The Voice, July 8 2020

GoFundMe started for Junkin page 2 If it’s July then it must be cherry time page 9 Ride for Change page 14 EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

Larry “BILKO” Bilkszto

SELL phone: 905-321-2261 www.pineSOLD.com

DEBBIE PINE SALES REPRESENTATIVE 905.892.0222 debbiepine@royallepage.ca

E S T A B L I S H E D

1 9 9 7

k

RE/MAX® Garden City Realty Inc., Brokerage

www.bilko.ca

NRC Realty, Brokerage

Independently Owned & Operated

k

The Voice

Your Local Sales Representative 905-563-3330 • 905-641-1110

bilko@rgcmail.com

Vol.24 No.27

July 8, 2020

Darcy Richardson, CPA, CA | Broker

DARCYRICHARDSON.CA 905.321.6292

Published every Wednesday

Twelve Mile Creek gets international focus Page 3

Chandana Murali, from India, and Javier Reyes, from Colombia, teamed up to produce a comprehensive series of “Story Maps” describing Twelve Mile Creek’s geology, history, current challenges and remedies.

BRIAN GREEN

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS NRC REALTY, Brokerage 1815 Merritville, Hwy 1 FONTHILL, ON

www.pineSOLD.com

DEBBIE PINE SALES REPRESENTATIVE 905.892.0222

NIAGARA / FONTHILL, ON

Take Control, Plan Ahead

Now is the time to take advantage of a guaranteed cost for your own funeral plan.

Plan to call us today. Tina

debbiepine@royallepage.ca SELL phone: 905-321-2261

Page 2

The Voice, July 8, 2020

Fundraiser in support of Junkin

PUBLISHER’S CORNER

by Dave Burket

The answer is yes, we should be wearing masks

Among the many things that Donald Trump has poisoned in his three-and-a-half-year assault on western democracy is public trust in expertise. Not that a certain segment of Americans, in particular, needed much pushing. There’s a longstanding and well known anti-intellectual tendency in the US, seen most prominently among what the satirist and newspaper columnist H. L. Mencken called the “booboisie.” (In 1931, the Arkansas legislature passed a motion to pray for Mencken's soul after he had called the state the "apex of moronia." This tidbit brought to you by the internet, which Mencken surely would have reviled.) Boobs and idiots arguing over flag burning and whether women should stay barefoot and pregnant—a phrase coined by a doctor in Kansas, slightly northwest of Arkansas—is bad enough. Introduce a highly infectious, deadly disease into the American maelstrom of nitwittedness and now we’re talking real problems. How does anyone with any sense dispute the efficacy of masks to reduce the spread of a respiratory illness? By politicizing it. This “debate” has been turned into yet another Trump-fueled blaze in the culture wars, and we should all be concerned that embers from it are floating north. Many Asian cultures have no problem with masks, and their COVID-19 stats are telling. Take Taiwan and Japan. With a population of 24 million, Taiwan has reported 449 cases with just seven deaths. In Taiwan, one in every 53,452 citizens has tested positive. In Japan, with a population of 126 million, there have been 19,841 confirmed cases. In Japan, one of every 6350 citizens has tested positive. Now come Canada and the US. With a population of 37 million, Canada has had 106,000 confirmed cases. One in every 354 Canadians has tested positive. In the US, with a population of 328 million, there have been 2.93 million confirmed cases. One of every 111 Americans has tested positive for COVID-19. Yes, there other factors at play—Japan, in particular, has always been a hygienic society, and one with little handshaking. But Japan never went into lockdown. Like New York City, Tokyo is home to millions. Yet Tokyo never saw infection rates anywhere near those in New York. The CDC recommends wearing masks. The WHO recommends wearing masks. A roundup of new data, submitted on Monday by 239 scientists from 32 countries to the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases, strongly argues that micro-droplets of exhaled breath containing the virus linger in the air for far longer than originally thought. Niagara Regional Council will hold a special meeting on Wednesday to decide whether to make wearing masks mandatory in enclosed public spaces. The answer is yes—“enforceable” or not— because it’s the choice most likely to provide the widest public health benefit as the province continues to reopen, and as Niagarans increasingly find themselves in more crowded public spaces.

Will council make the right choice? Don’t hold your breath. ♦

Voice

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

GoFundMe set up in protest of council’s action against Mayor

BY DON RICKERS

Special to the VOICE

Almost two weeks ago, John Harding and his wife pulled out of their driveway and headed down Roland Road for a cruise in the country. As they passed Mayor Marvin Junkin’s house a couple kilometres further on, Harding’s mind flashed back to the political shenanigans of late in the Town of Pelham, and decided at that moment that it was time to act—to try to right a wrong, even if in a small way.

The two men were not close friends…more like acquaintances. Their paths had crossed many years ago when they were both coaching their kids’ hockey teams, but they had not conversed in over a decade.

Still, Harding felt compelled to do something for Junkin—and to send a message to the community.

“Like most other folks in Pelham, my wife and I felt we elected these people thinking they were going to be a big change from the last council,” said Harding.

“Then we find out about investigations costing 18 grand of our money, which should have resulted in no

航 搜索

on vacation!

司 空公

搜索航空公司

Vacation Time Machine A Year Ago This Week!

John Harding.

FACEBOOK

more than a slap on the wrist for the Mayor.”

Harding’s comments were in reference to accusations brought against the Mayor

by Councillor Ron Kore, related to Junkin’s fundraising for the volunteer-run Fonthill Bandshell Committee— which prompted two formal investigations. Pelham taxpayers are on the hook for the $18,000 cost of one of the inquiries. At council’s June 15 meeting, debate took place over potential punishment for Junkin pursuant to the municipal Integrity Commissioner determination that Junkin had made technical violations of the Town’s Code of Conduct.

Given that Junkin did so without “nefarious intent,” the Integrity Commissioner recommended that council issue a letter of reprimand.

However, after Councillors Bob Hildebrandt and Ron Kore started the debate by apparently violating the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, Councillor Lisa Haun chimed in to argue that Junkin should also be docked 45 days’ salary,

plucking some $4000 from his pocket.

The final straw for Harding was when he learned that during the same meeting, council had turned down $75,000 in provincial grant money to help pay to pave part of the Steve Bauer Trail, which would have allowed better access to disabled citizens, along with bicyclists and hikers. The Pelham Active Transportation Committee (PATC) had endorsed acceptance of the grant.

“My attitude was, come on guys…why are we here?” said Harding.

A perennial volunteer for Pelham Cares, where he drives seniors to appointments, Harding expects that Junkin will donate the GoFundMe proceeds to a local charity. The fundraising target is $4000, matching the salary loss.

Contacted by the Voice for comment, Junkin said he was humbled.

“I'm very flattered that Mr. Harding would do this for me. I won’t be able to accept the money—municipal rules don’t allow it—but I would indeed love to see whatever funds are collected be donated to a worthy cause, and there are certainly many to choose from,” he said.

Small-town politics, it seems, don’t have to be difficult or messy, ugly or vindictive. Those interested in contributing to Harding’s effort may find his GoFundMe appeal here: https:// gf.me/u/ydsd5r

OF THE WEEK!

905-892-8690 Find the Voice at these locations:

Keagan

ALEXANDER (905) 892-8724

FRESH OFF THE FARM ALL YEAR ROUND

GONE

MISSING

$50 REWARD

Email your photo holding the Voice to: office@thevoiceofpelham.ca

YOU MEAN THE WORLD TO US

Use your downtime to start brainstorming and planning.

We're here when you're ready.

Booking new travel journeys for 2021.

Remember you are TICO protected when booking with us.

Call Pam Overholt for exceptional travel values

905.892.7900

www.niagara.cruiseholidays.com P.O. Box 460, Fonthill Book Local TICO Reg 4559761

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.

Voice

CARRIER

825 Canboro Road, Fenwick

SEND US YOUR STAYING-AT-HOME SHOTS!

In an effort to bring further attention and deterrence to driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, the Niagara Regional Police Service reports the names of those people who are charged with an alleged criminal impaired driving offence in the Region. None of the following charges have been proved in court.

In addition to being charged, these individuals are also bound by a Ministry of Transportation 90Day Administrative Driver’s License Suspension and are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle on a roadway. The public is encouraged to contact the Niagara Regional Police Service Traffic Safety Hotline or Crime Stoppers to report those who are driving in contravention of the suspension.

The following individuals have been charged criminally with impaired driving by alcohol or drugs, driving with a blood alcohol concentration above 80 mgs of alcohol in 100 ml of blood, or refusing to provide a breath / blood sample.

Jacqueline E. READ, 27, Niagara-on-the-Lake Tyler J. KYLE, 39, Welland Lonnie J. DAVIS, 28, Welland Alexander M. KOLISNYK, 22, Wainfleet Norwood B. FARR, 53, Lowbanks Emily E. BRUHIER, 43, St. Catharines Douglas J. W. ESTEY, 44, St. Catharines Hilton P. WHYTE, 52, St. Catharines Douglas M. DOBROCKY, 28, Pelham Bosco I. EDWARDS, 30, Scarborough Amanda L. VRIEND, 27, Wainfleet Michael J. GILL, 30, Port Colborne Douglas R. MCPHERSON, 70, North York Christopher S. WEAGANT, 29, Fort Erie

The

Congratulations

Mon - Fri, 8 AM-6 PM, Sat 8 AM-5 PM

Never too young to catch up with the news!

Anne Wrenshall, on Guardalavaca Beach in Cuba.

NRPS impaired driving charges

Have you seen me?

Red newspaper rack, gone missing from the Fonthill Sobeys store. $50 reward for return in proper functioning condition.

(905) 892-8690

Support your local service clubs

Indulgence Bakery Mossimo’s Pelham Street Grille Peter Piper’s Pubhouse DeVries Fruit Farm Beamer’s Hardware Pelham Libraries Bob’s Boys Antiques PharmaChoice Pharmacy Fonthill Fitness Fenwick Pie Company McDonald’s Duffin Appleworks Fonthill Legion Semenuk’s Gas Bar Shoppers Drug Mart Tim Horton’s Giant Tiger Fonthill LCBO Zee Lube Express Care Food Basics Minor Bros Stores Avondale Stores A-1 Market Boggio's IDA Sobeys South Pelham Grill on Canboro Shell on Hwy 20 Circle-K I'm just as curious as you are! It's all explained on p. 10!

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice, July 8, 2020

Page 3

History, current troubles of Twelve Mile Creek studied Niagara College students work on project commissioned by Niagara chapter of Trout Unlimited

BY BRIAN GREEN

Special to the VOICE

Twelve Mile Creek flows from Fonthill north through Short Hills Park to Lake Ontario at Port Dalhousie. It is as intrinsic to the mid-Niagara Peninsula as are the Welland Canal and peaches and wineries and the Niagara Escarpment.

So it’s astonishing and exciting to have a group of students from as far away as India and Colombia and Turkey, who have studied the Twelve in detail, provide insights into its history and geology and current precarious condition in ways that most Niagara residents who have lived near the stream for all their lives have never considered.

The students are enrolled in the post-graduate Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Program at Niagara College. They come to the college with already impressive credentials and are adding the GIS certification to their degrees and diplomas as a step toward a career in mapping and geospatial analysis. Javier Reyes, who has a Geology degree from his native Colombia, joined with Chandana Murali, a graduate in Geology from India, to produce “story maps” that explain Twelve Mile Creek in fine detail. Mahmud Guney, with a B.Sc. in Geomatics Engineering

and an M.Sc. in Informatics from Turkey, teamed up with the only local member of the group, Brandon Giura, whose degree in Earth Sciences is from Brock, to examine erosion in the watershed and pinpoint the worst spots so that restoration efforts can be targeted.

Their work was commissioned by the Niagara Chapter of Trout Unlimited Canada (TUC), whose focus is to restore, preserve, and enhance Twelve Mile Creek as the last remaining coldwater stream in Niagara capable of sustaining a population of native Brook Trout. As the most fragile of all the trout species, Brook Trout are the ideal measure of the health of a stream, and, as TUC Niagara President Dennis Edell points out, “Brookies were once plentiful in Twelve Mile Creek, but now due to urbanization, global warming, and deforestation among other issues, they have been reduced to a few isolated pockets.”

TUC Niagara has partnered with the Niagara College GIS Program for the past eight years, providing a real world project for the GIS students to apply their knowledge, while compiling a series of See TWELVE MILE Page 10

Slides from the team’s online “Story Map” presentation.

Beat the heat this summer - ice rentals at the MCC now available Ice in the Duliban Insurance arena is available for rental.

Physical distancing guidelines and at-the-door health screening is required for everyone entering the building.

Beginning Wednesday, July 8, pre-booked ice rentals begin.

For those looking to rent ice this summer, you can do so by visiting www.pelham.ca/ mcc and clicking the ‘book ice time’ tab. You can also book ice time by calling 905-892-2607 x360. Phone calls will be answered Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m.

Ice time is available in one-hour blocks. Change rooms are not available and skaters are asked to come dressed. Parents bringing their children are asked to remain in the arena area and keep a minimum distance of two metres from others. Floor stickers and signage will help guide users.

www.pelham.ca/mcc

VOICE

Town Facilities now open Town of Pelham facilities, including Town Hall, the Meridian Community Centre, and the pool at Marlene Stewart Streit Park, are open to the general public as of Monday, July 6, 2020. Town Hall services are by appointment only.

This phased opening ensures the health and safety of Town staff and the public.

When visiting Town facilities, the public will be asked to submit to a standardized screening test including having their temperature taken. Face coverings, when unable to physically distance, are required.

www.pelham.ca/covid19

Page 4

The Voice, July 8, 2020

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

OPINION

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

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

COMMENTARY / OP-ED Larry Coté Is “defunding” the police the answer?

O

ne of the ensuing consequences of misconduct by some few law enforcement officers is the public outcry to “defund” the police. Instances of misconduct have occurred when police allegedly used unnecessary force when apprehending individuals suspected of wrongdoing. Such allegations often arise when encounters disproportionately involve people from minority communities.

It is critically important to recognize that such malevolence can be attributed to only a very small number of police officers. Unfortunately, these few denigrate the reputation and trust of all law enforcement personnel. It is all-important to be mindful that the bulk of the police contingent serve their communities with honour, diplomacy and dignity.

One of these malevolent instances occurred recently in Minneapolis, and has served as a flashpoint with near worldwide negative reactions. Video evidence shows a police officer applying his knee to the neck of an unarmed and handcuffed individual named George Floyd, until he died.

That instance has become an iconic example of police brutality and sparked enormous demonstrations against police savagery across North American and beyond. It appears such a radical idea as defunding the police is gaining acceptance by a growing number of people from mainstream society. As with most substantive societal issues there are extremists at both ends of the defunding spectrum.

A number of people are proposing a reduction in police budgets and reallocating those saved funds to other services such as housing, anti-poverty efforts, long-term care, recreation, and other social deficiencies. One of those services might be in the area of mental health. The defunding advocates claim police are untrained to deal with mental disorders and the opioid crisis. They claim these are health issues and should be attended to by professionals from that sector. Sometimes, police involvement in such cases has lead to tragic consequences. Other issues such as domestic abuse require special skills for which, it is claimed, the police are

NEED HELP? MAKE THE CALL Distress Centre For depression, distress, and crisis.

24 hour help line: 905-688-3711   Mental Health and Addictions Access 1-866-550-5205 (Toll Free) Gambler’s Anonymous 905-351-1616

Kids Help Phone Service for youth.

416-586-5437 800-668-6868 (Crisis Line) www.kidshelpphone. ca Assaulted Women’s Helpline Mobile calls to: #SAFE (#7233) 1-866-863-0511 (Toll Free)

Alcoholics Anonymous Find a Niagara meeting.

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

untrained to mediate and resolve.

Some defunding advocates suggest police budgets be arbitrarily reduced by 10%. A recent motion to reduce Toronto’s police budget by that amount was defeated by a vote of 16 – 8.

The Niagara Regional Police budget is in the range of $154.5 million. If the suggested 10% reduction were to be implemented in Niagara that would allow for $15.4 million to be reallocated to other social service providers and relieve the police from involvements in areas served by these agencies.

The recent COVID-19 pandemic disrupted many aspects of society’s operations and has drawn attention away from other areas that contribute to a prosperous, healthy and united future. It is hoped that Niagara's civic leadership will avoid politics that encumber social progress and cooperate in a united effort to insure the continued safety, security and enjoyment of living in the Region. It will be interesting to see how civic officials will respond to the evolving public pressure to reexamine police funding. ♦

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

(905) 892-8690

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca EDITOR & PUBLISHER Dave Burket publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca ADMINISTRATION Lori Gretsinger office@thevoiceofpelham.ca CONTRIBUTORS Carolyn Botari, Colin Brezicki, Rosemary Chambers, John Chick, Larry Coté, Brian Green, Jenica Hrysko, Maeve Keating, Megan Metler, Bill Potrecz, Bernie Puchalski, Don Rickers, John Swart, Helen Tran, Mike Tucker, Rob Weatherby. Proof Sleuth: Julian Fitch NEWS INQUIRIES & TIPS editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca LETTERS TO THE EDITOR letters@thevoiceofpelham.ca ADVERTISING INQUIRIES advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

Bad apples continue to leave sour taste The Voice appears to be using editorial cartoons to ask questions. The problem with that is no one, including the Niagara Region Police Association (NRPA), could discern that was the purpose of the cartoon without the subsequent editorial note (which seemed a bit of an afterthought).

Our members, and their families, many of whom live, work, go to school and volunteer in Pelham were offended by a cartoon which portrayed police officers as bad apples. The language used was “we serve and protect each other” and did not relate to the 2018 incident or the officers involved in that incident

[in which one officer shot another] or even the NRPS. If the Association had been asked, we would have pointed the editor to the CanLII website where the Ontario Civilian Police Commission publicly reports decisions relating to formal police misconduct. The hearings are also public and the part the Association played is referenced. However, this type of direction is generally not required by professional journalists.

As well, we would have indicated that the See APPLES next page

CONTACT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS Member of Federal Parliament

Electoral District: Niagara West

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

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

Members of Pelham Town Council

Member of Provincial Parliament

Ward 1

Electoral District: Niagara West

The Voice

Letters

Sam Oosterhoff, MPP 4961 King St. East, Unit M1 Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org 905-563-1755 Members of Niagara Regional Council Councillor Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 905-658-2987 Councillor Diana Huson diana.huson@niagararegion.ca 905-324-3094 Town of Pelham 20 Pelham Town Square P.O. Box 400 Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 905-892-2607

Councillor Marianne Stewart mstewart@pelham.ca 289-821-0840 Ward 2 Councillor Ron Kore rkore@pelham.ca 905-933-3805

Today's forgotten business stopped advertising yesterday

Councillor John Wink jwink@pelham.ca 905-892-4475 Ward 3 Councillor Lisa Haun lhaun@pelham.ca 905-892-5877 Councillor Bob Hildebrandt bhildebrandt@pelham.ca 905-892-5647

Jill C. Anthony Law Office

Have an Opinion?

BARRISTER, SOLICITOR & NOTARY LETTERS TO THE EDITOR are welcome. Letter submissions should contain the writer’s full name, address and telephone number. Names only will be published. Names may be withheld if compelling reasons are provided. The newspaper reserves the right to change, condense or reject any contribution for brevity, clarity or legal considerations. All material in this publication is protected by copyright. Reproduction is prohibited without express, written permission of the publisher.

ADVERTISING: The Voice of Pelham regrets any errors or omissions that appear in advertisements in this newspaper, however, we will not be held responsible for more than one absent or incorrect insertion or for any damages beyond the cost of space containing the error. The Voice is an independent, locally owned and operated publication.

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

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

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

janthony@jillanthony.com

JA

NIAGARA FALLS (Satellite Office)

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

www.jillanthony.com

NEW LOCATION

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

905-892-8690

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice, July 8, 2020

Page 5

OPINION APPLES

continued from previous page scales of justice relate to criminal trials and not administrative hearings which is where police misconduct matters are heard: this is because they are employment related matters and not criminal matters; and we would have advised the editor that the role of the Association in these matters is very similar to the role of all unions in regard to employment related matters— we provide representation to ensure that the employee receives fair treatment in respect of employment-related discipline. This is no different then what happens in employment discipline matters involving teachers, nurses, factory workers, etc.

Our role is the same.

We realize that “sensationalism” is infinitely more interesting, but we ask you to remember that our members are real people who work hard every day to keep the community safe. They are not, and should not be, defined by isolated incidents.

The NRPA represents the 1100 police and civilian members of the Niagara Regional Police Service. It is also a community partner who has donated, on behalf of its members, $9500 to charitable organizations in Pelham in the last year and $1000 to the rebuilding of the Pelham arches.

Cliff Priest President NRPA Editor’s note: It’s unfortunate that the letter writer mischaracterizes the cartoon in ques-

tion, and parses the definition of “justice,” as if to imply that there are different types of justice for different types of people. Editorial cartoons are amplified caricatures intended to provoke discussion. They aren’t researched news stories. The cartoon in question, incidentally, did not portray “police officers” as bad apples. It portrayed a single police officer, drawn to look like an actual apple, being shielded by police unions from Lady Justice. As she is usually portrayed, Lady Justice wore a blindfold, meant to signify impartiality, the principle that justice should be applied without regard to power or wealth—or, say, an offender’s job title. There is new and growing public awareness of police union influence—unions that are hardly comparable in their potential effect on public safety as those of “factory workers” and teachers, neither of whose members tend to carry firearms or Tasers. The comedian Chris Rock summed it up nicely in a 2018 performance, now circulating on social media: “I know being a cop is hard. But some jobs can’t have bad apples. Some jobs, everybody gotta be good. Like pilots. American Airlines can’t be like, 'Most of our pilots like to land. We just got a few bad apples that like to crash into mountains. Please bear with us.'" The public—who police are sworn to serve and protect—is increasingly disinclined to bear along. It would have been reassuring for the letter writer to have acknowledged this reality, perhaps unequivocally adding that in no way would his union ever seek to shield bad apples from receiving their just desserts.

PELHAM AND COVID-19

Mayor Marvin Junkin

To mask or not to mask, that is the question

T

he debate among citizens and politicians as to whether or not governments should mandate the wearing of face masks appears to be heating up. The two sides to the argument are thus: The pro-mandate group argues that in order to maintain our good numbers moving forward, especially with more and more businesses opening up, masks should be mandated as it will be harder to maintain a social distance.

They argue that mandating the wearing of masks will also help prevent the second wave, that some people are forecasting in the fall. They point to countries in Southeast Asia that from the very beginning of the pandemic have enforced the wear-

ing of masks, and have for the most part achieved very low death rates.

The ant i m a n d ate Marvin Junkin group points to our good numbers and asks why should we start wearing masks now, when our numbers are what they are? They point out that if a person does not follow the correct protocol when putting a mask on, or taking it off, a person could do more harm than good, possibly touching the mask, and then touching their face.

The mayors of the municipalities recently had a teleconference call to debate this issue, and it was pretty even-

I recently read Vilma Moretti’s letter to the Voice regarding the renaming of E. W. Farr School to Wellington Heights [“E. W. Farr controversy—five years on,” Letters, July 1, p. 7]. Let me tell you about a recently named school in Peel District School Board, but first a

little history is required.

In 1819 my wife’s family settled on a tract of land granted to them by the Crown. It was located at the corner of what is now Winston Churchill Boulevard and Steeles Avenue. The Whaley family or at least part of it remained

Check us out online or call for details

Cabinetry Showroom & Design Centre 7-200 Hwy 20 East, Fonthill ON L0S 1E6

Call (905) 932-7069 to schedule an appt.

“Tilt-In Feature” • VINYL AND ALUMINUM SIDING • 5” SEAMLESS EAVESTROUGH • SOFFIT - FACIA - SHUTTERS • STEEL INSULATED DOORS • 2” SELF - STORING DOORS CALL ANYTIME

905-892-3757

FREE ESTIMATES

316 Welland Rd., Fenwick

Nick’s Cleaners

We are open—With new hours WELLAND Tuesday to Saturday 8:30am-12:30pm FONTHILL Monday, Thursday and Saturday, 9am-1pm

Paul V. D’Amico PAU L @ N I C K S C L E A N E R S . C O M

See NAMING next page

Haddock, Halibut, & weekly specials

Let's take this opportunity to set an example, let’s promote peace with our neighbours and those who might be “different.”

Offer the money anonymously dropped at the Voice to someone (possibly a student) to design a small sign depicting a group of people of different ages, sexes, races, and disabilities with words such as “We’re all Canadians, eh?”

The signs could be sold ($10 each?) with the money going to Pelham Cares.

I think seeing these signs in the windows of our neighbours, reminiscent of the Block Parent signs of the ‘60s, would make us all feel that we live in a friendly community where people care about one another.

Beryl Smith Fonthill

Vinyl Replacement Windows

on that property for 200 years, my father-in- law being the last family member there, selling his home in 2019.

In 2018 the Peel District School

Offering

Open: Mon - Fri 8:30am to 6:00pm Sat 10:00am to 4:00pm

INSTALLATIONS

for this Wednesday, July 8, at 3 PM, so that all Regional councillors can debate this issue. I think that if it is mandated, that it should be done on a Regional basis, not at the municipal level.

If Regional Council does not pass a bylaw making it mandatory, individual businesses can still make wearing a mask mandatory for anyone shopping in their store. This is what is occurring in Niagara Falls, where tourist traffic is a big concern.

The bottom line is, no matter which group you are in, if you have any symptoms at all, stay home, continue frequent handwashing/sanitizing, and respect the space of the people around you.

Until next week...

Another school-naming tale, but with a different ending

Suggests use for anonymous cash

William Hall

ly divided between the proand anti-mandating groups.

I pointed out on the phone call that ever since this pandemic started back in early March, Canadian politicians have stepped back and let the health and sciences people run the show, following their rules and recommendations.

The acting head of Niagara Health, Dr. Hirji, and the heads of health for the other six regions in Ontario, do not recommend making the wearing of face masks mandatory. It is Dr. Hirji’s contention that enforcement will be a big issue, and that there are scientific arguments to be made for both sides.

The Regional Chair, Jim Bradley has called a special meeting of Regional Council

Eat In or Take Out!

Open Tuesday - Saturday: 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. www.suesseafood.ca

905•714•1117

782 Clare Ave.

(just off Woodlawn)

Professional SERVICES Directory Dr. Bohdan Hrynyk Dental Surgeon

Pelham Hills Dentistry

905-892-5002

Family Dentistry NEW PATIENTS WELCOME 1428 Pelham Street, Fonthill

NEWSFLASH Tell us your story!

Column Six presents tales of personal triumph, adventure, strange-but-true stories, life-changing events, and looks-back at our past.

Did you conquer Everest or kick a bad habit?

Everyone has a story. Tell us yours!

NOW ALSO ACCEPTING FICTION— SHORT STORIES UP TO 2000 WORDS! Write it down, send it in: publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca (You won’t get rich, but you will get paid.)

Page 6

The Voice, July 8, 2020

Letters

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

continued

NAMING

continued from previous page board needed to build a new school due to the explosion of population in the Brampton area. After extensive consultation with community members, families of the students who would be attending the school and the students themselves, a name was selected. In May of 2019 my wife’s family was invited to the grand opening of the new school.

I must point out that the families and students of the new school are predominantly persons of colour from a very diverse background. The school choir, made up of 54 students, demonstrated this as all except six were children of colour. The gymnasium was full of families of colour and then there were us— two rows of mostly older WASPs, who were warmly welcomed by all in attendance. My father-in-law even gave a presentation, which was cheered loudly by all.

Why, you might ask, were we there, and what point am I leading to. Well, after all the aforementioned consultation, the new school was named “Whaley’s Corners Public School,” which is what the corner of Winston Churchill and Steeles is named. That’s right—not after some old, far-away British figure, who by all accounts now was not a very nice person.

It was an honour for the family to be recognized in this way and a great example of how school boards should conduct themselves in these matters. The way the Niagara District School Board conducted themselves was and is deplorable.

Brian Eckhardt Fonthill

Council ought not to throw stones I was reading the Voice today from lovely Cape Breton and saw the poll about Mayor Marvin Junkin’s penalty. I am going to tell you how I feel about that penalty.

I was so saddened that the council decided to penalize Marvin whatsoever. Perhaps they all could look over all the minutiae of governances and practice perfection. If anyone of them have not sinned let them cast the first stone. I believe that Marvin did not knowingly break any rules and I am sure if he is guilty of anything it was being considerate and inclusivity.

Giving council a heads-up on an issue that he thought would require deliberation before formulating an opinion and voting, thus saving time in Council—isn’t that a sin.

The council member that walks into council sick and sniffling has one hell of a lot of nerve throwing stones.

I am saddened that Marvin was monetarily punished and I personally think they should change that vote and give Marvin back his well- earned pittance. If they choose to uphold their decision, my voting will certainly change at the next election.

Brenda Horton Pelham

SOUND OF CELEBRATION Canada Day on College Street featured a front porch concert of traditional country music, performed by Ron Hoover, Tim Mosley, and Jamie Payne.

SANDY FAIRBARN

Asks who is pushing for masks I've heard the mandatory mask issue is to come up at Regional Council on Wednesday. For what it’s worth, I’m not for making mask wearing mandatory.

I would like to offer a few points I’ve not heard in the media discussion of masks.

•If we’re making decisions by the data, Niagara has done an excellent job of “flattening the curve.” For weeks now, the daily new cases are usually under five, sometimes even zero, for a population of 450,000 people. How much better should the numbers be with masks?

•Municipalities usually follow the advice of medical professionals, yet Niagara’s acting medical officer of health, Dr. Hirji, and Dr. Karim Ali, head of infectious disease at Niagara Health, recently were quoted as not supporting the concept.

•How will this be enforced? Likely not by NRPS or municipal by-law officers.

•Masks don’t replace social distancing, only in crowded places. Everywhere I go, I see social distancing is generally adhered to. Quoting from the federal government website: "Masks alone will not prevent the spread of COVID-19. You must consistently and strictly adhere to good hygiene and public health measures, including frequent hand washing and physical (social) distancing."

•There won’t be 100% adherence, as some people experience breathing problems or have medical issues that preclude wearing a mask.

•Businesses have spent much time and effort at making social distancing a habit.

•Who exactly is pushing for this? Citizens, businesses?

See MASKS Page 8

REFLECTING ON THE FUTURE Cindy McCrystal took this photo of her granddaughter, Miss Millie McCrystal, almost three, as she considered the view from Nan and PopPop Mark’s front window recently. Take your time, Miss Millie. No need to rush growing up.

CINDY MCCRYSTAL

Available without a Vet appointment Advantage for both cats and dogs available

Because your home is more than just a house

Simone Souter celebrates her 105th birthday on Tuesday, July 7th.

Happy Birthday, Simone! You’re an inspiration to your family and we love you so much!

If you would like to wish Simone a happy birthday, you may send a card to:

Shorthills Villa Retirement Community 1532 Pelham St., Fonthill, ON, L0S1E3

We carry Fish, Birds, Small Animals

Ask us how We carry everything to get FREE you need for Dogs, pet food Cats, Fish, Birds, Small Animals, & Reptiles!

130 Highway 20 E. Fonthill

Between Dollarama and Food Basics

905-892-3733

Bob Kilyk, Agent 21 Highway 20 West Fonthill ON L0S 1E0 905-892-5721 www.bobkilyk.com

1201905 CN.2

Happy 105th Birthday SIMONE SOUTER

Be sure your homeowners insurance is properly protecting what matters most to you.

Stop in, call or click to contact me today.

Certain conditions, limitations and exclusions may apply.

Desjardins Insurance refers to Certas Home and Auto Insurance Company, underwriter of automobile and property insurance or Desjardins Financial Security Life Assurance Company, underwriter of life insurance and living benefits products.

Desjardins, Desjardins Insurance and related trademarks are trademarks of the Fédération des caisses Desjardins du Québec, used under licence.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Letters

The Voice, July 8, 2020

Page 7

continued

As more businesses and services reopen, and with social gatherings increased to 10 people, we all must continue our efforts to protect each other.

For the love of trees I have always been an unapologetic tree-hugger. Way back before the turn of the century, the Town had decided to cut down well over 25 percent of the trees on Emmett Street. That is when our neighbourhood, and people in Pelham, created the “Pelham Tree Conservation Society.”

The Tree Society hired an independent tree arborist to investigate and survey the trees marked for removal. Our independent arborist found that very few of these trees required full removal. The Society took the report to the council of the day and presented our study and developed a plan. At that time, the Town Council listened, and took our concerns and established a com-

mittee which included the Society and Councillor Brian Walker. Our mandate was to develop guidelines on how our Town was to protect our urban forest. Our guidelines were presented to the Town Council and were accepted in 2000.

Copies of these guidelines should be readily available to all from our Town Hall.

In 2010, then-Mayor Dave Augustyn requested a copy of the Urban Forest Guidelines from me and confirmed his commitment to them. In 2015-2016, the Town created a tree policy and a tracking system for the urban forest (a database called See TREES next page

2m

Practice physical distancing, stay two metres apart.

Wear a face covering when physical distancing is a challenge.

STORE IS OPEN!

Fresh-picked strawberries daily!

Monday-Friday 8 AM-6 PM, Saturday 8 AM-5 PM. Closed Sundays

Continue to wash hands frequently.

ALSO—Order online with touchless pickup!

WWW.DEVRIESFRUITFARM.COM Or call: 905-892-8724

SWEET CHERRIES ARE IN! NOW CARRYING HIGHLAND PACKERS MEATS

Ground beef, all-beef hotdogs, 4oz/6oz hamburger patties, smoked bacon, honey garlic, mild and hot Italian sausages

Fresh off the Farm Fresh in season blueberries, raspberries, beets, broccoli, radishes, new potatoes, zucchini, Romaine lettuce, Green and Red Leaf lettuce, Green and Red Boston lettuce, kale, peas, and more!

FRESH BREAD, BUNS, AND PIES Preserves. Eggs. Apple cider. Frozen fruit.

Store hours: Mon-Fri 8 AM -6 PM, Sat 8 AM -5 PM Che󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹

825 Canboro Road, Fenwick • 905-892-8724

Get tested if you are worried you may have COVID-19, or have been exposed to the virus.

Inside or out, stay safe.

Save lives.

Visit ontario.ca/coronavirus Paid for by the Government of Ontario

Page 8

The Voice, July 8, 2020

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

HOUSE PARTY! With the annual Canada Day parade and the party at Harold Black Park cancelled this year, mom Jennifer helped Mason Breen, 2, and Ashton Breen, 4, spend the holiday decorating the joint with the free kit provided by the Town of Pelham, which included a banner, a large Canadian flag, and a Canadian-themed beach ball. SUPPLIED

TREES

continued from previous page TARQ ).

At this time I want to thank everyone who was involved in this environmental task, for the health of our citizens and our urban forest. Today, instead

of celebrating, I am now deeply concerned about all of our progress with our trees.

On Saturday, May 16, I was woken up by the sounds of chain saws. Too my horror I was witnessing a healthy, mature, and over-60-foot maple tree being assassinated, one limb at a time,

on Station Street, on Town property. When I asked the independent tree removal company worker why he was removing the tree, he gave me numerous reasons, but revealed he had approval from the Town. I asked him to stop. He refused and continued to decimate the enormous maple.

NEW CURBSIDE HOURS! WED-SAT, 9 AM - 2 PM + FRIDAY 9 AM - 8 PM!

CURBSIDE MENU

Certified Transistion & Relocation Services

SERVED WEDNESDAY - SATURDAY FROM 9AM TO 2PM

ON THE SIDE

B R E A K FA S T All breakfasts are served with home fries or hashbrowns

PEAMEAL, EGG AND CHEESE

9

PANCAKES

8

FRENCH TOAST

8

on an english muffin

(with bacon, ham or sausage 11) (with bacon, ham or sausage 11)

BREAKFAST WRAP 10 PACIFIC EGGS BENEDICT 13.50 TRADITIONAL EGGS BENEDICT 11.50 SANDWICHES AND WRAPS All sandwiches and wraps are served with fries, salad or soup. Add 2.99 to substitute for Caesar or Greek salad or add 2.49 for onion rings or sweet potato fries

TOASTED WESTERN BLT REUBEN

10 10 13

TOASTED CLUBHOUSE CHICKEN CAESAR WRAP

13 13

POUTINE SMALL POUTINE LARGE ONION RINGS SWEET POTATO FRIES

5.50 7.50 6 6

served with side Cajun mayo

GRAVY

1 KIDS MENU

7

Includes small drink and ice cream

CHICKEN FINGERS AND FRIES HAMBURGER AND FRIES GRILLED CHEESE AND FRIES

CHICKEN FINGERS AND FRIES HAMBURGER

PEROGIES

THE PACKING PEOPLE ... and so much more!  Downsizing  De-cluttering  Packing/Unpacking/Setup  Free Estimates

905-933-0730

www.seniorsonthemoveniagara.com seniorsonthemoveniagara@gmail.com

Our only conclusions for the tree removal can be that the homeowners wanted the tree destroyed so that they would have no obstructions when pulling into or out of the double driveway of their newly built home. It appears that the Town has an impression that trees have no value nor do they care about their citizens that do care about trees. It also said a lot about how such a process can occur on a long weekend without Town Hall being available to the public to request an explanation before it is too late.

If our Town cares anything about the proper protocol, the person or persons who authorized the destruction of a healthy mature tree should be terminated, or at the very least reprimanded, for the following reasons: A) ignoring tree policy and guidelines; B) for ignoring the proper protocol; and C) for allowing this incident to happen when there was no way to halt the destruction.

These are grave violations of the public trust.

The only thing left of the tree is the stump and I certainly hope that my tax dollars will not pay for that removal.

Mike Jones Fonthill

continued from Page 6

12 12

with fries or salad (add cheese 1.00) with fries or salad

Certified • Bonded Insured

Works, and to the newspaper to request an answer about why the tree was allowed to be destroyed. She showed us the copy of the letter for approval because my wife, Carol, and I also wanted our names attached to that document.

On May 19, we received no calls from the Town.

The Voice published the letter in its May 27 edition.

As of today, July 2, neither my wife nor I have received any communications from the Mayor, or the Director of Public Works.

MASKS

O L D FAV O U R I T E S

BANQUET BURGER

I called our Bylaw Officer for help. I was told that it was approved by the Town.

I was told that I would have to wait until Tuesday for more information about the tree, being that this was Saturday of a long weekend.

A group of neighbours began discussing of what actions could be taken since nothing was to be resolved prior to the destruction of this gorgeous, healthy, mature tree. Cari Pupo suggested to us that she would write a letter to the Mayor and the Director of Public

14 12.50

1507 Pelham St., Fonthill

(289) 897-9191

It seems a media-driven agenda, both locally (CKTB) and at provincial press conferences.

I fear that masks have become trendy, a catch-all solution when they are not.

I know quite a number of people who don’t support the wearing of masks and may even choose to shop in places where mandatory mask policies are not in place.

Peter Leyser Fonthill

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice, July 8, 2020

Page 9

Pelham cherries ripe for the picking Recent spell of hot weather a blessing to tender fruit

BY DON RICKERS

Special to the VOICE

July 1 signals two things in Pelham: Canada Day, of course, and opening day for the Town’s crop of sweet cherries.

Duffin Farms on Rice Road was open on the holiday last Wednesday, and proprietor Kim Duffin was understandably busy. Locals were already lining up for “pick your own” baskets at 8 AM, and Duffin said that many from the GTA also made the trip to Fonthill to load up on the sweet drupes.

“It’s kind of an annual ritual for some Torontonians…a family outing,” said Duffin.

What are drupes, you ask?

By definition, berries are fruits stemming from one flower which have two or more seeds. Thus, a cherry, which has just one seed, doesn't make the cut as a berry. Rather, cherries are drupes, which means that they are from a family of fleshy fruit with thin skin and a central stone that contains a seed. Nectarines, apricots, peaches, and mangoes are all drupes…as are coconuts and olives.

The Duffin farm sits on the Fonthill Kame, an elevated morraine composed of sand and gravel that was deposited eons ago by retreating glaciers.

“We didn't get hit with the frost and hail that came through the region in the spring, and so the cherry crop is excellent,” said Duffin. “The recent heat has really increased the sugar content…they are beautiful cherries, firm and sweet.”

Many varieties of sweet

cherries are available, including Hedelfingers, Cavaliers, and the traditional standard, Bings (which generally ripen a bit later in the season). Duffin said that they have other varieties that are so new they are classified with numbers rather than names.

Three-litre baskets are $15, four litres are $20, and a seven-litre basket is $30. Duffin said that a three-litre basket can be filled in about 10 minutes.

And that’s picking from the ground level, with no need to mount a ladder.

Cherry season is weather-dependent, but generally runs the first three weeks of July.

“By the first of August, we're on to plums and peaches, and then sour cherries,” said Duffin.

Social distancing is easy in the Duffin orchard during these COVID times, because hundreds of sweet cherry trees are spread over six acres.

“I tell people, if you see someone on a tree, just go to the next one,” said Duffin.

Safety protocols are in place. A wash station is provided on site, and Duffin provides the picking baskets. In past years, Duffin would loan picking baskets, and then bag what was picked. To minimize contact, customers are now taking the actual baskets home.

This season’s sales volume is uncertain, given that the highway buses which in previous years would drop off loads of people from the GTA to

Above, Veronique and Vincent Schaljo of Hamilton, along with their infant son Ezra, enjoy some sweet cherry picking in the Duffin orchard last Sunday, along with Josee Fauvelle of Welland, and Dany Lizotte of Montreal. Right, Kim Duffin checking the merchandise on the traditional opening day of July 1.

DON RICKERS

pick cherries on a weekend have been curtailed due to COVID safe-distancing restrictions.

But Duffin is optimistic that Niagara residents will turn out in force to enjoy the crop, despite the fact that cherries imported from the USA are readily available in grocery stores.

“You can taste the difference in cherries that are freshly picked off the tree,” she asserted.

Tired of the Big Box Pharmacy runaround?

Transfer your prescriptions easy as Which Medications?

From Where?

We’ll do the rest

FREE Delivery or curbside pick-up of all items

CURBSIDE PICKUP & TAKEOUT ➤

still available!

Call 905-892-0782 to reserve a table or place your takeout order MORE HOURS! Monday-Friday, 12 to 8 PM Saturday & Sunday, 1 PM to 8 PM $10 Take Out Wings, Burgers, Fish & Chips

Plus our POP-UP PATIO is OPEN!

In Fonthill Marketplace Next to Food Basics • Easy prescription transfer • Locally owned and operated • Free prescription delivery • Fast, friendly, courteous service • Free on-site compliance packaging • Seniors save every day

New Hours

pharmachoice.com

Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

(905) 892-1888

Like us on Facebook facebook.com/pch663/

➤

Call to order 905-892-0782

Page 10

The Voice, July 8, 2020

Slides from the team’s online “Story Map” presentation.

TWELVE MILE Specializing in

continued from Page 3

TRAFFIC TICKET OFFENCES

lengthy student-produced reports that provide snapshots of each section of the stream—temperature fluctuations, erosion and sediment problems, peak flows, barriers and impediments, and suitability as potential Brook Trout habitat.

The “Story Maps” produced by Javier and Chandana are complex, interactive displays that turn the detailed information they contain into entertaining and engaging stories that can be viewed on the TUC Niagara website and its Healthy Twelve Mile Creek Project web-

and

CRIMINAL MATTERS 905-732-9890

help@streetjustice.ca

Accepting New Patients

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

VOICE

site. The world’s largest producer of GIS software, ESRI, donated its ArcGIS proprietary software along with office space and consultant assistance to two of this year’s GIS projects at Niagara College, with the Twelve Mile Creek project being one of them. The Story Map software produces powerful interactive programs that engage and educate. In fact, a teacher has already asked Chandana and Javier if she can use the programs in her virtual classroom.

Divided into four sections, the programs first take viewers through an overview of Twelve Mile Creek, then immerse them

We strive to make you feel comfortable, relaxed in a welcoming environment. inside

Location is 130 Hwy 20E, Unit A6, with ample free parking.

OBITUARY

OBITUARY

CARL EDWARDS

STAYZER, Bruce Stanley

It is with great sadness that Ann & family announce the passing of her beloved and devoted husband of 61 years.

Carl passed at Rapelje Lodge Welland on July 1, 2020 in his 83rd year.

Carl worked at G.M. Plant 2 as an electrician for 31 years and retired in 1998.

Dearly missed by his son Craig (Carla) of Fonthill and daughter Karen of British Columbia. Also, grandchildren Melissa, Aaron, Greer and family and Deighton. Great grandchildren Chase, Pilgrim, and Perrian.

Greatly loved by all. Also, sister in law Jean, her son David (Annie) and family in S. Wales, Carl’s brothers, Lionel (Sue) and brother Adrian in England and many cousins in S. Wales.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will take place at a later date. If wished, memorial donations may be made to Fonthill United Church or any other charity of your choice. Thank you.

Online condolences may be shared at www. pedlarfuneralhome.ca. in the geology and ancient lakes and glaciers that molded the landscape of the Niagara Region, moving through the human history of the region from earliest stone age hunters through indigenous occupation to the coming of the Europeans and the gradual industrialization of the creek, which provided power for mills and forges and tanneries.

The rise and fall of the village of St. John’s is a fascinating part of this story.

Once the largest community in Niagara, it boasted five grist mills, a distillery, two foundries, two sawmills, a hat factory, a tannery, and several hotels, all of which have now disappeared with scarcely See TWELVE MILE Page 16

Call us today for your next appointment 905-892-0476 Services include: General, Family, and Children’s Dentistry Wisdom Teeth Removal Dental Implants Root Canal Therapy Crown & Bridge Invisalign Oral Hygiene Services

PROUDLY SERVING THE

NIAGARA REGION

Hairstyling...

• Haircuts • Custom colour • Hair colour • Blow dry • Wigs • Highlights • Perms• Balayage • Ombré • Updos • Special occasions hair

Call us to schedule your FREE hearing health assessment today!

DID YOU KNOW?

Early intervention can improve the quality of life in more than 90% of people with hearing loss.

Now Offering: Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Laughing Gas) Follow us

Alaina Hillier

Doctor of Audiology, Audiologist, Reg. CASLPO

Peacefully at home with his loving family by his side on Saturday, July 4, 2020 in his 86th year. Loving husband of Louise (Davis) for 63 years. Dear dad to Karen McIntee and Janet Zwierschke (Robert). Best friend and father-in-law to Mike McIntee. Papa to Courtney (Ian), Ryan and Holli. Survived by his sister Glenna Miller (the late Ralph) and sister-inlaw Carol Stayzer. Predeceased by his parents Basil and Jessie Stayzer, sister Verna Freeman (Ed) and brother Roy. Bruce was employed at Haun Drop Forge for 47 years. He was a lifetime Volunteer Firefighter at Pelham Station #1, a member of the Dufferin Masonic Lodge in Wellandport and treasurer of Fonthill Firefighters Association and Pelham Minor Hockey for many years. Bruce was also a faithful member of the Fonthill United Church.

Bruce led an active life, if he wasn’t playing he was coaching hockey and baseball. He was a scout master for many years in Fonthill. Bruce loved the outdoors fishing, golfing, car racing and his gardens. Later he became the biggest fan and coach of his grandchildren. Special thanks for the visits and excellent care from the palliative care team Colleen,Trina, Joslin and Dr. Dooler. The family will gather for a private graveside service at Fonthill Cemetery. A public celebration of life will be announced at a later date once it is safe to gather again. If so desired, donations to Hospice Niagara, Fonthill United Church or a charity of one’s choice would be appreciated.

Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.pedlarfuneralhome.ca

Dr. Thomas McMurran, DDS.

NIAGARA FALLS LOCATION 4725 Dorchester Road, Unit B15

Instagram.com/fonthilldentist Facebook.com/fonthilldentist

905.354.2757

www.fonthilldentist.com

289.897.8665

FONTHILL LOCATION

#20 Hwy 20, Unit 3, PO Box 162

Visit our website to check your hearing online for free! hearagainclinics.com

TRACY STRYCKER 289.213.3834 34 Deerpark, Fonthill salonollegra.com

HOURS: Mon-Fri 11-7, Sat 9-1 BOOK ONLINE: xandaro.com/myfamily1

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

““Nervous means you want to play.

Scared means you don’t want to play.”

Sherman Alexie

The Voice, July 8, 2020

Sporting Green The Niagara

Page 11

John Swart catches up with Ride for Change

14

The Voice and TheVoiceofPelham.ca | July 8, 2020

Pilato back in Phoenix fold

BY BERNIE PUCHALSKI

BPSPORTSNIAGARA.COM

Pat Pilato is back in a familiar place.

It was recently announced the 26-year-old St. Catharines native will join the St. Francis Phoenix senior basketball team’s coaching staff. The former post secondary player at the University of Victoria and Brock won an Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations’ AA bronze medal as a player at St. Francis along with three Standard tournament titles and two Standard MVP trophies.

Pilato used to work as a server, which resulted in a lot of night and weekend shifts, but he has started a new job as a financial advisor with Freedom 55 Financial in St. Catharines. His new career will allow him to be available to coach after school and on weekends “I always have had an interest in coaching and I used to love coaching at basketball camps all through the summer when I was in high school,” said the Brock business and political science graduate.

“What I love the most about coaching is being able to have a positive influence on the players, especially younger kids.”

It is a chance for him to pay it forward.

“Growing up, I remember how much I used to look up to my coaches like Pat Sullivan and guys like Brad Rootes and Scott Murray, to name a few,” he said.

“The older you get the more you realize how those role models have influenced you as a person and basketball is an amazing vehicle that allows coaches to teach various life skills like team work and leadership indirectly through the sport.”

Pilato feels he has a lot to offer.

“I know I can bring some experience to the table,” he said.

“I have been where these guys are and was fortunate enough

to move on and play at the next level. Hopefully I can provide some sort of example to players and give them some inspiration and show them that pursuing a college or university athletics is possible if you apply the proper hard work and determination.”

St. Francis head coach Jon Marcheterre is excited to have Pilato on board.

“With Pat Sullivan taking a step back again to focus his energy on his Brock coaching responsibilities, there was a need to bring someone in,” he said.

“Jeremy Dela Cruz will continue on as an assistant coach, but it is always nice to have an extra pair of eyes and another voice in practice and on the bench in games.”

Marcheterre was delighted when Pilato reached out to him.

“This is something that really is special about a successful program— seeing former players wanting to come back and help out and repay in a way for the opportunities they enjoyed,” he said. “Both Dela Cruz and Pilato were Saint Francis players.”

Marcheterre knows Pilato will bring a wealth of recent playing experience to the staff.

“When we announced to the players that he was joining, there weren’t any puzzled looks or questions of who he was,” he said. “Our guys know the name, have read it on the OFSAA banners. He is a member of the Phoenix basketball Mount Rushmore along with Tshing Kasamba, Alex Shah, and Abu Kigab and there was definitely an excitement, buzzing through the group.”

Marcheterre is looking forward to Pilato’s involvement.

“It is really important for our current players to see a guy who walked the same halls, played in the same gym, even had some of the same teachers, and reached a level they would like to get to,” he

Pat Pilato.

said. “On top of that, he is coming back to where it started for him to give to the next wave of players.

“It is important for the players to have young male role models who they can look up to and see

SUPPLIED

that volunteerism and community work is part of a vision of success.”

Blanchard ready for the next chapter

BY BILL POTRECZ

BPSPORTSNIAGARA.COM

It was love at first sight for Alex Blanchard when he visited the Rockland Nationals.

The Ridley College defenceman hooked up with the Nationals late last year and quickly realized the Canadian Central Hockey League organization was the right fit for him.

“We started talking and they expressed interest in me right away,” Blanchard said. “I did some research and talked to the coach and I had a lot of interest.

“I had a meeting with the coaching staff, the owners and trainers. It was definitely something that interested me right from that visit. Watching some of the players and watching them play, it was somewhere I definitely envisioned myself playing next year and I fell in love with Rockland from there.”

Blanchard, who recently committed to the Nats, appreciated

being able to visit the team in person.

“It made me even hungrier to play with that group and play there that much more.”

Blanchard, who also played a handful of games with the Thorold Blackhawks this season, is excited to play at the Tier 2 level.

“I got to see their style of play, which is fast, hard hockey,” he said. “Every single player does the little things to keep them a step ahead of their opponents and that’s how they are able to win games. They use their speed and skill and I really think my game, being a smaller player, I can use my abilities.”

Rockland coach Dan Sauve is thrilled to add Blanchard to the organization.

“We are ecstatic to have him join us,” Sauve said. “The obvious reason is his playing ability.

He is a poised defenceman with

good vision, good distribution skills and a precise shot. With our team losing quite a few high-end defensemen, Alex will have lots of opportunity and we think he will thrive.

“More importantly, his character and professionalism are beyond his years. He will be a great ambassador for our team.”

Blanchard, whose older brother Max played with Ottawa of the CCHL last season, has high ambitions.

“The ultimate goal is to get a scholarship to go play NCAA, at the same time, a lot of players playing Tier 2 are able to go play USports,” he said. “As a family we value that just as much.”

Blanchard loved his time at Ridley, where he helped the Tigers to a pair of Midwest Prep League championships.

“I remember walking on to campus for the first time with

Alex Blanchard.

SUPPLIED

my brother who gave me a tour and explained how things work.

Now it’s Grade 12 and it’s already over and we’ve graduated,” he said. “My experience at Ridley is something I wouldn’t trade for the world. I’m so grateful for the opportunity. I’m so grateful to my parents for giving me that opportunity as well as coach [Mike] McCourt and the entire Ridley community. Those were some of the best years of my life. To meet so many new people and so many friends from around the world, it was something that will last a lifetime and that I will keep close to my heart.”

McCourt had high praise for the Fonthill resident.

“He’s a quiet individual who leads by example and lets his play and actions speak for themselves,” McCourt said. “He has outstanding work ethic on and off the ice. Whether the gym or the classroom, Alex is committed 100 percent. He really evolved over his time here and is a player who can be utilized in all situations and epitomizes character.”

Saturdays 12:30 – 3:30. Register and pay ahead in person. $5.00 per 1/2 hour. Visit www.pelhamlibrary.on.ca or call 905-892-6443 for more details.

Page 12

proofing, drainage systems, clothes and more, very reaquarry stone supply, place- sonable, SATURDAY AUG. P18-27 ment. 905-384-1972. P18-23 30, 8AM-3PM

LOOK FOR EXTRA COPIE AT THESE FINE AREA

The Voice, July 8, 2020

FONTHILL BANDSHELL PRESENTS DE TEMPS ANTAN Since 2003, Éric Beaudry, André Brunet and Pierre-Luc Dupuis have Place these ads for 30 words + photo been exploring andfree! performing time-honoured melodies from the stomp• Birth announcements • 50th and greater wedding anniversaries • 90,ing 95, 100-plus birthday announcements grounds of Quebec’s musical past. Using fiddle, accordion, harmonica, guitar, bouzouki and a number of other instruments, our three virtuosos blend boundless energy with the unmistakable joie de vivre found only in traditional Quebec music. Show runs from 7-9 p.m.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca BUSINESSES.

Yard & Shed MOVING Burke’s Masonry SALE, Large collection FONTHILL PLACE AD BY EMAIL OR PHONE E.YOUR L. Crossley Keith’s Restau Bricklaying, tuckpointing, of Christmas and holiday office@thevoiceofpelham.ca Churchill Natural Meats Target Store decorations and householdHours: Mon-Thurs, 8 AM - 2 PM (905) 892-8690 step repair, granite Shoppers Drug Mart Pennzoil Quick coatings, brick slices items, SAT. AUG. 30, 8AM- Fonthill Library Lazy Loon 1PM 625 METLER RD, P18-28 905-682-7061.

Town of Pelham Pharmasave FLOORING CUSTOM MILL NORTH PELHAM P18-23 Cafe on Main Avondale Stor

CLASSIFIEDS

PELHAM LIBRARY CARD MAKING WORKSHOP Make YOUR six cards with- fall themes,PROVINCIALLY learning a variety of techniques.

Materials EXTEND REACH ADVERTISE OR ACROSS THE COUNTRY! For informationAt contact community newspaper or visit www.networkclassifi aremore provided. timeyour of local registration, please enquire about tools ed.org needed.

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

FABULOUS FENWICK LIONS FISH FRY Tasty treats with funds heading straight back into the community. Haddock, french fries and much more. Runs Sept. 9 from 4-7 p.m.

PELHAM MINORINVENTORS!!

HOCKEY EQUIPMENT DECLINED SALE BY YOUR BANK? ATTN: ONTARIO WE CAN HELP! Buy, sell or Inventing trade used Arena.

Aimed to provide Need Help?equipment at the Pelham Call Davison!!

1 , 2 , 3 MORTGAGES cheaper options for players in this upcoming season. Runs Sept. 6 from Debt Consolidation Ideas Wanted!

9-12 in the morning.

Renovations, Tax Arrears st

CALL DAVISON TODAY:

nd

rd

Mortgage Arrears, Debt problems

1-800-256-0429

CONSOLIDATE YOUR DEBT NOW!!!

PELHAMORMUDFEST VISIT US AT: CUT MONTHLY PAYMENTS UP TO 75% Men and women will be back in the mud as the second run on the year is Inventing.Davison.com/Ontario held atFREE Bissil’s Hideaway.

No Income, Bad Credit Inventor’s Guide!!

Bankruptcy, Proposal Power of Sale Stopped!!!

NIAGARA REGIONAL EXHIBITION FREE APPRAISALS ADVERTISING Rodeo, games and live entertainment headlineCALL thisUS years exciting event. It FIRST FOR A FREE CONSULTATION runs from Sept. 11-14 at the Welland Fairgrounds.

1-800-282-1169

www.mortgageontario.com BIG MOVE CANCER RIDE The Big Move Cancer Ride is a non-competitive(Licence ride taking place on Sept. #10969) 7. Proceeds for the Big Move stay in Niagara and support the Walker Family Cancer Centre.

REACH MILLIONS OF CUSTOMERS IN ONTARIO WITH ONE EASY CALL! OLDWANTED PAPERS FIREARMS WANTED FOR JUNE 13th, 2020 Your Classified AdCLUB or Display Ad would appear WALKING Do &you have AUCTION: old issues Rifles, of theShotguns, Voice LIVE ONLINE in weekly newspapers each week across published from 1997 at to the 2007?

How about Handguns, Militaria.

Auction or Purchase: Ontario in urban, areas. Join Interested insuburban walkingand in rural Pelham? them Tuesdays Pelham Arena the Pelham Herald (any year).

We'd love to Collections, Estates, Individual Items.

For more information Call Today from 9-10647-350-2558. am and Thursdays at Fonthill for 9-10:30 am.

There addBandshell them to ourSwitzer’s archive.

Contact: publisher@ Contact Paul, Auction: Toll-Free thevoiceofpelham.ca 1-800-694-2609, is no fee for this program. For more information,sales@switzersauction.com please contact jcook@ or www.switzersauction.com. pelham.ca or call 905 892-2607, ext 329.

HAMPER DAY FOR PELHAM CARES of Purchase fresh fruit and vegetables at the Market or bring aPlaces non-perishable Classifi foodBethany itemOCNA to fill Network the hampers at eds the Ads Pelham Farmers Market on Sept. 4.

Christian Reformed Church First Presbyterian Church

Portable sawmill service.

Beamer’s Pro Hardware I will come to your home or farm and custom mill your logs.

Firewood & lumber alsoSobey’s available. Call Rob Patterson, FENWICK McDonald’s 905-401-4948, Avondale Stor riverwood@primus.ca Fonthill Legion

Josh DeHaan Flooring “For all your flooring needs”

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

flooring solid, engineered from $2/ft2 • laminate flooring from $.89/ft2 • carpet and vinyl flooring from $4.95/yd2 • fibre flooring from $1/ft2 • ceramic tile from $.89/ft2 ...and other specials!

Call us to see the products that are available & visit our showroom.

Phone: 905-892-7898 Fax: 905-892-4811

No Sunday Calls, Please TF

Community Events Listings

O

START T

“ TU R N ”

Fenwick Sub S Golden Grill Devries Fruit F Pic’s ALLTYPE MASONRY Brick, Block, Stone and Chimney repairs. Ridderikhoff M Klagers Tim Hortons

MASONRY REPAIR Semenuk’s

R YOUWet and damaged basement repairs.

Phone Tom Deamude at 289-241-4767.

PAPER ROUTES AVAILAB years of construction experience.

VINYL 35INTO

CASH!STRAWBERRIES

PANCAKE,PICKWICK • 97 PAPE

BERKWOOD, BEECHNUT, KATHY, V

STRAWBERRIES—Pick Your Own and Pre-picked (SOUTH)• 96 PAPE Fenwick BerryDEVERARDO Farm Barn 1760 Balfour Street, Fenwick BROCK, M-TH: 8-8, FRI-SAT: 8-5DONAHUGH,SHALDAN PETRONELLA • 109 PAPERS 905-892-8231 www.fenwickberryfarm.ca

PLACE YOUR

GARAGE

SALE

CONTACT THE VOICE AT

905.892.8690

CAN YOU HELP PREVENT MUMMY CURSES? Seeking specialist of ancient Egyptian mummy curses.

ADInterested WITHinUS! best practises foremail: avoiding.

Also interested office@thevoiceofpelham.

in worst-case scenario options for breaking unavoidable curses, just in case. References will be requested.

NEW ADVERTISING OPPORTU fitzwilliamrutherford@gmail.com

why not

CALL...

to reach your market coming soon Watch for early previews of our

NEW, EXCITING WEBSITE Follow us on Twitter, Like us on Facebook.

905.892.8690

Putting on an event?

Tell the town!

Community Event Classified ads are available in blocks of 30 words for $10 incl. HST.

#NewspapersMatter #NowMoreThanEver

Thanks for supporting your Voice!

PLEDGE YOUR SUPPORT AT

newspapers

office@thevoiceofpelham.ca

905-892-8690

m at t e r . c a

Worship

(AD CENTRAL) www.bethanycrc.ca

602 Metler Rd., North Pelham

Holy Trinity Anglican Church holytrinityfonthill.org

Pelham Evangelical Friends Church www.pelhamfriends.ca

Concordia Church Week Lutheran of 105 Welland Rd., Fonthill

Fonthill Baptist Church www.fonthillbaptistchurch.ca

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

Ridgeville Bible Chapel ridgevillebiblechapel.com

Fenwick Church of Christ www.fenwickchurchofchrist.ca

Fonthill United Church www.fonthillunited.com

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

St. Alexander Roman Catholic Church www.stalexander.on.ca

Glad Tidings Church of God

Pelham Community Church (United Church) www.pelham.cc

St. Ann Roman Catholic Church www.stannfenwick.com

COMMUNITY Events April 13

Posted Event Submissions Standards April 8United Church Fenwick

If your organization is hosting an event that would be of interest to the community, www.fenwickunited.com www.gladtidingschurchofgod.com you may submit an events profile by sending your community events information to Central editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca Some restrictions apply.

Event submissions that meet Region Ads included theLIFT acceptability standards of The of Pelhamof will then be posted until the date spite all Voice the difficulties FAITH HANDLEBARS days. be vague This15The ad isCommunity to bethese printed byDon’t all participating Ontario papers of your Events Calendar is updated weekly. continued fromevent.

Page continued fromPlease Page 14provide but firmly grasp what you as much notice and information as possible including the date, time and description know to be the will of God. positive way to way, but needed to receive of your event. The Voice of Pelham the right toincredibly edit for space.

Don’t get reserves your stimulus spin spending sixteen hours it through a sincere faith.

God would then give him the power to live a worthy life. In a word, it was God’s grace (free gift) that saved him, not his human striving.

Luther’s legacy

Luther went on to translate the Bible from Latin (a language that only the educated of his day could understand) into German, the language of the common people living in his homeland.

In the same spirit, J. B. Phillips wrote a paraphrase of Scripture (Ephesians 5:15-21) in modern English which expresses God’s truth in a fresh way…

“Live life, then, with a due sense of responsibility, not as men and women who do not know the meaning and purpose of life but as those who do. Make the best use of your time, de-

from wine (for there is always the danger of excessive drinking), but let the Spirit stimulate your souls.

Express your joy in singing among yourselves psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making music in your hearts for the ears of God! Thank God at all times for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. And ‘fit in with’ each other, because of your common reverence for Christ.” (Ephesians 5:15-21) May these words encourage you in these days of uncertainty and anxiety.

We may not know the future, but we can know the One who does. And we can trust Him. ♦

Rob Weatherby is a retired pastor who thanks God for his salvation every day.

on a bicycle, pun intended.

“What do you talk about when you’re riding?” I asked.

Aiden replied, “Like nothing. It’s easy to get lost in your own head when you’re biking.

Time just passes that way.”

They were riding in the moment, which would help them as distances increased.

After the guys departed, I walked to my car past a well-maintained century home in Jerseyville. A woman, speaking softly over a white picket fence inquired, “What are they doing?” I explained the Ride for Change and the donation that would follow to Black Lives Matter, and mentioned the age of the riders.

The woman, who told me she didn’t want her name in the paper, replied, “I’m all for that. In the town I

was born in, Black people or Jews could not buy a house.”

I asked where she had been raised.

“Port Colborne. That was a long time ago, I’m 86.”

This short and harsh history lesson once more brought home what Jeremy and Aidan had recognized, and wanted to see changed.

On my drive to intercept the group between Dunnville and Wainfleet, Tom Cochrane wailed, “Just tell’m we’re survivors,” which I hoped would be prophetic.

Sure enough, all five approached along Feeder Canal Road, cycling strong. Chris was riding standing up.

At 7 PM they rolled into Wainfleet after 14 hours of riding, completing 184 kilometres so far, the distance between Fonthill and London, Ontario.

“Chris, you looked like you were riding standing up.

Is there a reason?” I asked.

“Yeah, my butt’s sore,” was his less than enthusiastic reply.

In the town I was born in, Black people or Jews could not buy a house

Jeremy added, “There were a couple times I felt like giving up. It was tough.

Then you’d remember what you were riding for. That makes it more worthwhile.”

Leaving Cayuga had been very difficult for the group.

They’d ridden for hours, and were still heading away from home. “It was the longest stop. We were thinking about every pedal [stroke],” said Aidan. It wasn’t until Dunnville and the turn toward home that they knew for sure they’d all complete the 200K. You could hear the hol-

lering and whoops of relief just after they turned off Foss Road onto Haist Street, heading for Harold Black Park. They finished at 8 PM, 15 hours and 200.33 kilometres after they began their Ride for Change.

What was the best part of being done?

“I just think that we’re able to make a difference, have something good come out of it. Just really happy with what we’ve done, just so happy,” said an utterly exhausted Jeremy.

They had all successfully completed a brutally long bike ride, together, and earned $3000 in donations for the Black Lives Matter Foundation.

They’d engaged and challenged themselves to make a difference riding for Change, Justice and Equality. They committed to the ride, and each to other, in a most public manner, and succeeded.

That’s a strong addition to Jeremy, Aidan, Chris, Rowan and Drew’s resumes. Well done, guys. ♦

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice, July 8, 2020

Page 13

SERVICE DIRECTORY Electrical Electrical

ACB

Heating & & Cooling Cooling Heating

Electrical

-ECRA #7003130 Service Upgrades • Energy Efficiency Upgrades Troubleshooting • New Wiring & Re-Wiring Commercial • Industrial • Residential

&

We Service All Makes And Models

The Voice

LANDSCAPES Inspired By Your LIFESTYLE

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

Call (905) 892-8690

advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

905.892.6908 www.dekorteslandscaping.com 799 Balfour St, Fenwick

Landscaping

Niagara’s Complete Concrete Contractor 1-800-881-1628

cottoninc.ca

Landscaping

KEEP

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

fingers

l

l

l

l

l

Steven& & Ryan Ryan Van Lochem Steven Van Lochem Owners/Operators

A DIVISION OF ROBERT WILLIAMS PLUMBING & HEATING LIMITED

Plumbing Plumbing

Call a Voice Service Directory professional to get the job done right the first time.

residential • commercial • farm 905-386-6483 • 905-651-8558

Advertising

Landscaping

The Voice

FINISHING TOUCHES Property Maintenance

www.joesplumbingniagara.ca

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

Lawn Cutting, Gardening, Yard Clean-ups, Landscaping, Trimming-only Service

Call (905) 892-8690

Fully Insured Professional Service

(you cut your grass, we do the rest),

Mulch Application, Interlock

advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

905-218-3662 ♦ Fenwick

Automotive

Power Equipment

Motorcycles, ATVs, Power Equipment, Snowblowers, Sales, Service, Parts & Accessories, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, KTM ● www.clarescycle.com

799 Hwy 20, Fenwick, ON

Steven Soos stays in the race despite health setback representation to Pelham Town Council, along with new ideas and a fresh perspective. I have a very strong team behind me.”

Still in his late-20s, Soos said that his heart attack has strengthened his resolve to fight for crucial investment in Niagara’s healthcare delivery.

Contacted recently for an update, Soos told the Voice, “I’m feeling fantastic, and am following my doctor's instructions.”

On his Facebook page, Soos expressed his appreciation for Niagara Emergency Medical Services, the Niagara Health System, and the Hamilton Health Sciences Cardiology department.

With a target of $8000 for campaign contributions, Soos has about $2300 in his war chest.

Endorsements for Soos have come from former Wainfleet Mayor April Jeffs, former Welland Mayor Allan Pietz, current Fort Erie Town Councillor George McDermott, former Welland

Licenced plumber & gas fitter with 25 years experience

155 HIGHWAY 20 E. • FONTHILL, ON 905-892-5756 • STARTILECENTRE.COM

Pelham by-election candidate suffers heart attack

Steven Soos, the first person to declare his candidacy for the vacant Ward 1 council seat in Pelham, suffered a heart attack shortly after making that declaration and was rushed to the Welland Hospital. After preliminary testing, Soos was transferred to the Hamilton Health Sciences Cardiology Department, where doctors successfully performed an angiogram and implanted two stents to preserve blood flow in his heart. He was released from the hospital a week after the event, and was awaiting more test results.

Asked by the Voice if this health episode will deter him from his political aspirations, Soos replied, “If I quit when challenges presented themselves, it wouldn't make me a very good politician. I plan to stay in the race, and bring some much-needed youth

Pumps and residential repairs

Flooring

Phone: 905.892.2188 • www.naturesownidea.com

Special to the VOICE

1.800.676.4029

CUSTOM HOMES • ADDITIONS • KITCHENS BATHROOMS • WINDOWS & DOORS • SIDING • DECKS • TRIMWORK BARNS & GARAGES • RESTORATION

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

BY DON RICKERS

905.892.2655

PORT COLBORNE 905-835-2391

CERAMIC TILE • LUXURY VINYL PLANKS • LAMINATE • HARDWOOD PORCELAIN TILE • BACKSPLASHES • COUNTERTOPS

Concrete Supplies Concrete Supplies

l

Family built since 1955

LICENSED & INSURED

Landscaping Landscaping

l

THE PUMP DOCTOR

devriesrenoltd@gmail.com

Advertising

l

We Make House Calls!

ADDITIONS

FENWICK 905-892-2391

tel: 905-892-4988 Email:abover@cogeco.ca cell: 905-714-2145 for urgent calls

or Toll free

Plumbing

DE VRIES R E N O VAT I O N S

Fenwick Alex Bover-Master Electrician

(905) 262-2000

Renovations

905-892-2664

If your message to Pelham isn’t in our pages,

Then it isn’t being seen.

The Voice

The paper that Pelham reads.

(905) 892-8690 advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

From his hospital bed, Steven Soos gives a thumbs-up back in mid June.

SUPPLIED Councillor Paul Grenier, current Thorold City Councillor Jim Handley, and current Niagara Falls Council-

lor Wayne Campbell.

Soos is currently the lone candidate for the Ward 1 seat.

CELEBRATING OURof20TH YEAR Two decades service

qr

Page 14

The Voice, July 8, 2020

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

FROM THE HANDLEBARS

by John Swart

The 200K challenge—Ride for Change is a success

W

ould you, or I, attempt this?

Would you care enough to set out in the dark at 5 AM, bicycling 200 kilometres to improve justice and equality for people of cultures and races to which you don’t belong, and might never truly understand?

Because you felt it was all unfair, unjust, that Black lives mattered, and that now was the time significant change might be possible?

Five young Pelham men did care, and on June 28 they rode Jeremy and Aiden’s 200K Ride for Change, the inspiration for which the Voice covered in its June

17 edition.

It was 4:45 AM at Harold Black Park when Chris Holmes arrived and unloaded his bike from his car. The rain had stopped sometime during the night; the only sounds were water dripping from the trees and birds chirping in anticipation of the sun rising. Mist was floating above the road, obscuring the black patches that may have been puddles or potholes. The riders’ safety would depend on their discerning which was which until the sun rose.

Jeremy and brother Drew Colangelo arrived next, then Aidan L’Ecuyer and his brother Rowan rode their

bikes into the parking lot.

“My front light quit, and my back light fell off on the ride here,” explained Aidan to the group. Thankfully he and Rowan were both wearing reflective vests, so they would be visible to motorists in the dark.

Each rider carried heavy backpacks that would provide all their supplies until the halfway point of the ride, where friend Ilya Rghei would join them with a support car. Excitement to get underway filled the parking lot. A rider would later comment, “It was great watching the sun rise, there were no cars or anything,” when describing the first few minutes after their 5 AM start.

I next met the riders in Jerseyville, a tiny hamlet west of Hamilton, at noon.

They were 92.4 kilometres and seven hours into their

Sweaty and exhausted, but mission accomplished after 15 hours of cycling, from left, Ilya Rghei (support), Drew Colangelo, Rowan L’Ecuyer, Jeremy Colangelo, Aidan L’Ecuyer, and Chris Holmes. JOHN SWART ride.

“The ride up the escarpment was tough, but once we got our gears in line it was okay,” explained Aidan.

I asked, “Is everybody still good, everybody going to make it?”

“I think so,” replied Jer-

emy.

“You know what’s good though?

We left at five in the morning, we’ve been riding for about seven hours, and we’ve still got nine hours of daylight left.”

Consider that statement for a moment, and reflect on how you might feel in their

circumstance. Can you even imagine riding away from home for seven hours on a bicycle, and then explaining that there were still nine hours to get back to Fonthill as a good thing? That is an See HANDLEBARS Page 12

x

Voice

HOROSCOPE

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, you are a master of turning the tides very quickly. You may need to do so as you face an unforeseen challenge this week. Roll your sleeves up and get to work.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Communication with others seems to be going well and you have a full social calendar, Taurus. This will boost your self-esteem and possibly propel you toward new goals.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Don’t feel like you need to make sense of everything all of the time, Gemini. Sometimes things will work themselves out and will become more clear with time.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Relating to others can sometimes be difficult for you, Cancer. You tend to see things more deeply and emotionally than others. Afford others the chance to express themselves.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Finding a comfortable point in a relationship may take some time, Leo. But once you are there, it will feel like this was the course from the beginning. Just have a little patience.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 You may be full of fast-paced energy this week, Virgo. This is an extension of your lively, upbeat nature.

You can make tremendous career strides with very little effort.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Do not hesitate to take advantage of an opportunity or it could cost you, Libra. Push your indecisiveness to the side once and for all and jump in.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, you are currently in a great place to make a significant

move in your life. You have what it takes to make a push toward big goals. Opportunities come from all angles.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 It may take some time to rally from a physical slump, Sagittarius. Once you’ve committed to a fitness routine, expect a learning curve until you get into the swing of things.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Someone might be trying to ruffle your feathers by invading your personal space, Capricorn. Set the boundaries politely but effectively.

Don’t give in to childish behavior.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, things may be moving more quickly than you are comfortable with right now. If you need to slow the pace, put on the brakes and explain why to others.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, now is the perfect time to start a work-at-home routine or take a pre-existing situation to the next level. Productivity is booming.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS JULY 5 Edie Falco, Actress (57) JULY 6 50 Cent, Rapper (45) JULY 6 Ringo Starr, Musician (80) JULY 8 Milo Ventimiglia, Actor (43) JULY 9 Jack White, Musician (45) JULY 10 Phyllis Smith, Actress (69) JULY 11 Alessia Cara, Singer (24)

SOLUTIONS DOWN 1. Uma 2. Sag 3. SRI 4. Rancho 5. Outset 6. CPI 7. Alva 8. Liege 9. AF 10. Simas 11. Americanize 13. Tamable 15. ABM 17. Cannes 18. Map 21. Abecedarian 23. Kra 24. Rho 27. Pines 29. Preen 32. Hid 34. Ape 35. Slogan 36. Papayas 39. Dam 40. SAE 43. Caress 44. Pliers 46. Packs 47. The 49. Arced 51. PBS 54. Shad 59. Era 60. Sea 61. Tin 62. Egg 64. He

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

SOLUTIONS ACROSS 1. USSR 5. Ocala 10. Samara 12. Uplift 14. Imaginative 16. AC 18. Mme 19. CBS 20. Agama 22. Aar 23. Khmer 25. Eban 26. PSI 27. Pro 28. THP 30. EBN 31. Chia 33. Oracle 35. Spain 37. Epees 38. Landed 40. Seed 41. OPI 42. Sac 44. Pan 45. Apt 48. Gaza 50. Maple 52. Rah 53. Ayers 55. RBI 56. Ice 57. NA 58. Cheese steak 63. Shears 65. Reigns 66. Eddas 67. Sang

Enjoy out Take-out Fish & Chips Fridays!

From our family to yours...stay safe

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice, July 8, 2020

Voice

FAITH LIFT

by Pastor Rob Weatherby

CROSSWORD SPONSORED THIS WEEK BY

Luther speaks today

C

an someone who lived in the 16th century say something that is relevant and helpful to us in the 21st century? I think so.

Luther’s advice

Martin Luther wrote a letter to his colleague and disciple, John Hess, in 1527, when the Black Plague was ravaging Europe and his hometown of Wittenberg, Germany. This is part of what he wrote…

“I shall ask God mercifully to protect us. Then I shall fumigate, help purify the air, administer medicine and take it. I shall avoid places and persons where my presence is not needed in order not to become contaminated and thus perchance inflict and pollute others and so cause their death as a result of my negligence. If God should wish to take me, he will surely find me and I have done what he has expected of me and so I am not responsible for either my own death or the death of others. If my neighbour needs me however I shall not avoid place or person but will go freely as stated above. See this is such a God-fearing faith because it is neither brash nor foolhardy..."

The English may sound a bit old-fashioned but the advice is as timely as today’s present pandemic.

wanted his son to be a lawyer. However, during a violent thunderstorm Luther (fearful for his life) vowed to become a priest if spared. He survived and kept his vow. During his studies, he keenly felt his own sinfulness before his concept of a holy, wrathful God. His superiors noticed his academic ability and encouraged further study.

He eventually became not only a priest but a monk and university professor in Wittenberg, Germany.

As he studied and taught the Bible, he experienced a revelation. While meditating on the first chapter

Page 15

111 HWY 20 E, FONTHILL

Daily Dining Specials!

Live Weekend Entertainment!

of Paul’s letter to the Romans, Luther understood that his salvation was not dependent on his own efforts but on the finished work of Christ on the cross.

He read, “For in the Gospel the righteousness of God is revealed – a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith.’” (Romans 1:17) This was a game-changer for Luther and a spiritual rebirth experience that changed his life. He realized that he could not earn his salvation in any See FAITH LIFT Page 12

Luther’s story

I’m not a Lutheran Christian but I thank God for Luther’s life and ministry. He is the father and founder of the Protestant Reformation. His major contribution was to point the people of his world back to God and His Word, the Bible, as their source of truth and authority.

Luther’s father was a wealthy landowner and

Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

Weekly Word Search

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

ACTIVATION ADVANCED ALPHANUMERIC ANDROID APPLICATION BANDWITH

BINARY BLUETOOTH CACHE CAMERA CAPACITY CELLULAR

COVERAGE DATA DOWNLOAD FINGERPRINT ILLUMINATION KEYPAD

NETWORK PROVIDER SECURITY SERVICE STREAMING WIFI

ANSWERS ON PAGE 18

Page 16

The Voice, July 8, 2020

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

TWELVE MILE

continued from Page 10 a trace in the creek valley.

The third program provides a clear and detailed look at the problems now facing Twelve Mile Creek. Urbanization and deforestation have stripped the stream of much of its natural resilience to high levels of runoff— impermeable roofs and roads, and parking lots that don’t allow for natural absorption of rainfall, direct huge amounts of water into the creek ,resulting in erosion that sweeps tonnes of sediment downstream. Online ponds contribute to warming, and roadways add runoff and salt and pollutants to the water.

The last segment outlines the efforts being made by the volunteers at the Niagara Chapter of Trout Unlimited Canada and its partners to combat the effects of manmade problems in the watershed. Video and photographs show the work that has been done to reforest the stream edges and stabilize the banks, reinforce bends that are subject to erosion, and recreate riffles and pools that have been scoured out by unnaturally heavy flows.

The project that Brandon and Mahmut undertook for TUC Niagara will help to guide the organization’s restoration efforts for many years to come. They used a variety of tools from aerial surveys to stream flow monitors to computer modeling to drone surveying in order to locate the worst erosion “hot spots” in the Upper Twelve Mile Creek system. Rendered in both interactive maps that allow landowners along the creek to zoom in on their own properties and 3-D imaging to highlight trouble spots, this report, too, is highly interactive and engaging. It clearly illustrates the effects of urbanization, especially in the village of Fonthill, which straddles two of the creek’s main groundwater sources.

Of special note is the discharge from the storm water management pond at Highway 20 and Rice Road, which, on the erosion hotspot map is a bright red bar. Outflow from this pond under Highway 20 into the channel between the Fonthill Lions Club

Left, Mahmut Guney was forced by the pandemic to return to Turkey, but continued to work on the project remotely from his home. Right, Professor Ian Smith of Niagara College, who was the advisor on the projects, with his students, from left, Brandon Giura, Smith, Chandana Murali, Javier Reyes.

SUPPLIED and the Pelham Cares building can reach disastrous velocities and volumes. After one rain event this winter, the report illustrates that 70 centimeters (over 27 inches) of soil was dug out of the channel by the rushing water. That sediment is deposited downstream, silting up the channel, destroying fish and invertebrate habitat, and damaging the property of downstream landowners.

TUC Niagara is using the information contained in this comprehensive report to engage landowners like the Lions Club and Pelham Cares and the Town of Pelham (whose storm water management pond is responsible) in tackling this problem and others like it. Sulphur Springs Road is a case study in itself.

Brandon and Mahmut were faced with an additional challenge as Mahmut was recalled to Turkey when the COVID pandemic was declared and was in quarantine at a Turkish army base for 14 days. Fortunately, much of the field work had been completed, so the pair were able to do the computer analysis, mapping, and simulations by computer despite being on opposite sides of the world.

“We worked around the sev-

en-hour time difference by working together in the late morning and then taking a break for my lunch, his supper,” says Brandon.

“Then we’d work until late afternoon my time. I’d often have to tell him to quit when I realized it was past midnight in Turkey!”

Chandana says that her experience as a foreign student has been very positive.

“I came with no field experience and little confidence, but this project has given me the confidence to work in the field and I have such a good feeling to be able to contribute to this country.”

The quality of the Niagara College program and the value of the “real world” experience of working on the reports for TUC Niagara were common themes.

“The knowledge that I’ve gained in computer applications has been especially valuable,” says Brandon Giura, “but the opportunity to put my theoretical knowledge from university to practical use in the field is the best part of doing this project.” All of the foreign students expressed the wish to remain in Canada to apply the skills they have acquired. Javier and his wife have moved to Niagara and hope soon to bring their

I’d often have to tell him to quit when I realized it was past midnight in Turkey

nine-year-old son, who is living with grandparents in Colombia.

Chandana is seeking a work permit, and Mahmut vows to return from Turkey as soon as travel is normalized.

Professor Ian Smith, of Fonthill, was the advisor on both of the projects and expressed his pride in the work that resulted from the collaboration with Trout Unlimited. The GIS Program at Niagara College is being suspended next year, so these may be the last graduates to produce the reports valued so much by clients such as TUC. “If this is the last graduating class,” says Smith, “then these projects provide an excellent way to end. They are of the highest quality. As these talented new geospatial professionals finalize their work with their clients, we know that we’ll continue to be

proud of their work in their profession.”

Dennis Edell, TUC Niagara President concurs.

“The projects done by the GIS students over the years have been an invaluable resource for us, one that we couldn’t possibly have afforded. Twelve Mile creek has certainly benefitted from their work, and I hope the projects have had lasting benefits for the students as well, providing them with practical experience working for a client. Twelve Mile Creek and those of us who care about it owe them a huge debt of gratitude.”

The interactive Story Maps, landowners’ information, and full reports can be viewed after July 1 at the Niagara Chapter of Trout Unlimited website, Healthytwelvemilecreek.com

RENOVATE YOUR HOME RON’S Bathroom Whether it’s new windows and doors or siding, soffit, fascia and eavestrough; it’s a great time to buy. North Star energy-efficient windows are built in Canada and will save you money year round.

North Star windows help keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Call or visit our showroom today for a FREE ESTIMATE on your home!

FINANCING AVALABLE (OAC)

WITH LOUWES

25 yrs exp.

R enovations Fonthill

Reliable, Honest, Prompt

289-968-6018

snoei.renovations@gmail.com

Open Monday thru Friday from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm for curbside pick up.

Our showroom is available by appointment only. Email all other inquiries, orders & quote requests to: info@louwes.ca

It’s Time for a SPRING Tune-up!

MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

905.562.5831

3435 King Street Vineland WINDOWS & SIDING SINce 1966 • WWW.lOuWeS.ca

ratures Tempe ing!! is r are

Financing & Rebates AVAILABLE!

High efficiency Gas Furnace and Air Conditioning packages at GREAT PRICING!

BOB REID Heating & Air Conditioning RESIDENTIAL - COMMERCIAL

905-892-7787

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED