BUY CANADIAN
Conversations’ lights go out Aug. 29
Downtown Beamsville fixture falls victim to life, construction & small business struggles
By Mike Williscraft NewsNow
Conversations Cafe is a very popular downtown Beamsville fixture, serving customers award winning food and drinks since 2012, but that was never its main goal.
“We opened this place for the youth of our community,” said owner Deborah Dueck.
“It’s for the youth to come and meet friends, get some free food if they need it and just to be safe. They’re protected here. They all knew they could come here and we would feed them, speak to them, so they would feel valued.”
The good news is Convos - the component of the business for the youth - will continue in a new spot. The bad news is, on Aug. 29 - the cafe itself will close its doors for the last time.
For Dueck, a host of contributing factors went into the decision to close, but, mainly, “It’s just time to retire.”
Like every other small business, COVID had a huge impact.
“The restrictions hurt a lot but we really pushed through COVID. In hindsight, that may not have been the best decision. Financially, that destroyed us. All the added restrictions, shut down five times, it was terrible,”said Dueck.
The after-affect as society came out of the pandemic lingered longer.
“People also hated that they had to come in here and write their name down, their phone number and if they had been vaccinated – or we were not allowed to let them in. Nobody wanted to give their private information. That really cut our base because people were not tolerating that,” Dueck recalled.
Mix in a long construction process on Ontario Street and an escalating minimum wage and an uphill climb can become insurmountable.
“It was not an easy call,” said Dueck.
While the clo-
sure of the cafe itself will have a big impact on her family - and downtown Beamsville itself - the heart of the place’s mandate, Convos, will live on.
The youth centre has relocated to 4548 Ontario St. - with a side See CONVOS, Page 3
Conversations Cafe owner Deb Dueck and her team will say goodbye to the community with a two-day open house - Thursday, Aug. 28 and Friday, Aug. 29. Williscraft - Photo
CONVOS
From Page 1
entrance to a building fronted by Pet Country and Pixel Bros.
“It’s a great space and we’re really excited about it,” said Dueck.
“The irony is we are now paying rent in a building my late father-in-law (long-time local businessman Abe Dueck) used to own.”
While the original location was chosen with the youth in mind, this one too will make access easier.
“Back in 2012, we were standing at the building across the street - looking at that building - and we saw them put the ‘For Sale’ sign in here. We wanted a space for cooking classes and to serve food,” said Dueck of the space itself.
But they were looking to downtown in the first place due to its proximity to Beamsville District Secondary School.
“We’ve been looking to move because the high school closed. We wanted to be here because of the high school. The kids could come here at lunch or after school or if they were expelled. That’s why we picked this location,” Dueck recalled.
“When BDSS closed, the kids started getting off the bus further down Ontario Street, so it is harder for them to get here now.”
The new spot has a ton going for it: it is on the ground floor as opposed to the basement at Conversations, it is a great deal larger and it is much closer to where kids now get off the bus.
“We opened up for two nights a week in May just to get a little momentum but we are planning full programming in the fall,” said Dueck, who also chairs Convos’ - a registered charity - board of directors.
“ We’re planning four drop-in nights/evenings 3 p.m.-6 p.m. with some 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. We
will also have one night for girls and one night for guys.”
So while the cafe will be gone, the original mandate of the place will live in - to support the youth of the community - and Dueck is very happy about that.
“I told the staff on Thursday. They’re sad, but they understand. They were more concerned about me, which was really, really kind of them,” said Dueck, noting they have about 20 employees.
“I really didn’t want to tell them, but they were very good about it.
Over two days - Thursday, Aug. 28, 7 a.m.-9 p.m. and Friday, Aug. 29, 7 a.m.–3 p.m.there will be a lot of hugs.
“The community has been amazing from the start. We love our customers and we’ll miss them,” said Dueck.
“For Convos, we’re in a better space and we’re happy we can continue to serve.”
Attract Butterflies to your Garden
Summer risotto with shrimp & nectarine chutney
By Chef Jan-Willem Stulp
For NewsNow
For this week’s installment of local and in-season culinary inspiration, we will continue playing with what our farmers and growers are producing and showcasing.
This is a spin on a classic rice dish of risotto, with a focus on local vegetables and herbs, and a delightfully fresh chutney of local stonefruit.
Sweet Jumbo Shrimp on Summer Risotto of Arborio and Fresh Kernel Corn, Summer Vegetables, Spicy Citrus & Nectarine Chutney
From a flavour profile, it definitely leans more towards an unoaked chardonnay, and less towards fuller-bodied whites or red wines. The chutney helps with that, too, a brisk, zesty combination of nectarines, local honey and lemon, with a touch of heat.
We’ll be working ‘backwards’, beginning with the chutney, then shrimp, and finishing with the risotto; that has to do with the marinating process, as we
discussed last week.
Chutney - INGREDIENTS
• 2 very firm nectarines, (peaches also work)
• 1 tsp local, liquid honey
• 1 lemon, (or lime) zested and juiced
• 1 Very small hot pepper, minced; alternatively, you could use a pinch of cayenne, to taste
• Fresh minced herbs; we picked cilantro, mint and Italian parsley, but you can choose what you have DIRECTIONS
I tend to leave the skins on the fruit, I just wash and use, as the colour really stands out. Cut the flesh off each nectarine pit, and dice it for the chutney.
Add to that a pinch of zest, and a 1/3 of the juice (you
can adjust after if you like more). Add the honey, your chosen herbs, and as much heat as you like. This should sit, covered, to allow the flavours to meld.
Shrimp
Large shrimp, (16/20) and 4 per person, but you can modify that to your own taste, and preference. What is important is that the shrimp are at least raw, peeled and deveined; tail on or off is your choice.
Simply marinate your (thawed) shrimp in some sunflower oil, salt and pepper, a dusting of paprika and some fresh thyme, with a splash of white wine. Let them marinate in the fridge until just before plating.
Risotto – serves 4 INGREDIENTS
• 1/2 cup Good quality, dry arborio rice
• 1 cup fresh corn kernels (2 lg or 3 sm ears)
• 3 cups (approx) homemade chicken or vegetable broth (or a quality substitute)
1-1/2 cups various fresh local vegetables, diced; (we used red onion, carrot, sweet peppers, celery root, zucchini)
• cooking oil, (I use sunflower 0il)
• seasonings, herbs
White wine
In a medium, thick-bottomed pan, add a splash of oil, and begin sautéing the vegetables, starting with the longest-cooking ones (onion, carrot, celery root) and finishing with the shortestcooking ones, (peppers, zucchini).
If you have others to add, like maybe beans, or fennel, remember to ‘time’ them so they do not overcook. Once the vegetables are ‘al dente’ and bright and flavourful, lightly season, and spread on a cool, lined baking tray. The risotto will take about 20 minutes in this same pan, so it’s important to cool the vegetables to keep them from over-cooking. Add another splash of oil to the pan, reduce the heat, and begin gently toasting
the rice, stirring to keep it from scorching.
You’ll notice that the grains begin to turn translucent, and have an aroma similar to popcorn. Warm your broth, (microwave is fine) and reduce the heat to low on your pan. Add the broth, 1/3 at a time, cover and do NOT stir. Allow the broth to absorb, then add another third.
Finish with the last third, and a splash of wine, as well as the corn kernels, then give one, ‘combining’ stir, so the corn is integrated, and cooking along.
At this point, put the shrimp on an oven-proof platter or lined sheetpan, and place in a preheated 325F oven. They will take about 6 or 7 minutes; don’t overcook these! Meanwhile set out your plates, and stir the vegetables into the risotto, allowing them to heat through, and adjust final seasoning. Plate immediately, topping each plate with hot shrimp, and nectarine chutney, and enjoy!
(Chef Stulp and his wife Jane operate Grand Oak Culinary Market in Vineland.)
Smithville Presbyterian Church will be doing its part to help the Niagara Presbytery celebrate 150 years in the region with a special event on Saturday, Aug. 23, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Church tours and organ music inside, balloon animals, inflatables, lawn games, face painting and the 4-H food truck will all be part of the fun.
enforcement, fire services and parks.
That is why the Town’s budget is so important! The budget is a financial plan that determines how we will fund and provide services to our residents. It guides decisions on key infrastructure investments and how they will be funded.
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Sunday fire sends firefighter to
There were no injuries at a late morning fire at Crabby Joe’s in Beamsville on Sunday, but one firefighter was sent to hospital due to heat exhaustion.
Shortly after 11 a.m., firefighters responded to Crabby Joe’s on Serena Drive for reports of smoke in the building.
Upon arrival, responding crews encountered heavy smoke throughout the restaurant. A fire was located in a mechanical room at the rear of the building and was quickly extinguished. It took several hours to clear the smoke and complete extensive overhaul of the building. No cause has been confirmed.
Niagara West Fire
Chief Greg Hudson said a high heat advisory from Environment Canada was in effect at the time. The fire is considered accidental. Damages have not been determined.
A Lincoln firefighter descends from the aerial ladder after checking the roof of Crabby Joe’s for hot spots on Sunday. McDonald - Photo
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Transfer your prescription to our Pharmacy today * It’s easy. Simply speak to one of our Pharmacists and we’ll take care of the rest. PLUS
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SAVE $2 on your Ontario Drug Benefit Co-Pay every day. Speak to one of our Pharmacists today. BEAMSVILLE
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Fax: 905-563-1297
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Store Hours: 8AM-MIDNIGHT I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our loyal customers for voting me the Ruby Award ~ Pharmacist.
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Our Amazing Staff: (L-R) Sienna, Adelle, Sabrina, Sara, Chelsy
BEST WEST IN THE
A Special Section of NewsNow
There are many great businesses and organizations in Niagara West and NewsNow readers know how to pick ’em.
Thanks to everyone who took the time to drop in their ballots. We here at NewsNow appreciate that effort, as assuredly do the business operators who earned a top spot in the voting process. The businesses and individuals reflected in this special feature are shining examples of outlets which make shopping locally an easy decision.
Massage Therapist
• Beamsville MassageTasha Clarke
• Hands For Better Health
Shawna Coke
• Hands on Health Care
Frances Lommen
Medical Spa
• Dear Me Clinic
• Belle’s Medical Spa
• Euro Senses Day Spa
Mortgage Broker
• Connie Materno - Mortgage Alliance
• Margo Wynhofen
Mortgage Corp.
• Kevin Such Mortgage Intelligence
Movers/Storage
• Mountaineer Movers
• Make Space
• Store It Right
Music Instructor
• Beamsville Music Studio - Jon
• STRIVE Studios - Mark
• Fun School of Music- Jenn
Music Studio
• Grimsby/Beamsville Music Studio
• Strive
• North Piano Studio
Nail Salon
• A’Lure Nails Boutique
• Heads Held High Nail Shop
• Winks Beauty Bar
Naturopath
• Dr. Ehab Mohammed
• Dr. Christine Novokowsky
• Mukesh Patel
Optical Store
• Peaker Eyewear
• Main Street Eye Clinic & Optical
• Moda Optometry
Optometrist
• Dr. J. Scott Peaker
• Dr. David Dueck
• Dr. Cynthia Merritt
Painter
• Glenn’s Painting
• Master Painter - Ray
• Me and My Wife Painting
Personal Trainer
• Justyna Kaleta Justyna’s Fitness
• Tamara Complete Fit
Retirement Home
• The Jacob Senior Living
• Aspira Lincoln Park Retirement
Living
• Maplecrest Village
Retirement Living, Revera
Roofing
• Dykstra Bros. Roofing
• Class Eh Roofing
• Hendriks Roofing
Service Club
• Beamsville & District Lions
• Kiwanis Club of West Lincoln
Best in the West
Wedding Location
• Gizio Recreation
• Ball’s Falls, NPCA
• Casablanca Winery Inn
Wine and Beer Making
• Niagara Wine & Brew Co.
• Vintners and Brewer’s Paradise
• Wine and Hop Shoppe
FOOD AND DRINKS
Asian
• Bahn Mi N Rice
Fish & Chips Town & Country Fish & Chips Judge & Jester
Union Jack Fish & Chips
French Fries
40 Public House
FAI-Mama’s Kitchen
Jordan House
Arts
• Lynn - Own it Studio
Pet Boarder
• Clovelly Kennels
• Briar Meadows
• Furry Friends Resort
Pet Groomer
• K9 Kouture Grooming -Chantal
• The Matted Mutt
• Mountain Grooming – Olga
Pet Shop
• Pet Country Market
• Ruffins Pet Centre Grimsby
• Pet Valu, Shoppers Square
Pet Trainer
• Jane Book’s Dog Obedience
• Cat & Jack K9 Saftey Team
• Citizen K9 Dog Grooming & Training
Pharmacist
• Debby Costa – Shoppers
Grimsby Square
• Pierre Rofail, Guardian Pharmacy
• Brad GrighmireWest Lincoln Pharmasve
Photographer
• Bryan Macaulay - Village Studio
• Joie de Vivre Photography
• The Perfect View
Physiotherapist/Clinic
• The Physiotherapy Edge
• Grimsby Health & Wellness
• Smithville Physiotherapy & Rehab
Picture Framer
• Village Studio/Special Effects
• Arcone Picture Frames
• Framecraft Ltd.
Plumber
• Konkle Plumbing & Heating
• Crown Plumbing
• Ruber Plumbing
Politician
• Sam Oosterhoff
• Dean Allison
• Sandra Easton
Print Shop
• Action Print
• Carruthers Printing
• UPS Grimsby
Real Estate Agent
• Rob Golfi, Re/Max
• Zoi Ouzas, Re/Max Garden City
• Judy Sweeting, Re/Max
Real Estate Office
• Lynn Fee Team/Re/Max Escarpment
• Home Team Realty Group
• Glen Elgin Real Estate Corp.
• Grimsby Rotary Club
Spa
• Inn on The Twenty
• Aloha Day Spa
• Bench & Balance Elite Spa
Swimming Pool Care
• Patio Plus & the Pool Place
• Paradise Pools
• Canadian Tire Grimsby
Tanning/Spray Tan
• Son of a Gun Spray Tanning
• Tan on The Run
• Organic Glow
Tax Planning
• H&R Block
• Sure Shot Business Securities
• IPC Securities Corp.
Travel Agency
• Front Line Tours
• Crush on Niagara, Beamsville
• CAA Travel Grimsby
Tree Care
• Arborwood Tree Service
• Safe Tree Professional Tree Care
• Amir Tree Service
Tutoring
• West Niagara
Adult Learning Centre
• The Literacy Centre, Beamsville
• Gondar Tutoring
Upholsterer
• Top Stitch
• And Once We Were
• Jenny Carpio Upholsterer
Veterinarian
• Dr. Suzi Peters, Grimsby Animal Hospital
• Dr. Mayanna Burmeister, Livingston Animal Hospital
• Dr. Adele Hulzebosch, Smithville Animal Hospital
Yoga Studio
• The Yoga Vine
• Grimsby Yoga
• Breed Wellness Therapy, Spa & Yoga Studio
Water Delivery
• Aquarius Water Service
• H2O Water Service
• McCarthy’s Water Service
Waterproofing
• Cerroni Excavating & Waterproofing
• Harris Waterproofing
• RCC Waterproofing
• Lang’s on The Water
• Grimsby Thai
Bakery/Desserts
• Nurish Kitchen
• The Red Barn Farm Market
• Old Post Bakery
Breakfast Special
• Elm Street Café
• Relay Beamsville
• FAI-Mama’s Kitchen
Brunch
• August Restaurant
• Inn on The Twenty
• Revalee Brunch Café
Cafe
• Conversations Cafe & Bistro
• RPM Bakehouse
• Milk & Honey Coffee Co.
Caterer
• Butterballs Express Catering
• Memphis Barbecue
• Chef Brad Rempel
Chicken Wings
• Teddy’s Food, Fun & Spirits
• Jordan House
• Judge & Jester
Coffee
• Conversations Cafe & Bistro
• Casa Toscana
• 416 Coffee
Dinner Specials
• Casa Toscana
• August Restaurant
• Innsville Restaurant
Donuts
• Tim Hortons, Beamsville
• Old Post Bakery
• Plant No. 01, Vineland
Eatery
• Bottega, Grimsby
• Boo’s Bar
• Campden General Store
Family Restaurant
• Laki’s Family Restaurant
• Penny’s Kitchen Diner & Coffee
• Boo’s Bar
Fast Food
• Tim Hortons - Beamsville
• McDonald’s – Grimsby
• We The Finest Burger Co. Beamsville
Fine Dining
• Inn On The Twenty Restaurant
• The Innsville Restaurant
• Casa Toscana
Niagara DaNce & FitNess stuDio
Stoney Creek, Grimsby and Niagara Region.
•
Programs For All Ages:
• Tiny dancers,Tappers & Tumblers (ages 2-4)
• Creative Movement (age 3)
• Pre-Ballet & Jazz (ages 4-6)
• Full recreational dance program (ages 6-18): Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Acro & Musical Theatre
• Adult Dance Classes- No experience needed!
Build confidence, creativity, and coordination in a supportive and fun environment.
Whether it’s the first plies or your return to the dance floor, there is a place for everyone.
Spots are filling fast- Register Today!
905-327-1439 • www.niagaradanceandfitnessstudio.com 4961 King Street East, Beamsville Town
Email: justyna@justynakaleta.com
IG justyna.kaleta.fit
Jeffrey Greenhow L.L.B.
274 Main Street East, Third Floor Grimsby, Ontario, L3M 1P8 905-945-5431 • info@greenhowlaw.ca Your support in voting me the rUBy award - L awyer is very much appreciated!
Thank you for voting Aspira Lincoln Park #2 Ruby Award- Best Retirement Home! We couldn’t have done it without the ongoing support of the community. At Aspira, you can stay active, inspired, and comfortable on your terms. If you’re tired of chores ruling your retirement and you’d like to spend more time on the things and people you love, then it’s time for Aspira. Come and experience the convenience and freedom of personalized retirement services and the warmth of a vibrant community! For more information email Gurnoor.Grewal@siennaliving.ca or Call Gurnoor at 905-309-0555
265 Main Street East, Grimsby, ON aspiralife.ca
RIZZUTO, CFP®, FDS & SCOTT RIZZUTO, CFP®, CIM® Please reach out to us at:
Thank you all for voting us top in Tax and Financial Planning
ALSO: we are pleased to announce our new brand:
Dr. Charles Daly #1 Diamond Award Winner - Dentist
Dr. Charles Daly #1 Diamond Award Winner - Dentist
Dr. Charles Daly #1 Diamond Award Winner - Dentist
Charles Daly #1 Diamond Award Winner - Dentist
Thank you for your support.
Thank you for your support.
Thank you for your support.
Thank you for your support.
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
Dr. Charles Daly #1 Diamond Award Winner - Dentist
Dr. Charles Daly #1 Diamond Award Winner - Dentist
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
Thank you for your support.
Thank you for your support.
Thank you for your support.
Thank you for your support.
Thank you for your support.
Thank you for your support.
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
Dr. Charles Daly #1 Diamond Award Winner - Dentist
Thank you for your support.
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
Our sincere thanks,
Our sincere thanks,
Our sincere thanks,
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
Thank you for your support.
Our sincere thanks,
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
Thank you for your support.
Thank you for your support.
Thank you for your support.
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
Our sincere thanks, Dr. Charles Daly #1 Diamond Award Winner - Dentist
Our sincere thanks, Dr. Charles Daly #1 Diamond Award Winner - Dentist
Our sincere thanks,
We are grateful to our staff for their high-quality care.
Our sincere thanks,
Our sincere thanks,
Our sincere thanks,
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
Dr. Charles Daly
Dr. Charles Daly
Dr. David Nguyen Dr. Charles Daly
Our sincere thanks,
Dr. David Nguyen
Dr. David Nguyen
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
To our patients, thank you for continuing to allow us to help you maintain a smile you are proud to share with others.
Dr. Charles Daly
Our sincere thanks, Dr. Charles Daly #1 Diamond Award Winner - Dentist
Dr. David Nguyen
Dr. Charles Daly
Dr. Charles Daly
Our sincere thanks,
Charles
Dr. David Nguyen
thanks,
Dr. David Nguyen
Dr. David Nguyen
Dr. David Nguyen
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Thank
2020
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Dr. Charles Daly #1 Diamond Award Winner - Dentist Dr. Charles Daly Dr. David Nguyen 2020 IN THE DIAMOND AWARD 2021 IN THE DIAMOND AWARD 2022 IN THE DIAMOND AWARD 2023
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website: grimsbydentalcare.com
2020 IN THE DIAMOND AWARD 2021 IN THE DIAMOND AWARD 2022 IN THE DIAMOND AWARD 2023
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website: grimsbydentalcare.com 88 Livingston Ave. Grimsby
website: grimsbydentalcare.com
IN THE DIAMOND AWARD Dr. Charles Daly #1 Diamond Award Winner - Dentist
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website: grimsbydentalcare.com
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DIAMOND AWARD 2024 IN THE DIAMOND AWARD website: grimsbydentalcare.com 88 Livingston Ave. Grimsby 905-945-DALY (3259)
David Nguyen 2020 IN THE DIAMOND AWARD 2021 IN THE DIAMOND AWARD 2022 IN THE DIAMOND AWARD 2023
Dr. David Nguyen
Dr. David Nguyen
Thank We are grateful To our patients, you maintain
Thank We are grateful To our patients, you maintain a
Thank We are grateful To our patients, you maintain a
Thank We are grateful To our patients, you maintain a
We are grateful to
Dr. Charles Daly #1
Dr. Charles Daly #1
Dr. Charles #1
Dr. Charles #1
To our patients, thank you maintain a smile
Thank We are grateful
Dr. Charles Daly
Thank
Dr. Charles #1
Thank We are grateful To our patients, you maintain a
Charles #1
Dr. Charles Daly #1 Diamond
Dr. Charles Daly #1 Diamond 2020 IN THE DIAMOND AWARD 2021 IN THE DIAMOND AWARD 2022 IN THE DIAMOND AWARD 2023
Dr. Charles #1
To our patients, you maintain
We are grateful To our patients, you maintain
Dr. Charles Daly
Dr. Charles Daly
Dr. Charles Daly
Dr. Charles Daly
Dr. Charles Daly
Dr. Charles Daly
Dr. Charles Daly
Charles Daly Thank We are grateful To our patients, you maintain a
Dr. David Nguyen
Dr. Charles Daly
Dr.
Daly
Fertich honoured for years of environmental protection work
By Mike Williscraft For NewsNow
The Biggar Lagoon’s existence is a prime example of victory being snatched from the jaws of defeat. Niagara Region had announced a plan to decommission sewage lagoons. Heavy equipment had arrived at the Winston Road property. Fill had been amassed to fill them in. It did not look good for the nowprized wetlands, but years of work by then Grimsby Coun. Wayne Fertich, who also served as regional councillor, finally paid off with Region and Department of National Defence allowing the four major ponds on the site to be preserved.
Later, two ponds were added making the 29-acre parcel of land highly strategic for migrating birds and a treasured site for bird watchers and environmental supporters.
For his efforts, Fertich was honoured last month with an observation tower at the site being named in his honour.
“It’s added to the biodiversity of
the whole area, said Bruce Mackenzie of the Hamilton Naturalists’ Club.
“We just don’t have a lot of wetlands in our area and this is adja-
A great chance for children to earn their own money and learn how to manage it! Are you an avid reader who would like to help out in the midst of the current Canada Post strike? NewsNow is looking for carriers in Grimsby, Beamsville/Vineland and Smithville
Call Catherine at the office 289-235-9500 or call her cell 289-442-0352 • Email: catherine@wn3.ca
it attracts a wide variety of birds, insects, plants and animals, too. Wayne’s work was crucial to making it all happen.”
For Fertich, the recognition was never on his radar.
“It was a surprise. I never ever would have thought of something like that in a thousand years. It’s an incredible legacy to give to the community. I am truly honoured,” said Fertich.
At the time, Fertich was, perhaps, the only person who could have networked the lagoon’s preservation as he utilized his military background to network the Department of National Defence and his connections as owner of The Gables Restaurant, which operated in Grimsby. He said he hosted then MP Tony Valeri’s nomination event at The Gables, making an important connection at the time.
cent to the lake, so it attracts a lot of migrating birds and has nesting opportunitities. Because of the six ponds, which are all very different,
“It was a lot of phone calls, emails and meetings, but we got it done,” said Fertich. “What better thing can a person do?
On hand for the unveiling were (L to R) Azam Foda, Grimsby Rotary, community service director; Bruce Mackenzie of Hamilton Naturalists’ Club; former Grimsby Niagara regional councillor Wayne Fertich, and; Joan Whitson, Rotary Foundation Chair.
GBF gears up for back-to-school
It’s still mid-August, but Grimsby Benevolent Fund is gearing up for its back-to-school program to ensure it can meet demand.
“We’re implementing our back-to-school program to help ensure families with children experiencing financial hardship will return to
school in September with the resources they need for a successful year,” said Ashley Marr, GBF’s director of programs.
With about 225 students registered so far, each will receive: a new backpack, school supplies, running shoes and lunch snacks.
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The program also helps kids throughout the school year.
Donations of school snacks, backpack and school supplies, and/ or monetary donations are still needed. Drop off at GBF, 40 Elm St., Grimsby or donate online at: www.gbfgrimsby.com
Join us Saturday, August 23, 2025 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
MPP Oosterhoff Community BBQ
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BEAMSVILLE DENTURE CLINIC 4440 Ontario St., Beamsville, Ontario 905-563-5134
GRIMSBY LEGION
233 Elizabeth St., Grimsby 905-945-8421
Facebook: Grimsby Legion
Thursday, 7 pm
Aug. 29 8 pm to 12 am GRiMSBy LEGiON iS
Tuesdays - Sundays at 2 pm.
GILLESPIE, John McCall
August 8, 1967 - August 9, 2025
It is with deep sadness that we share news of the passing of John, peacefully at McNally House, with his brother Jeff at his side. An incredible son to John, brother to Jeff (Cathie), uncle to Stephanie, and lifelong friend to many. His last few days were filled with cherished visits.
Cremation has taken place. A Memorial Gathering will be held at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, Grimsby (905-945-2755) on Sunday, August 17, 2025 from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations to McNally House Hospice would be deeply appreciated by the family
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OBITUARIES
veerman, Dick adrianus
Dick Adrianus Veerman passed away at Douglas Memorial Hospital on August 1st, 2025, following a brief illness. He was 95. Beloved husband of the Wladyslava Veerman and the late Theadora Maria Veerman (Deceased), father of Mike (Lucy), Brian (Carol), Ron (Rita), Stepfather to Adam Maciuba (Nicole) and Piotr Maciuba.
Grandfather to Alanna Coulson (Sean), Marc (Kylie), Jonathan (Kaitlin), Brianna (Brian), David (Nora), Joshua and Kona and Step Grandfather to Jacob, Natalie and Mateusz Maciuba.
Great Grandfather to Rylie and Owen Coulson.
Born in Leiden, Netherlands on June 14,1930, Dick experienced the turmoil of World War II as a young child especially so during the occupation by German forces. As a young man at 19 he started to travel by steam ships to Canada waiting at the docks to see if there was an open berth to take him across the ocean. While in Canada he started selling bulbs door to door. In 1950’s, he eventually stayed in Canada and became a Canadian citizen. During that time, he met Thea and the two were married and became the family that became 5 with the 3 boys. atherhood came in 1958 and through the 60’s. The family started in Clarkson and moved to Beamsville in the mid 1960’s. Dick worked as a salesman for various horticultural companies and eventually became self employed. He arranged shipments of lilies and other plants from various locations as well as advising greenhouse growers how to organizing their planting seasons in their greenhouses as well as how to grow healthy plants. Dick continued to do this type of work into the 2020’s until his age caught up with him and he had to retire. Thea’s passing in 2002 was challenging, but with Wlada entering his life he continued, getting married a second time and moving to Vineland. Early in his family life he as an avid sailor with his catamaran and enjoyed taking in out with his vacation time along with the family in the Muskoka area. Later, his enjoyment came at the casinos with Wlada just down the highway from their home.
Visitation will be at Tallman Funeral Home, 3277 King Street, Vineland, on Saturday, August 16th at 10am, Memorial service at 10:30am with interment at 11 am at Mount Osborne Cemetery. Reception will be held post interment at the Fireside Room back at Tallman Funeral Home. Online condolences at www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca
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i pay it for all your old hockey mags, books, hockey news, programs, ticket stubs and cards. tim 905510-3658 - beamsville.
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Conversations a cautionary tale for Grimsby
Conversations Cafe closing its doors at the end of the month is not just another small business succumbing to the stresses of running a restaurant in this day and age.
Its loss to the downtown core is significant.
The reasons for the closure are significant.
The loss of more threads in the small town fabric is significant.
and, with 2026 being a municipal election year, I think it will get delayed again into 2027, but it is a freight train coming down the line and headed straight for Grimsby’s core.
It’s great that Convos will continue on like the Energizer Bunny - just no quit in it.
Grimsby and Smithville are lucky to have FORT to support local kids.
Fore! GBF
Judge & Jester owner Don Paddock turns over proceeds from the Grimsby pub’s annual golf tournament - $4,600 - to Stacy Elia, Grimsby Benevolent Fund’s executive director. The funds will help support GBF’s variety of programs. Williscraft - Photo
Thanks, John
If you know, you know when it comes to a man like John Gillespie.
John’s obit in this week’s edition. My connection with John goes back 25-plus years to CanWeb printing when he was the highly creative, never blink in the face of seeming disaster pre-press guy extraordinaire. He - along with many CanWeb colleagues - saved my butt so many times I can guarantee the old Grimsby News and this publication would never have survived. Just a stellar, stand up guy who I had a great deal of respect for and who I also shared a Bruce Springsteen interest. Thanks, John, for all you did for me behind the scenes over the years. Rest Easy. M.W.
Show me another business which was founded with the sole goal of supporting youth in the community - any community.
Over the years, I tried to do anything I could to help out Deb Dueck and her team for that very reason. Good people need help to try to achieve goals nobody else targets.
The fact they have been able to find a new home for Convos is very good news for Beamsville. It has been a super popular spot for many years - a testament to its surviving this long.
The litany of negative impacts on Ontario Street and downtown Beamsville is long - COVID (of course), but combine that with just turning the page on the pandemic only to find nearly two years of construction down your street. Rerouted traffic and construction crews using your parking spaces become the regular issues.
Then, as all businesses face, minimum wage gets pushed higher and higher, with a pending increase to
$17.60 coming Oct. 1.
Now, in this case, the closure of Beamsville District Secondary School was also a major factor as the reason the business was located where it has been was specifically to make it easy for kids to find them.
There are a ton of reasons the District School Board of Niagara didn’t do Lincoln, Grimsby or West Lincoln any favours by closing local high schools. This is one of them.
On a larger scale, Conversations’ closure should serve as a cautionary tale for Grimsby, which is supposed to have a major sewer and watermain construction project through the core starting this fall.
Like the lengthy work on Ontario Street in Beamsville - the second time around there for this kind of thing - road closures, dust and noise combine to drive even the most loyal customers away.
The Grimsby work has been delayed several times over the last five years
While many people find it hard to relate to people right under their nose being in need of life’s basics, rest assured, they are there...and in numbers greater than most realize.
When you see these kids doing a car wash or hosting a fundraising dinner, you should know the funds are well spent on investment in local youth.
As Deb noted when I spoke with her Saturday, the kids feel safe when they are within Convos walls. That is a very good thing when many need to seek refuge from the bombardment of life we all feel these days - tariffs, economy, heat, social stress and more.
It’s sad on several levels to see such a class operation dissolve into history. No question.
But, the community is better off because it existed. Its birth allowed Convos to grow and take root. How many businesses can make this kind of claim to such a lasting impact? That is rarified air, to be sure.
MIKE WILLISCRAFT
Delivered via Canada Post
Jordan Harbour tenant making a mess of things
By Evan Loree For NewsNow Resident and kayaker
John Andrews was out paddling in the harbour with his wife on Aug. 4 when he noticed patches of silvery trees along the western shore of Jordan Harbour, just south of the Niagara Rowing School.
He saw scores of double-crested cormorants nesting amongst the trees, their feces having covered the leaves and foliage below.
“The stench is just putrid,” Andrews said. Because of the acidity in their guano, cormorants tend to kill the trees they nest in, a fact that caused the kayaker some concern.
Andrews, a former Toronto resident, used to paddle the waters around Tommy Thompson Park and the surrounding Toronto Islands.
The park is home to one of the largest colonies of doublecrested cormorants in North America, and their presence has turned much of it into what Andrews calls a “postapocalyptic wasteland.”
much of the established forestry and marshland there, he said.
The Toronto Region Conservation Authority, which manages the park, has been attempting to curtail the birds’ impact on park trees since 2009.
dangerously low population numbers.
Ontario Nature is a non-profit conservation group based in Toronto with almost 10,000 members.
Damian explained the bird was previously in decline in the 1960s, partially because of the use of toxic pesticides in farming practices.
The provincial government has passed legislation in 2020.
Andrews said he’s open to the idea of culling cormorants so long as it’s done responsibly.
The birds have also expanded out of the park into the surrounding islands and threaten to destroy
Andrews fears the city and conservation authority’s measures have been insufficient, and that Jordan Harbour could suffer the same fate if left unchecked.
Despite the damage the cormorant does when nesting in large numbers, advocates of the bird say its presence in the Great Lakes is a success for environmental conservation.
Ontario Nature spokesperson Melina Damian said the bird has rebounded from
He also suggested bird bangers, like those used to keep birds away from vineyards, could be used to deter cormorants from nesting in the harbour.
The silvery looking trees look good, but they will die off. Loree - Photos
A cormorant surveying its territory.
Lincoln resident and kayaker John Andrews.
