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Vol.16 No. 32 Weekend Weather Thursday High 16º

Pelham’s independent news source from the Heart of Niagara

The

VOICE www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Pelham girl improving after dog attack

Friday High 14º

BY SARAH MURRELL

Saturday High 12º

The decision by Fire Chief Bob Lymburner to respond to a 911 call around the corner from his home likely saved the life of a little girl. The chief also says the actions of the girl’s mother were “exactly what she was supposed to do” and kept the rest of her family from being injured. At about 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 12, emergency personnel received a call that a young child had been attacked by a dog at

Sunday High 15º Source-The Weather Network

Inside The Voice Fire Prevention page 3

Clothing Sale page 6

Arena Repairs page 8

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

VOICE Staff

a home on Effingham Street in Pelham. Fire Chief Bob Lymburner was first on the scene, explaining that while he doesn’t usually respond to calls he knew he could be there quickly. “It was a child and right around the corner from my house,” he said on why he chose to attend the scene, adding it wasn’t until he was on scene that he realized the injured young girl was his daughter’s niece. When he got there, the mother of the child was in the driveway with her other children and the dogs were inside a barn.

Lymburner says he went inside the barn, separated the dogs, and brought the child out. Just seconds later Lymburner was joined at the home by firefighters with Station #1 in Pelham, Niagara EMS, and Niagara Regional Police. Those 30 seconds or so, said Lymburner, could have made the difference for the little girl’s life. EMS first responders treated the five year old girl on scene before she was taken by ambulance to the Welland County General Hospital. Lymburner along with two other Pelham fire fighters rode in the

ambulance to assist paramedics. Once she was stabilized the child was airlifted to Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto where she was listed in critical condition. Niagara Regional Police report the girl was playing with puppies in the barn of her rural home when she was attacked by a dog. Det. Const. Richard Gauthier says police are uncertain at this time, but it is possible the girl was attacked by up to three rottweilers. Gauthier said police do not know yet how the full-sized dogs came to be in contact with the

girl, noting there are no witnesses to the incident. Gauthier said the girl’s injuries are too numerous to list, adding she had extensive surgery the night of the incident and into the next day and she suffered bite marks all over her body. “It’s horribe, horrible,” he said of her injuries. Lymburner told The Voice he spoke with the girl’s family on Monday and subsequent surgeries have gone very well and she is “progressing”. On Monday, Gauthier told The Please see Dogs/page 2

Wondering why bylaws are issue now BY SARAH MURRELL

VOICE Staff “Bylaw enforcement is going to prove to be the trickiest and most significant subject we’re going to tackle this meeting,” said Councillor Richard Rybiak at the inaugural Policy and Priorities meeting just before councillors discussed Pelham’s bylaw system. The report suggests the nature of the question is complaint driven or proactive bylaw enforcement, said Rybiak, adding the current complaint driven system is proving to be less effective. The result of complaint driven systems, he said, is an inconsistency in the way business is done throughout the town and what has been established is an uneven playing field, unfairness built into the system, and frustration and

dissatisfaction for residents. The system, he said, doesn’t accomplish the objective council wants to accomplish with bylaw enforcement. Rybiak says there are three different ways to enforce bylaws, explaining barking dogs need to be complaint based otherwise how would the town know there was an issue; some bylaws that deal with safety and health, for instance, the town can’t wait to act on. “Then there’s another way of dealing with bylaws,” he said, explaining bylaws can be enforced on a program basis, by focusing on certain bylaws at certain times, thereby bringing in more compliance by residents. Rybiak also said it is an important, necessary first step that staff approach enforcement in a friendly and courteous way.

Councillor Peter Papp noted some bylaws are requirements of the province that the town must enforce. “If we choose not to we are subject to litigation,” he said. Papp also noted Pelham’s bylaw process and protocol should be collaborative, consistent and seen as fair and reasonable. It should not be seen as punitive or as infringing on rights. “We need to bring it back into focus,” said Papp. “Why do we pass bylaws? How do we enforce them? Are they there for right reasons? If they don’t fit then we don’t proceed.” Most of the citizens of Pelham are in compliance with town bylaws, said Councillor Durley, noting the system brushes everyone the same. It may be that different applications should be applied, for example urban and rural,

he said. “I feel enforcement is definitely an issue,” said Durley. “It could be because some of our bylaws could need some tweaking. If the bylaw is wrong let’s change the bylaw.” It would be easier to be in compliance and ensure enforcement is logical and reasonable, he added. “I find the whole discussion very frustrating,” said Mayor Dave Augustyn. “Residents are frustrated, I’m frustrated because we need an answer to a question, - our bylaws haven’t changed over the past several years but we have uproar occurring in the last year. The bylaws haven’t changed, what has changed?” “I suspect there is more than one single factor attributable to the uproar,” Please see Enforcement/page 2

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Enforcement should be last Continued from page 1 said Planning Director Craig Larmour. The Mayor added the bylaw enforcement needs respect and courtesy and needs to reflect the vision of the town. “What we need is to incorporate part of customer service,” said the Mayor. The CAO, Darren Ottaway, said the issue is complex. Some of the way bylaws are enforced now, he explained, came as direction from previous councils that was never written into formal policy. The other issue, he said, is prioritizing bylaws. “There is no such thing as a bylaw emergency,” he said, adding his point of view is to prioritize the bylaws so staff can start to educate people on why the bylaws exist or on important safety issues, such as pool fencing. “Enforcement should be the

last step and not the first step,” said Ottaway. Ottaway said he agrees the complaint aspect needs be looked at very closely, and he is also looking at the way the department is organized and there are changes to consider. “Bylaws lump all residences in the same, one size fits all category,” said Ottaway, explaining it is another aspect of the problem that needs to be resolved. “It sounds like guidelines or parameters for a training program,” said Councillor Larry Clark, pointing out training probably isn’t the best word. If enforcement comes last - maybe part of what the policy has in place is some level of instruction or skills for staff to take on that kind of responsibility. he said. “It’s fairly obviouls why we have a brouhaha,” said Accursi, noting the recent bylaw discussions have heightened

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the attention of a certain sector of the population who have a heightened response to what is a normal part of business. There will be a certain degree of push back from a certain element of our population who don’t feel we have the right to control anything, he went on. “I think there are real sensitivities in town,” said Rybiak, adding he hopes part of the discussion will be to get input from the community. The lengthy discussion and debate will be considered by Ottaway and staff in preparing a draft bylaw enforcement policy for council to consider.

Time for fall clean up days Once again the Communities in Bloom Committee is organizing three days for community clean-up to help keep Pelham beautiful. Business owners, students and school staff as well as citizens are asked to take advantage of the three-day Community Clean Up this October 18, 19 and 20 to pick up trash throughout the town. Corporate Challenge Day on Thursday, Oct. 18 kicks off the clean-up. Local businesses are being challenged to make their place of business, and the area surrounding it, look its best. Businesses are also encouraged to challenge other

businesses to do the same. Student Participation Day, which is held Friday, Oct. 19, encourages staff and students of local schools to pick up litter in the school yard and in the area surrounding their schools. On Saturday, Oct. 20 the clean-up wraps up with the Community Clean-up Day. The Community Clean-Up is for all residents who would like to volunteer to help clean up roadsides and other public areas in Pelham. Volunteers are asked to meet at Centennial Park on Church Street in Fenwick at 9 a.m. Participants will be provided with garbage bags and gloves and given

specific areas to pick up. All volunteers who help with the clean up are invited back to Centennial Park at noon for a barbecue lunch provided by the Fenwick Lions. Businesses, schools and individuals can register online at www.pelham.ca. For businesses and schools the town will provide enough garbage bags, gloves and safety vests for the number of participants registered. During the bi-annual clean up those who take part in the town’s Adopt-a-Road program are asked to clean up the road, park or other area they have adopted.

Three dogs removed from home Continued from page 1 Voice he hasn’t questioned the girl’s parents, noting he doesn’t feel it is his place to question them while their priority is the well-being of their child. Also, he’s determined there is no criminality or negligence involved, adding all of the animals were properly penned. Gauthier added at this point

he’s not sure of ownership of the three dogs. One dog, a male, is registered to someone who lives outside of the Region. The ownership of the two female dogs has not yet been determined, he said, but neighbours have indicated the pair do belong to the girl’s family. The three dogs were removed from the property by the

Welland Humane Society and are being held pending the Police investigation. Gauthier said he planned on meeting with humane society staff Tuesday to discuss the fate of the dogs once their mandatory 14 day quarantine is over. “It’s a horrific, tragic accident right now,” said Gauthier. Lymburner says he knows the

child’s mother is second guessing her actions of that evening, staying outside of the barn and calling 911. “If she would have gone in the barn she would have compromised the safety of herself and the other kids,” said Lymburner. “She was protecting the other kids.”

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Fire Prevention activities expand to reach more people events held during the week. The visit to the Farmers’ Market and two visits to the library were new events this year. While much of the fire prevention week activities focus on kids, Holditch noted reaching out to the Farmers’ Market and library this year gave firefighters a whole different audience to talk to. Elaine Anderson, public services coordinator, said having the fire department visit in the evening wasn’t an idea the library has done before, but with Saskia’s ideas and her own ideas they were able to

BY SARAH MURRELL

VOICE Staff How many fire extinguishers are in the Pelham Public Library Fonthill branch? How many red stripes are on the right arm of Sparky’s jacket? The answers to those questions, and more, were answered last week during Fire Prevention Week activities hosted by Pelham Fire Department. The week started off with open houses at Stations 2 in Fenwick and 3 in North Pelham where kids could get a close-up look at Pelham’s firefighting fleet; talk to firefighters; and pick up some tips on fire prevention. On Wednesday firefighters from Station 1 in Fonthill were more focused on adults, going door to door to ensure all Pelham homes have working smoke alarms as required by law. Thursday the firefighters visited the library and the Pelham Farmers’ Market. The week wrapped up at the library on Friday evening with a scavenger hunt, fire gear race, auto extrication demonstration, and fire extinguisher lessons. The week also included visits to E.W. Farr, a visit to the fire hall from St.

Ann’s, and fire drills at all Pelham schools. Throughout the week Pelham’s Fire Prevention Officer Saskia Holditch ensured kids and adults learned about the importance of having an escape plan and of having two ways out of your home - the theme for this year’s Fire Prevention Week. “It’s been very busy, in a good way,” says Holditch of all the

Drawings of caring town For almost 30 years Pelham Cares has been providing monthly and holiday food hampers to help local families; offered rides to seniors to get to medical appointments; and provided subsidies to young people to take part in camp or recreation programs. To celebrate its 30 year anniversary in 2013 Pelham Cares is asking young artists to capture the organization’s service to this community by drawing a picture that depicts

come up with an interesting event. “We wanted something more for older kids and whole families,” said Anderson on expanding the annual fire truck visit in the afternoon to a bigger, evening event. Anderson added she hoped adults would use the opportunity to talk with Holditch and other firefighters about questions they may have or concerns they have. By the way, there are six extinguishers in the library and Sparky has two stripes on his jacket.

Pelham Cares’ service. Young artists are asked to submit a hand-drawn picture which will be used on Pelham Cares’ new poster as well as other promotional materials. Winners’ works will be featured in local papers. The poster contest runs to Nov. 16, 2012. The picture should depict anything related to Pelham Cares services, i.e. a child participating in a recreational activity, a senior being driven

to the doctor, a family receiving food, etc. The picture should be on 8 ½” x 11” white paper and drawn in colour. The picture should include artist’s full name, age, grade and name of school. There are two categories in the contest; JK - Grade 4 and Grade 5 - Grade 8. For more information contact Sue Kicul, at 905 892- 2847 or Pelham Cares at 905 892 5300

SAM BELCHIOR tries out a tiny fire truck, built more for fun than firefighting, at the Fire Prevention Week Open House at Station #2 in Fenwick (right); Morgan and Michael Eller check out the pumper with volunteer firefighter Joe Keta during Station #3 Short Hills Fire and Rescue open house (above); Erin Dixon gets a lesson in fire extinguisher use from Jack Junkin (top, right) and Kayla McCall races to get into fire gear at the library (top, left). Sarah Murrell /Voice Photos

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THE VOICE

Environment integral to slow food concept

From The Heart of Niagara

As readers of this column might have perceived, one of my passions (along with food and wine) is fly fishing. I find this the most beautiful and calming of sports; if the word “Zen” ever applied to a leisure activity, this would be it. This is “slow fishing” when compared to the manic, frantic type of angling we see on most televised fishing shows. While I have fished for bonefish and tarpon, steelhead and salmon, pike and muskie, and have met anglers who prefer one of those prey to all others, I’m a trout fisher. I would rather trick a 10 inch trout to take a floating insect imitation in a small stream than haul in an 80 pound tarpon somewhere off Cuba or Florida. So I value small rivers and creeks for the fish they can hold when they are healthy, as well as for their importance to our environmental wellbeing.

of Pelham

209 Highway 20 East at Rice Road (inside Birchley Place) Office: Mon-Fri - 9am-3pm Fonthill, ON, L0S 1E6 phone: 905-892-8690 fax: 905-892-0823 editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca office@thevoiceofpelham.ca www.thevoiceofpelham.ca Sarah Murrell, Editor Warren Mason, Advertising Liz Hayden, Graphics Leslie Chiappetta, Office Manager The Voice is independant, locally owned and operated. The Voice is a member of:

The health of our small streams is the most important indicator of the health of our environment. And, the best indicator of the health of small streams is the presence of Brook Trout. Brook Trout and Lake Trout are the only trout native to Ontario, and Brookies are an extremely fragile species, dependant on clear, clean, cold water for survival. Any degradation of their environment is a threat to their survival; they are the “canary in the coal mine,” the ﬁrst warning sign of trouble in a watershed. Twelve Mile Creek, which has one of its sources right in Fonthill, is the only cold water stream system in Niagara capable of holding Brook Trout. There is anecdotal evidence from anglers, Conservation Ofﬁcers, and landowners that a small population of Brook Trout still survives in the headwaters of the

system, maybe downstream as far as Short Hills Provincial Park. Old-timers tell tales of plentiful Brookies in the Twelve back in the 40’s and 50’s, but sightings now are rare. Enter Trout Unlimited Canada (TUC). This is a conservation organization, made up mostly, it must be admitted, of anglers. Like Ducks Unlimited (whose members are mostly hunters), which seeks to preserve wetlands as habitat for waterfowl, TUC seeks to maintain its sport by conserving and enhancing the environment that makes the sport possible. (The difference between the two is that, by and large, the ducks do not survive their encounters with members of the organization, while the trout do, since most ﬂy ﬁshers practice catch and release.) Regardless of the underlying motivation of these groups, the work they do

to preserve, protect, and enhance Canada’s natural environment is beyond reproach.The Niagara Chapter of Trout Unlimited Canada is recently formed, but has already begun making plans for the enhancement of the Twelve Mile Creek watershed. Working closely with the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, Short Hills Provincial Park, Niagara College’s Ecosystem Restoration Program, Niagara Conservancy, and other interested organizations, Trout Unlimited is in the process of putting in place a plan to study one stretch of the stream to determine scientiﬁcally if Brook Trout inhabit it, what the barriers are to their survival and success, and how to improve the stream. Working one stretch at a time, their goal is to make a signiﬁcant contribution to the health of this unique watershed.

What’s all this got to do with Slow Food? One of the most important mandates of the Slow Food Movement is the preservation and enhancement of our environment. This can be achieved through the protection of agricultural land, through sustainable farming practices, and through efforts such as those now being undertaken by the Niagara Chapter of Trout Unlimited Canada.

Brian Green Slow Food Pelham SNAIL’S SPACE

There could soon be a better way for bylaws WEEKLY CIRCULATION: 7,150 Canada Post Agreement No. 40026500

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Letters to the Editor are welcome provided the submission contains the writer’s full name, signature, address and telephone number. Names only will be published. Names will not be withheld. The newspaper reserves the right to change, condense or reject any contribution for brevity or legal purposes. All Material in this publication is protected by copyright. Reproduction is prohibited without express, written permission of the publisher. Advertising: The VOICE of Pelham regrets any errors that appear in advertisements in this newspaper, however, we will not be held responsible for more than one incorrect insertion or for any damages beyond the amount of space which contains the error.

I had sort of an epiphany at council last night. It wasn’t during the bylaw discussion, but it certainly sheds some light on the bylaw debate. Here’s the thing. In the council portion of last night’s meeting council were faced with a report asking them to rescind an earlier approval of a resolution that gives support to Solar Power Network. The support gives the company an advantage in a “points” race to garner favour from the province to install roof top solar panels in Pelham. The resolution was replaced with another, similar resolution “version 2.0” (whatever that means). During the discussion Councillor John Durley expressed, once again, his

trepidation that the support takes away council’s ability to control these solar power rooftop projects. Durley said he “still has great concern” with the words “without reservation” in the resolution and the idea that these projects can go anywhere in the Town of Pelham. The Green Energy Act takes away some of council’s autonomy, he said, and the resolution for Solar Power Network seems to be usurping any kind of authority council might have. Hmmm. Sound like any other concerns you may have heard lately? No offence to Councillor Durley but maybe he and his colleagues should think about the usurping of rights when

they consider site alteration laws, power of entry bylaws and any other laws. I do get that we need have bylaws in place to protect property owners from neighbours who dump waste; are noisy; run a junk yard; or otherwise cause a nuisance but at the same time I think we need to take Councillor Durley’s concerns to heart and make sure we’re not stripping land owners of their autonomy. Last night’s bylaw debate was an interesting one with many great ideas. I love Darren Ottaway’s assertion enforcement should be last, not first in how the town deals with bylaws. Helping residents understand the whats and whys of Town Bylaws, and approaching them

in a courteous manner, should go a long way to settling the brouhaha. Talk of eliminating, or at least changing, the current complaint system should also go a long way to help settle the uproar. I know I’d be annoyed if some anonymous person, possibly not even a resident of Pelham and possibly someone who’s taken a dislike to me (I know, I know but it does happen occasionally!) complained about my garden, or my pile of bricks, or the wood my son has dragged under our back deck. I’d be even more annoyed if that complaint turned into an all out war (and I use the term loosely) with town staff. (I’m thinking I shouldn’t have said any of that, bylaw enforcement could be on my doorstep later this week!)

Maybe we’re on the way to better bylaw enforcement and better bylaw compliance. Then again, isn’t that in a place called Utopia?

Sarah Murrell MY VOICE

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The Town of Pelham Informational Column •Pelham Cultural Master Plan The Town of Pelham is undertaking a cultural planning exercise, which will include cultural assets mapping. Your response to our online survey will assist with identifying the most significant issues facing arts, culture and heritage in Pelham and provide input on potential future directions. Please visit the Cultural Master Plan webpage to access the survey and to find out more about the project: Go to www.pelham.ca , Click on Community & Infrastructure under the Departments menu and click on Cultural Master Plan. •Pelham Farmer’s Market – Each and every Thursday May to October - 4:30pm in Pelham Town Square! Come on out each Thursday throughout the summer and fall for some fresh produce and lots of goodies! Rain or shine. Winner of the Market Bucks for October 11th was Doreen LeBlanc. Congratulations Doreen! •Fall Festival and Tasty Salsa Contest at the Pelham Farmers Market on October 18th Kids, don’t forget to bring your pumpkins for the contest, and parents make your salsa for the competition. We will have lots of exciting things for the children. Come out and bring the whole family and enjoy the fun! Salsa contest application form available at www.pelham.ca. •Community Clean Up! Help Keep Pelham Beautiful! October 18, 19, 20, 2012 Hosted by the Communities in Bloom Committee Pelham students, businesses and residents let’s join hands and clean up the community this fall. Corporate Challenge Day- October 18th 2012 Student Participation Day- October 19th 2012 Community Clean Up DayOctober 20th 2012 Centennial Park 999 Church St. Fenwick 9am-1pm. BBQ lunch provided by the Fabulous Fenwick Lions following clean up. For more information or to register please visit www.pelham.ca Fire Services Announcements •PLAN YOUR ESCAPE If a fire occurred in your home tonight, would your family get out safely? You may only have seconds to safely escape your home. Develop a home fire escape plan with everyone in your household. Have two ways out from every room. •ALCOHOL AND FIRE: A DANGEROUS MIX Many fire deaths are caused by people attempting to cook or smoke while under the influence of alcohol. There’s more to responsible drinking than taking a cab. Don’t put yourself – or your family – at risk of fire. PELHAM ARENA •Women’s Learn to Play Hockey / Shinny Session 1 - Thursdays, Oct 4,

Page THE VOICE of Pelham Wednesday, October 17, 2012

MUNICIPAL matters 2012 thru Dec. 20 2012 Session 2-Thursdays, Jan 10, 2013 thru March 28 2013 Learn to Play 9:30 am – 10:30 am, Shinny 10:30 am – 11:30 am Full equipment is required. Session rate LTP/Shinny - $100.00/$66.00, Drop in rate $10.00/$5.50 For more information contact (905) 892-2607, ext. 329 •Men’s Shinny Hockey starts in October - $5.50 per drop in Tuesdays 8 – 9 am Fridays 9 – 10 am •Public Skating Friday October 19th 8:00pm-9:30pm Sunday October 21st 1:00pm-2:30pm Tuesday October 23rd 7:30pm-8:30pm •Parent/ Preschool Skate Friday October 19th 10:00am-11:00am Tuesday October 23rd 1:00pm-2:00pm. •Adult Skate Thursday October 18th 1:00-2:00pm • “ZUMBA FITNESS” Tuesday October 23rd, 7:30pm-8:30pm •“ZUMBA GOLD” Thursday October 18, 9:30am-10:30am Tuesday October 23, 9:30am-10:30am Drop in and try any session for $6.00 or purchase your 10 + 2 bonus pass for $60.00 Need more info – contact 905-892-2607, ext. 329 •“ZUMBATOMIC” Turn up the music, wiggle, shake and have a blast with your friends in these rockin, high-energy fitness-parties packed with specially choreographed kid-friendly routines. Tuesdays –Pelham Arena- 1120 Haist Street (4-7 yrs) 5:30-6:00pm (8+ yrs) 6:00-6:30pm Thursdays Old Pelham Town Hall- 46 Canboro Rd. Ridgeville (4-7 yrs) 5:30-6:00pm (8+ yrs) 6:00-6:30pm Cost $40 for a 10 class pass + 2 bonus classes. OR $4.50 for drop in class Purchase your passes at Town hall- 20 Pelham Town Square Fonthill, ON. •Walking Club Thursday October 18 Fonthill Bandshell 9am-10:30am Tuesday October 23 Pelham Arena 9am-10am Everyone welcome! For more information please contact Katie Thorpe kthorpe@pelham.ca 905-892-2607 ext 341 GENERAL INFORMATION •KEEP PELHAM STREETS “LIT” Residents of the Town of Pelham are asked to report any problems with streetlights to the Community & Infrastructure Services Department at 905-892-2607, ext.332 The hydro utility requires that a pole number be provided when reporting the problem Town of Pelham e-mail address: clerks@pelham.ca Visit our Web site at www.pelham.ca

New Pelham Official Plan BY DAVE AUGUSTYN

Mayor of Pelham I was very pleased on October 4 when Regional Council approved the Town of Pelham’s new Official Plan. Our old plan – amended many, many times through the years – was originally approved in 1973! What is an Official Plan? In general, an Official Plan (OP) describes a Town’s policies on how land in a community should be used. It is prepared with significant community input and helps to ensure that future planning and development will meet the specific needs of a community. An OP explains the Town’s general land use planning policies; helps property owners understand how their land may be used now and in the future; helps decide where roads, watermains, sewers, parks and other services will be built; provides a framework for municipal zoning rules, like the size of lots and height of buildings; and provides ways to achieve local, regional and provincial interests. In Pelham’s case, the new OP establishes a vision for the Town that strongly supports the protection of environmental

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features and agriculture and focuses future urban growth within the settlement areas of Fonthill and Fenwick. The hold-up recently has been to ensure that our OP would be consistent with recent Provincial and Regional plans – “Greenbelt Plan,” “Growth Plan,” “Provincial Policy Statement,” and Regional Policy Plan Amendments. In Fonthill, future residential and employment growth will be accommodated primarily within the East Fonthill Secondary Plan area – the 450 acres along the west side of Rice Road from Regional Road 20 (RR20) to south of Merritt Road. This land could accommodate an additional 5,000 residents and jobs over the next 20 years. The OP also encourages residential intensification in the downtowns and through redevelopment in downtown transitional areas – along the north side of RR20 from Pelham to Station Street, and along the east side of Station Street from RR20 to Pelham Town Square. Since our Town contains hundreds

of home-based businesses the OP also allows greater flexibility for live-work arrangements – commercial / office space downstairs, residential upstairs, for example – especially in the East Fonthill area. In Fenwick, significant undeveloped urban land – along the west-side of Cream Street to Balfour from Welland to Memorial – could accommodate an additional 1,000 residents within the next 20 to 30 years. Rest assured that the OP calls for new development in both of these areas to be sensitive to the surrounding character of the neighbourhoods and to embody high quality urban design. I look forward in working together with you, Council, and staff as our community grows, evolves, and matures according to the vision in our new Official Plan. You may contact Mayor Dave at mayordave@pelham.ca or read past columns at www. pelhammayordave.blogspot.com.

Pelham Historical Society Open Meeting Saturday, October 20, 2:30pm

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Page 6 THE VOICE of Pelham Wednesday, October 17, 2012

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Second clothing sale VOICE Staff Shoppers looking for great deals on fall fashions need stop only one place this week - the Pelham Public Library. For the first time the library is holding it’s annual clothing sale in the fall, operating two sales this year. Melanie Taylor-Ridgway says the library had so much left over and had received so many clothing donations over the year

they decided to hold a second sale this year. Taylor-Ridgway says the sale brings in about $2,000 to $3,000 for library programs, materials and equipment so they hope the second sale will be successful and become a regular fixture. There are a wide range of men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing and accessories says Taylor-Ridgway, pointing out the blouse she was wearing is from a previous sale. The sale runs during regular

library hours now to Saturday, Oct. 20. Saturday is fill a bag day for just $5.

LIBRARY volunteers Pat Dundas (left), Joyce Caines and Lori Grande help Melanie Taylor-Ridgway sort and fold clothes just before the start of the clothing sale happening now at the library. Sarah Murrell/Voice Photo

Everyone Knows Chef Ray!

A favourite with people across Niagara...Now in Fonthill and he is sharing a favourite recipe! Cool Fall weather makes this a perfect time of year to warm up your kitchen with home cooked meals that your family can enjoy together. This slow cooked brisket recipe is perfect for a cozy night in and pairs great with Ray’s Maple Roasted Root Vegetables and Herb Roasted Potatoes.

BEER BRAISED BEEF BRISKET 1 Brisket Point 1 Large White Onion Diced 1 28 oz Can Diced Tomato 4 Tbsp Pureed Garlic 1 Bottle Dark Beer (Preferably Guinness) 2 Tbsp Dried Rosemary 1 Tbsp Salt 1 Tbsp Pepper 2 Litres of Cold water

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Place Brisket Point into 4 inch deep roasting pan. In small bowl combine diced tomato, onion and garlic, then pour over brisket. Evenly season with rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour beer and water into roasting pan. Place in oven uncovered for 3 hours. Remove Brisket and let rest for 20 min before slicing to desired thickness. Reserve liquid from roasting pan for gravy. Stop in to pick up the recipes for Maple Roasted Root Vegetables and Herb Roasted Potatoes.

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Page THE VOICE of Pelham Wednesday, October 17, 2012

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Page THE VOICE of Pelham Wednesday, October 17, 2012

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SPORTS

Emergency repairs needed at arena The future of recreation facilities in Pelham, and the decision regarding them, became a bit more urgent this week. Pelham Chief Administrative Officer, Darren Ottaway, announced Friday that the Town has begun work to make immediate repairs to the arena walls based on preliminary results from a routine structural assessment. The last structural assessment of

the 37-year old building, which is conducted every five years, was in 2007. At that time, cracks in the walls were identified, but were noted as cosmetic. Because the latest assessment has identified these cracks as more significant, staff sought a second opinion from an engineering expert to confirm the preliminary results. While waiting for the results of that peer review, Council held a special meeting to

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examine the issue and to direct staff to take action if the review confirmed the results of the initial assessment. “We didn’t want to wait for the results of the peer review before we began to take action,” said Pelham’s Mayor Dave Augustyn. Verbal confirmation from the peer reviewer has now been received. “Our engineering experts have informed us that the building can remain open while the repair work is undertaken.” “This is exactly why we do these kinds of regular assessments,” said Ottaway, “to review our buildings as they change over time and to conduct any maintenance that may be required.” “We met with arena user groups today to inform them of the situation,” said Mayor Augustyn. “Safety is our highest priority. We wanted to make sure that arena users were aware of the issues with the walls as soon as they were confirmed, and of what we are doing to fix them.”

R.V. Anderson and Associates Limited have been commissioned to conduct the repair. The engineering work is already underway. Once the construction work begins, the repairs should be completed within 3 – 5 weeks. Preliminary costs are estimated at approximately $150,000. “The assessment found problems with the original building design which has led to the problems with the walls we have today,” said Ottaway. Question and Answer boards will be posted in the arena so users clearly understand the problem and what the Town is doing to remedy the situation. “This certainly adds more urgency to the decisions that Council is making regarding the Town’s future recreational and cultural services,” said Mayor Augustyn. “This is important new information that needs to be factored into that decision-making process.”

Novice Rep team in last minute win The Tim Horton’s Pelham Novice Rep team travelled to Niagara Falls this past weekend to play the Canucks at the Gale center. Once again they showed their continued improvement in an excellent team effort that resulted in a last minute 3-2 win for the Panthers. Lucas Gaudet, William Baltrusiunas & Carson Crysler continued their selfless play with some great passes in front of the net including a beauty that led to the winner with 6 seconds left. The relentless forecheck & backcheck of Payton Veld with her linemates, Riley Smyth and Josh DiRaddo continuously prevented the Canucks from mounting any type of offensive rush. Matthew Longo, Drew Stevenson and Jayna Parent worked hard on every shift to help keep the Panthers a step ahead of the Falls. The defensive core of Jacob Kalaileff, Jake Stevenson, Abby Thibodeau,Adam Repar and David Bernardi we’re at times excellent. They continuously shut down the attacking Niagara Falls forwards especially during the last five minutes of the game. Goalies were again strong with Preston Darling shutting down the Canucks to start the game and Jason Sviergula holding on as the Falls picked up momentum to start the third period. The win puts the team at 2-1-1 for the season and shows signs of how far they have come this early in the season. Go Panthers!

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The Pelham Soccer Club board of director’s lineup saw some big changes during the Annual General Meeting held Thursday, Oct 4. The club welcomed a new President, Vice President, Refereein-Chief and Director-at-large. New soccer club President, Stuart Macpherson, and VicePresident, Andrea Keus are proud to take the reins of this very successful club. They both are optimistic about the opportunity for more kids to get involved, at all levels, in the beautiful game and have a great time. Both have been with the club for several years, and have held various positions on the board, and will be focusing on guiding the club through Ontario’s new Long Term Player Development Plan (LTPD). Additional volunteers have also stepped forward within the last year, to fill some of the vacant positions including Registrar, Sponsorship and Uniforms, bringing with them varied backgrounds which have shown to be very beneficial to the club.

The board is still looking for a few more volunteers, and specifically, someone to fill the role of treasurer. For more information on how you can get involved in this thriving club please call 905-892-6120. The club, which services the

Pelham community, had 750+ players during the 2012 season divided among the house and competitive teams. For further information about the club, and for volunteer and coaching opportunities, visit www. pelhamsoccer.ca

ANDREA Keus and Stuart Macpherson are taking over leadership of the Pelham Soccer Club. /Special to the Voice

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Page THE VOICE of Pelham Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Wall of Honour and Remembrance for vets To honour deceased veterans the Royal Canadian Legion is planning a “Virtual Wall of Honour and Remembrance.” As a way to honour their relatives and friends who have served Canada, Canadians are invited to forward a photograph of a deceased veteran to Dominion Command. Those photos will be used to build the virtual wall of honour. The appearance of the “Virtual Wall” will coincide with the National Remembrance Day Ceremony, organized by the Legion on behalf of and for all Canadians. It will be displayed on the large video screens prior to the start of the actual ceremony on November 11, 2012 and those thereafter. Any deceased veteran (including those who

belonged to the Merchant Navy and of Ferry Command) whose death was attributable to any cause before or after they served (World War 2, Korea, peace support missions, Afghanistan, accidental death in Canada) will be honoured. Canadians can send photographs of the deceased veteran to Dominion Command along with his or her name, years of service, element or force to which the departed belonged or regiment/ unit. Photos can be sent by mail to Dominion Command, 86 Aird Place, Ottawa, ON, K2L 0A1 (no originals please as they cannot be returned) or electronically to RememberingThem@legion. ca or ALeurMemoire@legion.ca .

NEW ROTARIANS

The Rotary Club of Fonthill recently welcomed three new members as part of a special meeting with District Governor Rick Sterne. From left are, new member Kevin Bolibruck; President Bob Eamer; new member Ralph Winslade; District Governor Rick Sterne; new member Frank Adamson; member sponsor Gail Levay, president-elect Michael Lewis; and member sponsor Hugh Graham. The community service club meets every Wednesday morning at Café on Main. /Special to the Voice

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Page 10 THE VOICE of Pelham Wednesday, October 17, 2012

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Cyclones take strides to benefit local cancer community BY Allyson Reichelt

E.L. Crossley Student On Thursday September 27, the students of E.L. Crossley participated in a walk for Cancer. The walk began at the school and continued around the community. Some of the students walked the route, while others chose to run. Over the last week,

students at E.L. Crossley, as well as family members and community members worked together to collect money for the Rankin Run, which is the organization the money was donated to. The money that was raised will be added onto the money raised by Niagara’s Rankin cancer run/ walk which will be held in May of 2013. During previous years, E.L. Crossley has participated in the Terry Fox run/walk. This

is the ninth year the school has held a walk for cancer, and the second year the school has held the Rankin Run. Every dollar that is raised by the Rankin Run is donated to cancer care for the Niagara region, which helps local cancer patients. Before the walk began the students had an assembly where guest speaker, Tina Nori talked about her own battle with cancer. Rankin Run director, MaryAnn

Edwards also spoke and brought her thanks and appreciation from the organization. As an appreciation to all the students who participated in the event, the Students’ Council at E.L. Crossley hosted a free BBQ, with hamburgers, hotdogs, and entertainment. The event went extremely well in terms of weather, donations and high spirits. When asked about her overall experience at

the event, Holly Casey, a grade nine student at E.L Crossley said, “It was my first time, and it was a very fun experience for a great cause.” Over the last 8 years, E.L. Crossley has raised over $100, 000 in donations. Last year alone, the school raised over $9500, and this year raised close to $8000 in profits. When asked about her thoughts, a grade twelve student Mariah Bunz said, “I’m sad that

it’s my last year. I’m happy I’m on student council this year because it will help me be able to contribute to the cause in the future.” E.L. Crossley had a great day, and would like to thank everyone who participated in the event for all of their hard work and dedication to make the walk possible.

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