NewsNow E-Edition May 16 2024

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Grimsby/Lincoln councils reject WLMH name change

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

After a survey of its residents provided definitive opinion both Grimsby and Lincoln councils voted to reject the notion of a West Lincoln Memorial Hospital name change.

In a process which surprised many, Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton submitted a letter to Hamilton Health Sciences in late January which requested the WLMH name be changed to West Niagara Memorial Hospital when the doors on the rebuilt facility swing open.

Bloomin’ good fun!

Angela Calixta sets aside a flat of flowers chosen by a customers at Lincoln

plant sale held Saturday morning. Doug Stones, back

readies to prepare another order to go out. Lindemann - Photo

Grimsby Downtown BIA

By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow

After initially rejecting the idea, Grimsby Downtown Business Improvement Area’s board of directors has set May 29 for an Annual General Meeting to consider major changes to its financial administrative structure.

Grimsby council deferred the

proposal due to a lengthy series of components missing from the board’s plan. As well, council confirmed last week none of the measures the BIA seeks to implement should be executed until after approval is obtained from its general membership.

“I do believe, that whatever happens, it needs to first go to an AGM

The letter stated Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jordan, West Lincoln Mayor Cheryl Ganann and Reg. Chair Jim Bradley all supported the idea. While the proposal was to be tabled at the February meeting of Hamilton Health Sciences’s board of di-

rectors, in the aftermath of the announcement - with no process for public input or council discussion in place - the matter was deferred.

The extension to HHS’s May board meeting allowed for a survey of the public, which resulted in definitive numbers to keep the WLMH name.

In Lincoln, during a special meeting of council last Wednesday, May 8, it was revealed 459 residents completed the survey with 82 per cent voting to keep the name while 18 per cent supported the proposed West Niagara Memorial name.

In Grimsby, it was more decisive with 1,687 votes coming in with 82.9 per cent voting to keep the name and 17.1 voting for the name change.

See WLMH, Page 8

sets May 29 for AGM

meeting of the DIA so that all the members at large have an opportunity to speak to it or vote on it,” said Coun. Reg Freake in summarizing the wishes of council at its May 6 meeting.

At its May 8 board meeting, the BIA nearly ignored the matter until Coun. Delight Davoli brought up council’s direction as the BIA meet-

ing was about to adjourn.

“I’ll call it new (business), but it didn’t get brought up during the financial transition update. At council, a resolution was passed. The first item on there was they wanted the DIA to hold, I think the wording was AGM, but a special meeting,” said Davoli.

Garden Club’s annual

left, looks on while Gerrard Schauwenaar

BIA

From Page 1

“So, I do believe this board needs to talk about that.”

Daniel Vandersteen, who co-authored the financial autonomy report that came to the board, agreed, noting he had inquired with the Town as he had issues with the terminology involved.

“A special meeting was intended because an AGM would not make sense in this context. There is a list of 11 excellent items. I believe all of them we intended to do anyways,” said Vandersteen, noting that obtaining approval from the membership was number one on the list.

He told the board he wanted to move

strategically to ensure the approval could get back to the earliest possible council meeting for consideration.

“The next council meeting that the clerk advised us to submit the minutes of that special meeting to is June 3, so I’d like to do it before June 3,” said Vandersteen.

“It’ll be a quick meeting. It will be on the agenda, about the initial report and the memorandum from council. Everybody attending the meeting will know exactly what we’re doing. We’ll hold the vote. I believe Jessica (Beaupre, Town of Grimsby’s committee coordinator designated to keep BIA meetings on track) will be qualified to proc-

tor that vote. Then we can decide whether or not we want to move forward with this as a membership.”

The meeting was set for 8 a.m. after it was pointed out some time was needed for proper process.

“I was thinking 8:30 a.m. instead of 9 a.m. and that gives business owners who open at 9 a.m. an opportunity to come. It will be a quick meeting,” said Vandersteen.

BIA past president Mike Williscraft asked Vandersteen if there would be any presentation of the autonomy proposal and an opportunity for members to ask questions.

“If you’re going to have this meeting for just a vote, why? Cor-

rect me if I’m wrong, but it’s sounding like you’re just having a vote not an actual meeting,” said Williscraft.

Vandersteen agreed that an overview of the proposal would be given and that the meeting time would be moved up to 8 a.m.

In terms of the financial autonomy plan, Davoli has repeatedly listed several news costs which have either been underestimated or not accounted for at all. For example, Grimsby CAO Sarah Kim confirmed there is about $12,000 in annual services the municipality currently provides which would become the BIA’s responsibility once ties are severed. The BIA’s total budget is $89,000.

WL expands Caistor school safety zone SPRING

Township of West Lincoln has extended the borders and reduced the speed limit of the school zone on Caistor Centre Road, to improve safety for students, families and teachers traveling to and from school.

The school zone of 50 km/h is now in effect beginning and ending 150 m on either side of the Caistor Central Public School property limits, at 1794 Caistor Centre Road. Anyone found to be speeding in

a School Zone will face increased fines. The Township reviewed the posted speed and school zone on Caistor Centre Road, between Concession Road 5 and Reg. Rd. 65 (Silver Street), in collaboration with Niagara Region, earlier this year. Council approved staff’s recommendation of the new speed and extended school zone on March 25. New signs are now in place. Enforcement of the changes was effect once signage was in place.

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From Page 1

In Lincoln, despite the results, council voted 4-3 to reject the name change.

Coun. Tony Brunet, who brought out several key points of procedural issues over the last two months was absent from the meeting due to vacation. Coun. Mike Mikolic was also absent.

Mayor Easton, and Councillors Greg Reimer, Adam Russell and Dianne Rintjema voted to keep the WLMH name.

Councillors JD Pachereva, Anna Murre and Lynn Timmers voted to change the name.

During the meeting an historic overview of WLMH was provided as well as an explanation of the name change proposal process.

“HHS was not assessing the site name as part of their rebuild, but, rather, this came about when the three mayors and elected chair raised something and decided how the process would go if we were to look at a potential name change,” said Lincoln CAO Mike Kirkopoulos.

“They (the mayors) asked HHS to consider a new

16, 2024

name – to reflect, better, the region it serves.”

The lack of process was a big issue in February, something Kirkopoulos said could have been done differently.

“We received a little bit of of criticism I would say at the beginning in terms of the initial engagement; maybe that it was limited in scope, maybe that we didn’t put enough time towards that engagement, and I think, at that time, I could say we collectively apologize for that. We heard loud and clear following numerous media stories that more public engagement was desired. We did hear from a few residents who reached out as well that also sought more public engagement,” he said.

“This is why we implemented a survey across the three municipalities so that people could share their perspective and thoughts on that.”

Andrew Smith, chair of the WLMH Liaison Committee and the Take It To The Finish Fundraising Campaign Committee, said the community’s focus should be on the building itself.

“I think it’s important that the members of the community support the name that

we give the hospital. I think now is the time, if we are going to change the name, to do it and I truly think the name should be reflective of those who have been so instrumental in ensuring this hospital came to be,” said Smith.

“I don’t think in saying that we are walking away from the support of the community or from he homage that we should give the community that really made this hospital happen back in 1946 when it was a clubhouse at a golf course at the time.”

Timmers noted her concern that is the name was not changed now, a benefactor could come along and ante up the $20 million price tag to earn naming rights.

“I think it’s really important for residents who are tuning in tonight to hear that and have that understanding –that this is something that could happen in the future,” Timmers said.

Pachereva quoted Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, coming to the conclusion, “The naming of things is irrelevant,” before stating he supported the name change.

Reimer noted constituents who spoke to him are happy to have the new facil-

ity secured.

“In the past we have been data-driven decision makers. Something like this, there’s a lot of heart that comes into it. For myself, I’m amazed, and I don’t amaze very much, I’m amazed at the results because in the community in the last month-and-a-half I’ve had to engage people in this conversation and, overwhelmingly, the response is they are just happy to have a hospital,” Reimer said.

Mayor Easton wrapped up the debate outlining her long history with WLMH and health care in her career, as well her motivation behind initiating the process in the first place.

“I think that’s why I probably decided I should be a nurse. I became intimately familiar with what nurses did at that time,” said Easton of a two-month stay at WLMH as an 11-year-old stricken with rheumatic fever.

As far as suggesting the name change, it was al about leadership, she said.

“If anybody believes that we have overstepped, let there be no mistake, I may have written the letter but there were three mayors involved in this as three mayors, often, do many things.

We were providing leadership,” said Easton.

“Where did the message go. It went to the Foundation. They validated it and then, eventually, we knew it was going to go to HHS. We weren’t making a decision. We were providing leadership. Why? Because we knew that as a Region we had well exceeded the $20 million and so, we had the right to apply and have that name reflect the whole story.”

“It has been a bit of a road, but the intentions were always pure and they still are. I believe that tonight, really is the beginning of a celebration of what has been achieved and what this hospital is going to mean to us.”

At this point, HHS vicepresident of communications Aaron Levo said a report will to the board for a final decision.

“Any decision of this nature, changing of a facility (name), would be at the discretion of our board of directors. As a staff member in service of the board, we’d take a balanced view, an objective view of what’s transpired, summarizing as the CAO has done tonight what brought us to this point,” said Levo.

Grimsby council votes unanimously to reject WLMH renaming

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

Grimsby council’s decision on a proposed name change was as definitive as the 82.9 per cent of survey respondents who rejected the notion.

Council voted unanimously to have West Lincoln Memorial Hospital keep its name at a special meeting held last Thursday, May 9.

“I did receive 100 people or so expressing an opinion. I would say 99 per cent of

them were in favour of keeping the name the same,” said Coun. Veronica Charrois.

Coun. Nick DiFlavio was the only council member to speak in favour of a name change before voting against the idea.

“I don’t think the name is as important as the building,” said DiFlavio, who added that some residents “could be some confusion because WLMH is not in the municipality of West Lincoln.”

Noting the storied name

is part of the area’s history, Coun. Don Howe said the name is part of the community’s heart.

“For the people who have busted me eardrums, it’s important to them. So I will be supporting leaving it as West Lincoln Memorial Hospital,” Howe said.

Coun. Delight Davoli, who outlined her history on the WLMH and Foundation boards of directors, said she errs on the side of history.

“Truly, there is a history

there and I feel like I was a small part of it. I could probably live with either, but I will say there is a piece of my heart that will always be attached to West Lincoln Memorial Hospital.”

Coun. Reg Freake supported maintaining history.

“You can’t change history. The West Lincoln Memorial Hospital name has been written into every document, every history book, every news article, everything else you look at from

its inception. I don’t know why we’re making such a huge effort to try to come up with another name,” said Freake.

For Coun. Jennifer Korstanje, her vote to keep the WLMH name was easy.

“Our community has spoken loud and clear,” she said.

The vote to keep the name was 8-0 with Councillors Lianne Vardy and Jacob Baradziej also supporting. Mayor Jeff Jordan was absent.

Grimsby Community Safety Day delivers message with fun to all

Hundreds gathered at Grimsby’s Southward Park to experience Community Safety Day on Saturday.

Visitors tested all the “toys’ under careful watch of community First Responders, utility operators and educators of agriculture vehicles as well as a Zamboni.

All were on hand to nurture the curious on core elements of safety. Barbecue was lovingly provided by Grimsby Lions.

Story, Photos By

Tara Lindemann

the horn and steering control.

IceDogs mascot, Bones, delivered delight to fans of all ages, including mom Mackenzie Rezel and especially daughter Frankii.

(Left) Malik Ahmetovic, left, enjoys a game of peek-a-boo with cousins Mackenzie and Madison Daca beside Grimsby Auxiliary Marine Rescue Unit South Shore Search And Rescue’s vessel.

(Bottom left) Grimsby Lions Steve Ross and Sein Yous carefully monitor the BBQ.

(Bottom Right) Six month-old Cole Sander, and father, Michael, check in for some safety information.

Kingston Hildebrand practices his slap shot while Niagara IceDogs mascot, Bones, mixes it up with children in the background.

Siblings Layla, left, Daxin and Zaiden Haggerty focused on laying on

TOWN OF GRIMSBY PLANNING DEPARTMENT

Notice of Public Meeting

File Number: 26OP-16-2202

An application has been reactivated for an Official Plan Amendment for the lands known as 502 Winston Road (known municipally as 321 Hunter Road). A complete application for an Amendment to Grimsby’s Official Plan was deemed complete on July 12, 2022. Processing of the application was put on hold in 2022.

The proposal considers the re-designation the subject property from Specialty Crop Area – Tender Fruit and Grape Lands to Rural Area.

The purpose and effect of the proposed Official Plan amendment is to re-designate the subject property from Specialty Crop Area – Tender Fruit and Grape Lands to Rural Area in the Town’s Official Plan.

Please note that a Regional Official Plan Amendment application is ongoing concurrently to this Official Plan Amendment application.

A public meeting for this application will be scheduled as follows:

Date: Wednesday, June 5, 2024

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Location: Town Hall (160 Livingston Avenue) and via Zoom

The meeting can be attended in-person or via Zoom. If you wish to appear as a delegation at the meeting via Zoom, please register with planning@grimsby.ca. Note only those individuals that register will be given the Zoom link.

If you do not wish to speak, our meetings will be livestreamed at https://www.grimsby.ca/livestream/.

Additional information regarding the applications, including information about appeal rights, is available on the Town’s website at www.grimsby.ca/currentplanningapplications, at Town Hall during normal business hours (8:30 to 4:30), or you may contact:

Town of Grimsby, Planning Department

P.O Box 159, 160 Livingston Avenue, Grimsby, Ontario L3M 4G3

Telephone: (905) 945-9634, Fax: (905) 945-5010

Email: planning@grimsby.ca

An information report regarding this application will be available at Town Hall and on the Town’s website at www.grimsby.ca by 3:30 pm on Friday before meeting date. Following a staff review of this application, a staff recommendation report will be presented at a subsequent meeting of the Planning & Development Committee.

Fundraising for 4 Paws

(Left) Kellee Hulton shows off a fundraising T-Shirt she created to help calico kitten, Reese, at 4 Paws Rescue’s Craft Fair hosted at Beamsville Legion on Saturday.

(Right) Garry Scott, cat whisperer and foster parent, carefully watched an injured kitten. Lindemann - Photos Federal

Income

Canada

WL mayor’s lunch at Gizio May 31

West Lincoln Mayor Cheryl Ganann will play host to her second Mayor’s Luncheon presented by the West Lincoln Chamber of Commerce on Friday, May 31.

The event will be held at Gizio Recreation and Banquet Hall at

288 Kemp Rd. W. in Grimsby.

The event will run from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Tickets are available at: westlincolnchamber.com

The cost is $40 for Chamber members and $45 for nonmembers.

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Flashing 40km limit signs can stay at speed camera locations: MTO

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

A major thorn in the side of many residents regarding Niagara Region’s move to install speed cameras in various locations around the region to improve child safety in school zones has been signageboth lack of and removal of same.

For example, as the cameras went in on Victoria Avenue in Vineland, the “40 km Speed Limit When Flashing” sign came out.

Inquiries to Niagara Region, Niagara Regional Police and elected officials resulted in a series of reasons but according to the Ministry of Transportation the signs can

remain in speed camera locations.

“Thank you for reaching out regarding the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) policy on the operation of “speed reduced when flashing” signs in conjunction with automatic speed enforcement systems,” said Inder Singh of Minister of Transportation Prabmeet Sarkaria’s office.

“The MTO does not prohibit the use of these signs, nor has it instructed municipalities to discontinue their use. As this matter falls within the jurisdiction of individual municipalities, any questions about the decision to remove these signs should be directed to them.”

Notice of Annual General Meeting: Grimsby Downtown Business Improvement Area (BIA)

The Board of the Grimsby Downtown BIA invites all business and property owners to attend our Annual General Meeting (AGM). This meeting is also open to the general public.

Date: Wednesday, May 29, 2024

Time: 8:00 AM

Location: Teddy’s Sports Bar, 30 Main St W, Grimsby, ON L3M 1R4

Meeting Highlights:

• Presentation: Gain insights into key financial transitions for the upcoming year.

• Voting Opportunity: Engage in important decision-making that will impact the BIA’s direction.

We value your input and look forward to your participation in shaping the future of our community.

For additional information and the formal agenda, please visit www.grimsbydowntown.com or reach out to us at info@grimsbydowntown.com

ROADS

The Study

Notice of Public Information Centre Terms of Reference

Niagara Escarpment Crossing Comprehensive Environmental Assessment

Town of Grimsby, Town of Lincoln, Township of West Lincoln

In Spring 2023, Niagara Region initiated an Individual Environmental Assessment Study (now known as “Comprehensive Environmental Assessment”) to provide a north-south transportation corridor crossing of the Niagara Escarpment between the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) and Regional Road 20.

The Study Process

The Study will be carried out in accordance with the Environmental Assessment Act as a Comprehensive Environmental Assessment. A Comprehensive Environmental Assessment is a two-step approval process with the first step being the preparation of a Terms of Reference. The Terms of Reference sets the work plan for the planning and decisionmaking process during the preparation of the Environmental Assessment. A Terms of Reference is submitted to the Ontario Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (Minister) for approval. If approved, then the Environmental Assessment is to be completed in accordance with the approved Terms of Reference.

You are Invited to Participate

An in-person Public Information Centre is being held to present the draft Terms of Reference.

Date: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 Time: 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Location: West Niagara Fairgrounds7402 Mud St. W. Grassie, Ontario, L0R 1M0 Format: Presentation starting at 6 p.m. followed by a question and answer session.

On May 30, 2024 the presentation materials and the complete draft Terms of Reference will be posted to the Region’s website at: niagararegion.ca/projects/ niagara-escarpment-crossing. Provide any comments by July 12, 2024. All comments will be considered as part of finalizing the proposed Terms of Reference for submission to the Minister.

or scan the QR code

Stay Connected

For questions about the study or to join the contact list, please contact:

Maged Elmadhoon, M.Eng., P.Eng. Manager, Transportation Planning Transportation Services Division Public Works, Niagara Region 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Thorold, ON 905-980-6000 ext. 3583

escarpmentcrossingIEA@niagararegion.ca

Katherine Jim, M.Eng., P.Eng. Senior Project Manager Transportation CIMA+ 400–3027 Harvester Road, Burlington, ON 289-288-0287 ext. 6835

Personal information collected or submitted in writing at public meetings will be collected, used, and disclosed by members of Regional Council and Regional staff in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Town of Grimsby

The written submissions including names, contact information and reports of the public meeting will be made available. Questions should be referred to the Privacy Office at 905-980-6000, ext. 3779 or FOI@niagararegion.ca

If you require any accommodations for a disability to attend and participate in meetings or events, please let us know in advance so that arrangements can be made in a timely manner. Please contact the Accessibility Advisory Coordinator at 905-980-6000 ext. 3252 or accessibility@niagararegion.ca

This notice was first issued during the week of May 13, 2024.

THANKS TO OUR NIAGARA POLICE FORCE

Police Week promotes community bonds

The theme for Police Week 2024 is “Join Policing: Keep Ontario Safe” highlighting policing as a career and public service.

Police week this

year takes place from Sunday, May 12 through Saturday, May 18, 2024. Starting in 1970, Ontario police services have proudly shared Police Week with our communities.

Police week provides us with an opportunity to promote the bonds between police officers and Police

NIAGARA POLICE FORCE

Inquiring minds

Sgt. Matt King, left, and Cst. Corey Easby dropped by The Jacob in Beamsville had an opportunity for some community outreach when a resident wanted to learn more about policing. “Our officers stopped by and she was able to sit in the cruiser and talk about policing,” said medior officer, Const. Phil Gavin.

CHIEF

From Page 16 personnel and the people we serve.

I am proud to be the Chief of the Niagara Regional Police Service and I would like to thank our sworn and civilian members for their commitment to our community and the extraordinary work they do every day.”

Phone | 1-877-270-3938

Email | info@npei.ca Website | www.npei.ca

| NPEIHydro Twitter | NPEIHydro

As the spring season arrives, many homeowners are realizing the consequences of harsh Niagara winters on their driveways. In a manner consistent with past oc-

currences, an unidentified male with a distinct accent approached a residence uninvited, offering a quote for driveway repair. Subsequently, the homeowner indicated a desire to discuss the quote with family members before arriving at a final decision. A short time later the suspect returned with construction equipment and began to tear up the existing driveway. After tearing up half the driveway, the male suspect explained the construction crew would be

leaving for lunch and return in an hour. The construction crew did not return, and the homeowner called police to report the incident.

Approximately one week later the construction crew returned and paved the driveway. The receipt showed that the homeowner received four inches of asphalt and six inches of gravel, however, generally the amount of asphalt or gravel used is completely reduced or not used at all.

Attempts to reach

the suspect by phone were unsuccessful and the voicemail inbox was full. An internet query of the company website showed that the company existed, however, there was no listed owner.

Some tips:

• Get recommendations from people you trust.

• Prior to initiating work ensure the contractor is insured.

• Get multiple written estimates.

• If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is.

• Check references of past jobs.

• AVOID CASH DEALS

THANKS TO OUR NIAGARA POLICE FORCE

Police Week May 14-20

Truck inspections continue safety efforts

Last week, a commercial vehicle inspection stop focused on stopping vehicles travelling on known bypass routes, avoiding the Vineland MTO Inspection Station - meeting with considerable success.

“This year, we are increasing our efforts with additional blitzes in partnership with the MTO aimed at reducing local truck traffic volumes while prioritizing road safety,” said Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton.

During these MTO blitzes, officials diligently identify commercial vehicles intentionally bypassing the Vineland Inspection Station on the QEW. They conduct thorough vehicle inspections to ensure compliance with Ontario’s legislated road safety standards.

Lincoln’s safety blitzes are a direct outcome of council’s determination to divert commercial vehicle traffic away from the Town’s downtown areas, and onto regional

and municipal roads better suited for larger trucks. This redirection is done while maintaining the smooth flow of goods to support local businesses and the overall economy.

The statistics from the recent initiative include:

• 20 passenger and commercial vehicles were re-directed to the Vineland Inspection Station

• 25 vehicles were comprehensively inspected

•Eight vehicles were removed from the highway after significant safety concerns were identified

• 16 Provincial Offence Notices (tickets) were issued for various offences including: failing to conduct daily inspection reports, failing to ensure daily inspection reports are conducted properly, insecure commercial motor vehicle load, and failing to meet commercial motor vehicle performance standards.

KELLY, Peter

It is with great love and profound sadness the family of Peter Kelly shares the news of his passing on May 9, 2024, peacefully at home at the age of 88 after a cancer diagnosis one week before his death. Peter is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Lucy (McGuire), and his children Simon and Sara (Heath) of BC. Beloved Papa to Scarlet, Margaux, and Ivy of Hamilton ON; and Mimi, Lennox, and Bowen of Nelson BC. Predeceased by his mother and father George and Jean Kelly, and brother George Kelly (Winnie) of Glasgow, Scotland. Peter will also be missed by his sister-in-law Patricia McGuire of Grimsby, daughter-in-law Barbara Williams (Kent) of Hamilton, his large extended family in Scotland, and the many friends and colleagues he has made over the years. Peter was born in Glasgow Scotland April 22, 1936 and graduated with a degree from Strathclyde University in electrical engineering. Peter and Lucy were married in Glasgow on February 6, 1961, moved to Canada in 1965, and renewed their vows at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Grimsby in 2005. Peter worked for Honeywell for over 20 years in commercial sales of industrial control systems in the Torontoamilton area. Peter was a member and served as president of both the evening and lunchtime Rotary Clubs of Grimsby and enjoyed serving the community. He loved a good joke, a good curry, and his warm Guinness, but his biggest love-aside from Lucy- was his Cairn Terrier Maisie, who faithfully laid at his bedside for the last week of his life and will miss him terribly. Cremation has taken place. A memorial gathering will be held at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, Grimsby (905-945-2755) on Friday, May 17, 2024, from 3-6 p.m. Interment to be held at Queen’s Lawn Cemetery at a future date. www.smithsfh.com

WORONCHANKA, Michael November 4, 1942 – May 4, 2024

After a life well lived, filled with the joy of family, friends, and laughter, Mike passed at Albright Manor.

Left to cherish his memories: wife Vera, sons Mark (Erin) and Chris (Lesley), daughter by choice Jen Reeve, grandchildren Sierra, Lyla and Grayson.

Mike met Vera at the church youth group. They clicked immediately but he dropped her like a hot potato when he learned she was 15. They began dating again 2 years later and married on May 20th 1967. They celebrated almost 57 years together. Fatherhood was something he waited for with anticipation. Mark joined them Thanksgiving weekend 1974 and Chris was welcomed Labour Day 1977. Many years later their hearts were overjoyed to welcome the addition of grandchildren Sierra, Lyla and Grayson. His regret was that Parkinson’s kept him from being involved with his grandchildren the way he had been with Mark and Chris.

His sense of humor and easy laugh served him well and helped him overcome many life obstacles. The friendships that were cemented during those early years continued into old age. This same group of teenaged friends remained loyal to each other until death parted them.

His volunteering included: Supporting his sons extra curricular activities. Baloo at Scouts and Beavers Knights of Columbus – Knight of the Year Good Shepherd – Volunteer of the Year Grimsby Benevolent in its early years at South Service Rd location Annual Father and children camping weekend at Bing Conservation –Mark was 2 when Mike decided to invite 2 other dads the 1st year, then every year the group grew. A highlight was evening walks listening for the giant woodsman.

We are fortunate to live with a trove of happy memories. Rest in peace and love, Michael.

Thank you to Dr Bender and the numerous compassionate staff who supported both of us. Special thanks to Brandy, Karen, Verna (for her laugh) – you were there day 1 and at the end. Thank you to resident friends Bob Krouse, Carol and Anella.

Thank YOU, John Smees, for your weekly visits (very few misses) and they continued for YEARS – you started at Elgin St and followed Mike to Albright and promised that you were “there for the long haul”. And for your caring and supportive words whenever life threw a curve ball. You are an amazing and dedicated and devoted person and we were so very fortunate that Rose Cottage paired you with Mike. You are a very dear friend.

Mike loved bright, happy colours and passionately hated mums and funeral homes – reminded him of entering the funeral home when he was 6 and seeing his mommy in a coffin and the overwhelming aroma of mums.

Funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, May 18 at 11am at St. Joseph Church, 135 Livingston Ave, Grimsby. Celebration of Life will be Sunday May 19 from 1 pm – 4 pm at Casablanca Inn - Panorama Room, 4 Windward Dr Grimsby (cash bar).

Donations to your favorite charity or Parkinson’s Canada.

APT. FOR RENT

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CELEBRATE RECOVERY

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Wednesdays at 7 pm. Forestview Community Church, 132 Lake St, Grimsby. For info. or help, CR@forestviewcommunitychurch.ca 905-945-9529

SUPPORT CARE

For everyone but specializing in elderly, handicap, or frail. Many different services including local rides with assistance. 30 years working in the community, with many references. Call Heather after 5:30pm. Serving Grimsby and Lincoln only. 289235-9926

JACkie’S Senior CAre Offering care for Senior’s in their own home. Call 226938-1457 for details.

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JUNK REMOVAL

rubbiSh & Junk removAl. Call Ken 905973-3235

LAS VEGAS DINNER SHOW

OBITUARIES IN MEMORIUM

MURPHY, Paul James

August 24, 1937May 8, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Paul Murphy announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Husband, father, Papa, brother, and friend to many on May 8, 2024, in his 87th year. He leaves behind his loving wife of 63 years, Linda (nee Hillinger). Loving father to the late Donna (Brian) Zaruk, Michael and Kevin (Linda) Murphy, brother to Carol (Art) Currie. Cherished Papa to grandchildren Matthew (Chelsea Marr), Allison (Gavin Lutz) and Daniel (Olivia Peters) Zaruk, Justin (Theresa Merwin) Murphy and Stephanie (Rocco) Milana. Great grandfather to Rayna Murphy and Luca Milana. Born in Montreal in 1937, he studied at Loyola. Paul enjoyed a long career in sales, initially with Texaco Canada Limited, then 30 years with Dofasco in Hamilton, followed by his own business for 20 years. Grimsby has been the family home since 1965 and he was very involved throughout the community. He received the Paul Harris Fellowship through the Rotary International. Paul loved living near the water and sailing on his boat, Whisper. He and Linda were fortunate to be able to travel extensively and had many great adventures with friends and family. He particularly enjoyed special time with the grandchildren. Many thanks to all of the medical staff that have taken such wonderful care of Paul over the past few years, especially to Dr. Graeme Fraser and his team at the Juravinski Cancer Centre. Donations may be made to Juravinski Cancer Centre Foundation c/o Hamilton Health Sciences or McNally House Hospice. Cremation has taken place. Visitation at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755) on Saturday, May 25, 2024 from 2-5 p.m. www.smithsfh.com

Like a shadow in the moonlight

Like the echos of a melody Just beyond our reach In the shadow of our sorrow

Past the Whisper of goodbye Love shines through eternity A heartbeat from our eye.

Frank van Buuren 56

August 31, 1962 - May 22, 2018

Beloved Frank*

Father, brother, friend, son, husband, father-in-law, neighbor. A beautiful and remarkable human being.

We miss you with all of our hearts. Until we meet again.

Daniel, Christinus, Tina and family.

cameronsherman796@gmail.com

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In Memory of John Blazenko

May 1st, 1933 – May 17th, 2019

You constructed landscape into beautiful gardens for planting in the backyard over the decades.

You designed, built and maintained safe playgrounds also for every one of us to enjoy over the years.

We still love to walk around and view them today to help enhance blissful serenity in each of our lives.

They’re just as beautiful today as they were when you first created them, but your absence is a big hole that will never be filled!

You’re missed more each day!

Rest In Peace!

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* Weeding * Pruning * Tree Trimming * Shrub Removal * Edging * Mulching * Free Quotes * Insured *Patio Stone Weed removal and makeover. Call Chris 289407-2325. Based in Grimsby.

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Grimsby date: May 25

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Two proposals that should be dead and gone

The Grimsby Downtown Business Improvement Area board has set an Annual General Meeting for May 29. That’s the good news.

The bad news is going to come for BIA members if (when) the board’s proposed financial autonomy plan passes at that meeting.

There are a lot of ins and outs to it. Bad process. Misinformation. Grossly underestimated financial impact.

point driven home by WLMH liaison committee chair Andrew Smith at the Lincoln council special meeting last Wednesday.

Far and away, that is number one for all - we’re just happy to see WLMH’s heart continuing to beat.

That’s a wrap!

With the presentation of Giant Tiger gift certificates –to Owen Griffiths, left, $50 for his third place finish; and Ric Varga, right, $250 for his second place finish, NewsNow’s Hat Trick Hockey wraps up for another year. Grimsby GT owner Andy Daniels made the presentation. Be sure to watch this Fall of 2024-2025 entry forms.

When you think Peach Kings, think Paul Murphy

As you will see elsewhere in this publication, Paul Murphy died this week. Many knew Paul, few new all the things he was involved in over the years, because he was very low key about his efforts and accomplishments.

A couple of major items close to his heart were the Grimsby Peach Kings Jr. C club and Peach King Arena itself. In the early 1980s, the hockey team was on the ropes and in danger of folding. Paul was part of the group the raised funds to keep the organization going. Then he was part of the building fundraising committee for the new Peach King Centre. He worked to raise funds for a host of causes both personally as a member of Grimsby Rotary Club. He had his thumb in a lot of pies, but you’d never know it. Rest well, my friend. M.W.

But let’s just boil it down to two things.

At Grimsby council last week, it was noted by a BIA delegation that the plan has been set in motion with an eye to keeping costs in line.

When this goes down, think of these numbers:

• The BIA’s budget is $89,000;

• It has been estimated annual administrative/accounting costs to get it set up will be $5,000-$8,000, and;

• It was confirmed this week, after the separation from the Town is in place, the BIA will be on the hook for about $12,000 per year for services which had previously been carried out by the Town at NO cost to the BIA.

So even if you take the low end of the financial impact scale at $5,000 - that’s $17,000 each year the DIA will start spending that it never had to spend before.

That’s just over a 19 per cent cost increase on the budget.

Because of that, it does not matter what ANY possible benefits may be, there is no way this financial autonomy plan could be con-

sidered worth it. I wanted to point this out to the board at its last two meetings. In April there was erroneously no discussion permitted.

Last week, the AGM was an afterthought, not put on the agenda, and brought up as people packed up right before adjourning the proceedings. No chance to speak to it. Let’s see how the AGM goes. •

Anybody who was paying attention could not have been surprised by the results of the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital proposed name change survey which was conducted over the last couple of weeks.

The numbers were typical of what started flowing into our office immediately after the proposed name change to West Niagara Memorial Hospital was made public in late January.

Aside from having next to zero interest in seeing a name change, the other constant mentioned throughout was the general appreciation for the facility simply continuing to exist - a

In Lincoln, there was some level of attempt to discredit the validity of the survey by saying the sample size was not sufficient to be considered scientifically valid.

That is true and not true, but such is the way with statistics.

Lincoln’s response was 1.8 per cent of its population. Grimsby’s was just under 5 per cent.

When I was president of the Canadian Community Newspaper Association, we used Leger’s polling service several times. We were told two per cent was the low end of the scale for a survey to be considered valid.

If you combine Grimsby and Lincoln’s numbers for the same survey, you clear the two per cent considerably and the results were consistent, so disregarding the stats is a lost leader.

Now, West Lincoln still has to weigh in and their meeting is set for next Tuesday, May 21. Although not official, it was mentioned at the other council meetings the results are also consistent with Grimsby’s and Lincoln’s. For all intents and purposes, this matter should be considered dead and gone as Hamilton Health Sciences said local council’s say would be definitive.

MIKE WILLISCRAFT

Speed traps a child safety ruse: reader

Dear Editor,

Were the speed cameras really installed for child safety?

I have been trying to get information from my local Niagara regional representative about how many fatalities or injuries there have been in the school safety zones since the flashing lights were installed, which I believe was 2019.

To date. I have not been presented with this information. I am

told the region doesn’t collect it.

Wouldn’t the first question a regional councillor would ask when a report is presented to them to install the speed cameras in school zones to make it safer for children, be how many fatalities or injuries there have been with the current system in place?

I believe every child’s

life is precious, just prove to me the system we had before the cameras wasn’t working.

With the information that has been provided to me so far these cameras were installed to fill the coffers of the region and towns, since the fines are split between both.

I would challenge any regional counsellor to present the number of fatalities or injuries that have occurred while

the flashing lights were on in a school zone.

Feel free to post them via a Letter to the Editor in this paper.

If we have regional councillors who only sit there and rubber stamp whatever the staff puts before them, then what purpose do they have other than to cost us taxpayers money.

Hopefully Doug Ford disbands this group of bandits.

Dale Colyn, Lincoln

Council votes death knell for name change

Dear Editor,

It’s good to see cooler heads will prevail on the West Lincoln Memorial renaming debacle, just as it was good to see Mayor (Sandra) Easton vote against the notion after seeing the ma jor public opinion opposing it.

should not have just been shrugged off.

Usually, local politicians are not so tone deaf as to misread a situation as much was done

Every single resident is overjoyed to see the rebuild being executed. Many of them participated mightily to make it so. It is completely unfair to characterize a resident agreeing that the rebuild itself is of far importance than the name on the building as an appropriate reason to change a name that didn’t need changing. The proposed name change

It is good to see the matter is dead in the water after Lincoln and Grimsby council’s votes last week.

I suspect West Lincoln will follow when they have their meeting next week and we can all get excited about the grand opening.

William Smart, Beamsville

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