> HHS CEO Rob MacIsaac weighs in with an opinion piece /Pg 13 > Grimsby to replace west ice pad Pg 5 > Jr. Peach Kings bring home silver Pg 7 > Winter Home Improvement tips Pgs 10-11 Thursday, January 24, 2019 Vol. 8 Issue 38
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Lincoln votes in Grimsby opts out Cannabis retail decisions polar opposite results By Mike Williscraft NewsNow When the smoke cleared Monday night, Grimsby council had opted out and Lincoln council had opted into to having potential cannabis retail stores within their municipalities. The Province had given municipalities until Tuesday, Jan. 22, to decide. West Lincoln council voted to opt out in December. Both decisions were decisive, in opposite directions with Grimsby voting 8-1 and Lincoln voting 7-2. Comments around the Grimsby council table were virtually all negative. Coun. Reg Freake cited a host of crime statistics which has skyrocketed in Denver, Colo. after cannabis was legalized there. Coun. Dave Sharpe outlined his skepticism regarding potential revenues from an excise tax program outlined as part of the incentive to have municipalities opt in. “I was trying to express tonight with all those numbers that 25 licensed cannabis stores
would have to sell massive amounts of cannabis to reach the $100 million in excise tax and we don’t even get any money until they surpass that amount. Even if 100-200 stores were licensed, each store would still have to move quite a lot of product to bring in $100 million in excise tax for the Province, never mind surpass it,” said Sharpe after the meeting. “I think it might be more realistic with 400-500 licensed retail stores or more, and I will not be surprised if every municipality that opts-in will get a retail license within a much shorter period than expected.” Coun. Randy Vaine, the lone vote in favour, said council was being “short-sighted” in its decision, noting society will look back in a few years wondering what all the fuss was - on top of missing out on government funding. While Grimsby’s discussion was part of a regular council agenda, Lincoln held a special council meeting to make its decision. While Lincoln voted in See RETAIL, Page 3
Festive affair
Smithville Legion hosted a ribbon cutting last week to celebrate accessibility upgrades at the facility. On hand were, Front (L to R) David Bingham, Ontario Trillium Foundation; Sam Oosterhoff MPP Niagara West; Kathey Putman, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 393 President; and Dave Bylsma, Mayor of West Lincoln. Back, Jim Wilcox, Chris Kivell, Gillian Han, 2nd vice-president, Kathy Wetselaar, Coun. Doug Newton and Ken Hunter. See Page 9 for full details. McDonald - Photo
Biodigester research continues By Mike Williscraft NewsNow Anyone looking to the recently installed Grimsby Energy board for immediate answers and quick decisions regarding the Sobie Road biodigester is looking in the wrong direction. While last week’s special council meeting sustained bombshell after bombshell regarding the now-$15-millionin-debt biodigester, work is ongoing to prepare for the next report, which is expected at February’s Finance and Administration Committee meeting. Delight Davoli, who made last
week’s presentation to council as the recently appointed chair of Grimsby Energy, which oversees the biodigester operation, said work is slow, but purposeful. With no minutes found for any GEI meetings pre-2017 and next to no minutes at all for any meetings of Grimsby Hydro, which was responsible for Niagara Regional Broadband Network (NRBN), getting to the financial bottom of the organization has been more than challenging. “We have very, very little to go on. We’re working on it but
we have a weak or non-existent paper trail,” said Davoli. NRBN was sold in 2016 for $9 million with the net proceeds from that sale eventually being spent to prop up the biodigester as spending continued to skyrocket far beyond the initial $3.5 million budget. The project, which has had many problems over many years will still take another $100,000 per month it continues to operate until an ultimate direction is decided upon by the new GEI board and town council, which is the shareholder See SEARCH, Page 3
Page 2 • News Now • Thursday, January 24, 2019
Valentine’s Day approaches, so enter the...
Why do you Y West Lincoln Memorial Hospital?? Poster Contest Adults know how important West Lincoln Memorial is to our community and its families, but let’s hear from our youth! Please submit a poster-style entry on 8.5 X 11 or 11 X 17 paper and let’s see how creative you can be!! This contest is open to all Niagara West students high-school-aged & younger. You can enter individually, or whole school classes are welcome to submit posters!! Entries can be mainly drawings with captions or a poem with accompanying art. Think Visual. Think Expression. Think Creative. The winning poster will be printed in a future edition of NewsNow As well, the winner will receive a Teddy’s gift certificate & a pizza party for their class at school. Runners Up will also receive a prize (TBD). Submit entries to NewsNow’s office 1 Mountain St., Grimsby By Noon on Friday, Feb. 8, 2019 The winner and top entrants will be announced in the Feb. 14 edition of NewsNow. This contest sponsored by:
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RETAIL
From Page 1 favour of allowing retail outlets, the approval came with a request to the Province for greater regulatory control and input for location of stores, advertising and signage, hours of operation, restrict or prohibit operations
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News Now • Thursday, January 24, 2019 • Page 3 violating local by-laws, and number of stores within Lincoln. Only communities with a population over 50,000 were eligible for a lottery for an initial 25 cannabis retail locations. It is not known when additional licenses will be available.
From Page 1 of the hydro operation. The current debt is comprised of $7 million to GHI, $4.5 million for a bank loan on which the Town has to sign on as a guarantor, $2.4 million to another of Grimsby’s hydro companies Niagara Power with $2.4 million, another $600,000 in leases and overdue accounts to suppliers. The initial drivers behind the project were former Mayor Bob Bentley, James Detenbeck, Joe Panetta and Shaffee Bacchus. The board GEI ran the operation – up to Dec. 3 when council put through wholesale changes with Bacchus, Sean Straughan,
By opting in, Lincoln will receive approximately $12,000 in funding from the Province to assist with implementation costs of cannabis legalization. “Cannabis is legal for recreational use and sale in Canada,” stated Mayor Sandra Easton. “Council has opted in
Bentley, former Aldermen Carolyn Mullins and Steve Berry coming off the board – were formally replaced by Davoli, James Howden, Rob Hattin and Coun. Lianne Vardy. Panetta has also had other “hats” in the hydro operation including acting as procurement officer for the biodigester. “He is no longer a board member and, as of today, he is no longer our director of procurement,” said Davoli of Panetta. Davoli noted the board is working through Steps four and five of an eight-step process before taking any action. Steps four and five are developing ideas and assessing their validity.
as we continue building public policy that creates opportunity for prosperity in Lincoln. Council is committed to balancing these economic drivers with citizen concern and is working with the Province for more local control and regulation.”
“It could operate as is, but is it worth it? It could go bankrupt. Somewhere in the middle would be selling it, leasing it or handing it to a new operator,” said Davoli. We are trying to get our arms around what the costs are of the different options. We have asked council for support. If they choose not to, we’re immediately at that (shutdown) point on the continuum.” Davoli reiterated what she said at council last week in that any option chosen will take considerable additional funds even if decommissioning is chosen. Decommissioning can be as much as 50 per cent of the build cost it was estimated.
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Thank You for Your Contribution The Grimsby Legion would like to thank the people of Grimsby and area for their Poppy Campaign contributions. This year donations topped $30,000. We would also like to thank Grimsby businesses for their sales assistance and purchase of wreaths, and the Cadets and Scouts for Poppy tagging. Special thanks to the NRP Division B, the Region of Niagara Staff, Niagara EMS, Town of Grimsby staff, Grimsby Fire Dept., & 62nd Phantom Squadron Mass Band. Also, thanks to the many Legion volunteers for their contribution of time and effort.
focus on the interest rate, with no careful scrutiny of the mortgage contract terms and conditions. But, did you know that there are actually two interest rates attached to every mortgage contract? I refer to these two equally-important rates as “the rate going in”, and “the rate going out”. “The rate going in” is the rate that gets the most attention and discussion; “The rate going out” is the rate used to calculate the prepayment penalty, should you break the mortgage prior to its maturity date. Two interesting facts: - a “5-year fixed-term” mortgage is the term of choice for most homebuyers and existing homeowners; - 70% of “5-year fixed-term” mortgages are broken after 3 years & 7 months for unplanned life events such as divorce, job loss, and illness. Before you sign for what you think is a great 5-year fixed rate with your bank or credit union, ask what the “rate going out” is. And, make sure that you understand how this rate is used to calculate the penalty. Any perceived savings of a low-rate offer could possibly cost you much more in penalties, should your plans change before the 5-year term is completed. I offer you expert mortgage advice, term lengths from 6 months to 10 years, and unique mortgage solutions from over 20 mortgage providers, including the large banks and local credit unions. When you work with me, you are guaranteed that we will have the “rate going out” discussion! The best part - There is no cost to you for my service, as I am compensated by the lenders for bringing them your business. Talk to us. You’ll be impressed. Margo Wynhofen, B.A.Econ., CPMB Principal Broker Verico
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Page 4 • News Now • Thursday, January 24, 2019
Call For All Your Real Estate Needs! West Niagara service clubs, organizations and non-profit groups are welcome to submit meeting dates, fundraising information and invitations to the public in News Now’s Around Town feature. This service is provided free of charge and is done on a space availability basis.
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St. Helen Bingo – Jan 24th at 11 am at the Beamsville Legion jackpot is $200, Jan 25th at 7 pm at St. Helen’s Church jackpot is $2700. Also thousands of dollars in cash prizes every week. Admission is free. Hot food available. Info: 905562-7427. Cribbage, Bridge, Dominos, etc. Jan. 24th 1:45 pm – 3:30 pm. at Maplecrest 85 Main St. E, Grimsby. You bring the game & competitive spirit & zest for finding the fun in every day & we will supply the rest. Enjoy complementary snacks, refreshments & fellowship. RSVP your table of 4 by Jan. 18th and be entered in a draw for a $50 gift card. 905 9457044 Grimsby Seniors Speaker Series. Online security. What is it, How to Recognize & prevent it & What to do if it Happens To You! Jan 28 at 1:30 at the Livingston Activity Centre, 18 Livingston Ave., Grimsby, 905-309-2075. No charge. Info Grimsby Legion Br. 127 “Super Bowl Party” Feb 3rd - 3 pm to 10 pm. Large Screen TV, Food Specials, Door Prizes. Everyone Welcome! For info call 905 945 8421 Euchre Party Beamsville WI. Feb 4 at 7:30 at the Lincoln Centre. $3 charge. 1st & 2nd, door prizes. Refreshment provided. Performing Arts @ Mountainview presents An Evening of Praise with The Niagara Youth String Ensemble; Naomi Van Manen-Pisno; Katrina deRocheViolin & Andre Knevel-Organ. Feb 8th at 7:30 at Mountainview Church, 290 Main Street E. Grimsby. $15 each or 35 per family with children under 15. Available at Dutch shop or at the door. Proceeds to the Save & Rebuilt WLMH campaign. KIWANIS. Seeking creative minds & people with positive attitudes. The newly chartered Kiwanis Club of West Lincoln meets the 2nd & 4th Tuesdays at the Legion,
St. Catharines St. in Smithville at 7 pm. Next meeting is Tues. Feb 12 . Info contact Dave Willis (905) 9577577 danddwillis@gmail.com Grimsby Seniors Valentines Luncheon! Feb. 14th @ 12:00 noon in the Livingston Activity Centre. Food served by “The Best Little Menu” Entertainment. By “Good Time Music” Door Prizes! Register early. Special ticket price! Members $8.00. Non-Members $10.00. 18 Livingston Ave., Grimsby, 905-309-2075. Sandy Vine and the Midnights. Presented by McNally. House Rocking the Hospice for a retro Valentine’s dance party Sat. Feb. 16th, 2019 at 7 pm at Mountain Ridge Community Centre. 105 Mountain Rd. Grimsby. Tickets $35/person. Raffles, silent auction, late night buffet, cash bar. 905-309-4013 Tabby Press Photo Presentation. Jan. 18th from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Smithville Branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Local wildlife photographer Norrie Franko will be sharing her amazing photographs & stories of how she gets those perfectly posed polar & grizzly bear shots. Registration is required. Free. McNally House Book Discussion. Jan. 21st from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm at Smithville Branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Join us for a discussion of the book The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion & a meaningful conversations about death, dying, loss & grief. All events in the Death, Something to Talk About series are free and open to everyone, so come to one, or come to all! Registration is required. Free. Wellandport Book Club. Jan. 22nd from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Wellandport Branch of West Lincoln Public Library. All Welcome to Attend. The January book will by The Martian by Andy Weir. Free. The Soroptimist Club of Stoney
Creek - Niagara meets next in Stoney Creek on Monday Feb. 11th at 6:30 pm. We are a global volunteer network of women working to improve the lives of women & girls. For info. re: visiting call Marg. @ 905-628-3198 Thursday@10 Bus Trip. Thurs. March 28th to St-Jacob’s Country Playhouse Theatre. Play is Priscilla Queen of the Desert. Price us $70. Tickets on sale. Contact Ruth Feist 905-945-4428 S. Worden & R Covlin share The Gospel Message, told simply (non-denominational). Sundays 4-5 pm; Tuesdays 7:30–8:30 pm through Jan. & Feb. at the Livingston Activity Centre, 18 Livingston Ave. For info: 905-531-7961 JOIN our new WRITING GROUP in West Niagara. Call me if interested and we’ll go from there! Donna 905-321-8841. GROUPS & CLUBS Explore ALPHA. Interactive weekly sessions includes meal, short talk & open discussion on the Christian faith & life’s big questions. Sundays from 5:307:30 pm, begins Jan 20 with Intro night. No pressure, no follow up, no charge. Smithville Christian Reformed Church, 6522 Smithville Rd. Walk-ins welcome; registration is helpful: www.alphacanada.org or call 905-957-2116. LEGO at the Library. Mondays in Jan. from 3 pm to 5 pm at Smithville Branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Drop in show us what you can do! Free. Coffee, Cards and Conversation. Mondays in Jan. from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm at Wellandport Branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Drop in and meet new & old friends. Play card games or board games, visit, chat &choose a book or two. Free. Beamsville Women’s Institute (WI) meets at The Fleming Centre. 5020 Serena Drive, Beamsville, the third Tues. of every
month at 1:30, Sept.through June. Contact Barb 905 563-7274. Improve the quality of life for yourself, family & community. Discover your talents, hone your skills & develop your goals along with other women. Be involved! There’s a place for you. The Grimsby Seniors’ Choir meets every Tues. afternoon from 1 to 3 pm. at the Livingston Activity Centre, 18 Livingston Ave. If you are 55+& love to sing, please join us. For more info., please contact Sylvia at 905-309-2213 or grimsbyseniorchoir@gmail.com SIT TO BE FIT - Community Exercise for Seniors A FREE, low impact workout for seniors designed to promote health & fitness for those wishing to increase strength, balance, flexibility & endurance. Grimsby Public Library 18 Carnegie Ln, Grimsby Monday’s @ noon & Trinity United Church 100 Main St. West, Grimsby, Wednesday’s @ 10:30 am. For more info., please call 1 866-4281552. Please join us & bring your friends! One-on-one Tech Tutoring. Tuesdays between 10 am & 5 pm and Wednesdays between 12 pm and 4 pm at Wellandport branch of West Lincoln Public Library or 6 pm & 9 pm at Caistorville branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Book an appointment our patient & friendly staff tech expert, for one-on-one help with any of your technology challenges. Bring in your laptop, tablet, smartphone or e-reader, or use one of our public Internet stations. Free. Newcomers & Neighbours of Grimsby and area is a social club, providing social and cultural activities through which both new residents and long term residents can become acquainted with other community members. If you would like more information, contact us at grimsbynewcomers@gmail.com or go to our website – grimsbynewcomers.ca
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News Now • Thursday, January 24, 2019 • Page 5
Kinettes host babysitters Grimsby Kinettes are taking names for their 59th annual babysitting course, hosted at Grimsby Fire’s Station 2 hall on Mountain Street. The program starts March 21 and runs each Thursday evening through to and ending on April 28. “The course is open to all area children who are at least 11 years old by the start of the course. The cost is $25 per student,” said Kinette, Tracy Spalding. For more information please call Spalding at 905-945-9540 or email at: tj.normie@gmail.com.
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Another one of the surprises which met the new Grimsby council last fall was the need to replace the failing west ice pad at the Peach King Centre. At Monday’s council meeting, it was decided to include the $920,000 item in the 2019 capital budget with Finance and Administration committee chair, Coun. Reg Freake, noting funding may be used from the federal gas tax program. Various criteria must be met, but the project is 100 per cent eligible, confirmed Sarah Sweeney, Grimsby’s director of recreation, noting the community centre and west pad are 35 years old.
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Page 6 • News Now • Thursday, January 24, 2019
2nd Annual
Volunteer Pay Subscription Drive
Dear Reader,
Since opening our doors in May 2012 the staff here at NewsNow have done our utmost to serve the community to the absolute best of our abilities. This service takes many forms. We try to get every bit of important community information delivered to our readers’ doors. We ensure we publish a connected, vital and highly readable community newspaper which engages readers and, thereby, ensures our advertisers’ information is also read. This helps guarantee a vigorous, local business community will continue to serve our community in all the ways in which these retailers and service operators do. In short, we offer a 100 per cent local publication which is responsive to any needs of the community.
Based on the excellent feedback from last year’s inaugural volunteer pay subscription drive, we are launching Year 2! Is NewsNow’s independent, accurate voice in the community of value to you? Would you like to support NewsNow in its efforts? This is your opportunity.
If yes, we have set up an infrastructure to allow for a Volunteer Pay System Simply, this means, rain (or snow) or shine, you will always – each and every week – receive your copy of NewsNow. That will NOT change!!!! However, in consulting other publishers who currently operate volunteer pay systems in other communities, we came up with a plan to give readers a chance to support NewsNow, which offers an incentive for their efforts. We had many readers ask “Why so cheap?”, but we have left the suggested rates the same for Year 2:
Subscriptions: 3 Months - $10 suggested • One Year - $30 suggested We will back HST out of each payment to make things as simple as possible. You can pay by cheque (bring into the office or mail), credit card (call Catherine at 289-235-9500) or e-transfer (send to: subscriptions@wn3.ca - make security answer - newsnow ) For more information, please do not hesitate to call, email or drop in. All inquiries are welcome!! Thanks very much for your time and Happy New Year to all, Mike Williscraft Publisher
1 Mountain Street, Grimsby • 289-235-9500
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Jr Peach King members: Front, goalies Cole Piche and Sean Kirby. Second Row: Kam Weicker, Drew Campbell-Quick, Mathew DelleMonache, Elliot Jackson, Preston Lundrigan, Ethan Boychuk and Sam Bodden. Third Row: Vincent Bergshoeff, Joey Tzellos, Kurtis Given, Mitchell Reynolds, Garett Chisholm, Hayden Howard and Lucas Tasielli. Back: Armido DelleMonache, Neil Chisholm, Doug Reynolds, Doug Gaulton and Matt Weicker.
Jr. PKs earn Bell silver After being the only team to go through the round robin with an undefeated 5-0 record, the Grimsby Jr. Peach Kings took home silver from Oakville’s Richard Bell Memorial Tournament last month. After downing a tough host Oakville squad 3-1 in preliminary rounds, the Jr. Peach Kings dropped the final to them by the same score. “We’re very proud of their efforts. They’re a hardworking, committed group of nine-year-olds,” said coach Doug Chisholm. “They play for each other and their association and they battle hard.”
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News Now • Thursday, January 24, 2019 • Page 9
Smithville Legion
“Special place” gets Trillium facelift By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow Smithville’s beloved Legion Hall has received a financial lift from the Ontario Trillium Foundation to make much needed accessibility upgrades to the popular community space. Legion members and guests gathered Thursday at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 393 to cut the ribbon and celebrate the newly completed construction, the result of a $118,000 capital grant awarded by the OTF. “The Legion has a special place in the heart of our community,” said Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff, joining the grand opening of the renovations. “The Royal Canadian Legion plays a vital role for our veterans, their families, and for
our whole community,” Oosterhoff said, thanking the veterans and Legion members. “We need to thank you more often.” The major additions involved the installation of a chair lift, an interior ramp and railing into the main hall, an accessible washroom, new flooring and modifications to the main entrance. The hall is used by the Legion Branch for meetings and events, and by a number of local organizations involving people of all ages and abilities. “What a difference this has made,” said Dave Bingham, a volunteer with the OTF grant review team. Citing the “inevitable” fact they were all getting older and accessibility more im-
portant, Bingham said, “I am pleased to see it has come to fruition.” West Lincoln Mayor Dave Bylsma credited the “quality construction” done by father and son team John (Sr.) and John (Jr.) Verdonk of John Verdonk Construction. “It is exciting to be here today to take our beloved Legion and showcase what has been done with the help of the Ontario Trillium Foundation,” Bylsma said. The Royal Canadian Legion is Canada’s largest veteran support and community service organization, with 270,000 members across the country. The Legion is dedicated to supporting veterans and their families in need, honouring those who sacrificed for their country, and providing
essential services within communities. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart and the hearts of many veterans,” said Kathey Putman, RCL Branch 393 President. “You’ve done outstanding work here,” said Putman, thanking the OTF and volunteers for their hours dedicated to the hall built in 1945. Calling it a new era, “we are here for veterans, seniors and our community.” The Legion is committed to preserving the space and ensuring that it remains available for many community activities throughout the year. The hall is available for rental when not otherwise committed. For more information call the Branch at 905957-3935.
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HAT TRICK HOCKEY Week 11
Be sure to look online at: wn3.ca to see the full standings, but here are some of the leaders and lucky random draw winners:
• $10 gift certificate, courtesy of Teddy’s Fun, Food & Spirits - Randall Duncan • $10 gift certificate, courtesy of Cole’s Florist - Luca Vallorani • $10 gift certificate, courtesy of Tim Hortons - Andy Ferguson • Two 60-minute massages, courtesy of Ontario College - Sharon Donders • $10 gift certificate, courtesy of McDonalds, Grimsby - Michael Doyle Winners can stop by the NewsNow office to pick up their winnings.
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Looking for a Summer job, or know someone who is? Our Recreation, Facilities and Culture department is now accepting applications for summer student positions. Visit www.grimsby.ca/ employment for more information and to apply. Application deadline is Feb 22nd @ 4:30pm Town of Grimsby Recreation Department 162 Livingston Avenue 905-945-1288
PUBLIC NOTICE
Road Rehabilitation Regional Road 69 (Pelham Road) In the City of St. Catharines and Town of Lincoln TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE Monday, January 28, 2019 until Friday, March 1, 2019
Motorists and the general public are hereby advised that Regional Road 69 (Pelham Road) from Effingham Street to Wessel Drive, will be temporarily closed to through traffic on Monday, January 28, 2019. The road closure is necessary to allow for the replacement of concrete box culverts.
directed to take an alternate route to get to their destination. Emergency services will also have access during the closure but may be directed to take an alternate route to get to their destination but prior notification will be provided.
Any inquiries concerning this project may be directed to Niagara Region Dispatch at 905-984-3690 or Mike The detour route for the closure is as follows: Wilson, A.ScT., PMP, Senior Project • Regional Road 28 (Fifth Street) – Manager Transportation Engineering, Regional Road 81 (St. Paul Street at 905-980-6000 extension 3183. West/King Street) Your co-operation and patience during • Regional Road 24 (Victoria this period of inconvenience will be Avenue) – Regional Road 669 appreciated. (Eighth Avenue) Businesses and residents will have access during the closure but may be
/niagararegion
Catherine Habermebl Acting Commissioner of Public Works Niagara Region
niagararegion.ca
@niagararegion
Page 10 • News Now • Thursday, January 24, 2019
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on, replace the air filter and hire a professional to inspect the unit more thoroughly. 2. Seal Windows and Doors - If not properly sealed, windows and doors can be a major culprit for heat loss. To keep the warm air inside, inspect the weather-stripping around your home’s windows and doors for See SAVE, Page 11
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News Now • Thursday, January 24, 2019 • Page 11
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From Page 10 leaks, rot or decay. Repair or replace structural framing, and caulk inside and out, if necessary. 3. Insulate well - One of the easiest and most effective defenses against heat loss is proper insulation. Prevent cold drafts from entering and the loss of heated air through basement headers, which, when left exposed, can make your furnace work harder. Look for a moisture-resistant product offering high thermal performance. Aim for an R-50 or a depth of 16 inches. 4. Backyard Care - Trim overgrown trees and shrubs to prevent ice-laden branches from thrashing against electrical wires and your home’s exterior. 5. Roof and Gutters - Inspect your roof for shingles that are warped, damaged or even missing to prevent a future leak. Downspouts should extend at least five feet away from the home to prevent flooding.
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Page 12 • News Now • Thursday, January 24, 2019
classifieds takin’ care of business sports business
HELP WANTED
IN MEMORIAM
In Memory of my Wife
Please call News Now to place your Classified Ad
289-235-9500
OBITUARIES
Lillico, Lorne Allan
Gloria Marie Faaet
Was born September 28th, 1921 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to a large family with a construction business. She loved school, but the Great Depression dashed her university hopes and led her to become one of the first female insurance agents for the Prudential and Metropolitan life insurance companies in Philadelphia. Later in life, she served as the assistant to the Dean of Students at Delaware Valley College. Her move to Vineland, ON to be with family followed the death of her husband, Allen Walton Faaet, to whom she was married for 60 years. At age 83, undaunted by life in a new country, she bought a car, joined a choir, and made many new friends. Gloria was endlessly devoted to her family and was always a voice of harmony and encouragement; full of practical good sense. Even after a fall rendered her wheel-chair-bound at almost 95 years of age, she continued to take a sincere and ongoing interest in her loved ones. The United Mennonite Home in Vineland provided her with wonderful care until her passing on January 17th, 2019. She is survived by son Allen Faaet (Edwina), and his daughter Mira Lopez (Andrew), of Santa Fe, New Mexico; and by daughter Joan Rinker (Danny) and their children Adam Rinker (Paulina) and April and son Kohl, of Ontario. “Absent from the body… at home with the Lord.” A memorial service is planned for the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations to the United Mennonite Home would be welcome.
IN MEMORIAM
Ward, James “Jim”
January 28, 2018, in memoriam of our wonderful Son, Dad, and Nephew. Jim will always live on in our hearts and minds. Continuously missed by his beloved daughter Pandora Ward (Isaiah), and loving parents Charles and Bonnie Ward. Dear nephew of Terry Sacravitch, Mae Anne Fertich (Wayne), the late Nancy Ensor (Carl), and great nephew of Anne Sacravitch.
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Lorne Lillico announce his passing on Monday, January 14, 2019 at McNally House Hospice in Grimsby in his 67th year. Survived by his loving wife Sally and children, Allan and Andrea. Lorne will be sadly missed by his siblings, Sharon (David), Stephen, Geoffrey (Gina), nieces, nephews, extended family, and many friends. Lorne worked for 36 years with the Niagara Regional Police Service. In his retirement he loved to golf with friends, spend time at the cottage with family, and travel the world with Sally. We hold him in our hearts. Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life event for family and friends will take place at a later date. Thank you to the staff at McNally House for their compassion and care. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the McNally House Hospice and the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSEWHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905945-2755. www.smithsfh.com
Donnie Petsche (Hedderson)
Oct. 22, 1938 - Jan. 19, 2016
The Gift of Life is so very precious, So Lord I praise and thank you for your gift of my wife, Donnie, for 58 years, The mother of our children; Nana and Great Nana. Miss you Mio Dolce Cuore, Auf Wiedersehen Forever in our Hearts. Your Loving Family
• KITCHEN HELP WANTED • COOK • DISHWASHER Willing to Train
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Bright Sparks Home Daycare 905-592-1708 Experienced home daycare provider has immediate availability for full time infant and toddler childcare Located with easy access to highway, fully fenced back garden, home cooked food and educational program.
Wholesale nursery looking for Office Support Staff for the spring/summer shipping season. Responsibilities would include assisting in shipping, data entry, preparing trucking paperwork, printing tags, and general office duties. The successful applicant must possess good organizational skills, be capable of multi-tasking and be able to work as part of a team. The position would require working longer hours during spring shipping season. Position could lead to full time office employment. Wages will commensurate with experience. Resumes can be emailed to: hr@willowbrooknurseries.com, dropped off between the hours of 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday or 8:00 a.m. - noon on Fridays, or mailed to:
Willowbrook Nurseries Inc. 935 Victoria Ave., R.R. #4 Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 to the attention of Human Resources No phone calls please. (We thank you for your application, however only those considered will be notified.)
2 bedroom apartment in smoke free 4 plex. Heat, water 1 parking space included in rent. References. 905-945-2848 CR - Celebrate Recovery, a Christ Centred 12 step Recovery Program for any Hurt, Hang-up, or Habit. Every Wednesday at 7pm. Confidential and Anonymous. 132 Lake St, Grimsby. All welcome. Info: CR@ forestviewcommunitychurch.ca
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Farm Help. Seasonal full time from March to November 2019. Req’d for orchard and vineyard trimming, planting, thinning, harvesting and preparing fruit for sale. Work is outdoors and physical in nature. No education or experience required, but an asset. Own transportation required. Wage $14/hr. Fax resume to 905-6437271 or email info@puddicombefarms.com. to J.B. Puddicombe, 1468 Hwy. #8, Winona.
HANDYMAN SERVICES RUBBISH AND JUNK REMOVAL. Call Ken 905-957-5731.
LOST & FOUND FOUND: Pink suitcase along Mountain Street in Grimsby. Call to identify. 289-235-9500.
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CARS, trucks, old farm machinery for scrap or repair. We pay cash. Flatbed service. 905-386-6181 or 289686-5059.
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News Now • Thursday, January 24, 2019 • Page 13
HHS “working closely with our dedicated staff” to ensure OR continuity for WLMH By Rob MacIsaac For NewsNow It was the news we were all waiting for when Premier Doug Ford announced “A new hospital is coming soon,” at our West Lincoln Memorial site in November. On a tour of the building that morning, Premier Ford underscored his commitment by signing it onto a white board, leading staff to joke that they would never allow his writing to be erased. Premier Ford’s commitment is a significant milestone. We are at an important juncture in West Lincoln Memorial’s history. People are understandably passionate about a hospital where their babies are born, where their neighbours work and where their aging parents receive medical care. For many months, our community has been passionately involved in a discussion about the future of our facility. Residents
Letter raised concerns about the possibility of services being relocated. Others have asked questions about staff resources and the feasibility of keeping the hospital open. Without a doubt, the aging facility faces a number of challenges. Its crumbling infrastructure gives rise to concerns about our ability to continue indefinitely providing safe care. As a health care provider, our first priority has to always be our patients and the quality of care we provide. That is why we were so incredibly thankful for Premier Ford’s additional investment of $8.5 million in our current facility. This funding will help to maintain our existing facilities, including the cooling and heating, plumbing and electrical systems, while we do the planning for a new hospital. Premier Ford also
acknowledged the importance of maintaining existing surgical and obstetric services onsite at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital during the transition period to a new facility. I want to assure you that we are working closely with our dedicated staff and physicians to deliver on the Premier’s commitment. We know there is still a lot of work to be done and we are looking forward to West Lincoln Memorial’s future. You have my promise that we will listen carefully to feedback from our community as planning for the new hospital proceeds. We care deeply about our staff and physicians, patients and our community. Thank you for making your voices heard and for advocating so passionately – you have helped secure the future of WLMH. (Rob MacIsaac is the president and CEO of Hamilton Health Sciences)
Page 14 • News Now • Thursday, January 24, 2019
100% Niagara owned & operated Our Team: Publisher - Mike Williscraft mike@wn3.ca 289-442-4244 General Manager - Catherine Bratton Inside Sales Manager - Sheryl Hutton Sales Consultant - Erica Huisman, Rose Bayer Graphics - Donna Wisnoski NewsNow is owned & operated by 1602207 Ontario Ltd. Office Locations Grimsby Office Beamsville Office 1 Mountain Street, P.O Box 614 Grimsby, ON, L3M 3J6 Beamsville, ON, L0R 1B0 Ph: 289-235-9500 Ph: 289-235-7848 NewsNow is published EVERY Thursday delivered to homes in West Niagara & Winona, 26,529.
That’s all folks...
After decades of serving hungry Grimsby residents and visitors, Clausen’s Family Fair Restaurant closed its doors Dec. 31 with the owners retiring. Team members on hand the final day were (L to R) 28-year employee Donna Graham, Henny White, Bob Lockwood, Carrie Clausen, Josette Racheter, Jack Clausen, Rosa Clausen, Caroline and Nicole Corkum.
One in, one out Grimsby opts out after an 8-1 vote and Lincoln opts in 7-2. West Lincoln has already opted out. What are they opting in or out on? Marijuana retail outlets in their respective municipalities. Tuesday was the deadline for committing. Judging by comments at the two main cannabis council debates in Lincoln and Grimsby, both fates were significantly set early on. Neither side is right or wrong. The only thing known at this point is Grimsby and West Lincoln will not partake in the distribution of any government support which the “opt in” crowd will enjoy. The point was made in Grimsby that they would not sell their community for $10,000. Fine, but if any significant amount does come through via the excise tax option, they will look pretty foolish. Now, the opt-outters will have to deal with all the effects that opt-inners have, with no financial support. As well, residents in the opt-out communities will have a little drive on their hands should they choose to partake. Key is, the opt-outters can become opt-inners at any point, but the funding will never come. They will have the benefit of watching how things unfold, though...and there is MUCH to unfold. That is why voting out at this time is not a horrible decision. A spin on an old military saying comes to mind. “Don’t opt-in until you see the reds of their eyes.” In the end, in five years, nobody will care and all will wonder what all the hubbub was about. M.W.
Contest a ray of sunshine We have had a lot of dark and serious news going on, and it does not appear to be stopping any time soon, but I thought I would lighten things up for the younger set and tie in the most vital facility we have in the area – West Lincoln Memorial Hospital. If you don’t mind turning your attention back to Page 2, you will notice a promo for an art contest geared to high school-aged kids and younger. It should be noted all judging will take age into consideration. All the info is there. Teachers, your students can submit entries for sure. Parents and grandparents, peel your kids away from all electronic devices and let’s see how creative they can be. Go old school cut and paste, 3-D is cool...sketch, draw, colour and don’t be afraid to use words, too. It is a poster contest, so you can use a caption, or a sentence or two, or a brief poem, but make sure you include art to help tell your story. There are no guidelines. And I will say, if any adults want to take a crack at it, please do. I do not have any prizes lined up, but I have odds and ends which would make a nice reward for a solid effort. The whole idea is simply to bring positive attention to what has been a VERY difficult for many people on many levels. Thanks to William Wallace MacKinnon and Teddy’s Food, Fun & Spirits for sponsoring the contest. Spend some time with your kids and have FUN with it!! ******* Now, onto the mundane! If I said I had 200 points of contact from calls, emails, texts and drop-ins in the last week it would be a conservative understatement. As I noted last week after
MIKE WILLISCRAFT the Jan 14 council meeting at which time the air was pretty much sucked out of the council chamber during the biodigester presentation, this project and its handling have inflicted a mortal wound to the project as far as the Town having any connection to it whatsoever. One way or the other, and at an unknown expense at this point, the Town will rightfully divest itself of this lemon and there will be no lemonade made on this one. The past has been thoroughly chronicled in these pages. Those responsible will have to live with their decisions - although it would be nice to see someone, anyone step up and explain what the heck they were thinking - much of the core issue has been made public. If/when there is more to explain, it will be explained, but much of the focus now must turn to what do we do now? Which path does council and the Grimsby Energy Board choose? That cannot be chosen until hydro officials scrape their way down to rock bottom to find whatever financial information and meeting minutes they can, if they exist. Outwardly, what people want to see is accountability. Yes, many would love for past board members to be held personally liable for
their actions, or inactions as it were, but chances are slim to none on that. I noted last week that legal opinions are being sought. I did my best to get my own but I could not find a lawyer who would give me one which I could publish potential regarding board member liability. If anyone knows a lawyer with a specialty in that area of law, let me know, 289442-4244 is my cell. Many have asked if I have contacted past board members or employees to answer the why/how questions? Short answer, no. If the Bob Bentleys, Sean Straughans, James Detenbecks, Joe Panettas or any other member of Grimsby council want to provide an explanation I will gladly give them a full page of space. The community deserves an explanation but nobody should be holding their respective breaths. There was not a single example of acknowledgement of any serious issues at any point in the biodigester process, why start when the thing is about to croak? With nobody left to point a finger at but John Dunstall, since Dave Kadwell was the only example of a true representative of the people on the last council (save for Joanne Johnston), many have said the man should resign. Dunstall says he believed what he was told, and that may be true, but he sure as shootin’ never asked a single pointed question although many serious and major issues would have made it to his front door through the pages of this paper over many, many months. Silence and ignorance is not an excuse. As noted in this week’s follow up, the work is continuing, but the puzzle pieces are few.
News Now • Thursday, January 24, 2019 • Page 15
Ineptitude of previous council shocking Coverage, opinions Dear Editor, After reading the detailed articles in the Jan. 17 issue of NewsNow, regarding the biodigester and cogen unit fiascos, the level of ineptitude of the previous Grimsby council is shockingly clear. Other than Dave Kadwell, no other council members consistently and doggedly questioned the insane decisions being made by council. Neither one of the projects is working properly, and we are now left with at least $15 million of debt with much more to come. Remember… the $15 million found so far is just an initial ‘top line’ estimate! That means that each residential taxpayer in Grimsby is on the hook for about $2,000 just to pay for the money that the previous council “urinated away” on these boondoggles. This is all just going to get worse. What to do now is a huge question. Obviously, the current
Letters council has to decide the best way to limit further financial losses as best it can, given the stark choices ahead. I do trust that Mayor Jordon and the council members will act with the best interests of Grimsby residents - unlike most of the prior members of council. Thanks again to Dave Kadwell for doing your utmost to stand up for taxpayers throughout these fiascos! The blatant actions to hide information from Grimsby taxpayers by some previous council members is worth investigating fully and deeply. The actions of the management board of Grimsby Energy and Holdco2 also need to be fully investigated. It needs to be determined if certain prior council members and the management boards have broken any laws, or if any of them have any personal financial liability
because of the actions they took. If so, wouldn’t it be nice if a class action lawsuit by residents, or one launched by the Town of Grimsby, against all of them (except Dave Kadwell) was in the offing? This is likely not going to fly… but it makes one wonder how much of the $15 million could be recouped from all of their collective personal financial assets. If any laws were broken, I hope all transgressions are prosecuted to the maximum. Residents of Grimsby are fortunate that voters turfed out almost all of the previous council members. Only one councillor, John Dunstall, retained his undeserved seat. Maybe voters will turf him out next time around. The front page of the last issue of NewsNow stated, “Biodigester now on life support”. The other local paper had an article about a senior turning 109 years-old. A reasonable human-interest
story… but not one that informs you about how your tax dollars are being spent. I dropped in to the NewsNow office recently to chat with Mike, and to give him my voluntary, annual subscription money to help NewsNow continue to inform Grimsby residents about important local issues. If it wasn’t for Mike’s efforts, and those of some other concerned local residents, the last municipal election could have seen all of the old cronies voted back in. I shudder to think what the future would have brought under that outcome. Tom Stirr Grimsby (Editor’s Note: It is very important to note, decisions were made at the Grimsby Energy Board level. Council could/ should have come into play pressing and questioning for answers as the utility’s shareholder. Not all of council was privy to internal financial information.
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Thanks For Voting Us #1 Painter
on biodigester more than justified by new revelations: reader
Dear Editor, Thank you for all your efforts in finally getting the true facts out to the public regarding the Biodigester. You spent many hours, days and months trying to get proper answers on just how much this venture was costing the taxpayers only to be stonewalled by council and the two boards involved. Had you personally not had the perseverance to constantly put pressure on our previous Town Council and report various issues I believe we would still be in the dark regarding the enormous debt the biodigester has created for every taxpayer in Grimsby. I can assure you Mike that today you are a hero in the eyes of many Grimsby residents. Many of us (myself included) sometimes thought you were being overly critical of council and the biodigester issues. Keep up the good work. I sincerely hope that this new council will adhere to their promise of accountability and transparency. They were elected primarily because of your efforts and they should well know that you will hold them accountable. Paul Murphy Grimsby
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9 lb
Page 16 • News Now • Thursday, January 24, 2019
WINTER HOuRS STARTING JANUARY 3, 2019 MON. TO SAT. 7 AM - 6 PM TILL APRIL 11, 2019 CLOSEd SUNdAY
&
432 Highland Rd. E., Stoney Creek
(Highland & Tapleytown Rd.) Hours: Mon/Tues/Wed. 7 am-6 pm Thurs: 7 am-6 pm • Fri. 7 am-6 pm Sat: 7 am-6 pm • Closed Sun
WE SUPPORT LOCAL FARMERS!
PROdUCE: BUY FRESH, BUY LOCAL LOCALLY GROWN
2 ea. CABBAGE ..................................... $199ea. RED PEPPERS .............................. $149lb. COOKING ONIONS 5 lb. Bag ......
$
49
LOCALLY GROWN
SWEET
NAVEL ORANGES It’s Flu Season! . 59¢lb. FROZEN
CUT FROM CANAdA GR AA OR HIGHER BONELESS
STEAKROAST
3
$ 99
BRuSSELS SPROuTS 1 kg .......$349ea. FROZEN
$
P.E.I. MIX 1 kg ............................... FROZEN
3
49
FISH:
7 4
$ 49 SEAFOOD MIX 600 gram.............................. ea. FROZEN $ 99 SARDINE750 gram ....................................... ea. FROZEN
BAKERy:
49¢ 549 50 ENGLISH MUFFINS Pkg. of 6 ............ 2 FOR 4 STORE BAKED
/lb
BAGUETTE ROLL........................................ STORE BAKED $ CINNAMON BUNS Pkg. of 4 .....................
8.80 KG.
ea.
ea.
WONDER
DELI:
1 2 CAFE: $ 50 STEAK ON A BuN ............................ 4 $ 99 CHICKEN POT PIE .............................. 9
$ 21 SMOKED PORKLOIN 100 gram................ SALERNO $ 37 MILd CHEESE 100 gram ........................... HIGHLAND
ea.
ANTIOXIDANT BERRy MIX 1 kg. $699ea.
ea.
FROZEN 6-1/2 LB.
SHOESTRING FRIES ............... $549ea.
FROZEN 3 LB.
ea.
HAGGIS BALL
7
$ 99 FRESH
FRESH LEAN
PORK SIDE RIBS
GROUNd TURKEY 11.00 kg.
OSSO
4
$ 99
BUCCO
$
....
905-662-8396
lb.
7.99
6.60 kg.
/LB.
2
$ 99
lb.
SMOKED JALEPENO CHEESE OR CHEESE
SAUSAGE
FRESH BACK ATTACHEd
CHICKEN LEGS 3.29 kg.
$
....
4.49
MANY MORE IN-STORE SPECIALS
Specials effective Thursday, January 24th - Wednesday, January 30th, 2019
1
$ 49 /LB.
lb.
lb.
SALT PORK
2
$ 99
lb.
OLIEBOLLEN
AND APPLE FRITTERS
EVERY SATURDAY FROM 11-3 PM
www.highlandcountrymarkets.com