The Voice, June 15 2022

Pelham Council U-turn

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Victim statements pour in for Earl Clapp

page 8

Fundraiser for Fenwick lad

The Voice Z Z

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

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Vol.26 No.23 

of Pelham and Central Niagara JUNE 15 2022

Published every Wednesday

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Darcy Richardson, CPA, CA | Broker

DARCYRICHARDSON.CA darcy@darcyrichardson.ca 905.321.6292

Remembering a husband, father, and friend

The community gathers to celebrate the life of Earl Clapp Tillie Clapp, flanked by her daughters Elisha and Jody, in the lush backyard that their husband and father, Earl, planted and landscaped. Story, page 11.

DON RICKERS

Harold Black Park | 1 PM Celebration begins | 4:30 - 10 PM Live Music | 10 PM - Fireworks Show

Pelham

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July 1st

3 PM Parade A.K Wigg School down Haist St. to Harold Black Park

Visit online for the full listing of contests, events and more www.pelham.ca/canada-day

Somewhere down the road Spring is a time of renewal. Time to tidy up the house and yard.

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You’ve probably revisited your Will, but have you detailed your final wishes? Prepared your Estate?

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Page 2

The Voice

by Dave Burket

Voice

NRPS impaired driving charges ~

BY VOICE STAFF Journalists who shed light on the nursing shortage, opioid crisis, and racism on the front lines were among those honoured by the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) in its annual Media Awards.

Among the winning entries, three of the stories shared the challenges nurses are facing during the Covid-19 pandemic, including understaffing, overwhelming workloads, and mental health challenges.

Other winning entries examined the shortcomings of Ontario’s long-term care system, the rising number of opioid overdoses across the country during the pandemic, and stories from Black nurses who have endured racism during their career.

“Journalists play an important role in informing the public about the successes in our health system and the failures that we must address,” said RNAO President Morgan Hoffarth. “We applaud them for bringing us compelling stories to ensure nurses, other health providers and the public have a voice.”

This year, RNAO handed out seven Media Awards to journalists who wrote for or produced stories in print, radio, and television.

“As an organization that speaks out for nurses and healthy public policy, RNAO is proud to honour this year’s winners,” said RNAO CEO Dr. Doris Grinspun. “Their

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Writing award for contributor Helen Tran

PUBLISHER’S CORNER Fifty years ago this week: As no shortage of print and broadcast pieces have reminded us in recent weeks, this Friday marks the 50th anniversary of the Watergate Office Building burglary—the third and last break-in, actually, the one where a bumbling crew of White House-directed operatives were caught attempting to bug the offices of the Democratic National Committee. We’re halfway through the excellent series “Gaslit,” available on Crave, in which Julia Roberts plays Martha Mitchell—“The Mouth of the South”— wife of Nixon campaign manager and ex-US Attorney General John Mitchell, played by Sean Penn. On paper the casting sounds nuts. On screen it’s outstanding (an elaborate latex addition to Sean Penn’s head helps considerably). Given that I was 12 at the time, the break-in barely registered. That had changed by a year later, when during the summer of 1973 I spent a fair amount of time glued to our black-and-white Zenith, watching the Congressional hearings into what had become an all-consuming scandal. (Decades later, on a flight from Washington, D.C. to California, I sat next to Senator Daniel Inouye, who played a prominent part in the hearings, and enjoyed listening to his recollections.) Surely the timing behind the current Congressional investigation into criminal acts by Donald Trump is no coincidence. Unfortunately, while there were several honourable Republicans prepared to put country before party 50 years ago, such is not the case today, in this climate of “alternative facts” and deliberately manufactured social outrage designed to appeal to the clinically paranoid. Which brings us to Pelham Town Council.

Over the years a number of people have suggested that it must be more interesting to cover cock-ups and incompetence than it is sober debate and wise decisions. Actually, no. It’s exhausting. All the more so when it’s the government where you live, which directly affects you. Once again this week we see a faction of council running off the rails (story, p.3; editorial, p.4) regarding a $100 million dollar subdivision project. Such ill-conceived micromanagement has been the Gang of Four’s stock-in-trade for three-and-a-half years. It’s a wonder we manage to retain any professional staff at all— particularly planning staff. I’m relieved to report that Ward 2 Councillor John Wink has filed for reelection, joining Ward 1’s Wayne Olson, and Mayor Marv Junkin. The sensible ones are back in. Consider joining them, won't you?...Congratulations: Our own Helen Tran wins a well-deserved award (story this page)...Better late than: Belated thanks to Richard Dacosta for the kind words; always appreciated!...Don't miss: DeVries Fruit Farm's fundraiser for young Will Boyce (story, p.7); and the Niagara Motorcycle Ride for Dad (story, p.10)...The little pharmacy that could: PharmaChoice, run by the nicest people you'll ever meet, is expanding—a lot (story, p.9)...Time waits for no Beatle: Paul McCartney turns 80 on Saturday. Lucy in the sky with diamonds!...Stay cool: See you next week. ◆

A June 15 2022

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What's That

SIREN Pelham Fire Department Weekly Calls

Voice correspondent Helen Tran.

LUIS URENA

impressive work highlights the nursing and health issues that face our province, including a nursing crisis worsened by the pandemic, ongoing understaffing and inadequate skill mix in longterm care, and the racial harassment and mistreatment of Black nurses.”

Entries were judged by a panel of nurses and journalists. Awards were handed out at RNAO's virtual 97th Annual General Meeting last Friday, June 10.

Voice contributor Helen Tran won her award—Community Newspaper, Best News Coverage—for her June 2021 feature article, “Don’t call me a hero,” which described the challenges facing local Registered Nurse Annie Mazmanian.

“It was an outstanding piece and well deserving of recognition,” said Voice Publisher Dave Burket. “Helen was in excellent company, too.”

The other six winners were all from far larger media outlets, namely the Toron-

The Pelham Fire Department responded to six calls for assistance from Friday, June 3 to Friday, June 10.

Sunday, June 5 Carbon monoxide alarm, Joyce Cr., Station 1 Monday, June 6 Medical assistance, Station 1 Smoke in the building, Canboro Rd., Stations 1, 2 and 3 Tuesday, June 7 Carbon monoxide alarm, Stonegate, Station 1 Remote alarm, Beachwood, Station 1 Wednesday, June 8 Motor vehicle collision, Quaker Rd., Station 1

to Star, Toronto.com, Global News, CBC Radio, and Global News Toronto.

Founded in 1925, the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) is the professional association representing registered nurses, nurse practitioners and nursing students in Ontario.

Congratulations

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Kenneth M. MILLER, 26, Wainfleet Halin MARITCH, 33, Lincoln Peter B. NAUTA, 28, Pelham Trinity D. WATMORE, 22, St. Catharines Terri E. PARTYKA, 47, Port Colborne Jamil M. TARIQ, 31, Toronto David G. DIRINGER, 60, New Fane, New York Yaroslav GLADKY, 40, Buffalo, New York Luis HERRERA, 32, St. Catharines Kevin M. MEYER, 62, St. Catharines Joshua V. VISOCKAS, 27, Sudbury Katie NAGY, 26, Fort Erie Morgan T. YATES, 24, Fort Erie Alexander M. BROWN, 35, St. Catharines Tanya M. CHEPSIUK, 48, St. Catharines The Niagara Regional Police Service is committed to reducing impaired driving offences through education and the apprehension of offenders through enforcement programs like RIDE. Impaired driving is still the leading cause of criminal deaths in Canada and destroys thousands of lives every year.

OF THE WEEK!

Jackie Rhinde, of Fenwick, sharing the Voice with members of Antigua's National Soccer Team!

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

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

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A June 15 2022

TOWN COUNCIL NEWS

Pelham Town Council meets virtually on Tuesday, June 7 2022.

YOU TUBE/TOWN OF PELHAM

U-turn out of the blue on East Fonthill subdivision

BY JOHN CHICK Voice Correspondent Pelham Town Council’s tenuous grasp of planning matters and residential development surfaced once again during their June 7 virtual meeting, with three members voting to kill official passage of a bylaw related to a subdivision development that had been approved at a previous meeting last month.

During their May 16 gathering, Councillors Lisa Haun, Bob Hildebrandt, and Ron Kore had objected to a staff report endorsing a new subdivision development south of Summersides Boulevard and east of Station Street based on the proposal that it include two new roadways, citing concerns by the potential developer of another parcel of land on the north side of Summersides.

However, the potential developer does not actually own the land at issue, and the subdivision project has been underway for some two years, with repeated opportunities for public comment.

While the project passed 4-3 in May, last Tuesday the same trio of councillors, led by Lisa Haun, effectively killed the bylaw by voting against it, causing it to fail on the procedural rule of a tie (Ward 1 Councillor Marianne Stewart was absent).

Mayor Marvin Junkin and Councillors Wayne Olson and John Wink voted in fa-

vour.

The last-minute reversal puts the Town in a tenuous position with the developer of the south side of Summersides, a situation which CAO David Cribbs warned would likely end in another loss for Pelham, at taxpayer expense, via the Ontario

"At any time they could have let us know they wanted to speak"

Land Tribunal. The Voice understands that a reasonable potential exists for an additional bad-faith damages claim.

However, Haun said her reasoning was based on apparent objections by the would-be developer of the north side of Summersides, who preferred seeing one road into the subdivision rather than two.

“I know this developer would like an opportunity to speak to council,” Haun said. “I guess the part that irks me the most is that it was suggested they weren’t kept in touch with [Pelham’s

planning department].”

It was unclear what Haun was alluding to. She did not respond to a Voice request for comment inquiring about her possible personal or business connections to the developer, nor to a request that she clarify her overall rationale for voting against the approval that council had already granted.

Wink, meanwhile, reminded council that the two-roadway proposal had been built into the East Fonthill Secondary Plan almost a decade ago, and that the developer Haun was referring to was present at a public meeting on the updated proposal.

“Certainly, we do try to keep applicants and the public informed,” Director of Community Planning and Development Barb Wiens said in response to Haun’s point. “The agendas are public, and at any time they could have let us know they wanted to speak.... It’s an unfortunate circumstance both ways.”

Haun continued her defense of the other developer.

“It’s great that there’s an apology. But that doesn’t mean much to somebody who is trying to forge ahead with a development,” Haun said. “So, this is a very costly decision to this individual, irregardless.”

Cribbs suggested that to See COUNCIL Page 17

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The Voice

A June 15 2022

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

Editorial Council ineptitude—Not just embarrassing, but costly

F

or Pelham residents concerned about the price of housing—as well as their property tax bills—last Monday’s Town Council meeting should be ringing alarm bells. As hard as it may be to believe, the Gang of Four (Lite, in this case), sank to another low in incompetent governance. Whether this arguable malfeasance results in legal action and a hefty damages award (paid by the taxpayer, one way or another), we now wait to see.

Long story short, last month council approved a new draft plan of subdivision in East Fonthill, allowing the building of 72 homes. Voting against were Councillors Lisa Haun, Bob Hildebrandt, and Ron Kore—the Gang of Four Lite. Councillor Marianne Stewart, for a change, parted ways with her usual confederates and voted for, along with Councillors John Wink, Wayne Olson, and Mayor Junkin.

Last week, however, Stewart went MIA. So when what should have been a routine final zoning approval came to a vote, Councillor Haun led the way in taking a fire axe to the hull and sinking the HMS Summersides Village,

abruptly ending its two-year trip through the vetting canal.

Why? Excellent question.

We put that to Haun, who did not respond to our request for a credible answer.

"Over the two-year vetting period, all parties had ample opportunity to make their views known"

On the surface, her rationale is implausibly bizarre.

At council, Haun said she was concerned that a different would-be developer hadn’t been given the opportunity to object to a roadway. But there are a couple of kickers.

First, the road in question is part of the East Fonthill Secondary Plan, which has been out in the world for going on a decade. Second—and hold on for this one— this wouldbe developer does not even own land in East Fonthill.

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www.thevoiceofpelham.ca PUBLISHER Dave Burket publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca CONTRIBUTING NEWS EDITOR Don Rickers

OFFICE ADMINISTRATION Lori Gretsinger

CONTRIBUTORS Jane Bedard, Carolyn Botari, Colin Brezicki, Rosemary Chambers, John Chick, Michael Coren, Larry Coté, Brian Green, Miriam Han, Megan Metler, 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

Over this application's two-year vetting period, all parties had ample opportunity to make their views known to Town planners and Town Council. You snooze, you lose—except, apparently, if you can influence one or three malleable elected officials to throw a wrench in the works at the eleventh hour.

So now the Town finds itself in the remarkable position of having already approved 72 lots, but withholding the zoning approval to build houses on those lots.

Haun, Kore and Hildebrandt simply refused to fulfill their duties. The frustration and disappointment were apparent on the faces of several staff and the remainder of council, given that they had every reason to expect the basic mechanics of government to work routinely.

As elsewhere in Ontario, our council has a rule in its Code of Conduct requiring respect for previous council votes. Last week’s pivot violated the code, and could well lead to additional damages being awarded on the basis of bad faith, should the first developer seek redress See EDITORIAL next page

Letters Personal connection to Duncan reaction I was very pleased to read the Publisher’s Corner commentary in the June 8 issue of the Voice. The summary of the Charles Duncan debacle was realistic and exact.

In printing readers’ reactions to his jail sentence, the Voice was equitable in showing responses from both sides—those who commended the judge and those who thought her sentence was too harsh.

The words of those against the punishment were hard to read, however. The fact that he was a doctor for so long and

7

treated some patients well has nothing to do with his assault of many of his female patients. Why can’t these people empathize with the victims? Can they only understand if it happens to them?

It is highly probable that more females were molested in the decades that Mr. Duncan practiced. One of my elderly family members was one of them. I regret that she didn’t live to get some satisfaction in seeing justice delivered.

David Fowler Wainfleet

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

Electoral District: Niagara West

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

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

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The Voice

Page 5

A June 15 2022

OPINION Ford fails on dropping mask mandate Kudos to Niagara Health and I’m sure Dr Hirji for maintaining the mask mandate. Clearly once again Ford and Moore have total disregard for public safety and that of our frontline heroes. Mandates are put in place for a reason. To protect us all. Unfortunately Ford didn’t have the stones and step up to the plate and keep the mask mandate for all public places.

Terry Mikolasek Fonthill

New year, same Leafs This year was supposed to be different.

The embarrassing early departure from the first round of the playoffs last year at the hands of Les Canadiens was long past.

There was so much positivity to build upon.

A tremendously impressive regular season.

Top players producing, home ice advantage.

It was all looking so promising. Then, it happened again. Thud. An early first round playoff exit that seemed all too familiar. A quick review of social media reveals plenty of excuses and outcries for heads to roll from many in “Leafs Nation.” Perhaps I should clarify that I’m not a Leafs fan, particularly.

Although I was hoping they’d win that pivotal game seven. One might be justified in asking if changes in the management structure of the team are needed at this point. Perhaps.

Pro hockey is a business after all. The

EDITORIAL

continued from previous page at the Ontario Land Tribunal (formerly LPAT).

The Voice has learned that both in-house and external legal counsel advised councillors late last week that the Town has zero chance of prevailing in such a case. There is literally no reasonable defense. The only unknown is the amount of assessed damages on the thwarted $100 million dollar-plus project. This type of stupidity is not free.

Approval of the subdivision was arrived at after two years of plans, studies, public meetings, input

business of marketing success is as important on the ice as it is off of it.

No doubt, the Leafs bowing out early once again hurts on many levels. The rabid Toronto hockey market brings so much added attention, and helps grow the game of hockey. Who could argue otherwise, that Leaf playoff games guarantee eyes on the tube, as well as bums in the seats.

It may be posited that a deep Leaf playoff run might well have served as an engaging, albeit temporary distraction from the daily grind of current life in this province for many. There’s always next year.

Who can really isolate the reason that the Buds failed to advance again this season.

They had their opportunities to send the Lightning to the links. Tampa knows deeply something the Leafs have yet to discover.

See LEAFS next page

from Regional Planning staff and from the NPCA. To torpedo it ostensibly because another, wouldbe developer objects to it, after the fact, and after the conclusion of two years of work, is both unfair and absurd.

If this second developer had a leg to stand on, it could appeal the Town's approval to the Ontario Land Tribunal. The reason it doesn’t—again, we can’t stress this enough— is that it hasn’t actually purchased the neighbouring lands, and so has no legal skin in the game. Why Councillors Haun, Hildebrandt and Kore are suddenly concerned with the alleged well-being of a wannabe developer who has yet to invest in the com-

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MUNICIPAL MATTERS Regional Council

New Economic Development Strategy for Region

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BY DIANA HUSON Niagara Regional Councillor for the Town of Pelham

his week the Region will be considering a Ten Year Economic Development Strategy facilitated by our economic development team in collaboration with Niagara's municipal economic development partners. The plan is timely in that it is being developed as we are emerging from a worldwide pandemic that has left us facing challenges with respect to low labour force participation, a struggling service-based sector, a lack of affordable housing, access to broadband internet and supply chain disruptions.

Economic development is actually a shared responsibility between both the lower-tier municipalities and the Region.

Hence there is a clear articulation of responsibilities between the two with the Region having a mandate for investment attraction, external marketing, expedited service and business development, research and analysis and strategic initiatives for projects with a Region-wide scope.

munity is a question that deserves serious and close scrutiny.

Housing in Pelham is a complicated issue. Delaying the construction of more of it on what is vacant land, surrounded by other new houses, accomplishes nothing for anyone. At some point, the grownups need to take charge and acknowledge that Pelham, like every other Ontario municipality, is obligated to pursue a growth target established by upper levels of government (our target: population 29,000).

This is exactly the type of development that should be supported as a compromise: it causes no harm to existing residents, it moves the Town closer to its goal, and it pre-

The plan proposes continued support for key economic sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, tourism and professional services. But it also highlighted opportunities for Niagara's economy due to growth in emerging sectors such as healthcare, the fi lm industry, marine, sport tourism and electric vehicles. This strategy deserves some exploration to see why they've emerged as areas for targeting.

Nothing can quite escalate and amplify the importance of healthcare servicing like a global pandemic! However, the new South Niagara Hospital and redevelopment of the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital will result in the replacement of older infrastructure with new high tech facilities, greater specialization and better connectivity for all of our residents. As these facilities are being constructed, there's potential to emphasize local supply and local businesses to help support these projects. Overall we should see some significant changes to healthcare servicing that will enhance these important services with completion of these faSee HUSON Page 13

sumably helps with affordability, in that there would be an increase in housing supply.

Over these past three-and-a-half years, the Gang of Four’s repeated missteps over various housing issues have made a strong argument in favour of new councillors being required to take a Municipal Planning 101 course before being sworn in. Although, that said, this is what the Town's professional planning staff are for. Once again we see the Gang’s ludicrous, paranoid rejection of such expertise.

During her 2018 campaign for council, candidate Lisa Haun told this newspaper that seniors shouldn’t have to leave town due to a lack of affordable housing.

“The Town has to work for all of the people, not just some of them,” she told our reporter.

We couldn’t agree more. Candidate Haun, could you text your wise thoughts to Councillor Haun?

Neither Pelham nor Niagara are going to become better, more just, or more supportive places without an adequate housing supply. Obstructionism, which in this case flies in the face of council’s Code of Conduct, helps no one. We now hope that by some procedural sleight of hand Haun’s axe damage can be patched to the point that we taxpayers aren’t left sunk with a hefty damages award to pay. The embarrassment, sadly, will remain permanent. ◆

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The Voice

A June 15 2022

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

WILL

COMMON DECENCY Rev. Michael Coren

continued from next page

The New Puritanism hardens the heart

F

orgiveness is vital. Its angry and fierce absence within contemporary discourse has turned social media, and even the greater public conversation, into an increasingly cold and dark place. Whether it’s a circus-like glee at the fall of a celebrity, or the comforting pleasure of watching a stranger’s life unwrap and decay, this grim schadenfreude has all the subtlety of a mob with pitchforks. All of us who write or speak to a public audience have been targets, and of course the famous — innocent or otherwise — have it far worse.

Some will say it was always thus — and we only notice now because of electronic immediacy. But I’m not sure that’s true. A new puritanism seems to have emerged, and it has infected not just the extremes but also the mainstream. Past failings, sometimes from generations earlier, are dug up by people as though it was their main task in life to identify such errors.

Characters are assassinated and futures smashed. How ironic that in an age in which sin is an unmentionable word, its accusation is ubiquitous.

Those processes became particularly relevant at the beginning of June when the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, said that Prince Andrew is “seeking to make amends,” before adding, “I think that’s a very good thing.” Welby encouraged society to be more “open and forgiving” in general and “to step back a bit.”

He qualified all this by emphasizing that “issues of the past in the area of abuse are so intensely personal and private for so many,” and “it’s not surprising there’s very deep feelings indeed.”

The reaction to his statement was of course hardly enthusiastic, and an Episcopal spokesperson soon clarified: “The Archbishop was not referring specifically to Prince Andrew when he said we must become a more forgiving society. He was

making a broader point about the kind of society that he hopes the Platinum Jubilee inspires us to be.”

Indeed, perhaps Welby’s intentions were misconstrued. But however laudable the general theme of forgiveness, the optics of this specific case weren’t so good. Prince Andrew withdrew from public life due to his friendship with the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, and in a civil sexual

"Be warned, because the monster is always hungry and we never know who the next meal may be"

assault case earlier this year paid millions to settle with Virginia Giuffre, whom Epstein had trafficked — and who Andrew had claimed never to have met. I feel a little sorry for the Archbishop, because his deeper argument is sensible and timely.

But the context was bound to get him into trouble.

The essence of forgiveness is that it’s part of an equation, a symbiosis, and a response to a series of actions that should occur when we’ve failed or erred. First comes open and transparent admission.

Not a perfunctory, “I’m sorry if I offended…”, but a candid acknowledgement that an error or even a crime was committed.

It’s difficult to prove or demonstrate authentic contrition, but this is where the

next three steps come in.

First of all, penance. I’m reluctant to sound overly religious here — despite being an Anglican priest — but there should be some sort of price paid, whether it’s tangible or otherwise. Suspension perhaps, or a reaching out to a victim — and an openness to listen to criticism, even if it might be painful and humiliating.

Then, change. Not a cosmetic difference but a transformation — with evidence that progress has taken place. No Maoist declaration, but a proof, even if only to friends and intimates, that a lesson has been embraced. This might sound formal and formulaic but I’ve seen it work magnificently as a cleric, and also as a father and a husband. Don’t believe the Valentine’s Day cards about how love means never having to say you’re sorry — love is saying you’re sorry, but also involves apologizing properly, and with more than words.

Finally, an effort needs to be made to repair the damage done, and to compensate for harm and pain caused. It’s never easy — it’s sometimes rejected. But it’s always acutely necessary. None of this solves completely, but it’s all vital in the effort to do what is right.

This isn’t about Prince Andrew, for whom I have no sympathy, or even the Archbishop of Canterbury, it’s about a culture that is digging itself into a dysfunction of satisfaction through condemnation, and hardening the arteries of the communal heart.

Ultimately, and tragically, that causes more harm to the many accusers than to the few accused. Be warned, because the monster is always hungry and we never know who the next meal may be. ◆ Rev. Michael Coren is an award-winning Toronto-based columnist and author of 18 books, appears regularly on TV and radio, and is also an Anglican priest.

tor-powered wagon rides for families to enjoy.

Meeting with the Voice at DeVries Fruit Farms last week, Jen said, “This is the first time Will has felt good in almost three years.

It's been a really hard road for him.”

Will loves to play video games, hang out with his siblings, and tend to his rabbits and chickens on the family’s rural property. He is also an active Cub Scout, and is looking forward to an upcoming camping trip at Balls Falls.

“We have a pool and trampoline in our back yard which I love, and a forest with a zipline behind our house which is fun,” said Will.

“When I’m sick, I have to stay in bed a lot, which I don’t like.”

He is enrolled at St. Anne’s School in Fenwick, but due to his illness and hospitalizations, has taken all of his studies online.

“He’s a straight-A student,” said his mom.

DeVries couldn’t resist talking about farming, and highlighted that the strawberries were available for picking last week. He has eight acres of strawberries on the farm, with two acres designated for pick-your-own.

“The weather over the next two weeks is supposed to be perfect for strawberries,” he said. “Not too hot, not too cold. If we get an inch of rain every week all summer long, I'll be very happy. All the crops look really good, except for sour cherries, which were hit by a bit of frost in early May. We lost a good chunk of our sour cherry crop.”

Saturday’s Fundraiser on the Farm runs from 10 AM to 3 PM.

LEAFS

continued from previous page Winning breeds confidence under pressure.

Braydon Point’s injury in game seven was a perfect example. Winners find a way to win because they never entertain the thought of anything less.

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The Voice

Page 7

A June 15 2022

Fundraiser for Fenwick lad with pediatric lymphatic disease Strawberries and ice cream event this coming Saturday at DeVries Fruit Farm

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor Dan DeVries, of DeVries Fruit Farms in Fenwick, is always on the lookout for worthy community causes to support. When Jen Boyce reached out to him regarding her son’s health, DeVries was happy to pitch in.

“Jen asked if we might be willing to sponsor an event here on the farm, and I responded, ‘Of course!’

The last two years, with Covid, we unfortunately haven't been able to host anything like this. But it’s a very worthy cause.”

Will Boyce is ten years old, and has lived with his parents, Jen and Kevin, and siblings Ben, Kent, and Abrielle, on Sawmill Road in Fenwick since 2008. He was a healthy, active boy who became ill in 2019 with a rare lymphatic disease, and hasn’t fully recovered since. At one point, he contracted pneumonia, and ended up on a ventilator in the pediatric intensive care unit.

Will is currently undergoing a form of chemotherapy at Toronto’s Sick Kids Hospital.

“Our son has endured several long hospitalizations,” said Jen. “His body's lymphatic system does not work properly, and instead of returning lymph back into the bloodstream, it leaks fluid into his lungs, which hampers his breathing. He has required seven chest

Will Boyce, his mom, Jen, and Dan DeVries of DeVries Fruit Farm. tubes in the past two years to drain the fluid, a very painful procedure.

Will has had countless bloodwork and biopsies, a bone density scan, 13 echocardiograms, nine MRIs, 19 ultrasounds, and over 100 x-rays.

He has seen over 70 doctors, physiotherapists, respiratory therapists, and registered dietitians at different hospitals, and has spent

120 days in hospital. His story is not unique to those living with a rare disease.”

The Boyces’ quest is to raise money for Sick Kids Hospital, in particular the vascular anomalies clinic. They are hoping to help fund the establishment of a pediatric lymphatic disease unit, specifically for the care of kids with

complex lymphatic anomalies.

A website, Willspower.org, has been created to support the fundraising and awareness foundation the Boyces have created.

There are several lymphatic disease centres in the United States that treat children with complex lymphatic anomalies, but none in Canada.

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On June 18, the Father’s Day weekend, DeVries will provide complimentary strawberries and ice cream at the farm’s 825 Canboro Road location, with goodwill donations going to Willspower.

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Page 8

The Voice

A June 15 2022

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Delay in sentencing for Earl Clapp's killer Court receives 76 victim impact statements; career criminal now claims Indigenous ancestry in bid to mitigate

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor Looking around the packed courtroom, Pelham Mayor Marvin Junkin told the gallery that Earl Clapp would be embarrassed by the turnout, an outpouring of support for his family by friends in the community.

“That’s the kind of humble guy he was,” said Junkin, fighting back tears.

The Mayor was but one of many who delivered emotion-laden victim impact statements before Justice Joseph DeFilippis in a St. Catharines courtroom last Tuesday, as the Jason Lusted case moved closer to completion. A total of 76 victim impact statements from family and friends have been fi led with the court.

Lusted, 50, and co-accused Mathew MacInnes, 40, were both initially

Dozens of community members crowd into a St. Catharines courtroom last week to witness or deliver victim impact statements over the killing of Earl Clapp. charged with second-degree murder in the October 2, 2020 death of Pelham resident Earl Clapp, 74. He was killed after interrupting Lusted and MacInnes in the early morning, as they attempted to steal a trailer from his rural property in Fenwick. As they fled the scene, Lusted’s SUV made a deliberate right turn toward Clapp, colliding with him and trapping him under the vehicle. Lusted, whose

license was suspended at the time of the crime, did not stop the vehicle, and continued to drive almost two kilometres at a high speed with Clapp pinned underneath. Clapp’s body was discovered by a passing motorist on Highway 20 just before 3 AM. MacInnes, of West Lincoln, had his second-degree murder charge withdrawn in March after he pleaded guilty to several less-seri-

ous charges, and agreed to provide testimony for the prosecution against Lusted.

He was sentenced to time served, having been behind bars 515 days since his arrest, and was released from custody.

Lusted eventually pleaded guilty to manslaughter, giving up his right to a trial, and to challenge evidence in the case. His criminal record includes involvement in another murder

case, when in 2006 he was implicated in the death of a Hamilton resident, for which he pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact in connection with that fatal execution-style shooting, by helping to burn the victim’s body. Lusted was sentenced to ten years in penitentiary, and was granted day parole in 2015.

Between 1989 and 2016, Lusted had accumulated 59 separate charges and 40

DON RICKERS

convictions, including assault, theft, impersonation, and driving and parole violations. In his own words at a previous trial, he declared, “I’m not sitting up here telling you that I’m a choir boy. I’m a career criminal.”

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The Voice

Page 9

A June 15 2022

Business FOCUS

PharmaChoice expansion underway in Fonthill Addition nearly quadruples retail space

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor Pharmacist Glen Sisak, and his life and business partner Zenia Winnicki, have been five years at their Fonthill Marketplace location. With a surging customer base, they took an opportunity last fall to enlarge their PharmaChoice Family Health Pharmacy by expanding into a retail unit next door. The result of months of planning and construction opened—softly—last week.

“It's a two-stage process,” said Zenia, a senior pharmacy technician. “We've renovated the new space first, then we’re turning our focus to the original part of the store for reconstruction.”

Taking over the unit next door adds 2700 square feet of pharmacy floor space, said Glen, who noted that pandemic conditions which require social distancing made it difficult to accommodate customers in the pharmacy’s old footprint.

“We crammed as much as we possibly could into the old space, violating all the laws of retail by turning products sideways and piling them on top of each other,” said Glen. “Adding shelf space will provide a better shopping experiSee BIGGER Page 12

Glen Sisak and Zenia Winnicki take a break from shelf-stocking at their new, expanded location in the Food Basics plaza, Fonthill.

111 Hwy 20 East FONTHILL

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Page 10

The Voice

A June 15 2022

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Pelham bikers saddling up for cancer research Ride for Dad event raises funds, promotes awareness of prostate cancer

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor

The three amigos: Don Rickers, Pierre Garneau, and Matt King get set to Ride for Dad this coming Saturday.

MARTHA GARNEAU

Retired airline pilot Pierre Garneau, of Forest Hill Crescent in Fonthill, Voice of Pelham Contributing News Editor Don Rickers, and Niagara Ride for Dad Co-Chair Matt King will saddle up on Saturday, June 18 to raise funds for men’s prostate cancer research and awareness.

Established in 2010, the Motorcycle Ride for Dad has raised some $600,000 dollars through 24 active chapters across Canada. Prostate cancer is the fourth most common cancer in Canada, and the top ranking cancer for men, with one in nine diagnosed with the disease in his lifetime. Some 23,000 Canadian men were diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2020. The Motorcycle Ride for Dad involves hundreds of participants arriving in Niagara-on-the-Lake on Father’s Day weekend, for a scenic ride through the Niagara region. Those interested in donating to the cause may do so at the program’s national website, www.ridefordad.ca.

THE ROAD TO A LONG LIFE STARTS WITH A SHORT TEST. A simple blood test could lead to the detection of prostate cancer before it’s too late. #GetTheBloodTest

Join us Saturday, June 18 for the Niagara Motorcycle Ride For Dad.

Ride, pledge a rider or make a donation at RideForDad.ca/Niagara

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

Page 11

A June 15 2022

Big turnout for Earl Clapp Celebration of Life Please Join Us to Celebrate the Life of

EARL CLAPP Open House Saturday, June 11 2 to 5 PM Mostly outdoors (but we’ll be prepared for rain)

Earl & Tillie’s Home 1351 Centre St. Fenwick

A Program of Memories at 4 PM

Earl Clapp over the years, including, above, with his wife, Tillie. CLAPP FAMILY

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor A celebration of Earl CIt was an afternoon of celebration on Centre Street in Fenwick last Saturday, as Tillie Clapp, alongside her daughters Elisha and Jody, hosted a family tribute to her late husband, Earl, whose life was taken in a senseless robbery attempt almost two years ago.

Tillie, who was overwhelmed by the support of friends and strangers alike during the difficult time that followed Earl’s death, was pleased at the dozens of well-wishers who attended the memorial gathering. She is con-

vinced that a big part of the community rallying around her family in distress was due to a sense of violation that all in Pelham felt, given the violent circumstances of Earl’s death.

A sentencing hearing for Jason Lusted, who pleaded guilty to manslaughter for his part in Earl’s death, will occur in August.

With border restrictions now relaxed after the pandemic, Elisha is able to leave her home near Buffalo to visit her mother and sister in Niagara with greater regularity.

“It's been tough being separated,” she said. “My kids have especially missed their grandma.

It’s been an ordeal, but we are all

doing better, now that we are back together.”

They say that time heals all wounds, but Jody attributes her family’s support from friends in the community as the real tonic, helping them move forward with their lives.

“Seeing my sister has been awesome,” said Jody, “and when her kids come to visit, their laughter just changes the whole atmosphere.”

Tillie spoke to the Voice while sitting in Earl's favorite chair beside the house, where he routinely enjoyed a morning coffee watching the sunrise, and a glass of wine as the sun set in the west behind the

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treeline.

“People have asked me if I’m planning to move,” said Tillie.

“But I truly feel Earl’s spirit as I gaze out at the garden. It’s a beautiful place, and I’ve decided that I want to hang on to it as long as I can — hopefully for at least the next 10 years — to share it with my daughters and grandkids.”

Pointing to a wooden area on the property, Tillie said, “There's a tree house down there that the grandkids built with Earl. And it wasn't that he built it and they watched. He had them pick the trees, measure, go to the lumber yard, carry the lumber, and taught them how to hammer and use a

power drill. Earl was an extraordinary grandfather. I get the angriest when I think that I had him for 58 years, and the grandkids should have been able to have him for longer.”

Tillie looked around and continued after a pause.

“I can hear Earl telling me, ‘My life got cut short, but you still have one, so go and enjoy it with those grandchildren. So last summer I took them to the cottage, and we did some fishing.

The kids wouldn’t put the worms on the hooks, which is a job Earl always did. So I ended up putting the worms on the hooks,” she said with a smile.

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Page 12

The Voice

A June 15 2022

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Huson reappointed to FCM board

BY VOICE STAFF

“With Councillor Huson securing a second term on this influential board we can be sure that Niagara will continue to have a strong voice at the table when vital decisions are being made,” said Regional Chair Jim Bradley. “I am confident that Councillor Huson will continue to be an effective advocate in Ottawa for Niagara’s priorities, as well as other municipalities across Ontario.”

Huson said that she was pleased by the reappointment.

“I am eager to continue my work on the board, building upon my previous successes, while making sure that Niagara’s priorities are well represented with legislators in the federal government.”

Of the 444 municipalities in Ontario, there are only 14 seats for the Ontario Caucus. Prior to Huson’s appointment to the board, the Niagara Region had not had representation.

Pelham Regional Councillor Diana Huson was reappointed to the Board of Directors for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) at their annual general meeting on June 6.

FCM has been the voice of local government across Canada for some 120 years and plays an “important role in advocating for municipalities, ensuring the needs of the nation’s cities and towns are reflected in federal policies and programs,” according to a Niagara Region press statement.

The FCM board meets quarterly to develop positions on federal policies that effect local government in Canada.

Lawmakers in Ottawa have a long-standing practice of working with the FCM Board of Directors when making decisions that will affect municipalities, including the allocation of direct federal funding.

BIGGER

continued from Page 9 ence for our customers, and allow us to stock a wider variety of products.”

The old location occupied about 5000 square feet, but was shared with a dental practice using about 1700, and doctors using 2400. Once the reno is completed, the operation will total about 7700 square feet of space, with the pharmacy using 3600—almost quadruple the old store’s footprint.

Glen and Zenia often interact with the doctors and dentist on site, which they see as a plus for their customers. With ongoing

HUSON

continued from Page 5 cilities.

Niagara has also seen interest from the fi lm sector in terms of our unique locations. We currently have over 250 businesses in this sector and have experienced a recent increase in

residential and commercial development in East Fonthill, they said that now was the time to capitalize on the growing market.

“In Covid times, people have been shrinking their circle of contacts, trying to stay safe,” said Zenia. “Many are now reluctant to go to big-box stores like Costco and Walmart, and with gasoline prices so high, people are making the decision to have a more personal experience, and shop closer to home.”

The couple take pride in the fact that many of their regular customers refer to their PharmaChoice store as a modern pharmacy with an old-fashioned approach. They

jobs. Marketing Niagara's fi lm potential could have an economic spillover effect that results in the hiring of local people, services and generates some service fees to municipalities.

Most of us drive over the Welland Canal without giving it a second thought. But did you know it generates significant revenue across

don’t sell food products like Shoppers Drug Mart, where the pair worked for a collective 35 years.

With Food Basics just a quick stroll down the plaza, they are happy to point people in that direction for their kitchen staples.

Zenia suggested that natural lines of skin care products, hair colouring, and cosmetics would be available with the expansion, along with a wider selection of specialty first aid bandages, braces, and a range of other products.

“Since we’re not constrained by corporate directives, we’ll be able to stock different product lines not available in conventional chain pharmacies,” she said.

Niagara and supports over 50 businesses and 2400 jobs? The provincial government has confirmed it will be developing a marine strategy, thanks to local advocacy efforts, to help support this sector's competitiveness. Locally, there has already been movement towards a “Niagara Ports” plan to create multimodal

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AT WORK OUT WEST Pelham Mayor Marvin Junkin and CAO David Cribbs recently attended the Federation of Canadian Municipalities conference, which was held in Regina. Besides attending various lectures and workshops, they toured significant energy and environmental projects, attended risk management, asset management, and environmental sustainability seminars, and had the opportunity to hear the Prime Minister and several cabinet ministers speak on municipal issues. SUPPLIED The pharmacy staff includes Glen and Zenia, two pharmacy assistants, and a front-of-store manager to handle merchandising. Glen suggested that they may indeed be over-staffed, “since Zenia does the work of five people,” he said with a chuckle.

The two are proud to be Pelham residents as well as business operators. Zenia is a lifelong Pelham resident, having grown up in Fenwick farming country and attending E. L. Crossley for her high school years, she said. Glen, by comparison, is a Toronto transplant.

“I was the innovator of the Toronto influx to Pelham,” he said

hubs along the canal that can generate further economic spillovers.

This August we'll finally see the Canada Games in action. The Region has been a key parter in supporting the games and with it came an investment in significant infrastructure around athletic and gaming facilities (such as the Canada Games park). These facilities will leave a legacy for Niagara that will allow us to attract, organize and run large sporting events in the future but also provide active living, organized

with a laugh. “I arrived here in 1989 to be the director of pharmacy at the hospital in Niagara Falls, where I worked for 11 years. The transition to retail came later.”

A grand reopening celebration will take place once the second phase is completed, likely sometime in September.

PharmaChoice is located in the centre of the Fonthill Marketplace plaza, at 130 Highway 20 East.

They are open 8:30 AM to 7 PM, Monday to Friday, and Saturday 9 AM to 5 PM. Closed Sundays. To speak with Glen or Zenia about a health-related issue, or their expanding range of products, call 905-892-1880.

sports, active recreation, and health and wellness experiences locally.

Finally, significant investment has been made by the Province and private companies in positioning Ontario's economy to benefit from a shift to electric vehicles. Niagara has a strong base of manufacturing businesses that are well positioned to participate and benefit from the emergence of technology and advanced manufacturing processes in this space. Upgrades to larger automotive plants across Niagara could

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A commitment has been made to incorporate principles of diversity, equity and inclusion throughout the plan and actioning the outcomes to ensure we're creating the conditions for an equitable and inclusive community. They've also identified that support is needed to ensure we can match jobs with the needs of businesses, but also have an eye towards sustainability and aligning our work with climate change policies at all levels of government.

There certainly are a lot of exciting things happening in and around Niagara.

We've already seen some of the anticipated population growth happening locally across the Region and right here in Pelham. With approval of the strategy will come collaboration and engagement with municipal partners, businesses, support agencies, and educational institutions. The strategy presents a focus for capitalizing on some of the opportunities for growth while leveraging existing assets and resources that are unique to Niagara. ◆

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The Voice

Page 13

A June 15 2022

Crossley strokes to CSSRA title

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor Under favourable weather conditions, the annual Canadian Secondary Schools Rowing Association (CSSRA) Regatta returned to the Henley course on Martindale Pond in Port Dalhousie June 4 and 5. It was the 75th year for the regatta, which had been cancelled for two years due to the Covid pandemic.

As in past years, E. L. Crossley dominated the regatta’s 42 final races, winning nine gold medals, two silver and one bronze.

Winning Crossley crews included: Avery Coles, Emmerson Darling, Sarah Graham, Juliette Freure and

OFSAA CHAMPS The largest team in Niagara had 22 athletes from E. L. Crossley compete at OFSAA (Ontario Federation Secondary Athletic Association —-All Ontario’s) Track and Field at York University from June 2 to 4. After winning south regionals the week before as a team (the qualifier for OFSAA) for the first time that coach Maryann Mergl could remember in her 29 years coaching the team at Crossley, the athletes also had amazing representation at OFSAA. There are 24 athletes in each event coming from all across Ontario. Out of the approximately 3000 athletes competing and some 800 teams who sent athletes, Crossley’s novice boys placed 3rd as a team at OFSAA. Jack Brownlee got Gold with a throw of 44.74 in novice boys javelin; Ryan Zucco got Silver with a jump of 1.75 in novice boys high jump; Henry Knafelc got 6th in novice boys pole vault; the novice boys 4 x 100 relay placed 7th, consisting of Jackson Sider, Noah Paquin, Lucas Nuziato, and Keon Darling. Another medal for Crossley’s team came from Ava Young with a Bronze in junior girls javelin and 19th in discus; Izzy Brenzil got 4th in junior girls shot put and 6th in long jump; Samuel

Jeffery placed 4th in senior boys long jump, 9th in 110m hurdles, 15th in pole vault, and 18th in 4 x 400. Matt Kleinsmith placed 5th in junior boys 800m and 18th in 4 x 400. Cherith Dunn placed 8th in novice girls pole vault; Alexis Collins placed 8th in junior girls pole vault; Brandon Bernardo placed 10th in junior boys javelin; Lucas Nuziato placed 11th in 100m; Hillary Haining placed 11th in novice girls pole vault; Ethan van Niekerk placed 11th in junior boys pole vault; Olivia Jones placed 11th in junior girls pole vault; Abby Stolk placed 15th in novice girls pole vault; Simon Bolhous placed 17th in senior boys pole vault; Jackson Sider 18th in 4 x 400m relay; Adam Kleinsmith placed 18th in senior boys 800m and 18th in 4 x 400m; Max Pasma placed 18th in novice boys pole vault; and Josh Larochelle placed 18th in senior boys discus. Albino Seehagel and Ryan Bradbury represented well, said Mergl, as the substitutes for the 4 x 100m relay. Crossley had an “exceptional year,” said Mergl, with 60 athletes, coached by herself, Ryan Huxley, Jordan Lew, and Mitchell Roussy, winning ZONE, SOSSA, and Regionals as a team, and to be well represented at OFSAA. SUPPLIED

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Natalie Heaslip in the junior women 59kg coxed quad; Samantha Wimbush, Claire Leavens, Marlie Jones, Emma Goedhart, and Kaylea Bray in the novice women’s cox four; Dario Cirello, Mason Kirton, Andy Nawrocki, Noah Paquin and Liam Shapland in the junior men’s 66kg coxed quad; Shane Irvine, Bassil DiLorenzo, Chris Irvine, Andy Nawrocki and Mason Kirton in the novice men’s coxed quad; Meredith Hilmayer and Katarine Druzina in the senior women’s pair; Samantha Wimbush, Ella Felker, Trinity Young, Sarah Graham and Liz Spilotro in the novice women’s 63kg coxed four; Dario Cirello, Emmerson Darling, Juliete Freure, Sarah Stacey and Ella Felker in the junior

women’s 63kg coxed four; Samantha Wimbush, Meredith Hilmayer, Malarie Jones, Claire Leavens, Talia Taylor, Kate Druzina, Kaylea Bray, Sarah Stacey and Trinity Young in the senior women’s eight; and Shane Irvine, Preston Darling, Bassil DiLorenzo, Chris Irvine, Matt Jinks, Matthew Johnston, Owen Nicholls, Alessio Perco, Aidan Smouter in the senior men’s eight.

Crossley crews earning silver were Preston Darling, Alessio Perco, Aidan Smouter, and Matt Jinks in the senior men’s quad; and Matthew Johnston and Owen Nicholls in the senior men’s pair. Talia Taylor and Liz Spilotro won Bronze for Crossley in the senior women’s 63kg double.

cillor Bob Hildebrandt in a short address. “A visit to the Meridian Community Centre quickly demonstrates that Pelham seniors are very active. The programs, workshops, and facilities that are available year-round are definitely being taken ad-

vantage of by seniors.”

Sharon Cook, the Chair of Pelham’s Seniors Advisory Committee, noted that approximately 25 percent of the population is composed of seniors.

"Stay active, stay safe"

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor June has been proclaimed Seniors’ Month in Pelham, and on June 6, a ceremonial flag-raising took place at Fonthill’s Peace Park, followed by the unveiling of a “friendship bench,” funded by a special grant for the Seniors Active Living Centre.

“Pelham is a great place to live, and the Town continues to embrace opportunities to create an inclusive and welcoming community for all seniors,” said Coun-

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Page 14

The Voice

IMPACT

continued from Page 8 in place at the time — a procession of several hundred vehicles passed by his family home on Centre Street in Fenwick, a final tribute to the well-loved community member and businessman.

Toronto attorneys Andrew Furgiele and Cara Barbisan were present in court defending Lusted.

Assistant Crown Attorney Robert Mahler was the prosecutor.

Lusted sat in the prisoner’s box, head bowed and eyes downcast, for the duration of the court proceedings.

Mike Smrek, of Welland, Clapp’s best friend, provided a heart-felt address to the court. He was impossible to miss standing at the podium. The seven-foot tall Smrek, who had a ten year career in the NBA, told the court that he first met Clapp 30 years ago.

“I immediately knew Earl was a good man,” he said. “I liked him, and knew he could be trusted. We became close friends, and worked on many construction projects together. He had such an honest and generous spirit. Earl always embraced life with so much optimism, hard work, honesty, and integrity. We would talk about all kinds of things, from construction to music, his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, to gardening and landscaping projects. And of course, our families.”

Smrek said that his friend Earl was the kind of man that great communities are built around, and that his death has had a severe impact on his sense of trust in others.

“For nearly 85 years, my family has lived at the property where I still live,” said Smrek. “We didn't lock doors and windows. But since Earl's horrific death, I have installed a security system. I have guard dogs on the property, and am suspicious of anyone coming up the driveway. In everyday life, my sense of trust is a shadow of what it once was. The news of Earl’s death tore a hole in my life which has left me empty, a shell of who I was.”

Ryan Huxley told the court that many years ago, when he was an inexperienced 21-year-old, Clapp employed him at his farm metal products business.

“I had never picked up a tool, and had a fear of heights. I'm sure I don't need to tell you that having a fear of heights and working in a sheet metal roofing business don't mix. Earl didn’t care, he hired me on regardless. He was so incredibly patient and kind.

Instead of firing me, he gave me jobs working at ground level. That decision cost him money, but he did it anyway.”

Huxley said that Clapp eventually hooked him up with another contractor, and he went on to build a career working in the trades as a certified carpenter, before becoming a construction technology teacher at E. L. Crossley.

“Earl’s act of compassion set me on a career path to be able to give back to my community,” said Huxley. “I am so grateful to Earl for being the kind, caring, and humble person he was. His one small act of kindness was a pebble in the pond, which is still creating positive ripples of change 24 years later. I treat all my students with the same patience and kindness that Earl showed me those many years ago. He has left many wonderful legacies.”

Three construction business colleagues offered their own perspectives on the man, having known him for decades.

Neil Gennings described a variety of charitable causes that Clapp supported, including building roofs on Habitat for Humanity homes.

“He was a mentor for me, as well as many other young workers who now own their own businesses,” said Gennings. “Earl was never aggressive or confrontational. He was a truly gentle soul, always patient and understanding, especially with beginners just learning the ropes. He was a special friend that I would sometimes vacation with during our slow times. We loved taking our motorcycles for rides in the warmer weather. Those times are gone forever. I still feel extremely sad just driving past his home.”

Dave Vanderwier said that “with Earl, it was always a handshake, not a signed piece of paper, that sealed the deal.” Vanderwier’s sons now operate Clapp’s Niagara Farm Metal Products business, continuing his legacy.

Mark Young told that court that “you could fee Earl’s integrity in

Serving the Niagara Region

A June 15 2022

his handshake.”

Clapp’s sister, Vanessa Grenier-Clapp, said that her Sudbury-raised brother always put family first.

“He was not your typical 74-year-old,” she told the court. “He was a big, strong guy, with huge energy, who was health-conscious, sensitive, compassionate.”

She said she will forever miss their tradition of early morning coffee and conversation.

Standing beside a large photograph of her husband, Earl’s widow, Tillie Clapp, told the court that she remembered first meeting her husband in 1962, on a Sudbury school bus.

“He was handsome, but shy and humble,” she said, “and I came to learn that his best parts were deep within his character.”

They were together 58 years.

“Earl had a spontaneity, and a sense of joie de vivre,” said Tillie.

“He made me feel cherished and appreciated.”

She said that her first few months after that fateful day in October 2020, when two detectives arrived at her doorstep, were a blur, despite the comfort offered by friends. Tillie noted that even complete strangers dropped off food at her house, such that she didn’t have to cook a meal for months.

Tillie vividly remembered meeting with the coroner, and seeing Earl’s body wrapped in thick plastic. Only his calloused right hand — “the only part of him deemed suitable for viewing” — protruded from the shroud.

Her disdain for Lusted and MacInnes was palpable.

“My husband was run over like a stray animal, and dragged like a discarded piece of garbage that had no value,” she said. “Was his life irrelevant to these thieves? Do these criminals get orders for stolen trailers, the way others order pizza?”

“Jason Lusted’s sentence will eventually end. My grief will not,” she said.

Elisha Clapp told the court that she is haunted by images of her father’s mutilated body, and has post-traumatic stress symptoms that she deals with on a daily basis. Her children, now age six and nine, have been similarly affected psychologically.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca “My children have had their grandfather stolen from them, and Jason Lusted is to blame for that,” she told Justice DeFilippis.

“My son told me, ‘Papa didn’t have a chance to say goodbye.’ Consider this, Your Honour, when you deliver Lusted’s sentence. Please don’t let him do this to another grandchild, another wife, another daughter, another friend.”

Jody Clapp, Earl’s younger daughter, told the court that, “It is nearly impossible to describe the hole in my world.” She said that she idolized her father, and “can’t imagine a better moral compass,” adding that during difficult periods in her life, her father never gave up on her.

“I live now with a sense of impending doom,” she said. “Existing, not living. Going through the motions. I struggle to understand the world. I felt my heart was ripped from my chest the moment I heard the news of my father’s death.”

At the conclusion of the victim impact statements, Justice DeFilippis told the speakers that they “painted a clear picture of a remarkable man.”

Assistant Crown Attorney Mahler, in addressing DeFilippis, said that the overarching sentencing principles were to protect society, and mete out a judgement proportional to the gravity of the offence.

He said that the mitigating circumstances include Lusted’s professed remorse, and his guilty plea, which eliminated the need for a lengthy trial by judge and jury.

Aggravating circumstances include the seriousness of the offence, Lusted’s long criminal record, his ongoing use of drugs and alcohol, and the profound negative impact of his actions on Clapp’s family and the community.

Any culpable homicide, in which a person causes the death of another human being by means of an unlawful act or criminal negligence that does not meet the definition of murder, is said to be manslaughter. Practically speaking, manslaughter is when the offender did not intend to kill, or cause significant bodily harm that he knew may result in death.

Unlike murder charges, manslaughter does not carry an au-

tomatic sentence of life imprisonment. It remains, however, an option for the court. If life imprisonment is ordered, there is no minimum time that is automatically required to be served before parole eligibility. Those sentenced to life imprisonment for manslaughter would be eligible for parole after serving seven years.

It may be possible for the court to delay parole eligibility for a life sentence for manslaughter up to ten years under section 743.6 of the criminal code.

It is also common for manslaughter convictions to result in sentences other than life imprisonment. A nine-year sentence, which is not uncommon, would allow the offender to be paroled after serving three years of his sentence.

Mahler introduced a confounding factor into the proceedings, stating that the Aboriginal Legal Services of Toronto was having difficulty ascertaining the defendant’s ancestry. Efforts would continue, such that a report should be available within five weeks, he said.

DeFilippis cannot deliver a sentence until this report is made available to the court.

What is now clear is that Lusted’s defense counsel are invoking Gladue principles, created after a 1999 Supreme Court decision in which an accused with Indigenous roots argued successfully that courts should consider issues such as the trauma of residential schools, and forced resettlement.

This consideration is now enshrined in the Criminal Code of Canada.

Gladue principles require courts to take into account Indigenous background, and the impact and history of discrimination against Indigenous people by Canada and the criminal justice system, often referred to as systemic discrimination.

At sentencing hearings, Gladue principles require that all alternatives to incarceration must be considered before a jail sentence is given, and when a jail sentence is necessitated, the court must apply Gladue principles to the length of the sentence.

The next court proceeding in the case is scheduled for August 5, at which time a sentence may be rendered.

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The Voice

Page 15

A June 15 2022

Grand reopening for Women's Place Niagara

BY HELEN TRAN Special to the Voice A persistent downpour did not deter staff, supporters, donors, and other guests from attending the grand re-opening ceremony for Women’s Place of South Niagara last Tuesday, June 7. Staff and supporters gathered at 8903 MacLeod Road to watch Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati cut the ceremonial purple ribbon to celebrate the recent completion of extensive renovations to the Niagara Falls shelter.

Women’s Place Executive Director Jennifer Gauthier and Women’s Place Board Vice President Anthony Reitboeck provided opening remarks and accepted a certificate of congratulations from Diodati.

“The mark of a society is how they take care of their most vulnerable,” said Diodati shortly before cutting the ribbon. “Bless others with your blessings.”

The renovations, funded with the help of the community, donors, and funding partners, have been taking place over the past year. The changes were designed to consolidate two shelters into one larger shelter to help meet increased demand for services, as well as maintain sustainability, avoid duplicate services and costs, and ease the strain on staff.

The expansion added 25 percent in shelter capacity, raising the number of emergency shelter beds from 20 to 40. Women and children already in the shelter have been staying in a hotel, with a formal move-in date to have taken place this past Monday, June 13.

For many years, women experiencing domestic abuse throughout the Niagara Region have turned to Women’s Place shelters of South Niagara for confidential and compassionate support, as well as counselling, safety planning, transitional housing support, and other domestic violence services.

The two original shelters, Novahouse (Women’s Place of South Niagara) and Serenity Place, were

based respectively in Niagara Falls and Welland. Once the renovations to the Niagara Falls location were completed, the Serenity Place location closed in early spring.

According to Board Director Teresa Quinlin-Murphy, Serenity Place has since been replaced with an outreach office (located at the Hope Centre). Other offices will be put in place in Port Colborne (Port Cares) and Fort Erie (Bridges Community Health Care) to direct women in these cities to get the help they need.

In addition to emergency beds and places to stay, Women’s Place will “also provide legal counselling, addiction counselling, mental health counselling, child and youth workers and advocates to provide stability for children, as well as providing help with navigating the court systems,” said Quinlin-Murphy, who is also the Town of Pelham’s Treasurer.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests were invited to take a guided tour of the newly renovated facility. Additions included two new kitchen spaces, a dining area, a child and youth wing, expanded living space, a room for teens, counselling rooms, and an arts and crafts area, all accessibility-friendly.

The upgraded kitchens (which provide free food to those in shelter) are spacious and allow families to receive meals and also to prepare their own food. Allergies and cultural food requirements are easily accommodated in the new space. A food services worker will be on hand to both cook and serve meals, as well as to provide lessons on how to cook healthy meals.

Ruth, a Child and Youth Worker, explained that the newly upgraded office adds space for abused children and youth to play games, do crafts, and exist in a safe, supportive environment.

“The renovations are amazing,” she said. “And it feels so homey.”

Another Child and Youth Worker, Julie, said that the address of the shelter will be well publicized.

It is her belief that being open with the community invites more community participation, protection and involvement as the stigma is removed from seeking help for domestic violence and abuse.

To her, the facility is meant to be “a village to empower women to start on a new journey, to use each other’s strengths to move forward.”

The new spaces were designed to be open and inviting, so that women could let their children play

within sight while cooking, doing laundry, and attending counselling sessions. There are also rooms for those who prefer privacy and quiet, or spaces to do activities.

Security features were also upgraded at the facility, with keypads, sensors, cameras, a fenced and gated outdoor courtyard, bullet-resistant windows, and staff monitoring.

According to a 2022 fact sheet detailing the Women’s Place Expansion Project, in 2019-2020, advocates were forced to refer 390 women elsewhere “due to lack of space.”

In a press release for the event, Executive Jennifer Gauthier said

that the increase in shelter capacity “has never been more urgently needed.... Every year, we have had to turn away women and children due to the shortage of shelter beds.

While we have been able to help them in other ways, for instance by supporting them through our outreach services or referring them to other shelters, we are relieved that when a woman calls in desperate need of a safe space, more often we will simply be able to say ‘Yes.’” For those in need of services, Women’s Place can be reached through their 24-hour support line at 905-356-5800. They can also be reached at arunova@ wspn.ca

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June Thursdays getting cooler with Summer Chill series Peace Park the venue for Supper Market, Farmers Market, live music

BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor Pelham’s Bandshell Concert Series runs throughout the summer, starting this Thursday, June 16 with rock n’ rollers the Dreamboats. But last week, the Summer Chill experience commenced with the annual Supper Market, Farmers Market, and live music in Peace Park, courtesy of Tom and Sarah-Jade Loewen of the musical duo Copper and Iron.

While the regular Farmers Market vendors were on hand, a host of food vendors were also present at Peace Park to provide a selection of delicious food items, from charcuterie and stone-oven pizza, to ice cream, cheese dots, and french fries broiled in duck fat.

“We heard good things about the summer events here in Pelham, so we signed on for every Thursday, said Jeff, of Brock Oven Pizza.

“Our fries are done in duck fat, with actual duck confit, and a little bit of a citrus note,” said Richard, of Carson’s Gastropub and Pizzeria.

“I’ve never been here before, but people were saying really good things about the summer events,” said Christie, of Cured Charcuterie and Cocktails on Pelham Road. “So far, our experience with Fonthill has been wonderful, so we thought we'd come down to Summer Chill See CHILL next page

HAMPER DAY FOR PELHAM CARES Purchase fresh fruit and vegetables at the Market or bring a non-perishable food item to fill the hampers at the Pelham Farmers Market on Sept. 4.

COMMUNITY Events Event Submissions Standards If your organization is hosting an event that would be of interest to the community, you may submit an events profile by sending your community events information to editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca Some restrictions apply. Event submissions that meet the acceptability standards of The Voice of Pelham will then be posted until the date of your event. The Community Events Calendar is updated weekly. Please provide as much notice and information as possible including the date, time and description of your event. The Voice of Pelham reserves the right to edit for space.

Top right, Town staffers Karen Blake and Leah Letford make sure the Chill is suitably cool. Above, Dave Swan and Liz Triano are in tune with the Bandshell series, which starts this week. Far left, Fonthill Lions Pat, Jake, and Al serve up hot dogs and hamburgers. Left, Christie and Nate from Cured Charcuterie and Cocktails have just the cure for what ails you.

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The Voice

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A June 15 2022

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PLACES OF WORSHIP

Bethany Christian Reformed Church www.bethanycrc.ca

First Presbyterian Church 602 Metler Rd., North Pelham

Holy Trinity Anglican Church holytrinityfonthill.org

Pelham Evangelical Friends Church www.pelhamfriends.ca

Concordia Lutheran Church 105 Welland Rd., Fonthill

Fonthill Baptist Church www.fonthillbaptistchurch.ca

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

Ridgeville Bible Chapel ridgevillebiblechapel.com

Fenwick Church of Christ www.fenwickchurchofchrist.ca

Fonthill United Church www.fonthillunited.com

Kirk on the Hill Presbyterian Church pccweb.ca/kirkonthehill

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

Fenwick United Church www.fenwickunited.com

Glad Tidings Church of God www.gladtidingschurchofgod.com

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

St. Ann Roman Catholic Church www.stannfenwick.com

COUNCIL

continued from Page 3 best avoid more legal bills, council move a motion to allow the other would-be developer to be present at the next meeting when the bylaw can be re-examined. However, stressing that this individual does not currently own the land he wishes to develop, Cribbs added that it was “an enormous difference” from a situation involving a landowner.

“I don’t know if the person will qualify as a delegate or not [under procedural rules],” the CAO said.

Haun again expressed concern for the would-be developer’s finances, saying he had made a “significant deposit, obviously non-refundable.”

In the end, Wink agreed to support the motion to defer, describing his vote as “reluctantly yes.”

Late last week the Voice learned

that Town staff consulted both inhouse and outside legal counsel to determine which least-bad options there were for navigating back out of the legal swamp created by Haun’s advocacy, a rescue process made all the more difficult due to Haun, Hildebrandt, Kore, and Stewart’s bloc rejection earlier this year of a modernized procedural bylaw.

Planning update

Niagara Region’s Official Plan policy consultant David Heyworth made a presentation to council, which provided general outlines of planning on the peninsula for the next 30 years. The presentation encouraged a “diverse range of dwelling types” for Niagara municipalities. Wink asked Heyward if the Region would incentivize municipalities to build more affordable housing, saying that Pelham’s “rental market is underdeveloped.”

Heyworth said he was not able to answer that.

Hildebrandt quizzed him on wa-

ter and wastewater plans.

“I’m concerned that under-theground part of the plan is far more important than the above-theground part of the plan,” the Ward 3 councillor said.

Heyworth replied that Niagara Falls is currently being targeted for water/wastewater upgrades, but that as each municipality develops land, it’s their responsibility to work in concert with the Region on relevant infrastructure.

Mayor asks for ways to honour Haist

Junkin moved a motion for staff to report back on ways the Town could honour former Pelham Olympian Jane Haist, who died May 22 at the age of 73.

Haist competed in shot put and discus at the 1976 Summer Games, also winning medals at the Pan Am and Commonwealth Games after an All-American collegiate career at the University of Tennessee.

“I knew this lady during high school,” Junkin said. “She was a very humble, quiet person, but when she was on the field, she bared her teeth and was one heck of a competitor.”

Odds and ends

 Council approved a new insurance policy for the Town’s volunteer firefighters, which Cribbs described as “better coverage for less money.”  Members also paid tribute to outgoing Deputy Treasurer Charlotte Tunikaitis, who is leaving for another position in the municipality of Bluewater, ON. Praising her work over the last seven years, Cribbs credited her by telling council, “tonight as one of the reports on the agenda indicates, we only have one reserve in the red, and there were about a dozen at the time [council was] elected.” The fund still in the red, land acquisition, remains so due to the Meridian Community Centre project.

CHILL

continued from previous page and offer up our fare.”

Ed and Jamie were on hand to promote an axe throwing competition and fundraiser, slated for the Fonthill Legion on July 16. (Be ready for the Junkin/Olson grudge rematch.)

Pelham’s Recreation Culture and Community Enhancement Co-ordinator Karen Blake, and Communications Specialist Leah Letford were on hand to chat with visitors and answer questions. They explained that there were plenty of parking options close by for Summer Chill attendees.

Details are available online at https://www.pelham.ca/ en/recreation-and-leisure/ summer-chill-series.aspx.

Page 18

The Voice

A June 15 2022

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

THE BALANCED LIFE

by John Swart

Just say thanks

T

here are times when you see the people you’re with in an unanticipated light, experience the wonder of a special moment deeper than you imagined possible, or marvel at the environment surrounding you, and you’re compelled to say thanks.

You may glance skyward when you say it, look across at the rider next to you, or just smile inwardly, but the emotional impact is undeniable. Cycling has gifted many of these moments to me.

Zak Douglas, of Dundas, joined 14 of us in early March a few years back

on an arduous 12-day, 1602 km, end-to-end bicycle ride across Cuba. Douglas hoped to cycle 700 to 800 kms of the route, travelling in the support bus when exhausted. He’d purchased his fi rst road bike four months earlier, after having heart surgery and arterial stents installed.

As the tour progressed, Douglas felt he might be strong enough to ride a metric century—100 kms.

He achieved this goal, paced by his heart rate monitor all the way, lest he overtax himself and risk serious consequences.

After a rest day on the bus, an invigorated Doug-

las decided to challenge himself by cycling a real century— 100 miles or 161 kms, the next day. As I rode beside him early in the attempt, I asked what his heart rate monitor was indicating. He replied that he’d left it on the bus. No way did he want to know what his heart was going through.

Douglas bought the beers after completing 168 kms that day, and I sat by myself for a short while, overcome by a misty-eyed thank you moment.

I’d participated in a man’s re-affi rmation of his physical life, and shared as he threw aside the electronic restraints controlling his activities.

On another ride, I was climbing as quickly as is possible with 15 kilograms of luggage on my touring

The start of Nate Douglas' amazing ride in Cuba. bike, muttering to myself, “Get up there before the clouds disappear, get up there before the clouds blow away.”

The location was Northern Patagonia in Chile,

near Cochrane on the Carretera Austral. The washboarded road I was cycling was barely visible in the distance beyond the clouds.

Luck held, and for the fi rst time in my life, I rode a bi-

JOHN SWART

cycle above the clouds. The panorama of the mighty Rio Baker below, the largest river in Chile, its glacial blue waters raging See BALANCED LIFE Page 20

V oice HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 If a difficult problem arises in the days ahead, seek the council of someone older or with more experience, Aries. He or she can guide you accordingly and assuage doubts.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Realize that you may have to tone down your reactions and behaviors this week, Taurus. This will earn the respect of those around you. Others are seeking calm and stability.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Some of your to-do items may need to be postponed this week, Gemini. You simply have too much going on and no wiggle room if projects or meetings run late.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 It could be time to focus on self-improvement, Cancer. Spend a few days figuring out where you can do better. Maybe that’s focusing on spirituality or relationships.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 This is an ideal time to spend with your family, Leo. Plan a grand meal with extended family members and host a reunion of sorts.

Catch up and share memories.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, change may be a tad scary at first. But before you know it, you will be an old hand at what you are delving into. Just stick with it until reach your comfort level.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 There may be misunderstandings with others unless you are very clear with your words and intentions, Libra. Watch your tone so things are not misconstrued.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Don’t get too caught up on your cash flow right now, Scorpio. You have certain projects on the horizon that may bring in more money that will tide you over for some time.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, you may discover you have been spending a lot of time focused on the job or another task that pulling you away from loved ones. Reconsider your priorities.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Inspiration and imagination are soaring for you this week, Capricorn. Now is the time to put any creative ideas in play and see how they turn out.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, you may be hoping to improve communication with a loved one, whether a child or even a sibling. Engage in conversation when you are distraction-free.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Someone who visits you could bring interesting news that ends up being the focus of the conversation. You’ll get your say with time.

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The Voice

Page 19

A June 15 2022

ANSWERS ON PAGE 18

FAITH LIFT

by Pastor Rob Weatherby

The perils of procrastination

I

n hindsight I’m glad I took Latin in high school (both at Thorold-Fonthill and E. L. Crossley). Studying Latin must sound strange to high school students today.

They probably think it’s a new computer program or app on their smart phone.

I must admit though that some days I wondered about my choice of subjects when I was declining and conjugating my Latin words.

But I learned some interesting things I never forgot.

For example, the root word of “procrastination” is the Latin word “cras” meaning “tomorrow.” That helped me remember that procrastination meant putting things off until tomorrow.

The Bible has a lot to say about this common human tendency.

A half-brother

The author of the biblical book of James was the half-brother of Jesus. They shared the same mother, Mary. His practical book is often called “The Proverbs of the New Testament.” He wrote, “Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.’

Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow.” (James 4:13-14) He continues by comparing this life to a mist which soon vanishes.

James isn’t criticizing wise and strategic planning

but rather the arrogant attitude that thinks we’re in control and that God is irrelevant.

An inspired apostle

The apostle Paul wrote to the early believers in the Greek city of Corinth, “So we fi x our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:18) The Corinthians believers had turned away (in repentance) from their sins of idolatry and immorality and had turned (in faith) to Jesus as their SavSee FAITH LIFT next page

A wise king

King Solomon was inspired to write the book called “Proverbs.” One of his many proverbs says this — “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.”

(Proverbs 27:1)

A rich farmer

Jesus told the story of a rich farmer who had an abundance of worldly goods. Instead of sharing them generously with those around him in need, he decided to hoard them for himself thinking he had a long life ahead to enjoy them. God called him a fool knowing that he would die that very night and would leave it all behind. Jesus concludes by saying, “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.” (Luke 12:21) The rich farmer may have thought that someday he would think about God (or others) but not now.

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The Voice

BALANCED LIFE

continued from Page 18 through basalt gorges, was overwhelming.

Snowcapped mountain peaks surrounded the semi-arid desert valley floor. Pristine, pollution-free skies afforded visibility for tens of kilometers in every direction, and there was not another person, vehicle or dwelling to be seen.

I looked down at my dusty bicycle, and said thanks.

Years ago, in the Ganaraska Forest west of Peterbourogh, my wife, daughter, son and his friend, and myself assembled at the starting line of Dirty Paul's Mountain Bike Enduro. This race on sandy singletrack offered various competitive distances, which made it suitable for the entire family. The boys would do 35 kilometres, my wife and I 50, and our 10-year-old daughter would ride 20 kms if she could.

For the fi nal few kilometres, all riders shared the same route into the fi nish line.

Early in the event I clipped a large rock, and smashed my chain and gear changing device beyond repair. My race was over, so I pushed my bike along various short cuts to the fi nal stretch into the fi nish line, watching over my shoulder should any of my family ride by. The boys did with gusto, full of energy as teenagers are, as did my wife.

With less than a kilometre to go, I saw my young daughter approaching from behind. Her pedal strokes were still rhythmic, and her hands were gripped tightly to the handlebars.

When she drew near, her eyes were so focused on the trail ahead, I thought she might ride by without seeing me. As she passed, her pinky finger released from the bars and waved to me.

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I marveled that she'd completed the race, and at the effort she'd summoned to do so. As a parent, I knew this determination and strength would serve her well throughout her life, and I said thanks.

Exotic locales and extraordinary efforts aren’t needed to trigger the emotion. The call circulated via email, and on the first Saturday of January a few years ago a dozen of us met in the parking lot at Harold Black Park under sunny skies.

The temperature was minus 2C, and the destination was Dunnville — a ridiculous 85 kms for our first ride of 2019 in bone-chilling temperatures.

The group formed up into pairs, and the conversation amongst riding friends who hadn’t spoken for weeks came easily. Fingers and toes eventually warmed up with the exercise of pedaling, noses dripped and froze, but not a single complaint was voiced. We rolled past frozen fields of corn and soy, some harvested, some not.

Ice was forming on the pebbly beaches of Lake Erie as we cycled through Lowbanks, and I studied the friends around me. Some 50, 60, even 70 years old, defi ning active and full lives through the joy and challenges of cycling, and said thanks.

Grab a bike. Your thankyou moments won’t be far behind. ◆

FAITH LIFT

SENIORS

continued from Page 13 “We honour them for all that they have done, and for all that they continue to do in our town,” she said.

“Without seniors involvement, we may not have our service clubs, or committees like Beautification and Active Transportation. Seniors are an integral part of this community. Their volunteerism and dedication to Pelham speaks volumes as to the great community we live in and enjoy.”

The friendship bench (euphemistically referred to as the “buddy bench”) is a concept that Cook saw online, and viewed it as an opportunity for people to connect.

“Welland has a similar program they call ‘chat benches.’ They’re not just for seniors—it could be anybody new to the community who sees the sign above the bench, describing its purpose." Thirty painted benches are also on display on the Peace Park lawn, with a variety of motifs.

Town staff and community volunteers were responsible for the artwork.

Seniors Month details are available online at https:// www.ontario.ca/page/celebrating-seniors-ontario.

Pictured, from left, Pelham Town Clerk Holly Willford, Councillor Bob Hildebrandt, Seniors Advisory Committee Chair Sharon Cook, Niagara Council on Aging member Susan Buckingham, Councillor Wayne Olson, Councillor John Wink.

continued from previous page ior. They lived in a worldly seaport, so Paul is encouraging them to press on in their faith with their eyes focused on the eternal — God and salvation.

Two chapters later Paul wrote, “I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2) What is Paul saying? Don’t put off those decisions which are truly important.

Remember: Life is short. Eternity is long. Don’t procrastinate! ◆ Rob Weatherby is a retired pastor.

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Voice

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

4 Crusty Mac & Cheese

Much like bacon, cheese makes many meals more flavorful.

When cheese is the centerpiece of a dish, cheese lovers know it will be tasty and potentially even a little addictive.

Such is the case with macaroni and cheese. Many people have a go-to mac and cheese recipe in their culinary repertoire that they pull out anytime they desire some cheesy goodness.

For those looking for a new mac and cheese recipe, “Crusty Mac and Cheese” from “Virgil’s Barbecue Road Trip Cookbook” (St. Martin’s Press) by Neal Corman is comfort food at its finest. This version has a little spiciness for an added flavor kick.

Crusty Mac & Cheese Serves 4-6 1 1⁄2 1⁄8 1⁄2 3⁄4 1⁄2 1⁄2 1⁄2 1-1⁄4 8

pound elbow macaroni teaspoon kosher salt teaspoon ground white pepper cup chicken stock cup heavy cream tablespoon Worcestershire sauce tablespoon hot sauce tablespoon Creole mustard cup Cheese Wiz® ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease a 2-quart baking dish.

2. Boil the macaroni in a 2-quart saucepan filled the water, until it is al dente, or still has some snap when you bite it. Strain the pasta and rinse thoroughly with cold water. Set aside.

3. Combine the remaining ingredients, except for the shredded cheese, in a medium saucepan over medium heat. The mixture should be barely simmering. Whisk periodically. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cheese sauce with the pasta and about one-third of the shredded cheese. Transfer to the baking dish, covering with the remaining shredded cheese, and bake covered for 10 minutes.

5. Uncover and bake for 15 minutes more, or until the top is golden brown.

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