The Voice, September 5 2018

From student to longtime teacher page 3 Every candidate for school board, starting on page 10 EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

The Voice

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King of the castle The first day of school proves an eye-opener

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See ENFORCEMENT Page 8

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Column Six

Police out in force as crossing guards and kids hit the streets On Tuesday, September 4, the Niagara Regional Police Service conducted its 18th annual back to school traffic safety and awareness day.

Dozens of officers hit the road to conduct traffic safety programs in and around our school zones throughout the Niagara Region. Officers focused their attention on the safety of children and crossing guards, warning that drivers who were speeding or driving aggressively, or not paying attention to crossing guards and the students, would be stopped.

In addition, The Municipal School Crossing Programs Committee of Niagara, has launched a Bill 31 Awareness Campaign, with the goal to remind all motorists and cyclists of the new Highway Traffic (HTA) laws that went into effect in January 2016.

The MSCP Committee wants to remind motorists and cyclists of the changes pertaining to all school crossing locations when a

RON’S

I HAPPY NEW YEAR Teacher Judy Wiebe on D-Day minus-5 last week inside St. Alexander's School in Fonthill. Prepared for back to school? Find Rebecca Lott's tips for a smooth transition, page 5.

REBECCA LOTT PHOTO

Traffic circles panned as inept, dangerous

BY VOICE STAFF In an attempt to reduce speeding along Lookout Street north of Highway 20 in Fonthill, Town workers last week installed two temporary roundabouts on the street, one at the intersection of Brewerton Boule-

vard, the other at Marlene Stewart Drive.

Also known as traffic circles, the roundabouts’ slapdash appearance drew immediate reaction from local residents and passing motorists.

See CIRCLES Page 15

Lookout and Marlene Stewart intersection.

VOICE PHOTO

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Special to the VOICE

FIRST BECAME skeptical of the grownup life shortly before my fifth birthday.

It was 1991 and my first day of school—Senior Kindergarten.

After four (almost five) tediously long years, I had finally been freed from the shackles of domestic life, and was ready to journey out into the world. Finally, I too, was able to ride the bus with my older brothers, all the way to E.W. Farr.

I’d looked forward to this moment for months, ever since I went with my mom to visit the kindergarten classroom and spent the whole time rearranging the face on a Mr. Potato Head.

“You can play with him all the time when you come here for school,” my mom promised. “You’ll have so much fun!”

I suppose things has been pretty good at home. But See COLUMN SIX Page 20

Page 2

The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

MUNICIPAL ELECTION TRACKING POLL: RESULTS PELHAM MAYORAL RACE

by Dave Burket

80 60 40 20 0

August 5

September 3

158 VOTES

208 VOTES

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

REGIONAL COUNCIL RACE

80 60 40 20 0

August 5

September 3

158 VOTES

208 VOTES

■ AUGUSTYN ■ BATY ■ HAGAR ■ HUSON ■ UNDECIDED 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 7 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/7weeks Or by visiting our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/voiceofpelham

Louth Townline Rd

Spring Creek Rd

Ward

Hwy 20

N 

k l

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 Vivian and Ray Tisi, with Karen and Mike Walsh in northern France, where they attended the wedding of a Rotary youth exchange student from Belgium who stayed with Vivian and Ray 10 years ago.

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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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 90Day 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.

Conner MANLOW, 21, Thorold Sylvie MALLET, 40, St. Catharines Danielle R. SARTY, 34, Gilford Marla P. CIANTAR, 47, Port Colborne Ronald E. GRANZER, 59, St. Catharines Jose M. FLORES, 49, Welland Michael R. MOLLOY, 27, Welland Nathaniel P. MALTESE, 29, Niagara-on-the-Lake Sterling C. SOWREY, 32, St. Catharines Nicole J. CARDIN, 37, Pelham Christopher G. TURPIN, 39, Niagara Falls Angelo VALERIO, 71, Hamilton Ross A. CHERWINSK, 56, Welland David W. PURCER, 53, St. Catharines Adam F. L. MACLEAN, 37, St. Catharines Alberto GUTIERREZ-VALDIVIA, 37, Niagara-on-the-Lake Monica D. CROCKER, 61, Niagara Falls Hayley E. KEYES, 30, Niagara Falls Sean P. D. WRIGHT, 35, St. Catharines

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ELECTION 2018: WHAT'S MY WARD

Murdoch Street

Corrections at the top: He's not sure what he said on the day, but Pelham's Fire Prevention Officer Will Underwood clarifies that it was the OPP, not the NRP, who provided a K9 unit during the Fire Department's Firefighter Camp a few weeks back. And it's been belatedly brought to our attention that in our interview with Ward 1 council candidate Mike Ciolfi we also had him running in Ward 3. Ciolfi is absolutely, 100 percent, running in Ward 1!... They're actually very dark green: Speaking of Pelham's most rural and agricultural ward, my wife and I happened to stop at the fruit stand at the intersection of Foss Road and Victoria Avenue last week.

It's run by Amanjit Johan and his wife, Gerwinder, who also own Nature Lovers' Greenhouses on Highway 20. At the fruit stand there is on offer an abundance of their own produce, grown in an adjacent field, including something we'd never see before: black-skinned watermelons. Apparently we don't get out much, because I later found a wealth of results on Google—including the record-setting sale of a large and evidently wonderful black watermelon in Japan, for $6100, ten years ago. You'll pay a lot less at Amanjit's place—$5 was the damage, and well worth it. The nice lady on duty explained that the variety was commonly grown in India. Not to wax too eloquently here, but it was hands-down the best watermelon we've ever had. Sweeter than the common variety, with denser flesh, and as fresh as they come...Taking a bite out of the bank: I may be on soft foods for awhile if an unsettling trend continues. In the midst of eating lunch last week what I thought was an unusually crispy tortilla chip turned out to be half of a molar that decided to make a run for it. This on top of the news that I need dental work costing at least half of my yearly salary, which shows how outrageously expensive dental work is in this country, and how paltry is the cash in community newspapering!...Getting the runaround: From relative obscurity to notoriety, the Lookout subdivision is in the news again, not Airbnbs this time but roundabouts—two experimental installations along Lookout Street, between Highway 20 and the golf club. Locals are not impressed, as you will learn starting on page 1...

Party like we can afford it: In June, the Community Centre Oversight Committee recommended spending up to $85,000 on the facility's evidently very gala opening next week. Given the number of toppling trees and potholes around town, this seems to many residents an example of priorities upside down. We're working on finding out whether that $85,000 will actually be spent on the party. Tune in next week...2000 like it was yesterday: Many thanks to the mystery man who dropped off several old Voices from 2000, and some from 2003. Much appreciated...Schoolpalooza: In this issue find interviews with all of the candidates running for both public and Catholic school boards. There will be a quiz on Oct. 22.

With our August 5 poll results forming a baseline, we can now chart how each candidate is trending.

In percentage terms, Carla Baxter saw the most change over the last month in the mayoral race, more than doubling her results.

Overall, however, Baxter still remains last, with both she and Gary Accursi significantly behind Marvin Junkin. Nonetheless, Junkin lost two points, and undecideds fell by 4 percent as more voters apparently made their choice.

Similarly, Diana Huson saw the biggest percentage jump in the Regional Council race, though she and the rest of the field lag far behind incumbent Brian Baty, despite Baty's 12-point drop. Dave Augustyn gained 4 points, now beating Undecided.

Take this week's poll. See the link below.

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The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

Page 3

A life in education—an eager student becomes a devoted teacher Across decades, provinces, school was always home

BY MARGARET TILBERT

I

Special to the VOICE

’VE ALWAYS LIKED SCHOOL. It gave me a sense of security, a sense of belonging. When I was not yet school age, I longed to follow my sisters to school. I didn’t want to be alone, or was it that I wanted a ride with the dogs?

I had two younger sisters at that time and I had no playmates during the day. They were merely babies! My mom told me I cried to go to school, so when the time came, I was permitted to go and my sisters made room in the dog cart. What fun Margaret Tilbert that was riding through the SUPPLIED PHOTO wooded lane up.

It was a trip of at least three miles.

Our dogs were called Gip and Red and they drove us to school every day. Gip was a friendly Collie cross-breed and Red was appropriately called by his fiery red coat, being an Irish Setter. My father being very resourceful built us a cart, with wheels as tall if not taller than I was.

All three of us, sisters Frances and Dorothy and I, were pulled up through the woods on a dirt road to get to the next settlement where our English school, the Dunlop School was. When winters came, I remember we had a sled and again, our dedicated dogs were our friends. We were able to put them in the woodshed at school where they could keep warm before our return home.

We were the only English-speaking family in our community of about 100 families of French-speaking people in

Beresford, NB. Since my dad didn’t speak French at all, it was just understandable we would be speaking English at home. My Mom had told me it was the “in” thing to do, to be able to speak both languages. Her sister had done the same thing, marrying an Englishman, because they had all the important jobs. But our father chose to be a farmer as he didn’t have the education that our uncle did. They lived in the city and we were country bumpkins, where people only spoke French in the area.

We were all seated at long desks, probably made by a local carpenter Gip and Red are ready to roll.

I’ve always had fond memories of the Dunlop school, our oneroom schoolhouse. The open-concept idea of the 1970s, which our children and students experienced later, was not a new concept after all. But then, the difference is that they didn’t have just one teacher to teach eight grades.

After we arrived in the mornings, one of the older neighbour’s children had already lit the pot-bellied stove. One of them, Raymond Lindsay, who is still full of mischief, later recounted he frequently wanted to make such a good fire that the whole school would be overheated. But usual-

ly it was quite comfortable and the learning went on very well, in spite of his antics.

We were very attentive and respectful, and our teacher kept our attention as we were very eager to learn. Although the temperature wasn’t always constant, we didn’t mind as we were accustomed to wood-burning stoves in our homes.

We had one teacher, Miss Pentland, and she was kind and considerate. She had to be well organized as well, as she taught all grades from one to eight. Mind you, we were taught the very basics, not the high numbers of subjects that we have now. I guess that’s when we were taught the Three Rs—

Reading, ‘Riting and ‘Rithmatic.

My sister Frances was one of the oldest in Grade 8, sister Dorothy in Grade 4, and I was one of the youngest just beginning Grade 1.

The class consisted of about 20 or more students. We were all seated at long desks, probably made by a local carpenter and each desk could seat four or more. This facilitated working together where the older pupils could help the younger ones.

We all worked well together and at Christmas time, the whole class put on a pageant, the reenactment of the Christmas story as we know it from the Bible. We had a manger, and with Mary and Joseph, the Child was my youngest sister who

BEVERLEY SNEATH ILLUSTRATION

was still a baby with reddish curly hair. It fitted the scene quite well.

The whole pageant ended with everyone singing,“Away in the Manger.” That song as a child has so touched me probably because music wasn’t part of our lives and it was something beautiful to hear.

My parents worked very hard on the farm from morning till night and there was no time for frivolities. We had no radios at home.

They weren’t even in homes yet.

Now, my heart aches and my eyes well up when that song is sung or heard. I love singing it more because it brings me back home and to my childhood.

See IN SCHOOL Page 17

Vote Ron Kore Councillor for Ward 2

E KORE L P M A S F O O R P ■ Pelham resident for over 30 years ■ Integrity ■ Transparency

For lawn signs or to make a financial contribution to the campaign, please email AppleKore1@bell.net Paid for by the Committee to Elect Ron Kore for Councillor Ward 2

FOR WARD 2

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Friday: Showroom Tours and Refreshments Saturday: BBQ & Food Drive in support of Pelham Cares, Bounce House and Showroom Tours 1789 Merrittville Hwy (just South of Hwy 20), Welland, ON, L3B 5N5

Page 4

The Voice of Pelham, September 5 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 Danny Tyree Teens, would it kill you to open a book?

C

ALL ME A NUANCED curmudgeon. I'm not so bothered by the amount of time that teenagers spend with the internet and/or digital devices as by the lack of quality of their pursuits.

I'm reacting to the recent headline "A third of teens haven't read a single book in past year."

Researchers from San Diego State University, analyzing four decades' worth of data and publishing the results in the journal "Psychology of Popular Media Culture," show traditional reading devastated by texting, social networking, aimless web surfing and addictive video games.

For instance, in the late '70s, 60 percent of 12th graders read a book or magazine almost daily; by 2016, even with the availability of Kindle and similar devices, only 16 percent did.

Printer John Peter Zenger risked prosecution for seditious libel in order to hold the colonial governor of New York accountable.

Abraham Lincoln read by firelight. Sequoyah painstakingly developed a symbol for each syllable in the

Cherokee language. Today's kids? "Wash...hands...after... using...restroom. Do those 25-year-old fossils think we have all day to read these interminable instructions?"

Sometimes you need something substantive that makes you think

Sure, my generation had shortcuts such as "Classics Illustrated Comics" and Cliff's Notes; but some of us were glad that Shakespeare's immortal words were more complex than "Just hanging out. You?" Yes, we had to learn a lot of things the hard way; but we also benefited from the accumulated knowledge of prime ministers and explorers and inventors. We pondered the commandments

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The Voice

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www.thevoiceofpelham.ca PUBLISHER & EDITOR Dave Burket publisher@thevoiceofpelham.ca NEWS WRITER Rebecca Lott ADMINISTRATION Lori Gretsinger office@thevoiceofpelham.ca CONTRIBUTORS Jane Bedard, Carolyn Botari, Colin Brezicki, Larry Coté, Gloria J. Katch, 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

brought down from the mountaintop on two tablets.

That's a far cry from hanging on every word of some nitwit who brings out two Tide pods on YouTube.

We used to be able to take lifelong lessons from even the driest literature. I direct you to the movie "Dead Poets Society." But now we're more likely to hear, "Seize the day? I can't even seize my car keys. I've got carpal tunnel syndrome from texting."

Older Canadians share a common bond when they can remember where they were when first seeing newspaper headlines that martial law had been declared in Quebec, or that the nation had adopted the Maple Leaf to replace the Red Ensign.

Fifty years from now, today's adolescents will probably reminisce, "Remember that girl who sent a topless photo to that boy she sort of liked, and it went viral?

Should've won a Pulitzer!

Should've won a Pulitzer!"

Sometimes you need something substantive that makes you think. And I don't mean like "Your post on See READING Page 16

Letters Did Niagara Centre MP take a wrong turn?

In the “In The News” section of your August 29 edition there is a brief mention of pool upgrades for Pelham's public pool. The article noted that on Monday, August 27, at 1 PM Mayor Augustyn and Member of Parliament for Niagara Centre, Vance Badawey were to celebrate a $69,000 grant to be applied for upgrades to the Pelham public pool at Marlene Stewart Streit Park. The announcement went ahead as planned.

I am curious as to why Badawey would be at a Pelham political announcement and photo-op?

As MP for Niagara Centre, which encompasses Welland, Thorold and Port

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

Ward 2 Councillor Catherine King cking@pelham.ca 905-658-8599 Councillor Gary Accursi gaccursi@pelham.ca 905-892-5528 Ward 3 Councillor John Durley jdurley@pelham.ca 905-892-5388 Councillor Peter Papp ppapp@pelham.ca 905-328-6008

Colborne, he is not Pelham's local federal representative.

If an MP was needed for the announcement, why was it not Pelham's MP, Conservative Dean Allison? Allison was voted in by Pelham's residents as their MP, not Badawey.

This crossing of political boundaries seems very inappropriate by Badawey and Mayor Augustyn , and not appreciated by Pelham residents. It is another in a long list of the Mayor’s blatant disregard for the residents of Pelham. I guess for our Mayor, Badawey is the closest Liberal.

T. Cole Pelham

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

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Page 5

OPINION Letters

LIVING LIFE Commentary by Rebecca Lott

continued

A parents' guide for back to school

Runaround on roundabouts There are now two “temporary” roundabouts on Lookout Street. The one I question is at the T-intersection of Brewerton and Lookout.

Lookout initially had no stop or yield sign.

Brewerton had a stop sign at Lookout.

Now both have yield signs and a roundabout. Apparently this is to slow down the traffic on Lookout.

Since this roundabout appeared, traffic coming either way on Lookout is not signficantly affected. I observed many vehicles not even having to slow down to go around the “obstacles” in the middle of the road.

However, from Brewerton and turning left on Lookout towards Highway 20 is very awkward and slow. I don’t think the intent was to slow down the traffic on Brewerton!

Also, regular users of

Lookout Street are expecting the cars coming out of Brewerton to stop, not just yield. Therefore I feel this has become a very dangerous T-intersection where the yield signs will not be effective.

I emailed the Town of Pelham indicating my concerns and asking why there speed bumpers weren’t considered.

I received a reply indicating that the roundabouts were a temporary situation to “gather data.” There was no explanation on how this data was going to be gathered.

I quote: “There have been NUMEROUS complaints pertaining to speed on Lookout Street.”

Are not these complaints not data?

Plus the response I received was very defensive

I

T’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN when we all need to get back to reality and settle into our fall routine. Some of you are sad to see the lazy days of summer leave, but others are happy the kids are going back to school. Some of you cry and some of you rejoice.

If back to school is a new thing for you, it could be an emotional time as your world is changing. You may also feel guilty for enjoying some new found “me time.” You will get over that quickly.

If back to school is old hat and you know the drill, chances are your kids are a little older and you might be relieved to have that peace and quiet return. Thank you, teachers!

But back to school time is not just about kids, it’s about parents too. Not only are your kids going through a big adjustment, the whole family is.

The Canadian Veterans Affairs Service Officer will be visiting the Legion in Fonthill on Wednesday, September 12, 1300 to 1600.

Should you have questions, please contact Sharon Margeson, Service Officer for Branch 613 Fonthill for an appointment.

Sharon can be reached at 905-892-5177 or by e-mail at: hmargeson@cogeco.ca

This time of year can be a bit overwhelming for the best of us routine, but recent research indicates having too many structured activities can actually overwhelm kids and parents. We just should watch not to overbook ourselves.”

Radulovich encourages having a weekly sport or lesson, but warns about kids and parents having too much on the go and becomSee BACK TO SCHOOL Page 14

Professional SERVICES Directory You’re In Good Hands With Us!

See ROUNDABOUTS next page

Attention: VETERANS

It’s your job to ensure it’s a smooth transition.

If you have school-aged children, early September is your chance to get reorganized again. Make sure you have the food, the uniforms, and the supplies on the ready. Keep in mind, some kids really like being on vacation so it may take some time to make the switch. Not everyone is great with change so try to be patient. This time of year can be a bit overwhelming for the best of us. Try to keep it positive.

“We should all maybe try to keep a little summer in our lives even after we go back to school,” said Vicky Radulovich, a motivational life coach in Fonthill.

“It’s ok not to have several structured activities throughout the week and feel everything must be rigidly organized. Yes, children thrive with

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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 5 2018

2018 Bandshell Series

Letters

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

continued

Canadian human rights concerns trump Saudi Arabia's There are three things that concern me about the disagreement between Canada and Saudi Arabia regarding human rights.

First, I don’t think Canada should be telling Saudi Arabia what to do in their country. I wouldn’t like it if someone else started telling us how to run our country.

Second, our foreign affairs minister talks about human rights. What about the human rights here in Canada? In

Ontario, it’s illegal to quietly protest near abortion clinics. And these are people who are trying to save lives! And yet it’s okay to loudly protest against our own elected government and our laws.

And thirdly, what about the rights of the unborn? Thousands of babies are killed every year, and they haven’t even done anything wrong. Why are all these babies being killed? They are human beings. Where are their rights?

I respect our government, but I think they are being very hypocritical in being concerned about human rights in a country halfway around the world, yet ignoring the rights of our own people.

God has blessed our nation so much in the past. I’m afraid that if we keep turning our backs on Him, the blessings will eventually stop.

Joseph Nagy Welland

Questions linger over Regional CAO hire

LL E H S D AN 2018 B INALE

F N O S SEA

Oakland Stroke

BY JIM CASSON

Special to the VOICE

Experience the Sound and Soul of Tower of Power and The Greatest Horn Hits of the '70s! Oakland Stroke recreates the sound and soul of fabled Bay Area band, Tower of Power! Hear TOP classics like: You're Still a Young Man, Down to the Nightclub, You've Got To Funkifize, and many more. Oakland Stroke is a smokin' 10-piece band, including a 5-man horn section, The Hogtown Horns!

And also, a tribute to The Greatest Horn Hits of the '70s.

Songs from bands like Blood, Sweat and Tears, Earth, Wind and Fire and

Average White Band! ​Oakland Stroke features some of Canada’s finest and most in demand musicians: Lou Pomanti, organ; Tony Carlucci, trumpet; George St. Kitts, vocals; John Johnson, tenor sax; Marc Rogers, bass; John Findlay, guitar; Steve McDade, trumpet; John Panchyshyn, tenor sax, vocals; Pol Coussee baritone sax; Steve Heathcote, drums.

Sponsored by Meridian Credit Union, the show starts at 7 PM and goes until 9 PM. There is no cover charge but donations are greatly appreciated.

Old arena sale going forward

Without fanfare, in early July the Town of Pelham put its Haist Street arena facility out for bid.

By the July 25 closing deadline, only a single bid was received, a bid subsequently rejected by the Town. Asked by email whether council intended to push through with selling the property, Mayor Augustyn replied, “This spring, council approved design guidelines for any future housing, and an official plan amendment and a zoning bylaw amendment. This codifies future development so that it will match the community’s preferred concept.” Augustyn said that the property will now be listed for sale through a real estate brokerage, possibly as soon as this week. When asked for the listing price, Augustyn responded, “We will know the listing price when it is listed. Have a great weekend!”

Fenwick weapons arrest

On Tuesday, August 28, police responded to a weapons call in Fenwick. Police say that the initial information received was that a real estate agent had arrived at a house to show it to a client, and was confronted by a neighbour who came out of his house with a large gun. The real estate agent immediately left the area and notified police. Members from the 3 District Uniform Branch responded and contained the suspect’s residence, located in the area of Highway 20 and Centre Street.

Shortly later, the suspect left in a vehicle and was arrested without incident. A search warrant was

The ongoing investigation into the questionable hiring of the Regional CAO Carmen D'Angelo is a complete embarrassment to Niagara. With rumours swirling about the hiring, a motion was made on April 12 to reach out to the Ombudsman's office with no charge to the Regional taxpayer, but after further discussion, Councillor Quirk was concerned about time and steered council to the law firm ADR Chambers, the Region’s integrity commissioner, which in turn directed it to Marvin Huberman for the pricely sum of $96,000.

On July 5, a sketchy report was brought forward by Mr. Huberman concluding there

was no wrongdoing, and a vote by council closed the investigation. After the media released more information, council decided on July 26 to reopen the investigation and have an internal search of the Region's and NPCA's servers. Carmen D'Angelo recommended the search be supervised by Andrew Sancton, a Political Science professor, who admitted that this type of investigation wasn't his line of expertise, not to mention his assistant previously taught Mr. D'Angelo. The price tag for Mr. Sancton's services totalled $78,000, but at this stage who’s counting. On August 23 it was brought forward at council that Mr. Sancton did

ROUNDABOUTS

continued from previous page of why this is the best solution (rather than speed bumps) to the complaints they have received about the speeders on Lookout Street.

I was also told there is no cost to

The price tag for Mr. Sancton's services totalled $78,000, but at this stage who's counting not have the legal authority of a Municipal Ombudsman, so it was decided that he should finish his investigation for the September meeting and that council will now reach out to the Ombudsman's office. Last

taxpayers for this “temporary solution.”

Also this person indicated they observed a large cube van and large cement truck making the turn from Brewerton left onto Lookout with “ease.” I find this very difficult to understand as I have a full- size pickup

April, Councillor Quirk was concerned about time and here we are now five months later not knowing any more now than we did then, but we are finally going in the right direction for a totally independent investigation.

As you can see, there is a group of councillors who consistently go out of their way to derail important issues and there is a dedicated group who don't. With the elections nearing, the residents of Niagara need to focus on these two groups, sort them out and vote accordingly, or we will end up with another four years of chaos and wasteful spending.

Robert Milenkoff Welland

truck and did not maneuver through with ease!

I was assured that the roundabouts would be removed once the speed data is gathered. I hope the solution is not to install them permanently.

Name withheld by request Fonthill

IN THE NEWS executed on the residence later that night and police seized two airsoft guns. Airsoft guns are toy weapons that typically fire “bbs” or pellets, and are typically made of plastic or biodegradable materials. As toy weapons, airsoft guns can be designed to realistically resemble genuine firearms in appearance, and it can be difficult to distinguish the difference. In addition to the weapons that were seized, police also seized a quantity of suspected cocaine and a large quantity of counterfeit Canadian and American currency. David Wainman, 28, of Pelham, has been charged with the following offences: •Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose •Possession of a Controlled Substance – Cocaine (2 Counts) •Possession of Counterfeit Money The accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing.

Niagara’s first confirmed West Nile infection

​Niagara Region Public Health has received its first report of a laboratory-confirmed case of West Nile Virus infection for 2018. The agency did not disclose in which municipality the infection occurred.

Although most people infected with West Nile Virus do not get sick, 20 per cent of people suffer flu-like symptoms and fatigue, and one per cent suffer serious infections of the brain such as meningitis. Fever, severe headache, body aches, neck stiffness, con-

fusion, weakness, tremors, and sudden sensitivity to light are the most common symptoms of severe infection. Anyone suffering these should see a physician.

To reduce the risk of being exposed to West Nile Virus, Public Health advises the following to prevent mosquito bites: •Drain standing water around the home where mosquitoes may breed (e.g., bird baths, plant saucers, tires, toys, pails, and wheel barrows) •Repair damaged doors and window screens •Avoid mosquito-infested areas, such as storm sewers •Wear long-sleeved shirts, hats, long pants, socks and shoes that cover the feet. This is particularly important at dawn and in the evenings when mosquitoes are most active •Use insect repellents containing DEET or Icaridin. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Residents with inquiries about mosquito bite prevention may call 905-688-8248 or 1-888-5056074, ext. 7767. Further information concerning West Nile Virus illness and how to reduce the risk of infection can be found online at niagararegion.ca/health.

R.I.D.E. results

Last Saturday evening, the Niagara Regional Police Traffic Enforcement Unit organized an evening of R.I.D.E. checks for impaired driving. Over the course of the evening approximately 300 vehicles were stopped. Of those

drivers spoken, to seven were required to provide a roadside breath sample for suspicion of being over the legal blood alcohol level of .80 mgs. Police say they noted a significant increase in vehicles where the presence of the odor of marijuana was detected. Further investigation revealed no criminal acts. Numerous fines were issued to drivers in contravention of the Highway Traffic Act, Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act and Liquor License Act.

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 citizens should be aware of. 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 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 cautious of these 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.

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 starting at 12 noon in the parking lot. 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 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

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

0

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RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. TD Auto Finance is a registered trademark of The Toronto-Dominion Bank. As part of the transaction, dealer may request documentation and contact General Motors of Canada to verify eligibility. These offers may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. Conditions and limitations apply. Void where prohibited. See Dealer for full program details. ^ Acadia 0/84 Finance (excluding Quebec): Offer available to qualified retail customers in Canada on select vehicles delivered to an authorized GM dealer in Canada from September 1 to October 1, 2018. 0% purchase financing offered on approved credit by TD Auto Finance Services, Scotiabank® or RBC Royal Bank for 84 months on eligible new 2018 Acadia SLE-1 AWD. Other trims may have effective rates higher than 0%. Participating lenders are subject to change. Rates from other lenders will vary. Down payment, trade and/or security deposit may be required. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Example: $37,000 financed at 0% nominal rate (0% APR) equals $440.00 monthly for 84 months. $650 Total Credits consists of $650 Delivery Allowance Credit (tax exclusive). Cost of borrowing is $0, for a total obligation of $37,000. Offer is unconditionally interest free. Freight and air conditioning charge ($100, if applicable) included. License, insurance, registration, PPSA, applicable taxes and dealer fees not included. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Limited time offer which may not be combined with certain other offers. General Motors of Canada Company (GM Canada) may modify, extend or terminate offers for any reason, in whole or in part, at any time, without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. ®Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. TD Auto Finance is a registered trademark of The Toronto-Dominion Bank. As part of the transaction, dealer may request documentation and contact General Motors of Canada to verify eligibility. These offers may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. Conditions and limitations apply. Void where prohibited. See Dealer for full program details. +~ Terrain: 0/72 Finance (excluding Quebec): Offer available to qualified retail customers in Canada on select vehicles delivered to an authorized GM dealer in Canada from September 1 to October 1, 2018. 0% purchase financing offered on approved credit by TD Auto Finance Services, Scotiabank® or RBC Royal Bank for 72 months on eligible new 2018 Terrain SLE FWD. Other trims may have effective rates higher than 0%. Participating lenders are subject to change. Rates from other lenders will vary. Down payment, trade and/or security deposit may be required. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Example: $30,000 financed at 0% nominal rate (0% APR) equals $417.00 monthly for 72 months. $1,450 Total Credits consists of $450 Delivery Allowance Credit (tax exclusive) and $1,000 Total Finance Credit (tax exclusive). Cost of borrowing is $0, for a total obligation of $30,000. Offer is unconditionally interest free. Freight and air conditioning charge ($100, if applicable) included. License, insurance, registration, PPSA, applicable taxes and dealer fees not included. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Limited time offer which may not be combined with certain other offers. General Motors of Canada Company (GM Canada) may modify, extend or terminate offers for any reason, in whole or in part, at any time, without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. ® Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. TD Auto Finance is a registered trademark of The Toronto-Dominion Bank. As part of the transaction, dealer may request documentation and contact General Motors of Canada to verify eligibility. These offers may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. Conditions and limitations apply. Void where prohibited. See Dealer for full program details. 1. Vehicle user interfaces are products of Apple® and Google™ and their terms and privacy statements apply. Requires compatible smartphone and data plan rates apply.

Apple CarPlay is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the US and other countries. Android Auto is a trademark of Google LLC. 2 Whichever comes first. Limit of four complimentary Lube-Oil-Filter services in total. Fluid top-offs, inspections, tire rotations, wheel alignments and balancing, etc., are not covered. Conditions and limitations apply. See your dealer for details. 3 Whichever comes first. Conditions and limitations apply, see your dealer for details. 4 Visit onstar.ca for vehicle availability, coverage maps, details and system limitations. Services and connectivity vary by model and conditions as well as geographical and technical restrictions. 4G LTE service.

Page 8

The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

Letters

Vote for

POSITIVE CHANGE As Ward 2 Councillor, it is my pledge and deep desire that I work hard to protect what we identify as Pelham.

Your hard earned dollar will be respected. As the Heart of Niagara, Pelham is where we all LOVE to live.

On October 22nd vote

Barb

RYBIAK Councillor - Ward 2

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

continued

No leniency—fire the lot of them Where is the sense of responsibility that we expect from our elected officials to represent the taxpayers?

Where is their commitment to that which is best for the Pelham residents?

Why not stand apart if necessary to take the initiative to ensure positive changes?

This is not the time for complacency. Signs of restrictions regarding education, voting parameters, healthcare and migrants are already visible. Do your research before you vote. Do not

ENFORCEMENT

continued from Page 1 guard is on duty.

Since January 2016, motorists may no longer turn left, right or proceed through a crosswalk on the clear half of the roadway. You now must wait until the entire

assume but rather ask for as much information as possible.

And at the Region—fishy business... obviously bait involved...what's the catch?

Appearance of wrongdoing definitely. What was Caslin prize for the secret extension? These politicians seem to think we the taxpayers are naive. Fire these men. They deserve no leniency.

Niagara is growing but its reputation needs to be stellar to attract smart money and invested residents. Wine

crosswalk is empty of both pedestrians and school crossing guards.

It is the law for all drivers to stop in the presence of a crossing guard displaying a stop sign. Drivers who violate this could be fined anywhere from $150 to $500.

Drivers may also face 3 de-

and marijuana alone will not sustain the many small communities young families and seniors presently enjoy.

Look at the skills, history and beliefs of the candidates. Are they invested in the future of Pelham? Having “councillor” on a resume is not a "flavour of the month" role. It requires demonstrable efforts.

Your right to choose—your privilege to vote, October 22.

Louise Morgan Fonthill

merit points. Fines are doubled in Community Safety Zones.

All drivers and cyclists that are driving in both directions must stop for a stopped school bus with its upper red lights flashing. Vehicles must remain stopped until the red lights

have stopped flashing and the bus begins to move.

The Niagara Regional Police Service wishes to remind all drivers to be alert, drive with caution, and be aware of their surroundings, especially in the area of schools and other educational facilities.

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Celebrating our 10th Anniversary Caregiver Education Series In conjunction with the Alzheimer’s Society of Niagara

Fashion Show

All proceeds to benefit

(905) 687-3914

The Caregiver Education Series is a FREE 4-part series, but attendees must sign up in advance through Lookout Ridge or the Alzheimer’s Society.

The dates are: Sept. 11, 1:30-3:30 / Sept. 18, 1:30-3:30 Sept 25, 1:30-3:30 / Oct 2, 1:30-3:30 in the Chapel.

The Niagara Peninsula’s premier retirement facility 1505 Lookout Street, Fonthill, ON www.lookoutridge.ca (905) 892-9218

Doors open at 1:30pm, show starts at 2pm.

Fall clothing line by Alia N Tanjay, and Nygard.

Tickets are $10 and are on sale at Lookout Ridge, Boggio’s Fonthill and the Alia N Tanjay store at the Seaway Mall.

Food, drinks & great penny sale items!

Sunday, September 9

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

SUNDAYS from 12 noon to 8 PM

THE WEEKENDER All of our Daily Weekday Specials on the Same Day!

ONION RINGS $5

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HOMEMADE BURGER w/ fries or salad $5 Check our burger menu to upgrade with extra toppings!

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Our famous au jus beef on a salted bun. You can also pass on the salt.

1 PIECE HADDOCK w/ fries or salad $10 Our awesome beer ba�ered haddock with coleslaw.

Tartar is op�onal.

BBQ CHICKEN FLATBREAD $8

Delicious flatbread topped with chicken, 40 creek BBQ sauce, cheese, tomatoes, peppers & onions.

MARINARA FLATBREAD $8

Top this one with marinara sauce, sliced tomatoes, mushrooms, onions & cheese.

Page 9

Page 10

The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

SCHOOL BOARD RACE: PUBLIC

Brousseau wants collaboration Policy junkie invested in creating a better local school system The soon to be 30-yearold laughs at the fact that his parents continue to ask him about school and acknowledges that his continued attendance at Brock University certainly gives the impression that he is still a student.

In fact, Michael Brousseau has been an employee of Brock since 2006, and graduated in 2010, and believes his employment at the university gives him the experience, and skills, to represent the community as a public school board trustee.

Brousseau graduated with his degree in Innovative Arts and Science, which he describes as a computer science degree that includes art, design and theory, and is currently pursuing his Masters of Education. As an employee of Brock he is currently Acting Maager of eLearning within the Centre for Pedagogical Innovation and also teaches web design.

A self-described policy junkie, Brousseau says he is really interested in how finding the right words to put down on paper can accomplish a great deal and he would like to be part of that process for the District School Board of Niagara (DSBN).

“Our students are growing up in a complicated world” and they are facing a number of complicated issues, both good and bad, and the school system needs to prepare students or that world, says Brousseau on why he wants to be a trustee.

More specifically, Brousseau and his wife of almost a year plan, one day, to have

BY SARAH WHITAKER

Special to the VOICE

children and he wants to help improve the DSBN for the day when his future children are ready to start school.

Brousseau says he also wants to draw attention to the process, noting the DSBN has a huge mandate that includes millions of dollars in funding, more than 40,000 students in 115 schools and almost 2,500 teachers.

“They have a massive mandate and no one seems to give a damn,” he says, going on to note that when he tells people he is running for the position of trustee most people he talks to don’t know who is running or don’t remember who they voted for last election.

The trustees are largely ignored he says, admitting he doesn’t know who he voted for in 2014, and he would like the community to be more aware if not more involved.

You hear something is happening and you think “should we have talked about this” or “who made that decision,” says Brousseau.

A perfect example is the naming of the amalgamated E.W. Farr and Pelham Centre Schools to “Wellington Heights,” he says.

The board included the public in consultation on what the name of the amalgamated schools should be, told the public how the process would work and that the public chose the Wellington Heights name but a Freedom of Information Request showed the process and pub-

lic choice for a school name was not what the board had said it was.

“It seems so straightforward,” says Brousseau on how a public consultation process should work: you ask the public what they want; the public tells you what they want; and you do what the public wants.

If you don’t intend to listen to the public, why hold public consultations at all, he wonders, about all public boards and committees, not just the school board.

Brousseau would support a return to the name of E.W. Farr for the Fenwick elementary school, if that’s what the public wants.

He would also support a new public consultation process, if that is needed to choose a name for the school, and take the public’s input “at face value.”

The Wellington Heights issue is symptomatic of bigger issues facing education, including a lack of transparency and confidence in the processes at the board level.

It’s not good enough to say we talked to parents, says Brousseau, you have to actually follow through and do what the community wants.

“We can do big things. We need to all be included.”

It’s not just parents and students, he adds, it’s the larger community, young and old, who need to be included in the public consultation aspect of school board decisions.

“It’s the building of the village to raise these kids.”

Brousseau also encourages everyone to read both the 1998 sex-ed curriculum and the newer sex-ed cur-

Michael Brousseau. riculum to gain a real understanding of what we’re talking about in the debate over which curriculum should be taught in schools.

Brousseau didn’t come out in support of one curriculum or the other, saying instead that whichever one you support we can all agree the recent changes have happened too quickly for teachers to be ready to teach the material in September.

When pressed, Brousseau said there are aspects of the new curriculum that should be kept.

“The world that students are growing up in is different than the one we grew up in,” he says, and education today should reflect that, teaching not just technical skills but the real world skills kids will need to navigate the cyberworld safely.

Brousseau says he is new

SARAH WHITAKER PHOTO

at political involvement and the school board trustee position but he’s very invested and motivated in creating a better education system for Niagara students and in talking to all stakeholders to achieve a better system.

Brousseau is up against Nancy Beamer of Ridgeville and incumbent Dale Ann Robinson from Thorold for the Public School Board Trustee role.

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The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

Page 11

SCHOOL BOARD RACE: PUBLIC

Trust and respect are missing Beamer looks to create good relationship between DSBN and community A strong and trusting relationship.

It’s an important part of the education of our children, says Nancy Beamer, but it is currently missing from the District School Board of Niagara (DSBN).

Beamer, a retired teacher and owner of Beamer’s fruit market on Regional Road 20 for more than 25 years, says she believes a strong, trusting relationship between the school board and the whole community is essential, and that recent board actions, including the sale of Parliament Oak Elementary School in Niagara-on-the-Lake as well as the renaming of E.W. Farr Memorial School here in Pelham, demonstrate that trust and respect are missing from the way the DSBN works with the community.

“Schools are the heart of the community,” says Beamer. “We rely on our schools to properly educate our children to become the future leaders, thinkers, innovators, skilled workers and active citizens.”

Beamer notes that when the board speaks of “community” what they mean is “school community” — which refers to students, parents and staff.

Community, she says, should also include siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, graduates and the greater community, and this wider definition of community is what the board should be considering.

BY SARAH WHITAKER

Special to the VOICE

A trustee, she points out, is elected by all voters. Beamer says she plans to represent the whole community if elected, adding the DSBN needs to reevaluate the way it deals with members of the communities it serves.

“There needs to be a system that fosters transparency in decision-making, that fosters a real inclusion of all community partners, that fosters open communication,” says Beamer.

“It must be recognized that it is the whole community, the businesses and all the people who live there, that support the students and the schools” through donations, attendance at events or volunteering.

“Principals and teachers get transferred, children grow up and leave their local school, but the people of the community remain, year after year, giving support to their schools,” says Beamer. “Their voices need to be heard and taken into account.”

“I will investigate all of the facts behind an issue, I will look for differences of opinion rather than a pre-determined outcome,” says the mother of three and grandmother of five.

A member of Pelham’s Names Matter group that continues to advocate for keeping E.W. Farr Memorial as the name of the amal-

gamated Pelham Centre and E.W. Farr Schools, Beamer believes the name of the Fenwick public school needs to be revisited.

Beamer’s preference is that the Wellington Heights’ school name be restored to E.W. Farr Memorial, but if this isn’t possible she would be supportive of a new name that is representative of the community and based on the input of the community.

“As a board we have to start planning for future growth,” she says, noting she recognizes funding comes from the province based on current numbers, but the DSBN should be looking to maximize current resources.

Part of this, she suggests, would be to retain the Pelham Centre school property for use as a school when future growth in Fenwick demands it. That building, she added, could be named E.W. Farr Memorial if the name is not used on its original school.

One of the main strengths of the DSBN is the high quality of classroom teachers and support staff, says Beamer, and she feels the trustee should be making sure resources are in place so teachers have all of the tools they need to help all students achieve success.

She notes teachers also need to be given the knowledge and resources to teach in a world of advancing

Nancy Beamer. technology, social media, and cyber-bullying.

The same, she said, is true of the sex-ed curriculum, noting students need to be taught for modern society.

“Society in 1998 was [very] different than in 2015,” she says, referring to the provincial government

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decision to return to curriculum created 20 years ago rather than the more recent 2015 version.

We can’t go back, says Beamer, who supports the societal issues like consent and tolerance that are taught in the new curriculum, but feels the age at which some of the material

is taught needs to be revisited.

“I’m not afraid to stand up for what is right and I will make sure the voice of the whole community is heard,” says Beamer, adding she will always strive to inform the community of board decisions and explain the reasoning behind them.

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Page 12

The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

SCHOOL BOARD RACE: CATHOLIC

I don't take anything at face value

Looking for longevity Peter Dief wants to ensure that Catholic education is sustainable

BY SARAH WHITAKER

Special to the VOICE

It seems to Peter Dief, through conversations with friends and family, including many teachers, that what has been happening in education over the past few years is putting the Catholic education system in jeopardy. That concern, as well as the belief that he has the skill set required to resolve the issues facing the Niagara Catholic District School Board, spurred the Fonthill resident to run for the position of Catholic School Board Trustee in the upcoming municipal election.

“I do believe in the significance and distinctiveness of Catholic education,” said Dief.

“With the current climate we’re in, I’m concerned where it is going.” A “product” of the Catholic school system in Niagara and a CPA, Dief says he is in a position to bring a lot of positive change to Catholic education in Niagara.

Currently Senior Financial and Decisions Support Consultant for the Niagara Health System, Dief says he has more than a decade of experience in fiscal accountability, data analytics, budget development, and project management and implementation. It’s that experience he wants to bring to the school board, explaining that the Niagara Catholic District School Board (NCDSB), because of slowed

enrollment and therefore limited funding increases, is facing financial constraints.

Working for the health system, Dief says he understands how to optimize a finite amount of funding to provide top-level services, and he plans to take the same approach to Catholic education, finding ways to provide the best possible education to all students.

“I don’t take anything at face value,” says Dief.

“I like to ask questions and probe what else can be done,” going on to say he would play devil’s advocate and ensure that every perspective and all sides of a proposed argument are studied before any decisions are made.

Accountability from a financial perspective, transparency and collaboration are all things Dief says he brings to the role of school board trustee, adding he would like to see more collaboration between teachers and administration as major decisions are made that affect classrooms and students and to see the board work corroboratively toward strategic plans and capital budgets.

While Dief is focused on the longevity and sustainability of the NCDSB and Catholic education in Ontario, he is not blind to issues other than financial constraints in

Peter Dief. education.

Speaking to recent changes to sex education curriculum in the province, Dief says he doesn’t believe curriculum from the 1990s is the best way to teach our children, adding the curriculum needs to be updated and while still abiding by the core ministry and values of the Catholic faith.

“I believe the old policy, which was last updated in 1998, and the revised policy need to be revised and updated through consultation with parents, educators and other appropriate parties to ensure we develop a curriculum that is both acceptable and necessary for our students’ well being.”

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“I’m a loving husband and dedicated father,” says Dief, who has three sons aged 4, 2 and a newborn. His oldest will be heading to kindergarten at St. Alexander in Fonthill this September and the other two will be starting school before he knows it, so Dief is invested in the success of Catholic education in Niagara.

“I want to make sure it’s around.”

Dief says his goal, ultimately, is to ensure prosperity for all students in the Catholic board: in ac-

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ademics, in the workplace, in faith and in community involvement, noting he will always put students first. Pointing to the most recent NCDSB budget approved by the board that Dief says includes increases for senior administration and cuts to teachers and other resources, Dief notes those types of cuts affect important school resources including English as a second language teachers, library tech supports, speech pathologists and all of the classroom resources vital to giving every student a great education. “Those are the things I’m going to fight for, and ensuring teachers are supported,” he says.

Dief says he has been keeping up to date with what’s happening at the NCDSB since he decided to run for the position of trustee, and has already spoken to many of the stakeholders involved, including John Crocco, Director of Education for the board, members of the bargaining units who deal with the board, parents and teachers.

“I have the qualifications that are needed, at this time, for this job.”

Dief is one of four candidates running for the trustee position for the Catholic school Board, including Lawrence Alexander of Grimsby, Leanne Prince of Grimsby, and Robert Ruggieri of Beamsville. The incumbent is not running in the 2018 election.

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The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

Page 13

SCHOOL BOARD RACE: CATHOLIC

I'm not pro-union or pro-management

No bad mojo—now is the time Longtime school advisory committee member looks to move to board level When Lawrence Alexander’s daughter started kindergarten he started volunteering with the school advisory committee at her school. Now that she is heading to McMaster University he feels it is a good time to transfer his involvement to the Niagara Catholic District School Board (NCDSB) as a trustee.

A continuous member of the school committee at his daughter’s schools since she started kindergarten, Alexander has served as chair of the parent committee at St. John’s Elementary in Grimsby, and for the last four years chair of the parent committee at Blessed Trinity. “I’ve been asked a number of times if I would consider running,” says Alexander, joking that, “It would be bad mojo to run against a priest.”

Although Father Paul MacNeil, the Catholic school board trustee for the past eight years, and current chair, is not seeking re-election this time around, Alexander says his decision to run has much more to do with the fact that his daughter’s graduation means his direct involve-

BY SARAH WHITAKER

Special to the VOICE

ment at the school level is coming to an end, so now is the time to transition to involvement at the board level.

Alexander says he sees volunteering your time as the greatest sacrifice you can make, noting you can always make more money and your body can always produce more blood, but time is finite so being willing to give your personal time is a great gift.

“It’s important to serve in some way,” he says.

“I’ve always been able to do that at the school.”

The Grimsby resident says his experience at the school level for more than a dozen years means he has an understanding of what schools need and where the shortcomings may be.

“Hopefully I can bring change for the better.”

No one should think government should be run as a business, but it does have to be fiscally responsible, says the chef and owner of two Niagara restaurants.

“I do see that as an issue,”

he says of fiscal responsibility at the NCDSB. “I’m not pro-union or pro-management but when the board is cutting staff, cutting department heads and locking out staff but giving staff at the board office a five percent raise, that’s a concern to me.”Noting he supports paying teachers a decent wage, as well as firefighters and police officers and other vital government employees, he says the taxpayers only have so much money in their wallets, so cuts will need to be made to allow for those salaries. Shrinkage, he says, should come from the top down —pointing out Blessed Trinity lost three department heads in the most recent budget but there no cuts at the board level.

He added those necessary cuts may lead to renewed discussions about amalgamation. Although Premier Ford has not mentioned amalgamation of the Catholic and public school boards, it has been discussed by previous Ontario PC Party leaders, so that is a concern says Alexander.

“With the new political regime in Toronto I believe

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there will be push to merge the two boards for financial reasons,” he says.

“Our children still need faith-based education.”

Alexander says he is not necessarily opposed to the boards’ amalgamating as long as the opportunity for students to choose faithbased schools continues to

SARAH WHITAKER PHOTO

exist. Ford’s recent changes to sex education curriculum are also a concern for Alexander. The curriculum introduced by the Wynne government in 2015 is appropriate he says, especially when you compare the documents. “Even just in terminology, it’s almost like they’re sticking their heads

in the sand. If we don’t mention homosexuality or the internet it doesn’t exist.”

The internet, he goes on to say, is only mentioned once in the 1998 curriculum, while consent and homosexuality are a big part of the newer curriculum.

“I’d rather teach that than go back to intolerance,” he says.

Can it be better? Everything can always be better says Alexander, but the 2015 version is most certainly better than the 1998 curriculum. Better education and better resources for students is what Alexander is interested in.

“I care about our Catholic, faith-based education and I want to protect that however I can.”

Alexander is one of four candidates running for the trustee position for the Catholic school board, including Leanne Prince of Grimsby, Peter Dief of Fonthill, and Robert Ruggieri of Beamsville.

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Page 14

The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

SCHOOL BOARD RACE: PUBLIC

Three times lucky?

Robinson seeks third term as public school board trustee

BY SARAH WHITAKER

Special to the VOICE

With eight years as school board trustee for the District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) and a 36year career in education, Dale Ann Robinson would like to continue working to support students and is seeking reelection in October.

Looking back to 2010 when she was first elected as board trustee, Robinson says it was suggested by a colleague that she look at running for the trustee position when she retired, so, after thinking about it, she decided that the position would be a good use of what she learned as a teacher and principal in the public education system.

“I have the knowledge and experience to ask good questions and put forth good ideas,” she says, going on to note that when parents call with concerns or questions about board policy and procedures or even classroom issues, she has the ability to respond to those questions.

As a self-described “kid-person,” Robinson adds she has always worked to ensure that students have the best education, resources and opportunities, and

that all board resources are used efficiently.

As the trustee for the past eight years, many of them as chair or vice-chair of the board, Robinson says the DSBN has managed resources well, has outstanding facilities that are in great shape, and supports teaching and support staff.

“I’m proud to say at this point in time there are no big issues,” facing the board, says Robinson, adding that school closures and enrollment are a constant concern.

Declining enrollment across the board has been a big issue that the board has handled well, says Robinson, noting they have done a good job consolidating schools and bringing school communities together.

Those decisions to close schools are difficult, she says, but adds that if you consider the financial impact of operating a school that is not at capacity and the increased resources and opportunities for students that can be provided by bigger schools with more staff, these decisions do make sense.

Dale Ann Robinson.

SUPPLIED PHOTO

The other big issue facing school boards across the province is the change in sex-ed curriculum recently made by the provincial government, repealing curriculum written in 2015 and reinstating curriculum created in 1998.

Robinson explains the DSBN has stated it will teach the curriculum it has been instructed to teach, because of the potential ramifications to teachers who don’t comply with the province, adding the board has to follow Ministry of Education instructions.

“This is not the sword to die on,” she says, noting personally she feels much of what is taught in the sex-ed curriculum comes from the family already and that teachers will not refuse to answer their students’ questions if they fall outside of the textbook lessons.

Locally, the big issue on voters’ minds is Wellington Heights Public School and how the new name for the former E.W. Farr Memorial

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca School was selected.

Robinson, the chair of the board when the renaming took place, says she would support a process for looking at the name again that would follow board policies and reflect the desires of the entire community.

“My goal is to always work with the community I represent and have my action reflect what the community wants,” says the longtime Thorold resident, adding 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.

“Nothing is forever,” she says.

“Who knows what will happen in the future.”

Given the outcome of the election and the possibility for a new board, there may be a willingness to revisit the issue, she says, although nothing is on the agenda at this point in time.

“I work hard, I care about kids,” she says. “I’m proud of the work the board has accomplished over the past eight years.”

The trustee position is “important work” she says and she hopes those elected in October are people who really care about the job, realize it is about the students having every opportunity to succeed, and understand it is a significant amount of work.

Robinson is seeking election for her third term as public school board trustee in the upcoming October 22 election. Mike Brousseau of Thorold and Nancy Beamer of Pelham are looking to unseat her.

#MomentsThatMatter You’re invited to the Meridian Community Centre

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Saturday, September 15, 2018 Featuring:

• Ribbon cutting • Community and user group meet & greet • Free family activities • Interactive demonstrations • Live entertainment • NHL alumni hockey game

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• 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Main showcase and activities (doors closed 3-5 p.m.)

• 6-8 p.m. NHL Alumni game (doors open at 5 p.m.)

• Free Shuttle availble at Town Hall and 1120 Haist (old arena) from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

• Full schedule and details at: www.pelham.ca/mcc-grand-opening

BACK TO SCHOOL continued from Page 5

ing over-processed and stressed. She recommends scheduling family activities together, down time and spontaneity throughout the school year.

“Parents nowadays can really feel pressure or guilt for not enrolling their children in several activities and that shouldn’t happen,” she said. “Having a balance is key and less sometimes really is more.”

One of the biggest challenges today is getting kids to balance technology with life. Have the discussion and agree on some limits.

Set a time to turn it off or hand it in. Kids actually thrive when you set some boundaries.

Ask any teacher and they will tell you that sleep time is essential to real learning. Start to modify bedtimes so kids acclimatize easier in the first few weeks.

Stock up on healthy snacks and ensure there are groceries for those quick dinners, when you are going from lesson to lesson after school. Now’s the time to pull that crockpot back out and start up those comfort meals again.

Set goals with your kids so you can cheer them on and hold them accountable throughout the year. Ask them how they are going to improve this year? What are they going to work on?

What are their priorities?

Get off your phone and talk to them about finding balance and making smart choices. Then ask yourself the same questions about finding balance in your life.

“Sadly, parents get lost in the whole process and often feel overwhelmed and overworked,” said Dr. Meghan McNaughton, a naturopathic doctor in Fonthill.

McNaughton and her colleagues believe establishing routine, increasing hydration, boosting energy and immunity are extremely important for this time of year. They recommend maintaining a regular bedtime and wake up time, self care, refilling your water bottle threeto-four times per day, adding healthy snacks and more vegetables and taking Vitamin D can all help.

“While everyone’s needs are important, you cannot expect to care for others when you aren’t well cared for yourself,” McNaughton said. “Take some time for yourself at least once a day. Remember that your wellbeing is important in back-to-school success.”

Parents, you’ve got this.

Make sure those kids get off on the right foot. Be the guide and example they need right now by investing in yourself. Check out the Calm app or Arianna Huffington’s, Thrive Global, for advice on sleep and living healthy. Use your Fitbit. Get outside and walk. This is going to be your best school year ever.

Rebecca Lott is a veteran teacher and freelance writer. She and her husband co-manage four kids ages 11-20 in Wainfleet.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

Page 15

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CIRCLES

continued from Page 1 “I took out four of those vertical things with the trailer yesterday,” said a landscaping contractor pulling a long trailer with a tractor tied down on it. “Whoever painted that circle had a coupla beers too many.”

“Has there been an accident yet,” asked a motorist as she turned from Lookout onto Brewerton.

In a news release, the Town said that in response to complaints of speeding along

the stretch, a speed survey was conducted.

The results showed that average daily traffic numbered 1223 vehicles travelling at an average speed of 65 kph. The posted limit is 50 kph. Nearly 40 percent of vehicles, however, were travelling in excess of 89 kph.

The Town describes the installations as “mini-roundabouts,” part of a pilot project that will end once another round of speed data is collected.

During an approximately half-hour visit on site by the Voice last Friday afternoon, most passing traffic seemed barely to slow

as it passed the bollards and hay bales.

Social media reaction was mixed. As of press time, out of 31 comments on the Town’s Facebook page, only one was overtly positive.

“Sounds like a sensible first step to find a way to deal with the problem!” commented Wendy Vahrmeyer.

“Oh, I thought the Town was holding a square dance,” wrote user Nick Lancione.

“Thanks for letting us know after the fact.”

See CIRCLES Page 20

Waiter, we've just sent two back to university and the third is entering Grade 12.

Just water, please, and more garlic bread.

Page 16

The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

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The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

Page 17

SCHOOL BOARD RACE: CATHOLIC

In it for the community Prince seeks to support students, families, and community

BY SARAH WHITAKER

Special to the VOICE

“I’m in it for the community, the families, the students,” says Leanne Prince, explaining her motivation for running for the trustee position with the Niagara Catholic District School Board (NCDSB).

Prince, a mother of two boys who attend St. Joseph School in Grimsby, said her involvement on the school’s Catholic School Committee, the parent advisory committee, as well the regional version of that committee, the Niagara Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (NCPIC), is what inspired her to run for the trustee

IN SCHOOL

continued from Page 3

By Christmas time, I was doing the same work as the second graders. With this one-room schoolhouse, it was easy to listen to what the other grades were doing. We always strived to do more or better and I was proud to say I could.

My parents never had the chance to go to school past third grade, and they wanted most that their children had better opportunities.

I’m sure they were very happy and their expressions showed it when we would show them what we had accomplished.

The school year went on as such, always with our companions, our friends who knew the way back and forth from our home to our home away in the woods.

Gip and Red would roam the school yard and surroundings, always waiting to take us home in the evenings.

They were our very faithful companions. When winter came and it was impossible for us to tread in the snow with cart wheels, our dogs were sometimes replaced by horses, or if the

position.

Attending the NCPIC meetings, and taking that information back to her school’s advisory committee, lead Prince to realize that few parents know what is happening at the board level.

“Parents aren’t getting the information—either they’re not looking or they have no reason to ask,” explains Prince.

“So much goes on at the board level and we don’t hear about it.”

Noting she has personally gone looking for information on school or board policies and found only

road was clear, our faithful friends pulled us by sled.

Although World War II was coming to an end, living or having enough to live on must have been a challenge for my dear parents, who showed no sign of want. I never saw any struggle or arguments in the house.

Going through all my files on my family history, I found a booklet on coupons that the government gave during the war. The families were rationed on sugar, meats, etc. It must have been stressful for some when they didn’t have farms. We were lucky as on our farm, we had everything, from vegetables to meats.

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documents written in legalese, Prince says there are no “Coles notes” for those policies.

“I’m willing to ask the questions, I’m willing to say I don’t understand,” says Prince, adding that as trustee she plans to be the person members of the Cath-

Later in life, I have fond memories of Mom and Dad helping others continually with the produce or meats that we had. They were always very generous with our neighbours. Our straw came in quite handy when our neighbour, the Landrys with a family of 14, needed it to make mattresses. The father of the family was unemployed most of the time.

Winters are cold in the North of New Brunswick.

Sometimes we had cold, blustering winds and snow, with snow drifts as high as the house. We were able to make rooms in these snowdrifts. My younger sisters made a fire in it and burned the toboggan which was at

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olic school community in Pelham, West Lincoln, Grimsby and Beamsville can turn to when they have questions or need more information on what’s happening at the board.

“I have a long-term vested interest” in the success of Catholic

the top of the air hole.

My mother made sure that we were well bundled-up against the cold for the trek to school. Mother was the first one up to light the fire in the stove so that we would be warm when we got up. After a hearty breakfast of good Quaker oatmeal porridge ladened with brown sugar and milk from our own cows, hot bricks from the oven warmed our feet in the sled on our way to school.

My first school year ended with everyone going his

education in Niagara, says Prince, noting at a minimum it will be 10 years before her youngest graduates from high school.

“I want to see the Catholic school board flourish” the way it has in the recent past with good graduation rates and success in provincial testing she says. When it was time for her oldest son, who is heading to Grade 7 this September, to register for kindergarten in Grimsby, Prince says she got an instant “warm and fuzzy” feeling the minute she walked into St. Joseph, noting the secretary and principal spent two hours with her talking about the school, new construction plans and the kindergarten program.

She has felt the warm and fuzzy feeling at every level of her interaction with the board and it has extended to her boys as well.

That feeling, or the atmosphere of welcoming and caring that creates that feeling, is something she wants to preserve and ensure other families feel when entering the school system.

separate way, helping on the farms as much as they could. We no longer used the dogs or horses for that purpose. Dad used the horses for farm work where they were needed the most.

We never went to Dunlop after that, I never sang Away in the Manger for decades as all things familiar were replaced by new faces, new songs, new games in a new language.

Our pot-bellied stove, which in wintertime was the social focal point where we gathered around to warm

See PRINCE next page

up, was gone and replaced by something more modern in a huge school in our local community.

I went on to teach French for many years. In the end, I believe learning new languages gives people wings to travel the world.

Fonthill resident Margaret Tilbert taught at virtually every Catholic school in Welland up to 1980, when she moved to St. Alexander’s School in Fonthill, where she taught until retiring in 1997.

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Page 18

The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

SCHOOL BOARD RACE: CATHOLIC

Reopening the sexed curriculum is a backward step for the community

Fixing what's broken Ruggieri looks to bring commerce background to Catholic board Robert Ruggieri’s oldest child is deciding whether to attend Blessed Trinity Secondary School or the new “mega school” in Beamsville. The fact that his family is deciding, and not automatically enrolling in the Catholic school, is why Ruggieri decided to run for trustee for the Niagara Catholic District School Board (NCDSB).

“I fully believe in Catholic education but I’m dis-

BY SARAH WHITAKER

Special to the VOICE

heartened with the current program,” says Ruggieri, explaining the new school being built in Beasmville has all the bells and whistles from a technology and resources basis while Catholic schools seem to be lacking resources.

From the perspective of his kids, as well as from

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teachers he has spoken with, the lack of resources at Catholic schools means students are choosing to attend schools in the public system instead of staying in the Catholic board.

“I talk to parents on the soccer field, I’m hearing that they are choosing to move their kids because of resources,” says the father of two children, adding a friend recently told him they are moving to the public system because of the athletics resources and programs that will benefit his athletically talented son.

Ruggieri says there is nothing to draw students to the Catholic board. The current generation of students, he adds, is hearing about residential schools, abuse by the church and priests, and they are not liking Catholicism.

“My son is asking those questions. He hasn’t seen the good in the catholic sys-

Robert Ruggieri. tem.”

Catholicism, he says, is getting a bad rap and he feels that this, combined with the lack of resources at schools, is driving students away from a faith-based education system.

“There is nothing attracting them to the Catholic board.”

A product of the Catholic education system himself, Ruggieri says his teachers were priests and nuns, so that even when discussing math or Shakespeare, there was an undercurrent of faith in the classroom and the relationship students developed with their teachers allowed for all conversations to be an opportunity to talk about faith. Now, he says, the only time faith is part of education is in religion class and students are no longer exposed to the undercurrent of faith in all of their classes.

A professor at George

Brown College and coordinator for the operations and supply chain program, Ruggieri says his job is to look for problems and find solutions and to look for better ways of doing things.

That’s something he feels is needed at the NCDSB. “The walkout a few years ago put everything at a standstill,” says Ruggieri, noting he doesn’t take sides between teachers and administration but teachers are professionals, they want to be in the classroom, they’re good people, so is most likely a management problem that caused the work action.

“I think the system is broken. How do we fix it?”

Looking over the board’s current budget, Ruggieri points out where special education development allocations are a fraction of what has been allocated for the board administration, saying “far too much” of the budget goes to the board of-

PRINCE

children opt out of those classes if they had concerns about what their child would be learning, was the right approach to ensure those who welcomed the updated information and those who had concerns could be accommodated.

“I have a great, open relationship with my boys,” and talks about these issues with them says Prince, adding she does understand why some parents might be concerned about what is taught and when.

Aside from specific issues, Prince says she simply wants parents to feel more involved, the Niagara West to feel more involved and to see more extracurricular activities for the schools in this riding. Prince, who filed to run in the election in July, before it was known that the incumbent, Father Paul MacNeil, was not going to seek re-election, said she put a lot of thought into her decision to run, talked to her husband at length and sought input from her friends.

continued from previous page

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SARAH WHITAKER PHOTO

Without having access to current budget information Prince says she can’t say for sure what, if any, major issues may be facing the NCDSB for the coming school years, but says one of her concerns was the lockout in 2017 when neither the teachers nor school board were talking leading up to the lockout. Saying it was “frustrating” that neither side was willing to talk, Prince says the school board, the teachers, the families and the parishes all had the same goal and all need to communicate and work together to reach those goals.

As for the major issue facing all school boards this year, the changes in sex-ed curriculum made by the provincial government, Prince says as a parent she has no issue with the 2015 version of the curriculum and feels the way it was introduced, with an option for parents to have their

fices.

“The first thing I look at is hard costs,” he says.

“Where is the money being allocated?”

The big issue facing all schools in Ontario this election is the provincial government’s change to sex-ed curriculum, repealing new material introduced by the Wynne government in 2015 to go back to material that is 20 years old.

“Reopening the sex-ed curriculum is a backward step for the community and for society in general,” says Ruggieri, noting he sees the oppression many in the LGBTQ community have experienced, and still experience today.

“Students need to be educated in gender identity, sexual orientation, samesex marriage and other modern issues. Aside from this being a violation of human rights, it also conflicts with the Catholic Belief of Equal Dignity,” he adds.

While his background in commerce means Ruggieri looks at the board through an operations lens—looking for ways to fix and improve the system—he says he sees value in a Catholic education and he wants to see it strengthened. Asserting that he is transparent, honest and straightforward, Ruggieri says as trustee he would work to ensure the community is always informed.

Ruggieri is one of four candidates running for the trustee position for the Catholic school board, including Leanne Prince of Grimsby, Peter Dief of Fonthill, and Lawrence Alexander of Grimsby.

I have a great, open relationship with my boys

Her husband, she said, encouraged her to run, saying her involvement in the school system was her calling and her passion and she should seek election for the trustee position. Her friends, she added, told her she was nuts, but “in the best possible way.”

Prince is one of four candidates running for the trustee position for the Catholic school Board, including Lawrence Alexander of Grimsby, Peter Dief of Fonthill, and Robert Ruggieri of Beamsville.

Municipal council and school board elections will take place on Monday, October 22, 2018.

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018

Page 19

(Another) cannabis operation coming to Foss Road Adjacent landowner calls for new regulations for pot greenhouses

BY REBECCA LOTT

Special to the VOICE

Anyone who has stopped at the corner of Balfour Street and Highway 20 over the last few months has likely gotten a snoot-full of skunk. David Ireland is afraid that this odor will soon be in his backyard. The Fenwick resident bought a farmhouse to semi-retire in a couple of years ago. He has made a considerable investment in the property, just adding a new front porch. A farmer, he plans to grow hops on his three acres out back.

Ireland recently discovered that the property beside him at 770 Foss Road, former greenhouses, were sold from Woodstock Biomed to a company named Leviathan Cannabis Group, Inc. They intend to start building within two to three weeks. The land sits on the south edge of Pelham.

Ireland was hesitant to come forward, but feels compelled to let people know this is happening.

He contacted the Town and was told there wasn’t much they could do. They said there are no special regulations for pot farms in Pelham and they are treated just as greenhouses would be. There are greenhouse regulations that were written many years ago for vegetable and flower growers, but Ireland insists this is different. With it being election time, he feels politicians are looking the other way right now.

When Ireland got no answers from the Town of Pelham, he decided to do some research on his own.

He reached out to Leviathan CAO, Martin Doanne. When Ireland called, the phone was answered, “Jekyll and Hyde.” (This is their branding company, according to

the Leviathan website.) Doanne told Ireland he would be willing to meet with neighbours to address their concerns, but a meeting is yet to be scheduled due to vacation conflicts. Ireland says that building is set to commence in September.

It’s like I'm David, and we're fighting Goliath. It's like fighting an impossible battle.

Ireland is concerned about the amount of light that grow-op facilities emit at night, for two reasons.

The first being the stars that they can now enjoy and the second being how it will affect his plants. Hops are light sensitive in that they bloom at night and need darkness to be successful.

Ireland’s worry is the development of the plants will be impeded by the excessive light from the new facility.

“Then they produce nothing,” he said.

Ireland is also concerned about the “eyesore.” He says that the facility is set to be a huge operation that not many people know about. The facility is expanding to twice its current size. He is also very concerned about the smell.

Doanne assured him there would be no smell.

“The entire village, plus DSBN’s Wellington Heights

David Ireland. school and home daycares in the area will be affected by the smell,” Ireland said.

“I’m looking out for every person in town. It’s like I’m David, and we’re fighting Goliath. It’s like fighting an impossible battle.”

(In fact, in Jewish tradition, a Leviathan is a sea

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SUPPLIED PHOTO

monster, referenced in the Biblical Book of Job. The word later came to be used to refer to enormous sea creatures generally, particularly whales.)

Ireland would like to see the Town or the Region of Niagara put into practice some strict new regulations

for these types of facilities.

“They shouldn’t be allowing these types of facilities to set up shop in the middle of a populated area,” he said. “It really is difficult.”

Leviathan is an international company that produces marijuana for rec-

REBECCA LOTT PHOTO

reational use. This will be the seventh grow operation in Pelham to date. Many greenhouses in Niagara are being sold for fast cash to pot growing facilities and the trend has become a contentious issue across the region.

Libraries— a key back to school stop

BY KIRK WEAVER

CEO Pelham Library

For the past eight weeks the Library has been full of activities and programs for kids while they are not in school. As these programs wind down for another season and parents (and maybe some kids) look forward to the beginning of another school year, we want to encourage you to continue to make the Library a regular stop on your back to school schedule.

Once you have made the obligatory trips to WalMart, Giant Tiger, or any of the traditional places for stocking up on school supplies you may feel prepared for the school year. However, once classes begin you may find that you need to do research for that first project the teacher assigns. The Library is the ideal place to do that. We have the tools to support research and

knowledgeable staff to help you find the most suitable material. Alternatively, you may find that you need a quiet place to study or do your homework. Again, the Library is the place to be.

Parents may find that while one child is off at school a younger sibling wants to be engaged in some kind of activity as well. If that describes you, then we encourage you to check our website for a wide variety of children’s programming and register for the ones that suit your child’s interests. Or maybe this is the year all your children are in school and you find yourself with some extra time to get involved in a new activity.

We offer a broad range of activities including learning to play bridge, yoga classes or book clubs.

In addition, to being a great resource for student projects, the Library is a great place for kids to relax

and hang out with friends after school. We offer a comfortable and safe environment for children and

We offer a comfortable and safe environment for children and teens teens to relax, socialize with friends, catch up on emails, or play games (online as well as traditional board games).

The Pelham Public Library has something to satisfy almost any interest. As our programming for summer vacation winds down, we encourage you keep us on your radar once the school year begins.

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COLUMN SIX

continued from Page 1 what a thrill to leave behind the meandering walks outside and endless hours with my mom, and finally enter the real world.

I eagerly awaited the bus that September morning with my brothers, and humoured my mother with an adorable smile as she took the “getting on the bus for the first day of school” picture.

I thought of how difficult things would be for her that day. I imagined her spending most of her time sitting despairingly on my bed and sobbing.

After all, what else would she have had to occupy her time? With three of her brood in school, that left her with only a 1-year-old to care for and a farm to help run. No doubt she wished summers with all four kids in the house could have lasted forever.

I arrived at school after an uneventful bus ride. We were allowed a short play time, but then had to line up alphabetically outside the kindergarten doors, so we could walk (single file and quietly) to the classroom.

Stuck back in the “J’s,” I was a bit worried about my chances of getting to Mr. Potato Head first, but I reminded myself that I would have the whole half day there to play.

We were shown our (assigned) cubbies for our indoor shoes, our (assigned) hooks for our coats, and our desks (also assigned). I couldn’t help but notice that my first taste of freedom was pretty regimented.

Next on the agenda was a tour of the school, given by our teacher, Miss White.

Once again we lined up in single file, and began our trek. Everything was ordinary until Miss White led us in and began talking

The Voice of Pelham, September 5 2018 about some of the different equipment, but my attention was quickly drawn elsewhere.

Off to the side I saw a portable wooden staircase, three or four steps high. Compared to the forced tour, that staircase looked irresistibly fun. I broke rank and excitedly ran over to the steps and made the ascent. Finally: real freedom.

Wanting to be sure everyone saw what I’d found, I yelled out the first thing that came to my mind: “I’m the king of the castle! You’re all the dirty rascals!”

I sang of my triumph with fervour. High on my mountaintop, I didn’t notice the look of disapproval on my new teacher’s face until I heard her admonishment.

“Emily! Get down, now.”

It was suddenly very quiet in the gymnasium. Up to that point there had been the expected amounts of fidgeting and quick whispers, but everyone gave their full focus when they realized someone was Getting Into Trouble.

I felt my face grow hot. I did not like disappointing people. If I did something wrong at home, my mother often could just look at me knowingly and my guilt would cause me to burst into tears and apologize. A public reprimand was my worst nightmare.

When I think about it today, I know the tone the teacher used was probably “annoyed” and “authoritative.” I understand that on an intellectual level. If you ask me how the tone felt, however, I’d have to say “furious,” and “terrifying.”

I meekly left my throne and found my place back in line, hoping I’d become invisible.

As the tour continued and my embarrassment lessened, I had time to think.

My glorious reign had lasted all of nine seconds. This was what

CIRCLES

continued from Page 15 “This is a far worse hazard than the speeders,” wrote Jen Jackson-Langois.

“People are going around it the wrong way and darting out in front of oncoming traffic. Someone is going to end up killed during the pilot! There is much safer ways

www.thevoiceofpelham.ca

The author on her first day of school, 1991.

I left home for? Up to that point school had been nothing more than endless lining up and being marched around the grounds.

What kind of operation are they running here, anyway? I had been there for almost an hour, yet still hadn’t been taught anything worthwhile.

And who was this Miss White? If I’d wanted to be told what to do all day I could have just stayed home with my mom.

At the thought of my mother I felt a pang of remorse, as I realized all too late what a fool I’d been, and what I’d given up. Meandering walks outside, endless hours with my mom—that life was gone for me until summer vacation, an agonizing 290 days away.

to slow down the speeders than this!”

User Marylou Hilliard commented, “There needs to be stop signs. Consider four-way. The roundabouts are only going to confuse drivers and will create problems with slippery winter conditions.”

“Has anyone ever seen a roundabout at a 3-way turn?” asked user Steve Magno.

“This is embarrassing! Roundabouts flow

And there was something else bothering me. Throughout the ordeal, there was one gnawing question that still had not been answered (and in fact would remain unanswered for several days): where was Mr. Potato Head?

It appeared that I had fallen victim to a cruel bait-and-switch. I had been promised playtime with kids my own age, colouring, and reading stories. But I had been given rules, marching and more rules. What made it worse was the fact that it seemed as though everyone—even my own parents— had been in on the ruse.

I thought back on conversations I’d had with adults leading up to that first day of school. At the time I had thought they were just very

traffic at an intersection that would otherwise be a 4-way stop. Keep it simple Pelham. Stop signs still work.”

Many users commented on speeding elsewhere in Pelham, and cited examples of poor road repair. Some wondered whether speed humps were a better alternative.

In its news release, the Town down-

RENOVATE

SUPPLIED PHOTO

happy for me when they asked, “Are you excited for school?” in their overeager tones. Now I knew the truth.

They’d been jealous of my freedom and selfishly pleased I wouldn’t have it much longer. I was now one step closer to their rat race.

Though not the type of lesson I’d hoped to learn that day, school had finally taught me something: adults were not to be trusted.

A little bit wiser in the workings of the world and a little more skeptical of the adults who ran it, I marched along with the other minions.

I had entered the real world at last. ◆

played that option.

“Residents have also brought forward the possibility of speed humps such as the ones on Haist Street. Speed humps have proved to be a hazard to emergency services as they cause delayed response time to emergency situations and are hazardous to EMS vehicles and snowplows.”

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