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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230314T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230314T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220926T213419Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240120T003317Z
UID:4952-1678788000-1678791600@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Marnie Donaldson - Sound Hearing Care Niagara
DESCRIPTION:Marnie Donaldson – Sound Hearing Care Niagara \nHearing\, Hearing Loss and Hearing Aids \n  \n \nSpeakers explain hearing loss and treatments \nAndy Redman introduced guest speaker Marnie Donaldson\, a hearing instrument specialist and her colleague\, Jessica Cekan\, an audiologist from Sound Hearing Care\, Niagara. A graduate of Conestoga College\, Jessica has worked in a clinical setting since 2006. She rotates among Sound Hearing Clinics in Niagara and in the Hamilton area where she lives. \nAndy related his personal experience in seeking hearing help and his pleasure with the excellent outcome of the work by Marnie and her colleagues. \nMarnie and Jessica began their presentation with a video that illustrated the reactions of infants with hearing impairment when they were first able to hear. \nWith a PowerPoint presentation\, Marnie pointed out that\, according to the World Health Organization\, hearing loss is the fifth leading cause of disability\, affecting 50% of the population worldwide and 11.5% in Canada.  Currently 65% of adults over 65 have some hearing impairment. \nShe said common causes of hearing loss include such things as ear wax\, foreign objects in the ear\, perforations to the ear drum\, aging\, noise exposure\, toxic medication\, injuries\, viruses\, tumors and hereditary conditions. \nHeart disease\, hypertension\, balance and diabetes are all symptoms related to untreated hearing loss. Also associated with hearing loss and balance issues can be a greater risk of falls\, kidney disease\, tinnitus\, depression\, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. \nJessica pointed out that tinnitus\, a ringing or buzzing in the ear\, can only be felt by the sufferer and can’t be measured but it can be reduced through lowered stress and anxiety. \nShe advised that if a friend or family member is suspected of hearing loss\, they should be offered support and encouraged to book a hearing test. \n \nDuring an extensive question and answer session\, it was pointed out that hearing aids only help to hear\, they will not restore hearing. Upper frequency or high pitch sounds are the first sound levels to be adversely affected in hearing loss. Different speech styles and speeds can also affect hearing. The recommended method of clearing ear wax is the use of oil and water or seeking professional help but avoiding the use of any tools such as Q-tips. In reference to the opening video\, it was pointed out that hearing screening is done now in hospitals for all babies with follow-up done as needed. \nDuncan McLaren thanked Marnie and Jessica for their informative presentation and presented a gift certificate in token of appreciation. \n \n  \n 
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/marnie-sound-hearing-care-niagara/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:2023 Past Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Marnie-Donaldson.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230214T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230214T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220727T192847Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240120T003325Z
UID:4804-1676368800-1676372400@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Rachel Braithwaite - St. Catharines Downtown Association
DESCRIPTION:[vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P0WQBRLTmBY”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Rachel Braithwaite – St. Catharines Downtown Association \nTOPIC: St. Catharines Downtown Association challenges and successes \n \nExecutive Director remains upbeat about the future of our downtown \nDuncan McLaren introduced guest speaker Rachel Braithwaite\, Executive Director of St. Catharines Downtown Association and the Business Improvement Association. \nRachel used a video and Power Point slides to illustrate her presentation about how her organizations work in partnership with the city. She pointed out that Business Improvement Associations (BIAs) evolved in the 1960s in Toronto with the move from downtown to shopping malls. Rachel said that the Bloor West Village developed the first BIA in Canada and indeed the world in 1970. The idea of BIAs spread rapidly as the need for overall co-operation was recognized. There are now 300 BIAs in Ontario and 500 in Canada. \nRachel said that there are four pillars upon which BIAs operate: 1. Public realm investing; 2. Area brand marketing; 3. Policy and partnerships; 4. Events. She added that the focus for the past three years has been advocacy due to the toll on businesses caused by the COVID 19 pandemic. \nShe said that downtowns have much to offer. They are iconic and provide powerful symbols for a city and often contain the most iconic landmarks. \nShe said that the public realm investing involves spending money on downtown beautification. In St. Catharines that involved an investment of $75\,000 in 2022. She added that another $25\,000 was ear-marked for publicity on social media. She argued that one of the problems behind the perceived lack of parking in the downtown was the lack of publicity about the two parking garages near both the Performing Arts Centre and the Meridian Centre. \nRachel said the focus for 2023 will be on Downtown Premium from early June until October 1. Special events have proven their worth in attracting people to the downtown. This year a Spring Festival is being planned for April 22 and a Summer Festival is slated for July 15. The festivals aim to spotlight businesses with collaboration and community support. \nDuring an extensive question and answer period\, Rachel said that the trial period of blocking off part of St. Paul Street was met with opposition from merchants because those on the south side of the street have no other access for deliveries. She pointed out that part of James Street was converted to a pedestrian-only area and the BIA will be pushing for more patio areas this summer. \nShe admitted that the boarding up of a number of stores on St. Paul Street detracts from the look of the street and said the BIA is working on making improvements in that area while also pushing for lower special event parking fees. \nDuncan thanked Rachel for her presentation and suggested her talk invited not only questions but a number of opinions. He presented her with a gift certificate in appreciation. \n \n \n  \nVideo of Rachel Braithwaite’s presentation click here.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/rachel-braithwaite-st-catharines-downtown-association/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:2023 Past Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Rachel-Braithwaite.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230110T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230110T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220713T145049Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240120T003332Z
UID:4790-1673344800-1673348400@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Hugh Fraser
DESCRIPTION:[vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzaBRQ76ifA”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Speaker unveils hidden features of swing beam barns \n \nBob Halfyard introduced guest speaker Hugh Fraser\, the author and publisher of a book entitled “Swing Beam Barns of Niagara – stories of 50 barns built in Ontario between 1819 and 1884.” \nHugh was raised on a farm and has been connected to farming his whole life. He owns the consulting firm OTB Farm Solutions and specializes in issues facing farmers within the urban shadow. He is also a certified auditor for the Ontario Viticulture and Winery Sustainability Program. \nHugh started his presentation by asking how many members were raised on farms and about 25% affirmed such a connection. \n  \n  \nHe said that swing beam barns were built to store wheat and other grains so that farmers could sell the grain for hard-to-find cash. The first barns were built by Mennonite Communities\, then United Empire Loyalists coming from United States and later by English immigrants. \nHugh\, who illustrated his talk with a Power Point presentation\, said that swing beam barns featured a single beam\, tapered in the middle\, across the width of the barn leaving plenty of open space on the threshing floor. This allowed room to swing horses around and out of the barn after being unhitched from a wagon. The open area allowed for the threshing of grain with swing flails and\, in some cases\, horses\, without shoes\, were used to trod over the grain walking in a merry-go-round fashion. \nHugh said that Neutral tribes in this area were farmers in the very early days and cut down many trees\, but they left the area about 1650 and the land was allowed to re-wild for about 150 years before other settlers moved into the Niagara or Upper Canada area. \nBy that time there were again huge trees and Hugh said that he has seen a barn board that measured 48-inches wide. The massive trees also meant that huge beams\, up to 65 feet or more in length\, were available for construction. He suggested that trees of that size will never be seen again. As a result\, newer barns must make use of smaller beams and require more support braces that the earlier barns. \nHe pointed out that most early barns were built with softwood – most white pine – while hardwoods such as ash\, oak and even walnut were used. He reported that he had even discovered a barn where black cherry was used. \nHe admitted that it is often difficult to recognize early swing beam barns from the outside because they have often been altered with concrete or block foundations added or with roof lines raised to create more room. He said that the reason so many of these barns are still in existence in Niagara is that their size and open nature meant that they were  relatively easy to convert for fruit farming. \nHugh\, who is director with Ontario Barn Preservation\, is already working on a second book. He said that while exploring barns he has discovered old inscriptions left on beams that many current owners have never noticed. \nHugh\, who passed around a copy of his book\, said that each chapter contains an imagined dialogue between the owner of that specific barn and someone else\, technical details about the construction of the barn and then the history of what happened between the time it was built and now. \nDuncan McLaren thanked Hugh from his enthusiastic and informative talk and presented him with a gift certificate as a token of appreciation. \n  \nVideo of Hugh Fraser’s presentation click here. \n  \n  \n  \n  \n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/hugh-fraser/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:2023 Past Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/High-Fraser-Author.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20221213T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20221213T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220324T131025Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220324T131025Z
UID:4688-1670923800-1670929200@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Probus December 13\, 2022 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Probus December 13\, 2022 Monthly Meeting \nThe club meets at the Grantham Lions Club\, 732 Niagara St.\, on the second Tuesday of each month\,\n9 AM (social) and 9:30 AM (business)\, to provide fellowship and a speaker. \nGuest Speaker (at approx. 10am):\nBev Foster\, (Musiccare\,  a co-founder of the Room 217 Foundation and its Executive Director )\nTopic: “The power of music to make meaningful changes in health and well-being. ”
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/probus-december-13-2022-meeting/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Probus-Monthly-Meeting-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20221108T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20221108T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220324T130717Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220324T130717Z
UID:4686-1667899800-1667905200@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Probus November 8\, 2022 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Probus November 8\, 2022 Monthly Meeting \nThe club meets at the Grantham Lions Club\, 732 Niagara St.\, on the second Tuesday of each month\,\n9 AM (social) and 9:30 AM (business)\, to provide fellowship and a speaker. \nGuest Speaker (at approx. 10am):\nChris Leworthy\, (UK Probus Member)\nTopic: “Battle of Britain – 80+ years on ” \n 
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/probus-november-8-2022-meeting/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Probus-Monthly-Meeting-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20221011T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20221011T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220223T153643Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230228T175936Z
UID:4587-1665482400-1665486000@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:James Treadwell - Treadwell Restaurant
DESCRIPTION:James Treadwell\, Sommelier and Owner at Treadwell Farm-to-Table Cuisine in Niagara-on-the-Lake\, \nRestauranteur describes challenges posed by Covid \n \nTom van Loenen introduced guest speaker James Treadwell\, co-founder with his father Stephen\, and sommelier of Treadwell Farm to Table Cuisine in Niagara-on-the Lake. \nJames spoke about the challenges faced by all restaurants and the hospitality business at any time but especially during the past two and a half years of COVID. He said restaurants typically operate on about a 10% profit margin with the bulk of their costs going toward labour\, materials\, and non-variable overheads. \nHe said that the changing rules and restrictions during the pandemic were especially difficult to deal with. At one point all restaurants were forced to close and that left owners no option but to lay off staff and try to pay off suppliers with no income. \nJames pointed out that staff play a major role in the success of a business and Treadwell made the decision during another brief shutdown caused by COVID last winter to keep its staff members. He added that exceeding customers’ expectations and satisfied customers are the best marketing tool. \nHe said that some restaurant owners have been forced to shut down partially because they get into the business without realizing that it takes hard work and long hours to become a success. \nDespite the many problems presented during the past two years\, James said that 2022 has been Treadwell’s best year ever. The restaurant made the decision to feature a Prix Fixe Menu which allows it a more exact estimate of income while also controlling costs. \nJames pointed out that the restaurant has a working agreement with 124 on the Queen Hotel and Spa which allows it space for weddings\, corporate events\, and catering. In addition\, the restaurant is greatly expanding its patio space and making it suitable to use throughout most of the year. \nLooking at the future\, James said that another source of income could be through higher volumes of takeout orders. He said that businesses will have to deal with inflation and pricing. Another concern will be finding sufficient staff and dealing with reduced operating hours. \nDuncan McLaren thanked James for his informative talk and presented him with a gift certificate in appreciation.
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/james-treadwell-treadwell-restaurant/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:2022 Past Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/James-Treadwell-e1645630545961.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20221011T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20221011T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220324T130315Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220324T130536Z
UID:4681-1665480600-1665486000@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Probus October 11\, 2022 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Probus October 11\, 2022 Monthly Meeting \nThe club meets at the Grantham Lions Club\, 732 Niagara St.\, on the second Tuesday of each month\,\n9 AM (social) and 9:30 AM (business)\, to provide fellowship and a speaker. \nGuest Speaker (at approx. 10am):\nJames Treadwell\, (Treadwell Restaurant\, NOTL)\nTopic: “TBC ” \n 
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/probus-september-13-2022-meeting-2/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Probus-Monthly-Meeting-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20220913T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20220913T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220330T201607Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230228T175944Z
UID:4712-1663063200-1663066800@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:David Sharron\,  Brock Special collections
DESCRIPTION:David Sharron\, Brock Special collections –  Head\, Archives and Special Collections \nTopic: “Plate Spinning and Ball Juggling: All in a day’s work at the Brock Archives”.  This would be a look at the various roles and responsibilities that we have at Brock and how our collections connect the institution to the greater Niagara community and beyond. \nBrock archivist unveils many facets of his job \nDuncan McLaren introduced guest speaker David Sharron whose topic was “Plate Spinning and Ball Juggling: All in a day’s work at the Brock Archives.” \nDavid has been a professional archivist for 24 years.  He graduated with a Master’s in History with an archives specialization through the University of Windsor in association with Wayne State University in Detroit\, Michigan.  His first job was at the NASA/Johnson Space Center in Houston\, Texas as an image archivist taking care of mission photography.  He returned to Canada after five years and three years later came to Brock University. He has been at Brock for 15 years as the head of the Archives and Special Collections department in the library. David is also a certified archivist through the Academy of Certified Archivists and has completed the Digital Archives Specialist certification through the Society of American Archivists. \nAn archivist makes sure special papers and documents do not get discarded. David defined the difference between an archive and a special collection:  an archive is a daily life record; special collection is what someone wants to collect\, usually on a specific suject. He explained the five steps to archiving: 1. Acquisition; 2. Archival appraisal; 3. Arrangement and description; 4. Storage of Records; 5. Providing Access. \nHe said that records can come in a variety of sizes\, shapes\, and formats. David pointed out that while the Brock archives are open to the public\, all material must stay in the reading room at Brock. \nDavid said Brock has a massive collection of books that hold some relevance to Niagara. Other extensive collections include Masonic topics and information including blogs on Autism. The total collection\, with a value in the millions of dollars\, includes rare books – with the oldest published in 1489 – and many unique materials. \nDavid said that one unexpected benefit of the COVID pandemic was that Brock had the time and opportunity to create a new digital exhibit. \nHe concluded by listing the top five things to know about the Brock Archives: 1. They hold records not found anywhere else; 2. Archives don’t have to be old; 3. Most materials are in the library catalogue and digital files; 4. Chances are there is something there you can use; 5. Everyone is welcome. \nThe archives are located on the 10th floor of the Brock Tower and can be accessed online at https://brocku.ca/library/archives/ \nFollowing a question-and-answer period\, Duncan thanked David and presented him with a gift certificate in token of appreciation.
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/david-sharron-brock-special-collections/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:2022 Past Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/David-Sharron-e1659636807793.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20220913T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20220913T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220324T130221Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220727T214510Z
UID:4679-1663061400-1663066800@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Probus September 13\, 2022 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Probus September 13\, 2022 Monthly Meeting \nThe club meets at the Grantham Lions Club\, 732 Niagara St.\, on the second Tuesday of each month\,\n9 AM (social) and 9:30 AM (business)\, to provide fellowship and a speaker. \nGuest Speaker (at approx. 10am):\nDavid Sharron\, (Brock University\, Head\, Archives and Special Collections)\nTopic: “TBC ” \n 
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/probus-september-13-2022-meeting/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Probus-Monthly-Meeting-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20220809T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20220809T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20211126T154650Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230228T175957Z
UID:4385-1660039200-1660042800@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Capt. Michael Robson Marine Seaway Pilot
DESCRIPTION:Capt. Michael Robson Marine Seaway Pilot at Great Lakes Pilotage Authority on ‘Marine Pilotage’ \nMarine pilot talks about his life on the seaway \nDuncan McLaren introduced guest speaker Capt. Michael Robson\, a marine seaway pilot with the Great Lakes Pilotage Authority. Michael\, now semi-retired\, served as pilot on international vessels on the Welland Canal as well as Lakes Erie and Ontario. \nHe began his career in the British Merchant Navy and after coming to Canada took his pilot’s exam in 1995 and worked with various shipping companies including Misner and Upper Lakes Shipping. After receiving his pilot’s licence he had to make 50 training trips before being qualified to direct a ship through the canal system on his own. \nMichael explained that all international ships are required to have a trained pilot on board going through the seaway while Lakers have the option. He said the pilots don’t actually take control on the ship but give verbal directions to the ship’s captain. \nHe pointed out that there are four pilotage authorities in Canada – Atlantic\, Lower St. Lawrence\, Great Lakes\, and Pacific. He said that pilots normally work 12 to 13 days and then have five days off depending on seaway traffic. \nHe mentioned that at one time there were plans to create a new canal with three super locks to replace the current seven\, but those plans were dropped because of reduced ship traffic. Michael said that the maximum size for a ship going through the Welland Canal is 740 feet in length and 78 feet in width. That allows just two feet of clearance in the 80-foot-wide locks. He added that the newest Viking cruise ship conducting tours through the Great Lakes is also at the maximum size. \nMichael said that all locks and bridges are now remotely controlled\, and a suction system has eliminated the need for manual tie-ups within the locks. \nHe said that ships using the canal system carry a wide variety of cargo including parts for wind turbines although steel and grain are the most common. \nMichael highlighted his excellent presentation with photos and a series of short videos showing some of the many ships going through the system. His videos clearly demonstrated the dangers faced by pilots getting off their pilot boat onto ships in rough water. He said that wind presents the biggest problem for pilots although fog and a lack of visibility are also difficult. \nDuncan thanked Michael for his informative talk and presented him with a gift certificate as a token of appreciation.
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/mike-robson/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:2022 Past Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Capt.-Mike-Robson.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20220809T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20220809T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220324T125955Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220727T215157Z
UID:4677-1660037400-1660042800@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Probus August 9\, 2022 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Probus August 9\, 2022 Monthly Meeting \nThe club meets at the Grantham Lions Club\, 732 Niagara St.\, on the second Tuesday of each month\,\n9 AM (social) and 9:30 AM (business)\, to provide fellowship and a speaker. \nGuest Speaker (at approx. 10am):\nTBC\, (tbc)\nTopic: “TBC ” \n 
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/probus-august-9-2022-meeting/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Probus-Monthly-Meeting-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20220712T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20220712T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220226T213804Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230228T180004Z
UID:4607-1657620000-1657623600@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Sue and Dave Williams - Sail across the Atlantic in a tiny sailboat. 
DESCRIPTION:An Adventure on the High Seas and the Journey Within… \n \nDave & Sue Williams \nPeter Jennings introduced guest speakers Sue and Dave Williams who jointly related stories of their amazing adventure in crossing the Atlantic in a 37-foot sailboat named Inia. \nSue admitted she had no interest in sailing but after husband Dave suffered a grand mal seizure brought on by stress and then was fired from his job\, she made the decision to join him in attempting to achieve his dream of sailing across the Atlantic in a sailboat. The couple also felt it was time to give their three sons space to find their ways. \nThe couple spent a year preparing their boat and themselves for the challenges they would face. \nAfter studying weather patterns to determine the best time to set out\, they sailed from Hamilton harbour in May 2007 to cross Lake Ontario and continued down the St. Lawrence to the ocean. \nThe journey included a never-ending series of challenges\, including sea sickness (suffered by Sue)\, navigation system failures\, weather – three gales plus other times of dead calm – sleep deprivation\, constant motion\, and mechanical problems including the loss of radio contact. \nAt one point their propeller became tangled in a fishing net and Dave\, who had an aversion to swimming in the ocean\, had to dive under the boat to cut the netting loose. However\, the netting caused enough damage that they were forced to replace their engine when they landed in Portugal. \nSue and Dave agreed that there were a lot of good moments as well. They were accompanied at times by playful dolphins\, saw great sunrises and amazing night skies as well as meeting many fascinating people. \nThey ended up spending two and a half months in Portugal and then started the homeward portion of their trip aiming for the British Virgin Islands\, the Bahamas and on to the U.S. Intercoastal waterway\, the Erie Canal and finally back home via Lake Ontario. \nIn all they were gone 373 days\, travelled 11\,000 nautical miles and were at sea for 86 days. \nDespite all the trials and tribulations both admitted they were sad to see the life-changing adventure come to an end. \nSue recorded their memories of the journey in a book titled “Ready to Come About” and had it available for sale following their talk. \nDuncan McLaren thanked Sue and Dave for their presentation and provided them with a gift certificate as a token of appreciation.
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/sue-and-dave-williams-sail-across-the-atlantic-in-a-tiny-sailboat/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:2022 Past Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Sue-e1645911460261.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20220712T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20220712T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220324T125659Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220727T214631Z
UID:4674-1657618200-1657623600@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Probus July 12\, 2022 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Probus July 12\, 2022 Monthly Meeting \nThe club meets at the Grantham Lions Club\, 732 Niagara St.\, on the second Tuesday of each month\,\n9 AM (social) and 9:30 AM (business)\, to provide fellowship and a speaker. \nGuest Speaker (at approx. 10am):\nSue Williams\, (author)\nTopic: “Ready to Come Aboard – An Adventure on the High Seas and the Journey Within ”
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/probus-july-12-2022-meeting/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Probus-Monthly-Meeting-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20220614T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20220614T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220222T205304Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230228T180014Z
UID:4578-1655200800-1655204400@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Barry Wright - CEO of the 2022 Canada Summer Games
DESCRIPTION:Barry Wright CEO of the Canada Summer Games in Niagara \nDuncan McLaren introduced guest speaker Barry Wright\, the CEO of the 28th Canada Summer Games scheduled to be held at various sites across Niagara from August 6 to 21. \nBarry\, an associate professor at the Goodman School at Brock University\, has a Master’s degree and a Ph.D from Queen’s University and a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta. \n \nthe themes “inspire\, transform and unify.” He added that the games can leave lasting impacts on host communities. He mentioned the $100-million Games Park and facility located next to Brock University which was financed by all levels of government and by private donations including a major donation by the Walker family. He also mentioned the new $10million indoor training facility built for the Henley rowing course. He said the games could have a $400-million impact on host communities. \nBarry pointed out that the Canada Summer Games began in 1967 and are held every two years with the location moving around the country to allow all provinces and territories an opportunity to host. \nHe said that these games are the largest Barry Wright multi-sport event in Canada. Nearly 5\,000 athletes and coaches are expected to compete in 18 sports at 17 locations around Niagara. About 4\,000 volunteers have signed up to help things run smoothly. Barry said that these games are unique in that competition is held for both regular and para-athletes and special Olympics athletes. \nBarry indicated that these games include\, for the first time ever\, an Indigenous Partnership Council. He pointed out that the games mascot Shelly\, a non-gender turtle\, has significance on several levels. Indigenous people refer to this area of North America as Turtle Island; the turtle shell has 13 sections representing the 13 communities in Niagara and the provinces and territories. \nBarry said the mission of the games involves \nThe Walker Sports and Abilities Centre consists of two NHL-sized ice rinks\, a Sport Performance Centre\, the Brock-Niagara Health & Well-Being Centre\, a suspended 200-metre indoor track\, sport offices and a multipurpose fieldhouse featuring four gymnasiums. \nAnother first for these games is the fact that the torch relay\, which began in Ottawa\, includes one stage with the torch being carried on a Canada Steamship vessel. The final stages will include stops at various locations around Niagara before ending up at the opening ceremonies to be held at the Meridian Centre in downtown St. Catharines on August 6. \nAn important part of the games will be a variety of cultural events planned throughout the 17 days. \nBarry said that it is still not too late to get involved in the games by volunteering. The game events will be recorded thanks to crews from Niagara College and will be live-streamed. \nMore information about the games\, including the various sports included\, is available by checking out the website at www.niagara2022games.ca \nDuncan thanked Barry for his informative talk and presented him with a gift certificate as a token of appreciation from the club. \n 
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/barrywright/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:2022 Past Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Barry-Wright-e1645563132618.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20220614T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20220614T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220324T125336Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220324T125336Z
UID:4672-1655199000-1655204400@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Probus June 10\, 2022 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Probus June 14\, 2022 Monthly Meeting \nThe club meets at the Grantham Lions Club\, 732 Niagara St.\, on the second Tuesday of each month\,\n9 AM (social) and 9:30 AM (business)\, to provide fellowship and a speaker. \nGuest Speaker (at approx. 10am):\nBarry Wright\, (CEO of the 2022 Canada Summer Games)\nTopic: “Canada Summer Games ”
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/probus-june-10-2022-meeting/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Probus-Monthly-Meeting-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20220510T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20220510T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220202T165257Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230228T180024Z
UID:4530-1652176800-1652180400@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Alexandra Hall\,  Cyber-Seniors
DESCRIPTION:Cyber-Seniors is a non-profit organization providing senior citizens with tech-training using an intergenerational\, volunteer model.
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/alexandra-hall-cyber-seniors/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:2022 Past Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Alex-Hall-e1643820744458.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20220510T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20220510T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220324T124952Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220324T124952Z
UID:4669-1652175000-1652180400@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Probus May 10\, 2022 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Probus May 10\, 2022 Monthly Meeting \nThe club meets at the Grantham Lions Club\, 732 Niagara St.\, on the second Tuesday of each month\,\n9 AM (social) and 9:30 AM (business)\, to provide fellowship and a speaker. \nGuest Speaker (at approx. 10am):\nAlexandra Hall\, (scheduling assistant for Cyber Seniors)\nTopic: “digital mentoring to senior citizens gain access to effective technology training”
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/probus-may-10-2022-meeting/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Probus-Monthly-Meeting-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20220412T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20220412T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20211026T174138Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230228T180039Z
UID:4002-1649757600-1649761200@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Adam Shoalts\,  (professional explorer and best-selling author)
DESCRIPTION:Adam Shoalts tries to uncover mystery of Labrador creature\nDuncan McLaren introduced guest speaker Adam Shoalts\, the Westaway explorer-in-residence with the Royal Canadian Geographical Society. The Fenwick native described some of his earlier explorations including following the route taken by map-maker David Thompson through the Rocky Mountains and his solo journey across Canada’s far north. \n \nAdam said that it was while he was involved in research for his PhD in history from McMaster University that he became intrigued by written reports about the “Traverspine gorilla” in Labrador. Elliott Merrick wrote in 1930 about sightings of the huge hairy creature that frightened children and dogs and left behind massive tracks but was never spotted by hunters. Further research by Adam uncovered earlier reports by several doctors including Dr. Wilfred \nAdam Shoalts Grenfell\, the Newfoundland physician who travelled extensively across Labrador. Most agreed that the reports were too well-founded to doubt that the beast was some type of creature not previously seen in the area. Some of the written descriptions gave devil-like qualities to the creature. \nAdam’s detailed description of his travels to \nreach the ghost town of Traverspine and his attempts to uncover the mystery are the subject of his latest book “The Whisper on the Night Wind.” \nAdam said that he felt he would be wise to have a second person on this adventure and reached out to a former high school mate who was now involved in mixed martial arts. Zach agreed with little hesitation and within a matter of days the two set out on the 2\,000-kilometre drive to Happy ValleyGoose Bay situated on the north shore of the Churchill River in Labrador. From there they switched transportation mode to canoe where they battled high winds and strong currents to reach the Traverspine River and eventually the ruins of a two -storey house that was really all that remained of the former Traverspine. \n \nAdam and Zach still had a lot of ground to cover to reach their goal of the ancient Mealy Mountains and at one point had to leave their canoe behind and fight their way through dense forest and bogs and finally scramble up the mountain while exploring various caves. \nAdam admitted that the combination of reading many reports about mystery creatures in the area combined with the strange noises created by wind and animals made for a few sleepless nights in their tents. \nAdam said that he didn’t want to give away the ultimate secret to their exploration saving that for those who read his book. However\, it’s safe to say that although some of the mysteries may have been resolved\, there remains an element of the unknown linked to what happened in the wilds of Labrador. \nDuncan thanked Adam for his presentation and provided him with a gift certificate in appreciation
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/adam-shoalts-professional-explorer-and-best-selling-author/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:2022 Past Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Adam-Shoalts-e1635270079584.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20220412T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20220412T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220324T123602Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220324T124852Z
UID:4664-1649755800-1649761200@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Probus April 12\, 2022 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Probus April 12\, 2022 Monthly Meeting \nThe club meets at the Grantham Lions Club\, 732 Niagara St.\, on the second Tuesday of each month\,\n9 AM (social) and 9:30 AM (business)\, to provide fellowship and a speaker. \nGuest Speaker (at approx. 10am):\nAdam Shoalts\, (scheduling assistant for Cyber Seniors)\nTopic: “Discussing is newest book called\, The Whisper on the Night Wind which is about an expedition in Labrador’s mountains.”
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/probus-april-12-2022-meeting/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Probus-Monthly-Meeting-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20220308T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20220308T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20220204T194102Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220204T194256Z
UID:4539-1646733600-1646737200@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Probus Mar. 8\, 2022 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Probus MARCH 2022 Monthly Meeting \nThe club meets at the Grantham Lions Club\, 732 Niagara St.\, on the second Tuesday of each month\,\n9 AM (social) and 9:30 AM (business)\, to provide fellowship and a speaker. \nGuest Speaker:\nTim Burrows\, (Electric Vehicle Society member)\nTopic: “Why your next car should be electric! ” \n \n 
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/probus-mar-8-2022-meeting/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Probus-Monthly-Meeting-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20220308T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20220308T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20211028T161318Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230228T180052Z
UID:4008-1646733600-1646737200@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Tim Burrows\, (Electric Vehicle Society)
DESCRIPTION:Tim Burrows champions the switch to an electric car \nDuncan McLaren introduced guest speaker Tim Burrows whose presentation asked the question “Should your next car be electric”. \nTim\, a retired vice president of Forty Creek Distillery\, is a member of the Electric Vehicle Society which is a non-profit organization which works to promote the understanding and adoption of electric mobility in Canada. He chairs the EV Society Etobicoke Chapter at Humber College. \n25% efficient in producing power while an electric engine has one moving part and is 88% efficient. Government action means that we are heading toward a ban on combustion engines because of climate and pollution concerns. He added that in simple economic terms\, batteries are becoming cheaper and lasting longer and there are fewer maintenance costs. \nTim said that his first electric car was a 2013 Tesla Model S and then he moved up to the Tesla Model X. \nNewer electric cars now have a range of 400 to 500 kilometres between charges and the battery life has been extended to 400\,000 to 500\,000 kilometres. Tim said that 95% of the time\, electric car owners recharge their batteries at home\, but fastcharging stations also allow for longer trips. \nOver that span of time\, he has logged more than 200\,000 kilometres without incident and without needing gasoline. \nTim pointed out that Tesla owners have access to superchargers coast to coast\, but he said that Petro Canada is in the process of installing fast charging stations as well. He said that for home charging stations\, you can get a special EV plug or a 30-amp service similar to a stove plug will serve the purpose. \nHe pointed out that back in 1900 electric cars out-sold gasoline pow- Tim Burrows ered cars until Henry Ford came along and produced cheap gas-powered cars. Tim said that General Motors produced an electric model from 1996 to 1999. Those model EV1 autos were available only through lease and could not be purchased and when the leases expired GM scrapped the whole fleet. Tim suggested checking out the 2006 documentary film “Who Killed the Electric Car” to learn about GM’s experiment in California. \nTim detailed several reasons for making the switch to electric. He said a typical combustion engine has more than 200 moving parts and is only \nTim also touched on the emergence of self-driving cars claiming that they will reduce traffic accidents and deaths. \nDuring an extensive question and answer period\, Tim said that because most cars will be recharged at night\, our current electrical infrastructure will be able to handle the extra demand although some local improvements may be required. \nIn summary\, Tim said that EVs are faster\, quieter\, and cheaper to operate and the fact that there is no engine means you also have trunk space in the front as well as the rear. \nDuncan thanked Tim for his presentation saying the number of questions reflected the interest in his topic. Duncan also presented a gift certificate as a token of appreciation. \nAt the speaker’s request\, his presentation was not recorded.
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/tim-burrows-electric-vehicle-society/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:2022 Past Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Tim-Burrows.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20211214T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20211214T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20211205T201327Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20211217T202359Z
UID:4450-1639476000-1639479600@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Probus Dec. 14\, 2021 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Probus DECEMBER 2021 Monthly Meeting \nThe club meets at the Grantham Lions Club\, 732 Niagara St.\, on the second Tuesday of each month\,\n9 AM (social) and 9:30 AM (business)\, to provide fellowship and a speaker. \nGuest Speaker:\nMarc Nantel – Niagara College’s Vice-President\, Research & External Relations\nTopic:“Niagara College in the Niagara Community
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/probus-dec-14-2021-meeting/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Probus-Monthly-Meeting-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20211214T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20211214T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20210814T055453Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230228T180120Z
UID:3137-1639476000-1639479600@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Marc Nantel (Niagara College VP)
DESCRIPTION:Marc Nantel – Niagara College’s Vice-President\, Research & External Relations \nTopic:“Niagara College in the Niagara Community” \nNiagara College programs play important role in our community \nDuncan McLaren introduced guest speaker Marc Nantel\, Vice President of Research and External Relations at Niagara College. \nMarc\, who joined Niagara in 2011\, leads research and innovation\, planning and institutional research\, development and alumni relations\, and government and community relations. He is also president of the Niagara College Learning Enterprise Corporation which includes overseeing the operations and strategic direction for the Niagara College teaching winery\, teaching brewery teaching distillery and cannabis institute. Marc provided a little background knowledge of Niagara pointing out that the school was founded in 1967\, now has more than 10\,500 full-time students\, including approximately 3\,900 international students\, and in 2021 topped the 100\,000graduate mark. He said the school has three main DNA strands that influence its future goals. It strives to be trailblazing\, welcoming and passionate. An indication of the school’s success is that it has been selected among the top 10 research colleges for six consecutive years. \nHe said expansion plans for the Welland campus include a new building to consolidate broadcasting courses and a separation addition to allow for expansion of its trade courses. \nThe Niagara-on-the-Lake campus specializes in agricultural-related programs and a planned renovation of the greenhouse will facilitate increased research and growing programs. \n  \nMarc pointed out that the college is one of the largest employers in Niagara and also compliments key industries through its research and academic programs. He said that it has been estimated that the college makes a $800-million contribution to Niagara. He said that 43 per cent of student enrolment comes from Niagara\, 89 per cent of graduates find employment within six months and 64 per cent of alumni live in the Region. \nMarc pointed out that during the past two years of the COVID19 pandemic\, Niagara’s innovation sector produced face shields\, hand sanitizer and personal protective gear. \nMarc said the school concentrates on six major themes in a five-year planning process\, looking at such things as student experience\, academic and organizational excellence\, global engagement\, alumni and partner engagement\, social inclusion and environmental sustainability. \nFollowing an extensive question and answer session\, Duncan thanked Marc for his enlightening presentation and presented him with an LCBO gift certificate. \n 
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/marc-nante/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:2021 Past Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/MarcNantel_headshot-e1636461711551.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20210914T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20210914T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T064051
CREATED:20210817T030013Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230228T180146Z
UID:3024-1631613600-1631617200@probusstcatharines.com
SUMMARY:Peter Greco\, Canon Greco Management Limited
DESCRIPTION:Condo managers tasked with many responsibilities \nArt Currie introduced guest speaker\, Peter R. Greco\, a graduate of Brock University\, who is President of Cannon Greco Management Limited\, a St. Catharines firm which specializes in condominium and residential rental management. \nPeter provided a comprehensive look at the duties of a management firm and also described different types of condo corporations and the variety of responsibilities and services they provide.\nPeter said that condo managers work with the condo board of directors and are responsible for such things as the physical property\, making sure repairs are done and deal-ing with contractors. They are also charged with managing finances\, preparing financial statements and budgets. \nThe management firm serves as an advisor and communicator with the board of directors\, unit owners and staff. Managers also deal in human relations in charge of hiring and firing staff.\nPeter said that the requirements are set out in the Condominium Act Ontario of 1998 which came into effect in 2001 and was updated in 2017. Among the stipulations set out in the act is the requirement for condos to maintain a reserve fund which must be updated on a regular basis. Condo managers must be licensed if they are paid. The act also requires people joining a board of directors to take an on-line training course. \nPeter said that sometimes people try to compare their monthly fees but pointed out different condo corporations provide very different services for those fees. He said the standard condo corporation is what most people are familiar with but ex-plained that a Vacant Land Condo\, most often used in townhouse developments\, covers only the outside grounds and not individual units. A common elements condo covers only things such as a common club house or park equipment.\nPeter pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic has created extra challenges for managers and condos. Buildings have been faced with higher costs for sanitation\, repair costs and lack of availability of contractors and building materials. The pandemic has also meant that meetings have had to be held via Zoom rather than in person. Some amenities have been closed down. \nPeter said managers and condo boards commonly refer to the three P’s that they must deal with – pets\, people\, and parking. \nInsurance rates have become a major financial problem for condo managers. Peter said that many insurance companies are no longer interested in covering condos and those that do have raised their rates on aver-age by 30% or more. He advised con-do unit owners to check their own coverage because in some cases they can be held responsible for the amount of deductible on the overall coverage. \nDespite the problems\, the number of condominiums in Niagara continues a fairly rapid growth as developers from the Toronto area are drawn here.\nPeter also talked about Life Lease agreements. He said these projects are often started by clubs or church groups. He said that under a Life Lease\, you have no deed but purchase a unit for a designated time limit and\, in most cases\, for a pre-determined amount at time of sale while also paying condo fees. \nDuncan McLaren thanked Peter for his presentation and said that the number of questions reflected the interest in his talk. Duncan will forward a gift certificate to Peter in appreciation of his talk. \nClick here to read the full presentation (PDF)
URL:https://probusstcatharines.com/event/peter-greco-canon-greco-management-limited/
LOCATION:Lions Hall\, 732 Niagara Street\, St. Catharines\, Ontario\, L2M 7W7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:2021 Past Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://probusstcatharines.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Peter-Greco-e1633270334857.jpeg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR