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Column Six By any other name BY COLIN BREZICKI
Special to the VOICE
C
LEVEE LEVITY Niagara West-Glanbrook MPP Sam Oosterhoff promises Jim Jeffs that he won’t stalk him, as Jeffs gives him his address so that Oosterhoff can mail a 50th wedding anniversary certificate. Story, page 3.
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ANADA’S STRENGTH as a nation lies in its diversity. So we keep hearing from our Prime Minister. If he means we’re a strong nation because many of us come from different cultures, backgrounds and traditions, then surely, only the most parochially blinkered could disagree. But if he means that our nation is stronger because our citizens adhere uncompromisingly to those cultures, backgrounds and traditions, then with all respect I must reconsider. Like many, I came to this country from somewhere else, with a name that was difficult to pronounce. Brzezicki came not trippingly off the tongue for waspish Torontonians in the ‘50s. In primary school it provided my classmates with a source of amusement. They came up with all kinds of permutations. Brass Dicky. Bra Stinky. Brew Whiskey. Breast Icky. And yeah, they hurt. I was nine when I had enough and deleted that first Z. Brezicki looked less like a barbed wire fence and was easier to pronounce. My mother, a Campbell before she married her Polish husband, was okay with my unilateral and un-noSee COLUMN SIX Page 6
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The Voice of Pelham, January 10 2018
PUBLISHER’S CORNER
Nominations open for award
by Dave Burket
Chilling beauty: We have another gorgeous image by local photographer Natalia Shields this week. Be careful as you open page 8, lest you fall over the edge… Still a wise move: Pharma Choice’s pharmacist Glen Sisak reminds us that there is still time to get the flu shot, and still plenty of flu season left to come. New York, in fact, is one of the US states hit particularly hard this year by the bug, a little too close for comfort… Teeth on edge: Sisak is getting company in his pharmacy’s space, just down from Food Basics—a new dental practice. See their ad on page 11… A cavity to fill: RBC’s decision to close its Fenwick branch is set to leave a hole in the village come spring. The bank says that it will place an ATM somewhere in the vicinity, but locals remain none too pleased by the planned merger with its Fonthill branch. At least the bank agreed to a public meeting to discuss the issue, which is more than we can say for Pelham Town Council and its ongoing ducking of finance-related questions… Speaking of following that money: Yes, we’ve seen Jim Pitt make a couple of cameo appearances lately on page 5, though sadly not this week. We keep hoping that he’ll un-retire himself from the column-writin’ business and get back in regular action. We're looking at some interesting times ahead, no doubt… Worthy nominations: The Kinsmen are soliciting your picks for Citizen of the Year. See the how and where in their ad, page 5… Get your gift card: A $10 Sobeys gift card awaits all new voluntary subscribers, thanks in part to a generous donation by Fonthill store owner Ron Kore. See page 15… For those who like to plan ahead: In case you were already pondering what to do with your—or your kid’s—summer, the Town of Pelham is looking for some “RCW” staff. This turns out to be the “Recreation, Culture, and Wellness” department—one assumes formerly "Parks and Rec"—and the deadline for applications is a surprisingly early January 26. See their classified on page 12… Ah, summer: Let’s just repeat that word a couple of times and end on a high note...summer, summer, summer…
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IN THE NEWS
Nominations are now open for the 2018 T. Roy Adams Humanitarian of the Year Award. The award honours the memory of the late Regional Councillor T. Roy Adams and is presented annually to a current resident of Niagara who best exemplifies Adams’ values and dedication to community service, a person who sees volunteerism as an integral part of their life. Last year’s winner was businessman Tom Rankin. Through a news release, the Region calls on Niagara residents to review the criteria for the award and nominate someone they know online at niagararegion.ca/ government/awards-bursaries. Nominations are open until March 31. T. Roy Adams was an eminent Niagaran, well known throughout the Niagara, Canada, and abroad for his service.
Cryptocurrency here to stay
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Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies may be rife with volatility, but a Brock University finance expert believes blockchain technology is here to stay. Professor of Finance Don Cyr from Brock’s Goodman School of Business has been closely following the cryptocurrency market and calls the blockchain technology behind Bitcoin “revolutionary.” Cyr said the political aspect of cryptocurrency — where governments have little control or regulatory
trading of the Bitcoin,” he said. As for the suggestion that Bitcoin is following the same road as the dot-com bubble of the late 1990s, Cyr said there are certainly similarities. “In finance, we recognize there have been speculative bubbles where markets seem to be overvalued and that there’s an overreaction in the market. I think you can see some of that in terms of the growth of the initial cryptocurrency offerings where people are speculating on what could be the next Bitcoin.” That said, Cyr doesn’t think the blockchain technology behind Bitcoin is going away. “Blockchain is a significant technological development, but it’s hard to say what form that will take in terms of cryptocurrency and other financial transactions in general,” he said.
power over digital currencies — has helped fuel its growth. But as for which particular digital currencies will survive, Cyr said that remains to be seen. “In a year, I think we’re still going to see Bitcoin holding its position as the prime cryptocurrency,” Cyr said. “It will take a long time for the value of those other competitors to catch up to Bitcoin.” Launched in 2009, Bitcoin was the first decentralized payment system, meaning transactions happen directly from person-to-person rather than having a central bank monitoring the currency. It uses blockchain technology, which is essentially a shared record book or database that records transactions. Because of the inherent privacy associated with cryptocurrencies, taxation is a significant issue, and one that Cyr expects governments around the world will be trying to regulate. “Most countries have decided to tax it like a commodity with capital gains, but how do we know who’s making the transactions? Governments may attempt the regulation of the exchanges that deal in the
Arrest in $10,000 stolen bike case
On Tuesday, January 2, members of the Niagara Falls Street Crime unit arrested a male selling a custom built Swiss made BMC Impec bicycle worth more than $10,000. The bicycle was reported stolen from a tourist's vehicle in July 2017. Police were investigating a rash of high end bicycle thefts targeting the tourist areas of Niagara Falls. As a result of an investigation, Kody Mounsey, 27, of Niagara Falls, was arSee IN THE NEWS Page 10
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Column Six
Growing up British
Vol.20 No.32
Wednesday October 12, 2016
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Apple Day comes to Fonthill
BY JULIE MANNELL
Special to the VOICE
W
BALLOONING INTEREST Grade 6 student Jinja Shepherd explains her experiment on static electricity at the Glynn A. Green Public School's annual science fair last Friday. See story, page 3. NATE SMELLE PHOTO
Public meeting tonight on school issues BY VOICE STAFF As questions continue to mount regarding an email that Pelham Mayor Dave Augustyn quietly sent to a District School Board of Niagara trustee last summer, Augustyn has agreed to address the issue at a public meeting scheduled for this evening, Wednesday, Feb. 8, in Fenwick. Nancy Beamer, speaking for “Names Matter,” a Pelham citizens group lobbying the DSBN to reverse its decision to rename a local public school, confirms that the meeting will be held at Fire Station #2, known locally as the Fenwick Fire Hall, starting at 7:00 PM. While the Mayor has agreed to ap-
Under pressure, Mayor to address email revelation, other E. W. Farr matters pear, says Beamer, DSBN officials associated with the school-naming process have either declined to attend or have not yet responded to the group’s invitation. DSBN Chair, Dale Robinson, to whom Augustyn’s email was addressed last June, has declined to appear, says Beamer, asserting that she would be
“on holidays.” The Voice was unable to independently confirm Robinsion’s intentions. She did not respond to repeated requests for comment on E.W. Farr-related matters before presstime. Beamer, whose group maintains an email list of some 580 residents, says that all members of the public are invited and encouraged to attend the meeting. “We would especially welcome parents and children who are unhappy with the name change,” she says, referring to the contentious decision by the DSBN to consolidate two Pelham See MEETING back page
HEN I WAS young, my father and I would go for long drives along the rural routes of Pelham. We’d blast George Thurgood and roll down the windows because we loved the smell of the breeze, the sensation of crisp Niagara wind beating our cheeks and tangling our hair against our summer-kissed skin. My father was not a sentimental man. He worked in factories and had a Gordon Lightfoot mustache and never shed tears over injuries. Yet something about the Pelham landscape, the hilly backdrop to his childhood and the childhoods of our ancestors, drew him in. He’d stop by a farm or a gathering of woods and, surrendering his manly veneer, tell me a story about the town. This place is precious. This is the earth that granted us life. Here is the place where we happened upon love or here is a site of devastation. On one particular drive sometime in the late ‘90s we stopped at a tree with a plaque. “This tree looks dead,” I said to my father. “It sure is getting there, Julie.” The Comfort Maple is supposedly Canada’s oldest See COLUMN SIX Page 14
Part 2 of 2: Coronation to embarkation
BY VOICE STAFF
A construction error was discovered following the opening of a traffic calming chicane on Haist Street north of Hwy 20 last Monday that prevented large vehicles from passing through. One resident living in the neighbourhood said he contacted the Town after seeing a small schoolbus get stuck as it tried to get through the new traffic calming measure. Later that day while driving behind a cement truck, he said that he became concerned for the public’s safety when the truck had to turn around because it couldn’t get through. “If a small school bus and a cement truck can’t make it through what about a fire
BY HEATHER McLAREN ROHRER
Special to the VOICE
A
Repair measures underway last week to correct a construction error in the chicane. truck or an ambulance?” he said. While waiting for the contractor to return to fix
the mistake, the Town has taken measures to temporarily allow passage for vehicles through the neigh-
VOICE PHOTO
bourhood in the short-term. Manager of Public Works Ryan Cook said that after discovering the issue with
the chicane the morning it first opened, the Town See CHICANE Page 5
Petition-inspired changes coming to 2017 Summerfest BY NATE SMELLE
The VOICE
Representatives from the Pelham Summerfest committee Candy Ashbee and Bill Gibson presented council with a final report on the 2016 Summerfest at the Council meeting on Monday, Nov. 21. Prompted by a story in the Voice in August about a merchant petition to move Summerfest from Pelham Street, in September Town staff met with various stakeholders to hear their complaints, promising at the time that changes in the way Summerfest was mounted would be con-
sidered. The main concerns identified during the community engagement process were security, parking, ensuring customer can access all businesses in town, and liability for damages. How to get all Pelham Street businesses to participate and finding ways to make it beneficial for them to set up a booth were also determined to be of high priority for the committee as they plan for next year’s event. Gibson told Council that the committee is addressing these concerns in a variety of ways. To improve parking, they intend to create bet-
ter signage for out-of-town visitors to designated parking areas and shuttle services. To make participation in Summerfest more enticing to local businesses, they plan to implement a tiered-charge for booths. Under the new system, Pelham Street business owners will be charged the least, other local businesses will pay a slightly higher fee, and vendors from outside Pelham will pay the most. In response to more specific issues for individual businesses, they will also slightly alter the footprint of the event and make adjustments to security. Another way the committee plans
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to improve the 2017 Summerfest is by sponsoring and working with the organizers of the Thursday Night Bandshell Concert series to select the artist performing on the first night of Summefest. They also intend to make more use of the smartphone app they launched in 2016. "We are really going to push it this year," Ashbee said. “It really helps to get people to see what events there are so they can plan out where they are going. We will be able to actually help the merchants and local businesses adSee CHANGES Page 5
FTER LUNCH ON Saturday, Mum and Dad had my afternoon cut out for me. Mum had more brass than anyone I knew, and it had to be cleaned. In addition there was the set of silver fish-knives and forks which were never used, but which had to be cleaned and put back in their velvetlined box. Next was a walk to the newsagents to pay for the daily delivery of the Daily Mirror. As I said, Dad was a printer, but when he was 37 he had been rejected for a job, as being too old, by the printers of the Beano. For that reason, my favourite comic was not allowed in the house, but while I was paying the papers, the newsagent let me have a 'shoofty' at the Beano. I'd explained my predicament and he understood completely. Sundays were different again. Dad would play golf on summer mornings and billiards in winter. Then he'd stop for a 'refresher' at the local and would pick up the prawns, cockles, winkles or whelks we'd be having for tea later. Meanwhile, Mum was roasting the 'joint' and potatoes. I got to make the Yorkshire pud, and mint
See COLUMN SIX Page 14
Full service. Full-time Realtor. Your Fonthill real estate connection.
BY VOICE STAFF
While shopping in Fonthill between Friday and Sunday, keep an eye out for Beavers, Cubs and Scouts in front of local stores with bushels of apples. As part of the annual Apple Day campaign, Scouting youth of all ages will be trading apples for donations. The yearly fundraising drive is an important way for young Scouts to connect with the communities they are serving, says Leah Marie of Scouts Canada. “The Apple Day campaign holds a great tradition of being able to have youth interacting within the communities they live in,” she says. “All of the Apple Day donations stay directly within the group that re-
The goal is to have these youth develop into confident and well-rounded individuals
ceives them, enabling youth to have experiences that build character, challenge them, and allow them to try new things. The goal is to have these youth develop into confident and wellrounded individuals, better prepared for success. Apple Day helps to achieve that.”
“Any money raised during Apple Day goes towards improving the Scouting program by providing more outdoor adventures for youth, camping equipment, canoes and paddles, training and many other endeavours that the youth want to experience,” says Marie. Scouts Canada has some 100,000 members across Canada, and carries out programs for boys, girls
Joining their principal, Karen Simpson, at the Sept. 19 Council meeting as part of a delegation from EL Crossley Secondary School, students Abby Loewen and Neenah Williams presented Council with a list of reasons that they should immediately approve the construction of the new sidewalk proposed along Hwy. 20. The asphalt side-
walk/trail is slated to be built between the south side of the road from Timmsdale Crescent to the high school. Because of the large volume of motor vehicle traffic travelling at high speeds through this area, and because of the necessity for students to tread this path on a daily basis, many residents would like to see the sidewalk go in sooner than later. After delivering to Council a petition containing
Many residents would like to see the sidewalk go in sooner than later the names of 450 students calling for a safer walk to school, Simpson handed the
podium over to Loewen and Williams to plead their case. Loewen told Council that because there are a lot of students who have work placements and coop placements during the school year, this is the only route for many of them to travel. As one of the students facing this predicament, Williams said she has had no other option but to walk along the dangerous highway.
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H EATHER AND P ENNY L ANE S ALES R EPRESENTATIVES
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VOICE Correspondent
and youth ages 5-25. This year the 3rd Fonthill Group, which includes Beavers to Ventures (youth ages 5- 25) will be hitting the streets to drum-up support. Over the weekend, Scouts will be set up in Fonthill outside Sobeys, Tim Hortons, Target Gas station, Fonthill Shopping Plaza and the Pioneer Gas station at the corner of Hwys 20 and 24.
Town Council approves sidewalk to serve E. L. Crossley BY NATE SMELLE
The VOICE
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Second year Beaver with the 3rd Fonthill Group, Russell Letford offers a fresh apple to shoppers in Pelham during the 2015 Apple Day campaign. SUPPLIED PHOTO A longtime Canadian tradition, Apple Day began in 1932 in Saint John, New Brunswick, when Scouts handed out 21,000 apples as a way to say thank you to the community. In return for their generosity, many people offered them donations. From then on Scouts have reached out through Apple Day to raise funds for their programs.
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Column Six It doesn’t get better than Autumn
Longtime Scouting tradition dates to 1932
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Request made of community still peeved at name change
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Column Six
BY VOICE STAFF The District School Board of Niagara is requesting that the Town of Pelham cede a portion of Cherry Ridge Park for use as a soccer field to serve the students of the new Wellington Heights Public School, formerly the E. W. Farr Memorial Public School, in Fenwick. Currently under renovation and expansion, the new school will combine students and staff from the previous school and Pelham Centre, where classes are being held while construction continues. Two letters, containing virtually identical text but signed by different authorities, were sent last week to nearby residents of the park, as well as to parents of Pelham Centre students. “The DSBN is currently building onto Wellington Heights Public School on Alsop Drive,” states the letter. “The size of the school's addition means the existing small soccer field will be eliminated. The Town and the Board have been discussing the possibility of working together to create a field for both the school and the
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In an effort to bring further attention and deterrence to driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, the Niagara Regional Police Service reports the names of those people who are charged with an alleged criminal impaired driving offence in the Region. None of the following charges have been proved in court. In addition to being charged, these individuals are also bound by a Ministry of Transportation 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. Jonathan H. GREEN, 21, Niagara Falls Brian S. RAYMOND, 47, Fort Erie Eric S. BRONSCHIDLE, 28, Tonowanda NY Shayne P. BURKE, 27, Niagara Falls Luke A. A. PILON, 20, Whitby Kevin WATSON, 25, St. Catharines Tadeusz W. CIACH, 61, Port Colborne Donald J. WOODCOX, 29, St. Catharines Gerald VANSTONE, 59, Welland Karen M. HENDERSON, 48, Niagara Falls Dennis R. FREEMAN, 57, St. Catharines Carlletto FABIANO, 45, Niagara Falls Xiqiu HUANG, 22, St. Catharines Kingsley BLACKWOOD, 43, Brampton Jody L. COWELL, 37, Welland Stephen G. DEKKER, 53, Stoney Creek Rodolfo CASTILLO, 59, St. Catharines David B. McHENRY, 63, Pelham Melissa D. SCHRIVER, 31, Niagara Falls Cory D. T. WERNER, 31, North Vancouver BC 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.
CARRIER
Hugh and Denise Dempsie visiting son Brad, who teaches at Kauai Community College in Hawaii.
NRPS impaired driving charges
“I start work at 2:30 PM and school lets out at 2:15 PM so I can’t take any other route,” Williams explained. “I have had friends, family, teachers and other community members reach out to me in the past about how this is unsafe and how there should be another alternative for us.” Looking ahead to winter, when she will need to walk this path three or four times See SIDEWALK Page 2
HERE IS NO BETTER time to cycle than Fall. It matters not whether you’re new to the sport, a seasoned recreational cyclist, racer, touring rider or mountain biker; we all have reason to look forward to autumn. Summer’s heat has faded, and the streams of sweat that ran from soggy helmets into our eyes are now just slight perspiration. Fitness is peaking from lots of saddle time, making those tough climbs of Spring a breeze in Autumn. It’s hard to beat the feeling of beginning a crisp, cool Fall ride with a slight shiver, knowing your efforts will soon warm you perfectly. The hues of Autumn are outstanding. A Pelham route as simple as following our southern boundary is one that would make most Toronto cyclists jealous, especially when our forests and fields are ablaze with colour. Begin from Harold Black Park, and zig-zag south along Effingham Rd toward the Welland River. If you’re new to cycling, it’s important to know south is the direction away from any hills. If you avoid the morning and evening weekday rush hours caused by those travelling through Pelham between Wainfleet See AUTUMN Page 3
Indulgence Bakery Mossimo’s Pelham Street Grille Sobeys Fonthill Peter Piper’s Pubhouse DeVries Fruit Farm Beamer’s Hardware & TV Fonthill Library Black Pearl Fish & Chips Bob’s Boys Antiques Moku’s Family Health Pharmacy Fonthill Fitness Fenwick Pie Company McDonald’s Fonthill Legion Semenuk’s Gas Bar Target Store Tim Horton’s Giant Tiger Pelham Town Hall Pub on the Hill Zee Lube Express Care Lazy Loon Minor Bros Stores Avondale Stores A-1 Market Sobeys South Pelham Grill on Canboro Pelham Library Ridge Berry Farm Circle-K
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The Voice of Pelham, January 10 2018
The audit that never happened
ANALYSIS: Several issues remain
Lingering questions, post-KPMG
KPMG's own report cites limits imposed by Town of Pelham
In rescinding promise to hold public Q&A session, Councillor Gary Accursi said he "could think of no other questions." Here are just a few.
BY VOICE STAFF
BY VOICE STAFF Prior even to reading KPMG’s reports, at its last meeting of 2017 Pelham Town Council voted unanimously to reverse its earlier commitment to hold a Town Hall-style meeting, at which residents could ask questions of KPMG, Town staff, and Town Council. Councillor Gary Accursi, who tabled the motion to stymie further inquiry, said, “I can think of no other questions that could come forward.” In the weeks since KPMG’s presentation at E. L. Crossley Secondary School, and following the firm's release of its reports shortly before Christmas, the Voice has identified a number of important issues that remain unresolved. The Town has said that it will no longer directly respond to inquiries about past finances, requiring such questions to be filed as Freedom of Information requests. Answers to such requests may be legally delayed by 30 days. Based on previous experience, the Town exploits this timetable nearly to the maximum, often then not providing the answers requested. The Voice is aware of at least three denied-FOI appeals against the Town currently filed with the province. The following remain open issues, ones that may ultimately need to be pursued by other bodies, either Regional or provincial.
The 3.3-acre land transaction in East Fonthill
The KPMG report states that the Town was following its own by-law in valuing the land, namely by assuming that it was ready for construction. This valuation method led to the Town paying Fonthill Gardens (the Allen Group) an exorbitant amount for the land. While the Town asserted that it used this method to compensate Fonthill Gardens for its “lost profit opportunity,” KPMG disputes this. KPMG writes that since the Town proposed that Fonthill Gardens buy the land, and since Fonthill Gardens “never intended to develop the excess dedications, it appears that [Fonthill Garden’s] opportunity cost was not the ability to sell the land fully developed.” KPMG says also that it appears as though the Town did have the flexibility to negotiate the purchase price, and was not required to “pay the appraised value at the building permit stage.” Why, then, did the
Town choose to have the land valued in a way that would result in such a high price? Why did the Town pay for and provide the appraisal for Fonthill Gardens to acquire the land from the original owners? Did the Town engage in “bonusing,” a form of incentive that’s illegal in Ontario? After the credit-for-land agreement with the Allen Group had been rescinded, the Town paid Fonthill Gardens just over $3 million in cash for the land. Then-Treasurer Cari Pupo first suggested that the Town obtain a loan to make the payment, but later told Council that the $3 million would be paid out from the Town’s operating bank account. But as the balance of this account was just $554,000 at the start of the year, it appears that the Town could not have had sufficient funds to fund such a large transaction. Former Councillor Marvin Junkin has said that Council was not given information as to how these funds were ultimately found, despite the Mayor asking Pupo to send a follow-up email to Council with this information. The Town has repeatedly refused to state by what means it found an extra $3 million in cash to pay off Fonthill Gardens. KPMG’s report shows that the Town recorded future development charges/ parkland charges/other Town fees as a current asset receivable in 2016, with a revenue amount recorded called “Contributed Assets,” in addition to recording the actual purchase of the lands from Fonthill Gardens. Regional Audit Chair Tony Quirk says that this approach “created revenue out of thin air.” KPMG only presented the journal entry that was made. It did not conclude whether the entry was appropriate. Why did the Town book future development charges and other revenues as a current accounts receivable asset/revenue in 2016, in light of the fact that the events that would see them being owed to the Town had not yet occurred?
General Finances
At the beginning of 2016, $1.09 million of debt remained on the Town’s original $3.5 million CIBC bank loan from 2005, which was used to buy the Rice Road property that was to become East Fonthill.
Page 3
Councillors Durley and Accursi, at E. L. Crossley. At some point 2016, this $1.09 million was paid of in its entirety. Once again, considering that the Town had just $554,000 in cash at the start of 2016, which funds did the Town use to pay off this $1.09 million loan? In its E. L. Crossley presentation, KPMG reported that the Town had exhausted its $3 million Line of Credit as of last November 29. At its final meeting of 2017, Town Council authorized an increase of its Line of Credit from $3 million to $7 million. Treasurer Teresa Quinlin said that this increase was the result of a timing issue. However, Quinlin did not explain why such a dramatic increase was required, nor did she give specifics as to how the Line of Credit would be used. The Town’s Community Centre construction report for November 2017 appears to show that debenture funds already received will run out by January 31, and that a further $8 million will be needed between February and May of 2018. It is indicated that this will come from land sale proceeds. Will the increased Line of Credit be used to cover construction costs of the Community Centre, until such time as proceeds of land sales in East Fonthill may come in? Both KPMG and Treasurer Quinlin have confirmed that reserve funds were routinely used to fund capital expenditures, leaving the Town with “minimal cash on hand.” Quinlin has made it a priority to replenish these reserves. When asked why the Town used reserve funds to pay for capital projects (rather than acquire the debentures as approved by Council), Quinlin said that she didn’t know, and that it was done before her arrival at the Town. “That’s just the way things were done here,” she said. Accounting experts consulted by the Voice said that this use of reserve funds was a way by which the Town could have made its debt obligations appear lower than they actually were. Former Councillor Marvin Junkin alleged that behind closed doors on September
VOICE PHOTO
5, Quinlin told Council that the Town would not have received provincial funding approval for the Community Centre if this internal borrowing was public knowledge. Why did the Town spend reserve funds instead of acquiring the debentures approved by Council? Was this done deliberately to make the Town’s debt obligations seems lower than they were in reality? Regarding the balances of reserve funds, KPMG writes that, “In each report to Council, it was stated that ‘year end reserve balances remain healthy and capable of supporting the Town’s ongoing commitments.’ This statement appears misleading as the Town does not appear to have the cash balances on hand to support the year end reserve balances.” KPMG’s report confirms former Councillor Marvin Junkin’s allegation that Council was not properly informed of the use of reserve funds. Why was Council not fully informed about the depletion of reserve funds. Who among staff did know about it. When Council learned of this depletion on September 5, why was this information not immediately made public? Based on the Town’s 2015 audited financial statements, five of seven provincial financial indicators showed a challenge of “Moderate.” Two showed a challenge of “High.” Per KPMG, ratings of “Moderate” on just two of the seven prompt follow-up contact from the province. The Town did not respond to, or publicly acknowledge, communication from the province regarding its “Moderate” and “High” financial challenge when first received. The Voice has learned that this communication was made prior to former Treasurer Cari Pupo’s departure. Why did the Town not acknowledge these “Moderate” and “High” financial red flags from its 2015 financials? Why was this provincial communication not disclosed during debate in 2016 over whether to approve the $36 million dollar Community Centre project?
Last October, after months of residential and Regional questions going unanswered, Pelham Town Council partially bowed to pressure said that it would engage a third-party audit of a particularly problematic, multi-million-dollar, 3.3 acre East Fonthill land transaction. “To make the audit completely independent, Pelham Town Council has retained KPMG Canada to undertake an independent, third-party audit of all transactions and documents related to the parkland over-dedication and the development charge credit agreement,” said Mayor Dave Augustyn at the time. Yet KPMG’s own documents, released publicly shortly before Christmas, indicate that what was carried out was not, in fact, an audit. “We have relied upon the completeness, accuracy and fair presentation of all the information obtained,” KPMG states. “Our calculations and analysis are conditional upon the completeness, accuracy and fair presentation of such Information. KPMG has not audited or otherwise independently verified the accuracy or fair presentation of any of the Information.” Further, the firm says that its comments “are not intended, nor should they be interpreted to be, legal advice or opinion.” In its report, KPMG notes two essential assumptions. The first is that, “all relevant email communications of representatives of the Town regarding the EFDP [East Fonthill Development Project] were provided to KPMG for review.” The second reads, “financial information provided by representatives of the Town was based on the use of complete and accurate information, including information from the Financial Statements, and underlying financial records.” Accounting experts consulted by the Voice caution that not only does KPMG directly state that the firm didn’t conduct an audit, but that the firm also states it was reliant on the Town being entirely forthcoming. “The reports provide a summary of information provided by Town staff, council and others, but they do not provide opinions, verification or approval of Town council oversight, or approval of the Town's actions, or if they were correct or not,” says one expert. In other words, KPMG has repeated to the public what it has been told by the Town, without making any attempt to verify the truthfulness of such statements. This is the opposite
of an audit, much less a “forensic” audit. KPMG further states that its staff did not interview or ask questions of any former employees, or any current or former Council members. They spoke only with upper level management, the Town’s lawyers, and representatives of the Allen Group and their lawyers.
Unfortunately, the restrictions have led to a host of questions that remain unanswered In news releases, the Town continues to inaccurately refer to KPMG’s work as an audit. However, as is made explicit by the firm in its report, KPMG was given a restricted, narrow scope of work, namely a single land transaction in East Fonthill, and the credit-swap scheme used to pay for it. Last autumn the Town asserted that residents could send questions directly to KPMG, arguing that this made the inquiry “independent.” However, the Town set the inquiry’s scope, and it was Town staff who controlled how much, or how little information was provided to KPMG staff to answer residents’ questions. In sum, KPMG appears to have collated information as provided by Town staff and not drawn independent conclusions regarding key concerns, including whether it believes that the Town paid a justifiable price for lands acquired from The Allen Group, or whether the means of compensating the Allen Group were appropriate. In fact, the report is repeatedly non-committal as to whether the Town complied with applicable legislation, providing limited or no comment on the legality of the municipality’s actions. “Unfortunately, the restrictions have led to a host of questions that remain unanswered,” an accounting expert says. “And now with the Town reversing its decision to hold a second meeting, where residents could ask questions of KPMG, the Mayor, Councillors and senior Town staff, it appears the controversy surrounding East Fonthill and the new community centre will continue to cause issues for the Town with the Region, taxpayers, and regulators, for some time to come.”
Page 4
The Voice of Pelham, January 10 2018
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OPINION
The opinions expressed in submitted commentary and letters to the editor are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the Voice of Pelham.
The Voice of Pelham is a 1211858 Ontario Limited publication David Burket, Publisher 2-1428 Pelham St., P.O. Box 1489, Fonthill, ON L0S1E0
COMMENTARY / OP-ED Larry Coté Transport truck trepidation
N
O ONE WISHES TO contribute hardship to or demean truck drivers but, like it or not, they are ultimately the most visible component of the trucking industry. Following another catastrophic incident on one of our 400 series highways involving these large behemoths, something needs to be done to improve the safety of our roadways. A l a r m i ng ly—a lt houg h this most recent mishap near Barrie is still under investigation—the police suspect that a distracted transport driver may be to blame for this terrible accident. For the sake of that driver and transport truckers generally one can only hope that a more rigorous investigation will prove that allegation mistaken. What automobile driver has not felt an increase in their stress level when encountering one of these gargantuan rigs on the roads? It occurs to drivers when encountering these motor trucks that should we get entangled with one our number has most likely come up. The reality is that in such an encounter our little family sedan is a frighteningly fragile ma-
chine and no match for a fully loaded 18-wheeler. The unfortunate reality is that many people are being killed or injured in accidents involving trucks. According to the provincial police, since the beginning of this year, its officers have investigated some 5000 transport truck-related collisions that have resulted in 67 fatalities. In defense of their constituents, the Ontario Trucking Association reports there was a 66% reduction in fatalities from large truck collisions between 1995 and 2014. Meanwhile, during that nine year period there was a 75% increase in truck vehicle registrations. Yikes! The roadway siege is not over. For a start, transport industry regulators should more vigorously investigate measures to reduce fatalities and injuries as a result of truck-related collisions. On the human resources side, such measures as a more advanced driver education curriculum, more stringent monitoring of the licensing of drivers and the renewing of those licenses. Marginal learners and unfit drivers should be eliminated from the occupation until
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The Voice
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 PUBLISHER & EDITOR Dave Burket publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca NEWS WRITER Samuel Piccolo ADMINISTRATION Lori Gretsinger office@thevoiceofpelham.ca CONTRIBUTORS Carolyn Botari, Larry Coté, Nick Saltarelli, John Swart, Kirk Weaver
they can prove absolute preparedness for such responsibilities. On the technical side of the equation, the maintenance regimes and road-worthiness of transport vehicles need be strictly enforced. Unsafe vehicles must be removed from the roads upon the discovery of the least mechanical infraction. If logic prevails, there is a some likelihood that there is a positive relationship between speed and the incidents of accidents. Perhaps one of the more controversial measures might be to reconsider the installation of governors that limit the speed of transport trucks and especially for novice drivers. Such a measure might temporarily interfere with the logistics of JIT (Just In Time) management but may be worthwhile if lives are to be saved. Meanwhile, keep your eyes on the road and give our valued women and men transport drivers a wide and courteous berth. Larry Coté is a retired professor of business management. He has been awarded the Governor General’s Medal for his community involvements.
Letters Giving King James a rewrite This is in response to a letter printed in last week’s Voice entitled, “What if God was one of us…” by Alan Bown. In the letter, Mr. Bown takes issue with MPP Sam Oosterhoff’s Christmas greeting, which included the words “Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth peace to those on whom His favour rests.” Mr. Bown states that he would have preferred a more inclusive reading such
Mr. Bown states that he would have preferred a more inclusive reading as, “Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth peace to all.” I am confused as to what
CONTACT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS Member of Federal Parliament
Electoral District: Niagara West
Dean Allison, MP 4994 King Street Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 Dean.Allison@parl.gc.ca 877-563-7900
Mayor of Pelham David Augustyn mayordave@pelham.ca 905-892-2607 Ext 317 Members of Pelham Town Council
Member of Provincial Parliament
Ward 1 Councillor Richard Rybiak rrybiak@pelham.ca 905-892-2105
Sam Oosterhoff, MPP 4961 King St. East, Unit M1 Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org 905-563-1755
Councillor James Lane jlane@pelham.ca 905-892-2607
Electoral District: Niagara West-Glanbrook
Members of Niagara Regional Council Councillor David Augustyn mayordave@pelham.ca 905-892-2607 Ext 317 Councillor Brian Baty brian.baty@niagararegion.ca 905-892-5317 Town of Pelham 20 Pelham Town Square P.O. Box 400 Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 905-892-2607
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course of action Mr. Bown would have liked Mr. Oosterhoff to take. Since the quote used in the greeting was taken directly from the Bible (Luke 2:14), it can be assumed that Mr. Bown would have liked Mr. Oosterhoff to alter the original words of the text in order to fit all of the perceived whims of his many constituents. A tall task indeed... Nathan Oblak Fonthill
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Page 5
OPINION Letters
continued
It's the method, not just the madness What a sad commentary on our town. When we moved to Fonthill in 1988, there was a feeling of trust, a feeling of pride. We loved the atmosphere, hence our move here. Since then it has become a strip of retailers, small malls, bars/ restaurants. Not pretty. I am not complaining on the growth of our town, I am complaining about the lousy planning and stupidity in spending. I’m a typical resident, not always happy with decisions made by our Town Council, but that is democracy. Never have I been so disgusted with the circus that is taking place in our once-lovely town. This Council should be run out of town on a rail. We do have an election, not coming fast enough, but they should all be sent packing. Joan Chick Fonthill
PENNY SALE PROCEEDS The Hope Center receives a donation from the Fonthill & District Kinette Club. From left, Kinette president Cindy Ripley, Christina Lajeumesse from the Hope Center, and Lynn Frederick. SUPPLIED PHOTO
College: Stop persecuting Pelser When is the ludicrous suspension of Dr. Pelser by the College of Surgeons and Physicians going to be rescinded? My doctors over the years were excellent including Drs. Snelling Polywjanyi and Sarides. A decade ago in Fonthill Dr. Sarides left his practice to work in the emergency department at the Welland hospital. Dr. Pelser who has a genuine enthusiasm for the profession replaced him. This enthusiasm is one of the reasons for his loyal following. My excellent care continued. After several years in Fonthill, he relocated and continued practicing at the McMaster clinic. After numerous complaints regarding parking fees and appointment wait times he opened his new practice on Hwy 20 in Fonthill, hence eliminating parking fees and substantially reducing wait times. Then, enter the C.S.P. Although he paid for his renewal licence fees and a penalty for tardiness, he was prevented from entering his office and suspended indefinitely. Apparently one department honored his pay-
ment and the other did not. Further investigation was needed. I know whom should be investigated. Meanwhile hundreds of patients are left in limbo, lives left in turmoil. It is time for the C.S.P. to raise the bar and get their act together so that Dr. Pelser can do what he does best, treat patients. Doctors are not accepting patients in Welland nor Fonthill. The walk-in clinic portion of the doctors' office on Pancake Lane closed on January 1. The entire region is feeling the repercussions of the C.S.P's dilly-dallying. This is a reputable doctor who has practiced in the area for a decade, devoted time and an investment into a new clinic—please allow him to practice medicine again. Lives are at stake. Robert E. Lampman PWD (patient without doctor) P.S. I hope everybody at the college enjoyed their turkey over the holidays. I know Dr. Pelser's patients and family did not. Editor's Note: We reached out to Dr. Pelser for an update. See his remarks on page 15.
FABULOUS NEW MEMBERS The Fabulous Fenwick Lions inducted four new members in December. From left, Sponsor lion Mel Jackson, new Lions Jason Jackson, Tom Mowder, Robert Pearce, sponsoring Lions Ryan VanLochem, Bill Farion, and Al Snider. New Lion Tom Huppunen not pictured. SUPPLIED PHOTO
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Pelham Citizen of the Year Award, 2017 Our 20th Award Anniversary Year The guidelines are... you cannot be a sitting politician, and must live or work in Pelham.
NEWSFLASH Tell us your story!
The Citizen of the Year should exemplify volunteerism, and positive community activism.
Column Six presents tales of personal triumph, adventure, strange-but-true stories, life-changing events, and looks-back at our past.
Submissions must be in writing, and postmarked no later than Friday, January 26, 2018
Did you conquer Everest or kick a bad habit? Did you meet your spouse-to-be in jail or on an African safari? Do you know where Hoffa’s buried?
Send submissions to:
The Kinsmen Club of Fonthill & District P.O. Box 906, Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0
Write it down, send it in: publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca (You won’t get rich, but you will get paid.)
Page 6
The Voice of Pelham, January 10 2018
COLUMN SIX continued from Page 1 tarized decision; but when I told my father, I was surprised at how readily he accepted my move to assimilate. He liked the idea so much, he dropped that first zed out of his own signature as well. It wasn’t the last time he surprised me with his ameliorative stand on integration. When I asked him to teach me Polish, he pointblank refused. “We live in Canada now. We speak Canadian,” he said, in an accent like molasses. He took very seriously the business of learning the new language. He bought a Polish-English dictionary and studied it every night to learn new words. Eventually, he had assembled a wider vocabulary than my teacher. He read The Globe and Mail and Newsweek. He could use words like nugatory, coalesce and garrulous in a sentence—okay, three different sentences— and mispronounced them all because he never heard them spoken. His range of vocabulary, and his accent,
meant that people had trouble understanding him. But he persevered. Becoming Canadian mattered to him. Not that he was ashamed of his heritage—his diversity mattered too. He cooked Polish dishes, played Chopin, and read Polish writers. He introduced me to Quo Vadis, Henryk Sienckiewicz’s novel celebrating the Polish spirit under oppression. But my father accepted the reality, ‘50s provincialism notwithstanding, of Canada as our country. We weren’t in Poland anymore. Assimilation wasn’t easy back then, not for anyone with a “foreign” accent or a “funny” name. As a boy I was conflicted, and I look back now a little ashamed of how I handled my predicament. I was half-Polish at a time when being anything other than a WASP presented challenges. Polish jokes, for example, were in their heyday. I remember Johnny Carson hosting a Chicago Bears player on his show—Bob Wotoska or Mike Ditka maybe—and then introducing a comedian who
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Polish immigrants aboard a train, ca. 1911, location unknown.
announced to Johnny that he had a Polish joke to tell. The Bears player reminded him that he was Polish. After a pause, the comedian quipped, “Okay, but don’t worry, I’ll tell it really slowly.” Those were the days. I told some Polish jokes myself. I suppose it was like saying Uncle, and acknowledging my cultural inferiority as a way of ingratiating myself to my peers. On parents’ evenings, I remember being very aware of my father’s thick accent and appearance. He would wear a fedora and his only suit, while other fathers came more casually dressed and spoke confidently to the teachers. I wanted to be somewhere else, and I wonder now if he was aware of my discomfiture—a good word, and one he likely knew. I was reluctant to invite school friends to my house when my father was home because he wasn’t cool, though the term wasn’t current then; he knew nothing
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of our sports or our music or the girls we had crushes on, and instead of just leaving us alone, he tried to be friendly and asked my friends awkward questions. Compounding my embarrassment, the smell of last night’s ribs and sauerkraut—kapusta—or stuffed cabbage rolls—golabki—or beet soup—borscht—permeated the carpets and wallpaper. At a time when most adolescents don’t want their parents around anyway, I was nothing less than mortified when my father entered the room. My friends would look at each other in that certain way, and of course I should have had the confidence to challenge them, but I didn’t. I just didn’t bring them home anymore. I can only imagine what it was like back then for people of colour, and Jewish people, and indigenous peopled whom we referred to as Indians, who were removed from their families to attend residential schools, and who were here before any of us. Assimilation was harder for all of them than for me, to the point where the word itself is now tainted by its past. I get that, and the issue
Richard
Brown SALES REPRESENTATIVE
WILLIAM JAMES TOPLEY/LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES CANADA_PHOTO
I told some Polish jokes myself. I suppose it was like saying Uncle, and acknowledging my cultural inferiority
becomes even more complicated when I remember that my father along with many other immigrants came with their own ingrained bigotries and stereotypes. Times appear to have changed. Names, origins, skin colour and sexual orientation are no longer a joke, as we’ve been taught to understand that our traditional notion of nationhood was neither inclusive nor fair. Our very nation-builders, the fathers of confederation, are under fire for their benighted attitudes towards minorities. But if the past is another country, how are we meant to understand the present? What are we to make of our diversity as the new normal? All my official documents carry the original spelling of
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my name, but I still use my Nexus alternative in everyday dealings with the world. Some might read that as an attempt to make myself a round peg so I can fit into a round hole. But is there a future for a country made up of independent square pegs? Like many, I see the mosaic as a metaphor for today’s Canada—the idea of individually shaped pieces making up a shared big picture. We retain our individuality, but adhere to an inclusive nationhood. With immigration quotas about to increase dramatically, our concept of nationhood will be put to an even sterner test. Predictably perhaps, the “old guard,” now a minority themselves, believe the country is already coming apart at the seams. I don't. I believe that being part of a larger and more diverse mosaic than ever is something to celebrate, so long as we recognize that even more stress will be put on the adhesive that keeps it together. That adhesive is now everyone’s business, whatever the sins and omissions of our more homogenous past. And so I’m out of step with those who insist that our nation’s strength lies in its diversity. I believe it’s our tolerance and acceptance of diversity, our civility to each other, and our mutual respect, that keeps a nation together in spite of its differences. You can legislate these civic virtues, of course, but they only work if they’re voluntarily engaged, by citizens of all persuasions. My name is Brzezicki because I’m my father’s son. My name is Brezicki, too, and yes, I am Canadian.
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GM Card Application Bonus applies to individuals who apply for a Scotiabank® GM® Visa* Card or current Scotiabank® GM® Visa* Cardholders. GM Card Application Bonus credit value depends on model purchased: $500 GM Card Bonus on new 2018 Terrain; $750 GM Card Bonus on new 2018 Canyon (excluding 2SA), Acadia, City Express, Express, Savana; $1,000 GM Card Bonus on new 2018 Yukon, Yukon XL, Sierra LD & HD. As part of the transaction, dealer may request documentation and contact General Motors of Canada Company (GM Canada) to verify eligibility. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. Conditions and limitations apply. Void where prohibited. See Dealer for full program details. GM Canada reserves the right to amend or terminate offers for any reason in whole or in part at any time without prior notice. Sierra 1500 Double Cab Elevation Edition Lease: Lease based on suggested retail price of $46,550, includes, $1000 manufacturer-to-consumer GM Card Application Bonus (offer applies to individuals who apply for a Scotiabank GM Visa Card [GM Card] or current GM Card cardholders) (tax inclusive), $2,000 manufacturer-to-dealer lease cash (tax exclusive), and a manufacturer-to-dealer $3,050 New Year Lease Bonus (tax exclusive) for an eligible new 2018 Sierra Double Cab Elevation Edition at participating dealers. Bi-weekly payment is $195 for 48 months at 2.5% interest rate on approved credit to qualified retail customers by GM Financial. $3,100 down payment is required. Total obligation is $23,429, plus applicable taxes. Taxes, license, insurance, registration and applicable fees, levies, duties and, except in Quebec, dealer fees (all of which may vary by dealer and region) are extra. Option to purchase at lease end is $20,055. See dealer for details. Discounts vary by model. Dealer may sell for less. Limited time offer which may not be combined with certain other offers. General Motors of Canada Company may modify, extend or terminate offers in whole or in part at any time without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. Offers may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. ®Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia. Sierra 1500 Double Cab Elevation Edition Finance: Offer available to qualified retail customers in Canada for vehicles financed and from between January 3 – January 31, 2018. Financing provided, on approved credit, by TD Auto Finance Services, Scotiabank® or RBC Royal Bank. Participating lenders are subject to change. Rates from other lenders will vary. Representative finance example based on a new 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Double Cab Elevation Edition. Suggested retail price is $47,750. $0 down payment or equivalent trade-in required. $47,750 financed at 0% nominal rate equals $628 per month for 72 months. Total Value consists of $3,050 manufacturer-to-dealer (tax exclusive) New Year Lease Bonus, $2,100 manufacturer-to-dealer Finance Cash (tax exclusive and $1,000 manufacturer-to-consumer GM Card Application Bonus (offer applies to individuals who apply for a Scotiabank GM Visa Card [GM Card] or current GM Card cardholders) (tax inclusive). Cost of borrowing is $0 for a total obligation of $40,851. Taxes, $1,700 freight and PDI, $100 air conditioning charge (where applicable), PPSA, license, insurance, registration and applicable fees, levies and duties (all of which may vary by region and dealer) are extra. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Limited time financing offer which may not be combined with certain other offers. GM Canada may modify, extend or terminate offers in whole or in part at any time without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. ®Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Acadia SLE-1 AWD Lease: Lease based on suggested retail price of $38,140 includes $750 manufacturer-to-consumer GM Card Application Bonus (offer applies to individuals who apply for a Scotiabank GM Visa Card [GM Card] or current GM Card cardholders) (tax inclusive) and $1,500 manufacturer-to-dealer New Year Lease Bonus (tax exclusive) towards the lease of an eligible new 2018 GMC Acadia SLE-1 AWD at participating dealers. Bi-weekly payment is $189 for 48 months at 0.9% interest rate on approved credit to qualified retail customers by GM Financial. $1,700 down payment is required. Total obligation is $21,351, plus applicable taxes. Taxes, license, insurance, registration and applicable fees, levies, duties and, except in Quebec, dealer fees (all of which may vary by dealer and region) are extra. Option to purchase at lease end is $15,516. See dealer for details. Discounts vary by model. Dealer may sell for less. Limited time offer which may not be combined with certain other offers. General Motors of Canada Company may modify, extend or terminate offers in whole or in part at any time without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. Offers may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. ®Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia.Terrain SLE FWD Lease: Lease based on suggested retail price of $32,090, includes $500 manufacturer-to-consumer GM Card Application Bonus (offer applies to individuals who apply for a Scotiabank GM Visa Card [GM Card] or current GM Card cardholders) (tax inclusive) and $1,500 manufacturer-to-dealer New Year Lease Bonus (tax exclusive) towards the lease of an eligible new 2018 GMC Terrain SLE FWD at participating dealers. Bi-weekly payment is $159 for 48 months at 0.9% interest rate on approved credit to qualified retail customers by GM Financial. $1,250 down payment is required. Total obligation is $17,743, plus applicable taxes. Taxes, license, insurance, registration and applicable fees, levies, duties and, except in Quebec, dealer fees (all of which may vary by dealer and region) are extra. Option to purchase at lease end is $13,157. See dealer for details. Discounts vary by model. Dealer may sell for less. Limited time offer which may not be combined with certain other offers. General Motors of Canada Company may modify, extend or terminate offers in whole or in part at any time without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. Offers may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. ®Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia. Feature Legal: 1 Sierra 5-star Overall Vehicle Score applies to 1500 series vehicles. U.S. Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA’s) New Car Assessment Program (www.SaferCar.gov). 2 Visit onstar.ca for vehicle availability. Services and connectivity vary by model, conditions as well as geographical and technical restrictions. Requires active OnStar service and data plan. Data plans provided by AT&T or its local service provider. 3 The OnStar Basic Plan is available on eligible new and pre-owned vehicles equipped with OnStar 4G LTE hardware for 5 years or the remaining term. The Basic Plan is transferable to subsequent owners for the remaining term. It includes the monthly Diagnostics Report emails (capabilities vary by model), Dealer Maintenance Notification, access to select vehicle mobile app features and more. Your vehicle must have been compatible with the vehicle’s mobile app prior to the OnStar 4G LTE hardware upgrade, if applicable. This plan does not include emergency, security or navigation services. These and other services require a paid or Add-On Plan. Visit onstar.ca for vehicle availability, coverage maps, details and system limitations. Available 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot requires WPA2-compatible mobile device and data plan. Data plans are provided by AT&T or its local service provider. 4 Full functionality requires compatible Bluetooth and smartphone, and USB connectivity for some devices. Data plan rates apply. 5 Not compatible with all devices. 6 Whichever comes first. Limit of four complimentary Lube-Oil-Filter services in total. Fluid top-offs, inspections, tire rotations, wheel alignments and balancing, etc., are not covered. Conditions and limitations apply. See your dealer for details. 7 Whichever comes first, fully transferable. Conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for complete details.
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The Voice of Pelham, January 10 2018
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The Voice of Pelham, January 10 2018
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TWILIGHT AT THE FALLS, NEW YEAR'S DAY Despite the bone-chilling, -11 C temperature, it was elbow-room only as visitors posed for selfies, friend and family shots in the frosty mists of the Horseshoe Falls; then in typical Canadian fashion, politely moved on to let others capture this wonderful winter spectacle on the first day of 2018. To see more photography by Natalia Shields, visit her photo gallery on Instagram: @nshields37 NATALIA SHIELDS PHOTO
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The Voice of Pelham, January 10 2018
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
Conservation authority must pay Smith's legal bills Despite defendant's incorrect assertions, judge displeased with NPCA's lawsuit
Smith’s allegations were based on inaccurate information. “Andy Petrowski had a previous and publicly known link to Montgomery’s operation, but it was in the past and had nothing to do with with [the NPCA],” said Ramsay. Ramsay also said that D’Angelo’s business was indeed in possession of an Ontario license, and that Smith’s error stemmed from “an inaccurate listing in an online business directory,” and from that fact that Smith was unaware of the registered name of D’Angelo’s business. Ramsay said that Smith had good reason to believe that Petrowski was significantly associated with Montgomery’s firm— even though this was not the case—and for this reason concluded that Smith displayed “no malice and no recklessness.” Ramsay was highly critical of the NPCA, a government organization, for launching a lawsuit against a member of the public,
BY SAMUEL PICCOLO
The VOICE
agara Peninsula Conservation Authority,” in which he implied that the NPCA’s foundation had given a fundraising contract to Stream Three Inc. in exchange for a Police Services Board contract awarded to D’Angelo’s company, DPM Consulting. Smith asserted that the link between these contracts was Regional Councillor Andy Petrowski. Smith further alleged in his report that D’Angelo’s firm did not possess a license to operate in Ontario. Calling these allegations false, both Montgomery and D’Angelo sued Smith for defamation. Ramsay ruled in November that Smith’s document was in the public interest, and that he had made the allegations without malice. Nevertheless, Ramsay found that
In a ruling released last Friday, a judge ordered the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority to pay its frequent critic Ed Smith $131,076 in legal costs, after the NPCA’s suit against Smith was dismissed by the same judge in November. Plaintiff William Montgomery, whose suit against Smith was also dismissed, was ordered to pay Smith an additional $48,172. In November, Judge James Ramsay dismissed lawsuits filed against Smith by the NPCA, its former CAO Carmen D’Angelo (now CAO of Niagara Region), and William Montgomery, of Stream Three Inc. In 2016 Smith wrote and released a document entitled, “A Call for Accountability at the Ni-
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dents wanted to talk about with Wainfleet council at the township’s annual new year’s levee Sunday.” This is serious reporting? The question any reporter should have asked, particularly within Niagara Region at this time, is: “Why did
less than a dozen Wainfleet residents think it was worth attending?” There is a huge “pressing municipal issue” in Wainfleet, it is a condominium called Lakewood aka “Binbrook!” The only reason concerned residents didn't
S L R V O X L H O L
L J Y D N A V E I F
rested and stands charged with Trafficking in Property Obtained by Crime exceeding $5000; Driving while under Suspension; Drive Motor Vehicle No Currently Validated Permit; Fail to Comply with Recognizance (2x); Fail to Comply with Probation order. Mounsey was held in custody pending a bail hearing.
Lithium and Alzheimer’s
Trace elements of lithium in drinking water can slow death rates from Alzhei-
A T Q T R C U A F H
R I D I S F O L U Z
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mer’s disease, Brock University research has found, according to a university news release. Rates of diabetes and obesity, which are important risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease, also decrease if there is a particular amount of lithium in the water, says the study, published recently in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. Postdoctoral fellow Val Fajardo and Rebecca MacPherson, Assistant Professor in the Department of Health Sciences, collected statistics on various lithium levels in drinking water in 234 counties across Texas. Lith-
ium is a water-soluble alkali metal found in igneous rocks and mineral springs. It is commonly used to treat bipolar and other mood disorders, but at much higher doses than what occurs naturally in drinking water. The research team, which included Associate Professor of Health Sciences Paul LeBlanc, compared lithium levels naturally found in tap water with Alzheimer’s disease mortality rates, along with the incidence of obesity and diabetes, in the Texas counties. “We found counties that had above the median level of lithium in tap water [40
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The following in reply to a story in last weekend’s Tribune and St.Catharine’s Standard. In the opening paragraph of the story about the Wainfleet levee was the following: “There were no pressing municipal issues resi-
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as hard as he could on those who chose to sue me. I interpret this as meaning that this type of action—suing citizens who speak critically of their government— will not be tolerated in Canada.” Grimsby Regional Councillor and NPCA board member Tony Quirk conceded that the $131,076 figure “seems excessive,” but said that, “it is cheaper than a trial and will be absorbed in the 2017 budget.” “At the end of the day, the Judge ruled on the issues we wanted corrected, that is: there is no corruption at the NPCA,” said Quirk. Ramsay also blamed the NPCA for the drawn-out legal battle, writing that “the Authority’s over-the-top reaction got in the way of an early resolution of the controversy.” Ramsay said that it appeared as though Smith was willing to retract part of his report, and said that in “different circumstances
Wainfleet levee snubbed by frustrated residents?
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and cited this in his dismissal of the suits against Smith. But Ramsay added, “Obviously, these two contracts were not corruptly swapped. There is not enough of a continuing connection between Petrowski and Montgomery to suspect that one contract was awarded in exchange for the other. But that is in hindsight.” Ramsay again referenced the hindsight point when ordering the NPCA to pay Smith’s legal bills. The NPCA had argued that it should not be required to pay Smith because his allegations were based on inaccurate information. Echoing his November ruling, Ramsay did not assign blame to Smith for these inaccuracies, saying that these things were only apparent later. “I view this as a complete victory,” said Smith. “The judge had several options open to him and he chose to award one hundred percent of the costs associated. In effect on costs he came down
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micrograms per litre] experienced less increases in Alzheimer’s disease mortality over time, whereas counties below that median level had even higher increases in Alzheimer’s deaths over time,” says Fajardo. The frequency of obesity and Type 2 diabetes also went down when the drinking water contained similar lithium levels, the researchers found. Fajardo says he and his team focused on Texas because data on lithium levels was “freely available.” Previous studies have demonstrated lithium’s ability to protect against Alzheimer’s disease, obesity and diabetes. “However, we are one of the first groups to show that lithium’s potential protective effect against Alzheimer’s disease, obesity and diabetes may translate to the population setting through very low levels of lithium in tap water,” says Fajardo. The Brock research comes on the heels of an August study from the University of Copenhagen linking high lithium levels in drinking water to decreases in dementia rates. But Fajardo warns it’s too early to start advising authorities to add lithium to water supplies. “There’s so much more research we have to do before policy-makers look at the evidence and say, OK, let’s start supplementing tap water with lithium just like we do in some municipalities with fluoride to prevent tooth decay,” he says.
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The Voice of Pelham, January 10 2018
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Oosterhoff holds New Year’s Levee in Fonthill Niagara West-Glanbrook MPP Sam Oosterhoff held a New Year’s Levee at the Fonthill Legion on Saturday, an opportunity for constituents to speak with their representative. Though the event had been announced for some time, many in attendance said that they had just received notification on the morning of, and only about two dozen people passed through the Legion during the two-hour session that ended at 4:00 PM. Oosterhoff said that he wasn’t too bothered by the low turnout, saying, “the important part is that people have the chance to come and talk about what’s on their minds.” Now that the next provincial election is less than six months away, Oosterhoff said that the campaign period has basically commenced. “We’re not setting up campaign offices just yet, but we’ve released our platform, the NDP has released its platform, and the Liberals will be running on their budget,” he said. Oosterhoff said that he was proud of the Progressive Conservative platform, one which has been considered much more liberal than past PC campaigns. “It’s very different to past platforms,” acknowledged Oosterhoff, but nevertheless called it an exciting one. To some in attendance at the levee, this leftward shift under PC leader Patrick Brown is troubling. “We think that Patrick Brown is just a Liberal in conservative clothing,” said one couple, who asked not to be identified by name. “We were surprised that he won—we thought that Christine Elliott was going to become leader. And after he flipped on the sex-education issue, we don’t know what he stands for, if he’ll
Coming election, minimum wage, hot chocolate on menu BY VOICE STAFF
switch after he’s under a little bit of pleasure.” The two said that they were surprised when Oosterhoff won the seat, considering how young he was. The wife said, “My sister called me from Medicine Hat. She said, ‘Your candidate is so young!’” The couple didn’t have any single issue on their minds, though they did say that they were worried that the minimum wage increase had occurred too quickly. Pelham resident Bernie Law said the issue of minimum wage was on his mind, too. “I absolutely support it,” he said. “People should be making fourteen dollars an hour. When I worked in business, at Gillespie Pontiac, we paid everyone—even the car washers—more than minimum wage. But then we also had to increase the cost of the sale.” Law said that he was concerned that many minimum wage workers wouldn’t actually see the benefit of the raise. “Look at Tim Horton’s right now,” he said. “The workers are having to pay more for their benefits, and are losing other things. There wage is going up, but their take-home pay isn’t any higher.” Oosterhoff similarly espoused PC points on the minimum wage issue, telling constituents that the hike was done too quickly. Weighty subjects did not entirely dominate discussion. “I got the invitation to your fiftieth anniversary,” said Oosterhoff to Law. “If
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it’s on the twenty-eighth, then I won’t be able to make it. But I’ll send you a certificate.” “Are you turning fifty, Bernie?” someone standing nearby joked. Law laughed. “Fiftieth wedding anniversary,” he said proudly. “That’s a long time,” said Oosterhoff. “My grandparents had their sixtieth two years ago.” “My parents just had their seventy-third,” said Law. “Well, I walked on the moon,” said Oosterhoff, smiling at the game that had emerged. Another man nearby, retired dentist Jim Jeffs, also had a 50th wedding anniversary approaching. “What’s your wife’s name, Jim?” asked Oosterhoff. “And what’s your address.” He punched the information into his phone as Jeffs reeled it off. “I promise that I won’t stalk you,” said Oosterhoff. As Oosterhoff moved away to speak to others, Jeffs remained standing beside another man, who was explaining the recent infection that he’d had in his finger. “It was just a little scratch, and it kept getting worse and worse, even though I went to the emergency room. They were worried that I’d lose my finger at one point. It’s all right now, though I can’t really bend it.” Jeffs said that his daughter, who is a veterinarian, has had scares before from
The
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Indulgence Bakery Mossimo’s Pelham Street Grille Sobeys Fonthill Peter Piper’s Pubhouse DeVries Fruit Farm Beamer’s Hardware & TV Fonthill Library Black Pearl Fish & Chips Bob’s Boys Antiques Moku’s Family Health Pharmacy Fonthill Fitness Fenwick Pie Company McDonald’s Fonthill Legion Semenuk’s Gas Bar Target Store Tim Horton’s Giant Tiger Pelham Town Hall Pub on the Hill Zee Lube Express Care Lazy Loon Minor Bros Stores Avondale Stores A-1 Market Sobeys South Pelham Grill on Canboro Pelham Library Ridge Berry Farm Circle-K
animal bites. “Cats are the worst,” he said. “Though I had an issue sometimes when I was a dentist. I’d ask people to bite down on the fluoride, and then I’d have to tell them to open up again so that I could get my fingers out of their mouth.” The man with the infected finger chuckled at the story. His wife piped up. “I was bitten once when I played basketball. We went to the ground, and the girl bit me. There was a mark on my arm and I showed it to the referee right away,” she said. “Did you get a foul shot?” asked her husband. “Yes,” she said. “Did you score?” “I sure did,” she said. Four o’clock approached, and Oosterhoff and a staff member prepared to move along to Beamsville, where he had scheduled another levee later in the day. An employee from the Legion came out to the hall to pick up the hot chocolate urn and the plates of sweets, which has barely been touched. Most of the few left in the hall departed when Oosterhoff did, though two men remained, sitting and talking about Pelham politics. They got as far as the doorway, still talking about Town Hall, then changed their minds and decided to keep their analysis going over a beer at the bar.
MPP Sam Oosterhoff at the Fonthill Legion.
VOICE PHOTO
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Niagara EcoNomic Forum Tuesday, January 23rd • 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM at the Pelham Library What should you expect in 2018? What do the real experts recommend you should do to maximize your returns and protect your investments from current market volatility? This is an unprecedented opportunity to hear straight from industry experts! Jennifer Radman, CFA -VP, Caldwell Investment Management
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Malcolm King, Partner, Edgepoint Wealth Management
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Page 12
The Voice of Pelham, January 10 2018
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Tuesday Evenings, 7:00Week of 7:45 pm at Holy Trinity EXHIBITION January 8 Church 1557 Pelham St. Rodeo, games and live entertainment headline this years exciting event. It Fonthill. Posted Call a Voice runs from Sept. 11-14 atFor themore Welland Fairgrounds. information or to January 4 Service register please email Sarah Rose at Directory BIG MOVE CANCER RIDECentral beautifulmindtraining@ to The professional Big Move Cancer RideRegion is a non-competitive ride taking place on Sept. Ads gmail.com or included call get the job done 7. Proceeds for the Big Move 905-701-2460 stay in Niagara and support the Walker Fam-
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WALKING CLUB Interested in walkingof in Pelham? Join themand Tuesdays at the Pelham Arena Places Worship Events from 9-10 am and Thursdays at Fonthill Bandshell for 9-10:30 am. There First this Presbyterian Church For more information, Glad Tidings Church of God Pelham Evangelical Friends Church is no fee for program. please contact jcook@ 602 Metler Rd., Fenwick 1 Pancake Lane, Fonthill 940 Haist St., Fonthill pelham.ca or call 905 892-2607, ext 329. Fonthill Baptist Church 1414 Pelham St., Fonthill
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With heavy hearts we say goodbye to Michael who passed away peacefully surrounded by family on December 28th, 2017 at the age of 83. Beloved husband of Elizabeth for 60 Years, dear father of Dagmar VanRavenswaay (Dave) and Kathy Epp (Jeff). Grandpa to Dustin VanRavenswaay (Linda), Jasmine Charlton (Scott), and Candice VanRavenswaay (Justin). “Dedo” to Kaiya, Isabelle, and Josephine Epp. Great grandpa to Riley VanRavenswaay and Jude Charlton. Michael immigrated to Canada from Slovakia in 1969 with his wife and eldest daughter. He had a successful career as a mechanical engineer, and in his spare time he enjoyed tinkering with electronics, taking on various building projects, and hobby farming. He will be deeply missed for his kind heart and great love of his family. A private family gathering at Pleasantview Funeral Home will take place at a later date. Share valued photos, memories and condolences at www. pleasantviewcemetery.ca
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The Voice of Pelham, January 10 2018
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Bank lambasted over branch closure RBC says decision is final; residents upset by lack of consultation BY SAMUEL PICCOLO
views of interested persons.’’ “What good is having this meeting tonight when the decision’s already been made?” asked Fisher. “You can send a letter to the FCAC,” RBC’s Tim Smith told him during the meeting. “They can make us reconsider the process. But in the end it’s the bank’s decision whether to close the branch or not.” “There was no public meeting because it wouldn’t have changed anything,” said Johanns. “The same decision would have been made.” “Maybe,” said Fisher. “But it would have made us feel better. The only consultation here is a meeting on a cold and snowy night. And I just think that’s wrong.” Fisher said later that he would indeed be contacting the FCAC and asking them to review RBC’s process. “I do not think that they’ve done what they’re supposed to have done,” he said. Other attendees echoed Fisher’s frustrations, saying that they were upset that the decision had been made without public input. “I don’t even know why I came here,” said resident Gary Chambers. “It just raises my blood pressure.” Johanns attributed the closure primarily to the reduction in the number of people coming to the Fenwick branch, and explained that the rise in internet banking continues to cut into branch visits. Johanns acknowledged that for many of the senior attendees, face-to-face banking is still their pre-
The VOICE
Several dozen RBC clients and concerned Fenwick residents filled RBC’s Fonthill branch last Wednesday evening, voicing their opposition to the bank’s decision to close its Fenwick location after 112 years. RBC notified clients late last year of its decision to merge the Fenwick and Fonthill branches in 2018, and last week’s meeting was intended to be an information session. “The decision has already been made,” RBC Regional Vice President Manon Johanns told the crowd. “The reality is that the world is changing, and this is happening faster and faster,” she said. “And there are days when many of the staff in Fenwick don’t have anyone coming in to see them. This makes it hard to train new staff, because they don’t have the chance to practice and really know things.” She emphasized that there will still be an RBC ATM in Fenwick, even if it doesn’t remain in the same physical building as it is now. Many attendees were frustrated by the way in which the bank had made the decision. “One of the pieces of paper I got from you talked about the FCAC [Financial Consumer Agency of Canada],” said Larry Fisher from the audience. “It says here that the FCAC has the authority to require a bank to convene a meeting on the ‘proposed closure’ if a ‘bank has not consulted the community well enough to ascertain the
ferred—or only—option. “Many of the people here don’t have access to the internet, or don’t want to,” said resident Nancy Beamer. David Horton, another resident, expressed similar thoughts. “There are a lot of grey hairs here,” he said. “But they probably have a lot of the net worth that’s in that Fenwick branch right now.” “Oh yes,” Johanns agreed. “Probably eighty percent.” Horton nodded. “Sometimes it’s worth servicing that eighty percent for another five or ten years, and not pushing us out the door.” The audience cheered his remarks, and chafed at Manon’s explanation that the closure was the obvious business decision to make. “Everything you say is I’m sure backed up, and your staff is top-notch,” said former Councillor Marvin Junkin, who was also in the audience. “Any maybe it would make sense if Fenwick was dying, but it’s not, it’s a growing community. There are going to be three or four hundred homes going in, and a ninety-unit seniors’ residence.” Junkin pointed to RBC’s overall financial position, saying that the firm had made $1.2 billion in profit last year. “When is enough enough?” he asked. “Greed is greed,” called out a member of the audience as Junkin finished. Johanns maintained that all of Fenwick’s planned growth had been considered during the decision-making process, and said that these new residents were expect-
Resident David Horton makes a point during RBC’s public meeting. ed not to contribute much to branch traffic. With regards to RBC’s profits, she said, “if you have one restaurant that’s making you a lot of money, does it make sense to keep the other one that’s not doing well open? No. As business owners you’d do the same thing” Nancy Beamer disagreed with her. “It could be something more like OHIP, where the most profitable parts of RBC support the smaller branches like Fenwick, so that our rural community can stay rural,” she said. Other residents raised more specific problems that the closure of the Fenwick branch would create. John Langendoen, who operates a nursery in Fenwick with a payroll of some $2 million, said that he takes about a hundred migrant workers to the bank at the beginning of the season. “They would have to come to Fonthill on their own to get to the bank—if I have to rent a bus to get them here,
I would just as soon have the bus go to Welland,” he said. “We don’t want anyone to leave RBC,” said Johanns. “With the migrant workers, we can come to you at the beginning of the season and help them set up accounts, give them the right debit cards. We’re committed to working with each client and finding a solution.” In previous weeks, many customers had expressed concerns that there were too few parking spaces at the Fonthill branch, and during the meeting Johanns said that this was to be remedied by the addition of 26 spaces to the existing 29. One issue that Johanns said was posing difficulty was the time it takes to turn into the Fonthill parking lot from the west, saying that RBC’s Community Manager Jaye Toulouse has timed the turn on multiple occasions, and said that oncoming traffic often makes the wait lengthy. “I’ve had meetings with the Town, though this road is under Regional control,” said Toulouse. “There are some
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Regional rules that I understand are not broken, but I’m going to try and keep fighting the good fight to try to make this situation better.” Toulouse said that designated turn lanes would help to address some of the traffic back-up problem. “Wouldn’t it have been better to have solved these issues first,” asked Gary Chambers. “I can only control what I can control,” said Johanns, adding that RBC can’t hold off on making decisions forever until things out of its control are resolved. Attendees made a number of suggestions. David Horton floated the idea of inviting Scotiabank and BMO, two institutions without footprints in Pelham, to create a three-member community banking centre in the Fenwick RBC. Johanns promised to pass the idea along. She said that RBC intends to put the Fenwick building up for sale, and said that the possibility that another bank could buy the site had not been ruled out. At moments the meeting grew tense. One man said early on that “it always comes down to bankers being cold-hearted people. You’ve made the decision based on money, because that’s the way bankers are.” RBC employees present shook their heads as he spoke. But most of the attendees balanced their frustration at RBC’s decision with gratitude for the Fenwick branch staff. Sherry Rusin, who sharply criticized the decision throughout the meeting, devoted her last point to thanking the Fenwick staff, all but one of whom will be moving to the Fonthill branch. (No one will be fired, says RBC, and one employee is retiring.) “We all really appreciate the service over the years,” said Rusin, as the staff looked embarrassed and one became teary eyed. Paul Bryant, another Fenwick resident in attendance, was similarly disappointed with RBC’s decision, but credited the bank for at least having a meeting to answer questions. “They’re here and letting people ask whatever they want,” said Bryant. “If only our Town Council would do that.”
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The Voice of Pelham, January 10 2018
Fonthill doctor's battle goes on With support of his patients, Duane Pelser maintains his efforts to have license reinstated BY VOICE STAFF Dr. Duane Pelser, the Fonthill-based family physician whose license was suspended last summer over an administrative error, now has litigation pending against the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) over the renewal of his license. According to Pelser, his failure to pay his membership fee was a result of the chaos in opening a new practice, and that when this matter was brought to his attention, in early September, he immediately called the CPSO and paid the fee and the late penalty. Pelser said that he was told then that his license would be reinstated within 48 hours. After this period had passed, he again contacted the CPSO and was told that he would be required to apply as a new doctor, even though he has practiced in Canada for more than a decade. Last week, Pelser told the Voice that he is continuing to fight the CPSO’s decision. “It seems that the only body with some type of jurisdiction over the CPSO may be the courts and this is what we are going to pursue next,” he said. “The CPSO did not follow administra-
tive law principles in not renewing my license after the late penalty fee was paid and have tried every tactic to delay justice.” As a result of the pending litigation, Pelser said that he preferred not to elaborate, but maintained that he intends to keep up his efforts. Pelser, who is originally from South Africa, returned to his native country during his ordeal, where he remains visiting with friends and family. “If it weren’t for the amazing loyalty of my patients that have stood by me through this I would have given up a long time ago and just lived happily ever after in South Africa,” he said. “But for them, I won’t give up and [will] continue to fight until a judge rules against us. I can’t see this happening as our case is rock solid.” Nancy Martin, one of Pelser’s patients who has been advocating for the reinstatement of his license, said that she isn’t in the market for a new doctor. “My family agrees that we will not and do not have any intention on looking for a new family doctor,” she said. “When you have finally found the doctor that connects with you, remembers you from appointment to
appointment, makes you feel comfortable and is genuinely interested in finding what is causing your illness, you just don’t quietly walk away. For my family, Dr. Pelser is that doctor.” Martin is part of a Facebook group of Pelser’s patients, and said that the group will continue to support him, including in a courtroom. “What the CPSO has done is downright offensive,” she added. “They have not only taken away Dr. Pelser’s livelihood, they have endangered the lives of all his patients.” Martin pointed out that the CPSO’s mandate is to protect the public interest, and said she was disappointed that the organization has not replied to emails, phone calls, and couriered packages. Rosemary Culos, another of Pelser’s patients who is waiting for his return, is equally upset with the CPSO. “It infuriates me to read that doctors who have been found guilty of over-prescribing narcotics receive a fine and suspension, while a doctor who willing admitted that he forgot to pay his licence—then not only paid his licence but also the penalty fee—is closed down See BATTLE next page
Page 15
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The Voice of Pelham, January 10 2018
Forster won't run again Welland's NDP MPP to stand down for spring vote BY VOICE STAFF Welland MPP Cindy Forster announced last week that she will not seek re-election in June. “I have made the decision that the time is right for me to hand the reins to someone who will continue the work for Niagara Centre residents with the kind of commitment and passion the people of this region deserve,” she said in a statement. “I have family circumstances that require my attention, and so I will not seek re-election in 2018.” Ontario New Democratic Party leader Andrea Horwath said, “No matter how important the work, family has to come first, and I fully support Cindy's decision to be with her family at this time. On behalf of all New Democrats, I would like to extend our sincere thanks to Cindy for her years of service to Ontarians, and best wishes as she prepares for the next chapter in her life.”
Horwath touted Forster’s commitment to affordable housing, pay equity, labour protections, and the environment. “In her long career in nursing and public service, Cindy has focused on the issues that matter to Ontario families, and worked every day to offer hope to those that need it most,” she said. Horwath added that Forster has built a “foundation” for the issues important to here, on which work will continue by others. Forster was first elected to Queen’s Park in the 2011 provincial election, filling the seat left vacant by the retirement of longtime MPP Peter Kormos. Prior to her election, Forster served as a Regional Councillor, Welland City Councillor, and as the Mayor of Welland from 2000 to 2003. Forster is also a Registered Nurse, and worked in health care prior to becoming a politician fulltime.
Battle: Pelser's fight continues
LEGAL BILLS continued from Page 10 negotiations might have gone further.” Quirk called Ramsay’s suggestion “completely inaccurate.” “Ed Smith was unwilling to retract his comments and issue a correction to the defamatory statements. All [Smith] was willing to say was that Carmen [D’Angelo] was not the head of an Australian company.” Regarding this possible negotiation, Smith said, ”Before the NPCA officially started its lawsuit, I offered to issue a statement with respect to the registration of D’Angelo’s company. The NPCA did not accept my offer and launched their lawsuit against me. After they started their lawsuits, my lawyer engaged in settlement discussions, the contents of which are privileged." Smith said that his whole entanglement with the NPCA began when he made Freedom of Information requests, to which Smith said the association did not respond with the appropriate transparency. Pelham Regional Councillor and NPCA board member Brian Baty said that the dispute was not about an individual asking questions or expressing concerns. “I am grateful that the Court finally corrected the record by confirming that Mr. Smith’s claims were false,” said Baty. “Had Mr. Smith’s original document been corrected to remove these falsehoods, there would have been no case, and therefore no associated costs.” Baty said that the NPCA’s contact with Ontario’s Auditor General, who is currently reviewing the authority, has been positive. “We ended 2017 by receiving a comprehensive report on the implementation of our first strategic plan and received positive feedback on the significant and positive changes introduced in the last four years,” said Baty. “We had a positive meeting with the Auditor General and her audit team, and embrace her audit process to clear the air on all aspects of our organization.”
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continued from previous page with no assurances of reinstatement because he did not give his change of address in writing. I find the CPSO, whose mandate is to protect patients, arrogant and uncaring as they completely ignore emails and a petition signed by over 600 people requesting Dr. Pelser's licence be reinstated quickly.” In November, Pelser learned that the CPSO was opening an investigation into the period of time during which he had inadvertently practised with an expired license. Last week, Pelser called this investigation “completely bogus,” and that “it is going nowhere. This is just a tactic to block my renewal as there is an outstanding ‘investigation’ that they need to complete. All this is a tactic to delay and hold up my renewal to squeeze me more.” Pelser first began practicing in Pelham at a clinic on Pancake Lane, after which he moved with the rest of the practice to
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Welland McMaster Family Health. Early in 2017, Pelser began looking to open a new solo practice, eventually renting offices at the corner of Highway 20 and Rice Road, coincidentally the same space previously occupied by the Voice. Pelser says that he has heard from patients that McMaster told them that if they followed Pelser to his new practice, they would not be permitted to return to McMaster. “I don’t know if the CPSO called McMaster to ask about my renewal fee. But if they did, I don’t know what McMaster would have said. Would they have said ‘We don’t know where he is?’ All I know is that I didn’t see any reminder until the beginning of September,” Pelser said in October. At that time, Karen Millejours, the clinic manager at the Fonthill portion of Welland McMaster, refused to speak about Pelser. “We don’t have any comment on anything,” she said. The CPSO likewise declined to comment on Pelser’s situation in October, saying that it does not speak on specific cases. “In seventeen years in Canada I have not had one patient complaint to the College about care that I provided, no past findings, and my patients did not deserve losing their doctor due to an administrative error. Bottom line,” said Pelser. He added words of inspiration. “The world is full of questionable and dishonest people, some in your inner circle and some in the outside world, but [it’s important to] focus and continue to fight for the ones that have shown unquestionable loyalty and support through difficult times.”
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t Ask abou le b Availa REBATES
BOB REID Heating & Air Conditioning
FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED
RESIDENTIAL – COMMERCIAL
905-892-7787
DUNNVILLE VETERINARY CLINIC Est. 1952 Closer than you think! Same-day appointments
- Same-day test results, most while you wait - Large, well-established practice
ASK ABOUT OUR
3435 King Street Vineland, Ontario WINDOWS & SIDING SINce 1966 • WWW.lOuWeS.ca
WELLNESS PACKAGE 110 Ramsey Dr., Dunnville, ON N1A 1K8 Phone: (905) 774-7642 1-800-263-6496 vets@dunnvillevetclinic.com Mon - Fri: 8 AM to 6 PM • Sat: 8 AM to 2 PM • Closed Sunday
www.dunnvillevetclinic.com