The Voice of Pelham Dec 9 2015

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THE

V O I C E O F

P E L H A M

Wednesday December 9, 2015

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Town Trims Rec Centre Design, Increases Budget to $37 Million

LAND TRANSFER TAX IDEA DROPPED The Liberal government announced today it will not extend the land transfer tax option to local municipalities

The VOICE

At last week’s Architectural Design Advisory Committee (ADAC) meeting town staff revealed some of the early cuts that will be made to the design of the Potential Community Centre in East Fonthill.

The potential community centre will be located in the East Fonthill development site.

HARVEY SHINES IN PANTHERS’ FIRST WIN

by ZACH JUNKIN The VOICE

www.pennylanesold.com pennylane@royallepage.ca Office 905.892.0222

INSIDE

by ZACH JUNKIN

Panthers players celebrate their first win on Friday in Pelham.

PHOTO CREDIT: Fabian Hoggard.

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It’s been a long time coming, but the Pelham Panthers were able to secure their first win last weekend as they held on to beat the Thorold Blackhawks in a hardfought 2-1 victory.

Pelham, who with the win improved to 1-21-4 on the season, achieved success through a consistent, 60 minute game, according to Team Captain Cameron DeFazio.

“We played the full sixty as hard as we could, and this is probably the first time we’ve done that this season,” he said. “We’ve also worked in practice to shoot low, and that generated some rebounds for a couple of goals.”

It all may have been for naught, however, if it weren’t for the strong play of goaltender Stephen Harvey. Harvey, who made 36 saves on the night, stopped a number of point blank shots early to keep his team in it, and withstood a short-handed barrage in the third to secure the victory.

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ATOMS WIN SILVER The Pelham Mossimo’s Pizza Atom AE Panthers stormed into their recent tournament in Huntsville, Ontario and put on a display of power and speed.

Page 8

SEASONAL WORKERS HEAD HOME With fall harvest at an end, the agricultural labour program that helps Ontario’s fruit and vegetable industry thrive is celebrating another successful growing season.

The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) helped Ontario farmers hire approximately 17,000 seasonal workers from Mexico and the Caribbean as a supplement to local labour in 2015.

See page

7

THERE’S GOING TO BE A RIOT Page 11

CROSSWORD Page 3

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It’s myVOICE, Wednesday December 9, 2015

Ontario Passes Police Records Checks Reform Act On December 1, Ontario passed the Police Record Checks Reform Act, 2015 to protect public safety and strengthen individual civil liberties by removing unnecessary barriers to employment, education and volunteer opportunities resulting from the inappropriate disclosure of non-conviction and noncriminal records, such as mental health information, in police record checks.

The new legislation sets the province’s first-ever clear, consistent and comprehensive set of standards to govern how police record checks are conducted in Ontario, and applies to the majority of purposes for which such checks are conducted. It also: • Defines three types of police record checks: criminal record checks, criminal record and judicial matters checks, and vulnerable sector checks • Limits and standardizes the types of information that can be released in each type of record check • Standardizes disclosure practices, such as ensuring that the person to whom a record relates has the opportunity to review the results prior to permitting its release to a requesting third party.

The new standards are based on advice from the Minister’s Table on Policing and Civil Liberties and reflect the consensus achieved through the creation of the 2014 Law Enforcement and Records Managers Network (LEARN) Guideline. The guideline was developed by a broad spectrum of policing, civil liberties, human rights, community safety, mental health, and non-profit groups in Ontario in response to concerns about the lack of standardization of police record checks.

“Reforming police record checks is all about strengthening individual civil rights and protecting public safety,” said Yasir Naqvi, Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services. “This bill puts clear, consistent and effective rules in place for the first time in Ontario’s history to make sure that Ontarians are no longer negatively impacted by records of police contacts that do not pertain to criminal activity.”

Vulnerable sector checks are completed in cases where an individual is in a position of trust or authority over vulnerable persons, like children or the elderly. In order to keep vulnerable persons safe, the legislation allows for the disclosure of non-conviction information in exceptional circumstances if a strict test has been met.

Read

THE VOICE OF PELHAM online at

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Town Offices Will Remain Open During the Holidays The Town of Pelham is keeping offices open during the holidays again to continue delivering our residents, businesses, and visitors the best possible service yearround. Town offices will operate with regular business hours (8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.) to ensure there is no disruption to services.

Please be advised that Pelham offices and arena will close December 24th at noon and remain closed December 25th for the observance of Christmas Eve and Day. Town offices will remain closed on December 28th for Boxing Day observance, but the Pelham Arena will be open for the Silverstick Tournament.

Pelham offices and arena will also close on December 31st at noon and remain closed January 1st for the observance of New Year’s Eve and Day. Pelham Transit will operate on a regular schedule except on December 25th – 26th and January 1st during holiday observance.

For any emergency situations outside of regular hours (which are related to water, sewer or road conditions, and where there is imminent danger to public or private property), please call 905-892-2607 and follow the prompts or dial 905-734-0892 directly. For all other non-emergency requests, please visit pelham.ca and send us a Public Service Request.

“

It pays to be obvious, especially if you have a reputation for subtlety.

“

Page 2

– Isaac Asimov

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OPEN HOUSE

Ken Bailey (of Fonthill) visiting his daughter Laurie Corna on a recent trip to London, England and Paris France.

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

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www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

It’s myVOICE, Wednesday December 9, 2015

Page 3

CROSSWORD 1

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28. Real tree substitute.

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2. Friendly snow balls.

3. Deity maternity ward.

5. unique, sub-zero precipitation.

8. A Cratchit meal, Pre-Scrooge.

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It’s myVOICE, Wednesday December 9, 2015

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

EDITORIAL

Hudak Congratulates Industry Leaders As Land Transfer Tax Idea Dropped Niagara area MPP credits work of MPP Clark, real estate agents and homebuilders Queen’s Park - Today MPP Tim Hudak congratulated local real estate agents, homebuilders, Niagara Regional Council and his colleague, MPP Steve Clark, for their hard work fighting against a planned Liberal Government Municipal Land Transfer Tax. The Liberal government announced today it will not extend the land transfer tax option to local municipalities across the region, an idea that was heavily criticized by industry professionals for the added costs it would bring to home ownership. The tax would add $10,000 to the cost of an average home in Ontario, an amount that would push home ownership completely out of reach for many in our province and stall home sales in all municipalities.

“The input provided by real estate agents and homebuilders demonstrat-

ed the tax threatens to increase the cost of home ownership province wide and would price many low and middle income Ontarians out of the real estate market entirely, while actually slowing down our economy,” said Hudak.

Hudak added Niagara Regional Council speaking out against the tax highlighted it was a bad decision that would actually harm municipal economies.

“As Leader of the Opposition, I was always opposed to a Municipal Land Transfer Tax, so I am glad to see the government is listening to the experts and scrapped this tax grab,” said Hudak.

Hudak credited Leeds Grenville MPP Steve Clark for tabling a motion asking the Liberals not to extend the Municipal Land Transfer Tax.

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THE

VOICE

905.892.8690

ZACH JUNKIN, Editor editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca zacharyjunkin@gmail.com WARREN MASON, Advertising and Sales advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca TARJA BARTON, Creative Director graphics@thevoiceofpelham.ca LORI GRETSINGER, Office Administration office@thevoiceofpelham.ca “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”- John 8:32

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.

Original bandshell design used courtesy of Todd Barber Forestgreen Creations.

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REGIONAL COUNCIL APPROVES ZERO PER CENT INCREASE TO REGIONAL PROPERTY TAXES On Dec. 3, Niagara Regional Council approved its 2016 tax supported operating budget of $510.4 million, of which $159 million is supported by Regional property taxes.

This budget is focused on maintaining existing services and reinvesting in strategic areas that will enable a more prosperous Niagara, with no overall cost increase for residents.

Residents will see a zero per cent budget related increase on the Regional portion of their property tax bill. For the average household with a home assessed at $240,500, the Regional portion of your tax bill will remain unchanged from 2015, at $1,402.

"Our Council is keeping regional taxes low by approving zero per cent property tax increases which ensures affordability for Niagara residents, while making sure that we are focused on delivering the services and programs that will build a more prosperous Niagara,” said Regional Chair Alan Caslin. “This budget enables us to advance transportation initiatives across our region, and foster an attractive and collaborative environment for the private sector to bring profitable

investment and new jobs to Niagara.”

“We’ve identified over $7 million in sustainable savings and reinvested in strategic areas and reserves, without compromising service delivery,” said Councillor David Barrick, Chair of the Budget Review Committee.

“This approach ensures that we are able to make valuable investments in the programs and services that will lead the way to a stronger and healthier Niagara," concluded Barrick.

The 2016 tax supported operating budget maintains programs and services and provides funding for investments in new areas that will support economic prosperity, including: $1 million in additional investments for inter-municipal transit and the Niagara GTA corridor, in addition to supports for GO transit ; $1.1 million to promote employment and residential growth, in partnership with area municipalities and private sector investors Join us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube ; Building a healthy and safe Niagara with an additional $2 million in increased investments to better serve residents of Niagara.

Regional Council also approved the 2016 capital budget of $165 million to support the following significant infrastructure projects: $20 million to open lands for business and residential development ; $10 million to advance GO transit across Niagara ; $50 million to improve Niagara regional roads and bridges, including $9 million in funding for road resurfacing ; $11.6 million to build more affordable housing for residents, including funds received from federal and provincial governments Regional Council approved reductions to the 2016 Water and Wastewater (combined) and Waste Management budgets and zero per cent increases to the Court Services, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, Niagara Regional Housing and the Niagara Police Services budgets. The total of all operating and capital budgets contribute to the Region’s total 2016 budget of $1 billion.

For further information on the Region’s Budget visit www.niagararegion. ca.

Letter to the Editor

Residents Soon to Lose Trail Access Although perhaps not a lot of people will feel the loss, we are about to lose a gem of a walkabout in Fonthill. This is because the Luchetta Estates development on Haist St north of Highway 20 has already obstructed the path giving access from Haist St to the West entrance to the Lathrop property, a beautiful stretch of escarpment woodland and ravine. I understand the owner has obtained all necessary permits to go ahead, but at this eleventh hour could not an agreement be obtained to preserve public access, maybe with a "Luchetta Trail" skirting the new development?

This would not only allow easy access to the forest for those who live in the expanding area West of Haist, but also provides connection to the old railroad trail heading off towards Thorold. Surely this would be a fitting addition to the town's 'Walk Friendly' initiative.

Perhaps someone more skilled than myself could set up an E-petition to Council?

Sincerely, Dave Nicholson

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

It’s myVOICE, Wednesday December 9, 2015

Page 5

Libraries: Partners in Sustainability

by KIRK WEAVER

CEO Pelham Public Library

Sustainability is a broadly used term that can mean different things to different people. Often it is used to describe environmental protection efforts or the financial viability of an organization. In its broadest community sense the definition contained in a report issued in 1987 by the Bruntland Commission captures it well. It defined sustainability as, meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

What role could the Pelham Library play in supporting sustainability in Pelham? With such a broad definition it would be easy to simply say we are too small to have any major impact so why bother. However, if everyone took that approach not much would happen. The better approach is to look for ways to do our part along with others so that the collective impact is noticeable.

There are three major areas where Pelham Public Library can make contributions to community sustainability. First, through our internal practices we can make sure we are making efforts to be good environmental and financial stewards. While we can’t claim perfection, we do consider energy efficiency, paper use, and fiscal sustainability in making operational decisions. Second, through partnerships or awareness of what is happening in the community we can start to connect the various elements of sustainability. For example, one of our staff was recently asked to participate in a story walk through a local daycare provider which effectively combines efforts to improve literacy and learning with the objective of better health through more physical activity. The possibilities in this area seem endless. Third, through a balanced set of program offerings we can provide residents with tools and tips that will enhance their own individual contributions to sustainability which can improve the overall impact.

Do you have suggestions about new library service opportunities for today that will enable future generations to meet their needs?

We would like to hear from you.

Contact us at admin@pelhamlibrary.on.ca with your ideas.

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It’s myVOICE, Wednesday December 9, 2015

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Mckenzie Rainwater and her mom Linsay were out admiring the ice sculptures on display at the Outdoor Christmas Market in Fonthill on Friday.

Niagara Regional Police Officers Volunteer to Support Special Olympics Athletes NRPS - On Tuesday December 8, 2015 officers from the Niagara Regional Police Service

will join members of the Law Enforcement Torch Run and the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police to honour Special Olympics Athlete’s participating in the Special Olympics Four Corners Youth Bocce Qualifier.

The event will take place from 10:00 am to 1:30 pm at the Young’s SportsPlex at 570 River Rd in Welland. Niagara Regional Police Officers will provide a motorcade for the Special Olympics Athletes to the event and will greet the athletes as they enter the facility.

The Special Olympics Four Corners Youth Sport Competition program includes: Basketball, Soccer, Bocce and Track & Field.

The program aims to provide quality youth sport competition opportunities to school students aged 13 to 21 with an intellectual disability. To qualify for the Special Olympics Four Corners Youth Sport Provincial Championships in the summer of 2016, participating athletes will compete in their respective sport at one of the 48 qualifying events across Ontario.

Members of the Niagara Regional Police Service have volunteered their time to make the 2015 Special Olympics Youth Bocce Qualifier a memorable event for the athletes, coaches, and athletes families.

Homicide Suspect Arrested in Niagara Region NRPS- On Monday November 30th, 2015 members of the Niagara Regional Police Service Special Enforcement Unit with the assistance of the Intelligence Unit, Emergency Task Unit and K-9 Unit began an investigation into an individual wanted on a Canada Wide Arrest Warrant from Edmonton, Alberta who was believed to be hiding somewhere in the Region of Niagara.

Investigation by the Edmonton Police Service had determined that this individual had involvement regarding a homicide which occurred on April 6th, 2015 in City of Edmonton.

On Monday November 30th, 2015 at 11:00 a.m., Police arrested Shayne Fry in the City of Welland on the outstanding warrant moments before he was attempting to leave the region.

The Niagara Regional Police would like to thank the units and other agencies who helped in this collaborated effort. Fry will be held in custody pending his return to Edmonton.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

continued from page 1

Rec Centre Design

It’s myVOICE, Wednesday December 9, 2015

Page 7

Give the Gift Of Summer To A New York City Child

The town recently hired Ball Construction to help find ‘cost efficiencies’ in light of a lack of Federal or Provincial funding. Ball was tasked with bringing the original $54 million design in line with the Town’s debt tolerance level.

In order to accomplish this goal, a number of recommendations were put forward, including that the multipurpose space be reduced from 6000 sq. feet to between 3000-4000 sq. feet; that non-essential common areas be reduced or eliminated; and that the elevated indoor walking track be moved from the gymnasium area to instead be built around the top of the arena.

It was further recommended that the fitness centre be eliminated entirely, as a number of private businesses already meet that need.

At the same meeting, staff informed the ADAC that the project would see its capital budget increase to $37 million. Though staff had originally estimated the Town’s debt tolerance level to be $30 million, Mayor Augustyn explained that staff “realigned budgets and provided the financing room for an additional $7 million over 30 years… an annual payment of approximately $384,000 per year.” Operating costs are to remain capped at $200,000 annually.

Council will review the realigned 20 year capital budget, as well as financing forecasts, at the Special Capital Budget committee meeting on Monday, 4 January 2016.

continued from page 1

SEASONAL FARM LABOUR PROGRAM CELEBRATES SUCCESSFUL SUMMER While some of these workers will continue their placements for several more weeks, many are beginning to return home on a daily basis as they complete their work terms.

“This program has been providing a lifeline to growers across the province for nearly half a century,” said Ken Forth, President of Foreign Agricultural Resource Management Services (F.AR.M.S.), which administers the program. “Without the steady source of reliable seasonal workers provided through SAWP, many farmers in Ontario’s agrifood industry simply couldn’t remain economically viable.”

Established in 1966 to respond to a critical shortage of available domestic agricultural workers, SAWP continues to serve the same role today, connecting Ontario farmers with supplementary seasonal labour from Mexico, Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad/Tobago and the Eastern Caribbean States.

Because SAWP is a “Canadians first” program, supplementary seasonal farm labour is hired from participating countries only if agricultural operators cannot find domestic workers to fill vacancies. Approximately 1,450 farms benefitted from the program this year.

Liaison services from each participating country are instrumental in recruiting and selecting top candidates for placement of successful applicants each year and provide workers support on a wide range of issues during their term of employment. Liaison services are open year round.

“About 80% of the seasonal workers opt to return on repeat contracts because they are able to earn far more than they can at home,” Forth said. “They’re able to provide a better standard of living to their families, pay for their children to attend school and learn skills needed to operate businesses of their own in their home countries.”

Ontario’s overall economy also benefits. It’s estimated that at least two jobs for Canadians are created in the agrifood industry for every seasonal agricultural worker employed through SAWP at Ontario farms.

Host parents Simon Williams and Christine Tardiff-Williams with daughters Simone and Chamile, welcome Panela Stapleton as part of the fresh Air Fund initiative.

PHOTO: The Voice Archive

The holiday season is the perfect time to think about becoming a volunteer host family to a New York City child. Each summer, close to 4,000 children visit suburban, rural and small town communities across the Northeast and Ontario, Canada through The Fresh Air Fund’s Friendly Towns Program. By volunteering as a host family for summer 2016, the spirit of the holidays can continue in your home throughout the year.

Fresh Air children are boys and girls who live in New York City. Children who are reinvited by host families may continue with The Fresh Air Fund through age

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The Fresh Air Fund, an independent, not-for-profit agency, has provided free, enriching summer experiences and academic programs to more than 1.8 million New York City children from low-income communities since 1877. For more information on hosting a Fresh Air child next summer, please contact Christine Ferrusi at 905-541-1828 or visit The Fresh Air Fund atwww.freshair.org.

Page 8

It’s myVOICE, Wednesday December 9, 2015

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

SPORTS

by NEAL RIDLEY

The Pelham Mossimo’s Pizza Atom AE Panthers stormed into their recent tournament in Huntsville, Ontario on November 27 to 29 and put on a display of power and speed.

back from a 3 goal deficit to beat the Don Mills Mustangs 5 to 4 securing their spot in the tournament finals and a rematch against the Paris Wolfpack.

In their first game, the Panthers came out of the gate aggressive and took an early 1 goal lead over the Orillia Terriers which they kept to win the game 1-0 . The team then continued their positive start but lost their second game to tournament hosts, Huntsville Otters.

With sustained offensive bursts and a stalwart defense, the Panthers battled hard however succumbed to the Paris Wolfpack.

The Panthers then weathered the tournament favorites, the Paris Wolfpack, losing 3 to 8 but the Panthers showed prowess in scoring 3 goals, more than any other team so far against the Wolfpack.

The Pelham AE Pelham Panthers.

The Panthers then forged an unbelievable come-

The Pelham Panthers Atom AE team left no doubt on the minds of their coaches, Matt Doherty, Chad Free, Steve Karnay and Mike Budai of their uncanny ability to overcome challenges.

Congratulations to the Pelham Panthers Atom AE on your silver finish in the Huntsville Winston Watson Memorial Atom AE tournament. A great team effort!

continued from page 1

HARVEY SHINES IN PANTHERS’ FIRST WIN The win came as a relief in a season of losses where poor outcomes have not always matched strong efforts. “When you lose 24 or 25 in a row, it’s nice to get a win,” said DeFazio. “It should have come earlier, but it still feels good.”

Thorold started strong in the first period, controlling possession and hemming Pelham into their own zone.

However, as the period wore on the Panthers began to assert themselves, using their speed to generate a number of good scoring chances off the rush and finishing the frame with a 14-7 advantage in shots on goal.

Pelham came out hungry in the second, asserting themselves with an aggressive, physical style of play led by London Murray and Riley Hollowell who kept the Blackhawks honest with several hard hits along the boards and behind the net. The team’s tenacity would pay off mid-way through the period when Caleb Mussat scored on a jam play in front of the Blackhawk’s net to take a 1-0 lead, which Adam Petric doubled a little over a minute later. That’s where the score remained until the dying seconds of the period when the Blackhawks’ Anthony Merante put the visitors back within one.

Thorold pushed back hard in the third, drawing a number of penalties and keeping the Panthers on their heels. Pelham, however, refused to break, and though two goal-line pucks and several posts kept the home crowd in suspense, the Panthers were able to hold on for a well-deserved victory.

“

It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up

“

Mossimo’s Pizza - Atom AE Pelham Panthers Win Silver in Huntsville

– Babe Ruth

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Page 9

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

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

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advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

905-386-6483 • 905-651-8558

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www.landscapesbybill.com Natural rock • Interlocking Brick by • Bill Nieuwenhuyzen Design & Planting Office 905.892.4510 Cell 905.641.8203

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Be proactive, winterize your vehicle December 1 to 7 is National Safe Driving Week, and the Canada Safety Council is reminding Canadians to winter-proof their vehicles to make any driving they may do become easier, safer and more reliable.

In addition to the installation of winter tires, basic maintenance of your vehicle is also of critical importance before the winter months are in full swing. Be sure to take action on the following items: • Make sure lights are all working properly. Especially in the winter, it’s important to see and be seen.

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• Ensure you have a fully-charged battery. In cold weather, a depleted battery might not be enough to start your vehicle. Have your battery tested before cold weather hits, and be proactive in changing it for a new one before the old battery fails.

• Know you’ll be able to stop safely. Winter tires are an important part of gaining traction when stopping, but you should also check that your brakes are working well. If they are squeaking, creaking, feel odd or seem to pull, get them serviced.

• Windshield wipers and washer fluid should be working right. Replace any windshield wipers that are streaky, as any accumulation of snow or ice could make visibility much poorer. Also, fill up on winter windshield washer fluid (-35C or -40C) and keep a second jug in your vehicle at all times in case of emergency.

• Keep a brush and scraper in your vehicle. You never know when you might need to brush snow or scrape ice off your car.

The Canada Safety Council wishes you a happy and safe winter!

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874 Hwy #20 West, Fenwick • www.naturesownidea.com

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.

Page 10

It’s myVOICE, Wednesday December 9, 2015

SPAN (Single Person Association of Niagara) is a social club since 1982 for mature singles who meet and mingle at Iggy’s Pub,115 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

our Festive Friday’s Eat, shop and be merry late night shopping event on December 11th, 2015 10 am to 9 pm! Enjoy a glass of Christmas cheer, sample delicious baked goods & products while you shop over 60 Artisans unique gift ideas.

N19-40 Gingerbread House Contest Lunch with Santa, Saturday December 19, 12 noon – 2 p.m. Fonthill Legion 905892-6293 N19-41 The Fabulous Fenwick Lions present, The Pelham Santa Claus Parade. Saturday, December 12, 2015, at 1:00 p.m., downtown Fenwick. After the parade, festivities continue with Santa, food and fun, at Centennial Park. N19-40

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

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 blend boundless energy with the unmistakable joieCARD de vivre only in Pelham Public Library. www.

OFfound THANKS pelhamlibrary.on.ca.

905traditional Quebec music. Show runs from 7-9 p.m.

COMMUNITY EVENTS 892-6443.

COFFEY, LEO

COMPUTER & CARD MAKING WORKSHOP PELHAMTUTOR LIBRARY GADGET CLINIC “One-toMake six cards with fall themes, learning a variety of techniques. Materials One Help” with a volunteer tech are tutor.provided.

Includes At usetime of of registration, please enquire about tools needed. laptop or BYOG (bring your Tues., Sept.

16 10 – 12:30. $10. Please register ahead. Visit www.pelhamown gadget). Saturdays or call 12:30library.on.ca – 3:30. Register and905-892-6443 for more details. pay ahead in person. $5.00 per 1/2 hour. Pelham Public FABULOUS FENWICK LIONS FISH FRY Library. www.pelhamlibrary. on.ca.

905-892-6443 TF heading straight back into the community. Haddock, Tasty treats with funds

french fries and much more. Runs Sept. 9 from 4-7 p.m.

Birth & Death

PELHAM MINOR HOCKEY EQUIPMENT SALE The family of Leo Coffey Buy, sell or trade used equipment at the Pelham Arena.

Aimed to provide would like to express their cheaper options for players in this upcoming season.

Sept.

6 from Support thanksRuns and deep gratitude to everyone who offered their 9-12 in the morning. your local service and support during

service clubs

this most difficult time. To the Niagara Region paramedics, PELHAM MUDFEST doctors and nurses of Welland Hospital, Janis Fonthill Legion, EVERY Men and women will be back in the mud as the second runandonespecially the year and Val of the I.C.U., for FRIDAY 4-6 pm, serving a their efforts, professionalism, held at Bissil’s Hideaway.

Ridgeville Bible Chapel great dinner. $10. Includcare and compassion. To ing coffee/tea and dessert.

AWANA program is Brooklyn and the staff of James L. Pedlar Funeral Tuesday evenings from 6:30 Take out orders available, NIAGARA REGIONAL EXHIBITION call 905-892-6293. N19-41 home for assisting us with the to 8:00 at 418 Canboro Rd, Rodeo, games and live entertainment headline this arrangements, years exciting and toevent.

Natalie,It Ridgeville for children 3 to the celebrant, for a beautiful A Cappella Niagara Men’s runs from Sept.

11-14 at the Welland Fairgrounds.

Grade 9.

TF From fairest creatures we desire increase, service. To Goodman’s Florist chorus meets Tuesdays for the beautiful flowers and That thereby beauty’s rose might never die, at 7:00 PM at the Welland THE ROBERT WOOD to the ladies of the Fonthill Community Wellness CenButBIG as the riperCANCER should by time decease, MOVE RIDE Legion for arranging a SINGERS and The Wood tre, 145 Lincoln St. Come the Kids present their ChristHis tender heir might bear his memory: The Big Move Cancer Ride is a non-competitive ridedelicious takingluncheon. place onToSept. and sing! Gus 905-228pallbearers, his brothers, mas Concert “Spread a Little 0858, Bob 905-892-2336.

But7.thou contracted thine own bright eyes, and support Mike, Bryan, Paul, David, Proceeds for thetoBig Move stay in Niagara the Walker FamChristmas Cheer” Sunday TF Peter and Shawn, for carrying Feed’st thy light’s fl ame with self-substantial ily Cancer Centre.

December 6th, 2:30 p.m. at him to his final resting place.

To our nieces, Amanda and fuel, Sacred Heart Church, 72 MEDITATION: Release your Stephanie, and our nephew, Empire St. Welland and Fristress and relax as Marcia Making a famine where abundance lies, Graeme, for their heartfelt WALKING CLUB leads you through a number day, December 11th 7:30 eulogies. To our wonderful Thy self thy foe, to thy sweet self too cruel: of different types of medip.m. at Bethany Christian Interested in walking in Pelham? Join them Tuesdays at theneighbours Pelham Arena friends, and tations. For beginners and Thou that art now the world’s fresh ornament, Church, 1040 Balfour St. co-workers for am. the flowers, from 9-10 am and Thursdays at Fonthill Bandshell for 9-10:30 There more experienced levels.

Fenwick. Join us as we celdonations, food, love and And only herald to the gaudy spring, Bring a pen and notebook. is no fee for this program. For more information, please jcook@ support, contact which has been ebrate Christmas in music Within thine own bud buriest thy content, Sat., Dec. 12 from 2-4 p.m. ongoing.

He would have with Andrew Carruthers dipelham.ca or call 905 892-2607, ext 329. been humbled by the number $3.00. Please register ahead.

And, tender churl, mak’st waste in niggarding: recting and Darlene Oord at of people who attended the Pelham Public Library. www. piano. Adults $15: Children Pity the world, or else this glutton be, visitation and funeral and pelhamlibrary.on.ca.

90512 and under $8. www.roberHAMPER DAY FOR PELHAM CARES thankful for the overwhelming 892-6443.

N19-40 To eat the world’s due, by the grave and thee. have received. To twoodsingers.com N19-40 Purchase fresh fruit and vegetables at the Market orsupport bring we a non-perishable our family, sisters, brothers-Shakespeare, Sonnet 1 TGIF CRAFTING: Drop in law, sisters-in-law, food item to fill the hampers at the Pelham FarmersinMarket on Sept.nieces 4.

The Country Christmas with your portable craft and and nephews, aunts, uncles Store’s Creative Fall Har- enjoy time with other craftand cousins for springing into vest Festival, 1794 Centre ers. Fridays from 1- 3:30. $2. action without hesitation at the St, Ridgeville. Join us for hospital and during the days leading up to and following the funeral. You lightened the load for us and enveloped us with love and we are truly blessed.

Event Submissions Standards To our sons, Jonathan, If your organization is hosting an event that would be ofIf interest to the community, you may submit Brendan to andthe Dylan, he was your organization is hosting an event that would be of interest community, so proud of the men you have an events profile by sending your community events you information to an offievents ce@thevoiceofpelham.ca may submit profile by sending your community events information to become and the obstacles Some restrictions apply. Event submissions that meet the acceptability standards of The Voice editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca Some restrictions apply. Event meet you submissions have overcome.that I know how difficult it until was the for you the acceptability standards of The Voice of Pelham be posted date of Pelham will then be posted until the date of your event.

The Community Events Calendar is will then to speak from the heart at of your event.

The Community Events Calendar is updated weekly.

Please provide his funeral, and you did him updated weekly. Please provide as much notice and information as possible including the date, proud. time Toand our description Jenny, for as much noticethe andright information time and description of your event. The Voice of Pelham reserves to editas forpossible space.including the date, comforting us all. He will live of your event. The Voice of Pelham reserves the right to edit on infor the space. hearts of those who loved him. And because of him, two people will now have “better than perfect” vision. I know he’ll have a good tee off time in Heaven, where he was welcomed by his mother, father and brothers, Gerry and Ron. God bless. Valerie, Jonathan, Brendan (Jenny) and Dylan

Call The Voice 905.892.8690

COMMUNITY Events

Event Submissions Standards

HELP WANTED

Warren Mason ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

905.892.8690

THE

VOICE

Yard & Burke’s Masonry SALE, L Bricklaying, tuckpointing, of Christm decoration step repair, granite coatings, brick slices items, SAT 1PM 625 905-682-7061.

SERVICESP18-28 NORTH P

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TF

NOTICES

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

Progressive advertising leads to impressive results.

THE VOICE 1 Paper Route Available: Route 14 – Damude, Orchard, Bruce Wood, Oak Lane, Terrace Heights – 67 papers Please call The Voice at 905-892-8690 TF THE VOICE Is looking for an ad sales consultant with print-media advertising sales experience. Base plus commission position. Reliable transportation is required.

Apply by email to danholman.dan@gmail.com. No phone calls please.

TF

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

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

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

THE TILE MAN Tile installation of • Blacksplash • Shower • Bath

BOOKING NOW

Call:

905.651.5170 P19-40

FOR SALE Get your I Love Pelham souvenirs at J&J Florists, top of the hill, 67 Canboro Rd,www.jandjflorists.com TF

WANTED Fruit farm looking for seasonal help April 1, 2016 till Nov 31, 2016. Applicant must be able to work long hours in any weather conditions and weekends.

Lifting 50 lbs comfortably is required. Jobs include pruning, planting trees, thinning and picking. Must have own transportation.

Please drop off resumes at 825 Canboro Road, Fenwick, ON. P19-42 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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www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

It’s myVOICE, Wednesday December 9, 2015

Page 11

Send the Mounties,

there’s going to be a riot

by DAN HOLMAN The VOICE

Panicked, the park ranger had just radioed his dispatcher, ``There’s going to

be a riot. Send the Mounties!`` From his perspective surrounded by several dozen angry long haired freaky people and confronted by a very tall Texan who was threatening to kill him it certainly seemed reasonable to presume things would deteriorate. Or, depending on your view, escalate. Which is maybe what you get when you go around threatening to have a person’s dog euthanized.

It was 1971 and in order to keep the thumb-trippers, vagabonds, and the other low end visitors to Jasper Park out of sight and in `control` local authorities provided a beautiful little spot on the shores of the Athabasca River. It was idyllic. Like-minded people gathered together and would communally cook their evening meal with whatever had been foraged during the day. Someone had hand written a sign labelling the row of tents and shelters along the bank `Penny Lane.`

Then things got lively pretty quick when the afore mentioned Texans` dog, startled from his snooze by the equine appearance, let loose with growls and barks which set the horse to kicking and bucking.

The ranger, when he regained control, was plainly un-amused and rode away. In the sixties magic of the time everyone thought the matter was over.

How naïve.

The Ranger came back afoot and now not on a very scary horse quickly made friends with the four legged miscreant and by using a rope, took Bowser into custody. Having brought the situation under `control` he announced to all and sundry that he was impounding the dog and that a fee would have to be paid or the mutt gets it. BAM. Section so and so of such and such and it’s illegal to let your blah blah blah…

Beyond BAM, no one was listening.

The people gathered at the free camp came from all over and nearly half were from the US. Most were hardcore travellers and compared to some places where people were able to crash folks thought this was unbelievable. Jasper Park, the town only five minutes away, an unspoiled river, a crystalline lake, easy access to highways, no one around to bother people; what could possibly harsh this mellow?

As it turned out, a Ranger could. He came on his rounds though the free camp astride a horse. Maybe that’s how the swells travelled the park or perhaps he was looking for a lost critter but it was getting done from horseback.

Places of Worship and Events Bethany Christian Reformed Church 1040 Balfour St. Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 (905) 892-8980 Concordia Luthern Church 105 Welland Rd. Fonthill, ON L0S 1E4 (905) 892-8877

www.lampmanfuneralhome.com

Glad Tidings Church of God 1 Pancake Lane Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 (905) 892-5122 Holy Trinity Anglican Church 1557 Pelham St. Fonthill, ON L0S1E0 (905) 892-6011

To advertise in Places of Worship & Events CALL 905.892.8690

Fenwick Church of Christ 765 Welland Rd. Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 (905) 892-5661

Kirk on the Hill Presbyterian Church 1344 Haist St. Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 (905) 892-3729

Fenwick United Church 1050 Church St. Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 (905) 892-3081

Pelham Community Church 461 Canboro Rd. Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 (905) 892-5922

First Presbyterian Church 602 Metler Rd. Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 (905) 892-4716

Pelham Evangelical Friends Church 940 Haist St. Fonthill, ON L0S 1E4 (905) 892-6881

JEREMY CAMP Joy To The World

Fonthill Baptist Church 1414 Pelham St. Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 (905) 892-3925

Ridgeville Bible Chapel 418 Canboro Rd. Ridgeville, ON L0S 1M0 (905) 892-3347

BONEY M Mary’s Boy Child

Fonthill Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1369 Rice Rd. Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 (905) 892-4680

St. Alexander’s Roman Catholic Church 50 Pelham Town Sq. Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 (905) 892-3090

Fonthill United Church 42 Church Hill, Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 (905) 892-6433

St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church 834 Canboro Rd. Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 (905) 892-6123

Our family serving your family since 1911 724 Canboro Rd., Fenwick

This was a day when Canadians and even Americans had considerable respect for the Mounted Police. Hollywood spread the image of the steadfast Mounted Policeman and we had all been raised – North America wide - on romantic images of brave Mounties so when the Ranger called them I know I personally thought there would be a fair resolution now that the RCMP was coming. Meantime everyone waited, bunched as we were, in what could only be described as a standoff.

continued on back cover

LAMPMAN FUNERAL HOME 905-892-4701

The dog’s owner recently having returned from Viet Nam had all he was taking from any authority figure and was forcefully explaining- using words like `kill you` and others just slightly less volatile- what would happen to anyone touching his dog, ranger or not. Since the big galoot probably hadn’t had $50 in his pocket at one time all summer, maybe all year, our campsite could see his dilemma. Paying a $150 fine was simply out of the question.

Weekly Favourite Songs

NICHOLE NORDEMAN Do You Hear What I Hear

MEREDITH ANDREWS He Has Come For Us

Cremation and Burial Services

Page 12

It’s myVOICE, Wednesday December 9, 2015

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

continued from page 11

Send the Mounties Now remember this was a riot call the Ranger had made. Soon enough a single RCMP vehicle attended.

And then one lone Mountie got out. As that policeman strode up to the group people fell away revealing the key participants and clusters of people flanking them.

I think everyone was ready for a Sam Steele like speech from the Mountie and a compromise of some sort. The Ranger spoke up, advising the policeman that ``it was all about this dog`` and he gave a tug on the rope. Except there wasn’t any dog on the other end. In the press of people the Texans` lady friend and her gal pals had conspired and wiggled their way into the centre of the group, untied the rope from around the dogs neck, took it away and had safely hidden it in a tent. There it was, gone.

It was all the cop could do to keep the smile off his face but being simpatico with his brother officer he managed to keep composure. Then we all got a lecture

about loose dogs and Rangers horses and being good citizens. Having impressed upon us whatever it was, they left to their respective duties and I suppose the Ranger got a pretty good ribbing over the `dog` that never was - or got away. In the end though no one was hurt and a minor incident had not been unnecessarily escalated even though it appeared there was great potential to do so. A hair trigger actually.

That day I learned there is seldom good reason to dive into the deep end of a dispute even if it involves oneself and regardless how dire it seems, to not panic, to be patient and allow some time for cooling off, to keep the rhetoric well under wraps, to act with measured steps and to take one’s personal emotions out of a situation.

That Ranger had been scared and like a startled driver who engages in road rage he too needed to regain his power which he did by `arresting` that dog. Not content with his `victory` he then leveraged the situation by additional heavy handed action. The Texan

also went from zero to outrage in seconds. A lose dog barked, a horse shied and now it’s coming to the euthanasia of some mutt. Complete overkill. From that point forward there was no de-escalation possible until the arrival of an outside perspective. Most cannily there were people who deferred action, quietly reconnoitred and took appropriate steps at exactly the right time. In the end, they with their laid back approach triumphed over all the considerable passion mustered that day.

Want to lawyer-up road side on some Policeman mid dispute? There will be time enough for that later. Over reacting to perceived hurt or insult? There is yet time for some cool consideration. Want or need to escalate?

That can always come later. The question in the end should be do I wish to advance this situation in a way that benefits everyone involved. Right here and now.

When you lose that perspective most things that flow from that point forward are going to be problematic.