Wikipedia defines consensus as the “community resolution when opposing parties set aside their differences and agree on a statement that is agreeable to all, even if only barely.” While this definition is easy to understand cognitively, it is oh so challenging to achieve in practice. In 2001 I had the decidedly elusive opportunity of participating…
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My Vision of Pelham, Niagara
Imagine if our Pelham community could become a fully connected on-line neighbourhood. Parents could register their children for sports or art camps or girl guides with a click of a mouse. Local events like bandshell concerts, turkey raffles, trivia nights, dances, golf tournaments would be posted and the listings would always be up-to-date. Social agencies…
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New Growth Era in Pelham
The Town of Pelham is entering into a profound era of revitalization and community growth. According to our Town's "Toward 2015" corporate strategic plan the population of the Town of Pelham is expected to increase by 30 per cent by the year 2015. This statistic is noted in the opening environmental scan section of the…
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Common Vision for Pelham-”Yes we can!”
In Pelham, our political landscape has been littered lately by accusations of conspiracies, hijackings, hidden agendas and elitism. How much better would it be if the picture was focused instead on images such as common vision, engaged citizenship, collaboration, and sustainable prosperity? Just two weeks ago, the St. Catharines - Thorold Prosperity Council presented to…
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Pelham Local Economy is an Endangered Species
Unlike many Ontario communities where big-box retailers and multi-national corporations dominate the retail landscape, Pelham continues to function as a rare local economy. Decisions that impact local jobs, wages and the quality of life of our community are made in Pelham everyday. When Pelham residents spend their shopping dollars at local businesses 3-4 times the…
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