NewsNow E-Edition April 24 2025 by newsnow Niagara

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Federal candidates square off at debate

By Joanne McDonald NewsNow

Federal election candidates were well prepared for an all-candidates debate last Monday at West Niagara Secondary School, but it may well have been the 30-second ‘wild card’ option they were

given to speak on any topic which the audience, voters, may take to the polls.

A new twist on a staid debate format introduced by moderator Samuel Miele; candidates could raise a wild card for two opportunities to rebut a comment or ex-

tend their speaking time.

Niagara West incumbent Dean Allison, Conservative Party, Dave Bylsma, Christian Heritage Party (CHP), and Jennifer Korstanje, Liberal Party, squared off in alphabetical order before a crowd of about 200 engaged voters and

Caught chocolate-handed

Big sister Emma Miller, 5, distracts the Easter Bunny, while Ivy, 2, digs into the chocolate stash at Good Friday’s Community Easter Fest held at the West Lincoln Community Centre. For more photos, please turn to Page 12. McDonald - Photo

all agreed April 28 will mark the most important election in the history of the country.

DEAN ALLISON

“Are you better off now than you were 10 years ago? And are our communities safer than they were 10 years ago?” asked

Allison, MP for the Riding since 2004.

He said a decade of failed Liberal policies has led to rising crime, doubling of rent and mortgages, and two million Canadians using food banks, adding the Conservatives will bring down the cost of living and lower taxes for all Canadians.

“We will do this by permanently removing the consumer and industrial carbon tax, by cutting personal income tax by 15 per cent, raising the basic exemption for seniors to $34,000, axe the tax on new homes, fix our broken justice system including jail, not bail, for repeat violent offenders and rapidly approve LNG (liquified natural gas) plants, pipelines and other major projects that will make Canada an energy super power again,” Allison said.

DAVE BYLSMA

Thirty-two years ago, Bylsma found the fledgling CHP’s principles resonated with, “pro family, pro life, smaller government and free market,” Bylsma outlined. Ninth time running, the former West Lincoln mayor said the CHP upholds “the supremacy of God

BUY CANADIAN CANDIDATES

From Page 1 and the Rule of Law…..Strong families equal a strong nation.”

Bylsma said that Canada does not only have money problems but has moral problems. “The CHP is Canada’s only federal party committed to the defense of innocent human life from conception to natural death. The CHP is committed to the restoration and protection of the natural family. Human freedom is essential for life, freedom of speech, association, religion and conscience. Any government that impinges on these fundamental rights is tyrannical.”

JENNIFER KORSTANJE

Korstanje said the riding deserves a representative who is focused on moving forward with real solutions and she stands on a track record for getting things done. A lifelong resident and Grimsby councillor, she said Niagara West needs new energy, new ideas and a new approach. “I’m not a career politician. I’m your neighbor, your advocate, someone who shows up whether it’s coaching paraathletics, founding a non-profit or serving on council, I believe politics should be about people not partisanship.”

She said Mark Carney offers leadership grounded in integrity and real-world experience.

“I’m asking you to vote for leadership that listens, cares and delivers,” Korstanje said.

The debate was organized by the three West Niagara Chambers of Commerce. Invitations were extended to all registered candidates but Justin Abando, New Democratic Party and Ryan Anderson, People’s Party of Canada, did not show.

FUNDING INFRASTRUCTURE

Korstanje: calls for collaboration at every level of government.

Allison: make more money available through the one-third three-way cost sharing model

for projects. And if we don’t want development charges to be high then we need to look at the federal government to help.”

Bylsma: “The system is already in place. It’s called development charges.” It uses growth to fund growth. It’s locally driven and locally beneficial.

REDUCE DEBT

Allison: There is tons of waste in government and we need to do a good job to make people accountable.

Korstanje: Counter tariffs will help fund the projects that we are working on.

Bylsma: CHP would pay down the debt and introduce mandatory balanced budgets. There will no longer be deficit spending. It will be outlawed. Every government will be accountable to the people every year.

INDIGENOUS RECONCILIATION

Korstanje: The first thing we need to do is to educate ourselves in what the Indigenous people believe the issues are and where we can help. She said Indigenous groups are improving housing and wraparound service models. “We have a lot to learn from their housing initiatives.”

Allison: When it comes to resource development we have not done a great job as a country including our First Nations as partners. Because pipelines go through their lands, they should be able to participate. We need to include them economically. They should come on as partners and be able to participate in the wealth.

Bylsma: The First Nations people need to have access to clean drinking water. We also recognize that before reconciliation there needs to be truth. However we’ve been duped (regarding) into mass graves, unmarked burials which has now been proven to be a hoax, overblown by sensational media to elicit an emotional response. The result has gene-

Niagara West Candidates (L to R) Dean Allison, Conservative; Dave Bylsma, Christian Heritage, and; Jennifer Korstanje, Liberal.

rated nearly a 100 church burnings and not a single conviction. This has greatly set back the cause for reconciliation.

DEI

Allison: There’s a number of things that we can look at as we’re dealing with DEI. We have to look at making sure everyone has a fair chance. Everyone should be treated equally.

Bylsma: The CHP absolutely believes that every human life has value and should be treated with respect however we will also acknowledge it’s starting to be discovered around the world that the aggressive DEI policies are akin to a type of Communism or Marxism and they’ve been abused and misused in such a way to foster a type of unfairness.

Korstanje: I would say DEI and add A for accessibility. I am an advocate for marginalized groups. I would consult with groups that need a voice and bring that voice to the table.

STIMULATE GROWTH

Bylsma said Canada has failed to develop its own natural resources and manufacturing. “Aluminum is exported into America and it’s brought back to us as beer cans.”

Korstanje said the Liberals have planned a new trade diversification corridor. “This will build the infrastructure to help get out trade across from province to province.”

Allison said the Conservatives will build a national energy corridor to get resources to market. “We need to build pipelines, we need to devel-

years. Car thefts are up 524 per cent since 2018. I was knocking doors in the neighbourhood that had every car broken into. Toronto has a 40 per cent higher personal property crime rate than New York City. Nothing’s been done about it in the last 10 years.”

op our LNG (liquified natural gas).”

IMMIGRATION

Korstanje: “With our aging population we are going to need a workforce especially to pay into the CPP, so immigration is good but we’ve already capped it because of the stresses on the housing crisis.”

Allison: “Canada has to do a better job with matching economic needs and program oversight.

Bylsma: “The solution to our current housing crisis can be solely addressed by reducing the strain that current immigration levels have put on the demand for homes.

TARIFFS

Allison: “We need to do a better job diversifying our economy. One of the things we could look at in addition to developing our resources is to deal with the interprovincial trade barriers.

Bylsma: “It comes back to developing our own manufacturing, our own resources on this side of the border and putting them to market around the world. We have the technology, we have the expertise.

Korstanje: The retaliatory tariffs are going to be used to fund the manufacturing in Canada. We’re going to use those tariffs and put the $2 billion into the auto industry.

VIOLENT CRIME

Allison: The violent crime severity index in Niagara is at the highest it’s ever been. Armed persons calls with weapons has increased from 330 to just under 1000. “Under this Liberal government we’ve seen crime escalate over the last 10

Korstanje: The Liberals will toughen the criminal code to make bail laws stricter, is hiring thousands of new border agents and is implementing measures at the border and ports to stop the inflow of weapons.

HOUSING SUPPLY

Korstanje: Our party is going back to war time housing. We are investing in modular housing which we can build to scale. It can be fast, efficient, productive and you can live with dignity. We are giving incentives to housing developers to build rental housing with affordable components.

Allison: We believe individuals not government should be building houses. We need to remove the red tape, we need to make sure it’s efficient. The municipalities play a large role in that and that’s why we would create incentives for them to get that done. There’s 6000 government properties we would try to sell off.

Bylsma: Used the time allotted for the housing question to address CHP concerns. “Central bank digital currencies must never become a sole reality in Canada. The privacy and freedom of our nation will succumb to big brother social credit systems that are currently being used by China to compel compliance.I would also say that God has created two genders male and female, biological gender cannot be changed by hormones or surgery. Many children have been harmed by the manipulation of those in authority using nonscientific theories towards a permanent mutilation of their bodies. Parental authority must not be usurped.”

son’s exploits in cap turing rare bird photos;

HAT TRICK

Final Standings

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Mother Nature kind to Lions

Despite forecasts which showed thunderstorms all Saturday morning, Beamsville Lions’ annual Easter Egg Hunt went off without a hitch under sunny, dry, skies.

As always, the turnout was huge for the popular event held at Lions Park.

Photos By Evan Loree

McManamy-Pouliot

Stacy McHugh signs her children Isla, left, and Olivia into the Beamsville Lions’ annual Easter Egg Hunt.

Guzey Wizey the Clown hands Ollie Jin, 6, a balloon sabre.

(L to R) Veronica Lyons, 7, Georgia Lynam, 8, Charlotte Lynam, 5, and Addie Lyons, 6, share sweet treats and hot chocolate after the egg hunt.

Adalynn Van Weelden, 4,with friend and neighbour Adelaide Cole, 3 - fill their baskets with chocolate.

Rowan Shebib, 3, squats low to scoop up chocolate Easter eggs.

Riley Murre hugs the Easter Bunny - aka Ethan Bartley, a Scout volunteering on Saturday morning.

Charlotte

tries to pick up the most chocolate eggs.

Boot donation

Grimsby Firefighters Association were out in force Saturday at multiple locations for their annual boot dirve - in support of the Cooper Robertson Foundation and West Niagara YWCA “Coldest Night of the Year Campaign”. (L to R) Mitch Mueller and Rob Fleming accept a donation from Kathy Leclerc, along with Jim Bergshoeff. Williscraft - Photo

Games, snacks, at Grimsby hunt

Grimsby’s annual Easter Egg Hunt at Centennial Park - sponsored by The Lynn Fee Team - generated a huge turnout for games, snacks and, of course, the Easter Bunny. Attendees made a free will donation of cash or food - with all donations to Village of Hope Niagara.

to R) Derik

and Makayla Van-Helsdingen were serving up hot dogs to attendees like the KaytorsMegan, Bryan, Thomas and Josephine, along with grandparents Heather and Paul.

Rosey King was pretty excited about getting some bubbles airborne.

Simones

Ashleigh Gosse helps daughter, Kenzie, choose a timbit offered up by volunteers Sadie Parro, left, and Rina Perro-Pennett.

Lillian Seifert, who dropped into Grimsby while on vacation from Germany with her mom, Vanessa, waited patiently for her balloon reward.

Christina Glazer snaps a memory of daughter, Valentina, with Easter Bunny on Friday.

Photos By

Mike Williscraft Marlowe Staples and Harlowe Sherry scour a prize basket to see what they can find.

LEWIS SETTIMI

ROBERT JAMES, Sales Representative Office: 905-945.1234

paul@settimilaw.com www.settimilaw.com

Email: robertjames@royallepage.ca

GRIMSBY LEGION

233 Elizabeth St., Grimsby • 905-945-8421

Facebook: Grimsby Legion

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sATuRDAys DANCE NIGhT DJ KELLY - 9:00 pm - 1:00 am

Grimsby Legion Supports YOUR Local Community

Hopping good fun at WL Easter Fest

Bunny ears and painted faces were all the fashion Good Friday at the Community Easter Fest held at the West Lincoln Community Centre.

Hundreds of energized kids enjoyed train rides, block building, fire truck tours, chocolates, face painting, animals to cuddle and photos with the

Deklan Lampman, 2, is delighted with his new goat friends from Circle C Farm.

Eleven-month-old twins Elizabeth and Journey Blais show off their waving skills to West Lincoln firefighter Olivia Drake on Good Friday during Community Easter Fest at the West Lincoln Community Centre.

Briella Plazek, 5, waves to her fans, joined on the train ride by brother Mason, 3, Blaire, 15 months, and mom, Sabrina.

Patience personified, Alexis McQuiggin, 3, sits for her face creation by artist Nicole Kameka.

Ever so gently, Alexis Chastney, 2, pets a rabbit from Circle C Farm, just one of the many fun activities.

West Lincoln residents had a chance to talk with neighbours waiting with their kids in line up for face painting.

Easter bunny.

Photos By

Joanne McDonald

Carrier force development ramps up

With a second strike by Canada Post workers looming late next month, NewsNow has started a push to develop a full carrier force to able to continue serving the community.

“Like leading to Christmas, a break in communication of all things Niagara West is simply not something which residents should have to face,” said NewsNow publisher Mike Williscraft.

Max will be out delivering “carriers needed” flyers over the next few weeks.

out door to door.

VINELAND NURSERIES

“We had an excellent response then and we’re seeing it now. The difference is we’re handling it differently with an eye to permanence.”

“A lot of people know Max Nobles. He has been a carrier for me for decades. He is covering Grimsby for us in the coming weeks, so if you see him at your door, that is why,” said Williscraft, who added others will cover other urban areas.

Part of the plan this time will be having flyers seeking carriers for specific routes handed

“As well, some neighbourhoods may be covered with street boxes for easy pick-up in areas where homes have no mailboxes as we will not use plastic bags,” said Williscraft.

SALE OF LAND BY PUBLIC TENDER

The Corporation of the Town of Grimsby

Take Notice that tenders are invited for the purchase of the land described below and will be received until 3:00 p.m. local time on May 7, 2025, at the Grimsby Town Hall, Municipal Office, 160 Livingston Avenue, Grimsby Ontario.

Description of Land:

Roll No. 26 15 020 023 15200 0000; HYSERT RD, GRIMSBY; PIN 46044-0058 (LT); File No. 23-100; Minimum tender amount: $ 8,933.44

Except as follows, the municipality makes no representation regarding the title to or any other matters relating to the land to be sold. Responsibility for ascertaining these matters rests with the potential purchasers.

This sale is governed by the Municipal Act, 2001 and the Municipal Tax Sales Rules made under that Act. A full copy of the tax sale advertisement and further information about this matter is available on line at www.OntarioTaxSales.ca or www.grimsby.ca or you may contact:

Tony Del Monaco, CPA, CMA, Director of Finance / Treasurer, The Corporation of the Town of Grimsby, 160 Livingston Avenue, Grimsby ON L3M 0J5, Phone: (905) 945-9634 Ext. 2024, Email: tdelmonaco@grimsby.ca

A second “Let’s Talk Tourism” strategy session is planned by Town of Grimsby for Thursday, May 1, at town hall - 160 Livingston Ave.

The session runs from 6:30-8:30 p.m. If you cannot attend in person, email: mtracey@crg.ca for a Zoom link.

Armed thieves hit Winston Road home for second time

For the second time in as many months, thieves broke into a Winston Road home in Grimsby at about 4 a.m. on April 15.

When officers responded to the call of a violent residential robbery they determined that five masked, unidentified males, armed with weapons, assaulted a man before forcing their way into the home.

The suspects searched the residence for valuables and fled the area westbound in a black SUV shortly before police arrived.

The black SUV may have entered the QEW at Fifty Road. The primary items stolen were jewellery and electronics.

The male victim sustained minor injuries as a result of the robbery.

A search of the area did not locate the suspects.

8 District detectives have been assigned to the investigation. They are being assisted by the NRPS Forensic Services Unit.

Suspect Descriptions:

Suspect #1: Male, wearing dark gloves, a black hooded sweatshirt with black face covering, black pants with a grey stripe down the side, and black shoes with white soles.

Suspect #2: Male, wearing dark gloves, a brown and black puffer jacket with a white logo on the left chest, black face covering, red pants with black trim near the knee area, and black shoes with a white logo on the tongue.

Suspect #3: Male, wearing a black jacket with a white logo on the left chest area, black face covering, red glove on the left hand, black glove on the right hand, black pants, and white shoes with grey accents.

Suspect #4: Male, wearing a black hooded sweatshirt with a white logo on the left chest, black face covering, white gloves, and black pants.

Suspect #5: Male, wearing a black jacket, black hooded sweatshirt, black face covering, black gloves, black pants, and black shoes.

Anyone who may cell phone, closed-circuit or dash camera video from 2-4:30 a.m. can call 905688-4111, option 3, extension 1009341.

C.F.U.W.GRIMSBY

ANNUAL GIANT BOOK SALE

Saturday, April 26th

9:00 a.m.-12:00 noon

ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH PARISH HALL

156 Main Street West, Grimsby

Donations of books gratefully accepted and can be dropped off Friday, April 25, 1-5 pm at St. Andrew’s Hall

All proceeds fund scholarships for post secondary education for women

There is something for Everyone!

Stock Up on Your Summer Reading!

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER START WITH A BOOK

Grimsby Canadian Federation of University Women

Developer should rethink plan to save Smithville elm tree: writer

Dear Editor, I am writing on behalf of concerned residents in Smithville who are trying to save this remarkable elm tree

standing just south of Townline Rd and west of Shuri Road.

This special tree is more than just part of the landscape, it is a symbol of resilience, majestic beauty and strength, having survived over a century of storms, human activity, and even the devastating Dutch elm disease.

As we’ve learned from two recent public meetings, the current development plans call for the removal of this tree. While we understand and accept that growth and new builds are inevitable, we urge developers/planners

to approach this with thoughtfulness not haste. Surely there is room for preserving such a rare and inspiring natural monument.

For example, Oakville had a similar situation for an ancient oak tree and their solution was to build a road around the tree.

This tree is a living testament to endurance and change. Its deep roots have held firm through well over 100 years of change

and adversitysomething we as Canadians can relate to and learn from, especially in these uncertain times.

We hope the developers/ planners will reconsider and integrate this beautiful, resilient tree into their plans.

Let this tree stand as a symbol of how new builds and preservation of the environment can coexist.

Deanne Macintosh Proud resilient Canadian/ Smithville Resident

Learn To Lawn Bowl Open House

Beamsville Lawn Bowling Club - at 5088 Park Avenueinvites all Lincoln adults (not just Seniors) to come out and have fun learning to Lawn Bowl. Meet our members while we introduce you to the sport. Come visit any or all of the following Open Houses –

• Saturday, May 3 - 1:30-4:30 p.m.

• Tuesday, May 6 - 1:30-4:30 p.m.

• Monday, June 2 - 6:30-9 p.m.

We look forward to meeting you.

Please wearflat-soled shoes

Questions? Please email Brad Emmett: beamsvillelbc@gmail.com

ARTHUR (A.D.) FLEMING WILL BE RETIRING FROM THE PRACTICE OF LAW ON JUNE 30, 2025.

MR. FLEMING’S PRACTICE IS BEING TRANSFERRED TO MR. ERIC TEICHGRAF. MR. TEICHGRAF WILL BE MAINTAINING MR. FLEMING’S EXISTING OFFICE AND PHONE NUMBER WHICH WILL CONTINUE TO BE SUITE 201, 4413 ONTARIO STREET, BEAMSVILLE, AND 905-563-7000, RESPECTIVELY. MR. TEICHGRAF’S OFFICE WILL RETAIN POSSESSION OF ALL WILLS, POWERS OF ATTORNEY AND CORPORATE MINUTE BOOKS.

SHOULD YOU WISH TO PICK UP YOUR ORIGINAL WILLS, POWERS OF ATTORNEY AND CORPORATE MINUTE BOOKS, PLEASE CONTACT MR. FLEMING OR HIS LEGAL ASSISTANT, KIM, BY PHONE AT 905-563-7000 BEFORE APRIL 30, 2025, TO MAKE ARRANGEMENTS.

SpringHOME IMPROVEMENT

Tips top renovate your home on a budget

Homeowners who are conserving funds can rest assured that it is possible to make meaningful changes both inside and outside a home without breaking the bank. Here are some ways to renovate a home on a budget.

• Create a budget and don’t waver. Figure out exactly what you can afford for a renovation and then make that your maximum dollars spent. Research comparable projects in your area and be honest about whether you can afford the renovation as-is or if you must adapt ideas to fit your price.

Make sure to build in a cushion of around 15-20 percent for any unforeseen expenses that may arise once a renovation is underway.

• Maximize an existing floor plan. This Old House suggests looking for ways to maximize your current layout before you invest in major renovations like an expansion. Bring in a designer with an eye for utilizing space. For example, see how you might be able to replace shelves with pull-out drawers in the kitchen. Moving furniture around or rethinking floor plans also can help to lower costs.

• Balance DIY with hiring contractors. You can save money by tackling some projects yourself, but only if you are confident in your renovation skills. Rather than risk making costly mistakes and having to redo things, hire well-vetted professionals but ask if there’s any work you can do to cut costs.

• Check clearance and resale stores. Shop discount stores for building materials to save money. For example, if a builder ordered too many cabinets they may offer them to Habitat for Humanity ReStores.

SpringHOME IMPROVEMENT

Homeowners should not underestimate the power of lighting in their homes. In addition to making spaces functional and more attractive, lighting can affect personal well-being, as a well-lit room can benefit mental health. The following are various types of lighting and how they can work best in a home.

AMBIENT

Ambient lighting is blanket lighting that is used to evenly illuminate a room - this is the general lighting that every home needs. Fixtures like overhead lights, floor lamps and more provide enough light for people to function safely indoors.

TASK LIGHTING

Task lighting can be installed any-

where a person requires direct, intense light to see details. This means lights can be under cabinetry or on a desk for reading mail or homework.

ACCENT LIGHTING

Accent lighting typically adds character to a room. Accent lighting may call attention to entryways, plants, fireplaces, or other points.

For example, accent lighting can be

or artwork.

SMA RT PATIO COV ERS

Want the outdoors without sweltering sun, annoying rain or aggravating bugs? Get the best of both worlds with an exterior living space that’ll keep you outdoors longer.

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We’re Getting Ready ...Again!

First, thanks again to the nearly 200 helpers who delivered NewsNow for us during the November/December Canada Post strike.

In May, just two months away, there is a likelihood of another work stoppage as negotiations have gone nowhere. So, to all those who helped before, we will be reaching out to confirm if you will be interested in helping out again. As well, we are looking to fill out all our carrier routes with an eye to setting up a permanent delivery system. This does not mean anyone who helps out in May needs to be permanent themselves. No doubt we will need dozen of carriers to help in the short-term while we seek permanent ones. Simply, papers will get delivered to your home every Wednesday morning for delivery by Thursdays at 7 p.m. Carriers may also receive our ClubWest Magazine or other special publications - for which they will be paid extra. Flyers could also be part of the mix, but first things first. We don’t want to get ahead of ourselves.

Please email catherine@wn3.ca to get on the list or if you have any more questions.

20th Anniversary Celebration

ADULTS ONLY

ONLY

* LIVE MUSIC * CASH BAR COCKTAIL RECEPTION

DINNER * LIVE MUSIC * CASH BAR

COCKTAIL RECEPTION

ONLY

* LIVE MUSIC * CASH BAR

DINNER * LIVE MUSIC * CASH BAR

TICKETS

RECEPTION

COCKTAIL RECEPTION

ADULTS ONLY

$40 PER PERSON - DINNER & RECEPTION

$10 PER PERSON - COCKTAIL RECEPTION ONLY

DINNER * LIVE MUSIC * CASH BAR COCKTAIL RECEPTION

$40 PER PERSON - DINNER & RECEPTION

ONLY

$40 PER PERSON - DINNER & RECEPTION

$10 PER PERSON - COCKTAIL RECEPTION ONLY

Ridge Community Centre

* LIVE MUSIC * CASH BAR

$10 PER PERSON - COCKTAIL RECEPTION ONLY

ADULTS ONLY DINNER * LIVE MUSIC * CASH BAR COCKTAIL RECEPTION

Mountain St., Grimsby

$10 PER PERSON - COCKTAIL RECEPTION ONLY

$40 PER PERSON - DINNER & RECEPTION

Mountain Ridge Community Centre 105 Mountain St., Grimsby

$40 PER PERSON - DINNER & RECEPTION

31

Mountain Ridge Community Centre 105 Mountain St., Grimsby Saturday MAY 2025

Mountain Ridge Community Centre 105 Mountain St., Grimsby

Your tickets!

Mountain Ridge Community Centre 105 Mountain St., Grimsby

31 20th Anniversary Celebration

Your tickets! Dinner tickets must be purchased by May 10 Saturday 31 May 2025

RECEPTION ONLY

tickets must be purchased by May 10 31

$10 PER PERSON - COCKTAIL RECEPTION ONLY

$40 PER PERSON - DINNER & RECEPTION $10 PER PERSON - COCKTAIL RECEPTION ONLY

$10 PER PERSON - COCKTAIL RECEPTION ONLY Get Your tickets! Dinner tickets must be purchased by May 10

Your tickets! Dinner tickets must be purchased by May 10

Support Local Businesses

Every purchase, review, and recommendation strengthens our economy. By supporting local businesses, we help create jobs, foster growth, and keep our community strong.

OBITUARIES

Chrysta Beaton

With broken hearts and endless love, we share the passing of Chrysta Beaton who left us on April 19th at the age of 45, almost one month after saying goodbye to our beloved mother.

Chrysta was the type of person that would light up any room that she was in. She had a pure heart and a very contagious smile. To know her was to love her, and her hugs were truly the best. Her presence reminded everyone of what really mattered in the world.

Chrysta would enjoy singing karaoke, watching glee and Gilmore Girls, sweating to the oldies with Richard Simmons and making everyone happy. She will be missed profusely by her sister Patsy, niece Abby, her uncle John and cousins Daniel and Ryan, and also by Melissa, Austen, Thomas, Madi and Karolina. Chrysta is predeceased by her father (Jerry) and by her Mother (Karen) who was her absolute best friend and most favourite person. Chrysta will be fondly remembered by the large amount of people whose hearts were touched by her over the years.

A very heartfelt thank you to the SE palliative nurses, the PSW’s from care partners and the UMH staff.

A celebration of Chrysta’s life will take place in the future.

Chrysta will forever be loved and the memories we shared will forever be cherished.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

GRIMSBY - 1 bedrm apt., 700 sq. ft, short walk to Gateway/Super-store $1,100, Utilities included first and last. Mature adult required 905-945-3834

CARS

CARS, tRuCkS, old farm machinery for scrap or repair. we pay cash. Flatbed service. 905-386-6181 or 289-686-5059.

SLOCKI, Roman Joseph

OBITUARIES

We are sad to announce the passing of our dearest brother Roman Joseph Slocki on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at Milton Hospital, in his 85th year, predeceased by his beloved parents Joseph and Helen Slocki, and by his wife, Thelma Jacobs.

Roman graduated from Beamsville High School and University of Waterloo with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He was employed at IBM and headed a group that developed the ATM System, used in banking. He left IBM and started a very successful business called R.J. Slocki EDP Services. His clients were the Mutual Insurance group of companies, until retirement.

He is survived by his sisters Nadine (Russell, deceased), Vera Mitchell (Ted), Andrea Slocki, and brothers Bud (Pat) and Morris Walter (Donna, deceased). He leaves nieces Katrina Dworian-Auton, Kristin, Kim, Tammy, and Marie, and nephews Paul Dworian, Jason, Michael, Andrew, Adam, and Brian, plus 24 great-nieces and nephews and one great-great nephew. He also has a nephew and two nieces in France, Joe, Annie and Ginette.

Roman is resting at Donald V. Brown Funeral Home, 36 Lake Avenue Drive, Stoney Creek. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 23, from 4-7 p.m., and on Thursday, April 24 from 4-7 p.m. with Panachyda at 6 p.m.. Cremation to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations to a charity of your choice would be appreciated. Notes of sympathy and condolence may be left at www.donaldvbrown.ca

Van Gelder, Cornelia Wilhelmina alida

Cornelia Wilhelmina Alida Van Gelder (née Willard), of Beamsville, Ontario, sadly passed away on April 7, 2025, gracefully and peacefully, at the age of 91. She is now reunited with her beloved husband, Marinus A. Van Gelder Jr. Nellie was a dedicated employee at General Motors in St. Catharines.

Predeceased by her parents, Jacob Jacobsz Willard and Catherine Wilhelmina Brandt, Nellie was also preceded in death by her siblings: Sjaak, Hank, Wim, Toos, Stef, Griet, Jan, and Franz. Her sole surviving sibling, Joep, resides in Australia.

Nellie leaves behind her cherished family: Jimmy, Tommy (Denise), Ingrid, and Lee (Bobbie). She was a proud grandmother to Matthew (Jamie), Geordan (Anjelina), Reyse (Phuong), Brandt, and Michael (Aimee), as well as a beloved great-grandmother to Robyn, Cruz, Presley, Paetyn, and Kane. Their vibrant spirits brought endless happiness to her life.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Tallman Funeral Homes, Vineland.

Online condolences at www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca

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OBITUARIES

robinson, Peter

April 27, 1941 - April 8, 2025

With breaking hearts, we announce the death of (George) Peter Robinson on April 8th, 2025. Pete was born in Beverley, Yorkshire, UK, and moved to Canada at 25. He spent most of his adult life selflessly and compassionately serving others as a nurse at HPH, The St. Catharines General, and a long career at Bethesda Homes. He also spent countless hours on the farm, his most favourite place on earth.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Barb Robinson (nee Jeffery), daughters Jennifer Ransom (Steve) and Wendy Robinson, and his three most prized people, his grandchildren, Aiden Robinson, Maclean Ransom, and Max Ransom. Pete is preceded in death by his father, George Robinson, mother, Mary Lou Baker, brother, Bob Taylor, and son, Eric Robinson. A protector and a provider, Pete loved his children, treasured his grandchildren, and absolutely adored his wife.

He willingly shared his time and energy as a volunteer, reading to special needs kids and spreading the word of the Lord through his work with the Gideons.

Pete loved daffodils, and he loved golf.

He loved tea and chips.

Pete had a huge sweet tooth and loved his cookies, cakes, and sweets.

He loved his farm and worked the land from what felt like the beginning of time. Each bulb and vine was hand-planted and placed in perfect rows in well-prepared soil. The sound of his perfect pitch whistling or of him belting out hymns could be heard for miles while he spent hours on the oldest tractor known to man.

It was the perpetual cycle of mowing grass. The fringe deliberately unkept and the milkweed left to draw the butterflies.

He was always up before the sun to feed the horses, milk the cows, or mow the grass, and often grabbed a nap on the couch at noon—most times with the TV and radio on full blast.

Pete was always quick with a joke or a smart-ass remark.

He had the best laugh and a sense of humour like none other.

Pete enjoyed sports. A rugby player in his youth, he had fun swapping stats and had a lot of disparaging remarks for those he felt were the unwarranted GOATs.

He had a passion for life, love for his family, unwavering strength, courage, and faith, undiminished by time or circumstance.

He was our rock, our family, our legend—a husband, a dad, Grandpa, and Poppa. To know him was to love him.

If you were one of the lucky ones, he loved you back. We invite you to the Fireside Room of Tallman Funeral Homes (3277 King St. Vineland) on April 27, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. for tea, a cookie, and cake as we celebrate what would have been his 84th birthday.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Pathstone Mental Health in Niagara or Serving In Mission Canada. The latter is a non-profit organization that teaches people in Africa to be nurses for their local communities, which was something near and dear to his heart. It was your time for Glory Day, but words cannot express how very, very much we miss you. Online condolences at www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca

PERSONALS

HOLY SPIRIT, you who solve all problems, light all roads so that I can attain my goal. You who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things as you confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you ever, and in spite of all material illusion, I wish to be with you in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy toward me and mine. The person must say this prayer three consecutive days. After three days the favour requested will be granted, even if it may be dif-

ficult. This prayer must be published after your favour is granted, without mentioning the favour. A special thanks to St. Rita, St. Jude, Sacred Heart, Blessed Virgin Mary and all the angels and saints. Especially to Saint Rita of Cascia. Only your initials shall appear at the bottom.

C.E.

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I pay it for all your old hockey mags, books, hockey news, programs, ticket stubs and cards. Do your spring cleaning now. Any questions. Call Tim 905-510-3658 - Beamsville.

zwart, anneke (anna)

While surrounded by her loving family, Anneke was called to Heaven, on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at age of 95. Beloved and devoted wife to Peter, her husband for 73 years. Loving mother of Peter (Carol), Anita Philpott (Michael), David (Lynn), Mark (Dianne) and daughterin-law Cheryl (predeceased by son, Richard 2015). Proud grandmother of her cherished fourteen grandchildren and fourteen greatgrandchildren. Dear sister of Gerrie Blank (Alfred), Doekele Fokkema and Sity Fokkema and sister-in-law of Janke Fokkema. Anneke was a caring and dedicated person, known for her commitment to always be ready by helping others with acts of kindness within her church and community. Cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service will take place at Mountainvew Christian Reformed Church, 290 Main Street East, Grimsby, on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to World Renew or a charity of your choice would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSEWHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755).

www.smithsfh.com

mccormick, Amanda Sumiko

January 23, 1979 - April 22, 2025

At West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, Grimsby, on April 22, 2025. Beloved daughter of Eileen Tamaki-McCormick. Remembered fondly by aunt Elizabeth and cousins Rhys and William. Also survived by her father James McCormick.

“Our beautiful girl - So proud of you! You were everything God meant you to be. So much love welcomes you back to your heavenly home.”

Amanda would truly want to say she thanks everyone of you for being in her life. Her message would be, “Love yourself and think of others!” or simply, “BE KIND”.

Online condolences at www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca

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GPAG’s celebrating 50 years

By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow

From its basement beginnings in the Carnegie Building, the 50-year evolution of the Grimsby Public Art Gallery has been a testament to the community’s connection to the arts and its artists.

“A small town having an art gallery with such a distinguished history is extremely unique,” art historian and researcher Sarah Oatley told members of the Grimsby Historical Society at its April meeting. “That it was built from the ground up by community members makes it even more unique.”

Grimsby Public Art Gallery board member, and Rhona Wenger, former GPAG director. McDonald – Photo

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Oatley is working as a program assistant for the GPAG’s 50th anniversary. She has conducted research and produced exhibitions across Canada including the Agnes Etherington Art Centre, the Bachinski-Chu Print/Study Collection and the Fashion History Museum.

Digging deep into the GPAG vault, she has uncovered artifacts and stories about the gallery’s history and artists, fascinating glimpses into a past which may otherwise have been lost and constitute the cornerstone of the Region’s artistic and cultural identity.

The presentation highlighted significant moments in the gallery’s history including prominent exhibiting artists, interesting and unconventional programming, permanent collection features and vault storage upgrades.

The Carnegie building, where the historical society is housed, was formerly the public library and the first iteration of the art gallery which opened April 20, 1975.

Oatley’s lecture sparked memories of founding director Bill Poole and his tireless, instrumental role in the gallery and arts community.

Poole saw the potential in the Library’s vacant basement space to become a professional gallery. To build his vision, he called for the support of the Grimsby community through donations of paint, lighting, materials, funds and labour in addition to provincial grants. Quite literally, built by the community, GPAG has always been considered as belonging to the community it serves.

Patrons went downstairs to see the exhibition and participate in

programs from drop in kids’ classes to March Break programs. “The goal was to make a connection between the gallery and community,” Oatley said. There was even a visiting lion.

Oatley said community engagement was a major part of what made the gallery successful. The women’s committee of the Grimsby Art Gallery was instrumental in development funding and running programs.

Poole knew the artist Kosso Eloul and asked him to design the iconic sculpture, Imsby or Double Is One that sits outside the gallery and has been painted many colours over the years.

Kosso wrote that he was creating Imsby especially for the newly completed Grimsby gallery because of the demonstrated support for the Arts shown by the public.

Poole quietly served as mentor to dozens of young artists and designers. He founded the Grimsby Festival of Art in 1967 with Ernie Matton, which annually drew crowds to the outdoor art show.

He organized two annual events to showcase the work of other private press printers and former students. One was a Book Arts Fair, held at the Ontario College of Art & Design.

The other was Wayzgoose, an annual gathering of private press printers, bookbinders, print makers paper marblers and other artisans which is happening this weekend, April 26, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the gallery.

GPAG will be celebrating its 50th with a big birthday bash May 31, 1-4 p.m., and all are invited to join for an afternoon of music, activities and cake. The gallery is located at 18 Carnegie Lane in Grimsby.

Historian and researcher Sarah Oatley, left, with Deena Errampalli,

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Spring has sprung...Let’s go!

It takes about 2-3 weeks for Niagara West to get its motor running in the spring and when it gets going, ZOOM, we’re off and running?

We’re running.

Lots going on so a bit of a grab bag this week.

All aboard!

Eager youngsters lined up for train rides Good Friday during Community Easter Fest at the West Lincoln Community Centre. McDonald - Photo

Bill Poole: a community cornerstone

It’s great to have a reason to see Bill Poole’s name in print again.

Having started in town in ’95, I had many opportunities to work with Bill on stories and learn a great deal from him about the area’s history, in particular, covering his passion for the arts.

He always had an amazing amount of energy and he put all his focus into leading the charge to get Grimsby Public Art Gallery going from dream to reality. Today, it likely would never happen in a small town with fiscal issues being what they are, so being ahead of the curve in his thinking helped create a cultural gem.

People like that are rare anymore; someone who would invest immense amounts of time to make something happen. Today we are better off because of the effort of cornerstones like Bill Poole. M.W.

First, a couple weeks back I outlined how simple community events create “tourism” even though one may think they are really for locals. Any visitor coming into town is, by definition, a tourist.

So when I was shooting photos at Grimsby’s Easter egg hunt at Centennial Park on Good Friday it was pretty cool to snap a photo of a little girl who made the trip to town as part of their vacation from Germany.

Her mom explained they were staying in the Falls and heard about Grimsby’s event. Et voila, tourism.

Now, there were many others from surrounding communities, all “tourists”, but I can assure you stories about the great visit to town will make their way back to Europe - and I got their email to send them copies of the photo, too, just to put a little sugar on top.

We have a ton of great volunteers running events like all the Easter egg hunts we saw over the weekend, Saturday’s ECO Fest in Beamsville, the countless fundraising barbecues, dances and trivia nights....all that activity

and hospitality is what makes the community hum and it’s spring - we’re humming right along.

Speaking of spring, just a heads up we’ve got our ClubWest Magazine spring edition in the office if anyone wants to drop in to grab one if they didn’t get it at home. Lots of interesting stuff, so worth the time to stop in.

You will note, especially if you were near the top, that the Final Standings of Hat Trick Hockey are printed on Page 4.

Usually, to cap the season, we run a full centrespread with all entries shown. We’ve had a centrespread booked for this week for several weeks, so the full standings will still be printed in the May 1 edition. They are also posted online at: newsnowniagara.com but they will be in the paper, too.

Congratulations to winner Jacob Zdriluk who won this year’s Grand

Prize sponsored by Grimsby Ford.

You will see a little story in this week’s edition, Page 13, to let homeowners in Grimsby know we have a carrier, Max Nobles, who may be going to your door to drop off a small card letting people know we need a carrier specifically in their area. We are highlighting this - although we have instructed Max to only deliver these cards during daylight hours - because residents are concerned about these random knocks at the door and people approaching their homes in general anymore.

And rightfully so! Break and enters, home invasions or any other incident is unfortunate to see in our communities, but they do happen. We just wanted all to know Max has a purpose to be out there. We will also be enlisting a carrier to do the same in Beamsville (and Vineland/Jordan) and Smithville, too.

We want to maximize our deliveries and be ready for the May 22 edition as almost assuredly Canada Post will walk out and they may never return from what I am hearing.

We’re working on a couple of major, new components for a new distribution system which require more research, but I will explain as soon as I can.

MIKE WILLISCRAFT

Delivered via Canada Post

ECO Fest fun

(Above) Vernah Fleming, left, of the Lincoln Rotary Club hands out native shrubs in exchange for small cash donations at Eco Fest, an environmental awareness event hosted at the Fleming Centre on Saturday afternoon.

(Right) Lynette, left, and Heidi Fast stop by the Lincoln Rotary Club’s table at Eco Fest and pick up plants.

(Below) Angela Lytle, left shares information about the Niagara chapter of the Bruce Trail Conservancy with Nathan England, 12, and his mom Billie.