The Voice of Pelham Feb 3 2016

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PELHAM’S INDEPENDENT NEWS SOURCE FROM THE HEART OF NIAGARA Vol.19 No.48

Wednesday February 3, 2016

85¢

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

V O I C E OF

P E L H A M

2016 Operating Budget Built Around Potential Community Centre

VOICE OF PELHAM Deadlines for February 17th issue

by ZACH JUNKIN The VOICE

On Monday, January 25, Council received the 2016 Operating Budget presentation from Treasurer Cari Pupo. The presentation indicated this year’s budget to be $11.06 million, an increase from 2015 of just under $1 million.

According to the report, the average residential assessment rose by $6,385 to $309,200, a 2.11% increase. The average tax levy will increase by 7.74%, or $107 per year.

Much of the Operating Budget is built around the potential new Community Centre that will replace the aging and outdated Pelham Arena.

ANOTHER MINOR VARIANCE REQUEST FOR PELHAM ST. PROPERTY

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12

Kinettes to Host 2nd Annual ‘Pamper Me Sweet’ Spa Day

An already contentious proposal to build a four-storey apartment complex at 1298 Pelham Street has residents once more up-in-arms after another minor variance request was filed with the municipality.

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905.892.8690

INSIDE CROSSWORD Page 2

POLICE RECEIVE MULTIPLE REPORTS OF MAN IMPERSONATING OFFICER Page 6

NRPS WARN AGAINST COUNTERFEIT CURRENCY Page 7

BLACK HISTORY MONTH IN ONTARIO Page 7

SHOULD I INSTALL A SPRINKLER IN MY HOME?

A public meeting is being held at 4:00pm on February 11 in Town Council Chambers, where the request will be considered by the Committee of Adjustment.

According to a Notice of Public Hearing distributed by the Town, the owners of the property are requesting relief from Section 5.122 of the Zoning By-law (“Parking Area”) to permit a 6m reduction in the street line setback off of Pancake Lane; as well as relief from section 6.16(l)(i) to “recognize an existing accessory structure used for two-vehicle parking, located 1.41m from the west lot line where 3m is required”.

CLASSIFIEDS Wednesday Feb. 10 noon ADVERTISING Thursday Feb. 11 noon

Page 8

'MOOSE' ON THE LOOSE Page 11 Kinettes Lola Bronn (left) and Betty Twomey (right) with Nikki Bakker of Elisha House.

DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS

by ZACH JUNKIN The VOICE

In what is fast becoming a Pelham tradition, the Fonthill and district Kinettes are hosting their 2nd annual Pamper Me Sweet! spa day on Saturday, February 13, at Fonthill United Church.

This year the event has grown from 25 to 35 vendors, providing a broad assortment of items and spa services to compliment any tastes.

“There are a lot of different vendors carrying a variety of items that will be

11am - 3pm

of interest to women,” said Lola Bronn, one of the co-chairs of the event.

Held the day before Valentine’s, Pamper me Sweet! provides the perfect opportunity for men to spoil that special someone to a day of relaxation and indulgence.

“It is a Valentine’s Day spa day,” continued Bronn. “It’s a nice day for guys to bring their favorite lady to come and pamper her.”

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Page 2

It’s myVOICE, Wednesday February 3, 2016

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

CROSSWORD 1 4

4. Available if required.

6. An excess of assets over expenditures.

8. As immoral as a witch.

9. Deep affection.

10. An estimate of income and expenditure.

11. Paid regularly to shareholders.

12. A customary line of travel.

14. Charitable gift.

16. Unable to pay debts.

17. Assets-Liabilities.

19. Money owed.

21. Compulsory contribution.

22. Short-term loan.

23. Preferred payment method.

24. Defaulting on a loan can foreit this.

25. Public sale to the highest bidder.

26. Available financial resources.

5 6

7

8

9

10

11 12 13 14 15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

Down

23 24

25

26

EclipseCrossword.com

January 27, 2016 - Solved Puzzle 2 L S A 4 C H E C K M A T E O G Y A 5 I C A E S 6A R 7 D O R 9 10 11 R O M A N W R M 12 U A Y E I 13 14 B L I D V I 15C A G E O 16 17 B T U R 18K E Y N 19 V I D I A Q 20 S N M Z U 21 22 C A M E S E N A T E E C L R 23 T S U B J U G A T E EclipseCrossword.com D 1

W

3

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1. Excess of expenditures over assets.

2. Own now, pay later.

3. Received by Bank Of America and General Motors.

5. Money set aside for a particular purpose.

7. An economy of a resource.

11. A strong want.

13. The basic cause or origin.

14. Sustained, long-term downturn.

15. Buy cheap and get one.

18. Money paid for money lent.

20. Profoundly immoral.

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It’s myVOICE, Wednesday February 3, 2016

continued from page 1

Kinettes to Host 2nd Annual ‘Pamper Me Sweet’ Spa Day Last year the event raised over $1500 for Women’s Place of South Niagara.

Proceeds from this year’s event will go to Elisha House, a pregnancy and family support centre in Welland.

“We were looking to stick with something that had to do with women,” Bronn explained. “A lot of us were familiar with Elisha house through our different churches, and we felt they were a great fit.”

The funds will be used to grow programming and expand services, providing women with rides to medical appointments and 24/7 crisis support.

“We have a lot of different services,” said Elisha House spokeswoman Nikki Bakker. “We have sexual health information, as well as crisis pregnancy

counselling, and we provide information on maintaining healthy relationships.”

Elisha House will maintain a booth at the event, where people can learn more about where the proceeds will be going.

They will also be able to volunteer or make a donation if they choose.

Currently Elisha House is in need of baby items and adult hygiene products.

Several businesses have donated door prizes for the event, including Dr. Marando Dentistry and the European Pantry. If any other businesses would be willing to make a donation, the Kinettes would be happy to have them. The Kinettes are also looking for any local musicians who might be interested in providing entertainment throughout the day. Prospective parties can contact Kinette Betty Twomey at 905-892-2377.

Page 3

'Coldest Night of the Year’ Fundraiser Niagara West Federal Liberal Association Issues Challenge to Other Local Party Organizations February 1, 2016 - Past Liberal Candidate Phil Rose and the Niagara West Federal Liberals have issued a challenge to the local associations of the Green Party, the Conservative Party, the New Democratic Party, the Christian Heritage Party, and the Libertarians.

On the heels of last year's election, Rose and the local Liberals have formed a team that will be walking to raise money for Community Care of West Niagara for its annual Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser to be held in Beamsville on February 20th.

The Liberal team is currently in first place for

funds raised among the fifteen teams established thus far. "We're hoping to attract a total of 25 teams", according to Rose, a Director of Community Care West Niagara, "with the goal overall of raising $25,000".

He urged the public also to join the effort by forming their own teams, and was happy that local MP Dean Allison will be in the riding that weekend, and possibly able to participate.

Of the other party organizations of Niagara West, Rose said that he thought it would be worthwhile attracting their efforts.

"These are all very community minded people",

he suggested, "and this is a way that we can all collaborate, while harnessing our usual competitiveness for the benefit of others".

Community Care of West Niagara serves those of the community experiencing the effects of poverty, and provides a bridge to self-sufficiency by supporting people and families with food, clothing, and other needs. Coldest Night of the Year is one of Community Care of West Niagara's primary fundraising activities. To start a team or to donate to the cause, visit https://coldestnightoftheyear.org/location/lincoln.

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It’s myVOICE, Wednesday February 3, 2016

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

EDITORIAL LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

An Open Letter to Minister Sousa from Tim Hudak MPP Dear Minister Sousa,

Dear Editor, Thank you for your extensive coverage of the Maple Acre Library issue and other Library matters over the past several months. Very clearly this has added a great deal to the debate and discussion in the community which bodes well for the future indicating ongoing attachment to Fenwick as a major and important part of the Pelham community and to the Pelham Library system.

My concern is with some of the accuracy of the last article appearing today. In your headline, you state the Cttee decided to move forward "...in spite of survey results indicating a majority preference for neither option." In the body of the article you indicate numbers that were certainly not those presented to the committee as I recall.

As a committee member, as is current Town practice with all its committees, I was given a document prior to the meeting as part of the agenda package for the meeting prepared by the Town's Deputy Clerk wherein she had spent the weekend tabulating the returns from both the open house and the Town website and a couple of other locations where forms were available for the public to fill in. Having no reason to doubt her work, we accepted her figures which were as follows: Option A 57, Option B 19, either Option 3 and neither Option 64. What this indicates to me is 79 in favor of the modern design and 64 against it. Your article states only 36 People preferred Option A and 76 preferred neither. Those are very different results and as I said earlier, not the results presented to the committee.

If this were a binding referendum it is rather clear based on the actual returns what the decision would be at any rate, first past the post, Option A. But it was not a referendum but merely a sounding of opinion. Based on this sounding from the Open House and on what the results of the community effort in the "How Might we" process from last year which demanded a modern facility and council's recent rejection of added expenditures for a different design all lead to our deciding do we go ahead or not and with which design. I feel that my vote in favor of proceeding with Option A was and is in the best interest of the community for now and the future and was fully based on an objective view of all the facts including the community's wishes. Not everyone will agree on the choice and reasonable dissent is part of what makes our community Vibrant and Caring.

Joe Bouchard Member of Maple Acre Advisory Committee Vice-Chair Pelham Public Library Board

THE

VOICE

905.892.8690

Editor, ZACH JUNKIN editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca zacharyjunkin@gmail.com Office Administration, LORI GRETSINGER office@thevoiceofpelham.ca Ad/Sales Consultant, TARA DRUZINA advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca Creative Director, TARJA BARTON graphics@thevoiceofpelham.ca “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca 209 Hwy 20 East at Rice Rd., Fonthill, ON L0S 1E6 Monday to Thursday 8am-2pm • 905.892.8690 The Voice is a member of

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR are welcome provided the submission contains the writer’s full name, signature, address and telephone number. Names only will be published. Names will not be witheld. The newspaper reserves the right to change, condense or reject any contribution for brevity or legal purposes. 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 incorrect insertion or for any damages beyond the amount of space which contians the error. The VOICE is independent, locally owned and operated.

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Last week, the National Post reported on an ongoing civil trial between a distillery based in Toronto and the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO). Their story quoted a lawyer acting on behalf of the LCBO as saying, “There are health risks associated with higher alcohol content which don’t exist with wine and beer.” The article went on to further quote her as saying, “Government policy does not want to proliferate distilleries.”

I was quite disturbed to read those patronizing comments, as the first is factually incorrect and the second is very concerning if true. As I am sure you know, Canada’s Low Risk Drinking Guidelines, which were developed by the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse, make clear that standard servings of beer, wine or spirits contain the same amount of alcohol by volume.

Canadian distillers are the third largest food quality grain purchasers buying 225,000 tonnes annually.

They also purchase approximately 10.5 million bushels of corn annually in the production of distilled spirits, representing 2.2 percent of total Canadian corn production. The majority Dear Editor, I want to congratulate Town Council for taking bold and visionary steps on a new community centre with twin pad arena. As a former City Councillor in Welland, I understand the challenges of making tough decisions to raise taxes for community projects.

Until now, Pelham has fallen behind many other small communities like Lincoln, Dunnville and Port Colborne who have made major investments in similar facilities. These facilities contribute to community pride, healthy lifestyles and physical activity, youth and amateur sports, skills development, healthy aging, recreation and social opportunities for all members of our community. Pelham has made other important

of this is sourced from Ontario, making distilled spirits producers the fourth largest purchasers of corn in the province.

Furthermore, Ontario has a unique history in the crafting of high-quality distilled spirits. Spirits products contribute greatly to our economy, helping to create good jobs and driving economic activity, from the hundreds of farming families throughout Ontario who sell their grain to the distillery workers who craft internationallyrecognized and award winning products.

Minister, as you may know, my riding of Niagara West-Glanbrook is home to two distilleries: Forty Creek Distillery in Grimsby which produces a wide variety of spirits including some of the best rye you will ever have; and Dillon’s which is a craft distiller in Beamsville that is earning rave reviews on its products including gin, Canadian whiskies, bitters and vodka. Not only do these businesses provide jobs in my riding, pull tourists off the highway and partner with Ontario farmers, they exemplify Ontario firms who have developed unique products sought by consumers across Canada and in other countries.

On December 10, 2015 I introduced Bill 157 entitled investments in playground equipment, sports fields, skate park, trails, bike lanes, libraries, downtown improvements, festivals and events that make our community vibrant and attractive to live, work, play, invest - and to raise a family. I can accept tax increases as a reality of inflation and also as a reality for making important community investments, like this project.

Pelham currently has one of the lowest taxes in the Region, in part, because we are one of a few communities that has not invested in a multiuse community centre.

Municipalities borrow (like a long term mortgage) for these facilities so that the cost can be spread over the life of the facility.

This shares the burden of cost by spreading the tax

The Microdistillers Act for first reading. The Microdistillers Act is a pro-jobs, pro-agriculture and pro-consumer choice initiative. If passed it will eliminate outdated government rules such as those that prohibit a distillery from selling a drink onsite. If a winery can sell a tourist a glass of wine or a brewpub a beer, why not a mixed drink at Dillon's that could show off local products? The Microdistillers Act would also reduce the punishing government markups faced by the industry to help them grow and hire more people.

Minister, I would enjoy meeting with you to discuss the Microdistillers Act. I think you will like it.

In the meantime, please confirm that the individual quoted in the National Post story is, in fact, gravely mistaken, and that the Government of Ontario does not incorrectly discriminate against spirits products, nor is it government policy to hold back Ontario distilleries.

Quite frankly, the views expressed by the LCBO’s legal representation were paternalistic, bordering on primitive and just plain wrong. Kindly correct the record.

Sincerely, Tim Hudak MPP Niagara West Glanbrook

payment (borrowing cost) over the next 30 years of "users" of the facility.

I trust that Town Council and staff will look for opportunities to get corporate, provincial and federal funding support to minimize the impact on our property taxes. I also look forward to our elected provincial and federal representatives to make good on their infrastructure funding promises to support these important local infrastructure projects.

I support Town Council making a bold and visionary decision to proceed with a community centre with twin pad arena that will be the pride of this community for the next 50 years.

Chris McQueen Fonthill, ON

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

No Money for Community Centre I am just trying to make sense of all this: According to a recent report to Pelham council by treasurer, Cari Pupo, it was noted that the cost to operate the municipality would increase by just more than $1 million to come in at $11.06 million. For the typical Pelham taxpayer, with an average residential assessment of $309,200, that would represent 7.74 per cent tax hike — an extra $106.95. Pupo told council the 2016 operating budget was developed to align with the proposed construction of the $37-million centre.

In the budget she is planning for a $5-million debt for the centre in 2016. In the following years, arena debt would increase to $10 million to $15 million in 2017 and the same again in 2018 with the remainder debentured in 2019.

Unemployment rates in Niagara are stuck at the provincial average of 6%. Hydro rates increased earlier this year by 3.4 % and in a posting on Mayor Dave’s online journal, (November 2015) he noted that the Regional Council increased the water rate by a “whopping 3.2%” per cubic metre.

In the January 27 issue of “The Voice”, Mr. P. Wilson noted that Pelham is known as an “affluent community”; this is true, with just 4.6 % of the Pelham population living below the poverty level, compared to 12% for the Region. However, that is just a part of the picture.

It’s myVOICE, Wednesday February 3, 2016

Page 5

Wish Lists and Reality Checks It is with great interest, being a Pelham resident, that I have followed the issues of the Maple Acre Library and the Community Centre. As for the Maple Acre Library addition, it seems that all the efforts, and honest hard work of the advisory committee, and I personally know some of the people involved, has been a useless exercise in futility. As recent as two weeks ago, the headline in the Voice read, “Mayor and Advisory Committee Seek Feedback” on the Maple Acre Public Library. Well, my understanding is that there was a lot of feedback, apparently not heeded by council, as the majority of respondents liked neither A or B options. I understand that asking for another option would cost money that council was not prepared to approve, however, I have to wonder who gave the instructions to this M/2 Group that prepared the renderings in the first place? To my eye, the only stark difference between the two options was the windows! With respect to the community centre, I can only say that with all the young families, which are welcome in the township, that we likely do need a centre which will accommodate activities and a new arena for sports. However, do we really need one that costs $37.5 million? We all know that it is only an estimate, once construction starts, it will be over budget, like everything else (excuse my sarcasm). Other communities can do it for much less, why can’t we?

According to Statistics Canada, in 2011, Pelham has a total population of 16, 598 with a growth of 2.7% compared to the national average of 5.9%.

Kudos to Ms. Cuthbertson, for her letter of January 23, 2016, I whole heartedly agree with all her points. Let’s be clear, the only way currently to pay for this grand project will be through your taxes. Frankly, I don’t know why more people aren’t more vocal or outraged about this. The St. Catharines Standard published an article about the tax implications for our residents, which would represent a 7.74 per cent tax hike this year.

We all have wish lists, but reality checks should bring things into perspective. We need these facilities, but how about making it reasonable?

Michelle Kavanagh Fenwick

Richard

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The percentage of the population aged 65 and over in Pelham, was 20.7%, compared with a national percentage of 14.8%.

The percentage of the working age population (15 to 64) was 64.0%, national average 68.5% (note does not say employed).

The percentage of children aged 0 to 14 was 15.3%, national average 16.7% Council members, where is the money for a7.74% tax increase coming from? What is the expectation for the future of Pelham to carry a high debt load, when the population growth is at 2.7 % ? You are burdening community members, struggling with child care, housing and daily living expenses and already pressured to save more and pay off debt, to now be paying for a centre with a twin pad arena that a minority of population of Pelham can use?

For the typical residential taxpayer, the centre would cost about $200 a year, without factoring in not-yetknown property assessment increases, Pupo said. Why can’t council see this 7.74% increase as ‘whopping’… it sure will leave my pockets empty!!!

Lois LaCroix

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It’s myVOICE, Wednesday February 3, 2016

Police Receive Multiple Reports of Man Impersonating Officer NRPS- On January 29th, 2016, the Niagara Regional Police Service received another report of a man posing as a police officer. This information indicated that on Friday January 22nd, 2016 at approximately 9:30 PM, an adult woman was driving her vehicle along Michener Road, Port Colborne when she observed a black 2 door Honda automobile travelling behind her. As she approached Farr Road, she noticed a circular red flashing light on the vehicle's front dashboard. Believing that it was a police vehicle, she pulled over to the side of the road. Once her vehicle

had stopped, she was approached by a male who told her that she had been speeding and requested that she exit her vehicle.

The woman noticed that the male was not wearing a police uniform and asked to see his police badge, however, he was unable to produce appropriate identification.

Believing the situation to be suspicious, the woman drove away. The male did not follow.

The suspect is described as an unshaven white male in his late twenties to early thirties. He is about 5’8” tall with messy, short and spiky light brown hair, weighs about 180

lbs and has black ‘spacer’ earrings. He was wearing a blue and grey plaid jacket. A second male wearing a toque may have been present in the passenger seat of the suspect's vehicle during this encounter.

Members from the Welland Criminal Investigations Branch of the Niagara Regional Police Service are continuing the investigation into this incident while members of the St. Catharines Criminal Investigations Branch of the NRPS continue to investigate a similar incident which occurred in St. Catharines on January 26.

During the St. Catharines

incident, a woman was reportedly approached by a male pretending to be a Niagara Regional Police officer. It is unknown at this time if these incidents are related.

Anyone with any information relating to either of these incidents is requested to contact the Niagara Regional Police Service St. Catharines Criminal Investigations Branch at 905-688-4111 Extension 4380, the Welland Division of the Niagara Regional Police Service at 905-688-4111 Extension 3300, or Crime Stoppers of Niagara.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

NRPS SAFETY TIPS • Make sure it is a marked police unit. If it is not a marked unit, the emergency lights should be built in and are usually not a temporary light placed on the vehicle.

• Try to stop in a well-lit area or a location where there are a lot of people present.

• Turn on your emergency flashers but don't turn off your car.

• Do not get out of the vehicle to meet the officer. Officers usually prefer people to stay in their vehicle for their own safety.

• Lock your door.

• Look for a uniform, official department jacket, and other equipment used by police officers for the performance of their duties.

• Pay attention to what they are asking. Most officers will advise you of the reason for the stop and request your driver's license, registration, and proof of insurance.

• If they immediately tell you to get out of the car without any preliminary questions, be suspicious.

• Trust your instincts. If they don't seem to be a real police officer they are probably not.

• If the officer is in plainclothes, look for identifying clothing and equipment. If unsure, explain to the officer that you are unsure about the situation and ask them to display official department identification and badge.

Ask where they work and if you can contact their dispatch center to confirm their identity.

You may also request that a marked patrol unit respond.

Should you have concerns that the person you are encountering is not a police officer, call 9-1-1.

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It’s myVOICE, Wednesday February 3, 2016

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NRPS Warn Against Counterfeit Currency NRPS - On Sunday November 29, 2015, the Niagara Regional Police Service was alerted to a potential fraud at a local Merchant in St Catharines. A vehicle description was provided and later located by patrol officers in the area. Three males and a female were arrested without incident.

Merchandise and U.S. counterfeit currency were located and seized.

Niagara Regional Police Central Fraud Unit assisted in the investigation and were able to link the suspects to incidents in St Catharines, Stoney Creek, Mississauga and Barrie that resulted in additional charges on January 22, 2016.

Charged;

Two 27-year-old males and one 31-year-old male were charged with Utter-

ing Counterfeit Money x 4, Possession of Counterfeit Money, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime, Fraud Over $5,000 Additionally, a 30-yearold female faces charges of Possession of Counterfeit Money, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime, and Fraud Over $5,000 The Niagara Regional Police are reminding

Chorus Niagara Singathon Returns to Seaway Mall On February 20th, Chorus Niagara will hold its 10th annual Singathon Fundraiser at the Seaway Mall. Chorus Niagara performs the Singathon again this year at “The Most Famous Food Court in the World”, where the choir's YouTube viral fame began.

The public is invited to attend a free 5-hour concert with celebrity conductors. Each year Chorus Niagara invites several community leaders to try their hand at conducting 100+ singers. Watch with amazement as Artistic Director Robert Cooper lends the celebrities a helping hand, and teaches them basic

The government also intends to introduce legislation in the near future that, if passed, would formally establish February as Black History Month in Ontario on an annual basis.

“Black History Month honours the legacy of black Ontarians, past and present, who have done so much to make Ontario the inclusive and culturally

Counterfeiters rely on cash handlers not checking their money in order to pass their counterfeits.

Bank note security features are helpful if people check them. If you know the security features on money you will be able to detect a counterfeit at a glance and protect yourself and your clients form fraud.

Security features on US bank notes are found at https://uscurrency.gov/.

In addition, the Bank of Canada offers free train-

ing materials and presentations to help businesses learn to check both Canadian and US money.

Checking security features is a person’s best defence against counterfeiting. Its quick and easy, and a good habit to get into.

continued from page 1

ANOTHER MINOR VARIANCE REQUEST FOR PELHAM ST.

methods of conducting. Among the performances will be the famed Hallelujah Chorus for shoppers. Also appearing from 11:45am to 12:30pm will be our own Chorus Niagara Children's Choir.

The public is invited to experience this vocal marathon and listen to Chorus Niagara sing a variety of music from their repertoire. Interested audience members are also invited to join the choir for a free singing lesson from 10-11am. Those who wish to donate to Chorus Niagara can do so in person or online through www. canadahelps.org

Black History Month in Ontario Ontario is officially recognizing February 2016 as Black History Month.

the public to be vigilant against counterfeiting in light of the recent increase of counterfeit US bank notes in the region.

If you are not sure about the security features of a American bill then don’t accept it, ask for an alternate form of payment.

diverse province that it is today,” said Michael Chan, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and International Trade.

“I invite people of all cultural backgrounds to seize this opportunity to learn more about a significant part of our collective heritage.”

Ontario first proclaimed February as Black History Month in 1993 to mark the 200th anniversary of a law banning the importation of slaves into Upper Canada. Since

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then, Black History Month has continued to be celebrated but has not had official status.

The proposed building will be constructed next to the existing complex.

Residents have expressed concern that repeated By-Law relief for minor variances will eventually add up to a significant deviation. The Committee of Adjustment, which deals with these requests, granted the property owner five variances in July of last year. Over fifty residents turned out at

that meeting to oppose those variances, and the building itself, with arguments ranging from a desire to avoid light pollution to the area’s inability to handle increased traffic.

Those requests were considered minor by the town Public Works and Planning departments,

who felt the changes adequately reflected Pelham’s Official Plan.

An OMB appeal hearing of the July variances has been postponed pending the results of the upcoming meeting.

Valentine’s Dinner for Two

February 13-14 Starting at 4 pm RESTAURANT • ICE CREAM BAR

Appetizer for Two Choose an Entrée Grilled Salmon New York Strip Grilled Caprese Chicken

Dessert & Wine Applicable taxes and gratuities extra.

While quantities last.

$85 per couple

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Page 8

It’s myVOICE, Wednesday February 3, 2016

SPORTS NBA ACTION:

CC’s Dugout Buries Signature Signs 91-54

by JOE SELISKE

Jason Bray (with 21), Eric Labonte (with 20) and Danny Weiss (with 15) combined for fifty-six points to lead CC’s Dugout to a decisive 91 – 54 victory of Signature Sign & Image last week. These three alone

could have won the game for CC’s. All eight of the Dugout players put a mark on the score sheet. With the score 51 – 31 at the half, Signature Signs could not recover.

For CC’s Dugout, Jason Bray, who at the end of last season was fifth in alltime Niagara Basketball Association scoring with 5,221 points in 300 games, led the Dugouts with 21 points. Jason also had 3 assists and 6 rebounds. Eric Labonte was right behind Jason with 20 points, scored on THREE 3-pointers, five baskets and a foul shot. And yes, he did check where his feet were before each and every 3-point attempt. Danny Weiss, who is second in all time scoring with 6,237 points in 309 games scored 15 points, mainly in the first half. Danny also kept the SigSigns honest with 6 steals. Speedy Pat Dyson, who outraced most of the SigSigns down court on his fast breaks, scored an even dozen points on five baskets and a pair of foul shots.

Veteran John Raso scored 8 points (including one trey). John was also the victim of being stuffed by 77-year old Jack Randall on what appeared to be an easy layup. Mike Christian, who is always a threat in the offensive zone, scored 6 points, all in the third quarter and all as the result of rebounds. He pulled down five rebounds. Grizzled veteran Mark Russell had to duke it out with Old Greybeard in the paint most of the night, but did manage to score half-a-dozen points. His two

fouls shots smelled of a certain black and white striped rodent. Last but not least, Sean Racher, who played a rather gentlemanly game collecting only one personal, got his chance in the fourth quarter and made good on his one and only 3-point attempt to complete the trey and score 3 points.

For the short-benched Signature Sign & Image squad, faded red-head Peeter Kupper had his best night in quite a while. The sexagenarian scored a game-high TWENTY-FIVE points using all manner of shots. He collected 9 traditional baskets, TWO 3-pointers and a foul shot – not to mention pulling down 7 rebounds and dishing for 4 assists. Wainfleet denizen Mike Gilmore got his shot on-track and scored 14 points, all the old-fashioned way.

One or both of Mike and Peeter were ALWAYS ready for a shot in the paint.

Old Greybeard, Joe Seliske played his role by planting himself in the key and boxing out whomever or whatever challenged that position. He spent most of the night keeping Mark Russell at bay, although Eric Labonte, Jason Bray and Mike Christian also kept him busy.

He score 6 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and dished for 2 assists. Septuagenarian Dave Dick was wherever the ball was, scoring and fouling ad lib. He finished with 4 points and 3 personals. He also ran around a lot. League founder Jack Randall threw up a number of arc-less shots and had two of them go in. He had 4 points and had a nice assist on one of Old Greybeard’s baskets. Ryan Woolcott kept the Dugouts honest in the backcourt and hit half of his foul shots for 1 point.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Should I Install a Sprinkler in My Home?

If you are building a new home, a feature to consider installing is a residential sprinkler. With modern construction methods and materials, fire spreads quickly and can become deadly in as little as three minutes.

Fire sprinklers protect your home around the clock; they work automatically and immediately before a fire spreads. Sprinklers put water right where it is needed, slowing or stopping the flames and poisonous smoke, so that people can get out safely. Most fatal fires take place at night when people are sleeping. Having a fire sprinkler system in your home is like having a firefighter on duty 24 hours a day.

Sprinkler heads are connected through the home by a network of piping, such as CPVC. The piping is generally hidden in behind walls and ceilings. The heads can be installed in walls or ceilings depending on the type and can be concealed by a plate. Most home fire sprinkler systems are connected to the household water main.

If the water pressure is from a well or if the water pressure is too low, a storage tank may be needed. Each sprinkler has a temperature-sensitive element and is individually activated by heat. Water flows from the sprinkler when the temperature reaches between 135°-165° F. In the vast majority of fires in sprinklered homes, only a single sprinkler will operate. Smoke, cooking vapours or steam cannot cause home fire sprinklers to activate. Only the high temperature of a fire will operate the sprinkler.

Home fire sprinklers require very little maintenance: a simple visual inspection to ensure the valve is open, and a water flow test on a regular basis, which can be done by the homeowner or a fire sprinkler contractor.

The ideal time to install fire sprinklers is during new construction. Many homeowners opt to install or retrofit sprinklers when they remodel their homes.

More information can be found at HomeFireSprinkler.org or by contacting the Pelham Fire Prevention Officer at sholditch@pelham.ca or 905-892-2607 ext. 202.

OLD SCHOOL COOL:

Relics from Pelham’s Past

Several interesting historical items have recently turned up at J&J Florists on Churchhill Street in Fonthill. A number of Trophies from Pelham’s past are now on display, dating from the 40’s and 50’s right on through to 1990. They include the E.J Anderson Challenge Cup, the Wardens Trophy (livestock judging), the W.A.R Dawson Trophy, the Senior Girls Fonthill Public School Field Day Champion trophy (1951-1962), as well as various Fonthill Public School and A.K Wigg Public School track and field trophies from the 50’s and 60’s.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

It’s myVOICE, Wednesday February 3, 2016

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Page 9

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Page 10

photos and more. Includes use of laptop or BYOG (bring your own gadget).

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

foundation repair, water proofing, drainage systems, clothes an quarry stone supply, place- sonable, ment. 905-384-1972. P18-23 30, 8AM-3

FONTHILL BANDSHELL PRESENTS DE TEMPS ANTAN Since 2003, Éric Beaudry, André Brunet and Pierre-Luc Dupuis have been exploring and performing time-honoured melodies from the stomping grounds of Quebec’s musical past. Using fiddle, accordion, harmonica, guitar, bouzouki and a number of other instruments, our three virtuosos BRIDGE: beginyears. for sale and joie de vivre found only in blendBeyond boundless energy withBooks the unmistakable HELP WANTED ner. Partners and refresh- signing. Thurs., Feb. 25 at traditional Quebec music.

Show runs from 7-9 p.m. ments provided. Experi- 7:00. $4. Please register Fruit farm looking for sea-

Yard & SALE, Bricklaying, tuckpointing, of Christm decoration step repair, granite coatings, brick slices items, SA 1PM 625 905-682-7061.

SERVICESP18-28 NORTH P

It’s myVOICE, Wednesday February 3, 2016

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

COMMUNITY EVENTS & CLASSIFIED SPAN (Single Person Association of Niagara) is a social club since 1982 for mature singles who meet and mingle at The Trap 128 Hwy 20, Fonthill, every Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Offers members a monthly calendar of social activities. Further information, call Lynie @905-788-0359 TF Weekly Euchre every Friday evening, 7:30 pm – 10:00 pm, North Pelham Youth Hall, 1718 Maple Street, Fenwick (Just north of Tice Road); $3./person, prizes awarded.

TF Pelham Community Church 461 Canboro Rd., Fenwick Wednesday Worship & Communion Service First & Third Wednesday of every month @ 2:00 p.m.

TF Ridgeville Bible Chapel AWANA program is Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 8:00 at 418 Canboro Rd, Ridgeville for children 3 to Grade 9.

TF A Cappella Niagara Men’s chorus meets Tuesdays at 7:00 PM at the Welland Community Wellness Centre, 145 Lincoln St. Come and sing! Gus 905-2280858, Bob 905-892-2336. TF Women A Cappella! Sing with us. Sing Niagara Women's A Cappella Chorus.Let your inner Diva soar. Learn more now! Call Nancy 905 935 3965 or Email info@ singniagara.com New session starts Mon Jan 11,7 PM. www.singniagara.com Fonthill Legion, EVERY FRIDAY 4-6 pm, serving a great dinner. $10. Including coffee/tea and dessert.

Take out orders available, call 905-892-6293.

TF The Torchmen Quartet in Concert at Pelham Friends Church, 940 Haist Street, Fonthill. Sunday, February 7th at 7:00 p.m. No admission - love offering only.

Come and enjoy Southern Gospel Music.

N19-48 Singing Valentines Treat your Valentine to a box of candy, a rose and lovesongs delivered for you anywhere in Niagara by an “A Cappella Niagara” Barbershop, Quartet. Proceeds to “Harmonize For Speech”. Howard 905468-3566 & 905-359-8117.

Fabulous Fenwick Lions Ribfest Saturday, February 27, 2016. 2 sittings: 5 pm and 6:30 pm. Adults $20, Children 12 and under $12. For tickets call Lion Alan 905-892-6846.

Advance ticket sales only please. N19-51 Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper – Tuesday, February 9th from 5 - 7 pm at Concordia Lutheran Church, 105 Welland Road, Fonthill. Pancakes, sausage, fruit topping, coffee and dessert. Tickets

are: Adults $8, Children 6-12 $4, 5 and under are Free. Everyone welcome!

N19-48 St. Alexander Parish Shrove Tuesday Supper Tuesday, February 9, 2016 5:00 – 7:00pm. Adults $6, Children $4 Age 3 to 12, Children Age 2 & under free. Supper includes, pancakes, sausages, baked beans,Coffee, tea & juice.

N19-48 North Pelham Youth Association is having a ham and scalloped potato dinner on Saturday, February 27, 2016 from 5 – 7 p.m. at North Pelham Youth Hall, 1718 Maple Street, Fenwick (corner of Maple St & Tice Rd). Adults - $13., children 5 – 12 years $5., children 4 years and under free. Contact #’s: 905-8924391 and 905-892-3408.

N19-51 SOUP’S ON. Fenwick Lioness Soup & Bread Lunch Sunday February 21, 11:15 am – 1:30 pm. Fenwick Lions Hall, 999 Church St., Fenwick. Selection of 5 Homemade Soups, Variety of Breads, Dessert, Coffee, Tea, Juice. $8 per person; Children under 10 - $3 N19-50 Bingo is back at the Royal Canadian Legion, Hwy # 20, Fonthill on Saturdays 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm . Every one welcome, enjoy our relaxed atmosphere and prizes.

TF Super bowl Sunday, at the Royal Canadian Legion on Hwy 20, Fonthill, Feb. 7th with 4:30 pm Chilly Cook Off , you may bring your own personal Chilly to enter into the tasting contest. Great food, lots of prizes, great fun, come and join your friends for a great Super Bowl Party.

N19-48

PELHAM LIBRARY EVENTS: TGIF CRAFTING: Drop in with your portable craft and enjoy time with other crafters. Fridays from 1- 3:30. $2. Pelham Public Library. www.pelhamlibrary.on.ca.

905-892-6443. TF COMPUTER TUTOR & GADGET CLINIC “One-toOne Help” with a volunteer tech tutor. Includes use of laptop or BYOG (bring your own gadget). Saturdays 12:30 – 3:30. Register and pay ahead in person. $5.00 per 1/2 hour. Pelham Public Library. www.pelhamlibrary. on.ca. 905-892-6443 TF BEGINNER CHESS: Ages 12-18. Instructor J. P. will introduce the basics, chess moves and opening strategies. Mondays. Jan. 11Feb. 8. 3:30 – 4:30. $5.

Please register ahead. Pelham Public Library. www. pelhamlibrary.on.ca. 905892-6443. N19-48

sonal help April 1, 2016 till enced bridge directors can ahead. Pelham Public LiNov 30, 2016. Applicant brary. www.pelhamlibrary. assist.

Wed, Jan. 13 – Feb. PELHAM LIBRARY CARD MAKING WORKSHOPmust be able to work min. 40 17. A short lesson is pre- on.ca. 905-892-6443. in any weather Make cards with fall themes, learningN19-51 a variety ofhours/week techniques.

Materials sented fromsix 10:05 - 10:15, conditions and weekends. then are openprovided. play from At 10:15Lifting 50 lbstools comfortably is time of registration, please enquire about needed.

12:15. $6 per week or $30 required. Jobs include prunTues., Sept.

16 10 – 12:30. $10.

Please register ahead.

Visit www.pelhamFOR RENT ing, planting trees, thinning per six-week session.

Peland picking. Must have own ham library.on.ca Public Library. or www. call 905-892-6443 for more details.

Upper 2 bedroom apt, transportation.

Minimum pelhamlibrary.on.ca. 905Fonthill. No pets, non smoker. wage $ 11.25/hour. Please Available Feb 1, 2016, $800./ 892-6443. N19-50 drop off resumes at 825 Canhydro. FRY Daytime FABULOUS FENWICK month LIONS+ FISH

boro Road, Fenwick, Ontar-

telephone number 905-892L0S 1C0.

P19-48 BEGINNER BRIDGE III: heading Tasty treats with funds back into theio,community.

Haddock, 9891 andstraight evening 905-892Introduction to the game 0050. P19-48 french Wed, fries and of Bridge.

Jan.much 13 more. Runs Sept. 9 from 4-7 p.m.

THE VOICE – Feb. 17. Structured les1 Paper Route Available FOR SALE sonsPELHAM start at MINOR 9:45 with HOCKEY EQUIPMENT SALE Route 9 – Church Street, Get your I Love Pelham experienced Directors to Fenwick – 58 papers. Please souvenirs at at J&Jthe Florists, or trade used equipment Pelham Arena.

Aimed to provide assistBuy, untilsell 12:15. $6 per call The Voice at 905-892-8690 top of the hill, 67 Canboro TF weekcheaper or $30 per six-week options for players in this upcoming season. Runs Sept. 6 from Rd,www.jandjflorists.com TF session. Prerequisite: Be9-12 in the morning. ginner Bridge II. Pelham ANNOUNCEMENT Public Library. www.pelhamlibrary.on.ca.

905-892PELHAM MUDFEST 6443.

N19-50

Men and women will be back in the mud as the second run on the year is

GIRLS’ IN: (Ages heldNIGHT at Bissil’s Hideaway.

12-17). Take over the closed library during this NIAGARA EXHIBITION 2-hour lock in. REGIONAL Try on a new Rodeo, look forgames hair, and nailslive entertainment headline this years exciting event. It and makeup or decorate from Sept. with runs henna, chalk or 11-14 glit- at the Welland Fairgrounds. ter. Crafts, games, videos and BIG of course, food.

Bring RIDE MOVE CANCER your own supplies or we The Big Move Cancer Ride is a non-competitive ride taking place on Sept. will have some fun things to do.

Fri., Feb. 5 from 7-9Big Move stay in Niagara and support the Walker Fam7. Proceeds for the p.m. $2. Please register ily Cancer Centre. ahead. Pelham Public Library. www.pelhamlibrary. on.ca.

905-892-6443.

WALKING CLUB N19-48 Please join Harold & Dorothy Haist

70th Wedding Anniversary Celebration

Interested in walking in Pelham? Join them Tuesdays at the Pelham Arena at GAMES NIGHT: Bring from 9-10 am and Thursdays at Fonthill Bandshell for 9-10:30 am. There Lookout Ridge Retirement Home your issystem games, no feeand for this program. For more information, please contact jcook@ Auditorium use one of our computers pelham.ca or call 905 892-2607, ext 329. or try a retro video game or on an old-school board game.

Saturday, February 6, 2016 Fri., Feb. 19 from 6-9. $2.

HAMPER FOR PELHAM CARES From 1 – 3 p.m.

Please registerDAY ahead.

Purchase fruit and vegetables Best at theWishes MarketOnly, or bring a non-perishable Pelham Publicfresh Library.

Please P19-48 www.pelhamlibrary.on.ca. food item to fill the hampers at the Pelham Farmers Market on Sept. 4.

905-892-6443.

N19-50

COMMUNITY Events HELP WANTED

A TASTE OF DOWNUNDER: Travel NURSERY HELP along with longtime PelGROWERS/MANAGEMENT/SHIPPING/LABOURERS ham resident Rosemary Wholesale nursery growing container grown perennials, Culos who decided it was Event Submissions Standards vines, flowering shrubs, evergreens & dwarf trees seeking time to fulfill a dream and If your organization is hosting an event would be of interest to We theare community, individuals whothat desire a career in horticulture. in need see Australia & New Zeaof those skilled in the growing, management and shipping of to land.you Photos of thisan trip may submit events profile by sending your community events information nursery stock as well as general labourers. Plant knowledge of a editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca lifetime will give you Some restrictions apply. Event submissions that meet and experience is an asset. If you are an individual who has an idea of the beauty the acceptability standards of The Voice of Pelham will then as bewell posted the date organizational skills and dedication as a until willingness and bounty of Australia's to work as a team player, we look forward to hearing from your event.

TheDarCommunity Events Calendar is updated weekly. Please provide east ofcoast, outback, you. Wages will commensurate with experience, abilities win as area, New Zealand, much notice and information as possible including the date, time and description and level of expertise. For more information on jobs visit Tasmania, Melbourne. of your & event.

The Voice ofour Pelham reserves the right to edit for space.and go to website at www.willowbrooknurseries.com Tues., Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. ‘about’ then ‘careers’ and then scroll down to see the jobs $3. Please register ahead. available. Resumes may be dropped of between the hours Pelham Public Library. of 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 8:00 a.m. – www.pelhamlibrary.on.ca.

12:00 on Friday at: 905-892-6443.

N19-50 Willowbrook Nurseries Inc. IT SEEMED AS IF 100 MEN WERE POUNDING MY HEAD: AND OTHER AMAZING STORIES FROM NIAGARA'S PAST: Sherman Zavitz, local author and Official Historian for the City of Niagara Falls and the Niagara Parks Commission, reads tales from his collection of 45 short, high interest stories from Niagara Falls and along the Niagara River. Zavitz is a retired teacher, past president of the Lundy’s Lane Historical Society, author of five Niagara Falls history books and has been a columnist for the Niagara Falls Review for 22

935 Victoria Ave., Fenwick, ON Attention: Human Resources No phone calls please.

(We thank you for your application, however only those considered will be notified.)

P19-48

TRUCK DRIVER Local nursery requires truck driver with DZ License. AZ license would be an asset. Position is seasonal. Deliveries are within Ontario and the northeast US. Must have clean abstract, professional appearance and be customer friendly. Will be required to assist in unloading truck.

Rates are hourly and competitive. Resumes, together with abstract can be dropped off between the hours of 8:00 a.m - 4:00 p.m. Mon.-Thurs. or 8:00 a.m.-12:00 Fri. at:

Willowbrook Nurseries Inc. 935 Victoria Ave., Fenwick, ON Attention: Human Resources No phone calls please.

(We thank you for your application, however only those considered will be notified.)

P19-49

Burke’s Masonry

Josh DeHaan Flooring “For all your flooring needs”

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

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

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

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

No Sunday Calls, Please TF

HIGHEST PRICES PAID For all Gold, Diamonds, Sterling, Coins, Antiques, Old Watches.

Paying up to $100 a pound for Costume Jewellery Military, Old Toys, Comic Books, Record Albums, Furniture, Old Guitars, Musical Instruments, Glassware

Free Home Appointments!

905.380.7470 P20-1

What is Your Home Worth?

Thinking of making a move? Call me for a complimentary and confidential home evaluation.

Christa Fraser Sales Representative

905.357.9700 Toll Free 1-855-357-9700

TF

Portable sawmill service I will come to your home or farm and custom mill your logs. Firewood & lumber also available. Call Rob Patterson, 905-401-4948 riverwood@ primus.ca. TF

Birth & Death

NOTICES Call The Voice 905.892.8690 WANTED FONTHILL HERALD Seeking copies or archive of past issues of the Fonthill Herald?

Other periodic publications produced within Pelham of any vintage also wanted. Contact D. Holman 905-892-8690 TF

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It’s myVOICE, Wednesday February 3, 2016

Page 11

'Moose' on the Loose Support your local service clubs

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VOICE OF PELHAM HELP WANTED

by DAN HOLMAN The VOICE

Anyone familiar with the TV show “Ice Road Truckers” may already know something about building over frozen water. Today they use some pretty sophisticated techniques so hardly anyone actual goes through the ice and drowns. But it wasn’t always like that.

A ROAD ALONG THE SHORES of the Arctic’s Beaufort Sea had been scouted by light pick-up truck. Our guy would drive over the ocean, stop, drill into the ice, measure its thickness and, if he approved, would set a survey stick with a flag attached in the hole which would

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instantly freeze solid. My job with the D-7 Caterpillar bulldozer was to follow the flags and blade the snow off a swath wide enough for the big trucks.

OUR ‘SCOUT’ WAS TUKTOYAKTUKS’ EDDIE GRUBEN of Eddie Gruben

Transport and he said, “If you follow the flags you should always be able to see where the next one is” as he had spaced them within the field of the Cats working lights.

Easy work actually, so I wasn’t overly bothered despite the fact it was January, night shift, forty miles from a single living soul and I was working close to shore where weird wave action could cause unpredictable scouring under the bottom of the ice.

IT WAS ON MY VERY FIRST SHIFT that Eddie took care of my nonchalance.

Pointing to the plate metal roof, he said that if the Cat went through the ice I needed to remember to “be directly underneath the escape hatch” which they had just cut into the machine roof. continued on back cover

Places of Worship and Events Bethany Christian Reformed Church 1040 Balfour St., Fenwick ON L0S 1C0 (905) 892-8980 Concordia Lutheran Church 105 Welland Rd. Fonthill, ON L0S 1E4 (905) 892-8877 Fenwick Church of Christ 765 Welland Rd. Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 (905) 892-5661 Fenwick United Church 1050 Church St. Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 (905) 892-3081 First Presbyterian Church 602 Metler Rd. Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 (905) 892-4716 Fonthill Baptist Church 1414 Pelham St. Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 (905) 892-3925 Fonthill Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1369 Rice Rd. Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 (905) 892-4680 Fonthill United Church 42 Church Hill Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 (905) 892-6433 Glad Tidings Church of God 1 Pancake Lane Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 (905) 892-5122 Holy Trinity Anglican Church 1557 Pelham St. Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 (905) 892-6011

Kirk on the Hill Presbyterian Church 1344 Haist St. Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 (905) 892-3729 Pelham Community Church 461 Canboro Rd. Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 (905) 892-5922 Pelham Evangelical Friends Church 940 Haist St. Fonthill, ON L0S 1E4 (905) 892-6881 Ridgeville Bible Chapel 418 Canboro Rd. Ridgeville, ON L0S 1M0 (905) 892-3347 St. Alexander’s Roman Catholic Church 50 Pelham Town Sq. Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 (905) 892-3090 St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church 834 Canboro Rd. Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 (905) 892-6123 Zion Free Reformed Church 1075 Boyle Road Fenwick, ON (905) 386-1134 “PREPARING TODAY FOR GOD’S TOMORROW!”

SUNDAYS AT 10:45AM We are passionate about making disciples for Jesus and preparing our community for the coming kingdom of God!

1 Pancake Lane in Fonthill

905.892.5122

www.gladtidingschurchofgod.com email: gladtidingscog@bellnet.ca

Page 12

It’s myVOICE, Wednesday February 3, 2016

continued from page 11

'Moose' on the Loose EDDIE SAID that it was necessary to be exactly there

because when I popped it open the air bubble would go so fast that I risked knocking myself out or breaking my neck if I hit the plate steel overhead. While he couldn’t see my face in the dark he also couldn’t miss the guffaw that exploded.

“What’s so funny”, he asked? I explained,

“Eddie, if this machine goes through the ice, if the minimum three feet of ice doesn’t immediately close in like slush over top, if it doesn’t freeze almost instantly, and if I make it through that and then haul my soaking wet butt out of the water into minus 50 weather, then what? I’m forty miles from the nearest possible warmth or human being. I think I would just as soon let my neck get broken cleanly than have to deal with all that. Plus my body will remain in the Cat and surely you guys will be looking for that.”

EDDIE WALKED AWAY probably a little puzzled. If

it were to happen to him he might have made it home alive since Eddie is Inuvialuit and knew the land and had their calm, steady way about him. In fact, he probably would come in fitter than he went out and with a bale of furs to trade. But I wouldn’t stand a chance.

SO I FATALISTICALLY set out to build the road,

alone, in the middle of the Arctic night. I knew I could go through the ice and I knew those who did. And I knew I could die, but there was no profit in thinking along those lines. This was about 1974 and I was making big bucks. Given my youthful insouciance and faith in my own self and the fates in general those thoughts couldn’t be allowed to sidetrack the bigger picture. Money in the bank!

ON THE OTHER HAND there was something I was afraid of. More than a little frightened of to tell the truth. It was a ‘Moose’. But not the hairy ungulate like you might be thinking.

THE ‘MOOSE’ I FEARED was Herman Earnshaw,

so called as much for his size as anything. Among his plaudits he was a Divisional boxing champ during the Second World War and the evidence of that was all over his face, and, according to his war buddy who also worked the same jobs, plenty of bars, saloons and folks in general. When roused, Moose was an honestto-god known bar clearer. He was what you would call a man’s man and though his crew were more than

continued from page 1 2016

BUDGET

Much of the report focused on the potential $37 million Community Centre.

“We aligned all our capital projects with the build of the Pelham Community Centre, possibly starting in 2016,” said Pupo. “[The other projects] have just been pushed farther out into the years …which allows debt repayment room to open up so that we can fund the proposed Centre over the next four years.”

“The best way to do that,” she continued, “so that there’s not an increase in one year when you take out the full $37 million, I’m proposing that we debenture $5 million this year, and then we would debenture an additional $10-15 million in 2017, another big chunk in 2018, and the small runoff area in 2019.”

a little fond of him it was never far from fear as well.

LIKE HIS NAMESAKE, ‘Moose’ on the loose was a sight to behold and practically the last thing he had said to me each night when he dropped me off at the Cat was to be careful of our little fuel bowser and to not back into ‘it’. ‘It’ being two five thousand gallon tanks, tied together with a one inch pipe jutting out, all meant to be trailered on a semi, and all sitting on a skid dragged out on the ice. The very important pipe was about 18 inches off the ground with a hose so short that with the Cat having a ripper tooth at the back, the only way to reach the fill cap was to angle back in at about forty five degrees and even then the hose just barely fit in the filler spout. It simply wouldn’t reach parked parallel or at ninety degrees. So at the end of each shift I inched this big machine back, eyes straining in the shadows cast by the suddenly feeble lights, tired as hell after 12 hours, watching for that damn pipe and I mused each time, ‘they must have had some history here.’

WHEN IT HAPPENED, I HONESTLY DO BELIEVE I could hear the fuel gushing out even before I exited the cab. Worse yet, it was flowing forcefully enough the fuel was shooting straight out 15 -20 feet before hitting the ice. I had parked my Cat practically on top of that pipe connection – although really it was just a bump because steel pipes snap at those temperatures and this had been sheared clear off. Now here I was engineering a minor environmental nightmare and I had no idea exactly how much fuel was in the tanks.

They were at least six feet in diameter and eight feet wide. Maybe today some math star might be able to work out how much from the force of the flow but there certainly was no time for it right then. For one thing I had a D7 Cat to move out of the way before things really got exciting.

UPON FINDING TWO SLEDGE HAMMERS in

the adjacent shack I busted the handle off one and hammered it into that one inch hole. If you have ever pinched off a hose with your thumb you know the effect inserting that plug had and I can testify that soaking in super cold diesel left my skin raw and burning. But that, I figured, was nothing compared to what would happen when Moose came to pick me up.

I had, pun very definitely not intended, waded deep into a regulatory and disciplinary mess that could have severe repercussion far beyond just my job.

WITH DAY SHIFT JUST FINISHING their breakfast coffee there was more than enough time for considering my options. Based on the facts, they all seemed bleak.

Being soaked to the skin compounded my misery. But, with a little spin, maybe…

IN THE END I THOUGHT IT BEST to fess up clearly and without equivocation. You couldn’t deny the entire mess and nothing would be gained by doing so.

If I tried to float some lame excuse I would lose this man’s respect and trust, the kind that you need when you are working hard industries and where your coworkers’ indifference alone can get you killed. Plus, the company had treated me well enough and I owed them at least the clearest and most honest answer and assessment.

HE CAME FOR ME, and ‘Moose’ came alone. No witnesses I noticed. Uh-Oh. I can’t remember who

Pupo further stated that this would allow the levy increase to be ‘massaged’ over the next four years, rather than one big increase this year.

According to Pupo, the facility will cost the taxpayer, on average, around $212 per year over 35 years, or $7500. This figure did not account for property assessment increases, which are not yet known.

The budget presentation also touched on employee Cost of Living Adjustments, pay grid movement, and the new manager compensation policy which in total accounted for a $250,000 increase.

Pupo also noted that the town spent about $47,000 on professional development, including the How Might We problem solving training touted by Mayor Augustyn and CAO Darren Ottaway. Councillor Accursi

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca alerted him but I knew he already knew of my folly. Reluctantly I slid into the truck and he drove wordlessly the ten minutes to the camp. I was expecting a ‘vigorous’ reading of the riot act at the very least, possible termination, even the outside chance I might get physically hammered. The thought I could possibly, accidentally, get stomped to death flitted through my head.

BUT HE SAID NOTHING. There was no talk at all,

and when we reached camp Moose turned to me and said, “So you backed into the tank?” There was nothing to say but yes. So I said it. And not another word was spoken. Not then, not ever. Frankly, I thought at the time a shot in the head might have been less painful.

AS IT WAS, I reckon I wasn’t the first to hit that tank but certainly I was the last because they installed a much longer hose on it and it was never an issue again.

BUT THAT MELANCHOLY MORNING in the half

dark of a sun not even to the horizon, not even light, just a hint of promise of it still to come, I learned quite a few things. For one - urinating on one’s own head is certainly one of the most useless wastes of time you can engage in so I swore to become more and more proactive because stuff happens and then somebody, some adult, has to act, not moan and complain. Had I dwelt at length about the possibility – perceived danger – of plunging through the ice I could not have done my job. The shadows and hallucinations in the night in that windswept home of polar bears were enough as it was. There was no time for what ifs and what may come.

THEN WHEN I SHEARED THE FUEL PIPE I could

easily have been paralysed with fear because I alone was responsible for a little environmental catastrophe.

As sickening a place as it was to be standing there, the diesel was rushing from the pipe so I simply got to it and focussed on fixing the problem one step at a time. First plugging the tank, then standing up and taking the blame and being willing to do whatever I could to mitigate what I had set wrong. Because in the end, tiredness was an admission of my failure, poor lighting was an excuse, an acknowledgement of my poor vision, and the length of the hose was a mere distraction. It had been my fault so I stood forth. And I think anyone else would have. Back then.

THE WORLD DIDN’T END, I kept Moose’s trust, my job continued, the company was easily able to clean up the spill because one great thing about snow is that it makes a fabulous blotter and all it took was a loader to scoop up what the environmentalists estimated was about 200 gallons of P50 diesel fuel. Of that a tiny bit probably did eventually seep into the water but compared to the entire convoys of WW II oil tankers sunk by U-boats in Arctic waters this wasn’t even a whisper. It was important, yes, but among the many lessons we learned in the early days of Arctic energy exploration. As for me, I continued to work on a number of projects with the company. Presumably they kept employing me because they knew they could trust me - just maybe not my ability to back up.

TODAY I WONDER whether the same values exist.

I was no hero that day; just a screw-up, but at least I owned my own stuff. I learned then the valuable lesson that most people are inclined to forgive an honest mistake, even a major mistake, if you take responsibility for it. In today’s world obsessed with inquiry, fixing blame, and focussing on who is at fault, do people still stand up and take responsibility or do we instead seek cover? If so, are we better for it, or not?

questioned whether that was an area where the town could make some cuts, perhaps by going in-house, but was assured that the How Might We training was essential and “embedded in everything we do.”

“I’m the only one with the Professional Innovation Advisor’s credential to be able to teach that,” added Ottaway. “The problem becomes the amount of time it takes to deliver a training session. Level 1 and level 2 is about a five day total time, level three is another five days… So yeah, we’re working towards that, we’re just not there yet.”

Pupo estimated that the overall blended tax rate increase (Municipal, Regional, School Board) for the Town of Pelham would be 3.2%