Pelham council considering proxy voting
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Fonthill’s Max Blanchard, left, and Alex Blanchard during their time at Ridley College. work pay off and see each other across the blueline from each other in a major junior game is pretty fun,” Alex said. “It’s a cool feeling to be able to share that with my brother.” The Phoenix had been looking to add to their blueline and questioned Max about Alex’s willingness to make the move to Sherbooke. “I had known that Alex was re-
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BY BILL POTRECZ bpsportsniagara.com Max and Alex Blanchard are reunited and it feels good. The brothers, who have played together in the past, are back together patrolling the blueline for the Sherbrooke Phoenix of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. Max started the season with the Phoenix and was joined by his younger brother just after Christmas. “It’s truly a dream come true,” said Alex, who began the year with the Rockland Nationals of the Canadian Central Hockey League. “Since we were little, it’s something we set out sights on and for it to actually happen, it’s very, very special. We couldn’t be happier as a family.” Max, who played last season for the Ottawa Jr. Senators of the CCHL, was thrilled to have his brother join the Phoenix. “Obviously, there are a lot of positives to it,” Max said. “Whether it’s training or hanging out, we’re best friends and to be able to say you play hockey with your best friend and be their defensive parter is something special. We have a lot of chemistry together on the ice because of how much time we spend together off the ice. It’s something very special and it’s fun. I couldn’t be more thrilled.” Max, 19, and Alex, 18, have played together in the past — most recently at Ridley College — but to do it at the major junior level is even more special. “Alex and I have been training partners for pretty much our whole lives. Even at Ridley we were training together and to see all the hard
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ne morning my Aunt Gladys was speaking to her son, my cousin Jim, about his plans after high school. It was wasn’t going the way she had hoped. “But Mother, I don’t want to go on to university.” “Jim, you need some kind of a career. Are you interested in anything in particular? Science? Medicine? Education?” “No, none of those. I want a career where I will not be inside all the time. I want adventure. That’s why I like being in the Boy Scout troop so much.” “What would be your first choice of a career?” “The RCMP, if they will have me when I am old enough,” Jim answered. “That will be an adventure nearly every day.” My aunt pondered this decision as she continued with her housework. This boy, her adopted son, was her pride and joy. He came to her as a new baby. Her Irish friend, a nurse in Montreal, gave birth to the boy but had no relatives in Canada. She asked Gladys if she and the baby could come there until she found out See COLUMN SIX Page 12
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The Voice
by Dave Burket
There’s no room at the inn: Let’s quash a rumour that’s been going around, namely that Hipwell’s Motel is housing overflow prisoners from the Niagara Detention Centre, in Thorold. Not the case, says Hipwell’s, which has closed some rooms for renovations. Give us break, says the Detention Centre, more or less, who adds that they have 260 spaces with plenty of room left. With any luck, maybe some of those spots will be taken by anti-maskers following their latest planned extended middle finger to COVID safety protocols (story, p.10)...Advice making the rounds: Occasionally something useful pops up in social media, like this tidbit of advice. Start putting your car keys on your bedside table when you go to sleep. Should you suspect that an intruder has broken in or is trying to, hit the car alarm button on your remote—you know, that red button that you sometimes press instead of the one for the trunk. The signal should be strong enough to activate the alarm even if your car is out on the street. It would take an exceptionally dumb burglar to stick around while a car alarm is blaring, even in a garage...Time to freshen up: Do you have a Pelham Cares bin or barrel at your business or other location? Coordinator Jennifer Dubé would like it back for a freshening. Contact her at (905) 892-5300 or info@pelhamcares.org to arrange pick up, and she promises to have it back to you the same week...Blooms for your baby: Valentine’s Day is next Sunday, and The Voice’s official florist of record, Gilbert’s, would be very pleased to help assist with your romantic expressions (ad, p.4). Easy online ordering!...Stay-at-home continues: Monday afternoon the province announced the continuation of its stay-at-home orders for most of Ontario through at least next Tuesday, Feb. 16, and until Feb. 22 in Toronto. The better news is that the numbers are trending in the right direction, so let’s hang in there. As of Monday, there were 22 active cases in Pelham, and 28 new cases across Niagara, for a total of 645 active. While Niagara’s infection doubling time has increased to 142 days, our positivity rate and hospital admissions are both still in the red zone...We were late to Schitt’s Creek, too: We’ve recently taken up the CBC sitcom Kim’s Convenience, set in Toronto, and enjoying it a lot. I’m not sure why we avoided it before—probably because the ads gave the impression of a dumbed-down farce, dominated by a blowhard father—but the characters will definitely grow on you, even the ahpah. Neflix, four seasons!...Very beany: The Fonthill Lions are doing a Chili Dinner on the last Saturday of February. $8 per dinner, or $30 for four. See their Classified on p.15...A contributed yuk to close: "Darling," said his wife, "if I died before you, do you think you would remarry?" "Maybe," he replied. "And would you do all the little things we did together?" "Maybe." "Would you give her my special golf clubs?" "Oh no, she's right-handed." ◆
Blue Ribbon protest took place Feb. 1
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BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent “Police officers are supplied with bulletproof vests, and no one questions that… so why do front-line nurses and health-care staff not receive the PPE [personal protective equipment] they require to keep them safe during the pandemic?” This is one of many questions asked by Julianne “Jules” Morosin, a nurse in an intensive care unit at a Niagara-based hospital, and one of the local grass-roots organizers of the Ontario Nurses’ Association (ONA) Blue Ribbon Movement, which took place February 1. Nurses in Niagara and across the province petitioned the government to provide isolation pay related to workplace COVID-19 exposure, along with equitable access to PPE, through a social media day of action. The Blue Ribbon Movement was a request for visible public support by tying blue ribbons to car antennas, and posting Facebook and Instagram messages using tags like #protectyournurses and #yourhealthcareworkers. They also asked supporters to include the tag @FordNation to get the premier’s attention. Morosin pointed out that nurses, as designated es-
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sential service providers, are forbidden by law from taking strike action, or work-to-rule measures. She said that the nurses were appreciative of support from Niagara MPPs Jeff Burch, Wayne Gates, and Jenny Stevens during the event. “We go to work every day, and are resilient despite the stress we face, but we need the resources to do our jobs safely,” Morosin said. Currently, when nurses are exposed to a person with COVID-19, they must isolate for 14 days without pay. Morosin said that nurses don't need the additional angst that comes from not receiving a pay cheque while isolating. The nurses-government relationship is clearly strained. In mid-January, the ONA filed a Charter of Rights challenge with the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, asserting that the government’s Bill 124 breached nurses’ collective
bargaining rights to freely negotiate a collective agreement. The 2019 Bill, entitled the Protecting a Sustainable Public Sector for Future Generations Act, is meant to ensure that increases in public sector compensation reflect the fiscal situation of the province, and are consistent with the principles of “responsible fiscal management.” Since 1973, the Ontario Nurses' Association has served as the union representing registered nurses and healthcare professionals, with a membership today of 68,000. Angela Preocanin, a regional vice president of the ONA, told The Voice that last Monday, during the Blue Ribbon campaign, 3170 “engagements” were registered on ONA social media, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, which included 600 shares on Facebook. Morosin said that there was a great deal of mo-
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mentum achieved during the event, and viewed it as, “an opportunity to empower nurses and stand united. It was a real morale-booster.” It comes down to a basic trickle-down effect, said Morosin. “You protect us, so we can protect our patients.”
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If you witness violations of Provincial or Regional COVID-19 safety protocols during weekdays, notify Pelham Bylaw Enforcement, at (905) 892-2607 x203. At night and on weekends, call the Region Dispatch line, at (905) 984-3690.
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A February 10, 2021
TOWN COUNCIL NEWS
Stop the Spread Pelham Town Council and senior staff meet electronically on Feb. 1.
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Proxy voting, Library merger talks BY JOHN CHICK Voice Correspondent Pelham’s bloc of close political allies — councillors Lisa Haun, Bob Hildebrandt, Ron Kore and Marianne Stewart — again wielded their collective power Feb. 1 by keeping the controversial idea of council proxy voting alive. With a familiar 4-3 vote, the quartet deferred consideration of a requested staff report on the matter until what Hildebrandt forecasted as the second quarter of 2021, “pending receipt of further additional information such as other Regional municipalities’ position on proxy voting.” The matter first came before council in November, after changes to Ontario’s Municipal Act in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic added a provision for proxy voting, essentially giving council members across the province the ability to vote in absentia without attending meetings— whether in-person or electronically. According to the Town of Pelham staff report that council ordered in November, none of Ontario’s 443 other municipalities have since adopted the idea. The report also recommended against it. “It is staff’s opinion that proxy attendance should not be approved or be limited to only extraordinary circumstances, if at all,” the report stated. (After the report was completed, Pelham CAO David Cribbs told The Voice that staff learned last week that Peel Region, alone among Ontario’s 444 municipalities, has passed proxy voting.) Hildebrandt wasn’t sold, implying he had been in contact with MPP Sam Oosterhoff about the matter. “I don’t want to rush into an important decision,” he said. “It’s very complex. I think we need more time before we make a final decision.” Stewart, who seconded Hildebrandt's motion to defer, agreed. “I believe that proxy voting does have a place. It’s not meant to supersede your attendance at meetings,” she said. “I think it should only be able to be used in extenuating circumstances,” Stewart added, citing Hildebrandt missing a meeting once due to a death in his family. Mayor Marvin Junkin debunked the theory, pointing out the existing rules of quorum address councillor absences. “That’s why we have quorum based on four [councillors],” the Mayor said. Ward 1 Councillor Wayne Olson and Ward 2 Councillor John Wink also shared their disagreement, both calling it an affront to democracy. “This is very well-written report, very complete, and I will be voting against anything anyway, that has anything to do with proxies,” Olson said. “Because I was elected to be here. I don’t feel this is a very democratic way of doing business.” Wink said there was no need to defer based on the report presented. “I think we’ve got enough information here to make a decision,” he said. Councillor Lisa Haun supported the successful motion, but said, “there needs to be some very strict parameters to the usage of this.” Notably silent was Councillor Ron Kore, who took two lengthy leaves of absence from council in 2020, following his COVID-positive test result and the death of
Councillor Mike Ciolfi. (See councillors' comments on proxy voting, p. 16.) Haun, Hildebrandt, Kore, and Stewart—along with Wink— also refuted staff expertise on another issue, voting to defer the municipal assumption of Fonthill’s Lookout Subdivision on an apparent technicality. Hildebrandt said that drawings in a staff report were not “as-built,” and insisted they be included. Assumption of subdivisions is a standard procedure upon developer completion. “Based on inspections, we’re satisfied and ready to assume this subdivision,” Public Works Director Jason Marr said. He added that a report will come back Feb. 16 with all drawings included.
COVID-19 can be deadly. Stay home. Stay strong. Save lives.
Help for ratepayers affected by pandemic
Council unanimously approved a special COVID-19 payment plan for 2021 property taxes. The plan will allow residents who have experienced severe financial hardship due to the pandemic pay their outstanding 2020 and 2021 property taxes penaltyand interest-free over a 10- month period starting in March. Stipulations include that a property owner must have experienced financial hardship directly related to the pandemic in the form of temporary or permanent loss of employment, or a decrease in income greater than 70 percent. The property in question must also be taxable residential-only property, and the primary residence of the owner. Elsewhere on the COVID-19 front, CAO David Cribbs suggested Pelham follow neighbouring municipalities in paying tribute to those who have died during the pandemic. Pointing out that there is no consensus among the municipalities as to the form of tribute, Cribbs recommended the Town lower flags to half-staff on the days of March 12, 13, and 14 to mark one year since the world changed. “I think everyone remembers what they were doing [then],” the CAO said. He added that any larger-scale memorial site would be undertaken by the Niagara Region, possibly at Regional headquarters in Thorold. Council unanimously passed the flag idea. During his COVID-19 update, Fire Chief Bob Lymburner told council that while the national vaccination plan remains unwieldy, he was still expecting more doses, with the priority still vaccinating Pelham’s seniors.
Library exploring merger with Lincoln
Cribbs also applauded the Library Board’s announcement to enter into an exploration of sharing services with the Town of Lincoln, with eyes on a possible library merger. “If people didn’t understand the importance of the public library system before COVID, the dramatic increasing use of online cultural resources and educational resources offered by the library system have really come to the fore in the community recently,” Cribbs said. In its statement, the Pelham Library Board said that, “in the spirit of creating See COUNCIL Page 15
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The Voice
A February 10, 2021
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
As We See It Call it what it is: A backroom power grab
O
n Feb. 1, Pelham Town Council received a report from staff, which council had asked for, on the topic of proxy voting, i.e., the ability for a councillor not to show up at a meeting, but vote on motions anyway. As staff reports go, it was about as strongly phrased as they come. It didn’t take much to read between the lines: “Councillors, this is an imbecilic idea.” Council did not make a decision on Feb. 1, but deferred the issue to an unspecified date (sometime in the second quarter of 2021) so that Councillor Hildebrandt could take an opportunity to ask the riding’s Member of Provincial Parliament what he thinks. Really? Here’s a hint: MPP Oosterhoff likes proxy voting. Mr. Oosterhoff can’t say otherwise, as he is obligated to support his own government’s initiatives. It doesn’t matter if it’s a good idea or a bad idea—it is now law in the Ford government, a law which MPP Oosterhoff voted to enact. Pelham’s staff report clearly makes a case not to pursue proxy voting. The basic premise of representative democracy is that a
representative needs to be present to hear arguments for and against a proposition to be able to vote on it. When you send one of your council colleagues to vote
It didn't take much to read between the lines: "Councillors, this is an imbecilic idea"
on your behalf—i.e, as your proxy—you aren’t present to hear this debate. You aren’t present to hear new information that may have come to light. You are failing to represent your constituents because you aren’t doing what you were voted into office to do. Why would society encourage elected officials to make up their minds on an issue before a meeting and before hearing public delegations on an issue? Doesn’t this just make a mockery of the process? It is the defini-
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www.thevoiceofpelham.ca EDITOR & PUBLISHER Dave Burket publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca ADMINISTRATION Lori Gretsinger office@thevoiceofpelham.ca CONTRIBUTORS Jane Bedard, Carolyn Botari, Colin Brezicki, Rosemary Chambers, John Chick, Larry Coté, Brian Green, Miriam Han, Megan Metler, Bill Potrecz, Bernie Puchalski, Don Rickers, John Swart, Helen Tran, Mike Tucker, Rob Weatherby. Proof Sleuth: Julian Fitch NEWS INQUIRIES & TIPS editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca LETTERS TO THE EDITOR letters@thevoiceofpelham.ca ADVERTISING INQUIRIES advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca
tion of machine politics. As with every other municipality, Pelham has rules about how it operates meetings. It doesn’t require the entire council to be present, but rather a “quorum,” a minimum number of councillors. For Pelham, quorum is any four members of council. For most of last year, Pelham Town Council operated as a body of only five or six members—rather than the full seven—because of the death of Councillor Mike Ciolfi and due to the two leaves of absence taken by Councillor Ron Kore. Council continued to function, albeit making some spectacularly bad decisions along the way. Proxy voting would make this an order of magnitude worse. The occasional councillor absence for legitimate reasons—brief illness, to attend a funeral service— isn’t something that brings governance to a screeching halt. Suggesting otherwise is a smokescreen, a limp rationalization to distract attention from what proxy advocates are really after. The real reason proxy voting is being pursued has to do with power. With
Letters Shares fond memories of the old barn Thanks to Sam Piccolo for the article, “Adieu to an Arena” [Jan. 27, p.1]. It brought back lots of memories, and it was especially interesting to hear the story told from his own perspective. We continue to be very grateful to all of those who coached our guys, or who reffed their games, or who looked after the arena and kept the ice so nice. And we remember those who have passed on whose memory will now long outlive the old arena, especially Doug Hall, Bill Campbell, Tom Coyne, and Craig Stirtzinger. We're also proud to be among the readers who recognized Sam in his goalie picture before seeing the caption or reading the article! Lee & Shelley Winger North Pelham
See AS WE SEE IT next page
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CONTACT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS Member of Federal Parliament
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Dean Allison, MP 4994 King Street Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 Dean.Allison@parl.gc.ca 877-563-7900 Member of Provincial Parliament
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Sam Oosterhoff, MPP 4961 King St. East, Unit M1 Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org 905-563-1755 Members of Niagara Regional Council Councillor Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 905-658-2987 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
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Page 5
A February 10, 2021
OPINION Pelham Council's slippery slope toward absenteeism In the political television drama The West Wing, Jed Bartlet says that, "Decisions are made by those who show up." These words couldn't be any truer when we consider the issue of proxy voting. When councillors are sworn in to office and conduct their orientation, they are given the Municipal Act, not a stamp book. Council is a legislative body that represents the interest of the people that elected them— who are you representing if you simply pass your vote to someone else? The answer is no one. Council is a job that requires your presence, you are not just there to vote, but to also represent (i.e., committees, discussion etc.). I do not get to pick and choose which duties I do and do not want to do
AS WE SEE IT
continued from previous page proxy voting in their toolbox to serve their agenda, the group of four that voted to keep this scheme alive instead of killing it—Kore, Hildebrandt, Stewart, and Haun—can ensure their complete control over all council decisions. If one of them will be absent for a meeting—or, say, effectively takes a third leave of absence from many, many meetings — they can give their vote to a comrade-inharms, and in this way they can decide every issue for the next two years.
at my job. If we did this at our jobs, we would be terminated, and we certainly
I don't get to pick and choose which duties I do and do not want to do at my job
would not be paid. Furthermore, “Councillor” is a honorary title given to those elected with the requirement of doing the job, not simply wanting the job. What is the point of being a councillor if you are going
If proxy voting comes to Pelham, then the group of four will have total control until the voters get a chance to render votes of their own in October 2022. Think of the damage that could be done in the meantime. Look at the effect these four have already had on relations with the Mayor, with Town staff, and the degree to which Pelham’s good name has become a byword for amateurism in municipal governance. Two years is a long time to let petty rancor rule the roost. Make your feelings known. On page 4 you will find contact information for each councillor. Let them
to have someone else vote/ do that job for you? Furthermore, proxy voting is a slippery slope which encourages absenteeism. Finally, there are many mechanical procedures that proxy voting would upend. One that comes to mind is quorum (the minimum required members that need to be present to conduct a council meeting). How would that be affected if we are actively promoting absenteeism through proxy voting? Quorum is a lot like being a boxer—you have to make the weight. In conclusion, I urge Pelham Town Council not to support the inattentive concept of proxy voting. Steven Soos Former Pelham Town Council candidate Fonthill
know what you think of their attempt to subvert this basic element of democracy. The residents of Pelham deserve better. ◆
PELHAM AND COVID-19 Mayor Marvin Junkin
With worst likely still ahead, we need to stay strong
W
ith yet a further reduction in vaccine doses to be delivered to Canada over the next two months, and with our federal government trying to obtain supplies from an agency set up to help “developing countries,” I think it is safe to say—albeit in so doing one is contributing to the noise, as Mr. Trudeau calls it—that our country’s strategies for obtaining vaccine doses on the world market are, at best, faltering. To be honest, this was always going to be a tough row to hoe, having to depend on manufacturing companies located in foreign countries to export from those same countries doses that they desperately need for their citizens, to Canada. Europe, where a large percentage of the Pfizer vaccine is made, has a death toll approaching 800,000, with some individual countries
seeing fatality numbers of over 1000 a day. The E.U. has now set in place a means to oversee exports, and will make sure their needs come first. We can’t really blame them for that kind of thinking. The U.S., where Moderna currently has most of their present-day production, is seeing fatality numbers surpassing 3000 a day, and that country has already stated that American needs come first. Canada now ranks 33rd on the list of vaccinating countries on a per-capita bases. I believe it is going to get worse before it gets better. In the Niagara Region, total number of doses administered is at 5374, with 568 people receiving shots last Friday. Almost 22 percent of residents living in long-term care homes have received their second shot. We also saw nearly a doubling in our new cases, going from 34 on
Thursday to 61 on Friday. Pelham’s active cases continue to fall, now being at 27, with all of these residents self-isolating at home. One side effect of these lock-downs is the deteriorating state of our collective mental health. A health unit in Eastern Ontario has registered a 100 percent increase in infant abuse over the last year. This number would include head trauma, brain injury, and broken limbs. We all must do our part in reaching out to friends and family members, offering support and friendship wherever we can. The number of new COVID-19 cases is trending down, for the most part, both provincially and nationally, so I am hopeful that if we do it slowly and carefully, we can ease some of these restrictions. Bundle up, get outside for some exercise and phone a friend. Until next time…
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The Voice
A February 10, 2021
PEOPLE AND POLITICS
Letters continued
by David Siegel
The problem with proxies
T
he pandemic has prompted many changes in the way we operate, and this has extended to the operation of local governments. Municipal councils have always had strict rules about meeting and making decisions in public. There are a few exceptions, but generally municipal decisions cannot be made in backrooms— they must be made in the council chamber with council members present, debating, and voting in clear public view. When the pandemic arrived, this had to be reconsidered because it was unsafe for councillors, staff, media, and members of the public to come together in close quarters in a council chamber. The provincial government, which regulates such things, recognized that a change in the law was needed, and allowed meetings to be held electronically. In some ways, this was a huge change, in other ways, not so much. Instead of physically attending at city hall, councillors could now “attend” council meetings virtually, while the public was free to watch through the wonders of modern technology—the dawn of the Zoom Era. Public health concerns were served, but meetings and decision-making were still open to public view. This was a bit clunky at first as people forgot to un-mute themselves before they spoke, but over time elected officials and staff became accustomed to the new way of doing business and most agreed that, while it was second-best, it did work, and business got done. In some ways, virtual meetings are good for public participation because it allows members of the public to watch the meeting and even participate, with appropriate prior arrangement, from home. Unfortunately, it is problematic for areas without good wireless coverage, or
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Check all school names for racism
for people who do not have the necessary hardware. Thank you, Queen’s Park for being responsive to a needed change. However, another change was made at the same time, and it is less clear why this was needed. Municipalities were permitted to establish a procedure for proxy voting by councillors at a council meeting. Proxy voting means that a councillor does not need to be present at a council meeting to vote. Instead, a councillor can ask another councillor, called a proxy-holder, to vote on her or his behalf. Proxy voting is generally not used on corporate boards or similar decision-making bodies. Neither the federal parliament nor the Ontario legislature allows it. The reason is that great value is attached to the idea of several learned and committed members sitting down together (even virtually), sharing their views, hashing out some differences, and then voting after everyone has been privy to this enlightening discussion. Personally, I have had the experience of walking into a meeting with a clear idea of how I planned to vote. I have then listened to the views of my peers, was introduced to a new way of looking at an issue, and realized that my predisposition was incorrect and I needed to vote in a different way. That is precisely the reason why boards value the interaction of peers. I mentioned earlier that great importance is attached to holding council meetings in public. Proxy voting would mean that councillors could vote on an issue without stating their reasons or otherwise accounting for their views in public. The proxy rule states that a councillor attending the meeting can be a proxy-holder for only one other coun-
cillor. This would mean that only half of the councillors “voting” at the meeting would actually have to be present at the meeting. In practice, quorum requirements would adjust that slightly. However, one could imagine a scenario where four members of a seven-member council are in attendance, three of whom hold proxies for other councillors. Strong arguments are made against a proposal and the vote of those in attendance at the meeting is 3-1 against, reflecting the discussion seen by the public. However, after proxy votes are counted the proposal could be approved, 4-3, leaving the public to wonder: what just happened here? This vote might be the wisest course of action, but it runs counter to the idea that the public should be able to see the municipal decision-making process in action. Finally, I simply do not see the need for proxy voting. As I said earlier, allowing electronic participation in meetings has really become essential for health and safety reasons during the pandemic. It is a system that is no one’s first choice, but most people agree that it works. However, proxy voting is not a logical extension of electronic meetings. Unfortunately, people will sometimes have to miss a council meeting through no fault of their own, but they would still like to weigh in on an important issue. Yet people who are not fully-informed about an issue should not be able to vote on that issue, and a councillor who has not heard the views of her or his colleagues is not fully informed. Again, kudos to Queen’s Park for allowing electronic meetings, but proxy voting is a bit of a head-scratcher. ◆ David Siegel is Emeritus Professor of Political Science, Brock University
Every day since George Floyd was killed in the summer of 2020 it seems there is another monument or statue pulled down, another building or school renamed. There is a reckoning happening now for the problematic figures of the past, figures who are rooted in the history of slavery and the monuments and places built or named to honour them. No matter how hard you try to spin the name, Wellington Heights Public School will be forever associated with the Duke of Wellington. DSBN students, staff, administration (teachers, principals, superintendent and DSBN Chair, who was also Pelham’s trustee) all linked the Duke of Wellington to the school name Wellington Heights. The principals and superintendent at the time have moved on. Our trustee/ Chair at the time was resoundingly voted out of office. The students who chose this name are now finishing Grade 12 and will be moving on with their lives. However, the community of Fenwick is left with a name on the wall of our public school that commemorates a man of abhorrent character. Letters to the Voice editor in December 2020 alluded to the Duke of Wellington being pro-slavery. Since this is Black History month let me expand on that. On November 26, 2020, the government of Wales placed two monuments, 32 street names and 14 buildings/places commemorating the Duke of Wellington on an audit of commemorations of people who opposed abolition of the slave trade or slavery. The authors of this audit were waiting on the publication of a book by the historian Michael Taylor for more information regarding Wellington’s stance on slavery. Michael Taylor’s book, entitled, The Interest, How the British Establishment Resisted the Abolition of Slavery, has
The students who chose this name are now finishing Grade 12 and will be moving on with their lives
See RACISM Page 8
In partnership with Art Your Service, the Town of Pelham is helping to provide both active and social virtual programs from the comfort of your own home. From chair yoga and beginners painting to social y five days a week, helping to keep you active and social virtually! y, events, activities occur twice daily, Unable to attend during program times? Recordings of each program will be sent by email for you to follow along on your own time. Registration is required. For more information or to register,rr, please contact Brittany MacLean at 905-892-2607 x372.
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The Voice
Page 7
A February 10, 2021
k Y n ou! a T From 3
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SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR LOCAL BUSINESS PARTNERS Pete & Stella Turko
Through the kindness and support of many volunteers and local business owners, the 2020 ornament campaign raised over $7,000 in donations to support Pelham Cares and 3rd Fonthill Scouts. P.S. Watch for the 2021 ornament… it too, will be a memorable one!
Page 8
The Voice
A February 10, 2021
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Letters continued Hunt leaves Short Hills a tarnished gem In your article [Protests continue against Indigenous hunt, Feb. 3, p. 10], Southwest Ontario Zone Manager Greg Wilson states, “I have certainly seen a lot of behaviour from the harvesters that was very respectful.” First of all, Mr. Wilson hasn't been present for the 2020-2021 hunts. I have. I have been hiking after each hunt and have seen multiple blood trails, mutilations with body parts left beside trails, and numerous gut piles. I have also seen pictures of a pregnant doe's guts with twin fetuses left beside a trail, as well as her skinned nipples left nailed to a tree
for all to see. Yet this once- beautiful park is still called the “hidden gem of Niagara.” Now it is a sad and bloody remnant of what it used to be. A tarnished gem. A spokesperson for Trout Unlimited stated in the article that erosion damage in the park is due to the large amount of deer hooves. Yet large herds of deer in this park have never been documented other than by the Ministry, when they conduct its deer count from a helicopter. Are they counting each deer individually or the same ones over and over within the park's boundar-
ies? This Ministry helicopter was spotted just last week circling far outside the park's boundaries. The Ministry has protocols and rules and hunt zones and buffer zones in effect, or so they say. Mr. Wilson has stated that as long as hunters are inside the park, these protocols and zones cannot be enforced. Of course not. There were no Ministry officials inside the park during these last hunts, only hunters leaving bloody desecration and destruction behind them. I know for a fact that many homeowners abutting the park have
had these hunters on their private property. The park is being destroyed by hunters and their ATVs and trucks. Wounded deer with arrows stuck in them are wandering the trails until they die. The hunters are destroying living trees by pulling them down and making blinds. It is not a safe place to take your children or dogs for a walk. It won't be long before a deer is a rare sight indeed in Short Hills and the once “hidden gem of Niagara” will be no more. K. Masterson Thorold
Hunting is not “harvesting” The word “harvest” is associated with grow, raise, farm, ranch and other active verbs according to Roget's International Thesaurus. There is no mention of Indigenous people “harvesting” deer. Wonder why?
RACISM
continued from Page 6 now been published. Michael Taylor is an historian of colonial slavery, the British Empire and the British Isles. I ordered and obtained a copy from the UK. Michael Taylor makes it explicitly clear that the Duke of Wellington was “the most pro-slavery frontline politician of the day” (Taylor, pg. 153). “He was also the figurehead of the High Tories, the conservatives
A farmer toils for many seasons prior to bringing in and harvesting his hard-earned crops, unlike the hunters. The deer of Short Hills Park that lived successfully there up until 2013 have had no care by the Indigenous people. The deer have
whose hostility to reform —whether parliamentary, religious, or colonial — was implacable (Taylor, pg. 154). And that “slave emancipation would never happen on the watch of the High Tories" (Taylor, pg. 161). Mr. Taylor writes that while Prime Minister, “The Duke of Wellington’s private papers reveal that he was working doggedly to frustrate the abolitionists” (pg.158). In a speech, “The prime minister appeared to deny the right of parliament to pass laws for the colo-
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maintained themselves, thank you very much, with no race being able to take any credit for what they have become. The Indigenous people refer to their hunt as a harvest and the Ministry of the Environment, Con-
nies,” and, “as long as the reform of slavery was entrusted to the ministry, real progress could be delayed, perhaps indefinitely” (pg. 159). Taylor also writes that, “The Duke’s hostility to slave freedoms infected his views of other colonial policies. He noted in 1829 that no slave, whether male or female, ought to marry without the consent of the owner,” and, “a planter who was found guilty of cruelty towards an enslaved person would not forfeit own-
DAILY SPECIALS!
servation and Parks refer to it as a harvest in all their written correspondence. Wonder why it is used by these two parties. My guess is that it is a kind word and it automatically muffles the true harshness of what is and has taken place.
ership of that person; but if that enslaved person could not prove an allegation of cruelty against his owner, the ‘false’ nature of such a complaint deserved punishment.” (pg. 160). Wellington’s racist character and policies make him an appallingly offensive choice for a school name whose students, alumni and school board must be firmly committed to combatting racism in all its forms. A school name should instill pride in every student, alumni, school board and every community member regardless of their race, religion, or sexual orientation. February is Black Histo-
Following the last hunt day, I heard from persons who went into Short Hills Park to explore and what did they find? Deer guts and blood. But the
ry Month. The “Wellington” of Wellington Heights Public School was the most pro-slavery politician of his day. So what does the continued use of this name on our public school say about us today? And what would the removal of this name say about us today? I, like the others that have written letters to The Voice, asked the DSBN to institute a policy to examine all school names in its district, not just Wellington Heights, to ensure they meet the commitment to “work towards the elimination of discrimination with the purpose of enhancing public confidence in the DSBN response to claims
See HARVEST Page 14
of discrimination of any kind.” At the January 26, 2021, DSBN board meeting our letters were referred to the Policy Committee for further review. Please let your voices be heard as well. The DSBN needs to hear from the school community. Call our hardworking Trustee Nancy Beamer at (905) 892-5280, or email your thoughts to her at nancy.beamer@dsbn. org. Please include our School Superintendent Kelly Pisek kelly.pisek@dsbn.org and the Chair of the Board Sue Barnett sue.barnett@ dsbn.org in any correspondence to Nancy Beamer. Jina Ker Fenwick
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A February 10, 2021
Page 9
February 12 -15 Join us in celebrating Family Day by participating with your family in a virtual scavenger hunt to win 1 of 3 Prizes for the family! It’s a great way to learn about your community and make this stay at home time a little more fun!
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Page 10
The Voice
A February 10, 2021
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Flouting safety rules, activist calls for illegal business reopening Soviet émigré and anti-masker says COVID restrictions too onerous, unnecessary BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent While Ontario's current state of emergency and stay-at-home order were set to expire on Tuesday, it's quite likely that both will renewed. Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. David Williams, has stated that lockdown restrictions will continue until intensive care unit numbers in provincial hospitals are cut in half, and daily cases are below the 1000 mark. That doesn’t sit well with an online group called We Are All Essential, a nationwide network of almost 400 businesses founded by Vladislav Sobolev, who is also associated with the anti-lockdown group Hugs Over Masks. He has organized a national day of protest on Feb. 11, encouraging small business owners and like-minded entrepreneurs to reopen their non-essential businesses in defiance of government directives. "Together we can end the lockdowns. February 11, Canada reopens," reads a banner on the alliance’s website. Business owners risk significant fines if they follow Sobolev’s exhortation. Penalties for individuals under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act include fines as high as $100,000, and a prison term of up to a year. Businesses which break the rules could face fines as much as $10 million, although a first offence would more likely result in a penalty of a few thousand dollars (which is still an amount that many small businesses can ill-afford). Ontario Premier Doug Ford has urged businesses not to break the stay-athome order, echoing health authorities across Canada, North America, and the world, that in order to stop the spread of COVID-19 and protect the healthcare system, it is critical that all citizens and businesses comply with stay-at-home orders and bylaws. Sobolev has called the current lockdown unjustified, and points to “expert research” on the We Are All Essential website that quotes from the Great Barrington Declaration (which argues for naturally occurring “herd immunity”) to buttress his position. Most medical experts, however, consider such assertions to be little more than a collection of fringe theories not based on any meaningful science, and point out that social media makes it very easy to find something which supports one’s pre-existing views, no matter how inaccurate they may be. Indeed, the declaration was sponsored and drafted in October at the American Institute for Economic Research, a libertarian, free-market think tank in Massachusetts, part of a network of organizations underwritten by the far-right billionaire Charles Koch, who is known for promoting climate change denial and opposing business regulations. There is no evidence to support the notion that herd immunity actually exists for COVID-19, given that new research is showing that antibodies to the virus in those previously infected drop significantly after six months. New variants of the virus continue to emerge as well, calling into question whether vaccines developed to combat the original coronavirus strain will be as effective against the new mutations. In October, the American Public Health Association released a statement condemning the declaration as dangerous. “The declaration is not a strategy, it is a political statement. It ignores sound public health expertise. It preys on a frustrated populace....We have seen the failure of the herd immunity experiment
in nations such as Sweden, which has the highest mortality rate among Nordic countries. COVID-19 carries a much higher risk of severe disease and death than other infections where herd immunity was attempted before a vaccine was available. It is illogical to ignore public health and scientific evidence when so many lives are at stake.” Sobolev told blogTO that he is standing up for the restaurants, gyms, salons, small retail stores, and other businesses deemed non-essential that have been shuttered during the pandemic. “Many business owners aren't content, or in a financial position, to wait,” said Sobolev. “Over 10,000 restaurants have closed across Canada since last March.” The Voice has not independently verified this claim. He noted that financial supports from government programs haven't been enough to offset expenditures for many businesses. A veteran bartender and server, Sobolev has been an active opponent of lockdown restrictions for almost a year. He asserts that he has travelled across Canada attending protests and talking with business owners. Born in the former Soviet Union, Sobolev is distrustful of government, which he says has the capacity to economically oppress people and dismantle the small business class. We Are All Essential is closely aligned with other anti-lockdown movements, and was quick to support Adamson’s BBQ in Etobicoke, which gained media attention when it was fined for non-compliance with non-essential business closure measures. Some $300,000 was crowdfunded to cover Adamson’s legal expenses. Closer to home, on January 28 two hair salons in St. Catharines, both members of the We Are All Essential movement, were visited by Niagara Public Health bylaw officers. Chrome Artistic Barbering on Lake Street and Evolution Salon and Spa on Geneva Street were summonsed and fined for being in breach of COVID-19 rules. Chrome owner Alicia Hirter had set up cameras and film studio equipment in her shop, and had maintained that people who came in for haircuts were auditioning for a part in a future TV show or podcast. (Provincial lockdown laws, invoked on December 26, allow film and television productions to operate.) Regional officials said that bylaw officers will continue to visit the salons, and will escalated enforcement, if necessary, to ensure compliance. Hirter told The Voice that she has filed a motion to dismiss the charges, and is “repositioning” for a reopening on February 11. “The show must go on,” she said. Another St. Catharines-based business listed on the alliance website, St. Germain Services, offers mobile commercial and residential cleaning. Owner Devon St. Germain has a small team of workers, and although his car detailing and home cleaning operations have been curtailed, he has still been performing some industrial sanitizing and cleaning maintenance during the lockdown. “Small business owners are tickedoff when they are forced to close, but see that the Costcos and Walmarts are still open. I support the We Are All Essential movement,” he said. Pelham Fire Chief Bob Lymburner, who oversees bylaw enforcement in the municipality, told The Voice that, “regional law enforcement met last Friday, and will be monitoring the WeAreAllEssential.ca website. If any local businesses violate the lockdown order, charges will be issued.”
The shadow-free Fenwick Flossie, last Tuesday.
SUPPLIED
Spring beckons, says Fenwick Flossie BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent Hang up the shovels and long underwear. No need to brace for another six weeks of winter in Pelham—if the local folklore holds true. Scientifically speaking, winter will officially come to an end on the equinox of March 20, regardless of what Fenwick Flossie has predicted. Fenwick Flossie is the local woodchuck weather prognosticator. But Flossie is not the only clairvoyant critter. She has competition. Wiarton Willie is widely known in Ontario, but don’t forget about Balzac Billy (Alberta), Shubenacadie Sam (Nova Scotia), Fred la marmotte of Val-d’Espoir (Quebec), Buckeye Chuck (Ohio), Punxsutawney Phil (Pennsylvania), Stormy Marmot (Colorado), and General Beauregard Lee (Georgia). All of these rodent oracles are ceremoni-
ously paraded out on February 3 each year to peer into the future, and indicate an early spring or extended winter. According to superstition going back to medieval Europe, if a groundhog doesn’t see its shadow on Groundhog Day, spring-like weather is on the way. If the critter does get a glimpse of its shadow, keep the skis and skates handy. Bear in mind that there is no official consensus of groundhog predictions. Punxsutawney Phil emerged from his burrow last Tuesday, saw his shadow, and headed back underground. His performance was livestreamed to some 15,000 viewers, due to COVID social-distancing restrictions. But most of Canada’s weather-predicting groundhogs called for an early spring. Bill Farion has been a member of the Fabulous Fenwick Lions for 51 years, and has been donning a Fenwick Flossie costume for Ground-
hog Day, to the delight of local crowds, for some 25 years. This makes Flossie by far the largest prognosticating rodent in the bunch. “I was outside at around eight o'clock last Tuesday, and there was no shadow, so spring is on the way!” he exclaimed. He was saddened to miss the hoopla associated with the event. “Centennial Park was always packed, with busloads of kids from area schools, and local people driving up with their families,” said Farion. “The kids always enjoyed Groundhog Day. We served them cookies and hot chocolate afterwards, and had a colouring contest. Hopefully in 2022, things will be back to normal.” Inclement weather has cancelled other public performances of Fenwick Flossie over the years, but this is the first time a pandemic has curtailed the spectacle.
Pelham: Modify cannabis regulation BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent Pelham CAO David Cribbs has confirmed that a Town delegation participated in a formal Zoom teleconference in late January with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) as part of the Town’s advocacy work involving the cannabis issue. The Town’s delegation consisted of Mayor Marvin Junkin, Councillor Wayne Olson, and the CAO. Present on behalf of the Province of Ontario were Parliamentary Assistant Randy Pettapiece and MPP Sam Oosterhoff, plus other senior civil servants. The topic of discussion was the operation of the province’s Normal Farm Practice Protection Board. The Town made a number of submis-
sions regarding modifying existing regulations so as to ensure that cannabis companies cannot argue they have “normal farm practices” (since it has not previously been legal to farm the crop) that must be accommodated or permitted. The Pelham delegation asserted that the crop is qualitatively different from other agricultural commodities, with an odour profile that is aggravating to local residents. The Town argued that municipal bylaws which apply to odour should be applicable to cannabis operations, even if they generally do not apply to traditional agricultural operations. Cribbs said that a positive relationship between the Town and MPP Oosterhoff has provided connections to provincial cabinet ministers to See MODIFY Page 17
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The Voice
Page 11
A February 10, 2021
DON RICKERS
JULIE ANDREWS
Pelham and Lincoln public libraries explore merger BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent The Pelham and Lincoln public library systems are contemplating a merger of services for the two communities, aimed at providing more resources and materials at less cost. The Lincoln and Pelham public libraries are original members of the Libraries in Niagara Cooperative (LiNC), and already share an integrated library catalogue system, which removes one of the most costly and complicated steps for sharing collections and a potential hurdle for merger.
One of the major benefits of combining the administration of two small public libraries is the opportunity to increase buying power and decrease duplication of services, including staff. For example, one CEO would be responsible for both library systems. The first step in sharing services is establishing an agreement between the municipalities that outlines board composition and financial commitments. Community feedback will be actively sought, according to a joint statement released in late January. Julie Andrews is CEO of the Lincoln Public Library, which has
two branches: one in Beamsville (Fleming), and the other in Vineland (Rittenhouse). Lincoln’s 2020 library budget was $1,147,000, with 21 staff. “We are excited at the prospect of working together with Pelham,” she told The Voice. Amy Guilmette, acting CEO of the two Pelham branches (one in Fonthill, the other in Fenwick, called Maple Acre) told The Voice that her libraries had an operating budget of $1,009,268 in 2020, with 11 staff positions. In accordance with the Public Libraries Act of 1990, the merger would constitute a “union public
library,” formed when two or more municipal councils make an agreement to combine their individual public libraries into one organization. Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton applauded the move, commenting that “both communities are like-minded in the area of seeking opportunities through partnership.” Pelham Mayor Marvin Junkin said that he was encouraged by the neighbouring library boards, “showing a willingness to explore the possibilities of joining forces.” He recalled a January 2020 open meeting, which he was invited to
attend, in which he had conveyed to the Pelham library board, and the public in attendance, Town Council’s wish for such an initiative to take place, citing the potential for improving service and reducing costs. He took some serious jeering at the suggestion. “I personally want to thank the two boards for having the courage to walk down this road, and coincidentally have heard from other Niagara mayors contemplating such a merger for their own library boards,” said Junkin. As to a time-frame, Junkin hopes that an announcement will follow by late spring or early summer.
“Birds on the Niagara” takes virtual flight BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent Many people are aware of the plethora of fish species which inhabit the Niagara River, but what is less commonly known is that the Niagara River Corridor supports a wide variety of bird populations, especially in the winter months. “It's kind of a staging, overwintering site for many ducks and gulls because the water is open, and there's food,” said Marcie Jacklin, a local ornithology expert and co-chair of BON21, the third annual international winter celebration of the birds that call the Niagara Corridor home. Events and guest speakers are featured February 12, 13, and 14. No registration is required, and all programs are free to the public. Participants will have opportunities to engage speakers online, and participate in contests. The festival is organized by an international partnership of bird-centred organizations and specialists, dedicated to promoting the conservation and enjoyment of the Niagara River. Full details are available online at www. birdsontheniagara.org. Jacklin said that the Niagara River Corridor is a tourist attraction and magnet for serious birdwatchers, because it's unusual to have so many species in one place. “You can see more species of gulls and terns here during the winter than anywhere else in the world,” she said. The Corridor is, in fact, one of the world's most biodiverse places, comparable to the Galapagos Islands and the Florida Everglades, and has received an international designation for its winged multifariousness. In pre-COVID times, birders would assemble at a site in Niagara Falls for the winter festival, to visit exhibits and listen to guest lecturers. This year, the celebration is entirely online, due to the pandemic and social lockdown. Organizers suggest that the event has a Valentine’s Day theme, reflected in the fact that many of the birds are wearing their breeding plumage, thus bringing a hint of romance to the festivities. Asked for potential highlights of the weekend, Jacklin offered a few suggstions. “Social Justice and how Birds Connect Us” is the keynote theme of Dr. Drew Lanham, Distinguished Alumni Professor of Wildlife
BIRDSONTHENIAGARA.ORG
TOM KERR
Red-breasted Red-breasted
Snowy Snowy Owl Owl
Redhead Redhead
Peregrine Peregrine Falcon Falcon
Greater Greater Scaup Scaup
Little Little Gull Gull
Bald Bald Eagle Eagle
Lesser Lesser Scaup Scaup
Bonaparte’s Bonaparte’s
Tundra Tundra Swan Swan
Harlequin Harlequin Duck Duck
Ring-billed Ring-billed Gull Gull
Canada Canada Goose Goose
Long-tailed Long-tailed Duck Duck
Herring Herring Gull Gull
Mallard Mallard
White-winged White-winged
Scoter Scoter
Iceland Iceland Gull Gull
American American Black Black Duck Duck
Common Common Goldeneye Goldeneye
Glaucous Glaucous Gull Gull
Gadwall Gadwall
Bufflehead Bufflehead
Lesser Lesser Black Black -backed -backed Gull Gull
Canvasback Canvasback
Common Common Merganser Merganser
Great Great BlackBlackbacked backed Gull Gull
Ecology at Clemson University, and a National Audubon board member. His focus is on the ecology of songbirds and the “intersections of race, place, and conservation.” “I think Dr. Lanham is going to be amazing,’ said Jacklin. “I've seen videos of him speaking, and he's very poetic. And he will be talking about the African American ex-
Merganser Merganser
Gull Gull
perience in wildlife conservation, so I think that will be very interesting.” Dr. Timothy Beatley is a professor in the Department of Urban and Environmental Planning in the School of Architecture at the University of Virginia, where he has taught for the last 25 years. Much of Beatley’s work focuses on the subject of sustainable com-
munities, and creative strategies by which cities and towns can fundamentally reduce their ecological footprints. Beatley’s discussion of “sustainable and resilient cities” addresses environmental challenges. Paloma Plant is the project coordinator and a co-founder of the Fatal Light Awareness Program (FLAP) in Canada, a migratory bird rescue and advocacy group. She is responsible for public outreach and education programs, as well as coordinating volunteers and activities for the building collision monitoring programs that FLAP has pioneered since its inception in 1993. FLAP asserts that each year millions of birds die in collisions with buildings, and Plant’s presentation will highlight FLAP’s mission to inform and educate people about keeping birds safe from daytime and nighttime collisions with hard structures. Justin Peter is the Director of Programs at Worldwide Quest Nature Tours in Toronto. He previously worked as senior naturalist at Algonquin Provincial Park, and is a life member of the Ontario Field Ornithologists. Peter’s presentation has a focus on the gulls of the Niagara River Corridor, and provide tips birders about getting started in gull watching. Ottawa-based Tony Beck and Nina Stavlund of Always an Adventure provide wildlife and photography services as they lead guided tours and conduct educational programs, photography workshops, birding excursions, and presentations. Their lecture will explore bird specialities of Niagara, and techniques to capture them photographically. “Tony and his wife Nina are amazing, world class photographers, and Nikon ambassadors. Their talk about photography is timely, because it’s the fastest-growing component of bird appreciation,” said Jacklin. Bird populations in the region are seeing their breeding grounds reduced, due primarily to human disturbance, said Jacklin. Climate change is also having an impact, as mild winters mean that the birds are not arriving as early to the Niagara River Corridor. “I think that really speaks volumes to why we started this festival,” said Jacklin. “It's because of our concern about conservation along the river, and keeping what we've got healthy.”
Page 12
The Voice
COLUMN SIX
continued from Page 1 what to do about finding an adoptive family. After a few months Gladys decided that she loved this child and would keep him. Jim Currie grew up in unusual circumstances in a very large household in Niagara-on-the Lake. Aunt Gladys, her five sisters, and her aging mother lived together, as they owned and operating a residential school for Children who Deviated from Normal, as it was called then. Jim’s early playmates at home were these “children” in mind but older in body. That experience would stand him in good stead in his career. He made more friends at school and soon he joined the Boy Scout troop that he grew to love. After high school he was accepted into the RCMP, who trained their recruits in Regina in troops of 32. How different this life was now! Jim looked into the huge room where he would be spending the next six months and thought of his big bedroom at home with one bed. Now here he was sharing a huge room with 32 unknown guys. In his first letter home, he mentioned those who snored, who swore, who started small conflicts
but were silenced by others. “We are now to work as a unit and not as individuals,” he wrote, “and it’s pretty hard for some of them to accept.” Jim was a husky young man of 18, weighing over 200 pounds, so some of the physical training was difficult for him to keep up. He would go into the gym after training hours and practice most evenings. His Uncle Will would often find him there when he came to visit Jim. Will was the superintendent of the western division of the Canadian Pacific Railway, and he and his family had lived in Regina for many years. In his few spare moments, Jim wrote home. “This place is all geared on organization and being able to handle criticism and being yelled at. It’s a mind game, so in Physical you turn your mind off, and in Academic you turn off your body. We wake at five, shower, then make our bed which takes at least 15-20 minutes. It has to be perfect —no wrinkles — flat ironed sheets.” In another letter: “We have to run everywhere — we have half our uniform (dark brown fatigues, uniform shirt) but in two weeks we will get our blue dress uniform. Then we will not have to run ev-
A February 10, 2021
Jim Currie, newly minted mountie. CURRIE FAMILY erywhere. The subjects we take are law, effective speaking, human relations, crime prevention, firearms, driver training and handling prisoners. There are other troops training at different stages, too.” After graduation day, Jim headed for his duties in Cochrane, Alberta. He had good adventures there, meeting new people and feeling proud of his work and dedication. The experienced officers took the new recruits under their wing for the first few weeks. As he was near the Rockies in the Co-
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chrane area, some of his work was in the mountains — bootleggers up a trail — many rescues of skiers, rescues from plane accidents, rescuing after avalanches, etc. This was all new territory to Jim and he loved it. One harrowing experience was the rescue of a man from a downed plane high up on a mountain. The call came in and the Mounties had to go immediately. There was no time to return to base to exchange their ordinary clothes for warmer clothing and boots. Jim’s letter is full of compassion for the downed man, and also the trials he and the other officers experienced in their rescue journey to find him. Five handwritten pages to his mother told the story. “You’ll never believe it but I am writing this letter from a bed in the military hospital. The newspaper clipping I’ve enclosed will explain pretty well why I am here. I will be fine but had to recuperate from frostbite of my ear. Swollen feet keep me from walking, and my windpipe is healing from inhaling so much cold air. We got the call about a downed plane and had to climb several mountains through several blizzards to reach the guy. We had to cut the whole top of the plane off to get
him out. Both his hands and feet were frozen solid but he was still conscious after sitting in the plane for 33 hours. We got him down the mountain on a toboggan where an ambulance took him to hospital in Calgary.”
A
fter several years, Jim wrote in one of his regular letters to his mother, “I am appointed to be in charge of all security at the Canadian Pavilion for Expo '70 in Osaka, Japan. It is a great appointment and I am excited to do it. Security means that I am to be there before the first shovel goes into the ground for the Pavilion, which is to be a hollow pyramid of mirrors with the interior of a pond, flowers and floating stage — truly one-of-a-kind.” It turned out to be the most visited of all the countries’ pavilions. He went on, “My duties include greeting all the dignitaries, officials and royalty who attend. Security is intense but I will have good guys for support.” Gladys was again so proud of her son’s accomplishments. In September 1969, Jim arrived in Osaka to a whole new adventure in language, customs, living arrangements, the fast train at 125 mph from Tokyo to Osaka, huge
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Jim and Ola on their wedding day, with their respective mothers. masses of people, but also friendly people who wanted to practice their English when they saw a foreigner. In October he moved into his apartment. By mid-November the security coverage started and by then several RCMP officers had arrived. By now Jim was a sergeant. By opening day on March 15, all was ready. The Canadian pavilion was host to the Japanese Emperor— the only pavilion he visited. Security was intense, the RCMP being joined by some Ontario and Quebec Provincial Police. What could have been a problem with carrying firearms—not permitted in Japan—was solved by sending the RCMP’s weapons to Osaka, where they were rendered useless but still worn. The continuous entertainment in the Canadian pavilion was exceptional. The floating stage
Page 13
A February 10, 2021
CURRIE FAMILY
showcased the cast of Anne of Green Gables, the Feux Follets of Montreal, the National Ballet, musicians, the RCMP Musical Ride with their 36 horses, several bands, and the Scandinavian Gymnasts from Montreal, to name a few. Jim complained about the very hot weather during the summer, when the mounties had to wear their red serge uniforms at all times. He always wanted to be presentable in uniform as he met the VIPs and often accompanied them into the exhibits. The Japanese Emperor was the first; some of the others were Prince Charles, the Prime Minister of Japan, the President of Czechoslovakia, many Provincial premiers of Canada, and the heads of state of many countries. The Japanese had underestimated the numbers that would be attending and the crowds were immense. Often the staff could not
Architect Arthur Erickson designed the Canadian Pavilion for Expo ‘70. Inside, a National Film Board of Canada production, The Land, presented Canada from coast to coast, filmed largely from low-flying aircraft. TAKATO MARUI get to work on time. 9 AM lineups were huge and continued all day. In September 1970, Jim wrote, “The last month has surprised everyone with massive crowds. Two days ago, 835,000 poured into the site which completely overwhelmed all facilities. Yesterday they stopped people at 5 PM when the total reached 750,000 and they nearly had riots at each gate. Everyone is worn to a frazzle. I will be striking out for home around November 2nd.” In Jim’s rare spare time he wandered around the exhibits dressed in plain clothes. By October, many of the exhibits were being dismantled. He enjoyed seeing the German pavilion and especially had
a good look at their main display of their Mercedes car. He wrote on October 14, 1970, “I have finally completed arrangements to purchase the Mercedes 280 SEL from the German Pavilion and it will be shipped to Vancouver and should be waiting for me when I arrive. I will then drive on to Edmonton via Calgary. I have also bought a great deal of electronic and photographic equipment over here as the cost is over 40-50 percent less. After you have been out of Canada for more than a year it is tax and duty free.” So Jim came home to Canada, and looked forward to Christmas with his mother, aunts, cousins and friends.
A
few years later, Jim was promoted to sub-inspector and came to Winnipeg as an assistant staffing officer. He often had the job of security for international summit meetings that were held in Canada during the presidency of Ronald Regan. He would meet several world leaders. Another promotion was as sub-inspector of RCMP offices around the world. Wherever there is a Canadian Embassy there is an RCMP office. He travelled to many European countries, but also to South America, India and some islands. After the business part he See COLUMN SIX Page 17
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The Voice
A February 10, 2021
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OBITUARY
OBITUARY
OBITUARY
IRVING, Laureen Louisa (nee Martin)
BURTON, Dorothy A. (nee Nesbitt)
DEVENYI, Julianna (Juci)
It is with unspeakable sadness that we announce the passing of Laureen at the St. Catharines Hospital on Sunday January 31, 2021. Laureen passed away with the love of her family by her side at the age of 75 years. We held your hand and stroked your forehead and hoped that each breath wouldn’t be your last. Dear loving wife and best friend of Matthew for 56 years. He was your protector and when he asked the doctor if he could trade places with you, he showed the depth of his love for you. You leave behind your biggest fan, your daughter Pauline (Irving-Wynia) and husband Dana. For so many reasons, you were my hero and without knowing, you shaped me to be who I am. I am forever grateful. Cherished grandmother to “your boys”, Nigel (and Saraya) and Ben. Your love for them was unparalleled and we know that you will look down and protect them in their journeys. Laureen will be forever missed by her family in Scotland. She made a trip back to Scotland in November 2019 and had the trip of a lifetime. She connected with dear family members and made new friendships that left such an impression. To family members, Pauline, Brian, Ian and Elizabeth – you opened your homes and your hearts and for that we are so grateful. Mum, you were a force to be reckoned with – you were smart, well informed, fiercely loyal and generous beyond words. You have left an unimaginable void and we will miss you dearly. I would also like to thank my circle of support – you know who you are, and you have left an imprint on my heart that I will be eternally grateful for. I can say nothing more than thank you. In keeping with my mum’s spirit, a donation to a charity of YOUR choice would be lovely. She loved animals (as we all know) but there were also things that came as a surprise like donating to the Salvation Army at Christmas as she felt they were underfunded. But at the end of the day, any donation that you hold near and dear would be appreciated. In keeping with Laureen’s wishes cremation has taken place. The family will gather to celebrate her life at a later date. Online condolences may be shared at www.pelhamfuneralhome.ca
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Dorothy Burton, age 73, peacefully passed away at home on Thursday January 28th, 2021, surrounded by her family. She was born March 28th, 1947 to parents Norman & Erma (Armstrong) Nesbitt (predeceased). Dorothy is survived by her beloved husband Donald Burton, her two beautiful daughters Tammy (John) TenBroeck-McLachlan and Shelley TenBroeck, and wonderful grandchildren Parker and Kyleigh TenBroeck. She will be forever cherished by her niece Karen Ward, nephew Steven Ward and son-in-law John McLachlan. Dorothy is also survived by her sister Joan (Charlie) Stewart and family, along with many other family and friends whom she loved and touched deeply. Dorothy had a career as a hair stylist and worked at Videls Hair Salon while raising a young family and continuing her education. In 1977 she became a Registered Nurse. She was passionate about nursing and had a fulfilling career at the Hotel Dieu Shaver Hospital. She was devoted and kind-hearted to the health care needs of her patients. Amongst her many talents Dorothy loved working in her gardens and took great pleasure nurturing her flowers, the birds, and especially Monarch butterflies. Springtime was her favourite season to watch the birth of fresh blooms and the delightful new beginnings. She loved cats, the horses and whinnying of new foals, little frogs and their bizarre sounds pulse in a kind of crepuscular symphony and collecting caterpillars. Dorothy was also quite the visionary with a creative imagination. Her works of art included many sewing, knitting, crocheting, and cooking projects made with love. She spent hours crafting and cooking with her grandchildren in hopes of passing along treasured moments and skills. Dorothy was vibrant and lived life to the fullest with friends and family. She was a supportive mother, loving spouse, and dear friend. Her smile and sense of humour will always be missed. As she closes her eyes and soars into the Heavens may we hear the faint flutter of her wings forever in our hearts. Special thanks to palliative care nurses Colleen, Trina, and Jocelyn, Dorothy’s niece Karen, and her two daughters Tammy and Shelley, who provided so much love, care, and compassion in her journey. Notable thanks to Nora Bridges at LHIN for her assistance with coordinating the home health care team, Dr. Wasserman, Dr. Ysselstein, and many family friends and neighbours who were a wonderful support for the family. Cremation and a private service has taken place. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be given to the St. Catharines Walker Family Cancer Center or Alzheimer Society of Niagara Region, flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dorothy. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date in the summer or fall. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the HAINE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 26 Ormond Street South, Thorold.
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Deer hunt is treaty right
worst part of all the guts of a once- pregnant doe and “to make it worst” twins. It does not stop there. The sickening pile was adorned above with a strip of flesh supporting the nipples of the dead doe. Why? So if you were the one responsible for this disgusting find, perhaps you too would say I “harvest” deer. Something that jumped out at me from the article “Protests continue against Indigenous hunt” in last
Great article, very informative [Protests continue against Indigenous hunt, Feb. 3, p. 10]. Imagine that, white people complaining about First Nations treaties and rights. Treaties were provided because the government stole their land. The deer are harvested, many celebrations are enjoyed over a good meal, and the bonding and tradition of hunting by bow is enjoyed by First Nations. It does not get any better than that. Rod Scapillati Voice website
continued from Page 8
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It is with great sadness that the family of Julianna (Juci) Devenyi announces her passing at the age of 96 years old on January 24, 2021. Julianna and her husband Andrew (Bandi) came from Budapest, Hungary to Canada in 1957 by way of Montreal. In 1959, they came to Fenwick and made it their home ever since. Julianna will be dearly missed by her sons Robert, Gabor and his wife Darlene, by her grandchildren Dakota and her partner Ben, and Colten, and her great-grandson Mason. Julianna was predeceased by her husband Bandi in 1991. She will also be dearly missed by her many many friends and extended family throughout the Niagara Region and the world. Julianna was a large force in a small package, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched. Special thanks to the girls on the 3rd floor at Albright Manor in Beamsville, for caring for Julianna with love and compassion that was clear to us all. A private family service has already taken place.
week’s Voice was when the Haudenosaunee Wildlife and Habitat Authority said in part, “This is not just about deer hunting. We are building solid, respectful partnerships and working relationships with agencies and officials of other governments.” So why do you then need the deer to suffer instead make those partnerships in another way? Tourism is a wonderful, peaceful way to bring money in for all parties regardless of race. Short Hills Provincial Park since its existence prior to 2013 was referred to as a gem. The Ministry would proudly point out over 100,000 visitors yearly to the park, but with the black veil of negativity and myriad horrific stories circulating that number is spiralling down. Have the Indigenous people work with the MEC&P in creating educational venues for tourists, who could enjoy the beauty of the deer as well. There are so many ugly facets to the hunt in my mind and I also cannot understand the humans who have not a grain of acceptance for deer trying to live their lives naturally. Now the deer are condemned for stepping on plants. Well, pardon if they are not perfect like us humans, aye? Enough said here, but I wondered what would have happened if that pregnant deer had been a dog? How then would the public have reacted. Just wondering. Faye Suthons Wainfleet
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BUSINESSES. FONTHILL BANDSHELL PRESENTS DE TEMPS ANTAN Yard & Shed MOVING of Pelham and Central Niagara Burke’s Masonry SALE, Large collection FONTHILL Since 2003, Éric Beaudry, André Brunet Pierre-Luc Dupuis have THEand VOICE IS 100 PERCENT E. L. Crossley Keith’s Restau of Christmas and OF holiday $10 gift card time-honoured been exploring and performing melodies from the stomp- Bricklaying, tuckpointing, COMMUNITY-OWNED CELEBRATING 25 YEARS PUBLICATION decorations and household Churchill Natural Meats Target Store step repair, granite ing grounds of Quebec’s musical past. Using fiddle, accordion, harmonica, Shoppers Drug Mart Pennzoil Quick coatings, brick slices items, SAT. AUG. 30, 8AM- Fonthill Library guitar, bouzouki and a number of other instruments, our three virtuosos Lazy Loon 1PM 625 METLER RD, P18-28 905-682-7061. blend boundless energy with the unmistakable demitigation vivre found onlyHe in on light and joie odour bylaws. COUNCIL Town of Pelham Pharmasave FLOORING MASONRY REPAIR NORTH PELHAM P18-23 Cafe on Main the CCC visited CannTrust to review continued from Page 3 traditional Quebec music. Show runssaid from 7-9 p.m. Avondale Stor ALLTYPE MASONRY their approach to the odour matter, but
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that another local cannabis producer, Reefficiencies and streamlining administradecan, “hasn’t been forthcoming.” PELHAM LIBRARY CARD MAKING WORKSHOP tive functions and expenditures, this poRegional Councillor Diana Huson made tential merger would provide enhanced Make six cards with fall themes, learning a variety of techniques. Materials her regular presentation, which includdelivery of library services for our two ed Regional approval of the expansion of are provided. At time of registration, please enquire about tools needed. communities and dedicate more resources Welland’s northwest urban boundary. Exto programs and materials.” Tues., Sept. 16 10 – 12:30. $10. Please register Visit www.pelhampected futureahead. development in that area is poised to directly impact Pelham’s eastlibrary.on.ca or call 905-892-6443 for more details. More Public Works space needed ern border, including a planned upgrade of In a special presentation before the main Merritt Road to the 406 interchange. meeting, council heard from consultant Haun again asked Director of Planning FABULOUS FENWICK LIONS FISH FRY KPMG regarding the Town’s Public Works and Community Development Barb Wiens spaces — specifically yard on Tice Road Tasty treats withitsfunds heading straight back intoongoing the community. Haddock, about staff’s parking study. Wiens near Balfour. Concerns exist that the facil- said the project has been delayed on the french fries and much more. Runs Sept. 9 from 4-7 p.m. ity has outgrown itself, and that Pelham’s consultant end due to COVID, and is now expected growth means Public Works may expected in April. Wiens also confirmed not be able to maintain the required level that developer reports on the controverPELHAM MINOR HOCKEY EQUIPMENT SALE of service. Estimates forecast an additional sial Kunda Park expansion and a planned sell or trade used equipment the Pelhamsubdivision Arena. Aimed to provide 1,121 Buy, square metres of space will be needed atneighbouring across the Steve 20 years from now. cheaper options for players in this upcoming Runs 6 from Bauer Trail season. to the east won’tSept. be ready this KPMG found that the Tice yard is the month after all. At its last meeting on Jan. 9-12 among in the morning. smallest those in similar-sized 11, council passed a motion barring road municipalities, and that Pelham had the crossings on the Bauer Trail, throwing a fewest number of full-time Public Works monkey wrench into developer plans. PELHAM MUDFEST employees relative to its budget — one for Council passed a plan to make a deal with everyMen $253,000 the budget, versus oneinfor and of women will be back the amud as the tosecond run on thethe year is landowner widen Park Lane, narevery $211,000 in Niagara-on-the-Lake. row alleyway that leads from Highway 20 heldsaid at Bissil’s Olson some of Hideaway. that comparison was down to Marlene Stewart Streit Park. The misleading as unlike NOTL, Pelham is Town will assume a narrow strip of proplandlocked and therefore has road access erty from the individual to allow for the NIAGARA REGIONAL EXHIBITION on all four sides. widening, in exchange for exclusive use of KPMG laid out threeand options: expanding Rodeo, games live entertainment headline this years exciting event. It four nearby parking spots. Olson attemptthe Tice site, purchasing new land, or leas- ed to amend the plan by suggesting costs runs from Sept. 11-14 at the Welland Fairgrounds. ing space from the Region’s yard. be split 50/50 between the Town and the Wink said that relocating the yard would landowner, but no one seconded it. It then be expensive, requiring purchasing land at passed unanimously. BIG MOVE CANCER RIDE a higher price. Instead, he suggested inJunkin opened the meeting by marking The Big Move Cancer Ride is a non-competitive ride taking place on Sept. vestigating expansion. Black History Month and paying tribute to “Our best option is to see if we need to 7. Proceeds for the Big Move stay in Harriet Niagara and support the Walker FamTubman, the American slavery abexpand, to see if we can purchase land olitionist who was a key part of the Underily Cancer Centre. from one of the neighbours,” he said. ground Railroad and made her home in St. Council voted to receive the report. Catharines in the 1850s.
WALKING CLUB Odds and ends Cannabis Control Committee (CCC) chairJoin them Tuesdays at the Pelham Arena Interested in walking in Pelham? Tim Nohara provided an update to council from 9-10 am and Thursdays at Fonthill Bandshell for 9-10:30 am. There is no fee for this program. For more information, please contact jcook@ pelham.ca or call 905 892-2607, ext 329.
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The Voice
A February 10, 2021
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Bethany Christian Reformed Church www.bethanycrc.ca
First Presbyterian Church 602 Metler Rd., North Pelham
Holy Trinity Anglican Church holytrinityfonthill.org
Pelham Evangelical Friends Church www.pelhamfriends.ca
Concordia Lutheran Church 105 Welland Rd., Fonthill
Fonthill Baptist Church www.fonthillbaptistchurch.ca
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1369 Rice Rd., Fonthill
Ridgeville Bible Chapel ridgevillebiblechapel.com
Fenwick Church of Christ www.fenwickchurchofchrist.ca
Fonthill United Church www.fonthillunited.com
Kirk on the Hill Presbyterian Church 1344 Haist St., Fonthill
St. Alexander Roman Catholic Church www.stalexander.on.ca
Fenwick United Church www.fenwickunited.com
Glad Tidings Church of God www.gladtidingschurchofgod.com
Pelham Community Church (United Church) www.pelham.cc
St. Ann Roman Catholic Church www.stannfenwick.com
FAITH LIFT
continued from Page 19 “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you,” using the weaker word “philea,” meaning the love of a friend.
Friendship love
Jesus understands the turmoil in Peter’s heart. He tells him to “feed my lambs,” indicating that Peter’s ministry is not over (in fact, it’s just beginning). Jesus now asks Peter a second time, “Do you love me?” and again uses the strong word “agape” for love. Peter replies again in the affirmative and again uses the weaker word “philea.” Jesus replies, saying, “Take care of my sheep.” Jesus then asks Peter a third time the same question but this time intentionally uses “philea,” the word Peter had chosen. It’s like Jesus is saying, “Peter, do you really love me even as a friend?” The next verse says this, “Peter was hurt because
Jesus asked him the third time, ‘Do you love me.’” Peter says, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love [philea] you.” And Jesus gives a similar reply, “Feed my sheep… Follow me.” Peter now knows that he is fully forgiven and restored. Three times he had denied the Lord he claimed to love, and three times his Lord had asked him if he loved him. The rash, impetuous Peter has been humbled, his faith matured, and his zeal reshaped. He would become a key leader (along with John, James, Paul and others) of the new movement of Christ-followers. One last thought. What if Jesus appeared to you today and asked you the same question he asked Peter. Would you reply in the affirmative? And, if so, which word for love would you use? ◆ Rob Weatherby is a retired pastor who is still working on his “agape” love.
Proxy voting: Pelham councillors comment BY VOICE STAFF Last week, The Voice requested comment from each Pelham Town Councillor, and CAO David Cribbs, on their views regarding adopting proxy voting. Mayor Junkin, Councillors Stewart and Olson, and the CAO replied. Councillor Wink referred the newspaper to his comments before council on Feb. 1. Councillors Hildebrandt, Haun, and Kore did not acknowledge our request.
Mayor Marvin Junkin
I cannot see a situation where I would ever find myself voting to allow voting by proxy to be adopted by our council. I do not believe that there is a place for proxy voting in any democratic forum, much less a municipal council. I strongly believe that the residents want their elected representatives to be in council chambers debating whatever issue is on the agenda that particular meeting, and hearing whatever points are raised, either for or against, the article before council.
Councillor Marianne Stewart
I am not advocating [proxy voting] as an excuse to not attend meetings. This should only be used in extenuating circumstances, when a councillor is unable to attend, for example a death in the family or unexpected illness. In every meeting there are a number of items to be voted on, some are simply items that need acknowledgment such as receiving correspondence. Councillors don’t simply “show up” for meetings. Once the agenda is published there is a lot of reading to do, and issues to understand. If council decides to allow proxy voting, strict parameters must be put in place to govern its use. It is not to be used frivolously but only for extenuating circumstances. I was somewhat taken aback that some of our councillors immediately rejected the idea without further investigation or consideration. See COMMENTS next page
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BALANCED LIFE
continued from Page 18 diet, and regress to processed foods? There is no doubt that getting proper nutrition through diet is more difficult as we age. Aging adults may suffer decreased appetite, even forgetting to eat, as taste buds become less sensitive, and cognition problems arise. Lower physical activity levels accentuate this. As caloric intake decreases, so will nutrient availability, so we have to make sure every calorie counts. Many medications, smoking, and consuming too much alcohol inhibit the absorption of nutrients. The acidity in our stomachs changes as we age, also reducing our ability to absorb nutrients. There are the 12 essential micro and macro nutrients most discussed in research concerning nutrient deficiencies in older adults. Calcium is necessary to maintain bone strength and density, and strong teeth. Calcium deficiencies in seniors are common, and if your body is regularly deficient, it will leach the calcium it requires for other functions out of your bones. Dietary calcium is available naturally from dark leafy greens including kale and broccoli, dairy products, and many fortified foods. Current RDA for women aged 50+ and men aged 70+ is 1200 milligrams (mg). This is equal to 2–3 servings of a calcium-rich food every day in addition to a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables. Vitamin D is essential for calcium and phosphorous absorption. Recent research indicates it may also help protect from various chronic and autoimmune diseases. Your body makes Vitamin D when summer sunlight strikes your skin, although the skin’s ability to do so diminishes with age. Fatty fish (salmon, sardines, herring) is the best way to obtain Vitamin D through diet, and egg yolks and mushrooms contain it too; but dietary Vitamin D most commonly comes from fortified foods like milk, yogurt, and orange juice. RDA for adults younger than 70 is 600 International Units (IU), 70+ is 800 IU. A
The Voice 150-gram portion of salmon or trout contains 800 IU. Magnesium is involved in more than 300 physiological processes within the body, including blood sugar and glucose regulation, immune system function and heart health. Sources are many, including both plants and animal: dark leafy greens, seeds, nuts, whole grains, fish and unprocessed fruits and vegetables. RDA for women 31+ is 320 mg, men 31+ is 420 mg. Two ounces of an almond and dark chocolate mix will provide 40% of RDA for women, 30% for men. Vitamin C is a competent multitasker. It aids the absorption of protein and other nutrients, the creation of connective tissue, wound healing, and is packed with anti-oxidants. All brightly coloured fruits and vegetables, including citrus fruits, bell peppers and tomatoes contain Vitamin C. RDA is 75 mg for women and 90 for men. Eat a kiwi, large orange, or two slices of cantaloupe, and you’re good. Vitamin E is an anti-oxidant-packed nutrient that does frontline duty by fighting disease-causing free radicals while supporting immune system functions. Nuts, seeds and vegetable oils are its source. RDA is 22 IU, the amount available in 100 grams of sunflower seeds. Vitamin B12 helps create red blood cells and DNA for healthy nerve function. Because of increased stomach acidity as we age, it becomes harder to absorb. Stomach medications may also block its efficacy, making it difficult to ensure dietary sources are providing sufficient B12 without a blood test. Fish, meat, eggs, milk and fortified non-dairy milk products are the best dietary sources. RDA is 2.4 micrograms (mcg), and is based on the assumption that our bodies will only absorb 50% of the B12 available in our food. Although this absorption rate can drop to 30% as we age, many dietary sources contain significant amounts of B12. A 100 gram portion of beef, lamb or veal liver contains 3000% of RDA, 20 small clams contain 7000%, a tin of sardines is 300%, a beef steak is 460%. For
Page 17
A February 10, 2021
those on plant-based diets, one portion of many fortified cereals or non-dairy milks contains more than 80% of your RDA. Reading the nutritional information on the packaging is important. Vitamin B6 is also a multitasking vitamin, primarily supporting protein absorption and cognitive function. Fish, organ meats, fortified cereals, beans, potatoes with their skins on and other starchy vegetables are its source. RDA for both genders aged 50+ is 1.7 mg. Vegetarians and omnivores are on equal footing, as a standard 100-gram portion of pinto beans or chick peas provides the same 0.5 mg as salmon. Many fortified cereals provide between 2.0 – 4.0 mg. Folate or Folic Acid is a member of the Vitamin B family which helps stave off anemia by assisting in the production of white and red blood cells. Tropical fruits, vegetables and fortified cereals are the major dietary source. RDA requirement is 400 mcg (800 mcg for pregnant women). A mango, beet, or serving of asparagus will each provide about a third of RDA, similar to fortified cereal. Folate is one case where the science says fortified dietary sources are more easily absorbed than natural sources. Potassium is a common mineral which helps improve cell function and bone strength, reduces the chance of kidney stones, and can combat high blood pressure. Potassium is available in fresh fruits and vegetables like bananas, cantaloupe, plums, prunes, and cooked broccoli and cooked spinach. There is no Canadian RDA for potassium, but the World Health Organization recommends 3500 mg, and the American FDA recommends 4700 mg. This is one mineral RDA you’ll have to work to achieve through your diet, but fortunately there’s a huge diversity of foods to choose from. A cup of white beans, one quarter watermelon, and one serving each of spinach, broccoli and sweet potatoes and you’re good to go. Fiber is a plant-based carbohydrate macronutrient which cannot be bro-
ken down into digestible sugar molecules, so passes through the intestinal tract mostly intact, helping move foods along with it. Heart healthy fiber comes from whole grains, nuts, beans, fruits and vegetables. RDA for fiber intake for those over 50 is 22 grams for women, 28 grams for men. Like potassium, fiber is in many foods, but needs a fair number of servings to meet RDA requirements. This necessitates paying attention to dietary choices that meet the needs of more than one category. The silver bullet for fiber is psyllium husk, with each tablespoon containing nine grams of fiber. Omega-3 fats are essential unsaturated fats containing both EPA and DHA which benefit the brain and central nervous system by increasing cell production and helping the body absorb other nutrients. They also slow the age-related onset of macular degeneration and some evidence suggests it may do the same for Alzheimer disease. Fish is the first place to look for omega-3, but if you’re vegetarian, try soybeans, walnuts, avocado and flaxseed, although their absorption rate is lower. There is no RDA for this macronutrient, but most health organizations suggest that 1.1 gram for women 50+ and 1.6 grams for men 50+ of combined EPA and DHA is sufficient for overall health. A four ounce serving of salmon will do the trick for both genders. Water makes the healthy world go around, especially for seniors. As we age we may become less sensitive to thirst, some medications increase the risk of dehydration, and increased fiber intake absorbs more water. The USDA’s Modified Food Guide Pyramid for Older Adults is anchored by water because it is so important. Although everyone agrees on the importance of water, RDA specifics on the amount we need to consume vary widely, from three glasses to eight. Some kidney or liver diseases may necessitate reduced water consumption. Next week: Some foods and how they may be prepared to meet these nutrional goals. ◆
MODIFY
continued from Page 10 address cannabis regulation, although to date none of these contacts had resulted in changes to provincial regulations or administrative practices. Mayor Marvin Junkin commented that, “If these [cannabis] facilities were indeed livestock farms causing so much public angst, I have no doubt that they would be feeling the weight of government regulation. It is a common saying that ‘Your best industry is the one you don’t notice.’” The overarching question is whether municipal bylaws regulating cannabis restrict
“normal farm practices” under the provincial Farming and Food Production Protection Act (FFPPA) and conflict with the federal Cannabis Act. Such a scenario is currently playing out north of Smiths Falls, Ontario, where Burnstown Farms Cannabis Company (BFCC) is engaged with Beckwith Township in hearings before the Normal Farm Practice Protection Board. BFCC is arguing that the Township’s bylaw restricts the proposed use of the farm to cultivate and produce cannabis as permitted with a federal licence under the Cannabis Act. A decision has not yet been rendered.
COMMENTS
continued from previous page
CAO David Cribbs
The staff report accurately reflects the professional opinion of both the Clerk and CAO. Staff have no further commentary to offer on the issue.
Councillor Wayne Olson
There is such a thing as a leadership presence. I just don’t know how you can lead if you are not present. If one were able to use a proxy, presumably one would give the proxy to a councillor who agrees with you. That smacks of back room dealings and predetermination. Most voters would be offended by the lack of transparency. In principle, I value discussion, disclosure and debate. I do enjoy my role and I am very happy to stand in my place and be accountable. Proxy voting reduces the opportunity and quality of debate and lack of full transparency required for the democratic process.
COLUMN SIX
continued from Page 13 arranged holiday times of discovery. He truly had his life of adventure that he wanted as a child. Back in Canada in retirement he asked his mother if she would like to travel west with him some time. He had always wanted her to see where he had lived and worked. She said yes very quickly. She was living on her own, had retired from their business and was only 96. He said afterwards that it was one of the best trips he had ever had, as she was so keen to see everything. For her part she was happy to meet his western friends and to see where Jim had worked. Jim married a lovely lady, Ola, after a year or so. Aunt Gladys was pleased to be at his wedding. But within a year he became very ill with esophageal cancer, had the surgery but survived only a short time after his mother’s death, at age 100. Two deaths of two great people. ◆
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The Voice
A February 10, 2021
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THE BALANCED LIFE by John Swart
The 12 most essential nutrients to maintain health—and how we can get them in our diet
P
icture yourself as the aging heroine or hero in a suspense movie. You’ve just been pushed from the roof of a decrepit old factory in a dilapidated section of town, and you’re hanging on by your fingertips. Do you think, “I guess it’s my time to go,” or do you fight like hell to hold on, deliberately moving each straining finger to gain better purchase as you inch toward the inevitable cast-iron fire escape, and a few more years of crime fighting? Dietary nutrition is my metaphorical fire escape, and like you, I hope the future holds many more years of crime fighting.
Is it really possible for an older adult to obtain all their nutritional needs from diet, without supplements, as was suggested in this space, on Jan. 13? Each individual’s needs and health issues are unique, as is their personal definition of when one becomes an “older adult,” which means there is no universal answer. However, this week I will suggest that obtaining sufficient nutrients from your diet is achievable by understanding the importance of each food choice we make, and investing an hour or two to learn the basics of dietary nutrition. What follows are the reasons that our ability to get and to absorb suffi-
cient dietary nutrition drops as we age, a discussion of the 12 most commonly cited nutrients we are most likely to be short of, and how each of these nutrients contribute to our health. Next week we will look at some of the dietary sources from which they are available, and conclude with a couple sample meals to illustrate how easy this is. I’ll share a few useful hints and qualifiers that anyone wishing to understand or further research the information presented should know.
W
hat is the psychology behind your food choices? Taste, comfort, presentation, convenience— or is food just fuel? That’s the thing. We each have a preconceived idea of what food is, what its purpose is, and the compromises we’re
prepared to make. When you’ve spent hours or days preparing Thanksgiving dinner, each pinch of sage and thyme in your stuffing is critical. The feast you offer friends and family must taste, and present, to perfection. There can be no compromise. When I’m 136 kilometres into a ride, surrounded by only forest or desert, an energy bar 14 months past its expiry date, and a mango in the bottom of my pannier impaled by a rusty tent peg are precious fuel to be eagerly consumed. Maximizing one’s intake of the Required Daily Allowance (RDA) of nutrients obtained from dietary sources may require a change in perspective. In our household the commander-in-chief has gone plant-based, and does her best to drag along the official opposition. My
need for plenteous protein and heme iron means that every second or third day I must consume a can of sardines in addition to my approved meal. They stink and taste exactly as you would expect dead little fish would, and the texture as it slides down my throat in big chunks (I can’t imagine actually chewing the stuff) is the stuff of nightmares — but it’s fuel. Plus, the odds are stacked against us as we search for any processed easy-to-serve food that’s actually nutritious. James Kirkwood, recently retired from General Mills as Chief Science and Technology Development Officer and Vice President, General Mills’ Global Center for Technology Creation (does this has anything to do with real food?), has stated, “If a product does not taste or look good, peo-
ple will not eat it, regardless of its contents.” Kirkwood said that for aging Boomer consumers, additional considerations include vibrancy, potency, and consistency. “Vibrancy is the way a food is experienced—for example, its appearance or mouthfeel. Potency refers to a taste profile that hits the ‘sweet spot’ for older adults, especially given that the sense of taste changes with aging. Consistency refers to the texture of a food and the need to develop foods that are not, for example, too crunchy or too hard.” Really? Kirkwood lost me at the “Boomer consumer” rabbit hole, and went seriously downhill from there with “mouthfeel.” Who says we have to give in to “old age” when it comes to See BALANCED LIFE Page 17
V oice HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, an open discussion with a loved one yields positive results. Take what is said to heart and work on strengthening this relationship even further going forward. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, reassess your finances before making a big financial commitment. Start adding things up and comparing expenses to income before signing on any dotted lines. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, some time off spent entirely with family and friends is just what the doctor ordered. Cherish this time and appreciate the opportunity to enjoy it with those you love. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, some time alone may be necessary to figure out a problem. Once you can get free of distractions, the solution will present itself rather quickly. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, now is the time to begin planning an important project. Your mind is clear and you have the time, so embrace your creative side as you begin to hash things out. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Spiritual endeavors may take up much of your time this week, Virgo. Surround yourself with other spiritual people or examine your faith more deeply on your own. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, a change of scenery can be just what you need. A day trip to enjoy the great outdoors can prove refreshing and provide some new perspective.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, a new person in your life proves invigorating. Foster this relationship and be grateful for the opportunity to invite a new person into your life. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, a new hobby piques your interest. Introduce others to this activity and enjoy pursuing this newfound passion with someone you care about. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 It is alright if it seems like you’re a beat behind everyone else this week, Capricorn. You will catch up soon enough and others are more than capable of picking up the slack. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 An attraction to someone you meet this week catches you off guard, Aquarius. Forge ahead and explore these feelings if your situation allows. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Offer support to a friend in need, Pisces. This generous offer will be much-appreciated and you will reap the rewards as well. FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS FEBRUARY 7 James Spader, Actor (61) FEBRUARY 8 Bethany Hamilton, Surfer (31) FEBRUARY 9 Tom Hiddleston, Actor (40) FEBRUARY 10 Elizabeth Banks, Actress (47) FEBRUARY 11 Dansby Swanson, Athlete (27) FEBRUARY 12 Gucci Mane, Rapper (41) FEBRUARY 13 Jerry Springer, TV Host (77)
SOLUTIONS DOWN 1. SANDAL 2. UNEASE 3. STANCE 4. AERIES 5. ARAM 6. REDUCER 7. BE 8. OD 9. RUCHE 10. SCRY 13. AI 14. TESTATE 15. ERRATIC 20. EN 21. LD 22. RAGA 23. PRO 27. ERAS 29. SC 30. FOR 31. ALE 32. CI 33. CAB 34. PROVERB 35. HUMIDOR 36. AGEE 37. LAN 38. PE 40. CEBU 41. AVERAGE 42. LI 44. DAS 45. ALTARS 46. GUINEA 47. ATONAL 48. RENAME 50. BESET 51. SE 52. AC 54. RAKE 55. RUED 57. SO 61. RC 62. AH
CROSSWORD ANSWERS
SOLUTIONS ACROSS 1. SUSA 5. ARBORS 11. ANTE 12. REEDUCATE 16. NEAR 17. AD 18. CRIER 19. DANIEL MURPHY 24. SR 25. ASCEND 26. CARE 27. ETA 28. LEES 29. SEGO 30. FRAT 31. ACCRA 33. COATI 34. PHALLI 38. PARSEC 39. RUGAE 40. CALEB 43. OMEN 44. DEVI 45. AGAR 49. VIE 50. BABE 51. SALUTE 53. ED 54. RESURRECTION 56. ROSAS 58. AU 59. ANNA 60. BROKERAGE 63. REAM 64. ETCHED 65. SALE
Enjoy our Take-out Fish & Chips Fridays! From our family to yours...stay safe
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The Voice
Page 19
A February 10, 2021
FAITH LIFT
by Pastor Rob Weatherby
Do you love me?
I
n a few days it will be Valentine’s Day (hinthint, guys). The topic of the day and week will be (you guessed it) — love. I remember walking home from elementary school in the early 1960s and hearing one of my schoolmates belt out this line: “She loves you, yeah, yeah, yeah!” He then repeated it three times and everyone had a good laugh. My friend was mimicking a song from some obscure British group he had heard on TV the night before. I thought to myself, “What unimaginative lyrics. That group won’t go far!” In English we use the word “love” very widely. We can say “I love ice cream” and “I love my wife.” I hope you know the difference between the two (if not, your marriage is in big trouble). The original language of the New Testament is Greek. It’s a much more accurate language than English. There are four different Greek words for “love” in Scripture— eros (romantic love), storge (family love), philea (friendship or brotherly love), and agape (unconditional, selfless divine love). In one intriguing passage in John’s Gospel, two of these Greek words are used. Jesus turns the Beatles’ statement above into a question: “Do you love me?” Let’s take a closer look.
In the morning, a lone figure on the shore tells them to try the other side of the boat. They do, and are swamped with fish. Peter realizes who the distant person is, jumps into the water and swims to shore (you gotta love Peter). The other disciples bring the haul to shore and they all have fish and bread for breakfast. After the meal, Jesus asks Peter, “Do you love me more than these?” The word Je-
sus used for love was “agape” (pronounced “a-gop-eh” for Canadians) meaning a deep, u ncond it ional, selfless love, like the kind God has for us, his cherished creation. Peter is still plagued by thoughts of his three denials of Jesus just a few days before back in Jerusalem. And so, Peter replies in the affirmative but doesn’t dare use the word “agape.” Instead he says, See FAITH LIFT Page 16
Unconditional love
In the context of the passage (John 21) Jesus has died, risen from the dead, and already appeared twice to his disciples. Jesus had told his disciples to return north to Galilee where they had previously lived. Some of the disciples had been fishermen so they decided to go fishing on the Sea of Galilee but caught nothing all night.
Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
Word Search: Get Cooking
Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwards. ADJUST BREAKFAST CHOPPED COOKING CULINARY DESSERT
DINNER FOOD GARNISH HOLIDAY INGREDIENTS KITCHEN
LUNCH MEALS MEASURE MIXING PLANNING POT
PRESENTATION RECIPE SEASONINGS SLOW SNACK TASTE
ANSWERS ON PAGE 18
Voice
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Page 20
The Voice
Voice
A February 10, 2021
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
RECIPE OF THE WEEK
4
Muffaletta Bites Though New Orleans is well known for its French and Creole heritage, Sicilian immigrants who settled in the region in the early 20th century brought with them their cuisine as well. Muffaletto bread is a doughy sesame seed bread that residents ended up pairing with various meats and cheeses. Central Grocery Co. owner Salvatore Lupo decided to turn the bread and food combination into a sandwich and dubbed it the Muffaletta Sandwich. Made on rounds of soft, fluffy sesame bread, and covered with salami, ham, mortadella, provolone, and olive salad. Every bite was full of flavor — and has become a New Orleans specialty. This recipe for “Muffaletta Bites” from “Southern Appetizers” (Chronicle Books), by Denise Gee, emulates the flavors in bite-sized morsels. Muffaletta Bites Serves 6 to 8, three or four tartlets each 1 1⁄2 1⁄4 1⁄4 2
ICE BROS
16-ounce jar Italian olive salad, drained cup shredded smoked provolone cheese cup finely chopped salami cup finely chopped ham 12-ounce cans refrigerated flaky biscuit dough Fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley for garnish
continued from Page 1
In a medium bowl, stir together the olive salad with the cheese, salami and ham. Cover and refrigerate for about 1 hour. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Lightly coat two 12-well miniature muffin pans with cooking spray, if necessary. On a lightly floured surface, place the biscuit dough in two even rows and, using a rolling pin or clean finger, gently flatten/pat into a 1⁄2-inch-thick rectangle. Firmly press the perforation to seal. Cut each rectangle into 24 squares (each about 2 inches wide). Place one square of dough in each of the prepared muffin wells. Firmly press the dough extended over the edges of each well; shape the edges with your fingers or use a fork to crimp it as desired. (The dough will rise at times; just press it back down until you can add filling). At this point, you can cover the muffin pan and refrigerate up to 1 hour. Spoon a heaping 1 tablespoon of the filling into each well. Bake until golden brown, 10 to 12 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes. Remove the tartlets from the pan and garnish each with a parsley leaf. Serve warm or at room temperature.
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LACE 'EM UP It has become something of an annual winter tradition for the firefighters at Pelham Fire Station 3, located on Cream Street in North Pelham, to flood a skating rink for the enjoyment of local families.Benches are available, and lights come on after dark. Social distancing rules are in effect. No hockey is allowed—and, need we mention, no booze. Fire Chief Bob Lymburner counted 16 skaters on the ice last Wednesday afternoon. Above, Cole and his dad, Mike Dafoe, hit the ice. DON RICKERS
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nity right away. This is the place my brother was and hearing everything about it and how he’s having such a great experience, it was something I wanted to do. “It was my dream.” The brothers are also very close off the ice with only a year-and-a-half between them. “I’d say the amount of times we’ve wrestled and argued, you’d probably think we’re equals,” Max said, chuckling. “No one thinks one is on the top of the either. If one does think one is on top of the other, then roll out the carpets, there’s going to be a wrestling match. We think of ourselves as equals. We respect each other a lot and that’s what has gotten us to this level. We compete so hard against each other but at the same time respect each
other and help each other out.” The brothers both realize how fortunate they are, not only to be playing on the same team, but even to be playing at all with much of country shut down due to the COVID pandemic. “We definitely understand the circumstances everybody else is going through and that it’s a tough time for everybody,” Alex said. “At the same time, we feel very, very lucky to be playing right now. It’s something we definitely don’t take for granted. We feel for all the other players around the country who are unable to play right now. It’s tough times now. We’re taking it day by day because you don’t know what’s going to happen, but our league and team have done a very good job of coordinating things and making sure it’s safe to play and we couldn’t be more grateful for that.” Max concurred. “We think about it every day. We’re
super lucky and super grateful for even having this opportunity,” he said. “We have different circumstances and rules but we’re lucky to play in the league. We’re in a very good spot.” The QMJHL are playing without fans and have teams bubble in a city for a period while they play. “We are tested before we bubble and get tested a couple of times in the bubble and then after as well,” Alex said. “It is well organized and well managed.” Alex has four games under his belt with the Phoenix and admits there was an adjustment period. “It’s fast hockey and everybody is strong and their hockey sense is at the elite level for sure,” he said. “Now, guys are competing for jobs or professional contracts or scholarships. It’s very competitive and guys are hungry and ready to play but that’s the place you want to be to improve your game and move on to the next level.”
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