Ottaway trial now set for October
SELL phone: 905-321-2261 www.pineSOLD.com
DEBBIE PINE SALES REPRESENTATIVE 905.892.0222 NRC Realty, Brokerage
Independently Owned & Operated
debbiepine@royallepage.ca
New attractions for Summerfest
page 9
Arches fundraising continues
The Voice Z Z
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS
page 3
Vol.26 No.24
of Pelham and Central Niagara JUNE 22 2022
Published every Wednesday
page 11
Darcy Richardson, CPA, CA | Broker
DARCYRICHARDSON.CA darcy@darcyrichardson.ca 905.321.6292
Column Six
Have tools, will fly Unfinished home-built plane available BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor
A
The Bandshell Series is
BACK, BABY! A soggy hillside didn't deter some 2000 eager fans last Thursday from enjoying the first in this summer's Peace Park Bandshell Series of performances. A new group takes to the stage every Thursday evening through September 1. ROBERT VAN DEEMTER
s an elementary school kid in the 1960s, I was preoccupied with model airplanes, and an improbable infatuation that someday, I would take to the skies in my own winged craft, soaring towards the heavens as sun glistened off the plexiglass canopy, the snarling drone of the propeller filling the cockpit with joyous noise. The cost of a commercially built Cessna or Piper seemed prohibitive, so I scanned the pages of Popular Mechanics for advertisements of socalled kit planes, or homebuilds. Wood, fibreglass, and metal could be shaped and fastened, bolted to a Volkswagen Beetle power plant, fitted with wheels or floats, and strengthened with high-tensile cables to create a custom flying machine, capable of sweeping me skyward, along with one daring passenger who shared my enthusiasm for adventure. All at a price that wouldn’t break the bank. As fate would have it, my dreams of blissful flight never materialized. But one See COLUMN SIX Page 12
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS NRC REALTY, Brokerage 1815 Merritville, Hwy 1 FONTHILL, ON
www.pineSOLD.com
DEBBIE PINE SALES REPRESENTATIVE 905.892.0222
NIAGARA / FONTHILL, ON
debbiepine@royallepage.ca SELL phone: 905-321-2261
Somewhere down the road Spring is a time of renewal. Time to tidy up the house and yard. But how much time have you allotted you’re going to have to to tidying up your affairs? think about it. You’ve probably revisited your Will, but have you detailed your final wishes? Prepared your Estate? Let us help you get your affairs in order.
Call Pelham Funeral Home at 905 892-5762 m pelhamfuneralhome@cogeco.ca
Page 2
The Voice
A June 22 2022
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
PUBLISHER’S CORNER by Dave Burket
Wasn’t it just Valentine’s Day? I say this every year and every year it’s true: I can’t believe that yesterday was already the summer solstice, with 15 hours and 22 minutes of daylight, and today the days start getting shorter again. That’s right, last night the sun set the latest that it will for another year, as we once again slide down the slope toward December 21 and its 8 hours and 49 minutes of daylight. So carpe diem, folks. Eat, drink, get boosted, and be merry...Rest easy: S. McPhee, your card was found by the Good Samaritan Vern Furtney and returned to the bank. Thanks, Vern!...Fobbed off on the consumer: Would someone explain why keyless fobs have apparently become standard in late model vehicles? Whose bright idea was this? As we see on page 13, last week there was a rash of auto thefts perhaps made easier owing to thieves not needing a physical key to start the vehicles. A couple of months back we received a loaner while our car was in the shop, and when I got out to the vehicle I poked and prodded the fob they gave me, thinking that the key was somehow recessed within. Fortunately it dawned on me that this was one of these newfangled gadgets, and so I did not suffer the embarrassment of returning to the service desk as the clueless geezer. (The car also turned off its engine when stopped at red lights, instantly starting again when the brake was released, a terrifically, uniquely, gratingly annoying “feature” that we disabled as soon as we could navigate the settings menus. I seriously question its environmental benefit, given the brief stops common ‘round these here parts.)...That shrinking feeling: This week, resident sage Larry Coté (p.4) calls out “shrinkflation,” the various corporate attempts to sell us less for the same price, as inflation continues to bite. Indeed, it wasn’t long into the pandemic before we noticed what seemed to be distinctly thinner paper towels being sold at Costco. It’s possible they’ve gotten thinner yet, something close to tissuelike...Definitely not shrunken: There are two longer-thanusual letters this week, both of which are worth your time— the first being about one man’s experience with Covid testing at a border crossing, the second making some commonsense suggestions regarding the Town of Pelham’s zoning bylaw update, which has been in the works for some two years. Also on that topic and more is Councillor Bob Hildebrandt’s Municipal Matters contribution this week (p.5). If we’re going to rewrite the thing, let’s do it right...Just in from the back nine: Golf pro John Piccolo takes on the Saudi/LIV debate with a mildly jaundiced eye (p.14)…Plinking at road signs? Shots fired or fireworks, either way they woke up a lot of folks last week. In his usual value-added style, Don Rickers tells us more than we expect (p.7). Interested in your own plane? See also Don's Column Six...Quick before we go: It's Prime Time at the Grille (p.12); Fenwick Church of Christ's annual giveaway is Saturday (p.16); and Glad Tidings Church is also doing a giant sale (p.20)...The fireflies are out! See you next week. ◆
Voice
What's That
SIREN Pelham Fire Department Weekly Calls
The Pelham Fire Department responded to six calls for assistance from Friday, June 10 to Friday, June 17. Saturday, June 11 Medical assistance, Station 1
STORM DAMAGE A fast-moving line of storms blasted through Pelham late last Thursday afternoon, mostly to the south of the municipality, dropping a deluge of rain and blasting intense wind gusts—one of which took out this tree on Garner Avenue, in Fenwick. It fell on hydro cables, sparks from which caused a brief tree fire along nearby Canboro Road. Power in the immediate area was out from about 5 PM to 11:30 PM. JIM BOTARI
on vacation!
Gas odour in the building, Pelham St., Station 1 Thursday, June 16 Remote alarm, Boyle Rd., Station 2
POETRY
Arcing hydro lines, Canboro Rd., Stations 2 & 1
Garden Gossip Do flowers get sleepy in their garden beds, Is that why I see them nodding their heads? Or do they sway to and fro in a soft summer breeze Dancing a tango whenever they please? Do they droop when they're thirsty Perk up when they're not Do they like when it's cool Or prefer when it's hot? Do they giggle and laugh Each time I stroll by Ensconced in my “Wellies” Trying hard to stay dry? I look forward each year to the coming of spring
航 搜索
Tuesday, June 14 Medical assistance, Station 1
司 空公
搜索航空公司
The surprise Mother Nature is going to bring Some flowers, like us, will surely survive Making it through, perhaps even thrive. Some plants multiply like forget-me-nots blue Plants in my garden are friends tried and true, Each one has a place in this old gardener's heart I'm happy to give them a home from the start. So when I see them nodding, Perhaps counting sheep, On the lush lovely lawn, I join them...and sleep.
S. M. Lazareth
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GENNINGS
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The Voice
Page 3
A June 22 2022
Ottaway assault trial moved to October 4 Remaining charges may be headed for Niagara after all
ances, and the complainant as well as the accused perhaps thinking there was something in the back of my mind. So I think it's just preferable to have another judge.” Justice Carr is now slated to preside over Ottaway’s assault case. “My estimation is it's going to be a very quick trial, Your Honor,” said Bragagnolo, who informed the court that it was a one-witness case. Accordingly, Labelle dispensed with a confirmation hearing, and marked Ottaway for trial on October 4, Justice Carr presiding. Labelle adjourned the other charges against Ottaway to July 12, to set a date for judicial pre-trial or a resolution. Bragagnolo informed the court that his intent was to have these charges against Ottaway brought back to the jurisdiction where they occurred — namely, Niagara. All matters are set for October 4, but only the assault charge is scheduled for trial. Chantal Chenier, the supervisor of court operations in Cochrane, told the Voice that it is not definite that any charges will be transferred to Niagara.
BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor Former Pelham CAO Darren Ottaway had a court date in Cochrane, ON last week, to answer to various assault and sexual assault charges which are alleged to have occurred prior to 2019 when he was still working in Pelham. Ottaway was present in court via Zoom, but did not address the presiding judge, Justice Michel Labelle. Ottaway is currently on leave from his position as the Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Cochrane, a community of 5000 located south of Moosonee in northeastern Ontario. Ottaway was hired as Pelham’s CAO in 2012, and was fired in 2019. Cochrane has appointed an acting CAO in his place while his legal situation unfolds. Ottaway is charged with two
BILL PUDIM
assault charges, a sexual interference charge, and a sexual assault charge. He was granted bail at his initial court appearance on January 24. Justice Labelle threw a bit of a curveball at the proceedings when he announced to defense lawyer Paul Bragagnolo that he had heard the complainant in one of the assault charges, Ottaway’s step-son,
Jay Jackson-Ottaway, in another case before him, involving a school disturbance. In that case, Jackson-Ottaway’s evidence was accepted as truthful by Labelle, and the accused was convicted. Given that Justice Labelle viewed Jackson-Ottaway as a credible witness in that case, Labelle asked Bragagnolo if he would prefer another judge, so as to eliminate any
appearance of bias. After conferring with his client, Bragagnolo reported to Labelle that indeed a different judge would be preferred. “Absolutely,” responded Labelle. “I certainly understand your position, and for my benefit as well, it would be preferable that another judge hear this matter, because there's always the issue of appear-
June 21 National Indigenous Peoples Day The Town of Pelham is situated on treaty land. This land is steeped in the rich history of the First Nations such as the Hatiwendaronk, the Haudenosaunee, and the Anishinaabe, including the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. There are many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people from across Turtle Island that live and work in Niagara today. The Town of Pelham stands with all Indigenous people, past and present, in promoting the wise stewardship of the lands on which we live.
Visit the Meridian Community Centre to view an art installation presented in collaboration with the Upper Canada Native Art Gallery, featuring Inuit and Haudenosaunee art and artists from across Turtle Island throughout Indigenous History Month. www.pelham.ca/june21
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The Voice
A June 22 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
COTÉ'S COMMENTS Larry Coté
Inflation introduces Shrinkflation
M
any people casually use the term inflation to describe the rise in prices they encounter for goods and services. Fewer people understand that a more complete definition also includes the devaluation of money. That part of the definition means that your money will buy less than at some point in the past. The rate of inflation is determined by the percentage the price has increased over a specified period of time. More recently, more shoppers have been keeping an eye on that number as it has mercilessly eroded the money in their wallets. Short of taking a doctoral-level course in economics, many shoppers need to keep an eye out for other marketing practices and factors that affect their cost of living. As of more recent times the price increases have been speedier and more substantial as compared to a few years ago. This has brought about a change in the marketing practices for an increasing number of consumer goods marketers that hope to conceal the
increased prices from the consumers. This practice has been coined by economic experts as “shrinkflation,” and the practice appears to be accelerating at a rapid rate
"Companies can also draw attention away from smaller packages by employing brighter colours"
almost globally. This practice means that consumer goods manufacturers are reducing package sizes and retaining the price level for the previously larger-sized packages. Shrinkflation has become a popular marketing practice because while prices are regularly top of mind for consumers they pay little or no attention regularly to the weights or other factors such as the numbers or sizes of the prod-
NEED HELP? MAKE THE CALL Distress Centre Distress and crisis. 24-hour help line: 905-688-3711 Mental Health and Addictions Access 1-866-550-5205 (Toll Free) Alcoholics Anonymous Find a Niagara meeting. 905-682-2140
Narcotics Anonymous 1-888-811-3887. Gambler’s Anonymous 905-351-1616 Kids Help Phone Service for youth. 416-586-5437 800-668-6868 (Crisis Line) www.kidshelpphone.ca
Assaulted Women’s Helpline Mobile calls to: #SAFE (#7233) 1-866-863-0511 (Toll-free) Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) www.niagaratips.com Text - 274637 (CRIMES), keyword Niagara, then your tip
The Voice
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Duc, sequere, aut de medio fiat
Z
1428 Pelham Street, P.O. Box 1489, Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 Office open: Monday - Thursday 8 AM - 2 PM
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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
ucts inside the package. For instance, a widely known consumer goods company recently reduced the number of facial tissues in their dispenser box from 65 to 60 sheets while the price remained the same. That same manufacturer reduced the number of sheets in their popular toilet paper from 340 sheets to 312 per roll while maintaining the price for the larger roll. They are absolutely certain that consumers do not count the sheets—yet. Companies can also draw attention away from smaller packages by employing brighter colours and graphics in their packaging. These marketing department creations can detract from the downsizing of the package size and avoid adverse reactions from consumers. This particular marketing practice may have been noticed by some shoppers about a year ago as they shopped their grocers’ cereal box aisle where it appears shrinkflation may have been first introduced. Since that time the tactic has spread quickly, and is See SHRINKING next page
Letters Two years delayed, but another great reunion On Sunday afternoon, June 12, 235 “original” Pelham Panthers gathered at the Legion in Fonthill for our 11th Pelham High Reunion. We were supposed to have this in 2020 but because of Covid it was postponed. So it had been four years since we last met. We had a wonderful time reminiscing as only people who grew up together can do. There was a group of teachers there also to help us share in those memories. Every decade was represented from the late ‘40s, ‘50s, ‘60s, and it was wonderful to see the “youngsters” who attended in the ‘70s.
The Legion set up both rooms with tablecloths and flowers. We could also go outside to the patio as the rains did not come. The food that was put out for us was super! Pelham High School in Fenwick was closed in 1974. We held our first reunion at the school in 1984. This was the only time we could have it there. About 4000 people came over the two days and we danced and sang and told lots of stories. From that reunion, we had $10,000 left over after all the See REUNION back page
7
CONTACT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS Member of Federal Parliament
Electoral District: Niagara West
Dean Allison, MP 4994 King Street Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 Dean.Allison@parl.gc.ca 877-563-7900 Member of Provincial Parliament
Electoral District: Niagara West
Sam Oosterhoff, MPP 4961 King St. East, Unit M1 Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org 905-563-1755 Members of Niagara Regional Council Councillor Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 905-658-2987 Councillor Diana Huson diana.huson@niagararegion.ca 905-324-3094 Town of Pelham 20 Pelham Town Square P.O. Box 400 Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 905-892-2607
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
Today's forgotten business stopped advertising yesterday
Ward 2 Councillor Ron Kore rkore@pelham.ca 905-933-3805 Councillor John Wink jwink@pelham.ca 905-892-4475 Ward 3 Councillor Lisa Haun lhaun@pelham.ca 905-892-5877 Councillor Bob Hildebrandt bhildebrandt@pelham.ca 905-892-5647
Cabinetry Showroom & Design Centre 7-200 Hwy 20 East, Fonthill ON L0S 1E6 Open: Mon - Fri 9:00am to 5:00pm Call (905) 932-7069 to schedule an appointment for a design consultation.
Jill C. Anthony Law Office
Have an Opinion?
BARRISTER, SOLICITOR & NOTARY LETTERS TO THE EDITOR are welcome. Letter submissions should contain the writer’s full name, address and telephone number. Names only will be published. Names may be withheld if compelling reasons are provided. The newspaper reserves the right to change, condense or reject any contribution for brevity, clarity or legal considerations. All material in this publication is protected by copyright. Reproduction is prohibited without express, written permission of the publisher. ADVERTISING: The Voice of Pelham regrets any errors or omissions that appear in advertisements in this newspaper, however, we will not be held responsible for more than one absent or incorrect insertion or for any damages beyond the cost of space containing the error. The Voice is an independent, locally owned and operated publication. The Voice is a member of the National NewsMedia Council, a voluntary self-regulatory organization that deals with journalistic practices and ethics. If you have an unresolved complaint about news stories, opinion columns or photos, please visit their web site at mediacouncil.ca or call 1-844-877-1163. If you have a complaint about delivery or membership problems, please contact our office at (905) 892-8690. For a summary of Voice ethical guidelines, see www. thevoiceofpelham.ca/ethics
REAL ESTATE, PURCHASES, SALES & MORTGAGES, BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS & SALES, ESTATE ADMINISTRATION, WILLS & POWER OF ATTORNEY FONTHILL (Main Office)
10 Highway 20 E., P.O. Box 743, Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 T: 905-892-2621 • F: 905-892-1022
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Pio Plaza, 8685 Lundy’s Lane, Unit #2, Niagara Falls, ON L2H 1H5 T: 289-296-2629 • F: 289-296-0222
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The Voice
Page 5
A June 22 2022
OPINION Border Covid screening, via Dr. Kafka On Tuesday June 14, I was stopped at Canada Customs at the Peace Bridge and "randomly selected" for Covid testing. (Please note, travelers arriving by airplane are not subject to random testing.) I was given the test kit and directed to return home and told I would receive instructions "by email or text." I received no instructions and so I called Lifelabs directly as their name was on the kit. I was able to book an appointment online for Wednesday June 15. I asked what the quarantine rules were, but the Lifelabs employee didn't know the rules either and suggested I call the local health department. I called Canada Customs but was told to call the "health department.” I waited until the next morning and called Niagara Health but was advised to call the Public Health Agency of Canada. as this was a Federal matter. I have learned that: a) only land travelers can get "randomly picked', not travelers flying in b) only Canadians get "randomly picked,” not Americans c) because I am double vaccinated (actually triple in my case) they can't quarantine me, so I am free to wander until results come back d) I simply had to get tested while I was monitored over the phone (but I could be testing my wife, or my cat, or...) e) If I test positive, Canada Health can order me to quarantine, but— f) Ontario refuses to perform residence checks for double vaccinated people, so unless the RCMP are free to do door checks, no one is coming out g) While waiting for my results, I can even travel back to the US again I am not anti-vaccine and I fully understand that Covid is real, so while awaiting my test appointment I "pre-tested" myself using a free kit that I'd got from the Food Basics, and I passed (negative result). I completed the required Lifelabs test in cooperation with the employee of Lifelabs and then the train went off the tracks. Rather than wait at home for a Fedex pick up, I was told I could hand deliver the completed test kit to the nearest Lifelabs facility (which is in Welland) as this was the fastest method. I decided to go that route and, playing
SHRINKING
continued from previous page being adopted across a wide variety of product lines from shampoo to corn chips to dish soap and beyond. Perhaps the good news for beleaguered shoppers is that the measures introduced by the central bank to curtail inflation appear to be making their intended impact. Such measures
along with the theory that I might have Covid I biked to the lab so I would be alone and not interact with anyone. I arrived at 2:50 to find the lab was closed. Apparently the Lifelabs testing office didn't know of the closure. The Welland Lifelabs employees were inside when I knocked anyway. I could hear them laughing inside. I was worried about the kit spoiling as it had been an hour on my bike in the sun (at 33 C) so I called the Lifelabs 800-number. I spoke with a woman who said I was not to leave the completed test kit outside the door. I explained about the heat and my concern for the kit being destroyed. She put me on hold after assuring me she would have someone speak to me who had an answer. I was on hold for 22 or 23 minutes. Finally another woman answered and she said that whoever told me to go to the Lifelabs facility was wrong and that I was required to drop off the completed test kit at a Shoppers Drug Mart, specifically the Shoppers Drug Mart at the Rose City Plaza in Welland. Meanwhile, some bright person broke the rechargeable light off my bike (that's $100 I'll never see again). I biked to the Shoppers Drug Mart at the Rose City Plaza and, of course, no one knew what I was talking about. The pharmacist said they hadn't collected packages for Lifelabs in years. I gave up and I biked home. I called the Public Health Agency of Canada and was told that there was nothing they could do but the call taker suggested I call Fedex and arrange a pick up (it would show I had tried to comply). I called FedEx and learned that my label was invalid. My label showed delivery to "Specimen Management Lifelabs" in Mississauga. But, apparently, the associated tracking number recorded the pick up location as Mississauga and not Fenwick, so no, FedEx wouldn't come and get the completed test kit. The FedEx employee suggested I call the shipper and have them mail me a new label. I called Lifelabs again and was told that "the best thing" for me to do was go back to Welland and demand that FedEx accept the package. I refused. I explained that wasn't an option. I said I would not be returning
need be cautiously monitored and are agonizingly slow to take effect throughout the economy. The bad news? One might expect that once the smaller package sizes have been introduced it is probable they are here to stay at the price of the larger size. Be happy. Your shopping bag is going to be a little lighter and your wallet a bit thinner. ◆
See RUNAROUND Page 15
MUNICIPAL MATTERS Climate Change
We are living in transformative times BY BOB HILDEBRANDT Pelham Town Councillor Ward 3
D
isruptive forces are in play as we all try to navigate the New Normal. The fast rise in prices over the past year or so of essential items such as food, fuel, and a place to live is affecting everyone, including people in Pelham. Climate change has affected our weather. Both federal and provincial government policy on development and greenhouse gas emissions targets significantly impact and constrain municipal choice and municipal policy. I have seen this firsthand for almost four years now. To adjust to these pressures entails a transformation of the way we commute, build, produce/consume/handle our waste, and Ontario’s energy supply. Town policy, found in such documents as the Official Plan and Zoning Bylaw, must recognize and respond to all of the above, while also creating incentives for positive change to address these disruptive forces. For almost two years, council and staff have been working on a new Zoning Bylaw to replace the existing one, which is now 35 years old. There is plenty of modernization within the draft document. While we continue
to work on some of the details, the general thrust is that it will allow for more on-farm businesses, it will allow for more types of housing, and it will encourage greener transportation. I am confident
"I am confident that we are on the cusp of making major and positive changes"
that we are on the cusp of making major and positive changes to this critical component of Pelham’s policy regime. It should mean a better future for all of us.
Commuting
Planning to provide solutions to Pelham’s parking problems is the fi rst step. This should be assisted by policy providing favoured locations for ride share, carpooling and bikes/scooters to facilitate change. In addition, the establishment of the local economy through zoning bylaws allowing the infrastructure required to easily invest and encourage this development.
Buildings
Encompassing “Green” structures’ planning, design, construction, operations, and end-of-life recycling or renewal, while considering energy, water, indoor environmental quality, materials selection and location, is essential for today's community. Green buildings and communities reduce landfi ll waste, enable alternative transportation use, and encourage retention and creation of vegetated land areas and roofs. Green design, particularly LEED-certified buildings, provide the means to reduce the climate impacts of buildings and their inhabitants. Incorporating Low Impact Design (LID) characteristics, such as permeable pavement, specialized storm water features, and using botanical features to reduce runoff all contribute. These are all a part of the plan for Pelham going forward.
Produce/consume/waste
The local economy needs to become the backbone of the New Normal. Working at home or close to your workplace will result in increased local production and/or sales of required products. Wasting less and no longer disposing of organic matter in landfi lls and diversion from landSee CHANGE next page
Professional SERVICES Directory Dr. Bohdan Hrynyk Dental Surgeon
Pelham Hills Dentistry
905-892-5002
Family Dentistry NEW PATIENTS WELCOME 1428 Pelham Street, Fonthill
SERVING NIAGARA AND SURROUNDING REGIONS
INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR RENOVATIONS MATTHEW VANDERVELDE GENERAL CONTRACTOR
226-820-1261 CANADIANCARPENTRY19@GMAIL.COM SIDING I SOFFIT I FASCIA I WINDOWS I DOORS I TRIM
NEWSFLASH Tell us your story! Column Six presents tales of personal triumph, adventure, strange-but-true stories, life-changing events, and looks-back at our past.
Anyone with eyes can plainly
S E
Did you conquer Everest or kick a bad habit? Everyone has a story. Tell us yours! NOW ALSO ACCEPTING FICTION— SHORT STORIES UP TO 4000 WORDS! Write it down, send it in: publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca (You won’t get rich, but you will get paid.)
Advertising in the Voice works! advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca
Page 6
The Voice
A June 22 2022
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
CHANGE
COMMON DECENCY Rev. Michael Coren
continued from previous page
When followers of Christ are the least Christian
L
ast month The Church of Scotland, once considered arch-conservative, voted to allow its clergy to conduct same-sex marriages. Which obliged people to ask that if such a grand and respected Presbyterian institution can change thus, why not the rest of Christendom? Yet while many denominations have indeed reformed, others certainly haven’t. And it has to be said that the main and sometimes only opposition—not only to equal marriage but also to simple LGBTQ2 equality—is based in Christian communities. I say this with enormous pain but I know it to be true. Last year during Pride, for example, I wrote a column for another publication with the headline, “What would Jesus do during Pride? Simple — he’d wave the rainbow flag and march in the parade.” To say it polarized readers would be a gentle conclusion. The degree of love given was deeply moving, but the intensity and amount of the hatred quite astounding. It came almost without exception from self-described Christians. I can understand dissent and disagreement. Traditional feelings and beliefs take time to lessen and disappear. It’s the level of venom and anger that always shocks me, coming as it does from people who claim to be motivated by and to follow the gentle, forgiving, Messiah who founded Christianity. I’ve made the theological arguments many times before. In brief, scripture is ambiguous on the subject of homosexuality, hardly ever mentions it and, anyway, has to be read through the prism of faith, experience, and intellect. Jesus himself never mentions the issue but may, in his encounter with
a centurion who asks for his slave to be healed, have been giving blessing to a same-sex union. In general, he is radically indifferent to what others regarded as sexual sin. St. Paul’s negative comments, if understood properly rather than treated anachronistically, concern pagan rituals and straight men abusing teenage boys rather than consenting same-sex romance. Most important of all, the sweet, perfect theme of the Gospels
"It's the level of venom and anger that always shocks me"
is love, acceptance, and a permanent revolution of grace. Please, save your emails and letters of disagreement because I’ve heard all of the arguments before and, with all due humility, spent years working on this subject at various levels and in various languages. But I don’t suppose what I just wrote will prevent the attacks. People who say nothing about mistreating the poor or waging unjust wars — infinitely more central to the Bible than gay people simply being gay — will likely send me the usual condemning and insulting letters and tweets. If this happens to me, boringly heterosexual and married, imagine the experience of countless LGBTQ2 people. When I underwent a profound change of view on all of this eight years ago I was treated to a whole cir-
cus of nastiness. I can look back at it now and sound brave and tough. Truth is, at the time it left bloody wounds. We move on, but there’s one incident that I can’t expunge from memory or psyche. A conservative Christian media platform had written yet another dishonest and cruel article about me. Beneath it were comments, and it’s never a good idea to pay them any attention. But this day for some reason I took a look. The first one was abusive. The reply below it explained that while the writer hated me, people needed to understand that my child was gay and so my heresy could be partly understood. The original commentator then wrote this. “I didn’t know that. I can’t forgive him but it does make sense now. I’d rather my child had cancer than was gay.” I promise you that this is completely true. In fact, all of our four children are straight, not that I or they could care less. If they were LGBTQ2 I’d be proud of them. If they were homophobic, however, I’d be ashamed. Be defined not by who you love but how you love and that you love. This is why Pride matters, and Pride Month has to continue because the battle for truth and decency is far from over. I know that people argue that it’s all rather irrelevant now, and that LGBTQ2 people have achieved full equality. That, alas, is untrue in Canada, let alone the rest of the world — it’s still illegal to be gay or to be involved in a same-sex relationship in many countries. To most of you out there, please do the right thing. To my fellow Christians, pray for understanding and empathy. For some of you, pray for forgiveness too. ◆
fi lls will assist climate change goals. Engineered landfi lls, such as Pelham’s, in cooperation with Lincoln, West Lincoln and Grimsby (one of a few in Ontario), on Niagara Road 12, incorporate procedures for handling our waste that includes the latest diversion and segregation policies.
Energy requirements
Electrical infrastructure is a key to the New Economy. The Study Team representatives from Local Distribution Companies (LDC), the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), and Hydro One provided input and relevant information for this Region regarding capacity needs, reliability needs, operational issues, and major assets/facilities approaching end-of-life (EOL) that formed the basis of a Needs Assessment Report May 14, 2021. Pelham has 2 hydro suppliers—NPEI and Hydro One. Provincially, Hydro One is the largest LDC but in the Niagara Region, Hydro One supplies Thorold and part of Pelham. NPEI supplies West Lincoln, Lincoln, Niagara Falls and part of Pelham. The widespread recent power outage, with a fire being the reason at the Hydro One transfer station in Thorold, raises questions of capacity, and demand overwhelming the grid. There are obvious questions that we all should be asking. What is a fact is that Hydro One was scheduled to replace this transformer in 2024. NPEI has stated: “We do not have any capacity problems in our system. Having said that, we need and will make several long term investments in the next five to seven years to address long term growth in our service areas. The cost of this will easily exceed $50 million in today's dollars.” On another note: Negotiations with Hydro One through the Energy Minister and our local MPP have resulted in promises of reclassification for Fonthill to Urban Density; however, to date no confirmation has been received from Hydro One. The next step in the negotiations is for reclassification for all of Pelham. This would result in a similar classification enjoyed by Thorold and every NPEI customer. My efforts to champion this reduction for the community will not stop until such time as urban Fonthill is classified on an equally high density as rural Thorold. The absurdity is clear to everyone except Hydro One (which profits from the status quo). On a positive note: Hydro One stated that in the fall of last year they made changes and upgrades to the transformer that feeds the Fenwick area to eliminate the low voltage complaints. This is being monitored to ensure compliance. ◆
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Letters continued Path to an improved zoning bylaw Having had the opportunity to speak to Pelham Town council this past Monday regarding the new official zoning bylaw, I felt it might be helpful to provide a number of my comments on what is a complex issue (at 215 pages, it’s a long bylaw). I spoke on behalf of PATH (Pelham Advocates for Trees and Habitat). Firstly, kudos to Town of Pelham Planning staff and council in tackling this sizeable project, a new zoning bylaw fully updated from the current one dating back some 35 years. While there is much to appreciate in this bylaw (such as a first time comprehensive mapping of Pelham’s Environmental Protection Zones, a matter near-and-dear to the heart of PATH), there are some evident deficiencies which we believe require redress. On a values basis, the bylaw states: “It is considered desirable to regulate use of land, and the character and location of buildings and structures, and for the promotion of public health, safety, general convenience and well being of the Town of Pelham.” Further, “It is the objective of this zoning Bylaw to create successful, vibrant and livable communities….” Fine aspirations indeed, except there is no mention made of the natural environment in these statements. Nothing is stated regarding the honouring and preservation of the lands from which all that we have derives. Nothing is stated in the bylaw which serves to inspire, let alone aid us in mitigating and adapting our land-use practices in context of the climate See ZONING Page 14
The Voice
HYPOCRISY
continued from Page 15 we won’t donate to charity anymore!” Then by definition you are not charitable and if you are doing it to buy your way into heaven you are going to hell, if there is one, and you are a jackass either way. Mickelson admitted he was only using LIV to get more money out of the PGA Tour. He mentioned in one of his harangues that if the PGA Tour is non-profit how did they have a few hundred million dollars lying around to juice up the purses and player incentives as soon as an alternative circuit for the players showed up? Is not a non-profit supposed to spend all of its “profit” on the charities it is supposedly aligned with? Of course he wasn’t worried they weren’t dispensing these funds to charity, but to himself and the other players. I heard not one other PGA Tour member step up and criticize the tour for this management style. The rich ones like the status quo and most in the middle are keeping their powder dry until things settle down a little. I imagine the players who left have been in touch with lawyers (likely at the expense of LIV) who have told them not to worry about a lifetime ban from the tour. Why? Because there is no way the PGA Tour is going to court to have all its dirty operating secrets splayed about for all the world to see and get mauled on sports talks show for days on end. The richer players who have set up their tax avoidance foundations in the name of charity
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A June 22 2022
would all rather not have their motives discussed in public either. The US Open just announced anyone eligible will be allowed to play regardless of their tour affiliation. Lawyers will be licking their chops but I don’t see anyone else interested in getting into this fight. I think the PGA Tour is hoping the Saudis get bored of this experiment after a year or two. The players who left come back with a very rich tail between their legs and serve a short suspension and continue on as usual. Not sure it will play out that way. The best players in all sports are obscenely rewarded for their incredible talents. The difference in golf is that this status is reserved for very few. Yes, the average player on tour last year made $1.4 million dollars (based on approximately 150 members) but he also had to pay his own way to tournaments, pay his own meals and accommodations, pay for coaches and caddies. There is also no contract that says he is going to make that much for years to come. One injury or a little loss of confidence and it’s all gone. The NHL is by far the poorest of the four major North American leagues and the average player salary was $2.5 million dollars last year (with approximately 700 players) and they didn’t pay for a thing during the season. No travel, or accommodation, coaching costs. How can you blame someone who is taking guaranteed money exponentially greater than what they were likely to earn otherwise? Would Austin Matthews turn down $100, $200, $300 million dollars to go play in
the Russian-based KHL next year? I like Rory McIlroy. Thoughtful, honest guy. He has been very vocal against the LIV option and players leaving only for the money. Of course Rory is one of a handful of golfers who has $100 million dollar sponsorship contracts that allow him to never win another golf tournament in his life and not worry about the price of Cheerios. He has also accepted very large fees to appear at tournaments in countries with dubious human rights records. I think anyone as a parent or advisor would have a hard time telling these athletes who are leaving for “the money” to do anything differently. Speak out as much as you can (Lewis Hamilton has managed to both take the money and say his piece in F1 racing) but do what is in your personal best interest, not anyone else’s. Maybe even donate some of that money to charity and refuse to take the contribution receipt. That would put you one up on many of your condescending peers. Look, if these golfers had at one point been human rights advocates and spoken out against regimes who treat their citizens the way Saudi Arabia does, and then turned around and accepted their cash, I can see condemning them. Golfers as a rule keep their head down and mouth shut and toe the corporate line. Let those who are without sin throw the first golf ball. ◆ John Piccolo is a golf instructor and runs Piccolo’s Custom Golf Shop at Eagle Valley Golf Club in Niagara Falls. You may reach him at picgolf@vaxxine.com
Gunshots or firecrackers? Fonthill residents hear early-morning racket BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor The Pelham Community and Neighbourhood Watch Facebook user group was abuzz with reports of gunfire (or was it fireworks?) in the early morning of Tuesday, June 14. One user posted, “My husband and I heard what we thought were gunshots at 3:27 AM this morning. The sound woke us both up. Six or seven shots then a pause and six or seven more. It didn't sound like a car backfiring or firecrackers. It was similar to gun shots. It seemed to be in the area of Welland Road, between Pelham and Haist. Did anyone else hear this, or offer a logical explanation for the sound?” Another responded, “I heard what sounded like fireworks on Effingham between Pancake and Welland Road around that time.” Others chipped in. Most thought it was fireworks, which freaked out their pets. Contable Phil Gavin of the Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) told the Voice that police had been contacted. “On June 14, at approximately 9:20 AM, NRPS was called by a resident of Pelham regarding a report of possible gunshots. An officer attended the residence in the area of Berkwood Place and Dogwood Court. The complainant reported to the officer that they were wakened at approximately 3:10 AM on June 14, by the sound of what they believed to be gunshots, coming from a nearby wooded area. The complainant believed they heard 15-20 shots. The offiSee BOOMS Page 13
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A June 22 2022
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
Pop-up market coming next weekend to Fenwick Event a passion project for sister-in-law entrepreneurs BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor Their mantra is “start small, shop local, dream big.” Olivia Wilkens-Settle, who lives in Toronto and runs a family-owned contracting company, and her sister-in-law Katie Dyson-Wilkens, from Hamilton, who works at a national marketing agency, are entrepreneurs who love Niagara. They have planned a two-day market in Fenwick, featuring local artisans, small businesses, and food vendors, many of which are women-owned, and non-profit. These co-founders of the Fenwick Market and Trunk Sale, slated for June 25 and 26 from 10 AM to 4 PM, intend the event to support small businesses that have faced unprecedented challenges over the past two years during tough pandemic times, and most recently, the Hernder Estate Winery fire in March. Olivia’s parents, Maguite and Ernie Wilkens, reside on ten acres in Fenwick at 1135 Centre Street, the site of the market. Its natural beauty is stunning, with resplendent Japanese maples and many other mature trees, and a lush lawn perfect for hosting a market event. “Katie and I are big supporters of community-based small businesses, local shopping, and sustainability,” said Olivia. “We found
ourselves drawn towards makers and sellers of vintage and second-hand goods, and have partnered with event planner Emily Burton to ensure that everything runs smoothly.” The event is being promoted via word of mouth, social media, community advertising, lawn signs, and flyers at homes and businesses. The pair have confirmed some 50 vendors, a group of ten event volunteers, and have garnered some 400 followers on social media. They expect hundreds to attend. We found ourselves drawn towards makers and sellers of vintage and second-hand goods, and have partnered with event planner Emily Burton to ensure that everything runs smoothly An information tent and porta-potty facilities have been arranged, and free parking is available at the neighbouring school property, owned by Concordia Ontario Academy (formerly Pelham Centre Public School, which closed in 2017). “We’ve received encouragement from our surrounding neighbours, and ensure that this will be a safe, family-friendly weekend,” said Olivia. “We are fully-insured, and require the same of our vendors.
Olivia Wilkens-Settle and Katie Dyson-Wilkens at the market site. Our long-term goal is to partner with the Town of Pelham on future events that will be beneficial to both the municipality and local businesses.” “Shopping small, shopping second-hand, and shopping local is the wave of the future,” said Katie. “This is a supportive community. We want each other to do well. How many industries can truly say that? Supporting small, family-owned, women-owned businesses is an easy way promote sustainability as consumers. Let’s buy used, let’s buy quality, let’s buy from each other.” Though born and raised in Toronto, Olivia said that she has always considered Niagara her second home, spending many weekends and summers in the region during her youth. “Growing up, I often visited my grandparents, who operated a small fruit farm, Brookside Acres,
DON RICKERS
off Queenston Road in Niagara-on-the-Lake,” she said. “My grandmother ran the day-to-day, while my grandfather had a job at GM. My father, along with three of his five siblings, was born there.” Her father eventually relocated to Toronto to establish a contracting business, but Olivia has vivid recollections of piling into the family station wagon on Friday nights, and waking up on the farm to the smell of French toast and homemade maple syrup, and the sounds of wild birds. “During the pandemic, when we couldn't work as much as we wanted to, we really got into buying second-hand, and restoring old furniture,” she said. “We started an online second-hand thrift Instagram account, and met a lot of other people who are local makers, furniture restorers, and dealers in vintage items like old glassware. We made a lot of connections
through attending small farmers markets in the Toronto area.” One day it dawned on Olivia and Katie to dive in and try their hand at running their own market. “We’ve gone from zero to a hundred very quickly,” said Katie. “What was basically going to be kind of a fancy garage sale has turned into a community event with lots of momentum.” The sisters have a dream of becoming players in the hospitality industry in Niagara. “Perhaps one day we’ll have a restaurant or a hotel, and people will say, ‘Oh, I remember them, those are the markets girls,’” said Olivia. This first effort won’t produce a windfall of profits, however. “Our vendors are splitting the modest costs of rentals, and those that lost inventory during the Hernder Estate Winery fire won’t be charged any fee to participate,” said Olivia. “All of our staff are volunteering their time, and my parents are hosting for free. Our low fees allow inclusivity. We have everything from established sellers of vintage goods, to a retired school teacher who loves to make jewelry, and with the support of her family, is starting a brand new career. We just want to see people together. We’ve missed everyone.” Katie, the marketing side of the duo, created the Fenwick Market brand, and has worked hard to attract locals, as well as those in the Hamilton-to-Toronto corridor. “Folks can come here to our market, visit wineries, and sample the local fare,” said Katie. “Hopefully they’ll realize that Niagara needs to be supported and protected, so that many generations beyond ours can enjoy it.” Information on the event is available on Instagram (@the.fenwick.market) and Facebook (www. facebook.com/the.fenwick.market.)
1 PM Celebration begins in the Park | 4:30 - 10 PM Live Music | 10 PM - Fireworks Show
Pelham
Celebrates July 1st in Harold Black Park 1:00-6:00 PM - Rotary Club of Fonthill Children's Area. Bouncers, face painting and more! 3 PM Haist Street Parade begins from A.K. Wigg School down Haist Street to Harold Black Park 3-7 PM - Local food and artisan vendors 4-6 PM - Meet the Parade Floats 4 PM - Welcome Ceremony 4 PM - On Stage: Jimmy Marando Swing Band 5 PM - On Stage: No More New 6:30 PM - On Stage: Joshua Arden Miller & The Pappy Johns band 7 PM - Fonthill Lions Poutine Eating Contest 8 PM - On Stage: By Design 10 PM - Fireworks! Visit online for more on how to participate in the colouring, bike and house decorating contests!
www.pelham.ca/canada-day
www.pelham.ca/canada-day
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
The Voice
Page 9
A June 22 2022
Summerfest to feature expanded Kid Zone, street curling "Street curling?" Read on BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor Summerfest’s genesis was in the summer of 2011, advocated by the Pelham Active Transportation Committee as a single-day event to raise the spirits of the locals, and celebrate the completion of pedestrian-friendly downtown streetscaping in Fonthill after a long period of road reconstruction. Fast-forward to 2022, and Summerfest has emerged from a two-year pandemic shutdown as a four-day festival (July 14-17) which includes music, entertainment, plenty of food and drink, and good times for all ages. The event last ran in 2019, and welcomed some 30,000 attendees, 65 vendors, and 30 bands. The festival was recognized in 2020, for the sixth year in a row, as a Festivals & Events Ontario (FEO) Top-100 event. Some 1,200 hours of volunteer time supported the event. Summer Thursdays in Fonthill’s Peace Park, with local produce and goods available at the Farmers’ Market, plus the Supper Market and music, have been added to the attractions. On Summerfest Thursday, at 7:30 PM, the Fonthill Bandshell will be rocking to the sounds of Simply the Best: a Tina Turner Tribute, to kick things off. The free Kid Zone, always popular with the younger crowd on the Saturday and Sunday, has been expanded for Summerfest, and the festival will feature the first appearance of a new roadshow
Players get their rocks off at a street curling attraction at a Brooklyn, NY street fair. highlighting the sport of curling, through a “street curling” activity which should have broad appeal. Kid Zone entertainment includes returning favourites such as the Mad Science Fun Station, stilt walker Shaun Ferguson, the high-velocity Pelham Fire firehose, and numerous inflatables. Several acts are new this year. The Strong Water Singers, a collective of Indigenous and non-Indigenous women from across Niagara, use drumming and singing
as a means of achieving wellness, strength, and unity. The group calls the Fort Erie Native friendship centre home. Another new act is Djoléï Justine Gogoua, the founder and former artistic director of the group Arts Bassan. Gogoua has toured the country combining song, dance, theatre, storytelling, humour, spoken word, and African drumming in her performances. Originally from the Ivory Coast, she has lived in Canada for 27
SUPPLIED
years and is now in North Bay with her family. Kids will delight to the Cascade Festival Supersized Puppet Show, featuring larger-than-life performing puppets. Peter Mennie is a family-friendly comedian and magician who has been amazing people and making them laugh for some three decades, say organizers. His show is a blend of comedy, illusion, audience interaction, and music.
Four
Scoop McCoy is another magician familiar to many in Pelham, and will bring his high-energy act with plenty of audience participation. Interactive street curling demonstrations will take place on Pelham Street, courtesy of Curling Ontario, which is running a summer long-program, travelling from community to community every weekend to create greater awareness of the sport. The Welland Curling Club has partnered with curling clubs in St. Catharines and Niagara Falls to bring the roadshow’s 40-foot long rink to Summerfest on the Friday and Saturday. Matt Botden is the board president at the Welland Curling Club, and one of the organizers of the effort to bring street curling to Summerfest. “It’s a no-ice curling system developed by a company called Rock Solid Productions,” said Botden. “Our provincial association has bought two of these units, which are seven feet wide and 25 feet long. Over the years, Summerfest has done a wonderful job on the Kid Zone, and the street curling adds an appeal for teenagers and young adults.” University students proficient in curling provide instruction. “Curling is a big deal in Canada, and places like Scotland, Switzerland, and in Scandinavian countries,” said Botden. “To be an Olympic sport, you need to have a broad base of countries competing. Rock Solid, which promotes curling worldwide, has made it one of their goals to educate the masses about the sport, even taking the game to beaches in Rio de Janeiro.”
Free Family Days July 14 - 17, 2022 "Chill on the Hill"
KID ZONE! Sat & Sun in Peace Park! Don't miss the amazing inflatables and bouncy castles on Saturday and Sunday! Saturday also features: Mad Science Magic Shows by Peter Mennie Giant Puppet Show Drumming Demonstrations Children's roaming entertainers
Discover the award-winning festival in downtown Fonthill! Thank you to the Pelham Summerfest Sunshine Sponsor! www.pelhamsummerfest.ca
Page 10
The Voice
A June 22 2022
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
New Business FOCUS
The novelist behind Global Pet Foods From detectives to doggies, John McFetridge writes new future with his Fonthill store BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor “Look at this,” said Global Pet Foods owner John McFetridge, holding up a packet of dog treats. “Lobster. Some pets enjoy lobster more often than their owners.” McFetridge opened his 2000-square-foot store in March, and has been pleased with the business coming through the doors. He stocks primarily dog and cat products, but does have some “bird and fish stuff, and food for rabbits and guinea pigs,” he said. “I think there's enough room for all the pet stores that are here in Pelham,” he said. “The market’s growing, and big enough for everybody. I also tend to stock a lot of brands that are from smaller, independent Canadian companies, and we’re price-competitive.” Special orders of unique products are also easily arranged. Pet food is a second career for McFetridge. He has been in the book business for years, and has written
a series of detective novels. He also wrote for television, including a show called Real Detectives, and a police drama for CTV called The Bridge. “I worked at a series of crappy jobs across the country in my youth,” said McFetridge. “Then I went back to my hometown, Montreal, to attend Concordia University when I was 25, and studied English. At that point, I really wanted to be a writer, though I did work at other jobs. I was with the Association for Community Living, did some stints in group homes while I was in school, and worked in Burlington with ARC Industries after I graduated.” He and his wife, an engineer, moved their family from the Beaches in Toronto to St. Catharines about four years ago, just as their sons were finishing high school. “It looked like a great place,” he said. “So we moved to Niagara, and one of my sons has joined me in the pet
John McFetridge in his pet food store at 160 Highway 20 East, near the new Starbucks, in Fonthill. food operation.” McFetridge has always had an affinity for animals, dogs in particular. While writing novels, he was also volunteering for an organization that did animal rescues. He knows how pets are an integral component of family life for many people. “I would take my dog, Luke, for a long walk in the afternoon, after writing all morning,” he said. “I would work out plot points and characters for my novels during the walks, and always used to joke with people that Luke was my co-writer. Sometimes I would tell Luke
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ideas while we're at the dog park, and he would look at me as if to say ‘That's not going to work.’ I guess I just came to the realization that it would be kind of neat to do some sort of work with pets full-time, and started to investigate the possibilities.” McFetridge met with corporate reps at Global Pet Foods, and decided to purchase a franchise. “The folks at Global actually suggested Fonthill to us as a store site,” he said. There are two Global locations in St. Catharines, and one in Niagara Falls. “It’s funny, but the pet food
business in a way kind of reminds me of the book business from 20 years ago,” said McFetridge. “That was when Amazon started selling books online, and Chapters and Indigo started selling books in big-box stores. That really devastated the small independent book stores for quite a while. But now we are seeing small bookstores opening up again, and a movement to buying local with personalized service. Same with the pet food industry.” McFetridge looks forward to conversing with his customers about their pets. “Obviously, I like stories,
DON RICKERS
and a really enjoyable part of this job is listening to customers tell their personal and amusing anecdotes about their dogs and cats. Sometimes the stories focus on a digestive problem, or some quirky behaviour." Global Pet Foods is located at 160 Highway 20 East in Fonthill, and is open seven days a week (Monday to Friday 10 AM - 7 PM, Saturday 10 AM - 6 PM, and Sunday 12 PM - 5 PM). The phone number is 905-892-1021. McFetridge runs a Senior's Day Special the last Tuesday of every month, with 15 percent off.
CEL EBR AT ING Y E A RS
HAPPY CANADA DAY! Special holiday hours:
Closed Friday and Saturday, July 1 and 2. Reopen Tuesday, July 5 11 Highway 20 West, Fonthill (905) 892-9466 Hours: Tues-Fri, 8-2; Sat, 9-2 www.indulgencebakeryfonthill.com
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
The Voice
Page 11
A June 22 2022
Fonthill Rotary fundraising for Arches II T-shirts, flag available for Canada Day in effort to see iconic attraction rebuilt BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor Fundraising during the pandemic was arduous work, and it’s been no picnic in the post-pandemic period either. But that has not deterred the Fonthill Rotary Club in its effort to rebuild the iconic Fonthill arches in time for summer events. Frank Adamson, the local Rotarian leading the Summerfest Committee, has committed countless hours to seeing new arches grace the vicinity of Town Square and Pelham Street. The latest fundraising items are Canada Day lawn signs at $20, and T-shirts with Canada Day and Raise the Arches themes, available at $25. “At this point, we're shy around $25,000 of the $175,000 budgeted for the project,” said Adamson. “We figure the lawn signs and T-shirts should bring in around $5,000.” “As far as the steel fabrication for the new arches is concerned, the steel is right now being hotdip galvanized so it won’t rust. The structure itself is complete. The main issue is coordination with the company that's going to install the helical piles for the support columns, drilling and screwing them seven feet into the ground. All the construction trades are just crazy busy. We need a crane to get the steel up, and other specialists for the concrete bases.”
GGS in Vineland, located near the QEW and Victoria Avenue, is the Niagara company doing the fabrication work. Sadly, it is unlikely that the new arches will be in place for Summerfest. Adamson said that the intent now is to have the arches in place for the Canada Summer Games in August. Paul Snack chairs the fundraising committee for the local Rotarians, and is working closely with Adamson on the Raise the Arches project. Fonthill Rotary has an array of fundraising ventures, including the Family FunFest which happened last Saturday at Bissell’s Hideaway, and drew a crowd of some 1500, a significant increase over the previous year. “We partnered this year with students at E. L. Crossley to promote the Family FunFest event,” said Snack. “One of our strategies at Rotary is to work with youth, so we joined forces with a class at Crossley, where they were required to work on a real-world business project. We've been meeting with them every week over the last number of months. One of our Rotarians, Janet Cripps, is a teacher at Crossley, and has been our lead on the school’s end. It’s turned out to be a lot of fun, getting the kids engaged. They’ve been great salespeople, giving sales presentations and raising awareness at
111 Hwy 20 East FONTHILL
Fundraising chair Paul Snack, left, and Rotary Summerfest lead Frank Adamson. local elementary schools.” Key contributors to the arches project include Lucchetta Homes, Willowbrook Nurseries, and Zavcor Trucking, but countless smaller donations have come in from local businesses and individual residents of Pelham (including the Voice). Pelham Town Council has committed $30,000 towards the construction of the arches in the form of a bridge loan, and the Summerfest Committee is putting up $10,000 for the cause. Niagara’s organizing committee for the Canada Summer Games is providing $10,000 for shade sails on the arches, and updated, high-efficiency lighting will come via a
grant from Niagara Region. A cycling event — part of the Canada Summer Games — to take place in Pelham the second week of August, will have its start and finish at the arches. A post-event party under the structure, with beer sales and entertainment, will be another fundraiser. The previous arches, intended for only one season’s use in 2012, lasted six years, and received a Niagara Community Design Award. They were comprised primarily of plywood, and blew down in a windstorm in February 2019 after having been damaged by a motor vehicle. The new steel and concrete arches should have a lifespan of 50 to 100 years say proponents.
DON RICKERS
Pelham Council previously accepted a plan to modify the original design to three sets of centred arches, included moving the arches 16 feet in from Pelham Street and 16 feet in on Pelham Town Square, west of the Town municipal building. Both Fire Chief Bob Lymburner and Director of Public Works Jason Marr were supportive of this redesign, which will allow unobstructed turning for large trucks such as Pelham Fire’s aerial ladder truck. Contributions to the Raise the Arches project are still actively solicited. Queries can be directed to Frank Adamson at 905-892-0200, or by email at fadamson@vaxxine. com
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Page 12
The Voice
A June 22 2022
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
Beverley Parker stands in front of the bare-bones fuselage. Right, a design schematic. DON RICKERS
COLUMN SIX
continued from Page 1 is never too old to fantasize, so when I received a call describing a home-built plane in Fonthill that needed a new home, I was quick to scamper over to Cynthia Court to meet with Beverley Parker, who was eager to have the fledgling bird moved from her garage. At this point, I should mention that the aircraft is, shall we say, incomplete. Unassembled. Less than 20 percent built, by my estimation. The slender fuselage rests as a skeleton on the garage floor, beside the 200 horsepower,
four-cylinder Honda Integra engine that was meant to power it. Rolls of sheet aluminum are strewn here and there, along with boxes of rivets — thousands of them — that will need to be stamped into the airframe, affixing the metal skin to the trusses that add structural stiffness. I saw no wing assemblies, but Beverley assured me that they were safely stowed in the basement. The plane belonged to Beverley’s late husband, Harry Menian, who died of leukemia in March, age 72. Harry was an engineer with a creative, entrepreneurial streak. He designed, built, and sold Tig-
ershark sports boats out of an industrial plaza on Highway 20 years ago, through a company called Pace Marine. He was also Vice President of Operations at Fleet Aerospace, which was once headquartered in Ft. Erie, and flew a prop-driven, single engine Mooney light aircraft of his own. “The Mooney was a fast plane,” said Beverley. “Harry used to refer to it as his sports car. He’d fly it to Chicago on business, and I would drive over to the airport in Buffalo to pick him up.” Harry had drawn up plans to construct a home-built plane of his own design, classified as an exper-
imental aircraft, and set to work in his garage. He called it “Spirit of Niagara,” and intended to make it unique from other monoplanes. To start with, the design called for folding wings, reminiscent of the Chance-Vought F4U Corsair fighter aircraft of World War II fame. The plane would have retractable, not fixed, landing gear, and a heads-up display, or HUD, which projects instrument readings onto the cockpit windshield. The Honda engine would power a thrust blower rather than a propeller, a type of jet propulsion system. The plane would also be amphibious, capable of water landings.
With an estimated top speed of 289 miles per hour, the 1500pound craft would cruise at 205 mph, and have a 1200 mile range. It would have tandem seating for two, with the pilot in front, and the passenger tightly packed behind in the tapered fuselage. Surveying the bare bones of the craft in the garage, Beverley pointed to hundreds of rivet holes in the frame, awaiting fasteners. “Harry hand-drilled every single one himself,” she said. “He even made his own tools sometimes. He was an engineer, and that’s what See COLUMN SIX Page 16
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The Voice
Page 13
A June 22 2022
Lock up those Toyota Highlanders BY VOICE STAFF A Japanese SUV appears to be high on the wish list of Niagara car thieves. Constable Phil Gavin of the Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) media relations department issued a news release late last week indicating that officers from the Welland and Pelham division are investigating multiple thefts of Toyota Highlanders in the two municipalities, stolen over a 24hour period last Thursday and Friday. In some cases, the vehicles were left locked, with the electronic key and fob (which controls the remote access system) secured in the owner’s residence. To deter theft, Gavin suggested that
the public should consider placing a personalized GPS tracker in their vehicle, and strategically park the vehicle in a secure garage, or outdoors in a well-lit, busy area with video camera surveillance. Toyota’s corporate communications department suggests a few ways to deter theft. The use of a “blocking pouch,” which prevents remote access to the key fob, is one. The fob's radio frequency is isolated, and transmission of the frequency is prevented thanks to the pouch's metallic lining. These inexpensive pouches are readily available commercially. Manually turning off the keyless entry feature on the vehicle’s on-
board computer eliminates the ability of thieves to intercept the signal, says Toyota. Installing a steering wheel lock is a low-tech way to hamper thieves, as is a vehicle wheel clamp. Gavin said that anyone with information about these thefts should contact 3 District detectives at 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009221. Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously may contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online at www.crimestoppersniagara.ca, or by calling 1-800222-8477. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information which leads to an arrest.
Michael Bond trial set for September BY DON RICKERS Contributing News Editor Former Pelham resident Michael Bond, 53, appeared via Zoom in a Welland courtroom last Wednesday morning, to address charges against him dating back to November 30, 2019. Bond was behind the
BOOMS
continued from Page 7 cer accompanied the complainant into the wooded area to where they believed the sound came from. No evidence of gun shots was found. NRPS did not receive any other calls reporting the sound of gunshots.”
wheel of a vehicle which struck and killed a 66-yearold Ridgeville woman walking along Effingham Street. Bond is charged under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act with careless driving causing death, driving while under suspension, driving with no valid vehicle license, and operating an
unsafe vehicle. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Bond has been provided with a legal aid lawyer from Toronto to handle the most serious charge, careless driving causing death. The matter has a trial date of September 20 to 22. The accused has assert-
ed that the pedestrian stumbled into the path of his vehicle. However, police have reported that visibility was clear and road conditions were excellent, there was no oncoming traffic, and the accident occurred on a straight section of roadway. On the lesser charges,
One Facebook user posted a photo of empty fireworks boxes found at the softball diamond at Harold Black Park. So, how do you tell the difference between firearms and firecrackers? Experts say that gunshots are very crisp, and they have a certain timing or cadence.
Fireworks are loud, just like gunfire, but they are sporadic, often with a lot of crackling. Sometimes they echo and whistle. Fireworks are usually followed by smoke; gunshots are not, since modern bullets use smokeless powder. If you are unsure if what you hear are gunshots or
fireworks, call 9-1-1 and let the police investigate. In big American cities, where shootings are often an everyday occurrence, a new technology is assisting police identify the location of gunfire and respond quickly. ShotSpotter is a software program that uses sensors located around the city that
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RAIDERS VICTORY The weekend of June 11 and 12, the Under 11 Pelham Raiders competed in the Stayner Hitmen Spring Showdown Lacrosse Tournament. The team was coming off a strong second place finish in the Six Nations Tournament from the previous weekend. The Raiders were undefeated during the weekend tourney, with a 3-0-1 record. They faced the Guelph Regals, who were also undefeated, in the final game, with the Raiders coming out on top with a 7-2 victory. “With lacrosse essentially shut down the past couple years due to Covid, and so many boys new to the game, it was a real tribute to their hard work, and also the dedication of the coaches and trainers, led by head coach Michelle MacKellar,” said team manager Bill Crumm. SUPPLIED Bond told the court that he has no funds to pay for lawyers, and accordingly plans to provide his own representation. He currently lives in a hostel in Toronto.
Bond was instructed by the court to get in touch with Crown prosecutor Marie Strub to deal with the lesser charges, and would appear back in court on October 18 to address them.
detect ballistic sounds, aided by GPS technology to track its exact location. Police dispatch centres are alerted within 60 seconds. By getting an exact location soon after shots are fired, police are able to assist victims faster and begin their search for a suspect immediately.
The system is so sophisticated that it can distinguish between fi reworks and gunshots, and can even identify the calibre of the gun fi red. According to ShotSpotter's website, this technology is already in use in some 90 cities, including Miami and Chicago.
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Page 14
The Voice
A June 22 2022
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
ANOTHER ROUND
by John Piccolo
"If you take away our charitable tax breaks, then we won't donate to charity anymore"
Debating the Saudi LIV? Don't forget the hypocrisy
I
f you have any interest in professional golf or follow the news at all you have heard about the arrival of a rival golf circuit to compete with the PGA Tour. The controversy comes from the fact LIV Golf (the “LIV” stands for 54 in Roman numerals, which is the dream score of birdieing every hole of a standard 18 hole course; it’s also the number of holes to be played in their events, as opposed to the 72 on the PGA Tour) is sponsored by and funded for the most part by the government of Saudi Arabia. You know—the country that’s not big on the human rights thing, especially if you happen to be a woman or generally unfortunate enough to be born in any configuration that is not heterosexual male. Also if you are fortunate enough to be born a heterosexual male, but you happen to have an opinion that differs somewhat from the ruling
family’s in any significant way you may be invited to a public execution with a front row seat. No trucker convoys in Saudi land. On one side you have people calling everyone involved, from the leader, Greg Norman, to the players who have accepted the very large amount of guaranteed cash, a lot of things I cannot reprint in a family publication. Dustin Johnson and Phil Mickelson have taken the brunt of the criticism, as they are the two biggest names involved in the defection, and in Johnson’s he jumped ship after stating a few months back he was not interested. Mickelson, for his part, was dumb enough to state publicly he knew he was getting involved with some mean “motherf*****s,” but thought it was a way to leverage more money out of the PGA Tour. The other side, which seems to comprise a much
ZONING
continued from Page 7 change emergency. The bylaw further states, “The bylaw implements and conforms to the policies of the Town of Pelham.” I asked, how does this bylaw implement and conform to the 2021 Corporate Climate Change Adaptation Plan devised by the Town just a year ago now? Has the zoning bylaw been vetted within context of this comprehensive plan (at 100 pages long)? The fancy words and lofty aspirations need to be translated into action— we are at a “sink or swim moment”! I emphasize that given the climate predicament we are collectively in, should not all of Pelham’s policies and bylaws going forward be viewed through
smaller, less vocal contingent that might fit into a VW Bug, feels business is business and competition is good for everyone involved. I have discussed this situation with a number of people on both sides and I border on indifference to maybe siding with people who I don’t like very much as individuals. Never been a fan of Phil. Always thought him to be an arrogant, entitled phony who turned on and off the charm as the situation dictated. Dustin Johnson seems affable enough. Incredibly talented but seems about as deep as the new splash pads in town. Why side with them, then? If you start scratching the surface of all the organizations that run sporting events around the world, if you start looking into the backgrounds of all the owners and sponsors of these teams, events, and leagues, and disqualify them based
the lens of our having to mitigate and adapt to this climate change crisis. I drew council’s attention to the Region of Niagara’s September 15, 2021 Climate Change Emergency motion first passed by the Planning and Economic Committee of the Region and then endorsed by Regional Council, which declares we are in an emergency situation. This motion repeatedly focussed on the issues of mitigation and adaptation related to climate change. A Regional Climate Change Summit was to be convened to evaluate best practices and to coordinate climate action. That summit will be occurring at the end of June. I advised council that this zoning bylaw needs to be evaluated within the context of the outcomes of
Serving the Niagara Region
"Sure, Phil, no problemo. The deposit booth is just beyond the dismembered remains of another pesky journalist. Sorry about the blood. You can leave your soul there anytime before 9 PM." BIGSTOCK on morality, what have you got left? Not a hell of a lot. I would love sports to be only a force of good, and not have any negative connections or connotations, but that is not the world we live in. The very tour and the big-name players who have raised the biggest stink are among the biggest hypo-
that Climate Change Summit. Until the analysis is concluded and subsequent recommendations are known as arising from this summit, it is unknown if this zoning bylaw will meet the test of “best practice.” If we are to have a “liveable community,” to be concerned about “public health” and for the “well being” of the citizens of Pelham, might one not expect to see some reference in this bylaw to our natural heritage, to wildlife, to a tree! Over the course of the 215 pages I was hard pressed to find mention of trees, woodlands, wetlands, and wildlife. This zoning bylaw deals extensively with urban development, from A to Z. Well, it almost does! Yet, no mention is made concern-
crites of all. The PGA Tour is run as a non-profit organization, which means it and its donors/sponsors get huge tax breaks (subsidies, really) from the government of the United States. How many people or corporations would pony up thousands or millions of dollars each week to play in the pro-ams
ing the practise of LID (Low Impact Development). This is a more and more widely utilized development strategy deployed for mitigating flooding, for water retention (when we’re in a drought), and much more than this. I am aware this concept has been discussed previously at council. It should be a standard of “best practice” in any development project. LID needs to be integrated into our bylaws. Presently, the Planning Department’s Pre-Consultation Development document contains numerous boxes to be ticked by the would-be developer, including taking a tree inventory and developing a tree preservation plan. Yet, when all is said and done, these are simply boxes to be ticked. Nice in theory, but meaningless in practice. There
or sponsor tournaments if they didn’t get a tax receipt? We will not find out anytime soon because every time a politician or reporter digs into the issue, the tour fires up the private jets and gets Jack Nicklaus or another big name supporter to fly into Washington and start wining/wh in ing-and-din ing any rebel representatives with an invitation to stop by and enjoy a round of golf any time they find themselves in the ‘hood. Also, “You wouldn’t want to see all those donations to children’s hospitals disappear would you?” I love this threat from the very rich. “If you take away our charitable tax breaks than See HYPOCRISY Page 7
is no requirement nor enforcement that ensures the developer actually has to follow through on this, nor is there a standardized tree replanting/tree planting plan. We have been told it is all negotiable. Yet, we consistently see whole forests clear cut and subsequent tree planting that is wholly inadequate (and which will not in a 100 years replace the carbon capture from the old growth trees, let alone protect us from flooding, provide us shade and temperature relief during heat waves, let alone bring us joy from witnessing the magnificence of something so huge that grew from a single nut). While preserving standing trees should be a priority for any development, See ZONING next page
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ZONING
continued from previous page we know this may not always be possible. We request that the developer replace cut trees on the same sizescale basis that the Town itself is subject to (as per the Town’s Tree Maintenance Policy). We need more trees— not fewer! And on the subject of trees, while this zoning bylaw regulates everything from the placement and height of a fence, to garage sales, etc., as occur on private property, there is nothing stated regarding regulating trees on private property. Surely a tree deserves as much consideration as a parking spot or a fence! What does this say in terms of our priorities if a garage sale is considered more important than the life of a tree? If as Town Planning contends that a private property tree bylaw cannot be integrated in this zoning bylaw, then clearly we need another bylaw option. The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake (arguably one of the most magnificently treed and beautiful towns in all of Ontario), has had such a bylaw in place for some years (as do many other municipalities in Ontario). Clearly it can be done. The only question is: is there the political will (and leadership) to get it done? As Town Council is well aware, the Niagara Region is in the throes of finaliz-
RUNAROUND
continued from Page 5 to Welland on a whim and that they needed another solution. At that point the line disconnected. No one called me back. I understand it could have been an accident but I also get why a call taker might give up and hang up when they have no solution to the call. I was getting concerned because in the Quarantine Act we see not too subtle
The Voice ing their new Official Plan. A particular concern of PATH’s regarding this plan is the issue of how the Natural Heritage 3C designation (as governs how the natural environment is to be protected within and between municipalities), will be implemented. The 3C policy could potentially have significant implications for future development, this as attempts are made to preserve the last vestiges of our natural heritage. Until the 3C policy is fully documented and clearly understood, we believe this new zoning bylaw should not be approved by council. After all, it’s been 35 years. What’s the rush! To conclude, we at PATH counsel that everything we do as a society needs to be viewed through the lens of this Climate Change Emergency. Going forward we must become laser-focussed in planning actions consistent with the “best practices” of mitigation and adaptation available to us. The trees, the wetlands, farmland, and green spaces, along with the will to act, are all vital contributors to the resiliency that will be required to cope with coming floods, heat waves, and who knows what else which will unfortunately but surely visit our community in the days ahead. Graham Pett Pelham Advocates for Trees and Habitat (PATH) Fonthill
threats about incredibly high fines for non-compliance and I wondered if I could or would be charged with non-compliance. Again, I called the Public Health Agency of Canada. This time I spoke with someone I would call a gentleman. He listened and then he gave me the call number (100 122 9671, if anyone at enforcement is reading this) and pointed out that I had completed a test. If a new test was required, so be it,
Page 15
A June 22 2022
OBITUARY
OBITUARY
John Keith Haverkamp
GALBRAITH, Betty
John K. Haverkamp, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 11, 2022, in his 78th year. John will be deeply missed by his best friend and loving partner, Margaret. John was an irreplaceable and dear father of John Ashley Haverkamp and “Poppy” to his loving dog Zito. John is predeceased by his parents, Johanna and Jan, and his brother Keith. Treasured by his extended family, Dennis, Sandy, Debbie, Jim, Valerie, Cathy and Pete. Blessed with eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren. John’s working life revolved around the paper mill. John was happiest at home outdoors chopping wood and planning his next travel adventure with Marg. Private cremation has taken place and a Celebration of John’s Life will be held at a later date. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Lampman Funeral Home, Fenwick, Ontario.
Theisen-Adams, Chris Faris, Tyler Faris, the late Kayden Adams, Devon Adams, Emmett Faris, Mckenzie Gellert, Claire Minderlein and Charlotte Grieve. Betty is predeceased by her parents Ethel (nee Barry) and Harold Hornibrook as well as her siblings Orville (Isabelle), Bertha (Ed) O’Dell, Hazel (Earl) Bilodeau, Keith (Donna), Margaret (Ron) Pyle, Greta (Art) Yemm, and Norma (survived by Wesley) Beamish. Betty is also predeceased by her cousin Francis Docker. Betty will be missed by her sister-in-law Joan Galbraith, and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Betty’s family would like to acknowledge and thank the staff of Holland Christian Homes Grace Manor, for their extraordinary care over the past five years. A special thank you to Betty’s caregiver and companion Rajpreet Kaur (from Home Instead) for her years of compassion and kindness. We will be forever grateful for our mother’s great example of love, faith and respect for all! Memorial donations in lieu of flowers, to the Toronto Hospital for Sick Children or the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada would be greatly appreciated. Betty’s family will receive visitors at PLEASANTVIEW FUNERAL HOME 2000 Merrittville Highway (off the corner of highway 20) on Monday, June 20, 2022 from 12:30-2:30 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held in the chapel on Monday, June 20, 2022 at 2:30 p.m. Interment at a later date. Please share your condolences, memories and photos at www. pleasantviewcemetery.ca
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Betty Nellie Jean Galbraith (nee Hornibrook) on June 12, 2022 at the age of 97. Betty has gone to join her loving husband Harold (1990). Originally from Dunnville, Ontario, Betty resided for 57 years in her home on Port Robinson Road in Fonthill, Ontario. Betty was a dedicated mother to four daughters. A life-long learner, Betty was a whiz at math, checkers, crosswords, she was next to impossible to beat at chess, and was an avid Monopoly player with her grandchildren. Betty’s grandchildren enjoyed outings to Fort Erie race track where they gained an appreciation for the beauty and amazement of horses. Having learned to swim later in life, Betty made sure all of her children and grandchildren became expert swimmers, starting as toddlers in her backyard pool. Betty instilled within her family a respect for community, enthusiasm for nature, home gardening (with some of the best raspberries in town), and was ahead of her times on environment issues. Cherished mother to Susan (the late Gary) Moskalyk, Patricia Galbraith (John Adams), Elizabeth (Brett) Glanfield, and Dawn (Thomas) Gellert. Devoted Grandma “with the pool” to Stephanie (Craig) Faris, the late Michael Moskalyk, Julie Adams, Alexis Adams, Eric Gellert (Erin Pidgeon), Ashley Gellert, Dustin Adams, Brooks Adams, Jennifer (Jason) Minderlein, Chantelle Gellert, Christine Glanfield (Tom Grieve) and Alexander Gellert (Sophia Fazari). Loving Great-Grandma to Cody
but between the recorded test I had done on the telephone with the Lifelabs employee, my previous recorded calls to the Public Health Agency of Canada, and this current recorded call, I had shown that I had done my utmost to comply. He ended by suggesting I call Lifelabs one last time and ask that I be re-tested but this time at a lab, and that they keep the test and process it. Ignoring the time I spent upon returning to my res-
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JUNE 22 Mom & Baby Fitness 9:30 – 10:30 AM Pickleball 10:30 – 1:30 PM 7-12 Stick & Puck 2:30 – 3:20 pm Drop-In Family Gym 4 – 5:30 PM Hatha Yoga 6:30 – 7:30 PM JUNE 23 Pickleball 8:30 – NOON Parent & Preschool Skate 9:30 – 10:20 AM Chair Yoga 11:15 – 12:15 PM Adult Only Skate 1 – 1:50 PM Adult Learn to Skate 2 – 2:50 PM
The Voice 22 2022 DE TEMPS ANTAN www.thevoiceofpelham.ca Yard & A June FONTHILL BANDSHELL PRESENTS Burke’s Masonry SALE, Since 2003, Éric Beaudry, André Brunet and Pierre-Luc Dupuis have PLACE YOUR AD BY EMAIL OR PHONE tuckpointing, of Chri been exploring and performing time-honoured melodies from the stomp- Bricklaying, office@thevoiceofpelham.ca Hours: Mon-Th urs, 8 AM 2 PM (905) 892-8690 decorat step repair, granite ing grounds of Quebec’s musical past. Using fiddle, accordion, harmonica, coatings, brick slices items, S guitar, bouzouki and a number of other instruments, our three virtuosos 1PM 6 905-682-7061. blend boundless energy with the unmistakable joieREPAIR de vivre found only in MASONRY FLOORINGP18-28 NORTH PUPPIES traditional Quebec music. Show runs from 7-9 p.m. ALLTYPE MASONRY
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Goldendoodle Puppies for sale. Brick, Block, Stone and Chimney repairs. Ready for rehoming by June 26, Wet and damaged basement repairs. 2022. Mother is a LIBRARY calm, loving CARD MAKING PELHAM WORKSHOP Phone Tom Deamude at 289-241-4767. purebred Retriever and father is 35 years of experience. Materials Make six cards a construction variety of techniques. a purebred Poodle. with fall themes, learning Call/text Jeff at 289 686-2307. are provided. At time of registration, please enquire about tools needed.
ESTATEahead. SALEVisit www.pelhamTues., Sept. 16 10 – 12:30. $10. Please register library.on.ca or call 905-892-6443 for more ESTATE details.SALE Everything must go, lots of tools, antiques, housewares and so much
(openFISH to offers). Friday, June 24, 12 – 5 pm; Saturday, June 25, FABULOUS FENWICK more LIONS FRY 8 am-1pm, Chestnut Fonthill. Haddock, Tasty treats with funds heading straight back12 into theStreet, community. french fries and much more. Runs Sept. 9 from 4-7 p.m.
3
Attention!
Routes PELHAM MINOR HOCKEYPaper EQUIPMENT SALE Buy, sell or trade used equipment at the Pelham Arena. Aimed to provide Available in Great for students, children, cheaper options for players in this upcoming season. Runs Sept. 6 from Community Centre adults, seniors, and everyone who FONTHILL 9-12 in the morning. likes fresh air and exercise.
Ticket Ice 3 – 3:50 PM Yogalates 5:30 – 6:30 PM
JUNE 24 Pickleball 9 – NOON Men’s Shinny 9 – 9:50 AM Men’s 60+ Shinny 10 – 10:50 AM Drop-In Volleyball 10:30 – 1:00 PM Pickleball 6 – 10:00 PM Public Skating 7:30 – 9:20 PM JUNE 26 Public Skating 1 – 2:20 PM JUNE 27 60+ Stick and Puck
10 – 10:50 AM ROUTE 14 – DAMUDE DR, Pickleball ORCHARD PL, BRUCE WOOD Call (905) 892-8690 PELHAM 12:30 – 3:30MUDFEST PM CRT, OAK LANE, TERRACE Adult MenOnly andSkate women will be back in the as OF the second run on the year is HEIGHTS, ANDmud PORTION 2:30 – 3:20 PM HAIST ST – 80 HOMES at Bissil’s Hideaway. Momheld Fitness 7 – 8 PM ROUTE 23 – LINE, MERWomen’s Shinny RITT, STEFLAR, MARYLEA, 7 – 8:20 PM NIAGARA REGIONAL EXHIBITION BROOKFIELD, BACON LANEPickleball 8 – 10:30 PM 142 HOMES Men’s Shinny Rodeo, games and live entertainment headline this years exciting event. It 8:30 – 9:50 PM ROUTE 40 – VINEMOUNT, runs from Sept. 11-14 at the Welland Fairgrounds. CANBORO TOWNHOUSES,
PAPER ROUTES AVAILABLE
HAIST CRT, AND PORTION OF JUNE 28 Pickleball 9 – NOON BIG MOVE CANCER RIDE HAIST ST - 94 HOMES Zumba 9:30 – 10:30 AM The BigYoga Move Cancer Ride is a non-competitive ride taking place on Sept. Chair 11:15 – 12:15 PM 7. Proceeds for the Big Move stay in Niagara and support the Walker FamDrop-In Volleyball ily Cancer 12:15 – 2:15 Centre. PM Parent & Preschool The initial cut, occurThe mowing program Skate 1– 1:50 PM ring over the next three addresses the tall grasses WALKING CLUB
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Phone: 905-892-7898 Fax: 905-892-4811
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Pelham roadside mowing continues
weeks, weather permitting,
that grow along roadsides,
mowing also assists in improving road drainage and sight lines for the travelling PELHAM CARES public.
boundaries are also maintained through this program, such as the ditch on Pelham Street.
Interested in walking in mows Pelham? themtoTuesdays at the Pelham Arena from Join the road the mostly in front of agriculbottom of the ditch in rutural properties and natfrom 9-10 am and Thursdays at Fonthill Bandshell for 9-10:30 am. There ral areas. The cut assists in uralized areas outside the is no fee for this program. For more pleaseboundaries. contact jcook@ controlling weeds,information, ticks and urban A few other invasive species. The locations inside the urban pelham.ca or call 905 892-2607, ext 329. HAMPER DAY FOR 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.
The service is completed through a contractor who operates the equipment required to cut the steep slopes of roadside ditches. The current operating budget for the program allows for two cuts annually. Drivers are asked to take extra caution when near the equipment, and pedestrians should stay well back.
COLUMN SIX
COMMUNITY Events
The couple moved to Fonthill in 1985. Their kids are grown and relocated to Long Branch (Toronto) and Sturgeon Falls. Beverley said that Harry designed the amhe loved to do. His first university degree phibious airplane with intentions of flying it was actually in naval architecture, and Harto their cottage in North Bay. ry designed yachts and icebreakers, and othEvent Submissions Standards “He didn't like driving north, and getting er ships. The Tigershark boats were handstuck in traffic on Highway 400,” she said. If your organization is hosting an event that would be of interest to the community, built by Harry in fiberglass. He sold six of If you have read this far, it’s possible you them, but then the economy tanked in the you may submit an events profile by sending your community events information to are interested in making this flying dream late 1980s, and sales went stagnant.” editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca Some restrictions apply. Event submissions that meet your own, right? So the next question you’re Waste management was another field that thinking is, how much? the acceptability standardsHarry of The VoiceinofforPelham delved a while.will then be posted until the date I'm not sure what it’s worth,” said Bev“He didn't particularly like that kind of of your event. The Community Events Calendar is updated weekly. Please provide erley. “I haven’t had it appraised. I'm just work, but it could be very lucrative,” she said. as much notice and information as possible including the date, time andtrying description to find it a good home, with someone Horseback riding was another of Harry’s who will appreciate it, like Harry did.” of your event. The Voice ofinterests, Pelhamsaid reserves the right to edit for space. Beverley. Send your inquiries to bevparker15@ “He was a doer. He loved keeping busy,” gmail.com ◆ she said. continued from page 12
ANNUAL GIVEAWAY Lots of clothes, household items, books, knick-knacks, jigsaw puzzles, and various other items. Everything is free but donations for the Ukrainian Relief Fund are gratefully accepted.
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The Voice
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A June 22 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
FAITH LIFT
continued from Page 19 the Ninevites rejoiced, and Jonah sulked (oh well, two out of three ain’t bad!).
Enter Nahum
Most people don’t know anything about this Old Testament prophet. His short book comes two books after Jonah’s. Interestingly, his message also relates to Nineveh. His name also starts with “N” which helps me connect the two (the names “Jonah” and “Jerk” also start with the same letter but I won’t go there). Nahum lived in the 8th century BC about 150 years after Jonah. Like Jonah, God gave him a message for Nineveh. Unlike Jonah, he didn’t run the other way. He faithfully delivered the message — “Woe to the city of blood, full of lies, full of plunder, never without victims!... I am against you,
declares the Lord almighty.” (Nahum 3:1,5) Sound familiar? Unfortunately, after its citywide revival and spiritual awakening a few generations before, Nineveh had slid back into its old, evil ways. And (unfortunately), this time it did not repent. God fulfilled his promise of judgment and it was destroyed. Sad ending: God is grieved, the Ninevites suffer, and we’re not told how Nahum reacted.
Bottom line?
The lesson from Nineveh is pretty clear. Down through history, people (and peoples) have had a choice to make. Follow God and be blessed or reject God and be judged. “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD” (Psalm 33:12). I wonder which way Canadians will choose? ◆ Rob Weatherby is a retired pastor.
BALANCED LIFE
continued from Page 18 of water, and wash my face, neck and ears. You need your priorities right —sparkling facial skin isn't what you sit on to ride all day. I then quickly re-clean my face, neck and ears with a fresh baby wipe, and apply Gold Bond moisturizer top and bottom in no particular order. Next I use a cup of water and a dab of multipurpose hair shampoo to wash my short's chamois, rinse them liberally with a couple tablespoons of my bottled water, and hang them on my tent poles to dry. Jersey, socks, and the neck-thing are cleansed only by the ultraviolet rays of the sun as they too hang on the tent. Direct African sunlight kills 17 percent of germs. I don't have enough water to wash my hair, so I don't. I've tried brushing it, but the bristles gener-
"My cap generally falls off while I sleep, so I doubt my pillow will see Canada again either" ally pull out of the brush, so I just wear my unwashed hat. It sort of becomes a vicious cycle, and much of my clothing will not be returning home with me. My cap generally falls off while I sleep, so I doubt my pillow will see Canada again either. Anxious to get on the bike in the cool of morning, I seldom brushed my teeth after breakfast. I ate a Halls Menthol throat lozenge in-
stead. The menthol seems to neutralize tooth decay germs, and also helps fight any other random bacteria that may have entered my respiratory system. Sometimes in the evening I brushed my teeth, but sometimes I just went with the double benefit of having another Halls. During the off-road sections I used a small bit of extra water to clean the enormous collection of dirt and camel/donkey/cow dung off my legs so I could put them in my sleeping bag. Since I didn't have enough water to clean my ankles or feet, I turn my socks inside out every other night before entering my sleeping bag. On the third night I wash my socks instead of something else to conserve water, and start again. Although many in the group were sick, I wasn’t. The others must not have maintained such rigorous hygiene standards as myself. ◆
Page 18
The Voice
A June 22 2022
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
THE BALANCED LIFE by John Swart
Personal hygiene
B
icycle touring Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia, one of the driest, hottest areas in the world was amazing. At one stretch, our small group rode eight days between water restocking points for our support truck, mandating the water in the truck's tanks be used only for drinking and premeal hand washing. Water was rationed so tightly that none was allowed for cleaning ourselves or our clothing—baby wipes were the recommended alternative. Envision the following as your personal hygiene regimen on a typical day. You've just ridden and roasted 140
km in the desert dirt and sun, on- and off-road, and arrived at your desert camp. Your helmet straps are white and inflexible from dried perspiration salt. Your sun glasses are stuck to your nose by sweat, dirt, and suntan lotion. You've shaken hands with all 37 teachers and students at the tiny village school you discovered. Your neck scarf has absorbed the sweat pouring down your neck and chin, then been stretched over your nose and mouth to filter the air and dirt and smoke from trucks and sandstorms. Your doo-rag has been soaked from your water bottle (sometimes
accidentally with energy drink) to keep you cool. Your socks and shoes have stood in numerous odourous organic compounds. Your riding shorts have had chamois cream applied repeatedly during the day. Note: I quit the baby powder I've used for years. It started to ball up and then move around in my riding shorts, even at night when I wasn't in them. Each morning chamois cream was always applied with clean hands to relatively clean shorts. By the end of the day, I seldom took my gloves off to apply it. This is typically the way you arrive at camp, with the following exceptions: beans for three straight nights finally got to you, you had too much coffee in the morning, you have diarrhea (this frequently affects socks and
The author, dry as the desert wind.
SUPPLIED
to purchase water by the bottle and carry it as treasured contraband, sometimes saving half a litre for cleaning at day's end. I would first clean the con-
shoes too), or you just don't care anymore. Baby wipes don't have a chance in hell of being even remotely effective in these situations. Occasionally I was able
tact points within my shorts using a small towelette. I then rinse the towel thoroughly with a quarter cup See BALANCED LIFE Page 17
V oice HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Friendships are worth their weight in gold, Aries. That is good news considering you could make an important friend this week — but only if you put yourself out there. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 You just may be at your best this week, Taurus. Others will take notice of this immediately. Work finally begins to pay off, and it’s a good time to begin a project. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 There is something waiting for you in the great outdoors, Gemini. You have to gather the gumption to go out there and find it. You will have plenty of opportunities this week. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, something impressive takes hold of your attention,and then you can’t get it out of your mind. This could be the inspiration you need to start something new. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 A particular person may play a key role in your life today, particularly as he or she interacts with forces at work. There is a chance for this relationship to grow, Leo. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 You have made a decision to get your life in order, Virgo. This week marks the first steps toward that goal. Accept help when it is given for an additional leg up. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Let your artistic side out to play, Libra. It’s not something others play witness to that often, but you can be quite imaginative when you set your mind to it.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, family matters may not be cut and dried, but that doesn’t mean they have to be challenging. Enjoy things that are not run-of-the-mill, especially with the family. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 An exchange that takes place this week could have long-lasting after effects, Sagittarius. You won’t know the particular event in advance, so enjoy the anticipation. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Sometimes change only requires transforming the way you look at things, Capricorn. Try to see your daily life in a new light and maybe you’ll be more satisfied with it. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Get in touch with your desires and goals this week, Aquarius. Your plan and focus may have changed and you might need to realign your approach in this new direction. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Let go of some of the patterns in your life that simply aren’t working, Pisces. You’ll free up plenty of time for new pursuits. FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS JUNE 20 Nicole Kidman, Actress (55) JUNE 21 Chris Pratt, Actor (43) JUNE 22 Cyndi Lauper, Singer (69) JUNE 23 Jason Mraz, Singer (45) JUNE 24 Lionel Messi, Athlete (35) JUNE 25 Angela Kinsey, Actress (51)
Treating every transaction as if it were our very own. All signs point to getting in touch at 905.321.6292
57. NS
56. HG
47. GREG
49. HALLE
45. I DO
46. NENE
43. ALNICO
44. RIDDEN
41. ERRATA
38. RATTAIL
33. MERES
35. CAESURAE
32. ADORE
29. THO
31. MOHUR
21. ERNST
25. MOTIVATION
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SOLUTIONS DOWN
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58. ACE
59. GLEANS
55. EG
56. HILTON
54. RID
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52. UNDONE
50. SLIDER
51. RESTART
48. URETHRA
41. EV
42. GEARING
39. IONA
40. HORA
36. SST
37. ODER
31. MAM
34. ETHIC
28. VOTE
30. ENDS
26. ED
27. GEAN
24. HASIDIM
22. GOOSES
23. SENATOR
18. ELEVATE
15. RILL
16. UNLIKE
12. HA
14. SCH
10. SAO
11. COOLER
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Darcy Richardson
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
The Voice
Page 19
A June 22 2022
ANSWERS ON PAGE 18
FAITH LIFT
by Pastor Rob Weatherby
Learning from Nineveh
A
few years ago, a nurse from my church near Sudbury volunteered to serve overseas. The mission she chose is called “Samaritan’s Purse” with its Canadian base in Calgary. The mission’s interesting name comes from the parable of the Good Samaritan in the New Testament (see Luke 10:25-37). We get our phrase “being a good Samaritan” from that story told by Jesus. We all understand that it means doing something nice or helpful for someone else (similar to the “golden rule” also found in the Bible). At the end of the story, the Samaritan opens his purse and generously gives money to help the Jewish stranger he rescued. Anyhow, my nurse friend has served at least twice in parts of the world where people were suffering and in need of medical help. These volunteer nurses and doctors go to these areas at their own expense to save lives. One time she went to Bangladesh to help with the Rohingya refugees pouring in from neighboring Myanmar (formerly Burma) because of the persecution there. Another time she served in a medical clinic set up near Mosul, Iraq, where people were fleeing ISIS. I was surprised, however, to learn that modern-day Mosul is the ancient city of Nineveh referred to in the Bible.
them of God’s judgment. The only problem was Jonah hated the Ninevites (good missionary, eh?). He wanted them to be judged for their barbaric cruelty. So he fled in the opposite direction. God had a creative way of getting his attention. A repentant Jonah finally went to Nineveh with a message of repentance. “Forty more days and Nineveh will be destroyed!” he proclaimed. (Jonah 3:4) Under his breath he was probably muttering, “Amen and amen!” But then the unexpected happened. “The Ninevites believed God. They declared a fast, and all of them, from
the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth.” (Jonah 3:5) From the King down to the commoner, the Ninevites repented and turned to God. “When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he had compassion and did not bring upon them the destruction he had threatened.” (Jonah 3:10) Today, that would be like Prime Minister Trudeau proclaiming a national day of prayer and calling our country back to God (don’t hold your breath). Anyway, happy ending: God rejoiced, See FAITH LIFT Page 17
Exit Jonah
In the Old Testament book named after him, Jonah was a prophet living in Israel in the 9th century BC. Even in our increasingly biblically-illiterate society, most people have some idea of who Jonah was. God told him to go as a missionary to the city of Nineveh (then the capital of Assyria) to warn
Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
Word Search: Roses
Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwards. ALBA ANTIQUE BLOOMS BOURBON CENTIFOLIA CLIMBING
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The Voice
A June 22 2022
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
Voice
RECIPE OF THE WEEK
4 Spinach Pantry Souffle
Attendees enjoy the PDHS reunion on June 12.
REUNION
continued from Page 4 bills were paid. We set up the Pelham High Alumni Scholarship with the intent to give a $1000 scholarship to a graduating student at E. L. Crossley going on to university. Interest rates were 18 percent in the ‘80s, so our fund grew. We put all extra money from every subsequent reunion and donations into the fund. Sometime in
the 1990s we raised the scholarship amount to $2000. When we give our next two scholarships in September, we will have given out $70,000. Our first scholarship was given in 1985, and we would love to keep it going until 2025—40 years. Our alumni are very generous in their giving and I’m sure we will be able to reach this goal. Everyone who was there on Sunday agreed that we should gather together
HUGE PARKING LOT SALE with 20 Vendors! THIS SATURDAY June 25th from 8:30am -1:00pm Plus BBQ & Bake Sale! Rain or Shine
GLAD TIDINGS CHURCH OF GOD 1 Pancake Lane in Fonthill
ALEX RICE
again in 2024 to mark the 50th anniversary of our school closure. Many thanks to the Voice for helping us keep everyone informed. There are some who do not have email and the Voice is the “go-to” place for our updates. Hopefully, in 2024 there will be no Covid or any other nasty virus and we can meet again—one more time. Vilma Moretti Fonthill
Pelham Community Church
SUMMER ADVENTURE BIBLE CAMP July 4-8, 2022 Register Today! Visit: www.pelham.cc/VBS 461 Canboro Rd., Fenwick 905-892-5922 office@pelham.cc
UPGRADE YOUR HOME If you’re looking for new windows and doors or siding, soffit, fascia and eavestrough; it’s a great time to buy. North Star energyefficient windows are built in Canada and will save you money year round. North Star windows help keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Call or visit our showroom today for a FREE ESTIMATE on your home! FINANCING AVALABLE (OAC)
On those days when home cooks are searching the cupboards and refrigerator for some culinary inspiration, they need look no further than the egg carton. Often relegated to breakfast time, eggs can be the main ingredient or stars of meals any time of the day. In fact, they’re a common component of quiches, fritatas and souffles. People may have mixed feelings about eggs because the nutritional debate surrounding eggs’ seems ever-changing. It was once thought that eggs had to be avoided due to concerns about cholesterol. But many experts now say that eggs can be a part of balanced diets. This recipe for “Spinach Pantry Souffle” from “Taste of Home Healthy Cooking Cookbook” (RDA Enthusiast Brands, LLC) by the editors of Taste of Home features egg whites and only two egg yolks in the recipe. Additional low-fat ingredient help make the final product something anyone can enjoy. Spinach Pantry Souffle Serves 6 6 2 1 1 1 1 2
egg whites tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese can (10-3⁄4 ounces) reduced-fat, reduced-sodium condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted cup (4 ounces) shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend teaspoon ground mustard package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry egg yolks, beaten
1. Let egg whites stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Coat a 2-quart souffle dish with cooking spray and lightly sprinkle with Parmesan cheese; set aside. 2. In a small saucepan, combine the soup, cheese blend and mustard; cook and stir over medium heat for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Transfer to a large bowl; stir in spinach. Stir a small amount of soup mixture into egg yolks; return all to the bowl, stirring constantly. 3. In a small bowl with clean beaters, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. With a spatula, stir one-fourth of the egg whites into spinach mixture until no white streaks remain. Fold in remaining egg whites until combined. Transfer to prepared dish. 4. Bake at 375 F for 30 to 35 minutes or until the top is puffed and center appears set. Serve immediately.
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