The Voice, March 17 2021

Rainer Hummel takes on NOTL

DEBBIE PINE SALES REPRESENTATIVE 905.892.0222 Independently Owned & Operated

Z

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

debbiepine@royallepage.ca

80 or older? Book your shot now

page 7

Pelham basketball is back

The Voice Z

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

NRC Realty, Brokerage

page 3

of Pelham and Central Niagara MARCH 17 2021

Vol.25 No.10 

Published every Wednesday

Darcy Richardson, CPA, CA | Broker

DARCYRICHARDSON.CA darcy@darcyrichardson.ca 905.321.6292

Column Six

Arching

The holes of

Cochrane

ahead

Not everything is what it appears to be

If volunteer Bill Gibson had his way, digging would start tomorrow on replacement of Pelham's iconic arches

BY MARJORIE POULI Special to the Voice

T

BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent

Bill Gibson, spade at the ready, at the site of the once and future arches on Pelham Town Square. Fundraising during a pandemic has its challenges, especially when the envisioned construction project has seen material costs go through the roof. But Bill Gibson, the point man for Pelham’s Summerfest Committee, which has partnered with local Rotarians to rebuild the iconic arches at Pelham Street and Pelham Town Square, remains un-

page 13

daunted. “There have been other major priorities in the community due to COVID-19, so we are sensitive to that,” said Gibson, an active retiree who turned 75 in January. Gibson said that the final price tag should come in at, “just a little under $150,000,” and applauded the efforts of local fundraiser phe-

DON RICKERS

nom Frank Adamson and his fellow Rotarians, who he said have about $100,000 pledged thus far. At its March 1 meeting, Pelham Town Council endorsed the Fonthill Rotary Club’s application for a $60,000 grant from the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative for the arches replacement. The understanding is that the

structure should be completed without taxpayer money, and also must include a maintenance reserve fund. The arches will be a regular reminder for Gibson of his friendship with local volunteer Bill Sheldon, who passed away in 2020. The two See ARCHES back page

he snowy owl, sensationally magnificent, swooped silently past the picture window. The wonder of it made me hold my breath, but then I yelled, "Boots! Boots! Get on your coats and boots. Let's follow the owl." Coats on and booted-up, our family and the girls who lived with us scrambled over each other to get outside. There we stood, heads back, eyes big, mouths wide open as the owl majestically soared across the road. There wasn’t even a whisper as it floated, almost invisibly, out over the snow-covered pasture, towards the woods. Its marvellous broad wings calmly folded as it dropped into a poplar tree. We struggled through the deep drifts to the tree, where we looked up. The owl caught us with its piercing yellow eyes and unblinking, mesmerizing stare. Shivering, rubbing our mitten-less hands, buttoning up our coats, and finally bored with oohing and aahing, we See COLUMN SIX Page 8

FULLY LICENCED AND EQUIPPED FOR ALL YOUR AUTOMOTIVE AND TRUCK NEEDS Shop open Monday to Friday 8-4 Call or text anytime 24/7 we are here to help! 802 Hwy #20, Fenwick

905 359 5045

www.elevateauto.ca 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 2

The Voice

by Dave Burket

Free rides: By way of a Region news release just before we go to press: Niagara transit operators will provide free rides to residents to and from their COVID-19 vaccination appointments. To receive the free fare, riders are required to show the driver a vaccination appointment confirmation (e-mail or other format) on the outbound trip, and proof of vaccination for the return trip. This applies for appointments for both the first and second dose to any of the 11 vaccination sites to be operated by Niagara Region…Like my jaunty cap? I’m not really a hat wearer—a frayed ball cap is my standard look—but are we not all Irish on St. Patrick’s Day? At Christmas a few years back I splurged on a couple of those ancestry and health-oriented DNA kits for me and my spouse. Oddly, my percentages of European mongrel did not initally match the family tree—there was way more British Isles than expected. But as the modeling has improved, I’ve since received updates that correspond exactly to the known tree: basically one quarter British Isles, one quarter French, and half kraut (we halfkrauts can say kraut, danke schön). My maternal grandmother was Irish—sadly too distant a relation to qualify for an Irish passport—so there's my St. Paddy's qualifier. My spouse’s ancestry, by the way, is a fascinating trip through nearly the whole of Southeast Asia, west to Yemen, from where, according to her father’s family tree, a tall, blue-eyed trader emigrated to Indonesia in the mid 1800s, apparently spawning nearly countless branches of descendants. (I was a little disappointed not to discover an unknown half-sibling. Apparently my parents kept no secret second families hidden from us after all.)...Taking care of business: We’ve had a pleasing number of ads in the last few issues, with some of them coming in late enough to bump stories and photos that would otherwise have run. We’re in no position to say no (or, as half of me likes to bark, nein!) to income that pays the bills. If you’re expecting to see some news in particular, rest assured that it will eventually run...New and returning contestants: Be sure to check out Elevate Auto (ad on cover), the new auto and truck service operation on Hwy 20, in Fenwick. Little Oak’s Lawn Cutting is back (Service Directory, p.16), as is Salumatics (also Service Directory) for all your paper shredding needs. Those Cayman Island bank records aren’t going to destroy themselves, after all! For the finishing touch, there is also Finishing Touches (Service Directory triple play) for all your yard care needs. With restaurants able to offer indoor service again, don’t forget our friends the Pelham Street Grille and Peter Piper’s Pub House for when it’s time to kick back and let someone else cook...Sucked in: Don't miss this week's Column Six. I do enjoy a tale that takes off in unexpected directions...Technically: Spring starts Saturday. We've removed the reflectors at the end of our drive for the season, so legally speaking no more snow is allowed to accumulate until November...Stay safe: Masked and alive! ◆

Wainfleet Township Council approves 2021 budget

After two years of increases, Wainfleet council last week voted for a more modest tax increase of 3.5% as a blended rate, which includes Niagara Region and school board tax levies.“This is a balanced approach that takes into account the operational and capital needs of the Township, while being lean and building on the work we have been doing over the past couple of years,” said Mayor Kevin Gibson. “For the average household, this will amount to an increase of about 40 cents a day.” Faced with previous debt and the Township’s aging capital infrastructure, Wainfleet council took measures in the 2019 and 2020 budgets to begin addressing these issues and “laying a solid foundation for Wainfleet’s finances going into the 2021 budget cycle and beyond,” according to a Township statement. Wainfleet CAO William Kolasa said staff and council had “worked very hard and collaborated closely.” For some three decades, municipal governments have been responsive to public pressure to keep taxes low, said Treasurer Mallory Luey, “often resulting in increases which don’t even keep up with inflation. These artificially low numbers can only be maintained by using reserves or deferring infrastructure costs temporarily, but reserves are finite and infrastructure continues to degrade and will need to

航 搜索

on vacation!

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

IN THE NEWS

PUBLISHER’S CORNER

Voice

A March 17, 2021

be maintained regardless.” This year’s final approved budget includes a 1.5 percent operating budget increase, a 1.98 percent capital levy increase, and a further 2.92 percent infrastructure levy increase. “I’m very pleased to see council’s commitment to our road network and buildings,” said Operations Manager Richard Nan, who oversees the maintenance of these assets. “Once some immediate public safety issues are addressed, we can move onto some larger rehabilitation and rebuilding efforts to get our physical assets back to where they need to be.”

What's That

SIREN Pelham Fire Department Weekly Calls

The Pelham Fire Department responded to seven calls for assistance from Friday March 5 to Friday, March 12 Saturday, Mar. 6 Non-emergency assistance, Effingham St., Short Hills Motor vehicle collision, Victoria Rd., Fenwick

Body found in the Welland River

Wednesday, Mar. 10 Carbon monoxide, no symptoms, Sandra Dr., Fenwick Grass fire, Roland Rd., Short Hills, Fonthill Grass fire, Roland Rd., Short Hills, Fonthill Motor vehicle collision, Victoria Rd., Fenwick

Last Friday, at approximately 10:15 AM, officers from the Niagara Regional Police Service Marine Unit located a body in the Welland River near Prince Charles Drive and Colbeck Drive in Welland. Detectives from 3 District – Welland, the Forensic Services Unit, and the Coroner were investigating. No further details were made public by press time.

Friday, Mar. 12 Medical assistance, Fonthill

Pelham motorcycle accident

Last Wednesday, at about 6 PM, emergency services personnel responded to a report of single motorcycle collision in Pelham. According to Niagara Regional Police, 3 District – Welland uniform officers arrived on

newspapers

matter.ca

See IN THE NEWS Page 10

Congratulations

CARRIER

司 空公

搜索航空公司

NRPS impaired driving charges ~

OF THE WEEK!

Sasha

Vacation Time Machine

TARASUK

March 17 2015

(905) 892-8724

Find the Voice at these locations:

Then it isn’t being seen.

The Voice

YOU MEAN THE WORLD TO US

The paper that Pelham reads.

Use your downtime to start brainstorming and planning. We're here when you're ready. Booking new travel journeys for this year.

(905) 892-8690 advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

Remember you are TICO protected when booking with us.

Call Pam Overholt for exceptional travel values

905.892.7900

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

The Voice PUBLISHED INDEPENDENTLY IN PELHAM

DEBBIE PINE

SALES REPRESENTATIVE 905.892.0222 SELL phone: 905-321-2261

Niagara Real Estate Center, Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated

debbiepine@royallepage.ca

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

905-892-9054

Mon-Wed 9:30-6:00pm • Thur-Fri 9:30-7:00pm • Sat 9:30-5:00pm

www.healthycupboard.ca

Debbie Pine SALES REPRESENTATIVE pinesold.com

Mon-Wed 9:30-6:00pm ◆ Thur-Fri 9:30-7:00pm Sat 9:30-5:00pm

New Location Coming Soon!

Niagara Real Estate Center, Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated

The Voice PUBLISHED INDEPENDENTLY IN PELHAM

NIAGARA’S BEST-READ WEEKLY SINCE 1997

The Comfort Maple myth

Vol.20 No.39

Wednesday, November 30, 2016

FREE

Oops: No fire trucks for you

Column Six

Get

Pined -Sol Pelham’sPelham’s Health Food Store

Food 111Health Hwy. 20 E., Unit Store 5, Fonthill

Haist Street traffic-calming measure a little too effective

111 Hwy. 20 E., Unit 5, Fonthill 905-892-9054 www.healthycupboard.ca

905-892-9054

Mon-Wed 9:30-6:00pm • Thur-Fri 9:30-7:00pm • Sat 9:30-5:00pm

www.healthycupboard.ca

Debbie Pine SALES REPRESENTATIVE pinesold.com

Mon-Wed 9:30-6:00pm ◆ Thur-Fri 9:30-7:00pm Sat 9:30-5:00pm

The Voice PUBLISHED INDEPENDENTLY IN PELHAM

NIAGARA’S BEST-READ WEEKLY SINCE 1997

New Location Coming Soon!

Niagara Real Estate Center, Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated

Column Six

Growing up British

Vol.20 No.32

Wednesday October 12, 2016

FREE

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

www.facebook.com/voiceofpelham

Request made of community still peeved at name change

See DSBN Page 9

Food 111Health Hwy. 20 E., Unit Store 5, Fonthill

Visit Us on Facebook FREE

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

Get

Pined -Sol Pelham’sPelham’s Health Food Store

Voice (905) 892-8690

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

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

8

E

825 Canboro Road, Fenwick

FRESH OFF THE FARM ALL YEAR ROUND

WHETHER ACROSS TOWN OR ACROSS THE GLOBE...

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

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.

The

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

Kathleen Cosby, of Fonthill, took a copy of the Voice to Cuba with her. Visiting a museum in Pilon, Granma Province, she showed it to someone who appeared quite interested in the front page article about the library closing in Fenwick.

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. Timothy A. MARSHALL, 52, Thorold Jacqueline S. SAVAGE, 46, Fort Erie John D. PRICHARD, 57, St. Catharines Bruce D. MOREY, 69, Welland Joshua W. S. SCHMITT, 36, Pelham Henry UITGBEYERSE, 59, St. Catharines Darrell L. PERRYMAN, 41, Canandaigua, NY Meghan S. C, SMITH, 31, Port Colborne Jonathan R. FORTUNE, 44, Thorold

“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

every year. stroys thousands of lives deaths in Canada and deleading cause of criminal Impaired driving is still the ment programs like RIDE. offenders through enforceand the apprehension of offences through education reducing impaired driving lice Service is committed to The Niagara Regional Po-

Pelham David M. GEORGIEV, 36, St. Catharines Andrew DEGRAVE, 22, Welland Allan G. HIPPSLEY, 32, Niagara Falls Michael P. VANHELVERT, 33, Lincoln Richard W. PARRY, 48, Orchard Park NY Jamie HIDALGO, 39, Oakville Justin D. GODDERIS, 33, blood sample. refusing to provide a breath / alcohol in 100 ml of blood, or centration above 80 mgs of with a blood alcohol conby alcohol or drugs, driving nally with impaired driving have been charged crimiThe following individuals vention of the suspension. who are driving in contraStoppers to report those fic Safety Hotline or Crime gional Police Service Trafto contact the Niagara ReThe public is encouraged motor vehicle on a roadway. prohibited from operating a cense Suspension and are Administrative Driver’s Litry of Transportation 90-Day areNow alsothat’s bound by a Miniscruising, charged, Club these individuals Azamara Cruises Book now before this disappears. In addition to being proved in court. all seven continents lowing charges haveimmerse been yourself in No lines, no hurry, the Region. None of the folon smaller ship’s. Extended stays offence in port, some overnight impaired driving in with an alleged criminal people included. who are charged tuities Selectlast spirits, wines, Int’l Beers & Grayear! reports the names of those tique hotel at Police sea. Service one cruise at a time araExplore Regional thetime world onboard your bouThis Pelham St., Fonthill 2019—a year to explore the world, alcohol or1400 drugs, the NiagPAST www.niagara.cruiseholidays.com driving while impairedoffi byce@thevoiceofpelham.ca http://www.hooahhvideos.ca/ select voyages Enjoy a and veranda an interior price onyourSanta Raidy Manso (center), attention deterrence toreaders! and we’ll share it for with our Email photoCayo, with aCuba! brief description to BLAST FROM THE DOUBLE UPGRADE EarlyON's Fenwick United Church location. In an effort to bring further Send us Sue your Lough picture withholding daughter The Tamara, Voice, of whether Fenwick, across with new townCuban or abroad friend

toEarlyON go chargesCentres closing driving planners 83 days instead, sayRESULTS Fenwick and South Pelham NRPS impaired Peace on Earth Existing community facilities toand beAirbnbs used in Pelham At Hoo-Ahh Aerial of theHome Week qr 905.892.7900 THE VOICE POLL: Hotels

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

Page 3

A March 17, 2021

Developer suing Niagara-on-the-Lake over bylaw Rainer Hummel, who blew the whistle on Pelham’s DC-credits-for-land scheme, sets his sights on new target BY JOHN CHICK Voice Correspondent Court documents that are part of a $500,000 lawsuit against the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake allege that the community’s mayor and council enacted its Interim Control Bylaw (ICBL) mainly to penalize one specific developer. In a 40-page statement fi led March 2 by lawyers for Hummel Properties Inc., it is asserted that Lord Mayor Betty Disero inferred that the Town’s ICBL was directed at the owners of the Randwood lands, listed as Solmar Development Corporation. (Niagara-on-the-Lake is the only community in Canada to use the term “Lord Mayor” for its top elected official, a nod to its colonial history.) According to the court docu-

ments, in 2019 Disero told a group including Rainer Hummel, owner of Hummel Properties, that the town’s fi rst ICBL, passed in late 2018, “wasn’t about you guys” and that “you all know why I am doing this.” If Hummel’s name sounds familiar, it’s because he’s the East Fonthill developer who asserted that former Town of Pelham administrators engaged in corrupted practices related to the Town’s transaction of East Fonthill land for an inflated price, which he asserted at the time was “nothing more than a backdoor way of bonusing a developer.” Hummel’s company, which is the sole plaintiff, originally fi led the lawsuit against Niagara-on-the-Lake in January, and

Rainer Hummel's offices, St. Davids.

VOICE FILE

claims improper passage and application of the ICBL. Hummel has claimed a loss of business and revenue due to it, which, unlike Pelham’s similar-timed ICBL, which was narrowly focused on the cannabis industry, also appears to be an attempt to

limit overall growth. Disero, a long-time Toronto city councillor, was elected Lord Mayor of Niagara-on-the-Lake in 2018 on a platform of slowing down development in the “Old Town” area of NOTL. Hummel’s court statement also

includes verbiage from an email from Councillor Wendy Cheropita, which reads, “Councillors including me were unaware of the full extent of the consequences and validity of this move. We were all being guided to vote yes to protect the Town from a specific developer.” Cheropita responded to a Voice request for comment, saying she had just received a report on the issue and had not yet had a chance to read it. “Since this is a legal matter I will not make any comments until it is appropriate to do so,” she said. Disero did not reply for comment by press time. Hummel told the Voice that he was "very much looking forward" to the matter going before a judge, but would reserve specific comment until after a decision was rendered. A victory for Hummel would effectively render the ICBL void, opening the door to similar claims from other plaintiffs, and immediately allowing new regulations to come into force. The case is scheduled to go to court next week.

Pop-up Patios in Pelham for 2021

FREE picnic tables • $0 application fee The Town of Pelham will help local restaurants this season by supplying, delivering, and taking away picnic tables for their pop-up patios at no cost to the business. The Town continues to work with local businesses as they recover from the impacts of COVID-19. Providing free tables and allowing more extensive patios with a zero-dollar application fee helps these critical businesses offer their services in increased capacity. Businesses that would like to receive picnic tables for their pop-up patios should contact the Public Works Department by calling 905-892-2607 x332.

Sarah Wilson Passfield Mortuary has been a trusted name in Niagara for over 25 years. Offering simple, affordable arrangements, you will save nearly 50% compared to other funeral establishments. We welcome price comparisons, provide free consultations and no deposit is required. Talk to us about pre-arrangement plans. We are here to help.

Licensed Funeral Director Manager

341 LinweLL Rd., St. CathaRineS, On L2n 1t6 • 905-682-0474 •

Ian Shannon Licensed Funeral Director

www.paSSfieLdmORtua OR ORtua R .Ca Ry C

Page 4

The Voice

A March 17, 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

An ounce of respect

P

erhaps Rodney Dangerfield best introduced this topic with his line “I don’t get no respect.” Sadly, one of the things in short supply in our society today is respect. Regardless of one’s religious affiliation, what has caused the dramatic decline in the notion “to love thy neighbour?” The decline in the application of this crucial societal construct ultimately leads to a lack of respect for one another, and sometimes even worse outcomes. The recent attacks on the very seat of democracy in the US could well be symptomatic of this decline. Not only did this mob of rioters disrespect the physical symbolism but also the very essence of democracy itself. This calamitous activity was not the legitimate workings of democracy but clearly disrespected every notion of that political convention. Sadly, there are many instances and examples of disrespect from which to choose. At the national level and even at the civic level, the disunity and open dislike for colleagues is as palpable as it is sad.

When such divisive behaviors creep into operations at the local level, it is even more disconcerting and discomforting to local residents. Such disunity is seen to unnecessarily im-

At the civic level, the disunity and open dislike for colleagues is as palpable as it is sad

pede progress and delay improvements too close to home. All too often, legitimate debate gives way to personal attacks. Such desensitization is the direct result of losing respect for others of a different opinion, gender, race, or citizenship. It is a slippery slope when legitimate debate turns into disrespecting others holding a different opinion or some other perceived or real

NEED HELP? MAKE THE CALL Distress Centre Distress and crisis. 24-hour help line: 905-688-3711

Narcotics Anonymous 1-888-811-3887.

Mental Health and Addictions Access 1-866-550-5205 (Toll Free) Alcoholics Anonymous Find a Niagara meeting. 905-682-2140

Gambler’s Anonymous 905-351-1616 Kids Help Phone Service for youth. 416-586-5437 800-668-6868 (Crisis Line) www.kidshelpphone.ca

Assaulted Women’s Helpline Mobile calls to: #SAFE (#7233) 1-866-863-0511 (Toll-free) Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) www.niagaratips.com Text - 274637 (CRIMES), keyword Niagara, then your tip

The Voice

Z

Z

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

(905) 892-8690

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

differences. For example, on the nightly newscasts, one can frequently observe a proponent of one party personally attack counterparts of another persuasion. Ideally, differences should be resolved through legitimate debate and not by slandering an opponent's politics, policies, practices, or personality. Such unbecoming and unproductive practices, particularly in the realm of politics, has brought about an increasing level of disrespect for politicians. Such open demonstrations of disrespect may well serve to lead others in leadership capacities to adopt such malevolent tactics. As a result of the decline in respect, many governments and other organizations have resorted to adopting written codes of conduct to clearly state what at one time were unwritten, but clearly understood, appropriate behaviours. Many organizations now employ an ombudsman to referee behaviors in the workplace, and other venues, to ensure that specific inappropriate See RESPECT next page

Letters Asks what happened to pot odour enforcement I would have thought I would have seen a story about the high smell of weed here. It used to be driving down Pelham Street that you didn't get the full whiff until halfway to Webber Road. Now it is all over the town. What can be done about it? I heard last year that the Town— after allowing all these grow-ops in— had made a rule that the odour was to be kept down. But that has not happened. It is really a sick smell, and unfair to subject everyone to it. How is our community benefiting from this encroachment on its citizens. Why is this being allowed? What does the Town do for its citizens for putting up with this? How much money do these grow-ops pay us? Will this smell get so bad that it decreases property values? Come on Town Council, we call upon you to do something about this awful smell. Fern Bell Fonthill

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

Certified Transistion & Relocation Services

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

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

Certified • Bonded Insured

Councillor Wayne Olson wolson@pelham.ca 905-933 6033

905-933-0730

www.seniorsonthemoveniagara.com seniorsonthemoveniagara@gmail.com

Today's forgotten business stopped advertising yesterday

Ward 2 Councillor Ron Kore rkore@pelham.ca 905-933-3805 Councillor John Wink jwink@pelham.ca 905-892-4475 Ward 3 Councillor Lisa Haun lhaun@pelham.ca 905-892-5877 Councillor Bob Hildebrandt bhildebrandt@pelham.ca 905-892-5647

Jill C. Anthony Law Office

Have an Opinion?

BARRISTER, SOLICITOR & NOTARY LETTERS TO THE EDITOR are welcome. Letter submissions should contain the writer’s full name, address and telephone number. Names only will be published. Names may be withheld if compelling reasons are provided. The newspaper reserves the right to change, condense or reject any contribution for brevity, clarity or legal considerations. All material in this publication is protected by copyright. Reproduction is prohibited without express, written permission of the publisher. ADVERTISING: The Voice of Pelham regrets any errors or omissions that appear in advertisements in this newspaper, however, we will not be held responsible for more than one absent or incorrect insertion or for any damages beyond the cost of space containing the error. The Voice is an independent, locally owned and operated publication. The Voice is a member of the National NewsMedia Council, a voluntary self-regulatory organization that deals with journalistic practices and ethics. If you have an unresolved complaint about news stories, opinion columns or photos, please visit their web site at mediacouncil.ca or call 1-844-877-1163. If you have a complaint about delivery or membership problems, please contact our office at (905) 892-8690. For a summary of Voice ethical guidelines, see www. thevoiceofpelham.ca/ethics

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

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

janthony@jillanthony.com

JA

NIAGARA FALLS (Satellite Office)

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

www.jillanthony.com

NEW LOCATION

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

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

Page 5

A March 17, 2021

OPINION Evolution or creation Last week, Pastor Weatherby posed the question, “Do you exist by accident or by design,” [Faith Lift, March 10, p.21]. A rather ambiguous question. Many people exist because they are the product of an accidental surprise. However, I believe an implicit question was intended. Do you exist because of an evolutionary process driven by natural selection, or are you the product of an “intelligent designer,” variously described as God, Creator, Heavenly Father, the Eternal One, and so on. Pastor Weatherby describes the size and complexity of the DNA present in the cells of all living organisms and correctly suggests that “DNA contains the instructions that are needed for every living organism to develop, survive and reproduce.” However, he then concludes that such complexity requires the intervention of an “intelligent designer,” implicitly suggesting that this is not the product of a biological, evolutionary process. However, Pastor Weatherby does not mention that during cell division DNA is replicated in order that each daughter cell receives a full complement of DNA. During this process of replication mistakes occur, and as a consequence the instructions encoded in DNA are altered. These accidental mistakes are called mutations or variants. Mutations can result in inherited positive or negative consequences. Negative conse-

quences include numerous inherited diseases such as Cystic Fibrosis, Down’s Syndrome, hemophilia, Huntington’s Disease, Tourette’s Syndrome, etc.. Is an omnipotent intelligent designer responsible for these accidents? Nor does Pastor Weatherby mention that the geological record demonstrates that simple microbial organisms existed on the earth approximately 3 billion years ago. Resistance to the concept of biological evolution producing more complex forms of life results from the idea that evolution must involve a number of improbable accidental events. However, improbable events become probable when millions of years are involved. If you buy a lottery ticket the chance of winning is minimal. If you were able to buy a ticket every week for 10,000 years the chance of a winning ticket would be very high. Accidental useful mutations over millions of years provide the context required for biological evolution to occur. The Oxford English Dictionary nicely encapsulates the concept of biological evolution, namely, “gradual evolution over a long period by the natural selection of those varieties of an organism slightly better adapted to the environment and hence more likely to produce descendants.” Alan Bown Fonthill

Improbable events become probable when millions of years are involved

RESPECT

continued from previous page proceedings are discouraged. Lamentably, disrespect is like a viral contagion and when openly practiced without regard to its perils, can lead to mischievous behaviors of pandemic-like proportions becoming commonplace. Hopefully, the younger set of our population will learn that respect for others is

a human value that requires careful practice and leads to a more meaningful and peaceful life. One would hope that the current leadership operatives will make every effort to avoid disrespecting one and other and work toward a more unified and constructive atmosphere. Perhaps someday, one might see more wooing than wounding in the chambers of politics and other venues at all levels. Wishful thinking or an improbable prospect? One will have to wait and see. ◆

PELHAM AND COVID-19 Mayor Marvin Junkin

Vaccinations coming to MCC in April—for over-80s

W

hen trying to discover details as to how the vaccination clinics will operate in the Niagara Region, one soon realizes that the situation is very fluid, with times and dates changing almost daily, for the simple reason that no area—be it the Region or any other part of Canada— has any idea how many doses they’re getting or when they will arrive. As of Friday afternoon, this is how the situation sat: Niagara Region Public Health recently launched an online pre-registration website for COVID-19 vaccination priority groups. This online booking system is the fastest way to register for a vaccine appointment. If you need help with this process, Pelham Public Library is here to help you for the pre-registration process. Residents can use a computer at their local branch to complete the online reg-

dic PUZ me ZL n a l ys WIN ER gio sa Re orit y al D EC N E R r h a u t g e n e m ay L AR t We E D tha ulace e le un c ks o f pop b e ab er com tainty not ndur e e e to o end t oth er oon s n a zler Puz

istration themselves, or library staff can complete the registration for them. If a resident cannot come into the branch and they have an email address and cellphone, the library is also offering the same services over the telephone. Please phone (905) 892-6443, and you will need the following info to pre-register online: your contact information including address, a cellphone number, an email address, and your health card number. If you do not have an email address or a cellphone, or a family member to assist, you may call the Region’s COVID-19 info line at (905) 688-8248 and press 7 for assistance. Call volumes may be high, so please be patient and expect delays. The first date that a clinic will be held is April 8, at the community centre—this clinic will be only for those residents 80-years-plus.

Please get updates either from the Town of Pelham website or niagararegion health.ca As of last Friday, 1 million people have received at least one vaccine dose in Ontario, with some 30,000 high-risk seniors living in care homes being vaccinated. With the vaccine manufactures promising ever-larger shipments of doses to Canada, vaccination timelines are shifting on a weekly, if not daily basis. On the economic front: there were 259,000 jobs created in Canada in February. It is a general feeling among economists that there is a huge pent-up demand for services to be delivered, once a sizable portion of the population has been vaccinated. Until next time… ◆

=

al

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

Everyone who's anyone reads the Voice!

Open: Mon - Fri 8:30am to 5:00pm Sat 10:00am to 4:00pm Call (905) 932-7069 for a design consultation

Professional SERVICES Directory Dr. Bohdan Hrynyk Dental Surgeon

Pelham Hills Dentistry

905-892-5002

Family Dentistry NEW PATIENTS WELCOME 1428 Pelham Street, Fonthill

NEWSFLASH Tell us your story!

Ad #1: APPROVED

Bob’s Boys

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

You call, we haul.

Did you conquer Everest or kick a bad habit? Everyone has a story. Tell us yours!

Trash, scrap, garages, clean-outs.

NOW ALSO ACCEPTING FICTION— SHORT STORIES UP TO 4000 WORDS! Write it down, send it in: publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca

302 Canboro Road @ Effingham

(You won’t get rich, but you will get paid.)

Call Bob at 905.736.0051 VOICE OF PELHAM

Advertiser

ad size

Page 6

The Voice

A March 17, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Letters continued Supports Feeley

Get your input in now

I commend Mr. Frank Feeley for the many hours of work that he has put into trying to motivate the Town to develop a gypsy moth spraying program to protect our trees that we all benefit from. G. K. Chesterton said, “The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.” That quote sums up Mr. Feeley as he battles to address the gypsy moth infestation problem. To have the Town’s CAO say, “Overall, this was a successful program,” would be more accurate if he was referring to the program that Mr. Feeley had worked so long and hard on creating and presenting to council. I have seen firsthand the devastation of the gypsy moths here in Pelham. My young grandson developed a very itchy rash on his shoulder from gypsy moth feces landing on him while playing outside. The kids could no longer play under the trees even in their own yard. The gypsy moths were eating the leaves of birch and other tree varieties after they had almost completely defoliated the maple trees. The late Town Councillor Mike Ciolfi was there twice because of the large number of moths flying everywhere, and his heartfelt concern for those constituents that lived in his ward. My thanks to Mr. Feeley and Mr. Ashdown for being strong advocates for our community. P. Bryant Fenwick

The District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) is reviewing policy A-09, which deals with the naming/renaming of schools. If you would like to submit your input and have any suggestions for policy changes, go to policy.dsbn.org/A-09, by April 22. The Board of Governance and Administration recognizes that the naming/

Just throwing cash doesn’t work renaming of a school is important for employees and students as well as to the surrounding community. Our community deserves a chance to see how decisions on such important issues are made and have some say in that decision making. Vilma Moretti Fonthill

Some thoughts about TD Bank I’ve been a customer of the Pelham TD Canada Trust branch for over 30 years, and like many, was shocked, surprised and disappointed to learn of its scheduled closure. I definitely had some questions raised by the article in last week’s Voice on the closure [Pelham fumes at TD Bank departure, March 10, p.15]. Fonthill Branch Manager Mitch McIntosh noted he couldn’t comment specifically on the closure. Really? The Branch Manager can’t comment on the closing of the branch? But he observed that the Welland branch is only an “eight-minute drive” away. Interesting, but my wife and I walk to the branch. Perhaps Mitch could take a walk to the Welland branch and report back on how long it takes? Of course, as we found out during the temporary closing of the Fonthill branch last year due to COVID, you’d have to add to that time the 40-minute wait outside the Welland branch just to get in to do your five minutes of banking business! Naturally, we can all sympathize with TD corporate’s need to save money during the tough times of the pandemic—oh, wait—actually their earnings increased by 80 percent, year-over-year, during that time! Then we come to the explanation— the numbers didn’t support keeping the Fonthill location open. So I wonder when those “numbers” were collected? Could it have been shortly before customers were

notified that the branch was temporarily closing last year?—oh, wait—we weren’t notified—we had to find that out by going to the branch and finding it shuttered. Or perhaps it was shortly after customers were notified that the branch was re-opened?— oh, wait—we weren’t notified of that, either—again had to discover it by walking by the branch to find it opened again. So apparently traffic was down a bit after the branch closed without notice and then reopened without notice—there’s a surprise! Yet while Fonthill is experiencing a building growth spurt like never before in its history, a bank making extraordinarily high profits decides the “right thing to do” is to close that branch—interesting logic. Guess we’ll have to look elsewhere in Fonthill for our future needs. In closing, I do have to say that the Fonthill TD branch has absolutely amazing associates, some of whom have been there the entire time I’ve banked there, and who have provided exceptionally personalized and invaluable service to me and my family. A sincere and heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you. We will certainly miss you! Ralph Connelly Fonthill Editor's note: Anyone in the market for a new bank may wish to let their eyes linger below.

So our Prime Minister wants to make Canada safer for us. He wants to ban thousands of firearms that he and his safety officer Bill Blair do not think law-abiding, licensed and RCMP-vetted Canadians have any need to own. He also wants to prohibit these same Canadians from even possessing handguns in our municipalities, which can only be used at licensed ranges. This is a pretty smart move on his part, as he will get the municipal government to do his dirty work for him. I do suspect that most gun-packing criminals will not move to Kapuskasing because Toronto banned them from possessing handguns in their homes in Toronto! In his next move he proposes that the criminal penalties for the use of firearms should be reduced because certain ethnic or social classes have a high proportion of convictions from illegal criminal use of firearms. His reasoning is that it is not their fault as Canadian society has cheated them out of a sense of moral goodness. He identifies these groups as people of colour and Aboriginal as well as others. I do not argue this point at all and somehow we have to get these people some help but throwing

words and a few million dollars at the problem is not going to change anything fast. At least fast enough for someone to see a result and recognize that the government has actually done anything. When problem-solving we should always go to the ROOT CAUSE and work from there. That cause can not easily be identified and removed as it has been part of these societies for generations and it is hard to pin down. As a result no government can just say that they are going to eliminate it, as they have no idea what the problem really is or how to deal with it. They need the help and more importantly the trust of the affected people and that is a hard thing to achieve. In the past and still in some cases today, if a body of people were a problem to the majority of our citizens they were outlawed, persecuted and punished. We still do this actively with hate groups. This persecution has led to the resentment and distrust that has resulted. If we are going to make changes then we need cooperation on both sides of the fence. When we get that honest co-operation then things will change although as I said it will be slow. Bill McLeod Welland

TRULY LOCAL BANKING PenFinancial is your Truly Local Credit Union in the Pelham community, and we do a lot of

CURRENT SPECIAL OFFERS

the things the big banks do. We just do them with a different set of values. With competitive chequing and savings accounts, GICs, investments, mortgages and financial planning, we’re here to help.

Say hello! 130 Hwy 20 E in Fonthill 289-434-4745 penfinancial.com/Pelham

Rates as of March 5th and subject to change without notice.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

A March 17, 2021

T:5"

Page 7

80+ in 2021? Book COVID-19 shot now BY VOICE STAFF The provincial COVID-19 vaccine registration portal is now open. Individuals who will be turning 80 or older in 2021 (born in 1941 or earlier) and wish to make an appointment — or an individual trusted to make an appointment on their behalf — may now book an appointment either online at Ontario.ca/ bookvaccine or by calling the Provincial Vaccine Information Line number at 1-888-999-6488. Appointments at Niagara Region Public Health COVID-19 vaccination clinics during March and the first half of April are now available. Public Health clinics will rotate to different communities at a frequency that mirrors the size of the 80-year-oldand-older population in those communities. Residents can book an appointment at any clinic across Niagara, and can bring an essential caregiver with them to their appointment. To book an appointment, individuals will need to have a green photo health (OHIP) card as both numbers on the front and back of the card are required. Expired cards will be accepted. Individuals who still have a red and white health card, or who require assistance with booking, may call the Provincial Vaccine Information Line number at 1-888-999-

6488. Eagerness for vaccines will likely grow over the coming weeks and months, and Niagara Region Public Health asks for patience, as wait times are anticipated for the provincial registration portal, both online and by phone. “For one year, we’ve been anxiously awaiting a vaccination campaign that could tame this pandemic,” said Dr. Mustafa Hirji, Medical Officer of Health (acting), Niagara Region Public Health and Emergency Services, via an NRPH statement released Monday. “With the launch of Ontario’s vaccination registration system, that campaign has arrived in earnest with anyone 80 years of age or older now eligible to register. While being patient in case of any hiccups, I encourage everyone eligible to register for their vaccine soon so that we can

move on to opening bookings for the next age group. As well, I remind everyone, vaccinated or not, that we need to keep up our other efforts, because COVID-19 is unfortunately on the rise once again— for just a couple more months, let’s stay home as much as possible, keep our distance when we do go out, and continue wearing our face coverings and washing our hands.” Once an appointment is booked, on the day of their appointment residents will need their booking confirmation number or QR code from the provincial booking portal, their health card, a mask, and should wear a loose-fitting top or t-shirt. Please arrive no more than five minutes prior to the appointment time. If residents arrive early, Public Health asks that they wait in their car until five minutes prior to their appointment time.

FREE Delivery or curbside pick-up of all items

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

New Hours

pharmachoice.com

Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM Saturday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

(905) 892-1888

Like us on Facebook facebook.com/pch663/

Wear a mask, wash your hands and physically distance to stop the spread of COVID-19. Learn more at ontario.ca/covid-19 Paid for by the Government of Ontario

T:15"

A harmless coffee break can do more harm than you think.

Page 8

The Voice

COLUMN SIX

continued from Page 1 turned toward home. Pristine snow covered the field. Its purity renewed every morning by exquisite hoarfrost crystals that the smallest breath would shatter. Come spring, there would be a quilt, bejewelled with wildflowers. Our home, also a group home for teenaged girls, was in the country, near Cochrane, five miles from the end of the road. Anyone wishing to travel further north from this Ontario outpost needed to take the Polar Bear Express or fly. We trudged back to the house, carefully evading the hole around a long pole poking out of a windswept snowbank in the side yard. A magical snow cave with ghostly blue light hid below this ventilation hole. Another opening led down into the little cave. The shelter had snow seats around its edges and a snow table in its middle. Digging was an unusual way to build a snow house, but it was far less challenging than cutting snow blocks. There, five small children lit candles, ate winter picnics, had tea parties, and enjoyed living in their own fairy tale. When the snow finally melted away, it revealed a great fishing hole a few miles away—Lillabelle Lake. The Ministry of Natural Resources, which had closed all fishing there for some years, had just reopened the overstocked lake. Our twelve fisher kids jostled for a place on the dock, anxious to get

their rods baited with bits of bacon or worms to catch the first fish. Giggles and shrieks filled the air from our five small children and the seven girls who had lived conflict-filled lives and had never experienced happy families. We relaxed and listened to the laughter and the cheerful talk. This was good. Really good. Because fish were so numerous, fishing was simply dipping and flipping. Feisty little Shida solved the problems of yucky worms and prickly perch spines. Shida came to us at one-anda-half from Bangledesh, heavily medicated for the flight. Abandoned at an orphanage with no individual attention, she had screamed for nine months. Our little Bengali Dolly spent the next months continuously in my arms, gradually healing. She became the daring and darling, tiny four-year-old whose wee little fingers put worms on hooks, who cleverly grasped the spiny perch to remove fishhooks for her sisters. She would then gleefully and triumphantly drop the fish into a bucket. Everyone got to keep one fish to have for supper. It wasn't only snow forts and fishing that kept the children occupied outside. One spring day, after the gang escaped the house with dad for one of his nature hikes, I put on my jacket and boots, grabbed a camera, and stepped outside. I took a deep, deep refreshing breath of the sparkling, crisp air. Pity the Ontario southerners who do not breathe this air or see the brilliant blue,

A March 17, 2021

vast, truly northern skies. I hopped into the car and took off. Freedom! After driving past Lillabelle Lake, and Cochrane, I took a forestry road, headed towards Quebec. A solitary, derelict store stood in a small clearing. I pulled over. Locked doors disappointed me, but rubbing away the dirt on the windows created sight holes, through which a big mess could be seen. Cans, boots, hats and tools were littering the floor, and an old metal Coke sign was hanging sideways on the wall. Memories of work in a north Alberta country Coop at 16 meshed pleasantly with this new experience. I wandered through the countryside most of the morning, filling my camera. My final stop was one concession road from home, next to woods and a field. I parked, slid down the ditch, landed in a hole getting two booters of muddy water. Drat! But this was not going to stop me. After sloshing up the other side of the ditch, my boots wouldn't come off. To drain them, I sat down, lay back, put both feet into the air and brilliantly got my pant legs soaked and muddy. What's a bit of water to an explorer, I thought, as I slipped under the fence and entered the quietness of the woods. After meandering a bit through the trees, enjoying the new growth and sweet smells of spring, I walked down an embankment towards the field. It was mainly covered with low plants and with tiny trees around its edge. But strangely, I no-

WINDOWS AND DOORS THAT SAVE YOU MONEY

AMAZING WINDOWS

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The author's daughters Lia, and Shida, the brave fisher girl. ticed the small plants were not field plants. As I walked, wondering about this, my vision suddenly became blurred: the ground and tiny trees were swaying. Blinking and rubbing my eyes seemed to clear my vision. Good. And no ground movement. Good again. But as I resumed walking, the motion also started again—my eyes weren't the problem. Yes, the land underfoot was actually and definitely undulating as I stepped. Spooked, I stood absolutely still, remembering the little lecture we'd had in Algonquin Park, as we crossed a bog on a boardwalk: marsh is water invading land, and bog is land going over water, which, with a quaking bog*, could even cover an underground lake. Imagining an actual lake beneath my feet, I held my breath and stupidly bounced a little, again. Yes, the ground moved. Nausea, sweat, and a numb brain took over. Then the thought, If I should suddenly break through this ground and sink into an underground lake, I would disappear with no one ever knowing what happened to me. My poor husband and children would spend their lives wondering what

happened to their wife and mother and mourning her loss. My solution? I tossed my camera and coat onto the ground, thinking this might give them a clue if I disappeared. On second thought, I took back my jacket, as it was cold outside. Then, instead of sensibly crawling to spread my weight, I foolishly walked back to the woods, jumping a little now and then to see if the bog had ended. I stopped at the top of the embankment at the edge of the woods, where a tree trunk gave me support as my pulse gradually slowed down. Enough adventure! I was going home. I walked along the edge of the woods, towards the road. Suddenly, with no warning, my feet plunged through the ground. I was up to my armpits in a hole! "Help me! Help me! Someone, please help me. I'm drowning," I screamed, but no one heard me except the animals. This couldn't be real—the trees were too large for the bog; the plants were wrong; I had climbed a bank at the edge of the woods; I was in the woods. But nevertheless, somehow, I must have fall-

LIFETIME Manufacturer's Guarantee

(Summer Heat is Reflected Out Winter Heat is Reflected In)

SAVING YOU MONEY

C E L E B R AT I N G Y E A R S

(Save up to 30% on Utilities)

Don’t forget to pre-order your

baked goods for Easter

Easy Clean Tilts Bay Windows Enlarge Your Room Without Big Expense Timely delivery and Install Call for a FREE QUOTE!

905-892-7616

Ask about our STEEL ROOFING with FREE GUTTER GUARD (up to 80’)

SENSIBLE INSTALLATION TIMELINES - WEATHER PERMITTING

BELL GROUP HOME IMPROVEMENTS

• Licensed • Insured • Guaranteed

Fonthill, Niagara since 1998

SEE

www.bellgroupinc.com for reviews

ORDER BY SATURDAY, MARCH 27 Closed Good Friday Open Saturday, April 3, 9 AM-2 PM 11 Highway 20 West, Fonthill (905) 892-9466 Hours: Tues-Fri, 8-2; Sat, 9-2 www.indulgencebakeryfonthill.com

POULI FAMILY

en into the underground bog lake. Howling in panic, arms still above ground, I frantically clawed at the undergrowth around me in an attempt to climb out of the hole, scrabbling desperately for roots and weeds. I couldn't even throw my camera into the woods for my family, as I had left it on the bog. Slowly, root by root, weed by weed, I clawed my way out of the bog hole. Once out, I crawled (this time) to the base of a tree, stopped screaming, sat down, caught my breath and looked at myself. Something was wrong with the picture. Amazingly, I wasn't wet, except for my feet and pant legs from the ditch dip and some fear tears on my face. I wasn't wet! How could this be? I had fallen down into a submerged lake and didn't get wet? Impossible: lakes, by definition, are bodies of water and therefore are wet. Then why had I broken through the earth? What was beneath the hole? Cautiously, going from tree to tree, I went to the ridge and climbed down. There I found the answer: a fox den. Well, I thought, this is the home of those scrawny red fellows who slink along the woods behind our house. Their hole started at the embankment and tunnelled back a bit to where I had broken into it. No foxes to be seen— they had flitted, leaving a neat little cave with tiny fox footprints. Oh great! First, I got booters, then almost disappeared into a bog, and now my feet were nearly eaten by foxes. I climbed back to the woods and again sat down with a mammoth adrenaline overload. Adventures were great, and I loved them, but this was too much. Just too much! What next? The Cochrane Polar Bear coming through the woods? Again, time to go home. At home, waiting for the family to return, I was close to tears, not from all the adventures, but because I couldn't remove my muddy boots. They were still stuck. Too much! I felt near hysteria, but by the time the family came home from their ramble, I was calmly waiting on the steps. My husband tackled my boots. After teasingly checking their bottoms for fox teeth marks, it took him more than one try to finally get them off. Needless to say, I did not get any pictures. Well, I did, but they would still be in my camera, on top of the bog, if you want to look for them. ◆

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

Page 9

A March 17, 2021

Alan Crescent development turned down (again) Proposal to erect two more houses on single lot rejected by LPAT, pleasing neighbours but raising questions about role of Planning Department BY BRIAN GREEN Special to the Voice There is a sense of relief among the residents of the Fonthill neighbourhood around Alan Crescent and Elizabeth Street, on the hill just northeast of the cemetery. An application by Mancini Developments to sever a lot on the corner of Elizabeth and Alan and erect two new homes on the site (while retaining the home that is there) has been turned down by the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (LPAT). Previously turned down by the Town’s Committee of Adjustment, and Town Council, the application was appealed to the LPAT where it was again rejected in a decision published in late February. Along with the sense of relief, there is confusion and anger over the role played by the Town’s Planning Department in this process. The application was originally supported by the Planning Department as conforming to the Town’s Official Plan and meeting the infilling mandate from the

Province. At two lengthy public meetings before the Committee of Adjustment in January and February 2020, neighbourhood residents made clear their opposition to the application for “minor variance” from the Town’s bylaws, insisting that the bylaws were there for a purpose and there was no reason to grant an exception to them. Further, they pointed out that the character of the neighbourhood consisted of large, treed lots with single family homes, and that the proposal to crowd three houses onto one lot would be significantly detrimental to the area’s environment. The only person at these meetings who spoke in favour of the application was Mancini’s lawyer, Patrick Maloney, supported by Pelham’s Planning Department. At the first meeting, the Committee of Adjustment deferred a decision and instructed the Plan-

A developer sought variances to build an additional two homes on this existing single lot. ning Department to reconsider their support in light of the neighbourhood’s objections, yet at the second meeting the Planning Department reiterated its support of the application. The Committee then rejected the application anyway. At the LPAT appeal hearing last November, the scene was replayed. The tribunal heard from two professional Town Planners (not Pelham employees): Craig Rohe, who testified on behalf of the developer to support the application, and William Pol, who represented the Town on behalf of the Committee of Adjustment to oppose it. The battle of duelling Town Planners focused on whether or not the application met requirements of the Pelham’s Official Plan. While Pol maintained that it did not, and that the “minor variances” were not at all minor, Rohe suggested a “liberal interpretation” of the Official Plan would

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

SPRING IS IN THE AIR!

We have so many fresh choices available at the farm this week

We have Ontario cucumbers, carrots, beets, parsnips, turnips, Boston lettuce, trio mix lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cabbage, kale, daffodils, and of course our hard CRISPY apples that just came out of storage like they were picked off the tree!

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 4 more days till Spring!

permit such development. They further disagreed on whether the proposed development would enhance or detract from the character of the neighbourhood, with Rohe suggesting the new buildings and the removal of a wooden fence would be an attractive addition to Elizabeth Street, and Pol maintaining the intensification would be “an undesirable precedent” and “expose the neighbourhood to increased development pressures.” Representing the Town’s Planning Department, Curtis Thompson testified under summons— meaning that his appearance was not voluntary, and that he was compelled by the process to attend— saying he continued to support the applications and recommended that the tribunal grant the variances. The Town was in the unique position of being represented by two witnesses on opposing sides of the matter: Pol, Registered Profession-

BRIAN GREEN

al Town Planner, presenting the opinion of the Committee of Adjustment opposing the variance request, and Thompson, Town of Pelham Planner, representing the Town’s Planning Department, supporting it, as he did before the Committee of Adjustment. In its decision, the tribunal echoed the concerns that the neighbours had been making since the first meeting of the Committee of Adjustment: “The proposed severance will result in built form which is inconsistent with the scale and density of the surrounding neighbourhood.” Furthermore, the tribunal concluded that the proposed minor variances did not conform with the Town’s Official Plan: “… the tribunal finds that the proposal fails to have regard to the criteria stipulated in s. 51(24) of the Planning Act in that the proposed consent does not conform See REJECTED Page 15

Great food, Great people Presenting our classic, all-in

PRIME RIB DINNER

Chicken option available !

SATURDAY, MARCH 27

Dine in or take-out! Reservations: 289-897-9191 Succulent Canadian beef, 10 oz cooked to perfection, $31.99

WE’RE BACK! AND LOOKING FORWARD TO SERVING YOU! Monday-Sunday, 8 AM-3 PM Friday, 8 AM - 8 PM

Includes

potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire Pudding, dessert

Breakfast served 8 AM - 3 PM daily! Fish & Chips Fridays, and Prime Rib Dinners last Saturday each month! DELICIOUS FISH & CHIPS

Battered or pan-fried haddock or halibut, fresh-cut fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce

FRESH BREAD, BUNS, TARTS AND PIES Stor e hou rs: Mon-Fri 8 AM -6 PM, Sat 8 AM -5 PM Che󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹󰇹

825 Canboro Road, Fenwick • 905-892-8724

1507 Pelham Street, Fonthill (289) 897-9191

L.L.B.O. Licensed

Page 10

The Voice

A March 17, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

One year of COVID sees flags at half-mast

DAVE BURKET

The Town of Pelham joined other Niagara municipalities in lowering flags at Town facilities to half-mast last weekend to honour and remember those who have died of COVID-19 over the past year. The gesture coincided with the one-year marking of the first COVID-19 case in Niagara, as well as the closing of Town Hall on March 13, 2020. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, some 300 Niagara lives been lost to COVID. As of Monday, there were 14 active cases in Pelham, five in Wainfleet, and 53 in Welland. Per capita, Welland and Pelham had the highest rates of infection in Niagara as of that date. Niagara has returned to the Red-Control stage of the Province’s response framework. Pelham Town Hall is open by appointment only. Staff remain available to assist residents Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM by phone or email. The Meridian Community Centre (MCC) rinks and gyms are open with capacity limits. Team sports must not be practiced or played except for training (no games or scrimmages). No spectators are permitted; however, each person under 18 may be accompanied by one parent or guardian. The walking track at the MCC is open with capacity limits; users are required to book their time in advance. Times can be booked back-to-back. To register, call 905-732-7872. Face-coverings are required while in all Town facilities.

IN THE NEWS

continued from Page 2 scene and determined that a group of motorcycles were traveling northbound on Victoria Avenue near Webber Road. Police say that one of the motorcycles, being driven by a 34-year-old man from Niagara Falls, left the roadway and entered a ditch. The driver was thrown from the motorcycle. He was treated at the scene by paramedics for what was initially believed to be life-threatening injuries. The man was transported to a local hospital and subsequently flown by Ornge air ambulance to an out-of-region trauma centre. The motorcycle, a black 2012 Harley Davidson, was destroyed. Police say the damage is estimated at $20,000. The investigation remains ongoing. Police ask that anyone who may have information about the incident call 905-688-4111, extension 1023300.

Police food drive

A Bobby Kerr-autographed 8x10 glossy.

COURTESY JIM RYAN COLLECTION

Bobby Kerr named to Hall of Fame BY ROSEMARY CHAMBERS Special to the Voice Bobby Kerr, featured in the Voice’s March 5 article, “Pelham’s cowboy heritage,” has been inducted into the 2021 Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony took place on Thursday, March 4, at Billy Bob's Texas in the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District. The Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame honours those who have shown excellence in competition, business and support of rodeo and the western lifestyle in Texas. Fueled by his love of that lifestyle, Kerr founded the Hall of Fame with his wife, Susan, in Hico,

Texas, in 1997. In 2001, the museum made its move to the Fort Worth Stockyards, and Kerr passed the reins of leadership to the Hickman family. Kerr’s career spans some 45 years. Born in Ridgeville, his passion for horses led him to pursue his dreams of training and showing in cutting, reining, roping, and working cow horse. Kerr currently spends most of his time on the rodeo and horse show circuit demonstrating the versatility of American Mustangs. Kerr’s acceptance speech is on his Facebook page, and the induction ceremony will be broadcast on the Cowboy Channel on March 21 at 8 PM.

KWIKFIT NIAGARA

8 Highway 20E, Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 ◆ www.kwikfit.ca Hours: Mon-Fri 7 a.m. - 7 p.m., Weekends 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

CALL FRANK ADAMSON AT 905-892-0200

10th Anniversary Special for New Members! COVID-19 PROTOCOLS IN PLACE Improve Health and Fitness Kwikfit Niagara has improved the performance of people from all walks of life from busy professionals, homemakers, and business owners, and especially senior citizens. A research-based program for strength training, body building, and complete fitness in just 12 minutes per week.

The Niagara Regional Police Service will be partnering with nine local food banks and 12 local grocery stores in an effort to help support the demand for food and donations within Niagara. COVID-19 challenges have compounded the demand for food products to support families within Niagara, says the police service, prompting it to launch its inaugural “NRPS Spring Food Drive,” organized by officers from the Community Engagement Unit. The drive will be held March 15 to 19, 9 AM to 3 PM. Remaining locations this week include the Food Basics in East Fonthill on Tuesday, March 16. On the same day officers will be collecting donations at No Frills and Zehrs in Welland. March 17: Zehrs and Food Basics in Niagara Falls, and Foodland, in Smithville. March 18: No Frills and Superstore, in St. Catharines. March 19: Superstore in Grimsby, and No Frills in Beamsville. Police say that officers will be standing outside, wearing masks, physically distancing, and will have limited handling of the food.

Pretend cop arrested in Welland

On Sunday evening, March 7, 3 District (Welland) uniform officers responded to the area of Wallace Avenue and Major Street, in

Welland, on a call for service. Police say that investigation revealed that earlier in the day, at about 4 PM, a silver Dodge Nitro was driving eastbound on East Main Street. A grey Dodge Charger was driving behind the Nitro. The Charger proceeded to drive around the Nitro and parked in front of it. Police say that both drivers then exited their vehicles and got into a verbal altercation, during which the Charger driver allegedly identified himself as a police officer, flashing a fake badge. Ryan W. Miller, 49, was arrested and charged with impersonating a peace officer, then released with a court appearance scheduled for May 7. In a statement, the NRPS reminds the public to call police at 9-1-1 if there is ever a suspicion that a person is falsely identifying themselves as a police officer.

Arrest for YouTube threats

A St. Catharines man has been arrested by detectives from the Niagara Regional Police Service for online threats on YouTube. In a statement, police say that in February the NRPS was contacted by INTERPOL in the United States regarding threatening comments on YouTube. The initial investigation by INTERPOL led them to the believe the YouTube user was from St. Catharines. The local investigation was then assigned to 1 District St. Catharines NRPS detectives, who were assisted by detectives from the NRPS Cyber Crime Unit, and the Technical Crimes Unit. Police say that detectives determined that the YouTube user “Big Lips” posted “concerning comments” in the public commentary section of videos between January 10 and February 22. Police say the comments contained threats of violence. Last Tuesday, detectives attended a residence in St. Catharines and arrested the suspect, and executed a search warrant at the house. Derek B. Spence, 41, of St. Catharines, was charged with uttering threats and held in custody for a video bail hearing. This investigation remains ongoing, say police, who are looking to speak with anyone who feels they may have been the subject of online threats by Spence or his username “Big Lips.” Contact detectives at 905-688-4111, extension 1009482.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

Page 11

A March 17, 2021

Zoning bylaw review: Town wants your opinion

Have your say on Regional incentive programs

As old as the loonie— Pelham regulations date back to 1987

Did you know that Niagara Region offers incentive programs to help businesses create jobs, build affordable housing, protect our environment and improve our communities?

BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent After 34 years, it’s time for some essential Pelham documents to get a facelift. The Town is reviewing its Comprehensive Zoning Bylaw No. 1136, which dates back to 1987. “There have been some fundamental shifts in the focus of the provincial, regional, and local policy framework since the original zoning bylaw," said Director of Community Planning and Development Barb Wiens in a press statement. Pelham CAO David Cribbs referred to the review as a critical project with an ambitious timeline (presentation to council planned for November 2021, with completion by year’s end). He said that the efforts currently being undertaken in the Town’s planning department incorporate some of the work initiated four years ago by the last council. “Zoning bylaws are one of two absolutely critical tools that address how land is used in Pelham,” said Cribbs. “Whereas the Official Plan is a somewhat abstract theoretical roadmap for growth, the zoning bylaw specifically says what can happen where. It will affect agricultural lands, secondary dwelling units, cannabis facility locations, maximum building heights, density and property line setbacks, woodlots, and all sorts of other things that matter to residents and impact their quality of life.” Cribbs stressed that it doesn’t matter whether residents are rich or poor, young or old, renters or multiple property owners. “If you live in Pelham, you should comment and participate in this consultation process, because the finished product is going to im-

pact your life for years to come.” Policy Planner Tara Lynn O’Toole told the Voice that the zoning bylaw review and update will reflect current development requirements, and will “bring the document into conformity with our Official Plan and provincial policy.” She encouraged citizens to visit the “Engaging Pelham” website and submit comments, and also to participate in the live Q&A session she will host, called “Tuesdays with Tara.” One-to-one conversations can be scheduled via telephone or Zoom session by contacting O’Toole at 905-892-2607 x335. The current schedule for discussion of zoning topics is as follows: March 15-19 general provisions; March 22-April 2 rural/agricultural zones; April 5-16 residential zones and greenfield development; April 19-30 commercial zones; May 3-7 definitions; May 10-14 review of feedback received. The process will involve two rounds of consultation, with revisions based on feedback from the community, various agencies, and Town Council incorporated into the final document to be presented to council for ratification. The zoning bylaw is legally enforceable, and those not in compliance will require an amendment or variance. The Town assert that the new document will be prepared so that it is easy to understand and applicable to wide range of end-users, including builders, developers, realtors, farmers, lawyers, land surveyors, and everyday residents.

PUBLIC NOTICE

These programs are an important part of growing Niagara’s economy, but we need to make sure they’re hitting the mark. We’re reviewing these programs right now, and we want your input. Visit niagararegion.ca and search “incentive review” to give us your feedback through a brief online survey, and register to attend a short virtual information session. Virtual Information Session Wednesday, March 24 – 6:30 p.m. Pre-registration online is required The session will be hosted using Zoom and can be accessed through your smartphone, tablet, computer, or by phone through teleconference. Register online at niagararegion.ca If you are unable to attend, you can also contact the project team by calling 905-980-6000 ext. 3357. If you require any accommodations for a disability in order to attend and participate in meetings or events, contact the Niagara Region’s Accessibility Coordinator at 905-685-4225 ext. 3252 or accessibility@niagararegion.ca 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

niagararegion.ca

MARCH MADNESS

A heartfelt Thank You to our amazing patients for entrusting us with your care and voting us Fonthill’s #1 in all three categories!

SAVE BIG ON STUNNING SONY 4K OLED TV!

SAVE $600

55" 1999 $

SAVE $1200

• Best Physiotherapy Clinic / Services • Best Physiotherapist - Ryan Walker

SERVICES

• • • • •

Physiotherapy Massage Therapy Accupuncture Personal Training Concussion Management

20 Highway 20, Fonthill, ON

905-892-3634

Online Booking Available • noifonthill.com

• • • • •

Shockwave Therapy Laser Orthotics MVA and WSIA Direct Billing Available And much more... Embark on your Journey towards Optimal Health and Wellness

reg 3899

$

65" 2699

We wouldn’t be here without our supportive community and referring professionals.

• Best Medical / Health Services

reg 2599

$

$

A8H

 X1 ULTIMATE PROCESSOR BRINGS OUT THE INTENSE CONTRAST OF OLED, DEEP BLACKS AND PEAK BRIGHTNESS  PIXEL CONTRAST BOOSTER FOR FINE DETAIL  ACOUSTIC SURFACE AUDIO - THE SCREEN IS THE SPEAKER!  INCREDIBLY THIN DESIGN

SALE STARTS MARCH 19 SHOP EARLY WHILE QUANTITIES LAST!

QUALITY STEREO RECEIVER  2 CHANNEL STEREO  40 STATION AM/FM PRESET TUNING  YAMAHA HIGH SOUND QUALITY reg $249

NOW

199

$

RS202

SHOP OUR WEBSITE WWW.THOMASTV.COM

DELIVERY & INSTALLATION AVAILABLE

130 THOROLD RD, WELLAND 905 788 3221 SHOWROOM OPEN TUES-SAT 10-5

Page 12

The Voice

A March 17, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

“It could happen again if we don't stop burning fossil fuels” Brock Earth Sciences professor part of international team researching historic extinction event BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent Germany or Italy. I was the lone North American. The story didn’t get much traction on this side of the Atlantic until CBS got wind of it and approached me,” said Brand. Born in Germany, Brand moved to Canada with his parents almost 60 years ago, settling in Toronto. He earned a bachelor’s degree at Waterloo, a master’s at Missouri, and completed a PhD at the University of Ottawa. During his doctoral studies, he spent time doing geological research in the Arctic,

If you cannot get away from these harmful conditions, you are either going to die, or you are going to adapt on Cornwallis Island. Brand has been a Brock prof for 40 years, during which he and his wife (a retired environmental scientist) moved to Pelham and have resided on Pelham Street for the past 25 years. Brand said that scientists recognize a number of mass extinctions—about five in total. “Even if you say that it's the largest mass extinction, it’s not as dramatic as calling it ‘the Great Dying.’ Then it's mysterious,” he said with a laugh. Brand likened the Great Dying to a ‘perfect storm,’ not a single game-changing event, such as the asteroid that killed the dinosaurs 65 million years ago. This process was more like a domino effect, a series of inter-related events. "These are not individual and separate causes, but they all act-

LUXURY GALORE

O S

D L

15550 Niagara River Parkway

Uwe Brand at his work station at his Pelham Street home. ed together, in concert, and that is why I call it the perfect storm. The Earth got hit with temperature, acidification, and then finally the knock-out punch came from deoxygenation,” Brand told CBS News. “It's like natural selection, being pushed to the extreme,” he told the Voice. “If you cannot get away from these harmful conditions, you are either going to die, or you are going to adapt.” According to Brand’s research, a rise of greenhouse gases 250 million years ago led to the disappearance of most life on Earth. Using carbon isotope data and a sophisticated model, the researchers reconstructed the likely chain of events that killed almost all life on Earth. Brand said that recent volcanic eruptions, such as the ones in Iceland and Indonesia, cause the

DON RICKERS

opposite of global warming. They cause global winter, because they emit huge volumes of sulphur dioxide, whose particles reflect the sunlight and create global cooling. Brand noted that the explosion of Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines in 1991, the second-largest terrestrial eruption of the 20th century, spewed 20 million tons of sulphur dioxide into the atmosphere. The earth’s average temperature dropped a degree for the next couple years, and caused a temporary but substantial depletion of the ozone layer. The future is anybody's guess, says Brand. “I could tell you that Miami will be underwater in 25 years, or that it won’t be submerged. In any event, in another 25 years, I’ll be dead,” he said, chuckling. “I tell my students, the most powerful words are ‘I do not

Drive with confidence

$3,200,000

GORGEOUS ACRE LOT backing onto vineyards, 20’ x 40’ heated salt water pool, 5 bdrms, 7 baths, cedar roof, 7,000 sq.’+ with stunning sunsets over the vineyards in Niagara-on-the-Lake. A 5-minute drive to downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake or a pleasant bike ride along the river

GARY SNIDER BROKER T: 905.988.2205 E: gsnider@bosleyrealestate.com Bosley Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage www.bosleyrealestate.com 5-233 King St., Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0 Bosley Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage respects the contract of its competitors.

know.’ Any good scientist will resist looking into a crystal ball. You can look at a trend, just like the COVID charts of statistics. You need to learn from the past. When COVID-19 broke in March 2020, we tried to isolate ourselves from the beginning. Scientists started wearing masks, we took extra precautions, because as scientists, we believe it's better to err on the side of caution.” Brand said that another disaster is potentially not far off. The Earth is warming to levels not seen in over 100,000 years, and the oceans are becoming more acidic. "Right now our emissions are up to 20 times higher than what happened at the end of the Permian mass extinction," he said. “We must learn from events like the Great Dying. As the maxim goes, ‘Those who fail to heed the lessons of history will repeat it.’”

You Deserve Great Service

W H E N YO U S AV E U P T O 3 0 % * O N YO U R C A R I N S U R A N C E Lower your premium with our: • Winter tire savings • Loyalty savings • Multi-vehicle discount • Conviction-free savings

Member of the Toronto Real Estate Board and Niagara Assoc. of Realtors

Plus, save when you insure both your car and home with us. Stop in, call or click to get a quote today.

Carol Frick-Allon BScN., SALES REPRESENTATIVE

905.734.0375

1510024CN

Four billion, give or take a few hundred million. That’s the age of this ball of rock we call Earth, orbiting the Sun at 67,000 miles per hour. Our interstellar home has undergone some unprecedented change in the past couple hundred years, due to our propensity for burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas, which release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The planet heats up, polar ice melts, oceans rise and become acidic and oxygen-depleted, and species start to die off. The research of Brock University Earth Sciences professor and Pelham resident Uwe Brand is focused on what happened 250 million year ago, long before the arrival of the dinosaurs. But he cautions that we are at risk of a future extinction event if we don’t break our dependence on fossil fuels as an energy source. Brand is a world-renowned authority on an episode in earth history called the Permian-Triassic Mass Extinction, or the “Great Dying,” when epic proportions of life on land and in the oceans vanished, and he says that there are some striking similarities between then and what's happening today. Brand was part of an international team of scientists who published a study in the journal Natural Geoscience last fall, which CBS News said, “provided a conclusive roadmap of the geochemical processes that led to the massive biotic extinction.” Earlier this month, CBS featured Brand’s research as part of an on-air news broadcast, seen by millions. “When our paper came out in October 2020, the European press was all over it, in part because most of the participating scientists on the team were from either

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

Certain conditions, limitations and exclusions may apply. Desjardins Insurance refers to Certas Home and Auto Insurance Company, underwriter of automobile and property insurance or Desjardins Financial Security Life Assurance Company, underwriter of life insurance and living benefits products. Desjardins, Desjardins Insurance and related trademarks are trademarks of the Fédération des caisses Desjardins du Québec, used under licence.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

Page 13

A March 17, 2021

Panthers back on the prowl Pelham basketball resumes red zone training BY BERNIE PUCHALSKI bpsportsniagara.com Off the court for more than two months because of the province-wide lockdown to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, Luke Klassen made a joyous return to Pelham’s community centre last week. “I can’t wait,” the Grade 11 student at E.L. Crossley said, moments before stepping on the court. “It’s a lot different than being at home on the driveway. You do as much as you can but being out there with the guys is going to be so nice.” The 16-year-old Niagara-on-the-Lake resident, a member of the Niagara Basketball United Grade 11 squad, was thrilled when he got the news his team would return to the gym, thanks to Niagara entering the red zone last Monday. “I was so excited,” he said. The announcement from the province that Niagara would enter the red zone set the wheels in motion for the Pelham Panthers Basketball Association to return to non-contact drilling in the gym. “We had been preparing for whatever colour we would have and we had done up mock schedules whether it was orange or red,” Panthers president Brian Bleich

said. “The difference is orange you can be with your team and red is ten people per gym with one coach. “When it was announced red, we quickly put the kids into groups of 10, not all by team but by age and we moved forward and plugged them into the schedule.” Female players starting practicing again on Tuesdays and the male players started Wednesdays. Sessions run from 3:30 PM to 9:30 PM during the week. There are two groups of 10 training during each time slot. There are about 400 athletes training, including Pelham boys and girls travel team players, Niagara Juel and Juel Prep female players, and members of the Niagara Basketball United boys program. Bleich created an online spreadsheet for coaches to sign up to run training sessions and 65 to 70 coaches are giving of their time to help train their players. “I thought I would have some pushback with some people saying their son or daughter couldn’t come because of the new [COVID] variants but it never happened,” he said. “I got a lot of thank-yous by email congratulating us for making this happen so fast.”

Back to drills on the community centre court last week. Bleich and the entire Pelham organization knows the service they provide is badly needed. “Having my own kids at home, I know it’s about mental health, getting them back on the floor and getting them in shape in the wintertime. They can’t go out for a bike ride and this a way to get their bodies moving and their blood flowing.” Pelham Panthers’ efforts have been appreciated by its players. “You see a lot of smiles when they are coming in here and they are happy just

to be back in the gymnasium and not at home,” Bleich said. “They want to get out of the house and this is a place they can now go besides school.” The Panthers are lucky compared to most of Niagara’s other basketball associations because they have a gym they can use and are not dependent on school facilities which aren’t available to rent because of the

pandemic. “We are the most fortunate in Niagara to have two gyms available to us at this time,” Bleich said. He is wishing for better days ahead for the province and basketball. “We are hoping to have some sort of summer training program and then August and September tryouts for our OBA [Basketball Ontario] teams again,” he said.

BERNIE PUCHALSKI

“We should know better by June. It depends on where we sit with the vaccines for adults.” During the lockdown, Pelham basketball organized Zoom training sessions with Lequan Hylton doing sessions on basketball skills and Keveshan Padachey focusing on athletic development. The athletic development sessions will continue on Wednesdays.

111 Hwy 20 East FONTHILL

DAILY SPECIALS!

Voted

Best Lawyer It is an honour to serve as an advocate for injured clients and their families across the Niagara Region.

Rand Meshki FREE

NO OBLIGATION CONSULTATION

P U B H O U S E & E AT S

Order online at peterpipers.org

$10

Daily Specials

MONDAY Homemade Burger & Side WEDNESDAY 10 Wings THURSDAY Beef on Weck & Side FRIDAY 1-Piece Fish & Chips SATURDAY Pizza & Wing Combo ($20)

Monday, 4 - 7 PM Tuesday-Friday, 12 - 8 PM Saturday, 3 - 8 PM Closed Sundays

$ 45 & 0 4 $ TRY OUR OMBOS!

C FAMILY

HOMEMADE PIZZA! Call 905-892-0782 to place your takeout order

CURBSIDE PICKUP!

Page 14

The Voice

A March 17, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

PEOPLE AND POLITICS

by David Siegel

Climate change and land-use planning in Niagara

C

limate change and COVID-19 are likely the two biggest challenges that our generation will face. We responded to COVID at warp speed because we could see the death and destruction that it was causing, and it seems that we are well on the way to bringing it under control within about a year of its genesis. Climate change will, over time, likely inflict at least as much death and destruction as COVID, but we are taking our sweet time in dealing with it, presumably because climate change moves more slowly and does not have the immediate impact that COVID does. That does not make it less of a threat to the planet. The new policy brief prepared by Sean Giverin and Charles Conteh, for Brock University’s Niagara Community Observatory, reminds us that local governments are on the front line in dealing with climate change, and that land-use planning is an important tool that

BALANCED LIFE

continued from Page 18 sodas containing caffeine are mildly diuretic, and although they do contribute to your daily fluid intake, they can affect hydration negatively by flushing sodium from your system. Sweet and sugary drinks, including fruit juices, add chemicals to your blood which may inhibit your body’s ability to absorb water, making them a poor substitute for water. Fruit juices are generally lacking in sodium, which further adds to the risks of

they have in dealing with it. (Full disclosure: I was the founding director of the Observatory about ten years ago, but have not had much involvement since I retired.) The main thrust of the brief is that local government decisions can have a major impact on the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that are a prime cause of climate change. Specifically, land-use planning is a major tool that can have a significant impact on GHG emissions. However, local governments do not have complete control over land-use planning; it involves what academics call multilevel governance. Local governments are part of a network of organizations that collectively make planning decisions. No single organization in the network has complete control, but some are more influential than others. There are provincial rules governing the planning process and identifying certain provincial interests in planning decisions—for

becoming dehydrated and sodium depleted. Illness, including fever, vomiting, and diarrhea can quickly drain your body of its water and electrolytes, significantly increasing dehydration and body system imbalance. Diabetes, diuretic medications, and some blood pressure medications can also add to the risk of dehydration because they increase the frequency of urination. Sports drinks wear two hats in the hydration equation. If they are caffeine and sugar based, their diuretic function will eventu-

example, preservation of agricultural land, housing supply, building strong communities, and so forth. The provincial government has traditionally pushed the idea of “smart” growth. There will be significant growth in southern Ontario; there is no point in fighting that. However, smart growth seeks to structure this growth in ways that protect the environment at the same time that it benefits local residents and businesses which are a part of the growth. Some of the principles of smart growth are: develop complete neighbourhoods that limit the need for long trips to shop, entertainment, or work; ensure developments are walkable and bikeable; use already developed areas more intensively rather than sprawling into green space. In Niagara, provincially created, locally oriented bodies such as the Niagara Escarpment Commission and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority play a role.

ally reduce the fluid balance of your system. If, however, your sports drink of choice contains electrolytes and sodium, these compounds will combat the effects of dehydration. Significantly diluting such drinks with additional water will reduce any risk that they might cause dehydration. Vigorous exercise and excessive sweating, regardless of the cause (think cutting the lawn in hot, humid weather) will increase fluid loss significantly, and can quickly lead to dehydration. There is a common saying in endurance sports, “Drink before you’re thirsty, eat before you’re hungry,” which warns athletes that if they wait for thirst sensations to tell them it’s time to drink, it will be too late. The Mayo Clinic agrees, and states succinctly: “Thirst isn't a helpful indicator of hydration. In fact, when you're thirsty, you could already be dehydrated, having lost as much as 1 to 2 percent of your body's water content. And with that kind of water loss, you may start

You're Invited

Located in the of the Niagara Region Open All Winter for your convenience

%

OFF

includes maple syrup, honey, honey crisp apples and homemade jams and jellies.

2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU: 878 Foss Rd., Fenwick 2760 Hwy #20, Fonthill 905-341-FARM

Closed Mon Tues - Fri: 10am-5pm Sat: 8am-4pm Sun: 10am-3pm

johnsonsfarmersmarket@gmail.com www.johnsonfarmsfenwick.com

FOR ONLINE ORDERS: JOHNSON FARMS COUNTRY MARKET FACEBOOK PAGE

See SIEGEL next page

run, you’re likely over hydrating. As well as simply drinking too much, medical conditions such as liver and kidney problems, anti-inflammatory medications and anti-diuretic hormone therapy can cause over hydration. Consuming or retaining too much water may dilute your blood and intestinal fluids, affecting their balance and sodium levels (a condition known as hyponatremia) which can cause muscle weakness, spasms, cramps and seizures. Unexplained bloating, nausea and vomiting are a clue that you’ve overdone your rehydration. Taking additional electrolytes will generally restore fluid balance quickly. Proper hydration aids digestion, increases oxygen and nutrient flow to your cells, stabilizes blood pressure, and reduces the risk of kidney stones and stroke. The internet provides many hydration and water intake calculators designed to tell us how much water we each need per day. Just fill in your personal data, and the calculator will suggest the proper water consumption rate you need for perfect hydration. It’s hard to believe that such a minor change as consuming more water has the potential to dramatically improve our health. ◆

Friday May 1st at 12:00pm

Hairstyling...

Don’t miss our indoor store behind our fruit stand

NATURE’S CANDY SALE

ning decisions will have a major impact on the future of a municipality for generations. Municipalities should resist the pressure to rush into what is effectively an irrevocable decision. The system is meant to work fairly slowly and deliberately, so that all participants have an opportunity to learn about proposed developments, and to make their views about them known. It is meant to be open to participation by any and all interested groups. Local groups should be vigilant in protecting the system that allows them this level of participation. However, there is a provision in the Planning Act that seriously threatens this idea of multilevel governance—Minister’s Zoning Orders (MZO). This allows the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to cut through all this red-tape and multilevel governance to approve a development unilaterally. In Stratford, the

percent or 200 to 300 ml per hour.” This is a staggering amount of potential fluid loss, and illustrates the importance of calculating your rate of fluid replacement correctly to ensure sufficient rehydration during and after activity. We’re not all in the military carrying packs across the deserts of Iran or Pakistan, so here’s an easy way to determine the fluid loss in your own activities. Hydrate normally throughout the 24-hour period before your planned activity, then weigh yourself naked. Dress, do your activity for exactly one or two hours without consuming any water, then strip off your sweat-soaked clothes, and weigh yourself again. Each kilogram of weight that you’ve lost represents one litre of fluid that you sweat out of your body, which makes the math needed to determine your perspiration rate per hour easy. For example, if you lost three kilograms of weight during two hours of running or cycling, you should drink one and a half litres of water per hour to maintain proper hydration. For most of us, over-hydration isn’t an issue, but there are endurance athletes that consume too much liquid while training or racGreat ideas served. ing.willIfbeyou manage to gain weight during a long ride or

to experience cognitive impairments like stress, agitation and forgetfulness, to name a few.” Vigorous endurance exercise needn’t be running a marathon or cycling 100 kilometres. Two hours or more of any strenuous activity—hiking, tennis, soccer, brisk walking —especially in our hot summers, can cause rapid dehydration through perspiration. There is a great deal of science, and many myths, about how much water can be lost during vigorous exercise, and the qualifiers are many. Your personal perspiration rate is influenced by body weight, temperature and humidity acclimation, age, gender, intensity of the activity, and overall health. A study done for the United States Military by the US Institute of Medicine found that, “Sweat rate is proportional to metabolic rate and can amount to 3 to 4 liters per hour or as much as 10 liters per day. Training and heat acclimatization can increase sweat rate by 10 to 20

The road to financial independence begins with a few simple rules

20

And, if that’s not enough, the Region of Niagara and the area municipalities all share a role in the planning process. Just navigating this maze is difficult, but the brief provides some advice about how these various bodies can work together. These agencies have a mandate to encourage public engagement. This allows residents and businesses many opportunities to make their views known and influence the making of planning decisions. The groups and individuals involved in the network provide a great example of multi-level governance. Decisions are not dictated by any one organization, rather decisions are products of the interactions of the participants in the network. On the one hand, this proliferation of agencies involved in the process slows down decision-making, which can be frustrating for proponents of new projects. On the other hand, plan-

You're Invited Women and men have differing considerations when it comes to long-term financial goals. For instance, because of a woman’s average longer life span, your needs may be significantly different from those of your spouse or others. Does your financial strategy fit your lifestyle and needs? Join us and learn more as we explore five money Call (905) 892-9930 orcritical email questions for women. nicolle.lalonde@edwardjones.com Call (905) 892-9930 or email receive webinar details. nicolle.lalonde@edwardjones.com to RSVP and receive webinar details.

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

This seminar is being presented as a webinar.

Tuesday March 23rd at 12:00pm or 7:00pm

to RSVP and

This seminar is being presented as a webinar.

Nicolle A Lalonde Financial Advisor

10 Hwy 20 East Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 905-892-9930

Nicolle A Lalonde Financial Advisor

10 Hwy 20 East Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 905-892-9930

nicolle.lalonde@edwardjones.com

www.edwardjones.ca

MKD-8012A-C-FL EXP 30 JUN 2022 © 2021 EDWARD D. JONES & CO., L.P. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

MKD-2717C-C-FL EXP 31 MAR 2022 © 2020 EDWARD D. JONES & CO., L.P. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

TRACY STRYCKER 289.213.3834 34 Deerpark, Fonthill salonollegra.com

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

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

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

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice A March 17, 2021 FONTHILL BANDSHELL PRESENTS DE TEMPS ANTAN Burke’s Masonry Since 2003, Éric Beaudry, André Brunet and Pierre-Luc Dupuis have Place these ads for free! 30 words + photo been exploring• 50th andand performing time-honoured melodies from the stomp- Bricklaying, tuckpointing, • Birth announcements greater wedding anniversaries • 90, 95, 100-plus birthday announcements step repair, granite ing grounds of 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. blend boundless energy with the unmistakable joie de vivre found only in Committee of Adjustment Barb Wiens, noted that the FLOORINGP18-28 REJECTED and its citizens, and when Planning Department cantraditional Quebec music. Show runs from 7-9 p.m. continued from Page 9

CLASSIFIEDS

advised by any of these not simply make decisions bodies that maybe they based on the desires of the to the Official Plan. This should revise their position Town’s citizens, since it is PELHAM LIBRARY non-conformity with the CARD MAKING WORKSHOP after hearing from others, constrained by the restricOfficial Plan itself with suf-fall themes, learning a variety of techniques. Materials Make sixiscards they refuse to change and tions imposed by Provinficient reason for the triin registration, fact they ‘double down’ cial, about Regional, Town are provided. At time of please enquire toolsand needed. bunal to conclude that the on their erroneous original of Pelham policies, bylaws, consent should not16 be10 apTues., Sept. – 12:30. $10. Please register ahead. Visit www.pelhamposition.” and regulations. proved.” Zanutto’s opinion was “Staff’s role is to prolibrary.on.ca or call 905-892-6443 for more details. While the residents of the echoed by another neigh- vide objective professionadjoining and neighbouring bourhood resident, Ted Ga- al planning opinion to the properties are happy with FABULOUS FENWICKlotta. LIONS FISH FRY “Although we should authorities making decithe result of this drawnfeel relief that 20 Alan did sions on land use planning Tasty treats out process, theywith are funds ex- heading straight back into the community. Haddock, not pass, we should take this matters and in this case pressing their dismay over more. Runs Sept. 9 from 4-7 p.m. french fries and much opportunity to highlight the that was to the Committhe apparent conflict bepoor direction this planning tee of Adjustment initialtween what the residents department is taking.” ly, and then to the LPAT of the Town clearly want, PELHAM MINOR HOCKEY EQUIPMENT SALE at the LPAT hearing, due Mayor Junkin downsupported by the Town’s any at conflict be- Arena. to receiving a summons to sell or and tradewhat usedplayed equipment the Pelham Aimed to provide own Buy, committee, tween the Town and its attend the hearing. Staff’s the cheaper Planning options Department for players in this upcoming season. Runs Sept. 6 from Planning Department. professional opinion is continued to recommend. “Where council has acted based on existing planning 9-12 in the morning. Neighbour Foster Zanutto, against a staff recommen- policies and Planning Act in a letter to Councillor John dation [and] that staff is requirements.” Wink, made available to the then summoned by the deBoth the Mayor and PELHAM MUDFEST Voice, said, “It bothers me… veloper to testify on their Councillor Wink noted that that Men the Planning Departand women will bebehalf backbefore in theLPAT, mud this as the run remains on the year is is second time still in the ment seems to be so out of a common occurrence.” 30-day appeal period, so held at Bissil’s Hideaway. touch with the wishes and The Director of Plan- this saga may yet turn into visions of the council, the ning and Development, an epic.

NIAGARA REGIONAL EXHIBITION Rodeo, games and live entertainment headline this years exciting event. It runs from Sept. 11-14 at the Wellandage Fairgrounds. to the planning system described in this

SIEGEL

continued from previous page

brief that goes to great lengths to invite

public involvement. BIG MOVE CANCER RIDE Giverin and Conteh’s work gives a good minister recently approved construction of The Big Move Cancer Ride is a non-competitive taking should place on Sept. picture of howride the system work and a huge glass manufacturing plant, much to how residents and businesses can partici7. Proceeds of formany the Big Move stay in Niagara and support the Walker Famthe consternation local residents. pate in the process. We should be vigilant And MZOs are not subject to appeal. ily Cancer Centre. to maintain this system and avoid shortcuts MZOs were conceived as a way of dealing that speed up the decision-making process with issues in remote areas without much at the cost good public participation. ◆ development and few governing mechaWALKING CLUB nisms. However, they are now being used David Siegel is Emeritus Professor of Political in shortcut walking public in Pelham? moreInterested frequently to involve-Join them Tuesdays at the Pelham Arena Science, Brock University. mentfrom in planning decisions. This does dam9-10 am and Thursdays at Fonthill Bandshell for 9-10:30 am. There

Josh DeHaan Flooring

Page 15 BUSINESSES.

Yard & Shed MOVING FONTHILL SALE, Large collectionPLACE YOUR AD BY EMAIL OR PHONE Keith’s Restau office@thevoiceofpelham.ca of Christmas and holiday E. L. Crossley Mon-Thurs, 8 AM Meats - 2 PM (905) 892-8690 Churchill Natural Target Store decorations and household Hours: 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.

“For all your flooring needs”

O

START T

FENWICK Avondale Stor Fonthill Legion Fenwick Sub S Tim Hortons CUSTOM MILL Golden Grill Semenuk’s PortablePic’s sawmill service. Devries Fruit F I will come to your home or farm and custom mill yourRidderikhoff logs. M Klagers

We offer in-stock specials:

“TU RRN ”

• pre-finished hardwood

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

YOU VINYL INTO

Firewood & lumber also available. Call Rob Patterson, 905-401-4948, riverwood@primus.ca

PLACE YOUR

GARAGE

SALE

SPRING CLEANING FOR AMPUTEE, CONTACT Contact: 905-892-3866 THE VOICE AT

905.892.8690

HAM SUPPER

AD WITH US! email:March office@thevoiceofpelham. Ham Supper—Fonthill Lions – Sunday 28, 4pm to 6pm.

No Sunday Calls, Please TF

why not

$17.50/meal including HST. Ham and all trimmings plus dessert. Preorder, prepay atNEW fonthilllions.ca or by e-transfer ADVERTISING OPPORTU or credit card 289 – 684 – 1240. to reach your market coming soon

Community Events Listings

Community Event Classified ads are available in blocks of 30 words for $10 incl. HST. Thanks for supporting your Voice!

BROCK, DONAHUGH,SHALDAN PETRONELLA • 109 PAPERS

HELP WANTED

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

Tell the town!

PANCAKE,PICKWICK • 97 PAPE FOR SALE

BERKWOOD, BEECHNUT, KATHY, V Titleist T-400 Irons, 5 Through Pitching Wedge. Senior Flex-Graphite DEVERARDO (SOUTH)• Shafts. Played 8 Rounds only. Paid $1800. Asking $1200. 905-325-96 PAPE 4151

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

4

PAPER ROUTES AVAILAB

CASH!

...and other specials!

Putting on an event?

LOOK FOR EXTRA COPIE AT THESE FINE AREA

CALL... TIRES FORNEW, SALE EXCITING WEBSITE Watch for early previews of our

FOR SALE Follow us on Twitter, 905.892.8690 4 – 16” Snow Tires, MotoMaster Winter Edge

office@thevoiceofpelham.ca

(905)892-8690

Like us on Facebook. Purchased new Oct 25/19-Paid $520.00 Take off car Mar 20/20. Will sell for $275.00 firm. John – 905-892-1572 FOR SALE

FOR SALE: Taylormade M2 19 Degree 3 Hybrid-Regular Shaft. Taylormade M4 25 Degree 5 Hybrid-Regular Shaft. Both with head covers-excellent condition. $200 for both. 905-325-4151

is no fee for this program. For more information, please contact jcook@ pelham.ca or call 905 892-2607, ext 329.

PUBLIC NOTICE

HAMPER DAY FOR PELHAM CARES Purchase fresh fruit and vegetables at the Market or bring a non-perishable food item of to fill the hampers at the Pelham Farmers Market on 4. Notice Online Public Information Centre #1,Sept. Municipal Class Environmental Assessment

for Merritt Road (Regional Road 37) and Rice Road (Regional Road 54) in Pelham, Thorold and Welland

COMMUNITY Events

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 Event Submissions identify improvementsStandards to the two roadways to meet the future needs of the surrounding community for all road The willthat address by If your organization isusers. hosting anstudy event wouldactive be oftransportation interest to theneeds community, providing dedicated pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure that is safe, attractive, conform you may submit an events profile sending your community information to to a complete streets approach, andby compatible with the changingevents land use in the three local municipalities. editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca Some restrictions apply. Event submissions that meet

the acceptability standards of The Voice of Pelham will then be posted until the date of your event. The Community Events Calendar is updated weekly. Please provide as much notice and information as possible including the date, time and description of your event. The Voice of Pelham reserves the right to edit for space.

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.

niagararegion.ca

Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

/niagararegion @niagararegion

Page 16

The Voice

A March 17, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

SERVICE DIRECTORY Power Equipment

Heating & & Cooling Heating Cooling

Renovations

DE VRIES R E N O VAT I O N S &

799 Hwy 20, Fenwick, ON

905-892-2664

Electrical

Fenwick Alex Bover-Master Electrician

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

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

Family built since 1955

PORT COLBORNE 905-835-2391

devriesrenoltd@gmail.com

LICENSED & INSURED

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

We Service All Makes And Models

Electrical Electrical

ACB

We Make House Calls!

ADDITIONS

FENWICK 905-892-2391

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

Plumbing

Flooring

Landscaping

THE PUMP DOCTOR 905.892.2655

Pumps and residential repairs WILLIAMS PLUMBING & PUMP SERVICE

Automotive

FINISHING TOUCHES Property Maintenance Lawn Cutting, Gardening, Yard Clean-ups, Landscaping, Mulch Application, Interlock

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

Fully Insured Professional Service 155 HIGHWAY 20 E. • FONTHILL, ON 905-892-5756 • STARTILECENTRE.COM

905-218-3662 ♦ Fenwick

Landscaping

Concrete Supplies Concrete Supplies

Landscaping Landscaping

Inground Sprinklers

LANDSCAPES Inspired By Your LIFESTYLE

Admiral Irrigation Inground Lawn Sprinklers

www.admiralirrigation.ca INSTALL · SERVICE · REPAIRS

Niagara’s Complete Concrete Contractor (905) 262-2000

or Toll free

799 Balfour St, Fenwick

1-800-881-1628

cottoninc.ca

Lawn Cutting

Little Oak’s Lawn Cutting LAWN CARE •Reliable •Courteous •Friendly •Professional

Chris Scott

905.358.0678 Let the best little business work hard for you!

2

905.892.6908

289.271.2526

www.dekorteslandscaping.com

KEEP

ALL YOUR fingers

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

Landscaping

l

Paper Shredding

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

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

&

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

Phone: 905.892.2188 • www.naturesownidea.com

PLACES OF WORSHIP

2

Bethany Christian Reformed Church www.bethanycrc.ca

First Presbyterian Church 602 Metler Rd., North Pelham

Holy Trinity Anglican Church holytrinityfonthill.org

Pelham Evangelical Friends Church www.pelhamfriends.ca

Concordia Lutheran Church 105 Welland Rd., Fonthill

Fonthill Baptist Church www.fonthillbaptistchurch.ca

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

Ridgeville Bible Chapel ridgevillebiblechapel.com

Fenwick Church of Christ www.fenwickchurchofchrist.ca

Fonthill United Church www.fonthillunited.com

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

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

Fenwick United Church www.fenwickunited.com

Glad Tidings Church of God www.gladtidingschurchofgod.com

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

St. Ann Roman Catholic Church www.stannfenwick.com

FAITH LIFT

continued from Page 19 mous words, “Dr. Livingstone, I presume?”

Lasting legacy

Livingstone inspired a new generation of missionaries, explorers and slave trade abolitionists. He famously said, "I am prepared to go anywhere, provided it be forward." His journal reveals tenacity in the face of suffering. After his death, new missionaries went to Africa’s interior bringing education and health care. His pioneer explorations also “opened up” Africa to commerce. The Royal Geographical Society of London awarded him its gold medal. Other explorers followed in his footsteps. Livingstone was an anti-slavery crusader. He saw firsthand the suffering and abuse it caused. He used his renown in Britain to push for an end to the slave trade in east Africa. He treated the African people with respect and they responded with faith and loyalty. His best-known convert was a chieftain, Sechele,

who led his whole tribe to faith. Livingstone was ill for most of the last four years of his life and died in 1873 (at age 60) from malaria, in what is northern Zambia today. His heart was buried under a tree there but his body was transported some 1000 miles to the coast, a trip taking over two months. From there it was returned to England, where he was buried in Westminster Abbey. Besides the many monuments and plaques in his memory, there have also been cities, hospitals, schools, colleges, streets, churches, museums, mountains, waterfalls and missions named in his honor in Africa and around the world. Livingstone once wrote, "I place no value on anything I have or may possess, except in relation to the kingdom of Christ… I shall promote the glory of Him to whom I owe all my hopes in time and eternity.” ◆ Rob Weatherby is a retired pastor who was privileged to serve for one year in Africa with Operation Mobilization’s mission bookship, the M.V. DOULOS.

SOOS

continued from Page 17 by-election won by Wayne Olson, and prior to that finished well back of Frank Campion in the 2018 Welland mayoral race. Soos unabashedly calls himself a “political veteran” at age 26, given that he first ran for elected office at age 19. He said that part of his motivation to fill the vacant Ward 3 seat is to follow in the footsteps of past Welland councillors who have brought strong representation in the ward, and in particular, the late political firebrand Peter Kormos, whom Soos refers to as “my hero.” “I am a Wellander through and through, born and raised,” Soos wrote on his Facebook page. He detailed how public service has been an important family tradition, and noted the contributions to the community by his father and grandfather. He stood behind his record as a “fighter for the underdog.” Soos said that Ward 3 is “a special seat on Welland City Council, as it encompasses

the downtown core. I think it is essential that we select someone who symbolizes the ‘heart of Welland.’” Wayne Olson spoke at an online town hall meeting organized by Soos last Saturday, addressing mental health, homeless, and addiction. “I want you to know that at this particular point in time, there is nothing more important to me and nothing more deserving of our focus than the issues before us right now,” Olson said in his prepared remarks. Referring to leadership as a “social necessity,” Olson said he was grateful to Soos for “his leadership on these issues,” and noted the importance of acts of kindness during the pandemic. “Small things mean a lot. Pick up the phone this afternoon and call somebody who you feel is isolated,” said Olson. Asked about rumours that, should the Welland gig not materialize, he was contemplating another run at elected office in Pelham in 2022, Soos responded, “Hey, anything’s possible.”

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

Soos eyes open seat on Welland City Council

OBITUARY

Voice

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

Traditional Irish Colcannon

ELLIOTT, Charles Bradshaw

DEAN, Phyllis May

The family of Brad Elliott (Charles Bradshaw Elliott) sadly announces his passing on the morning of March 5, 2021 in his 84th year. Beloved husband of 54 years and best friend of 60 years of Mary Ann (nee Neamtz). Loving father of Todd (Heidi) and Wade (Heather). Cherished Grandfather to Ryan, Ashley, Jordyn & Taylor. Survived by his sister Betty Morris, also several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Gwen and Charlie Elliott, brother Bob, Father-in-law George and mother-in-law Lena Neamtz, brother-inlaw’s Stan Morris and George Neamtz. Brad taught for 35 years at Winona High and Orchard Park Secondary. He received the Queens Medal in 1977 and several Safety Awards with his students as well as the Prime Minister Award. He was instrumental in developing the Co-op Program. We will remember Brad for so many things but will always cherish his generosity, willingness to help others and his enthusiasm and love of cars. The memories of trips he shared with Mary Ann continue to create stories shared with his family. A special thank you to Mark and Sharon Elliott for their lifetime of support. In lieu of flowers please consider donations to the Steve Ludzik Foundation https://thesteveludzikfoundation.org/ or the McMaster Children’s Hospital https://www.hamiltonhealthsciences. ca/mcmaster-childrens-hospital/. Thank you to the nursing staff at Station 2 D at the St. Catharine’s General Hospital. The family will be holding a private family service at Pelham Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared at www.pelhamfuneralhome.ca

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Phyllis May Dean on March 8th, 2021, at Royal Rose Place in Welland at the age of 92. Predeceased by her parents Earl and Dorothy Minaker, infant brother Kenneth, and husband Don Dean. Survived by her sister Marjorie Horton (the late Murray)of London, Ontario. Phyllis is also dearly missed by her daughter Diane Cooper, son David Dean (Marlyn), granddaughter Donna Tredway (Jay) and great-grandsons Jack and Jonah. Hers was a long and full life. She was devoted to her family, instrumental in Don’s business success, an enthusiastic bowler, gardener, birder, skilled in needlecraft and well-known for her Christmas cookies. Phyllis was born and raised in Welland; she spent many happy years as a resident of Fonthill. She enjoyed summers on Rice Lake and winters at her home in Naples, Florida, where she was known as “Phyllis Dean, the Shuffleboard Queen.” In later years, she suffered from dementia, though it was a brief struggle with cancer that claimed her life. Special thanks to the personal care staff at Royal Rose for appreciating her sense of humour and for keeping it intact. In memory of Phyllis, friends may consider a donation to her favourite charity, the Terry Fox Foundation. Online condolences can be shared at pelhamfuneralhome.ca

is the proper process.” According to Soos, a number of Niagara-based politicians have come out in support of his possible nomination, including Niagara Falls Councillor Wayne Campbell, Thorold Councillor Jim Hanley, Port Colborne Regional Councillor Barbara Butters, and Welland Regional Councillor Leanna Villella. He also referred to Pelham Mayor Marvin Junkin and Pelham Councillor Wayne Olson as being “extremely supportive of me in all my endeavours.” Campbell went to bat

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE! Hot New Units—Call for a FREE ESTIMATE Warm up your home with a new, high energy efficient heating unit WE SERVICE ALL MAKES & MODELS t Ask abou le b a il a v A REBATES

OBITUARY

4

BY DON RICKERS Voice Correspondent Although Steven Soos’ recent motion before Regional Council to invoke a formal state of emergency in Niagara, related to mental health, addiction, and homelessness, was replaced by an alternative motion which Soos Steven Soos c o n s i d e r e d to be “watered-down,” he may now be viewing the process in a different light. A byproduct of Soos’ persistent pursuit of social justice issues may turn out to be a coveted seat on Welland City Council, filling the place vacated by Lucas Spinoza, who resigned suddenly early in February. Council has not yet decided how the seat in Ward 3 will be filled, but the Municipal Act specifies that it has 60 days to do so, either through appointment or a by-election. The Welland Tribune reported that former Welland political candidates John Mastroianni and Mark Dzugan both have council experience, and have indicated an interest in being considered for the seat. John Thomas McNall, who ran unsuccessfully in the election, is also receptive. “I got an acknowledgement from [Mayor Frank Campion] about the letter of interest that I sent over,” said Soos. “He said my inquiry was forwarded to the Clerk's department, which

Page 17

A March 17, 2021

BOB REID Heating & Air Conditioning

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

RESIDENTIAL – COMMERCIAL

905-892-7787

Don’t wait for Spring… Buyers are coming NOW! 30+ YEARS OF TRUST IN REAL ESTATE

30+ YEARS OF TRUST IN REAL ESTATE 30+ YEARS OF TRUST IN REAL ESTATE

GARY SNIDER GARYBROKER SNIDER GARYBROKER SNIDER

T: 905.988.2205 BROKER E: gsnider@bosleyrealestate.com

Bosley Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage www.bosleyrealestate.com

5-233 King St., Niagara-on-the-Lake, Bosley Real Estate BrokerageON LtdL0S 1J0 Bosley Real Estate Brokerage Ltd Bosley Real Estate Brokerage Ltd

publicly for Soos last week, posting online that “Soos is the right person to be appointed for the vacant seat on Welland Council. He is knowledgeable, supportive of the less fortunate, and well respected by citizens of the Welland community.” Campbell encouraged Welland residents to contact council members to indicate their support for Soos, who has unsuccessfully sought political office numerous times. He most recently competed for a council seat in the Ward 1 2020 Pelham See SOOS previous page

St. Patrick’s Day is an opportunity for the world to celebrate Ireland’s patron saint and Irish culture with family, friends, food, and fun. Many St. Patrick’s Day traditions have been passed down through generations. This includes various foods and recipes that are native to Ireland that have spread around the globe thanks to the vast Irish diaspora. When dishing up new traditions at home, try this recipe for “Traditional Irish Colcannon” courtesy of Kerrygold, producers of Irish butters and cheeses. Colcannon is a mashed potato recipe made even more savory with the inclusion of cabbage and other ingredients. Serve with corned beef, Irish bacon or Irish stew. Traditional Irish Colcannon Serves 8 2 pounds red potatoes, cut into large chunks 3⁄4 cup milk 3⁄4 teaspoon salt 6 tablespoons Kerrygold Salted Butter, plus additional melted butter, if desired 1 cup chopped onion 6 cups finely shredded green cabbage (or one 10-ounce package) 1 cup (about 4 ounces) shredded Kerrygold Dubliner® Cheese or Blarney Castle Dubliner® Cheese Freshly ground pepper to taste Cook potatoes in boiling water about 20 minutes or until very tender; drain well and mash with skins on, adding milk and salt. While potatoes are cooking, melt butter in a large skillet. Add onion; cook 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until very soft. Add cabbage; cook and stir for 5 minutes more or until very soft. Stir cabbage mixture and Kerrygold cheese into hot potatoes and season with pepper. Mound onto serving plates and make a well in the center of each. Pour a little melted butter into each well, if desired. Garnish to taste.

RENOVATE YOUR HOME Whether it’s new windows and doors or siding, soffit, fascia and eavestrough; it’s a great time to buy. North Star energy-efficient windows are built in Canada and will save you money year round. North Star windows help keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Call or visit our showroom today for a FREE ESTIMATE on your home! FINANCING AVALABLE (OAC)

WITH LOUWES

Open Monday thru Friday from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm for curbside pick up only. Email all other inquiries, orders and quote requests to: info@louwes.ca

905.562.5831

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

Page 18

The Voice

A March 17, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

THE BALANCED LIFE by John Swart

Hydration—simple path to renewed health, comfort

W

ater is essential to almost every function that our bodies, organs and brains perform on our behalf, every minute of every day, from childhood until death, yet the need for optimal hydration seldom registers on our personal well-being radar. Proper hydration is far from being an athlete-only problem. Balancing our water (more precisely, fluid) consumption with our body’s requirements is one of the most important steps any of us can take to maintaining good health. Dehydration is a shortage of water in our system oc-

curring when our bodies use more water than they take in. Although we typically associate the occurrence of dehydration in humans with excessively warm, humid temperatures and vigorous exercise, dehydration issues are different for every age group. Young children who normally drink appropriate amounts of water may experience rapid dehydration because of illness-related vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms in children may include irritability and listlessness, dryness of eyes, mouth and skin, and lack of urination for periods of three hours or more.

The natural proportion of water in an adult’s body decreases as we age, and some health conditions such as bladder infections and diabetes increase the risk of dehydration, making seniors more likely to suffer from dehydration than those aged 18 to 65. Physical dehydration symptoms in adults are acute thirstiness and less frequent urination with dark-coloured urine. It’s the mental signals that we may miss, or attribute to another cause, that can allow dehydration to go unrecognized. Fatigue, headaches, confusion and disorientation, dizziness and irritability can all result from dehydration. There are numerous causes for dehydration in adults, including simply not taking the time to drink enough water. Many studies sug-

"If I just drink enough water I'm bound to remember where I left my comb." gest that approximately 75 percent of North Americans chronically suffer mild dehydration. Most drink less than two and a half cups of water per day, as opposed to the Washington Institute of Medicine’s recommended Dietary Reference Intake average for adults 19

and over: 9 cups for women, 13 cups for men. Few fully recognize the importance of what they drink, and don’t realize some beverages may increase the risk of dehydration. Alcohol is a diuretic, something that removes water from the body by

JACK IERAE

causing increased urination. To help reduce frequent bathroom trips, people may purposely consume less water when drinking socially, leading to further dehydration. Coffee, many teas, and See BALANCED LIFE Page 14

V oice HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Concern about the plight of the less fortunate could be on your mind, Aries. You may have many questions about humanitarian issues and be wondering how to get involved. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 You normally are a very active person, Taurus. Figure out ways to channel that activity into something for the greater good — as well as something that can benefit you. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 This week you will enjoy a break where you can relax and decompress for a change, Gemini. Maybe you can use it as an opportunity to be introspective and forward-thinking. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you enjoy caring for others and regularly put your needs aside to cater to friends and family. But this week you are the one who needs advice and help. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Try to find things that can keep you occupied at home while you wait for an appointment or spend a lot of time indoors, Leo. Home projects may be an option. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, friends keep calling but you may not be in the mood to do the receiving. Don’t isolate for too long, as support from others is important and beneficial. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Do not fight the thoughts or feelings that are running through you this week, Libra. Some may not pan out, but something may come through that sets a new course for you.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Sometimes you can be a bit vague when it comes to relationships, Scorpio. Be clear about your intentions if you are thinking of gett ing into a new relationship. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Learning how to read other people’s emotions can help you learn to interact with and support those around you, Sagittarius. Practice your skills of perception. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, even though you have a solid game plan in place, you may experience a few challenges along the way. Use these experiences to learn from your mistakes. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 This week you may have a conversation with someone who opens your eyes to entirely new possibilities, Aquarius. Embrace this exciting time. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Don’t avoid conflict at all costs, Pisces. Rather, learn effective ways to face any and all events that come your way. You’ll be more well-rounded. FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS MARCH 14 Ansel Elgort, Actor (27) MARCH 15 Eva Longoria, Actress (46) MARCH 16 Lauren Graham, Actress (53) MARCH 17 Rob Lowe, Actor (57) MARCH 18 Lily Collins, Actress (32) MARCH 19 Bruce Willis, Actor (66)

SOLUTIONS DOWN 1. MSEC 2. AIDE 3. KNAR 4. EAMES 5. RI 6. BLAME 7. COGS 8. ENE 9. DELINEATE 10. BLEB 11. MANIA 12. SNOUT 14. EDUCATION 17. ARABS 20. BPM 21. SULFA 23. BAD 25. STM 26. BOOM 27. EDDAS 29. PAKISTANI 30. ASHEN 32. DECAMETER 34. ERN 35. TOLA 37. SARAH 40. SSB 42. RAD 43. SUITE 47. SCH 49. CHOSE 50. TUBED 52. SIEGE 53. HEADS 55. PIRE 56. DEAL 57. SAGA 58. IRAN 59. SERA 61. KRA 65. ET

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

SOLUTIONS ACROSS 1. MAKER 6. BCE 9. DBMS 13. SINAI 14. ELON 15. ELAN 16. EDAM 17. ADAGE 18. LENO 19. CEREBRUMS 21. SIBIU 22. SPACE 23. BUN 24. AT 25. SBE 28. MBA 29. PALEA 31. TODD 33. STEADFAST 36. MODES 38. IRK 39. ATHOS 41. MACARONIS 44. EELS 45. SARAN 46. SUS 48. NAB 49. CT 51. MAD 52. STICH 54. HUPEH 56. DIATHESIS 60. OBIT 61. KEENE 62. AARE 63. SERE 64. RAGI 65. EDGAR 66. EDER 67. ALE 68. TSANA

Enjoy our Take-out Fish & Chips Fridays! From our family to yours...stay safe

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice

Page 19

A March 17, 2021

FAITH LIFT

by Pastor Rob Weatherby

David Livingston, heart for Africa

A

s we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this week, I’m reminded of another wellknown missionary —David Livingstone. Just as Patrick impacted Europe, so Livingstone impacted Africa. Who was this extraordinary man who lived two centuries ago but whose influence is still felt today?

Scottish Braveheart

Livingstone was born in Scotland in 1813 into a poor family. He was the second of seven children. His father read books on theology, travel, and missionary work and this influenced young David. He too became an avid reader on these subjects as well as science and nature. As a young man he learned endurance working long hours at the local cotton mill. Livingstone became a Christian as a youth and joined a Congregationalist church. Sensing God’s call to missionary work, he saved money for medical school hoping that this training would be helpful. At first, he wanted to serve in China but war there closed that door. He then met missionary Robert Moffat from southern Africa. Moffat challenged him to explore regions further north where he had seen "the smoke of a thousand villages, where no missionary had ever been." Livingstone joined the London Missionary Society and (at age 32) married Moffat’s daughter, Mary, in 1845. They raised a family of six children although he was often away from them during his travels. Sadly, Mary died of malaria in 1862 at age 42.

Fearless explorer

Livingstone’s missionary travels began in southern Africa and moved progres-

sively north. He mapped and navigated Africa’s major rivers such as the Zambezi. His desire was to provide river “highways” into the continent’s interior. His motto was "Christianity, Commerce and Civilization.” Livingstone was the first European to see “The Smoke that Thunders” waterfall which he renamed, “Victoria Falls,” after his queen. He returned to England and published a book on his travels which increased his renown. The British government agreed to fund his next expedition, in 1858. Travelling in the African

jungles was fraught with danger. On an early trip he was mauled by a lion, which injured his left arm. More serious was the threat of disease. During his career Livingstone suffered 30 bouts of malaria and nearly died several times. In 1866 he returned to Africa determined to find the source of the Nile River. For six years, he lost contact with the outside world. In 1869, the New York Herald newspaper sent Henry Stanley to find him. Two years later, Stanley succeeded and, upon encountering him, uttered his faSee 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: Workplaces

Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwards. ACTIVITY APPLICATIONS COLLABORATE COORDINATE COWORKERS DESIGN

DIGITAL EMPLOYEE EXPERIENCE FACILITY FLEXIBLE MANAGEMENT

MEETING MOBILE MULTIPURPOSE OFFICE PLANNING PRODUCTIVITY

REPORTS SCHEDULE STRATEGY SYSTEM WORKING WORKPLACE

ANSWERS ON PAGE 18

Voice

CROSSWORD

289.686.1856

GARDEN CITY REALTY INC. BROKERAGE

Page 20

The Voice

A March 17, 2021

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

ARCHES

continued from Page 1 did committee work together on the Meridian Community Centre, and Summerfest, and were also collaborating on the arches project. It was just over two years ago that a windstorm brought the original arches tumbling down. Road salt had degraded and rotted the old structure, said Gibson, explaining that it was never intended to be a permanent fixture. “The old arches were made of plywood, and put together with staple guns,” he said with a laugh. Durable street-grade concrete will be used in the replacement version. “We’re just starting our preliminary planning, and will soon be negotiating contracts with the major suppliers for the metal arch, concrete base, the polycarbonate plastic roofing, and the helical piles which will anchor the structure,” said Gibson. “The rest is all pretty much labour. We've been kicking around the idea that what we might put a tender out for a local company to do that job. There is also brickwork and an electrical component that will need to be completed. Construction-wise, it’s actually a pretty simple project.” The Rotarians and Summerfest Committee are committed to making the arches

Scale model of the initially proposed arches redesign. an attractive public space downtown, and think it will help the downtown merchants, asserted Gibson. “Certainly, it will help with Summerfest, a multi-day event that brings in almost 40,000 participants, and

BOB LOBLAW

has an economic impact of over $3 million. Not bad for a town of 17,000 people.” The original design called for four arches, but material price increases have necessitated that the architect cut it back

MARCH 18, 19, 20, 21 N I A G A R A ' S

O N LY

to three. “The cost of steel work has gone up 18 percent,” said Gibson. “The coloured polycarbonate plastic for the roof has gone up 20 percent plus. And lumber has skyrocketed. I’m glad I’m not building a house right now.” Protective concrete bollards will be installed as part of the design, “so in case anybody hits it with their car, they won't knock the arches down,” said Gibson. He figures the engineered structure will last for many decades, given that the polycarbonate plastic is ultraviolet rated for 20 years, and the steel is galvanized for strength and low maintenance. Public Works Director Jason Marr has been very helpful in the investigative process, said Gibson, as have other stakeholders. Fire chief Bob Lymburner noted that his crews need to be able to drive the department’s boom truck under the arches, and so Gibson has had to add some height to the structure. Transport trucks also need to have sufficient clearance when making deliveries to commercial businesses. Given the partnership between Summerfest and the Rotarians, Gibson expects that the new arches will likely bear the names of the two groups. “Rotary-Summerfest Arches, or Summerfest-Rotary Arches….we really haven’t figured that part out yet.”