NewsNow E-Edition April 11 2024

West Niagara Secondary officially opens its doors

Grand opening a showcase for state-of-the-art facility

By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow

The District School Board of Niagara has marked a historic milestone with the grand opening of the Niagara West Secondary School – home of the Wolfpack.

Accolades poured in Thursday during a presentation in the school’s 750-seat theatre and tour through the state-of-the art building.

“This journey to this day has taken time. From the initial vision to the meticulous planning and finally to the culmination of hard work and dedication we stand here in awe of what has been achieved,” said Alex Bradnam, DSBN vice chair of the board of trustees. “This remarkable school stands as a testament to the power of the decisions made with students’ best interests at heart.”

“It is a jewel among DSBN secondary schools. You should be very proud of this building,” Bradnam said.

While students were officially enrolled as the Niagara Wolfpack in September 2022, delays in construction meant the new building wasn’t ready and students continued the school year at Grimsby Secondary

School and Beamsville District Secondary School. The school was open for September 2023 with 1500 students walking through the doors for the first time.

“It’s no secret that the road to today’s grand opening was tumultuous and even a bit rocky at times,

no secret that it was a challenge for all three school communities to come together,” said Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff.

“But, now, we know here at the Wolfpack we have an incredible opportunity,” Oosterhoff added.

“Our students have taken

the opportunities provided here and ran with them,” said WNSS Principal Mat Miller.

“We are thriving together as the Wolfpack.”

“We know that the work you do to mentor and inspire this generation of leaders in our community

would be completely impossible without you,” Oosterhoff told the principal, teachers and support staff.

WNSS has more than 80 clubs, teams and other extracurricular activities on the go. It also offers 11

Celebrating the grand opening of West Niagara Secondary School (L-R) WNSS principal Mat Miller; Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff; Warren Hoshizaki former director of education; and Alex Bradnam, DSBN board vice-chair. McDonald - Photo

10 weeks on...

Little done re WLMH name change: Brunet

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

A final meeting of Niagara West communications personnel and Hamilton Health Sciences regarding a possible name change for West Lincoln Memorial Hospital will take place this week with no input from any municipal council.

At Tuesday’s Lincoln Committee of the Whole meeting chief administrative officer Mike Kirkopoulos informed the committee as Coun. Tony Brunet inquired about what steps had been take as per HHS guidelines.

“There is a final meeting (Friday) this week between Hamilton Health Sciences and the communications team. I’ve asked that the CAOs be included

in that and we can share information next week,” said Kirkoploulos.

“There will be, as I said, further communication coming out once we coordinate with Grimsby and West Lincoln and once the public engagement closes.”

Brunet noted the extensive lag from when the matter was first brought up by Mayor Sandra Easton in private conversations with Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jordan and West Lincoln Mayor Cheryl Ganann as well as Reg. Chair Jim Bradley in April 2023.

“The memo went on to say that it was crucial that decision be made by March 1 because the HHS board was meeting on Feb. 27,” said Brunet, of a memo re-

leased noting that Easton had submitted a letter to HHS to consider changing the facility’s name to West Niagara Memorial Hospital.

“A number of things took place and we were able to get the HHS board to give us a deferral to their May meeting. So now, 10 weeks have gone by. We’re now into April and we talked about the awareness of the potential name change and (there was to be) opportunity for all council members to be engaged, with equity seeking communities to be included, in the discussion and the surrounding community was to be given an opportunity to provide feedback.”

“I’m wondering, after 10 weeks, if you could bring us up to speed because ob-

viously this council has not had any discussion so I am just wondering what has transpired over the last 10 weeks and what can we expect to transpire between now and the time this goes to the HHS board.”

Kirkopoulos noted that there has been some staff meetings.

“Over the last two months, give or take, primarily HHS as well as the comms teams have been working together, have been sharing information, I know HHS has been engaged in some polling they’ve been doing in terms of seeking consultation from the community,” said Kirkopoulos.

“We do anticipate coming to council. In what format we’re coming to

council I cannot necessarily address that because we’re not sure yet. We really want to have the meeting this week. There have been some ideas thrown around and talked about, whether that be a public tri-council meeting, whether it be individual meetings at each of the respective councils. Those are all on the table.”

Everyone remains committed to making sure that each of the councils, in some format, whatever is decided, has a chance to weigh in.”

The matter has also not appeared on a council agenda for Grimsby or West Lincoln as yet. The matter is supposed to be decided at next month’s meeting of the HHS board.

1st Beamsville Scouts learn the finer points of mulch from a Safe Tree representative.

Scouts to host spaghetti dinner fundraiser

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

Fourteen 1st Beamsville Scouts hope to be Iceland bound for an international jamboree this summer and they are putting in the work to earn their way there.

This Saturday, April 13, the Scouts will host a spaghetti dinner at the Lincoln Centre - 4361 Central Ave. - in Beamsville from 5:307:30 p.m.

“The youth ages 13-17 will have a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet other Scouts from around the world, camp in an amazing new land and take part in many, many outdoor experiences and activities,” said Scout leader Roy Caja, aka Bagheera.

“Six Scout leaders and two additional workers will be accompanying the youth, many of whom will be leading activities and adventures at the camp for the 3000-plus youth.”

Over the Easter weekend, Scouts were bagging groceries for donations at No Frills in Beamsville. They also have spent several weekends bagging mulch for a May 4 fundraiser at Safe Tree - 1350 Maple St. in Fenwick. The cost will be $10 for a 45L bag of mulch. It can be purchased at Safe Tree or delivered to the Scout Hut in Beamsville and picked up there.

Call 289-650-1775 for details.

With the spaghetti dinner, there is more than an all-you-can eat dinner.

“An amazing amount of donors have contributed door prizes, raffle prizes and silent auction items ranging from LEGO kits, restaurant gift cards to photo shoots and a 12-month XBOX ultimate game pass. There is also a grand prize item of a PS5 and eight games.

Tickets are $20 for 13-plus, $10 for 6-12 years, children under 5 are free.

By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow

When a Jan. 29 Town of Lincoln press release suggested a proposed name change for West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, NewsNow’s phone started ringing.

With no way for the public to have any say on the issue, NewsNow publisher Mike Williscraft set up a poll on newsnowniagara.com asking, “Do you believe the name of West Lincoln Memorial Hospital should be changed?”

“This is in no way a scientific poll, but it is a way to gauge the sentiment of the public which, from all I heard, was significantly op-

posed to a change,” said Williscraft.

“We initially had issues with a few people voting a significant number of times to sway the result. Two people for example, and we have tracked all the IP addresses, voted 163 and 33 times for ‘yes’.”

With the voting still live, and showing 420 NO and 353 YES on the site, Williscraft said the true number is 392 NO (74 per cent) and 138 YES (26 per cent).

“While those numbers are decisive, it is a little lower percentage on the NO vote than what I heard at my office and when I was out and about.”

Readers can still have their say and upto-date stats will be forwarded to Town of Lincoln prior to Friday’s meeting of Niagara West CAOs, the communications team working on this file and Hamilton Health Sciences officials.

OPENING

From Page 1

Specialist High Skills Major programs, the highest number in the province.

The school features a 750-seat theatre, two double gyms, greenhouse, synthetic turf field with an eightlane running track, a wide range of technology shops and modern classroom spaces.

“This school was built for learning,” said Warren Hoshizaki, former DSBN Director of Education. “It provides DSBN staff, students and community with the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive in a state of the art space that caters to diverse needs and interests,” Hoshizaki said.

Bradnam thanked Oosterhoff for his advocacy and support. “He’s been there all the way for us.” He also thanked community

donors who helped support the new theatre. “What a benefit to this community to have this beautiful site here.”

“This community theatre I know is going to be something that is used for many years to come by so many different people in the community” Oosterhoff said.

Student Dior David sang the national anthem ‘O Canada’ and three WNSS students shared their experiences at the new school.

“As a competitive athlete, I’ve benefited from the large number of extracurriculars and activities offered at West Niagara, said Sydney Broom, vice president of the student council.

“I really appreciate how the staff prioritize student success. The staff care about their students,” said student

Sumatee ‘Sunny’ Poonwassie.

“During my time at WNSS I’ve been shown nothing but support for my passion for music,” said student Sean Hamad. “The arts for me are what make life fun, new, and exciting.”

WNSS Jazz Combo (L-R) James Romany, piano; Ben Gash, drums; Noah Ames, bass; and Michael Steed, alto sax. McDonald - Photo

Grade 10 student Kallye Eckhart, left, and Amanda Greensides, Grade 12, are adding specialized skills to their high school credits studying Hospitality and Tourism. McDonald - Photo

A shot of WNSS’s new theatre complex. Photo courtesy of Tracy Saragaco.

WNSS Grade 11 student Kael Watson wants to be an electrical engineer. He spends every spare minute learning with manufacturing technology teacher Mark Klaric. McDonald - Photo

Advance care planning kits available

April is Advance Care Planning month (ACP) and Rose Cottage Visiting Volunteers has partnered with Meridian Credit Union branches in Vineland, Beamsville and Grimsby to make Kits available for their members and the community.

ACP allows people to make their medical wishes known if, in the future, they are not able to speak for themselves. For a kit, call Rose Cottage, 289-566-9588.

Attention Tourism Businesses: Act Now to Fuel Your Success!

The Town of Lincoln is seeking innovative projects from local tourism-based businesses and organizations to enhance our tourism landscape. The Niagara Benchlands Destination Development Fund is your opportunity to secure support for new initiatives and expansions, driving both short and long-term prosperity.

Collaborate with fellow local businesses to pioneer impactful tourism products and events, shaping the future of Lincoln’s tourism economy. Your contributions will not only attract visitors but also stimulate economic growth, generate employment, and attract investment to our community.

Don’t miss out on this chance to make a difference. Visit Lincoln.ca to apply today and be a catalyst for tourism growth in the Niagara Benchlands!

Winona Men’s Club dropped off a care package to Grimsby Benevolent Fund in the form of a $7,500 cheque last month. On hand for the presentation were (L to R) Ann York, GBF executive director Stacy Elia, Mark Wasilewski of Winona Men’s Club and GBF food program manager Megan Kools.

Grimsby Historical to host speaker in May

Conservation and reuse of historial buildings will be the topic when Dr. Faisal Arain visits Grimsby Historical Society’s May 9 meeting at Livingston Activity Centre.

Arain is the president of Willowbank School of Restoration Arts. His presentation will cover how Willowbank contributes to the restoration sector. The event runs from 7:30-9 p.m. All are welcome. Admission is free to members, $10 pp for the general public. The activity centre is located at 18 Livingston Ave.

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Grimsby, ON

TOWN OF GRIMSBY WATER CUSTOMERS

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PUBLIC NOTICE

TOWN OF GRIMSBY WATER CUSTOMERS

Hydrant Flushing

Hydrant Flushing

PUBLIC NOTICE

Commencing Monday, April 1st, 2024, Town crews will be flushing all fire hydrants as part of our annual water main maintenance program.

TOWN OF GRIMSBY WATER CUSTOMERS

Book an appointment at grandviewanimalhospital.com or call 905.643.4189

Commencing Monday, April 1st, 2024, Town crews will be flushing all fire hydrants part of our annual water main maintenance program.

Hydrant Flushing

The following areas will have water mains flushed on the dates stated below:

The following areas will have water mains flushed on the dates stated below:

• April 1st – April 12th North of QEW from Roberts Road easterly to Nelles Road North.

Commencing Monday, April 1st, 2024, Town crews will be flushing all fire hydrants part of our annual water main maintenance program.

April 1st – April 12th North of QEW from Roberts Road easterly to Nelles Road North.

The following areas will have water mains flushed on the dates stated below:

April 15th – May 3rd North of QEW from Nelles Road North easterly to Grimsby/ Lincoln boundary.

• April 15th – May 3rd North of QEW from Nelles Road North easterly to Grimsby/Lincoln boundary.

April 1st – April 12th North of QEW from Roberts Road easterly to Nelles Road

North of QEW from Roberts Road westerly to Grimsby/ Stoney Creek boundary.

North of QEW from Roberts Road westerly to Grimsby/Stoney Creek boundary.

April 15th – May 3rd North of QEW from Nelles Road North easterly to Grimsby/ Lincoln boundary.

• May 6th – May 31st South of QEW from Elizabeth and Mountain Streets westerly to Grimsby/Stoney Creek boundary.

May 6th – May 31st South of QEW from Elizabeth and Mountain Streets westerly Grimsby/Stoney Creek boundary.

North of QEW from Roberts Road westerly to Grimsby/ Stoney Creek boundary.

June 3rd – July 5th South of QEW from Elizabeth and Mountain Streets easterly Grimsby/Lincoln boundary.

• June 3rd – July 5th South of QEW from Elizabeth and Mountain Streets easterly to Grimsby/Lincoln boundary.

May 6th – May 31st South of QEW from Elizabeth and Mountain Streets westerly Grimsby/Stoney Creek boundary.

This work will last for approximately fourteen weeks and may temporarily result in water conditions. Please be assured the quality of the drinking water will NOT be affected, although it may be necessary to run your cold water tap only (not hot) for short period of time and possibly remove and clean the tap screen.

June 3rd – July 5th South of QEW from Elizabeth and Mountain Streets easterly Grimsby/Lincoln boundary.

This work will last for approximately fourteen weeks and may temporarily result in cloudy water conditions. Please be assured the quality of the drinking water will NOT be affected, although it may be necessary to run your cold water tap only (not hot) for a short period of time and possibly remove and clean the tap screen.

This work will last for approximately fourteen weeks and may temporarily result water conditions. Please be assured the quality of the drinking water will NOT affected, although it may be necessary to run your cold water tap only (not hot) short period of time and possibly remove and clean the tap screen.

IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT CONSUMERS REFRAIN FROM WASHING LIGHT COLOURED ARTICLES ON THE DAYS INDICATED FOR THEIR AREA.

IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT CONSUMERS REFRAIN FROM WASHING LIGHT COLOURED ARTICLES ON THE DAYS INDICATED FOR THEIR AREA.

Should you have any questions, please contact our Operations Centre at (905) 945-9201. Your understanding and co -operation is appreciated.

IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT CONSUMERS REFRAIN FROM WASHING LIGHT COLOURED ARTICLES ON THE DAYS INDICATED FOR THEIR AREA.

Should you have any questions, please contact our Operations Centre at (905) 945-9201. Your understanding and co-operation is appreciated.

Brandon Wartman Director Public Works

Should you have any questions, please contact our Operations Centre at (905) 945-9201. Your understanding and co -operation is appreciated. Brandon

Wartman

Public Works

ROSTICCERIA at the Bottega CASA TOSCANA NEW!

Craving authentic Italian flavours on the go? Look no further than the CASA TOSCANA ROSTICCERIA, nestled within the Bottega downtown Grimsby.

Our gourmet grab-and-go area brings the tantalizing taste of Italy to your fingertips, from 11 am - 2 pm, Monday to Saturday.

From mouthwatering sandwiches to delectable pizza, vibrant salads, savoury arancini, succulent meatballs, fluffy focaccia, and beyond, our diverse menu promises to satisfy every craving. Experience the essence of Italy in every bite!

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Find us inside the Bottega at CASA TOSCANA, 24 Main St W, Grimsby, ON L3M 1R4 (289)235.8888 | casatoscana.ca

Corporate Service Committee skeptical of DIA reasoning

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

There were more questions than details regarding a financial autonomy shift for Grimsby Downtown Improvement Area at last Tuesday’s Corporate Services Committee (CSC) meeting.

A detailed report clarifying some misinformation and highlighting 10 steps which would still need to be executed for the DIA to gain more financial autonomy from the Town was reviewed.

In its minutes from its March meeting, the DIA asked council to approve a change in its financial infrastructure which would eliminate most of the administrative measures which are currently done on a goodwill basis by town staff.

In a report to the DIA, board president Mark Wood outlined a lengthy series of claims regarding problems in dealing with town hall related to paying vendors/suppliers and HR matters.

“I have a grave (concern) with the direction that they are going and the perception that the municipality is doing something wrong or not in the best interests of a group of people that are trying to make a living downtown – for the most part small business and ultra small business,” said Coun. Don Howe.

“Every group there’s cycles. There’s going to be a time when it is well organized and well created with wellintentioned people. Then you hit other lulls, I’ll call it lulls, where you don’t quite have the people that you really need and the understandings of it. I find it really too bad it

this has come to this, especially with some misinformation or misinterpretation of the municipality’s purpose of what we bring to the table.”

Coun. Lianne Vardy raised concerns over ongoing oversight as it relates to council’s exposure should any issues arise.

“If the Town is involved, we have a responsibility to provide an oversight on spending. If there is a desire for greater independence, well, that would disappoint me,” said Vardy.

“I think that’s fine if that is what they would like to do, however, they would need to raise their own funds and do their own activities.”

One of those ‘activities’ the board wants more control over is investments of funds parked in its reserves.

Coun. Reg Freake, who chairs the CSC and was a DIA liaison in the last term of council highlighted some issues raised by fellow Coun. Delight Davoli. Davoli attended the meeting, but could not speak to the matter directly out of quorum of council concerns, so her issues were forwarded in writing to the chair.

“I don’t know if they have a lot of money to invest or will have a lot of money to invest – I don’t think it is that large – but how should those investments work? Do they fall under the Ontario Municipal Act in terms of what they can invest in?” questioned Freake on Davoli’s behalf.

Director of finance, Angela Cifani, said the board would have to adhere to Municipal Act guidelines.

“The investments that they do have, and there is a fair

amount there in their reserve, and then annually we would be transferring their amount, they would have to follow the rules and regulations that we, as a municipality, have to follow as well. So they would adhere to preserving capital and ensuring there is low risk in those investments,” said Cifani.

Mayor Jeff Jordan, who has also served as a liaison on the DIA board last term and currently, noted that the DIA reserves being higher than normal was an active plan of the prior board.

“The previous board - over the last four years – knew that there was going to be the impending construction on Main Street. The reserves were maybe kept higher because of the pending construction,” noted Jordan.

The construction Jordan spoke of is a planned replacement of sewer and water lines on Main Street - and there will also be the building of Century Condos when that gets started.

“They ran at a much higher level over the last 4-5 years and that was given the fact that Main Street construction was supposed to be completed by now but it has been pushed back, essentially, five years.”

Speaking of his own concerns, Freake noted the current board has fixated on a small stretch of Main Street.

“Most of the activity with the DIA takes place only in the downtown core itself. It almost becomes a downtown focus for the merchants that are in the downtown core. I don’t want to point fingers here. I’m not, but how do

they feel about all this,” said Freake.

“Their tax levy becomes the budget for the DIA. So, I would say 90 per cent or more of the budget comes from the others, like Canadian Tire, for example, or Food Basics.”

Freake also revisited the council exposure element as well as looking for detail on where the responsibility line may be drawn.

“How do we, as Coun. Vardy mentioned, ensure there’s an oversight that they follow the procedures and processes that we have outlined in your document?” asked Freake.

“Let’s say it’s a contract or procurement or something goes off the rails and we’re not aware of what’s going on. How do we have any oversight of those kinds of things?”

Town clerk Victoria Steele noted the Municipal Act covers those matters.

“They (DIA) are specifically talking about financial autonomy in section. Their minutes would still need to come to council. It is the provincial legislation that is giving council the authority to approve the creation of the DIA.”

“On top of the creation of and approval of, council will still approve the DIA budget and they will also be required to accept the financial statements at Year End as well. They will be audited from the Town’s auditor but they will provide all the financial information and any shortcomings would be identified in that audit as well,” added Cifani.

Freake suggested, if the plan is to work through a pro-

cess to Year End, that council look at how the DIA votes as part of the process.

“When we elected the current board in the beginning of this term of council, it was very clear that there was a particular interest group that wanted to – I’m being very careful here – ensure that certain members were voted onto that board,” said Freake.

“So, a lot of the voting was done by proxy. We had many discussions about that with the previous clerk and allowed that to happen but I, personally, have a problem with proxy voting because it gives interest groups the opportunity to control or take over a particular organization. When we’re going through this process, for the next election and the next term of council, hopefully we’ll look at this and do something to ensure that doesn’t happen.

It was also noted there was considerable misinformation being floated about.

“In their document, they are thinking that they are going to become autonomous within 30-60 days but, when I read your document, there’s no way this is going to happen in 30-60 days,” asked Freake of Steele.

“We’re hopeful that all of the tasks listed could be completed by October and we can begin a 90 day transition, so that by year end, we’re able to facilitate the official transition,” said Steele.

On the autonomy matter as a whole, Steele noted, “It is important remember that a local municipality has right to create this board and it is up to council for final approval.”

Boutique hotel proposed for Jordan’s Main St.

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

A 49-room boutique hotel proposed for Main Street in Jordan met with mild resistance at a statutory public meeting in Lincoln last Tuesday, April 2.

Vintage Hotels is proposing to build the complex just south of its Inn On The Twenty property. Plans also call for 65 additional parking spots and an outdoor pool on the east side.

The structure - to be built on 3823, 3827 and 3821 Main Street - is to be three storeys with the centre being four storeys to accommodate five lofts.

Paul MacIntyre, vice-president of operations of site developer Lais Hotel Properties Ltd., said the design is still in transiton.

“It is our belief that this will be an evolution through communication and adjustments and provisions will need to be made through the process and this has already started with feedback from our last open house,” MacIntyre said.

Part of that evolution has already taken place due, in part, said consultant Greg Hynde, to the adherance of planning guidelines.

“We’ve reviewed those policies. They are in our planning justification re-

port. All of those policies, each and every one that’s enshrined in that report, is supportive of this application,” said Hynde of local, regional and provincial policies.

Hynde noted the hotel would go 1.5 acres of land with a footprint of 75 feet X 150 feet, comprising about 12,000 sq ft of space.

He said that site currently accommodates five buildings - two residential, one commerical and two warehouses.

“It occupies a square footage that exceeds what we are going to do in the future. Those buildiings occupy more land, more green space than the new hotel will,” said Hynde.

When asked by Coun. Anna Murre about parking and whether or not it would remain open to the general public, Hynde said yes, it would.

“Parking is very important. It should be open parking for all, so we have taken that into consideration,” said Hynde.

In terms of timeline, Hynde said they would like to get started in 2024 with an 18 month build out completed in late 2025.

Mayor Sandra Easton asked about heritage features in the existing buildings.

Hynde noted the Town had granted a demolition permit for the only building considered as possibly

having heritage attributes but a heritage impact assessment revealed renovations to the building over decades had altered or removed heritage features already.

“We are going to identify with your staff any architectural elements that are worth saving during the demolition so that we can preserve them at the municiality, at the musem or incorporate them into the design of the buillding.

Adjacent neighbours

Marilyn and Dan Rowe spoke about concerns regarding light, noise and potential traffic issues.

Main Street resident Brooke Johnson said the look did not fit the

streetscape.

“I have to question whether tearing down beautiful, historical buildings and then buidling a four-storey hotel in a style of what one councillor called a French chateau is the correct way to go forward,” said Johnson, after noting her support for the tourism industry.

“I do oppose this because it is Vintage Hotels. If this was, say, Four Seasons, I’d proably be up for it, but I do not trust them to be making decisions that encroach on our special community.”

The committee approved receiving the report, which will come back to a public meeting further down the road in the planning process.

A rendering of the proposed look of a 49-room boutique hotel planned for Main Street, Jordan.

Dear Editor,

It would seem it is about time we had a serious conversation about getting rid of the District School Board of Niagara or am missing something?

What other government body could deceive taxpayers to the point where local high schools are shuttered after residents are told they were too old and broken down to facilitate students only to have two of those schools almost immediately be converted to public schools with no work done?

What did the school board waste? $30 million? $40 million. I get the new school is beautiful. It should be.

It cost a ton of money that didn’t need to be spent and the part of the soul from all three Niagara West communities. That is a price I would not have been willing to pay if my opinion had been of any value to the board, but it seems they never did a lot of listening on the subject.

A perfect example

You certainly could throw in the mismanagement of the new high school, too, but let’s stay on topic.

of their tone deaf conduct was making the announcement regarding the move of Central School to the old Grimsby Secondary right before the grand opening for the new school.

Did they think no body would notice.

Did they think you, Mr. Editor, would just give them a pass for their butchery of the situation? I would think they would have learned their lesson from your dogged coverage of the high school site contamination issue.

The irony is not lost on me that a school board administration cannot learn a simple lesson.

John Van Dusen

West Lincoln men’s hockey league celebrates 40 years

By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow

It used to be known simply as the Sunday League. A bunch of guys together playing hockey in the old Smithville arena.

Many of those same guys and a couple of generations since were together Sunday to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the West Lincoln Non Contact Hockey League.

There’s not much fighting, or ‘tussles’ as long-time member and former league president Edgar Krick likes to call them. It makes sense to all get along as team rosters change up each season and from year to year, players never know who will be on their team.

“It really is a community with 168 guys in the league,” said league

president Tim Wall. “It’s good hockey for anyone 25 years and older.”

The oldest league member, Rev Bartlett is retired from playing but he was in the thick of the action Sunday. A trophy in his name, the Rev Bartlett award is presented each year to a player who shows sportsmanship, perseverance and dedication. This year’s award was presented to long-time player Brent Simpson who also dropped the puck for Sunday’s final game.

Twelve WLNHL teams play every Sunday through the hockey season at the West Lincoln Community Centre. Players must be residents of West Lincoln and 25 years and up to join the league. The season begins at the end of September and runs until the end of March.

Six hockey players have served as president during the 40-year history of the West Lincoln Non Contact Hockey League. (L-R) Bill Druery, Harold Whitwell, Ralph Fisher, Edgar Krick, Glenn Robertson, and current president Tim Wall.

Some of the participants - past and present - in the West Lincoln Non Contact Hockey League. Photos by Joanne McDonald

(Right) Rev Bartlett, left, the oldest and now retired hockey player with the West Lincoln Non Contact Hockey League, poses with Brent Simpson, this year’s winner of the ‘Rev Bartlett’ award. The trophy is presented each year to a player who shows sportsmanship, perseverance and dedication.

(L to R) Jim Vandenhouvel, Andrew Masternak, Brent Simpson, Tim Wall, and Mark Branco.

Reader reinforces intersection visibility issue

Dear Editor,

I read the letter from Al Eppich in the latest News Now.

I also questioned the blocked intersection at John Street and Ontario Street in 2023.

My car is low so I had to be in the cross walk to see around the retaining wall when a vehicle coming south on Ontario Street cut the corner

Dear Editor,

I want to be very clear, I am not and never have been a business owner in Grimsby, just a taxpayer.

As I have read some of the issues going on with the Grimsby DIA of late, and taking the time to watch last week’s council meeting (Corporate Services Committee), I must say I have a con-

cern that any body connected to Town which seems to have issues following basic rules wants less oversight.

I don’t really care the reasoning. I just wonder what the result will be.

turning left on John and nearly took out the front of my car.

I don’t even know whose fault it would have been if it had hit my car. But, apparently, according to the powers that be, it was ok for my car

happen when new people go on that board? What will happen if things don’t go well? Will the Town and my tax dollars go to bail them out?

to be in a cross walk to see around newly constructed objects as well as the newly planted trees which will be even worse when they grow.

Just wanted you to see that Mr. Eppich was not the only one to question the fact that a building already so close to the road was allowed to further obstruct the view at an intersection by putting up a retaining wall.

The board is still new and one of your articles noted they have already had turnover. What will

I would not hope so, but if council has less say, how can they protect taxpayers.

Dave Peck

905.945.4161 www.grimsbyford.com

I was unaware that stopping in a cross walk was considered safe.

Sincerely,

Sharon Fearns

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6. Seibel, KJ ................ 1555

7. Hall, Keith 1554

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OBITUARIES OBITUARIES

CORSON, Donna Marie (nee Gliddon)

With much sadness we announce the passing of Donna, who on Friday, April 5, 2024, died peacefully in Grimsby in her 74th year, surrounded by her family. Donna will be dearly missed by her loving daughters, Michelle (Nick) and Cheryl, her cherished grandchildren, Brittany (Kurtis) and Tyler, and many nieces, nephews and friends. Predeceased by her beloved siblings Joyce, Shirley, Wilf and George and her parents, Reta Winnifred Gliddon (Wilcox) and Wilfred Harley Gliddon. Donna was the proud owner of D’s Hair Design in Grimsby for 35 years and served many customers who became friends. She loved gardening and looked forward to growing heirloom tomatoes and seeing snowdrops appear every year in the beautiful garden she built. Donna had a life-long love of crafting and worked on paper tole and Father Christmas figurines. To everyone who knew her, her personality was like a big hug. She was a very supportive and caring mother and grandmother who was beyond proud of her children and grandchildren. Cremation has taken place. Visitation at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755) on Saturday, April 13, 2024 from 12:00 p.m. until time of Service of Remembrance at 1:00 p.m. If desired, memorial contributions to West Lincoln Memorial Hospital would be sincerely appreciated by the family. www.smithsfh.com

Seehagel, Daniel

With deepest sadness we announce the unexpected passing of Daniel Robert Seehagel, aged 21 years, on Sunday March 31, 2024. Loving son of Art & Carolyn Seehagel, brother of Erica, Emily (Alex & Everett) Nicole (Dylan), predeceased by Annette (2012). Grandson of Jan & Sisca vanDeursen. Beloved uncle, nephew, cousin and friend. Daniel delighted in everyone he knew and cared for everyone deeply. Daniel will be missed greatly by family and friends.

The family will received friends at the Vineland Missionary Church, 3874 Victoria Ave, Vineland on Friday April 5, 2024 from 6-8pm. Funeral Service was held at the church on Saturday April 6 at 9:30am with interment at Vineland Cemetery. If desired, memorial donations may be made to Vineland Missionary Church Benevolent Fund, McMaster Children’s Hospital, or YFC Peter Juhlke.

2 Corinthians 1 : 3 & 4

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, and the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

Online condolences at: www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca

CELEBRATION OF

Temprile, Michele “Mike”

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mike Temprile at home, March 30, 2024, at the age of 79. Mike departs this world leaving behind many memories that will be cherished by those that knew and loved him. Mike was a good man of great strength and unwavering character, and will be deeply missed by his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife Mary who preceded him in death (2010) and a loving father to Michela (Gary) and Dennis. Sorely missed by his loyal bird “Blackie”. Dear Brother to the late Giuseppe (Michelina), Maria (late Gerardo), Lucia (late Carmen) the late Filippo (Anna) and Rosa (David). Dear Brother-in-law to Gerry. Loving Uncle to many nephews, nieces and will be missed by extended family and friends. Visitation will be held at STONEHOUSEWHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, Grimsby (905-945-2755) on Friday, April 12th from 12:00-2:00 pm followed by a private burial at Grimsby Mountain Cemetery. If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any charity of your choice. Online condolences can be made at www.smithsfh.com

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Naming process from bad to worse

West Niagara Secondary School needs its day in the sun and Grimsby DIA has become low-hanging fruit in terms of its issues, so both will get a pass this week and we will focus, again, on the proposed name change for West Lincoln Memorial Hospital.

Coun. Tony Brunet was exactly right last week, the clock is ticking on this matter and not in a good way.

MIKE WILLISCRAFT

Even with the public input pages, they are simply not effective. Yes, websites are public, but for the same reason marketing and promoting online has a very specific window of audience, very few people would simply stumble across the right page on which they can supply their input.

Cameras down

Three of Niagara Region’s speed cameras suffered some damage over the weekend with both Smithville cameras and the unit on Victoria Avenue in Vineland (above) being cut down. Police do not have any suspects at this time. An estimate on damage has not been given.

Photo radar cameras abused

The vandalism seen in Smithville and Vineland with three of Niagara Region’s photo radar cameras being cut down cannot be condoned, but the anger behind it is understandable.

The Region took the easy way and hid behind the safety of school children to install a cash cow on major thoroughfares.

Deceptions such as posting 7 a.m.-5 p.m. at each site - which is ONLY when the 40 kph speed limit is in effect, NOT when the cameras are active - and removing “40 kmh when flashing” signs make is clear safety is not the true intent.

Absolutely, let’s keep kids safe. Get the flashing warnings back in place, run the cameras during school hours only.

It’s a pretty simply solution. Or, just admit it was done for cash cow reasons and keep doing what you’re doing, Niagara Region. M.W.

Think about it. Other than what you have read in this publication, have you seen or heard anything from any of the municipalities in terms of seeking public input or council discussion on the matter?

The fact is, other than creating a communication page following the exact same misleading mantra on each municipality’s website, absolutely zip has been done.

How misleading? To claim changing the hospital’s name follows the trail blazed by WNSS and West Niagara Agricultural Society is folly.

Both those groups were mergers long-standing, important entities - as we all know. It has not been many years - more than a decade since WLMH merged with Hamilton Health Sciences and no hue and cry arose about a name change over that time.

Again, it should be noted the new build is the thing. The fact we have this amazing facility being built under our collective noses is a great thing and a testament to the supporters of WLMH who, simply, were like a dog

on a bone to keep rebuild hopes alive.

My issue, and that of many, is about the sham process we’ve seen - or not seen - which has been as quiet as a church mouse.

Last week, Coun. Brunet asked for an update.

That update was, basically, there have been a couple of comms team meetings.

That is pretty much it.

Key here is there was nothing said - and there is nothing planned at this point - to allow one of the major boxes to be checked off as outlined by HHS, namely consensus from Niagara West’s three municipal councils.

Lincoln CAO Mike Kirkopoulos noted there is a final meeting planned with CAOs, the comms team and HHS officials planned for this Friday.

Now, one might think it may have been a good idea to have ticked the council input box before a final meeting of this group before the matter goes to HHS’s May board meeting. C’est la vie, I guess.

There should have been an open house or some sort of forum to allow the public to have their say other than claiming a digital hideout was sufficient.

It was for those reasons I set up that poll on our NewsNow website. Even that was a tough sell for some as I still got calls asking me to count a vote against a name change because people either don’t go online or could not find it on our home page - and we were cross promoting the poll in print, too.

With the poll, and I will say it again, it is NOT a scientific effort. It is nothing more than a simple way for readers to say yes or no to the proposed name change.

We had some people trying to abuse the process, but the story on Page 5 explains how we were able to deal with that to get a real number. My direct calls and emails ran 95-5 in terms of per cent against a change, so the poll is a lower amount opposed at 74 per cent.

I think the 3-1 ratio is more accurate.

Regardless, the process on this started bad and has gotten worse through inattention. The community - and WLMH - does not deserve it.

Unwanted and unnecessary photo radar comes to Grimsby: reader

Dear Editor,

The heavy hand of Region Niagara has descended upon the citizens of Grimsby in the form of automated radar cameras which I shall refer to as a ‘traffic tax’.

At no time can

I recall our town council petitioning the Region and asking this body to protect our school children.

The town’s numerous traffic lights (perhaps more than any comparable town in Ontario), flashing lights and excellent school crossing guards all have safety matters well under control.

Nevertheless, the Region of Niagara in its collective wisdom decided that to fill its coffers, it must introduce photo radar from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Monday to Friday) to save us from ourselves.

Let’s take a close look at three elementary school locations where 40 kmh signs and cameras are presently in place. At the corner of Main Street East and Baker Road is a stoplight. On the southeast corner, attached to a pole, we find a large sign (35 inches X 23 inches) that in-

dicates the speed limit is 50 kmh.

A short distance beyond this sign is a new small one (11 inches X 23 inches) showing a speed limit of “Maximum 40 kmh and, below, 7 AM – 5 PM, Mon –Fri Sept.-June”.

This is very confusing to drivers and the solution is to remove the 50 kmh sign from the corner.

Erect the same but a new much larger sign approximately 30 feet east which clearly points out that you have

DSBN duped taxpayers: writer

Dear Editor,

What am I missing?

My understanding was the justification for building the new high school was because repairs, infrastructure, etc. badly needed updating.

When were we told otherwise?

Now all of a sud-

den, GSS will be ready for Central to begin classes in September 2024.

I am bewildered and shocked to hear that the GSS building will now be home for Central French Immersion School and ready for occupancy when were told it was

now entered a 40 kmh radar camera school zone. Presently, the students at Park Elementary school are protected by a stoplight and a traffic guard.

Why are there no flashing lights present near the school similar to the ones at Nelles and Central Schools?

Furthermore, when one approaches Park School from the east, the small 40 kmh speed limit is too close to the curve.

ing ticket by mail, received two additional tickets in quick succession.

Obviously, because of poor sign location and small 40 kmh signs, she had no idea that she was breaking the law.

unfit for students.

I was under the impression that millions of dollars were needed in renovations!

How much has been allocated towards repairs, excluding to the west side of the school ? What is going on?

Diana Stephenson

It should be moved east towards Park Road by at least 40 feet and the same sized sign as the future new one at Baker Road. Moving east past Park School, where is the sign that says Maximum 40 kmh ENDS?

The signs from Baker Road to Park Road are poorly marked.

I recently became aware of a woman who, after receiving her first speed-

The flashing lights at Nelles Public School indicates children crossing and there is a crossing guard present. If this is a 40 kmh. zone, how does a motorist know when he/she has entered it from both directions and where does it end?

At the corner by the Central Public School on Livingston Avenue there are flashing lights in place, a crosswalk with amber lights and a crossing guard.

Where does the caution school zone end west of the school? Don’t we also need a sign there?

Here is how I would level the playing field for drivers.

As long as fines in the 40 kmh zones are in effect, the flashing lights must remain operative during this entire period. Too many people do not realize that the speed limits still apply when the flashing lights have been turned off.

If the Region of Niagara truly cared about the quality of life in Grimsby, they would vigorously and relentlessly lobby the Ford government to protect and preserve our shrinking waterfront and turn it into a provincial election issue.

Dennis D’Alessandro Grimsby

No one is quibbling over the 50 kmh and 60 kmh speed limits in Grimsby. However, there is great consternation when it comes to radar cameras in the 40 kmh elementary school zones which are in effect from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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