The Voice, February 9 2022

Possible local charges for Ottaway

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Vol.26 No.5 

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Column Six

Notes from the front An Ottawa resident reports from Canada's occupied capital

BY TRENT CRICK Special to the Voice

I

And now the cleanup Staff and contractors struggle to move tons of snow after second large storm in as many weeks

A snow removal contractor for the Town of Pelham spent a sunny morning last Saturday clearing roadways in Fonthill, including this stretch of Brewerton Boulevard. The Town reminds residents that there is no parking allowed on town streets at any time during declared snow events, when plows and sanders are in operation.

DON RICKERS

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was asked to write a first-person account about what it’s been like living in Ottawa during the trucker protest. My intention is to describe what my experiences have been over the past seven days since the convoy arrived.

I am not, however, going to offer my views or thoughts about vaccine mandates, lockdowns, or any other government policies concerning Covid-19.

During my 12 years living in Ottawa, and having lived downtown, I have seen many, many protests and demonstrations. Sometimes a street or two is shut down for a couple hours if the protesters march. We are accustomed to it; people have the right to peaceful protest.

This convoy was originally meant to protest cross-border vaccine mandates for truckers. It was supposed to be a peaceful protest to bring attention to their cause.

What this has morphed into is a hostile, violent occupation of Ottawa by exSee COLUMN SIX back page

Page 2

The Voice

by Dave Burket

Voice

New hangars coming, search for GM underway

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor The January 13 online meeting of the Niagara Central Dorothy Rungeling Airport (NCDRA) Commission provided glimpses into issues which could both impede and facilitate the future direction of the airport.

A status update report on “T-hangar” request for proposals (RFP) was listed on the meeting agenda, but was deferred with little explanation by commission chair John Maclellan. The Welland Tribune reported last September that the City of Welland would finance, via loan, the $600,000 cost for construction of ten hangars at the airport, which would be rented out by the airport commission. The 15year term of the loan is expected to generate $185,000 in interest income for the City.

Airport commission member and Welland Ward 2 Councillor Leo Van Vliet told the Voice that “at least 17 pilots” have made inquiries about renting hanger space at NCDRA. If the airport shuts down, he asserted, the facility reverts back to the federal government for one dollar.

Van Vliet said that current

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Airport commission pitches projects

PUBLISHER’S CORNER Trying to reach Reeta: Through an intermediary who has contacted the Voice, some distant relatives in Wales are hoping to be put in touch with Reeta Potts, once editor of the Pelham Herald back (way back) in the day. Maybe because I have a smidgen of Welsh blood, share their patron saint's name, and grew up in a place founded by Welsh Quakers and rife with Welsh place-names (give “Bala Cynwyd” and “Tredyffrin” a go), I have a soft spot for the Family Potts and their quest.

If you know where Reeta might be found, drop us a line at: office@thevoiceofpelham.ca...Back with a bang! As promised, Peter Piper’s has reopened from the latest lockdown and gone nutty with new specials and a new prices, as low as $5 (ad, p.3). Maybe an economical Valentine’s Day destination?...He’s back and ready to bargain: “Chile Bob” O’Hara, proprietor of Bob’s Boys, the collectibles and used goods shop at Canboro and Effingham, and so-nicknamed for his preference for sunny beaches in midwinter, is back from his latest excursion south of multiple borders. This is unfortunately too late to help with our wholesale basement clean-out over the Christmas break. In retrospect maybe we should have reserved a couple of items for ol' Bob that ended up at the landfill. Looking to go Marie Kondo on the place? See his ad on p.5…Slow going on the snow: Public Works and Pelham’s subcontractors were once again faced with the daunting task of clearing roads and sidewalks from the seemingly endless dump of snow late last week. I lost track of how many times I cleared our deck, not wanting to get caught in another will-it-or-won’t-it-bear-the-weight scenario. As I write this on Monday afternoon, many of our neighbourhood sidewalks have yet to be touched, so fingers-crossed that help is on the way. Incidentally, there are some 560 fire hydrants in Pelham. Wow. And each of them should be cleared out for access, something that the fire company was out doing on the weekend (p.8)...Latest stats: As of Monday there were 87 known active Covid cases in Pelham, bringing the pandemic total here to 1133. Current Niagara Region numbers see residents of 60plus and 80-plus with the lowest number of cases, while the most infected are 20-to-39-year-olds. Provincially, new cases of unknown origin, hospital admissions, new cases per 100,000 population, and positivity rate indicators all remain in the red...

Convoys of chaos: I have little to add to the discussion, and will defer to columnist Heather Mallick, who wrote in the Star over the weekend, “I have decided not to call them ‘truckers,’ given that 90 percent of Canadian truckers are vaccinated, eager to work, and have nothing to do with these strange fringe types.

Driving transport trucks is not an identity; being a jerk is. They are extremist jerks; their stupidity makes them even more dangerous because they can be easily lied to, ordered about, and made to ruin their own lives and the lives of others.” Among various colourful suggestions seen on social media was to send these champions of freedom to Ukraine’s borders, where liberty actually is under threat. Get a GoFundMe going? Stay safe. ◆

A February 9 2022

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hanger fees at NCDRA are about $650 per month, plus hydro costs.

Located in the south end of Pelham, and currently operating at a loss, almost half of the airport’s annual $340,000 budget is funded See AIRPORT Page 8

What's That

SIREN Pelham Fire Department Weekly Calls

The Pelham Fire Department responded to nine calls for assistance from Friday, January 28 to Friday, February 4.

Friday, January 28 Medical assistance, Station 1 Saturday, January 29 Motor vehicle collision, River Rd., Stations 2 & 3 Monday, January 31 Medical assistance, Station 2

POETRY

Tuesday, February 1 Remote alarm, Hwy. 20 E, Station 1

From the Heart

Wednesday, February 2 Smoke in the building, Beachwood Cr., Station 1

I write this from my heart When speaking from the heart There are no sides taken Only empathy and kindness given Our world has taken a wrong turn With more anger shown Towards our fellow man Than ever before Instead of anger Why not channel that Into something good Ask how can I help?

Instead of complaining We are all in this together We are all God’s children Something that we would Do well to remember

Thursday, February 3 Medical assistance, Station 1 Motor vehicle collision, Victoria Ave., Station 2 Motor vehicle collision, Pelham St., Station 1 Motor vehicle collision, Haist St., Stations 1 & 2

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Brandon J. BURGESS, 26, Acton Barbara A. HOY, 69, Depew, NY Richard D. KANOLD, 50, Niagara Falls Marlene P. HOOKEY, 67, Fort Erie Rebecca L. CVETKOVICH, 40, Welland Sarah L. COURTNEY, 56, Niagara Falls Kyle A. WHALEN, 35, Niagara Falls Suzanne R. LANTEIGNE, 30, St. Catharines David FISHER, 52, Lincoln Kiran BHUVANENDRAN-NAIR, 33, Niagara Falls Ronald H. ROUSH, 43, Dunkirk, NY Dean C. JONES, 50, St. Catharines Neal R. KLEIN, 43, St. Catharines The Niagara Regional Police Service is committed to reducing impaired driving offences through education and the apprehension of offenders through enforcement programs like RIDE. Impaired driving is still the leading cause of criminal deaths in Canada and destroys thousands of lives every year.

Gracie & Rogue, and siblings Gus & Charlie

Local tabloid makes an appearance alongside other noted rags during one particular copy’s recent visit to the greater New York City area, in the company of our own John "Town Hall beat" Chick.

In an effort to bring further attention and deterrence to driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, the Niagara Regional Police Service reports the names of those people who are charged with an alleged criminal impaired driving offence in the Region.

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

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A February 9 2022

Join in the fun!

Former Pelham CAO Darren Ottaway, right, with then-Mayor David Augustyn, at a Pelham Town Council meeting in November 2017.

VOICE FILE

Possible Pelham charges for Ottaway Unclear whether jurisdiction will be moved to Niagara

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor Former Pelham CAO Darren Ottaway had a court date in Cochrane, ON on February 1, to answer to four criminal charges, some of which are alleged to have occurred in Fonthill prior to his firing in 2019.

Chantal Chenier, Supervisor of Court Operations in the Ministry of the Attorney General in Cochrane, told the Voice that bail was granted at Ottaway’s initial court appearance on January 24. Ottaway did not appear in court via Zoom on February 1 before Justice David Thomas, but was represented by lawyer Paul Bragagnolo.

A trial date is set for May 17, but Bragagnolo told the court that date “seems a bit far off….I’m optimistic that something earlier can be worked out.” He suggested that “the case should be a very quick and simple matter.”

Bragagnolo was focused on one charge which involved common assault. He said that the other charges stem from acts allegedly committed by Ottaway when he was still resident in Pelham, and accordingly should be tried in this jurisdiction.

Niagara Regional Police spokesperson Const. Jesse Vujasic told the Voice that the Cochrane/James Bay detachment of the OPP is the lead on the Ottaway case, and has made no request that charges be defended in a Niagara courtroom. Similarly, the Welland office of the Ontario provincial court said that no request has been received from the Cochrane judge to sever the charges and move the jurisdiction.

Justice Thomas set the next court appearance for Ottaway as March 1, and was receptive to an earlier trial date.

Four charges have been laid against Ott-

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A February 9 2022

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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

COMMON DECENCY Rev. Michael Coren

Patriotism or Americanization?

Canada's future hangs in the balance

T

he Americanization of Canadian politics has been evolving and unwinding for some time now, for a whole stew of reasons. Fox News and ultra-conservative podcasts cross the border, Canada’s ethnic composition has changed and that worries certain people, a new and far more rightwing Conservative Party replaced the more moderate Progressive Conservatives in 2003, and an increasingly active and organized number of people in western Canada—Alberta in particular — see Ottawa not as the seat of government but as a threat, even an enemy.

Now comes a convoy of lorries, self-styled as “Truckers for Freedom” or the “Freedom Rally,” that has occupied Ottawa — ask any local and they’ll confirm that “occupation” is an entirely valid description. It’s ostensibly a group of truck drivers and their supporters who are opposed to Covid-19 vaccine mandates, but the truth is a little more complex and unsettling.

On January 15, the federal government announced that Canadian truckers had to be fully vaccinated if they wanted to avoid a 14day quarantine when they crossed back into Canada

There are echoes of January 6th in Washington DC in this apparent rejection and denial of the democratic process from the US. Not an unreasonable demand, and the Canadian Trucking Alliance, which is opposed to the convoy, reports that more than 85 percent of the country’s 120,000 drivers who make regular crossings to the US are indeed fully vaccinated.

This leaves perhaps 16,000 drivers who may face quarantine. Vaccines are readily available, and

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while some argue that this is about opposition to mandates rather than vaccines themselves, that simply doesn’t fly.

Frankly, supporters of the convoy know that. For them this is about roaring at the government, abusing the Prime Minister (“Fuck Trudeau” signs and shouts are ubiquitous), throwing their weight around, and displaying anger that the Liberals have been in power for more than six years and the Conservatives show no sign of winning an election.

That’s concerning, because there are echoes of January 6th in Washington DC in this apparent rejection and denial of the democratic process.

The Facebook page supporting the convoy has almost 200,000 followers, GoFundMe has raised millions of dollars, and social media, Tory MPs, conservative newspapers, and of course talk radio are cheering the convoy on.

Even Jordan Peterson, who arguably enjoys far greater respect outside of Canada, See COREN Page 6

Letters Disappointed at lack of convoy news in last issue My name is Iseak Boucher and I’m an Afghanistan combat veteran. I’m totally disabled from the service to this country. I want to take a moment to express my displeasure that the Voice failed to mention one word about the men and women currently fighting for our freedoms across the country. Many of us residents stood shoulder-to-shoulder on the overpasses of the QEW in support on the convoy for freedom 2022. I feel it’s my duty as a veteran to stand up for all those who didn’t make it home in sacrifice to Canada.

Iseak Boucher Fonthill EDITOR'S NOTE We acknowledge the letter writer's service. Last week's want of a single word, we hope he agrees, is more than made up for by this week's red-hot torrent of verbiage. Between Column Six, a commentary, and four letters (not including the above), there are 2257 words on the topic.

7

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

Electoral District: Niagara West

Sam Oosterhoff, MPP 4961 King St. East, Unit M1 Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org 905-563-1755 Members of Niagara Regional Council Councillor Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 905-658-2987 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

Mayor of Pelham Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 905-658-2986 Members of Pelham Town Council Ward 1 Councillor Marianne Stewart mstewart@pelham.ca 289-821-0840 Councillor Wayne Olson wolson@pelham.ca 905-933 6033

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The Voice

Page 5

A February 9 2022

OPINION Disgusted by MP Dean Allison’s stance on truckers I am fed-up with a small minority of truckers trying to tell us that they are fighting to get their freedom back.

I checked the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to determine which freedoms they claim to have lost. We have Democratic Rights, such as the right to vote; Mobility Rights, such as the right to take up residence in any province; Legal Rights, such as the right not to be arbitrarily arrested or detained; Equality Rights, ensuring that we are all treated equally under the laws of Canada, as well as other rights. I can fi nd no Charter Rights that have been removed from the protesters.

I was also disgusted, but not surprised by my MP’s wishy-washy stance on the situation.

Dean Allison’s statement that “the truckers’ message of freedom is resonating” is a clear message of support, and his assertion that “Canadians want their lives back” is inane and banal.

His criticism of the way the media reports the story is simply whining. He has criticized PM Trudeau for condemning the actions of some of the protesters. Does this mean that Dean Allison actually supports the actions of those demonstrators that Mr. Trudeau rightly deplores?

David Fowler Wainfleet

Allison no longer represents majority of riding Dean Allison was elected to represent the taxpayers. But the taxpayers he represents appear to be those supporting a convoy of protesters.

This group is supported by Pastor Henry Hildebrandt of the Church of God in Aylmer, Max Bernier, and West Lincoln Mayor Bylsma’s followers. It is also funded with US dollars, attempting to create more dissension in our politics.

Allison voiced his support for the Ottawa occupation publicly. He appears to support the anti-vaxxer movement, the anti-government factions, and the disinformation spreaders.

He does not support Niagara residents

who would like to feel safe with the vaccines, or support respectful conduct for those striving to keep our health system operational.

He does not represent me.

Does he represent you?

L. Morgan Fonthill EDITOR’S NOTE Asked directly whether the MP supports the convoy demonstrators in Ottawa, Dean Allison’s office neither answered nor acknowledge the Voice’s request for comment.

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With the diminished protocols comes the debate as to when governments will rescind the emergency proclamations. The next date to review the provincial restrictions that just came into effect will be February 21. Although this date may be too soon, it is not completely out of the picture to think of March 14 as the day the emergency measures are eliminated. This of course in pure speculation and the decision will be made based on a steady lowering of hospitalizations. Countries that have dropped all of their restrictions are not looking at new cases, because of the relatively mild nature of Omicron but are instead concentrating on the number of people in hospitals. elham received yet another deluge of snow last week, with the majority of the snow falling Thursday night into Fri-

day morning. As an errand took me to some subdivisions Friday afternoon, I was amazed at how much the snow is accumulating in yards and how high the piles are on each side of the sidewalks. It is because of these snow walls piling up by our sidewalks that the contractors are now using snow blowers to remove the snow instead of the ploughs. Because of this, it is taking somewhat longer to get all of the sidewalks cleared.

Of course this means Town trails will be cleared last.

Last week saw the arrival of February, the month that an optimist refers to as early spring! It’s nice to see the days getting noticeably longer! ◆

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Of course the take-away from this story is these three factors also exist in Canada.

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The Voice

COREN

position to gun control, dislike of official bilingualism, anger at entirely justified and long overdue Indigenous protests and demands, and the usual certainty that “real” Canadians aren’t being listened to.

This isn’t a nation divided—the new conservatism is a minority voice—but rather a country in process and progress, perhaps realizing that easy governance may not be as straightforward as was once thought.

Canada doesn’t face the same polarization as the US, has far fewer illusions about its place in history, is less insular, and built more on the communal than the individual. Nor does it have such a dominating Christian right, and that matters!

But my goodness we can be smug, and that’s not good right now.

The truckers and their friends may hate Trudeau but the politician they destroyed is Erin O’Toole—a good man but one who allowed the hard right to drag him in the wrong direction.

The convoy will eventually be dispersed and sent home but the damage has been done. The next leader of the Tories has an enormous weight to carry, because this isn’t about the future of a party, it’s about the future of the country. ◆

continued from Page 4 broke from his increasingly eccentric meanderings to tweet on how impressive the convoy was. “Truckers vs Justin Trudeau”, he wrote. “I'll lay odds on truckers.”

We’ve seen more than enough evidence now of the extremism, the swastikas, Confederate flags, attacks on homeless people, intimidation of food bank workers, abuse of sacred monuments, and so on.

The fundamental issue here is that while Canada and Canadians often look and sound American, the essence of this country— its political, emotional, and sociological identity— is actually far more north Europe than North Carolina. Our socialized medical system has an iconic status, and welfare provisions, absence of military bombast, and sheer self-perception have always distinguished Canada from the United States. Canadians may watch US television, benefit from the US economy, and may spend winters in Florida, but for generations we’ve been governed by and from the centre.

It’s this reality that the truckers and their base so refute. The convoy is an outward manifestation of a deeper break in Canadian society, an attempt to smash the sacrament and reject the orthodoxy.

There’s a whole smorgasbord of resentments and beliefs swirling around. Op-

Rev. Michael Coren is an award-winning Torontobased columnist and author of 18 books, appears regularly on TV and radio, and is also an Anglican priest.

A February 9 2022

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Letters continued Time to offer Canada’s convoy of malcontents a deal they can’t refuse Eureka, the solution to our problem has washed over me like an overpass of malcontents!

A GoFundMe page for convoy supporters has been widely reported on in the public media, and raised an incredible amount before being shut down for violating the website’s terms of service.

The amount obviously came from less than 13 percent of Canadians.

How about the other 87 percent?

Come on folks—let’s get together and see if we can gather enough to buy an island where these poor downtrodden folks can get away from all the restrictions that our democracy binds them to, so they can be truly free!

Let them shed our hospitals, schools, roads, and safe places to dine and share all they have in common with like-thinking people. I’m sure that

they will then find true freedom and happiness—and so will the 87 percent of Canadians that are willing to put up with what democracy has given them!

Oh, I almost forgot. We should also pick one that can access the internet, in case they need medical info, ideas for choosing a ruler, and other things they abhor here in Canada!

Tom Airth Burlington

Cancelled in 2020, Pelham High School reunion back on track From September 1927 to June 1974, the Village of Fenwick was home to Pelham High School. Located on the corner of Canboro Road and Balfour Street, it accepted (until 1958) students from Fenwick, Ridgeville, Fonthill, North Pelham, Effingham, Wellandport, Wainfleet, West Lincoln, parts of Welland and Thorold.

Things changed after 1958, when Thorold/Fonthill High School opened (site of the present-day Glynn A. Green Public School) and students from the eastern areas went there. Then E. L. Crossley opened in 1963 and this was the beginning of the end for Pelham High.

We were a rural school in a rural, agricultural community. A large number of students came from farms and did chores in the morning before coming to school. They could not stay after school for extra-curricular activities because they had to get on the bus and go back home to do those chores again.

Many students had an hour-long bus ride to school and back home. Many students struggled to buy books or gym suits, many had to quit school at

16 so they could go to work and help support the family. Most of us, as a school community, recognized these facts and perhaps this is one reason that we all had a strong bond with each other and have maintained friendships over the years.

We were fortunate to have a group of dedicated teachers and principals—E.L. Crossley, T.D. (Doug) Wallace, and E.A. (Bud) Ker who expected the very best from us.

We “Panthers” are a bunch of champions. It all started in 1934 when the girls’ basketball team won the COSSA championship. The war years saw our boys and girls go and fight. Some did not return but one in particular, E.A. “Bud” Ker came back with a Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary bravery as a skilled fighter pilot. He returned to Fenwick and Pelham High as a teacher, then V.P. and then Principal.

Our alumni were involved in all walks of life but some have truly excelled. Marlene Stewart Streit is our celebrated golfer. Then there are our Olympians—Jane Haist, Tom Guinn,

and Steve Bauer. The local airport is named after Dorothy (Wetherald) Rungeling, one of the original students at Pelham High. Let’s not forget the mayors of the Town of Pelham: Marnie (Stains) Collins, Ralph Beamer, and our present Mayor Marvin Junkin. It’s no wonder we are proud Panthers—you know we are the “original” Pelham Panthers with lots of glorious memories.

Ten years after the school closed, a group of us got a reunion together. In 1984, about 3,500 people came. These included students, teachers and support staff. We had our tenth reunion in 2018, when 350 people came. We had planned to have one in 2020, but then Covid hit and we had to cancel. So, since we are proud Panthers, a bunch of winners (which takes persistence and lots of patience to try to negotiate around this virus) we have scheduled our eleventh reunion.

Sunday, June 12, 2022 from 1 to 5 PM is the date and time. The Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 613, 20 Hwy., See REUNION next page

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The Voice

Page 7

A February 9 2022

Science keeps evolving CHURCH HILL FIRE SENDS ONE TO HOSPITAL

In the Feb. 2 edition of the Voice, Pastor Weatherby argues for “a universe designed by God.” [Faith Lift, “It doesn’t take a rocket scientist,” p.15.] He quotes Dr. Werner von Braun, a famous German rocket scientist (1912-1977), saying, “the scientific method does not allow us to exclude data which lead to the conclusion that the universe, life and man are based on design.”

A rather tenuous argument and formulated well before the critical role of DNA data in explaining human evolution became clear.

On the other hand, the scientific method does allow us to include overwhelming data which lead to the conclusion that life and mankind result from an evolutionary process driven by natural selection.

It is humbling to acknowledge that the Omicron virus and mankind (Homo sapiens) are both the consequence of evolution. The Omicron variant evolved from the Delta variant; and Homo sapiens evolved from Homo neanderthalensis, a primate which became extinct approximately 40,000 years ago. Coronaviruses evolve much faster than primates because their generation time is very short, and are subject to multiple mutations during viral replication. Mutations which confer a reproductive advantage are required for evolution by natural selection to occur.

The common ancestry of Homo sapiens and Homo neanderthalensis is indicated by DNA data. People owe roughly two percent of their DNA to their Neanderthal ancestors.

Alan Bown Fonthill

REUNION

continued from previous page Fonthill, is the place. Registration is $15 cash at the door. Please have correct change. This will include coffee, tea, punch, an extensive array of finger foods, and dessert. Alcohol is available for purchase at the bar. Cash, debit or credit is accepted by the Legion.

Of course, plans are still dependent on Covid so we will update here at the Voice, on our Facebook page, and by email through Pelham High Reunion.

Let’s all do what we need to do to stay healthy.

Hopefully, it won’t be long and we can greet each other face to face—one more time.

Vilma Moretti Fonthill

An early morning blaze brought Pelham firefighters to a five-unit apartment building at 9 Church Hill early last Saturday morning. “The call came in around 4:20 AM,” Pelham Fire Chief Bob Lymburner told the Voice. “We responded with four vehicles and 18 firefighters.

The blaze started in a unit on the second floor, but the other four units were damaged as well. One resident was injured, and was taken to hospital. It was freezing out, about minus-15—that’s cold to be squirting water.” By 7 AM, the fire was contained, and firefighters left the scene. Aside from a missing second-story window, little damage was visible outside the structure. DON RICKERS

There’s no reasoning with the unreasonable

Legion recognition apps

The so-called “Truckers' Freedom Convoy” now occupying several cities in Canada is espousing the view that the freedoms of Canadians are being unlawfully curtailed by vaccine mandates for truckers and others. Many non-truckers with similar sentiments have joined or in other ways supported the trucker protest.

The Canadian Constitution, particularly our Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees our rights and freedoms, but the freedoms are subject to reasonable limits as set out in Chapter 1 of the Charter.

Perhaps those who feel that our

Our Legion is working on Banner applications and Military Recognition Book applications for 2022. These applications are to be vetted and approved by the end of March 2022.

Applications are available at the Legion from 12:00 to 9:00 PM or by calling Rick Hatt at 905-892-6100 or email hattrich@sympatico.ca Please take time to ensure that our veterans are recognized and remembered. If there are any queries about these programs, please call Rick Hatt.

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freedoms are being violated should challenge the offending measures in our courts, as was intended by law.

Doing so through protests and demonstrations that morph into civil unrest should not be tolerated in a democratic society.

To me it is offensive to suggest that our leaders should be expected by any of us to negotiate a “solution” with a group such as the truckers, part of which exhibits the offensive and unlawful behavior of a group of ignoramuses.

Tom Crawford Fonthill

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Page 8

The Voice

AIRPORT

continued from Page 8 by the municipalities of Welland, Pelham, Thorold, and Wainfleet.

The commission is looking at ways to make the airport sustainable.

Pelham’s municipal contribution to NCDRA in 2020 was just under $28,000, while Welland contributed $86,000, Port Colborne $29,000, and Wainfleet $11,000.

Given competition from proximal airports in Hamilton, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Buffalo, and Niagara Falls NY, some Niagara politicians think a small field like Niagara Central can’t achieve profitability.

The 416-acre (168-hectare) NCDRA opened in 1942 and operated under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan to train World War II pilots. It has three runways, one of which is grass. It’s home to Niagara Skydive, the St. Catharines Flying Club, 87 Eagle Squadron Air Cadets, the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association (COPA) Flight 149, Accipiter Radar, and private hangars.

Last year, the commission created an advisory panel of aviation-minded individuals, many being pilots with personal aircraft stored at the airport, to ostensibly give them a voice in the goings-on at the facility, and tap into their significant expertise.

However, the advisory panel’s chair, Adrian Verburg, delivered a letter of rebuke at the January meeting, indicating that the panel members feel neglected and disconnected, having not been consulted in various recent decisions at the airport. The panel is also questioning why a ten-year strategic plan has not been prepared.

An excerpt from the letter reads, “In March of 2021, the advisory panel presented the commission with a list of recommendations… some which have been completed…but there has been little or no feedback. We read in the newspaper that the airport is building ten hangars, but we were not asked to give input. There has been no reporting of the deliberations by the commission in its minutes and agendas. While we are extremely pleased with the hangar build announcement, many are concerned with the planning and direction, and the lack of transparency.”

“I completely understand their position,” said Van Vliet, “but the commission is bound by the Municipal Act as to what we can divulge. As far as the master plan is concerned, we are working on it, and one of the main things right now is to find a new airport manager to oversee on-site, day-today operations. And we want that person to be a big part of creating a ten year plan.”

The search for a new, part-time airport general manager is underway, as the commission has appointed a three-commissioner subcommittee to look at all aspects of the hiring process, with the expectation of a final selection by March 31.

The commission passed a recommendation that a subcommittee also be appointed to investigate the procurement of a firm to host and create a new website showcasing the airport. Discussion ensued regarding the spotty cellphone and wi-fi coverage at the airport.

A further recommendation that was passed by the commission involved the investigation of a new governance and management model known as a “municipal services corporation,” or MSC. Shares in the MSC would be owned by the four municipalities, with a number of potential benefits. Perhaps the most attractive feature for the airport commission is that adopting an MSC would allow the commission to attract a skills-based board of directors, rather than being limited to its current form, composed exclusively of elected politicians whose terms run for four years.

The theory is that members with proven track records in aviation management, accounting, and entrepreneurship could create a better mix of talent to address operational and strategic issues at the airport.

“My personal opinion is that it's really the way to go,” said Van Vliet. “The Airport Act is clear that we must have elected officials on the commission. I can understand having one councillor from each municipality which funds the airport on the commission, because each municipal council has an investment in the airport. But to exclude people with pertinent experience like pilots and business people, that's wrong, and

A February 9 2022

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

PELHAM UNPLUGGED On Saturday, firefighters from Pelham Fire Department Stations 1 and 2 spent the morning cleaning snow from some of the 560-plus fire hydrants in town. The department asks residents to pitch-in as well, and clean the snow away from their nearest hydrant. From left, Rob Groeneveld, Curtis Conley, Jeremy DeRoos, and John Saltarelli. JASON LONGHURST I certainly hope we can change that. The commission is trying to achieve some continuity.”

It was announced at the January meeting that the airport’s on-site aviation mechanic was leaving the facility, and would in future provide only mobile service.

“It’s not going to be that big a problem,” said Van Vliet, “but it would have been nice if we could have been able to keep him onsite.”

Significant efforts were made to “cut them a deal,” according to commission chair John Maclellan.

Commission member Gary Bruno reported that a buried storage tank had been found on the property, with its contents or purpose yet to be determined. Speculation that it could be a second septic system, or a fuel tank left over from the World War II days, suggested scenarios which could be problematic from an environmental perspective. Van Vliet believes it to simply be an aban-

doned water tank.

The septic system at the airport has been a controversial issue for some years, with an estimated $200,000 repair bill in the offing.

“We’ve had some very knowledgeable people out there looking at the septic system we've got, and they basically told us that we’re crazy if we change it,” said Van Vliet. “I think the main bone of contention is the fact that the septic bed is on the south side of the road, and the airport buildings are on the north side. Some inspectors aren’t happy with the idea of the sewer line running under that road. But the contractors that we have had look at it — who build and repair septic beds on a regular basis — said that the current system is built to handle probably 1000 people, and we’ve got only about a dozen on-site at any given time. This battle over the septic bed started long before I got there, and it probably still be going on when I leave.”

Adrian Verburg reported that the 2022 Air Tour, an interprovincial collective of aviation enthusiasts, is slated to visit NCDRA on June 2, and will include 50 aircraft and 100 guests. Verburg views this as an opportunity to showcase the airport to the larger aviation community. The aviators will be accommodated at the Best Western in Welland, and have arranged a luncheon and a winery tour.

Signage at the airport was discussed, and it was agreed that buildings and hangars should receive large, high visibility, reflective numbers to aid first-responders, should an emergency occur. A lockbox containing keys, a fire safety plan, and dedicated cellphone for access by the police, fire department, and emergency medical services was suggested, along with an invitation to Pelham Fire chief Bob Lymburner to visit the airport and offer recommendations.

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The Voice

Page 9

A February 9 2022

Pickleball to be served up at Centennial Park Ontario Trillium Foundation funding new paddle courts, refurbished multi-sport surface

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor Pelham pickleball aficionados will be elated.

Almost half a million dollars in funding for upgrades at Centennial Park in Fenwick was announced last week by Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff. The project includes six new pickleball courts, plus the refurbishment of the current ball hockey/basketball surface.

The grant — $489,800 in total — is being provided through the Government of Ontario’s Community Building Fund – Capital Stream, and will be administered over the next 12 months by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), an agency of the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. Last year, the OTF funded some $100 million in almost 1400 community projects and partnerships.

“This investment in Centennial Park is good news for residents of Fenwick and the Town of Pelham," said Oosterhoff. “As the provincial voice for Niagara West, one of my top priorities is infrastructure that benefits local communities and families.”

Pelham Mayor Marvin Junkin said that, “It is encouraging to see

From left, Pelham CAO David Cribb, Pelham Regional Councillor Diana Huson, Pelham Town Councillor Wayne Olson, Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff, Pelham retiree and pickleball aficionado James Fraser, Pelham Mayor Marvin Junkin, and Pelham Town Councillor Marianne Stewart.

MICHAEL ZWIEP these timely investments for improved access to updated and accessible spaces, especially in rural communities. The improvements of the multi-use court will be a welcome addition to Centennial Park, the hub of outdoor recreation in rural Pelham.”

Diana Huson, Pelham Regional Councillor, echoed Junkin’s remarks, noting that, “The pandemic has shown how truly valuable our outdoor recreation spaces are for the overall health and well-being of our communities.”

“Centennial Park will be a busier place with these important developments,” said Pelham Councillor

Wayne Olson. “Our residents of all ages will appreciate the additional outdoor pickleball facilities, and not to be forgotten are the improvements to the basketball and ball hockey court, which have a focus on our youth. In the future, we hopefully can look to add a hitting cage for our very active baseball leagues.”

Olson said he had heard a couple complaints from residents about the horseshoe and bocce courts being displaced by the new splash pad at Centennial Park. However, he said Pelham’s Director of Recreation, Culture, and Wellness, Vickie vanRavenswaay was aware

of the problem, and was optimistic that arrangements could be made to accommodate horseshoe and bocce games in the park.

A recent CBC News report asserted that the Sports and Fitness Industry Association counts some three million pickleball players in the United States, and 75,000 in Canada, many of them seniors.

Pickleball is a paddle sport played on a badminton-sized court, which incorporates elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Considered by some to be the fastest growing sport in the world, it has grassroots popularity among seniors, who view

the game as competitive, but with less wear and tear on the joints than encountered in many other sports.

Pelham senior James Fraser was present at the announcement, and represents a growing group of local retirees that are paddle-sport advocates.

“We currently play on the tennis courts at Centennial Park, which have markings for pickleball,” said Fraser. “Hopefully, some of the new courts can be dedicated exclusively to use by seniors, but it is important to note that a lot of younger people are embracing the game as well. Seniors need a covered area near the courts to protect them from the sun, which will also be a spot to meet and greet before and after matches.”

Fraser said that close to 80 members of the local pickleball club participated this past summer, and that the game is growing within the region.

“Welland has put in 12 pickleball courts, Niagara-on-the-Lake has six, and Hamilton has 24 courts,” he said.

The appeal of the game to Fraser is that, “It's good exercise, with a great social component. The game involves skill and strategy, in a more contained area that tennis, so you get more hits.”

In a press release, vanRavenswaay noted that Centennial Park also includes dedicated ball diamonds, soccer fields, tennis courts, a playground, access to the Gerry Berkhout Trail, and a new splash pad set to open in the spring of 2022.

A full list of outdoor recreation facilities in Pelham can be accessed at www.pelham.ca/parks

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Page 10

The Voice

A February 9 2022

OBITUARY

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Niagara’s Conservative MPs weigh in on O’Toole ousting Niagara West MP Dean Allison voted to remove party leader

BY NICHOLAS TIBOLLO Niagara Independent

DAJKA, Cathryn Bernice

November 27, 1959 - January 27 2022 Her inspiration and mentorship led to several of her employees following in her footsteps and going on to run their own shops. The personal friendships that she made there throughout the years are some of the strongest.

Although a fashionista, Cathryn didn’t shy away from roughing it while portaging and camping when not spending time at her and Jim’s family cottage on Kawagama Lake in Haliburton. She was a star at hula hooping, tether ball and tennis (sort of). She and Jim also enjoyed exotic destinations as well as long road trips.

Cathryn’s nurturing nature was evident, not only with her friends but when caring for her parents in their later years. Not having children of her own gave her the opportunity to build loving bonds with the children of friends and neighbours. She was Auntie Cathryn to many. She loved children and they loved her back.

Beautiful, beautiful Cathryn. You are a light that still shines. You are one special person and have had an impact on so many people’s lives, they’ve told us so.

You’re leaving a void in our lives that is unfillable. Wherever it is you’re going, you’re going to shake it up.

A private gathering with family has been held. However, Cathryn is someone that needs to be celebrated in a big way and we will do that when we can, so stay tuned. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Moorelands Camp Starry Summer Night campaign to help send a disadvantaged kid to camp in Cathryn’s memory or to the cancer charity of your choice.

We are heartbroken to announce the loss of our amazing Cathryn, passing away in the arms of her loving husband of 25 years, Jim Pauk, and surrounded by her family. Born in Fonthill, Cathryn was predeceased by her parents, Stephen and Alice Dajka and is survived by her brothers Bryan (Marina), Stephen (Kristen) and Glen. A magical aunt to Karley, Sydney, Jacob, Anandi, Lyndsay, Jasmine (Alex) and Jade. Great-aunt to Ava and Theo.

Cathryn faced a devastating diagnosis head on with stoicism and positivity, living her last two years to the fullest. They were, in her words, the two happiest years of her life. She constantly stated how blessed she was to be surrounded by such loving and supportive family and friends, even in her last few days.

After spending years in Toronto as a fashion stylist, Cathryn moved to Jamaica for a year and a half and, after returning, went on to found Frock and Imelda, two fashion boutiques on Roncesvalles Ave. in Toronto’s west end where she and Jim shared a home. She also co-founded a boutique called Ubu on the same street in the 1980s. A trailblazer in every sense, she led by example, stepping out of the house every morning in audacious outfits that were always garnering attention and wearing them so well. She was a fashion icon, much younger than her years.

She had a knack for bringing people together. Many friendships began and continue due to the environment she created. Cathryn’s kindness and generosity made an impact on all the people in her community and beyond.

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In a closed-door virtual caucus meeting last Wednesday morning, Feb. 2, federal Conservative MPs voted 73-45 to remove Erin O’Toole as leader of the party.

Leading up to the removal, several MPs were dissatisfied with how the member from Durham had tried to bring the party closer to the political centre and failed to make any gains in the previous election.

One of the 73 members who voted to oust O’Toole was Conservative MP for Niagara West Dean Allison.

“I voted to have him removed, yes.”

According to Allison, many of his Niagara West constituents had reached out in recent weeks to express concern with O’Toole’s leadership. “[O’Toole] ran on being this ‘true blue’ conservative —but, for many of my constituents, that’s not exactly what they saw in some of his decisions, in some of his flipflops.”

In the 2020 Conservative leadership race, O’Toole touted himself to party members as a “true blue” alternative to frontrunner Peter MacKay, who was perceived to be more moderate than any other candidate.

When it came time to count the votes, O’Toole successfully siphoned enough second-place choices from social conservatives Derek Sloan and Leslyn Lewis to win in the final round of the ranked ballot.

Both Allison and his Conservative caucus colleague from Niagara Falls, MP Tony Baldinelli, supported Peter MacKay over O’Toole in the 2020 leadership contest.

Baldinelli, who was named O’Toole’s Shadow Minister for Manufacturing and Export Promotion last November, thanked the former leader for both his trust and service.

“Being the leader of any political party is an extremely challenging job, which takes full attention and tremendous sacrifice. I want to thank Erin O’Toole and his family for their efforts and sacrifices leading our party over the past 18 months,” said Baldinelli in a statement.

“I am personally grateful for the opportunities Erin provided me to serve in the Conservative Shadow Cabinet. I look forward to continuing to meet with stakeholders in the

MP Dean Allison speaks to a constituent in 2017.

VOICE FILE

areas of tourism recovery, manufacturing, export promotion, and more.”

When asked whether he voted for or against the removal of O’Toole, the Niagara Falls MP’s office said that “MP Baldinelli does not comment on internal caucus matters,” but that he is confident the party will remain “united” moving forward.

With the departure of O’Toole, the Conservatives will have to conduct their third leadership contest since Stephen Harper stepped down in 2015.

Some early frontrunners to replace O’Toole include finance critic Pierre Poilievre, former leadership candidates Peter MacKay and Leslyn Lewis, popular MP from out west Michelle Rempel, and former leader of the Ontario PC Party and current Mayor of Brampton Patrick Brown.

While Allison said he doesn’t think his former endorsement in MacKay will return for another kick at the can, the Niagara West MP said many appear enthusiastic about the prospect of Poilievre running.

“I think he’s the best communicator we have,” said Allison. “I definitely hear his name come up a lot when people call my office.”

Given the uncertainty of a minority government, the Conservatives are eager to fill the void at the top as soon as possible, with a leadership race likely to take place before the fall.

Manitoba MP Candice Bergen will headup the party as interim leader until a permanent replacement for O’Toole is selected.

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The Voice

Page 11

A February 9 2022

Hirji: Booster shots critical to preventing another Covid wave Omicron variant BA.1 accounts for 99 percent of Niagara infections

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor Omicron is king, and not in a benevolent dictator way.

The BBC reports that according to the World Health Organization (WHO) nearly 99 percent of viral coronavirus DNA submitted to the Global Science Initiative (GISAID) database as of the end of January were identified as the Omicron sub-variant. Niagara’s Acting Chief Medical Officer of Health, Mustafa Hirji, told the Voice that this also holds true in Niagara, where Omicron BA.1 has supplanted Delta as the overwhelmingly dominant strain.

A recent article on the National Geographic website described a variant of the original BA.1 Omicron virus, BA.2, gaining traction in 57 countries. The WHO does not yet consider BA.2 to be a distinct “variant of concern,” but is continuing to monitor its spread. BA.2 is now the dominant variant in Denmark, and has significantly appeared in parts of India and the Philippines, as well as in England and the United States.

BA.2 has been dubbed a “stealth” variant by some researchers, since it is missing key mutations in its spike protein that are necessary for identification using rapid antigen and PCR tests to distinguish it from previous strains of the coronavirus.

Medical authorities are uncertain at this stage whether BA.2 is more transmissable or severe than BA.1, or is better able to evade the effects of vaccines.

Hirji said that data on BA.2 is incomplete, and that it would be premature to say that it is more dangerous than BA.1, or that it spreads more easily.

“In Canada, we identified the BA.2 variant six weeks ago, and were actually one of the first countries in the world to do so,” said Hirji. “If BA.2 was truly more easily transmittable, you'd expect it to find it everywhere, so that's a little bit of a confusing element.”

Vaccines currently in use were not specifically designed to combat the Omicron viral profile, said Hirji.

“They were meant to protect against a variant that was going around back in 2020,” he said. “Since then, we’ve had the Alpha variant take over, then Delta, and now Omicron.

We have observed that the vaccine has not been as effective on the subsequent variants, but nonetheless, they still provide an overflow effect. We need that booster dose to have really good protection. Initially, after two doses, you do get good protection, but it doesn't last, so you need that booster dose after a few months.”

Both Pfizer and Moderna are working on vaccines which specifically target the Omicron variant.

Hirji said that Pfizer is in the process of developing a new Covid-19 vaccine formulated for children between the ages of six months and four years. An update on the vaccine’s testing results is expected mid February. In the meantime, Hirji would like to see more Niagara children ages five to 11 receive vaccinations, since fewer than 50 percent of children in that age group have currently had even a first dose.

As far as pandemic restrictions in Niagara are concerned, Hirji said that local protocols are essentially in keeping with those being directed across the province.

“We're pretty much the norm,” he said. “There's not re-

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Is the rustling of a Bermuda palm one of the wonders of sound?

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor Fabulous Fenwick Lions President Jeff Pickup was disappointed that the club’s annual Groundhog Day celebration was cancelled for a second straight year, due to Covid concerns. But with no crowd present, Fenwick Flossie still made an appearance, and seeing no shadow, decreed that an early spring was on its way.

“In past years, we had upwards of 300 elementary school children bused in for the event,” said Pickup.

“They would start calling Flossie’s name in unison, and she would peek out from behind a burrow we made from branches, and would do a little dance while looking for her shadow. Afterwards, the kids were treated to hot chocolate and snacks, and a colouring contest.”

Money earmarked for the kids’ treats was donated this year to the local branch of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).

The Groundhog Day tradition has its roots in medieval times. As legend has it, should the rodent not see its shadow due to overcast skies, an early spring beckons. If bright sun-

shine produces a shadow, somewhat counter-intuitively, winter must be endured for six more weeks.

From a scientific perspective, winter will officially come to an end on the equinox of March 20, regardless of what our local woodchuck weather prognosticator has predicted.

Flossie is a non-gender mascot, given life by an octogenarian Lion’s club member who has suited up for the role each year for nearly three decades. The club prefers to not release the person’s identity to protect the mystery of who is channelling the woodchuck spirit.

Fenwick Flossie’s claim that spring is just around the corner was shared by one of Canada’s iconic marmots, but another had an opposing view.

Nova Scotia’s Shubenacadie Sam is predicting more cold winter weather ahead, while Wiarton Willie agrees with Flossie and has pointed to an early spring. Meanwhile, south of the border, Pennsylvania-based Punxsutawney Phil agrees with Sam, signifying winter will have to be endured for another month and a half.

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The Voice

A February 9 2022

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FAITH LIFT

continued from Page 15 ed in Scripture will not save you from your sins. However, believing in your heart and committing your life to Him in genuine repentance, trust and obedience can.

Another powerful illustration

The natural power of the Falls never fails to evoke awe and wonder. The Canadian Horseshoe Falls is 670 metres wide and the American Falls is 275 metres wide. Both are 57 metres high. Together, the water flow is 3,160 tons per second.

But all that power was lost until 1896, when Nikola Tesla invented alternating current which could transmit electrical power over great distances. The water was diverted above the Falls through channels to generating stations below the Falls. While this dropped the water depth go-

ing over the Falls from 3 metres to only .6 metres, it produced 4.4 million kilowatts of power.

That’s enough to light 24 million (100-watt) lightbulbs!

It’s the same with God, who has unlimited power to create wonders like the Falls, the whole earth, and even the universe. But all that power can’t help us if we’re not connected to Him. We can connect to God when we put our trust in Him as Savior and commit our lives to Him as Lord.

Then His spiritual power can begin flowing into us to transform our lives and our characters. That power can also flow through us to bring help and blessing to others.

Yes, Niagara has a lot of power— power to inspire, to awe, and to light and warm our homes. It can also help us understand the One whose power to create, to love and to save is far greater still. ◆ Rob Weatherby is a retired pastor.

BALANCED LIFE

continued from Page 14 If you’re comfortable with some light traffic like on our rural roads, the hybrid will still work, but a road bike with drop handlebars and narrower tires will be lighter and more efficient.

Either of the above will work for commuting.

If it’s rougher trails, a mountain bike is in order. This bike would work great on the nonpaved sections of the Steve Bauer Trail, Short Hills’ multipurpose trails, and the mountain bike loops many of our provincial parks are now incorporating as amenities.

Once you’ve ridden for a while and become immersed in cycling, you’ll better understand what is available, which facet of cycling you enjoy most or want to try next, and you’ll meet other riders

who may share their experience and guide you.

Your bike choice may be predicated to a degree by who you enjoy riding with, as there is some tribalism in cycling. For every rider that wants to experience all facets of cycling, there are those that are exclusively roadies, mountain bikers or commuters.

This social component could play into your second bike purchase, in which you’ll attempt to match your equipment with theirs to maximize the shared experience.

That brings us back to why you’ll need three bikes. The third bike will be the one that allows you to enjoy more than just one facet of cycling with more than one group of friends.

This year, as in 2021, the price of bikes is predicted to increase.

Although used bicycle prices are higher too, this option may help significantly to reduce the cost

of entry. Beginning with a good used bike can reduce initial costs, and you can expect to sell it easily when it’s time to switch. Some dealers are beginning to take trade-ins, and many are selling reconditioned used bikes too.

If you’re nervous about buying a used bike privately, purchase new with the knowledge that you should be able to sell it in the future for a good price as well.

Would you ask a golfer to play with an incomplete set of irons, wedges, drivers and putters? Of course not. So how many bikes do you need?

When I asked a cycling friend which of his many bikes he liked best, he responded, “I don’t have a favourite. Each bike has a different purpose, and is designed to make that type of riding as much fun as possible. I love them all.”

That is a person with the exact correct number of bikes. ◆

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A February 9 2022

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ally any major differences. Most of the rules are set by the province at this point.”

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, which identifies the presence of a virus, has declined in Ontario, and Hirji sees an opportunity to now increase the testing in a targeted fashion. The PCR is much more accurate than the than the rapid antigen test.

He said increased testing in schools should be a priority, to help prevent the spread of the virus and keep schools open.

Efforts to increase access to testing may face challenges, however, due to hospital and assessment centre staff shortages. Hirji said PCR tests that can be done at home and subsequently sent to a laboratory might offer the best alternative. He characterized the current level of COVID-19 hospitalizations in Niagara as “relatively high, but not overwhelming.”

Hirji was pleased to see that a significant majority of Niagara seniors have had three jabs.

“That's really excellent,” he said. “Seniors are our highest-risk group, but everyone is at potential risk of having severe outcomes.

Remember that even if you are considered to be in a low-risk group, should you contract Covid19, you can pass it on to someone who's higher risk…and we don't want that.”

Looking ahead, as Ontario softens its social restrictions and allows businesses and

OTTAWAY

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The Voice

A February 9 2022

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

THE BALANCED LIFE

by John Swart

Are three bikes required to call yourself a cyclist?

Y

ou may question, as you drink deeply from your hot chocolate, scotch, or beer, after shovelling or blowing snow for the umpteenth time in the last few weeks, why is he writing, in February, about what the correct number of bikes to own is?

Because I too just shovelled for two hours and would really like to think about something other than snow.

Because the bicycle market is still wrestling with inventory levels, and purchasing or ordering now will help you get the bike you’re after.

Because your friends are all buying new gravel bikes and you’re struggling to justify getting one too.

Because your New Year’s resolution (fitness, weight loss, reducing carbon emissions, etc.) caused you to venture into a bicycle store for the first time in years, and when the sales rep asked, “What type of bike do you want?” you didn’t understand the question.

The answer to how many bikes you need is different for each of us. Is there a universal standard for how many pairs of shoes a woman needs (FashMash, a UK designer network, says 27), or how many connect-

ed electronic devices a guy must own (Statista Canada says ten)?

Let’s forget the stereotypical racers and hoarders, cyclists who firmly believe their self-worth as human beings depends on the price and number of bikes they own—the N+1 cyclist.

“N” represents the number of bikes they have at any specific time. The +1 is self-explanatory. This cyclist perpetually craves one more bike than they have at present. There is no true joy in this acquisitiveness.

Believe me, I know. Been there, done that, and am happy to report that I’m now bike-sober and reformed with just eight bicycles.

A friend popped over last week to discuss bike tires, and check out the various types of tires on my different bicycles. He’d just

purchased a new endurance bike that could be made suitable for gravel riding by installing different tires, and he wanted to see his options. The tire selection in my basement was larger than his dealer’s.

He mentioned that his wife was having some difficulty understanding why he would need a new bike in January when he already had a fat-tire bike, a mountain bike, and a road bike.

He rides the fatty in winter on snow-covered trails and the frozen Welland River. His mountain bike is for true three-season offroad riding, and the road bike is for speed, distance and group rides. The gravel-specific bike would help round out his stable.

He had mercilessly performed an S-1 formula calculation before purchasing the new bike, and I sensed

a bit of guilt. “S” stands for separation, -1 is self-evident. S-1 is the matrimonial sweet spot just below the threshold where buying a single additional bike will trigger divorce.

To get into cycling, you’ll need three bikes. Compare a carpenter or engineer having the right tool for a job, a runner the correct shoes for varying terrains, or an artist the perfect brush to create specific effects.

Whether you’re buying your first bicycle, kayak, golf clubs or snowboard, realize it’s the second one you’ll get right, so don’t stress too much over your first choice.

The bike store salesperson asked the correct question, sort of. “What kind of bike do you want?” could be better rephrased to, “How do you see yourself using the bike?”

Do you envision riding primarily for exercise, maybe an hour at a time?

Are you comfortable on roads, or will you spend more time on bike trails?

Do you see yourself ascending and descending the single track of Short Hills or other natural terrain?

Will you use your bike for commuting, or will it provide escape to unique travel destinations?

Answer the above questions as best as you can, then go for the bike you believe will most likely be able to provide the experience you’re after.

Exercise and trails? A hybrid bike, one with flat handlebars for comfort and medium-width tires to handle hard-packed or paved trails will work.

See BALANCED LIFE Page 13

V oice HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, you may be feeling romantic lately, but there will be little time to act upon it. Bide your time for a week or two until you can spend time with a special someone.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, craft an eclectic guest list for an upcoming party you’re hosting. The more points of view you can hear, the more engaging the event will be.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, a loved one needs you and you’re the right person for the job. Find a way you can lend a hand. Your efforts won’t go unnoticed and pitching in will prove its own reward.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you may need to tighten the purse strings in the days ahead. Limit purchases only to the necessities for the next few weeks until you feel more secure.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, bring people together is your specialty. Put your talents to use and encourage friends and family to get together for some fun. The party will be welcomed by all.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Someone in your life could be at a crossroads, Virgo. Lend an open ear if he or she needs to talk. Your support will be well-received and recriprocated when the time comes.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, your talents will be in high demand in the days and weeks ahead. Take things one task at a time and embrace the responsibility and trust.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, you usually are outgoing, but this week you may feel shy and reserved. Stick closer to home if you’re not feeling the social scene right now.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, now is the time to spread a little good cheer. Let others know how much you care and encourage them to do the same. This will have a positive effect on everyone’s mood.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Activities that have you working in a group go as planned, Capricorn. Your willingness to work with others and set a good example is highly valued.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, a brief separation from someone special in your life has you feeling melancholy.

Surround yourself with friends to brighten your mood as much as possible.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Treat yourself to a meal at a favorite restaurant or go on a little retail therapy spree. You deserve a little pampering.

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www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

Page 15

A February 9 2022

ANSWERS ON PAGE 14

FAITH LIFT

by Pastor Rob Weatherby

The power of Niagara

W

hen I was abroad doing mission work, people would ask me where I was from in Canada.

If I replied “Welland,” I would get a blank stare. So I usually would say, “A few kilometres from Niagara Falls.” Most faces would immediately light up with not only recognition but a response like, “Really! I’d loved to visit there someday.

I’ve seen the beautiful pictures!”

Some fun facts

I recently read a booklet called, “The Niagara Falls Question & Answer Book,”

by George Bailey.

Even though I grew up here and have been to the Falls numerous times, I learned a lot. For example, did you know that…

While about 50 other waterfalls in the world are higher, few have both the combined height and water volume of Niagara.

The name comes from an Iroquois word meaning “the strait.”

The water flow over both the Canadian and American Falls has stopped only once, back in 1848, when an upriver ice jam blocked the Niagara River for 30 hours.

The first European to write about and sketch the Falls was Father Louis Hennepin, in 1678.

Famed English author Charles Dickens visited the Falls in 1842, calling it “an Image of Beauty.”

He enthused that he “felt how near my Creator I was standing, the first effect… of the tremendous spectacle was Peace… great thoughts of Eternal Rest and Happiness.”

Fifteen people have intentionally gone over the Falls in some kind of device (five of them perished).

Seven-year-old Roger Woodward went over the Falls by accident in 1960 when the boat he was in above the Falls capsized.

Wearing a life-jacket, he missed the rocks and was rescued by a “Maid of the Mist” tourist boat.

My favorite story

In 1859, a French tightrope walker named Francois Gravelet (known professionally as Blondin) was the first to attempt crossing the Niagara Gorge. He succeeded first with a balancing pole and then (more ambitiously) pushing a small cook stove across the wire and lowering it to a tourist boat below.

Finally, he crossed the gorge carrying his manager on his back!

The story goes that he then asked the cheering crowd if they believed he could do it again. They all shouted back, “Yes, we believe you can!” He then asked for volunteers. You guessed it—no one came forward.

I used to tell that story overseas to illustrate the difference between intellectual belief and saving faith.

Believing in your mind (and giving verbal assent) that Jesus existed and even said and did the things recordSee FAITH LIFT Page 12

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: Time to Bake!

Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwards.

AUTOLYSE BAR BATTER BLEND BREAD BUTTERCREAM

CAKE COMBINE COOKIE CREAM CUT DOUGH

DRIZZLE FLOUR FOLD FONDANT GANACHE GLUTEN

ICING KNEAD PASTRIES PROOF RADIANT YEAST

Voice

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Page 16

The Voice

A February 9 2022

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

COLUMN SIX

Voice

continued from Page 1 tremists. This is domestic terrorism. Terrorism is defined as “the unlawful use of violence or threats to intimidate or coerce a civilian population or government, with the goal of furthering political, social, or ideological objectives.”

I am afraid to go downtown because of the potential violence. I do not believe this fear is unfounded.

I had to go downtown on Friday, January 28, in the afternoon. The convoy was just starting to arrive. I was not able to drive downtown because of the convoy so I took the LRT. I arrived safely and made it to my appointment. As I walked back to the LRT station to go home, I saw many pickup trucks driving around flying “F*ck Trudeau” flags and a few flying Confederate flags. I was not afraid at that time, but I was perplexed by the Confederate flags. The Confederate flag is American and is often used by alt-right extremists and white supremacists. I thought, “Why are they flying this flag?

What does it have to do with a Canadian protest about cross-border vaccine mandates?”

Things escalated from there.

A friend was supposed to come to over to dinner on Saturday evening.

(I live east of downtown now and things are quiet here.) My

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Hearty Valentine's Tuscan Soup

A Canadian truck convoy supporter includes an American flag on her poster. friend lives downtown, in the heart of the convoy. He went out in the afternoon to pick up some wine. On his way home, he was stopped by a group of “protesters,” yelled at because he was wearing a mask, had his mask pulled off, and was pushed to the ground. He made it home and is physically okay but he’s scared to leave his apartment now.

He is being held hostage because these “protesters” are violent.

He is not comfortable walking to the LRT, he cannot use his car because the streets are blocked, he can’t take an Uber or taxi because they can’t get to his place. He

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is trapped inside his apartment.

He can’t sleep because the trucks are blaring their horns at all hours. Sleep deprivation and sound torture for six days now is not part of a peaceful protest.

Other friends that also live downtown have posted pictures of “protesters” parked on the war memorial, swastika flags being flown outside parliament.

Urine on the War Memorial and the National Aboriginal Veterans Memorial. A Trump 2024 flag proudly displayed in front of Parliament Hill.

My understanding is the swastika flag was used by Nazi Germany and they were not known for upholding people’s rights and freedoms.

Why are the “protesters” flying this flag? How is urinating on the War Memorial supporting Canadian’s rights and freedoms?

This “protest” has provided a forum for every hate-filled cause to have a stage. This is far from a protest against a truckers vaccine mandate.

How long will the city of Ottawa be held hostage?

EDGAR BULLON

I am reminded of a protest held about 14 months ago by aboriginal and black advocates and their allies that had peacefully blocked one intersection downtown. The police dispersed the protesters and arrested 12 people, charging them with mischief. The statement released by Ottawa police at that time stated, “the demonstration had disrupted traffic and blocked an important route for emergency responders, causing multiple safety issues.”

The Ottawa police chief released a statement a few days ago calling the police response to the current demonstration a success. I wonder what the police response to this demonstration would have been if the protesters were not primarily white men?

This is not the Canada that I know. The police are pandering to a group of terrorists. I don’t think the majority of Canadians believe the way to effect change to the government is through violence and intimidation— regardless of their stance on the vaccine and vaccine mandates. ◆

Treating that special someone in your life to a delicious meal can be done any time of the year, but is especially poignant and romantic on Valentine’s Day. Even though plenty of people may be tempted to dish up gourmet fare, comfort foods can be equally appealing, especially on a cold February day.

Soup can be both filling, tasty and customized with individuals’ favorite flavors.

Italian seasonings and ingredients are on display in this recipe for “Hearty Tuscan Soup” from “Season’s Best: Fast, Fun & Fabulous” by The Pampered Chef™ Test Kitchens.

Try it for a satisfying Valentine’s meal for two or more.

Hearty Tuscan Soup Serves 8 2 1 8 1 1 4 4 1 1 1⁄2 1 16 3

15-ounce cans reduced-sodium pinto beans tablespoon olive oil ounces Italian turkey sausage (about 2 links), casings removed large onion medium sweet potato, peeled garlic cloves cups unsalted chicken stock or chicken broth 14.5-ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained tablespoon Pampered Chef™ Rosemary Herb Seasoning Mix teaspoon black pepper package fresh baby spinach leaves, washed and dried Melba toast rounds tablespoons shredded Italian cheese blend

1. Drain and rinse pinto beans in a small colander. Transfer half of the beans to a food processor; process until almost smooth. Set aside both whole and mashed beans.

2. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat 3 to 5 minutes or until shimmering. Cook sausage 4 to 6 minutes or until no longer pink, breaking into crumbles.

3. Wedge onion, then chop. Cut sweet potato into chunks, then coarsely chop. Add onion, sweet potato and garlic to Dutch oven; cook and stir 5 to 6 minutes or until onion is softened.

4. Stir all beans, chicken stock, tomatoes, seasoning mix, and pepper into Dutch oven. Cover; bring to a boil over high heat.

Reduce heat to medium; simmer, covered, 10 minutes.

5. Preheat broiler. Remove Dutch oven from heat; add spinach. Cover; let stand 2 to 3 minutes or until spinach is wilted. Top soup with Melba rounds; sprinkle with cheese.

6. Place Dutch oven 2 to 4 inches from heating element.

Broil 2 to 4 minutes or until toast rounds and cheese are lightly browned. Ladle soup into bowls. Enjoy with your sweetheart!

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