The Voice, December 18 2019

Seasonal events around town page 3 Town CAO looks ahead to 2020 page 12 Fenwick EarlyON centre to close page 16

The Voice

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

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Reflections on Pelham Town Council's first year

In October 2018, Pelham voted in a new council, one comprised of entirely of candidates who had never held political office. The Voice asked them to assess their experience so far, in their own words. Councillor Mike Ciolfi

I

cannot believe how fast the year went by! The first year for me was like a baptism by fire. Several pressing issues came to the table at a very fast pace and decisions needed to be made, from the appointment of an interim CAO, going through both the operating and capital budget line by line for 2019, which, after lengthy debates, it was approved, to the development of the strategic plan that will be used for the next four years. I know that action on cannabis is moving slower than the residents of Pelham would like. This committee has been meeting weekly for several months to develop bylaws and policies that will mitigate the adverse effects caused from this new industry. As See CIOLFI Page 14

Councillor Lisa Haun

T

o say our council has had a steep learning curve this past year is quite an understatement. It will come as no surprise that we have had to find ways to rein in spending and work within very tight financial constraints and I am proud of our accomplishments. This past year saw council spending countless hours in meetings critically analyzing and passing two Town budgets for 2019 and 2020. We supported the formation of five important new committees for the purposes of (1) monitoring our financial health, (2) providing advice to council on mitigating adverse land use impacts of cannabis production facilities, (3) reducing Town energy consumption and utility costs, (4) sourcing new revenue streams at the See HAUN Page 21

Councillor Bob Hildebrandt

Councillor Ron Kore

I

t has been an amazing year that has brought great rewards and satisfaction. I am so grateful to the residents of Ward 3 that elected me. As your representative, I serve on the Utility Sustainability Committee (Utility Costs), Niagara Road 12 Landfill Committee, Pelham Arts Advisory Committee, as well as the Board of Pen West Hydro. Prior to being elected, hydro rates and Pelham’s hydro classification, which affected our hydro costs, was a covert operation I had been carrying on with little success. Then I met an individual while going door to door, Gordon Marasco, who was carrying on the same mission. We instantly became friends and joined forces on a mission that See HILDEBRANDT Page 14

I

can’t believe that it’s been a year already! I have come to realize over the last 12 months that governing is a slow process, something I am not used to, coming from the business world, where we make decisions in a timely fashion. For me, there have been some low points. Two that stand out the most are the enormous debt we inherited and having to deal with the subsequent loss of many services for the residents of our community (e.g., playground equipment, resurfacing of roads and sidewalks) and the second being how the whole gypsy month situation was handled, including how we billed certain residents and not others (this is a community problem, not an individual problem). There have also

Councillor Marianne Stewart

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erry Christmas to all. After a year on council, Christmas and the New Year approaching feels like the appropriate time to pause and reflect. Being on council and in political life for the first time has been a very interesting and educational experience. I now understand why the wheels of government grind slowly. What may have seemed like a “no brainer” before, I have learned that making good decisions that will benefit our town now and into the future requires solid input from our senior leadership team and our own research to provide us with the information we need for responsible decision making.

See KORE Page 14

See STEWART Page 24

LOVE PEACE JOY

The Magic of Christmas never ends and its greatest of gifts are family and friends. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from my family to yours.

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EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

Councillor John Wink

T

he first year of council is in the books and as I reflect on accomplishments and challenges, I am gratified with the progress we have made to date. Council has met 87 times this past year, including regular council, Committee of the Whole, Policy and Procedure, Special Committee, and public meetings. This total does not include all the committees that we are a part of. While council is not always in agreement with all issues, we have positive debate and we work well together as a team. Some of our accomplishments this year include approving budgets for 2019 and 2020 in a matter of eight months. See WINK Page 15

Page 2

The Voice, December 18, 2019

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

NRPS impaired driving charges

PUBLISHER’S CORNER by Dave Burket

Leaping into a Leap Year

Before getting to the quadrennial wonder that is February 29, corrections at the top: In our story last week about Pelham Town Council’s request of the Pelham Public Library Board to name a specific interim CEO, we reported that the CAO of Middlesex County and the CEO of that county’s library system were one and the same. While this was true for a limited period in 2018, the roles are now held by separate individuals...While we’re in the neighbourhood: Libraries everywhere face continued challenges to their relevance—a lot like challenges to the relevance of newspapers. One common denominator, of course, is paper and the printed word. We’re told—mostly by people who don’t really know what they are talking about—that paper is dead, that digital is the future. What good is a library, by this reasoning, when e-books and Amazon and iPads exist? The underlying anti-intellectualism behind these sentiments is hard to miss, chiefly because you won’t find actual readers expressing them. Full disclosure: After the 2018 municipal election, when Pelham put out its recruitment call to residents interested in serving on the Town’s various volunteer boards and committees, I submitted my name for the Library Board. Not only did I think that the library was worth supporting, I was also concerned

that it would need protecting. Based on comments I’d heard during the election campaign, I worried that the library was an easy target, a near-million-dollar budget item that could be strangled in the name of efficiency and fiscal austerity, on the road back from the financially ruinous policies of the previous council. Ultimately, the new council did not choose to include me on the Board. As it has turned out, the existence or non-existence of a Library Board may not matter, given the comparatively tiny loss in provincial funding should council decide to axe the Board entirely. The trouble is, politicians are no more suited to running libraries or schools than they are to running airport control towers or construction sites—which is to say, public education, of which libraries are an integral part, should be left to the professionals. (Among other things, politicians tend to like to direct what information is, and is not, acceptable—in the content of school textbooks, in the titles permitted on library shelves.) Now, does this mean we taxpayers should still expect reasonable cost efficiencies? Of course. A library, just as any other Town-funded entity, should spend wisely, and manage itself with appropriate staffing. It’s possible that the Pelham Library might be able to improve in both areas. However, council did not undertake to find this out for itself, and, to his credit, Mayor Junkin acknowledg-

es it. Following a meeting last week with Library Board Chair Tim Wright, Junkin told the Voice that, “After further reflection on council’s first year in office, I believe that perhaps our most prominent misstep was our failure to more directly communicate with the Library Board. With the 20/20 vision of hindsight, I can’t help but believe that one or two meetings of sitting across from one another, talking and listening to each other, wouldn’t have avoided the somewhat strained relationship that the two groups currently find ourselves in. Going forward, as head of council, I will do my best to rectify this situation, initiating meetings, at the very least, on a quarterly basis.” If not a Christmas miracle, that’s at least a decent stocking stuffer...Hold on, there is a minor miracle: We’re getting some time off! Be advised that the Voice is taking a two-week holiday break. Usually it’s one week, but some serious battery-recharging is needed this year. Our next issue will be dated January 8. Time to clean the office, and just sort of stare into the middle distance for awhile, preferably in a Zenlike state of inner silence… Wait, just before the Puzzler: One more library thing, from the Pelham Historical Society’s Rosemary Chambers, who invites us all to see their new Yager’s Green Lantern display at the library’s Maple Acre branch in Fenwick. It is representative of the store’s Christmas window, 1950-60,

ce Voonivacation!

COUNCIL RECOGNIZES KID CARD DESIGNERS At Monday’s regular Pelham Town Council meeting, winners of the Mayor’s annual student Christmas card design contest were to be recognized. They are Serena Hounslow (cover of the card, above), Mira Bussi, Lola Hughes, Evan LeMay, Lauren Letourneau, Kathleen Lowry, Ashley McWilliams, Isabella Moreno, Julia Policella, Emma Robinson, Charlotte Stone, and Olivia Thiessen. SUPPLIED GRAPHIC “at a time before box stores and Walmart”...Okay, Puzzlers, listen up: Bloomin’ Crazy is now in with a $30 gift certificate, pushing the total prize to $120. With our two-week break, you have even more time to scour this edition for the solution. In fact, the Puzzlemeister is at pains to point out that the solution is within the pages of the paper, as it has been since the question first appeared. As a Christmas gift, it’s also possible that there are six, or seven, or even eight Puzzler clues, references, or salty red herrings in this week’s issue. Puzzle responsibly, and don’t drown your frustrations in too much spiked eggnog... And so we Leap: Into the third decade of the 21st century we go, an extra Febru-

The

Pelham Puzzler

ary day just to make winter a little longer. The nights start to get shorter again this Saturday, though, so chin up. To the many talented folks that make this paper possible— our freelance writers, John and the BPs the most prolific; Colin and Larry and our other commentators; Julian the proofreader; Jim the superlative graphic artist; Catherine and Warren doing the selling; Sandra and Paul the accounting and tracking; Kim, Brenda, Gary, Mike, and our carriers who deliver every week; Lori who keeps us in line; our advertisers who make it possible to pay the bills; my endlessly patient spouse; and, of course, to you—I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year. See you in 2020. ♦

Total prize value now:

The answer is “Butternut.” What is the question? The solution is before your eyes Search and ye shall find

$120! Voice $30 Peter Piper’s Gift Certificate

$30 Fonthill Sobey’s Gift Certificate

puzzler@thevoiceofpelham.ca $30 gift certificate

Read full Puzzler rules and conditions at: http://www.thevoiceofpelham.ca/the-pelham-puzzler/

$30 Minor Brothers Gift Certificate Tom and Lianne Daley, in the Town of Oia, on the Island of Santorini, Greece. Αν θέλετε να λύσετε το παζλ, ο Διογένης θα μπορούσε να βοηθήσει ... Send us your picture holding The Voice, whether across town or abroad and we’ll share it with our readers! Email your photo with a brief description to

office@thevoiceofpelham.ca

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The 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 every year.

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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 90Day 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. Emanuel J. M. VALLEE, 31, Grimsby Lukasz GACIK, 28, St. Catharines Brandon K. ROSS, 32, Niagara Falls Alexis A. BURY, 36, St. Catharines Lisa A. DWYER, 52, Welland Bonnie M. GRIMM, 72, Niagara-on-the-Lake Derald C. KEAGAN, 48, St. Catharines Thomas R. MITCHINSON, 52, St. Catharines Amritpal S. SANDHU, 37, Thorold Dora M. BOMBERRY, 34, Oshweken Dellany SLUGOSKI, 29, Welland Arthur A. AUMELL, 38, St. Catharines Lorenzo M. CARIBONI, 23, St. Catharines Allen ADACHI, 56, Thorold Gerald JOHNSON, 39, Buffalo, NY

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The Voice, December 18, 2019

Page 3

HOLIDAY KINSHIP ON A COLD WINTER'S EVENING It was a capacity crowd—161 guests—who arrived at the community centre hungry for turkey and fixin's last Wednesday, Dec.11, as the Fonthill and District Kinsmen held their 58th Annual Seniors' Christmas Party. Local businesses were invited to volunteer as servers for residents such as Mel Senner, left. Centre, PharmaChoice Family Pharmacy's Zenia Winnicki hands over a healthy shot of punch to Mayor Marvin Junkin, as Councillor Bob Hildebrandt awaits his turn. Right, Hear Again audiologist Alaina Hillier makes sure the rest of the crowd doesn't go thirsty either. Appropriately, the room was serenaded by roots musicians David and Joni Romano and their group KINDRED. DAVE BURKET PHOTOS FATE OF HIS PATE Ten days and the sale of 52 $5 cards later, Peter Piper's publican Peter Moore lived up to his pledge on Sunday, getting his head shaved as a fundraiser for the 613 Lincoln Welland Regiment Army Cadets. Winners Jim Bulek and Karen Clapp got to wield the clippers. The pub matched the card sales for a grand total of $520. Receiving the cheque from the newly shorn Moore is Commanding Officer Leo Giovenazzo. Soon after, the Ed Grimley-like coif was also lopped off, leaving Moore looking like a cross between Telly Savalas and a community newspaper editor.

AT LEAST IT TURNED TO SNOW Saturday's wintry mix left the Fenwick Lions' annual Santa Claus Parade lightly attended, though not short on enthusiasm. Among others seeking refuge in the Lions' den were Mayor Marvin Junkin, centre, Regional Councillor Diana Huson, and Town Councillor Mike Ciolfi, far right. SUPPLIED PHOTO

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The Voice, December 18, 2019

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

OPINION

The opinions expressed in submitted commentary and letters to the editor are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the Voice of Pelham.

The Voice of Pelham is a 1211858 Ontario Limited publication David Burket, Publisher 2-1428 Pelham St., P.O. Box 1489, Fonthill, ON L0S1E0

COMMENTARY / OP-ED Larry Coté Beware the sticker shock

A

FEW ISSUES AGO, I wrote about the vagaries of buying a new vehicle in this era of advanced technology. Some readers, especially seniors, agreed with the tenor of that article and are admittedly horrified by the prospect of visiting new car dealerships. However, the issues outlined in that earlier piece are just the tip of the iceberg facing new car buyers. As we gird ourselves to visit a new car dealership we need be aware that we will bump into the option of buying a hybrid or an electrically driven model. Eventually, these battery powered vehicles will be the standard and the familiar gasoline driven models will go by the way of the horse and buggy. The number of battery-powered automobiles offered for sale and on the roadways has risen incrementally over the last few years. This transformation is driven by the realization that gas and diesel driven vehicles have been significant contributors to air pollution and global warming. While this transformation may reduce the amount of pollution, there are some significant impacts associ-

ated with this changeover that need be recognized. For instance, the taxes levied on retail fuel purchases are a significant source of revenue for governments.

Clearly this loss of revenue will have to be made up by the leveling of taxes in other areas

Clearly, this loss of revenue will have to be made up by the leveling of taxes in other areas if the road infrastructure is to be maintained. Additionally, the contingent employed in the fossil fuel-driven automotive sector is a very significant number. Supposedly, the repair and maintenance of electrically powered vehicles is less demanding and employs very different technologies than those provided by the current

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automotive sector. The demand for service stations, garages and their employees will diminish in direct proportion to the speed of the changeover from petroleum- based to electrically driven vehicles. The demands on electric utilities will also require enhancements to their generational power. Currently, there are half a dozen or so major producers of hybrid and fully electric driven vehicles and that number is likely to rise. These producers report they are having difficulties keeping up with the demand. Some are charging a fee for potential customers to be registered on a reservation list. As this demand and production volume increases, the prices for these new types of conveyances will come down and, even at this point, are marginally higher than gas driven models. One of the factors that has increased the viability of owning an electric car has been the significant advancements in battery technology. Producers are now claiming that a fully charged battery will boost the range of these vehicles to upwards See SHOCK next page

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www.thevoiceofpelham.ca PUBLISHER & EDITOR Dave Burket publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca ADMINISTRATION Lori Gretsinger office@thevoiceofpelham.ca CONTRIBUTORS Jane Bedard, Carolyn Botari, Colin Brezicki, Rosemary Chambers, John Chick, Larry Coté, Gloria J. Katch, Maeve Keating, Brian Green, Megan Metler, John Piccolo, Bill Potrecz, Bernie Puchalski, John Swart, Mike Tucker, Rob Weatherby NEWS INQUIRIES & TIPS editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca LETTERS TO THE EDITOR letters@thevoiceofpelham.ca ADVERTISING INQUIRIES advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

School bullying too easily dismissed In his letter to the editor, Guido Mueller offers some interesting perspectives and asks good questions about the “open doors” and other issues at Glynn A. Green school [“’Helicopter parents’ need something better to do,” Letters, Dec. 4, p. 6]. However, a couple of his comments need to be scrutinized. First is his observation that he was bullied as a child and he “lived through it” until he got big enough to use his fists on the bullies. Not every victim is so fortunate. Some have their childhood ruined, and their school days bring only nightmares for memories. In the extreme, suicide can be the result.

Secondly, he believes that bullying has always existed and will never be solved. His suggestion that a mother who is worried about her children should “home-school them behind locked doors” is ridiculous. We can’t throw up our hands and let a tiny number of miscreants have their way. I recall that when my son was being bullied in Winger Elementary School a couple of decades ago, I called the principal, and when I began to give him the details, he told me to stop. He had the perpetrator’s name and that’s all he needed. He said to me, “It See BULLYING next page

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

Mayor of Pelham Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 289-929-2681 Members of Pelham Town Council

Member of Provincial Parliament

Ward 1 Councillor Mike Ciolfi mciolfi@pelham.ca 905-892-0077

Sam Oosterhoff, MPP 4961 King St. East, Unit M1 Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org 905-563-1755

Councillor Marianne Stewart mstewart@pelham.ca 289-821-0840

Electoral District: Niagara West

The Voice

Letters

Members of Niagara Regional Council Councillor Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 289-929-2681 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

Ward 2 Councillor Ron Kore rkore@pelham.ca 905-933-3805 Councillor John Wink jwink@pelham.ca 905-892-4475 Ward 3 Councillor Lisa Haun lhaun@pelham.ca 905-892-2607

May this season of joy mark the start of a blessed and peaceful year to come. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Mayor Marvin Junkin and Family

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

Jill C. Anthony Law Office

Have an Opinion?

BARRISTER, SOLICITOR & NOTARY LETTERS TO THE EDITOR are welcome. Letter submissions should contain the writer’s full name, address and telephone number. Names only will be published. Names may be withheld if compelling reasons are provided. The newspaper reserves the right to change, condense or reject any contribution for brevity, clarity or legal considerations. 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 or omissions that appear in advertisements in this newspaper, however, we will not be held responsible for more than one absent or incorrect insertion or for any damages beyond the cost of space containing the error. The Voice is an independent, locally owned and operated publication. The Voice is a member of the National NewsMedia Council, a voluntary self-regulatory organization that deals with journalistic practices and ethics. If you have an unresolved complaint about news stories, opinion columns or photos, please visit their web site at mediacouncil.ca or call 1-844-877-1163. If you have a complaint about delivery or membership problems, please contact our office at 905-892-8690. For a summary of Voice ethical guidelines, see www.thevoiceofpelham.ca/ethics

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The Voice, December 18, 2019

Page 5

OPINION Merci, December 2019 I’ve said it once, I’ll say it twice The Kinsmen Dinner Sure is nice. Everything is planned for us Dinner, music, plants, no fuss. We seniors all appreciate Our loyal Kinsmen They are great! Each year we know Beyond a doubt We’ll have a night To talk about.

As winner of one of the three gift baskets presented during the Outdoor Christmas Market last week, I would like to thank the members of the Pelham business community for so generously sponsoring this event and contributing to the gift baskets. It was a great evening to walk and visit with many of the store owners as we strolled our commercial district. This is what makes our town such a great place to live in and shop! Don Cook Fonthill

I’ve just read this article and am sorry to say that I am not surprised that the council is proposing a flagrant contravention of the Ontario Public Libraries Act. [Town seeks direct appointment of Library CEO, Dec. 11, p. 3]. Like the last council, they are, to paraphrase Churchill, possessed of “an arrogance, wrapped in an ignorance, inside an incompetence” that staggers the mind of the average citizen. While my prior history as a library worker may have me somewhat more conversant with the Ontario Public Libraries Act than other Pelham citizens, one would think that the Town Council and CEO would inform themselves regarding relevant legislation before proposing a course of action.

continued from previous page will stop tomorrow.” And it did. An interesting upshot of this situation was that, a few years later, the perpetrator stopped my son in the halls of E. L. Crossley and apologized to him for his previous behaviour. David Fowler Wainfleet

The caring work you proudly do For Pelham Seniors old and new Always brings us Christmas cheer Not just today, but all the year. So once again, I gladly say “Merry Christmas” In the old folks’ way.

SHOCK

continued from previous page

Bless you, dear Kinsmen and Many thanks to the generous sponsors. S. Lazareth Fonthill

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of 300-plus kilometres before the batteries need to be recharged. Obviously, that distance is much and beyond most daily automobile junkets. Also, more and more charging stations are being

provided in public parking facilities. This trend will enhance the convenience of ownership of these vehicles. One of the incidental drawbacks will be the cost to install charging stations in garages or driveways of the owners’ homes and the increased at home consumption of electricity.

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Did you conquer Everest or kick a bad habit? Everyone has a story. Tell us yours!

nicolle.lalonde@edwardjones.com

See LIBRARY next page

Professional SERVICES Directory

Nicolle A Lalonde Financial Advisor

The O.P.L.A. is very clear. A public library is not simply a municipal department, such as Public Works. The Act requires that there be a library board to insulate library staff and operations from the very sort of uninformed meddling that our library services have been subjected to for years here in Pelham. For example, with pressure from previous Town Council, the former Library CEO was parachuted to the top of the tiny Library pyramid having absolutely no experience or education in information science qualifying him for the position. Given my background, I was shocked. Since this appointment had nothing to do with librarianship, I had

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Page 6

The Voice, December 18, 2019

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Council chambers going high(er)-tech $65,000 in audio-video upgrades being introduced this week

We wish you a Very

MerryChristmas & HappyNewYear

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RING IN THE HOLIDAYS AND THE NEW YEAR WITH THIS GREAT LINE-UP OF MUSIC!

Friday Dec. 20th @ 9 PM

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Saturday Dec. 21st @ 2 PM

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Saturday Dec. 21st @ 8 PM

THE SUNSET REBELS Friday Dec. 27th @ 9 PM

JIMMY’S JUKE JOINT BLUES

BY JOHN CHICK

Special to the VOICE

Pelham’s council chambers are getting a much-needed audio-video upgrade. According to Town Communications and Public Relations Specialist Marc MacDonald, the first phase of the room’s video upgrades were to be in effect for Monday night’s council meeting. This includes multiple cameras that can pivot to all speakers in the chamber, automatically direct by individual speakers as they press their microphones. “Additional cameras will be installed to capture the entire council area,” MacDonald said.“These cameras will live-switch to the active speaker when a microphone button is pressed...[with a] fixed camera to be installed and focused on the centre podium speaker.” The chamber’s previous video capability was limited to just one camera, which cut off either end of the dais where the Mayor and councilors sit during meetings. This meant that viewers usually couldn’t see either Ward 1 councillors Marianne Stewart or Mike Ciolfi, currently occupying these seats. In another forward move into 2020s technology, the

Chambers' decidedly dated video days are done. YOUTUBE SCREENCAP cameras will record in HD, and the overall upgrades will include two new LED screens on the wall to optimize viewing presentations and slide shows— both activated wirelessly. Phase Two of the project involves live-streaming capabilities for all meetings. This means, like the Town’s recent public meetings on cannabis control, all council and committee gatherings will be able to be broadcast live on social media platforms. “We are going to be testing the live stream in the month of January,” MacDonald said. “Once the system is reliable, we can then create the nec-

essary links into our Facebook or YouTube feeds.” MacDonald told the Voice that the upgrades will cost $65,000, although many would agree the changes are a net positive in terms of transparency. When the previous video recording system failed at the November 18 meeting, MacDonald apologized for the inconvenience. “Recording council and committee meetings is done as a courtesy to our residents to make the meetings accessible,” he said at the time. “This is not a requirement under the Municipal Act, though we strive to provide as much information above and beyond as possible.”

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Letters

continued

Cider worth perseverance, critter theft I stopped in at Williams Orchards late Friday afternoon to pick up my weekend supply of apple cider, and to ensure they would have my favourite apple pie next week as I prepare for the Christmas feast. Two weeks ago I stopped in and picked up two jugs of the sweet cider… one to take a friendly gathering, and one for myself. Since the refrigerator gets a little full at this time of year, I put my jug on the deck just outside my kitchen. The cold late fall temperatures kept it chilled and occasionally ice cold! The next morning, I looked out and noted some new critter tracks in the snow on the deck. Our yard is fenced and in town, so it was obviously a smaller animal, most likely a raccoon. I also noted brown stains in the snow, and the jug of cider that had

LIBRARY

continued from previous page to assume his “qualifications” involved friendship or shared lodge membership

In li f sea e's rch m e for anin the g, rare re is ly ans an e as we r y .T said hat ...

is tion olu g es e s pa t .. .th in the r, no e h wit e papnar y h of t dic tio in a a p or k or mkboo pes y coo th er t nts e or o ocum of d

Everyone who's anyone reads the Voice for clues

been right by the door was missing. On further inspection, I found the empty jug at the bottom of the stairs. It had been punctured, and my nighttime visitor must have enjoyed an apple cider snow cone or two! I relayed my story to the woman in the apple barn and we shared a good laugh. She also told me she appreciated my business. Construction on that end of Pelham Street has put a considerable dent in their business. All this to say that if you need some apples and cider from one of our many fine farmers, pay a visit to Williams…you may have to detour around, but, as always, buying fresh and local is worth the travel! Lois LaCroix Fonthill

with some council members. He squatted in the landing zone for three years, his salary, before benefits, sucking away something like 12% of the Library’s total budget in each of those years, whilst his “assistant” was the one with the relevant education and experience. It’s another council, but here we go again. The council, in flagrant violation of the Ontario Public Libraries Act, is trying to appoint an already overworked and unqualified Town manager as Library CEO. Instead, they might consider promoting the acting CEO and hiring some additional staff as her assistants. I realize here, of course, I may be proposing a job for Ms. Guilmette that she does

not want. At very least, the new Library CEO should be an experienced information sciences degree holder selected by the Library Board and management. The council’s moves on this file already appear to be in contravention of the Ontario Public Libraries Act. Wouldn’t an ill-considered and possibly politically or personally influenced appointment by council be so flagrant a violation as to leave them open to legal action? Town Council should get off this case and let the Library Board, as mandated by provincial legislation, manage its own staff and operation. S. Fairbarn Fonthill

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice, December 18, 2019

Page 7

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Void where prohibited. ^Offer available to qualified retail customers in Canada on select vehicles purchased and delivered from December 3, 2019 – January 2, 2020. 0%/0% purchase financing (0%/0% APR) offered on approved credit by TD Auto Finance Services, Scotiabank ® or RBC Royal Bank for 60/72 months on eligible new 2019 Blazer RS/2019 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab RST models. Participating lenders are subject to change. Rates from other lenders will vary. Down payment, trade and/or security deposit may be required. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Example: $48,195/$49,485 financed at 0%/0% nominal rate (0%/0% APR) equals $804/$688 monthly for 60/72 months. The offer includes $0/$1,000 RST Bonus, $0/$2,650 Cash Delivery Allowance (tax exclusive), $1,000/$2,850 Finance Cash (Tax Exclusive) and $0/$500 option package discount. Cost of borrowing is $0/$0, for a total obligation of $48,195/$49,485. 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Bi-weekly payment is $87 for 48 months at 1% lease rate (1% APR) on approved credit to qualified retail customers by GM Financial. The $44 weekly payment is calculated by dividing the bi-weekly payments. Payments cannot be made on a weekly basis. Equivalent weekly payments are for informational purposes only. Annual kilometer limit of 20,000 km, $0.16 per excess kilometer. $2,150 down payment required. Payment may vary depending on down payment trade. Total obligation is $11,191. Taxes, license, insurance, registration and applicable fees, levies, duties and, except in Quebec, dealer fees (all of which may vary by dealer and region) are extra. Option to purchase at lease end is $5,806. See dealer for details. Credits vary by model. Factory order may be required. Offers may not be redeemed for Cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. ~ 15” Kumho Wintercraft Ice WI31 (185/55R15) tires only. Installation, mounting and equipment extra. Four 15” Tire Application Kumho Wintercraft Ice WI31 (185/55R15) winter tires included with the purchase or lease of an new 2019 or 2020 MY Spark delivered between October 1, 2019 to January 2, 2020 at a participating GM dealer in Canada. Offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other incentives. Limitations and conditions apply. © Copyright 2019 Kumho Tire Canada Inc. All rights reserved. * Offer available to qualified retail customers in Canada for vehicles purchased and delivered between December 3, 2019 – January 2, 2020. Cash Purchase price includes $5,100 Non-Stackable Credits (tax exclusive); applies to cash purchases of new 2019 Trax LS FWD Air/Auto models at participating dealers in Canada. $19,998 cash purchase price includes freight ($1,795), air conditioning charge ($100) but excludes license, insurance, registration, dealer fees and taxes. By selecting lease or finance offers, consumers are foregoing this $5,100 credit which will result in higher effective interest rates. Offer may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. ΩWhichever comes first. Limit of four complimentary Lube-Oil-Filter services in total. Fluid top-offs, inspections, tire rotations, wheel alignments and balancing, etc., are not covered. See the Warranty Booklet or your dealer for details. ∞ Whichever comes first. ΔVisit onstar.ca for vehicle availability, coverage maps, details and system limitations. Services and connectivity vary by model and conditions as well as geographical and technical restrictions. 4G LTE service available in select markets. Requires active connected vehicle services and a data plan to access the vehicle’s built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. Accessory Power must be active to use the Wi-Fi hotspot. Data plans provided by AT&T or its local service provider. Credit card is required for purchase.

Page 8

The Voice, December 18, 2019

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

New Business FOCUS

Family team nails it Mother and daughter behind Fonthill's JY Nails & Beauty BY MAEVE KEATING

Special to the VOICE

Fonthill shoppers have likely noticed a new nail salon in the Giant Tiger plaza. Since opening this past September, JY Nails & Beauty has positioned itself a hotspot for the latest in salon trends and treatments. Named for and founded by mother-daughter team Julie and Yen Nguyen, JY Nails & Beauty offers their services to those hoping to get a little pampering, while also supporting more natural and eco-friendly beauty habits. Self-described perfectionists Julie and Yen first took an interest in the beauty industry when Yen was only in grade school. Not long after the family arrived in Canada from Vietnam, in 1990, Julie noticed her daughter developing an interest in having her nails professionally painted like the other girls in her class. Julie also found herself fascinated with the process and took an interest in the industry. After initially struggling to break into this line of work as a new Canadian, Julie’s skill soon developed. Meanwhile, Yen began her own career path toward the beauty industry while still in high school. After taking a summer workshop in esthetics just for fun, Yen’s interest became solidified. After high school she began working part-time for local salons while

earning a degree in business administration from Durham College in Oshawa. Yen also started pursuing additional esthetician classes and certifications within the GTA around her school schedule. At just 26, Yen is certified in eyelash extensions, microblading, and several forms of nail care. “I wouldn’t have done this without having the business side of it... the marketing and management skills,” says Yen, when asked about going into business with her mother. “My mum and I come as a pair.” This past autumn, armed with years of hands-on experience and a degree in business management, the mother-daughter duo was ready to make their mark, and began offering more than just nail services. “We thought, why don’t we open up our own business and manage it ourselves,” says Yen. “When I finished school, I was working full-time for someone else, and I thought, what’s the point if all I get to do is nails?” Yen’s two brothers, Peter and Jason, also started getting in on the action as website/marketing manager and front-of-house reception, respectively. The addition of the other Nguyen siblings now makes JY Nails & Beauty into a full-blown

Yen and Julie Nyugen at their salon in Fonthill. family business. Although Fonthill is home to more than a few nail salons, JY offers a few unique services, including online appointment booking, organic alternatives, and eco-friendly products and practices. JY also does not use any acrylic products. In other words, no strong chemical smell to go along with your nail treatment. Instead, they offer more than 350 different dipping powders (a natural alternative to acrylics), shellacs, and bio gel (a healthy alternative to UV gel) treatments. “The powder has calcium and vitamin E, and lasts longer than three weeks when applied properly,” says Yen. The four Nguyen family members (plus one part-time employee) are the current team at JY Nails & Beauty, but Yen says the family

hopes to add more artists. “We’re known for our spa-pedicure treatment that includes a hot stone massage,” Yen says, adding that both men and women can enjoy it. Yen attributes the salon’s success so far to its online presence and to the relaxed ambience the family has worked to build. “We try to keep things casual, trendy, and relaxing. We’re very minimal here, but also personable. The atmosphere isn’t busy or rushed or crowded.” While JY Nails & Beauty has no immediate or family connection to other nail salons in Fonthill, the founders admit there is a friendly camaraderie among local salon owners and practitioners. “It’s like its own little community. We really liked that,” Yen reports, when asked about why the Nguyen family decided to open

VOICE PHOTO

JY in Fonthill. “We love getting to know our clients...It’s less of an ‘in-and-out’ atmosphere here. We get to make relationships with our customers because they come back again and again.” Asked what advice she would give to someone just starting out in the beauty industry (especially if they were also new to Canada), Yen says that it’s important to know that it’s a competitive business. “It’s easy for people to give up after a few weeks of just opening. You just have to be patient. Just remember who you are, what your goals are, and never give up.” The mother-daughter team encourages those looking to indulge in a little pampering this holiday season to keep an eye out for Christmas promotions and discounts on JY’s website at www. jynailsandbeauty.com

Wishing you a

Merry Christmas

, and Blessed New Year s

825 Canboro Road, Fenwick, ON Mon-Fri 8 AM-6 PM, Saturday 8 AM-5 PM, Sunday- CLOSED 905-892-8724 devriesfruitfarm@hotmail.com www.devriesfruitfarm.com Follow Us @DeVriesFarm Like Us on Facebook

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice, December 18, 2019

Page 9

From all of us at the Town of Pelham to all of you, we wish you and yours all the joys and magic of the holiday season. Mayor Marvin Junkin,

on behalf of Pelham Town Council and the Town of Pelham

Page 10

The Voice, December 18, 2019

ANOTHER ROUND

by JOHN PICCOLO

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

SPECIAL HOLIDAY EDITION

Memorial Drive, Fenwick. BRIAN GREEN PHOTO

My two left skates

T

HE RECENT ICE storm took me back in time to a much simpler place—the land of a young boy who longed to play hockey more than living itself. The first tentative strides occurred in the flooded hydro field across the street from our 567 Vansickle Road home. I remember cramming a toque-covered head into a JK 100 Cooper helmet with optional chin guard. I had a stick of some kind, but not much else remains from that first foray. I think my younger brother was out there, and Jimmy Testa, flopping around, as he lived at the far side of the field. Next memory I am ballparking at February of 1971. I’m being looked after by maternal grandmother while my parents take their one vacation of the year. These were the days when the school boards had a crazy notion that school playgrounds should be for playing and not fenced and gated, and they put up boards for the neighborhood rink. (The meteorological climate was more conducive back then See SKATES Page 19

From Our Family to Yours ~ Happy Holidays & Best Wishes in 2020

From the Community of Lookout Ridge

1505 Lookout Street Fonthill, ON L0S 1E5 lookoutridge.ca (905) 892-9218

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice, December 18, 2019

Page 11

The Merchants of wish everyone a very Happy Holiday Season, and a healthy and prosperous New Year.

Happy Holidays

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Season’s Greetings from all of us

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Wishing you a Merry Christmas!

Happy Holidays

Wishing you Happy Holidays and a New Year filled with prosperity and success!

Wishing you a Healthy Holiday Season!

Warm Holiday Wishes from the McWilliams family

Page 12

The Voice, December 18, 2019

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Pelham CAO David Cribbs on his first six months BY DAVID CRIBBS

Special to the VOICE

As 2019 comes to a close, it’s hard not to reflect on the new job, the new community and the profound changes in my life. Roughly six months ago my spouse and I took a hard look at both Pelham and Niagara, liked what we saw, and took a leap of faith. As with any new undertaking, we experienced a mixture of anxiety, hope, excitement and curiosity. I am pleased to report that there are no regrets. The town and the Town—both geographic and legal entities— have been most welcoming. I hope that I have earned this welcome and will endeavor to continue giving the best that I have in service to my em-

The Voice asked Pelham's new CAO for his impressions of the year just passed, and what's on the horizon for 2020 ployer. In some senses, working for the Town of Pelham is like working for the other municipalities that I’ve been with: there is a stressful budgetary process, there isn’t enough money in the bank to address the infrastructure needs, there are challenges around public confidence, and rate payers understandably want to see value for their tax dollars. In other ways this community sets itself apart — primarily by the strength of its passions. We’ve had standing-room-only meetings on the issues of canna-

bis, short-term rentals and gypsy moths. People invest time, engage, and voice their opinions, because the outcomes matter to them, and they believe (as do I) that the municipality can effect real change. This community is as politically engaged as any in Ontario. Pelham’s civic engagement isn’t limited to politics. Even with some challenging weather, Summerfest blew the roof off. The Thursday nights in the park were fabulous, and the MCC is now routinely welcoming 3,000 people each day on the weekend. Think

about that: effectively more than one resident in six walks through the doors of the MCC on Saturday or Sunday. It is literally the social hub of the community. I have been asked to reflect on successes and failures over the past half year, and to prognosticate on what is to come. With hindsight it is clear that we handled the gypsy moth issue imperfectly. In particular, I want to apologize for the tenor and tone of the letter informing 294 residents of their need to pay for spraying. You deserved better manners from the

Town that was asking you to pay. On the positive side, we have made great progress in developing financial policies that will prevent the errors of the past; in developing methodologies to address cannabis nuisance issues; and we are working towards reasonable controls on short-term rentals to protect residential quality of life. What will 2020 look like? The Town closes the year in open litigation with Leviathan Cannabis Co., CannTrust, and RedeCan. Each of these legal disputes was initiated by the cannabis

companies. I think that the Town will find a way to address the very real harm caused by cannabis production, but also find a way to co-exist with the cannabis producers, provided they can change their behaviour and govern themselves with enlightened self-interest. I also think we will see a regulatory regime that addresses short-term rentals, and likely a general overall enhancement of several bylaws, which will conjunctively modernize the Town’s regulatory, enforcement and legal operations. Whatever comes, I’m glad to be part of the Town of Pelham and look forward to meeting more residents and hopefully making some new friends in 2020. Cheers!

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The Voice, December 18, 2019

Page 13

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Some trims may have effective rates higher than 0%. ^Offer available to qualified retail customers in Canada on select vehicles purchased and delivered from December 3 – January 2, 2020. 0%/0% purchase financing (0%/0% APR) offered on approved credit by TD Auto Finance Services, Scotiabank® or RBC Royal Bank for 84/72 months on eligible new 2019 Acadia Denali/2019 NextGeneration Sierra Crew Cab Elevation models. Participating lenders are subject to change. Rates from other lenders will vary. Down payment, trade and/or security deposit may be required. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Example: $52,795/$51,475 financed at 0%/0% nominal rate (0%/0% APR) equals $629/$692 monthly for 84/72 months. The offer includes $650/$2,650 Cash Delivery Allowance (tax exclusive) and $1,750/$2,850 finance cash (tax exclusive), $0/$1,000 RST Bonus and $0/$500 Option Package Discount. Cost of borrowing is $0/$0, for a total obligation of $53,545/$51,475. Freight ($1,895/$1,895) and air conditioning charge ($100/$100, if applicable) included. License, insurance, registration, PPSA, applicable taxes and, except in Quebec, dealer fees not included (all of which may vary by dealer and region). Dealers are free to set individual prices. ®Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. TD Auto Finance is a registered trademark of The Toronto-Dominion Bank. ◊Offers are valid toward the retail purchase of an eligible new or demonstrator in stock 2019 Sierra Double Cab delivered in Canada between December 3 and January 2, 2020. Up to 25% Of MSRP Cash Purchase Credit is a manufacturer to dealer incentive (tax exclusive), valid toward retail cash purchases only on select 2019 models in stock. Not compatible with special lease and finance rates. By selecting lease or finance offers, consumers are foregoing this credit which will result in higher effective cost of credit on their transaction. Credit is calculated on vehicle MSRP (which excludes vehicle freight), excluding any dealerinstalled options. Credit value will vary with model purchased: models receiving up to 25% of MSRP Cash Purchase Credit are: Sierra 1500 Limited. ~Offer available to qualified retail customers in Canada for vehicles purchased and delivered between December 2 – January 3, 2020. Lease based on suggested retail price of $34,288, towards the lease of an eligible 2020 Terrain SLE FWD Elevation. Bi-weekly payment is $185 for 48 months at 1% lease rate (1% APR) on approved credit to qualified retail customers by GM Financial. The $93 weekly payment is calculated by dividing the bi-weekly payments. Payments cannot be made on a weekly basis. Equivalent weekly payments are for informational purposes only. 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Page 14

The Voice, December 18, 2019

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has translated into great progress on every front, including substantial dollar savings on the MCC hydro costs (over $400,000—accomplished by the Utility Sustainability Committee). I had the opportunity to represent Pelham as part of a team effort at AMO in Ottawa in August, in a meeting with the Energy Minister and his deputy to discuss Pelham’s hydro density classification. This was followed by a meeting in December with Hydro One, MPP Sam Oosterhoff, and his executive assistant. We are optimistic that the new year will see the fruition of ten-plus years of research and result in a positive out-

come of reclassification of Pelham’s hydro from Medium to Urban Density. We are looking forward to 2020 and additional cost savings. Niagara Road 12 Landfill is an engineered landfill site (one of a very few in Ontario) that serves the towns of, and has representation from, Grimsby, West Lincoln, Lincoln and Pelham. It opened in 1995 with an expected lifespan of 25 years. Its life has now been extended to 2048 because of the methods and technology involved at the landfill site. It is clean, does not smell, and it is the best landfill operated site I have seen. The smell is minimized by the engineered design features of the site and the landfill practices. The committee meetings

KORE

continued from Page 1

from the Fonthill Lions & Lioness Club We can’t thank you enough for your support and friendship. Have a warm and wonderful holiday! And have a Happy Year 2020!

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been a number of highlights throughout the year, including the implementation of the cost control of the MCC on a monthly basis, and the involvement of residents on various committees,

CIOLFI

continued from Page 1 you are all aware we had to extend the ICBL for an additional nine months, but moving forward I truly believe that we can have this all wrapped up sometime early spring. Several other new committees were formed and have so far proved to be very beneficial. Staff will also bring a report back to council early in Q1 of 2020 in regards to reestablish the Heritage Committee. Late spring council decided to start the search for the CAO and decided that the

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

We are looking forward to 2020 and additional cost savings deal with all facets of waste collection and recycling programs, with a goal of maximizing diversion and optimization, in an environmentally friendly way through the use of best engineered landfill site practices. Pelham Arts Advisory— my mom would be proud of me. Her engineering son has finally joined a com-

voicing their concerns and bringing their expertise to help us resolve some of the issues. Moving forward, we have a number of problems to deal with. These include short term rentals, a better strategy dealing with the gypsy moth issue, the removal of the chicane on

recruiting process would be handled from within instead of using an agency. This saved the Town a considerable amount of money. There were several qualified candidates that applied and we were pleased that Mr. Cribbs accepted the position of CAO. The Town has already benefitted from reduced costs from his experience and related education as a municipal lawyer in the short time that he has been on the job. Then along came the gypsy moth. I never would have imagined the amount of time that was required to handle such a small insect.

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mittee that fits her talents and abilities, and possibly even a dream she had for her son to be involved in some form of arts and culture education. The committee’s vision and amazing artistic abilities are displayed each month at the MCC. If you haven’t seen their artwork and other events you need to go up to the second level and enjoy their many talents as I have. In conclusion, I am a frequent visitor to the MCC on the walking track and attending meetings as well as at the 55+ Men's Breakfast. Come and join the movement at the MCC. My wish for each and everyone is have a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!

Haist Street, and the ongoing cannabis issues within our community. I am so proud of working alongside Mayor Marv Junkin, CAO David Cribbs, and my fellow councillors, who all deeply care about our community and are working hard to once again make Pelham a great place to live.

We still have a lot of work that needs to be complete in order to ensure that the Town and the residents can come up with a plan and policy that will be fair for everyone. I would expect this to be complete early 2020. All members of council other than the Mayor have had no prior experience as councillors but we all work together as team and lean on one another for information. I truly believe that we have all grown together and have the best interests of the residents at heart. We all realize that there is a lot more work that needs to be

completed over the next four years but overall are pleased with the direction that we are heading into. I have personally learned so much over the last year and I am looking forward to continue to learn and representing the residents of Pelham for the next three years. With all of the help from the volunteers in this community, service clubs, Pelham Cares band shell group, volunteer firefighters, Town of Pelham staff and council we can continue to make Pelham the best place to live, work and visit! Merry Christmas & Happy New Year.

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The Voice, December 18, 2019

Page 15

WINK

continued from Page 1 We are well prepared for 2020 initiatives. I was part of a small committee for our CAO recruitment and I believe we have picked the right person to lead our staff going forward. David Cribbs brings strong municipal experience as well as a legal background, to help your council make informed decisions. Good work is being done by our Cannabis Control Committee and we should have appropriate bylaws in place by the second quarter of 2020. Additionally, our hydro committee has saved the Town significant dollars at the Meridian Community Centre and work is ongoing to potentially realize hydro savings for residents. Council learned a lot about gypsy moths this year. We had $25,000 in the budget for spraying, but we had no idea of the magnitude of the problem. We have included $150,000 to address issues next year and any money not spent will be placed in a reserve for invasive species.

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I am somewhat disappointed that we have not put bylaws in place for short-term rentals, but staff demands with respect to the cannabis issues have taken precedence. Shortterm rental bylaws should be in place by the second quarter of next year. I am gratified that the park in Lookout subdivision has been completed, as well as most of the work in Weiland Heights. Final touches, along with new playground equipment, will be completed in the spring. My biggest concern for our Town is the amount of debt we have and the financial state of our reserves. Part of my frustration is the sale of Town property in East Fonthill as well as the old arena

lands that have not been finalized as yet. We hope to have some positive news in this regard in the first few months of 2020. Of further concern are the depleted reserves that the Town has, as it is these reserves that help us with capital projects in the Town. Staff has presented a draft of our debt and reserve policies to the Finance and Audit Committee, and this will be presented to council this Monday, December 16th. I would like to thank staff for their hard work and dedication this past year. I would also like to thank all the volunteers on Town committees and those who support our initiatives throughout Pelham, to make our town a better place to live.

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The Voice, December 18, 2019

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Early Childhood centre in Fenwick to close BY VOICE STAFF The Fenwick EarlyOn centre, located at Fenwick United Church, is scheduled to close its doors… again. Originally slated to close last February, the centre was given a reprieve when local residents mounted a campaign to keep the facility open. They gathered some 200 signatures on a petition, and made an effective presentation to the Region’s Public Health and Social Services Committee. The reprieve was celebrated by local politicians shortly afterward, with MPP Sam Oosterhoff telling parents that the Fenwick location was “unique” and that “a solution had to be found to recognize that and maintain the service.” An announcement late last month, however, put an end to the hopes of parents that the Fenwick centre would be spared. Family and Children’s Services (FACS) Niagara, which operates the program, has decided not to submit a proposal to the Region for the continuation of services at the location, and suggested instead that

parents take their children to the Seaway Mall EarlyON location. A letter from Darlene Edgar, Director of Niagara Region Children’s Services, dated December 11, reveals that the Region has awarded a new EarlyON program to Port CARES starting in early 2020, with a location yet to be announced in Pelham. Port CARES is a non-profit organization that has been offering early years programming for 20 years. FACS Niagara operates six EarlyON Centres in both St. Catharines and Niagara Falls, as well as four in Welland, and one each in Lincoln, Grimsby, Thorold, Smithville, and Niagara on the Lake. EarlyON Centres across Ontario offer programs for children from birth to six years, as well as supporting services for parents and caregivers. Offering free supervised play spaces inside and outdoors, meals, and early childhood resources, the Fenwick centre was popular with local families for its rural location, as well as the quality of the facilities and staff and the richness

of the programming. A recent calendar of programs at the Fenwick centre reveals time spent on literacy, art, music, “my feelings and emotions,” even cooking and math. During the attempt to keep the Church St. location open last year, parents objected to the driving distance to the Seaway Mall, the dangers of taking little children across the parking lot, and the mall atmosphere. Paul Bryant, who took his grandchildren to the Fenwick EarlyON centre until they were old enough for kindergarten, has been a vocal supporter and was part of the presentation to the Region when closing was threatened last year. “I cannot stress enough the importance of the EarlyON Children and Family Centres in the growth and development of our children,” said Bryant. “We should be opening more EarlyON Centres not closing them.” Reached after the announcement of the latest closing, he maintains that the quality of the

EarlyON supporter Paul Bryant. Fenwick centre and its staff and the value of the location don’t seem to matter to FACS, and the closing was a foregone decision by unknown bureaucrats. “When someone is so entrenched in their decision, the facts don’t matter,” Bryant said. When asked for comment on the closing of the Fenwick centre, Adrian McKenzie, the senior manager at FACS Niagara responsible for the program, provided this statement: “FACS Niagara is continuing to focus on the sustainment of critical core services, given the current economic climate

VOICE PHOTO

and competing priorities that we are facing. We are confident that there are a number of agencies and organizations in Niagara that are extremely well-suited to provide quality EarlyON programming to communities throughout the Region. We support the continuation of these beneficial programs, and applaud those who will continue the important work, both in Niagara and throughout the province.” The Fenwick EarlyON centre is slated to close on Dec. 20. An announcement about the location of the new Pelham centre is expected shortly.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! Best wishes to you and your family this holiday season. DIANA HUSON | REGIONAL COUNCILLOR diana.huson@niagararegion.ca

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The Voice, December 18, 2019

Sporting Green The Niagara

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Page 17

In a special holiday entry, our resident golf columnist recalls quality ice time

The Voice and TheVoiceofPelham.ca | December 18, 2019

Third time's THE CHARM Wrestler Jessie MacDonald finally breaks through at trials BY BERNIE PUCHALSKI

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Jessie MacDonald couldn’t have picked a better way to celebrate her 35th birthday. With 7-2 and 12-1 victories over Madison Parks of the London Western Wrestling Club on Dec. 7, the Brock Wrestling Club member won the Canadian Olympic freestyle wrestling trials for the first time. “I was born this day and my dreams came true on this day,” she said. She made those dreams come true by suspending reality. “I just keep telling myself it was the Guelph Open,” MacDonald said, while fighting back tears. “I keep downplaying the importance of it because I have always put [trials] on a pedestal and it’s not on a ped-

It was part of the journey, and I would not be where I am right now if it wasn't for those failures

Jessie MacDonald leaps into her husband's arms. BERNIE PUCHALSKI PHOTO

estal. It’s the same people, and I kept telling myself to go and do your moves and wait for the opening.” She picked the Guelph Open for obvious reasons. “I have won the Guelph Open so many times and I needed to realize it was the exact same people I wrestle all the time,” she said. “It was the same people, the same mats and the same shoes, so just keep it simple.” MacDonald went unbeaten to win the 50-kilogram division at the Scotiabank Convention Centre in Niagara Falls. “I honestly felt that I wrestled terrible this weekend, but I also feel that I did what I needed to do to get it done and sometimes that just what it is,”

she said. “You do what you need to do to get it done.” The former world champion and three-time world medalist was able to win after two previous heartbreaks at the Olympic trials. “It was part of the journey, and I would not be where I am right now if it wasn’t for those failures,” the eight-time national champion said. “It has made me so resilient and stubborn and I wouldn’t change it for anything in the world. MacDonald said that her three-year-old daughter, Ella, “exists because of those failures and sometimes failures are needed in order to make us stronger.” MacDonald overcame the odds to even wrestle at the tri-

als after undergoing shoulder surgery this year that involved a bone graft, screws and ligaments being reattached to the bone. “It was so unbelievable that everything came together after this year because honestly, in May, I thought I was done,” she said. “It was ‘How is this happening to me?’ but I basically had the mindset that nobody was going to stop me, even if it meant I was going to train until my arm came off.” After winning the second and deciding match, MacDonald ran and jumped into the arms of her husband, Evan MacDonald, a former Olympian. Evan was in her corner along with Brock coach Dave Collie. “He has been everything to

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me, and he has believed in me since we first started dating, and I was terrible [at wrestling],” she said. “He always told me that I had what it took and I couldn’t have had more support from him. There really truly isn’t a better husband out there. This was our goal, our dream with our daughter, and we did this together as family.” The stands of the Scotiabank Convention Centre were crowded with upwards of 40 people wearing white Team MacDonald t-shirts. “I have always said that it is not one person that steps on that mat,” she said. “I knew that I had so many people behind me. It’s my friends, my See CHARM back page

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The Voice, December 18, 2019

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Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year.

Merry Christmas &a Blessed 2020 to the people of Pelham - Councillor Bob Hildebrandt

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SKATES

continued from Page 10 as well.) Parents, teachers, and the caretaker Mr. Baker, would all volunteer time to flood and maintain the ice as best they could. As a Grade 1 student in K-8 Grapeview School, my own opportunities to use said rink were few and far between. We didn’t have Phys-Ed yet, and it took so long to get dressed and skated-up that recess and lunch were no-goes. Plus you had all these behemoths buzzing around in various stages of control, which didn’t help the confidence level of a neophyte blade runner. I must have surmised that since the rink was always empty before school started this would be my chance. Details are fuzzy, but somehow I awoke early and got dressed and out of the house with my skates and a stick and puck. I remember at least part of the walk down Grapeview Drive, and then sitting on the steps in front

The Voice, December 18, 2019 of the primary door ready to lace up. One problem. In my haste to escape before my grandmother woke up and scuttled my plan, I took two skates for the same foot. My brother had the same skates. No matter. Jammed them on and out I went. It was glorious and lasted about five minutes, I think. I believe it was Mrs. Thoms, our lovely Grade 1 teacher, who came out to collect me and ask perhaps what the hell I was doing. I was freezing and likely hungry and completely unaware that a certain grandmother may be having a heart attack, thinking one of her brood was abducted in the night along with two left skates, a stick and puck. The only other hockey memories of the time are of watching the clock till it struck eight on Saturday night, as that was when Hockey Night in Canada started back then. The Leafs on a 19-inch black-andwhite television. Life was never going to get any better than that.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

The family made a big move to Third Street the following year, and an even bigger flood came along, and its freezing gifted us with a skating rink from the back door, out across the garden (hopping over the furrows), mini ponds at various spots next door at the Wilcoxs’, and what might as well have been Maple Leaf Gardens. An entire cherry orchard flooded and frozen from tree to shiny tree. For a hockey obsessive youth this was it. There was a slight chance you might be concussed beyond recovery from running into a tree but what a small price to pay. I imagine the speed I was careening around at and the layers of the clothing would have made the appearance of any airbags in the case of collision highly unlikely. I also imagine this infinity rink phenomena was short lived, with the vagaries of weather and such, but it is as clear as a 65-inch HDTV in my memory.

These are good stories, and for the price, you have already got more than your money’s worth, but in the spirit of Christmas, you get even more. I’m thinking it’s a year or two down the line, and without getting into meteorological records this will suffice. There was a glorious ice storm. Not glorious if you had to drive in it or police it, but from a kid’s point of view with schools being closed it was absolutely fabulous. There was ice on everything. Trees, driveways, roads. Just beautiful. My brother and I and I think our younger sister as well laced them up and out to the driveway we went. How much better a place to live can you get? One year you’re skating in an orchard and now all around the driveway. But alas it could get better. The road. Why limit ourselves to a driveway when Third Street was this miles-long, car-free, skating track?

Best wishes for a

y s r r e M ristma h C

Page 19 Off we went. We reached the corner of Third and Third. Why stop now? South we continued, heading towards Fourth Avenue, over a kilometer away. This was by far the best day of my life. A few curious neighbours waving and shaking their heads, pure freedom. Until it wasn’t. We were almost to the end, just in front of Paul’s Auctions building, when off in the distance the unmistakable flash of blue. The salt truck was coming! I swear he had the same look on his face as the magician who locked Frosty the Snowman in the greenhouse. Evil incarnate. Alas, as long as it had taken us three minimally skilled skaters to slide and glide our way out, it took much, much longer to trudge and stumble our way back. If those skates had ever got taken in for sharpening I imagine it would have been the second person my skating expeditions would have given a heart attack to. Happy holidays! ♦

Junkin to speak with Library Board BY VOICE STAFF Following a one-on-one meeting last week between Mayor Marvin Junkin and Pelham Public Library Board Chair Tim Wright, to discuss Town Council's desire to appoint Director of Recreation, Wellness, and Culture, Vickie vanRavenswaay as interim Library CEO, the pair determined that Junkin should address the Library Board as a whole. The meeting is scheduled for Jan.22. "Further discussion on the proposal will occur at that time," said Wright. "I believe that perhaps our most prominent misstep," said Junkin, "was our failure to more directly communicate with the library board."

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BANDSHELL PRESENTS DE TEMPS ANTAN The Voice, December 18, 2019 PageFONTHILL 20 Since 2003, Éric Beaudry, André Brunet and Pierre-Luc Dupuis have been exploring and performing time-honoured melodies from the stomping grounds of Quebec’s musical past. Using fiddle, accordion, harmonica, guitar, bouzouki and a number of other instruments, our three virtuosos blend boundless energy with the unmistakable joie de vivre found only in traditional Quebec music. Show runs from 7-9 p.m.

Yard & Shed MOVING www.thevoiceofpelham.ca Burke’s Masonry SALE, Large collection FONTHILL Bricklaying, tuckpointing, of Christmas and holiday E. L. Crossley Place your ad by email orKeith’s phone Restau office@thevoiceofpelham.ca Churchill Natural Meats Target decorations and householdHours: Mon-Thurs, 8 AM - 2 PM (905) 892-8690 Store step repair, granite Shoppers Drug Mart Pennzoil Quick coatings, brick slices items, SAT. AUG. 30, 8AM- Fonthill Library Lazy Loon 1PM 625 METLER RD, P18-28 905-682-7061. Town ofMILL Pelham Pharmasave FLOORING CUSTOM NORTH PELHAM P18-23 Cafe on Main Avondale Stor

COMMUNITY EVENTS & CLASSIFIEDS PELHAM LIBRARY CARD MAKING WORKSHOP Make six cards with fall themes, learning a variety of techniques. Materials EXTEND YOUR REACH - ADVERTISE PROVINCIALLY OR ACROSS THE COUNTRY! aremore provided. timeyour of local registration, please enquire about tools ed.org needed. For informationAt contact community newspaper or visit www.networkclassifi Tues., Sept. 16 10 – 12:30. $10. Please register ahead. Visit www.pelhamBUSINESS OPPS. ADVERTISING library.on.ca or call 905-892-6443 for more details. FABULOUS FENWICK LIONS FISH FRY Tasty treats with funds heading straight back into the community. Haddock, french fries and much more. Runs Sept. 9 from 4-7 p.m. PELHAM MINOR HOCKEY EQUIPMENT SALE REACH MILLIONS OF CUSTOMERS IN Buy, sellONTARIO or tradeINVENTORS!! used equipment at the PelhamWITH Arena. to provide ATTN: ONTARIO ONEAimed EASY CALL! Inventing cheaperNeed options forHelp? players in this upcoming season. Runs 6 from Your Classified Ad or Display Ad Sept. would appear in weekly newspapers each week across Call Davison!! 9-12 in the morning. Ontario in urban, suburban and rural areas. Ideas Wanted!

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CALL DAVISON TODAY: 647-350-2558. PELHAM MUDFEST 1-800-256-0429 Men and women will be back in the mud as the second run on the year is OR VISIT US AT: held at Bissil’s Hideaway. Inventing.Davison.com/Ontario FREE Inventor’s Guide!!

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WANTED: OLD TUBE AUDIO EQUIPMENT. NIAGARA REGIONAL EXHIBITION40 years or older. Amplifiers, Stereo, Recording and Theatre Sound Equipment. Hammond Rodeo, games and live entertainment headline this years exciting Organs, any condition. CALL Toll-Freeevent. 1-800- It 947-0393 / 519-853-2157. runs from Sept. SERVICES 11-14 at the Welland Fairgrounds. FINANCIAL

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BIG MOVE CANCER RIDE The$$ BigCONSOLIDATE Move Cancer Ride is a non-competitive ride taking place on Sept. 7. Proceeds for the Big Move stay in Niagara and support the Walker FamYOUR DEBT NOW $$ ily Cancer Centre. HOME OWNER LOANS FOR ANY WALKINGPURPOSE!! CLUB

Pay down other high interest debt! Interested in walking in Pelham? Join them Tuesdays at the Pelham Arena LOWER YOUR MONTHLY PAYMENTS Bank turn downs, Tax or Mortgage arrears, from 9-10 Bad am Credit, and Thursdays Self-Employed, Bankruptcy -at WeFonthill Bandshell for 9-10:30 am. There AND CanisHelp! in extreme situations For of bad no Even fee for this program. more information, please contact jcook@ credit. pelham.ca or call 905 892-2607, ext 329.CONSOLIDATE YOUR DEBT NOW!!! Borrow: $50,000 HAMPER DAY $100,000

Pay Monthly: $268 FOR $537 PELHAM

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CARES Purchase fresh fruitAVAILABLE and vegetables at the Market$50K or bring a non-perishable LARGER AMOUNTS YOU PAY: $208.33 / MONTH food item to fill the hampers at the Pelham Farmers Market on Sept. 4. !!Decrease monthly payments up to 75%!! Based on 5% APR. OAC

Josh DeHaan Flooring “For all your flooring needs”

We offer in-stock specials: • pre-finished hardwood

flooring solid, engineered from $2/ft2 • laminate flooring from $.89/ft2 • carpet and vinyl flooring from $4.95/yd2 • fibre flooring from $1/ft2 • ceramic tile from $.89/ft2 ...and other specials! Call us to see the products that are available & visit our showroom.

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Portable sawmill service. Beamer’s Pro Hardware I will come to your home or farm and custom mill your logs. Firewood & lumber alsoSobey’s available. Call Rob Patterson, FENWICK McDonald’s 905-401-4948, Avondale Stor riverwood@primus.ca Fonthill Legion

O START T

U R N ” HOLIDAY FAMILY SKATE “TMERIDIAN

Fenwick Sub S Tim Hortons Golden Grill Semenuk’s Devries Fruit F Pic’s Join us for our FREE annual skate, hot chocolate, Ridderikhoff M Klagers giveaways and Paws!

YOU R Monday, December 23, 2019, 2:30-5:30 pm Meridian Community Centre, PAPER ROUTES AVAILAB VINYL INTO 100 Meridian Way, Fonthill

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Older home, Niagara Falls or vicinity. Rural property needing TLC – OK. Immediate occupancy - Dec. or Jan. Reliable long-term tenant, with own office@thevoiceofpelham. appliances, own email: utilities. References. 289-257-1962, 905-643-9341.

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NEW ADVERTISING OPPORTU

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Fenwick United Church requires a secretary/bookkeeper for fourWatch to five for flexible early hours previews of our weekly and an additional one hour per week is required by Bethany United Church, Attercliffe. These churches are in a Shared Ministry arrangement. Both positions will base NEW, EXCITING WEBSITE their work out of the Fenwick United Church office. Skills required include bookkeeping, social media, computer and general administrative skills. KnowledgeFollow of PowerChurch or us on Twitter, similar database/accounting system and ADP an asset. Email inquiries/resume to: ssvob@vaxxine.com. Deadline: January 7, 2020. Like us on Facebook.

905.892.8690

The Voice is hiring! News and Features Writer

This full-time position calls for a well-rounded reporter with the ability to cover a wide range of community issues, from Town Council to interviews and longer profile pieces. Previous writing experience preferred.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca/writers

(OAC)

COMMUNITY Events FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO APPLY NOW BY PHONE OR ONLINE: 1-888-307-7799

Event Submissions Standards www.ontario-widefinancial.com

If your organization is hosting an event ONTARIO-WIDE FINANCIAL 1801347inc FSCO Licence #12456

No Income, Bad Credit Power of Sale Stopped!!!

BETTER OPTION MORTGAGE FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL TODAY TOLL-FREE: 1-800-282-1169

that would be of interest to the community, www.mortgageontario.com you may submit an events profile by sending your community events information to # 10969) !! WE ARE HERE TO HELP !!Some restrictions apply.(Licence editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca Event submissions that meet the acceptability standards of The Voice of Pelham will then be posted until the date of your event. The Community Events Calendar is updated weekly. Please provide as much notice and information as possible including the date, time and description of your event. The Voice of Pelham reserves the right to edit for space.

OCNA Network Classifieds Ads (AD CENTRAL) Week of December 16 Posted December 12 Central Region Ads included

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www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice, December 18, 2019

Page 21

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The Voice 874 Hwy # 20 W, Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 874 Hwy #20 W, Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 874 Hwy # 20 W, Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 l Landscape Design l Landscape Construction l Driveways, Patio & Walkways Landscape Design Landscape Construction Driveways, Patio & Walkways l Natural Stone l Retaining Walls l Outdoor Wood Projects Natural Stone Retaining Walls Outdoor Wood Projects l Water Features l Outdoor Lighting Water Features Outdoor Lighting l

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Owners/Operators Phone: 905.892.2188 • www.naturesownidea.com

Our readers could be your customers. Tell them why they should choose you!

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Call (905) 892-8690

advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

Phone: 905.892.2188 • www.naturesownidea.com

Places of Worship and Events Bethany Christian Reformed Church 1040 Balfour St., Fenwick

First Presbyterian Church 602 Metler Rd., North Pelham

Glad Tidings Church of God 1 Pancake Lane, Fonthill

Pelham Evangelical Friends Church 940 Haist St., Fonthill

Concordia Lutheran Church 105 Welland Rd., Fonthill

Fonthill Baptist Church 1414 Pelham St., Fonthill

Holy Trinity Anglican Church 1557 Pelham Street, Fonthill

Ridgeville Bible Chapel 418 Canboro Rd., Ridgeville

Fenwick Church of Christ 765 Welland Rd., Fenwick

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1369 Rice Rd., Fonthill

Kirk on the Hill Presbyterian Church 1344 Haist St., Fonthill

St. Alexander’s Roman Catholic Church 50 Pelham Town Sq., Fonthill

Fenwick United Church 1050 Church St., Fenwick

Fonthill United Church 42 Church Hill, Fonthill

Pelham Community Church (United Church of Canada) 461 Canboro Rd., Fenwick

St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church 834 Canboro Rd., Fenwick

HAUN

continued from Page 1 MCC by capitalizing on new hospitality opportunities, and (5) coordinating activities and events for user groups at the MCC. As promised, we have ensured that Poth Street was repaired and reopened, invested in major infrastructure repairs on Pelham Street, Station Street, and on Welland Road (including a fresh pave over those nasty potholes!). We have addressed many issues, some immediately obvious to residents, such as launching our brand new, user-friendly website, while other projects will take time to come to fruition, such as the future build of a new seniors’ multi-level care home in East Fonthill. It is important to ensure we are effectively communicating with our residents.

Hopefully residents have taken notice of the many public forums we have held this year on topics such as cannabis production facilities, gypsy moth spraying, and shortterm rentals. We recognize staff and council have much work to do and thanks to all the feedback we’ve received we can work towards putting bylaws and programs in place to address your concerns. While 2019 has been challenging at times it has also been exciting to be a part of building Pelham’s future. Fortunately I am a part of a great team of councillors that work well together and are equally dedicated to making the tough decisions that are often required. As your Ward 3 councillor I will continue to be your strong voice at council. I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

ADVERTISEMENT

Just thinking of Christmas can transport you to an enchantingly totally quiet world of falling snowflakes gently brushing the face, aromas of Christmas preparations from the kitchen, spellbinding beauty of Christmas lights with decorations. The pleasant sound of Christmas music and feeling blessed for having a loving family and being part of a harmonious brotherhood of all people in society. There is the appeal of an innocent Christmas winter with its essence of good redeeming the misled which has drawn to itself artists, musicians, storytellers and film-makers alike. Some of the greatest songwriters over the years have written songs on Christmas and tried to capture the spirit of the season with their music. They have often figured on the billboard charts and have garnered much radio play during the season.. You can listen or sing along at a Christmas service provided by any of the Churches in your area or listed in this newspaper. If you can’t make it out, there is a Live Stream Service on the internet from Faith Welland Church. http://www.etherelive.tv/faithwelland This year you may be able to give the most important gift of all. Time. Time is the one thing with minimal cost and immeasurable value. People of all ages say quality undistracted time spent with someone that cares about them is priceless. You can give it out in hourly amounts, days or special events. Write the time gift on a personal note with the recipient’s name on the envelope and put it under the tree this Christmas and watch their reaction when it is opened. Merry Christmas and God Bless

Page 22

The Voice, December 18, 2019

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

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Wishing you and your family peace and joy for the holidays and the very best for the New Year. From our Staff, Board of Directors, Shareholders, and Delivery Carriers

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Voice

HOROSCOPE

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS DECEMBER 15 Charlie Cox, Actor (37) DECEMBER 16 William Perry, Athlete (57) DECEMBER 17 Pope Francis, Religious leader (83) DECEMBER 18 Ronald Acuña, Athlete (22) DECEMBER 19 Jennifer Beals, Actress (56) DECEMBER 20 Jonah Hill, Actor (36) DECEMBER 21 The Puzzlemeister (24)

E

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155 HWY 20 WEST

everyone guessing may give you a slight advantage. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, you may resist a social engagement initially because it has been such a busy season. Soon you may come around and be open to a few more parties. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, if you are thinking about a career change, take a step back and give this decision considerable thought. Look for hints as to the direction you should go. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, do not surround yourself with negative thought patterns, which could hinder your success. Better to stay positive and embrace those who share your outlook. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 With eyes on the future and resolutions, now might be the perfect time to go back to school or gain extra skills applicable to your career, Pisces.

SOLUTIONS ACROSS 1. Gel 4. Arched 10. RNA 11. Select 12. SD 14. ATM 15. Pial 16. Papyri 18. Retinas 22. Unseen 23. Inspect 24. Retread 26. MT 27. Shia 28. Tapa 30. Erns 31. EKG 34. Evans 36. Ugh 37. Snub 39. Indy 40. Hill 41. BD 42. Scabies 48. Effaces 50. Avidly 51. Restart 52. Mosaic 53. Aube 54. Owe 55. SE 56. Insert 58. Rec 59. Sterna 60. EDT

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, a chance encounter with an old acquaintance drums up feelings you didn’t know you had. Even if these feelings are muted, you can still acknowledge them. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, it is up to you to initiate action over the next several days. The situation may be uncomfortable, but you will be able to handle it. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, a difference of opinion with a professional colleague surfaces in the coming days. Recognize that you both have the same goal and work together. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 The next few days will be all about having a good time, Cancer. Others may try to steer you elsewhere, but you are set on enjoying yourself. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, many things are beyond your control. However, one place where you can take action concerns your personal health. Schedule a well visit soon. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, close friends will keep you very busy for the next few days. That will come in handy because you could use a distraction from what’s currently on your plate. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Do not allow impulsive behavior to rule your week, Libra. You need to exercise caution when making decisions over the next several days because they can have a large impact. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Others cannot quite figure you out lately, Scorpio. It is good to have an air of mystery about you. Keeping

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice, December 18, 2019

Voice

FAITH LIFT

by Pastor Rob Weatherby

CROSSWORD

S

Canborough Fonthill Fulton Niagara-on-the-lake Stevensville Wainfleet Waterford

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What does God want for Christmas?

O WHAT DO YOU want for Christmas? We often ask this question of children. And they usually don’t hesitate to rhyme off several items from their long Christmas wish list. This year it seems that some of the most popular items are a Blume doll, Linkimals Smooth Moves Sloth, Cubby the Curious Bear, Oranguetwang Kids Game, Artie 3000 The Coding Robot, Lucky Fortune Bracelets, Candy Locks Doll and The Ultimate Walking Buzz Lightyear. I’m not sure what they all are but with names like that, they’ve got to be expensive! But have you ever considered how God might answer that question? What does God want for Christmas? Your first reaction may be that God doesn’t want anything because He has everything. After all, if He created the whole universe in the be-

Page 23

ginning of time, then there’s nothing that He couldn’t provide for Himself, right? Wrong.

love. He wants our heart. That means He wants you. All of you. Not just a bit of you. Not a few minutes of your spare time. Not a few coins from your spare change. He wants your undivided loyalty, love and devotion. That doesn’t mean you have to join a monastery and spend all your waking hours in prayerful meditation. But it does mean that He wants you to be in communion, in contact, in a trusting, loving relationship with Him all the time no matter what else you’re doing. He wants you to live life with Him at your very core. One of the best examples of this took place nine months before the very first Christmas. The angel Gabriel appeared to a young Jewish girl, Mary, and delivered some startling news. She had been chosen by God to be the mother of His Son, Jesus. Her

The Bible tells us there is something God wants for Christmas (and the rest of the year too)

The Bible tells us there is something God wants for Christmas (and the rest of the year too). What is it? These words tell us— Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength (Deuteronomy 6:5). God wants our

See FAITH LIFT next page

To You And Your Family May the Christmas lights and decorations brighten your spirits and bring joy to your heart. We consider ourselves very lucky to have you for a customer. Thank you for brightening our holidays. Our very best wishes to you in this exciting new year, and we hope 2020 brings all good things. Thanks for your support.

Lampman-Muir Limited FURNITURE FUNERAL SERVICES 724 & 728 Canboro Road, Fenwick Tel: 905-892-4701 “Our Family Serving Your Family Since 1911, bringing you the finest in home furnishings and accessories”

Weekly Word Search S E C K A O E P J P J Y A B K J D X S T

U V T M I E J U W G K K F F N V K U U X

B W Z Y Y R O T S E N A T Z B N T Q F Q

Z U E G D F N T W A I N P C A H M V X S

X A T W O O D I M C E R Y Y E R W K B R

X G Q B V D A X G P L F O R S H L S A I

R X D R A G A W J P S G L R A D N F H B

Q T B E P W T R U D E A U U R X Z N O I

P S R I M P J R D A N M W T W G A K O C

C D L E D L E I F D A H H N R G M T J E

Q R L S B P V O D S H P N Z F J D J A I

G I Y J R E E H C S U J R P T I E R K K

N Q T A R Y K M F Q L Z I H E A R K G P

I I H S K K X C W M C T U A G D A M U X

G S O R V L I U I S M N E K Y Q G G I T

I N M O Z I H A M H M Y Q H I A A C C K

L X U M G C L N Q O T I P J K U U E M Y

H H C O S D Q K C Q L C G Y Y P T N L E

A G G C Y X J U D C U A L O B Z Y O L I

K I X N M D N Y I F A C R R L Q I B O C

Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwards. WAXMAN HADFIELD ANKA TORY IVERSON SUZUKI

TREBEK HARPER EGOYAN MCLUHAN ORR SUTHERLAND

TRUDEAU THICKE ATWOOD SCHEER TWAIN YOUNG

NESTOR URRY THOM NIELSEN ONDAATJE WEIR

ANSWERS ON PAGE 22

Page 24

STEWART

continued from Page 1 I am proud to say that, as the “council team” we have become, we have worked hard and made good choices. Learning about the budget procedure was challenging, but we have managed to pass two fiscally responsible budgets within our first year. Our council team is made up of seven individuals from different backgrounds and experiences. This allows us to look at the issues from a variety of perspectives, while we might not all agree, we remain respectful of the opinions and decisions our teammates make. I did know that there would be more than a “couple” of meetings per month, but the surprise was the volume of reading involved in preparation for those meetings. Our town faces many

The Voice, December 18, 2019 challenges, cannabis being the number one issue at this point. We have a cannabis control committee made up of diligent members of our community, including Councillor Ciolfi. They are working hard along with our senior leadership team to draft strong bylaws to protect us from the odours and light emitted from the growing operations. Councillor Hildebrandt and his sidekick Gord Marasco, and the rest of the Utilities Sustainability Committee, have made great strides in making huge financial savings at the Meridian Community Centre, with more progress on the way. The dreaded gypsy moths are another challenge. I am hoping for the weather conditions this winter and the coming spring to help to mitigate this problem naturally. I must admit that I didn’t know what a gypsy moth was until this year,

when my white car started to look like a Dalmatian! Aside from that, work is being done to prepare for the next onslaught. The Town is looking at the possibility of extending the hours of library service without cutting or adding staffing hours. There is technology available which could potentially provide more flexibility in library access hours while maintaining our qualified library staff. All of our committees, some of which are not so much in the news, make huge contributions to Pelham, the community that we are all proud to call home. All in all, I think it’s been a very good year working with my “council team” to make sound decisions to take us into the future. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year with friends and family.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

FAITH LIFT

CHARM

natural reaction was one of fear at first, then amazement and bewilderment. How could she, a virgin, become pregnant? Gabriel explained how it would happen and then concluded, “For nothing is impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37) The next verse reveals Mary’s final reply— “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said.” What a wonderful example of a believer whose heart is fully surrendered to God. The road ahead for Mary was not easy. It included ridicule, misunderstanding, gossip, hardship, danger and heartbreak. But through it all, Mary loved her God with all of her heart, soul and strength. So, my friend, that’s what God wants from you this Christmas. Will He get it? ♦

family, therapists, coaches and training partners who have given me so much that I could never give back. When I went out there, it was Team Mac, and it was us against the world.” MacDonald still has one step left to fulfil her dream of becoming an Olympian. The first chance to qualify for the Olympics will be the 2020 Pan-American Olympic Qualification Tournament, March 13-15, in Ottawa. The top two wrestlers at that event qualify for Tokyo 2020. “This has been a grind and I have had no down time since the surgery, because it has been a slow progression of getting back to where I needed to be,” she said. “I will take two weeks off the mat and relax a little bit, get my body healed and take the whole thing in. It will be a grind until March, and then a grind until August. It’s not

continued from previous page

Rob Weatherby is a retired pastor and wishes everyone a “Mary” Christmas.

continued from Page 17

Jessie MacDonald. BERNIE PUCHALSKI PHOTO

going to stop.” Not stopping is what makes MacDonald a champion. “Jessie got it done on the third time for her,” Brock head coach Marty Calder said. “She has always been knocking on the door but she’s a workhorse and she’s passionate about what she does. I am really happy for her.”

Hunter is our Lazyboy!