New hope for arches funding
SELL phone: 905-321-2261 www.pineSOLD.com .com
DEBBIE PINE SALES REPRESENTATIVE 905.892.0222 NRC Realty, Brokerage
Independently Owned & Operated
debbiepine@royallepage.ca
Fonthill Lions—75 years plus one
page 15
Upset at coming TD Bank closure
The Voice Z Z
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS
page 3
of Pelham and Central Niagara
Vol.25 No.9
MARCH 10 2021
Published every Wednesday
page 17
Darcy Richardson, CPA, CA | Broker
DARCYRICHARDSON.CA darcy@darcyrichardson.ca 905.321.6292
LIFE IN PELHAM Learn more on inside cover
Events Programming Capital Projects Second Dwelling Units LIP Issue #1 - March 10, 2021
LIFE IN PELHAM What is this?
This is the new home for the Town of Pelham’s bi-annual Life In Pelham guide. Traditionally printed in spring and fall, the pandemic has caused the Town to re-imagine how it would share the information usually found within the guide.
Throughout 2021, the Town will print a four-page spread in the Voice of Pelham on a brighter, heavier paper stock than traditional newsprint. These inserts are the equivalent of receiving two complete guides over the year. This option allows the Town to make sure, given the changing rules and regulations of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Town shares the most up to date, relevant, and accurate information regarding events, programs, and much more!
Town Hall
20 Pelham Town Square, Fonthill, ON, L0S 1E0 905-892-2607
Meridian Community Centre
100 Meridian Way, Fonthill, ON, L0S 1E6 905-732-7872
After hours emergencies 905-734-0892
Fire and Bylaw Services 905-892-2607 x201 (admin) 905-892-2607 x204 (bylaw)
Mayor Marvin Junkin Phone: 905-892-2607 Ext. 317 Cell Phone: 905-658-2986 Email Address: mjunkin@pelham.ca
Check out our newest community engagement tool, EngagingPelham by Bang the Table! Join the conversation at:
https://engagingpelham.ca
Follow us on Social Media
@townofpelham
Ward 1 Councillor Marianne Stewart Phone: 289-821-0840 Email Address: mstewart@pelham.ca
Ward 1 Councillor Wayne Olson Phone: 905-933-6033 Email Address: wolson@pelham.ca
Ward 2 Councillor Ron Kore Phone: 905-933-3805 Email Address: rkore@pelham.ca
@townofpelhamontario
Ward 2 Councillor John Wink Phone: 905-892-4475 Email Address: jwink@pelham.ca
/townofpelhamontario /townofpelham
Ward 3 Councillor Lisa Haun Phone: 905-892-5877 Email address: lhaun@pelham.ca
See this week’s pull-out insert
Ward 3 Councillor Bob Hildebrandt Phone: 905-892-5647 Email Address: bhildebrandt@pelham.ca
New hope for arches funding
page 3
Fonthill Lions—75 years plus one
page 15
Upset at coming TD Bank closure
The Voice Z
SELL phone: 905-321-2261 www.pineSOLD.com .com
DEBBIE PINE SALES REPRESENTATIVE 905.892.0222 NRC Realty, Brokerage
Independently Owned & Operated
debbiepine@royallepage.ca
Z
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS
of Pelham and Central Niagara
Published every Wednesday
MARCH 10 2021
Vol.25 No.9
Keep your canine close Depending on who you talk to, dognappings may be on the rise
Brock University Earth Sciences professor and former Pelham Town Councillor Uwe Brand, with Riley. Story, page 18.
DON RICKERS
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS
DEBBIE PINE
NRC REALTY, Brokerage 1815 Merritville, Hwy 1 FONTHILL, ON
SALES REPRESENTATIVE 905.892.0222
www.pineSOLD.com
NIAGARA / FONTHILL, ON
debbiepine@royallepage.ca SELL phone: 905-321-2261
Pelham Funeral Home wants to ensure your safety. If you are not comfortable with coming in the we gladly offer all arrangements funeralfuneral so theyhome, won’t have to. to be done by phone and email.
Save your family the burden.
Plan your own Call today and ask how we can help. As always we are here for you should you need us. Tina Tina and Staff
page 17
Darcy Richardson, CPA, CA | Broker
DARCYRICHARDSON.CA darcy@darcyrichardson.ca 905.321.6292
Column Six
You're only a girl BY MARGARET FERGUSON Special to the Voice
O
h, how I hated those words! They sounded so mean, though in those early years I did not know what “demeaning” meant. It was meant as a put- down, obviously. As I was the only girl for half a mile each way, three boys were my only playmates besides my sister Mary, eight years older. This was not counting our dog Rover and the never-ending litters of kittens. Donnie lived closest. Our parents were good friends and neighbours. Donnie was two years younger, so for a couple of years he was too young to play at our house. I was quite delighted to play at his place with its bigger barn, seeing his grandpa work in his little workshop, and having his mother give us treats in the afternoon. But when Donnie started school things began to change—not for the better for me. He began to have more domineering ways, bossing me around for no reason. He found an older boy as a friend who was a bad influence on him. He started to take to punching me on my arms or back. See COLUMN SIX back page
Page 2
The Voice
PUBLISHER’S CORNER
A March 10, 2021
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
IN THE NEWS
NRPS impaired driving charges ~
by Dave Burket
Do we need sunglasses? As you will have noticed, some of this week’s pages are a wee bit brighter than others— known as “Brite” or “Hi-Brite” in the trade—owing to the Town of Pelham’s special pull-out community information feature. It’s been a long time since the Voice went for topshelf paper stock, and I’m pretty curious to see what the difference is between the pages. We’ve been using a better photo processing technique this year, too, which has bumped up reproduction quality a tad...Delightfully socialist origins: Monday marked the 110th annual International Women’s Day, which, depending on which history you favour, was likely inspired by a 1909 observance organized in New York City by the Socialist Party of America. A m o n g Niagara’s female firsts was the naming of Pelham r e s i d e n t Jacqueline Robarts, in 1978, as the first woman president of Niagara College. Her friend Gail Hilyer thinks that Robarts may also have been the first woman president of any college in Ontario, and possibly the first woman president of a secular college in Canada. Robarts served as NC president until 1990. In the photo above, we see her outside Hennepin Hall, in 1978, with the mascot for the Niagara Knights, whose present name is “Knightro,” though no one is sure whether this was true back in the day. (As for the blowtorch, um)... Victory for Marsha: In the face of fierce public backlash, last week the City of Welland dropped its effort to expropriate Marsha Rempel's 25 hectares of farmland, in her family for five generations, for an industrial park. Sometimes the good folks do win one...A hole in one: Don't miss John Piccolo's golf column this week (p.8), which is less about golf than it is about the creation that is Tiger Woods. Fame, wealth, achievement. But oh, the trade-offs...Heat up the oven: That muffin recipe on the back page looks pretty good. The fresh corn kernels may be a stretch, but frozen should be just fine... Until next week: Stay safe out there. ◆
Voice
Man takes car, returns it
On Feb. 28, 2 District uniform officers from the Niagara Regional Police were called to a residence in Niagara-on-the-Lake regarding a possible break and enter. Police say that officers determined that the garage to the home had been entered and the car parked in the garage had been moved. The garage door was then left open. The investigation was assigned to detectives, who determined that on Feb. 25, at approximately 3:25 PM, an unknown male entered the garage, got into a car described as a “Shelby Cobra replica,” drove it away, then returned approximately 12 minutes later, backed it into the garage, covered it, and left. On March 2, detectives arrested Kevin Edward Turner, 49, of Thorold. Turner has been charged with Break, Enter and Commit Theft of Motor Vehicle, an Fail to Comply with Probation Order. Turner was held in custody for a bail hearing. Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives at 905-688-4111, extension 1022200.
SIREN Pelham Fire Department Weekly Calls
The Pelham Fire Department responded to six calls for assistance from Friday, February 26, to Friday, March 5. Saturday, Feb. 27 Medical assistance, Fonthill
Arrested twice the same day for impaired driving
On Thursday morning, Feb. 25, a member of the public contacted the Niagara Regional Police Service to report a possible impaired driver in the Town of Fort Erie. Police say that 5 District – Fort Erie uniform officers and Niagara EMS paramedics responded to a parking lot in the area of Garrison Road and Concession Road, where they found a lone man in the driver’s seat of a parked, running, Ford Focus. Police say the man displayed signs of alleged impairment, was arrested, and taken to a local hospital. After receiving medical care and upon sobriety, the man was transported by officers to his Fort Erie home where, at approximately 3:30 PM, he was released from custody with a future court date. That evening, at about 8:20 PM, a member of the public contacted the NRPS to report a possible impaired driver in the City of Port Colborne. 6 District – Port Colborne uniform officers responded to the area of Fares Street and Nickel Street, where a Ford Fiesta was reportedly travelling at approximately 10 km/hr and swerving on the roadway. In talking to the driver, police say that officers observed signs of impairment. The driver was placed under arrest and transported to the NRPS Prisoner Management Unit in the City of Niagara Falls. Matthew James Robert Graham, 39, of Fort Erie, has been charged with the offences of: Impaired Operation of a Conveyance by Drugs, Fail to comply with Probation Order, Driver Fail to Surrender Licence, Fail to Surrender Permit for Motor Vehicle, Fail to Surrender Insurance Card. Graham has been issued an Administrative Driver's Licence Suspension (ADLS). The ADLS prohibits the recipient from operating a motor vehicle for 90 days from date it was issued. Police ask that anyone who may have witnessed either of these incidents contact 5 District (905-688-4111, ext. 1022300) or 6 District (905-688-4111, ext. 1023200).
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Kitchen fire, Millbridge Cr., Fonthill Sunday, Feb. 28 Motor vehicle collision, Webber Rd., Fenwick Wednesday, Mar. 3 Burning complaint, Maple St., Fenwick Burning complaint, Maple St., Fenwick
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The Niagara Regional Police Service is committed to reducing impaired driving offences through education and the apprehension of offenders through enforcement programs like RIDE. Impaired driving is still the leading cause of criminal deaths in Canada and destroys thousands of lives every year.
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Vol.20 No.48
CELEBRATING OUR 20TH YEAR
Wednesday, February 8, 2017
DSBN wants portion of Town park
111 Hwy. 20 E., Unit 5, Fonthill 905-892-9054 www.healthycupboard.ca
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NIAGARA’S BEST-READ WEEKLY SINCE 1997
The Comfort Maple myth
Vol.20 No.39
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
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Oops: No fire trucks for you
Column Six
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Pined -Sol Pelham’sPelham’s Health Food Store
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Haist Street traffic-calming measure a little too effective
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Column Six
Growing up British
Vol.20 No.32
Wednesday October 12, 2016
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Apple Day comes to Fonthill
BY JULIE MANNELL
Special to the VOICE
W
BALLOONING INTEREST Grade 6 student Jinja Shepherd explains her experiment on static electricity at the Glynn A. Green Public School's annual science fair last Friday. See story, page 3. NATE SMELLE PHOTO
Public meeting tonight on school issues BY VOICE STAFF As questions continue to mount regarding an email that Pelham Mayor Dave Augustyn quietly sent to a District School Board of Niagara trustee last summer, Augustyn has agreed to address the issue at a public meeting scheduled for this evening, Wednesday, Feb. 8, in Fenwick. Nancy Beamer, speaking for “Names Matter,” a Pelham citizens group lobbying the DSBN to reverse its decision to rename a local public school, confirms that the meeting will be held at Fire Station #2, known locally as the Fenwick Fire Hall, starting at 7:00 PM. While the Mayor has agreed to ap-
Under pressure, Mayor to address email revelation, other E. W. Farr matters pear, says Beamer, DSBN officials associated with the school-naming process have either declined to attend or have not yet responded to the group’s invitation. DSBN Chair, Dale Robinson, to whom Augustyn’s email was addressed last June, has declined to appear, says Beamer, asserting that she would be
“on holidays.” The Voice was unable to independently confirm Robinsion’s intentions. She did not respond to repeated requests for comment on E.W. Farr-related matters before presstime. Beamer, whose group maintains an email list of some 580 residents, says that all members of the public are invited and encouraged to attend the meeting. “We would especially welcome parents and children who are unhappy with the name change,” she says, referring to the contentious decision by the DSBN to consolidate two Pelham See MEETING back page
HEN I WAS young, my father and I would go for long drives along the rural routes of Pelham. We’d blast George Thurgood and roll down the windows because we loved the smell of the breeze, the sensation of crisp Niagara wind beating our cheeks and tangling our hair against our summer-kissed skin. My father was not a sentimental man. He worked in factories and had a Gordon Lightfoot mustache and never shed tears over injuries. Yet something about the Pelham landscape, the hilly backdrop to his childhood and the childhoods of our ancestors, drew him in. He’d stop by a farm or a gathering of woods and, surrendering his manly veneer, tell me a story about the town. This place is precious. This is the earth that granted us life. Here is the place where we happened upon love or here is a site of devastation. On one particular drive sometime in the late ‘90s we stopped at a tree with a plaque. “This tree looks dead,” I said to my father. “It sure is getting there, Julie.” The Comfort Maple is supposedly Canada’s oldest See COLUMN SIX Page 14
Part 2 of 2: Coronation to embarkation
BY VOICE STAFF
A construction error was discovered following the opening of a traffic calming chicane on Haist Street north of Hwy 20 last Monday that prevented large vehicles from passing through. One resident living in the neighbourhood said he contacted the Town after seeing a small schoolbus get stuck as it tried to get through the new traffic calming measure. Later that day while driving behind a cement truck, he said that he became concerned for the public’s safety when the truck had to turn around because it couldn’t get through. “If a small school bus and a cement truck can’t make it through what about a fire
BY HEATHER McLAREN ROHRER
Special to the VOICE
A
Repair measures underway last week to correct a construction error in the chicane. truck or an ambulance?” he said. While waiting for the contractor to return to fix
the mistake, the Town has taken measures to temporarily allow passage for vehicles through the neigh-
VOICE PHOTO
bourhood in the short-term. Manager of Public Works Ryan Cook said that after discovering the issue with
the chicane the morning it first opened, the Town See CHICANE Page 5
Petition-inspired changes coming to 2017 Summerfest BY NATE SMELLE
The VOICE
Representatives from the Pelham Summerfest committee Candy Ashbee and Bill Gibson presented council with a final report on the 2016 Summerfest at the Council meeting on Monday, Nov. 21. Prompted by a story in the Voice in August about a merchant petition to move Summerfest from Pelham Street, in September Town staff met with various stakeholders to hear their complaints, promising at the time that changes in the way Summerfest was mounted would be con-
sidered. The main concerns identified during the community engagement process were security, parking, ensuring customer can access all businesses in town, and liability for damages. How to get all Pelham Street businesses to participate and finding ways to make it beneficial for them to set up a booth were also determined to be of high priority for the committee as they plan for next year’s event. Gibson told Council that the committee is addressing these concerns in a variety of ways. To improve parking, they intend to create bet-
ter signage for out-of-town visitors to designated parking areas and shuttle services. To make participation in Summerfest more enticing to local businesses, they plan to implement a tiered-charge for booths. Under the new system, Pelham Street business owners will be charged the least, other local businesses will pay a slightly higher fee, and vendors from outside Pelham will pay the most. In response to more specific issues for individual businesses, they will also slightly alter the footprint of the event and make adjustments to security. Another way the committee plans
to improve the 2017 Summerfest is by sponsoring and working with the organizers of the Thursday Night Bandshell Concert series to select the artist performing on the first night of Summefest. They also intend to make more use of the smartphone app they launched in 2016. "We are really going to push it this year," Ashbee said. “It really helps to get people to see what events there are so they can plan out where they are going. We will be able to actually help the merchants and local businesses adSee CHANGES Page 5
FTER LUNCH ON Saturday, Mum and Dad had my afternoon cut out for me. Mum had more brass than anyone I knew, and it had to be cleaned. In addition there was the set of silver fish-knives and forks which were never used, but which had to be cleaned and put back in their velvetlined box. Next was a walk to the newsagents to pay for the daily delivery of the Daily Mirror. As I said, Dad was a printer, but when he was 37 he had been rejected for a job, as being too old, by the printers of the Beano. For that reason, my favourite comic was not allowed in the house, but while I was paying the papers, the newsagent let me have a 'shoofty' at the Beano. I'd explained my predicament and he understood completely. Sundays were different again. Dad would play golf on summer mornings and billiards in winter. Then he'd stop for a 'refresher' at the local and would pick up the prawns, cockles, winkles or whelks we'd be having for tea later. Meanwhile, Mum was roasting the 'joint' and potatoes. I got to make the Yorkshire pud, and mint See COLUMN SIX Page 14
BY VOICE STAFF
While shopping in Fonthill between Friday and Sunday, keep an eye out for Beavers, Cubs and Scouts in front of local stores with bushels of apples. As part of the annual Apple Day campaign, Scouting youth of all ages will be trading apples for donations. The yearly fundraising drive is an important way for young Scouts to connect with the communities they are serving, says Leah Marie of Scouts Canada. “The Apple Day campaign holds a great tradition of being able to have youth interacting within the communities they live in,” she says. “All of the Apple Day donations stay directly within the group that re-
The goal is to have these youth develop into confident and well-rounded individuals
ceives them, enabling youth to have experiences that build character, challenge them, and allow them to try new things. The goal is to have these youth develop into confident and wellrounded individuals, better prepared for success. Apple Day helps to achieve that.”
“Any money raised during Apple Day goes towards improving the Scouting program by providing more outdoor adventures for youth, camping equipment, canoes and paddles, training and many other endeavours that the youth want to experience,” says Marie. Scouts Canada has some 100,000 members across Canada, and carries out programs for boys, girls
Joining their principal, Karen Simpson, at the Sept. 19 Council meeting as part of a delegation from EL Crossley Secondary School, students Abby Loewen and Neenah Williams presented Council with a list of reasons that they should immediately approve the construction of the new sidewalk proposed along Hwy. 20. The asphalt side-
walk/trail is slated to be built between the south side of the road from Timmsdale Crescent to the high school. Because of the large volume of motor vehicle traffic travelling at high speeds through this area, and because of the necessity for students to tread this path on a daily basis, many residents would like to see the sidewalk go in sooner than later. After delivering to Council a petition containing
Many residents would like to see the sidewalk go in sooner than later the names of 450 students calling for a safer walk to school, Simpson handed the
podium over to Loewen and Williams to plead their case. Loewen told Council that because there are a lot of students who have work placements and coop placements during the school year, this is the only route for many of them to travel. As one of the students facing this predicament, Williams said she has had no other option but to walk along the dangerous highway.
www.pennylanesold.com
H EATHER AND P ENNY L ANE S ALES R EPRESENTATIVES
BY JOHN SWART
VOICE Correspondent
and youth ages 5-25. This year the 3rd Fonthill Group, which includes Beavers to Ventures (youth ages 5- 25) will be hitting the streets to drum-up support. Over the weekend, Scouts will be set up in Fonthill outside Sobeys, Tim Hortons, Target Gas station, Fonthill Shopping Plaza and the Pioneer Gas station at the corner of Hwys 20 and 24.
Town Council approves sidewalk to serve E. L. Crossley BY NATE SMELLE
The VOICE
Cell 905.933.3049
T
Second year Beaver with the 3rd Fonthill Group, Russell Letford offers a fresh apple to shoppers in Pelham during the 2015 Apple Day campaign. SUPPLIED PHOTO A longtime Canadian tradition, Apple Day began in 1932 in Saint John, New Brunswick, when Scouts handed out 21,000 apples as a way to say thank you to the community. In return for their generosity, many people offered them donations. From then on Scouts have reached out through Apple Day to raise funds for their programs.
Office 905.892.1702
Column Six It doesn’t get better than Autumn
Longtime Scouting tradition dates to 1932
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Request made of community still peeved at name change
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BY VOICE STAFF The District School Board of Niagara is requesting that the Town of Pelham cede a portion of Cherry Ridge Park for use as a soccer field to serve the students of the new Wellington Heights Public School, formerly the E. W. Farr Memorial Public School, in Fenwick. Currently under renovation and expansion, the new school will combine students and staff from the previous school and Pelham Centre, where classes are being held while construction continues. Two letters, containing virtually identical text but signed by different authorities, were sent last week to nearby residents of the park, as well as to parents of Pelham Centre students. “The DSBN is currently building onto Wellington Heights Public School on Alsop Drive,” states the letter. “The size of the school's addition means the existing small soccer field will be eliminated. The Town and the Board have been discussing the possibility of working together to create a field for both the school and the
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In an effort to bring further attention and deterrence to driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, the Niagara Regional Police Service reports the names of those people who are charged with an alleged criminal impaired driving offence in the Region. None of the following charges have been proved in court. In addition to being charged, these individuals are also bound by a Ministry of Transportation 90-Day Administrative Driver’s License Suspension and are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle on a roadway. The public is encouraged to contact the Niagara Regional Police Service Traffic Safety Hotline or Crime Stoppers to report those who are driving in contravention of the suspension. The following individuals have been charged criminally with impaired driving by alcohol or drugs, driving with a blood alcohol concentration above 80 mgs of alcohol in 100 ml of blood, or refusing to provide a breath / blood sample. Lynn Y. CALVERT, 69, St. Catharines Alan HILLMAN, 65, Niagara Falls Barry ROCHELEAU, 48, St. Catharines Jordan B. M. BARRIE, 28, St. Catharines Candice E. ADAMS, 31, St. Catharines Jordan D. N. BONFIELD, 24, St. Catharines Valerie D. MOORE, 28, St. Catharines Daniel T. CREE, 37, Niagara Falls Matthew J. R. GRAHAM, 39, Fort Erie Anthony C. BARICHELLO, 45, Port Colborne Brian M. S. HIMES, 29, Port Colborne
“I start work at 2:30 PM and school lets out at 2:15 PM so I can’t take any other route,” Williams explained. “I have had friends, family, teachers and other community members reach out to me in the past about how this is unsafe and how there should be another alternative for us.” Looking ahead to winter, when she will need to walk this path three or four times See SIDEWALK Page 2
HERE IS NO BETTER time to cycle than Fall. It matters not whether you’re new to the sport, a seasoned recreational cyclist, racer, touring rider or mountain biker; we all have reason to look forward to autumn. Summer’s heat has faded, and the streams of sweat that ran from soggy helmets into our eyes are now just slight perspiration. Fitness is peaking from lots of saddle time, making those tough climbs of Spring a breeze in Autumn. It’s hard to beat the feeling of beginning a crisp, cool Fall ride with a slight shiver, knowing your efforts will soon warm you perfectly. The hues of Autumn are outstanding. A Pelham route as simple as following our southern boundary is one that would make most Toronto cyclists jealous, especially when our forests and fields are ablaze with colour. Begin from Harold Black Park, and zig-zag south along Effingham Rd toward the Welland River. If you’re new to cycling, it’s important to know south is the direction away from any hills. If you avoid the morning and evening weekday rush hours caused by those travelling through Pelham between Wainfleet See AUTUMN Page 3
Indulgence Bakery Mossimo’s Pelham Street Grille Peter Piper’s Pubhouse DeVries Fruit Farm Beamer’s Hardware Pelham Libraries Bob’s Boys Antiques PharmaChoice Pharmacy Fonthill Fitness Fenwick Pie Company McDonald’s Duffin Appleworks Fonthill Legion Semenuk’s Gas Bar Shoppers Drug Mart Tim Horton’s Giant Tiger Fonthill LCBO Zee Lube Express Care Food Basics Minor Bros Stores Avondale Stores A-1 Market Boggio's IDA Sobeys South Pelham Grill on Canboro Shell on Hwy 20 Circle-K
e s d l I m o a o r l T
P D S A W A N M L R O J O J
8
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The Voice
A March 10, 2021
T:5"
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TOWN COUNCIL NEWS
Rotary Club effort to get grant money for arches given thumbs-up BY JOHN CHICK Voice Correspondent
Development news
Ward 3 Councillor Bob Hildebrandt asked staff several questions about its Residential Development Monitoring Report, which logs development and density in Pelham. One of them regarded how jobs-per-hectare in the Town is calculated, and Director of Planning and Community Development Barb Wiens admitted that it wasn’t a scientific formula. “We don’t have definitive way of calculating employment numbers,” Wiens said. However, Hildebrandt seemed more interested in the Town’s intensification targets. According to the staff report, “infill and intensification targets” for Pelham will change with the adoption of a new Niagara Official Plan in 2022. With that, it is likely
that Pelham’s minimum intensification target will be increased beyond 15 percent. Hildebrandt wanted a ballpark figure, but Wiens said it remains to be determined. Ward 3 Councillor Lisa Haun then asked if the Town’s expected future bylaw changes allowing for second dwelling units (SDUs) will count towards intensification targets. Wiens reminded members, as she did during the Feb. 8 public meeting on SDUs, that they do not count toward those targets. “Most jurisdictions do not count SDUs toward density calculations,” she said, saying there was no reasonable means of tracking the units because of the oft-shifting nature of their usage. Haun sought to clarify that a municipality could choose to do so if they wanted, which Wiens said she would seek to confirm. Noted rental-property opponent Stewart then wondered aloud if SDUs could be separately defined based on usage. “I think there needs to be a distinction made between a granny flat and what’s truly a SDU,” she said. Wiens only replied that “SDUs can take a variety of forms.”
Pandemic updates
Council unanimously passed a motion to provide municipal picnic tables to local restaurants free-of-charge as the establishments endeavour to deal with ongoing pandemic regulations. As the weather warms, patio season looms. Last year the Town provided the picnic tables as many establishments expanded their patios into parking lots to deal with physical-distancing measures. Ward 2 Councillor John Wink tabled the motion to ensure the same would happen this year. While the policy is set to run from May to October, Wiens said there is no hard rule on that. “If the weather turns really nice, I imagine we’ll get interest sooner than that,” Wiens said. Director of Public Works Jason Marr confirmed that the Town has the necessary stock of picnic tables. During his COVID-19 update, Cribbs announced the reopening of the community centre that day, March 1. “It’s a good day here in Pelham,” he said. Related somewhat to the ongoing mental toll of the pandemic on many residents, Ward 1 Councillor Wayne Olson brought up items from the Pelham Seniors Advisory Committee and the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council on needs to make more citizens aware of programs available to help people cope. Specifically referring to seniors, Olson asked staff if mailing materials to certain
Social gatherings can have deadly consequences.
See COUNCIL Page 14
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During Pelham Town Council’s March 1 meeting, it was revealed that the Town has endorsed the Fonthill Rotary Club’s application for a $60,000 grant from the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative for their languishing Fonthill arches replacement plan. The Rotary Club has been told by the Town they can reconstruct the controversial downtown structure at their own expense, including providing a reserve maintenance fund. However, the pandemic has severely curtailed the club’s ability to hold fundraisers. “Fundamentally, the problem is there’s not enough money,” CAO David Cribbs said of Rotary’s plan. “Accordingly, [the Town] endorsing this application may well lead … to getting more money on the table so that, in fact, another proposal can come to you.” Council shot down a design proposal for new arches last year based on their appearance, which some observers found lacking the grace of the original structure. The only direct grant application listed from the Town regards a $50,000 request from the same federal program for the completion of fencing around Peace Park. The proposed arches’ neighbouring building, Fonthill’s longtime TD Bank branch, was also a topic at the meeting. Ward 1 Councillor Marianne Stewart moved a motion to appeal to the Toronto-based global financial services giant to reconsider the planned closure of the branch by July. “Whereas the Town of Pelham has a large and growing senior population who will be seriously impacted by this closure, and … many residents of the Town of Pelham are not tech-savvy enough or do not have suitable access for internet banking,” Stewart’s verbiage read. The motion passed unanimously. “Excellent,” Mayor Marvin Junkin summarized.
Page 4
The Voice
A March 10, 2021
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
OPINION
The opinions expressed in submitted commentary and letters to the editor are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the Voice of Pelham.
The Voice of Pelham is a 1211858 Ontario Limited publication David Burket, Publisher 2-1428 Pelham St., P.O. Box 1489, Fonthill, ON L0S1E0
COTÉ'S COMMENTS Larry Coté
For the love of Rover
O
ne of the most admirable human behaviors is the way some pet owners care for their beloved dogs. Such behaviors are especially noticeable in the intimacy of the relationship between the more exotic breeds from the canine world and their prideful owners. This group of devoted dog owners insist their pets be of the purist gene pool possible. Often such animals, the rarest of breeds, cost an arm and a leg to adopt, and protecting that investment might be an additional motive to care. Speaking of money, the amounts spent on these pets beyond the purchase price can be significant sums. Regular visits to the veterinary clinic and the grooming salon can add up to be a tidy number. Also, some breeds require special diets that can cost more than a steak from the local butcher shop. These devoted dog lovers regularly take their pooch in for grooming to keep their coats and claws up to the standard demanded by membership in the kennel club. To show up at a kennel club meeting with an
unkempt coat and unmanicured nails would be a doggone miscue. A glance at the pet emporium’s brochure reveals that the cost of dog beds and sleeping quarter accessories
Every dog owner will always remember their best friend long after they have gone
appear to be more expensive than comparable goods at a luxurious resort. In spite of those voluptuous beds, many of these pets doggedly prefer their owners’ beds to enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep or a midday nap. A man was seen walking by the other day taking his dog for its daily constitutional exercise. This pet owner was dressed in an army camo coat, baggy sweatpants, unlaced boots,
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and a well-worn ballcap. Evidently, this gear was bought at a surplus store without the guidance of a stylist. However, his statuesque-looking dog was outfitted with a colourful scarf, matching vest adorned with sequins, and tiny, laced-up booties on all paws. This fashionably accessorized outfit was surely purchased at a pet boutique. Often, these dog walkers are taking their pets out to allow the animal to relieve itself. Responsible pet owners carry a supply of little baggies to collect the leavings of their little mascots. Very often, these little sacks are attached to a leash designed by a fashionista to complement the walking outfit. Thoughtful of them to avoid soiling their neighbour’s lawn. Many pet owners have fire hydrant looka-likes in their gardens so their pet can relieve themselves conveniently and without leaving home. Now before the kennel club blacklists me, dog owners growl at me, and every Canis familiaris I encounter nips at my heels, I need to declare that I truly
Letters Appreciates Pelham Support Network and partners I have not always had kind thoughts about our local Sobeys during this pandemic, but I would like to thank them for stepping up to the plate and joining the Pelham Support Network and the Fenwick Lions to make groceries available for delivery to seniors during many weeks of the past several months. It has been a wonderful service and is much appreciated. The young lady from Sobeys was very helpful in taking the orders and she did a great job! Thanks, Sobeys, and Lauren, for your thoughtfulness. Beryl Smith Fonthill
See ROVER next page
7
CONTACT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS Member of Federal Parliament
Electoral District: Niagara West
Dean Allison, MP 4994 King Street Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 Dean.Allison@parl.gc.ca 877-563-7900 Member of Provincial Parliament
Electoral District: Niagara West
Sam Oosterhoff, MPP 4961 King St. East, Unit M1 Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org 905-563-1755 Members of Niagara Regional Council Councillor Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 905-658-2987 Councillor Diana Huson diana.huson@niagararegion.ca 905-324-3094 Town of Pelham 20 Pelham Town Square P.O. Box 400 Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 905-892-2607
Mayor of Pelham Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 905-658-2986 Members of Pelham Town Council Ward 1 Councillor Marianne Stewart mstewart@pelham.ca 289-821-0840 Councillor Wayne Olson wolson@pelham.ca 905-933 6033
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The Voice
Page 5
A March 10, 2021
OPINION Comments about transit uninformed Councillor Hildebrant is uninformed about Niagara Regional Transit On Demand [Special Town Council meeting on transit nearly veers off rails, March 3, p.3]. Anyone may book a ride by using any phone. Simply call 289302-2172. You may refer to the website for more info at: https://niagararegion.ca/transit/on-demand NRT On Demand fulfills a much-needed requirement for those who cannot drive due to health reasons or choose not to own a vehicle. It allows Pelham residents to support
local groceries, health providers, and other local businesses, increasing the value of living in Pelham. I recommend all councillors stop using their personal vehicles for one week and not rely on friends, family, etc., for transportation to get a true assessment of this effective, economical public model. Taxis and Uber are not economically viable for individuals given the distance between services. David Ruler Voice website
“Years of negligence” led to complaint I feel this article misrepresents Mr. Feeley as a troublemaker [Dispute over $260 charge leads to $10,747 bill to Town, March 3, p.1], while neglecting to highlight what led to this complaint: years of negligence on the part of the Town, council's questionable approach of hiring the contractor, and a gross miscalculation of the cost billed to
the neighbours. The Mayor could've avoided this by simply admitting to their mistake instead of brushing off the complaints of a citizen who is calling them to account. Classic political arrogance. Diego Lopez Via Facebook
Hopes that Niagara's appointment system is competent Niagara can do better than lining up our seniors with no protection from the elements, with or without walker, wheelchair, lawn chair , or simply standing. How unkind such a queue, yet gratitude for receipt of vaccine is gratefully acknowledged in these uncertain times. Hopefully Niagara organizes a better system than playing phone tag to make appointments. Internet in Niagara is still a work in progress. Let's pray for the best outcome and get that vaccine into arms. Do not forget just because you had your jab it is premature to remove your mask. Louise Morgan Fonthill
ROVER
continued from previous page love dogs and admire most dog owners. In all seriousness, dogs of whatever breed or heritage have very deserved-
ly earned the title of man’s best friend. They are deeply loved by their human companions and ask little in return. They give solace to the lonely and ease the worries of the discomforted. They save the lives of those in danger or lost. They guide
those with sight deficits and provide security to those who may be frail and vulnerable. All they deserve in return is a little kindness and a modicum of respect. Every dog owner will always remember their best friend long after they have gone. ◆
PELHAM AND COVID-19 Mayor Marvin Junkin
New, sooner timeline for vaccinations
T
he Ontario government has moved up its timeline for COVID-19 vaccination plan targets because of two new developments in the past week, meaning that up to two million more doses of vaccine than originally anticipated will be received in March. Health Canada has given the green light for the provinces to administer the second shot required for most of the vaccines up to four months after the first shot. The province now expects to give all adults 60 and older a first dose of vaccine by early June. Although some residents, myself included, are under the impression that the Niagara Region is behind the rest of the province in its vaccination rates, the Region’s Acting Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Hirji, insists this is not true. During a virtual presentation conducted last Friday, the doctor showed that while Hamilton Region was slightly ahead of Niagara on a per capita basis, the Niagara Region is ahead of the provincial average. One interesting point made by the doctor was the larger than average number
of long-term care homes located within the region. Peel Region, which has a population twice as large as Niagara, has 28 such facilities within its borders, whereas Niagara has 32. Residents in all 32 of these facilities have
Pelham's two arenas are slated to be very busy this summer
been vaccinated with both shots, as have the majority of senior home residents. Most frontline workers will have been offered their first shot by the end of this week, and all area hospitals are now vaccinating 80-year-olds and older currently being hospitalized. In a mayors meeting held last Wednesday, Niagara Public Health was roundly criticized for being so secretive with its vaccination plans and was encouraged
by the mayors of the Region to be more forthcoming with their plans. The next day Public Health released the list of the primary vaccination sites throughout the region. On the list is our community centre, with its size and parking availability making it a logical choice. The health department says it will enlist all forms of communication to inform Niagara residents how and when to sign up for their shots, tentatively scheduled at this time, to begin in three weeks, with over-80- yearold residents at the top of the list. With the Region in the red zone the community centre has been re-opened for a week now, and both ice rinks are totally booked for the month of March. Town staff are reporting that people are chomping at the bit to get on the ice and get their exercise. Many area municipalities will be taking their ice out in the next week or two, which means Pelham’s two arenas are slated to be very busy this summer. If you wish to use the walking track please remember you must phone ahead to book an appointment. ◆
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Page 6
The Voice
A March 10, 2021
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
Letters continued
POETRY RETRIBUTION
Real issue is spray program Short Hills carnage suggests deer are healthy Kudos to the Voice for fi nding out how much the Integrity Commissioner charged for Mr. Feeley’s complaint [Dispute over $260 charge leads to $10,747 bill to Town, March 3, p.1]. If there is a chance you could get any backup information and details about contractor invoices that might support the Town’s 2019 shocking charge for the 2019 gypsy moth spray program to 294 taxpayers, it would be greatly appreciated. To date, many of us just get no replies or non-answers from the Town. The Town has had an a b y s m a l track record for not addressing the gypsy moth problem right from the get-go. Back in 1990 they were told by the MNR (Ministry of Natural Resources) that the gypsy moths would be an ongoing recurring problem requiring multiple years of spraying. The Town had no program in place to deal with gypsy moths, they showed little or no understanding of gypsy moths, the little money budgeted for gypsy moth spray was used elsewhere, and any efforts made were simply a lousy, small band-aid on a larger, recurring wound. Mr. Feeley’s efforts are the reason for the Town’s heightened awareness on gypsy moths today, so let’s not shoot the messenger. If you’ve not read Mr. Feeley’s “White Paper” on the Town’s gypsy moth problem, it’s all laid out in black and white
Any efforts made were simply a lousy, small band-aid on a larger, recurring wound
See SPRAY Page 19
Every year dead or dying animals are found on or close to property lines after the Short Hills hunt, where homeowners and people walking in the park are forced to confront gruesome remains and disgusting gut piles left on or near foot paths. This is no different than leaving garbage behind in the park. A doe, who was partially consumed by coyotes after a botched kill shot, appears to have been shot while fleeing and possibly while heading towards a hunting boundary, judging by how close she was found to a private residence. Perhaps the hunters would like to reposition their gut piles to an area off the main trails? Leaving a gut pile in close proximity to a multi-use public trail is not the least bit respectful to other users but is hardly surprising. It’s distressing that this is left in an area with high foot/recreational traffic and it attracts predators to the area where people are often walking with dogs. You can argue that scavengers will clean it up quickly, but that offers no protection to anyone walking their dog who happens to end up in the wrong place at the wrong time —January and February are coyote breeding season and coyotes frequently move about during the day during these months. Nobody wants to have to drag their dog out of the gut pile either. Biking, walking, and skiing (and not hunting) are why the park exists! One of the gut piles revealed disturbing remnants of the kill,
left for the casual park user to discover at their leisure. The two fetuses discarded in the snow are evidence that the deer have good availability of food resources, that there have been good weather conditions for plant growth, and they are likely in better-than-average body condition. Reproduction rates are linked to the plane of nutrition (defined as the quantity and quality of food intake). Because of the high metabolic cost of pregnancy, it is reasonable to expect females with larger body size (i.e., more fat) to be better suited to tolerate body fat loss during the winter months. The fact that deer are producing multiple fetuses appears to refute the oft-cited claim that their feeding requirements have eclipsed the ability of the park to provide. Park observers have long criticized the damage to the park from ATVs and other vehicles going where they are normally not permitted. Mature evergreens are also being heavily damaged for the purpose of creating hunt blinds. Ontario Trails has rules for a minimal impact approach, which does not include damaging evergreens. At least one hunt in Ottawa Hills (Ohio) that was otherwise unopposed by nearby residents, was ended in part due to the forest damage caused by the hunters. Every year, the hunters enter and exit the park with unencased bows, despite the protocol dictating that they must be encased when moving in/out of the park, and nothing is done.
Within one hour of the commencement of the hunt on November 3, a hunter was observed moving through the Hydro corridor in the area of several private properties. Ontario Parks staff attended and removed him. Hunt blinds are also being set up outside the hunt zone. Two non-hunters (one with a dog) were able to gain access to the park during an active hunt despite assurances in the protocol that the entry points would be virtually impregnable due to the vigilance of MERC and the MNRF. Was the hunt stopped under the circumstances? Nobody can/will say. Now, more than ever, the Short Hills hunting protocol is revealed as a useless, non-binding document whereby neither party to the protocol have the means nor the will to enforce it. It makes no effort to address the current coronavirus pandemic as do other government health advisories for hunters. In previous hunts, cars from out-ofprovince have been observed, and the staff of Ontario Parks who host the hunt also drive in from outside of the area. The hunters’ own published videos show that inside the hunt zone they don’t bother to observe reasonable social distancing precautions, and they mingle freely in the parking lot. Hunting in Short Hills is possibly the only place hunting occurs without any references to precautionary principles in the time of a pandemic. Heather Clemenceau Aurora
Mother Earth is sad and suffering She has learned to feel regret For this land that she bequeathed us This land now so bereft. Her tears like floods engulf her Her howlings rage within A fire burns inside her A symbol of our sins. She sees the wicked way we treat Our sisters, brothers too She pounds her chest, she cries all night Her fire burns anew. Do we listen to our Mother Do we feel the pain she bears Does she think that no one here on Earth Really, truly cares? Are we sorry for our actions Do we want to show her now That we love the Earth we live on Can we calm her troubled brow? Can we people work together To repair what we have done Can we help our land recover Will we walk or will we run? Can we help her strive just once again To heal this land she loves Can we soothe the hurt she deeply feels Send the branch by way of dove? She is a Mother to us all Let's heed her plea Let's heed her call, Repair the Earth And when we do Perhaps the Earth Will heal us too.
S.M. Lazareth
Proposed Comprehensive Zoning By-law Review Schedule 2021 First Quarter (Jan. 1 – March 31)
Commence Public Consultation Process (March 2021)
Second Quarter (April 1 – June 30) • Final Round of Public Consultation and Summary Report of Comments and Feedback received • Reporting back to the public
Comprehensive Zoning By-Law Review
T
he current Zoning By-law, Bylaw No. 1136 for the Town of Pelham, was originally approved in 1987. Zoning By-law No. 1136 is out of date and requires updating as a significant period of time has elapsed since it was originally prepared more than 30 years ago.
Zoning By-law needs to be updated to conform with the Town Official Plan.
It needs to be representative of current development trends and should be made to be more flexible to respond to future changes as well. Further, the
The Town of Pelham has the responsibility as a municipality to bring the Zoning By-law in line with the current policy framework at all levels of government.
There have been fundamental shifts in the focus of the Provincial, Regional and local policy framework since the original 1987 zoning by-law.
Third Quarter (July 1 –Sept. 30) • Finalization of draft Comprehensive Zoning By-law and development of Housekeeping Official Plan amendment • Statutory Public Meeting Fourth Quarter (Oct. 1 – Dec. 31) • Final edits to Comprehensive Zoning By-law • Council Approval of Comprehensive Zoning By-law and Official Plan Amendment
Check out the Town’s newest community engagement tool, EngagingPelham. Join the conversation at:
https://engagingpelham.ca
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
The Voice
A March 10, 2021
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Page 7
Page 8
The Voice
A March 10, 2021
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
ANOTHER ROUND
DEBBY WONG
by JOHN PICCOLO
Sad success: The transformation of Eldrick into Tiger
B
efore I watched the recent HBO documentary, "Tiger," on Eldrick Tont Woods (his given name; “Tiger” is the nickname of a friend of his dad’s, which was transferred to the chosen one) I’m thinking, what more is there to know about this guy and where are they going to get their information? It was unauthorized, and Tiger and his current team played no part in the making of it. Well there was a lot more to know, and, it turns out, there are many out there who knew Woods or his family very well at one time who were as willing to talk about Tiger as the current team is unwilling. It seems the man and the family aren’t particularly good at breaking up. I feel a parent’s goal should be to give their children the best chance to find out who they are, and what they want to do, in a supportive environment. Not everyone has the same time or financial resources to devote to this undertaking, but within your capabilities, strive for
this. You cannot let what you want your child to be or what your child can do for you (or the rest of the world) get in the way of job one. The documentary on Tiger Woods was fascinating because it revealed how overwhelmed he was by the world that he, his parents, and his team had created. Earl wanted his son to be the most dominant golfer in the history of the planet and, because he was black, then use that platform to change the world. Stomp his competition on the course and then stamp out racism and privilege off of it. Earl spent two tours of duty in Vietnam risking his life for a country that was beating and dehumanizing its black populations in the south while he was away. When he returned there were still golf courses he couldn’t play and hotels at which he could not stay. Through the game of golf Earl was determined his son could and would change all that. Was it good for Tiger to focus
on golf at the expense of all other sports? The results may say yes but what does it do to a six-yearold who wants to play little league like the other kids in his school but can’t even muster the courage to ask? How does he ever figure out how to be a good teammate? How to show support for others and deal with winning and losing together? It’s great when you can say your dad is also your coach and your best friend, but he shouldn’t be your only friend. You need to hang with some of your own. We don’t live this world in isolation so you shouldn’t be growing up in isolation. When you're the parents of one of the most talented 18-year-olds in the world and he has finally found that one person he can be at peace with, one person who knows and loves him for who he is and not what he does, you don’t force her out of his life with a letter because she might interfere with “the plan.” You have to let your kid decide when he wants to be Tiger, and when he
wants to be Eldrick. It can be devastating to a parent who was training a full-blooded Tiger and got part of an Eldrick, but it can be more devastating yet for the Eldrick who is being held captive as a Tiger. As much as Tiger was set up to succeed on the course he was equally set up to fail off of it. It was painful to watch scenes of Tiger in those massive crowds of people who all wanted a piece of him muttering “F*** me” under his breath. The look of despair when forced to sit on Oprah’s couch so the world could learn more about “the real Tiger.” When he tried to break out of his shell and hang in Vegas with Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley and the gang, he had no idea what to say and do. All these people and women fawning all over him and he was just lost. Michael’s advice? “Tell them, ‘I’m Tiger Woods.’” This apparently is all you say when talking to a woman who wants desperately to “get to know you better.” Thanks for the advice, Michael,
but off the course he wasn’t Tiger, he was Eldrick. The high school kid who was one of the best golfers on the planet but didn’t have a friend in class. The people who spoke in this documentary did not come across as angry at Tiger for being pushed out of his life. They were his coach growing up who was embarrassed by his (and Earl’s) constant womanizing—this was Tiger’s exposure as to how married men acted. There was a family friend who was open and honest about many things good and bad. His girlfriend, who was dumped by letter (she still has it), who still seems to genuinely care about the lovely boy, dancing like a goofball, she knew so many years before. Steve Williams, who went to golf war with Woods as caddie longer than anyone else, was very open about their relationship (and still a bit angry). More than anything what came across was a sadness for See TIGER Page 14
PUBLIC NOTICE Notice of Online Public Information Centre #1, Municipal Class Environmental Assessment for Merritt Road (Regional Road 37) and Rice Road (Regional Road 54) in Pelham, Thorold and Welland The Regional Municipality of Niagara (Niagara Region) is undertaking an Environmental Assessment (EA) Study for improvements to Merritt Road and Rice Road as a result of proposed developments in the Town of Pelham, the City of Thorold and the City of Welland (please see the Study Area map below). The Study will aim to identify improvements to the two roadways to meet the future needs of the surrounding community for all road users. The study will address active transportation needs by providing dedicated pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure that is safe, attractive, conform to a complete streets approach, and compatible with the changing land use in the three local municipalities.
The PIC #1 will be held in an online format. There are two ways to participate in this PIC: •
Online Presentation: The Study Team will deliver an online presentation on March 24, 2021, starting at 6 p.m. There will be an opportunity at the end of the presentation to ask any questions or submit comments. Please email mir.talpur@woodplc.com (Mir Talpur, Environmental Planner) to receive an invite to the online presentation.
•
Virtual Consultation Platform: Information materials related to this PIC will be available on Wood’s Consultation Platform on project webpage starting March 24, 2021 and comments will be received until April 7, 2021. The project webpage is niagararegion.ca/projects/regional-road-37.
If you would like to receive future notices via email, or if you have any questions or comments, please contact one of the Study Team Members identified below: Maged Elmadhoon, M.Eng., P.Eng. Manager, Transportation Planning Niagara Region 905-980-6000 ext. 3583 maged.elmadhoon@niagararegion.ca
This study is being carried out as a Schedule ‘C’ project in accordance with the requirements of the Municipal Class EA process. The study will address the requirements of Class EA Phases 1 to 4. The Niagara Region is planning to host the Public Information Centre (PIC) #1 for this study. The purpose of the first PIC is to share information about the project background, Class EA Study process, the problem to be addressed by this study, and obtain preliminary input from the public for consideration into the Study process.
Jeff Suggett, M. Sc. Consultant Project Manager Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions 905-380-3601 jeff.suggett@woodplc.com
Personal information collected or submitted in writing at public meetings will be collected, used and disclosed by members of Regional Council and Regional staff in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA). The written submissions including names, contact information and reports of the public meeting will be made available. Questions should be referred to the Privacy Office at 905-980-6000, ext. 3779 or FOI@niagararegion.ca. If you require any accommodations for a disability in order to attend and participate in meetings or events, please let us know in advance so that arrangements can be made in a timely manner. Please contact the Accessibility Advisory Coordinator at 905-980-6000 ext. 3252 or accessibility@niagararegion.ca. Notice first issued in the newspaper on March 11, 2021.
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SWEET THOUGHTS NEW SPRING FASHIONS ARE HERE! Come in and check out our new gift ideas. We are fully stocked now for Easter chocolate and Spring Fashion. Don’t forget to place your orders early! Easter Baskets available! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! www.sweetthoughts.ca
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The Voice
A March 10, 2021
Page 9
LIFE IN PELHAM
Events Programming Capital Projects Second Dwelling Units LIP Issue #1 - March 10, 2021
Red - Control MCC OPEN A
s Niagara enters the Red-Control stage, the walking track, stick and puck, adult only skate and parent/preschool skates — all with max 10 participants and pre-registration recommended — are available at the Meridian Community Centre (MCC). Public skates, Pickleball, volleyball and yoga classes will not return until we enter Orange. Fit with Brock will start on Monday, March 8 (12-week). Ice rentals are now being accepted with a maximum 10 participants – no dressing rooms/benches available and participants must arrive as ready to skate as possible. One parent is allowed with each child under 18.
Book your time: 905-732-7872 www.pelham.ca/mcc
5 things to know when going to the MCC 1
All participants will be checked in upon arrival as part of the screening process and must enter through the main doors on the south side of the building.
2
A fillable roster (inclusive of coach/instructor) should be provided 48 hours in advance of the rental in order to expedite entry and assist in contact tracing should it become necessary. No one from outside the Niagara Region should be part of your roster. Please submit this to rosters@pelham.ca.
3
Arrive at the rink no earlier than 15 minutes prior to scheduled rental. Goalies should enter first to allow them more time with pads.
4
Dressing rooms and showers are closed. Skaters are encouraged to arrive with as much equipment on as possible and leave the same way.
5
No spectators are allowed however one parent/guardian per participant under the age of 18 may be permitted. Where the parent/guardian has a child with them, they are asked to keep that child with them at all times. Please do not let the child wander freely.
Page 10
Second Dwelling Units
T
he More Homes, More Choice Act (2019) require municipalities support housing choices by 'identifying a diverse range and mix housing options', noting that Second Dwelling Units (SDUs) play an essential role in addressing affordable housing and contributing to housing options. Currently, the Town of Pelham Official Plan has limited policy guidance concerning SDUs. The zoning bylaw does not speak specifically to permitting an SDU, resulting in property owners maneuvering through red tape should they wish to request permission for an SDU. Establishing an SDU requires several applications and permits, making it difficult and expensive to achieve. And instead of obtaining the necessary permissions, people are building SDUs illegally, without the benefit of building permits or inspections to ensure compliance with Building and Fire Code requirements. This negligence can result in unintended life safety risks to the habitants of the SDUs. Staff have drafted SDU policies and regulations to align with the recent Provincial updates. These updates highlight the specific needs of the public; resident engagement will play a key role in developing a "made in Pelham" solution. Staff presented an information report on February 8, 2021, providing the Committee of the Whole and the public with an opportunity to receive information regarding SDU policy and regulations. Currently, the zoning bylaw does not contain specific regulations permitting an SDU. The zoning bylaw amendment seeks approval to allow SDUs that are self-contained units with
The Voice
A March 10, 2021
bathroom, kitchen and sleeping facilities separate from those of the principal dwelling on the same lot in addition to having regulations with respect to maximum unit size and parking requirements. Presently, the Official Plan does not contain policies specific to Second Dwelling Units, but allows for Accessory Apartments only in single-detached dwellings and only in the College and Emmett Street neighbourhood. However, the Zoning bylaw has not been updated to conform with this policy. The draft proposes a Second Dwelling Unit's permission in a principal dwelling unit and accessory structure subject to meeting specific policy requirements. Those policies include deleting and replacing accessory apartments throughout several sections in the Official Plan. These policies would be slightly amended to ensure that the floor area of the proposed unit will be less than the gross floor area of the principal residential unit. Following the public meeting, revisions will be made to the drafts, and a recommendation report on final policies and regulations will be prepared for Council with a date yet to be determined. Additional feedback from agencies will also be undertaken prior to a recommendation report being prepared for Council's consideration and the opportunity to receive additional public input through the Town website is available. A Second Dwelling Unit project page is available via the Town of Pelham website.
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
Project timelines and dates Information and reports for SDUs available for viewing - January 5, 2021 Public Meeting - February 8, 2021 Public meeting was livestreamed and can be viewed on the Town’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/townofpelahmontario Council Decision (TBD) Final versions of Second Dwelling Unit policies and regulations to be presented to Committee for recommendation at a date yet to be determined. Appeal Period Once the Official Plan and zoning bylaw Amendments has been finalized and passed by the Council, it will come into force and effect. Under The Planning Act, there is no opportunity to appeal to the LPAT for policies about Second Dwelling Units. If you have any questions about the new polices and regulations, please contact tlotoole@pelham.ca for further assistance.
This page includes explanations of requirements of the Town, why Second Dwelling Units are needed, the planning process being undertaken, how to comment, graphics, and contact information. We encourage you to visit our Second Dwelling Unit engagement page for further information and project updates as we move through the process (see link at bottom of page).
Tara Lynn O’Toole - Policy Planner T: 905-892-2607 x344 E: tlotoole@pelham.ca
https://engagingpelham.ca/second-dwelling-units
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
The Voice
A March 10, 2021
Join the Town of Pelham for a week of FUN over Spring Break! Each day will consist of different games and activities, including skating, gym time, crafts and more! Monday: Monday FUNday! The first day of camp will be filled with getting to know you games so campers can meet their camp group and leaders! They will then spend their afternoon getting creative with a craft and doing fun activities in the gym! The hot lunch option for today is Chicken Fingers & Fries, granola bar and a juice box. Tuesday: Crazy Hair Tuesday! Campers are encouraged to wear their wildest hairstyles today, whether that is their natural bed-head, spikes with gel, or crazy styles; we can't wait to see what you come up with! Campers will spend their day playing some of our favourite camp games, participating in Just Dance, and getting creative! The hot lunch option for today is a 6-inch Subway Sub (Turkey, Cold Cut, Ham or Veggie), a cookie and a juice box. Wednesday: Wild Wednesday! Today campers will have the opportunity to go skating! They will then spend their afternoon making crafts and getting outdoors (weather permitting). The hot lunch option for today is Mac & Cheese, with veggies and dip and a juice box. Thursday: Pajama Thursday! Campers can stay cozy in their PJ's all day long at camp today! They will spend their morning colouring and making bracelets, which is always a camp favourite! After lunch, they will enjoy a movie and popcorn! The hot lunch option for today is a Hamburger & Fries, fruit gummies and a juice box. Friday: FUN-filled Friday! Campers will celebrate their last day of camp by doing some of their favourite camp activities, including skating, playing their favourite camp games, and getting creative! The hot lunch option for today is pizza, rice krispie treats and a juice box. For more information regarding COVID-19 protocols, please refer to the 'Camps and COVID-19' information at www.pelham.ca/camps
Spring Break Camp
Page 11
Important Information April 12-16, 2021 Meridian Community Centre 100 Meridian Way, Fonthill, ON $185 for the week $38/day extended care $35/week hot lunch option Day: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Extended care: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Brittany MacLean bmaclean@pelham.ca 905-892-2607 x372 www.pelham.ca/register *All activities are subject to change.
A
program designed to strengthen connections and encourage collaboration between teens and their elders. The Town of Pelham, students from E.L. Crossley High School, and community volunteers will be apart of this exciting creative process that will finish in the performance of an original dramatic production. Performance dates and delivery change with each production. Through intergenerational conversation circles, senior and youth participants will have the opportunity to share anecdotes and experiences from their lives; these stories will provide the foundation for a video production produced and performed by both youth and senior participants. This initiative also seeks to showcase the broad range of talents and passions individuals bring to the project – music, dance, visual arts, crafts, trades. We aim to involve Pelham's community in all of its diversity, including Indigenous presence and storytelling approaches. We hope you will join us in this artistic endeavour. Learn more and register at www.pelham.ca/arts
Page 12
The Voice
A March 10, 2021
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
Capital Project: Pelham Street Reconstruction T
he Pelham Street Reconstruction project includes the reconstruction of Pelham Street from the Fonthill downtown core to the south Town limit approximately 150 m south of Quaker Road. The project will be completed in four phases at an estimated cost of $9M. The first phase of the project included the reconstruction of Pelham Street between College Street and Port Robinson Road. This project commenced in the fall of 2020 and is expected to be completed in the spring of 2021.
Phase 2 of the project is expected to commence in the spring of 2021, with completion by December of 2021. Additional finishing work, such as sod, may be completed in spring 2022. The Town has received a grant from the ICIP Rural and Northern Stream for $4.2M in order to complete the Pelham Street Reconstruction project.
The second phase of the project involves the reconstruction of Pelham Street from Port Robinson Road to approximately 50 m south of Pancake and John Street. The project will include a full reconstruction of the roadway, including newly paved surfaces such as designated on-road bicycle facilities, concrete curb and gutter, new concrete sidewalks, a new storm drainage system to improve drainage and mitigate flooding concerns, new water main and new street lighting for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The project will also include pedestrian safety and traf traffic calming measures at the key intersections, including a raised tabletop intersection at Port Robinson Road.
For more information contact Jason Marr at 905-892-2607 x313 or jmarr@pelham.ca https://engagingpelham.ca/pelham-street-reconstruction
Join in the fun all Easter weekend April 2 – 5, 2021 Hoppin' Virtual Magic Show Hoppin' Easter at Home Fun Hoppin' by Bunny
Hop to the website for FREE events for the whole family!
For more information visit www.pelham.ca/easter or contact Leah Letford at 905-892-2607 x352 or lletford@pelham.ca
55+ Programming
W
e can make it easy to stay active!
In partnership with Art Your Service, the Town of Pelham is helping to provide both active and social virtual programs from the comfort of your own home. From chair yoga and beginners painting to social events, these activities twice daily, five days a week, will help to keep you active and social virtually! Unable to attend during program times? Recordings of each program will be sent by email for you to follow along on your own time. Registration is required.
For more information, or to register, contact Brittany MacLean at 905-892-2607 x372 or bmaclean@pelham.ca
www.pelham.ca/55
*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and continuously changing rules and regulations, all programs, events, and dates, are subject to change without notice. To avoid any confusion, always call ahead or contact the Town of Pelham by phone, email, or through Town social media channels for the most up-to-date information.
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
The Voice
Page 13
A March 10, 2021
Picture worth 1000 words
The original "pride" included a local electrician, Town Clerk, butcher, barber, physician, pharmacist, school teacher, general store owner, and several farmers
Last year marked Fonthill Lions’ 75th anniversary BY MARYLOU HILLIARD Special to the Voice
A short story could never do justice to the rich history of the Fonthill Lions, however the phrase “a picture is worth a thousand words” rings very true. A simple flip through scrapbooks of historical photos and newspaper articles paints a warm, impressive portrait of a club built on community spirit, hard work, dedication, friendship and fun. Life in the Village of Fonthill was significantly different back when the club was first started. But one thing that has remained true throughout the years is the committed dedication and determination of Fonthill Lions members to serve their local community. The club was conceived when Lou Whittaker, a member of its sponsoring Welland Lions club, along with his brother-in-law, Leo Giles, recruited the support of an eclectic group of community-oriented gentlemen from across all walks of life. The original “pride” included a local electrician, Town Clerk, butcher, barber, physician, pharmacist, school teacher, general store owner and several farmers. With that diverse group, the Fonthill Lions club was born with 24 members, receiving its charter on April 3, 1945. Members originally met at the Old Fire Hall on Pelham Road, then moved to Davis Hall on Haist Street, prior to purchasing 7.5 acres of vacant land on Hur-
ricane Road in 1970, still home of the Fonthill Lions today. In 1972, the land was opened as a park, now known as Gord L. Klager park, named after Charter Member Gord Klager. The Lions’ hall officially opened in 1974, a place to bring members and the community together for many years to come. The Fonthill Lions have always been strong supporters of sports and recreation in the community. One of the first major projects that the club undertook was work on the Fonthill Park, now known as Marlene Stewart Streit Park. Beginning in 1950, the Fonthill Lions purchased adjacent property to create access to the park, then improved the baseball field, installed lighting, built an outdoor rink, financed ice equipment, constructed a change house for skaters, and erected a bandshell. In 1959, the Fonthill Lions began a campaign for Fonthill’s first public neighbourhood pool, donating $16,000 for construction. In 1975, they donated $17,000 towards construction of the original Haist Street community arena, which was recently torn down to make room for new housing. The Lions also created baseball and soccer fields on their Hurricane Road property, fully equipped with outdoor lighting. The Lions baseball field is still home today for the town’s slow pitch league. In addition, the Lions recently
Fonthill Lions Club charter, 1945. installed new outdoor lighting to become the home for a local ball hockey league, providing healthy outdoor activity for both children and adults. In 2016, the club pledged $25,000 to sponsor an elevator,
SUPPLIED
named the “Fonthill Lions Lift,” to enable accessibility for everyone at the town’s new Meridian Community Centre. In their many years of service, the Fonthill Lions held several events and raised funds for a va-
riety of causes. There were golf tournaments, soap box derbies, bike-a-thons, walk-a-thons, paper drives, public speaking programs, boxing nights, Christmas parties, Canada Day activities, raffles, lotteries, yard sales, agricultural nights, bottle drives, drive-thru meals and local chef “Sliderfest” competitions. A popular event hosted for many years by the Lions was their annual carnival and parade, which was always a summer highlight for people of all ages. One very unique 1988 fundraiser was a “Building lot lottery,” where the first prize was a 65’ x 140’ building lot. The Lions have supported many local causes, including Pelham Cares, Wellspring Niagara, Welland Hospital Foundation, as well as Lions International projects such as Dog Guides and Lake Joseph Camp for the Blind. The Fonthill Lions club sponsored the Fenwick Lions club when that club was chartered in 1949. In 1980 the two local clubs worked together to raise funds to purchase a Leader Dog. In 1970, the Fonthill Lions sponsored the formation of the Fonthill Lionette, who joined Li-
111 Hwy 20 East FONTHILL
See LIONS Page 18
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Page 14
The Voice
Trainer Dave McMahon.
THEFT
continued from Page 18 County Humane Society, agrees that it’s buyer beware when purchasing a dog online. “Make sure you do your due diligence,” said Strooband. “Some scammers online will send you pics of beautiful puppies, and ask for a $1000 deposit on a $3000 dog. Once they get your money, they cut off communication. I hear it quite a bit.” Strooband said that there are times when he learns about a dog getting stolen,
only to find out later that it involved somebody who didn't like the way the dog was being treated, so they went into the backyard and took the animal, with the intention of putting it in a better home. “Last year, the number of dogs both arriving at the shelter and reported missing have gone down, and adoption rates have increased,” said Strooband. “Since the beginning of SUPPLIED the pandemic, we have asked people to step forward and foster pets on a temporary basis. Typically in past years, we may get ten people inquiring, and a couple will foster pets. But during the pandemic, we had 60 people come forward and they all took pets, which pretty much cleaned out the shelter.” Rather than taking a chance online, Strooband advocates adopting through an organization like the humane society. “And I would underscore the importance of getting pets microchipped.”
A March 10, 2021
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca REMEMBERING WALLY For 34 years a Bell Canada repairman and installer, and husband to a descendant of Sir Isaac Brock, Walter Gretzky was of course best known as hockey great Wayne Gretzky’s dad—and his first coach. Fonthill resident Ric Gretsinger recalls meeting Walter a couple of times, including at the September 2018 official opening of the Meridian Community Centre, where he made an appearance with the NHL Alumni All-Stars and this photo was taken. “Don’t forget,” said Gretsinger, “he came down to Fonthill and stayed for an entire exhibition hockey game, and posed for pictures and gave out his autograph. He loved talking to all the kids and posing with them.” Gretsinger added that after the game Gretzky went out for a drink with the players. “He’ll be sorely missed.” LORI GRETSINGER
TIGER
continued from Page 8 the man. That is what I was left with as well. More money and adoration than you could use in 20 lifetimes. Professional success beyond most anyone’s wildest imagination. Yet if you asked me if I would trade my life, detail for detail, for his, the answer would be an emphatic no. I guess you also learn his incredible ability to compartmentalize. It boggles the mind he was able to maintain the façade of being a happily married man with two young children and still win golf tournaments at a rate never before seen, while having upwards of
COUNCIL
continued from Page 3 residents was feasible given that not everyone reads the newspaper. Director of Recreation, Culture and Wellness Vickie vanRavenswaay said it was possible in a limited form.
Store is Open! Lots of new products being added weekly! Order online with touchless pickup and delivery every Thursday in Pelham SHOPDEVRIESFRUITFARM.CA Or call: 905-892-8724
DID YOU KNOW THAT MARCH IS NUTRITION MONTH? We have so many fresh choices available at the farm! We have Ontario cucumbers, carrots, beets, parsnips, turnips, Boston lettuce, trio mix lettuce, tomatoes, potatoes, onions, cabbage, kale, and of course our hard CRISPY Apples! All this was produced right here in Ontario. Even when the weather seems still a little wintery we still have lots of fresh fruit and vegetables right from our own back yard! We do carry a wide assortment of other fruit and vegetables that are not seasonal to our area, but we will always carry healthy choices produced in our own province first!
11 different affairs going on at various locales around the country. How do you function when the National Enquirer has your agent’s number on speed dial? I guess he eventually learned how to speak to women. I think Tiger liked being Tiger when he was on the course. The power, the aura that came with it. But it seemed he wanted to put on the suit and the glasses and become Eldrick as soon as it was over—yet that is not how our hero worship system works. You don’t get to choose when you are Superman and when you are Clark Kent. You wear that costume 24 hours a day, whether it fits you or not. It seems he has put his identity trou-
“We could do so at high cost,” she said. “Perhaps target certain areas of the Town.” Mayor Junkin agreed that many seniors are currently isolated both physically and mentally. “There have been so many studies that have shown the number one complaint of seniors is how to combat the loneliness they suffer day in, and day out,” he said. “So it’s paramount that all communities do what we
bles behind him. The marital issues, the drug dependency, and he has an outwardly lovely relationship with his two kids. You are a cold-hearted human if you were not affected in some way by his win at The Master’s tournament as a redemption moment for the ages in 2019. This is how the documentary ends. Hopefully this car wreck a couple of weeks back was just a mistake. People are complicated. Parenting is complicated. Life is complicated. Be careful what you wish for. Be careful of judgment. Empathy is good. ◆ John Piccolo is a golf instructor at Eagle Valley Golf Club and runs Piccolo’s Custom Golf Shop. Email him at picgolf@vaxxine.com
can to reach out to these individuals.”
Odds and ends
■ Council passed the bylaw to green light the redevelopment of 3 Hurricane Road. The matter was briefly hung up as Hildebrandt pointed out a typo in the staff report. ■ Jen Pilzecker of the Pelham Beautification Committee made a presentation including their plans to ask for a grant for a future
“community gateway” feature at the corner of Hwy. 20 and Rice Road. The committee also asked Council for $250 for a thank-you card initiative. ■ Council passed the official bylaw to appoint David Christensen as a Town building inspector. Christensen has worked for the Town for over a year, but recently received qualifications for building inspection.
Calling small business owners COVID-19 support could be available to you.
• Grants of up to $20,000 through the Ontario Small Business Support Grant • Up to $1,000 in support for purchasing PPE through Ontario's Main Street Relief Grant • Rebates for property tax and energy costs
Fresh off the Farm START PLANNING THE GARDEN!
Our seed rack from Zappa seeds has arrived. Stop by the farm or order your packages online at shopdevriesfruitfarm.ca We are now carrying a number of dairy products from Hewitt’s Dairy in Hagersville!
Only 11 more days till Spring!
FRESH BREAD, BUNS, TARTS AND PIES Stor e hou rs: Mon-Fri 8 AM -6 PM, Sat 8 AM -5 PM Che
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The Voice
Page 15
A March 10, 2021
Pelham fumes at TD Bank departure It seems incongruous that a bank would be pulling up roots in Fonthill just when local housing development is burgeoning, and the population is mushrooming. But that’s what Toronto-Dominion is doing. Fonthill’s TD Branch Manager Mitch McIntosh said he couldn’t comment specifically on the closure, but did note that the distance from the 1439 Pelham Street branch to the one at 845 Niagara Street in Welland is exactly 5.8 kilometres, “An eight -minute drive.” TD’s Manager of Corporate and Public Affairs, Carla Hindman, said that the numbers didn’t support keeping the Fonthill location open. “We continually assess demand across our branch network and renovate, relocate, close, and open new branches based on this assessment,” said Hindman. “After a careful review, including a detailed look at customer needs, client traffic in this location, and proximity to other TD branches, we have made the difficult decision to close our branch in Fonthill on July 16. A Toronto-Dominion ATM will remain in Fonthill, all branch employees will be redeployed to other locations, and our customers will continue to see familiar faces at nearby branches.” Hindman said that TD understands the concerns its customers have raised, and are committed to supporting them. “We will continue to meet with our customers to help them through this transition.” Toronto-Dominion Bank, which holds $9 billion in reserves, was one of six major Canadian banks that recently surpassed pre-pandemic profit levels. Its earnings in the fourth quarter of 2020 were $5.1 billion, up 80 percent compared with the same quarter in 2019, according to CBC News. Bloomberg News reported in late February that TD planned to close 82 of its 1223 US branches as part of a “store optimization” in its American unit. Earnings at the US re-
DON RICKERS
BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent
tail bank had fallen 16 percent to US $615 million. The closures, which are planned for April, are based on an evaluation of locations redundant to nearby branches. An increase in online transactions and use of the TD app by customers factored into the decision. Pelham residents will remember the outrage that greeted RBC’s closure of its Fenwick branch in 2018, replacing it with a full-service ATM. The branch had been active for 112 years. Prior to its closure, the Fenwick branch had seen declining traffic according to the bank, and had its hours of service reduced. “They’ve reduced the hours so much in Fenwick, there’s nothing on Saturdays, and nothing in the evenings, so it’s no surprise the traffic is down,” said Fenwick resident Gary Chambers at the time. “But there’s money there. People in Fenwick save. People in Fonthill spend.” During his campaign for mayor, Marvin Junkin also voiced bewilderment at the decision to close the Fenwick RBC branch at the time, since Fenwick was a growing, not shrinking, community. He also pointed out that RBC had made $1.2 billion in profit the previous year. “When is enough, enough?” Junkin asked.
The seller says this sign dates to the 1940s.
DON RICKERS
Piece of Fenwick history on the block BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent Kevin Konkle, proprietor of Good Buy Antiques on Highway 20 at Pelham Street, has latched on to a piece of Pelham history. Obtained from a local collector, he has the original wooden banner that adorned the Fenwick post office back in the 1940s. “It’s been on my radar for a couple of years,” said Konkle. Through word of mouth, he discovered it was available. “I had to have it,” said the history and antiques buff. The community of Fenwick
was named back in 1853, and the post office was a fixture in town by 1862. Today, Canada Post in Fenwick operates out of the Avondale Store, on Canboro Road. But back in the day, it was a stand-alone office. With a big wooden sign out front. Konkle said he has a friend in London, Ontario, who sent him a picture of the post office sign that used to hang in the village of Shedden, in Elgin County (“Rhubarb capitol of Ontario”), and the design is identical to the one created for Fenwick. He figures that there must have been a government office that built village signs to the same
standard. If you think that Konkle will part with his treasure for chicken feed, forget it. The price tag is $2200. Asked whether he would consider donating the sign to the Pelham Historical Society, Konkle said, “Sorry, no. I’m sure someone locally will step up and keep it in the community.” The Society’s Collections Coordinator, Carolyn Botari, told the Voice that she was aware of the sign, but wasn’t sure whether the group would make an offer on it. “The PHS [membership] will have to make any decisions on how to proceed.”
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The Voice
A March 10, 2021
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Concordia Lutheran Church 105 Welland Rd., Fonthill
Fonthill Baptist Church www.fonthillbaptistchurch.ca
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1369 Rice Rd., Fonthill
Ridgeville Bible Chapel ridgevillebiblechapel.com
Fenwick Church of Christ www.fenwickchurchofchrist.ca
Fonthill United Church www.fonthillunited.com
Kirk on the Hill Presbyterian Church 1344 Haist St., Fonthill
St. Alexander Roman Catholic Church www.stalexander.on.ca
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FAITH LIFT
continued from Page 20 to develop, survive and reproduce. It is estimated that one person’s DNA would fi ll about 100 encyclopedia volumes with information and instructions (that’s a lot of newspapers). Bill Gates concluded, “DNA is far, far more advanced than any software ever created.” So, let’s ask ourselves a similar question to our first one: “Did DNA create itself or happen by accident?” Think about it. Our answer to the first newspaper question seemed like a no-brainer. No, newspapers don’t happen by accident or create themselves. Why is it that many people hesitate to answer “no” to this second question which involves so much more complexity, design and intelligence?
Good news
The logical answer is: intelligence designs newspapers and an even greater intelligence must have designed DNA. But as soon as we consider intelligent design, we are obliged to think of an intelligent designer. Christians describe that person or being with words like, “God, Creator, Heavenly Father, the Eternal One.” Once we open our minds and hearts to His existence, then we begin to wonder about other questions like, “Why did He create me?” “Can I have relationship with Him?” and “How does He want me to live?” There are answers to all the above. It’s called “Good News” and it’s found in God’s newspaper, the Bible. ◆ Rob Weatherby is a retired pastor who now attends his home church, Fonthill Baptist.
BALANCED LIFE
continued from Page 21 that can also provide excellent hiking and walking opportunities. The Red Hill Valley Trail, just 45 minutes from Pelham, is a local example. Park at Lake Ontario near the beach and walk the massive pedestrian bridge over the QEW into the Red Hill Valley, or begin atop the escarpment at Albion Falls and head to the lake along Red Hill Creek to traverse this 12 km trail. If your plan is a few kilometres out and back, the amount of exercise you’re seeking may determine from which end you begin. Serious hikers already vaccinated or comfortable sharing a short ride car ride with others wearing masks can leave a shuttle vehicle at each trailhead and attempt a through hike. Further evidence for the suitability of this resource to walkers and hikers is an article on Ontario-by-Bike’s website entitled, “Pairing Culture and Cycling: Eight Cycling Trails in Strafford, Ontario.” Five of the eight trails are excellent for walking too. The Festival Route meanders past the Avon Theatre, the Festival Theatre, downtown Stratford, and the Avon River. It is completely accessible to walk-
ers. The Avon River Cycling Path extends this walk through Shakespeare Gardens and historic residential neighbourhoods. The Anne Hathaway Loop is a walk-friendly cycling loop that includes Stratford’s Market Square and the cafes of downtown. A few minutes southwest of Stratford, the St. Mary’s Grand Trunk Trail borders the limestone waterfalls of the Thames River and passes by the historic Sarnia and Queen Street bridges in its short 2.6 km distance, ideal for a refreshing walk before your evening Shakespearian performance. There is no question that a thorough search of the Cycling in Ontario 2021 will yield more than just cycling adventures. The Cycling in Ontario 2021 guide entices with some 50 day-trips and multi-day options scattered through western, eastern and central Ontario, primarily south of Highway 17, stretching from Sault Ste Marie through Sudbury and North Bay. Without doubt, Cycling in Ontario 2021 is designed to promote cycling and those communities in Ontario that have adopted cycling as part of their tourism and lifestyle strategy. You will not find the streets of Toronto’s urban core, nor the tourist traps of Clifton Hill, represented in the guide. In my opinion, this is a benefit rather than a limita-
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A March 10, 2021 Burke’s Masonry Since 2003, Éric Beaudry, André Brunet and Pierre-Luc Dupuis have Place these ads for free! 30 words +time-honoured photo Bricklaying, tuckpointing, been exploring and performing melodies from the stomp• Birth announcements • 50th and greater wedding anniversaries • 90, 95,of100-plus birthday announcements step repair, granite ing grounds Quebec’s musical past. Using fiddle, accordion, harmonica, coatings, brick slices guitar, bouzouki and a number of other instruments, our three virtuosos 905-682-7061. boundless energy This withengagement the unmistakable de vivre foundI only in tion blend for those of us seekwith all joie turned 80 I decided was old FLOORINGP18-28 ing fresh destinations and facets of cycling and the cy- enough to get my first ebike. traditional Quebec music. Show runs from 7-9 p.m. physical activities that are cling industry ensures that When I visit my 10-year-
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to some degree social, yet Cycling in Ontario 2021 pro- old granddaughter in Parry are atPELHAM low risk for transmitvides timely information on Sound, she looks forward to LIBRARY CARD MAKING WORKSHOP ting the coronavirus. cycling trends. In 2020 (all a ride on the local trails with Makethe six gravel cards roads with fallprevious themes,issues learning varietyme, of techniques. Instead, are aavailand the ebikeMaterials makes it of rural Waterloo Mennoable online) the focus was possible.” are provided. At time of registration, please enquire about tools needed. nite country and the river- bike-packing and trail ridChris from Huron Coun16 10 – 12:30. $10. Please register ahead. www.pelhamside Tues., paths ofSept. Peterborough ty usesVisit his ebike to monitor are the stars. For every recand assist cyclist and hiklibrary.on.ca or call 905-892-6443 for more details. ommendation set in a wellers as a trail ranger along known tourist area such 50 kilometres of the Guelph as Prince Edward County’s to Goderich rail trail, and FABULOUS FENWICK LIONS FISH FRY Millennium Trail, there Kelly, with gimpy legs from treats funds community. Haddock, is a Tasty route like thewith Park to heading straight back into the 20-plus years of rugby, rode Park french River Ramble between Crank the Shield, Ontario’s fries and much more. Runs Sept. 9 from 4-7 p.m. Fitzroy Provincial Park and iconic three day mounMorris Island Conservation tain bike stage race held in Area,PELHAM along the Ottawa RivMINOR HOCKEY EQUIPMENT SALE the granite and bogs near er, which is unknown to 99 Sault Ste. Marie, on his new Buy, sell or trade used equipment at the Pelham Arena. Aimed to provide per cent of us. ebike. cheaper options for players in this upcoming season. Runsin Sept. 6 from The 2021 guide is written Cycling Ontario 2021 by cyclists using quality inis a production of Ontario 9-12 in the morning. formation provided by local by Bike, which is a program enthusiast clubs and cycling of Transportation Options, advocates. The articles caing in Ontario, the most rean Ontario not-for-profit PELHAM MUDFEST pably walk the line between cent segment of adventure organization dedicated to Men and will becycling. back in the mud as the second run on the year is promotion and women factual infostering sustainable transformation, which is an imThis year, ebikes and portation and tourism ideas. held at Bissil’s Hideaway. portant benefit for those their riders are featured. The guide is available as a researching destinations This cycling demograph- free download, or can be and NIAGARA planning safe cycling icEXHIBITION is exploding, powered by ordered as a print copy, on REGIONAL outings. Louisa Mursell, older riders unwilling to Ontario-by-Bike’s website: Rodeo, games entertainment years exciting event. It Editor-in-Chief, has and spentlivegive up on cycling,headline new rid- this https://www.ontariobybike. yearsruns cycling throughout ersthe wanting to expand their ca/2021 from Sept. 11-14 at Welland Fairgrounds. Ontario, developing rela- trip distances without fear Whether you intend to use tionships with local cycling of tackling too much phys- it as research tool for cyclubsBIG andMOVE establishing a RIDE ically, and utility riders. For cling, hiking or walking, the CANCER network of bicycle-friend- anyone lamenting that they guide and Ontario-by-Bike’s The Big Move Cancer Ride is a non-competitive ride taking place on Sept. ly businesses that under- may have missed the op- website are incredibly inProceeds theofBigportunity Move stay Niagara and support theand Walker Famstand7.the specific for needs to in enjoy cycling, spirational informative cyclists. Before any route an ebike might allow them resources aimed at helpily Cancer Centre. offering is accepted into to begin riding at any age. ing you explore Ontario the guide, including those The rider profiles in the sustainably, and generate identified as family friend- guide are inspirational. the enthusiasm necessary WALKING CLUB ly, you can be assured that a Cecil from Georgetown for Ontario travel to safely Interestedsafety-conin walking insays, Pelham? Joinalways them Tuesdays at the Pelham Arena knowledgeable, “I have en- navigate one more year of scious cyclist has ridden it. joyed cycling and when I COVID with optimism. ◆ from 9-10 am and Thursdays at Fonthill Bandshell for 9-10:30 am. There
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Page 17 Yard & Shed MOVING SALE, Large collection FONTHILL YOUR AD BY EMAIL OR PHONE E. L. Crossley Keith’s Restau of Christmas and holidayPLACE office@thevoiceofpelham.ca Churchill Natural Meats Target Store Hours: Mon-Thurs, 8 AM 2 PM (905) 892-8690 decorations and household Shoppers Drug Mart Pennzoil Quick items, SAT. AUG. 30, 8AMFonthill Library Lazy Loon 1PM 625 METLER RD, Town of Pelham Pharmasave REPAIR NORTH PELHAM MASONRY P18-23 Cafe on Main Avondale Stor ALLTYPE MASONRY Beamer’s Pro Hardware Brick, Block, Stone and Chimney repairs. Wet and damaged basement repairs. Sobey’s Phone Tom Deamude at 289-241-4767. McDonald’s 35 years of construction experience.
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Page 18
The Voice
A March 10, 2021
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
Canine crimes of opportunity
Dogs have been stolen regularly from people's back yards, lured with food
Anecdotally, dog thefts on the rise during pandemic BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent There’s a bit a crime wave across the pond, and it’s a doggone problem. The coronavirus pandemic in the UK, as in Canada, has forced many people to work from home, and they have been craving canine companionship. The demand for dogs has pushed up the price for puppies, which has sparked a dramatic increase in dog thefts. One British charity, DogLost, has reported a rise from 172 dogs stolen in 2019 to 465 abducted in 2020. Beverley Cuddy, editor of Dogs Today magazine in the UK, told the BBC, “In lockdown, everyone wanted a dog and the prices went up and up. The criminals looked at those figures...and put two and two together.” It is a terrible situation, traumatic for a dog that’s been separated from its home, and heartbreaking for the owners over the loss of a beloved family pet. A high-profile pet abduction took place in Hollywood recently, when pop star Lady Gaga’s two French bulldogs, Kuji and Gustav, were stolen at gunpoint while out for a stroll with their walker, who was shot. The singer offered a $500,000 reward for the pooches, which was paid to a “Good Samaritan” who said she found them in an alley in Los Angeles,
LIONS
continued from Page 13 ons International in 1989 and changed their name to the Fonthill Lioness, providing tireless community care for over 50 years. The Lioness provide support to the Fonthill Lions, but also
miles from where the dognapping occurred. Police are still investigating the woman’s story. The American Kennel Club has advised dog lovers that it’s important to safeguard their furry friends, just as they would their homes and automobiles. Most thieves are “dog flippers,” said the AKC, who abduct an animal with the intention of reselling it for a quick profit. Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, and Yorkshire Terriers are high-value dogs that are prime targets for thieves who plan to “grab and run,” but all breeds are at risk. Local pet owners in Niagara will be somewhat relived to know that, at least according to police, dog thefts are rare in the region. NRPS Constable Phil Gavin told the Voice, “The theft of dogs is not something we have seen a lot of during the pandemic. In the very limited number of cases that have occurred, the parties involved are known to each other. We are not seeing a trend with strangers stealing pet animals.” Dave McMahon doesn’t share that view. He is a canine behaviour professional who has been operating a dog training academy for some 35 years in Niagara Falls. He taught a course
donate to many other projects such as Pelham Cares, Pelham Library, Town of Pelham Day Camp, Welland Hospital Foundation, FACS, VON, Niagara Peninsula Children’s Centre, Lions Effective Speaking, Camp Dorset, Lake Joseph Centre, Camp Kirk, Camp Trillium, Women’s Place, Lions
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Sinead Megna with Fable, whose sibling, Dakota, has been missing since mid-February from their property at Balfour and 16 Road. Megna says that since Dakota's disappearance, she has learned of three other Rottweilers going missing. SUPPLIED in dog behaviour at Niagara College for 25 years, and still hosts a radio show called Dog Talk on CKTB 610 AM. “The number of dogs thefts is on an incline upwards,” said McMahon. “A lot of people are letting their guard down. The advice I give to folks is to make sure that they never leave their dog unattended. Dogs have been stolen regularly from people's backyards, lured with food. The other common mistake is when owners leave the dog in their ve-
hicle while they run into the store or the bank.” Purebred animals are worth a lot of money, said McMahon, and thieves will sell the dog by word-ofmouth on the street, out of town, sometimes out of province on the black market. “You can't buy a $400 registered dog from a breeder. Those days are obsolete. Nowadays some breeders want thousands of dollars for a puppy,” said McMahon. McMahon encourag-
es owners to get their dogs microchipped through their veterinarian's office for ease of identification if they go missing. A standard veterinary procedure would be to check for a microchip in a newly adopted pet. This process has led to the recovery of stolen dogs. If your dog goes missing, immediately report it to the police, and call your veterinarian and the microchip company, as well as any lost-dog or stolen-dog databases in your area, including local shelters. You
Homes for the Deaf, Lions Foundation of Canada, Eye Care Niagara, Lions Youth Exchange and Lions Foundation of Canada. Together, the Fonthill Lions and Lioness have greatly enhanced the social fabric of the community over the years. The Fonthill Lions have the unique distinction of being “The Motto Makers” for Lions International. In
1954, Fonthill Lion Doug Stephenson’s motto of “We Serve” was chosen from 6,000 entries as Lions International’s global motto. Always known for their “We Serve” commitment, the Fonthill Lions proudly display numerous scrapbooks showcasing many unique events, activities, fundraisers, all to support giving back to the commu-
nity. The year 2020 marked the Fonthill Lions 75th anniversar y—unfortunately a year when celebrations were not possible due to the pandemic. In fact, most community events were cancelled, somewhat hindering community spirit locally and around the globe. Yet despite the challenges, the Fonthill Lions contin-
should also distribute fliers and get the word out on social media. “Buy a surveillance camera for your house and yard,” advised McMahon. “They are very affordable now, and they will definitely help deter dog nappers.” McMahon said that there are people who specialize in recovering lost or stolen dogs, and recommended Shar Spinoza and her company K9 Trackers. Spinoza has been a dog profiler and locator for many years, and asserted she has recovered some 100 lost and abducted canines in Niagara. She noted that not all missing dogs have been stolen. Some have escaped their enclosures, or disappeared through misadventure. But Spinoza agrees that dog theft is on upswing, due to greed and the perceived easy profit of selling a stolen animal. “It seems to regularly occur as a crime of opportunity,” she said. “And all these pups were desirable breeds.” Spinoza said that there are some reputable dog rescue groups in the region, but advised people to be wary of online sites that sell and “re-home” dogs. “There are a lot of scammers out there,” she said. Kevin Strooband, Executive Director of the Lincoln See THEFT Page 14
ued their diehard devotion to local community service. Rich in tradition, the Fonthill Lions club continues to flourish today, serving its community, welcoming new members and preserving historical memories for future generations. Marylou Hilliard is a 2 Year Director of the Fonthill Lions Club
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SPRAY
continued from Page 6 — it’s a great road map for the Town, and I can only hope it’s on their required reading list for all concerned! In your article, CAO David Cribbs states, “Overall, this was a successful program.” Mr. Cribbs certainly seems to have a strange way of defi ning “success,” given the historical context of this matter and what transpired with a select group of taxpayers in 2019 still seeking resolution. His comment is a thoughtless generalization and has little regard for those saddled with the Town’s unwarranted charge. Mayor Junkin’s comment in the article that the “Town had no money” to spray is an understatement. The Town was inept in its preparedness and understanding of gypsy moths. Presumably, the Mayor is referring to the lack of funds allocated in the Town budget for the spray program that they themselves approved as being sufficient to deal with the problem. As many residents know, when there’s not enough money you sometimes need to look elsewhere or take a loan to deal with the matter at hand. The Town could have done that or made the tough decision and owned up to the problem associated with the budget shortfall. That might have meant increasing the next property tax installment in 2019 by $10 or so. Not adequately budgeting for the spray program should not equate to some sort of legitimate excuse for inaction on the Town’s part. This would be like having no money left in the Town’s Fire Services Budget, then when a
The Voice fi re breaks out at your house, the Town doesn’t respond or, as with the 2019 gypsy moth spray, they charge those individual taxpayers whose homes catch fi re for tending to the blaze. This is the Town’s responsibility, yet they ignored the early warning signs of the gypsy moth invasion. Pelham’s trees are one of its greatest assets, yet they conducted no routine studies on the trees for egg masses and ignored cries from residents as early as 2015 alerting them to re-emergence of the destructive gypsy moth. Interestingly, it seems the Town’s view of “overall success” is burdening a select group of taxpayers. Their lack of preparedness and dismal funding caused 294 residents to be charged a grossly unfair, inequitable, unjust amount of money in 2019, and they remain unapologetic. As I see it, the issues in this matter centre on two things— the rate per acre and the size of the lot being charged for. The rate per acre: In 2018 the Town advertised that Pelham residents could get their properties sprayed for gypsy moths at the rate of $0.09 per square meter (or $350 / acre). Other municipalities paid $350/ acre in 2018 as well as in 2019 and 2020. The Town paid $350 per acre in 2018 and again in 2020. Yet somehow in 2019 the Town inexplicably charged 294 residents $625 / acre. When brought to the Town’s attention, no vetting was carried out to make sense of this onerous cost to taxpayers. In fact, you could hire the same company privately for less than was being charged by the Town. Still, no explanation from the Town was
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A March 10, 2021
forthcoming as to why residents were being charged what turned out to be an effective a rate of some $1,140 per acre. You’d think the Town had a fiduciary duty to ensure these taxpayers got the best deal possible for them, but this seems dubious at best. Where is the transparency and accountability? To make matters worse, there was no public tender
The Town has offered no explanation or justification as to why they felt using a single "average" lost size approach was appropriate
nor RFP (Request for Proposal) for the spray in 2019. The Town said the only game in town for this work was the company they had used in the past—that is, until taxpayers began providing them with several other companies that do the same work. In fact, because of these taxpayer efforts the Town now uses one of them today. Even when brought to the Town’s attention, there was no vetting evident as to the costs of the program, rather just their apparent focus on recouping all monies over what they had budgeted for so that it would not hit the Town’s books. They did this by billing each of these unfortunate taxpayers $260. The Town has offered no explanation or justification for
the excessive rate per acre they charged. The size of the average lot: The Town charged the 294 taxpayers using a one-size-fits-all approach. The result was that these taxpayers were each charged as if their lot size was .37 acres. The lion’s share of the lots sprayed (and for that matter, many of the residential lots in the Town) were nothing close to this however, and more like .227 acres. The matter was compounded by those with much larger lots, say 7 or 15 acres for example. Those landowners were only charged $260 just like those with an actual lot size of 1/5 an acre. Condominium owners who receive individual property tax bills and are on large acreages were sprayed too, but their condominium corporation only received one single $260 invoice regardless of how many condominium townhouse units or apartments there were. In other words, multiple taxpayers were charged as if they were one. Some residents were sprayed and charged by the Town even though they had hired a private company to treat their trees already. While others that did not meet the Town’s own criteria of a severe infestation were sprayed regardless. The Town has offered no explanation or justification as to why they felt using a single “average” lot size approach was appropriate or representative, other than to say it was easier and less work for billing purposes. The solution: My preferred resolution to the matter given what has transpired would be to refund these taxpayers their money (yes, I am one of them). I say this for a couple of reasons.
First, the Town has never charged individual taxpayers for the gypsy moth sprays in previous or subsequent years. Second, it may restore taxpayers’ faith in the Town, Mayor and Town Council. The Town had no one looking out for the residents’ own pocketbook, rather they were only concerned with not going over the measly and inadequate amount they had budgeted for the 2019 gypsy moth spray program, all the while knowing they had spent far more in previous years— a shining example of the Town’s lack of preparation and understanding in the matter. On the other hand, if refunding taxpayers’ money takes too much pride and is a pill too great for the Town to swallow, then at least charge them something that is far more reasonable. Be fair, equitable and just. Charge them based on a reasonable rate per acre ($350 not $625 per acre) and something more representative of their lot size (.227 not .37 acres). That would equate to a charge of $79 per lot not $260 in this example. If the Town would like to show some compassion and empathy, I’d suggest they reach out to Mr. Feeley, if he’s agreeable, so he could guide the Town towards an amicable resolution given his countless volunteer hours on behalf of the Town’s residents in attempting to correct this matter for them. His tenacity is commendable, as to date, no one at the Town is looking out for the taxpayer’s money. Again, thank you, Mr. Feeley, for holding the Town’s feet to the fi re. Graham Ashdown Fonthill
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The Voice
A March 10, 2021
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THE BALANCED LIFE by John Swart
Cycling in Ontario 2021—a resource not just for bikers
S
eems we’re all balancing our lives on our own personal teeter-totters: trying to remember if work dress today is white blouse with pyjama bottoms for Zoom, or long skirt and actually go to the office. Are the kids in school or is it a virtual learning morning. Does my spouse or partner need a gentle hug or a stern shove. And desperately waiting for a vaccine and knowing it won’t come until an age-appropriate time this summer or fall. What we do know for sure is that being outdoors helps clear our minds and improve our life balance, and
that cycling, walking and hiking are a large, COVIDsafe part of this equation. For those that embraced these activities early on in 2020, discovering new adventures within Ontario will be the challenge for at least the first half of 2021, and realistically, into the fall. Whether your preference is cycling, hiking or themed road-tripping by car, Cycling in Ontario 2021, a just-released, free, 45page guide produced by Ontario By Bike, may be your timely answer to researching undiscovered territory and experiences. Although primarily a cycling guide
to those regions of Ontario a day’s drive or less from Niagara, because it deals with road biking, urban and rural trails, and mountain biking, it’s easy to find many diverse non-cycling activities within its comprehensive pages. As road cyclists, we’re searching for traffic-free routes, which means off the traditional tourist path. We need lots of small town stops for home-cooked pastries and unique lunches, plus the occasional micro-brewery or local cultural attraction to give our rear ends a break from the saddle—prerequisites equally important to an enjoyable road trip. Oxford County offers the Cheese Trail, York Region has the Butter Tart Ride, Hastings has the Heritage Trail, and in Cornwall you can find the Grand Tour
Els Swart on Doube’s Trestle along the Trans Canada Trail west of Peterborough. This spectacular 200-metre-long rail-trail bridge rises 29 metres above Buttermilk Valley, and is easily accessible to walkers and hikers from Orange Corners Sideroad. JOHN SWART de Breweries, a personal favourite. This 83 km route, which can be cycled or driven, island-hops the Long Sault Parkway surrounded by the beautiful St. Lawrence River, passes the Lost Village Museum at Long Sault, and Humble Beginnings Brewing in In-
gleside, then ends at Rurban Brewery in Cornwall, after winding through the historic hinterland of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry Counties. Pelham’s Gerry Berkhout Trail offers ample proof that walkers, hikers and cyclists can comfortably
enjoy the same off-road facilities, each experiencing the pleasure and benefits in their own personal way. Cycling in Ontario 2021 is crammed with information on gravel trails and mountain-biking single track See BALANCED LIFE Page 16
V oice HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 This week some of the puzzle pieces in your life may not fit correctly. That’s okay, Aries. You will find a way to make things work even if they don’t exactly line up. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Your thoughts may be focused on the spiritual for much of the week, Taurus. This is an opportunity to get in touch with meaningful things in your life. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, if things haven’t been going as planned, perhaps it’s time to reevaluate some of your choices. Have confidence that you will find a solution that works. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, your sensitivity is heightened this week, so you may need to think twice or even three times before you share your opinions. Cool down before becoming chatt y. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Figure out how you can organize your day to get things done with more efficiency, Leo. This is a better option than gett ing frustrated by a lack of time in your schedule. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 You may realize that the conventional ways of doing things simply are not working anymore, Virgo. Start thinking creatively rather than analytically. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Dreams and fantasies are more than wishful thinking, Libra. They can be the catalysts to actual goals and plans if you let them. Start making your lists. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, you may be more attuned to your dreams this week.
While they are not true predictions of what will happen, pay attention to any recurring themes. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 A drastic change may be coming but you don’t know what that change will be just yet, Sagittarius. Keep your eyes peeled for opportunities that may be on the horizon. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Playful emotions and daydreams are filling your days and nights, Capricorn. Why not let them come out in very real ways? Find ways to incorporate more fun into your life . AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 If you have been taking someone for granted lately you can rectify that this week, Aquarius. Put this person first for a change and he or she may reciprocate in the future. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Always be truthful, Pisces. Just remember you cannot control how others may react to whatever it is you have to say. FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS MARCH 7 Jenna Fischer, Actress (47) MARCH 8 Kat Von D, Tattoo Artist (39) MARCH 9 Bow Wow, Rapper (34) MARCH 10 Robin Thicke, Singer (44) MARCH 11 Terrence Howard, Actor (52) MARCH 12 Mitt Romney, Politician (74) MARCH 13 Tristan Thompson, Athlete (30)
SOLUTIONS DOWN 1. MAMA 2. ABIB 3. ALAI 4. RESET 5. AAR 6. EXACTA 7. OLDIE 8. NEARNESS 9. SSR 10. ABEAM 11. BRAS 12. BECK 13. AAHS 21. SORES 23. CAR 25. TYR 26. HAH 27. CABAL 28. ABACA 29. TIBER 32. ABIBS 33. MANIA 34. ASIAN 36. DAD 37. ADC 38. A LA 40. AIREDALE 41. BRAES 43. PAR 44. AND 46. MED 47. RACEME 49. SEALS 50. NEFUD 51. SABIN 52. APAR 53. ALBA 54. HEED 57. BABE 58. ERIC 59. RISK 61. CPM 62. SBA
CROSSWORD ANSWERS
SOLUTIONS ACROSS 1. MAAR 5. AEONS 10. ABBA 14. ABLE 15. AXLES 16. BREA 17. MIAS 18. RADAR 19. EACH 20. ABIES 22. SIR 23. CASKS 24. TOTTENHAM 27. CAT 30. RYA 31. EAR 32. AMA 35. ABIDER 37. ASH 38. ABAS 39. BABAS 40. ADS 41. BLINI 42. ACED 43. PIC 44. ARABIA 45. LAR 46. MAR 47. RNA 48. SAN 49. SERENADES 52. AAHED 55. DEC 56. SABER 60. PLEA 61. CAFES 63. BARI 64. ABEL 65. PLUMB 66. IBIS 67. RADS 68. MEDEA 69. NECK
Enjoy our Take-out Fish & Chips Fridays! From our family to yours...stay safe
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The Voice
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A March 10, 2021
FAITH LIFT
by Pastor Rob Weatherby
Do you exist by accident or by design
H
ave you ever asked this question? It may seem too philosophical for some pragmatic types, but your answer will have a profound influence on your worldview, values and behavior. Here is one fairly simple exercise to help us figure it out.
A newspaper
You’re holding a newspaper in your hands right now (unless you’re reading the e-version). So, let me ask you a simple question: “Did this newspaper create itself or happen by accident?” In other words, did the letters, words, colors, photos, materials (and everything else that makes up a newspaper) just happen to come together or fall from the sky by accident? Most people respond by laughing and saying, “Of course not. That’s ridiculous and completely illogical.” And I would agree. The fact is a lot of work and brain power (design, writing, editing, etc.) went into the product in your hands. Plus, it took a lot of really smart people to design the printing machines that took all this material and produced a practical product that is useful in our daily lives. And let’s not forget those people who distributed this newspaper to your door or to your favorite pick-up spot (I can identify since I delivered newspapers for several years as a youth). And so, our unanimous conclusion is that this newspaper is not the result of accident or chance but rather the product of a lot of thinking, design, intelligence and work.
Life’s newspaper
DNA has been called the “book for life” or (for my comparison) I’ll call it “life’s
newspaper.” Those three letters stand for “deoxyribonucleic acid” (thank goodness for acronyms). It has existed for a long time but we just didn’t know it. It was first observed by a Swiss biochemist, Frederich Miescher, in the late 19th century. However, it was better understood by three scientists, Francis Crick, James Watson and Maurice Wilkins, in 1953. They were honored with Nobel prizes in 1962 for their groundbreaking work. We now know that everything alive has DNA. That includes plant life, animal
life and human life. DNA is found mostly in the nucleus of a cell which contains many DNA molecules. Each molecule is tightly packaged and is called a chromosome. If uncoiled, each human cell’s DNA would be a very thin thread measuring about three meters. Your body has about 37 trillion cells. So if you uncoiled all the DNA in your body, it would measure 67 billion miles (or 150,000 round trips to the moon). That leads me to another three-letter word—WOW! DNA contains the instructions that are needed for every living organism See FAITH LIFT Page 16
Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
Word Search: Nutrition
Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwards. ASCORBIC ACID CALCIUM CARBOHYDRATE CHOLESTEROL DAILY VALUE ENZYME
FIBER FLAVONOIDS FOLATE FOLIC ACID IRON LIPIDS
MACRONUTRIENT MAGNESIUM MICROGRAM NIACIN NUTRITIONAL PHOSPHATE
PROTEIN RETINOL SELENIUM SODIUM SUGAR THIAMIN
ANSWERS ON PAGE 18
Voice
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Page 22
The Voice
A March 10, 2021
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
Voice
THE CAT’S MEOW Catherine NicholsDickinson, of 387 Canboro Road, Ridgeville, is this month’s recipient of the Pelham Beautification Committee’s Thank You Card initiative. During 15 years of residence with her husband, Laverne, Catherine has spent many hours fixing up her gardens and beautifying their house with seasonal decorations. She built window boxes from pallet crates, a log deer, as well as bird feeders and squirrel houses from scrap boards. Last year an owl took up residence in one of the squirrel houses in her back yard. Catherine is a big proponent of catch, neuter and release, which was going well until she fell in love with each of the cats she rescued. Some six cats now reside at her feline abode. The Pelham Beautification Committee will name a recipient each month. Individuals are encouraged to submit nominations to beautification@pelham.ca CYNTHIA ROBERTS
MISSING ROTTWEILER
Missing Rottweiler in Pelham Pair of Rottweilers went missing on Feb.18 in the area of Sixteen Rd. and Balfour St. The female has since returned. Missing male answers to name of “Dakota,” 120 lbs., neutered, friendly, long tail. Has had ACL surgery so limps when sore. Please call immediately if seen or found: Sinead, (647) 295-8750.
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COLUMN SIX
continued from Page 1 When I said, “Quit that,” he would often reply, “You’re only a girl.” I had no answer. I had been trained not to hit people, so what was my alternative? When I eventually told mother about my problem she said, “There are times when we have to stand up for ourselves. You will have to hit him back.” I could not believe my ears. I could not believe that my gentle mother was telling me to hit someone. “Now you listen carefully, Donnie wears heavy clothes this time of year so you will have to hit him where he is not covered.” I was shocked. That meant his face. “Yes,” she said. “Do not provoke him but when he hits you again, do your thing, then walk away. By walking away, it shows him that you would not continue to hit him but that you will stand up for yourself.” Now I was relieved that there was an answer—of sorts—but nervous about the whole idea of a fight. If it came to that, how long could
RECIPE OF THE WEEK
4 Savoury Corn Muffins
I hold out? I prayed for a quick result. My chance came unexpectedly one day on the way home on the school bus. Our bus stop was on the highway between our two houses, so there was just the edge of the road to step down on. I got off the bus first, but Donnie was right behind me, closing fast. He took a swing at me, hitting my neck. My reaction was so fast that I surprised myself. I lifted my mittened hand and punched him on his cheek. He lost his balance and fell down into the ditch—a very surprised boy. The bus had not moved as yet, so he had an audience to see his disgrace of being put down by a girl. By this time, I had started walking home, still shaking but with a feeling of relief. “Mother, I did it. I punched Donnie back.” “Well done,” she said. “You likely will not have any more trouble with him now. He will know that even a girl can fight for herself.” A few years later I learned that Donnie’s dad spoke to my dad after the event and learned of Donnie’s bad habits. Donnie was a better playmate after that, and I never punched anyone again. ◆
“Country cooking” has different connotations depending on where one might be in the world. Many people attest that country cooking involves comfort cuisine foods that originated in the southeastern United States. Quite often such cuisine includes biscuits, gravy, fried chicken, boiled greens, and other delicious items made from simple ingredients. Corn muffins can be another staple of country cooking. Corn meal is a versatile ingredient that is the star of this simple side dish that can be made sweet or savory with just a few substitutions. Check out this lip-smacking version of corn muffins, from “Virgil’s Barbecue Road Trip Cookbook” (St. Martin’s Press) by Neal Corman. Lip-Smacking Savoury Corn Muffins Serves 4-6 1 1⁄3 3⁄4 1⁄2 1 3⁄4 1 2 1⁄2 2 6 1⁄2 1 3 3 1⁄2
cups yellow cornmeal cup all-purpose flour cup, plus 1 tablespoon granulated sugar tablespoon kosher salt tablespoon baking powder teaspoon baking soda cups buttermilk cup whole milk eggs, beaten tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 8-ounce bag shredded cheddar cheese cup fresh corn kernels tablespoons chopped scallions tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro teaspoon hot sauce
1. Preheat the oven to 400 F. Butter a muffin tin and dust it with flour. 2. Thoroughly combine the first six ingredients in the bowl of a stand mixer or a large mixing bowl, if using a hand mixer. Combine and mix the remaining ingredients in a separate mixing bowl. 3. Slowly add the wet mix to the dry, while blending on low speed. Continue blending until entirely incorporated. 4. Fill each muffin tin three-quarters full of the batter. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until light golden brown on top. 5. Remove the muffin tins from the oven and allow to cool for 15 to 20 minutes. Serve slightly warm.
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