The Voice, March 6 2019

Indigenous heritage at Pelham Library page 7 Cherry orchard axed page 9 Public speaking winners page 11 EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

The Voice

Larry “BILKO” Bilkszto Your Local Sales Representative 905-563-3330 • 905-641-1110

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

DEBBIE PINE SALES REPRESENTATIVE 905.892.0222 NRC Realty, Brokerage

Independently Owned & Operated

debbiepine@royallepage.ca

THE PAPER THAT PELHAM READS

RE/MAX® Garden City Realty Inc., Brokerage

Darcy Richardson, CPA, CA | Broker

www.bilko.ca

bilko@rgcmail.com Vol.23 No.10

Wednesday, March 6 2019

DARCYRICHARDSON.CA 905.321.6292

FREE

Skeptical reception for cannabis exemption

F O O R P Councillors Lisa Haun, Ron Kore, and Mike Ciolfi listen to Leviathan CEO Martin Doane.

BY JOHN CHICK

Special to the VOICE

We’re not like the others.

That was the gist of the message last Monday night from Leviathan CEO Martin Doane to a special

public meeting of Pelham Town Council under the Planning Act. The Toronto-based cannabis producer is challenging the Town’s Interim Control Bylaw (ICBL) to allow expedited expansion of its facility at 770 Foss Road, in Fen-

wick, to a 146,000 sq. ft. operation.

While not calling out local competitors CannTrust or Redecan by name, Doane touted Leviathan’s plans for a near-airtight facility that would, he asserted, all but eliminate odor emissions into the

surrounding area.

“I can’t tell you about the other facilities,” Doane told the meeting, which drew close to 300 residents to the community centre.

“I’m surprised that we’ve got this kind of response for a facility that

TOWN OF PELHAM VIDEO CAPTURE

will have no odor, but the bad actors, so to speak, continue to do what they’re doing. We seem to be bearing the brunt with the past history of difficulties.”

See COMPANY Page 3

GALAPAGOS EXPERIENCE

One of the most unique corners of the world

Set sail November 3, 2019 on your small ship adventure!

For more information, or to make a reservation, call travel advisors Pam & Jim Overholt at 905-892-7900 Celebrating 21 years in downtown Fonthill

Fantastic treasures await for the nature-lover!

Take Control, Plan Ahead

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

Plan to call us today. Tina

Page 2

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

THE VOICE POLL Grant Leviathan an exemption? NRPS impaired

PUBLISHER’S CORNER

by Dave Burket

Welcome aboard: We welcome another new advertiser this week, Beverley North, a realtor with Revel (page 15).

The market is a little cooler these days, along with the weather, but prices don’t seem to be dropping. Around the corner from our house we were a little surprised to see a fairly average home go on the market recently for $600,000-plus. You know how, when selling a house, you’re required to disclose any material defects? Here’s a question: Will sellers soon be obligated to disclose the presence of neighbourhood cannabis odours? As a potential buyer, that’s something I’d sure want to know...

Getting traction: With reports of road salt shortages rampant around the province, we asked Town Public Relations and Marketing Specialist Marc MacDonald if we were in for slippery going should another storm hit. He assures us that we’re good. “We have a supply contract that guarantees the ability to purchase twice our eight-year-average per season. We're getting close, I'm told, but the public works team isn't concerned about running out”...Big sky country: One road that feels transformed is Pelham Town Square, where the arches formerly stood. The sensation of vast openness is paradoxical, considering it’s such a short stretch of pavement. How one felt about the arches depended in part, it seems, on how one felt about the previous council and its

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

tendency to spend. Commenting on our Facebook page, one user made a point to say, a little incongruously, that not only did she like the arches, but she also liked the community centre. For others, the arches came to symbolize a certain stubborn unwillingness to listen to expert advice on the wisdom of engaging in various municipal adventures in the face of obvious risk...

As if the new council didn’t already have enough on its plate: Money woes, a CAO search, a surplus (or not) arena, a community centre that’s costing more to operate than projected, and now Leviathan Cannabis—a company literally named after a mythical monster— wants Pelham councillors to allow an exemption to its pot pause bylaw (see page 1).

In the movie version of this drama—working title, “The Taking of Pelham, Lock, Stock, and Barrel”—Leviathan CEO Martin Doane will be played by Bradley Whitford, probably best known for his role as the wisecracking White House Chief of Staff to Martin Sheen’s President Bartlett on The West Wing.

In front of a special meeting of Town Council and the public last Monday, at which the company made its case for an exemption that would allow it to commence immediate construction of its planned cannabis grow-op in Fenwick, instead of waiting until this autumn, Doane didn’t do much to advance his cause. Unhelpfully, his

Voice on vacation!

driving charges

As extensively covered and commented on in this week's issue, Leviathan Cannabis, a Toronto-based company, is seeking an exemption to Pelham's "Interim Control Bylaw," passed last autumn to put a pause on the establishment of new cannabis grow operations in the municipality. Should Pelham grant Leviathan's request? Take the poll: www.thevoiceofpelham.ca/exemption supporting ensemble looked like a dinner theatre cast of the Addams Family musical (and since when have Boeing 737 cabin windows been repurposed as eyeglass lenses?), but the main problem was Doane. Channeling Lenny Bruce, Doane’s standup routine veered from defensive to pugnacious, as he insisted that virtually nary a single skunky waft would emanate from a Leviathan facility, trust him.

“He started well,” said a member of council over the weekend, “but the longer he talked the more the crowd turned against him. It was condescending. By the end of the evening he’d dug a hole.”

There’s a three-hour-andforty-eight-minute video of the meeting on YouTube— we’ve linked to it on our website—so you can judge for yourself. Pro tip: You’ll want Gravol handy...The public responds: We have another bumper crop of letters this week, some of them on this issue, all of them interesting.

I’m halfway through judging newspapers from two provinces to our west, as part of their newspaper associations’ annual competitions, and I’m once again struck by how few reader letters appear in most papers. We are lucky in this town to have so many engaged residents, and readers...Let the coming City of

The actor Bradley Whitford.

BIGSTOCK PHOTO

Niagara Region foot the bill: With all the talk of amalgamation in the air, the mayor of one Niagara municipality is rumoured to have told staff to spend, spend, spend.

Why? Because each local municipality’s debts will presumably be amalgamated as well—combined into one (or two, or three) larger pots, eventually to be paid for by many more residents than just those who live in the formerly individual towns.

Hey, we should have added that swimming pool to the community centre after all—let Niagara Falls and West Lincoln and everyone in between pay for it!...Speaking of wacky ideas: Pelham’s implementation of the “How

Might We” brainstorming strategy, much not-beloved by many on the Town payroll—particularly front-line workers—is consigned to history. “It’s been discarded by the new council,” says Mayor Junkin. “We’re back to plain old discussion, mixed with a healthy dose of common sense.” Also gone are the oddly commercial posters promoting the program, from council chambers…Party on: Festivals & Events Ontario, a Kitchener-based trade group that represents the interests of festival promoters and those who sell products and services to them, has again named Pelham’s Summerfest as one of its “Top 100 Festivals and Events in Ontario.”

In the group’s defined “Regional Tourism Office” area of Niagara, winners also include the Canal Days Marine Heritage Festival, the Niagara Wine Festival, the OPG Winter Festival of Lights, and the TD Niagara Jazz Festival.

According to a Town news release, “Summerfest 2018 welcomed nearly 40,000 people, hosted 62 vendors and 28 bands, involved the community’s volunteer base for 1,300-plus volunteer hours, and initiated an economic impact of over $3 million.”

We’ve asked the Town to elaborate on that “initiated an economic impact” phrasing. Stay tuned.

Congratulations

CARRIER

OF THE WEEK!

Marlon

Rochon FONTHILL FONTHILL

Voice

Hwy 20, Fonthill

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

Open 6 7 to 11 10 daily

(905) 892-2570

Bakery, Bakery, Deli, Deli, Hot Hot meals meals

Indulgence Bakery Mossimo’s Pelham Street Grille Sobeys Fonthill Peter Piper’s Pubhouse DeVries Fruit Farm Beamer’s Hardware Pelham Libraries Churchhill Meats 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 Pharmasave Sobeys South Pelham Grill on Canboro Ridge Berry Farm Circle-K

Visit Us on Facebook www.facebook.com/voiceofpelham

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

Send us your picture holding The Voice, whether across town or abroad and we’ll share it with our readers! Email your photo with a brief description to

Then it isn’t being seen.

Legendary Crossings for 2019

The Voice

office@thevoiceofpelham.ca

QUEEN MARY 2— July 2019 Southampton, Liverpool, Iceland, Newfoundland, New York VIKING OCEAN— Dec 2019 Christmas Crossing Lisbon, Azores, Bermuda Miami HOLLAND AMERICA— Aug 2020 Scandinavia, Iceland, Greenland, Newfoundland & more

The paper that Pelham reads.

Call now during Cruise Holidays' wave season promotions. Why? We've been there!

Remember you are TICO protected when booking with us.

Call Pam or Jim

(905) 892-8690 advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

905.892.7900

www.niagara.cruiseholidays.com 1400 Pelham St., 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

DSBN wants portion of Town park Request made of community

Vol.20 No.48

CELEBRATING OUR 20TH YEAR

Wednesday, February 8, 2017

FREE

Get

Pined -Sol Pelham’sPelham’s Health Food Store

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

Column Six The Comfort Maple myth

The Voice PUBLISHED INDEPENDENTLY IN PELHAM

Vol.20 No.39

NIAGARA’S BEST-READ WEEKLY SINCE 1997

Wednesday, November 30, 2016

FREE

Oops: No fire trucks for you Haist Street traffic-calming measure a little too effective

BY VOICE STAFF

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

Sponsored by

Claire and Lionel Rochette, on their Western Wayfarer cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Barbados and back. Lots of sunshine!

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.

Jacob D. B. WILLIAMS, 25, Fort Erie Robert J. CHIBORAK, 55, St. Catharines William T. WATERS, 58, Jonesborough TN Michael S. RENNIE, 21, Scarborough Guy A. GIBSON, 34, Welland Connor J. BELLIVEAU, 26, Welland Jamie F. H. DRAKE, 28, St. Catharines Charles C. MCSHANE, 54, Niagara-on-the-Lake Lee W. STERRY, 64, St. Catharines Roger P. LEVASSEUR, 64, Welland Robert PLANTIC, 52, Niagara Falls Marcel A. VALLEE, 62, Penetanguishene

Get

Pined -Sol Pelham’sPelham’s Health Food Store

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

Column Six Growing up British Part 2 of 2: Coronation to embarkation

The Voice PUBLISHED INDEPENDENTLY IN PELHAM

Vol.20 No.32

Apple Day comes to Fonthill Longtime Scouting tradition dates to 1932

BY VOICE STAFF While shopping in Font-

NIAGARA’S BEST-READ WEEKLY SINCE 1997

Wednesday October 12, 2016

FREE

Office 905.892.1702 Cell 905.933.3049

www.pennylanesold.com

H EATHER AND P ENNY L ANE S ALES R EPRESENTATIVES

Column Six It doesn’t get better than Autumn

BY JOHN SWART

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

Page 3

Company says it's the better cannabis corporate citizen, deserves Town exemption for building plans Leviathan's CEO Martin Doane, Chief Communications Officer Jayne Beckwith, and Head of Marketing Luvlina Sanghera.

TOWN OF PELHAM VIDEO CAPTURE

continued from Page 1 The response comes from Leviathan’s challenging of the ICBL, which, if the company has its way, will allow it to commence work on the new project in the summer construction months, ahead of the current ICBL’s expiration date in October.

“Unlike others … we will be deploying state-of-art technology that completely mitigates any odor problem through the implementation of a totally sealed greenhouse system,” Doane said. “It’s much more like a building with a skylight, than it is a conventional greenhouse.”

Doane said Leviathan’s plans include constructing a new facility from the ground up, as opposed to using the original cucumber greenhouse the company inherited upon its purchase of Woodstock BioMed in May 2018.

He cited technology that allegedly reduces emissions to 0.01 percent of facility air, thanks to charcoal filtering and internal air locks.

Other facilities, Doane implied, simply use a retrofitted greenhouse, which is naturally porous.

Still, skeptics had questions.

Engineer Bill Heska, a Pelham resident, challenged Leviathan’s contracted lead engineer, Matt Hotrum of Ehvert, on the exhausted air from the proposed facility in terms of cubic feet per minute (CFM). Hotrum admitted he did not have those exact numbers on hand.

“There’s no proof whatsoever,” Pelham Community Preservation Coalition head Jim Jeffs told the Voice afterward, in regard to Leviathan’s promise that odor emissions will be limited.

Doane addressed light complaints by saying that night curtains and timed lighting will mitigate what one area resident compared to “alien spaceships coming down.”

He also asserted that the traffic produced by the proposed facility would actually be less than the previous vegetable greenhouse.

“You don’t need to big tractor-trailers to transport tens of thousands of dollars worth of cannabis,” he said, pointing out that most

of the product is moved out from the facility in cube vans.

In response to nearby residents’ concerns about a potential decrease in property values, Doane cited statistics from Smiths Falls, Ontario, where he says local property values increased 13 percent from 2017 to 2018 after the opening of a cannabis facility, with overall transactions going up by 20 percent. Proximity to the specific facility was not clarified.

Doane also referenced polling from Leviathan that indicated 46 percent of Pelham residents wouldn’t oppose a properly-constructed and regulated licensed grow-op, with 15 percent of respondents indifferent. He cited a similar poll done previously by the Voice as “completely unscientific.”

Other locals brought up the very fact that Leviathan is challenging the interim bylaw — which expires in October — as reason to be concerned. The bylaw, as intended, was to allow the municipality to take a step back and analyze the rapidly-growing cannabis industry’s place — including issues such as taxation — in the community.

“Why would we approve an exemption to the moratorium before [Town Council] completes the important work?” resident Tim Nohara asked Doane, prefacing that municipal bureaucracy can often convolute things like the erection of a flagpole.

Doane replied that it’s unfair that Leviathan’s expansion plans are being held back by the ICBL. “When you put up a flagpole and have it delayed,” Doane told Nohara, “you may have it delayed, but it doesn’t cost $100 million. So when you have an ICBL that has no report behind it, and has people canvassing for reelection and slamming down an ICBL … that’s the legal issue.”

Earlier, Doane said there’s “no pause” in the Canadian cannabis industry at the present time, adding that delays due to regulatory issues are costing companies like his millions of dollars a week. He added that Pelham’s ICBL was unfair to Leviathan because his company has played by the rules.

“We couldn’t be more empathetic to the concerns of the community... we’re with you,” Doane said. “And

We couldn't be more empathetic to the concerns of the community

this ICBL is perverse in a sense, because...the hundreds of people here tonight have legitimate complaints about what’s going on, but your complaint isn’t with us. From day one, we’ve intended, and will execute, in delivering a fundamentally different solution.”

He added, “Our plan...is to contribute tens of millions of dollars more to the local economy, while obeying all regulations...and being the best possible neighbour that we can be in the circumstances.”

The municipal taxation code on agricultural properties — which pay substantially lower taxes than industrial properties —is likely one reason that Leviathan wants to find an amendment to the ICBL, as opposed to waiting for the Town to come up with a long-term plan for cannabis producers.

“The taxation issue is clearly an irritant for towns like Pelham, and we empathize,” Doane said. “But we’re not the author of that.”

Mayor Marvin Junkin has called the rapid growth of the cannabis industry in Pelham “a double-edged sword.” He’s asked that licensed producers be better corporate citizens, cognizant of the positive economic impacts of a new and growing industry.

Yet at the end of last Monday’s meeting, Doane told councilors in a Q&A session that the Canadian wholesale cannabis market was now “lower than we thought it would be” and that Leviathan’s view of the Canadian market has “changed substantially” over the past year.

Council could have a decision on the amendment proposal at its meeting on March 18, but more likely later.

Top, Mayor Junkin asks assembled residents that their questions be kept on-topic, which for the most part they were. TOWN OF PELHAM VIDEO CAPTURE

Page 4

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

OPINION

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

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

COMMENTARY / OP-ED Rich Manieri Anti-vaxxers are a threat to all of us

W

E ARE SEEING, in real time, what happens when you get your medical advice from YouTube.

There are measles outbreaks in Washington, Oregon and New York, and it’s only a matter of time until more states are added to the emergency list if this foolishness continues.

It should surprise no one that the outbreaks are occurring in areas with high concentrations of unimmunized children.

There is plenty of blame to go around, including but not limited to the handful of crackpots who insist on perpetrating the fraud that the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine causes autism.

This theory has been debunked by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health, the Mayo Clinic, the American Medical Association, physicians worldwide and the medical community at large.

Still, the relatively small but extremely scary anti-immunization community continues to flout the evidence and insists on

believing people such as Dr. David Ayoub, one of the fathers of the anti-vaxxer movement, whom The New Yorker profiled in 2018.

A "personal belief" that your child shouldn't be immunized isn't good enough “Now, as you know, there’s science that links vaccines with autism,” Ayoub said. “Why isn’t that science believed? Well, it’s attacked. It’s marginalized because there are competing papers, generally very flawed papers, which refute their claims. [They] design studies in order to give the answer that they want.

That’s going to happen when you have an industry this strong. The government is a big industry.”

This kind of nuttery is

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

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

Kids Help Phone Service for youth.

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

Alcoholics Anonymous Find a Niagara meeting.

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

The Voice

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 PUBLISHER & EDITOR Dave Burket publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca ADMINISTRATION Lori Gretsinger office@thevoiceofpelham.ca CONTRIBUTORS Jane Bedard, Carolyn Botari, Colin Brezicki, Rosemary Chambers, John Chick, Larry Coté, Gloria J. Katch, Samuel Piccolo, John Swart, Sarah Whitaker NEWS INQUIRIES & TIPS editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca LETTERS TO THE EDITOR letters@thevoiceofpelham.ca ADVERTISING INQUIRIES advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

akin to “truther” theories that the U.S. government was behind 9/11.

It would be easy to dismiss contrarians like Ayoub as quacks who received their medical degrees from Hasbro. The problem is this anti-vaxxer movement is now getting real, and there isn’t much anyone can do about.

Most states, with the exception of Mississippi, West Virginia and California, allow parents to opt out of immunizations for personal beliefs or religious reasons. [No Canadian province currently mandates immunizations, and all allow similar opting-out.]

Regarding the latter, as a Christian and avid reader of the Bible, I can say with 100-percent certainty that there is nothing in Scripture that prevents or discourages medical care, which we can safely assume includes vaccinations to protect children from horrible diseases. To suggest otherwise is legalistic, externalist nonsense.

Regarding the former, a “personal belief” that your child shouldn’t be immunized isn’t good enough, not See ANTI-VAX next page

Letters Amid NPCA machinations, don't lose sight of NPCF With the controversies that have swirled around the beleaguered Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority for the last number of years finally coming to an end, not mentioning the enormous lawsuit filed by the former NPCA CAO Mark Brickell, the public has still been kept in the dark about the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation. This charitable organization, which has been flagged by the Auditor General in her report last September, has brought to our attention many questions that have never been addressed.

First, how much money is currently in the foundation? Second, who is actually running this organization today? Third,

is the current board still made up of the previous members that were voted out in the last municipal election, and, if so, why wasn't there an interim board put in place to replace them? And fourth, since the NPCF is known to have a questionable past, do we really need it when charitable donations could be made directly to the NPCA? These are just a few questions that the taxpayers of Niagara deserve to have answered, because we not only need accountability in the NPCA, we also need it in the NPCF. Robert Milenkoff Welland

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

Mayor of Pelham Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 289-929-2681 Members of Pelham Town Council

Member of Provincial Parliament

Ward 1 Councillor Mike Ciolfi mciolfi@pelham.ca 905-892-0077

Sam Oosterhoff, MPP 4961 King St. East, Unit M1 Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org 905-563-1755

Councillor Marianne Stewart mstewart@pelham.ca 289-821-0840

Electoral District: Niagara West

Members of Niagara Regional Council Councillor Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 289-929-2681 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

Ward 2 Councillor Ron Kore rkore@pelham.ca 905-933-3805

The man who stops advertising to save money

is like the man who stops the clock to save time.

Thomas Jefferson

Councillor John Wink jwink@pelham.ca 905-892-4475

Support your local service clubs

Ward 3 Councillor Lisa Haun lhaun@pelham.ca 905-892-2607 Councillor Bob Hildebrandt bhildebrandt@pelham.ca 905-892-5647

Jill C. Anthony Law Office

Have an Opinion?

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

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

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

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

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

janthony@jillanthony.com

JA

NIAGARA FALLS (Satellite Office)

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

www.jillanthony.com

NEW LOCATION

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

905-892-8690

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

Page 5

OPINION Over $40 million spent, er, served People commented that the Fonthill arches reminded them of the “M” arches from the McDonald’s logo. Perhaps this particular company could step up to the plate and reconstruct them in a bright yellow hue (yuck) and call them, of course, the McArches! Anyone want fries with that?

Ric Gretsinger Fonthill

Can we clean up our acts, please?

This letter is for all residents who put garbage at the curb on garbage day. Please have some respect for the job these people are doing for you. We all know how windy it gets in this area, yet every week there is garbage flying down the street—cardboard, flyers, cans whatever.

It is your responsibility to pack your garbage so it stays put! Put your papers, etc., in the gray box and put the blue box with cans, etc. on top of the gray box so it keeps it weighed down and secure. Make sure your cans with lids are closed properly, and lock the green bin down. It’s simple and a courtesy to the people who work so hard to remove your garbage. Take a look around some other countries and see the piles of it littering streets and ocean shores.

Realize how lucky we are to have this service. If you can’t bring yourself to take the time and do this, as you would keep your house clean and your garden neat, sell your house and go live in a condo!

Roberta Obelnycki Fonthill

Council, take your time We have taken the Voice’s and Town’s surveys re: the old arena, but wish to add some comments. We are in agreement with the Commentary/Op Ed written by Alan Morgan ["The case for caution," Feb. 20, p. 5], who brought to the fore some valid points regarding keeping or selling the old arena.

Let’s base our decision on accurate and full financial facts, not guesswork, before reaching a final decision.

This our first opportunity under the new regime to get it right and benefit all of the town’s residents. We like the idea of exploring alternative uses of the parkland, especially for the bandshell concerts. Surely there have been more than enough homes constructed in our town over the past few years! Let’s keep some green space — a necessity in today’s hectic life.

Don’t rush this decision with higher taxes being projected until you have some definite figures. All of us could live to regret it!

The Mortimers Fonthill

COMMENTARY / OP-ED Dean Allison, MP for Niagara West Raising taxes: a Liberal go-to

P

EOPLE IN N I AG A R A W EST are concerned about affordability, getting ahead, and a Liberal government that seems to be out of touch with their needs.

In Parliament, I frequently point to the importance of keeping taxes low and the negative impact of raising taxes on middle class families and small businesses.

These are more than just slogans.

Conservatives are the defenders of the middle class, and in 2019 we will be fighting to stop Justin Trudeau from imposing massive tax hikes that will cost you a fortune.

What has it cost you so far since Trudeau and the Liberals got elected in 2015?

Close to $80,000,000,000 dollars in additional debt. We have roughly 16,000,000 Canadian taxpayers, so that’s about $5,000 per Canadian or approximately $10,000 per working family. This is debt that Canadians will need to pay back.

You read this correctly. Trudeau has burdened you and your family with close to $10,000 of debt that you

need to pay back.

What’s worse is that the Liberals refuse to keep taxes low. Now that the budget has failed to balance itself (as Justin Trudeau famously said), there is little doubt that a re-elected Liberal government will raise taxes even more.

We know this because his out of control spending will need to be paid back. Trudeau has already raised the average middle class family’s tax burden by more than $800 dollars per year. And there is more to come.

The Liberals also attempted to raise other taxes: a 73% tax on small business investment, taxes on dental and health insurance benefits, and taxes on employee discounts. These Liberal tax hikes were only stopped because of a massive public backlash. Canadians said that enough was enough.

This still hasn’t stopped the Liberals from working to impose their very unpopular carbon tax. The carbon tax will increase the cost of virtually everything you buy while failing to reduce emissions. And here is the kicker: this tax is being imposed on

Coté on target Thank you for the great commentary by Larry Cote [“The rise and fall of politics—and politicians,” Feb. 27,

p. 4]. It’s time to go back: the pendulum has swung to far to the left. Teach our children the Three R’s—Re-

Dr. Timothy Hennig OPTOMETRIST

continued from previous page by a longshot.

This is something at which 47 states need to take a hard look, and not give parents an easy out by requiring them to do nothing more than fill out a form.

Perhaps we’re approaching anti-vaxxers the wrong way. Let’s try a little history.

Google Dr. Edward Jenner.

Or, I can save everyone the trouble and tell you that he was the English physician who developed the vaccine for smallpox, which was killing 400,000 people a year in Europe in the 1800s.

More recently, how about Jonas Salk? He came up with a vaccine for polio in the 1950s. In 1952, polio killed some 3,000 Americans.

Keep in mind that if you refuse to immunize, it’s not just about you and your child. You risk infecting other people, which is exactly what’s happening. And it isn’t only measles. Very much in play once again are chickenpox, whooping cough, and yes, polio.

“Scenarios for polio being introduced into the United States are easy to imagine, and the disease could get a foothold if we don’t maintain high vaccination rates,” according the CDC’s Dr. Greg Wallace in an article on cdc. gov. Wallace specializes in viral diseases.

“For example, an unvac-

sponsibility, Respect, Reading. It starts at home.

They are the future, and it’s time to help them grow

into accountable, worthy citizens.

trustJoan Eby Fonthill

Professional SERVICES Directory Your Eyes Are Worth It!

ANTI-VAX

the provinces without their consent.

Premier Ford in Ontario and several other provinces are currently being forced to go to court to fight this tax.

Justin Trudeau’s irresponsible spending has created a massive deficit. Government deficits today always lead to tax hikes tomorrow, paid by you and your family. The Conservative solution is to control spending and promote low tax policies that improve competitiveness, create jobs, and ensure long-term prosperity.

Unfortunately, the Prime Minister just does not understand the importance of fiscal responsibility. He has never balanced a budget. He enjoys a trust fund and a family fortune, which means that he will never have to worry about money. This is not the experience that 99% of Canadian families have. Justin Trudeau is truly the 1%.

You should not have to pay for this Liberal government’s mistakes. In 2019, you can be sure that Conservatives will be working towards lowering taxes and putting an end to policies that pile on out of control debt. ♦

Dr. Ken Sawatzky Dental Surgeon

905-892-5002 1428 Pelham St.

Joe Della Marina DD,LD Denturist 905-892-1414

cinated U.S. resident could travel abroad and become infected before returning home. Or, a visitor to the United States could travel here while infected. The point is, one person infected with polio is all it takes to start the spread of polio to others if they are not protected by vaccination.”

If that doesn’t scare anti-vaxxers, I’m not sure what will. If they’re beyond common sense it’s plausible that they’re beyond fear.

But here’s what they need to realize. They can throw all of scientific data out the window but the evidence still exists. For the last 75 years, vaccines have prevented illness and saved lives. When is the last time you met someone who uses crutches after surviving polio?

Yet, in spite of the overwhelming proof, anti-vaxxers might still be willing to risk their children contracting a preventable disease, one that has the potential to kill.

They might be willing to take such an unnecessary risk.

The rest of us aren’t. ♦ Rich Manieri is a Philadelphia-born journalist and author. He is currently a professor of journalism at Asbury University in Kentucky.

Family Dentistry

1428 Pelham Street, Fonthill www.drkensawatzky.com

Dr. Hennig has been practicing for over 30 years in the Niagara Peninsula, and has a special interest in children’s vision, computer vision syndrome and senior’s vision.

•Retinal imaging that captures virtually the entire retina •New technology contact lens fitting •Fellowship trained in vision therapy •Infant eye exams welcomed

Timothy J. Hennig OD., F.C.O.V.D. 4266 Queen St. • Beamsville • 905-563-5333

NEWSFLASH Tell us your story!

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

Did you conquer Everest or kick a bad habit?

Did you meet your spouse-to-be in jail or on an African safari?

Do you know where Hoffa’s buried?

Write it down, send it in: publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca (You won’t get rich, but you will get paid.)

Page 6

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Indigenous books and art a treasure of lost history

BY GLORIA J. KATCH

Special to the VOICE

Canboro Road was once a winding trail originating back several centuries, and occupied by Indigenous people, as were many areas in Niagara, including Beaver Dams in Thorold, Queenston Heights, and parts of Niagara-on-the-Lake, pointed out Sarah King Head, a local historian. She is also the author of a book entitled, “Where the Beavers Built Their Dams: The Evolution of a Unique Cultural Heritage Landscape in Thorold,” which she donated to the Spirit of Education Foundation, as a part of a 250-book collection on Indigenous Nations.

The Spirit Foundation then donated this heritage collection to the Pelham Public Library.

In attempts to educate Canadians about our indigenous peoples, the Spirit of Education Foundation's goal is to stock libraries and schools with books on Native Canadians. This non-profit organization was created to provide educational resources to schools on native reserves, which lack funding.

This all-inclusive collection exhibits a missing piece of history to generations of people, “that didn’t get the credit they deserved," pointed out King Head in reference to the War of 1812, when many indigenous tribes fought alongside the British and French to prevent the American invasion, and as a result, were victorious. Indigenous nations eventually signed treaties with the British, which still exist

today, noted King Head.

In addition to history, the collection touches on many different subjects, and is appropriate for all ages, points out Melanie Taylor-Ridgway, Adult Program and Volunteer Coordinator for the library. There are picture books for children that include phrases in English, Metis and Inuit. Many of the books feature colourful photographs and Indigenous illustrations, as well as poetry and limericks. There are books authored by youth and geared toward developing an understanding their adolescent issues in an intolerant society.

The adult literature delves into more critical subjects, like the conditions of reservations, current attempts at reconciliation, and the residential school system, which resulted in many native children being systemically and forcefully removed from their homes and placed in foster care. Many were abused. However, Taylor-Ridgway said, despite how much damage was done, “many of the books also talk about forgiveness and how the healing begins.” Since there are many stereotypes about Indigenous people as a result of an oppressive society, legislation, and human rights violations, there is one book entitled, "The Twenty-One Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act," said Taylor-Ridgway. The book explains how Indigenous nations over time have been railroaded out of their property through government legislation.

It is difficult to know how many

Offering

Haddock, Halibut, & weekly specials Check us out online or call for details

Eat In or Take Out!

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

905•714•1117

782 Clare Ave.

(just off Woodlawn)

The Community of Lookout Ridge offers adults an environment uniquely adapted to a senior’s lifestyle providing compassionate, excellent care.

We currently have an opening for the following position:

CASUAL RELIEF COOK • Possess previous experience with meal preparation in a restaurant or retirement home setting required.

(Red Seal Certification and Culinary Diploma preferred).

• Be willing to learn new methods or procedures, be flexible in routine and assist in other areas as required.

• Possess valid, current safe food handling certificate.

• Must be capable of safe operation of commercial equipment required in performing duties.

• Be capable of multi-tasking and meeting meal time requirements • Must demonstrate a commitment to resident meal service • Must be available to work weekday and weekend shifts as required.

• Ability to work effectively with minimal supervision, lead by example.

Please submit your resume to: lynnkuta@lookoutridge.ca (905) 892-9218, Ext. 6005 1505 Lookout Street Fonthill, Ontario L0S 1E5 Tel. 905-892-9218

Sarah King Head, right, and Melanie Taylor-Ridgway.

Indigenous people still reside in Pelham today, because of the strident rules on “status," she said.

To attain Indian status, one has to make an application to the government stating the names of their biological parents, which is difficult if they were adopted and privacy laws prevail. Later, when these children become adults, they may not be entitled to any privileges as outlined by the Indian Act. Natives can also lose their status through marriage, which are methods the government in the past has used to eliminate the rights and power of Indigenous peoples.

Although she is an historian, King Head learned a great deal more about this area’s Indigenous nations when the City of Thorold commissioned her to write her book as a part of Canada’s 150th celebration. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree, and King Head dedicated her book to her mother, who was also an historian and li-

Letters

GLORIA J KATCH PHOTO

brarian. During the time she was writing the book, King Head became involved in Landscape of Nations-360, Six Native Allies, a local organization which promotes cross-cultural understanding and enlightenment.

Although the library's large book collection contains Metis, Ojibwa and many Inuit contributions, there are hundreds of different tribes across Canada, noted King Head.

Taylor-Ridgway said, “Personally, this got me thinking if this happened to this group, then it probably happened to others."

Certain psychosocial aspects of Indigenous persons are also applicable to other immigrant and multicultural experiences. As a result, Taylor-Ridgway hopes to host four or five presentations including speakers, films and other events at the library. Due to the popularity and reception of the new book collection, Taylor-Ridgway is eventu-

ally hoping to expand the collection by purchasing several books from the CBC's top 100 books on the subject.

For music lovers there is an award-winning documentary film, released in 2017, that has been gaining in popularity lately entitled, “Rumble, The Indians Who Rocked the World,” said King Head.

The story focuses on how the roots of Indigenous music influenced blues and rock in America. Viewers may be surprised to learn how many well-known artists were actually native, or part native, including The Band's Robbie Robertson, Blues pioneer Charley Patton, rock guitarists Jimi Hendrix and Link Wray, and Ozzy Osbourne's drummer, Randy Castillo.

Since June is seniors’ month, Taylor-Ridgway hopes to include a cross-referencing to Indigenous populations, as reverence for elders is integrated into their culture. As a librarian, Taylor-Ridgway said she loves reading about history, and believes the library is the "hub of the community," and should be inclusive. Her sentiments are shared with many others in the community, she said. "People love history in Pelham.”

Currently, there is also an Indigenous art display at the library of Metis Dot Art Painting, by Brian Kon. Some of the pictures are like hieroglyphics and tell a story, pointed out King Head. Kon’s business card quotes folk hero and politician Louis Riel from 1885, who defended Indigenous rights to his death.

"My people will sleep for one hundred years,” said Riel. “But when they awake, it will be the artists who give them their spirit back."

continued

Leviathan's case far from convincing This letter is in response to the Leviathan presentation for their cannabis build application, made last Monday at the special meeting of Town Council at the community centre.

This facility presentation was filled with glamour, glitz and promises that they hoped would lead to rapid permitting for their proposed facility. The presenter had no fear for throwing his industry colleagues under the bus and certainly did not ever hesitate to lead the distraction towards these

businesses, who clearly have a disastrous odour control problem.

Agricultural businesses, which includes all farmers, follow four basic key focus strategies for production. They are Genetics, Nutrition, Environment and Sanitation. The complexity of these key production strategies is high and highly integrated, and requires highly experienced suppliers in order for the farmers to succeed.

In order for Leviathan to fulfill the promises made in

Fred H T I M S E EAGL SHOW starring Tif Ginn Juno Award Winner, Soon Leaving a Town Near You...

SUNDAY MARCH 10, 2019 @ 3 PM Willoughby Township Hall, 11211 Sodom Road Advance Tickets at Murphy’s Music, Niagara Falls

FRIDAY MARCH 15, 2019 @ 7 PM Pelham Old Town Hall, Canboro Road, Fenwick Advance tickets at Hamilton’s of Pelham Advance tickets $30 Door Price $35 Online at www.fredeaglesmith.com

All ages welcome at these performances

the presentation, each one of these focus strategies must be 100 percent perfect and integrate 100 percent perfectly. This is the only way that Leviathan can deliver on their 99.9 percent promise on anything, including odour control.

I scanned the attendance of the audience and estimated that there was approximately 450 years of combined greenhouse/closed environment growing experience in the room (not including Leviathan’s growing experience). All farmers in attendance were not naive people—they know that the science, the equipment, and knowledge experience simply does not exist for the cannabis industry, nor does it exist for any other closed environment crop industry. There were many skilled and knowledgeable people in attendance. This was proven by the questions presented by those who stood up. It is obvious that the Pelham community is

blessed with many residents who are knowledgeable and are not allowing Leviathan’s claims go unchallenged.

The residents of Pelham want the quality of life in their homes and businesses returned to them Leviathan cannot fulfill any of their promises.

If Leviathan, by chance, disagrees and by some miracle does have this knowledge and experience, then they should reconsider their business focus and direct it into a consultancy practice.

See UNPROVEN next page

Respite Care in Pelham Experienced caregiver for adults.

Part-time. Pet friendly.

Vulnerable persons check.

References .

Louise Morgan

905-246-5070

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

Page 7

Open letter to Mayor and Town Council

Justifications for arena sale still hidden by smoke, avoidance

Between February 14 and 25, the Pelham Community Preservation Coalition circulated a petition which asked the Town of Pelham Council to: “Create by-laws to control cannabis production in the Town of Pelham and its impacts on the residents.”

The petitions were placed in nine businesses in Pelham, and Coalition members went doorto-door to approximately 1,000 households in Pelham. Many people were not home, so a flyer was left at those residences with some facts about cannabis growops and a notification of the public meeting on February 25 (of which many people were unaware). Other people would not sign the petition because they said that they never signed petitions for privacy reasons or simply on principle.

The Coalition members circulated petitions to dif-

ferent areas in Fenwick and Fonthill, with minimum coverage of the rural area in Ward 1.

The overwhelming majority of residents did not want more cannabis production facilities in Pelham, and many thanked us for taking action on the issue. Some residents said that they were considering putting their homes up for sale before more growops moved into the area and their property values dropped.

Please find attached petitions with 815 signatures.

The Pelham Community Preservation Coalition implores Pelham Council to listen to the residents of Pelham and create by-laws to control cannabis production in the Town of Pelham and its impacts on the residents.

Jim Jeffs DDS, Chair Pelham Community Preservation Coalition

Further to the outstanding letter written by Sidney Beamer and published in the Voice on February 27th ["Slow down, you sell too fast—time to hit pause on the arena," p. 6], I would like to add my voice with the following.

On Monday, February 11, I attended the meeting at the community centre regarding the sale of the Pelham Arena on Haist Street in Fonthill.

Let me begin by stating how refreshing it is to have an honourable and trustworthy council in Pelham. The shameful mess you have inherited, with the horrendous debt load, will likely be the challenge of your lives and you have my upmost respect for tackling it.

That being said, I cannot understand why you did not send the acting CAO packing at the same time that Mr. Ottaway received his walking papers.

I found that all the questions posed that evening by the attendees were skirted or answered indirectly, and when openly challenged the acting CAO was unable to answer, once even saying she didn’t have the relevant material in front of her.

There was too much smoke in that room for any transparency and honesty to be visible.

UNPROVEN

industry to be credited for riding to the rescue of depressed communities. Very bad data was referenced in Leviathan’s presentation.

How is it possible to believe Leviathan’s story?

I hope that Leviathan’s cannabis industry colleagues who reside in Pelham are paying attention.

The presenter was very successful at affirming the depth of the current cannabis problems. Yes, you were constantly thrown under the bus by this prospective industry colleague, who claims success before they even get started. I think that this was a huge presenter mistake. It was severely unprofessional, and, where I come from, this is just cause for immediate termination.

Please take advantage of the attention you received and come to the table with viable solutions.

If this

cannabis industry is going to survive in Pelham, then the rules must be followed and enforced.

For cannabis production going forward, flying under the flag of “agricultural zoning” is not going to be very easy. There is a misunderstanding that agricultural zoned lands is a safety net, giving permission to do what they like and pay ridiculously low property taxes.

The Normal Farm Practices Act, the Drainage Act, the Sewage Act, and the Endangered Species Act are only a few that will challenge an agricultural status and what is considered agricultural and not agricultural and permitted as agricultural—Leviathan’s proposed parking lot size is an example for challenge.

The residents of Pelham want the quality of life in their homes and businesses

continued from previous page This would bring them huge profits, with very low risk.

Their grower in attendance alone could command a multi-million-dollar annual salary, never mind the value of his stock options.

I certainly hope the Leviathan shareholders are paying attention.

The presenter consistently encouraged Pelham residents to picket and protest Leviathan’s industry colleagues, “The ones who have created the current mess.”

Be aware that this is only a distraction and should not be followed. This will only create more property value stress as non-local media will broadcast this coast to coast.

Who knows, maybe this is Leviathan’s strategy, as they seem to want their

The opening 40-minute presentation was well done, but there were several omissions and questionable information presented. One thing was clear from that presentation, and it was that there is no question that the property is going to be sold.

They were just defending their position.

However, when questioned, Mayor Junkin stated that it was really up to the citizens of Pelham whether or not the arena would be sold, and they would get a vote.

When questioned to any extent as to why the property had to be sold immediately there were defensive answers repeated.

We were never really given a reason why the property had to be sold other than that the Town needs money. We were told that the Town would have to spend one and a half million dollars to simply retain the property, because this is what it would cost for soil remediation and updates to the building.

Why do you have to do anything with the building and grounds immediately?

It’s not costing any money simply sitting there, and families can still make use of it year-round.

Whatever monies you would receive now for selling the arena is just a drop in the bucket to bring down the massive current debt.

I did not understand the fiscal statement which was shown regarding an additional $8 million dollar debt.

Is it due and payable forthwith and is this the urgency for selling the arena?

Shame, shame, shame on the previous council for mismanaging the Town’s finances and turning our previously wonderful, sleepy little gem of a town into the metropolis it is fast becoming.

A little creative thinking and who knows what could become of that

We were never really given a reason why the property had to be sold other than the Town needs the money

returned to them. We would like to sit outside, keep our windows open, air-dry our laundry, have our wedding –anniversary-birthday celebrations, etc., outside, without any of the odour and light pollution, including the masking agents you are using. Customers should be permitted to shop in our establishments without asking the question— what stinks?

Health Canada knows the importance of regulations and the enforcement of reg-

ulations. We all understand the rules and the importance for following them.

We receive a driver’s license as proof that we have earned the right to drive a vehicle on a public road. The MTO regulates and enforces the safety compliances in place for our vehicles to be licensed and roadworthy.

Too many infractions cause us to lose some of our license privileges or all of our license privileges. It seems that Health Canada auditors need some lessons on en-

See RATIONALE next page

forcement.

The current bylaw affects all Pelham farmers with or without greenhouses on their properties.

It is very obvious that the farming majority supports the bylaw and that there should be no exceptions!

Leviathan had a great opportunity in the public meeting to present their case. Somehow, I do not think they got our drift.

Louis Damm Fonthill

Friday night at 9 PM it’s



JIMMY’S JUKE JOINT BLUES with Jim Casson, Peter Boyd & Tom Griffiths

Travel Essentials!

March 5 to March 12

Save 50%

Saturday jazz at 2 PM it’s

JASMINE T

Saturday night at 8 PM it’s

CHRIS & GORDO

Loperamide HCI Tablets USP 2mg

Dimenhydrinate Tablest USP 50mg

More sizes available

More sizes available

Now Only $6.99

Now Only $2.99

Your local pharmacy at 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

Mon-Thurs, 8:30 AM - 8:00 PM Fri, 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM / Sat, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

(905) 892-1888

pharmachoice.com

Daily Dining Specials

$5 Burger Mondays $6/lb Mussels Tuesdays $7/lb Wings Wednesdays $5 Beef on Weck Thursdays $10 Haddock Fish Fry Fridays ON SUNDAYS THE WEEKENDER! All specials on one day!

Page 8

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

Letters Trig Wa g e r rnin this gs for is " G r s u e: " D a a p e s" chs "Pa hun d pe " "Cin rback" nam o n"

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

RATIONALE

continued

continued from previous page

asp

gr e to lur of Fa i i c u s e r k o n ir o a r t w lly ro a ret asion occ es on a ris rn e t . ns .

I n t e l d ya w r Wo

Proposed development on arena site too dense for comfort

Everyone who's anyone reads the Voice

While it is tempting to rush the sale for needed funds to cover debt incurred by previous council, there is much to consider.

Looking at the density of this development will mean more noise, vehicles and traffic snarls for the surrounding area. The residents of the homes which abut these buildings will be at the mercy of all this change.

It is therefore imperative that more thought goes into the design and

number of buildings allowed.

Let’s remember, most families/ couples today all have their own vehicles, which could add up to two or three per household. There needs to be parking space allotted for these extra vehicles, as I assume not all these residences have double garages.

The plans tend to look like a lot has been crammed into them, and maybe by removing just a couple of single buildings it would be more spacious and appealing to the eye.

Also, it would make snow removal, etc., easier to navigate. I have no experience regarding developments, etc., but when I see how packed-in newer areas are these days, it would be a welcome change to see a developer take these things into consideration and allow more breathing space for people to enjoy.

Roberta Obelnycki Fonthill

KWIKFIT NIAGARA

The money redeemed is a drop in the bucket

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 905-892-0200 3 SESSIONS FOR $29.95 and Kwikfit Niagara will donate $50 to Wellspring Niagara’s Capital Campaign

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.

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

Multi-seed Gluten-Free Bread Made from scratch daily

A research-based program for strength training, body building, and complete fitness in just 12 minutes per week.

NEWSPAPERS: The original push notification

MONDAY Fish & Chips Special TUESDAY 1/2 Price Wings

WEDNESDAY Senior's Day 15% Off All Food

Join us Sunday March 17th for the

BEST DAY OF THE YEAR

St. Patrick's Day Lots of fun, food, and giveaways.

Irish music all day and 6.30 pm till 11.30 pm Our DJ will entertain us with the best of everything Irish.

FOOD SPECIALS INCLUDE: Irish Lamb Stew & Tea Biscuits Steak & Guinness Pie Corned beef, Cabbage & Boiled Potatoes 1440 Pelham Street, Fonthill

property, and the Town could still own it. It’s a steel building that could easily be reclad and put to other purposes. Why couldn’t it be put out to service clubs to see if they have ideas as to how it could be used? Curling rink? Ball hockey? Any sporting events, i.e. karate, kick boxing? Year-round indoor market? What ideas do you have?

This town should never chose money over green space.

The money redeemed is a drop in the

Available in loaves and buns 11 Highway 20 West, Fonthill (905) 892-9466 Hours: Tues-Fri, 8-3; Sat, 8-2. www.indulgencebakeryfonthill.com

bucket when the Town is in debt to the extent that they are. A knee-jerk reaction is not the answer.

What’s on the chopping block next when the Town can’t meet their next payment? I understand this is a debt over 30 years! My point being they’re not going to recoup any monies after the initial amount until taxes will be collected in four or five years.

If the building could be put to use, user fees could be collected immediately for the Town’s debt.

Once that green space in the heart of the town is sold, it can never be brought back.

Do we really need more development at this point? I think not!

Pamela Young Fonthill

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

Page 9

Residents object to removal of cherry orchard by CannTrust

BY JOHN CHICK

Special to the VOICE

CannTrust commenced removal of approximately 800 cherry trees last week on property they purchased south of their existing Balfour Street facility as the cannabis grow-op moves forward on a large-scale site expansion.

While the company is fully within their rights as landowners to remove the trees, the optics didn’t sit well with some local residents.

“It’s an ethical thing, is what it is,” Fenwick resident David Ireland said.

“The trees are seven years

old, they’re in their primes.

You’d think they’d have a permit … but I don’t know.”

Jim Jeffs, of the Pelham Community Preservation Coalition, agreed. “I think it’s ridiculous,” he said.

Both Ireland and Jeffs are vociferous opponents of licenced grow-op expansion in Pelham, with Jeffs collecting 815 signatures for a petition against Leviathan’s planned reconstruction of its Foss Road facility — a proposal that the corporation is currently challenging the Town’s Interim Control Bylaw over.

Ireland asserted that an arborist friend who didn’t want to be identified had

In this view to the north, CannTrust's Fenwick operation is seen top right. The cherry trees at issue are seen centre left.

GOOGLE EARTH IMAGE been offered the job of removing the cherry trees on the former McCarthy farm next to CannTrust, but that he declined because, as Ireland recounted it, he “didn’t want my name smeared.”

“He’s been an arborist for

40 years,” Ireland said.

CannTrust released a statement to the Voice, highlighting that the new greenhouse that will replace the cherry orchard will feature blackout screens that can be completely closed at

night, mitigating light complaints.

“The land adjacent to our facility has been amalgamated with CannTrust’s property and will be the location of our expansion,” general manager Michael Cam-

plin said. “We are actively planning and preparing for construction, including new enhancements such as high-tech ventilation and one hundred percent light blackout screens that can be completely closed. This will increase our quality and be better for the community.”

In theory, the light solution could sit well with Dave Klynhesslynk, who lives on Balfour Street across from the CannTrust facility.

“It’s lit up like a Christmas tree some nights, others it’s dimmed,” he said. “Recently they’ve been shutting it down around 8 PM. And I get it, I’m in agriculture too.

And you’ve got to do what’s required for their crop. [But] why not start it a 4 o’clock in the morning instead of going in the evening — I don’t know if they’ve looked at that.”

One potential drawback to using curtains all night, See ORCHARD Page 11

SPECIALIZING IN SELLING YOUR HOME!!!

RURAL, AGRICULTURAL OR RESIDENTIAL—OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE (IT MATTERS)

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The Public Is Invited To Attend Tuesday, March 26, 2019 at 2:00pm

Hairstyling...

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

EMAIL: rbrown@royallepage.ca Richard Brown SALES REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE: 905-734-4545 or 905-892-0222

Fonthill Legion Meeting Room 141 Hwy 20 W, FONTHILL

HOURS: Mon-Fri 11-7, Sat 9-1

Direct: 905-651-5143

BOOK ONLINE: xandaro.com/myfamily1

Light Refreshments will be served For information call Pelham Cares at (905) 892-5300 Or email: info@pelhamcares.org

Great food, Great people MARCH INVENTORY CLEARANCE SAMSUNG SOUND+ SOUNDBAR

55"

Delivers room filling home theatre sound with deep bass - without the need for a subwoofer!

NOW

399

$

HW-MS650

SAVE $ 200!

Was $599

SAVE ON THE SAMSUNG 82" Q6 QLED TV

HAVE THE BIGGEST TV SCREEN ON THE BLOCK!

Was $4999

NOW

4499

$

PLUS BONUS 4K SAMSUNG BLU-RAY PLAYER

UBDK8500

QLED PERFORMANCE A Cutting Edge Picture With AntiGlare Screen And Quantum Colour Ambient Mode - No Black Screen When The Tv Is Off!

55" NOW

Was $2699

1799

$

SAVE $ 900!

QN55Q8FNBFXZC

BONUS 4K SAMSUNG BLU-RAY PLAYER WITH Q8 PURCHASE - $299 VALUE

Fresh homemade food at downto-earth prices in the heart of Fonthill

You r

hosts

, Carolanne, Catherine & Do

r ee n

Breakfast & Lunch daily + Dinner Friday and Saturday

“Finer dining at diner prices” Hours: Mon - Thurs 8 AM - 3 PM / Fri & Sat 8 AM - 8 PM / Sunday 8 AM - 3 PM Nightly Features + Regular Menu ~ All sandwiches and wraps served with choice of fries, soup or salad ~

Smoked Salmon Wrap

Cream cheese, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, with homemade dressing

Strawberry Almond Salad

Spinach, fresh strawberries, and toasted almonds with dressing

PROFESSIONAL DELIVERY AND INSTALLATION AVAILABLE

130 THOROLD RD, WELLAND 905 788 3221 www.thomastv.com

Tues-Thurs: 10-6 Fri: 10-7 Sat: 10-5 Sun/Mon: Closed

1507 Pelham Street, Fonthill (289) 897-9191

L.L.B.O. Licensed

Page 10

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

PROVINCIAL CASH FOR GILLIAN’S PLACE Gillian’s Place, a St. Catharines shelter for abused women and children serving all of Niagara, has received $10,400 from the province to “upgrade their fire equipment,” according to a statement released by MPP Sam Oosterhoff’s office. Oosterhoff and Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Children, Community, and Social Services, were on hand recently for the announcement. “Helping our community partners maintain and upgrade their buildings just makes sense,” said Oosterhoff. “We want to make sure their buildings are safe and in good shape so they can provide quality services and programming for years to come.”

From left, Minister MacLeod, Gillian’s Place Exec Asst Linda Bowden, Director of Service Kristi Lawrence, Board President Jennifer Wallace, and Sam Oosterhoff, MPP.

community coffee with your Niagara West– MPP

SUPPLIED PHOTO

SAM OOSTERHOFF

Letters

Saturday, March 9, 2019 9:00am to 11:00am Grill on Canboro 794 Canboro Road, Fenwick

So how much is the total Town debt?

all welcome For more information please contact: 905-563-1755 or sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org 4961 King Street East, unit M1, Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0

How May We... ... Assist You! Personal - Professional - Handy Help Task Management Services An errand to run, or shopping to be done; an office to clean, or anything in-between HAVE A TASK... JUST CALL AND ASK!

www.howmaywe.ca

continued

289-897-9171

RON’S

Bathroom

R enovations Fonthill

25 yrs exp.

Reliable, Honest, Prompt

289-968-6018

snoei.renovations@gmail.com

Community Voices

in The Voice

“Pharmacy markets are local. For us, advertising in the Voice is about the scope, the geography and the market the Voice serves. It’s also about trust, which as a hometown local pharmacy is very important. Since we opened, the Voice has been great with advising and helping us with graphics and even with our signage. Plus, with our participation in their Membership Program, we get the added benefit of including specials via eblast to Voice subscribers —converting visitors to customers!”

GLEN SISAK Pharmacist/Owner, Family Health Pharmacy

Existing business or a start-up—Let us help you grow!

“We’ve been advertising in the Voice since the start of our business... and we’ve sponsored Voice on Vacation for a long time now. The Voice is vital for us to maintain a presence in the community.

We largely rely on word of mouth and referrals, but we like to remind people we are here and very much a part of the community. Being a small business, we need to support other local businesses and that includes our local paper. I would gladly double my subscription fee to ensure the Voice continues to keep us informed and participating in our community’s growth.”

PAM & JIM OVERHOLT Owners, Cruise Holidays of Niagara

905-892-8690 | advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

Pelham taxpayers are keen to know facts and figures of the present municipal debt. This must include repayment of reserves, operational costs, obligatory contracts, et cetera. Our new council and mayor are dependent on the remaining staff, whose involvement with the past mayor and CAO set a precedent of obfuscation.

The Town staff are expected to respond to both the residents and elected officials’ requests in a polite and timely manner.

Freedom of Information requests should not be necessary as a diversion method.

Mayor Junkin and council are working towards creating an atmosphere of inclusion to move beyond the past of secrecy and ma-

nipulation. Mayor Junkin sincerely wants to put Pelham on the path to solvency.

Springing forward is typically what happens in March.

Springing forward is what we the residents in Pelham want, need, and must accomplish...the sooner the better.

L. Morgan Fonthill

Cannabis production not a plus for Pelham I don’t believe any more permits should be issued for cannabis production in Pelham. Is it already too late to void the current permits or do they have an expiry that would enable council to not renew them?

There are already too many presently.

I don’t think we would like to become the cannabis capital of Canada. This would give the wrong connotation to an area that boast itself at being a very good place for families to raise their children and a calm

and pleasant place to attract retirees from the GTA and other area of the province.

These facilities emit a foul smell and potentially could also bring criminal elements to our nice, clean and quiet environment. We could end up with a toxic reputation.

The other concern is how will it affect the value of our properties in Pelham?

Richard Limoges Fonthill

www.clarescycle.com

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

Page 11

The art of public speaking kept alive by Legion, Lions

BY GLORIA J. KATCH

Special to the VOICE

It's becoming a "lost art," but judging by the audience’s response on the weekend of February 23, the public speaking contest involving nine schools under the District School Board of Niagara (DSBN), in conjunction with the Fonthill Legion, is still entertaining and inspiring.

Jacqueline Schwenker, Coordinator for Youth Services for the Fonthill Legion, Branch 613, has been organizing the event for about four years, and has noticed the drop in participants.

"I don't know if it's stagefright or what, but the schools just don't seem to be pushing it enough," she said.

The students usually learn about the contest through English classes, but the event is entirely voluntary.

Jim Garner, Third Vice-President of the Fonthill Legion and Event Moderator, noted the "outstanding jobs" the students had done in presenting their speaches, which averaged about five minutes in length.

Jim Summersides, a decorated veteran with the Legion, said he has been involved with its Youth Education programs for about 20 years, and, "They do a fabulous job."

"If you can talk in front of a group of people, it helps

ensure your success in the future," he said.

Over the years, Summersides has learned to sharpen his speaking skills through many public engagements.

This year, there were only 12 contestants in the public speaking contest that covered Grades 1 to 9, and they were grouped by age-ranges. The students chose topics which were interesting or important to them, and these varied from educational to curious oddities. Many speeches included humorous trivia.

Andreas Morgenstern delivered an account that could've been an excerpt from the Guinness Book of World Records on the biggest bubble gum blown, and the history of gum chewing, which dates back to ancient Greece, he said. Currently, the snapping, chewing and popping of gum is highest per-capita in countries like Iran and Saudi Arabia. He also talked about its pros and cons, and its addiction.

One of the winners in the Intermediate Category from Grades 7 to 9, Braden Kingston, talked about the five categories of "Sports Parents," from the best to the worst.

Then he gave tips on how to be a positive role model for children, who are involved in sports. He reminded the parents in attendance that local sporting events are not

At left, Junior winners of the Lions Effective Speaking Contest Andreas Morgenstern, Connor Anderson, and Beau Christien. At right, Intermediate winners Natalie Anderson, Danny Lagelaan, and Isaac Khan. Lion Fred Arbour looks on.

JANIE CARR PHOTOS "the Olympics," and to just "Let your kids play and have fun."

Taking first place in his category, Connor Anderson, a Grade 5 Student, discussed a wide-variety of norms and behaviours, from why doctors wear white lab coats to the custom of handshaking.

He also discussed the colours of toilet paper in different countries, including a variety that glowed in the dark. If readers aren't aware, falling coconuts kill people far more

often than sharks do. Garner noted that it was interesting trivia.

“If you ever get on Jeopardy, I think you'll do well."

Natalie Anderson, Connor's older sister, discussed what it meant to be Canadian beyond the typical stereotypes of poutine, beavers and maple syrup. In addition to our beautiful, scenic landscapes and diverse communities, there are also many inventions created by Canadians, which are not com-

monly known, like the electric roller and instant replay, she said. She took first place for her oratory.

Isaac Khan placed second in his category, discussing the importance of electric versus gas automobiles to prevent pollution, prevent health issues, and preserve the environment. His animated talk pointed out the benefits of each model, and ended with families benefitting by purchasing one of each model, at least at this

Collecting for the cause of paws Empties for Paws collects to benefit animal charities

BY DEREK SWARTZ

Special to the VOICE

It isn’t hard to see Cathy Baillie’s fondness for Boston Terriers.

While Max, her older Boston, gobbles up kibble and Boston-cross Swagger gnaws on a rawhide bone, she shares a family heirloom: a shadow box showcasing ribbons won by her greatgreat-grandmother from the Boston Terrier Club of Toronto and the Boston Terrier Club of Canada.

The ribbons date back to the 1920s and were won by Little Miss Toots. Max and Swagger may not rival Little Miss Toots for best in show. But they may have a lasting impact on the welfare of Bostons and other animals.

And that’s down to their effect on Baillie. That impact began more than a decade ago when Baillie got Max while living in Toronto. She joined a group of Boston owners who got together in local parks to let their dogs socialize. Eventually Baillie started volunteering for a

ORCHARD

continued from Page 9 according to Klynhesslynk, is if a greenhouse is using high-pressure sodium lights, then closing dark curtains causes the inter-

Boston Terrier rescue group.

It was there that she heard about Empties for Paws. Empties for Paws is an association of concerned animal lovers that collects refundable containers—beer, liquor and wine bottles—and donates the proceeds to animal-friendly charities. In addition to empty alcohol containers, volunteers with Empties for Paws accept Canadian Tire money.

The effort started in 2015, and to date the organization says it has collected more than $325,000.

When Baillie moved to Fonthill to take a job as an organization development and learning coordinator at Niagara College, she knew she wanted to do something to keep helping Bostons. So she decided to bring the Empties for Paws program to Pelham. “It’s an easy way to do something, and I always want to be helping animals,” she says.

Empties for Paws has volun-

nal temperature to rise too high for crops.

Klynhesslynk’s main wish from CannTrust is that they replace curbside shrubbery that was removed during construction of their shipping and receiving lot. He credits

Cathy Baillie, right, has started collecting for Empties for Paws, an effort to raise funds by donating bottle deposit proceeds to animal charities. Baillie is joined by her husband, Cameron Whitehead, their daughter Lily and Max the Boston Terrier.

DEREK SWARTZ PHOTO teers in dozens of towns and cities across Ontario. Each volunteer collects and returns the empties and then donates the proceeds to a registered charity. Baillie’s is Boston Terrier Rescue Canada. The charity cares for abandoned, neglected and abused Bostons and provides medical care, training and a safe haven. BTRC’s goal is to place each dog with a permanent, loving home through a careful adoption process. The funds are

the company with building a fence for his neighbour across Balfour, whose house is directly south of the lot, and east of the former cherry orchard.

“Shrubbery would be nice on the front. I would like to see stoplights installed at

sorely needed by Boston Terrier Rescue Canada. Their vet bills alone topped $90,000 in 2018.

Baillie knows the adoption process firsthand—it’s how she acquired Swagger. She had been fostering him when he was a puppy, born to a Boston that had been rescued from a Montreal animal shelter. When it came time to put him up for adoption she just couldn’t part with him.

Along with her husband, Cam-

Balfour and Highway 20,” he added, pointing out increased traffic at the intersection due to the facility, which employs 285 people.

“Am I thrilled with it?

Not really. Does it bother me? We’ve gotten over that,” Klynhesslynk said.

point in time.

Winner in the Primary Category, Madeline Leigh in Grade 1, talked about the care, grooming, and protection of pet bunnies.

Four judges scored the students on delivery, which included appearance and mannerisms; on their material, which included the worthiness of the topic, its organization, suitability, and originality; and on literary form, See SPEAKING Page 16

eron Whitehead, and their threeand-a-half year-old daughter, Lily, Baillie is always looking for ways to turn small actions she’s already doing into something bigger to benefit charities, like using supermarket loyalty program points to buy food for local food banks.

She wants to get others involved with Empties for Paws.

“We’ll enjoy a bottle of wine and Cameron will have a few beers, but that’s only a couple of bucks a month [for charity],” she says.

Even if potential donors don’t want to drop off their empties to Baillie, she encourages them to donate their refund money to a charity of their choice.

“We’re just trying to get the word out. Donate to the cause or donate to your own cause, the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Legion’s poppy fund.”

“You don’t miss the money because you’ve spent it already,” she says. “Why not just redirect it?”

Anyone who wants to donate their empties can drop them off to the collection boxes they have set up outside their home at 1556 Pelham Street. Baillie and Whitehead are also willing to pick up larger quantities of beer, wine and liquor bottles.

Some Empties for Paws volunteers have collection arrangements with local restaurants.

Baillie would love to duplicate that in Pelham. Anyone interested should email cathie.baillie@ gmail.com

“I just think if we could have that vegetative barrier again, that would go a long way to making the neighbours happy.”

Ireland encourages residents to come forward with any complaints about light, odor and otherwise from

Pelham’s grow-ops.

“Unless people speak up and say something, nothing happens,” he said. [The licensed cannabis producers] aren’t going anywhere, I understand that.

But they’ve got to clean up their act.”

Page 12

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

SERVICE DIRECTORY Electrical Electrical

ACB

Heating & & Cooling Cooling Heating

Renovations

Plumbing

We Make House Calls!

Electrical

Fenwick Alex Bover-Master Electrician

THE PUMP DOCTOR

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

905.892.2655 1.800.676.4029

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

We Service All Makes And Models

Power Equipment

Landscaping Landscaping

ROBERT WILLIAMS PLUMBING & HEATING LIMITED

Plumbing Plumbing

Flooring

LANDSCAPES Inspired By Your LIFESTYLE

CERAMIC TILE • LUXURY VINYL PLANKS • LAMINATE • HARDWOOD PORCELAIN TILE • BACKSPLASHES • COUNTERTOPS Motorcycles, ATVs, Power Equipment, Snowblowers, Sales, Service, Parts & Accessories, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, KTM ● www.clarescycle.com

799 Hwy 20, Fenwick, ON

905-892-2664

905.892.6908 www.dekorteslandscaping.com 799 Balfour St, Fenwick

Landscaping

Waterproofing

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

Licenced plumber & gas fitter with 25 years experience

905-386-6483 • 905-651-8558 www.joesplumbingniagara.ca

Concrete Supplies Concrete Supplies

COUPLAND MOBILE WASH LTD. Interior/Exterior

WATERPROOFING Excavation - Underpinning - Demolition Serving Niagara for over 30 years!

Andrew Serban --- 905-932-0224 www.couplandmobilewash.ca

Landscaping

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

or Toll free

1-800-881-1628

cottoninc.ca

Automotive

Advertising

The Voice

874 Hwy # 20 W, Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0

l

874 Hwy #20 W, Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 874 Hwy # 20 W, Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 Landscape Design l Landscape Construction l Driveways, Patio & Walkways 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

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

Folks, we're asking if there's a podiatrist in the house.

There's an emergency case of falling arches outside.

Call (905) 892-8690

advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

Phone: 905.892.2188 • www.naturesownidea.com

Places of Worship and Events Bethany Christian Reformed Church 1040 Balfour St., Fenwick

First Presbyterian Church 602 Metler Rd., North Pelham

Glad Tidings Church of God 1 Pancake Lane, Fonthill

Pelham Evangelical Friends Church 940 Haist St., Fonthill

Concordia Lutheran Church 105 Welland Rd., Fonthill

Fonthill Baptist Church 1414 Pelham St., Fonthill

Holy Trinity Anglican Church 1557 Pelham Street, Fonthill

Ridgeville Bible Chapel 418 Canboro Rd., Ridgeville

Fenwick Church of Christ 765 Welland Rd., Fenwick

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

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

St. Alexander’s Roman Catholic Church 50 Pelham Town Sq., Fonthill

Fenwick United Church 1050 Church St., Fenwick

Fonthill United Church 42 Church Hill, Fonthill

Pelham Community Church 461 Canboro Rd., Fenwick

St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church 834 Canboro Rd., Fenwick

NURSERY HELP Greenhouse/Nursery Maintenance nursery growing container grown perennials,

Wholesale vines,Large flowering shrubs, nursery, evergreens & dwarf trees seekinghas a wholesale greenhouse operation individuals who desire a career in horticulture. We are in full time year round position open in their maintenance need of general labourers as well as those skilled in the department.

Person must have experience electrical, growing, management and shipping of nurserywith stock. and carpentry.

Other handyman Plant plumbing/irrigation, knowledge and experience is an asset.

If you are skills would also asset. Licenses are dedication not necessarily an individual who be hasan organizational skills and required.

Candidate mustashave good organizational as well as a willingness to work a team player, we look and forward to hearing from you.andWages commensurate communication skills good will work habits. Excellent with experience.

Resumes may befor dropped of between thePlease compensation and benefits the right candidate. hours send of 8:00a.m.-4:30p.m.

Monday to Thursday 8:00a.m in confidence a complete resume withor salary history to: -12:00 noon on Fridays at:

Willowbrook Willowbrook Nurseries Nurseries Inc. Inc.

Attention: Human Resources 935Victoria Victoria Ave., Fenwick, ON ON L0S1C0 935 Ave., R.R.#4, Fenwick, Attention: Human Resources Or email: hr@willowbrooknurseries.com No phone calls please. 8AM-4PM, Fri: 8AM-12N Office hours: Mon-Thur, (We thank you for your application, however No phone calls please. We thank you for your application, only those considered will be notified.) however only those considered will be notified.

OFFICE SUPPORT NURSERY HELP STAFF

Wholesale nursery looking for Office Support Staff for the spring/summer shipping container season. grown Responsibilities Wholesale nursery growing perennials,would assisting in evergreens shipping, data entry,trees preparing trucking vines,include flowering shrubs, & dwarf seeking paperwork, printinga career tags, and general office individuals who desire in horticulture.

Weduties. are in The organizational need successful of general applicant labourers must as wellpossess as thosegood skilled in the skills,management be capable ofand multi-tasking be able stock. to work as growing, shipping and of nursery of a team. position is would require Ifworking Plantpart knowledge and The experience an asset. you arelonger hours during spring shipping season.

Position could lead an individual who has organizational skills and dedication to as full atime office employment. will commensurate as well willingness to work as a Wages team player, we look with experience. Resumes can be emailed to hr@ forward to hearing from you. Wages will commensurate willowbrooknurseries.com, dropped off between the hours of with experience.

Resumes may betodropped the- noon 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Monday Thursdayoforbetween 8:00 a.m. hourson of Fridays, 8:00a.m.-4:30p.m.

Monday to Thursday or 8:00a.m or mailed to: -12:00 noon on Fridays at:

Willowbrook Nurseries Willowbrook Nurseries Inc. Inc. Attention: Resources 935 VictoriaHuman Ave., Fenwick, ON Attention: Human 935 Victoria Ave.,Resources R.R.#4 No phone calls Fenwick, ONplease.

L0S1C0

(Wephone thankcalls you for your We application, however No please. thank you for your application, only those considered will be notified.) however only those considered will be notified.

NURSERY HELP NURSERY HELP

Wholesale nursery growing container grown perennials, vines, nursery flowering shrubs,container evergreens & trees is seeking Wholesale growing grown perennials, who likeevergreens to work with& plants.

We are in need of vines,individuals flowering shrubs, dwarf trees seeking part time June)inand full time general individuals who(April, desireMay, a career horticulture.

We arelabourers in well as labourers those skilled theasgrowing, management need as of general as in well those skilled in the and shipping of nursery stock.

Plant knowledge and experience is growing, management and shipping of nursery stock. an asset but not necessary. If you are an individual who has Plant organizational knowledge and experience is an asset. are skills and dedication as well Ifasyou a willingness an individual skills and dedication to work who as a has teamorganizational player, we look forward to hearing from as wellyou. as aWages willingness to work as a team player, we look will commensurate with experience.

Resumes forward to be hearing from you. Wages will commensurate may emailed to hr@willowbrooknurseries.com or dropped with experience. mayofbe8:00a.m.-4:00p.m. dropped of between the off betweenResumes the hours Monday to hours Thursday of 8:00a.m.-4:30p.m.

Monday to Thursday orat: 8:00a.m or 8:00a.m -12:00 noon on Fridays -12:00 noon on Fridays at:

Willowbrook Nurseries Willowbrook Nurseries Inc. Inc. Attention: Resources 935 VictoriaHuman Ave., Fenwick, ON Attention: Human 935 Victoria Ave.,Resources R.R.#4 No phone calls Fenwick, ONplease.

L0S1C0

(Wephone thankcalls you for your We application, however No please. thank you for your application, only those considered will be notified.) however only those considered will be notified.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

Page 13

COMMUNITY EVENTS & CLASSIFIEDS

Place your ad by email or phone office@thevoiceofpelham.ca Hours: Mon-Thurs, 8 AM - 2 PM (905) 892-8690

EXTEND YOUR REACH - ADVERTISE PROVINCIALLY OR ACROSS THE COUNTRY! For more information visit www.ocna.org/network-advertising-program

DRIVERS WANTED

FINANCIAL SERVICES

ADVERTISING

MORTGAGES

BUSINESS OPPS.

$$ CONSOLIDATE YOUR DEBT NOW $$ HOME OWNER LOANS FOR ANY PURPOSE!!

PROFESSIONAL TRUCK DRIVERS FULL-TIME PERMANENT Haul bulk commodities throughout Ontario.

Class AZ driver’s license with recent experience required.

WESTCAN OFFERS:

Pay down other high interest debt!

Bank turn downs, Tax or Mortgage arrears, Self-Employed, Bad Credit, Bankruptcy - We Can Help! Even in extreme situations of bad credit.

• Very competitive hourly rates + premiums add-ons.

• Additional bonus opportunities.

• Airfare provided by Westcan for rotational contracts.

Borrow: $50,000 $100,000

OR CALL KERRY AT:

WANTED

FIREARMS WANTED FOR APRIL 27, 2019 LIVE & ONLINE AUCTION: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Militaria. Auction or Purchase: Collections, Estates, Individual Items. Contact Paul, Switzer's Auction: Toll-Free 1-800-694-2609, info@switzersauction.com or www.switzersauction.com.

LOWER YOUR MONTHLY PAYMENTS

For more information Call Today 647-350-2558.

Pay Monthly: $268 $537

!!Decrease monthly payments Page up to 75%!!

Based on 5% APR. OAC

www.DriveWithWBT.ca

CAR COLLECTOR SEARCHING ... I want your old car! Porsche 356/911/912, Jaguar E-Type or XKE. Tell me what you have, I love old classics especially German and British.

Whether it's been in the barn for 25 years, or your pride and joy that is fully restored. I'll pay CASH. Call David 416-802-9999.

Your Classified Ad or Display Ad would appear in weekly newspapers each week across Ontario in urban, suburban and rural areas.

VACATION/TRAVEL

LARGER AMOUNTS AVAILABLE

INTERESTED APPLICANTS APPLY ONLINE AT:

519-331-4308

REACH MILLIONS OF CUSTOMERS IN ONTARIO WITH ONE EASY CALL!

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO APPLY NOW BY PHONE OR ONLINE:

14

ATTN: ONTARIO INVENTORS!!

Need Inventing Help?

AND

Call Davison!!

CONSOLIDATE YOUR DEBT NOW!!!

Ideas Wanted!

1st, 2nd, 3rd MORTGAGES Debt Consolidation Refinancing, Renovations Tax Arrears, No CMHC Fees $50K YOU PAY: $208.33 / MONTH (OAC)

THE No Income, Bad Credit Power of Sale Stopped!!!

CALL DAVISON TODAY: 1-800-256-0429 OR VISIT US AT: Inventing.Davison.com/Ontario

FREE Inventor's Guide!! August 27, 2 VOICE of Pelham Wednesday,

CLA

COMMUNITY Events BETTER OPTION MORTGAGE

M A N U FA C T U R E R ' S O F F E R UNIQUE and exclusive opportunity.

Automatic vending machine route. Extremely profitable Celebrate the Beauty and History of 1-888-307-7799 1-800-282-1169 Canada’s Rivers product, Naya water 600ml. www.ontario-widefinancial.com Customers provided by company.

4 7 night calm water cruises on a www.mortgageontario.com PELHAM LIBRARY’S COMPUTER CLINIC Investment required, funding availreplica steamboat ONTARIO-WIDE FINANCIAL a b l e . 1 Excavating 0 0 % t u r n k e y contractor. business.

Meals, attractions, and entertainment “One-to-One Help” with a volunteer tech tutor.

Get help with web browsing, (Licence # 10969) 1801347inc Estimated yearly profit potential included FSCO Licence #12456 Water, sewer upgrades, $100,000.

Call TOLL-FREE 1-855webmail Departures: account set-up, e-books, social media, editing and sharing your Kingston, Ottawa, 514-0440.foundation repair, water !! WE ARE HERE TO HELP photos !!

City use of laptop or BYOG (bring your own gadget). and more.Quebec Includes 1st & 2nd MORTGAGES from proofing, drainage systems, Ask about our special Spring Savings FOR SALE Saturdays 12:30 – 3:30.

Register and 2.95% pay ahead in person.

5 year VRM and$5.00 3.59%per 1/2 rates quarryfrom stoneonly supply, place-5 year FIXED OAC. All Credit SAWMILLS $4,397 www.pelhamlibrary.on.ca call 905-892-6443 for more details.

Request our complimentary brochure or Types STEEL BUILDINGS hour. Visit Considered. Serving all MAKE MONEY & SAVE MONEY P18-23 ment.

905-384-1972.

Ontario for over 35 years. with your own bandmill - Cut CALL 1-800-267-7868 STEEL BUILDING SALE ... "BIG Purchasing, Re-financing, Debt lumber any dimension. In stock BLOW OUT SALE - ALL BUILDINGS www.StLawrenceCruiseLines.com FONTHILL BANDSHELL PRESENTSConsolidation, DE TEMPS Construction, ANTAN Home ready to ship. FREE Info & DVD: PRICED TO CLEAR!" 20X23 $5,977.

Renovations...CALL 1-800-225-1777, www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT 253 Ontario St., Kingston,André ON 23X25 $5,954. 25X27 $7,432. 30X31 Since 2003, Éric Beaudry, Brunet and Pierre-Luc Dupuis have www.homeguardfunding.ca (LIC 1-800-567-0404 Ext:400OT. (TICO #2168740) $9,574. 32X31 $9,648. One End Wall #10409). melodies from the stompbeen exploring and performing time-honoured Included. Pioneer Steel 1-855-2127036 www.pioneersteel.ca

Community Events Listings Putting on an event?

TELL THE TOWN!

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

Ad booking and payment deadline is Thursday Noon prior to week of publication. Payment may be made over the phone by credit card, or in person at our office by cash or check.

Thanks for supporting your Voice!

office@thevoiceofpelham.ca

Also see News vs. Promotion: www.thevoiceofpelham.ca/promotion

905-892-8690 CUSTOM MILL

Portable sawmill service.

I will come to your home or farm and custom mill your logs.

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

MENOPAUSE If your messageDISCUSSION to Pelham

FEELING HOT! – Menopause Discussion Wed., Mar. 20, 2019 @ 10am – 12pm Seaway Mall Library Branch Call Welland McMaster Family Health Team to register @ 905-734-9699 Ext. 3.

FREE

isn’t in our pages,

Then it isn’t being seen.

The Voice

The paper that Pelham reads.

(905) 892-8690 advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL TODAY TOLL-FREE:

Services

ing grounds of Quebec’s musical past. Using fiddle, accordion, harmonica, guitar, bouzouki and a number of other instruments, our three virtuosos blend boundless energyREPAIR with the unmistakable joie de vivre found only in MASONRY traditional Quebec music.

Show runs from 7-9 p.m. FRUIT FARM/GENERAL ALLTYPE MASONRY

FARM LABOURER Brick, Block, Stone and Chimey repairs.

Wet and damaged basement repairs.

PELHAM LIBRARY CARD MAKING WORKSHOP Looking for seasonal/ Phone Tom Deamude at 289-241-4767 or 905-892-1924. time help.

Make 35 sixyears cards fall themes, learning a variety of full techniques.

Materials of with construction experience.

Applicant must be able work min.

40-60 are provided. At time of registration, please enquiretoabout tools needed. hours/week in any CAR KEY FOUND Tues., Sept. 16 10 – 12:30. $10. Please register ahead.

Visitconditions www.pelhamweather and weekends.Lifting 50 lbs Found in the Lookout subdivision area, library.on.ca or call 905-892-6443 for more details. comfortably is required.

key for Toyota Corolla.

Contact 905-359-1078

Jobs included pruning, Planting trees, thinning FABULOUS FENWICK LIONS FISH FRY and harvesting fruit, and sorting Tasty treats with funds heading straight back into the packing community.

Haddock, fruit. No Experience required.

No Education french fries and much more.OCNA RunsNetwork Sept. 9 Classifi from 4-7 p.m. ed Ads required, Must have own transportation. Min (AD CENTRAL) $14.00/hour.

PELHAM MINOR HOCKEY EQUIPMENT SALE wage Please drop resume Week ofat the Pelham Arena. off at 825 Canboro Rd, Buy, sell or trade used equipment Aimed to provide Fenwick Ontario L0S March 4 cheaper options for players in this upcoming season.

1C0Runs Sept. 6 from

9-12 in the morning.

Posted February 28

OLD PAPERS PELHAM MUDFEST Central Do you run have on old the issues of the Men and women will be back in the mud as the second year is Voice published from 1997 to Region Ads included held at Bissil’s Hideaway.

2007? How about the Pelham This ad is to be printed NIAGARA REGIONAL EXHIBITION

Herald (any year). We'd love to add them to our archive. Contact: publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca by all participating Ontario

Rodeo, games and live entertainment headline this years exciting event. It runs from Sept. 11-14 at the Welland Fairgrounds.

Support

7 SPRU FONTH items, clothes sonable 30, 8AM

Yard Burke’s Masonry SALE, Bricklaying, tuckpointing, of Chr decora step repair, granite coatings, brick slices items, S 1PM 6 P18-28 905-682-7061.

FLOORING NORTH

Josh DeHaan Flooring “For all your flooring needs”

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

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

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

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

No Sunday Calls, Please TF

papers

qr

BIG MOVE CANCER RIDE The Big Move Cancer Ride is a non-competitive ride taking place on Sept. areFamonly two fundamentals 7. Proceeds for the Big Move stay in Niagara and support the There Walker of memorable advertising. ily Cancer Centre.

&

Consistency

WALKING CLUB your local Interested in walking in Pelham? Join them Tuesdays at the Pelham Arena service clubs from 9-10 am and Thursdays at Fonthill Bandshell for 9-10:30 am. There is no fee for this program. For more information, please contact jcook@ pelham.ca or call 905 892-2607, ext 329.

Ga

Repetition

ST

“T VI

C

PL

GA

S

AD

w

C

905

Page 14

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

Region portion of taxes up 3.8%

BY JOHN CHICK

Special to the VOICE

Niagara Region approved its 2019 budget last Thursday, and while regional councilors did not vote themselves a pay cut, they did commit to various infrastructure projects around Niagara. Here are the highlights.

■ Council settled on a 3.8 percent property tax increase, down from the previous proposal of 5.8 percent. This was accomplished, in part, by dipping into the region’s rate stabilization reserve.

■ An average property assessed at $267,711 would

pay the regional portion of the tax bill at $1,517, up $56 over 2018.

■ Niagara Regional Council approved $274 million in capital spending for 2019.

■ Council also approved a combined operating rate budget increase of 5.1 percent for water and wastewater services. The budget for waste management services will see an increase of 2.1 percent.

■ The budget includes a separate 1.4 percent levy for Niagara Regional Transit enhancements. That features $13.9 million in spending, including 13 new buses.

■ $21 million has been committed to upgrading

the Decew Water Treatment Plant in St. Catharines.

■ $16.1 million towards reconstruction of Martindale Road.

■ $10 million for widening of Casablanca Boulevard in Grimsby.

■ $8.8 million for general road repair.

“This budget reflects Regional Council’s commitment to enhancing services that matter to our citizens, such as transit, while also ensuring that critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges and our water and waste water facilities are kept in a state of good repair,” Regional Chair Jim Bradley said in a statement.

Pelham's councillors split on pay cut Not voting for a pay cut is not the same as voting for a pay raise.

That’s the message from Niagara Regional Council after members elected to reverse course on an earlier plan to reduce $198,000 from collective remuneration from this year’s budget, approved last Thursday.

The proposed cut was rooted in a Canada Revenue Agency taxation stipulation involving claimable amounts for elected officials at municipal and regional levels. Pelham Mayor Marvin Junkin said the decision wasn’t easy, clarifying the difference.

“I thought about quite a lot on Thursday night when we were debating that,” Junkin said.

“We didn’t mean to give ourselves a pay cut, and didn’t want to give ourselves a pay raise.”

Junkin voted against the cut.

At the Town level however, Junkin said councilors have accepted the cut.

“Let it be known at the municipal level we didn’t give ourselves a pay raise—we took the cut,” he said, adding that he himself would be remunerated about $2,600 less for his job as mayor.

He added that the workload on Regional Council is substantial.

“Since I’ve been on Regional Council, I can say how much work it takes to stay on top of things.”

Pelham’s other Regional Councillor, Diana Huson, was one of 11 councillors to vote for

continuing with the pay cut idea, and said the Region should implement a system like the one that exists in the City of St. Catharines — where the council’s pay scale is essentially based on the average income of local taxpayers.

“I had talked about connecting our pay scale,” Huson said. “That’s more of the model I like.

And if we’re not doing our jobs, we shouldn’t be getting an increase in pay.”

The item came as Regional Council lowered its original estimated tax increase to 3.8 percent from 5.8 percent, in part by dipping into Niagara’s rate stabilization reserve. In terms of remuneration, St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik said that councilors are already “underpaid for the number of hours we actually work," according to the St. Catharines Standard.

Huson knows it’s a double-edged sword to access reserve funds.

“You never want to be a councilor who comes in and raises taxes,” she said. “But there’s so many challenges ahead. Previous councils would tap into reserves, and the problem becomes too expensive to fix in the long run.”

Huson also praised several other aspects of the budget, including the hiring of two new Niagara Regional Police officers for its sexual assault unit, and two additional officers for a new human trafficking unit. The Region also kept a $300,000 culture program in the budget in the aftermath of cutbacks at the provincial level.

Page 15

Wainfleet moves to buy property

BY VOICE STAFF Council of the Township of Wainfleet has authorized the purchase of a piece of property located just west of Chambers Corners. The parcel, located at 42143 Highway 3, is directly adjacent to another property already owned by the Township.

“The Township has taken a crucial step towards the long-awaited construction of a new fire hall,” said Mayor Kevin Gibson. “This site, with its central location, will act as the primary headquarters for the future delivery of fire protection and emergency services in Wainfleet.”

Wainfleet Fire Chief Morgan Alcock sees the acquisition of the property as a logical one.

quire this new property, and combine it with the existing one, as a site for our new fire Hall shows a strong connection and respect for the decisions of past councils, while showing the kind of vision and leadership that will position the Township well for the future,” he said.

According to a statement

by the Township, council plans to lay the groundwork for the new fire hall project in 2019. This will include reaching out to other emergency service providers, such as EMS/paramedics/ ambulance and police, “to gauge their ability to participate in the project and potentially increase service delivery within Wainfleet.”

I’m In Your Neighbourhood

GARY SNIDER BROKER

905-988-2205 gsnider@bosleyrealestate.com

Bosley Real Estate Brokerage Ltd

The Township has taken a crucial step

3.5” x 2.5” | Maximum Font Size: 30 pt Member - Canadian Investor Protection Fund

Working together for your financial future Nicolle A Lalonde Financial Advisor

“The previous 2013 Fire Master Plan prepared by T.L. Powell & Associates Ltd. and Cyril Hare & Associates Inc., as well as the 2016 Fire and Emergency Services Operational Review Final Report from Dillon Consulting, identified Chambers Corners as a prime location for the construction of such a facility,” Alcock said of the proposed fire hall.

“Our own review and fire service mapping also confirm this as a significant improvement to both response and coverage for the citizens of the Wainfleet.”

Wainfleet CAO William Kolasa praised Council’s decision. “Council’s foresight and direction to ac-

RENOVATE

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

nicolle.lalonde@edwardjones.com

www.edwardjones.ca MKT-5894B-C

Direct 289.697.6445 Office 905.892.1702

DUNNVILLE VETERINARY CLINIC Est. 1952 Closer than you think!

YOUR HOME

Same-day appointments

- Same-day test results, most while you wait - Large, well-established practice

ASK ABOUT OUR

WITH LOUWES

WELLNESS PACKAGE 110 Ramsey Dr., Dunnville, ON N1A 1K8 Phone: (905) 774-7642 1-800-263-6496 vets@dunnvillevetclinic.com

STAY WARMER THIS WINTER

Mon - Fri: 8 AM to 6 PM • Sat: 8 AM to 2 PM • Closed Sunday

www.dunnvillevetclinic.com

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 will save you money in the long term by keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter.

Call or visit our showroom today for a FREE ESTIMATE on your home!

FINANCING AVALABLE (OAC)

TEMPERATURES ARE FALLING CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

WE SERVICE ALL MAKES & MODELS

905.562.5831

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

MAINTENANCE • FURNACES AIR CONDITIONERS

BOB REID r Fall Book you Heating & Air Conditioning nce Maintena Y TODA !

RESIDENTIAL – COMMERCIAL

905-892-7787

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

Page 16

The Voice of Pelham, March 6 2019

SPEAKING A DIFFERENT KIND OF GRASS

continued from Page 11

Their “grass skirts” may have been woven more from polyethylene than hibiscus and flax, but they tipped the balance toward victory.

The Pelham Mayor’s team took home the Best Dressed prize last Saturday in the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of South Niagara’s annual Bowling for Kids Sake fundraiser, held at Jeff’s Bowl-o-Rama, in Welland. Councillors Mike Ciolfi, Lisa Haun, Bob Hildebrandt, and Marianne Stewart, plus Mayor Junkin, arrived sporting Hawaiian-themed attire, to the evident delight of the judges. “It was a lot of fun and money was raised for a good cause,” said Stewart, who also provided this photographic evidence, which will now live forever online. Pictured: Mayor Marvin Junkin and Councillor Bob Hildbrandt.

meaning how effective and clear they communicated their thoughts and ideas. Garner noted the judges difficulty in making a decision.

Similarly, many winners from the Legion's contest entered The Fonthill and Fenwick Lions' Effective Speaking contest, winning more cash and ribbons. This year this event was conveniently held at the Legion the following day.

"It's not usually held back-toback, " said Eleanor Arbour, Lioness' District Chair, who’s been organizing the event for about six years. The Lion's contest hosted 14 youths, but this year there were no speakers in the Senior category, which is Grades 10 to 12.

When asked why the two service organizations don't combine events, Arbour said, "We run our events totally different from each other.”

The Lions include all the schools in Pelham, including two French schools—Ecole Elementaire Nouvel Horizon on Quaker Road, and Ecole Secondaire Confederation in Welland. This year, there were no

MARIANNE STEWART PHOTO

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca French speakers, or home-schooled children, she noted. In the past, the Lions have used three English- and three French-speaking judges to score the contest.

Contrary to the Legion, the Lions allocate numbers to their contestants and don't use names to try and eliminate any favouritism, noted Arbour adding, "The judge might happen to know or recognize one of the students names."

The Lions also include an impromptu component to its speaking contest, which involves the intermediate entrants randomly drawing a topic written on pieces of paper out of a bowl. They can draw twice, and pick which topic they prefer, but then they have 15 minutes to write a speech and present it to the audience.

This follows their original five to seven-minute speach, so the contest lasts all afternoon, explained Arbour.

Despite the length of the contest, she said, "It always amazes me the ideas they come up with to talk on every year."

Many of the winners have an opportunity to compete in their respective district and provincial finals, if they so choose.

Hunter is our Lazyboy!