No more alarms for Popko page 3 Lyme disease worry in Fonthill page 8 Olympian enters Hall of Fame page 17 EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS
Larry “BILKO” Bilkszto
SELL phone: 905-321-2261 www.pineSOLD.com
DEBBIE PINE SALES REPRESENTATIVE 905.892.0222 debbiepine@royallepage.ca
E S T A B L I S H E D
1 9 9 7
k
Darcy Richardson, CPA, CA | Broker
RE/MAX® Garden City
DARCYRICHARDSON.CA darcy@revelrealty.ca 905.321.6292
Realty Inc., Brokerage
www.bilko.ca
NRC Realty, Brokerage
Independently Owned & Operated
k
The Voice
Your Local Sales Representative 905-563-3330 • 905-641-1110
bilko@rgcmail.com
Vol.23 No.45
November 20, 2019
FREE
Grant for seniors
Column Six
Yet another thing to avoid while driving
Active Living Centres getting cash infusion
Keep an eye out for the slick, Slick
BY VOICE STAFF Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff arrived at the community centre last Wednesday morning with his pockets figuratively filled with cash. With scant advance notice, his office alerted the media and the Town of Pelham that he would make a funding announcement related to seniors. Mayor Marvin Junkin introduced Oosterhoff to a crowd of 20 or so onlookers in the canteen seating area, upstairs next to the walking track, where the assembled group drew the momentary attention of walkers as they passed, peeping curiously through the plate glass windows. Councillors Wink, Hildebrandt, and Stewart were also present. The province is allocating $14.1 million dollars to some 300 Seniors Active Living Centres. According to a statement released by Oosterhoff’s office, such programs support some 100,000 seniors across the province, and this funding “will provide a variety of programming and activities to help seniors stay active,
BY DAVE BURKET
The VOICE
R community. The money will be used wisely to achieve maximum benefits for the seniors in our community.” Mayor Junkin was pleased. “The $52,000 grant that was personally presented to the Town by our MPP,” Junkin said, “is to be used to facilitate seniors’ programming provided by the Town. Portions of it will go to programmer's wages, and supplies for the Seniors
EGULAR READERS will recall that last week in this space ran the story of a man who went out for a drive in 1953 and got rammed by a train—luckily at slow speed. Robert Norminton’s tale was on my mind last Tuesday morning as I delivered bundles of the Voice to various retail locations around town (everyone does at little of everything at a paper our size). This was the morning after the big dump of snow, this winter’s premature beginning. I was driving with extra caution, lest an unseen locomotive suddenly appear. Pelham’s roads were not, to put it mildly, particularly well plowed. En route I happened across the Mayor, at the Timmy’s in Fonthill, and said as much, suggesting that if this is what union-
See ACTIVE Page 14
See COLUMN SIX page 12
MPP Sam Oosterhoff, left, is shown a vision of the future last Wednesday at the community centre by Vickie vanRavenswaay, Director of Recreation, Culture and Wellness, and Teresa Quinlin, Town Treasurer. BOB LOBLAW PHOTO socially engaged, safe, and healthy.” The bottom line for Niagara: $147,481. The Towns of Pelham and Grimsby will receive $52,727 each in funding for 20192020, while the Town of Lincoln will receive $42,027. “This funding will go a long way in helping seniors in Niagara stay active and socially connected, while also preventing social isolation,” said Oosterhoff, reading from prepared remarks. The senior population in
Ontario is the fastest growing age group. By 2023, there will be three million Ontarians over the age of 65, or about 20% of the population. “We are an 'aging' community, and any assistance for Seniors programs is very much welcomed and appreciated,” said Councillor Marianne Stewart. “It always feels like it's a 'gift' to be grateful for, even though it's taxpayer money just stored in a different pocket.”
Councillor Mike Ciolfi was also appreciative. “This funding and other sources like it will be beneficial to allow the active seniors program in Pelham to purchase equipment, maintain and initiate new programs, services and seminars to encourage active engagement and healthy lifestyles for seniors in our community.” Councillor Ron Kore acknowledged Oosterhoff, saying, “I know Sam Oosterhoff works hard for our
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS NRC REALTY, Brokerage 1815 Merritville, Hwy 1 FONTHILL, ON
www.pineSOLD.com
DEBBIE PINE SALES REPRESENTATIVE 905.892.0222
NIAGARA / FONTHILL, ON People are planners by nature. We make big plans, small ones, and the most important plans we reserve for our loved ones. Want to make it easier for them emotionally and financially? - plan to call us today.
debbiepine@royallepage.ca SELL phone: 905-321-2261
Page 2
The Voice, November 20, 2019
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
THE VOICE POLL / RESULTS
PUBLISHER’S CORNER
Should Don Cherry have been fired?
by Dave Burket
A rough week on the reporting front: Well, inconvenient, anyway. New freelance contributor Maeve Keating was hard at work on a story about a local award-winner, when her boyfriend broke his ankle. A couple of lengthy trips to the emergency room, and some surgery later, he’s recovering, but the story has been delayed ‘til next week. And yours truly managed to get into a spot of bother last Tuesday, as well. See this week’s Column Six...Another alum made good: Our occasional contributor Jane Bedard has a new book coming out, There’s No Place Like Home (ad, p. 9), and we’re all invited to her book readings at the White Oaks Resort (Nov. 28), and the Fonthill branch of the Pelham Library (Dec. 4). I’m eagerly awaiting my own copy...While we’re at the library: Make a calendar entry for the Friends of Maple Acre Christmas in the Country fundraiser (classified ad, p. 15) this Friday and Saturday. Santa and one of his elves will be on scene on Saturday...In Fenwick feline news: the missing cat whose wanted photo ran for a couple of weeks in the Classifieds has been found. “He’s a little thinner and with a cold but considering, not bad at all,” reports Sharon Corish of her mom’s kitty, who came walking back in all by himself, having gotten up to who knows what adventures...It was a typo, but not a bad idea: A week or so ago a news release came in with a typo. Instead of “Fire Prevention Officer,” the title read, “Ire Prevention Officer.” What a fine idea. A sort of Miss Manners, with citation authority, and no shortage of prickly perps to bust. Surely there’s grant money available somewhere...Scams galore: Every week seems to bring a new threat to our privacy and purses. The wonderfully named Brock Godfrey, who sounds like Dick Tracy’s boss (but isn’t actually a copper), comes to the community centre next Wednesday to make two public presentations with tips on how to avoid getting fleeced by Nigerian princes, long-lost “relatives” stranded in France, and ne’er-do-wells closer to home (article, this page). If you have the time, it might save your savings…An electrifying view: Finally, we present another look through Louis Albanese’s lens (centrespread). The good doctor visited the historic Rankine Power Generating Station on an open day, late in October, and shares one of the views on offer. Imagine all those turbines in operation at once. They must have been magnificent in their day. ♦
Support your local service clubs
YES 42%
As last week's paper went to press, we posted a single survey question on our website and Facebook page:
In view of his history of controversial comments, was his latest a step too far? Should Don Cherry have been fired for the remarks he made?
NO 58%
Over the next six days, 281 votes were recorded, our highest response of the year. (In second place, 263 responses for our March poll on whether the arches above Town Square should be rebuilt.) Early results were evenly split. As the week went on, the no votes pulled ahead to a clear majority. That said, there seems to be almost equally strong support for Cherry's departure. ADVISORY: While safeguards are in place to eliminate multiple votes, this is a self-selected poll, meaning it has no scientific validity compared to a formal random survey undertaken by a professional polling firm.
Free anti-fraud seminar coming to community centre BY VOICE STAFF Brock Godfrey, a retired educator with a specialty in anti-fraud, and a recipient of the Superintendent's Award of Distinction from the RCMP, is coming to the community centre next Wednesday, November 27. Hosting two sessions, Godfrey’s focus is on identifying scams and what you can do to safeguard yourself from scammers. The morning session, 10:30-11:30 AM, is a presentation aimed at seniors, covering mass marketing fraud, identity theft, romance, and other scams —specifically, how to avoid them. The afternoon ses-
Voice
sion, 1-2 PM, tackles cyber security, passwords, anti-virus software, and more. “It seems as though a new scam is popping up all the time,” said Julie Cook, Town of Pelham Recreation and Wellness Programmer. “These types of sessions are very valuable to our community, especially our seniors, but everyone can benefit. No one is immune to being a target of cyber or phone scams.” Godfrey brings his presentation as part of the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, formerly Phone Busters, a joint operation of the RCMP, the OPP, and the Competition Bureau of Canada. They are the central agency
in Canada collecting information and criminal intelligence on such matters as mass marketing fraud (e.g., telemarketing), advance fee fraud (e.g., West African letters), internet fraud, and identification theft complaints. “I am a 22-year senior volunteer with the group and do most of their presentations in Southern Ontario,” said Godfrey. “In the
The
Congratulations
on vacation!
Voice
CARRIER
OF THE WEEK!
905-892-8690 Find the Voice at these locations:
Ethan
Thomas Sponsored by FONTHILL FONTHILL
Indulgence Bakery Mossimo’s Pelham Street Grille Sobeys Fonthill Peter Piper’s Pubhouse DeVries Fruit Farm Beamer’s Hardware Pelham Libraries Bob’s Boys Antiques PharmaChoice Pharmacy Fonthill Fitness Fenwick Pie Company McDonald’s Duffin Appleworks Fonthill Legion Semenuk’s Gas Bar Shoppers Drug Mart Tim Horton’s Giant Tiger Fonthill LCBO Zee Lube Express Care Food Basics Minor Bros Stores Avondale Stores A-1 Market Boggio's IDA Sobeys South Pelham Grill on Canboro Shell on Hwy 20 Circle-K
Hwy 20, Fonthill
7 to 11 10 daily Open 6
(905) 892-2570
Bakery, Deli, Deli, Hot Hot meals meals Bakery,
If your message to Pelham isn’t in our pages,
Then it isn’t being seen.
Phil and Merle Gatenby, visiting The Little Mermaid, in Copenhagen, Denmark. Hvilken fin avis, siger hun!
The Voice
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
office@thevoiceofpelham.ca
TREASURES OF THE RHINE RIVER
The paper that Pelham reads.
Downtown Fonthill—where exciting travel begins!
(905) 892-8690 advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca
13 days. Departs August 10 2020. Escorted from Niagara. Two nights in Zürich, Cruise, plus Amsterdam one night. Almost all-inclusive from $8139 per person. Remember you are TICO protected when booking with us.
Type your pithy letter to the Voice right
We've been there! Call Pam or Jim
905.892.7900
www.niagara.cruiseholidays.com 1400 Pelham St., Fonthill Book Local TICO Reg 4559761
last few years, I have made hundreds of presentations to a variety of groups.” The sessions are open to everyone and are free to attend. There is an option to purchase lunch for $3. Those wishing to attend are asked to register through the Town’s registration link: https:// www.eventbrite.ca/e/commun it y-for um-reg ist ration-78473411085
The Voice PUBLISHED INDEPENDENTLY IN PELHAM
DEBBIE PINE
SALES REPRESENTATIVE 905.892.0222 SELL phone: 905-321-2261
Niagara Real Estate Center, Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated
debbiepine@royallepage.ca
Vol.20 No.48
CELEBRATING OUR 20TH YEAR
Wednesday, February 8, 2017
DSBN wants portion of Town park
FREE
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
The Voice PUBLISHED INDEPENDENTLY IN PELHAM
NIAGARA’S BEST-READ WEEKLY SINCE 1997
Independently Owned & Operated
Vol.20 No.39
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
FREE
Oops: No fire trucks for you
Column Six
The Comfort Maple myth
Get
Pined -Sol Pelham’sPelham’s Health Food Store
Food 111Health Hwy. 20 E., Unit Store 5, Fonthill
Haist Street traffic-calming measure a little too effective
111 Hwy. 20 E., Unit 5, Fonthill 905-892-9054 www.healthycupboard.ca
905-892-9054
Mon-Wed 9:30-6:00pm • Thur-Fri 9:30-7:00pm • Sat 9:30-5:00pm
www.healthycupboard.ca
Debbie Pine SALES REPRESENTATIVE pinesold.com
Mon-Wed 9:30-6:00pm ◆ Thur-Fri 9:30-7:00pm Sat 9:30-5:00pm
The Voice PUBLISHED INDEPENDENTLY IN PELHAM
New Location Coming Soon!
Niagara Real Estate Center, Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated
Column Six
Growing up British
BY JULIE MANNELL
Special to the VOICE
W
BALLOONING INTEREST Grade 6 student Jinja Shepherd explains her experiment on static electricity at the Glynn A. Green NATE SMELLE PHOTO Public School's annual science fair last Friday. See story, page 3.
Public meeting tonight on school issues BY VOICE STAFF As questions continue to mount regarding an email that Pelham Mayor Dave Augustyn quietly sent to a District School Board of Niagara trustee last summer, Augustyn has agreed to address the issue at a public meeting scheduled for this evening, Wednesday, Feb. 8, in Fenwick. Nancy Beamer, speaking for “Names Matter,” a Pelham citizens group lobbying the DSBN to reverse its decision to rename a local public school, confirms that the meeting will be held at Fire Station #2, known locally as the Fenwick Fire Hall, starting at 7:00 PM. While the Mayor has agreed to ap-
Under pressure, Mayor to address email revelation, other E. W. Farr matters pear, says Beamer, DSBN officials associated with the school-naming process have either declined to attend or have not yet responded to the group’s invitation. DSBN Chair, Dale Robinson, to whom Augustyn’s email was addressed last June, has declined to appear, says Beamer, asserting that she would be
“on holidays.” The Voice was unable to independently confirm Robinsion’s intentions. She did not respond to repeated requests for comment on E.W. Farr-related matters before presstime. Beamer, whose group maintains an email list of some 580 residents, says that all members of the public are invited and encouraged to attend the meeting. “We would especially welcome parents and children who are unhappy with the name change,” she says, referring to the contentious decision by the DSBN to consolidate two Pelham See MEETING back page
HEN I WAS young, my father and I would go for long drives along the rural routes of Pelham. We’d blast George Thurgood and roll down the windows because we loved the smell of the breeze, the sensation of crisp Niagara wind beating our cheeks and tangling our hair against our summer-kissed skin. My father was not a sentimental man. He worked in factories and had a Gordon Lightfoot mustache and never shed tears over injuries. Yet something about the Pelham landscape, the hilly backdrop to his childhood and the childhoods of our ancestors, drew him in. He’d stop by a farm or a gathering of woods and, surrendering his manly veneer, tell me a story about the town. This place is precious. This is the earth that granted us life. Here is the place where we happened upon love or here is a site of devastation. On one particular drive sometime in the late ‘90s we stopped at a tree with a plaque. “This tree looks dead,” I said to my father. “It sure is getting there, Julie.” The Comfort Maple is supposedly Canada’s oldest See COLUMN SIX Page 14
Part 2 of 2: Coronation to embarkation
Vol.20 No.32
BY VOICE STAFF
A construction error was discovered following the opening of a traffic calming chicane on Haist Street north of Hwy 20 last Monday that prevented large vehicles from passing through. One resident living in the neighbourhood said he contacted the Town after seeing a small schoolbus get stuck as it tried to get through the new traffic calming measure. Later that day while driving behind a cement truck, he said that he became concerned for the public’s safety when the truck had to turn around because it couldn’t get through. “If a small school bus and a cement truck can’t make it through what about a fire
BY HEATHER McLAREN ROHRER
Special to the VOICE
A
Repair measures underway last week to correct a construction error in the chicane. truck or an ambulance?” he said. While waiting for the contractor to return to fix
the mistake, the Town has taken measures to temporarily allow passage for vehicles through the neigh-
VOICE PHOTO
bourhood in the short-term. Manager of Public Works Ryan Cook said that after discovering the issue with
the chicane the morning it first opened, the Town See CHICANE Page 5
Petition-inspired changes coming to 2017 Summerfest BY NATE SMELLE
The VOICE
Representatives from the Pelham Summerfest committee Candy Ashbee and Bill Gibson presented council with a final report on the 2016 Summerfest at the Council meeting on Monday, Nov. 21. Prompted by a story in the Voice in August about a merchant petition to move Summerfest from Pelham Street, in September Town staff met with various stakeholders to hear their complaints, promising at the time that changes in the way Summerfest was mounted would be con-
sidered. The main concerns identified during the community engagement process were security, parking, ensuring customer can access all businesses in town, and liability for damages. How to get all Pelham Street businesses to participate and finding ways to make it beneficial for them to set up a booth were also determined to be of high priority for the committee as they plan for next year’s event. Gibson told Council that the committee is addressing these concerns in a variety of ways. To improve parking, they intend to create bet-
ter signage for out-of-town visitors to designated parking areas and shuttle services. To make participation in Summerfest more enticing to local businesses, they plan to implement a tiered-charge for booths. Under the new system, Pelham Street business owners will be charged the least, other local businesses will pay a slightly higher fee, and vendors from outside Pelham will pay the most. In response to more specific issues for individual businesses, they will also slightly alter the footprint of the event and make adjustments to security. Another way the committee plans
to improve the 2017 Summerfest is by sponsoring and working with the organizers of the Thursday Night Bandshell Concert series to select the artist performing on the first night of Summefest. They also intend to make more use of the smartphone app they launched in 2016. "We are really going to push it this year," Ashbee said. “It really helps to get people to see what events there are so they can plan out where they are going. We will be able to actually help the merchants and local businesses adSee CHANGES Page 5
FTER LUNCH ON Saturday, Mum and Dad had my afternoon cut out for me. Mum had more brass than anyone I knew, and it had to be cleaned. In addition there was the set of silver fish-knives and forks which were never used, but which had to be cleaned and put back in their velvetlined box. Next was a walk to the newsagents to pay for the daily delivery of the Daily Mirror. As I said, Dad was a printer, but when he was 37 he had been rejected for a job, as being too old, by the printers of the Beano. For that reason, my favourite comic was not allowed in the house, but while I was paying the papers, the newsagent let me have a 'shoofty' at the Beano. I'd explained my predicament and he understood completely. Sundays were different again. Dad would play golf on summer mornings and billiards in winter. Then he'd stop for a 'refresher' at the local and would pick up the prawns, cockles, winkles or whelks we'd be having for tea later. Meanwhile, Mum was roasting the 'joint' and potatoes. I got to make the Yorkshire pud, and mint
Wednesday October 12, 2016
FREE
Apple Day comes to Fonthill
See COLUMN SIX Page 14
BY VOICE STAFF
The goal is to have these youth develop into confident and well-rounded individuals
ceives them, enabling youth to have experiences that build character, challenge them, and allow them to try new things. The goal is to have these youth develop into confident and wellrounded individuals, better prepared for success. Apple Day helps to achieve that.”
“Any money raised during Apple Day goes towards improving the Scouting program by providing more outdoor adventures for youth, camping equipment, canoes and paddles, training and many other endeavours that the youth want to experience,” says Marie. Scouts Canada has some 100,000 members across Canada, and carries out programs for boys, girls
Joining their principal, Karen Simpson, at the Sept. 19 Council meeting as part of a delegation from EL Crossley Secondary School, students Abby Loewen and Neenah Williams presented Council with a list of reasons that they should immediately approve the construction of the new sidewalk proposed along Hwy. 20. The asphalt side-
walk/trail is slated to be built between the south side of the road from Timmsdale Crescent to the high school. Because of the large volume of motor vehicle traffic travelling at high speeds through this area, and because of the necessity for students to tread this path on a daily basis, many residents would like to see the sidewalk go in sooner than later. After delivering to Council a petition containing
Many residents would like to see the sidewalk go in sooner than later the names of 450 students calling for a safer walk to school, Simpson handed the
podium over to Loewen and Williams to plead their case. Loewen told Council that because there are a lot of students who have work placements and coop placements during the school year, this is the only route for many of them to travel. As one of the students facing this predicament, Williams said she has had no other option but to walk along the dangerous highway.
www.pennylanesold.com
H EATHER AND P ENNY L ANE S ALES R EPRESENTATIVES
BY JOHN SWART
VOICE Correspondent
and youth ages 5-25. This year the 3rd Fonthill Group, which includes Beavers to Ventures (youth ages 5- 25) will be hitting the streets to drum-up support. Over the weekend, Scouts will be set up in Fonthill outside Sobeys, Tim Hortons, Target Gas station, Fonthill Shopping Plaza and the Pioneer Gas station at the corner of Hwys 20 and 24.
Town Council approves sidewalk to serve E. L. Crossley BY NATE SMELLE
The VOICE
Cell 905.933.3049
T
Second year Beaver with the 3rd Fonthill Group, Russell Letford offers a fresh apple to shoppers in Pelham during the 2015 Apple Day campaign. SUPPLIED PHOTO A longtime Canadian tradition, Apple Day began in 1932 in Saint John, New Brunswick, when Scouts handed out 21,000 apples as a way to say thank you to the community. In return for their generosity, many people offered them donations. From then on Scouts have reached out through Apple Day to raise funds for their programs.
Office 905.892.1702
Column Six It doesn’t get better than Autumn
Longtime Scouting tradition dates to 1932
While shopping in Fonthill between Friday and Sunday, keep an eye out for Beavers, Cubs and Scouts in front of local stores with bushels of apples. As part of the annual Apple Day campaign, Scouting youth of all ages will be trading apples for donations. The yearly fundraising drive is an important way for young Scouts to connect with the communities they are serving, says Leah Marie of Scouts Canada. “The Apple Day campaign holds a great tradition of being able to have youth interacting within the communities they live in,” she says. “All of the Apple Day donations stay directly within the group that re-
this minute!
NIAGARA’S BEST-READ WEEKLY SINCE 1997
www.facebook.com/voiceofpelham
Request made of community still peeved at name change
See DSBN Page 9
Food 111Health Hwy. 20 E., Unit Store 5, Fonthill
Visit Us on Facebook
BY VOICE STAFF The District School Board of Niagara is requesting that the Town of Pelham cede a portion of Cherry Ridge Park for use as a soccer field to serve the students of the new Wellington Heights Public School, formerly the E. W. Farr Memorial Public School, in Fenwick. Currently under renovation and expansion, the new school will combine students and staff from the previous school and Pelham Centre, where classes are being held while construction continues. Two letters, containing virtually identical text but signed by different authorities, were sent last week to nearby residents of the park, as well as to parents of Pelham Centre students. “The DSBN is currently building onto Wellington Heights Public School on Alsop Drive,” states the letter. “The size of the school's addition means the existing small soccer field will be eliminated. The Town and the Board have been discussing the possibility of working together to create a field for both the school and the
Get
Pined -Sol Pelham’sPelham’s Health Food Store
“I start work at 2:30 PM and school lets out at 2:15 PM so I can’t take any other route,” Williams explained. “I have had friends, family, teachers and other community members reach out to me in the past about how this is unsafe and how there should be another alternative for us.” Looking ahead to winter, when she will need to walk this path three or four times See SIDEWALK Page 2
HERE IS NO BETTER time to cycle than Fall. It matters not whether you’re new to the sport, a seasoned recreational cyclist, racer, touring rider or mountain biker; we all have reason to look forward to autumn. Summer’s heat has faded, and the streams of sweat that ran from soggy helmets into our eyes are now just slight perspiration. Fitness is peaking from lots of saddle time, making those tough climbs of Spring a breeze in Autumn. It’s hard to beat the feeling of beginning a crisp, cool Fall ride with a slight shiver, knowing your efforts will soon warm you perfectly. The hues of Autumn are outstanding. A Pelham route as simple as following our southern boundary is one that would make most Toronto cyclists jealous, especially when our forests and fields are ablaze with colour. Begin from Harold Black Park, and zig-zag south along Effingham Rd toward the Welland River. If you’re new to cycling, it’s important to know south is the direction away from any hills. If you avoid the morning and evening weekday rush hours caused by those travelling through Pelham between Wainfleet See AUTUMN Page 3
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
The Voice, November 20, 2019
Page 3
Firefighter George Popko heads into retirement Three decades of service in Fenwick BY MEGAN METLER
Special to the VOICE
On Wednesday, October 29th, Pelham Station #2 firefighter George Popko attended his last training night before his retirement. “I’ve been here for thirty-one years and three months,” said Popko. “You know, a year ago I was thinking that I’ve got a year left and it goes by so quick.” Firefighters picked him up in a firetruck and took him on his final drive around the Fenwick area before returning to the station. At the beginning of the training, the old fire siren was set off in honour of Popko and all that he has done for the station and the community. “He is part of our foundation and helped build it. We couldn’t have gotten to where we are without him,” said Captain Dave Nicholes. District Chief Adam Arbour expressed gratitude to Popko for helping train each of them to be a firefighter with skill, professionalism and humility, just as he did throughout his entire firefighting career. Popko, who is 65, expressed his appreciation for his teammates and everything they have been through together—the fun experiences, the joking and the laughing. “They’re the greatest bunch of guys in the fire department that you’ll ever have the pleasure of knowing,” said Popko. He knows just how important it is to be a firefighter. Not everyone would get up at all hours of the night and during the day to rush out to save people and the community. “You have to be a certain type of person to do this and to me, we’re special. We’re cut out for this,” Popko said. Bad things happen all the time in firefighting and they make the best of it. They are a team and no one does anything by themselves, it’s all teamwork.
“You have to credit one and all. To our successes and our failures,” said Popko, “When we fail, well, you can blame all of us too.” An especially interesting call that Popko attended during his last few months was on August 17. Popko, Mike Himerich and Marcel Morrin were sent to a home in Fenwick regarding chest pains. “This particular case was, he was conscious,” said Popko. “He was talking and I thought it would be another one of those incidents, where the ambulance comes and everything was going to be fine.” Popco says the man was sitting in a chair, went unconscious and his heart stopped. Firefighters moved him to the floor and started CPR immediately. “Another firefighter was preparing the defib, put the pads on him and shocked him once and it was like a miracle, he came to,” said Popko, who added that no one had to be told to do anything—instinct, and years of training, kicked in. “And I still pinch myself today. What happened? Did we actually save someone? Or maybe the big guy up above had something to do with it.” One of Popko’s favourite duties was when he was on the extraction team. For ten years he practiced and competed in numerous competitions. After being a firefighter for so long, Popko said that there will be some adjustment. “I’m proud of the guys that we have, the training has come a long way and it continues to get better,” he said. “I’m leaving the department in good hands and I’m very impressed with the new recruits and the younger generation.” “George can now turn off his pager and enjoy retirement,” said Arbour. “The next Pelham 229 will have big boots to fill.”
Top, George Popko receives a frame containing mementos of his firefighting career. Above, the men of Pelham Fire Department Station #2, convention hosts for the 1991 Niagara District Firefighters' Convention. Popko is in the centre row, fifth from right, and inset, right. Left, Popko climbs aboard for his last training session. SUPPLIED PHOTOS
NOMINATIONS WANTED Do you know someone between the ages of 6-17 who is making a difference within their community? Nominate them for an Ontario Junior Citizen Award today!
DEADLINE IS NOVEMBER 30, 2019 Nomination forms are available from this newspaper, and at www.ocna.org/juniorcitizen. Or call 416-923-7724 ext. 4439
COORDINATED BY:
Page 4
The Voice, November 20, 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 Colin Brzezcki Grapes of Wrath, Cherry-flavour edition
I
S U P P O SE F I R I NG Don Cherry was the only option left for his employers when they couldn’t squeeze an apology out of him. But unlike his co-host Ron MacLean, Sportsnet can’t claim they “didn’t see it coming.” Of course they did. Not only did they broadcast the taped Cherry rant twice that same night, they originally hired him for his unfiltered self. He came exactly as advertised. Irascible, opinionated, never wrong, a no-holdsb a r r e d - a n d - g u y - n e x tdoor-kind of guy. A gimme those good old Canadian boys with their rock ‘em sock ‘em Canadian values kind of guy. Someone to take our country back from those left-wing kooks and pinko climate change cuckaloos. He should have stuck to hockey. He knew a lot about it. Not a game for the wussy, eye-shielded, European types, or those Russian types who celebrate goals like soccer players and quit early. But he advocated changes in the game to reduce injury, and he cared a lot about kids in the game, especially the disadvantaged ones. And he loves
Don Cherry. JEREMY GILBERT PHOTO
Bobby Orr, who loves him back, so he can’t be all bad, can he? He is also, and will likely continue to be, a passionate supporter of our troops and our veterans, raising money and raising their spirits, as he did when he visited them in Afghanistan. The film of his tribute to the fallen long buried in a military cemetery in France was played every year at Remembrance time. But last week he went way over the top. “You people who come here” and don’t honour the memory of our heroes by spending a couple of bucks on a poppy was a rant ill-considered, or maybe not
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 Mike Balsom, Jane Bedard, Carolyn Botari, Colin Brezicki, Rosemary Chambers, John Chick, Larry Coté, Gloria J. Katch, Megan Metler, John Piccolo, Bill Potrecz, Bernie Puchalski, John Swart, Mike Tucker, Rob Weatherby NEWS INQUIRIES & TIPS editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca LETTERS TO THE EDITOR letters@thevoiceofpelham.ca ADVERTISING INQUIRIES advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca
considered at all. More from the gut than the brain perhaps. You people who come here are immigrants of course, because everyone else is already here. The remark was pointed and unambiguous. And a supposedly blindsided Ron MacLean endorsed it with a smile and a nod and a thumbs up, though later, seeing the error of his ways, quickly apologized for himself and the defiantly unapologetic Don Cherry. A bit of a dog’s breakfast, that. Like most tempests in Canada, this one began in a teacup, but it’s gaining strength by the day. It’s part of a cold war that no one can ever win. Cherry nailed his colours to the mast and then departed on his own terms. On his shield in fact. "I could have stayed on if I wanted to and knuckled under and turned into a simp. But that's not my style, I'd rather go out on my shield," referencing advice given back in the day to Spartan warriors. Either you win the battle or you come home laid out on your shield. Good Remembrance Day stuff. “Take up our quarrel with See CHERRY Page 20
Letters Some opinions don't deserve to be printed Donald Bradley’s letter commending Dr. Charles Duncan is offensive, and the Voice printing it a vulgar slap in the face to the many women who have testified of Duncan’s sexual abuse [“Hats off for Dr. Charles Duncan,” Letters, Nov. 13, p.4]. This disgusting response in the face of their revelations is precisely why thousands of women do not report sexual abuse. Of course, Mr. Bradley, you were spared his sexist behaviour—you aren’t female. A career is not “well-served” by someone who mistreats people under their care in a trust relationship.
Duncan is not “retiring.” He resigned in disgrace in the face of a professional investigation into accusations of professional misconduct, and is disallowed to renew his license. Unless a “well-deserved retirement” actually means “time behind bars as a senior citizen,” your comment is repulsive. Of course, he is entitled to his “day in court,” and his guilt determined under the law after a tax-paid trial before a judge and jury of his peers, but assertions from unreSee DON'T PRINT next page
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
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
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
FLOWERS FOR ANY OCCASION We offer a large variety of fresh flowers and gifts. Enjoy the convenience of safe and secure ordering online 24 hours a day.
Members of Pelham Town Council
Member of Provincial Parliament
Electoral District: Niagara West
Gilberts Flowers
Mayor of Pelham Marvin Junkin mjunkin@pelham.ca 289-929-2681
Ward 2 Councillor Ron Kore rkore@pelham.ca 905-933-3805
754 Welland Rd, Fenwick www.gilbertsflowers.ca 905-892-2433
Today's forgotten business stopped advertising yesterday
THE PACKING PEOPLE
Certified Transistion & Relocation Services
... and so much more! Downsizing De-cluttering Packing/Unpacking/Setup Free Estimates
Councillor John Wink jwink@pelham.ca 905-892-4475 Ward 3 Councillor Lisa Haun lhaun@pelham.ca 905-892-2607 Councillor Bob Hildebrandt bhildebrandt@pelham.ca 905-892-5647
Certified • Bonded Insured
905-933-0730
www.seniorsonthemoveniagara.com
Jill C. Anthony Law Office
seniorsonthemoveniagara@gmail.com
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, November 20, 2019
Page 5
OPINION Saddle-up Hey it's nice to see John Swart back in the saddle, so to speak. We look forward to his witty and often humourous writing! Cycle on, bro! Ken Edwards Fonthill
Spicy Cherry Don Cherry is Don Cherry—plain and simple! I believe that most Canadians know that he has strong opinions on many varied subjects, and expect what he says to reflect his strong views. If someone finds his view offensive, they all have the ability to tune him out, or turn off the dial completely. He should not have been fired. Did anyone ever fire Don Rickles? Compared to Rickles, Cherry is a saint! Owen Juhlke Via the Voice website
Sour Cherry Mr. Cherry's firing was a logical consequence for bad behaviour. Mr. Cherry should use his mouth to educate people, not to discriminate against them. Cherry has a powerful tool in his voice. His See SOUR next page
DON'T PRINT
continued from previous page lated victims, and the conclusions of the CPSO after their investigation, along with his voluntary surrender of his practice and license, leave little room for a reasonable defence against the abuse of his power and position to mistreat women he should have protected. I am thankful for your sake, Mr. Bradley, that Duncan did what any doctor should do and sent you to a competent specialist, who successfully treated your condition. His referral is nothing exceptional, but exactly what should be done for a patient presenting symptoms beyond the treatment capability of the family doctor. No sound medical decision can exonerate him from his reprehensible conduct toward the women who have bravely spoken out, and such munificent praise shows exceptional disrespect toward them. Mary Beth Tucker Fonthill Editor’s note: In the present era's continuing elevation of sensitivity over truth, the concept of freedom of speech seems to have been twisted beyond recognition—
Three years and three weeks of Town silence After all this time, on October 30, 2019, I decided to go public, and I sent an email to each Town councillor and published my concerns in the Voice. I received one call from Councillor Ciolfi asking if anyone had contacted me, and I answered no sir. That was the only contact I have had in three years and three weeks from the Town. I always thought that the councillors were elected to represent the residents in a fair and unbiased way. My complaints are more than legitimate as they significantly impact my property privacy, performance and value. Major impacts which in any municipality would not be ignored are: 1. 40’ of storm drainpipe, that carries water from three catch basins on Peachtree Park to the Lathrop Ravine, was removed by the builder. Water now collects in the backyards of three homes on Peachtree and Hillcrest. 2. The entire Davis Heights subdivision received thousands of loads of fill to raise the grade over
often into outright censorship. A community newspaper at its best is a neutral platform, welcoming all perspectives. Mr. Bradley’s letter last week, in which he expressed his appreciation for Charles Duncan’s care over the years, represented his position. There are other former Duncan patients in this community for whom Duncan's alleged sexual predation takes a backseat to what they assert was his diagnostic prowess. Does that mean that the Voice endorses this attitude? Of course not. In a community paper, within the bounds of defamation law, everyone gets to have their say. Readers are free to agree or disagree, and write follow-up letters of agreement or disagreement. Democratic principles are not well served by those maligning the messenger, seeking to stifle free speech in the name of some self-declared greater good or sacred sensitivity—that’s Totalitarianism 101. Charles Duncan supporters are free to willfully ignore or minimize the allegations of his misconduct, and in effect tell the community that this is what they’re doing (and be judged by the community accordingly). These are “Opinion” pages. Not “Opinions Guaranteed to Please Everyone” pages, and readers are invited to assess them accordingly.
William Hall INSTALLATIONS
Vinyl Replacement Windows “Tilt-In Feature”
905-892-3757
Unit 15
The approved site plan has house Unit 15 stopping here
six feet. This was done to create basement walk outs and increase the house cost of these approved “bungalows.” Six feet is the height of standard privacy fences. 3. The builder was required under the site plan agreement to install a new privacy fence around the entire subdivision. He has not done that. We have called him several times and
not received a return call. 4. The approved house plans that were vetted during the required public meetings have significantly changed. Unit 15, for example, appears to have doubled in size and moved 60 feet to the east. The public was not made aware of such a significant increase in size. 5. During the past three years, with the grade being
Peachtree Park resident fence
changed so significantly, the watershed also changed and water was cast to our property and this has caused the our fence to wash out. 6. I challenge any resident or councillor to say its just fine to have a new house 15 feet from yours, raised over six feet so those residents look down over your privacy fence into your yard and home. Sincerely, you have to
see this to believe what the Town is ignoring, as shown in my photo with this letter. I now understand why the Town staff wants to hide behind a glass shield at Town Hall. The glass is the only thing transparent in our administration and protection of the residents. Nancy Freeland Peachtree Park Fonthill
Nick’s Cleaners WELLAND Mon-Fri, 8am-5:30pm Sat, 9am-1pm FONTHILL Mon-Fri, 8am-6pm except Wed, 8am-1pm Sat, 9am-1pm
Paul V. D’Amico PAU L @ N I C K S C L E A N E R S . C O M
Professional SERVICES Directory You’re In Good Hands With Us!
Dr. Ken Sawatzky Dental Surgeon
905-892-5002 1428 Pelham St.
Welcome Dr. Bohdan Hrynyk Family Dentistry NEW PATIENTS WELCOME 1428 Pelham Street, Fonthill
Improve Your Health
Change Your Life! 905.892.6200 22 Regional Road 20 West Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0
www.lewisfamilychiropractic.ca
Monday to Friday Morning and afternoon hours
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? Everyone has a story. Tell us yours! NOW ALSO ACCEPTING FICTION— SHORT STORIES UP TO 2000 WORDS!
• VINYL AND ALUMINUM SIDING • 5” SEAMLESS EAVESTROUGH • SOFFIT - FACIA - SHUTTERS • STEEL INSULATED DOORS • 2” SELF - STORING DOORS CALL ANYTIME
New house floor
Write it down, send it in: publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca FREE ESTIMATES
316 Welland Rd., Fenwick
(You won’t get rich, but you will get paid.)
Page 6
The Voice, November 20, 2019
Letters
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
continued
What's the point of having bylaws if they won't be enforced Upon reading a story in another newspaper recently, I understand that if one complains to the Town of
Port Colborne in regards to another person’s property for bylaw offenses, and the offender does not correct the
problem, then the Town will hire out the work and get it done—in this case, adding the $35,000 expense to the
Notice of Public Meeting Class 9 Pesticide Use for 2018
As per Ontario Regulation 63/09, Lookout Point Country Club will be holding a Public Meeting to present the Annual Report regarding the use of Class 9 Pesticides for the 2018 season. This meeting will take place on:
Friday, November 22 at 9am In the Travis Room located at: Lookout Point Country Club 209 Tice Road Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 For more information, please contact Aldo Bortolon, Golf Course Superintendent at 905-687-0150. Please RSVP to Aldo Bortolon via email at aldo@lopcc.com
offender’s tax bill. Complaint enforced. Next, late last month, I read in the Voice how our new mayor and council are treating Nancy Freeland. We went over to see this disaster, and that it is. Our hearts went out to the Freeland family. I don't doubt their property value went down. It makes you wonder— what good are bylaws, if the Town of Pelham ignores them? Then in last week’s Voice I read the story about Emmett Street [Bizarre incident in Fonthill neighborhood dispute, Nov. 13, p.1]. Again I read about bylaw violations reported to the Town by not one person but two people. It shouldn't be difficult to see if a house has been changed to a duplex in single family residential zoning. The Jones family apparently has
also been rejected by those whose wages we pay. We, too, have had a problem with our well-paid bylaw officer, and the Fire Chief, also well-paid. We had a phone chat with Mr. Cribbs our new CAO, also well-paid, and were treated very rudely by Mr. Cribbs. I told him he was the most arrogant man I have ever spoken to. We had a situation with our neighbours and their 79 to 85 inch fence. The bylaw clearly states the maximum height is 72 inches from the ground. We don't mind the fence, but we do mind three sections being a different design than the other part and higher than the rest. We have also talked to the Mayor and our council member, but to no avail. The reason given by the bylaw officer was it wasn't wise to anger
the neighbour, and that the Town did not want to get in the middle of this dispute. I don't recall asking the Town to get in the middle of our dispute. We simply would like the bylaw officer to do his job and enforce the bylaw. We feel everyone who pays property taxes in our town should be treated fairly. I have also talked to our mayor, whom we think very highly of, about a property that desperately needs some cleaning up, but apparently someone has to lodge a complaint so they too can be told, “You don't want anger this resident do you?” It appears to us that the Mayor and council don't really run the town—the CAO and the Fire Chief and bylaw officer have more power than anyone on council. Merelle and Marlene Stirtzinger Fenwick
SOUR
new Canadians. All non-Baby Boomers could use a lesson or two in the meaning and importance of the poppy. I walked through Seaway Mall last week, and I observed, including myself, only a handful of people wearing poppies. There is a need in Canada to be educated in poppy etiquette, how to wear it, when to wear it, and when not to wear it, and that's where Cherry missed the mark. Instead of articulating
nationally his negative racist-sounding comments, Don Cherry could have taken the opportunity to give a positive on-air history lesson of the importance of the poppy for Canadians on Remembrance Day. Mr. Cherry in his arrogance and ignorance missed the mark. He missed a good teaching moment for all Canadians old and new. Pamela Robb Fonthill
continued from previous page voice has enhanced his wellknown and popular celebrity, and his opinionated voice has netted him a rewarding job as a commentator on a popular television program seen by Canadians coast to coast. Here's the thing. Most Canadians need to be either educated or reminded about the history of the poppy, not just
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
Letters
The Voice, November 20, 2019
Page 7
continued
Pelham snow removal too slow
Stronger animal protection laws should include deer
Council must value library
How many citizens in Pelham didn’t get their street plowed until 9:30 in the morning after last week’s snowstorm? Deerpark Crescent and Nursery Lane didn’t get plowed until later in the morning. This Remembrance Day snowstorm sure caused a panic for residents and visitors. The month of November usually brings the first snowfall to Southern Ontario, but in Niagara we received in the range of 6 to 10 inches of the white stuff. Sure hope this isn’t a sign of things to come for the period of December to March. The staff for the Town of Pelham have to plan better for these winter storms. I suggest due to the timing of this first major snowfall for the 2019-2020 winter season that the streets get plowed by 7 AM. We will have to show some patience for future snow events. When the temperature drops below -15 C, which is expected in the coming months, this will affect the response time for snow removal. Salt won’t work when temperatures plummet this low and if these sub-zero temperatures occur during an afternoon snow storm, then it will be more difficult to clear all town roads and sidewalks.
Hunting is shameful regardless of the race or ethnic background of those doing the hunting. I know I am not alone in this passionate belief because there is a definite pool of people firm in the same belief, but they prefer the comfort of silence. The point that people are completely missing as they choose to stand so passionately for the human race over defenceless prey is the absolute agony and pain before resulting death that these timid deer have to endure. The Short Hills yearly hunt is not the only cruel doing away of the deer, because do not forget the illegal killing throughout the year from deer blinds blatantly evident in the park and elsewhere. The deer will be assaulted by the Short Hill hunters between now and January three more times. The casualty numbers are high in the first two hunts, so like the many species of animals wiped off the planet these deer could one day join them. Propaganda spread by supporters of any hunting, anywhere by anyone, often includes the following strong retorts: 1. People who eat farm meat have no right to point a finger because the slaughterhouses are beyond cruel. Yes, true, but why must you kill wildlife to prove this point that, yes, slaughterhouses are not fun for animals? 2. The meat does not go to waste. So in Canada in 2019 there is absolutely no other source of food instead wildlife, that must be hunted and killed just as long not wasted? 3. Human cultures, histories, treaties and he/she hunted for x- number of years so we have to conform. Rather in 2019 you cannot join the cause of No Bullying? Hunting is violence resulting in life loss. This desensitizes human
The library is a place of freedom...to read what, when, and how you want to. The library is a delivery room for the birth of creativity. The library helps you to see you are not alone in this vast world— somewhere there is someone not so different from yourself. The library is inclusive, democratic, and free, every day, every week, every month. Our Pelham libraries offer encouragement and inspiration through their dedicated staff and programs. The library offers books, music, film and newspapers—a feast for diversified interests. Louise Morgan Fonthill
While I realize that days where the mercury doesn’t rise above -15 are rare in our area, we still need to prepare for these frigid occasions. Without a doubt,
Nobody wants to be stranded and unable to get out of their house
only sand can be used to improve traction on the town’s thoroughfares for the duration of these storms. In conclusion, how many residents didn’t get their road plowed until 9:30 AM? The Town of Pelham should be quicker next time when there is another major winter storm, and it’s mild enough for winter salt to function. Nobody wants to be stranded and unable to get out of their house until later in the morning. Brandon Young Fonthill
brains. 4. The deer are killed cleanly and quickly, etc. Well, they still feel that steel ripping through by arrow or bullet. 5. Nothing can be done to stop it. That one is a corker, because most people are nauseated and completely mentally, spiritually sick over hunting. But instead of taking a stance against hunting they bury their heads in the sand and ask you not to speak of it. 6. Urban sprawl kills more wildlife, cars kill more wildlife, domestic pets kill more wildlife than hunting. So let us hunt and kill more, for that will surely set the right balance? 7. That many deer in that small an area will starve, since they cannot possibly be sustained. But yet they are healthy and not chained? 8. The deer are responsible for killing vegetation and the deer are eating the wrong plants. 9. Their natural predators are extinct so we must take over to balance nature. A local mayor did a wonderful thing by supporting no more circus animal acts on city property, but now in full support of the hunt, so I guess deer don't count. There are others commenting in the media about growing up when Short Hills was a peaceful wildlife sanctuary, but now too willingly go to the other side, and some papers will not print letters supporting deer because it might offend the humans (my conclusion). Go figure. The deer are shocked awake before sunrise and terrorized nonstop until exhaustion and then killed. Please really picture in your mind with true honesty—what happens, and don't excuse it. Faye Suthons Wainfleet
BLACK FRIDAY SAVINGS ON NOW
$
With HCX Image Processing for Dynamic Colour and Contrast! Dolby Atmos Sound and Bluetooth Audio Link
65INCH
1499
NOW
$
Reg. $2299
SAVE $800
BEST BLACK FRIDAY PRICE GUARANTEE *see store for details
BONUS 2 YEAR WARRANTY ON ALL TV'S PURCHASED IN NOVEMBER ($75-$500 VALUE) *DETAILS IN STORE
130 THOROLD RD, WELLAND 905 788 3221 www.thomastv.com
What is the point of having bylaws if the Town is simply going to ignore them [Bizarre incident in Fonthill neighborhood dispute, Nov. 13, p. 1]. This seems to happen too often in Pelham. Sharon Cook Via Facebook
Mon-Wed: 10-5 Thurs: 10-7 / Fri: 10-8 Sat: 10-5 Sun: Closed
R
JASMINE T
Reg. $1699
SAVE $700
CUTTING EDGE 4K ULTRA HD TV
Why no enforcement
999
NOW
TC55GX800 / TC65GX800
How about the municipal offices moving over [to the community centre] and let the library take over the present municipal offices building? Shirley Ann Welstead Via Facebook
Friday night at 8 PM
55INCH
A AT GRE BUY
Switch it up
Saturday at 2 PM
RENEE & RUBEN Saturday night at 8 PM
WET KNIGHTS
! NEWy Steak
M rd a Satu r, 12-8 P e n Din
Daily Specials
$6 Burger Mondays $ 20 $6/lb Mussels Tuesdays
$7/lb Wings Wednesdays $6 Beef on Weck Thursdays $10 Haddock Fish Fry Fridays $20 Steak Dinner Saturdays, 12-8 PM ON SUNDAYS THE WEEKENDER! All specials on one day!
Page 8
The Voice, November 20, 2019
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
Pelham resident sounds alarm about Lyme disease Town responds that warning signs about ticks going up next spring
They have ignored my requests and passed me from person to person in the Town, without any action being taken
BY JOHN CHICK
Special to the VOICE
While in the shower in April 2018, Hurricane Road resident Cristina Savoia discovered a tick — and a bite mark — on her stomach. Concerned, she put the tick in a container and took it to her doctor. “He felt confident that the tick would not have Lyme disease, and told me to continue my daily routine of walking my dog in the same area because, as he said, ‘There are lots of ticks in Niagara,’” Savoia told the Voice. Six weeks later —long enough for her to take comfort in the idea that no news is good news —Savoia received a call from her doctor’s office. It wasn’t good news. “’Sorry to tell you, but the tick you brought in tested positive for Lyme, please come in,’” she said the receptionist told her. “I was livid.” Savoia, 49, has now been living with Lyme disease for a year and a half, and while she has issues with the way her doctors handled her diagnosis and treatment, she’s also upset that the Town of Pelham hasn’t heeded her warnings about the growing menace. Savoia is certain she picked up the tick while walking her dog in the Lathrop Conservation Area, north of Highway 20, between Pelham and Haist Streets. To make matters worse, she says than an elderly neighbour on her street is also being treated for Lyme disease.
“Two people on the same block have Lyme in Fonthill,” she said. “That should scare people. I requested signage be installed at Lathrop Conservation Area to inform Pelham citizens of my exposure to Lyme … so they could make an informed decision. They have ignored my requests and have passed me from person to person in the Town without action being taken.” The Town told the Voice that about 40 signs are scheduled to go up this coming spring. “About a week ago we received signs from the Region about tick awareness to post for next year,” Communications and Public Relations Specialist Marc MacDonald said last week. “Our park areas currently have signage indicating those spaces are used at your own risk, which would include risk of ticks. They do not specifically reference ticks or Lyme, or any other specific species for that matter.” MacDonald added that Pelham has been trying to get the word out in other manners. “As ticks have seemingly become progressively worse over the years, the Town has tried to piggyback on the Region’s message of tick awareness,” he said. “Last year we increased the amount of information for ticks and tick prevention on our social media pages, website, in our newsletter, and other areas.” Lyme disease is an infectious
A tick warning sign the Town of Pelham says you will see more of next spring. SUPPLIED PHOTO illness that can cause chronic lifetime problems, with a small mortality rate. It is spread via ticks, and Public Health Ontario has zoned all of Niagara as a risk area for Lyme disease. The eastern part of the peninsula appears to have a higher tick population than the west side, the Region’s Manager of Environmental Health Peter Jekel told the St. Catharines Standard in May. Pelham, of course, sits right in the middle. Lyme disease was historically rare in Ontario, with higher infection rates generally seen at lower latitudes in places like Connecticut. However, numbers are on a sharp rise. In 2015, there were some 700 cases of Lyme disease reported to
www.clarescycle.com
the Public Health Agency of Canada, up from about 130 six years earlier. With continuing climate change believed to be a factor in the proliferation, the federal government allotted $4 million for a national Lyme disease framework in 2017. Savoia says it’s not enough, and that Ontario’s medical professionals are ill-equipped to deal with the problem. “I don’t want my current doctor to feel attacked,” she said. “I think he is trying to help, although he’s not sure what the best course of treatment is —which is why he has referred me [to another doctor].” Savoia says she is still waiting for that appointment.
“The first doctor is another story, I am very angry with him.” Her concerns echo other accounts. In 2017, the CBC reported that it took three months for doctors to diagnose a two-yearold Grey County girl with Lyme disease, despite matching symptoms with a widely available list. Savoia says her symptoms include fever, fatigue, a slight facial numbness and occasional chest and joint pain. She did not experience a rash at first, but experts say the “bull’s-eye” rash associated with Lyme disease manifests itself in 70-80 percent of patients. To prevent tick bites, it’s long been advised to wear long pants and sleeves in wooded areas, although that may not come to mind on a humid, 30-degree summer day. People are also advised to use DEET-containing insect repellent and frequently check themselves and their pets for ticks. The Centers for Disease Control also says there are things one can do to “tick-proof” their yard, including removing leaf litter and mowing grass frequently.
You’re Invited to the Fonthill and District Kinsmen’s
58th Annual Kinsmen Senior’s
! T ChristmasOParty U D L O S Wednesday At Pelham’s
MERIDIAN COMMUNITY CENTRE 100 Meridian Way, Fonthill
Dec. 11, 2019, 6:30pm DOORS OPEN AT 6PM
Special performance by
KINDRED
Kitchen music taken to new heights!
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED (905) 346-8288
FREE ADMISSION
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
The Voice, November 20, 2019
Page 9
More friction at Fonthill school Glynn A. Green Public School has seen more than its share of troubles BY JOHN CHICK
Special to the VOICE
during class hours, all school doors are supposed to be locked. “During instructional time all our elementary schools have locked doors,” DSBN Chief Communications Officer Kim Yielding said. “Visitors are required to press a buzzer to request entry, they are then asked to sign in at the school office.” Yielding would not comment directly on Collins-Rivers’ claims. Voice publisher Dave Burket recalls being surprised nearly a year ago that he was able to enter the school on newspaper business simply by opening a door, and walking through hallways to the main office without being challenged. "I mentioned it to the receptionist at the time," said Burket. "It's disappointing to learn that security may still be lax." Compounding matters for the mother is she says her daughter, now in Grade 2, is considered an “at-risk” student, for reasons that the Voice has agreed not to disclose. “It shocks me that this very relaxed approach is still ever-present.” Following the incident, Collins-Rivers said she met with Glynn A. Green’s principal, Todd Halliday. “The day after that happened I went in and talked to the principal about the safe arrival program,” she said, referring to an attendance system that confirms students’ whereabouts with parents if they don’t arrive for morning classes. The day after, however, Collins-Rivers says
A series of alleged missteps by staff at Glynn A. Green Public School has a Fonthill parent up in arms. Tammy Collins-Rivers tells the Voice the issue came to a head two weeks ago, when her daughter’s photograph was briefly posted on a teacher’s public Twitter account. “There’s a [social media consent] form I filled out at the beginning of the year,” Collins-Rivers said. “I’ve always said no. She is actually on the list that all the teachers have that her picture is not to be taken. It’s total incompetence.” However, the mother says her dilemma goes beyond one mistake. In June, Collins-Rivers says she received a telephone call from a temporary employee at the school, saying her daughter was missing. It turned out the girl wasn’t missing at all, but simply hadn’t been seen by the employee. “It caused this massive panic,” Collins-Rivers said. “One, that’s not something you should never say to a parent, and two, she didn’t get up out of her desk and go put eyes on the child to make sure she was accounted for.” Collins-Rivers said she immediately went to Glynn A. Green, entering the school through an unlocked door and wandering around the building unquestioned. This, she said, demonstrated that the school’s security protocols weren’t being followed. The District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) told the Voice that
Pelham Street entrance to Glynn A. Green Public School. she tested this—and asserts the school failed. “The very next day, I deliberately kept my kids at home and I did not get any contact until 10:30,” she said. Collins-Rivers also met with Halliday after the recent Twitter photo incident. She said he told her that the school would try to do better. “My response to that was that’s not good enough,” Collins-Rivers said. “What happens to those [deleted Twitter] pictures? Is she uploading it to a cloud? It’s just concerning all around … we’re banning cellphones for high school students, and yet we’re allowing primary students … we’re letting her teacher pull out her personal device and let her be on social media during school hours.” Halliday told the Voice he could not discuss any information related to individual students or meetings with parents, but defended the school’s reputation. “I can share that I always ensure that parents have the opportunity
It’s Prime Time at the Grille!
to come in and meet with me and the teachers when they have concerns,” the principal said. “I have not had any other parents from our school community relay the same concerns that this parent has made to you.” Glynn A. Green underwent a large staffing turnover coming into this school year, with more than half a dozen teachers being replaced. The DSBN was mum about the changes in September, but Collins-Rivers claims a school superintendent told her that certain previous teachers had approached the job in a lackadaisical manner. “I talked to [Area 2 Elementary School Superintendent] Kelly Pisek in June,” Collins-Rivers said. “She shared a lot of information with me, and I actually said, ‘You probably shouldn’t have shared all that to me.’ She came in and realized it was very relaxed.” Pisek strenuously denies this claim. “I spoke with [Collins-Rivers] last
VOICE PHOTO
year about one incident she reported,” Pisek told the Voice. “It was not connected to the teaching staff changes that your newspaper inquired about. Thank you for reaching out for clarification as making that correlation would be inaccurate.” In January, Glynn A. Green was the site of an infamous bathroom fight video involving male students that ended up on social media. This followed the sudden departure of principal Pam Voth the last fall, an administrator championed by many parents for what they characterized as her unique rapport with students. Collins-Rivers said the fight incident deepened her concerns about the school, and that her other child, a son in Grade 6, is fearful of bullying. A rundown of a school council meeting from October 2018 provided to the Voice indicated some parents had expressed the need for better supervision to ensure fitness breaks were “free of physical altercations and bullying.”
ANNOUNCING 2 LAUNCHES IN NIAGARA
Presenting our classic, all-in
PRIME RIB DINNER
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30 Includes
Succulent Canadian beef, cooked to perfection, $27.99
You r
NEW
hosts
, Carolanne, Catherine & Do
r ee n
potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire Pudding, dessert, with coffee or tea
Chicken option available RESERVATIONS REQUIRED (289) 897-9191
On street parking and plenty more in our own lot
Breakfast & Lunch every day Dinner on Fridays
1507 Pelham Street, Fonthill (289) 897-9191
L.L.B.O. Licensed
Author Jane Bedard
PELHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY
December 4th. 7-9 pm
WHITE OAKS RESORT
November 28th 7-8:30 pm Christmas is coming so lighten up, will ya? Put off Christmas shopping and join local author Jane Bedard as she launches her new book, THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME. Jane has written hilarious articles for The Voice of Pelham, The Globe and Mail, Canadian Living, Reader's Digest, and more. $5 Entry. Refreshments will be served. Register at the library or online or just drop by either location for some fun.
THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME celebrates that most domestic and exotic of all professions: The Stay-at-Home-Mom, yet embraces women from all vocations with poignant and hilarious commentary on motherhood and childhood, sisterhood and daughterhood, wifehood and friendshiphood... all from within Toronto's and Fonthill's hoods and beyond.
Page 10
The Voice, November 20, 2019
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
Through Louis' Lens
T H E PHO T O GR A PH Y OF
LOUIS ALBANESE
C
ONSTRUCTED BETWEEN 1897 and 1905, the Canadian Niagara Power Company powerhouse was inaugurated on January 1, 1905, by the Canadian Niagara Power Company. On January 2, it was formally opened, and two 10,000
horsepower generators—based on a design by Nikola Tesla and generating some 8,500 kilowatts each—were put into operation. Three days later, the company’s founder, William Birch Rankine, died. In 1927, the power station was renamed the Rankine Power Station in his honour. The power house is built on what used to be known as Cedar Island,
on the Canadian side o advantage of the norm flowed around the isla er from the Falls. Wat by a concrete weir, ch ters the penstocks, an the turbines below. Th
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
of the Niagara River. It takes mal river current which once and, located 1,500 feet uprivter is diverted from the river hanneled into the forebay, ennd plunges 136 feet down to he rotating turbines turned a
The Voice, November 20, 2019
40� diameter steel shaft connected to each generator. The generators rotated at 250 revolutions per minute, with a peripheral speed of 110 miles per hour. The generators produce the electricity. After leaving the turbines, water emptied into a 25-foothigh, 2,200-foot-long discharge tunnel into the lower Niagara River at the base of the Horseshoe Falls.
Canadian Niagara Power was the first to undertake a major water tunnel project with significant accuracy—channeling water through tunnels to generate power was a process that started in Niagara Falls. After operating for over a century, the plant was decommissioned in 2006. Pictured is the powerhouse, first floor,which features detailed quality workman-
Page 11
ship throughout. The space features bullnose corner bricks, wrought iron railing details with varnished wood-top rails, original wood windows and doors, a clock in a brick backboard, and substantial brass guardrails. The underside of the ceiling joints is 35 ft (10.66 m) high. The large doors on the left lead to the inner forebay. ♌
Page 12
The Voice, November 20, 2019
COLUMN SIX
continued from Page 1 ized snow clearing looked like, maybe we needed a different union. (Just a wee joke, guys. Ours has been a union household for 30-plus years. A union shop on Tice
was overdue.) Given the relative lack of salt, sand, and old-fashioned plowing, many less-travelled roads had seen the snow compacted into the equivalent of ice. An hour after moaning to the Mayor, there I was driving
Welcome to our
Sunday Evening Music Service at Holy Trinity Anglican Church on Sunday, November 24, 6:30 PM Featuring Upbeat Music in a casual, child-friendly atmosphere
Holy Trinity
Anglican Church 1557 Pelham St. 905-892-6011
Facebook: HolyTrinityChurchFonthill www.holytrinityfonthill.org
MAGGIE SUTHONS, Mortgage Agent LIVIN’ LINKS Financial Mortgages Inc.
Specializing in: First-time home buyers Refinancing Equity take-outs Private loans / consolidation loans Construction Mortgages I will get you the best rate available as I have a list of lenders I deal with.
Direct: 905.733.8511 / Office 1.800.945.4439 x 216 maggie.suthons@LLFMortgages.com www.mortgageweb.ca/maggiesuthons Lic. #M19002410 and LLFM #12581
along just such a stretch on Canboro Road, headed back east after dropping the paper in Fenwick. I was taking it slowly, but, as I approached the four-way stop at Canboro and Cream, I misjudged the slickness just before the stop sign—where sat a pickup truck, waiting for cross traffic to clear. The anti-lock brakes kick-in. The car continues moving. I grip the wheel. The car slides along. Time slows to a crawl. The anti-lock brakes chatter like midget machine-guns. Wham. Right into the chrome bumper of what looks like a fairly recent Dodge RAM 1500. Expletive yelled. Hazards on. Exit car. The other driver gets out of his truck. He's 40-something. And, since we’re in Canada, and at a rural intersection, here’s where the unpleasantness ends. Practically the first words out of his mouth (we’ll call him Cary) are, “Sorry for not moving out of your way.” He wasn’t being sarcastic. He says if he’d noticed me coming, he would have done his best to get through the intersection immediately. He rides motorcycles, he keeps a close watch on the rear-view. I assure him that the collision was entirely my fault, with a grumble or two about the state of the roads. We go on like this for a minute or so, apologizing to each other. There’s a slight dent in his bumper, while the plastic front end of my 12-yearold Escape suffered a small crack dead centre, at the license plate holder. Even though the collision happened at just 2 MPH or so, I’m still a little surprised that the airbag didn’t blow. The emotional impact was obviously greater than the physical. Just bumper-cars at a fairground. Complicating things, it's a
Wham, bam, into the RAM. Bumper dent, left side. company truck, so Cary has to report in. The vehicle is leased, and the leasing company somehow is involved in the insurance. Cary calls his supervisor. Then calls someone else. Then he calls the police, and gets the answer I knew he would: unless someone is bleeding-out on the pavement, bones exposed, they aren't coming. I remember we ran a brief story, awhile back, that non-injury accidents are now processed at your local police barracks, to which you drive and get interviewed. Cary’s not sure what he’s going to go. We trade insurance information and decide to let the insurance companies figure it out. We part ways—him shaking my hand again. He’s already shaken it once. Now, if there's a silver lining, it's that our car is equipped with a dash cam. As I head to lunch, I am already imagining transferring the video to a computer, and posting it to YouTube to confirm to friends and family their belief that I’m an idiot continues to be well-founded. A couple of hours later
We now carry
Accepting New Patients
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
comes the day’s second (far less traumatic) disaster—no video. I discover that while the aftermath of the accident is there—me getting out of the car, Cary and I apologizing to each other—the collision itself is not. Further examination of the memory card reveals great gaps all day. And the day before that. And the day before that. Long Column Six story short, it turns out that the camera’s expletive-power plug, inserted into a cigarette lighter socket, was making only sporadic contact, possibly from being worn down with repeated insertions and removals. The collision apparently jostled it into temporary contact (the recording stops again a few minutes later). So, on one of the few occasions that the camera would have come in handy over the last five years or so, it was DOA. A quick trip to Canadian Tire (after first checking with Beamer’s Hardware!) netted a new power cable, and so far so good with uninterrupted recordings. Another factor in the col-
VOICE PHOTO
lision was, no question, the absence of winter tires. Over the past couple of years I haven’t switched to the winter rubber until early December, and was planning the same this year. The car’s all-season tires, already close to retirement, may as well have been racing slicks. “We’re booking into next week,” the nice man at Clarence’s Service Centre said, when I went into to make the appointment. I was just happy to hear it wasn’t next month. My insurance agent had good news, of sorts. Having never filed an accident claim, I assumed I’d be on the hook for at least a deductible, to pay for the likely replacement of that shiny Dodge bumper. It turns out that Ontario’s no-fault insurance rules mean Cary’s insurance company takes care of him, and mine takes care of me. Considering that my only damage was a bruised ego, I passed on filing a damage claim. Also, due to something called accident forgiveness, my insurance premium allegedly won’t rise next year. Apologies, handshakes, forgiveness. Oh, Canada. ♦
premium cards 20% off through Christmas
We strive to make you feel comfortable, relaxed in a welcoming environment. Yungblut, Gail
Location is 130 Hwy 20E, Unit A6, inside with ample free parking.
In memory of my beloved daughter Gail Elaine, loving sister, sister-inlaw, and aunt, who was tragically killed, November 27, 1999.
Call us today for your next appointment 905-892-0476 Services include: General, Family, and Children’s Dentistry Wisdom Teeth Removal Dental Implants Root Canal Therapy Crown & Bridge Invisalign Oral Hygiene Services
In Fonthill Marketplace Next to Food Basics • Easy prescription transfer • Locally owned and operated • Free prescription delivery • Fast, friendly, courteous service • Free on-site compliance packaging • Seniors save every day
Now Offering: Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Laughing Gas) Follow us
Mon-Thurs, 8:30 AM - 8:00 PM Fri, 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM / Sat, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Dr. Thomas McMurran, DDS.
Instagram.com/fonthilldentist Facebook.com/fonthilldentist
www.fonthilldentist.com
pharmachoice.com
(905) 892-1888
Like us on Facebook facebook.com/pch663/
Twenty years have come and gone, We miss you more each day, For life is not the same to us, Since you were called away.
Sadly missed but never forgotten by Mom, Blair, Willie, Lindsay and Chris. No one will ever take your place in our hearts.
`
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
The Voice, November 20, 2019
Page 13
Irish win second football title in three years Notre Dame tops Myer in football final BY BERNIE PUCHALSKI
BPSPORTSNIAGARA.COM
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish left no doubt it was the top football team in Niagara, knocking off the previously unbeaten A. N. Myer Marauders 35-12 in the Niagara championship Thursday at McMaster University. The Irish led 21-0 at the half and 28-0 in third quarter on their way to their second championship in the past three years. “We played well and offensively we took it to them,” Notre Dame head coach Tim Bisci said. Notre Dame’s first TD, a one-yard run by Jacob Succar in the first quarter, came at the end of a long drive. “We chipped away and chipped away and [quarterback Hunter Cropper] played really well today and made some nice throws,” he said. “He hit Succar on a 60-yard TD pass, and Tessier scored with nine seconds left in the second quarter on another long drive.” Notre Dame started with the ball in the second half and had the pigskin for nine minutes before building a 28-0 lead on a 10-yard run by Succar. Tessier completed Notre
VERBEEK
continued from Page 17 self and the character that you have.” The former Ontario and St. Catharines athlete of the year got her start in Grade 11 at Beamsville and District Secondary School, thanks to the efforts of coach Dave Collie “I wouldn’t be where I am today if I didn’t have that opportunity in Grade 11,” she said. “If he wouldn’t have taken that risk, I wouldn’t have continued on and gone on to Brock University. “Dave drove me up to Brock several times during my high school career to provide enhanced training and to see an environment that I could strive towards.” Brock coaches Richard DesChatelets and Bill Smith played big roles in her developing career before Marty Calder added the finishing touches. “Marty was my toughest coach and gave me the drive to be the best I could be,” she said. “There was a mindset to get better every day and want to get to the top. He was that person if I failed he was right there to say ‘Let’s go.’ There was no wasting time and I had to keep pushing.” Those expectations and accountability were exactly what Verbeek needed. “It was a special environment created at Brock and it was led by Marty,” she said. Verbeek has been retired from wrestling since 2013 and she had transitioned into the coaching ranks. She started as a talent identification [Next generation]
Dame’s scoring in the fourth quarter with a five-yard TD run with 58 seconds left in the game. Also contributing to Notre Dame’s win were: Owen Tofano, with an interception and some nice catches to keep drives going; Bryce Livingston, with a pick; Cole Smith, with five converts and excellent punting; and Gerrid Holton, Zack Melnyk, and Alex Goulbourne with sacks. “We were really physical with them and you made the comment that our secondary might decide the game,” Bisci said. “Our secondary played very well. We had a blown coverage on their second touchdown and we missed a tackle on their first one. Other than that, we played very well defensively.” Bisci and his veteran players are feeling redeemed after losing to Saint Paul in last year’s Niagara Catholic Athletic Association championship game. “We had a lot of talent last year and we let it slip away,” he said. “Our 12B guys are 25-1 in Niagara in the last three years and it’s incredible the run that they have been on. They are two-time Niagara champions and we
coach and became the international coach after the 2016 Olympics. She is now the head coach of the men’s and women’s senior wrestling programs and she’s in charge of Canada’s push towards medals in 2020 at the
I love the uniqueness of it and the people I'm surrounded with
Tokyo Games. “We have some work to do as a program and as a team because we haven’t qualified anyone after this past world championships,” she said. “I anticipate a strong finish and I believe in our athletes and our coaching that they will drive us to qualify.” She knows it won’t be easy. “It never is but that’s what makes high performance sport so amazing,” Verbeek said. “It challenges you in every capacity.” Verbeek feels the attributes she had as an athlete have transferred well to her coaching duties. “As an athlete, I was always full of passion and that has remained consistent because of my love of the sport and me really wanting to make an impact on the people I am surrounded by,” Verbeek said.
Victorious team members with their trophy. BERNIE PUCHALSKI PHOTO took it to them. We left no doubt today.” Notre Dame would have loved to play the game in Niagara but the freak November snowstorm made it impossible. “The safety guidelines say the field has to be totally clear so we ended up having to leave,” Bisci said. “It’s frustrating because it wouldn’t have been nice to play in front of some fans, especially as well as the kids played.” The Irish won’t have much time to rest up, as they were to meet Westmount in Hamilton for the SOSSA championship this Tuesday. Bisci watched Westmount play last week after Notre Dame beat Saint Michael in the NCAA championship game. “They are pretty good,” Bisci said. “They look organized, they are pretty big up front and they have a real nice receiver so it will
She describes herself as a straightforward leader. “At the same time, I am compassionate and ensuring that I am meeting all the needs of the group and that is not easy in an individual sport,” she said. “It’s important to allow people and programs to do what they do best and when it comes to a Team Canada event, I really try to bring the team together to make sure we are working together in the best possible way.” She feels fortunate to have been able to make a career out of the sport after her wrestling days were over. “When politics are taking more of your energy and time, you take a step back and ask yourself why you are doing it,” she said. “I love the uniqueness of it and the people I am surrounded with. That nine-to-five job, that typical schedule, is really not for me.” She is looking forward to Wednesday’s induction ceremony. “I am definitely honoured to be recognized amongst the awesome and amazing athletes who have been inducted before me.” Also being inducted into the hall are Wanita Dykstra-May, Bill Schenck, Ron (Swede) Burak and Ellard (Obie) O’Brien. The 2019 Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held Wednesday, Nov. 20, at 5:30 PM, at the Meridian Centre in St. Catharines. Doors will open at 5 PM, and following the induction ceremony, there will be a reception which will include hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.
be interesting to see how we match up with them.” Bisci wants to keep on winning and play again in a provincial bowl game. “Last year, we kind of let up at the end of the year and this year we didn’t,” he said. “I thought our league was good enough to help us along the way.” Saint Paul gave the Irish an excellent game in the regular season and Saint Michael was far from a pushover in the final. “Saint Mike’s prepared real well for us, so we had opponents that got us ready for this,” Bisci said. “When we got to Myer, our guys were ready to go.” Notre Dame were to take a day off Friday and then get back to practising on the weekend. Bisci’s squad escaped the Niagara final without any costly injuries. “It was a tough game and
we are banged up a little bit but our kids played hard,” he said. “I don’t think Myer has been in a game that physical this year and we sustained drives on them.” Myer’s scores came on a 60-yard TD pass to Ethan Carmichael from Will Jackman and a 70-yard scoring strike from Jackman to Trent Hunter. Standout performances for the Marauders were turned in by Zack Ayotte, on the offensive and defensive line; Chris Bechkos, at middle linebacker; and Carmichael, who had the unenviable task of blocking Melnyk the entire game. “We had to play a perfect game in order to beat a team like that,” Myer head coach Dave Buchanan said. “Our guys competed well but we made too many mistakes on offence early — simple mistakes like offsides and blocks in the back — in moments where we were starting to drive the ball.” It caused all kinds of problems for the Marauders. “We just couldn’t get it going after that,” he said. “We had too many two and outs that left the defence on the field too long and they had long drives that ate up the clock.” That scenario played against Myer’s style. “Anyone who plays us knows we can score fast but we have to be on the field to do it,” Buchanan said. “They did a good job on both sides
and they had a good scheme defensively. “They forced us to run the ball and that’s where we are hurting right now with a lack of depth.” Myer’s third string running back did a good job but it wasn’t enough. The Irish also stymied Myer’s passing game with a game plan that even the most seasoned quarterback would have trouble exploiting. “They had a three-man line and expanded their linebackers. Those guys are really quick so the [passing] windows were very tiny.” Buchanan felt he was tough on Jackman, but the Myer quarterback did as well as he could considering he has less than two years experience at the position. The 12B player has risen to the occasion most times this season. “I think he was the best quarterback that was in our public division, for sure, and he is right up there with regards to the Catholic division as well.” Myer’s 12Bs came into the game bothered by their championship losses the past two seasons, but they were okay after the loss to Notre Dame. “We should have won the last two years and they were disappointed in that. They felt they let something get See VICTORY Page 16
ONLY A FEW AVAILABLE Pics has just received the last of the Toro Factory authorised pricing on these Toro snowblowers. Don't delay, Units are ready for your yard now. At these prices, when they are gone....they are gone.... HD 3805 826 OXE
8 HP Power Max Snowblower
1699.
$
Equipped with high performance 8HP engine and commercial grade gearbox
Save $150
* Snow Cut Depth: 21" * Electric Start * 16" Deep lug tires * 26" Clearing Width * Headlamp * Power Steering * 6 Forward, 2 Reverse Speeds
SPECIAL FINANCING AVAILABLE
POWER CLEAR 721E MODEL 38742
* Power-Propel Self-Propel * 21" Clearing Width
779.
$
ELECTRIC START
FROM START TO FINISH 60V MAX® LITHIUM-ION TECHNOLOGY
60V LEAF BLOWER
60V TRIMMER
CORDLESS
60V RECYCLER® 22” WALK BEHIND MOWERS
GET MORE DONE
AND
60V POWER CLEAR 21” SNOWBLOWERS
ENJOY MORE FREE TIME
2514 Hwy. 20 E Fonthill Mon - Fri 8am to 5pm Sat 8am to 12pm
905-892-3041
www.picsmotorclinic.com
Page 14
The Voice, November 20, 2019
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
Unemployment rate continues to drop BY JOHN CHICK
Special to the VOICE
ACTIVE
continued from Page 1 Active Living Centre, located on the second floor of the MCC.” After some audience members took the opportunity to speak with Ooster-
REID
hoff following his remarks, and help themselves to the spread of brunch snacks laid out on the canteen counter, Active Living Committee members Sharon Cook and Del Laney took the MPP on a quick tour of Pelham’s own new Seniors Active Living
Therapy Moving Forward
Specialized Recreation Therapists providing personalized, individual therapeutic care for seniors and their families.
REID (Recreation Education, Independent Delivery) provides unique treatment plans to address our clients’ physical, emotional and mental well-being; offering caregiver support to families and their loved ones wherever they are. REID can help overcome barriers that keep your loved ones from experiencing joy. For seniors living at home, in a retirement setting or in long-term care, we work to improve the quality of your loved one’s life. Our focus is on person-centred, meaningful, in-home Dementia care while also providing: Caregiver respite & companionship Assistance with housekeeping Appointments/Meal preparation Pet therapy dog Maverick in training
For more information contact Lana Reid at 289-687-0358
www.therapymovingforward.ca
BOB LOBLAW PHOTO
Centre, ending up before a banner for photos. Moving west into a large multifunction room, they were joined by Town Treasurer Teresa Quinlin, and Director of Recreation, Culture and Wellness, Vickie vanRavenswaay. The conversation turned toward libraries, specifically how to run them more efficiently, a current Town Council quest. Quinlin pointed through the floor-to-ceiling glass wall, overlooking the view toward Highway 20, and indicated the location for the proposed new Fonthill library branch—to be built as an addition to the community centre, with the funding assistance of a Federal Cultural Grant the Town has applied for. Announcement and photo-ops concluded, Oosterhoff and Mayor Junkin moved on to their next stop in the same building, a round-table discussion among some Niagara mayors and staff on identifying continued opportunities for cost savings through sharing expenses and resources across municipalities. The meeting was not open to the press, according to Oosterhoff.
decreases in unemployment, but we see an increase in labour force participation,” a NWPB statement said. However, while the long-term jobless rate has dropped significantly since last September, Niagara’s workforce has still shrunk over the same period, from 220,800 to 215,000 in seasonally-unadjusted data. Those numbers are smaller in adjusted data. Youth unemployment —defined as people aged 15-24 — continues to remain higher. That rate clocked in at 12.1 percent in October, up 0.6 percent over the previous month, but down 0.7 percent from the entirety of 2018. The youth labour force dropped between August and October, although that is standard with many youth returning to school.
New NRPS distracted driving initiative BY VOICE STAFF Distracted driving continues to be the top cause of motor vehicle collisions, and has surpassed the number of fatalities caused by impaired driving in Ontario, according to a media statement from the Niagara Regional Police Service. “In the commitment to ensuring safety on Niagara roadways,” reads the statement, “members of the Niagara Regional Police Service would like to remind motorists about the dangers of distracted driving which refers to any activity which takes your attention away from the road. The dangers of distracted driving are compounded in the winter months with snow and slippery road conditions.” The NRPS says that members of the 2 District uniform branch have started a traffic initiative focused on distracted driving, with particular emphasis on the use of communication devices. Police remind drivers that using a cellphone while op-
JENSROTHER PHOTO
From left, Sharon Cook, MPP Sam Oosterhoff, Del Laney.
Niagara’s unemployment rate dropped again in October, continuing a positive trend that has seen the jobless rate cut by two percent since September 2018. According to Niagara Workforce Planning Board (NWPB) data, the seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate clocked in at 5.5 percent, down from 7.5 percent 13 months prior. The 5.5 percent in October puts Niagara at the exact same national unemployment rate for the same month. Two hundred fulltime jobs and 900 part-time jobs were added between September and October. The region’s labour participation rate also increased in October over the previous month, with 1,300 more people joining the workforce. “When we adjust for seasonal effects, we still see increases in employment and
erating a motor vehicle on a highway is an offence. This includes using a phone while waiting at a traffic light, or holding the device in your hand while operating a motor vehicle. Police say that officers will be using “different techniques to ensure compliance and conduct enforcement.” Recent changes to the Highway Traffic Act provide for the following penalties if convicted of using a communication device while driving: First conviction, $615 fine if settled out of court. Fine of
up to $1,000 if convicted in court. Three demerit points and three-day license suspension. Second conviction, $615 fine if settled out of court. Fine of up to $2,000 if convicted in court. Six demerit points and a seven-day license suspension. Novice drivers (G1, G2) will face the same financial penalties but no demerit points. Instead, novice drivers will receive a 30-day license suspension for a first conviction, and a 90-day license suspension for a second conviction.
Pelham Public Library
Holy Trinity Anglican Church
1557 Pelham Street, Fonthill
Saturday, November 23 from 11:30 AM to 3 PM
Cookie Walk Bake Table Gently used Christmas decorations Gently used books
ALL ARE WELCOME!
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
The successful candidate will demonstrate a passion for libraries, innovation, and community partnerships.
Pelham Public Library is a small-medium sized public library serving a growing community, with a projected population of 20,000 by 2022. The Library provides access to recreational materials and activities in a warm and welcoming environment at two locations with holdings of more than 40,000 titles, and employs approximately 12 non-unionized staff with an annual budget of approximately $985,000.
I’ve got your back
Pelham Public Library has been an integral part of the community for over 150 years and is an innovative leader in programming for medium-sized public libraries. We provide a broad range of programming for adults, teens, and children, having conducted 620 programs in 2018 with over 8,000 participants. With an approval rating of over 90%, our customer service, collections, and program offerings are considered leading edge, and our founding membership in the Libraries in Niagara Cooperative is an example of this library’s priority of collaboration to further innovate and improve customer experience.
Count on me for one-on-one service, better savings, and coverage that’s customized for you.
Stop in, call or click. Bob Kilyk, Agent 21 Highway 20 West Fonthill ON L0S 1E0 905-892-5721 bob.kilyk@desjardins.com www.bobkilyk.com
For more information please go to: https://pelhamlibrary.on.ca/about/job-opportunities/ Please submit your resume, cover letter & references as one document to: pplboardchair@pelhamlibrary.on.ca
1211027 CN.1
Christmas Lunch & Cookie Walk
The Pelham Public Library Board is seeking to recruit a
Certain conditions, limitations and exclusions may apply. Desjardins Insurance refers to Certas Home and Auto Insurance Company, underwriter of automobile and property insurance or Desjardins Financial Security Life Assurance Company, underwriter of life insurance and living benefits products. Desjardins, Desjardins Insurance and related trademarks are trademarks of the Fédération des caisses Desjardins du Québec, used under licence.
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
The Voice, November 20, 2019
Page 15
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
MORTGAGES
FINANCIAL SERVICES
VACATION/TRAVEL
ADVERTISING
BUSINESS OPPS.
REACH MILLIONS OF CUSTOMERS IN ONTARIO WITH ONE EASY CALL!
ATTN: ONTARIO INVENTORS!!
FREE Consultation
$$ MONEY $$ LOWER YOUR MONTHLY PAYMENTS AND CONSOLIDATE YOUR DEBT NOW!!! 1st, 2nd, 3rd MORTGAGES Debt Consolidation Refinancing, Renovations Tax Arrears, No CMHC Fees $50K YOU PAY: $208.33 / MONTH (OAC) No Income, Bad Credit Power of Sale Stopped!!! BETTER OPTION MORTGAGE
• 1ST, 2ND & 3RD MORTGAGES FOR ANY PURPOSE • DEBT CONSOLIDATION Celebrate the Beauty and History of • BAD CREDIT Canada’s Rivers • TAX OR MORTGAGE ARREARS 4 - 7 night calm water cruises on a • DECREASE PAYMENTS replica steamboat UP TO 75% Meals, attractions, and entertainment • SELF-EMPLOYED included • NO PROOF OF INCOME We Can Help! Even in extreme Page 14Departures: Kingston, Ottawa, situations of bad credit. Quebec City FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO APPLY NOW BY Ask about our special Spring Savings PHONE OR ONLINE: rates
1-800-282-1169 www.mortgageontario.com (Licence # 10969)
1st & 2nd MORTGAGES from 2.90% 5 year VRM and 2.69% 5 year FIXED OAC. All Credit Types Considered. Serving all Ontario for over 36 years. Purchasing, Re-financing, Debt Consolidation, Construction, Home Renovations...CALL 1-800-225-1777, www.homeguardfunding.ca (LIC #10409).
For more information Call Today THE VOICE 647-350-2558.
Call Davison!! Ideas Wanted! CALL DAVISON TODAY:
of Pelham Wednesday, August 27,
COMMUNITY Events HEALTH
Burke’s Masonry
guitar, bouzouki and a number of other instruments, our three virtuosos blend boundless energy with the unmistakable joieMILL de vivre found only in CUSTOM traditional Quebec music. Show runs from 7-9 p.m. Portable sawmill service. I will come to your home or farm and custom mill your logs. Firewood & lumber also available. Call Rob Patterson, PELHAM LIBRARY CARD MAKING WORKSHOP 905-401-4948, Make six cards with fall themes, learning a variety of techniques. Materials riverwood@primus.ca
News and Features Writerare provided. At time of registration, please enquire about tools needed.
TURKEY RAFFLE register ahead. Visit www.pelhamThis full-time position calls for a well-rounded reporter with the Tues., ability toSept. cover 16 10 – 12:30. $10. Please
Fonthill for Volunteer Association Turkey Raffle library.on.ca or call 905-892-6443 moreFire details. Friday, November 29, 2019, 7:30 pm, Fonthill Fire Hall a wide range of community issues, from Town Council to interviews and longer FABULOUS FENWICK LIONS FISH FRY profile pieces. Previous writing experience preferred. COUNTRY WITH SANTA Tasty treats with funds heading straightCHRISTMAS back into the community. Haddock, Christmas in the Country. 766 Welland Road, Fenwick. Friday, www.thevoiceofpelham.ca/writersfrench fries and much more. Runs Sept. 9 from 4-7 p.m. Nov. 22, 4-8 PM, Saturday, Nov 23, 10 AM -4 PM. Over 12 crafters, cafe, and a visit with Santa and his Elf on Saturday, 11:30 AM – 1 PM. HostedSALE by the Friends of Maple Acre Library. HOCKEY EQUIPMENT
PELHAM MINOR Buy, sell or trade used equipment at the Pelham Arena. Aimed to provide FOUND cheaper options for players in this upcoming season. Runs Sept. 6 from 9-12 in the morning. FOUND: A cordless nail gun on Foss Rd. in Fenwick. If you
Man killed on the job in Welland Last Tuesday, November 12, at approximately 2:30 PM, uniform officers from the 3 District Welland office of the Niagara Regional Police Service responded to an industrial accident in Welland.
OR VISIT US AT:
Inventing.Davison.com/Ontario
The Voice is hiring!
BY VOICE STAFF
CLA
1-800-256-0429
FREE Inventor's Guide!! GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. Do you CALL 1-800-267-7868 Services or someone you know Have any www.ontario-widefinancial.com PELHAM LIBRARY’S COMPUTER CLINIC www.StLawrenceCruiseLines.com o f t h e s e C o n d i t i o n s ? A D H D , ONTARIO-WIDE FINANCIAL“One-to-One Excavating AUTOMOTIVEcontractor. Help” with a volunteer tech A ntutor. x i e t y,Get A r help t h r i t iwith s , Aweb s t h mbrowsing, a, 1801347inc C a n c e r, C O P D , D e p r e s s i o n , WANTEDWater, 253 Ontario St., Kingston, ON sewerCARS upgrades, CLASSIC - Any set-up, e-books, social media, editing and sharing your FSCO Licence #12456 webmail account D i a b e t e s , D i f f i c u l t y Wa l k i n g , Condition: Porsche 356-912-911-930; (TICO #2168740) foundation repair, water Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowels, !! WE ARE HERE TO HELP!!photos and more. Includes use of laptop or BYOG (bring your own gadget). Mercedes 190-230-250-280-300; Overweight, Trouble Dressing... J a g u a r proofing, drainage systems, Saturdays 12:30 – 3:30. Register and apay 1/2 X K E , X K 1 2 0 / 1 4 0 / 1 5 0 ; n d ahead H u n d r ein d sperson. m o r e . $5.00 A L LperSplit Window Corvette ORplaceany quarry stone supply, g e s 905-892-6443 & M e d i c a l Cfor o n dmore i t i o n sdetails. hour. Visit www.pelhamlibrary.on.ca orAcall STEEL BUILDINGS E u r o p e a n / B r i t i s h C a r s . R u s t y, ment. 905-384-1972. P18-23 Qualify. Have a child under 18 WANTED STEEL BUILDING CLEARANCE ... instantly receive more money. Rotten or Show Car. FINDER FEE PAID $$$$! CALL Chris 613-894-1141 WA N T E D : O L D T U B E A U D I O "FALL BLOWOUT - PRICED TO C A L L O N TA R I O B E N E F I T S FONTHILL BANDSHELL PRESENTS DE TEMPS ANTAN or carhunter472@gmail.com. CLEAR!" 20X25 $6,687. 25X29 EQUIPMENT. 40 years or older. 1-(800)-211-3550 or Send a Text 30X35André $9840. Brunet Amplifiers, Stereo, Recording Since and $7,459. 2003, 28X29 Éric $8,196. Beaudry, andwith Pierre-Luc Dupuis Message Your Name and have Theatre Sound Equipment. Hammond 32X37 $9,898. One End Wall Includ- Mailing Address to (647)560-4274 been exploring time-honoured melodies from the stomp- Bricklaying, tuckpointing, ed. Pioneerand Steelperforming 1-855-212-7036 Organs, any condition. CALL Toll-Free for your FREE benefits package. www.pioneersteel.ca 1-800-947-0393 / 519-853-2157. ing grounds step repair, granite of Quebec’s musical past. Using fiddle, accordion, harmonica, Request our complimentary brochure
1-888-307-7799
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL TODAY TOLL-FREE:
Need Inventing Help?
Your Classified Ad or Display Ad would appear in weekly newspapers each week across Ontario in urban, suburban and rural areas.
Police say that officers arrived on-scene with Welland Fire and Emergency Services and Niagara Emergency Medical Services. Emergency services personnel located a construction site in the area of King Street and Second Street. A 43-year-old man was found in critical condition
have lost one call 289 650 1589 with a description (Brand, Type,
coatings, brick slices P18-28 905-682-7061. FLOORING
R
35 years of construction experience.
HAMPER DAY FOR PELHAM CARES Purchase fresh fruit and vegetables at the Market or bring a non-perishable
7 SPR FONTH items, clothes sonabl 30, 8A
Yard SALE, of Ch decora items, 1PM NORT
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.
after a piece of construction Model, ModelNetwork Number, etc.) OCNA Classified Ads material had fallen, striking PELHAM MUDFEST Phone: 905-892-7898 (AD CENTRAL) the worker. The worker was Fax: 905-892-4811 Men and women will be back in the mud as the second run on the year is NORTH PELHAM CEMETERY EST 1815 transported from the scene No Sunday Calls, Please TF to a local where he heldhospital at Bissil’s Hideaway. Week of PELHAM CEMETERY EST. 1815 NORTH was pronounced deceased. November 18 The Board has opened Sections 3 & 4 for internment rights. The identity of deceased CEMETERY PLOTS REGIONAL EXHIBITION is notNIAGARA being released out of If you are considering purchase of a burial lot, we would be Posted respect for the next of kin. Rodeo, games and live pleased entertainment thisconsideration. years exciting event. For sale, 4 plots if you canheadline give us your For lot price, It He was not a resident of the November 14 in Pleasantview Gardens on runs from Sept. 11-14 at the Welland Fairgrounds. Niagara Region. you can contact our Chairperson Asa Hansler, Hwy. 20 in Fonthill. Located Police say that the matter at 905-892-2098. Central remains under investigain The Garden of Everlasting BIG MOVEfrom CANCER RIDERegion Ads included tion by detectives the 3 life near cemetery entrance. CHRISTMASride CRAFTS District Criminal InvestigaThe Big Move Cancer Ride is a non-competitive taking place on Sept. Will sell for $1500. each. tions Branch and the ForenJoan Barber’s Christmas Craft Sale Pleasantview price is 7. Proceeds for the sic Services Unit, and that Big Move stay in Niagara and support the Walker FamFriday, November 22, 9-6, Saturday, November 23, 9-6 $2900. This ad is to be printed by all participating Ontario papers each. Please phone the scene is being held as ily Cancer Centre. Friday, November 29, 9-6, Saturday, November 30, 9-6 905 892 3977 or email part of the ongoing Minis182 Price Avenue, Welland. 905-735-7528. try of Labour investigation. rswayze@cogeco.ca. Anyone with information WALKING CLUB is asked to contact detectives Interested in walking in Pelham? Join them Tuesdays at the Pelham Arena MASONRY REPAIR at 905-688-4111, extension 3300. from 9-10 am and Thursdays at Fonthill Bandshell for 9-10:30 am. There ALLTYPE MASONRY
Brick, Block, Stone and Chimney repairs. jcook@ is no fee for this program. For more information, please contact Wet and damaged basement repairs. pelham.ca or call 905 892-2607, ext 329. Phone Tom Deamude at 289-241-4767.
G
ST
“T
VI
C
PL
GA
S
AD
C
905
Page 16
The Voice, November 20, 2019
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
SERVICE DIRECTORY Electrical Electrical
ACB
Heating & & Cooling Cooling Heating
Renovations
Electrical
Plumbing
DE VRIES R E N O VAT I O N S
Fenwick Alex Bover-Master Electrician
-ECRA #7003130 Service Upgrades • Energy Efficiency Upgrades Troubleshooting • New Wiring & Re-Wiring Commercial • Industrial • Residential
&
We Make House Calls!
THE PUMP DOCTOR
ADDITIONS
FENWICK 905-892-2391
Family built since 1955
905.892.2655
PORT COLBORNE 905-835-2391
devriesrenoltd@gmail.com
1.800.676.4029
CUSTOM HOMES • ADDITIONS • KITCHENS BATHROOMS • WINDOWS & DOORS • SIDING • DECKS • TRIMWORK BARNS & GARAGES • RESTORATION
ROBERT WILLIAMS PLUMBING & HEATING LIMITED
LICENSED & INSURED
tel: 905-892-4988 Email:abover@cogeco.ca cell: 905-714-2145 for urgent calls
We Service All Makes And Models
Landscaping Landscaping
Power Equipment
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
Concrete Supplies Concrete Supplies
905.892.6908 www.dekorteslandscaping.com 799 Balfour St, Fenwick
Landscaping
residential • commercial • farm 155 HIGHWAY 20 E. • FONTHILL, ON 905-892-5756 • STARTILECENTRE.COM
KEEP
ALL YOUR fingers
Niagara’s Complete Concrete Contractor (905) 262-2000
or Toll free
1-800-881-1628
cottoninc.ca
Landscaping
l
Roofing
Call a Voice Service Directory professional to get the job done right the first time.
Licenced plumber & gas fitter with 25 years experience
905-386-6483 • 905-651-8558 www.joesplumbingniagara.ca
The Voice Comic
Automotive
874 Hwy # 20 W, Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 874 Hwy #20 W, Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 874 Hwy # 20 W, Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 l Landscape Construction l Driveways, Patio & Walkways Landscape Design l Landscape Design l Landscape Construction l Driveways, Patio & Walkways l Natural Stone l Retaining Walls l Outdoor Wood Projects l Natural Stone l Retaining Walls l Outdoor Wood Projects l Water l Water Features Outdoor Lighting Features ll Outdoor Lighting
"Folks, our dessert special tonight is Don Cherries Jubilee, a dish so far past its prime that IT doesn't know it's Consumed MOSTLY ironically."
Steven& & Ryan Ryan Van Lochem Steven Van Lochem Owners/Operators
Owners/Operators Phone: 905.892.2188 • www.naturesownidea.com
Phone: 905.892.2188 • www.naturesownidea.com
Places of Worship 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 (United Church of Canada) 461 Canboro Rd., Fenwick
St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church 834 Canboro Rd., Fenwick
FAITH LIFT
continued from Page 19 my will, and to speak for Him who gave me a voice." In 1966, his family moved to Canada. Living in Toronto, he sensed God calling him to the Christian ministry and began studies at Ontario Bible College (now
Tyndale) and then Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Illinois. He married a Canadian (Margaret Reynolds) in 1972. They have three grown children and now live in Atlanta, Georgia. Over four decades of ministry around the world, Zacharias has been given numerous honorary
doctoral degrees. Besides leading the RZIM ministry, he also hosts a radio program called “Let My People Think.”
Their mission
1 Peter 3:15 sums up their mission well: “But in your hearts honour Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.”
Zacharias and his team have tried to do this on hundreds of college and university campuses across North America and the world. Of his 30-plus books, the best known are Can Man Live Without God?, Why Suffering?, Jesus Among Other Gods, and The Grand Weaver. And so, for believers, the bottom-line is this—when entering church, don’t leave your brains at the door. Christ calls us to a bold faith but not a blind one. Fully use the mind that God has blessed you with. In so doing, you’ll be loving the Lord “with all your mind” and thus fulfilling a crucial part of the greatest commandment. ♦ Rob Weatherby is a retired pastor, loves reading, and strives to be a lifelong learner.
VICTORY
continued from Page 13 away that they shouldn’t have,” Buchanan said. “Going into this game, we felt we could win but by the end of the game, they were satisfied because they knew that they had played a really good team.” The Marauders have been in the last six Niagara championship games and they will be hard at work to make it seven. “Every year we are going to be back even if we lose all of these kids,” he said. “We have kids that are getting better and we have kids who are coming up and the mentality will be to try and work harder than everyone else and get in the final game. When you get in the final game, you never know what can happen.”
Buchanan describes it as a culture. “It is a culture that is driven by the coaching staff but more importantly it is accepted by the kids.” He sees the public league getting stronger in the years ahead. “That will be good for us too because it will push us.” Niagara’s football programs are also going to lobby to get another Niagara berth in the bowl games or have the right for the Niagara runner-up to challenge for a bowl spot. “It’s not a woe is us or sour grapes thing, but we as a coaching group recognize the teams we tend to send to our final game should have a chance to compete against other teams or at least challenge them for those bowl bids,” Buchanan said.
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
“If you don't try to win you might as well hold the Olympics in somebody's back yard.” Jesse Owens
The Voice, November 20, 2019
Sporting Green The Niagara
Page 17
Notre Dame takes home second title in three years 13
The Voice and TheVoiceofPelham.ca | November 20, 2019
Olympian joins Hall of Fame During career, Tonya Verbeek took home three Olympic medals BY BERNIE PUCHALSKI
BPSPORTSNIAGARA.COM
Tonya Verbeek. BERNIE PUCHALSKI PHOTO
Two Olympic silvers and one Olympic bronze medal would seem to be the obvious career highlights for wrestler Tonya Verbeek. But the 2019 inductee into the St. Catharines Sports Hall of Fame points to making the Olympic team in 2004 as her No. 1 highlight. “It was a really long battle for me to reach that goal. It was eight years,” the 42-year-old Grimsby native said. Verbeek was injured prior to the Olympic trials and had to win twice in a wrestle-off against Jen Ryz. “I had to beat an athlete who had been consistently beating me,” she said. “To have that moment and be on the first women’s Olympic wrestling team was pretty special.” Verbeek would go on to become the most decorated Canadian wrestler of all-time, with a silver at the Athens Games in 2004, a bronze in Beijing in 2008 and a silver again in London in 2012. It was that final Olympics game that stands out as her second biggest highlight. “That was an added bonus in my career to be able to go in and compete in one more Olympic Games because the year before I wasn’t 100 percent certain that I would have it in me to be able to compete at my best. It all aligned and I still had that fire.” She had a lot of friends and family who shared the London experience with her and she ended up really enjoying competing in her final Olympics. “It wasn’t that many times I enjoyed competing, as weird as that sounds,” she said. “It was just appreciating everything and everyone and being extremely grateful to be able to stand out there at 35 and share it with people who were with me my whole career.” As for low points, the Pan American Games silver and bronze medalist said there were a few. “I remember having a back injury in 2010, being off the mats and having to come back,” she said. “That was really hard because I was trying all these different things to get healthy.” It wasn’t a good year for her, and she came close to retiring after the 2010 Commonwealth Games. “I was very frustrated and I wasn’t feeling the fire that I needed,” she said. “That was a pretty low point for me. You always have them.” Thankfully for Verbeek, her low points, healthwise and wrestling-wise, always came a year before the Olympics, while her high points were during Olympic years and the year after the Olympics at the world championships. She won one silver and two bronze medals at the worlds. Through it all, it was a labour of love. “It is the ultimate challenge that you can create for yourself,” the three-time Canadian university wrestling champion said. “It is also a very rewarding sport where you fail and have to rise up again and beat the odds. It’s always teaching you something about yourSee VERBEEK Page 13
Page 18
The Voice, November 20, 2019
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
SPECIALIZING IN SELLING YOUR HOME!!! RURAL, AGRICULTURAL OR RESIDENTIAL—OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE (IT MATTERS) EMAIL: rbrown@royallepage.ca Richard Brown SALES REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE: 905-734-4545 or 905-892-0222 Direct: 905-651-5143
Support your local service clubs CASH FOR CARES At a recent dinner meeting, the Fenwick Lions provided their yearly donation to Pelham Cares. This year’s $800 came from various sources, including from funds raised at the club’s 70th Anniversary Community BBQ. Pictured, Lion President Ron Ancaster with Pelham Cares’ Eleanor Stasiw. SUPPLIED PHOTO
Voice
HOROSCOPE
CROSSWORD ANSWERS
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS NOVEMBER 17 Rachel McAdams, Actress (41) NOVEMBER 18 David Ortiz, Athlete (44) NOVEMBER 19 Jodie Foster, Actress (57) NOVEMBER 20 Jeremy Jordan, Actor (35) NOVEMBER 21 Carly Rae Jepsen, Singer (34) NOVEMBER 22 Dacre Montgomery, Actor (25) NOVEMBER 23 Chris Hardwick, Comic (48)
E
905-329-0329 SOLUTIONS DOWN 1. Herr 2. Apia 3. Shag 4. Palea 5. Peg 6. Anyhow 7. Rarer 8. Scornful 9. Its 10. Sagas 11. Apes 12. Vale 13. Aras 21. Ether 23. Pya 25. Tab 26. Ear 27. Scamp 28. Poker 29. Abbey 32. Rabbi 33. Ameer 34. Harte 36. Wad 37. CEO 38. Dab 40. Homemade 41. Sates 43. CHR 44. Rad 46. Pea 47. Raceme 49. Sibiu 50. Names 51. Samar 52. RCMP 53. Alae 54. Burr 57. Biro 58. Iamb 59. Nose 61. Reb 62. Eat
155 HWY 20 WEST
tunity to enjoy some time to yourself this week. The alone time can be a great way to work through new ideas. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Don’t let someone whose maturity level is beneath your own bother you, Sagittarius. Take the high road and others will notice and respect you for it. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 You may have plenty of free time on your hands this week, Capricorn. If you do not want to fill it by being productive, then bask in your ability to kick back and relax. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, even though you are full of vitality and ready to begin something new, this may not be the week for it. Hold off a little longer; the right time will present itself soon enough. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 This week serves as a starting point for new adventures in your life, Pisces. Keep your eyes peeled for the opportunities coming your way.
SOLUTIONS ACROSS 1. Hasp 5. Parsi 10. Sava 14. Epha 15. Enact 16. Apar 17. Rial 18. Gyros 19. Gela 20. Ragee 22. Her 23. Pases 24. Attorneys 27. Spa 30. Haw 31. FAA 32. Rah 35. Cobweb 37. Cur 38. Dama 39. Akbar 40. Hel 41. Saber 42. Meed 43. Coo 44. Rabbet 45. Pry 46. PHM 47. Rat 48. Ire 49. Serenades 52. Rabia 55. Mac 56. Sabin 60. Club 61. Ramee 63. Miao 64. Mari 65. Edema 66. Arms 67. Peru 68. Beset 69. Robe
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 A bevy of ideas and tasks are bouncing around in your head this week, Aries. You may have to find a way to quiet your mind so you can focus on what needs to get done. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, a benefit to having so many close friends in your life is you always have a buddy you can call when you need someone to hear your side of the story. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, even after a big shakeup in your routine, it seems like things at work are more of the same. You may need to start looking for opportunities elsewhere for stimulation. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Perfection only exists in your mind, Cancer. Change your views on how everything needs to be perfect to be successful and you will sleep a bit easier this week. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, obstacles are a part of life. The way you approach them and your attitude can go a long way toward helping you work through difficult situations. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Your curiosity will pique this week when inspiration flows, Virgo. A new creative project could be on the horizon. Friends are supportive of your efforts. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 People may be apt to judge you by the company you keep, Libra. However, once others get to know you, they will discover how you march to the beat of your own drummer. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, you may have an oppor-
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca
The Voice, November 20, 2019
Voice
FAITH LIFT
by Pastor Rob Weatherby
CROSSWORD
A
Canborough Fonthill Fulton Niagara-on-the-lake Stevensville Wainfleet Waterford
9 Mill Ave, Dunnville ON 2705 Highway 20 E, Thorold ON 2911 S. Grimsby Rd 18, Smithville, ON 96 Niagara Stone Rd, NOTL, ON 2736 Stevensville Rd, Stevensville ON 31904 Park St, Wainfleet, ON 804 Old Hwy 24, Waterford, ON
905-774-5498 905-892-0322 905-643-3754 905-685-7353 905-382-7878 905-899-3431 519-443-7770
We've got what you need right here, at home!
SPONSORED THIS WEEK BY
Love God with your mind
POLOGETICS IS NOT a familiar word to most. What does it mean? First off, it doesn’t mean to apologize. It actually comes from the Greek word “apologia” which means “speaking in defense.” So the field of study called “apologetics” is providing evidence to support your worldview or beliefs. My favorite Christian apologetics ministry is the RZIM, which stands for “Ravi Zacharias International Ministries.” It is based in Atlanta, Georgia, and has a team of 93 apologists (and growing) serving around the world. Most of them are young adults who lament the fact that many youth who grew up in Christian homes and attended church did not get good answers to their questions. For them, “Be quiet, don’t ask questions and just believe” has never been an acceptable reply.
Page 19
thew 22:37) that the greatest commandment is to “love the Lord your God with all of your heart, with all of your soul and with all of your mind.”
Their founder
This ministry was founded by Ravi Zacharias, who grew up in India. His testimony or life-story is quite dramatic. Born in Madras (now Chennai) in 1946 and raised in Delhi, Ravi had a very prominent (but demanding) father. Confused and feeling like a failure in a shame-based culture, Zacharias attempted suicide at age 17. Thankfully, he didn’t succeed. While recovering in hospital, a Christian friend visited and gave him a Gospel
of John. Searching for answers, Ravi read it eagerly and found a new sense of purpose in believing in Jesus, not as just another avatar, god or prophet but as the unique Son of God and Savior of the world. That decision changed his life. In his words, "I walked out of that hospital room a new man. The Lord Christ had entered in. The transformation was as dramatic as I could have ever imagined. There is no other way to describe it. From then on, my longings, my hopes, my dreams, and my every effort has been to live for Him who rescued me, to study for Him who gave me His mind, to serve Him who fashioned See FAITH LIFT Page 16
Their motto
I love their ministry motto which is concise and profound —“Helping thinkers believe and helping believers think.” Both are important. This balanced mission statement presents a twofold purpose. On one hand, they want to challenge modern thinkers to examine the evidence for Christ and Christianity with an open mind. Many youth today have not grown up in Christian or even church-attending homes and are by and large biblically illiterate. On the other hand, they also want to challenge believers to be able to think carefully, critically and Christianly. This will equip them to defend their faith and present the evidence for it. They remind believers that Jesus said (in Mat-
Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
Weekly Word Search
Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwards. AMBULATORY ANOMALY AROUSAL AUDITORY BEHAVIOR CHILD
COGNITION CONGENITAL DEVELOPMENT EXPRESSION FAMILY FEEDING
FLUENCY GAIT GRASP INFANT JAUNDICE LEARNING
MILESTONE MOVEMENT REFLEX SAFETY SCREENING TEETHING
ANSWERS ON PAGE 18
Page 20
The Voice, November 20, 2019
READERS
CHOOSE PRINTED COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS FOR EVERYTHING
LOCAL AS WELL AS
ADVERTISING!
91%
Choose LOCAL information as their main reason for reading (editorial,news, sports, entertainment, events)
63%
Read for advertising (flyers, inserts, ROP)
55%
Reading for Classified ads, Employment & Real Estate
Source: News Media Canada
CHERRY
continued from Page 4 the foe,” as the poem says. The foe these days is political correctness, as much for the Cherry diehards as it is for him. More specifically it’s the presumed enemies of free speech. The snowflakes came early this year, the Cherry-ites say, as a blizzard of controversy now rages in the papers, and on social media, where trolls of all persuasions speak very freely. “Racists” cries one side. “Libtards” the other. And so it goes on. Oliver Wendell Holmes wisely said a century ago that freedom of speech gives no one the right to shout “Fire!” in a crowded theatre. He meant that attached to every freedom there’s a responsibility. They’re joined at the hip. That’s the part Don Cherry didn’t get. He was famous for not getting it. It made him a wealthy man. Some argue freedom of
speech gives everyone the right to be offended—until they are themselves. Columnist Barbara Kay writes of a “Free Speech Wall” put up by a group of students at Queen’s University in 2013. It was shortly taken down because of “offensive content.” Just like Don Cherry. Basically his rant plugged into the feeling that our country is primarily made up of a certain kind of Canadian that newcomers should waste no time becoming like, as long as they continue to remember they came from somewhere else. They revert back to being “you people who come here” whenever they choose to eat their own food, speak their own language, and wear their own garb minus a poppy. He appears to have forgotten that among the freedoms his war heroes fought for is to choose to wear a poppy or not. And that thousands fighting for the same cause wore turbans.
Is one Canadian really more Canadian than another Canadian because they wear a poppy? Should it therefore be part of the citizenship test? A question asked by retired Major Shawn Stewart: "Is it part of immigration, part of your exam? Like, is it a big enough issue that's been brought to light, that you know, it's on us as a country to do a better job of educating?" He’s a big fan of Cherry’s but admits that he cringed when he heard his message this time. I see Don Cherry less as a Spartan warrior than an outdated other Don, named Quixote, who also tilted at windmills he mistook for evil giants. At the same time, I don’t regard his detractors—the ones who wrongly accuse him of being a racist, Trumpist and white supremacist—as virtuous crusaders themselves. For these so-called social justice warriors and their
www.thevoiceofpelham.ca “woke” culture, free speech has become a dog-whistle to the far-right, and is rapidly being added to the left’s ever-expanding ideological junk pile, in the words of Nick Cave. “People who do really good stuff have flaws.” That’s Barack Obama, rebuking college students who force universities to de-platform speakers with whom they disagree. Cancel Culture, as it’s called now. Unlike the ideologists on both sides with their rigid absolutes, Obama recognizes that “the world is messy and there are many ambiguities.” The more diverse a society becomes, the more complicated it is to live in. “Inclusive” and “tolerant” remain only words, social constructs to be learned, absorbed and encoded over time. To impose them by coercion and shaming won’t educate the people who haven’t yet got them. Neither does firing Don Cherry. Some who were
genuinely offended by his remarks are less ecstatic about his dismissal than the righteous who immediately took offense on their behalf, while those who subscribe to his un-nuanced views are just more pissed off than before. Both sides feel threatened and refuse to surrender ground. Neither seems aware that it has a shadow. All ideologies do. A dark side that’s self-serving and oppressive. Neither can allow itself to believe it might be wrong about anything. Because that would nullify the narrative. Being fallible myself, I admit to feeling that something will be missing from my Saturday nights this dreary winter. That would be the court jester in a ridiculous outfit who lost his license to offend. I doubt the world will be a better place for it. First intermissions will certainly be duller. ♦
Is your kitchen tired?
We have restored over 300 kitchens in the Niagara Region
I’M COLLEEN OTTO AND MY COMPANY IS FOREVER BETTER. I am a Certified Life Coach and I will help you Live your Better Life. Why do you need a Life Coach? Check out my website at www.lifecoachforeverbetter.com or call 905-931-8145
Call Today … for your First session
FREE!
Join me for my Vision Board Workshop Saturday, Nov 30th, Fonthill Library, 1 - 4pm $45.00 - all supplies included Register at 905-931-8145 or email foreverbetterlife@outlook.com BOOK SOON TO GUARANTEE YOUR SPOT!
Dunnville
Veterinary Clinic Same-day appointments
- Same-day test results, most while you wait - Large, well-established practice
ASK ABOUT OUR
WELLNESS PACKAGE
1017 Broad St. E., Dunnville, ON N1A 1K8 Phone: (905) 774-7642 1-800-263-6496 vets@dunnvillevetclinic.com
Mon - Fri: 8 AM to 6 PM • Sat: 8 AM to 2 PM • Closed Sunday
www.dunnvillevetclinic.com
TEMPERATURES ARE FALLING
FREE
in-home estimate
(905)468-9668
www.niveliveskitchens.com
RENOVATE YOUR HOME
WITH LOUWES The Cooler Weather is here ... 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)
CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE
WE SERVICE ALL MAKES & MODELS
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
905.562.5831
3435 King Street Vineland WINDOWS & SIDING SINce 1966 • WWW.lOuWeS.ca