The Voice, January 13 2021

Soos "emergency" push gets thumbs up

page 9

Potential 10-story building in Fonthill

page 11

Ornament success page 14

The Voice Z

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Pelham Council says no to trail roads

Column Six

An alien pregnancy The tell-tale bulge of doom

BY DAVE BURKET The Voice

A

THE MAN HIMSELF Steve Bauer, on the trail named for him in Fonthill. Interview, p. 3.

BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent Pelham Councillor John Wink presented a motion to Pelham Town council on Monday evening, which served as a roadblock to developer Sterling Realty (Niagara) Limited’s plans for trail crossings in the Kunda Park and Forest Park subdivisions in Fonthill.

Wink’s resolution sought to deny roadway crossings of the Steve Bauer Trail, as well as the Gerry Berkhout Trail, in Fenwick, and endorsed the pres-

Easy win for motion tabled by John Wink ervation of the natural state of the two trails as they currently exist.

“My concerns are the safety of trail users and the removal of trees surrounding the trail,” Wink told The Voice. “I met with members of the Pelham Tree Conservation Society prior to Christmas, and

DON RICKERS

found that their concerns aligned with my own.”

The Pelham Tree Conservation Society, led by founder Mike Jones, has collected some 4200 names on an online petition supporting Wink’s motion.

“The petition with thousands of names had little to do with my opinion, as the majority of the names on the list appear to be from outside of Pelham,” said Wink. “To be clear, I am not opposed to urban development. I am concerned about the See MOTION Page 14

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

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Pelham Funeral Home wants to ensure your safety.

If you are not comfortable with coming in the we gladly offer all arrangements funeralfuneral so theyhome, won’t have to. to be done by phone and email.

Save your family the burden.

Plan your own Call today and ask how we can help.

As always we are here for you should you need us.

Tina Tina and Staff

s a metaphor for the year just ended, it was a little too on the nose.

One Sunday morning a few weeks back we awoke to discover that the ferocious winds slamming Niagara that weekend had apparently carried into our happy home a demon seed, the fruit of which gestated to maturity overnight, the alien threatening to burst into our lives with who knew what consequences.

I refer you to the photo below, taken mid-cesarean.

Say what you may about the unpredictably standoffish staff at that Home Hardware down the way, they do mix a fine gallon of interior latex.

A tiny hole had formed at the bottom of what we’ll call the egg sac— just to prolong the metaphor for another sentence or two—and it was this that had clued us in to the creature’s presence. Unlike the shrieking and stomping that alerted Sigourney Weaver to her enemy (in pursuit of which, for some reason, she kept losing clothing), our demon’s signature sound was an irreguSee COLUMN SIX back page

Page 2

The Voice

A January 13, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

NRPS impaired driving charges ~

PUBLISHER’S CORNER

by Dave Burket

A new year and a new look

W

ith this issue, The Voice enters its 25th year of publication. Not bad for a little paper created by 50 community members who pitched in $1000 each to get it off the ground. For its birthday, we’ve gotten it a makeover.

By this point, you will have already noticed a major change in the design—gone is page one's red banner and previous typeface—and the more eagle-eyed may have caught some other changes as well, namely new typefaces for headlines, subheads, pull-quotes...pretty much everything.

As befits our quarter-century mark, we’ve aimed for a more classic, traditional look. You may also have noticed the stylized barn in the centre of the masthead (the “flag” in the trade). We considered other options, including the Comfort Maple, or Pelham’s coat of arms.

However, as The Voice has grown—particularly over the last five years—so has its reach. For awhile now we’ve had limited circulation in Welland, Wainfleet, Thorold, and Lincoln, with a sliver of business in St. Catharines. We have postal subscribers across Niagara and into the GTA. So limiting the masthead symbol to something Pelham-specific wasn’t in the cards.

The barn, of course, is more aspirational than it is reflective. That is, the rural dominance of Niagara is largely history, but it is a cherished history, and the scenic pockets and working farms that remain continue to draw newcomers looking for respite from urban sprawl.

(Irony alert: Sprawl refugees are creating sprawl. See this week’s letters to the editor, the cover story, and the story on p.11.)

The newspaper’s reach through our website, of course, is not limited by geography at all. We currently print 7000 physical copies each week and usually see a minimum of that number of website

Voice

line, Stars on houses: What’s up. It has steadily increased in readership over the subsequent years. On a slow day, sometimes it’s the most read story on our website. The total number of views as of Monday was—prepare yourself—27,685.

The story is about barn stars, those five-pointed, decorative stars that many homeowners, especially in rural and suburban areas, mount on the front of their homes. One day I asked our staff writer at the time, “Hey, what’s up with all these stars on houses, anyway?” so he went out and answered the question, which was basically that while no one really knows, they are associated with the Amish and have been around since early colonial times.

So why are nearly 30,000 readers so interested in Amish decorations? Hold on.

Google Analytics is a free service that provides reams of data to website administrators, including the general locations of site visitors—town and city names.

Last year I got into the habit of watching where the barn star story readers were located. The data is shown in real time, on a map of North America. Whenever someone clicks on the story, a circle suddenly appears, like a nuke strike on a Pentagon war room display.

Well, it turned out that readers consistently lived what some wag in the 1970s coined “flyover country”—that vast middle part of the US between New York and California. At I write these words, here’s who’s looking at the barn star story right this minute: Beaufort, Booneville, Eaton Rapids, Flint Township, Luray, Ogdensburg, South Laurel, Tecumseh, and 12 more similar locales.

I’m delighted to report that over the holiday break we finally learned why tens of thousands of Americans are so keen to read about rural Ontario barn stars. Pre-

visitors as well—oftentimes many more.

In fact, on April 23, 2020, our website broke, when 86,363 visitors across Ontario, Canada, and the US all wanted to read the same story more or less at once. It was about a Pelham Town councillor, confirmed positive with COVID-19, who had previously continued to attend council and go to work in his grocery store while exhibiting symptoms—to the distress of municipal staff and store employees— and who may or may not have infected a fellow councillor with the virus, who later died (whether entirely, partly, or not at all due to COVID has never been stated).

Our website host was able to move us to a dedicated server that evening, and we were back in action around midnight.

This initial Ron Kore story has garnered 131,000 views to date. Moreover, 11 of the 25 most viewed stories in 2020 were related to Kore-COVID coverage, for a total of 228,000 views. No other reporting came close.

The second most viewed single story was the news of Councillor Mike Ciolfi’s passing, at 61,000 views. Four of the top 25 stories related to Fenwick resident Earl Clapp’s murder. Where’s the good news, you ask, and that’s a good question. There were three stories in the top 25 that you could generally say were positive.

One was in July, about the Town of Pelham being the first in Niagara to file a provincially required 2019 financial statement. That earned 5400 pairs of eyeballs. Another came just on Boxing Day—a first-person reminiscence about growing up inside one of Canada’s early nudist resorts, Sun Valley Gardens, then located in Pelham, which has so far drawn 5300 readers (the story will run in print later this month).

The third positive story, and by far the most puzzling for its attraction, was a piece that we published way back in the Before Times, in 2018, under the head-

航 搜索

on vacation!

What's That

SIREN Pelham Fire Department Weekly Calls

The Pelham Fire Department responded to 20 calls for service from Dec. 18 to Jan. 8.

Friday, Dec. 18 Motor Vehicle accident Hwy 20, Fenwick Saturday, Dec. 19 Detector activation, Port Robinson Rd., Fonthill Structure fire, Homestead Blvd., Fonthill Medical assistance, Fonthill Sunday, Dec. 20 Carbon monoxide, Stella St., Fonthill Monday, Dec. 21 Remote alarm, Elcho Rd., Fenwick Remote alarm, Haist St., Fonthill Medical assistance, Fonthill Tuesday, Dec. 22 Detector activation, Sandra Dr., Fenwick Wednesday, Dec. 23 Structure fire, Valley View, Fenwick, Fonthill Thursday, Dec. 24 Remote alarm, Pelham St., Fonthill, Fenwick, Short Hills

See FIRE CALLS Page 16

See CORNER Page 17

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Call Pam Overholt for exceptional travel values

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

The

Congratulations

Stella

Derby Dougan rests his handsome head on a familiar sight—a photo of his own home, the brightly bedecked Christmas house on Haist Street!

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.

Allan C. HANSEN, 41, Fort Erie Glenn E. MYREE, 48, Niagara Falls NY Ashley N. MACMEEKIN, 31, Welland William R. HIPKISS, 53, St. Catharines James D. MCGREEGHAN, 39, Niagara Falls Marco R. LACROIX, 51, St. Catharines Andrew R. HINCHCLIFFE, 25, St. Catharines

See something, Say something.

The science is clear.

Masks save lives.

Social distancing saves lives.

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.

Don't allow personal misconduct to endanger public safety.

Indulgence Bakery Mossimo’s Pelham Street Grille Peter Piper’s Pubhouse DeVries Fruit Farm Beamer’s Hardware Pelham Libraries Bob’s Boys Antiques PharmaChoice Pharmacy Fonthill Fitness Fenwick Pie Company McDonald’s Duffin Appleworks Fonthill Legion Semenuk’s Gas Bar Shoppers Drug Mart Tim Horton’s Giant Tiger Fonthill LCBO Zee Lube Express Care Food Basics Minor Bros Stores Avondale Stores A-1 Market Boggio's IDA Sobeys South Pelham Grill on Canboro Shell on Hwy 20 Circle-K Type your pithy letter to the Voice right

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The Voice

Page 3

A January 13, 2021

Steve Bauer hopes for happy trails in 2021 Former Olympic cyclist adds his name to petition opposing Kunda Park developer plans

This recreational trail is special to a lot of people...it's something that should be preserved

BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent He lives in St. Catharines, but Steve Bauer is emphatic that his heart is still in Pelham.

“It’s all quite nostalgic,” said the 61-year-old, casting a glance over his shoulder at the playing fields of Glynn A. Green Public School.

“I went to elementary school there, and attended E. L. Crossley and Pelham High. My parents still live in Fenwick.”

Bauer retired from competitive cycling in 1996, and has been inducted into both the Canadian Olympic Sport Hall of Fame and the Canadian Sport Hall of Fame.

His many accomplishments include a silver medal in the 1984 Olympic road race (the first-ever medal for a Canadian in the event), and 11 appearances at the historic Tour de France, where he earned 14 yellow jerseys and a

fourth-place overall in 1988.

Close to 25 years have gone by since the trail was named in Bauer’s honour, and he is clearly thrilled to see the foot traffic on a slushy Saturday afternoon.

“I’ve been here less than half an hour, and already a hundred people have gone past,” he said.

Some are walking their dogs, others pushing baby carriages.

“You just hope it stands the test of time.”

Bauer was happy to see the resurfacing of the trail last summer, making it more user-friendly. But the current plans being discussed as part of the Kunda Park/Forest Park development have him shaking his head.

“This unobstructed corridor is a natural habitat, and to cross it with roadways, and vehicle

Steve Bauer—the man and the trail. traffic, just kind of destroys the whole concept of its priority use by pedestrians,” said Bauer. “This

MIKE JONES

recreational trail is special to a lot of people…it’s something that should be preserved.”

The Pelham Tree Conservation Society, with local resident Mike Jones leading the charge, is lobbying hard to overturn the developer’s plans for the trail’s disturbance, and has circulated a petition which has attracted some 3300 signatures thus far.

Bauer and his wife, Josee Larocque, have both signed the petition, and Bauer vows to send letters to the Mayor, town councillors, and the developer in an effort to “voice my views, which are supported by a lot of people.

Hopefully, we can adjust the developer's plans. If there's a will, there's a way.”

every year. stroys thousands of lives deaths in Canada and deleading cause of criminal Impaired driving is still the ment programs like RIDE. offenders through enforceand the apprehension of offences through education reducing impaired driving lice Service is committed to The Niagara Regional Po-

Pelham David M. GEORGIEV, 36, St. Catharines Andrew DEGRAVE, 22, Welland Allan G. HIPPSLEY, 32, Niagara Falls Michael P. VANHELVERT, 33, Lincoln Richard W. PARRY, 48, Orchard Park NY Jamie HIDALGO, 39, Oakville Justin D. GODDERIS, 33, blood sample. refusing to provide a breath / alcohol in 100 ml of blood, or centration above 80 mgs of with a blood alcohol conby alcohol or drugs, driving nally with impaired driving have been charged crimiThe following individuals vention of the suspension. who are driving in contraStoppers to report those fic Safety Hotline or Crime gional Police Service Trafto contact the Niagara ReThe public is encouraged motor vehicle on a roadway. prohibited from operating a cense Suspension and are Administrative Driver’s Litry of Transportation 90-Day areNow alsothat’s bound by a Miniscruising, charged, Club these individuals Azamara Cruises Book now before this disappears.

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Page 4

The Voice

A January 13, 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

COMMENTARY / OP-ED Larry Coté

Concentrate on the "Care" in LTC

I

t is difficult to pin down who it is to blame for this alarming mistreatment of the most vulnerable among us — our seniors in long term care (LTC) facilities. So much has been written about this atrocious situation and so little appears to have been done to ameliorate this dreadful state of affairs. It is not only our current leadership to blame for this infamous neglect. The matter has been on the back burner for longer than the current politicos’ terms of office.

Having entered the second wave of this frightening pandemic, might we expect more dreadful harm coming to these, the most vulnerable, in our midst? Reportedly, six out of ten Ontarians who died from the COVID virus were residents in long term care. What does that dreadful statistic say about our society? As a collective, we hesitate to ponder this question because we fear the answer. As Walt Kelly’s opossum Pogo forewarned, “We have seen the enemy and he is us.”

As a result of more attention and closer inspection, some appalling conditions have been uncovered. Upon taking over some overly

stressed LTCs, the military reported distressing mistreatment and troubling conditions.

The Ontario government set up an in-house commission to look at some of

As a result of more attention and closer inspection, some appalling conditions have been uncovered

the problematic issues and practices in long term care.

That commission called for more and better trained staff but did not openly substantiate other issues that affect the quality of care these residents deserve.

There is a fulsome range of questions to be asked at this critical juncture, while LTCs remain top-of-mind.

What has changed in LTC facilities and care practices since the first phase of this pandemic hit? Should

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Alcoholics Anonymous Find a Niagara meeting.

905-682-2140 Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) www.niagaratips.com Text 274637(CRIMES), keyword Niagara, then your tip

The Voice

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1428 Pelham Street, P.O. Box 1489, Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 Office open: Monday - Thursday 8 AM - 2 PM

(905) 892-8690

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

LTCs become part of Ontario’s healthcare system? Will wages paid the PSAs and other workers in this sector be more in line with their value? Should multiple resident rooms be eliminated to insure more healthy conditions and restore some personal dignity? How will the standard of four hours of care per resident be introduced —double the current norm of two hours? Such questions are just the tip of the iceberg that need be addressed.

Does the seriousness of this distressing lack of care for our seniors not demand more proactive programs to provide more care, security and comfort to our elderly?

Do we not owe them this?

Each one of us should become more actively involved and contact our political leadership and demand they take the necessary actions to correct this unacceptable neglect.

You need not be rude, but do not accept the often platitudinous responses many politicians bespeak, and demand more action, and less talk, about this matter of proper care for our elderly. The elders in your family

Letters Thanks to all for fabulous Fenwick event The Fabulous Fenwick Lions would like to say thank you to the people that participated in this year’s Reverse Santa Claus Parade, and to the Town of Pelham for helping to organize this unique event.

Most importantly we would like to give a huge thank you to the people of Pelham that came out to our parade and donated so generously. We collected an entire truck-full of food and $1300 cash for Pelham Cares!

The Lions and Lioness are always thrilled to make a positive difference in the lives of the people of Pelham. We wish you all a healthy and much happier 2021.

Lion Trevor Philbrick Fabulous Fenwick Lions

See LTC next page

7

CONTACT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS Member of Federal Parliament

Electoral District: Niagara West

Dean Allison, MP 4994 King Street Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 Dean.Allison@parl.gc.ca 877-563-7900 Member of Provincial Parliament

Electoral District: Niagara West

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

Gilberts Flowers

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

FLOWERS FOR ANY OCCASION We offer a large variety of fresh flowers and gifts.

Enjoy the convenience of safe and secure ordering online 24 hours a day.

Members of Pelham Town Council Ward 1 Councillor Marianne Stewart mstewart@pelham.ca 289-821-0840

754 Welland Rd, Fenwick www.gilbertsflowers.ca 905-892-2433

Councillor Wayne Olson wolson@pelham.ca 905-933 6033

Today's forgotten business stopped advertising yesterday

Ward 2 Councillor Ron Kore rkore@pelham.ca 905-933-3805 Councillor John Wink jwink@pelham.ca 905-892-4475 Ward 3 Councillor Lisa Haun lhaun@pelham.ca 905-892-5877 Councillor Bob Hildebrandt bhildebrandt@pelham.ca 905-892-5647

Jill C. Anthony Law Office

Have an Opinion?

BARRISTER, SOLICITOR & NOTARY LETTERS TO THE EDITOR are welcome. Letter submissions should contain the writer’s full name, address and telephone number. Names only will be published. Names may be withheld if compelling reasons are provided. The newspaper reserves the right to change, condense or reject any contribution for brevity, clarity or legal considerations. All material in this publication is protected by copyright. Reproduction is prohibited without express, written permission of the publisher. ADVERTISING: The Voice of Pelham regrets any errors or omissions that appear in advertisements in this newspaper, however, we will not be held responsible for more than one absent or incorrect insertion or for any damages beyond the cost of space containing the error. The Voice is an independent, locally owned and operated publication.

The Voice is a member of the National NewsMedia Council, a voluntary self-regulatory organization that deals with journalistic practices and ethics. If you have an unresolved complaint about news stories, opinion columns or photos, please visit their web site at mediacouncil.ca or call 1-844-877-1163. If you have a complaint about delivery or membership problems, please contact our office at (905) 892-8690. For a summary of Voice ethical guidelines, see www. thevoiceofpelham.ca/ethics

REAL ESTATE, PURCHASES, SALES & MORTGAGES, BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS & SALES, ESTATE ADMINISTRATION, WILLS & POWER OF ATTORNEY FONTHILL (Main Office)

10 Highway 20 E., P.O. Box 743, Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 T: 905-892-2621 • F: 905-892-1022

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JA

NIAGARA FALLS (Satellite Office)

Pio Plaza, 8685 Lundy’s Lane, Unit #2, Niagara Falls, ON L2H 1H5 T: 289-296-2629 • F: 289-296-0222

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NEW LOCATION

Well don't just sit there. Share it with The Voice! letters@ thevoiceofpelham.ca

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The Voice

Page 5

A January 13, 2021

OPINION Trail is an incentive to buy in Fonthill The Steve Bauer Trail is our town’s hidden gem. A place to refresh ourselves and clear our minds and enjoy nature. Oh, and I forgot! Get some much needed physical activity! If the proposed plans for it are approved it will be tarnished forever.

Two roadways cut through the heart of this trail will be devastating! Why must the

PELHAM AND COVID-19 Mayor Marvin Junkin

developers sacrifice this gem to connect subdivisions? Why can’t they make adjustments in their road plans? Don’t they and the Town realize our trail is an incentive to buy here? Please preserve our priceless gem!

Brenda Burger Fonthill

Please, sir, more Just one reader’s observation — from “an outsider” really—but from someone who has in the past spent time elsewhere covering municipal politics (city councils, township and county councils, rural boards, regional conservation authorities etc.).

It isn’t easy, I know, to find humour or “light” pieces in municipal politics — but you, in Pelham, have a gift that keeps on giving in Ron Kore. Truly, a journalist’s

dream. A perpetual Christmas gift. Guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face.

It’s hard enough having to deal with, and survive in, a global pandemic without having to wade through the numbing intricacies of regular council meeting reports.

Then, without warning, comedy presents itself.

More please, Mr. Kore.

Bill Eluchok Welland

We left Mississauga once, now we may do it again Our family moved to Fonthill from Mississauga almost 25 years ago and we immediately fell under the spell of Fonthill's small-town charm and atmosphere. We raised our kids, retired and had always planned to spend the rest of our lives here. However, the recent changes in town are reminding us more and

LTC

continued from previous page are, or soon will be, counting on you.

To begin, your active participation in correcting this wrongful situation starts by

more of the sprawling city we had left behind, causing us to seriously reconsider this last part of our plan.

It seems that in the rush to expand their tax base, Town planners have completely forgotten about the existing citizens, and Fonthill is slowly becoming yet another characterless suburb. Unfortunately, there is

no holistic approach to the urban planning in our town and based on the changes we’ve seen, neither the Region’s Woodland Bylaw or Land Care Niagara Species See SPRAWL next page

Vaccine arrival in Niagara expected this week

I

trust that everyone had a safe and enjoyable holiday season.

Thank goodness for the technology that allows us to see our loved ones in real time on our tech devices. Our oldest son is Down East, so we have experienced this fi rst hand.

Nothing replaces the hug of a loved one, but to see their smiles and facial expressions is the next best thing.

Good news for this new year is that several countries have begun the gigantic task of vaccinating their people. Britain, which was one of the fi rst countries to start the program, has now vaccinated over 1.1 million residents. They are hoping to reach 2 million people vaccinated a week, as they try to combat a new variant of the virus. Their number of new cases on a daily basis has reached 60,000, and if that number becomes the norm, their hospitals will be overwhelmed.

As of last Wednes-

day, Canada ranked tenth in the world in doses given per capita, with most healthcare Marvin Junkin officials saying that we must increase our numbers. As of last Wednesday, Canada has given a least one shot to more than 193,000 people. As of Friday morning, Ontario had administered 87,653 total doses, with 4,053 people having been given both shots.

Although no vaccine has arrived in Niagara yet, as of this writing Niagara Health is expecting the fi rst shipment to arrive locally sometime this week.

As in all other areas of the province, workers in long term care facilities, retirement homes, as well as essential caregivers will be given priority treatment, along with the residents in these facilities. Niaga-

ra Health will be running vaccination clinics from a temporary structure next to the Walker Family Cancer Centre at their St. Catharines site. Please visit the Niagara Health website for more up to date details: niagarahealth.on.ca Of course, with the continuance of the provincial lockdown the Town’s recreation centre remains closed to public use.

Thankfully the weather so far this winter has been very conducive to walking, with virtually no snow having fallen so far.

The one major snowfall that has occurred happened on Christmas Eve through to noon on Christmas day. Our roads department started clearing our streets at three o’clock Christmas morning, went home for a few hours of gift-opening around 8 AM, then were out again to fi nish the job. On behalf of all Pelham residents, here is a big thank you, guys. ◆

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Page 6

The Voice

A January 13, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Letters continued If province is under lockdown, why is deer hunt allowed to proceed The Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and parks intends to proceed with the Short Hills Deer Hunt on January 27, despite our provincial lockdown guidelines due to COVID. During past hunts, the Ministry has hosted up to 75 hunters per day.

They do not wear masks, there are multiple hunters in each truck, and there is no social distancing. The

SPRAWL

continued from previous page at Risk list have been consulted or considered.

Years ago, we watched with alarm how the Carolinian forest at Kunda Park was destroyed during the development. White and red trilliums, sassafras, pow-pow, tulip trees and the most beautiful specimens of endangered flowering dogwood were ripped out by bulldozers. All the while the empty field behind the forest was left intact.

I would like to strongly remind our planners and our Council about the Town of Pelham Community Vision: "The primary purpose of the Official Plan is to provide the basis for managing growth that will support and emphasize the Town's unique character, diversity, civic identity, rural lifestyle and heritage features and to do so in a way that has a positive impact on the quality of life and health for the citizens who live and work in Pelham. (...) The Town has a number of significant environmental

hunters themselves have recorded via video their hunts in Short Hills and their gathering in large groups within the park.

These hunters and the Ministry staff present for this hunt all come from outside of Niagara. All of Ontario is under a mandatory lockdown and yet these hunters and staff are allowed to enter this region with no ramifications, busi-

ness as usual. The NRP is also on site at park entrances and there has just been reports of an outbreak within the police service.

Zone Manager Greg Wilson has not provided information on how the Ministry intends to host this event and meet provincial guidelines. He states it will proceed with the same staffing and protocols as previous hunts prior to the lock-

down. This remark proves that there are no new rules and guidelines for the January hunt dates, even during a provincial lockdown.

There appears to be a different set of rules for government officials and a select group of hunters. This is a potentially huge COVID spreader as these folks from other regions interact personally with citizens of Niagara, and utilize food and bever-

age facilities during their trip.

Concerned citizens and lovers of this park are extremely concerned, not only for the hunt-related desecration of the park itself and the deer lives lost, but for the spread of this pandemic. Shouldn't a province-wide lockdown pertain to all Ontario citizens?

K. Masterson Thorold

and topographical features that contribute to the 'sense of place' felt by many of the Town's residents. These features include, the Niagara Escarpment, rivers and streams, smaller woodlots and wetland areas that support diverse wildlife and plant communities.

The protection of these attributes is a key underlying principle in this Official Plan."

The future Kunda Park Phase Four development does not provide any amenities for its inhabitants—there are no parkettes, playgrounds or other public greenspaces— even though Town of Pelham Parkland Dedication states that, "Council will require the dedication of 5 percent of the land within a residential Plan of Subdivision to be dedicated to the Town as parkland.”

Unless I missed something, I did not find any of those amenities in the recently built subdivisions, either. It is true that, according to Development Charge By-law 4023, cash-in-lieu of parkland dedication is permitted, but so far—after several completed developments— we have yet to see any substantial

parkland projects. Currently, the only plan for Kunda Park Phase Four is to cut down all the mature trees along Stella Street backyards, destroy more trees for the Station Street extension in the Forest Park subdivision, mutilate the freshly paved Steve Bauer Trail, and permanently destroy all wildlife corridors. The consequences of these actions will affect not only the wildlife, but will also negatively impact the quality of life for the Town’s existing and future residents.

Why don't we take a more curated approach to future developments? We could work with the existing natural landscape and use it as our asset, planning developments around the green spaces, instead of on top of them. Not only would this approach be environmentally responsible, it would also be beneficial economically.

As a recent example, you can ask the people in Kunda Park, whose houses were built on top of creek beds, about the water and sump pump issues they’ve dealt with from the beginning.

And let’s not forget the ongoing disaster of

the “Lake Augustyn” saga, which continues to cost taxpayers money.

Urban planning has a long and storied tradition in North America and the municipalities most remembered are those which maintained a healthy symbiotic relationship between nature and human intervention. Every great city in the world has a "Green Heart" (Central Park in New York, High Park in Toronto, etc.) and though I understand that we are just a small community, this balance should be even more important to us. As a small town, one poorly planned subdivision can have a much greater negative impact here than it would in a large city such as Toronto.

I do not expect to find another Frederick Law Olmsted in our midst, but we could, at the very least, use our unique geographical location and abundance of Carolinian forest species present in the area to our benefit. It doesn’t seem that we even appreciate how rare these are in our Canadian climate. Instead, we let the developers butcher mature forests with-

out paying any attention to the nesting seasons of declining bird populations. After the mayhem of construction is complete, they plant a bunch of small, scrawny trees along these new roads, which more often than not promptly get sick and/or die.

According to the 1934 aerial photographs from Niagara Navigator, the Kunda Park Phase Four subdivision is planned in an area which wasn't originally even farmed. In all likelihood the reason for this was the existing wetland, which is still full of standing water, even today. This will very likely cause major issues to the unsuspecting people who buy up these new homes. Instead of destroying a naturally occurring wetland for yet another development, why don't we create a passive nature park?

Citizens of Pelham voted our previous Council out to protect the town from the destruction of rampant development. Let's learn from the past and avoid making the same mistakes.

Magdalena Woszczyna Fonthill

Notice of Public Meeting

Monday, February 8, 2021 at 5:30 p.m.

File Name: Second Dwelling Units File Numbers: AM-04-2020 & OP-AM-01-2020

Town Council approved Public Hearings to be held remotely during an emergency via By-law No. 4231 (2020). The Town of Pelham will be livestreaming this Public Meeting at the following link: youtube.com/TownOfPelham/live Public Meeting for a Zoning By-law Amendment and Official Plan Amendment in accordance with Section 34 and 22 of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, as amended.

The Town has initiated amendments to the Official Plan and Zoning By-law to include policies and regulations with respect to second dwelling units within the Town. Changes to the Town’s Zoning By-law (1987) and Official Plan (2014) are to implement changes to the Planning Act made by Bill 108/Regulation 299 of the Province of Ontario (More Homes, More Choice Act, 2019), which was given Royal Assent on June 6, 2019. Changes to the Act require that the Town permit second dwelling units on a property containing a single detached, semidetached or street townhouse residential dwelling as well as permitting these units in an accessory building.

The proposed Amendments would apply throughout the Town of Pelham.

General Official Plan policies and Zoning By-law provisions that if approved would allow a Second Dwelling Unit to be permitted without the need for an Amendment to either the Official Plan or Zoning By-law.

We encourage you to visit our website for further information and project updates as we move through the process: www.pelham.ca/sdu Your Input is Encouraged: Please provide input by speaking at the public meeting or by making a written submission to the Town of Pelham. Unless indicated otherwise, personal information and all comments will become part of the public record and may be publicly released. To provide input in writing, or to request personal notice if the proposed amendments are adopted, please send all correspondence by 12:00 PM on Wednesday, February 3, 2021 for inclusion in the public meeting agenda package c/o Town Clerk, Nancy J. Bozzato, PO Box 400, 20 Pelham Town Square, Fonthill, Ontario L0S 1E0, or by email at njbozzato@pelham.ca. Verbal comments will be received remotely at this public hearing using the Zoom platform. To participate remotely, please pre-register with the Clerks office by sending an email to clerks@pelham.ca before 12 p.m.

on February 5, 2021. All registrants will be provided with instructions on how to use your computer, tablet or phone to participate in the Public Meeting.

Registrants will also be notified of Council’s decision. If you have not submitted written comments or pre-registered before the aforementioned deadlines, but wish to submit comments during the Public Meeting, you may livestream the meeting from the Town of Pelham’s YouTube channel and email comments to clerks@pelham.ca during the public commenting portion of the subject application only. If your comments are not received prior to the closing of the public commenting portion of the meeting, they will not be considered.

For more information, contact Tara Lynn O’Toole at tlotoole@pelham.ca or 905-892-2607 x335. A copy of the staff report regarding the proposed application, and additional information may be obtained on the Town’s website at https:// events.pelham.ca/meetings or at Town Hall after 4:30 p.m. on, February 3, 2021.

If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Town of Pelham in respect of the proposed rezoning and/or plan of subdivision before Council gives or refuses to give approval to the rezoning and/or draft plan of subdivision, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision of the Town of Pelham to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal.

If a person or public body does not make oral submission at a public meeting or make written submission to the Town of Pelham in respect of the proposed rezoning and/or plan of subdivision before Council gives or refuses to give approval to the rezoning and/or draft plan of subdivision, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there is reasonable grounds to do so.

If you wish to be notified of the decision of Town Council in respect of the proposed rezoning and/or plan of subdivision, you must make a written request to the Clerk of the Town of Pelham and such request must include the name and address to which such notice should be sent.

Dated at the Town of Pelham, this 13th day of January, 2021, Nancy J. Bozzato Town Clerk

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

A January 13, 2021

Letters con’t

Stop the Spread

Evidence of trail use plain to see On New Year’s Eve I walked the Steve Bauer Trail. The weather was mild. There were many walkers, several runners and a couple of people in wheelchairs.

On Sunday, the 3rd of January, I walked again. It was cold with snow on the ground. This photo attests to the fact that the Steve Bauer Trail is used heavily in all weathers. The trail is an invaluable asset. Pelham does not have a comparable trail.

Are our councillors willing to countenance the desecration of the Steve Bauer Trail? Really!

Alan Bown Fonthill

Only two IGA checkouts, and that deer in Shoppers In spring of 2000, I chose Fonthill as the place where I would continue to raise my daughter and call home. What drew me to the community was its small-town feel.

Acres of farmland and orchards tucked away outside of the hustle and bustle of the larger cites. Quiet streets, kind and friendly neighbours who quickly became friends.

At that time the IGA grocery store in the Fonthill Plaza had only two checkouts and a deer actually made its way into the entrance of the Shoppers Drug Mart one year.

The Steve Bauer Trail was and is home to many deer who on many occasions found their way into town or into my neighbour’s backyard, to the rear of me, as the trail is across from their home. What a wondrous

sight!

I had grown up in Cooksville, an area that later became part of Mississauga. It, too, was a small community, but with much development became the busy city it is today. I watched those orchards be ploughed under and be replaced with homes and plazas. The farmer’s fields we played in as children disappeared.

For the past 20 years I have watched Fonthill change as well. Gone is the two-checkout IGA with only one of the registers that could process my debit card properly. Now there are two large grocery store chains.

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Page 8

The Voice

A January 13, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Truck lights up for seasonal fundraiser Some $2000 directed to Pelham Cares coffers

BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent There are a number of homes on Timber Creek Crescent with trucks parked in the driveway. But the Dodge 1500 at number 48 is something special.

Brad Saplywy and his tenyear-old son, Brayden, spent seven hours attaching 5000 LED multi-coloured lights to the vehicle with Gorilla tape, and are driving it around Niagara as a mobile Christmas light show, with a fundraising angle.

“I'm only running 108 watts for all 5000 lights, because the LEDs don’t draw much power,” said Brad. “But it’s best to have the engine running, or the lights will drain the battery pretty quickly.”

A resident of Fonthill for ten years but originally from Thunder Bay, Saplywy usually returns to the Lakehead for Christmas with his family, but the COVID lockdown put the freeze on to those plans this year. He and his spouse, Lucianna, encouraged Brayden to come up with an idea to spread some local seasonal cheer, and the result was a glowing truck tribute Brayden named the “JoyMaker.”

“People are really sad this year because of the pandemic and the lockdown, and they can't see their families,” said Brayden. “So I decided to call our lit-up truck the

JoyMaker, because it brings happiness to people that see it.”

The reaction was immediate.

“On the inaugural drive with the lights attached, we hadn’t gone a block before other cars were honking and waving out their windows and giving us a thumbs up,” said Brad.

When they saw the truck, they were all waving and clapping to show their appreciation

They decided to drop in on a few families that night to offer a socially-distanced Merry Christmas. One friend suggested that local businesses join forces to offer a prize package draw to people who took a photo of the JoyMaker, and tagged it to their Facebook pages. The concept took on a charitable flair, as it was decided that people would be required to make a donation to Pelham Cares before sharing their picture of the truck online.

Brad Saplywy and his son Brayden with their “JoyMaker.”

The idea went viral overnight, and donations flooded in. Over the next few nights, the JoyMaker truck was driven around town, and parked in Pelham shopping plazas to promote the cause.

“The first two nights we did just over $1000, said Brad. “It's been hard because of the government’s COVID restrictions…a lot of businesses are closed, and we can’t solicit donations in pub-

lic, so we've been posting on our Facebook pages where we're going.”

On Christmas Eve, the Saplywys visited long-term care homes in the area, in the hope of bringing some joy to the elderly.

“We called ahead to the Woodlands of Sunset on Pelham Street, and the charge nurse brought all the residents to the windows,” said Brad. “When they saw the

DON RICKERS

truck, they were all waving and clapping to show their appreciation. Brayden, my wife, and I had tears in our eyes, as they touched our hearts too.”

By the end, the father-son team raised $2000, not including non-perishable food items that were donated as well. Melissa Harker, of Fonthill, won a $725 gift basket of items donated by local businesses.

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice of Study Commencement: Schedule ‘C’ Municipal Class Environmental Assessment for Regional Road 37 (Merritt Road) and Regional Road 54 (Rice Road), in the Town of Pelham, City of Thorold and City of Welland The Regional Municipality of Niagara (Niagara Region) has initiated an Environmental Assessment Study for improvements to Merritt Road and Rice Road. The Study aims to reimagine the two roadways to meet the future needs of the surrounding community for all road users. The study will address active transportation needs by providing dedicated pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure that is safe, attractive, conform to a complete streets approach, and compatible with the changing land use in three local municipalities, the Town of Pelham, the City of Thorold and the City of Welland.

Consultation with the public, Indigenous Nations, regulatory agencies and stakeholders is a key element of the Class EA process. Project notifications will be issued at key milestones through advertisement in local newspapers, emails and mail outs to the contacts on the Study Mailing List. As the Study progresses and more information becomes available, it will be posted on the project webpage: niagararegion.ca/projects/regional-road-37 Niagara Region recognizes that this project is being carried out during uncertain times with respect to the Covid-19 pandemic. Niagara Region will take all necessary steps to ensure maintaining the health and safety of the public. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact one of the project team members.

Personal information collected or submitted in writing at public meetings will be collected, used and disclosed by members of Regional Council and Regional staff in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA).

The written submissions including names, contact information and reports of the public meeting will be made available. Questions should be referred to the Privacy Office at 905-980-6000, ext. 3779 or FOI@niagararegion.ca If you require any accommodations for a disability in order to attend and participate in meetings or events, please let us know in advance so that arrangements can be made in a timely manner. Please contact the Accessibility Advisory Coordinator at 905-980-6000 ext. 3252 or accessibility@niagararegion.ca Maged Elmadhoon, M.Eng., P.Eng. Manager, Transportation Planning Niagara Region 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6 Phone: 905-980-6000 ext. 3583 Maged.Elmadhoon@niagararegion.ca Jeff Suggett, M. Sc. Consultant Project Manager Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions 3450 Harvester Road, Suite 100, Burlington, ON L7N 3W5 Telephone: 905-380-3601 Jeff.Suggett@woodplc.com Notice First Issued: Jan. 14, 2021

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The Voice

Page 9

A January 13, 2021

Soos pushes for Niagara “state of emergency” Social distress includes addiction, mental health, homelessness

BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent When Steven Soos ran as a candidate for the open Ward 1 Pelham Town Council seat in last autumn’s by-election, he was a hard-charger and tireless advocate for the homeless, the mentally ill, and the addicted. He insisted that a state of emergency needed to be declared in Niagara, so that government powers could be directed to these societal crises.

His passionate approach seems to be gaining traction.

On Monday evening Pelham became the eighth Niagara sub-municipality—joining Niagara Falls, Thorold, Grimsby, West Lincoln, Wainfleet, Fort Erie, and Niagara-on- the-Lake — to vote unanimously in favour of Soos’ resolution, supporting his request to Niagara Regional Council.

“I always highlight these issues on my show [the online broadcast “True Politics”] where I am interviewing local politicians, MPPs, senators, indigenous leaders. It’s a platform to put these problems front and centre,” says Soos.

He asserts that homeless shelters are operating at overcapacity, and cites a social services count in March 2018 that identified 625 homeless people in Niagara, with 144 of them children.

“Niagara Emergency Medical Services reported 335 suspected opiate overdoses between January

and June 2019,” says Soos. “From January 2020 to September, it was 475.”

Soos’ expectation is that his resolution will be circulated widely, with a list including Ontario Premier Doug Ford, ministers of municipal affairs and housing, public health and social services, all the way up to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Key local allies in Soos’ effort include Thorold Councillor Jim Handley, and Niagara Falls Councillor Wayne Campbell, whose own daughter was a victim of a mental health tragedy.

“The reasoning I’m going to the lower tiers is that I think it's important that we stand together on this issue,” says Soos. “If we have multiple municipalities requesting that the Region declare a state of emergency, then it's a powerful call. And when we're dealing with the province and the federal government, if you have all these municipalities on board, it adds weight to the resolution.”

Soos stresses that the benefit of declaring a state of emergency is that it gives the municipality additional powers with regard to procurement bylaws. It also requires a proper response from the province.

“It's a good way to inspire the budget debate around the issues, and, of course, there are recent

percent of Canadians will experience some sort of mental health issue, and 70 percent of mental health problems have their onset during childhood or adolescence. The root causes may be genetic, biological, or environmental, and the problem runs the spectrum of all ages, cultures, education attainment and income levels.

Depression, anxiety disand Steven Soos advocates for the vulnerable and disenfran- orders schizophrechised.

DON RICKERS nia, substance abuse disorders, precedents for a state of emerchronic pain, problem gambling gency being called, namely on — all have a mental health conCOVID-19 and climate change.”

Soos points to First Nations re- nection. Most people can recover serves, where states of emergen- with appropriate treatment.

The poor are several times cy declarations had been invoked more likely than those in higher over the lack of clean drinking income groups to report poor to water.

“I touched base with Council- fair mental health, while studies in various Canadian cities indilor Olson about this recently…. it was a good chance to congratulate cate a high rate of mental illness among homeless people. Stress is him on his election win. We had most acute during times of isoa great conversation about mental health, homelessness and addic- lation, so the social restrictions of COVID-19 create a breeding tion. He referenced his own work ground for mental health afflicin addressing homelessness and tions. affordable housing.”

Other unsettling statistics: According to the CanadiAmong Ontarians aged 25 to 34, an Association of Mental Health one of every eight deaths is relat(CAMH) website, each year 20 ed to opioid use. About 4000 Ca-

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CAMH asserts that mental health care in Ontario is underfunded by about $1.5 billion dollars.

The economic burden of mental illness in Canada is estimated at $51 billion per year. This includes healthcare costs, lost productivity, and reductions in health-related quality of life.

“It’s been so difficult for young people during the pandemic,” says Soos. “Niagara is heavily reliant on the tourist sector, and COVID has impacted hundreds of young people in these jobs. With rising unemployment, we see an increase in homelessness, addiction, and mental health issues.

It's all interconnected.

“It touches everybody…our farmers in Pelham, military veterans with PTSD living here…I'm fighting for them as well.”

In an early December statement, Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff announced that the Ontario government would provide Niagara with $4 million dollars in social services funding, with the expectation that the money would be targeted at long-term housing and overnight shelters.

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The Voice

A January 13, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Search is on for new Regional CAO Pelham's Diana Huson appointed to select committee

BY DAVE BURKET The Voice

RIP CURL Bill Tomlinson, in Fonthill, captured this curiously curling snow on his pool slide, during the snowfall around Christmas.

BILL TOMLINSON

Given the events of the past year, it seems like a lifetime ago that Regional politics was left largely in tatters by the departure of CAO Carmen D’Angelo, whose hiring process was clouded after the fact by allegations of misconduct, and multiple investigations which reached contradictory conclusions.

D’Angelo went on sick leave after the October 2018 municipal election and never returned. Public Works Commissioner Ron Tripp has served since as interim CAO. A previous attempt to find a permanent candidate was put on hold by the start of COVID-19 pandemic last March.

In mid December, Regional Council restarted the search, appointing four members to join Regional Chair Jim Bradley on a recruitment committee. They are Councillor Rob Foster (Town of Lincoln), Councillor Diana Huson (Town of Pelham), Mayor Wayne Redekop (Town of Fort Erie), and Councillor Albert Witteveen (Township of West Lincoln).

The committee is expected to engage an external executive search firm to assist with the hiring process, which “incorporates

Regional Councillor for Pelham, Diana Huson.

SUPPLIED numerous recommendations made by the Provincial Ombudsman that were designed to strengthen the integrity of the process,” according to a Region statement released in December.

Members of the committee are required to actively participate in the process and are expected to make attendance a top priority. Members who miss any candidate interview will be deemed to have resigned from the committee, and any member who misses two consecutive meetings will also have resigned his or her seat.

Huson told the Voice that the selection of a permanent CAO will be one of the

most important decisions of council’s term.

“Council felt it was an important time to move forward in determining permanent leadership for the organization,” said Huson, “especially in considering what our recovery will look like.”

Huson said that she thought her business management experience, and recent participation on the CAO hiring committee at the NPCA, made her an ideal fit for the search team, and asked for support from her colleagues.

“Seven councillors put their name forward for four spots. Each councillor had an opportunity to vote for up to four individuals. I was one of the successful candidates. It's an honour to step into this role on behalf of Regional Council and my community. I'm very excited get the process started and secure a permanent staff member in the position.”

The first meeting of the committee is expected to take place this month, and the process will take between four to six months to complete, according to a Regional statement.

The CAO oversees a budget of over $1 billion dollars, and some 3000 employees.

Ian Bingham renominated as Niagara West Liberal candidate

BY VOICE STAFF

ONE HORSEPOWER, COMING UP The Rotary Club of Fonthill, in partnership with Rotary International District 7090, has given $5000 to I-CAN-T.E.R. to purchase a horse-drawn lawnmower. The I-CAN-T.E.R. Farm is a therapeutic equestrian riding association that allows individuals with barriers to flourish through nature, gardens and horses. In concert with a new project, they are buying a horse-drawn mower. Rotarian Mel Groom (right) presents a cheque to trainer Brian Wall (left) as Haflinger horse Mia checks to see whether it might make a delicious hors-d'oeuvre.

SUPPLIED

Lieutenant (Navy) Ian Bingham, ret’d, has been nominated a second time as the Liberal candidate in Niagara West for the next federal election.

In a statement released Dec. 26, Bingham said that he was again honoured for the chance to represent the riding.

“The last election was a fantastic experience, where I saw firsthand the need for a strong representative from our riding in Ottawa. I’m running again because I am committed to leading positive change in Niagara West.”

A Grimsby resident, Bingham is a lawyer, focusing on cases involving mental health, and is on the board of Community Care of West Niagara.

“The threat of COVID-19 is the first fire that has to be put out. But we have to look beyond that as well.

A Liberal government will continue to take bold steps to protect our environment for our grandchildren, while strengthening support for our growing senior population. For Niagara

Bingham with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in 2019. specifically, I see a need for better transit— both for public use and cargo — to attract eco-friendly jobs and economic growth to an area which has lost so

SUPPLIED

much capacity.”

A date for the 44th Canadian federal election has not yet been set. It must take place on or before October 16, 2023.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

Page 11

A January 13, 2021

Port Robinson development may soar to 10 stories “It’s time to rally the constituents to provide a collective voice”

Once the deal gets inked, single-family homes in the area will simply be left as collateral damage

BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent Craig Edwards and his wife, Carla, have lived on Port Robinson Road, between Station Street and Rice Road, for 16 years. They like the area, and Pelham generally.

But they are concerned about a development on their street, which they say could potentially result in a ten-storey building staring them in the face when they exit their front door.

In a broader sense, like many others in the town, they are worried about the residential sprawl taking place in Fonthill.

Edwards said he has been in communication with Curtis Thompson, a planner with the Town, seeking answers to questions about Sterling Realty’s plans for rezoning and residential intensification in the Kunda Park and Forest Park subdivisions.

The development proposal, according to Edwards, involves 280 multi-unit dwellings, along with 86 townhouses, and 77 single detached homes…and potentially a ten-storey apartment building.

He feels that the concentration of housing will impact the watershed in the area, and negatively impact the existing residential properties on the south side of Port Robinson Road, which have septic systems.

“Quite frankly, with every email exchange, I'm more convinced that the Town [council and staff] isn’t the least bit interested in getting input from homeowners in the immediate area,” said Edwards.

“I'm sure if more people knew Page 24 about this potential sleight-ofhand, council would be questioned on their lack of both oversight and constituent representation.”

Edwards said that he is prepared to rally constituents in the neighborhood, so as to provide a collective voice.

“A town of this size should not be finding out by default that all of these things are going to hap-

Wally Braun

pen,” he said. “This should all be much more in the public domain, but the Town states that they are not obliged to tell anybody outside of the bordering neighbours.”

He laments what he views as a lack of open debate in the growth of Fonthill.

“Why are we always reacting to the development community? Why aren't we crafting our own plan that fits our future needs and existing infrastructure?”

The Edwardses watched the entire November 23 public meeting livestream that addressed the development proposal. They listened to the information brought forward by Upper Canada Consultants, the Town of Pelham Planning Department, and local residents speaking via Zoom, as well as questions and concerns expressed by council members.

“There were a lot of large issues and concerns that were not answered,” he said. “We fear that council will vote to approve this amendment without the information necessary for a prudent decision. If the existing plans for Kunda Park and Forest Park proceed, we will be left with an unfortunate legacy that is detrimental to our neighbourhood and downtown landscape.”

Questions about “block townhouses” came up during the presentations, which require “firm answers” with regard to resident parking and trash bin storage, said Edwards.

“The devil is in the details and if we don't think ahead, these higher-density units will be doomed to fail.”

Edwards says he is not opposed to sensible development of the site.

“Maybe a one-to-four storey building, where you have commercial space at the bottom and apartments above it, or even two or three storeys, doesn't seem un-

Maria Brigantino

Craig Edwards at the site of the proposed Port Robinson Road subdivision. reasonable to me.”

The Port Robinson Road intersection with Station Street is a dense residential area, subject to significant traffic congestion, said Edwards.

“Once the deal gets inked, single-family homes in the area will simply be left as collateral damage.”

The interests of the existing residential neighbourhood should be considered first, he asserts. EdThe Voice, 2, 2020 wards noted September that Port Robinson Road has become a heavily used pedestrian area with the recent additions of River Estates and Saffron Estates.

Traffic calming measures are necessitated for the intersection of Port Robinson Road and Station Street, which Edwards says has become a dangerous spot for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicular

James Federico

SUPPLIED

traffic alike. A roundabout is the solution he advocates. Edwards said that he and his neighbours are frustrated by vehicle drivers who blatantly disregard the speed limit and stop sign at the intersection of the Steve Bauer Trail and Port Robinson Road. He said that speed controls must be put in place, and bicycle lanes widened to safely separate cyclists from vehicular traffic.

Barb Wiens, Pelham’s Director of Community Planning and Development, acknowledged that an application for a zoning bylaw amendment had been requested for the Forest Park subdivision, and that Block 90 in that subdivision is proposed to be developed for a mix of land uses including townhouses, apartments and/or mixed-use buildings. The lands are designated East Fonthill Me-

Colleen Kenyon

Wayne Olson

dium Density. Wiens said that the developer, not the Town, has requested a maximum building height of 10 storeys, and that there currently has been no decision made on the application.

“In making a decision on this matter, council will need to consider if the request is in compliance with the Town Official Plan along with regional and provincial plans and policies,” said Wiens.

The Town Official Plan does have policy direction with regard to density and building height for the East Fonthill Medium Density area, and provides a maximum building height of five storeys (17 metres).

“However, there is another policy that states where Schedule A5 identifies symbolically the location of an apartment building, which it does at the south side where Port Robinson Road meets Station Street, then one apartment building may be developed, and the building may be a maximum height of 10 storeys,” said Wiens.

“It appears that the zoning bylaw amendment request, for 10 storeys maximum apartment building height at the location that is identified on Schedule A5, would www.thevoiceofpelham.ca comply with the policy direction of the Town Official Plan, with regard to building height.”

Wiens anticipated that the matter will be decided by council at a meeting in the new year, where there will be a recommendation report prepared by Town staff for council to consider. Public input will be received prior to the decision, said Wiens.

Steven Soos

2020 by-election campaign spending just shy of $20,000

BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent It seems like ancient history now, but the 2020 municipal by-election in Pelham’s Ward 1 was held last September 15, and was won convincingly by Fenwick resident Wayne Olson. Exactly 1177 ballots were cast in the election, representing a 27 percent turnout of eligible voters—higher than some may have expected considering there was a pandemic going on.

Win or lose, after election day all candidates had one final duty to perform: submit their financial statements to Town Clerk Nancy Bozzato by November 30, in accordance with the Municipal Elections Act. De-

tails of campaign income and expenses must be disclosed, and become public documents.

All candidates were permitted a $8903 ceiling for general spending on the campaign, along with an additional $890 for parties and “expressions of appreciation,” if they were so inclined.

The following summary includes most but not all contributions and expenses for each candidate.

Olson, garnering 681 votes, was by far the biggest spender in his ultimately winning bid.

His $8233 in campaign contributions were eaten up primarily by lawn signs ($3016), rental space ($1695), brochures ($1252), and advertising ($1215). He also gave his supporters a $768 victory party. Cost per vote: $12.

Steven Soos placed fourth in the race (73 votes) but second in spending, with $5040 in contributions being divided amongst advertising ($2239), postage ($915), brochures ($891), lawn signs ($850), and car magnets ($59). Cost per vote: $69.

James Federico placed a distant second in the election, with 296 votes, and raised $2720 in campaign contributions. Expenses were lawn signs ($1150), advertising ($650), and brochures ($455). Cost per vote: $9.

Maria Brigantino finished fifth, with 22 votes. She spent her $2406 in contributions on brochures ($1167), signage ($722), and advertising ($473). Cost per vote: $109.

The last-place finisher among candidates who stayed in, Colleen Keenan, garnered just

11 votes, listing $1000 in campaign contributions. Her expenses included brochures ($443) and internet services ($278). Cost per vote: $90.

Wally Braun, Pelham’s perennial candidate, finished third, with 89 votes, and did it on a shoestring budget. His $377 in contributions went entirely to brochures and advertising.

Cost per vote: $4.

Also filing campaign expense disclosure documents was Cari Pupo, former Treasurer of the Town of Pelham. She threw her hat in the ring, and then decided to withdraw prior to the election, but not before her name was already printed on the ballot. She accepted no contributions, had no expenses, and got five votes. Cost per vote: $0.

Page 12

The Voice

A January 13, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Letters continued Loss of Carolinian forest along Steve Bauer Trail would be irreparable I am writing today to tell you how immensely important the existing Steve Bauer trail is to myself, my husband, our four sons, our dogs and all of the users of the trail. The new development adjacent to this section of the trail between Port Robinson, Merritt Road, Station Street and Kunda Park threatens to destroy this peaceful stretch of woods that is not only a natural habitat for many species but adds quality to the lives of Pelham residents who use it.

As an experienced horticulturist, I have been documenting the species I’ve encountered on my daily walks for years. We are so lucky to have a slice of Carolinian forest running through our town. I would like to point out some of the species to be found on the trail. Although we have lost many of the mature ash on the trail, there are many younger saplings that have emerged to take their place. I have also found: sassafras, tulip tree, pussy willow, sumac, black walnut, mulberry, poplar, maple, wild rose, honeysuckle, birch, dogwood, columbine, trillium in multiple colours, meadowrue, horsetail, wild grape, blood root, marsh marigold, violets, wild geranium and poison ivy (an important source of food for birds, not just a nuisance). This is a list of plants I can easily call to mind. If I were to document all plant species that the trail contains and identify all the other species I can’t readily identify, the list would perhaps be five times this.

I am concerned that the existing development plans will negatively impact the rich

GONE

continued from Page 7 at the junction at the 406 for 15 minutes. Gone are the safe bicycle rides down

variety of species living on this piece of land.

It is home to deer, coyotes, foxes, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, snakes, toads, frogs, and many species of birds, including ducks and wild turkeys. I would like all children to be able to continue observing these animals in real life, not just from nature documentaries.

This is a trail and natural oasis that is used by seniors looking to keep themselves in good health, young people looking for a safe place to run and bike, young families pushing strollers, school children from Glynn A. Green as well as St. Alexander, dog owners looking to exercise their pets, walkers, runners, even cross country skiers. Geocaches are dotted along the trail where enthusiasts might find an occasional treasure.

Local residents meet and make friendships with other residents using the trail system.

This trail is used by people who live in the downtown neighbourhood, as well as the neighbourhood north of highway 20 off Station Street, the seniors complex on Pelham Town Square, the new arena neighbourhood, the new Rice Road development, the neighbourhoods off of Line Avenue, the Spruceside area, not to mention the newest residents of the latest development which has our natural oasis under threat.

It is well documented that nature is good for our physical and mental health. The recent paving of the trail has made it more accessible to residents in wheelchairs, walkers, and parents with strollers. As residents, we gather there to exercise, recharge, and ob-

Port Robinson Road. Gone are the four-wheelerpulled sleighs through the fields on a moonlit New Year’s Eve night with all the neighbourhood kids laugh-

ing with delight. And if the Town and developers get their way, gone will be the many years of daily walks with the dog across the Steve Bauer Trail from Port

serve the changes that occur from season to season. We strike up spontaneous conversations about birds, plants, books, politics and of course, the weather, with our fellow trail users. As a result, we feel more connected to nature and the community, which nurtures us and can ease loneliness.

During this COVID period alone, it is the trail where one can see a friendly unmasked face, have a quick conversation in a relatively normal situation and commiserate about the situation in a safe manner. This natural outlet has been invaluable to many who have struggled to deal with the isolation of the pandemic.

In a town increasingly losing its fields and forests to houses and people, we need this natural escape to relax and recharge, to teach our children about nature, to protect the species who have less space to call home. It is important to us, the people who are using the Steve Bauer Trail, that it is not diminished in any way, that it is not reduced in size or dissected with roads. Please join me in asking Town Council to consider alternatives to the current development plan.

This town draws many residents for the same reason it drew my family—tree-lined streets, beautiful gardens, creative parks and the natural trail system. These are assets we should strive to protect as our town grows, because Pelham may not feel like Pelham for much longer.

Emily Grant-Rochon Fonthill

Robinson over to Merritt and the enjoyment it brings to many.

Not only is this trail a natural habitat and home for countless wildlife, it

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Council, listen to the people Residents of Fonthill, we have seen an unprecedented response to the planned destruction of the beloved Steve Bauer Trail, which indicates that a lot of people in Fonthill feel strongly about the development that is planned for our town.

I would like every reader to ask themselves: “What kind of a town do I want to live in?” And realize that it is your choice.

You elect council to represent you, each resident.

Not developers, not Town planners.

And you have a voice and you need to exercise your voice, or the place where you live will become someone else’s vision of a small town. (I don’t know whose vision that is. I would like to meet them and ask, “What the heck are you thinking?”)

It is up to us residents. We have to speak up and demand better.

I am not against development—development is inevitable—but let’s have thought-

It is up to us residents. We have to speak up and demand better.

See SPEAK UP Page 14

is a piece of beauty, tranquility and peacefulness to the lives of those of us who live in the area. Many come from outside of the area to enjoy this lovely trail. Schools bring their students for nature walks on this trail for all it has to offer which I might add, is home to our provincial and protected flower, the trillium. Carpets of pink and white trillium varieties have been photographed by residents on their walks.

Will there be fines for their demise by the Ontario government?

I am absolutely appalled and disgusted to learn that our Town is considering letting a developer destroy this source of beauty and home to wildlife. I am even more heartbroken that the

Town would consider doing so to a trail dedicated to one of our own, Steve Bauer, who the trail was named after, for his many, many accomplishments as a professional bicycle road racer.

A man to be admired and respected. A 1984 Olympic Silver Medalist, a 1982 Silver Commonwealth Games athlete and medalist, a 1984 World Championship medalist in Barcelona; not to forget being inducted into the Olympic Sports Hall of Fame and the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame. The consideration of the destruction of the Steve Bauer Trail is utterly disrespectful and disgraceful. The Town MUST stop this!

Cheryl MacDavid Fonthill

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www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

Page 13

A January 13, 2021

LANDFILL ACCIDENT Police and fire services responded to the Humberstone Landfill on Monday, Dec. 28, after a man reportedly lost control of his vehicle. The Welland Tribune reported that the driver, in his 70s, lost control of a Cadillac SRX while reversing, and quoted police as saying that the vehicle travelled across the site backwards, was launched through a gate onto a steel garbage bin, then flipped before it hit the ground on its roof, a fall of at least three metres. The newspaper reported that the driver’s injuries were not life-threatening, and he was airlifted to an out-of-region hospital.

BRIAN MAUND

REVERSE PARADE GIFTS In lieu of their traditional holiday parade, the Fenwick Lions and the Town of Pelham organized a Reverse Santa Parade at Centennial Park in December. To Pelham Cares’ surprise, an entire pickup truck full of donations was collected by the Lions, as well as $1300 in a cash jar.

From left, Lion Trevor Philbrick, Pelham Cares’ Keith Moore, and Lion Bill King.

CASH BY THE TRUCKLOAD The proceeds from Brad Saplywy and his son Braden’s Joy Light Truck made their way to Pelham Cares last week. Sponsors Mark Georgiev, of Accelerated Health and Wellness, and Lucianna Saplywy, of Daniel & Partners, present Nancy Yungblut, of Pelham Cares board of directors, with a cheque for $2000. Sir Cares-a-Lot oversees the exchange.

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The Voice

OBITUARY

OBITUARY

SLATER, Edward Bruce

COOK, Patricia Ann

On Friday January 1st 2021, Edward Bruce Slater (Big Bruce), loving husband of Joyce Slater passed away at the age of 86. Bruce is survived by his wife Joyce of 65 years, his five children Kim Doney (David), Sue Greer (Alan), Wende Hogan (Tim), Wanda Allison (Glenn), Richard Slater (Becky), ten grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.

Bruce was born in Leamington Ontario to Eric and Margret Slater on October 28, 1934.

He followed his dream and started teaching in a one room school house at Point Pelee, teaching grades 1-8. He and Joyce moved to Fonthill where he taught Industrial Arts at Thorold Fonthill High School in 1958, when it first opened. Bruce was never idle and from his earliest days of teaching he continued his education earning his degree and Masters degree while raising his five children. He was awarded the National Industrial Arts Teacher of the Year in 1968. Bruce was a strong believer of Industrial Arts being taught in all Secondary Schools.

He retired from Niagara South Board of Education in 1990 as Principal of Westbrook Secondary School in Welland.

Bruce was a believer in serving one’s community. Over the years, Bruce was a Volunteer Fireman in Fonthill, a Kinsmen member and served on the District Executive. He was honoured with a Kinsmen Life Membership. He served as a Board member on the Pelham District Public School Board.

Bruce coached Pelham girls’ softball. He was a choir member of Pelham Centre United Church and the Niagara Mens’ Chorus. Bruce was a member of the Fonthill Legion and Fonthill Masonic Lodge #535. Bruce’s love for his family was unwavering.

He enjoyed camping, fishing, boating, golfing and welcomed all to visit the cottage on the Key River. He and Joyce wintered 30 years in Bonita Springs, Florida. He became a Shriner at Araba Temple in Fort Myers. Bruce joined the Jokers clown group in Naples and was able to brighten the lives of many children while raising money for the Shriners’ Children’s Hospital. Bruce loved life and he demonstrated that every day. Cremation has taken place. Due to Covid restrictions, no gathering will take place at this time but a celebration of life will be held at a future date to gather all his many friends and family to celebrate his enormous contribution to humanity. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Shriner Childrens’ Hospital and Wesley United Church in Welland would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.pelhamfuneralhome.ca

We are saddened to announce the passing of our Auntie Pat on Monday January 04th, 2021 after a short illness.

She had just turned 88 on December 03rd. She leaves behind her many nieces and nephews, Elizabeth Cook, David (Margaret) Cook, Douglas (Dawn) Cook, Janet (Ron) Marion, Mary Lynn (Trevor) McConnery and Christopher Jay. Predeceased by her brother and sisterin-law Joseph and Frances Cook and her beloved niece Margaret Jay (2020).

In keeping with Patricia’s wishes cremation has taken place. A private family interment will take place at PLEASANTVIEW FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY – 905-892-1699. In lieu of flowers please donate to a charity of your choice in her memory. You are invited to share valued memories and condolences on-line at www. pleasantviewcemetery.ca

A January 13, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

From left, Darren Keay, Beaver leader, MaryAnn Ratcliff, fundraiser organizer, Keith Moore, V.P. Pelham Cares.

SUPPLIED

Cash rolls in for toilet paper ornaments

BY VOICE STAFF What started off as an idea to raise some money for 3rd Fonthill Scouts quickly exploded into results no one could have imagined. Early in November, MaryAnn Ratcliffe began making tiny toilet paper ornaments and sales took off immediately.

After creating some 800 ornaments by herself, she set her feet in motion and rounded up kids from the local Scout Group, Scouters, and parents to keep things going. She dropped into Pelham Cares not long after produc-

tion had started, excited about sharing the wealth, remembers coordinator Jennifer Dube.

“Her goal was to give $500 of the money raised to our annual food drive campaign.”

Production was tough to keep up with at times, but Ratcliffe persevered and when volunteers began to get “ornament production fatigue,” new volunteers —including friends, neighbors, and vendors—came along to fill in the gap. Dube says that Ratcliffe’s “giddy enthusiasm was infectious,” and was an inspiration to others.

The ornaments sold for $2. In an email Ratcliffe sent to the volunteers on New Year’s Day, she announced that their efforts raised slightly more than the hoped-for $500—in fact over ten times more, reaching $7000.

Ratcliffe has split the proceeds with Pelham Cares Inc. and 3rd Fonthill Scouts. She and Dube thank those who helped make the ornaments, those who bought them, and the 20-plus businesses that displayed them, including Beamer’s Hardware, Nick’s Cleaners, Pet Valu, and PharmaChoice pharmacy.

SPEAK UP

continued from Page 12 ful, planned development.

Let’s have development that reflects the Fonthill that we know and love.

Step one would be to have planners that are aware and thoughtful about the town that they are planning and actually care.

Step two would be to tell our council to stop giving developers/builders numerous minor variances.

I have wondered, “How many minor variances make a major variance?”

We have bylaws governing setbacks, allowances, density and type of development, and every time a minor variance is given it sets a precedent for every other request for variances that follow.

Council, stop agreeing to minor variances requested by developers only interested in their bottom line.

Developers don’t care what kind of town we live in. We have to care! Keep Fonthill development to the bylaws in place to preserve the kind of town I believe we want.

Let your voice be heard.

It is your town, it’s where you live, raise your children, do your shopping, take walks, enjoy green space. Contact your councillor—an email, a phone call, a letter. Tell them to stop what’s happening.

They represent you and you can hold them to account.

Margie Hadley Fonthill

°

PANDEMIC DOESN’T STOP SANTA'S MAIL COVID-19 restrictions may have nixed the Fabulous Fenwick Lions annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony in downtown Fenwick, but club members persisted in decorating the tree, arranging a manger scene, and installing Santa’s mailbox. First VP and Secretary Jeff Pickup said that some 125 letters dropped in the box made their way to the big guy, and that the Christmas tree tradition was “very important to our Lions Clubs, as it was one of our legacy projects for the 100th anniversary of Lions Club International.”

SUPPLIED

MOTION

continued from Page 1 preservation of Town-owned resources.

Our trails provide a safe venue for active healthy lifestyles for the residents of Pelham.”

Ward 1 Councillor Wayne Olson opposed the motion, in part because it lumped the two trails together.

“The Berkhout Trail is crossed by local farmers with tractors and farm equipment all the time,” said Olson. “Some have their farm on one side of the trail, and their fields on the other side...so this motion would present difficulties.”

Olson feels that a process needs to be developed to accurately analyze the impact of roadway crossings on the trails.

“We haven't had a staff report yet, so this motion is premature. I would like to see the issue deferred, so that all the options can be considered.”

Another complication noted by Olson is a potential extension of Merritt Road

to Highway 406 with an interchange, an effort by the Region to reduce traffic on Highway 20.

“The impact on Pelham Street will be significant, and I think the folks in Kunda Park need a chance to speak on the matter of access across the trail.

Olson noted that the Pelham Active Transportation Committee has endorsed the trail crossings.

Mayor Marvin Junkin also opposed Wink’s motion, and appealed to council to defer the issue until a staff report is available in February. He said that a staff report is part of the normal process when receiving new subdivision applications, after public meetings have been held and the development has had an opportunity to revise plans based on citizen and staff feedback.

“To vote on this motion, without hearing back from the developer or having the benefit of staff input, is not following proper protocol,” Junkin told The Voice before Monday's council meeting.

“I feel it is imperative that we have all of the facts in front of us. The harder the decision, the more important this step becomes.”

No other councillor responded to The Voice’s request for comment.

During Monday night's meeting, CAO David Cribbs strongly advised that council go into closed session to discuss potential legal ramifications. After some 45 minutes of discussion, council returned. Olson made a motion to defer the matter until February, but did not get a seconder.

Council proceeded to vote on Wink's motion, which passed 5-2, with all councillors but Olson and the Mayor voting for it.

"I cannot support this deviation from process," said Junkin. "A staff report is needed" For the time being, anyway, there will be no roads crossing either the Steve Bauer Trail in Fonthill, or the Gerry Berkhout Trail in Fenwick.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

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Tues., Sept. 16 10 – 12:30. $10. Please register ahead. Visit www.pelhamlibrary.on.ca or call 905-892-6443 for more details.

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ago and not surprisingly, the predominant reason for reading printed community newspapers is local information, including news, editorial, sports, entertainment and events.

residence was also on the 2020 Pelham

Christmas Lighting Tour, and was reBIG MOVE CANCER RIDE cently recognized with first place honPelham residents have gone all out this Thedecorating Big Movetheir Cancer Ridefor is athe non-competitive ride taking placecategory. on Sept. ours in the traditional lighting season homes The Pelham Beautification Committee holidays.

The residence Pelham 7. Proceeds for theatBig1549 Move stay in Niagara and support the Walker Famis an advisory committee to Pelham Town Street, at the corner of Broad Street, in ily Cancer Centre.

Council.

Fonthill, is one such home, says the PelTheir monthly Thank You card program ham Beautification Committee, and was deserving of recognition in the form of is one of the committee’s efforts to inspire the Town’s businesses, organizathe WALKING committee’s CLUB December Thank You tions and residentsat tothe “exemplify ideals card Interested initiative. in walking in Pelham? Join them Tuesdays Pelham Arena defined in the Beautification Committee’s Cindy Palframan lives in this two story, from 9-10 am and Thursdays at Fonthill Bandshell for 9-10:30 am. There Terms of Reference,” according to a comwhite house, built in the 1930s, and has mittee statement. takenis pleasure restoring and decorating no fee for this program.

For more information, please contact jcook@ Thank You card recipients are named the home and grounds for every season. pelham.ca or call 905 892-2607, extmonthly, 329. and residents are encouraged A neighbour submitted Cindy’s home last to submit candidate recommendations to summer to the committee for considerbeautification@pelham.ca ation due to its landscaped gardens. The

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PLACES OF WORSHIP

2

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

FIRE CALLS

continued from Page 2 Thursday, Dec. 24 Carbon monoxide alarm, Cross Hill, Fonthill Thursday, Dec. 31 Emergency rescue, Short Hills Park, Short Hills, Fonthill Friday, Jan. 1 Medical assistance, Fenwick Saturday, Jan. 2 Non-emergency assistance call, Haist St., Fonthill Sunday, Jan. 3 Motor vehicle accident, Short Hills Hazardous material on road, Short Hills Monday, Jan. 4 Vehicle fire, Canboro Rd., Fenwick Friday, Jan. 8 Medical assistance, Fonthill Medical assistance, Fonthill

FAITH LIFT

continued from Page 19 and emotions fluctuate. Instead of being “in love,” some couples are simply “in lust.” When the physical attraction fades, so does the commitment. They discover, sadly, that their relationship has been built on quicksand. God invites us to build our relationships on something better — solid rock. That “rock” is God himself and his Word which he has revealed to us.

In the New Testament, Jesus is very specific when he describes what the heart is capable of.

“For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, de-

ceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.” (Mark 7:21-23) So, what’s the answer?

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) The choice is clear. Trust yourself and your own heart or trust the Lord with all your heart and let Him direct you.

I have to admit I still enjoy watching a wholesome Hallmark movie. But I no longer believe its worldly message. I hope you don’t either. ◆ Rob Weatherby is a retired pastor.

AUTOMOTIVE PAJAMAS Central Auto Niagara's third annual PJ, Sock and Food Drive collected 100 pairs of pajamas, 130 pairs of socks, and six boxes of nonperishable food items on behalf of Pelham Cares.

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BALANCED LIFE

continued from Page 18 are adverse reaction reporting and related advisories, warnings, and recalls.

Only when these mandatory regulations are met will a product receive an eight digit Natural Product Number (NPN) or Homeopathic Medicine Number (DIN-HM), allowing it to be sold legally in Canada.

For verification, I expect to find these numbers on the brand-name vitamin packets next to the coffee tin in our kitchen cupboard, and I do, so my morning dosing ritual can continue.

I’m elated to find the required registration numbers on the whey protein supplement I blend into post-ride smoothies.

No discount American eBay pseudo-supplements in this household.

Who should you consult with if you think you might need a supplement?

“You should always start with your physician,” says Chown, “primarily because that is usually people’s first point of contact with the medical profession.”

He says beginning with a dietician works fine too, but, “Not many people get off the couch and say I need to talk to a dietician.”

Chown suggests that if your questions are media-driven, a dietician may be the place to start.

“We probably have a little better knowledge, because most physicians don’t have a lot of time to look into it.

It’s what we specialize in.”

The most common method to determine the need for additional dietary vitamin, minerals and other supplements is by a blood test, although Chown says that in some cases diet history will point out obvious deficiencies. He cites examples such as vegan diets, lactose intolerant individuals, and the consumption of too many salty or fatty foods as potential indicators.

I ask whether seniors seeking supplements should look to multiple vitamins or more targeted, specific vitamins.

Chown doesn’t bite, and responds in a way that challenges the underlying premise that any supplementation is needed.

The Voice “Usually if you’re eating properly, you should be able to attain everything from a healthy diet.” His message is clear. The nutrients we all need can usually be obtained without supplements, so concentrate on your diet before you reach for a bottle of pills.

“That being said, as you age there are some body processes that deteriorate.”

Chown explains that bone loss is accelerated as we age, so ensuring that we consume enough calcium and Vitamin D is important, especially for women. An Institute of Medicine study financed jointly by Canada and the United States, which was designed to update Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) based on recent data advances, judged the evidence tying calcium and Vitamin D to bone health as convincing. However, the study found evidence linking calcium and Vitamin D levels to cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and immunity deficiencies was inconsistent and did not demonstrate a cause-andeffect relationship.

Chown says gut bacteria composition often changes as we age, so supplementing our diet with probiotics as seniors might be a good idea. A healthy digestive tract, including the stomach and intestines, contains numerous species of bacteria (our microbiome) which supply our bodies with various important nutrients. By age 60, depending on eating patterns, use of medications and amount of physical activity, the bacteria within our microbiome become less diverse, potentially resulting in dysbiosis, which can cause or contribute to disease.

We tend to produce less stomach acid as we get older, making it more difficult to absorb Vitamin B-12—an essential nutrient that helps keep blood and nerve cells healthy, assists in preventing megaloblastic anemia, which makes us feel tired and weak, and is involved in making DNA. The hydrochloric acid in our stomachs is required to assist our body’s ability to absorb B-12, and Chown says a blood test is the best way to determine B-12 levels when

New Year, New You!

deciding if a supplement is necessary. Those taking medications for acid reflux, for example, may see a resulting drop in the ability to absorb B-12.

There are also external factors that may affect our vitamin intake as we age.

We cook less than we used to, especially if our home has fewer people.

Tooth loss and gum problems can make chewing certain foods difficult. Blood sugar problems and the side effects of medications can influence nutrient absorption.

Socioeconomic factors matter too. Higher quality diets tend to be associated with higher affluence, and there is a link between higher supplement use and stronger income and education profiles, especially among women 50 and over.

I ask Chown about self-diagnosis, thinking of all the inconsistent information that’s available on the internet.

He immediately steers me back to diet.

“It’s tricky, it’s tough to do self-diagnosis.

There are some classic examples.

If you’re a vegetarian, you don’t have any source for animal protein. If you’re tired all the time, you might have an iron [deficiency], maybe your B-12 is low. You can backtrack on your diet.

Say if you don’t consume any dairy, and look at your diet and see you don’t have any good source of calcium, or bake your own bread that isn’t fortified.

You might have a good guesstimate that you’re low in some areas.”

Chown says, it’s hard to walk around and say, “You know, I’m low on vitamin D,” which I believe is his polite way to warn me that at best self-diagnosis will yield only an incomplete picture.

Our discussion leads to where to find good information, and Chown sighs.

“Misinformation is definitely pretty ripe in the nutrition field as the internet has expanded. You

have to know the source of what you’re reading, and if there’s a bias behind it. Being a knowledgeable consumer is definitely part of being healthy.”

Health Canada’s Dietary Reference Intake Tables, which relate to vitamins and minerals, as well as macronutrients and amino acids, have information on Estimated Average Requirement (EAR), Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), Adequate Intake (AI), Estimated Energy Requirement (EER), and Tolerable Upper Intake Requirement (UL).

This is a great place to begin your journey to becoming an educated health consumer.

Two years ago I learned firsthand that a little knowledge can be dangerous.

After many years of successfully donating, the Red Cross refused my blood because of low iron. This was doubly disconcerting. Not only could I no longer donate, but as an athlete in my own mind, I knew that the iron in my hemoglobin was necessary to transport oxygen to my muscles, and that a low iron level would impede any athletic endurance I had.

A blood test ordered by my doctor confirmed a low iron condition, so I told him I’d take a supplement. He shook his head and replied, “Go for it, but you should know…,” and I quickly got schooled. He told me that too much iron can cause constipation, nausea, vomiting, fainting and in some people liver damage—and that way too much iron can cause organ failure, convulsions and death. Educated and chastised, I passed on an iron supplement, and came to realize the importance of the Tolerable Upper Intake Requirement column on the Health Canada chart.

Chown agrees.

“Some articles, even if they’re legitimate, might not totally discuss the whole aspect.” As examples, he mentions that fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) can

cause toxicity if overused, and that there is no benefit to taking more of any vitamin than you need.

The study by the U.S. Institute of Medicine mentioned earlier declares specifically, “There is no additional health benefit associated with Vitamin D or calcium intakes above the level of the new Canadian Recommended Dietary Allowance,” and generally that consuming more than the DRI of any vitamin or supplement does not provide increased benefits.

That being said, and knowing Chown’s background as an elite athlete, I asked, “Does a senior who burns more calories through an active lifestyle need proportionately more nutrients?

Does playing tennis for two hours, running or cycling, mean I need more vitamins and minerals than a sedentary adult my age?”

Chown hesitates a bit before answering.

“I think in some cases a bit of supplementation isn’t going to hurt. For the general athlete in Niagara who’s doing some biking and running and indoor training, I think a good, healthy diet and rest is going to be enough to be where they need.

Where most people make a mistake is just generally poor diet.”

Chown says that some people try to rely on supplementation and vitamins in place of a healthy diet, and it really should be the other way around.

“You should focus on a good, balanced diet with all the food groups to get your daily needs. Then if you feel there’s something that you’re missing, look at supplementation as a secondary choice, and involve a dietician or physician.”

I think we all recognize this as sound advice amidst the hype. It’s just difficult staying grounded when only $49.95 gets me 60 capsules of Doctor Recommended, Non-prescription, Ageless Male Testosterone Formula, and I can be the man I want to be. ◆

CORNER

continued from Page 2 pare yourself again.

It’s sexual.

Any time another site links to an article on our website, we're notified. The first such notice for this story came in right around Christmas, and what a wonderful gift it was. It was to a website that explained that barn stars, my friends, are said to be signs that swingers live within—i.e., to use an older and regretfully sexist term, “wife-swappers welcome.”

Except—an even better gift—they aren’t! It’s a hoax, deliberately started by some jackass in 2007.

Try doing a search on “barn stars and swingers” and see what pops up. Never mind, I’ll tell you: 1.2 million hits. And our 2018 story is hit number two. In the words of Bart Simpson, ay carumba. We’ve updated it to explain to the horny denizens of East Twitsburg and First Cousin Junction that no, barn stars are not swinger symbols—but not before we make them read what they really are.

Okay, back in the saddle with tidbits: The Fonthill Lions are throwing a DriveThrough Chicken Dinner fundraiser this coming Sunday, between 4:30 and 6:30 PM. You get a half chicken, baked potato, coleslaw, bun, gravy, and rice pudding, all for $15...COVID update: As of Monday there were 54 active cases in Pelham, which is the highest yet. Rounding to the nearest whole, 15 cases per 10K population in Wainfleet, 21 per 10K in Welland, and 36 per 10K in Lincoln. The Region is now seeing cases double every 19 days...Divert yourself: I wasn’t their biggest fan at the time, but the Bee Gees have grown on me. There’s a terrific HBO documentary available on Crave, “The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart.” What’s striking is how many hits they had before Barry Gibb started in with his falsetto...Look at that: Blabbermouth is out of room. Stay safe, and see you next week. ◆

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A January 13, 2021

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Page 18

The Voice

A January 13, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

THE BALANCED LIFE

by John Swart

Do we really need so many vitamins and supplements? A uniquely qualified opinion

N

athan Chown is a Registered Dietician with the Niagara Health System, and holds a Bachelor of Physical Education degree. He assists with in patients and out patients in NHS hospitals, dealing with renal (kidney) issues, diabetes, cardiac diets, specific ICU needs, anything related to diet.

“I kind of float between all the units, I do a bit of everything,” Chown says.

Chown has agreed to speak with me about dietary vitamins and supplements.

I explain that my interest is primarily in the over-55year-old demographic, and that I’d like to know what

is the best way for someone to approach dietary supplements, how one might discover if they need supplements, where to get the best information, and how differing levels of fitness in older adults might affect their specific need for additional vitamins and various supplements.

In the early 2000s Chown competed in North America and Europe at the World Cup level in Cyclocross, an ultra-demanding form of off-road bicycle racing in which the competitors ride modified road bikes on muddy, hilly, obstacle-strewn closed courses, and he continues to compete at the Elite level in Canada.

Considering his education, many years of practical experience and competitive sports background, I’m anxious to get Chown’s perspective.

To begin, I ask Chown what, in his years of experience, is the primary trigger that causes people to question whether they need supplements. His answer is unambiguous.

“A lot of it is the media, advertisement-driven, what they see on the internet or hear from their friends. It is very rare that it would come from them thinking that they have a poor diet that would need supplementation. In even rarer cases it might be directed by a physician after a blood test or if they have a medical condition that would demand certain nutrients. It’s more media-driven I’d say.”

This is a surprise only

in degree. I expected that much of the “need” for additional vitamins, minerals and supplements was promotionally driven to generate corporate profits, but was shocked that Chown used the words “rare” and “rarer” to describe the times valid medical reasons drive consumers to investigate the use of such supplements.

Sales of vitamins, minerals and other supplements in Canada during 2019 were $2.9 billion dollars.

Detailed sales numbers at the retail level in United States are more difficult to come by, perhaps because of a lack of regulation and mandatory approvals. However, American companies manufacture $36 billion dollars worth of product, and the total claimed economic activity generated is $122 billion dollars.

In the United States, “product criteria” are set by the Food and Drug Administration but there is no approval required before going to market.

American advertising, which also has a huge impact on the Canadian market, is rampant, and it’s buyer beware every step of the way. Yet, 68 percent of Americans aged 65 and over take supplements, and 29 percent take more than four.

In Canada, vitamins, minerals, and all supplements, including homeopathic, are regulated by the Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate, a Canadian government agency.

All vitamins, minerals and supplements are required to have a product license.

Health Canada states, “To get a license, applicants must give detailed

information about the product to Health Canada, including: medicinal ingredients, source, dose, potency, non-medicinal ingredients and recommended use(s).”

This also includes evidence of safety and efficacy supported by clinical trials.

Additionally, a site license, as described by Health Canada, is also required: “All Canadian manufacturers, packagers, labelers, and importers of natural health products must have site licenses. To get a license, sites must maintain proper distribution records, have proper procedures for product recalls and for the handling, storage and delivery of their products, and demonstrate that they meet good manufacturing practice requirements.”

Also mandatory See BALANCED LIFE Page 17

V oice HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Be aware of the impact words can have, Aries. You may think what you’re saying is innocuous, but it really can do harm without intent.

Be conscious of what you’re saying.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 You don’t want to disappoint people who rely on you, Taurus.

But remain conscious of what you can and cannot offer other people.

Find the right balance.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Spend some time alone this week to sort things out in your head before you react to a situation that has been on your mind, Gemini. Don’t let others affect your state of mind.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, someone draws a proverbial line in the sand and challenges you to take action. This can be a conflict for you, especially if you’re not yet ready to make a move.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, a steep climb is before you,but with patience and perseverance, you will eventually reach the summit. Once you do, you will enjoy an extreme sense of accomplishment.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Try not to nitpick your actions, Virgo. Once you make a decision, stand by your choice and defend it.

Typically your gut and your mind do not steer you in the wrong direction.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 You may need to put rational on the side and be a little reckless in the days ahead, Libra. This may cause some temporary disarray, but take a chance.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 You may think you have the perfect plan laid out, Scorpio. However, double- or even triple-check all of your data. Doing so will provide reassurance.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, what you expect to happen this week may turn out to be the opposite of what actually happens. Be prepared for any scenario to come your way.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Emotions may cloud your judgment, Capricorn. Try to look at a situation clearly so you can weighin in an impartial manner so you have no regrets.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Sometimes the best things that happen to you can occur in the most unlikely of places, Aquarius.

Always keep your eyes open and ready for surprises.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Don’t fret if you don’t think the same way as another group of people, Pisces. This week you will more fully develop your perspective.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS JANUARY 10 Rod Stewart, Singer (76) JANUARY 11 Mary J. Blige, Singer (50) JANUARY 12 Rob Zombie, Singer (56) JANUARY 13 Patrick Dempsey, Actor (55) JANUARY 14 LL Cool J, Rapper (53) JANUARY 15 Drew Brees, Athlete (42) JANUARY 16 Lin-Manuel Miranda, Actor (41)

SOLUTIONS DOWN 1. RAD 2. ERAS 3. AINU 4. PEAS 5. FLOWER 6. RAVINES 7. GRANOLA 8. RACES 9. ABEL 10. HISS 12. LEU 14. RAGA 19. SATE 23. DUD 24. MYOPIA 25. PRE 26. REV 27. ETA 28. MID 29. ARENAS 34. ALT 35. SUI 36. CRO 37. HEN 39. ABOLISH 40. MONOCLE 41. FIN 42. ANTA 44. MAGYAR 45. RABBI 46. EBAN 47. MEND 48. OLEA 51. AAR 52. HOAR 53. ETCH 54. DUKE 58. SSE

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

SOLUTIONS ACROSS 1. REAP 5. FRG 8. RAH 11. ARIEL 13. LAR 14. RABI 15. DANAE 16. OVA 17. ACES 18. SUSUS 20. WIN 21. GELS 22. ADENOMAS 25. PREMATURELY 30. RETIRED 31. SAO 32. EVADE 33. PASCH 38. NAM 41. FAILURE 43. ABOMINATION 45. RESONANT 47. MOAB 49. LOG 50. AAHED 55. ELBA 56. ICY 57. AOTUS 59. NEBN 60. SLA 61. RACKS 62. DAI 63. HER 64. RHEE

Enjoy our Take-out Fish & Chips Fridays!

From our family to yours...stay safe

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

Page 19

A January 13, 2021

FAITH LIFT

by Pastor Rob Weatherby

Was your Christmas holy, or Hallmark?

I

have a confession to make. This past Christmas, my wife and I binged on Hallmark movies. We must have watched over a dozen. When the year came to an end we were not only ZOOMed out, we were HALLMARKed out!

Hallmark wisdom

As I’m sure you know, these movies are financed by the big card-producing company. Their slogan used to be, “When you want to send the best.” Hallmark is known for quality, not humility.

Every Christmas they produce heartwarming movies which always have happy endings. My children call them “cheesy.” I simply reply that I like my movies like my pizza — “The more cheese the better!” My brother-in-law has noticed that these movies usually have a snowball fight or at least snowman-making in them. As you can see, this discussion is a family affair.

My wife and I have fun guessing the plot line and inevitable romance as the movie begins. We usually have it figured out within the first five minutes (and we’re not even the brightest bulbs on the tree). The “romantic” in me has also noticed that the couple usually finds themselves (unexpectedly, of course) under some mistletoe at some point.

Hallmark movies usually portray Christmas as a time for family and friends, love and friendship.

There might be some passing references to carol-singing with Christian lyrics, and nativity scenes with Jesus in the manger but it’s not the focus. I call it “cultural Christianity.”

And, more tellingly, I’ve noticed that the underlying message usually is this

— when life (and romance) gets complicated, just “follow your heart.” That seems to be the bottom line and the words of wisdom that the viewer is left with. So, it’s fair to ask — “Is that good advice?”

Holy wisdom

One intriguing passage of Scripture compares worldly and Godly wisdom. It says, “…the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” (James 3:17) So, what does God’s wisdom (found in God’s Word) say about “following

your heart”?

The Bible has a lot to say on the subject. It refers to the “heart” almost 1000 times. The “heart” in this sense does not refer to the beating organ in your chest but rather to your will, feelings, emotions and desires.

In the Old Testament, God tells us that “the heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” (Jeremiah 17:9). Wow, I’ve never heard that in a Hallmark script.

Not a promising start. It’s a warning that our hearts can deceive us. Our feelings See FAITH LIFT Page 16

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: Sweet Treats

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

BAIN MARIE BAKED BATCH BEAT BIND BOIL

CARAMELIZATION CHILL CLARIFY COAT COCOA COMBINE

CONFECTION CORN SYRUP CRUMBLE DISSOLVE DRAGEES ICING

LOLLIPOP PASTE SIFT SUGAR THERMOMETER TRUFFLE

ANSWERS ON PAGE 22

Voice

CROSSWORD

289.686.1856

GARDEN CITY REALTY INC. BROKERAGE

Page 20

The Voice

A January 13, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

OF Voice RECIPE THE WEEK

4 Croissant Bread Pudding

During the depths of winter, people increasingly retreat indoors and look for something to within the warm confines of home.

Plenty of activities can fit the bill, but some provide the rewarding prospect of a freshly made meal or dessert.

When seeking recipes for cold days, consider those comfort foods that can be enjoyed warm to chase away the chill. “Croissant Bread Pudding” is an ideal choice. Topped with a rum-flavored sauce, it’s sweet and decadent for all the right reasons. Enjoy this recipe from “The Pampered Chef: Stoneware Inspirations” (The Pampered Chef, Ltd.)

by The Pampered Chef Test Kitchens.

Croissant Bread Pudding Yields 12 servings 4 1 6 1⁄2 2 1 1⁄2 3⁄4 1⁄4 1⁄2

large croissants (about 3 ounces each) red baking apple, such as Jonathan eggs cup plus 3 tablespoons sugar, divided cups half and half orange cup pecan halves, chopped cup butterscotch caramel ice cream topping teaspoon rum extract cup golden raisins

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly spray a deep baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Slice croissants from top to bottom into 1⁄2-inch slices. Set aside 16 of the largest slices. Cube remaining slices and place in bottom of baker. Arrange reserved slices over cubes in an overlapping circular pattern. Core and slice apple, leaving peel on; cut slices in half. Tuck apple slices between croissant slices.

2. In a bowl, whisk eggs and 1⁄2 cup of the sugar. Pour half and half into a microwave-safe container and microwave on high 2 minutes or until hot. Slowly add half and half to egg mixture; whisk until blended. Carefully pour egg mixture over croissants. If necessary, lightly press croissants down to coat.

3. Zest orange to measure 2 teaspoons zest. Juice orange to measure 1⁄4 cup juice; set juice aside. Chop pecans. Combine remaining sugar, orange zest and pecans; sprinkle over croissants. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown and set in center. Remove from oven to a cooling rack; let stand 10 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, combine ice cream topping, rum extract, reserved orange juice, and raisins in a microwave-safe container. Microwave on high 30 to 60 seconds or until hot; pour into serving bowl. Serve sauce over pudding.

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Gestation over, time to meet the world.

DAVE BURKET

COLUMN SIX

continued from Page 1 lar, but steady, steady, drip.

That’s what drew us downstairs (remaining fully clothed), first to the guest room, then to the furnace room, and finally to the bathroom. The floor shimmered under a shallow lake. A water pipe had sprung a leak. Several litres of water bulged from the ceiling, held back by nothing more than the impressive tensile strength of the aforementioned latex (three coats, five years ago).

The wind was blameless. It turned out the demon seed was actually planted 35 years earlier, when the house was built, and its name was polybutylene.

There’s a reasonable chance you have Poly-B's distinctive gray pipes in your house, too. Mixing metaphors in midleak, it’s a dripping time bomb.

Polybutylene piping was the first widely adopted form of plastic domestic plumbing, a cheaper alternative to copper that homebuilders—particularly on the lower end—started installing in the early ‘70s. Some 700,000 Canadian homes got stuck with the stuff before it was abandoned in the early ‘90s. By the mid-‘80s, when our definitely-not-high-end home was built, contractors and insurers had already realized that Poly-B was a slow-moving disaster. It had an unpleasant tendency to rot from the inside out, meaning it could look fine for decades and then on a Sunday morning in late November pop a pinhole leak and

Polybutylene plumbing.

VOICE

drench an innocent newspaper editor’s bathroom.

Our home inspector identified it as an item of concern when we made our offer on the place 11 years ago. I don’t remember his exact words, but his screaming departure from the basement clearly did nothing to dissuade us from going through with the deal.

(Good thing, too. We sure as hell could never afford this pricey corner of Niagara now.)

At least two of our neighbours also battled the Poly-B menace. Right around this time seven or eight years ago we gathered for a holiday drink and traded tales. One family had just replaced every pipe in their house, and another had done so years before.

I didn’t quite scoff in my ignorance, but I wasn’t overly concerned. Our pipes looked fine! What do fraidy cat home inspectors know, anyway?

Now, a few thousand dollars later, we too have replaced every pipe in our house—hello PEX, the latest wonder plastic; goodbye discretionary spending, food will be enough. Two mask-wearing plumbers spent the better part of 12 hours hacking through drywall where it was unavoidable, and coming up with clever alternatives to avoid doing so where they could. While they were at it, they installed the “new” laundry tub that came with the house and sat collecting boots and garden tools and spiders for the last decade.

I’ve not bothered calling our insurance broker to see if there’s a claim to be made—although it’s tempting to give him the gift of a good holiday guffaw. No, like everything else about bloody 2020, we’ll just take it in stride and manage as best we can. On the plus side, we got away with 11 leakfree years. And unlike in many homes, where slow seepage can go undetected for months or years behind drywall— leading to a real fungal horror show of mold and rotted framing—most of our Poly-B was visible in the basement.

Next up? The roof. When you have four roofing contractors knocking on your door in as many weeks, offering condolences on the coming demise of your shingles and their ability to shield your family from the elements, you know you’d better start socking away some cash.

May your 2021 be free of demon aliens, viral or plastic—but maybe check those pipes in the basement anyway, just in case. ◆

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