The Voice, September 12 2018

Amber Cuthbertson runs in Ward 2 page 3 An expert about the roundabouts page 4 Party $$ reaction page 12 EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

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Wainfleet Fall Fair opens next week

BY REBECCA LOTT

Special to the VOICE

Why does a milking stool only have three legs? Because the cow took the udder. The Wainfleet 2018 Fall Fair, which runs Thursday September 20 to

Sunday September 22 at the Wainfleet fairgrounds, has been a hometown favourite for the Augustine family for generations.

Ted Augustine, President of the Wainfleet Agricultural Society and the Fall Fair, lives on farmland off Side Rd.

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See PARTIES Page 12

Bathroom

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Column Six

This week's MCC opening parties will either cost a small fortune, or cost "zero" In June it was an $85,000 idea. Last Tuesday it was a $70,000 plan. On Friday it was a $48,000 expense.

By this Monday the Town seemed to say the actual cost was $0.

This would be the cost for two “Grand Opening” gala parties planned for the new Meridian Community Centre this week—one for VIPs only on Friday, the second for everyone else on Saturday.

The party talk originated during the Pelham Community Centre Oversight Committee meeting held in June.

According to meeting minutes posted on the Town's website, Councillor Gary Accursi spearheaded the concept, which included a marketing slogan for the parties, “Moments that Matter.”

According to the minutes, Town Treasurer Teresa Quinlin, present as acting CAO in Darren Ottaway’s

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OURTEEN MONTHS away from a Federal election and we’re already told immigration is the burning issue.

I find that kind of sad.

With all the challenges we face—climate change, crime, economic instability—we lock horns over who gets to live here.

Our political leaders will play to the righteous and the reprehensible, depending on which side you’re on.

And it’s heating up.

Recently Mr. Trudeau accused a woman activist at a corn roast of being racist for opposing Ottawa’s policy on “irregular asylum seekers.”

I wasn’t aware Ottawa even had a policy to oppose, but maybe I’m out of the loop. Anyway, racist accusations get tossed around a lot these days—either because it’s on the increase, or the term spreads itself more thinly now—but maybe Mr. Trudeau had reason this time. It appears the woman belonged to at least one See COLUMN SIX back page

Page 2

The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

MUNICIPAL ELECTION TRACKING POLL: RESULTS 80 60

PELHAM MAYORAL RACE

40 20 0

Aug 5

158 VOTES

Sept 3

208 VOTES

Sept 10 171 VOTES

■ ACCURSI ■ BAXTER ■ JUNKIN ■ UNDECIDED Percentages rounded to nearest decimal

80 60 REGIONAL COUNCIL RACE

40 20 0

Take this week's poll.

See the link below.

Aug 5

158 VOTES

Sept 3

208 VOTES

Sept 10 171 VOTES

■ AUGUSTYN ■ BATY ■ HAGAR ■ HUSON ■ UNDECIDED

The Voice is hiring!

News and Features Writer

This full-time position calls for a well-rounded reporter with the ability to cover a wide range of community issues, from Town Council to interviews and longer profile pieces. Previous news writing experience preferred but not required. More information: www.thevoiceofpelham.ca/writers Kindly send resume and writing samples to publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca

Percentages rounded to nearest decimal

Although safeguards are in place to eliminate multiple votes, this is a self-selected poll, meaning it has no scientific validity compared to a formal random survey undertaken by a professional polling firm.

THE VOICE MUNICIPAL ELECTION TRACKING POLL 6 weeks to Election Day If the election were held today, who would you choose?

For Pelham Mayor:

Gary ACCURSI, Carla BAXTER, Marvin JUNKIN, or Undecided

For Pelham's Regional Councillor:

Dave AUGUSTYN, Brian BATY, Jim HAGAR, Diana HUSON, or Undecided

Answer at: www.thevoiceofpelham.ca/6weeks

Or by visiting our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/voiceofpelham

Voice on vacation!

ELECTION 2018: WHAT'S MY WARD Louth Townline Rd

Spring Creek Rd

Ward

Hwy 20

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Metler Road

Pt. Robinson Road

Ward Centre Street

Victoria Avenu

e

1

Not to scale

2

Ward

Foss Road

River Road

Pancake Lane

3

Line Avenue

FIND YOUR WARD All Pelham residents live in one of three electoral wards. Use this map to find yours. VOICE GRAPHIC Sharon Culig, Marianne Hicks, and Myrna Angle on vacation in Wellington, New Zealand!

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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NRPS impaired driving charges In an effort to bring further attention and deterrence to driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, the Niagara Regional Police Service reports the names of those people who are charged with an alleged criminal impaired driving offence in the Region. None of the following charges have been proved in court.

In addition to being charged, these individuals are also bound by a Ministry of Transportation 90-Day Administrative Driver’s License Suspension and are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle on a roadway.

The public is encouraged to contact the Niagara Regional Police Service Traffic Safety Hotline or Crime Stoppers to report those who are driving in contravention of the suspension.

The following individuals have been charged criminally with impaired driving by alcohol or drugs, driving with a blood alcohol concentration above 80 mgs of alcohol in 100 ml of blood, or refusing to provide a breath / blood sample.

Vicente ESCOBAR ALBARADO, 45, Niagara Falls Brian N. BERGSMA, 24, St. Catharines Michael T. FORAN, 34, St. Catharines Eugene HERNER, 40, St. Catharines The Niagara Regional Police Service is committed to reducing impaired driving offences through education and the apprehension of offenders through enforcement programs like RIDE. Impaired driving is still the leading cause of criminal deaths in Canada and destroys thousands of lives every year.

The

Voice 905-892-8690

Pelham Street

South Pelham Street

Corrections at the top: In our interview last week with Catholic school board candidate Robert Ruggieri we had him referring to a labour action as a "walkout" rather than a "lockout," the latter being correct. Related to the lastest cannabis grow-up proposal, we also managed to put Foss Road on the "southern edge" rather than in the "southern portion" of Pelham...Here comes the debate: Fonthill Rotary and the Pelham Welland Chamber of Commerce have invited Pelham's mayoral candidates to a debate at the Fonthill Legion, next Tuesday, Sept. 18, starting at 5:30 PM. The public is invited...Candidates who are MIA: Despite our best efforts, we've been unable to contact Ward 2 council candidates Wally Braun and Alexandra Forsyth-Sells to interview them. If you're out there, folks, give us a shout!...Another meeting of interest: Speaking of southern-ish pot operations, neighbours and others are holding a strategy session to discuss opposition to that latest cannabis grow-up, the second to come to Foss Road. If you're of a mind to, join them at Wellington Heights Public School, this Friday starting at 7 PM...Work for pay: DeKorte's Landscaping is looking to fill a bunch of spots—see their ad on page 14...Work for free: The Pelham Soccer Club welcomes your talents as well. See their message on page 12...Who's the Fairest of them all: Past and present—two stories this week on rural fairs, the one coming to Wainfleet next week, and the one that disappeared from Fenwick before World War II. Both are interesting reads...

Up the Down Staircase: A neighbour recommended that we profile the talented and parental favourite, Principal Pam Voth at Glynn A. Green (page 18), and I'm glad she did...Party hearty: What does some $84,000 buy in the way of parties?

The Town invites you to see this Saturday—ad on page 13.

With a bit over six weeks to go before Election Day, both major races in Pelham appear to be tightening.

For the mayor's seat, Marvin Junkin's lead has dropped by 9 points since early August to 64%. Neither Gary Accursi nor Carla Baxter saw much movement since last week, with Accursi stable at 14% and Baxter gaining 1 for 8%.

Junkin's drop seems to have come from Undecideds, who moved from 9% to 14%.

On the Regional side, incumbent councillor Brian Baty gained 1 point to remain stable at 56%. Dave Augustyn dropped 2 points to 13%. The big momentum is with Diana Huson, adding 9 points to reach 26%, the bulk of which came from previously Undecideds, which dropped to 4%. Jim Hagar continues to place a distant fourth at 2%.

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The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

Page 3

WARD 2 PELHAM TOWN COUNCIL RACE

Bring back the small-town feeling Amber Cuthbertson seeks council seat to protect public interest Amber Cuthbertson and her husband have had a standing breakfast date at Flyer’s Restaurant in Dunnville every Saturday morning for the past five years.

But if elected, Cuthbertson is ready to trade in her weekly breakfast for ribbon cuttings and community events as a councillor in Ward 2.

Cuthbertson, 42, is not afraid of a challenge. She is a licensed architectural technologist. She is also a former ballerina and a seasoned rower. She began rowing at the age of 20. She was on Canada’s National Team quad at the 2006 World Championships and she rowed in the lightweight doubles at the 2007 Pan American Games. She won the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta four times.

Now retired from competitive sport, Cuthbertson still trains in the winter and rows recreationally in nice weather.

Cuthbertson grew up on a farm in Harrowsmith, Ontario. She played every sport in school. Rowing allowed her to see the world. She chose to settle in Fonthill seven years ago because she wanted to live in a community that was similar to the one she grew up in. In Fonthill she found an old house and a small town.

“Through and through I’m rural at heart,” she says.

She and her husband, Dale Smith, enjoy renovating their century home. She likes knitting, baking, making yogurt and preserves.

An avid gardener, she volunteers on the executive board of the Pelham Garden Club and is a member of the District 9 Horticultural Society. She sat on the Town Beautification Committee.

She coaches and volunteers in the rowing community.

Cuthbertson considers herself “an earthy hometown kind of girl, who has

BY REBECCA LOTT

Special to the VOICE

life experience and practical knowledge” and she plans to take that to council.

She is familiar with the planning, zoning, procurement and tendering process. However, she doesn’t like what she has seen at the Town of Pelham with

We're going to have to get creative to minimize the financial burden on the taxpayers regards to planning, and this is what prompted her to run for council. Cuthbertson feels that the people of Pelham were misled by the current council.

“It had to do with loss of confidence with the current council,” she says. “As soon as you smell smoke you start looking for fire.

There’s a lack of confidence that they’re acting in the best interest of the public.

We have to address the public’s confidence and perception of council. The community centre was sold to us as if it would not burden the taxpayer. We were told it would be fully funded.”

Cuthbertson believes in maintaining a healthy quality of life. Her platform is to return that small town lifestyle and mentality to Pelham for those who have always lived here and for those who have chosen to make it their home. She says she would like to maintain that sense of community by

clearing up where the Town is sitting fiscally, and by holding off on adding any more assets for now.

“We need to decide who we are, what we stand for and what we want to be known for,” she says. “It’s hard to know where we are going when we don’t know where we are at with regards to finances and planning.”

Cuthbertson is passionate about strengthening the community experience by working with traffic, signage, sidewalks, landscaping and development.

She envisions a community where residents walk and ride bikes.

“I think it’s a benefit to everybody if you get people out of their houses and onto the sidewalk. We see ourselves in a small town.

Home is the boundaries of Pelham, not just our driveway.”

Cuthbertson also aims to enrich and support a growing senior population. Her plan is to tailor programming at the new community centre so seniors can participate in activities. She also thinks not everything needs to be on the internet because not everyone has access to it.

“We are going to have to make every effort,” she says. “We’re going to have to get creative to minimize the financial burden on the taxpayers and to maximize the use of the community for all residents.”

Cuthbertson knows the task of improving the Town won’t be easy, but she asserts she has the staying power.

“I think I have something to offer and I’m willing to offer it. I think the people leaving urban centres are looking for similar things that current residents value, and that is the small town experience.”

Candidate for Pelham Town Council, Ward 2, Amber Cuthbertson.

REBECCA LOTT PHOTO

Town pushes ahead on arena sale Calls to let new council decide property's fate go unheeded

BY VOICE STAFF After a July attempt to dispose of its Haist Street arena by invited bid fizzled, the Town of Pelham has listed the facility for sale through a commercial real estate brokerage.

Asking price: $2,999,000 The Town has again chosen Colliers International, located in St. Catharines, to market the property. Colliers has previously obtained listings for Town parcels in East Fonthill.

Local Royal LePage realtor Richard Brown reacted with disappointment that the sale was underway, and that the St. Catharines brokerage was selected to handle the listing.

“Why would they even consider such a thought with the municipal elections such a short time away?” said Brown.

“That should be a decision for the new council.”

Brown said that the Town should support local businesses that pay Pelham taxes.

“The Town should set an example.

There are five or six real estate offices in the town that could handle the job.”

Fonthill realtor Debbie Pine expresses similar sentiments in a letter to the editor this week.

In early July, the Town put out a request for bids on the site. By the July 25 closing deadline, only a single bid was received.

It was not accepted.

The current listing describes the arena as “a great infill site located in the Town of Pelham” at just under 4.5 acres. The

buyer is to “propose either Plan of Subdivision or a Condominium Plan,” and will be responsible for demolition costs.

The listing also cites the existence of a “preferred development plan that was a result of extensive community involvement.” However, neighbourhood objections to the development have been ongoing, and some candidates running for Town Council in the coming municipal election have called on the Town to postpone selling the property until a new council is elected in October.

“You can see all around you that we’re just becoming one big development,” said mayoral candidate Carla Baxter in a recent interview. “So I’m definitely in favor of postponing it and getting a better idea of what the residents want.”

Residents previously weighed in on their desires in a series of “consultations” with planners hired by the Town.

In an interview last week with the St. Catharines Standard, Mayor Dave Augustyn apparently asserted that the consulted residents favoured a residential development consisting of 31 homes, including 28 townhouses.

"It's the best use for the property because it's what the community came up with," Augustyn is quoted as saying.

In fact, many residents consistently opposed any residential development of the site, but were not given this option by the Town during its consultations. Augustyn did not respond to a request to confirm the accuracy of the Standard’s reporting.

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Page 4

The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

OPINION

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

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

COMMENTARY / OP-ED Peter Leyser In matters traffic, Pelham needs professional help

I

WRITE IN FROM TIME to time about traffic calming efforts and general roads issues in Pelham. It's my day job in a nearby municipality, but I'm a Pelham resident.

Following in the wake of the too-abrupt speed bumps on Haist Street near the arena, the yellow delineators in the centre of Pelham Street near Glynn A. Green School, and the inexplicable and unconventional dual-yield bumpouts (the “chicane”) on Haist Street north of Highway. 20, it seems that the Town of Pelham’s war on vehicles took another twist a few days ago—makeshift "roundabouts" on Lookout Street. All in the name of (mainly) local residents speeding through their own neighbourhoods.

When Lookout Street's "roundabouts" make the St. Catharines Standard (Sept. 7), you know something's odd.

A Facebook post by Pelham staff explaining a L ookout Street traffic study is laughable. "The 85th Percentile = 85km/h,” they write. "Another statistic that stands out is that 38% of all vehicles were travel-

ling over 89km/h.”

If the 85th percentile speed is 85 km/h, then 15% of traffic is going over that speed, not 38%. I deal with

I guarantee you won't find hay bales in the middle of local streets in Niagara Falls or Hamilton speed studies all the time.

That's what the 85th percentile means. It’s simple math.

Laughable too, is the design and execution.

A close analysis will reveal that someone took an aerosol can or two of paint and sprayed a white circle around chevron signs (which only should be used in curves), and a decision was made to place hay bales in the centre!

Hay bales!

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The Voice

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

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www.thevoiceofpelham.ca PUBLISHER & EDITOR Dave Burket publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca ADMINISTRATION Lori Gretsinger office@thevoiceofpelham.ca CONTRIBUTORS Jane Bedard, Carolyn Botari, Colin Brezicki, Rosemary Chambers, Jennifer Chronley, Larry Coté, Gloria J. Katch, Rebecca Lott, Samuel Piccolo, Bill Potrecz, Bernie Puchalski, John Swart, Kirk Weaver NEWS INQUIRIES & TIPS editor@thevoiceofpelham.ca LETTERS TO THE EDITOR letters@thevoiceofpelham.ca ADVERTISING INQUIRIES advertising@thevoiceofpelham.ca

I understand it's a trial, but no speeding "solution" should involve hay bales.

It would be advisable for Pelham Town staff to consult with peers in the business, be it consultants, or staff in other area municipalities. I guarantee you won't find hay bales in the middle of local streets in Niagara Falls or Hamilton.

Speeding is an issue for every municipality in Ontario. But consistency is key to driver expectation.

There are provincial guidelines for all aspects of transportation engineering, including traffic calming. All of the aforementioned examples in Pelham are lacking, and way outside of standards. There are reasons you won't see them elsewhere.

There's a certain arrogance evident with Pelham staff. When the CAO is on record telling residents on Poth Street that a simple culvert can't be fixed, but it was their choice to live there...well, that's regrettable.

If the new recreation centre did indeed come in under budget, maybe there's some money for a culvert on a rural road. ◆

Letters Pelham High reunion reminder The time is almost upon us! Saturday, September 22, from 1-5 PM is the date that former students, staff and support staff of Pelham Secondary/ District High School, which was located in Fenwick between 1928 and 1974, will meet. This is our tenth reunion and it marks 44 years since the school has closed.

What began as Pelham Continuation School, then Pelham District High School and then Pelham Secondary School saw thousands of students pass through its doors. Hundreds of staff members taught there and many were an inspiration to the teenagers who had no idea what life was all about.

CONTACT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS Find your ward: See the map on page 2 Member of Federal Parliament

Electoral District: Niagara West

Dean Allison, MP 4994 King Street Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 Dean.Allison@parl.gc.ca 877-563-7900

Mayor of Pelham David Augustyn mayordave@pelham.ca 905-892-2607 Ext 317 Members of Pelham Town Council

Member of Provincial Parliament

Ward 1 Councillor Richard Rybiak rrybiak@pelham.ca 905-892-2105

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

Councillor James Lane jlane@pelham.ca 905-892-8974

Electoral District: Niagara West-Glanbrook

Members of Niagara Regional Council Councillor David Augustyn mayordave@pelham.ca 905-892-2607 Ext 317 Councillor Brian Baty brian.baty@niagararegion.ca 905-892-5317 Town of Pelham 20 Pelham Town Square P.O. Box 400 Fonthill, ON L0S 1E0 905-892-2607

For many of the farm kids, as a huge percentage were at that time, life was work on the farm. But for all of us, it was about ourselves. How our peers felt about us. Do I fit in? For the 16 years olds—when can I get my driving licence? What shall I wear to the dance on Friday night? Will I make the team? Some things never change.

When we gather together for our reunion, we talk about those times of growing up together. We remember things like walking around the halls with our newest “steady,” going to Long Beach or Morgan’s Point for our end of year class See REUNION next page

ELECTION 2018: CANDIDATE INTERVIEWS As the Voice speaks with each candidate, find our archive of their interviews here:

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca/2018-municipal-election-candidate-interviews

• FOR MAYOR

• FOR WARD 3 COUNCILLORS (2)

Gary ACCURSI, Carla BAXTER, Marvin JUNKIN • FOR WARD 1 COUNCILLORS (2) Mark BAY, Sidney BEAMER, Mike CIOLFI, James LANE, Richard RYBIAK, Marianne STEWART • FOR WARD 2 COUNCILLORS (2) Wally BRAUN, Cheryl CROZIER, Amber CUTHERBERTSON, Chris FLETCHER, Alexandra FORSYTH-SELLS, Ron KORE, Barbara RYBIAK, John WINK

Uwe BRAND, Vince DELLA-MARCA, John DURLEY, Lisa HAUN, Robert HILDEBRANDT, Peter PAPP, Mary SPEHAR • FOR REGIONAL COUNCIL (1) Dave AUGUSYTN, Brian BATY, Jim HAGAR, Diana HUSON • FOR VARIOUS SCHOOL BOARDS Lawrence ALEXANDER, Nancy BEAMER, Mike BROUSSEAU, Peter DIEF, Leanne PRINCE, Dale ROBINSON, Robert RUGGIERI

Ward 2 Councillor Catherine King cking@pelham.ca 905-658-8599

Gilberts Flowers

Councillor Gary Accursi gaccursi@pelham.ca 905-892-5528

FLOWERS FOR ANY OCCASION We offer a large variety of fresh flowers and gifts.

Enjoy the convenience of safe and secure ordering online 24 hours a day.

Ward 3 Councillor John Durley jdurley@pelham.ca 905-892-5388 Councillor Peter Papp ppapp@pelham.ca 905-328-6008

754 Welland Rd, Fenwick www.gilbertsflowers.ca 905-892-2433

Jill C. Anthony Law Office

Have an Opinion?

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

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The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

Page 5

OPINION Letters

COMMENTARY / OP-ED Don MacRae

continued

The solution is obvious: enforce the law

Thumbs-up for home-hotels I was born in a house on College Street in Fonthill in 1930.

My roots on both sides of my family go back at least two generations in this area. I lived here until 1946. It was a joy for me to be able to move back “home” in the 1980s. At that time, Fonthill was still a lovely, friendly place to raise our family.

What strange malaise has, in the past five years, infected so many self-righteous citizens, letter writers and groups storming council with a great variety of complaints? What happened to cooperation, problem-solving and friendship?

A recent edition of the Voice and the article, “Overflow crowd on home-hotel issue [Aug. 22, p. 12]” prompted me to write this letter.

I have had the pleasure of using Airbnbs and short-term vacation rentals in the U.S., Scotland, England and Ireland. People shared history and culture with me and many are still my good friends, years later. Does Fonthill want to build a high wall around its perimeter with a large sign saying, NO STRANGERS OR SUSPICIOUS LOOKING PEOPLE OR UNFAMILIAR FACES ALLOWED HERE? I recently need to move to a smaller home and could not find one in Fonthill for less than $400,000-$500,000 so I moved to friendly Welland where I feel very welcome.

Joan Wells Welland

Town once again passes over local pros

T

HE TWO NEW “roundabouts” on Lookout Street have left me quite puzzled: they are certainly not “round,” and frankly, I don’t know what they are all “about.” Our intrepid traffic engineers have definitely found a solution, but I fear they now have to find a problem.

Obviously they have been thinking outside the box (or should I say circle), but I would really like to know what purpose these structures actually serve. As I understand it, real roundabouts are supposed to improve the flow of traffic.

You will find them all over Europe and they do work rather well—if drivers know how to use them. So what have we achieved here? How do the new Lookout Street edifices improve the flow of traffic?

Until now, anyone attempting to enter Lookout Street from either Marlene Stewart Drive or Brewerton Boulevard had to make a full stop at the corner and then make a turn. That’s a really

There is a yield sign at every entrance.

Who yields?

Do they draw lots?

Toss the dice?

One of two new roundabouts on Lookout Street. good idea, especially since drivers on Lookout Street think it’s a speedway. Unfortunately, since “rolling stops” seem to be the norm, many drivers simply ignore the signs at intersections and drive right on through.

So how have we improved the situation? Right turns onto Lookout haven’t really been a problem—cars didn’t stop before and they don’t now.

The new wrinkle is that in order to make a left turn onto Lookout from either Marlene Stewart Drive or

I’m writing today to voice my disappointment once again regarding the listing of the Haist Street arena land.

When our Mayor and Town Council should have utilized local real estate talent, they once again chose to go with an out-of-town agency.

We have so many local agents that contribute to our local community, our local sports teams, our local businesses, and pay local taxes. But once again they have been overlooked by Town Council. Very disappointed.

Debbie Pine Fonthill

REUNION

We feel we are a very special group—all of us that went to Pelham High.

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The older we get, the more we realize how important it is for us to soAdvertiser cialize and “doesn’t t make VOICE OF PELHAM us feel young” to rememBob’s Boys Antiques Creative Director ber those days when we reContact Name Tarja Barton ally were “young.”

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continued from previous page party, cheering for our Panthers basketball and football teams, practicing for the Pelham Review, going to the gym for assemblies, hearing E.L. telling us that “a word to the wise should be sufficient,” detentions—and so much more. Each one of us have our own highlights of our time at Pelham High but the best part, of course, are the friendships that were made then. Many continue to this day. But, for those of us who seldom see each other, we like to know what has happened in their lives.

VOICE PHOTO

Brewerton Boulevard drivers now have to make a crazy turn around the new edifice. Try that with a trailer, or a moving van, or how about a snowplow?

Drivers already in a roundabout have the right of way, but in this case it is all but impossible to distinguish who is actually in the circle. It seems to me that it would be prudent for drivers entering Lookout Street when another vehicle is approaching to slow down to be safe. Just as they do now.

A yield sign, minus the

bales of hay or straw, or a three-way stop, would accomplish the same thing.

And who has priority when three cars reach the roundabout at the same time? There is a yield sign at every entrance. Who yields?

Do they draw lots? Toss the dice? Argue with one another? Who knows.

I wonder how long will it be before someone plows right through the middle of the roundabout? Shall we set up a pool?

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NEWSFLASH Tell us your story!

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

Did you conquer Everest or kick a bad habit?

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

Do you know where Hoffa’s buried?

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

Page 6

The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

Letters

ENFORCE

continued from previous page rection certainly ignore the posted limit of 50 km/hour, but the installation of these barriers will do absolutely nothing to slow them down.

Most can pass though with no need to slow down at all. An 8-year -old with a pile of Lego blocks and a couple of hot wheel cars could have figured that out at substantially less cost.

However, if the real reason for these roundabouts is to slow down the inconsiderate speeders on Lookout Street, then perhaps we should address that problem.

I suggest a much more effective way would be a radar gun and stiff fines.

Photo radar would really be effective, but hey, someone will complain that’s a tax.

As they now stand, these roundabouts are totally useless. While they’re at it, the local constabulary could be given permission to set up similar devices on 20 Highway east of the town of Fonthill and again between the town and Effingham Street.

Not wanting to seem too negative, I guess I can see one advantage in all of this: as long as we leave a bale of hay in the centre of the roundabout, the local deer population will be most grateful when winter is upon us.

But let me be serious for a moment. I have treated this topic with a measure of humour, as befits the ridiculous solution the engineers have proposed, but there is an underlying issue of extreme importance here.

Speeding is, indeed, a problem, not only on Lookout Street, but also on Effingham Street, on Highway 20, and in the vicinity of our schools. In my view, excess speed is a gateway to further irresponsible behaviour.

If rules (read: speed limits) are not enforced, drivers have little incentive to obey other rules of the road either.

In fact, if they discover that they can exceed posted speed limits, why not apply that “freedom” to other areas of the traffic code as well?

Some drivers soon come to believe the rules don’t apply to them and they weave recklessly in and out of

Failure to enforce the law results in further and more egregious violations of it

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

continued

"Kornfield Kounty" comes to Niagara Ah, yes. Pelham remains a rural rodeo. Traffic control with straw bales and haphazard road circles.

Could this be another attempt at Town "chicanery"?

Duncan McNaughton Ridgeville

Robinson's recollection doesn't jive with reality the traffic flow, tailgate, and run red lights. Even drinking and driving may be rationalized on the premise that the individual will not get caught.

The bottom line is this: a rule that is not enforced is not worth the paper it is printed on and failure to enforce the law results in further and more egregious violations of it.

If drivers realize that they can, with impunity, travel 70 km/h in a 50 km/h zone, or if they simply speed to keep up with the traffic flow, our traffic laws become meaningless.

“No” really should mean “No.” Those who fail to understand this concept should feel the consequences in their wallets.

The police cannot be everywhere at once, but there is solution. Roadside radar is effective, but limited to a certain time and place. However, closed circuit camera installations are ubiquitous and effective in larger cities; photo radar at critical spots on our streets and highways would be too.

Yes, I know, there are those who will scream that this is another “tax,” but it is a tax which you don’t have to pay, unless you choose to break the rules.

I don’t think you can reason with speeders. For this reason I am suggesting that the consequences of excess speed on any of our streets should be monetary. I suspect that those who choose to ignore the posted speed limits will discover rather quickly that the few seconds gained will be expensive and probably not worth the trouble. The sooner the rules are enforced, the better off we shall all be.

It was of interest to read incumbent school board trustee Dale Robinson's interview with the Voice last week ["Three times lucky?, Sept. 5, p. 14]. In it, she states that she “honestly felt” a name change was the wish of the majority of the community, and the information she was receiving at the time was that it was a very small number of community members opposed to the name change.

Two points.

First, during the period of committee meetings to identify the school name (prior to the board decision to abandon the E.W. Farr name), the general community was not aware of the names being considered. The vast majority did not hear of the school's new name until after the board meeting that granted approval. So initially, there was nothing to protest.

But once the news got out, the general reaction was, "They called it what? Wellington Heights? What does that have to do with Fenwick? How does that acknowledge our history and culture? What about our tradition to have school names honour past educators?"

Second point: Once the name was known, the opposition and pleas for reconsideration then began in earnest. And that opposition WAS communicated to our trustee. Therefore our trustee was aware before the board reconsideration vote took place.

For example, I personally reached out to Dale twice to request a meeting to share community concerns. ] My first email to Dale received this prompt response: "I will be more than happy to meet with you to discuss any matter except the name of Wellington Heights school. The board has made their decision."

So I wrote again, being clear about the fact that I was hearing first-hand in the community about the widespread dissatisfaction among Fenwick residents with the new name, and that I would like to meet. Quoting from my second email: “I am...frequently being stopped and questioned about it, whether I am at the library, the grocery store or the gym, et cetera."

I did not get a response this time. But I was not alone in expressing concerns with the name.

• A petition listing 600 names of Pelham residents and alumni was sent asking for reconsideration of the name; • The Town of Pelham sent a letter to the board expressing concerns; • An email was sent to Dale expressing concerns that all the other names of schools in Pelham honoured respected educators, and that many were dissatisfied in moving away from this tradition; • Invitations were extended to trustees to a public meeting at the Fenwick Firehall (about 200

attended) to hear our concerns with respect to the renaming and park issues. No trustee opted to attend.

• At a presentation from Pelham resident Dr. Ker at a June board meeting, the community's rationale for requesting reconsideration received a standing ovation from the many Pelham residents present. Two trustees from St. Catharines voted for reconsideration. So the potential to reconsider, after the opposition was made clear, WAS there. Perhaps those two trustees saw what the Ombudsman did not, that boxes in a policy can be ticked off, but unless the local culture is understood and respected, poor decisions ensue.

So it was very frustrating to read this interview in the paper.

Especially that now, during the election campaign, the incumbent seems to be reversing her position, saying, “Nothing is forever... Who knows what will happen in the future...there may be a willingness to revisit the issue.”

I know what will happen in my future.

I'm switching my vote from Dale Robinson to Nancy Beamer, who lobbied tirelessly for many months in her appeals to Pelham, school board and Provincial bodies. She is a retired teacher and understands the classroom. And she lives in and understands the culture and history of Pelham.

Tillie Clapp Fenwick

TOWN COUNCIL NEWS The Town of Pelham held its regular council and Committee of the Whole meetings on Tuesday, September 4. The viewing gallery was about two-thirds full, comprised of delegates, their supporters and members of the public.

Centre under budget

“On time and under budget.”

This was the theme of the Meridian Community Centre Oversight Committee’s presentation provided by Chair Bill Gibson.

With an approved budget set at just over $36 million dollars, final project completion cost came in at $35,498,829, saving the Town $705,949 achieved through a "Value Engineering project management approach" by the contractor.

Although the Town had a soft opening on July 14, an official grand opening is scheduled for this Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM. The grand opening will feature a community open house, family activities, interactive demonstrations, and live entertainment. Also included is an NHL Alumni game at 6 PM.

Dehumidifiers wonky

During the Committee of the Whole session, Councillor Gary Accursi raised

awareness about the operation of some the dehumidification units at the Meridian Community Centre.

Accursi was concerned about the brand new equipment that was just installed, yet has been repaired numerous times already due to malfunction. He questioned whether the issue has been addressed with the contractor, saying that at this point it may be a “lemon.”

He said that discussion of replacement and extended warranty options should be initiated.

CAO Darren Ottaway responded that he has acknowledged this issue and will be getting a full report from the contractor for presentation to council.

Centre operations, grand opening budget

Department of Recreation, Leisure and Wellness program promotion and grand opening cost updates Councillor Accursi noted that the Community Centre had been selected as the Senior Active Centre for the community and inquired about the status of when the programs would be starting.

Vickie vanRavenswaay, Director of Recreation, Culture and Wellness, said that the programmer in charge is transitioning from another role.

Seniors’ programs will be full rolled out after the main grand opening of the community centre. vanRavenswaay did report to council that as of August 30 there were some challenges with information pieces that were to be released.

Mayor Augustyn said that he was receiving input from the community wanting to know what the programs were and when they were going to be in place. “People are getting information about other programs [from the area] and with it being the end of summer, when is information coming out from the Town?” vanRavenswaay said staff was back on track and information will be released through various advertising means over the next few weeks. The main kick-off of promoting the events will be the community centre’s grand opening.

Also, vanRavenswaay cited that there were finishing touches being made on various aspects of the facility such as painting of the pickle ball courts.

Mayor Augustyn stated that the more information that’s relayed to the community is better, “even if it’s only partially completed with fine details stating to be determined.”

Councillor Accursi also requested clarification regarding the grand opening celebration budget, which vanRavenswaay said was $70,000 for the two-day event.

Of the $70,000 budgeted for the event, vanRavenswaay said about half of that amount will be offset through sales of various means including refreshments and the hockey game tickets. The remainder of money is coming from the department’s operating budget, which was confirmed by Town Treasurer Teresa Quinlin.

Lookout roundabouts

Mayor Augustyn brought to council’s attention concerns from area residents regarding two makeshift temporary roundabouts as a pilot project to curtail speeding drivers.

The roundabouts were set up on Lookout Street at the intersections of both Brewerton Boulevard and Marlene Stewart Drive as the Town has received many complaints about speeding vehicles.

The posted speed limit in the area is 50 km/h, however the average speed travelled was 65 km/h.

CAO Darren Ottaway was quick to respond that he couldn’t comment on the

issue, while Mayor Augustyn stressed the importance of relaying correct information to the public.

Councillor Catherine King reported that she met with Public Works Manager Ryan Cook who said that initially the roundabouts were to remain until the end of September. Due to the complaints, they could be removed sooner as long as another speed reduction plan was put in place.

Late last week, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist Marc MacDonald said that the plan was to remove them this week.

“There is no alternative planned in the meantime as this was just a test for a possible solution,” said MacDonald. “This test still needs further evaluation before being a supported solution.”

Mayor Augustyn noted the many comments posted on social media.

“Everybody has an opinion, however, in this case we need to go by facts on how to deal with the situation moving forward.”

Councillor James Lane said that there are limited options for controlling speed. “You can have all the dedicated enforcement and signs, but at the end of the day you are very limited to what you can do.”

Pot odour complaints

Fire Chief Bob Lymburner reported that there were only five odour complaints in August, three of which were from one individual along Welland Road.

The sites are being monitored on a daily basis.

“We strongly believed they have curbed the problem, they have got it down,” said Lymburner. “[The marijuana growing facilities] have improved their equipment and companies have come in to work with them.

The facilities are genuinely concerned.”

Lymburner explained that as with any plants grown in a greenhouse, cannabis included, it gets too hot and heat has to be released, especially during the summer.

He said the sometimes the building’s fan system may not necessarily be enough to control the heat. Therefore, instead of losing the crop, the roofs have to be opened.

In the case of cannabis, “Yeah, it will stink out the neighbourhood for the night but it alleviates the possibility of losing their entire crop.”

Lymburned stated the facilities acknowledge that they have to do this on an occasional basis.

“It’s few and far between, See TOWN COUNCIL Page 17

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

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Page 8

The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

Letters

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

continued

And in the autumn, Loonies drop from the branches

Not-so-grand opening

When I was a boy, my dad always said, “Money doesn’t grow on trees, Son.” I’m beginning to wonder if maybe our Town Council does in fact have a money tree.

It must be very selective as to time of blooming because it only produces upon demand of the council. Seems they have created some sort of magic elixir which they apply to the roots of the tree and then up pops more money.

The latest example of the tree’s produce has appeared for the opening of the community centre. I hear that it has made up to some $70,000-plus to help our town celebrate the new building’s completion.

I would like to ask why the elixir can’t be used to create monies enough to repair the roads in Pelham that are closed because of the lack of funds? Perhaps maybe the elixir could be used to create funds to better

An outstanding, huge new facility. A tremendous facility for any community that can truly afford it. Now the envy of many communities that couldn’t afford such a large community center— like Oakville, Mississauga, and Cambridge.

Built entirely on a foundation of misrepresentations and disregard of majority wishes, leaving a fractured community with a debt like no other.

And now $70,000 for a back-slapping, self-indulgent party for the architects of what some call a crime against the residents

our sidewalks or downtown parking or add more amenities for the seniors living in Pelham.

The list could be endless, but please remember this “elusive money tree” has become a dangerous commodity for the residents of Pelham. Many of the people in Pelham don’t appear to realize the enormity of the debt that has been created with its use.

We need to chop that tree off at the roots before we can’t cover its extravagant produce. The “tree” is digging deeper and deeper into the pockets of the citizens of Pelham.

What’s the solution? The answer is to elect a totally new council and mayor on October 22.

Chris Fletcher Candidate for Pelham Town Council, Ward 2

This facility will be used largely by adjoining municipalities who do not pay taxes of Pelham. $70,000 is over and above the direct costs of staff overtime, Town resources, consultants and other hidden expenses.

Perhaps totalling $100,000 when all is in.

Mayor Augustyn and council hired CAO Darren Ottaway, who had just come off of a similar community project that arguably

broke its town’s spirit and treasury. Now Pelham may be saddled with the same misfortune as Grand Cache, Alberta, which has filed for insolvency and is dissolving as a town corporation.

Here we have one difference—this facility will be used largely by adjoining See $70,000 Page 13

Let's put "customer service" into local government Politicians are elected by the people for the people.

Their primary purpose is to improve the quality of society and public welfare while maintaining a positive image, staying informed about issues, demonstrate value for taxpayer’s dollars, and prepare to take action when needed.

In a two-tiered system of government, regional representation must also carefully balance local and regional needs. This requires a unique skill set including: ■ Interpersonal skills in building positive relation-

ships in and among the community; ■ Collaboration skills when working with fellow regional councilors, town councilors and the general public; ■ Cooperation skills in working with their local town council to advance community priorities; ■ Communication skills to actively listen to their electorate and keep informed about important issues; ■ Leadership in knowing the difference between what is right and wrong for the

community and the ability to act on these issues; ■ Accountability and integrity in service.

Good politicians must be open and available to speak with their electorate, listen to their concerns and be prepared to take a position/ act. In business, this concept is known as customer service and quite frankly this concept needs to be more important to our public institutions. Somewhere along the line it’s been lost.

I say this because there has been a noticeable shift in attitude on behalf of our

local governments. There’s a real disconnect between the organizations that represent us and the public’s voice. As such, it is important for our elected officials to be receptive to our local newspapers, who have the ability and responsibility to communicate on matters that are most important to our communities. Dismissing our local newspapers is consistent with dismissing the community.

This is certainly true at the Region, where some individuals have ignored the St. Catharines Standard,

Searching For Better Hearing

It is disheartening to see the scope and scale of the communications breakdown that is currently taking place dismissing it as the “tabloid press” or “fake news.”

It is disheartening to see the scope and scale of the communication breakdown that is currently taking place.

This is also true at the Town of Pelham where copies of the Voice were tossed in the trash and communications cut off for weeks.

We don’t know if they were simply unhappy with a particular story, or they are trying to systematical-

ly marginalize their voice, and hence ours, from being heard.

Our regional and municipal governments are here to serve their residents. Your voice is important. When government starts to control the dialogue by limiting or discounting the role of the local press, it only hurts the community. It’s simply wrong.

See SERVICE Page 13

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www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

Page 9

REGIONAL COUNCIL RACE

Better Regional planning needed Jim Hagar looks to increase public consultation, sees Regional management of fire services If you are looking for a new face for Regional Council, Jim Hagar might be your man. Hagar, 62, is running for Regional Councillor for the Town of Pelham.

Hagar is a retired Human Resources consultant who worked for 37 years with the Region in water/waste water and in Human Resources. He worked as an operator and in maintenance and in HR doing collective bargaining. Hagar has been on the inside and has seen the inner workings of the Region. He feels he has the practical knowledge needed for the job.

“I think I’m well prepared to meet the needs of the people of Pelham,” said Hagar. “I’ve got a pretty good insight and know the people side of it.”

Hagar is a Fenwick resident. He has lived there for 13 years with his wife, Susan. They have two daughters, Marissa and Caitlin.

Hagar played rugby for many years and coached

BY REBECCA LOTT

Special to the VOICE

the Brock University team between 1999 and 2003.

He and his wife enjoy golfing, mostly at Pelham

Whose interest are they here for —the public or their own?

Hills.

Hagar has followed the regional political scene closely. Issues like the Burgoyne Bridge build, lack of due diligence and emerging CAO-hiring questions have driven him to run for a position on council.

Hagar questions the “moral flexibility and ethics” at the Region.

“Whose interest are they here for—the public or their own? You can’t be going in to buy a Chevy and come out buying a Cadillac. They’re doing everything to justify what they want. People are upset.”

Hagar feels there hasn’t been enough consultation with the public at the Regional level and acknowledges there are going to be pressures on Pelham with Welland and Thorold expanding. He would like to see the Region being future-ready with well managed planning for urban growth and development.

Hagar would like to regionalize the fire service and to see the Region partner more with municipalities, collecting assets and dividing them suitably around the peninsula.

“You need to have that five-year and ten-year plan,” he said. “I’m here to

Regional Council candidate Jim Hagar. clean up after the parade.

We need better government.”

Hagar’s biggest hope is to see the Region find their moral compass again in the next term. He would like to see the Region doing the right thing, with better financial management. He says the Region needs to have some guid-

REBECCA LOTT PHOTO

ance and accountability.

“You’re there to represent the public,” said Hagar. “It’s about service.

We’re always accountable to the public.”

Hagar is running against the incumbent, Councillor Brian Baty, but he feels people might want someone new. His message to those looking for change

is, “Welcome back.”

“I want to hear from you. I want to make sure we are acting in your best interest.”

The other candidates in the race are Dave Augustyn, also an incumbent Regional Councillor, and another political newcomer, Diana Huson. The election is October 22.

typically directed to the finance or accounts payable staff. The email will contain information regarding a new client or invoice to be paid and often includes a tone of urgency. The "CEO" instructs the staff member to transfer funds to an account or location as provided by the scammer. After the fact, it is realized that the email did not come from the "CEO" and the money

was sent to an unknown recipient. These scams have resulted in significant losses. Police urge businesses to be alert to the potential for such scams and take steps to verify the legitimacy of transactions. Often the information required to impersonate the CEO can be easily be found on the internet or company's website.

IN THE NEWS Break and enter

On August 26 at approximately 1 AM, police say that a break and enter occurred in the 1000 block of Maple Street. A witness heard noises and saw a porta-potty tipped over at a house under construction, then a few hours later saw three males in the area. Police say the males had entered the construction site and taken a bag of tools, which was

recovered nearby. Investigation continues.

Local businessman passes

Frank Ryan, co-owner with his wife, Janice, of Frontier Gun & Sport in Fonthill, has died at age 87.

Married for 63 years, the Ryans operated their store for five decades, moving it to its present location next to Indulgence Bakery on

Highway 20 in 1967. A private service was held.

Scam alert

As part of ongoing efforts to reduce fraud incidents, the Niagara Regional Police, Centralized Fraud Unit, monitors reports to identify recurring trends and scam methods. Recently, police have identified the following recurring scam that businesses and citi-

zens should be aware of, the Phony Company CEO/ Manager Scam. Police have received complaints from local businesses that reported receiving similar emails from unknown scammers posing as the company's CEO or Manager. The email address is very similar to the actual CEO's email, with only a slight change that is easily overlooked. The email is

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The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Successful second annual Lions Classic Car Show Increased attendance, ticket sales, all-around support

BY JENNIFER CHORNLEY

Special to the VOICE

The “Fabulous” Fenwick Lions Club’s 2nd annual Classic Car Show was an all-around roaring success.

Andrew Dobminey, Chair of the 2nd Annual Classic Car Show Committee, said there was an increased number of car show participants, Car Raffle Sales and overall general attendance.

“We are very pleased with the growth of the event and the outpouring of community support we received,” said Dobminey.

Scott Kernicky, Chair of the 2nd Annual Classic Car Raffle, said that 12,000 tickets were printed. He credited the increased raffle ticket sales to the club’s online advertising and marketing initiatives.

Lions Club President Ken Suthons extended great appreciation to the numerous sponsors and members of the community who supported the event.

“It was a great day and well-received.

Overall we are couldn’t be more pleased with how the event turned out,” he said.

“We are here to serve and that’s what our organization does,” Suthon said.

“We have a great group of volunteers. They took the time to drive to various places such as Hamilton, Port Dover, Niagara-on-the-Lake and other car shows to sell tickets.”

Dobminey said this year’s achievement was also due to “capitalizing on last year’s success.”

Dobminey extended a thank-you also to committee members Ryan Van Lochem, Melvin Jackson, Doug Kernicky, and Dave Arbour for their efforts in organizing the event.

Attendees of all ages were entertained. This year’s event contained live music, beer gardens, an inflatables activity pad, various craft vendors, expanded food vendors, face painting and glitter tattoos, a 50/50 draw, and of course the club’s “famous” fish fry.

Fenwick resident Charlene Garrard was blown away as she was the lucky recipient of a $920 50/50 pot. “I’m going to faint,” she said as she received her winnings from Dobminey.

The raffle ticket sales for a 1966 Chevelle Malibu reached $83,000, an

increase from last year’s $70,000. Raffle proceeds will go toward the purchase of the club’s 21st Dog Guide from the Lions Foundation of Canada, and to community causes.

Committee member Steve Schilstra said that the club as supported this program for the past 16 years. Some years, due to successful fundraising initiatives, the club has been able to purchase two dogs.

Schilstra said this makes the Fenwick Lions Club one

of the highest contributors to the Dog Guide program, especially in the A-2 District.

Dog Guides play a crucial role in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Lions Foundation of Canada's mission is to assist Canadians with a medical or physical disability by providing them Dog Guides at no cost.

This year’s Car Raffle Winner was Bob Urbanoski, of Woodstock. Pelham mayoral candidate Marvin Junkin pulled the lucky

ticket. The draw was also live on social media. Past President Bert Marissen did the emceeing for the draws.

Dobminey attempted to contact Urbanoski, however, he was unavailable, so Dobmoney left him a voicemail with the good news.

Dobminey explained that the Fenwick Lions established the idea for the Car Show in 2017 due to and increased need in the community for care relating to vision impairment.

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The Club is already gearing up with ideas about how to enhance next year’s event.

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www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

Page 11

JENNIFER CHORNLEY PHOTOS

Left, Fenwick resident John Burger's 1947 Mercury 118 was one of 328 entries in the show. Above, mayoral candidate Marvin Junkin pulls the lucky raffle ticket for the 1966 Chevelle Malibu.

Top right, 50/50 Winner Charlene Garrard is in shock as she receives her $920 winnings from Andrew Dobminey. Bottom right, Kirby and Carol Oglesby, of Caledonia, pose with their 1940 Studebaker Coupe. They won in the best Exotic Car Category. more vendors and making the event more family-oriented would be the focus.

The cool weather and overcast skies didn’t ward off the 2,500 car enthusiasts and 328 Car Show participants. Participants in the car show increased from last year’s number of 250.

Kirby and Carol Oglesby, of Caledonia, praised the Lions for an event well done and the town’s atmosphere in general.

“We had a lot of fun,” Kirby said. “The people in Fenwick are super-friendly along with the spectators.

We are very happy we came, as this was a last minute decision for us after speaking to other participants the night before a cruise night event in Welland.”

The couple was even more elated when their 1940 Studebaker coupe won for Best Exotic Car. “We were having fun even before won,” Carol

said. “It was a good day. We met great people and the win was a bonus.”

Oglesby got his coupe four years ago.

“I always wanted a coupe and the fact it was a Studebaker was a bonus for me.”

Club president Suthons said he was “really happy” about the day’s event and that the club is already looking for next year’s vehicle to raffle off.

The club has 54 members and is looking for more.

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Page 12

The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

PARTIES

continued from Page 1

Happy 80th Birthday, Paul Love, Joan and family

SPECIALIZING IN SELLING YOUR HOME!!!

Richard Brown

Last Friday the Voice reached out to current members of council, and all candidates running in this October’s municipal election, for comment on the Town’s MCC party budget.

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EMAIL: rbrown@royallepage.ca OFFICE: 905-734-4545 or 905-892-0222

The Grand Opening will be both a thank you to many people and businesses have contributed to the success of Pelham’s Meridian Community Centre and a showcase of upcoming activities by groups that

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to make a notation on the minutes that a motion was rescinded by the Committee.”

Pressed to explain how a motion duly tabled, debated, and carried could retroactively be “rescinded,” Bozzato cited parliamentary rules allowing the maneuver.

Bozzato quoted a parliamentary authority by the name of James Lochrie: “It is a special case of the more general motion to amend a previous decision. Procedurally and substantively there is no difference between the motions. In effect, the motion to rescind is a motion to amend a previous decision by striking out the decision altogether.”

In short, the committee’s June minutes reappeared on the Town’s website last Friday with the $85,000 motion struck-through.

Asked whether other Town committees had ever employed such a move to

rescind a previously carried motion, Bozzato replied, “I cannot comment on how common it is with other committees. There are instances where previous motions have been rescinded by a Pelham Council, however I cannot provide an immediate example.”

In the meantime, multiple numbers had multiplied.

Following mention of the $85,000 figure in last week’s edition, the Voice requested confirmation that the amount was correct from Town Public Relations and Marketing Specialist Marc McDonald.

Last Thursday, MacDonald replied that the events would cost $48,000. Yet two days earlier, at Town Council’s regularly scheduled meeting, Vickie vanRavenswaay, Director of Recreation, Culture, and Wellness, informed council that the event budget was $70,000.

By late Friday there was

yet another number from MacDonald: $84,725. According to a breakdown, this total was derived from $11,500 in food and beverage costs, $27,000 in entertainment, and $46,225 in “rentals, logistics, video, promotion.”

Including revenue the Town says will be earned from the events, MacDonald asserted that the Town’s net cost would be $48,225.

Yet this amount was further offset by an identical figure—$48,225 in “special event savings & other revenue,"—implying that the cost to throw the two parties was $0.

Asked to clarify the clarification, shortly before press time on Monday MacDonald reiterated, “The net cost of the event is expected to be $48,225. This will be covered by cost savings and higher revenue from other special events...therefore the budget impact is expected to be $0.”

Candidates react to opening party budget numbers

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

absence, “suggested there could be some justification for utilizing funds from the contingency for the event.”

The apparent justification was that the “grand opening event will also serve to provide promotional opportunities” for the new arena.

A motion to recommend spending up to $85,000 was carried.

Then matters took an odd twist.

During the last week of August, a resident posted the $85,000 figure on social media, prompting the Voice to request comment from Mayor Augustyn on Monday, September 3. By Tuesday, September 4, the minutes had disappeared from the Town’s website.

When the Voice asked Town Clerk Nancy Bozzato why the minutes had vanished, she replied, “I have

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

will be using the amazing facility. Existing Town budgets will cover the costs for the appreciation/ opening.

Mayor Dave Augustyn Candidate for Regional Council It is apparent that this council has lost sight of the economic realities facing this town. To spend a budget of $70,000 to throw a party at the opening of the community centre is irresponsible and a reckless use of taxpayer money. Our net debt for 2017 hit $31.76 million dollars. For 2018 this number is assumed to be between $45-$50 mil-

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I do not know the anticipated numbers nor the nature of the proposed festivities. I was not invited to attend as Regional Councillor but will be there with Pelham Active Transportation Committee representatives. I do hope that plans are in place to deliver surplus food and beverages to Pelham Cares or soup kitchens. Residual funds could support a bicycle repair kiosk and air pump at the centre. I hope that the Oversight Committee is recognized for the saving of over $700,000, but I recommend that a two-year hold be placed on sale of the adjacent See REACTION Page 17

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lion dollars. Knowing this, how can they justify such an expense? And if these funds had not gone towards our debt, they could have benefitted families, seniors or business owners with much needed servicing and programming. It's clear that Pelham Town Council has completely lost touch with its taxpayers, who are constantly relied upon for successive increases to our property taxes as a means to cover these extravagant and unnecessary expenses.

An election could not have come sooner.

Diana Huson Candidate for Regional Council

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Letters

The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

Page 13

continued

WE DO IT ALL FROM START TO FINISH!

Grand opening expense excessive, irresponsible Responsible representation is for all levels of government—Federal, Provincial and Municipal. At no time can any of these entities opt out.

Period!

For the past few years we in Pelham have (until quite recently) sat by complacently watching, in my opinion, a self-absorbed council sell our community down the drain.

There has been little to no representation let alone responsible representation.

We have serious cost overruns on many public works projects. We were given options A & B for a Fenwick Library renovation. When the public wrote in a "C" to say neither was acceptable, we were fed a line that those were the only options. In my experience. The architect works for the customer, not the other way around. If the public did

$70,000

continued from Page 8 municipalities, who do not pay taxes or contribute to Pelham in any way as our facility is staffed, maintained and financed by us.

Online math calculators will send shivers down your spine. Do the math on what’s reported as a $60 million dollar debt, with principal, interest, annual operating losses and the

SERVICE

continued from Page 8 Local papers are a reflection of local matters, both societal and human. Their stories should be both important and relevant to our political representatives.

And if customer service is something they care about, perhaps an effort should be made to rebuild the relationship, not dismiss it.

Problems don’t go away by ignoring them. They need attention and effort to fix.

It’s hard work; but that’s what you signed up for. Ignoring the issue does not make it go away.

In similar sentiment to what was said by Gandhi, the public is not dependent on politicians, they are dependent on us. We are not an interruption of their work, we are the purpose of it. They are not doing us a favour by serving us, we are doing them a favour by allowing them the opportunity. Political representation is not an entitlement, it is a privilege.

I urge you to carefully contemplate your choices this election. Choose candidates who are dedicated to representing you with a cooperative and collaborative leadership style.

Choose candidates who are committed to offering public service as a form of customer service. Choose candidates who are passionate about our community. As a result, our communities will flourish and thrive.

Diana Huson Candidate for Regional Council

not accept what was presented, do it again! Don't tell me that it would cost more money.

It is apparent the Town doesn't have issues spending our money. They just don't like being held responsible.

Now, we hear that the grand opening ceremonies for our new community centre is going to cost the taxpayer tens of thousands of dollars. This, when we have no reserve funds to speak of, no money to repair (or upgrade to LED) street lighting, no money to repair washed out roads (Sulphur Spring), no money to repair unsafe bridges (reportedly prompting a Town "representative" to tell a long time resident if they don't like the situation, move).

This is wrong on so many levels! Tens of thousands spent on a “Grand Opening”?

compounding factor.

Anyone who believes that 17,000 residents can afford the massive payments that will come in two-to-three years will regret ever eating a piece of this grand opening’s cake.

Curt Harley Pelham

•

Yes, have a ceremony, but please, what are they thinking. We have residents in north Pelham and Shorthills feeling left out of the Pelham community, but hey, it's going to be one heck of a party in Pelham.

Unfortunately, given prior obligations, I won't be able

POOLS: Inground • Onground • Above-ground Plus: Decking, Patios, Interlocking, Retaining Walls & Custom Design

to make these grand opening ceremonies. However, I put it to ALL residents of Pelham to attend (not just the privileged VIPs).

First and foremost let's celebrate our new community centre. We need to support

905-892-5717 2601 Hwy 20 E, Fonthill

See WRONG next page

lo Maple HolFarms

Heart of Niagara Reading Series

Meet the Queen of Canadian Crime Fiction!

since 1927

FRESH VEGETABLES

GAIL BOWEN

corn, field, roma & paste tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, cucumbers, eggplant, beans, garlic, dill, cabbage, zucchini & fruit

Wednesday, Sept. 19, 1:30 PM, Fonthill Branch The Arthur Ellis Award winner will be here as part of her Darkness of the Heart tour! We won’t leave you clueless as Bowen gives us all the inside scoop on her latest Jo-Anne Kilbourn Shreve murder mystery series and more. Light refreshments included. $10.00 per person.

Please register ahead in person or online at: www.pelhamlibrary.on.ca

Iftody’s

FARM HOURS: Mon to Fri. 9:00 am till 6:00 pm Sat & Sun 9:00 am till 4:00 pm 627 Church St. Fenwick 905 892-6466 or 905 933-8718

#1 Computer Techs!

Grand opening!

Saturday, September 15, 2018

Welcome and opening ceremony Community Information Booths Activities Live Music Art Display NHL Alumni Game (tickets sold separately )

10 - 10:30 a.m.

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

6 - 8 p.m.

Main Foyer Main level Throughout MCC Main Foyer Outside Accursi Room Accipiter Arena

NHL Alumni Game Tickets on sale now!

NHL Alumni VS. Pelham Minor Hockey Association Coaches

Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018

6-8 p.m. Accipiter Arena - Meridian Community Centre Doors open at 5 p.m.

VS

VS Coaches

s

Coache

er 15 Septemb 6 p.m.

Meridian ity Commun Centre

#MomentsThatMatter

September 15 6 p.m.

Meridian Community Centre

Pelham Cares will be on site collecting “Back to School Items” for kindergarten – grade 12. If you have extra back to school supplies your support is appreciated!

Alumni game tickets: www.pelham.ca/nhl-tickets

Page 14

The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

OBITUARY

STOKES, Margaret M. (nee Strawn) R.N.

BBQ PROCEEDS At their annual Family BBQ event in August, MP Dean Allison, right, and MPP Sam Oosterhoff took in 185 pounds of food donations for Community Care West Niagara. They delivered the goods recently to Client Services Coordinator, Nicole Sutherland.

SUPPLIED PHOTO

August Real estate sales increase 2.5% Number of Pelham homes on market jumps over last year

BY JENNIFER CHORNLEY

Special to the VOICE

The Niagara Association of Relators (NAR) noted a 2.5 percent increase in property sales for August.

It was reported that 649 property sales processed through the NAR Multiple

Listing Service (MLS®) system In the Pelham-Fonthill area, August’s new listings jumped from 34 in 2017 to 48 in 2018, while the number of sales remained the same as last year’s 22.

In Niagara, the number of active residential property

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listings increased by 28.3 percent versus August 2017.

The area’s average sale price increased marginally from $591,000 to $595,995.

Average sale prices throughout Niagara saw an increase of 6.4 percent to $416,200 However, the average number of days a house remained on the market increased from 24 in 2017 to 59 in 2018. This was echoed throughout the rest of Niagara with an increase of 38.7 percent from 31 to 43 in the residential freehold market and increased 18.2 percent from 33 to 39 in the condominium market.

Despite the trend of an increase in the average days to sell versus 2017, NAR said it is worth noting that the current average of 37 days to sell is 33.9 percent lower versus the 56 average days to sell at this time in 2015.

The sales price to list price ratio of 97.9% versus 100% in 2017 remains relatively steady.

Throughout Niagara, the year-to-date residential property transactions total is 4,447 versus 5,381 for

2017 and 4,079 in 2013. This represents a decrease of 17.4 percent versus 2017 and an increase of 9.0 percent versus 2013.

WRONG

"Last Supper,” as in, Pelham Town Council’s Last Supper!

Given the budget, the food better be unbelievable.

When it comes to this council, in my opinion we have lost responsible government. A Town councillor

continued from previous page it—we bought it.

Secondly, at the risk of being too bold, the tagline for this ceremony should be,

LAMPMAN FUNERAL HOME

...the new normal for our market will continue to emerge

“The year-to-date statistics are key when evaluating the market performance. It is encouraging to note that residential home prices continue to hold as do the number of new listings,” said Stephen Oliver, president of NAR. “As the market distances itself from 2017 and 2016 trends, the new normal for our market will continue to emerge.”

(Niagara Falls, 1944) Mom passed peacefully at Ina Grafton Gage LTC surrounded by her family on September 3, 2018 in her 98th year. Beloved wife of the late Orville F. Stokes(1985). Dear Mother of Gary (Marilou) Stokes, Linda (Gerald Maney) Shedden and Jim (Sandra) Stokes. Dear grandmother of Robert (Shelley), Daniel (Peggy) Stokes and Sandie (Ted) Kares, James (Stephanie) and Andrew (Stephanie) Stokes, cherished great grandmother to Brooke and Layne Kares and Nicholas and Caroline Stokes. Predeceased

by Sisters Edna Reading-Rogala, Irene Grimwood, June Aldrey and Shirley Henderson, brothers Earl, Robert and Kenneth, and parents Clarence and Rose (Kent) Strawn.

Margaret was a proud graduate of Niagara Falls School of Nursing in 1944 and worked as an RN in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, then many years in the Welland Hospital, retiring in 1972. Upon graduating Mom joined dad in Halifax, NS where they were wed during WW2. They brought Gary home after the war and settled in Wainfleet on the family farm. Dad worked at Union Carbide while Mom worked at Welland Hospital and raised their three children. Together they ran a small garden farm selling produce to local stores and a variety of customers throughout Niagara.

At the same time Dad was an avid fur trapper and Mom was alongside him all the time helping with various tasks.

Together they loved to go fishing to Magnetewan or Deep River, Ontario twice each year and usually once with the kids in the summer. Mom was active in the United Church Salem, Emmanuel and Wesley United, after she moved to Welland. She was also an accomplished cook and baker.

No one left our home hungry and knew they could drop in and Mom would provide a meal. At the same time Mom could sew, knit (right up until her passing) and crochet most anything and got great pleasure from doing so, then gave it away. In the past couple of years at Ina Grafton Gage LTC , St. Catharines, Mom was knitting scarves for Out of the Cold, Thorold and squares to be sewn into blankets for cancer patients at Juravinski Hospital. Above all else Mom was wise, rational and compassionate.

She moulded us all with her advice and her easy going nature. She had a razor sharp mind, excellent memory of everything and a great sense of humour right until her death. We are so thankful for this and a long life of such a wonderful mother, grandmother and great grandmother.

Thank you to Ina Grafton Gage LTC for their excellent care during the past 2 years, as well as friends and staff at Wesley Robins Retirement Village and her many friends, relatives, nieces and nephews who would visit or call and stay in touch by phone. Family and friends were received at the JAMES L. PEDLAR FUNERAL HOME, 1292 Pelham Street, Fonthill where the funeral service to honour Margaret’s life took place on Friday, September 7, 2018. Interment followed at Zion Cemetery in Wainfleet.

Donations can be made to Wesley United Church, Ina Grafton Gage Activation Department, or the charity of one’s choice. Online condolences can be shared at www. pedlarfuneralhome.ca answers to his/her ward, not to his/her fellow councillor. In turn, senior Town staff answer to council.

Let's get what is guaranteed to us as citizens of this great country and (at no lesser value) this community. On

October 22, vote for change.

Let's elect a council responsible to the people. Let's take back “Responsible Government.”

Mark Bay Candidate, Pelham Town Council, Ward 1

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Our family serving your family since 1911

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Electrical Electrical

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Heating & & Cooling Cooling Heating

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We Service All Makes And Models

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

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Master Electrician Residential, Commercial & Industrial

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ECRA/ESA licence #7011142

Places of Worship and Events Advertiser

Bethany Christian Reformed Church Fonthill Rlectric Ltd 1040 Balfour St., Fenwick

Contact Name

The Voice of Pelham ad size

First Presbyterian Church Service Directory ad 602 Metler Rd., North Pelham w:2.5” x h: 1.75”

Concordia Lutheran Church Taryn Wilton 105 Welland Rd., Fonthill

Contact Phone 905.401.5748 Fenwick Church of Christ

voiceofpelham.ca

rector

Page 15

SERVICE DIRECTORY

E OF PELHAM

ctor

The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

765 Welland Rd., Fenwick

Contact email info@fonthillelectric.ca Fenwick United Church

Info Fonthill BaptistColor Church 1414 Pelham St., Fonthill black only

Pelham Evangelical Friends Church 940 Haist St., Fonthill

Holy Trinity Anglican Church 1557 Pelham Street, Fonthill

Ridgeville Bible Chapel 418 Canboro Rd., Ridgeville

Due Date Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses Kirk on the Hill Presbyterian Church 1369 Rice Rd.,Friday, FonthillMarch 18 at noon 1344 Haist St., Fonthill

1050 Church St., Fenwick hevoiceofpelham.ca

:

Glad Tidings Church of God 1 Pancake Lane, Fonthill

Fonthill UnitedRundate(s) Church Pelham Community Church 23, Apr. 6, 20, May 4,461 18,Canboro Rd., Fenwick 42 Church Hill,Mar. Fonthill

June 1, 15 and 29.

Date:

IN THE NEWS

continued from Page 9

Alzheimer Coffee Break kickoff

National Coffee Break Day is Thursday, September 20, and locally the Alzheimer Society Niagara Foundation will launch its annual campaign with a special event at Meridian Credit Union, 531 Lake St., in St. Catharines. At 12 noon in the parking lot at Meridian Credit Union, this year’s Honorary Chair, Wade Stayzer, Senior

Cost $42 per insertion plus HST.

Vice President and Chief Member ExpeTerms: Due on publication rience Officer at Meridian Credit Union, will be hosting a lunch until 2 PM. Coffee Break is an annual event that raises funds locally to provide information, education, support and counselling services to benefit people living with dementia. The event is one of more than 10,000 Coffee Breaks that will take place across Canada that day. Teena Kindt, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Niagara Region Foundation, encourages members of the community to become involved and

St. Alexander’s Roman Catholic Church 50 Pelham Town Sq., Fonthill St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church 834 Canboro Rd., Fenwick

host a Coffee Break event in support of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, which affect some 10,000 people in the Niagara Region. While Coffee Break officially kicks off on September 20, events can take place any time throughout the campaign until the end of December. Register for a free kit by calling 905-687-3914 or emailing wnasmith@ alzheimerniagara.ca See IN THE NEWS next page

Folks, I'm sorry to serve and run, but my talents are needed at the community centre's VIP gala. Any server who owns a tux is being pressed into action!

Page 16

The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

COMMUNITY EVENTS & CLASSIFIEDS

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

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

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

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

Thanks for supporting your Voice!

office@thevoiceofpelham.ca

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

905-892-8690 FOUND Lady's religions medal. Please contact Fonthill Post Office at 905-892-6951.

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Full time and part time cooks needed. One year experience is an asset but willing to train the right candidate. Send resume to pelhamstgrille@gmail.com or in person at 1507 Pelham St, Fonthill

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7 SPRU FONTH items, clothes proofing, drainage systems, TOLL-FREE: Saturdays 12:30 – 3:30. Register and pay ahead WANTED in person. $5.00 per 1/2 stone supply, place- sonable EMPLOYMENT OPPS. WANTED FOR OCTO1-800-363-7566 1st www.pelhamlibrary.on.ca & 2nd MORTGAGES from or FIREARMS hour. Visit call 905-892-6443 for more details. quarry BER 20th, 2018 LIVE & ONLINE 2.90% 5 year VRM and 3.49% MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! Inment. 905-384-1972. P18-23 30, 8AM AUCTION: Rifles, Shotguns, 14 Front St S. Mississauga

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1-800-282-1169 Excavating contractor. tutor.25X27 Get help with web browsing,www.adventurecanada.com girlguides.ca/leaders “One-to-One Help” with a volunteer tech 33X35 $9,833. 35X35 $11,955. End www.mortgageontario.com Water, Email: sewer upgrades, Wallmedia, Included.editing Pioneerand Steelsharing 1-855- your webmail account set-up, e-books, social 1-800-565-8111 212-7036 foundation repair, water (Licence # 10969) photos and more.

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Putting on an event?

continued from previous page

14

1st, 2nd, 3rd MORTGAGES Debt Consolidation Refinancing, Renovations Tax Arrears, No CMHC Fees

COMMUNITY Events

When you volunteer with Girl Guides of Canada, you help girls:

Community Events Listings

IN THE NEWS

AND

len bicycles in the city of Niagara Falls. Members of the 2 District Street Crime Unit conducted a twomonth investigation and gathered enough evidence to support that Trevor Armstrong, of Grims-

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

FLOORING NORTH

Burke’s Masonry

ing grounds of Quebec’s musical past. Using fiddle, accordion, harmonica, guitar, bouzouki and a number of other instruments, our three virtuosos blend boundless energy theSALE unmistakable joie de vivre found only in BEDROOM SUITEwith FOR traditional Quebec music. Show runs from 7-9 p.m. FRUIT FARM/GENERAL “Broyhill” French Provincial bedroom suite, like new $950.

Call 905-892-8566.

FARM LABOURER

PELHAM LIBRARY CARD MAKING WORKSHOP Looking for seasonal/ time help.

CUSTOM MILL learning a variety of full Make six cards with fall themes, techniques.

Materials Applicant must be able Portable sawmill service. work min.

40-60 are provided. At time of registration, please enquiretoabout tools needed.

I will come to your home or farm and custom mill your logs. hours/week in any Tues., Sept.

16 also 10 –available.

12:30. Call $10.Rob Please register ahead.

Visitconditions www.pelhamweather and Firewood & lumber Patterson, weekends.Lifting 50 lbs 905-401-4948, riverwood@primus.ca library.on.ca or call 905-892-6443 for more details. comfortably is required.

Jobs included pruning,

Planting trees, thinning YOUR AD HERE FABULOUS FENWICK LIONS FISH FRY and harvesting fruit, Reach readersstraight weeklyback into the packing and sorting Tasty treatsthousands with fundsofheading community.

Haddock, fruit. No Experience with a Voice classified! required. No Education french fries and much more. Runs Sept. 9 from 4-7 p.m.

Up to 30 words for only:

required, Must have own transportation. Min $14.00/hour.

INCL. PELHAM MINOR HOCKEY TAX EQUIPMENT SALE wage Please drop resume off at 825 Canboro Rd, Buy, sell or trade used equipment at the Pelham Arena.

Aimed to provide Fenwick Ontario L0S cheaper options for players in this upcoming season.

Runs Sept.

6 from 1C0

$10

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9-12 in the morning.

OCNA Network Classified Ads (AD CENTRAL) Paper Routes PELHAMinMUDFEST Available Fonthill Week of Men and women will be back in the mud as the second run on the year is September 10 Route 1–Beckett Cres, heldLn,atMilner Bissil’s Darby Pl, Hideaway.

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Josh DeHaan Flooring “For all your flooring needs”

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

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

qr No Sunday Calls, Please TF Great for students, Posted lington Crt - 96 homes children, adults, seniors, September 6 NIAGARA REGIONAL EXHIBITION Route 42 – Woodside The Rodeo, gamesLn and excitingVoice event. It is hiring! andentertainment everyone whoheadline likes this years Sq, Meadowbrook – live Central homes runs92 from Sept. 11-14 at theRegion News and Features Writer AdsFairgrounds. included fresh airWelland and exercise.

This full-time position calls for a well-rounded reporter with the ability to cover a wide range of community issues, from BIG MOVE CANCER RIDE Council to interviews longer profile pieces. PreviThis ad is to be printed by all participating The Big Move Cancer Ride is a non-competitive rideTown taking place onOntario Sept.andpapers ous news writing experience preferred but not required. More 7. Proceeds for the Big Move stay in Niagara and support the www.thevoiceofpelham.ca/writers Walker Faminformation: ily Cancer Centre.

Kindly send resume and writing samples to:

PAPER ROUTES AVAILABLE!

Call (905) 892-8690

publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca for further information.

WALKING CLUB Interested in walking in Pelham? Join them Tuesdays at the Pelham Arena from 9-10 am and Thursdays at Fonthill Bandshell for 9-10:30 am. There by, was responsible for acy to Commit an IndictPort Colborne the thefts.

In August, able Offence, counts is no fee for thispoprogram.

For morefiveinformation, please contact jcook@ assault arrest lice executed a search on of Possession of ProperOn August 26, police say pelham.ca or call 905 892-2607, ext 329. a Grimsby residence and ty Obtained by Crime, and that uniform members from located several stolen bi- Attempt to Commit Theft. the Port Colborne branch recycles. Armstrong was ar- A second individual, Shy- sponded to a reported asHAMPER DAY FOR PELHAM CARES rested and charged with la Bailey, of Niagara Falls, sault at a business on Clarfresh fruit andwas vegetables the Market or bring a non-perishable TheftPurchase Over $5000, Conspiridenticallyat charged. ence Street in Port Colborne.

food item to fill the hampers at the Pelham Farmers Market on Sept. 4.

Last Saturday, police arrested three young persons aged 15 and 16 and one adult male aged 19. Each was charged with one count of Assault. All accused were released from police custody to appear in court later.

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The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

COUNCIL NEWS

continued from Page 6 but there’s nothing they can do about it at this point.”

Pelham has six marijuana growing facilities, making the municipality a hub of production.

One for the books

2017 was one for the books as one of the focuses of the Pelham Library’s success was on the Maple Acre Branch.

As reported to council by Library CEO Kirk Weaver, the reopening of the fully-renovated and expanded Maple Acre Branch proved to be “amazing.”

“There were 200 new memberships issued at this branch and we

FAIR

continued from Page 1 after his wife’s family.

Augustine has participated in the Fall Fair for about ten years and acted as president for the past three years.

He remembers the area when it was largely agricultural. Although farming has changed with the introduction of technology and development, Augustine says the Fair still honours and celebrates the farmers, the agricultural industry and the rural lifestyle of the Wainfleet community.

REACTION

continued from Page 12 parcel of land and a portion of the $700,000 be used to provide a gravel parking area to assess real-time parking needs.

Brian Baty Regional Councillor Even if the Town's finances were in a healthy state, I would find this figure excessive. Knowing that walking trails in the town are closed because there are no monies to hire outside contractors to make them safe, makes this amount seem ridiculous, even obscene.

Marvin Junkin Candidate for Pelham Mayor Yes, it’s a lot of money.

Maybe that’s the realistic cost of running a two-day event with musicians (local I understand) and the NHL old timers hockey game. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Let’s hope it has positive residual effects for our town economically—it should, really. My friends from around Niagara are raving about our community centre, stating it’s better than their arenas. Once again, the Meridian Community Centre is a positive for our town. It will bring in new families with children. It is a first class community centre, not out of place or opulent, really just right for Pelham, a long time coming. I hope it all goes well next weekend. We have good staff working very hard to make it all work.

Barb Rybiak Candidate for Town Council, Ward 2 In response to the money being spent on the community centre’s grand opening, whether it be $70,000 or $48,000, both numbers are ridiculous. How can council justify these numbers, and to have a separate ceremony

had to extend the hours from 14 in 2016 to 32 in 2017 so we could meet the needs of the patrons,” said Weaver.

“26,000 visits were made to the Maple Acre Branch in 2017, an overall increase of 10 percent.”

Weaver credits a broad range of patron demographics, including an influx of young families that have moved into the area, as well as increased after school usage, which contributed to the “exceeded expectations.”

The Pelham Library has strived to provide a steady increase of improved services over the past three-and-a-half years, said Weaver.

During this time the library upgraded its technology including improved wifi equipment and an

updated, more functional website that allows for online booking and program payment. It also expanding borrowing power by joining forces with LiNC (Libraries in Niagara Cooperative) allowing patrons an opportunity to access to some 220,000 titles from five partnering libraries.

LiNC, a cooperative library consortium consisting of one college and four public libraries, was created to share an open source library catalogue system called Evergreen. This eliminates the need for individual LiNC member libraries to select, mount, manage and upgrade a singly-owned library system.

Participating libraries are in Lincoln, Fort Erie, Niagara College and Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Page 17

Weaver said that expanding is an important component of “dynamic communities,” and the library will be doing research on how it can be a great resource for the entire community, not just certain demographics.

Establishment of Hospitality Advisory Committee

It was moved by Councillor Accursi and seconded by Councillor Durley that the Town establish a Hospitality Committee.

The purpose of the committee for the Meridian Community Centre, as explained by Accursi, is to gain insight on how to move forward with the hospitality operations aspect since this is a new Town initiative.

The committee’s mandate would

be to draw on the expertise of the local hospitality industry to guide council and Town staff on hospitality functions such as catering, alcohol sales, facility fees etc.

The committee would also include a Town staff member and councillor.

Durley added that the committee’s recommendations would make it easier for staff to organize packages for future events tailored to the needs of the organizer.

Councillor Papp said there needed to be a clear definition of what the term “hospitality” encompasses.

Accursi said the committee would run for at least one council term. The next council would determine whether or not to move forward beyond the allotted time.

“Everyone has that connection of back to the land and to our roots,” said Augustine. “I’ve always enjoyed and attended the Fair. You get to see people you haven’t seen since the last Fair. It’s a good community project.”

Augustine says the Agricultural Society doesn’t try to be big.

“It’s a small country fair with good musical entertainment and exhibits."

The Wainfleet Agricultural Society, otherwise known the “Fair Board,” puts on the event every year with the help of many volunteers. The Fair began in 1967 and was

started as a Centennial project. The chairman at that time was Lloyd Emerson Jr. The Fair features adorable rabbits and chicks and has a full lineup of events such as Wainfleet Idol, a parade, tractor pulls, a cattle show and fireworks. There is a horse show, ATV Expo and Mud Bog, pancake breakfast, sunflower growing contest, baby show, Iron Man competition, corn eating contest, pumpkin carving and a popular demolition derby.

Exhibitors must have a current Exhibitor’s ticket from the Wainfleet Agricultural Society to enter con-

tests and to be eligible for prize money. Tickets are $5 for adults and $2 for children. Judges follow a point system and decide on who places first, second, third and fourth. All exhibitors’ classes and competitions are open to Wainfleet residents and those of neighbouring communities.

Participants can enter the different contests for food, canning, flowers, grains, hobbies, crafts, animals or needlework. There is a 92page program.

This year’s Fair highlights women in agriculture. Augustine says this

theme was established because women take on a big role and don’t always get the recognition or acknowledgment they deserve. “Women are very involved,” he said. “They are often the caregivers, and a lot of the time they don’t get a lot of notice.”

Augustine’s daughter, Whitney, 23, is on the Fair’s hay and grain committee this year. She has grown up on a farm in Wainfleet and with the annual Fair. She used to bring calves to the Fair and now has a pet Jersey cow named “Amelie.”

Amelie does not like posing

for pictures, but Whitney singlehandedly got her cow to cooperate with a pear.

“I like living in a rural area,” she said. “The Fair is something that I enjoy. It’s a nice time of year because you see everyone and it’s interesting to see people’s exhibits.”

“I believe that this is a worthy investment of time to help build community, as well as a chance to parade our different talents,” said Ted Augustine.

For more information on the Wainfleet Fair see, http://sites.google.com/site/ wainfleetfair/

for “V.I.P.’s” one day, and a second one for us lowly residents of Pelham the second.

Who is paying for this building—we the residents. Yes, have a public ceremony, one ceremony. Open to all. We have a town with failing or aged infrastructure in need of replacing or repairs, being put off repeatedly due to lack of funds. Yet we have funds to throw a party to pat the backs of those V.I.P.’s (who are all these people, other than council?). Then do it again the following day for the rest of us? Council should be ashamed of themselves.

I can’t believe that a quality ceremony can’t be had for significantly less money.

There was a woman in history that said, “Let them eat cake!” If my history is accurate, things didn’t end to well for her and her husband!

Mark Bay Candidate for Town Council, Ward 1

every concerned citizen, I do not want to see our taxes rise.

I do not and will not support any rise in taxes. We need to work together by 1) listening to our citizens, 2) communicating with our citizens, and 3) being transparent with our citizens. We can achieve this and move “positive forward.”

I will be that voice at Town Council to move beautiful Pelham forward so we can all be proud. Let Pelham lead and not be like every other municipality in Ontario.

Vince (Enzo) Della Marca Candidate for Town Council, Ward 3

municipal property and using municipal funds and using municipal employees is a definite no-no. One might wonder if any of them were to get elected could it not be challenged and possibly they could lose their seat and be unable to run in the next election if found guilty of this breach? I am sure they would say that they aren’t campaigning but any public appearance in front of voters is definitely giving them an advantage that the rest of the candidates don’t have. The community centre is already open and being used—leave it alone.

Sidney Beamer Candidate for Town Council, Ward 1

media regarding this issue and many others. Things have to change and I hope the residents can see that a new and fresh approach to these issues has to be made and implemented this fall.

Mary Spehar Candidate for Town Council, Ward 3

For the year ending December 31, 2017, the total debt in our community was $31,905,664. We paid $740,632 in interest for one year for this debt. (Consolidated Financial Statements, December 31, 2017). $70,000 for a one day event seems excessive to me, then again I’m a low-cost operator. I would have considered different options such as: Having a soft opening and tying it in with the Junior B season opener; reaching out to the general contractor and all the subcontractors to subsidize the total cost of this event. (This is a normal practice in the business world when opening new buildings.) The other option is not to have a grand opening and save $70,000.

We can’t find money to fix our roads but we can find money for a grand opening?

When will this mayor and this council stop abusing taxpayers’ money?

Ron Kore Candidate for Town Council, Ward 2

My first reaction to this as for most people was anger and frustration. How could the Town approve such an amount whether it’s $48,000 or $70,000, especially in the state that the Town is in. As I began to regain my composure and think this through, a thought occurred to me— can the Town change this amount? Can the Town reorganize to meet its goal with these opening festivities on a reasonable budget?

My motto is, “Positive Forward,” and I will introduce this with my campaign for Town Council. I will turn all the negativity to positivity. Is this amount outrageous? Yes. Can we lower this amount to a more realistic amount? Yes. Can we fix this? Yes. Together we can accomplish anything, right any wrong that has been done. In essence we can use these opening festivities to get the word out to our neighbouring communities and let this beautiful facility start to pay for itself. Like

Irresponsible, outrageous, and out of touch with reality.

October 22 can’t come soon enough.

Uwe Brand Candidate for Town Council, Ward 3 I cannot image what they are planning on doing to pay homage to themselves that would cost either $48,000 or $70,000 dollars. That works out to a spending amount of either $6,857 or $10,000 for each of the six councillors and mayor. Unbelievable!

But even more concerning is the fact that we are in the middle of an election campaign and all emails I receive addressed to all those running in the upcoming election come as CANDIDATE Augustyn, Accursi, Lane, Rybiak, Durley and Papp, and campaigning on

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Although I knew the amount to host the grand opening of the MCC was likely to be high I was not aware of the final amount. I believe this to be yet another recurring theme at the Town of Pelham at the expense of the taxpayer. There are a couple of issues at work here.

Both of which have become glaringly obvious. The first being the lack of transparency and honesty, including consistent changes in the story surrounding the true affairs of the state of finances in the Town. The second being the lack of respect and accountability that Town Hall has to its residents, and that for me includes ignoring the requests from the

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I'm against the expenditure. The Town already held an open house in July. They say it's come in well under budget, so maybe they can put in the second parking lot that was in the original plan.

Marianne Stewart Candidate for Town Council, Ward 1 It is disappointing to learn that once again our council has chosen to recklessly spend our money. At a time when we need to be critically analyzing and prioritizing our Town finances, Council has decided to host a $70,000-plus grand opening event at the new community centre. I wonder if the key sponsors, whose names appear in and on the building, were asked to help finance this event?

Lisa Haun Candidate for Town Council, Ward 3

Editor's note: No current Town councillor acknowledged or responded to our request for comment.

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The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The front (at right) and reverse (below), of an undated promotional postcard for the Fenwick Fair. Judging by the clothing and cars, the era is likely the earlyto-mid 1920s.

As spectators await a race, other promised attractions included "Comedy Acrobats 'Joie and Jerry," a comedy donkey act, and the "World's Greatest Monopede Barrel Jumper."

The $250 purses listed for various speed events would be worth approximately $3600 in 2018 dollars.

PELHAM HISTORICAL SOCIETY ARTIFACT

The Fenwick Fair Autumn event once drew thousands

T CLOTHING FOR A CAUSE In an effort to raise funds for the new Wellspring Niagara cancer care centre, The Community of Lookout Ridge hosted a Fashion Show on Sunday.

The event featured what’s trending for fall. Residents, staff and volunteers from Lookout Ridge strutted their stuff in clothing outfitted from Alia n TanJay and Nygråd. The event attracted a sell-out crowd. Participants also enjoyed penny sale prizes, door prizes, 50/50 draw music and refreshments. Wellspring Niagara was present to sell their Necklaces of Hope, crafted by Niagara artisans, with all proceeds supporting the cause. The fashion show was a way to kick off Lookout’s 10-year anniversary. Staff members modeling were Debbie Murray, Cathy DiSanto, Erna Plett, Lupe Campbell, Margaret Murray, Heather Oughton and Chelsea Davies. Volunteer Bebianne Ferron and residents Elizabeth and Janis rounded out the runway participants. Wellspring Niagara’s new facility will be located on Highway 20 in Pelham on a two-acre parcel of land donated by the Town of Pelham. To date, the facility has reached 80 percent of its $8 million fundraising initiative. Melissa Stewart, Marketing Manager for Lookout Ridge, said based upon this year’s success, Lookout is considering making the fashion show a regular event. Above, attendees applaud the participating models.

JENNIFER CHORNLEY PHOTO

BY ROSEMARY CHAMBERS

Special to the VOICE

H E E A R L IE ST R E C OR DS OF T H E Fenwick Fair date back to the year 1856. The Fair grew from a gathering of a few friends to a large exhibition with the attendance running up into the thousands, with a livestock and poultry show as good as any to be found.

An item of special interest proved to be the horse races— those being the speediest and best events held anywhere. For many, many years it was considered the feature attraction of the year for practically everyone near and far, both young and old.

The exhibition buildings were filled with displays of all kinds of fruits, vegetables, grains, home canning and baked goods as well as rugs, quilts, and all kinds of handwork and crafts. This was an important event for schoolchildren who submitted entries of writing, art, etc.

There were demonstrations of farm machinery, and the latest in household appliances including vacuum cleaners, refrigerators, and stoves. Merry-go-rounds and Ferris wheels provided amusements for children as well as grownups, with bands playing at intervals throughout the day.

PELHAM

Pieces From Our Past The air was electric with laughter, and music, and the smell of popcorn, hot dogs, candy apples, and cigar smoke infused with whiffs from the horses and livestock.

And who could forget the Tom Bishop Wild West Show! From early morning on the day of the Fair, the roads would be lined with horse-drawn vehicles and bicycles as well as pedestrians. The TH & B Railroad put on special excursion trains from Hamilton, Welland and Buffalo in order to accommodate the overflow of people and all roads let to Fenwick.

Fairgoers were met at the Fenwick train station by local brass band that led them to the fairgrounds.

But although easier transportation, competition from other events, plus the impending threat of World War II must have played a part, the real “death-knell” to the Fenwick Fair was the weather. For three years in succession it rained!

The loss of receipts made it impossible to carry on and the Society decided to discontinue what had been a thriving exhibition. The buildings were sold and the land returned to farm land, leaving only a memory of The Pelham Agricultural Society’s Annual Show.

Thanks to Freda Boyes Robertson and the Pelham Historical Society.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018

Page 19

Glynn A. Green's superstar Career educator may be the principal we all wished we'd had in grade school

BY JENNIFER CHORNLEY

Special to the VOICE

Pam Voth believes she has the best job in the world.

Her dedication to ensuring the success of staff and students at Glynn A. Green Public School is the fuel that drives her passion for education.

Having a career in education that is entering its 33rd year, she shows no signs of slowing down any time soon.

Voth’s first year as principal brought a fresh approach to the school’s educational environment with one of the key elements being communication.

She believes communication between the school’s administration and families is key to a student’s success.

With that, Voth believes every student has and can achieve the success within them at the right time no matter the challenges they face.

To ensure this, Voth explains she has three jobs as principal.

“They are to keep everybody safe, ensure everyone is learning and provide opportunities.”

She noted that this year’s student population increased more than she anticipated.

“There are 380 students, plus a staff of 30, including support staff. That’s a lot of people. So, when I work to ensure safety, it’s only natural that it will make for a great learning environment,” Voth says. “You can’t learn if you aren’t safe.”

The safety aspect encompasses not only within the school walls but also the community.

Voth explains that everyone follows Safe School Policies, and has routines and rules that ensure that students are safe (such as not leaving school property). In addition, the school has social skills programs to support children in making good choices (including online safety programs).

Last year, they hosted a parent night about internet safety for the community and had a presentation for students as well.

Students are also active in ensuring a safe educational environment.

“Students feel safe when they feel connected and that they have someone they can go to for help,” Voth said.

With that in mind, there is a Buddy Program across grades that helps older students connect with younger students. To boost the program, Voth says a new mentorship program will be introduced to help ensure students feel more connected.

She also has an “open door policy” for students and parents, allowing them

to voice concerns at anytime and establish solutions as a team.

Voth noted that regarding opportunities, “They are important in the fact that they are memorable, whether it be a Terry Fox Run, a monthly celebration assembly, sporting event or creative arts show. They may not necessarily re-

She truly allows the kids to set the stage and be proud of their school

member history,” she said with a laugh, “but they will remember an opportunity.”

Jennifer McGregor, vicechair of the school’s parent council, praised Voth’s Principal-for-the-Day concept. This is a campaign in which students can win and help be “principal for the day.”

“This really helps motivate students and assists them with understanding how the school environment is run and maintained,” said McGregor.

In Voth’s view, success is a ripple effect that is for everyone, students and adults alike.

“I especially love to help the adults, both parents and staff, be successful because, in the end, the kids will be too.”

Communication fuels Voth’s success philosophy in a big way. In her first year on the job, she began maintaining the school’s private virtual community blog, which consisted of shared photos, news and school updates. Voth also sends out a weekly Communications Tuesday newsletter to the families through e-mail made up of reminders and what’s ahead in upcoming weeks.

Not only is communication important between the school and families, but also the school staff. Voth says she and the staff have weekly formal meetings to strategize how to work student challenges and incorporate new learning styles to ensure every student gets the education they need.

Voth is a learner herself and always keeps updated with research on the behaviours and challenges of today’s students. She said that this information is expansive compared to when she began her educational career 33 years ago.

“There is so much infor-

Principal Pam Voth welcomes students to a new school year. Top row, from left: Robbie Law Grade 8, Emmy Breadner Grade 1, Pam Voth, Jayda Saari Grade 1, and Maddy Bolivruck Grade 2. Bottom, from left: Curtis Lechmann Grade 6, Edan Mander-McCormick Grade 4, and Carter Ottaway Grade 4.

JENNIFER CHORNLEY PHOTO

mation out there on how to help the kids who are struggling and that makes me happy,” she says.

Voth credits the staff and the school council for assisting her in achieving a positive educational environment for the students.

McGregor describes Voth as committed, resourceful and engaging during the meetings.

“She is also a great negotiator with our fund-raising events, to ensure our money was spent wisely and we got the most we could,” McGregor says.

“That shows she truly cares about the money that parents donate to the school to make it a better place for their kids. Mrs. Voth has been a totally positive influence on the school in every way. She is tough but in a fair way, understands and has great empathy. McGregor said that Voth supports education in a serious but fun and inviting way, where students want to get involved and help run events and social activities.

“She supports our ideas, advice and needs.”

One example is implementing a snack program every Monday and Wednesday that the parent council had been wanting for some time.

With the collaboration of a parent who is a nutritionist, a local community group and student and parent volunteers, the program was launched.

“She helped find a room to dedicate to this and was able to get a fridge donated to assist,” said McGregor.

Voth said this year they are starting a weekly breakfast program on Fridays and automatically had parents

wanting to volunteer their time to implement the program immediately.

McGregor says that she encourages parents to be involved in any way.

“Even if they can't attend every parent council meeting, perhaps they can offer assistance on a committee or just offer their talents or resources for one event, or item.”

One of Voth’s goals for the upcoming years is to expand on the school’s Science, Technology, Engineering Arts and Mathematics Maker Space program. Also, she and the staff are exploring new teaching resources to enhance students’ literacy and math skills.

Voth is very much involved in the students’ everyday activities.

“I just love kids,” she says with a big smile. She enjoys carrying her birthday bucket and singing happy birthday to the students on their special day, rooting for the Gators at sporting events, accompanying students on field trips and even helping settle a playground dispute.

Voth also loves presenting students with a CLAW reward, where a student’s name is entered into a draw when they make good choices, show kindness and follow expectations around the school.

“When it all comes down to it, at the end of the day, those moments are my favourite part of the day,” she says.

McGregor lauds Voth’s beliefs in engagement and communication.

“She truly allows the kids to set the stage and be proud of their school,” McGregor says.

“She encourages them

and lets them lead the way for the type of school they want, the clubs, activities; so they can be proud of what they created and how they created it versus, being told when, how and what to do.”

With this, McGregor also praises the teachers with their efforts to help lead the clubs and activities the students want.

In efforts to engage and celebrate the creativity of the students, the school held a Culture Fair and Arts Festival.

The Culture Fair presented workshops on variety of countries that helped students widen their understanding of other people and become more tolerant and accepting.

The Arts Festival embraced the students’ creative side through performances such as dance, music and theatre and the visual arts.

Another model that adds to Voth’s role is the fact that she is mom too.

“I know my kids are grown now, but what I wanted for them growing up is how I would like to put into the school environment as principal.”

For Voth, it’s important to provide students with the best possible educational experience.

“They are our future. We need them to be good citizens, work together and be problem-solvers.”

Another element vital to a successful educational environment is a teacher’s ability to “focus on the fun stuff.”

“I like being the big picture, this allows teachers to focus on what they do best—teach,” Voth said.

“No need for them to focus on certain administrative

details such as scheduling breaks supervisions or ordering supplies.”

Voth knows she can’t do the job on her own and credits the teachers and the school council for supporting her initiatives and the school itself.

She also commends the students and the fact they contribute by providing positive sense of community. One example is last year’s effort that supported nine local families in need during the holiday season.

Moving forward, improving ways on how to better a student’s literacy and math skills, equity inclusion, improving the kindergarten playground and enhancing the school’s physical branding are on Voth’s todo list.

Voth explained she has already helped the school council get a new digital sign for the front of the school, brand new sports uniforms, and begin clearing outdated clutter for more effective use of space.

She will be working towards having the school’s interior freshened up to reflect the Gators branding.

Voth said that students connect better in a learning environment with what they want to see around them.

“I like change,” Voth said. “Some people may not, but I look at it in such way to question how I can help make students’ lives better.”

“I think of my students and staff as clients. I have a client-based model as though I am running a boutique shop. If I want my shop to stay open, I must meet the people’s needs and, in this case, it’s the kids’ lifelong learning.”

Page 20

COLUMN SIX

continued from Page 1 organization that doesn’t like immigrants.

A day or so later the Prime Minister went further, and informed the nation that merely welcoming new arrivals isn’t enough, that as Canadians, “We need to talk about love and acceptance.”

I’m sure it wasn’t his intention, but I was reminded of Christ when he (Jesus, not Justin) told his followers to love their neighbour as themselves.

Who is my neighbour, asked one man. A good question, to which the good Lord supplied a very good answer in his parable of the good Samaritan. A man en route to Jericho is seriously mugged and left for dead at the roadside. A couple of passers-by take no notice, but a third stops to help the wretched man out.

Go and do likewise, said Jesus.

He didn’t add qualifiers or exceptions. Nothing about first questioning the mugged traveler to see if his belief system was acceptable.

Same with Justin. Unconditional. We must, going forward, love and accept everyone, whatever race, creed, and values they embrace. You just do it.

Or at the very least, say you do.

Ticking a box is easy enough, but when it comes to putting it into practice I think a special kind of person is needed.

A saint.

No doubt Mr. Trudeau reckons that loving and accepting everyone is a good place to start. We can go from there, maybe.

Except this is there. There’s nowhere left to get to. Never mind a starting point, we’re already at the finish line and how easy was that?

But what if, on my list of people to love, I come across a xenophobe, like the woman at the corn roast, or a misogynist, homophobe, anti-Semite, or Islamophobe? What if my list includes a supporter of cap and trade, and the Kinder-Morgan pipeline?

What if he or she is pro-life, not pro-choice, or disapproves of Wynn’s sex-ed curriculum in our primary schools, and insists on voting for Not My Party?

The trouble with loving every-

The Voice of Pelham, September 12 2018 one is that when you scratch the surface no one is all that lovable any more.

Edmund Burke, a reasonable man, did not buy into the topdown approach to love and acceptance. He found it unrealistic, not to say disingenuous. His own take on human nature was that all but the supremely virtuous tend to connect with people who share their “resemblances, conformities and sympathies.”

That was his starting point, and from there he encouraged us to enlarge our compass through education, empathy and actually meeting people who are not us.

Burke believed that most people, being merely mortal, find it impossible to be loyal to universal declarations or international pieties, though these things are easy enough to declare.

Burke actually believed such loyalties can lead to a zealous righteousness and even fanaticism.

But we all know that fanaticism is the exclusive domain of the politically right and never the politically left, so here I must part ways with Edmund Burke.

Neither a saint nor a zealot myself, I prefer the company of ordinary people.

I encountered some on Canada Day last year. Oddly enough, at the roadside, like in the parable.

My mother and I were enjoying a picnic at a secluded spot on the Niagara River. We were quietly celebrating Canada’s 150th anniversary, when two minivans pulled in behind us. Ten people emerged from the vehicles, loaded with blankets and picnic hampers, and approached us. I could see my mother wasn’t happy at the invasion, and I sympathized— there were suddenly a lot of people around.

Before they spread out their blankets one of their party came up, and smiling, said, “Do you mind if we share your picnic place?

We can go somewhere else if you’d like.”

We had no claim to the spot, so it wasn’t our place to deny them.

And they weren’t really asking our permission. They were being polite, and considerate, and civil.

I responded, “Of course. There’s lots of room. Come and join us.”

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

Neighbours, enjoying Canada Day. They thanked us, spread their blankets and opened up their hampers. Eventually, the man reached over to hand me a loaded paper plate and two plastic cups.

“Iranian food, I hope you like it.”

I accepted his offering and thanked him. I enjoy Middle Eastern food, though I found the yoghurt soda an acquired taste. They got on with their picnic, and we continued to exchange small talk through the afternoon.

In the end I asked if I could take a photo. We were having such a good time I wanted a memento.

They mugged for the camera and shouted, “Happy Canada Day” as I took the picture.

I can’t say I loved these friendly people, because I didn’t know them, nor did they know me. We didn’t share views on politics, or religion, sex education, gay marriage, abortion or immigration.

It could have led to disagreement and spoiled the day. One of us might have packed up and left in a huff. Instead, respectful of the

other’s differences, we simply shared a picnic spot and each other’s company.

“Diversity Is Strength,” is now a slogan that appears at the bottom of the screen on CFL broadcasts, and it always makes me think of Orwell—but it wasn’t what I felt that day. I know it’s what I’m supposed to believe but somehow it rings hollow. I subscribe to Unity is Strength.

And I prefer to think of our nation as a mosaic, a composite picture made up of many disparate pieces. Where a jigsaw of interlocking parts would adhere by itself, the diverse pieces in a mosaic can’t adhere without a bonding agent. An adhesive.

For me that bond is tolerance, not love. A respect for differences that define diversity.

We do not all believe in the same things, or think in the same way, and imagining we do is not in my skill set.

I don’t believe for example, on religious or any other grounds, that abortion is wrong, or that

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women are subordinate and should dress accordingly, or that handguns should be legal, or that everyone must subscribe to this nebulous, amorphous thing we call “Canadian values.”

But many of our citizens believe differently. Some subscribe to values that entitle them to choose who their children can marry, or what medical treatment they may receive, or whether their partners can go out to work. There’s nothing illegal here—it’s not like Holocaust denial, or hate speech, or sexual harassment—and while I don’t share these values myself, I respect another’s prerogative to have them.

I fully understand that my attempt at tolerance is a far cry from the universal love recommended by my betters, and I hope they can find it in themselves to suffer my shortcomings.

Meantime, I’ll never forget who my neighbours are. I found them at the roadside, not beaten or robbed, thank God, only asking if they could share our patch of ground. ◆

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