and it’s not just nostalgic old fogies who are driving the trend.

According to Readers Digest UK, millennial and Gen Z consumers are digging the distinct sound of vinyl — and especially digging its imperfections and limitations.

The scratch and crackle of a needle dancing atop a record’s grooves is a sound you don’t get with digital music.

The typical LP — “long-playing album” for you digital music people — plays only 22 minutes or so per side, which requires the listener to get up and change records a lot.

Required participation offers the listener a more intimate and engaged listening experience.

The wonderful ritual of pulling an album from a shelf where your collection sits, carefully removing the record from its sleeve, setting it on the turntable and then gingerly setting the needle down… this ancient ritual is just magic.

Appreciating the lost art of album cover designs is

another important part of the listening experience — which is why Rolling Stone published a readers poll of the most loved covers of all time.

pot roast and pineapple upside-down cake still in the air, my father loved to play his favorite albums on it.

He liked Barbara Streisand in those days. He also loved Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass. And he’d go nuts when he played “Stars and Stripes Forever” by John Philip Sousa.

He’d crank the volume up and begin marching through our small house, lifting his legs and arms high and making exaggerated faces the way comedian Red Skelton did with his Clem Kadiddlehopper character. We’d jump from the table and follow behind him, marching and laughing until tears filled our eyes.

I’ve had a love affair with vinyl since I was a boy in the ‘70s, the heyday of vinyl LPs.

It was also the heyday of clunky, wooden stereo consoles like the one that sat in my parent’s dining room for 30 years or more.

The old oak console contained large speakers concealed by green fabric. It featured a record player and AM/FM radio.

Sundays after supper, the sweet smell of coffee and

That old console played nonstop during the Christmas season.

Our stack of records usually began with the “Holiday Sing-Along with Mitch Miller,” followed by the “Christmas with the Chipmunks,” then “Snoopy vs. the Red Baron,” then Bing Crosby. As soon as Bing finished “White Christmas,” we restacked the albums and spun them again.

My mother used the ste-

I am baffled by the controversy over fowl in backyards. There is a bylaw that opposes this. Why would this bylaw have been written if it was acceptable?

We live in an urban zone of Pelham, we pay urban taxes. If you want to live in an agriculture setting, why would you purchase a home in Fonthill? Two miles down the road you can live in an agriculture setting, and have all the livestock you desire.

When you purchase a home, you have no idea who/what your neighbours are about. The urban setting is where you choose to live. Do you want to live beside a chicken coop? If chickens are allowed, what's next, goats, pigs?

Let's use a bit of common sense, and think about your investment in your home. Do you want to share it with vermin and smells of the barnyard?

Joan Eby Fonthill

CONTACT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS

Member of Federal Parliament Electoral District: Niagara West Dean Allison, MP 4994 King Street Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 Dean.Allison@parl.gc.ca 877-563-7900

Member of Provincial Parliament Electoral District: Niagara West Sam Oosterhoff, MPP 4961 King St. East, Unit M1 Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org 905-563-1755

Members of Niagara Regional Council Councillor Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 905-658-2986

Councillor Diana Huson diana.huson@niagararegion.ca 905-324-3094

Town of Pelham 20 Pelham Town Square P.O. Box 400  Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 905-892-2607

Mayor of Pelham Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 905-658-2986

Members of Pelham Town Council

Ward 1 Councillor Kevin Ker kker@pelham.ca 905-931-9571

Councillor Wayne Olson wolson@pelham.ca 905-931-9573

Ward 2 Councillor Brian Eckhardt beckhardt@pelham.ca 905-931-9574

Councillor John Wink jwink@pelham.ca 905-931-9576

Ward 3 Councillor Bob Hildebrandt bhildebrandt@pelham.ca 905-892-5647

Councillor Shellee Niznik sniznik@pelham.ca 905-931-9577

"Required participation offers the listener a more intimate and engaging listening experience"

We so often hear complaints about our health care system. We would like very much to tell you a positive story of our latest experience.

Thursday, November 18, at approximately 12:15 AM, I noticed that my husband, David, was in distress. Very quickly I realized that his speech was unusual, sounding like he had a mouthful of cotton balls and that he was trying in vain to roll over in bed.

On quick assessment it was obvious that his left arm and leg were not moving. A call to 911 produced two wonderful paramedics (approximately ten minutes later) who very swiftly assessed the situation and took David immediately to the Greater Niagara General Site – Niagara Health, which specializes in treating people with stroke. He was taken out of the ambulance and quickly whisked away for CT imaging, which revealed that he had indeed suffered a stroke.

I arrived approximately 40 minutes behind the ambulance and found that the neurologist, Dr. Matia, was already reading the CT and deciding on treatment. David was treated with “clot-busting” medication and within hours most clinical signs of stroke

had diminished.

David was released from hospital on the following Sunday, (a mere three days later) walking and talking. He will be followed up by the Outpatient Stroke Nurse Practitioner, who is also at the Greater Niagara General Site – Niagara Health.

I can’t thank our front-line workers enough for the immediate response and excellent and timely care of this very delicate time -sensitive health issue. Their kindness to David and me will always be remembered. We are very grateful to Niagara Health for restoring David’s health.

We all need to know the signs of stroke and to act fast. The clot-busting medication needs to be given within 4.5 hours of onset of symptoms.

FAST is the acronym.

F – Face (facial drooping – lopsided smile)

A – Arm weakness (unable to lift or hold both arms up)

S – Speech difficulties

T – Time to call 911 for help Brenda Horton Fenwick

Thank you to the citizens, businesses and organizations of Pelham!

Just prior to the kick-off of our annual Poppy campaign, we asked for your continuing support so that we can continue to do the necessary work on behalf of our Veterans and their families. Through your generosity, Poppy Campaign revenues for 2022 have exceeded $18,000, and for that our members and especially our Veterans say, thank-you.

We are also grateful for the partnership that has been created with the Town of Pelham in relation to the Veterans Banner initiative and the sponsorship of the fly-by that occurred during our Remembrance service held on November 11th.

Finally, we extend our thanks to the students and staff of Niagara College’s Broadcasting, Radio, Television and Film (BRTF) program for livestreaming our November 11th service and to the Voice which provided us with great exposure prior to and throughout our 2022 Poppy campaign.

Members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 613

Rude snowplow drivers disappoint

In all my 74 years, I remember snow in November that eventually disappeared and made us all hope for a white Christmas. However, the dump we got last weekend brought out two different kinds of neighbourliness. One terrific, one horrible.

Living in Fonthill for almost 15 years, we’ve come across all kinds of folks, the majority of them wonderful people. Last weekend brought out the “cream of

the crop” when it came time to shoveling our own part the dump. We have a little snowblower and it works fine — for light snow, which the weekend’s dump was.

Later, when we were inside the house, we saw a neighbour plowing out the end of our driveway and across the sidewalk in the front of the house. This because the snowplow had come along

See SNOWED Page 8

DIGGING IT

continued from previous page

COMMON DECENCY

Rev. Michael Coren

We can always do better and do more

At long last it seems that issues of racism and racial injustice are being addressed properly, or at least being at the centre of an informed and caring response. In the midst of all this we’ve some statues of notorious slavers and Confederate leaders being toppled and frankly the damned things should never have been there in the first place. There have also been calls by a minority of activists to remove or destroy depictions of “white Jesus” and his white family, and as a Christian and as a priest this obviously concerns me deeply.

The truth, of course, is that Jesus and his people were first-century Middle Eastern Jews, and while there was a certain variety of looks because of the mixed composition of the Mosaic exodus, most would have been dark-skinned and certainly not the Scandinavian messiah so readily and inaccurately depicted in churches.

Is it relevant, in that Jesus’s appearance matters far less than what he taught? Yes and no. The obsession with the iconography of a white Jesus has so infected the faith historically — and

to an extent today — that Christians have felt enabled to treat people of colour appallingly.

This is most keenly seen in Christianity’s relationship with slavery. Few churches have clean records regarding the obscenity. As

much to develop and institutionalize the transatlantic slave trade. When the British 1833 Slavery Abolition Act was passed, paying out £20 million pounds to slave owners across the British Empire, many of those who received this “compensation” were Anglican clergy. (Adjusted for inflation, today that’s nearly £1.9 billion pounds, or $3 billion Canadian dollars.)

The Methodists were nobler. Founder John Wesley denounced slavery as “the sum of all villainies.”

reo more than anyone. She loved to listen to it while working around the house.

Sometimes she tuned into an AM station that played Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Other times she’d play

early as the 15th century, the Roman Catholic Church gave it official endorsement in a set of papal bulls. In the years before the U.S. Civil War, the church was one of the largest slave-owning entities in four states, and in South America, various religious orders enslaved countless men and women, working them to enormous profit.

The Church of England was an integral part of the emerging empire and did

her Doris Day album. I still can hear her whistling — in perfect harmony — along to “Que Sera, Sera.”

That younger generations are embracing vinyl is an encouraging trend. Younger people have grown up in a world in which they have immediate access to whatever they want: streaming video or music, goods delivered the same day by Amazon and endless noise

Various non-conformist Christians outside of the mainstream were similarly convinced. As a church, the Quakers were the most vehement in standing against the evil of human ownership. And the Christian abolitionist movement, which produced heroic figures such as William Wilberforce and Thomas Clarkson in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, was extraordinary.

But this is the point, really: The abolitionists were extraordinary when they should have been ordinary. Their spirit should have been commonplace within organized Christianity, and they weren’t. Wilber-

and chatter on social media.

Yet by returning to vinyl they are choosing to slow their lives down, relax and more fully experience the wonders of music, which — with the exception of a John Phillips Sousa march at full blast — is a fine way to calm one’s soul.

Goodness knows that our cranky, overstimulated world could use more of that. 4

"The abolitionists were extraordinary when they should have been ordinary"

A century of service to the Fonthill Lions

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor

Like the proverbial Energizer Bunny, they just keep on going.

With 105 years of combined volunteer work with the Fonthill Lions and Lioness, Eleanor and Fred Arbour continue their record of service to their community.

Fred is 80, Eleanor 77. They have been married 57 years, and have a long history in Pelham.

The couple were proprietors of Klager’s Meats, once Fonthill’s oldest continuing business. They closed down 2015, figuring it was time to retire from the long hours of six-day work weeks. The shop had operated in the same location on Pelham Street since 1934, and served generations of customers. Eleanor’s father, Gordon Klager, originally opened the butcher shop with his wife Ruth, while 12-year-old Eleanor chipped-in with baking and numerous other chores. Fred, who was born in Port Robinson, later joined the family business, and eventually he and Eleanor took over the store, with help from their son Jamie.

In more recent years, the Arbours have served up barbecued meats at the Pelham Farmers Market.

“We were with the Farmers Market since day one, 20 years ago. In our glory days, we pumped out a lot of food there,” said Fred, who eventually segued into a role as the market clerk.

But it is their ongoing service to Lions International for which the couple are best known.

In 2021, the Rotary Club hon-

oured Fred as a Paul Harris Fellow, acknowledging his long commitment to the Lions.

“When Fred first joined the Lions Club, they were meeting in the barn at Davis Hall, on Haist Street, but before that they met in the old municipal offices, where

the arches are now,” said Eleanor. “My dad was a charter member of the Fonthill Lions in 1945.”

The Lions relocated to their current site of seven acres on Highway 20 in 1971, and erected the current building in 1973.

“I’ve held pretty much every

role with the Lions over the past 53 years,” said Fred. “President, secretary treasurer, director, and chair on various committees, plus I was District Governor in 2020 and 2021.”

Both Fred and Eleanor have been involved at the district lev-

el, involving some 40 Lions Clubs from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Tillsonburg.

Eleanor was one of the 18 women who joined the Lioness in its inaugural year.

“We have about ten active volunteers now, while the Fonthill Lions have 24 current members,” she said.

Eleanor remembers when the fi rst stoplight went in at Highway 20 and Pelham Street, and when the streetcar used to run through town, on a route between Port Weller on Lake Ontario and Port Colborne on Lake Erie.

“The streetcar station was originally down in Marlene Stewart Streit Park,” she said, “before the Town moved it up to where Fonthill Lumber was located on Highway 20 [now the site of the Fonthill Yards residential development.]”

Asked about the rate of urban growth in Pelham, Fred smiled and responded, “Well, they say you can’t stop progress, but maybe some of it has come a little too fast and furious.”

To which his wife quickly added, “not according to Mr. Ford.” Over the years, Eleanor was a Four H Club leader, and both she and Fred were involved with Pelham minor hockey.

“Our son Jamie grew up here, and attended E.L. Crossley and then Brock,” said Eleanor.

They live on Hurricane Road just off Rice Road, which technically is within the municipal boundary of Thorold.

“We pay our taxes to Thorold, but I’m closer to the MCC than pretty much everything in Thorold,” said Fred with a laugh.

Eleanor and Fred Arbour outside the Lions Club, on Highway 20 in Fonthill

DON RICKERS

SNOWED

continued from Page 5

and filled in the end of the driveway with a much heavier snow. Later in the day we were out blowing it around again, but this time we cleared off the car even though we were not going anywhere. Along comes another neighbour to clear out the piles of snow left behind by the municipal sidewalk cleaner. However, the weekend also brought out the lowest of the low when it came time to clearing the street. The snow plow had the devil driving it, along with his right-hand man. Since speed limits don’t seem to apply to snowplows the one that came down our street must have had a stuck gas pedal, since it “plowed” down the street like the devil was behind him saying, “Go for it.” It didn’t matter that there were folks out shoveling their own driveways, that kids were helping their parents with their own little shovels. The spray and the debris left at the end of all driveways and the arterial roads was tanta-

COREN

continued from Page 5

force and his followers were often opposed by other Christians, and those who weren’t actively against them were usually indifferent Christians who also struggled to end U.S. slavery, but others led the Confederacy. It’s a painfully disarming story, and the fact that so many Africans and people of African heritage remain faithful Christians is a tribute to their ability to see the authentic Jesus through the racist distortion and their invincible grace to forgive.

The Bible itself is ambiguous. The Old Testament writes of slavery, often without censure and even with approval — this was, after all, an ancient and slave-based society. The New Testament may not be as absolute, but the few specific references to slavery are far from encouraging. What must be realized, however, is that while the Bible is of central importance to Christians, it’s not divine dictation. It can be taken literally or seriously — not both. Every word should be understood and lived through the Gos-

mount to a road offense.

One of our neighbours had his back to the plow and didn’t see the danger coming at him and by the time he reached the other side of his driveway with his own snowblower, his driveway was now full again and he was nearly knocked off his feet. I could see the danger coming and was helpless to do anything about it. When the truck passed by our place after filling our driveway again, the two goons in the cab were laughing their heads off.

Why is it so difficult to put a blade on the trucks so that driveways can be cleared also. Or, have a grader follow the truck and clear out the driveway. Fonthill is an aging community.

I think it’s long past time that the Town hired considerate workers with snowplow experience instead of the bullies in the sandbox now playing in the snow and hurting many more.

J. Vlym Fonthill

pel-soaked filter of love, peace and justice. That should have made slavery impossible. Over the centuries, churches have evolved and matured, with Christian institutions often confessing the darker sides of their histories. But it would be disingenuous to argue that the present is not somehow a product of the past. Former archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams put it well: “The Body of Christ is not just a body that exists at any one time; it exists across history and we therefore share the shame and the sinfulness of our predecessors.”

Ultimately, this shouldn’t be some morbid attempt at historical justification, but rather an opportunity to move forward with full disclosure and crisp transparency. Christians should be in a condition of permanent revolution and embrace the constant admission that we can be better and do more. So while I believe that most of the Jesus statues and pictures should stay because their removal would do more harm than good, any inequality and prejudice that surrounds them must be smashed to irreparable pieces. It’s the least we could do. 4

Celebrate the Season in Niagara-on-the-Lake

November

If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, you won’t want to miss this classic holiday fa vourite. Two soldiers, returning home from a USO song-anddance team, fall for two sisters in another act. Together, they put on a show to save a Ver mont inn. This musical never fails to please: you can’t help falling in love with the charac ters, the dancing and, of course, the singing, especially since the title song is Berlin’s most fa mous and most beloved.

www.shawfest.com

www.shawfest.com

TASTE THE SEASON

Friday,

Join us in Niagara-on-the-Lake for the Candlelight Stroll, Santa Claus Parade, Rotary Holiday House Tour, and Christmas Tractor Parade. Shop for Christmas presents, see a Shaw Christmas play, relax in a winter spa experience, and take in our beautiful winter gardens. Stroll through the heritage district with extended shopping hours and enjoy the decorated store windows and Christmas trees. Enjoy barrel-room wine tastings in one of our 40 wineries. Celebrate the season’s bounty with exceptional VQA wines and holiday-inspired food pairing experiences during our signature Taste the Season event. Spend a few nights at one of our elegant hotels or charming bed and breakfasts to take in the magic of this holiday season in beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake. Visit niagaraonthelake.com for more information.

during this much-loved annual tradition.

niagaraonthelake.com

santa5k.ca

THE SHAW FESTIVALWHITE CHRISTMAS

18 - December 23

THE SHAW FESTIVALA CHRISTMAS CAROL

November 18 - December 23

Ebenezer Scrooge is back! Nes tled in the heart of the ultimate Christmas village, the charming holiday favourite A Christmas Carol returns to the Shaw Festi val’s Royal George Theatre. It’s the perfect annual reminder of what Christmas is all about. Ar rive feeling “Bah, humbug!” and leave full of warm, fuzzy Christ mas spirit.

4 weekends in November Join us this November for our Taste the Season touring pass

program! We are excited to be able to invite you to visit and taste at 15+ winery properties over four weekends in November. wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com

CANDLELIGHT STROLL

December 2, 6:30 pm In front of the Old Courthouse on Queen Street. Join us as we celebrate the beginning of a magical holiday season. Stroll through Niagara-on-the-Lake with your candle in hand and feel transported to a Victorian Christmas Village. Enjoy car ollers, lights, and decorations

SANTA 5K RUN

Sunday, December 18 Grab your family and friends, put on a Santa suit and run an IN-PERSON 5KM race in the very scenic Niagara-on-the-Lake! Santa Suit and chipped timed re sults included!

TWILIGHT JAZZ & BLUES SERIES

The TD Niagara Jazz Festival presents an intimate live jazz experience in the heart of wine country. This series features high-caliber jazz artists per forming on an acoustic grand piano at the Hare Wine Co. The Mark Eisenman Trio (Nov 21), Genevieve Marentette Quartet

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a true winter wonderland and the perfect place to celebrate the holiday season. Cozy up in one of our charming hotels or bed and breakfasts, or sip ice wine in one of our 37 wineries. Enjoy the Shaw Festival’s Christmas shows, or shop until you drop at our holiday market and authentic Christmas village. Pamper yourself in one of our five spas, or take in the lights and liveliness of our Candlelight Stroll and Santa Claus Parade. Whether you want to rock around the Christmas tree or enjoy a silent night, we’ve got something on offer for you!

of two wonderful charities, The Friends of Fort George & The Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum. Support the preservation of Niag ara-on-the-Lake’s history with a gourmet meal, silent auction, and your choice of 2 short lectures about our community’s unique history. Tickets: $150 per person, which includes a three course meal and a $50 tax receipt. notlmuseum.ca

AT THE PILLAR & POST The Gardens at Pillar and Post turn into a true seasonal wonderland complete with sparkling lights, holiday music, festive snacks, an ice rink, warming fire pits, and holi day movies under the stars.

vintage-hotels.com

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE ROTARY HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR

Friday, Dec 2 - Saturday, Dec 3

9:30 am to 4:30 pm

If you like interior design, ar chitecture, and seasonal dec orations, the annual Niagaraon-the-Lake Rotary Holiday House Tour is for you. Tour six gorgeous, beautifully decorat ed homes. Visit local histor ic and cultural sites; sample complimentary tastings from 3 featured wineries; and enjoy specially priced luncheons and dinners for attendees as well!

And all the profits go to charita ble causes.

niagaraonthelakerotary.ca/page/

holiday-house-tour

A MERRY & BRIGHT

CHRISTMAS TOUR

Friday, Dec 2 & Saturday, Dec 3

A Rotary Club of Niagaraon-the-Lake event: Presented by the McArthur Family, an eve ning indoor/outdoor tour of the seasonally decorated, spectac ular McArthur Estate. Enjoy an enchanted tour of the grounds and the first & second floor of the McArthur Estate, exquisitely dec orated for the holiday season, with

seasonal lights, live music, Santa & the Grinch, sparkling wine, warm cider, cookies, the Canine Manor, the reindeer stables, chil dren’s activities, and more! niagaraonthelakerotary.ca

HOLIDAY MARKET AT THE NIAGARA PUMPHOUSE ART CENTRE

December 2 - December 11

Who knew holiday gift-giving could be so much fun! Find unique and hand-made gifts and decor crafted by artisans. To further en hance the shopping experience, holiday helpers and a gift pack aging station are available. The opening weekend is part of the Rotary Club Holiday House Tour! Everyone is welcome to make a shopping stop at the Holiday Mar ket. Proceeds from the event ben efit children & seniors’ programs. holidaymarket.ca

SANTA CLAUS PARADE

Saturday, December 10, 11:00 am

The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Santa Claus Parade is back! The parade will start at the intersec tion of King and Centre Street in Old Town and travel throughout its traditional route down Castlereagh, Wellington, Byron/Prideaux, Sim

coe and Queen Streets. notl.com

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE CHRISTMAS TRACTOR PARADE IN VIRGIL

Thursday, December 15, beginning at 6 pm

Starting at the arena in Virgil, this twinkling parade of lights will trav el Four Mile Creek Road, past Pleasant Manor, onto Eldon Road, left on Line 1 Road, across Niag ara Stone Road to Concession 4, then Line 2, and finally back to the arena. Additionally, consider purchasing a Winemakers’ Se lection Tasting Pass for $35. The Tasting Pass allows you to enjoy one tasting of a Winemaker’s Se lection wine at each participating winery Monday through Friday for the rest of the year. Details: wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com All proceeds for any of the passes sold this month and next will go to the NOTL Farmworker Hub.

SPARKLE AND ICE GALA

Friday, January 20, 2023

8:00 pm - 11:00 pm

To commence this wonderful fes tival, we invite you to the Sparkle and Ice Gala in the ballrooms of

the Old Courthouse. It’s a cele bration with Niagara-on-the-Lake icewine makers and their VQA wines. Culinary delights will be paired with Niagara-on-the-Lake premium wines. Live entertain ment will keep you dancing to the end of the evening’s festivities. To end the night there will be a toast outside as you watch the skyline dazzle with fireworks.

For tickets please contact 905-468-1950 or please visit niagaraonthelake.com for more information.

THE ICE WINE FESTIVAL

Icewine Village

January 21 - 22, 2023 & January 28 - 29, 2023

Saturdays 11 am - 5 pm Sundays Noon - 5 pm

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Festival takes place over two win try weekends in January. The gor geous Heritage District sets the stage for a magical experience.

The Icewine Village becomes a historical winter wonderland with delicious icewine from local win eries and delectable food pair ings from upscale restaurants. The Icewine Festival will be held outdoors on Queen Street. There

will be free admission to the Ice wine Village.

niagaraonthelake.com

ICEWINE COCKTAIL COMPETITION

Saturday, January 28, 2023

7 pm - 10 pm

The Icewine Cocktail Competi tion will be in the ballroom of the Old Courthouse. If you’ve ever wondered what you can do with icewine beyond sipping its sweet nectar, this event is for you. Lo cal wineries will compete to claim this year’s trophy with their mix ologist-approved icewine cock tails. These cocktails combine the creativity and passion of Niaga ra-on-the-Lake spirits and icewine. With a DJ, live entertainment, and photo booths it will be a memory to keep. Included with purchase of a ticket you’ll be able to try up to 3 cocktails with the opportunity to purchase more, and delicious charcuterie boards to enjoy. You vote on the winning creation and the winner will be announced that evening.

For tickets please contact 905-468-1950 or please visit niagaraonthelake.com for more information.

CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND

COLUMN SIX

etc., but that’s another story. Back to the sign, which noticed that Clifford’s Farm began to shrink, first to make room for Vinemount Drive, but that was a long way away, and it wasn’t too concerned.

However, one day (or night), 20, 25, 30 or more years ago, the sign was unbolted and taken away—but the post was left behind. Did the Town take the sign down and leave the post, or did persons unknown decide that the sign would look much better in their basement?

We may never know, but the naked post continued its vigil over the remains of Clifford’s Farm. It watched alone as the deep ravines in the fruit farm—where our children used to toboggan and ski in the winter, and work for Clifford in the summer— were filled-in to level the ground for the Oakridge development. It became dwarfed by newly planted trees, and finally the last of the farm disappeared as Clifford and Gertie’s house and their barns were demolished to make room for Canboro Hills.

The lonely post has remained throughout these years, quietly watching the “progress” going on around it. It did wonder if its last days had finally arrived as construction of a new sidewalk began within a few inches of it. The lower branches of its neighbouring trees were trimmed to ensure the safety of people using the sidewalk, the

contractor’s heavy equipment and concrete trucks made sure they didn’t hit it, and the landscapers carefully fitted sod around it. It felt honoured by such treatment!

One wonders how many more years the post can stand alone between the sidewalk and the roadway, watching the traffic speed along Canboro Road and the joggers and the dog-walkers using the new sidewalk. Will some curious, inattentive driver, wondering what a bare post is doing so close

to the road, finally bring its lonely days to an end? (The car wouldn’t escape unscathed either.) Or perhaps someone with vision in the Town will say, “Did you see this week’s paper? What’s that post doing there? Get rid of it.”

If you happen to know anyone who has a large, wooden, rather aged FONTHILL sign in their basement, or if you see one for sale at any of the various local curio dealers, make sure to check its provenance —it could be stolen property! 4

The Post

VOICE PHOTO ILLUSTRATION

BY DON RICKERS

Members

DON RICKERS

Calling all budding artists

Arts group offers free lessons at MCC

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor

Proud parents of children and adolescents showing aptitude in art may want to consider an offer by the Portage Arts Group to further hone the talents of their young potential Rembrandts.

“The Portage Arts Group is a collective of professional artists and art educators who share a love of artmaking as a therapeutic exercise,” said the group’s executive director, James Tughan. “We see visual language in art as extensions of individual personalities, and teach art as a means of empathy and encouragement of the person, more than merely a technical exercise. We also see art as being essential to community, as a shared language.”

Tughan’s group will be offering free art instruction and demonstrations in the lobby of the Meridian Community Centre on December 3, from 10 AM until 3 PM.

“We are offering the invitation to young people to work on their drawing, as well as clay modelling skills, and discuss their work, if they want

continued from Page 19

cessful songs, there is a poignant story behind it. He was going through a rough time in his personal life. A friend invited him to church. During the service Kristofferson recalls, “I was moved

to share that with us,” said Tughan. “We are also specialists in guiding young people who are contemplating careers in the many fields of art, building portfolios, and preparing for post-secondary education. Artists can make a very good living, and we can help parents understand how it all

by a song I heard in church, ‘Help Me.’ I had a profound religious experience during the session. Something that had never happened to me before. And ‘Why Me’ came out of it.”

After that low point and spiritual experience, Kristofferson (at age 37) was inspired and went on to be-

comes together, and suggest the best art schools for talented young people. We would love to answer whatever questions they have.”

Tughan said that Portage artists have been meeting monthly as a group

come one of the most talented singer/songwriters in Nashville. He sang his hit song but also shared it with others like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Merle Haggard.

The lyrics of the song describe well Kristofferson’s own spiritual journey. The first verse is a prayer in the

form of questions. “Why me Lord, what have I ever done to deserve even one of the pleasures I’ve known? Tell me Lord, what did I ever do that was worth loving you or the kindness you’ve shown?”

The second verse is also a prayer, but this time asks God to use him to be a guide

OBITUARY

TERRY, Howard “Turk” 1928 – 2022

Passed away peacefully on Monday, November 21, 2022 at the Welland Hospital in his 95th year. Predeceased by his beloved wife Lorraine (2018). Lovingly missed by his children Gregory (Pamela), Cathy (Donny), Cindy (Buffy) and Dan (the late Patricia). Cherished grandfather to 13 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Dearly missed by his sister Audrey Schwoob and predeceased by his brother Ross Terry. Also missed by his many nieces and nephews. Turk worked at General Motors for many years. His passion was anything to do with cars and attending air shows. In his earlier years he enjoyed playing golf and tending to his lawn. Turk will be dearly missed by all who knew him especially his beloved dog Lexie. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at Royal Rose Nursing Home for the care and compassion he received during his time there. A special thanks to Bev Dodd for her friendship and support throughout the years. Family and friends were received at the PELHAM FUNERAL HOME, 1292 Pelham Street, Fonthill on Thursday, November 24th from 10 - 11:00 am. The funeral to honour Turk’s life began at 11:15 am. Interment followed at Fonthill Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy donations may be made to Pelham Cares. Online condolences can be shared at www.pelhamfuneralhome.ca

and blessing to others. “Tell me Lord, if you think there’s a way I can try to repay all I’ve taken from you. Maybe Lord, I can show someone else what I’ve been through myself on my way back to you.”

And the chorus is a desperate prayer of confession and surrender. “Lord help

me Jesus, I’ve wasted it so help me Jesus I know what I am. Now that I know that I’ve needed you so, help me Jesus, my soul’s in your hand.”

Thank you, Kris, for reminding all of us that our souls are in God’s hand. 4

Rob Weatherby is a retired pastor.

FAITH LIFT

A visitor looks at art display at the MCC

DON RICKERS

(Stop! If you are new to the story, the best way to catch up is to read previous episodes on the Voice website. Spoilers below!)

Out walking her beagle Milo, Emma Brennan comes across a crime scene—a dead body at a construction site in East Lofthill. At home, she tells her husband Matt that it’s the same man who came to their house the day before, selling insulation. Matt remembers the man acting oddly in their basement with a metal detector. On a hunch, Matt takes a sledgehammer to the basement floor and discovers a buried toolbox filled with slender gold bars worth about a million dollars. Detective Sergeant Janice Cleary and Detective Constable Trent Frayne, of the Niagara Constabulary Service, are assigned to investigate the homicide. They determine the victim’s identity: Leonard Bouchard, an excon with a history of thefts from construction sites. Cleary and Frayne soon determine that Bouchard had targeted only certain new homes in East Lofthill. They head out to interview Emma and Matt’s next door neighbour, Kim Stephenson, a realtor, who seems to know more than she’s saying. Likewise, when the detectives speak to Emma and Matt, they too appear to be hiding something. On a hunch, Cleary and Frayne drive west into the country to speak with another ex-con, who reveals that shortly before a planned construction site heist a few years back, one of the thieves—Carmine Rizzolo—went missing and hasn’t been seen since. Cleary and Frayne talk to detective who remembers Rizzolo going missing, a presumed suicide. But oddly, his abandoned car was found near where he worked at the time—at an East Lofthill construction site, pouring concrete foundations. Meanwhile, bored at home, realtor Kim Stephenson goes out for a drive and ends up parked near the lake in Port Robinson. On the radio she hears the new hit song by a singer that she used to date. Then her phone dings with a message from the singer—the onetime Queen of Country, Belinda Boone—urgently asking if they could meet that evening. They do, and Belinda says she’s ready to go public with their relationship. Across the border, Emma and Matt take a chance on selling some of their gold at a Buffalo pawn shop—but Matt angrily balks at being lowballed just $200 when the bars are worth closer to $2000 each. Back in Niagara, Detectives Cleary and Frayne go speak to an inmate and longtime friend of the missing Carmine Rizzolo, and learn that shortly before he disappeared he seemed to have come by quite a bit of money. Cleary and Frayne increasingly suspect that Rizzolo’s body may have been dumped in the foundation of an East Fonthill home as it was being built, where he worked. Yet if the two cases are related, why hide Rizzolo’s body yet leave Leonard Bouchard’s out to be found?

Detective-Constable Trent Frayne came into the office carrying two mugs. “Don’t know how you can drink it this way, but here’s your coffee.”

He put one mug down on the desk and walked behind the chair, looking over DetectiveSergeant Janice Cleary’s shoulder.

She glanced at the mug. “We used to get coffee in the dispatch office with sugar and powdered milk—powdered coffee creamer they called it.”

“I’ve heard of it. Comes in flavours now.”

“It was a flavour then, but it wasn’t anything natural. They kept running out so I started drinking it black and now that’s the way I like it.”

Frayne was looking at the computer monitor. “You could get a latte or a mochaccino. Do you need help with this?”

“I like it black,” Cleary said, “and no, I don’t need any help with a Zoom call. I’ve been making them daily for about three years now.”

“I just ask because it looks like they’re waiting for you.”

Cleary turned and followed Frayne’s look to her monitor. She turned back saying, “Make them wait and leave them wanting more.”

“Right.” Frayne moved out of the view of the camera. A man’s voice came from the screen, “Sergeant Cleary,

By John McFetridge

small talk used up, Burroughs gave what Frayne figured had to be a rehearsed speech, talking about how, “Construction site security is a major concern for business owners. Estimates put the cost of construction thefts in Canada at up to one billion dollars last year. While some costly cases of equipment theft can be traced to local thieves, organized crime has also moved onto building sites. Stolen equipment from Canada has wound up halfway across the world.”

Frayne wondered if the bullet points in Burroughs’ memo might be actual bullet-shaped icons—but with or without the casings?

By the time they got through the updates from everyone on the committee-slash-task force—equipment stolen from Thunder Bay to Windsor to Cornwall to Toronto and Hamilton—it was Cleary’s turn, and Frayne had finished his coffee and was getting restless.

Cleary gave a quick run down of the events in Niagara— the discovery of Leonard Bouchard’s body at the Lofthill construction site, his connection to organized crime in Toronto, his being in prison for the last four years, and then she said, “If you’ve had a chance to see my latest notes, we did make a connection between Bouchard and a known associate he worked with in Toronto, Carmine Rizzolo, who disappeared around the time Bouchard went to jail.”

Now Frayne was wondering if Cleary was pushing the Toronto connection to keep their boss, Superintendent Gawley, happy, or if she was buying more time for herself to keep poking around, as she called it.

Frayne was happy either way.

On the call Burroughs said he had seen the notes and was pleased to get the new name of Rizzolo, someone they hadn’t previously identified as being involved in the theft of heavy equipment.

He leaned a little closer to his camera. “We’ve correlated that information into the known associates file—that’s been distributed this morning so everyone should have a copy. There were a few other additions so I strongly recommend reading it closely.”

Frayne thought Burroughs sounded like a high school teacher reminding kids to do their homework. Was that...oatmeal cookies?

Frayne sniffed. In the corridor a group of elderly women wearing face masks walked past, carrying white paper sacks. What the.

you’re with us now?”

Cleary moved the coffee mug to the side of the keyboard and unmuted her mic.

“I am.”

Frayne mumbled under his breath. Cleary heard him but didn’t react.

The man nodded. “Great, we can get started. I can do some quick introductions. You all know me, Sergeant Burroughs—call me Dan—I’m the coordinating liaison on this task force.”

Frayne moved to the other side of the desk and sat down surprised Burroughs hadn’t called it a committee and then he realized he was starting to think like Cleary.

He thought that was okay.

There were six or seven people on the video call from three or four different police services—Frayne couldn’t keep them straight. The introductions went on for too long and when it was finally Cleary’s turn Frayne shook his head when she said, “I feel like the babysitter here,” just knowing no one on the call had any sense of humour.

One of the other cops said, “Hi Janice, we worked together on that pickpocket thing, remember? All those casinos. How’s your Mandarin these days?”

Cleary glanced past the monitor and seemed to study a spot on the far wall. “Bù hâo,” she finally said, feeling just slightly relieved that she still had a few crumbs of her limited vocabulary.

With the introductions done and the allotted time for

Cleary said goodbye and moved the mouse a bit. Frayne got up and came around the desk. The screen returned to Cleary’s email.

“They didn’t seem very interested in our murder.”

“It’s got a place in the file now,” Cleary said. “Everybody’s happy.”

“But we’re not happy.”

“We’re not entirely happy,” Cleary said, “but we are also not entirely unhappy. We would still like to know who killed this guy in our backyard.”

She clicked on an email and opened the attached file that Burroughs had mentioned.

Frayne whistled through his teeth.

“A hundred and sixty pages?”

Cleary ran a search on the name Rizzolo. Then she found something new.

“Look at that. Our Peninsula Detention Centre friend Michael DeLuca failed to mention that there was another

Kilyk, Agent 21 Highway 20 West Fonthill ON 905-892-5721 bob.kilyk@desjardins.com bobkilyk.com

They rode mostly in silence. Emma liked the drive. Highway 20 wasn’t exactly a backroad but it wasn’t somewhere any of her friends from Toronto would have been.

A private jet crossed low, the flashing strobe on its belly bright against the blue sky, headed north on descent into Niagara-on-the-Lake, landing gear just starting to drop, the plane noiseless from inside the Mini. Emma was a nervous flyer, but watching as the plane disappeared on the other side of trees and townhouses she thought that she’d be just fine flying private.

Matt had his phone in the little holder on the dash and was following the directions, turning finally into the parking lot.

Emma scanned the cars. “How do we find him?”

“He’s driving a BMW.”

“Oh, wow, it’s not that gold one is it?” She laughed as she pointed.

“Emma!” Matt yelled.

“Hey, calm down.”

“This isn’t a joke.”

“I know.”

Matt grimaced. Then he saw the car. “There, the black one.”

“Why didn’t you say that, why didn’t you say a black BMW?”

The closer they got the louder the music. With a start Emma realized it was the same rap song, the one her nephew liked, that they’d heard in Buffalo at the pawn shop.

Matt pulled up beside the BMW but facing the same way, so Emma was closest to the driver. She buzzed down her window. The music cut abruptly.

Matt leaned down to be able to see across Emma and said, “Are you, uh, Mr. Five?”

The driver was alone, a darker Asian guy in his late twenties, maybe early thirties, and he looked amused. “Do you want to turn around?”

Annoyed, Matt said, “No this is okay.”

The guy shrugged and smiled at Emma. “Okay then. And it’s just Five.”

She didn’t want to smile back, she wanted to be tough and mysterious and dangerous, but the guy—maybe Filipino?— seemed so ordinary and friendly. And very thin, despite the tailored suit.

He clicked off a vape pen and put it on the dash. “Can I see a sample?”

In an irked tone, Matt said, “Oh, right, here.” He reached inside his jacket and pulled out one of the gold bars, holding it up.

“I need to see it close.”

Emma took it from Matt and turned to Five. She couldn’t help it, she smiled. He reached out with left hand and took the bar. Emma couldn’t see his right hand, which stayed hidden at his side. His movements were smooth, like his face, thought Emma, who felt her own face flush. He was feline—a skinny, caramel kitty.

“Yo. Good quality Canadian.”

Matt nodded. “I told you.”

“That is truth,” Five said. “Okay, I can go fifteen hundred. Cash.”

“What if I had more?”

“Same deal.”

“Even if I had a lot more.”

“As many as you’ve got, man, I can take.” God, even his voice was a purr.

Across the street an ambulance siren yelped twice, three times, probably going through an intersection.

“Okay,” Matt said.

Five counted out fifteen one-hundred-dollar bills and handed them to Emma.

“Thanks.”

“Anytime.”

Matt leaned over again and tried to make eye contact with the guy. “I’ll be in touch.”

“Like I said, man, anytime.” Five smiled at Emma and she didn’t even try to look mysterious, she just smiled back.

E

Known as Bao Nguyen to numerous Ontario and Quebec police services, but Five to friends and enemies alike, the guy watched the Mini drive away and shook his head. Slender, yes, but all muscle. And feline? Try alley cat. He let the Glock settle into the centre console, clicked the vape pen, and considered his options.

Bau was the only son of an African-Cuban mother and Vietnamese father. His parents met while his father was on a trade mission to Havana, the capital of the Republic of Cuba, from Hanoi, the capital of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam—and he decided to stay. A few years later, the Cuban economy tanking, Bau’s parents paid a smuggler their entire savings for passage to Toronto via Belize. The family was granted asylum inside eight months. Bau was six.

By his teens Bao was an accomplished pickpocket, his fingers featherlight and lightning quick. With his almond eyes and high cheekbones, it didn’t take long for the comparisons to a famous Vietnamese-Black American

golfer to start coming. As a nickname, “Tiger” was too on the nose, so he was christened “Stripes” instead. He came upon his final nickname the time-honoured gangland way—through violence judged excessively brutal even by his associates.

One day he and two other gang members broke into a Brampton bungalow where, it was said, a gray-haired geezer kept tens of thousands of dollars in his basement, packed tight into old coffee cans. They hadn’t found the cash before the old man came home and found them, which is when the universe decided to go ironic on all their asses. Stripes saw the clubs sticking out of a cracked leather golf bag, yanked one at random, and proceeded to clear a path through the man back to the basement stairs and out of the house. The old man died three days later. Bau “Stripes” Nguyen kept the golf club. A five-iron. From then on he was just “Five,” and for years the blood left from one encounter would barely dry on Five’s five before a fresh coat was added. These days he preferred the Glock, although the golf club was always in the trunk—for special occasions. And now he was suddenly feeling the urge to tee-up.

He exhaled strawberry-flavoured mist, boosted the car’s heater against the afternoon chill, pulled a phone from his jacket pocket, swiped down, and found the name.

“Yo Tino, how you doing.” He listened for a moment and then said, “I got some news. You remember your boy, what’s-his-name, the elf? Just before he disappeared there was that rumour he pulled a B&E? Came out of it with a shitton of gold bars?”

Five still had the bar in his hand, turning it over.

“Yeah, Rizzolo, that’s him. Well, looks like he really did it. I know nobody believed him, but it’s possible.”

Five looked at the stamp on the bar.

“I’m point nine nine nine certain somebody found them. Casper the ghost. You wouldn’t believe how white this dude is.”

With a quick jerk he cracked his neck.

“I offered cash, but now I’m thinking, yo, we should just go take them. These two. They won’t be a problem.”

He took a drag on the vape pen.

“That Service Ontario guy, you still tight?”

Five smiled, a different smile than he’d given the redhead.

“It’s a Mini, Ontario TEKO 618. Text me the address.”

More strawberry mist filled the car.

by John Swart

If ever you sought an example of vested interests eager to promote their products using dodgy and incomplete, but sensible-sounding, science and studies, Esports (electronic sports) and Exergaming would be it in 2022.

We’ve been here before. Kashi isn’t all-natural, Emergen-C has been unable to prove in court that it really does cure or prevent the common cold, and Vibram has agreed to cease making claims that its FiveFinger shoes prevent injuries and strengthen muscles.

Or worse: cigarettes, oxycontin, and thalidomide.

Properly conducted and

vetted studies to be launched in the near future as additional credible data becomes available will ultimately determine the benefits and disadvantages of the ever-increasing presence of esports and exergaming in our society. In the meantime, for every caution recommended by those who are concerned, an opposite claim is made by an industry profiting from their growing popularity.

The purpose of this column is not an attempt to resolve the risk or value of esports and exergaming, but to illustrate the need for diligence by all of us. The proliferation of esports and exergaming is particularly insidious be-

Esports and Exergaming — buyer beware Voice HOROSCOPE

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

This week no one can help you but yourself, Aries. You have to figure out a way to get to the bottom of a problem on your own. But then the reward will be twice as sweet.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

There are a few obstacles in your path this week, Taurus. But nothing you can’t get around. If you have a few people help you out, your work will be even easier to manage.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, when a current plan of attack isn’t working out quite right, you may have to approach it from a different direction. A new angle can bring with it a new perspective.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

You may need to push yourself a little further this week to make up for lost time, Cancer. Hunker down and get things done. There’s rest to have on the other side of the effort.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Turning a blind eye to a certain situation will not make it go away, Leo. It will only postpone the inevitable, which is getting it handled.

Don’t procrastinate any longer.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Others may not want to hear the truth, but you’re still going to offer it up, Virgo. Forge ahead even if you may lose some friends in the process.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Think twice before you act this week, Libra. It’s easy to take the path ahead right now, but there may be some other way to go that could prove more rewarding in the long run.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you are looking for a change but you don’t know what that should be just yet. You may have to try on a few different shoes before you find the right fit.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius birthday season is in full swing right now, so you are in a festive mood. That will continue right into the holidays, when you may be the life of the party.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, you can change if you want to. It just requires a little effort right now to figure out the path you want to take. Brainstorm a few ideas and you can find a goal.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Keeping secrets will only work for so long. Aquarius. Sooner or later the truth will be revealed and you will need to come clean. Take the high road from the start.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

After a few bumps, you find your groove, Pisces. Supervisors will recognize your efforts and perhaps give you the notice you deserve.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

NOVEMBER 27

Bill Nye, Scientist (67)

NOVEMBER 28

Karen Gillan, Actress (35)

NOVEMBER 29

Russell Wilson, Athlete (34)

NOVEMBER 30

Ben Stiller, Actor (57)

DECEMBER 1

Robert Irwin, Reality Star (19)

cause of their targets (children, adolescents, and seniors amongst others), their potentially addictive nature, their lack of regulation, and their significant profitability. These ingredients are a perfect recipe for unsubstantiated marketing claims.

Esports are loosely defined as competitive and organized video gaming, including those which simulate motion-based sports (Mario Tennis Aces), those that involve motion inputs from players but are not necessarily sports based (Surgeon Simulator CPR—yes, you can compete with a buddy to see who can perform the fastest, least bloody digital surgeries), and action-based combative games (Assassin’s Creed, Resident Evil).

As digital streaming and cloud-based gaming techniques improve, the popularity of these games is

exploding. Commercialization is rampant as competitive leagues are established, sponsors are attracted, and media, both social and mainstream, expand their coverage of esports. Statista. com, a German market data consultancy, estimates there are now 271 million esports enthusiasts worldwide and another 261 million occasional participants. This is a 22 percent increase in participation since 2020, representing a $1.79 billion USD market, which is an 80 percent increase from 2019.

Research based on many of the original video games, which would be included in

this broad, but not consistently accepted definition of what constitutes an esport, has shown many negative health outcomes. These outcomes become more pronounced as young participants strive to be increasingly competitive.

The results of a study published by Science Direct, an online Journal of Sports and Health Science, indicated increased stress, sleep-related difficulties, aggression, violence, addiction and other behavioural problems as mental health concerns. Vision fatigue, decreased levels of physical activity, muscular overuse pain and injuries,

metabolic disorders attributable in part to diet changes such as increased consumption of sweetened beverages, and increased body mass index (BMI) are physical health threats attributed to the gaming nature of esports.

The purportedly positive side of the argument is exemplified by the Montana Youth Soccer Association (MYSA). MYSA was founded in 1978 to “Promote programs devoted to the development and training of soccer players as a means of recreation and fitness.” They have embraced esports as it applies to soccer,

Kristo erson: Why me, Lord?

Kris Kristofferson is an 86-year-old American songwriter, singer and actor. He has received numerous awards in all three fields, including three Grammys, two Lifetime Achievement Awards, and induction into both the Songwriters and the Country Music Hall of Fame. He retired last year.

His formative years

Kristofferson was born in Texas in 1936 during the Depression. His paternal grandparents had immigrated from Sweden, which accounts for his long Swedish name. His father was an officer in the U.S. military, so the family moved frequently (mostly in California).

As a youth, Kristofferson was athletic, playing rugby, football, track and field (and later boxing). He was also smart and at age 22 earned a BA in literature (“summa cum laude”). This led to a Rhodes Scholarship at Oxford University, where he graduated with a B.Phil in English literature. His goal was to be a novelist. He also started writing songs.

At his father’s urging, Kristofferson joined the U.S. military, becoming a helicopter pilot. He served for a few years but then left the army and moved to Nashville to pursue a career in music. This caused a rift with his father who strongly disagreed. One of his first jobs was sweeping floors at Columbia Recording Studios. He once landed a helicopter on Johnny Cash’s front lawn trying to promote his songs (not a good idea but he did get his attention).

His varied career Kristofferson is the gifted songwriter of such hits as “Me and Bobby McGee,” “For the Good Times,”

“Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down,” and “Help Me Make It Through the Night.” He always denied having a good voice and was content to have other artists sing the songs he wrote.

In 1985, Kristofferson (then 49) joined Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Johnny Cash to form a country music supergroup called “The Highwaymen.” This group was part the “outlaw country music movement” that bypassed Nashville in favour of independent song-writing and producing.

Kristofferson was also a successful actor. He is re-

membered best for his roles in “Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid” (1973), “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” (1974), and “A Star Is Born” (1976), for which he won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor. Later movies included “Heaven’s Gate” (1980), “Stagecoach” (1986), and “Lone Star” (1996). Over his long life, Kristofferson married three times and has nine children.

His biggest hit Kristofferson’s biggest hit goes back to his chart-topping 1973 song “Why Me” (also known as “Why Me, Lord”). As with many suc-

Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

FAITH LIFT by Pastor Rob Weatherby

Kris

“Studies have shown that esports provides many of the same benefits of grass sports, minus the physical exertion. There is teamwork, communication, strategy, and sportsmanship learned through participating in organized esports. For our players, the addition of a digital esports league can only help them further develop the cognitive skills we currently refine during their play on the grass.”

While acknowledging above that esports have a lower level of physical exertion, MYSA lists improved hand-eye coordination, visual acuity, executive function, self-confidence, problemsolving, and strategy skill development as cognitive benefits provided by their esport soccer program.

MYSA adds, “71 percent of parents report gaming having net positive effects for children.” (The lack of wording designed to qualify what type of gaming is their omission.)

A list of benefits which offers more detail is provided on their website, including the following direct quotes. “Collegiate Scholarships: Over 280 colleges today feature esports scholarship programs. These programs operate similarly to traditional programs, and sometimes operate out of the college’s athletic departments. The total number of grass soccer scholarships is limited, so leaning into esports for many players may become a realistic opportunity to gain valuable scholarships for college. All players who participate in our leagues will be placed in a national scouting directory for esports scholarships to help them get discovered.” “Academic Excellence: Players who participate in esports programs are found to

have a higher interest in STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Math) subjects and have strong average GPAs. Esports helps them engage with their fellow students and their schools.” “Future Job Market: Playing video games can make students smarter and more employable across a wider spectrum of careers including medical field[s], engineering, aviation, remote flying, computer sciences, and etc.”

It boggles the mind to imagine what students and parents must evaluate as they attempt to navigate these two disparate versions of how esports might affect their future.

Exergaming, an emerging trend in fitness, education and health, is only slightly less controversial, in part because the risk-benefit scale is less broad and less understood. As with esports, an agreed-upon definition of exergaming is elusive.

Fitness for Health – Therapeutic Services & Training Center, in Maryland, explains exergaming as combining, “The fun of video games, cutting-edge, high-tech equipment with proven fitness tactics … to help children and adults build their strength, fitness and self-confidence while having the most fun possible.” An explanatory video on their website begins with a woman in workout attire standing on the gym floor in a three metre by three metre space with metal posts on each corner. Her exergame is to chase down flashing lights at various heights on alternating posts, then swat them while carrying weights in each hand at all times. Dynavision was another exergame shown in which she stood in front of a board with a multitude of electronic switches, and slapped each one as it lit up, sort of like electronic whack-a-mole.

The United States National Library of Medicine, National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), defines exergaming as digital games that require

body movements, thus providing some sort of physical activity. Although the American College of Sports Medicine promotes exergaming as “the future of fitness” for children and adolescents, NCBI launched a study to determine the strengths and weaknesses of exergaming when used to promote physical activity and health in kids.

They concluded that existing exergaming offered two advantages: the ability of some exergames to increase motivation and enjoyment among participants, and importantly, exergaming, as most digital experiences, was adaptable and scalable which made routines easy to target toward specific individuals or populations as required. They saw future opportunities for exergaming as a therapeutic tool to enhance physical activity, learning and neuroplasticity.

Of concern was the cost to research and develop exergaming, the lack of regulation on commercially produced products, and the short duration of time that exergames maintain participant’s interest and commitment. NCBI concluded that exergaming provided a threat to traditional physical exercise, and may cause similar negative health outcomes as esports because both ultimately increase screen time. They were candid in their summation, saying, “Since most children and adolescents (in the Western world) play video games, we are already past the point of no return. Thus, the question is how we can positively impact what type of digital games they use, and for what purpose they are playing. Considering this, exergaming could be a viable tool to positively influence the screen time experience of children and adolescents.”

To do so, we must understand what an enormous transformation sports, exercise and training are about to undergo, and the benefits and disadvantages that will accrue. We have our work cut out for us. 4

The holiday season has arrived, and that often means entertaining family and friends while serving tasty meals. When cooking for a crowd, it is important to recognize that individuals may have certain dietary restrictions due to health or personal beliefs and plan accordingly.

A greater number of people are eschewing meat and animal products for various reasons. Preparing offerings for vegan guests doesn’t have to be complicated. This recipe for “Nut Roast” from “Vegan Cooking for Beginners” (Publications International, Ltd.) by the PIL editors is like a meat loaf without the meat. It’s filling and hearty.

Nut Roast

Makes 6 to 8 servings

6 tablespoons boiling water

2 tablespoons ground flaxseed

1-1⁄2 cups unsalted walnuts, pecans, almonds or cashews

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

4 ounces cremini mushrooms (about 6 large), sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (about 14 ounces) diced tomatoes

1 cup old-fashioned oats

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or chickpea flour

1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme Salt and black pepper

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Spray 8- x 4-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray. Combine boiling water and flaxseed in small bowl. Let stand until cool.

2. Place nuts in food processor. Pulse until finely chopped, allowing some larger pieces to remain. Transfer to large bowl.

3. Heat oil in medium skillet over medium heat. Add onion, mushrooms and garlic; cook and stir 3 minutes or until softened. Transfer mixture to bowl with nuts.

4. Stir in flaxseed mixture, tomatoes, oats, flour, sage, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper until combined. Spoon mixture into prepared pan. Bake 45 to 50 minutes or until firm and browned. Cool slightly before slicing.