NewsNow E-Edition December 25 2025

> WLMH Foundation’s Trees of Healthy Wishes highlighted /Pgs 29-35 > Readers’ Best Christmas Memories Pg 4 & More > Who runs the world? Check Page Pg 12 > Please keep donation area clean: Paul Lizak Pg 27 Thursday December 25, 2025 Vol. 14 Issue 34

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Just Singin’ in The Rain

Former World and Canadian champion skater Kurt Browning performed his famous Singin’ In The Rain number for a big crowd at the West Lincoln Skating Club 50th Anniversary celebration on Saturday at West Lincoln Community Centre.

(Left) Grinning ear-to-ear, Kenza Dunphy gets Kurt Browning’s autograph.

For more coverage, please turn to Page 19. Loree - Photos

Page 2 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

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News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 3

Carol Chaston, left, and Valerie Rughi prepare lunch for market visitors.

Busy Christmas market at St. Alban’s

Edwina Trick, right, examines Sandra James’ poinsettias at the St. Alban’s Christmas market earlier this month.

(Right) Beamsville resident Anna Kritski stopped by St. Alban’s to check out some of the penny raffle prizes. Loree - Photos

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Christmas about who’s around the tree (Editor’s Note: Scattered through some of this week’s edition are some Christmas Memories submitted

by NewsNow readers.)

One of my favourite Christmas memories is waking up before dawn while the house was still quiet and dark.

The tree lights glowed softly, reflecting off ornaments

Best Christmas Memory

collected over many years, each with its own story.

The smell of coffee and breakfast slowly filled the kitchen as family members began to stir.

There was no rush— just warmth, laughter, and togetherness.

Gifts were simple, but the real joy came from being in the same room, sharing stories and remembering relatives who could not be there.

Later, snow began to fall outside, turning the world peaceful and still. That day reminded me that Christmas isn’t about what’s under the tree, but who’s gathered around it.

Submitted by Wade Kettell, Grimsby

Memorable gift from Dad Waking up Christmas morning to my Dad setting up a Mighty Mike Car track for my three-year-old sister because he secretly wanted one?

They both enjoyed playing with it for the remainder of the day.

This was 1969 and sadly we only had a few more Christmas’ with my dad before he

passed but he left me with this everlasting smile of that Christmas Day. Merry Christmas to you all!

Submitted by Jill Abbott, Grimsby

News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 5

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Christmas party goes to the dogs

Regulars at Grimsby’s Lake Street dog park gathered on Dec. 7 to celebrate the best of the season with their four-pawed friends.

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Page 8 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

Christmas about who’s around the tree (Editor’s Note: Scattered through some of this week’s edition are some Christmas Memories submitted by NewsNow readers.)

My favorite memory

by Emalin Hart, age 9.

I was 7. I lived in Australia.

My Oma & Opa only got stuff in their shoes! To tell the truth, so did we (I am used

Best Christmas Memory

to stockings). I got some origami paper.

On Christmas (Or Christ’s day) we sing songs, do puzzles, and read books.

My favourite game is “what’s the time Mr. Wolf?” Rules: one

person is the wolf.

The other people say: “What’s the time Mr. Wolf. The “wolf” says a number between 1 & 10 & then the people take that amount of steps; when they get close enough the “wolf” turns around & yells “Dinner time!” then they all run back to the start. But if you tag one of the players, he\she is the “wolf”.

Memories made for a lifetime

I’m a little girl, my grandparents live upstairs of our small town Smithville home.

Christmas morning, 4 a.m. time, to awaken them? Grandma Etta’s room first, “Oh Joanne, do you see how early it is? Go see if Grandpa is awake?”. Grandpa Harmon says, “Joanne it’s too early, go back to bed”. “But Grandpa...” “Oh Joanne climb in, go back to sleep”. Grand-

pa’s bed is a feather tick bed, oh so comfy. I can still remember it. Eventually, 5 a.m., we are downstairs with our parents and our Grandparents for presents and breakfast.The afternoon of Christmas day, we depart for Snyder Road, now the country, Grandparents Hugh/Mabel and cousins. Christmas’s back then gave me memories that have lasted a lifetime!

Joanne Battersby, Smithville

News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 9

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Page 10 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025 “I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me. I will not shut out the lessons that they teach.”

Parade Day tradition more than just a family event My favourite Christmas memory is our “Parade Day” tradition.

Every year my husband and I invite the family over to

— Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol

On behalf of Sue and all our family, we wish you a safe Holiday Season and a very Happy New Year.

Robert Foster Niagara Region | Councillor, Town of Lincoln robert.foster@niagararegion.ca

our home to watch the Grimsby Santa Claus Parade.

This tradition has grown over the years to include all the kids in our family and the adults who are still kids at heart.

It’s a fun day full of games, treats, and presents for the family to enjoy together.

We love watching the kid’s eyes light up when Santa final-

Best Christmas Memory

ly makes his grand appearance.

After the parade, we all warm up together with hot apple cider.

We hope to continue to create a bit of Christmas magic for years to come.

Submitted by Keri Switzer, Grimsby

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News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 11

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Page 12 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

Who runs the world? Pollinators

By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow If mankind were to disappear, the world would regenerate back to a rich state of equilibrium.

“If insects were to vanish, the environment would collapse into chaos,” warned the late Pulitzer prize winning biologist, naturalist, ecologist and entomologist Edward O. Wilson.

We’d best make sure that doesn’t happen, because insects – bees, butterflies, beetles, caterpillars, moths – are the species that run the ecosystems that keep us alive.

And all research shows they are struggling towards mass extinction under the weight of habitat loss, pesticides, climate change, and environments where invasive plants have choked out the native species that provide their food and shelter.

“We’ve taken too much from the earth and we need to start giving something back,” says Annette Gibbons, lead member of the Grimsby Environmental Network (GEN).

Members of GEN may look like ordinary humans, but gloves and trowels in hand, they are in fact ecological linchpins – nurturing biodiversity and protecting ecosystems that support life.

Two pollinator gardens buzzing with action are a testament to their commitment to provide habitat for nature.

In 2022, Gibbons with GEN, Liz Benneian, Ontariogreen Conservation Association, Sean James of Sean James Consulting & Design, and Sarah Sweeney, Town of Grimsby collaborated on a plan to rejuvenate the Grand Old White Oak Tree

Helping with a fall cleanup at the Grand Old White Oak Tree Stand pollinator gardens were: (L-R) Heather Swann, Sean James, Sean James Consulting & Design, Austin Azevedo, Annette Gibbons, Grimsby Environmental Network, Matt Samuelson, Anne-Marie Enns, June Robertson and Denise Carter. McDonald- Photo

Stand in Grimsby Beach.

“Liz took the lead, taking the plan to Town Council,” Gibbons said. “We were looking for a park to naturalize and create some pollinator gardens.”

Significant as a remnant of the old growth forest, the park was the first natural heritage feature to be designated by the Town under the Ontario Heritage Act. And work had been done 10 years earlier through a community-led initiative with Sharon Porter and the Grimsby Beach community.

POLLINATOR GARDENS Two years in the making, the Grand Old Oak Park has become a hub of activity with insects and birds enjoying a thriving microecosystem.

The gloves and shovel team was out recently as Gibbons and James joined GEN volunteers for a final fall clean up of the gardens.

Looking back on the project’s start, James said one of the first immense tasks

was to clear out invasive species, including garlic mustard that had pushed out native plants, and select plant species that could feed and host native pollinators and other creatures.

For example says James, 350 species feed on goldenrod. “It’s a biodiversity engine.”

Compare that to the one species of insects that feeds on garlic mustard.

“Without native species, caterpillars have nowhere to grow and feed, the birds have nothing to eat,” James said.

“I am just in awe of how Annette has put together this group of passionate people to maintain the gardens,” James said.

That morning he had been working with Benneian at the Val Fleming Butterfly Garden in Beamsville.

“Liz’s drive to improve the world for future generations is mind boggling,” James said.

HIKES AND TOURS For GEN volunteers it’s not all gloves and shovels.

They combine hikes and tours and education with planting and political advocacy.

Benneian, founder and chair of Biodiversity and Climate Action Niagara (BCAN) works to promote sustainable practices and policies to protect the local natural heritage. One of many hats also finds her teaching the community about invasive plants that out-compete native species. “Liz has such a wealth of knowledge and connec-

tions,” Gibbons said.

Award-winning naturalist Bruce Mackenzie and his wife Laurie lead groups on many adventures through local points of interest – birding through the Grimsby Wetlands, a rich and diverse habitat for migrating and unique species of birds; hawk watching at the Beamer Memorial Conservation Area; forest ecology at the Grassie Swamp, the largest natural area in Grimsby located behind the Southward Community Park. “‘Professor’ Bruce makes the walks fun,” Gibbons said.

“Our hope is to engage like-minded Grimsby citizens in enhancing and protecting our town’s natural environment through information and knowledge,” Gibbons said.

From pollinator gardens and tree planting to advocacy for environmental awareness and protection, the community is welcome to become involved and lend a hand.

“We want to make it fun for people to join in and ‘bee the change’ as they learn and help the environment,” said Gibbons. “Everybody can make a difference.”

GEN welcomes new volunteers. For more information email: envgrimsby@gmail.com

Liz Benneian, Ontariogreen Conservation Association and Biodiversity and Climate Action Niagara, with Annette and Don Gibbons, Grimsby Environmental Network.

News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 13

Merry Christmas, Grimsby!

With deep gratitude for your loyal support, we wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season.

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Page 14 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

Gingerbread has special spot

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(Editor’s Note: Scattered through some of this week’s edition are some Christmas Memories submitted by NewsNow readers.)

When I was young, we would go to Owen Sound for a few days between Christmas and New Year’s to visit family.

After my grandparents passed, my Aunt Linda and Uncle Jim in Chatsworth became the hosts.

We would all stay over in their house (aunts and uncles, my parents, my siblings, my cousins, and I) and spend a few days together.

The older gen-

Best Christmas Memory

eration got the beds, and the kids got the floor in a big sleepover. We would go sledding in Harrison Park, eat together, and go see the lights in Owen Sound.

Now that my Aunt Linda and Uncle Jim have passed, I look back on these memories with joy.

I bake my Aunt Linda’s gingerbread cookies every year to keep her memory alive.

Nicole Schrock Caistor Centre

News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 15

ADVERTORIAL

Town of Grimsby proud to donate nearly $70,000 to McNally House, thanks to the incredible success of the 2025 Grimsby Economic Gala

W

hat began as a night of celebration and collaboration has transformed into a gift of extraordinary impact for McNally House Hospice.

The Town of Grimsby is pleased to announce a donation of $69,036.62 to McNally House Hospice, made possible through the success of the 2025 Grimsby Economic Gala.

Hosted in partnership with the Grimsby Economic Development Advisory Committee (GEDAC), the event brought together business leaders, community partners, and residents to celebrate local achievement, collaboration, and giving back.

“The Grimsby Economic Gala is about connection and collaboration – bringing our business community together to celebrate progress and support meaningful causes,” said Grimsby Councillor Reg Freake, Chair of the Grimsby Economic Development Advisory Committee (GEDAC).

“The generosity shown this year is truly inspiring, and we are honoured to support McNally at such an important time in their expansion. This event shows the power of partnerships in moving our community forward. Through the efforts of GEDAC and the local business community we are proud to support one of our local organization.”

This year’s Gala underscored the strength and generosity of Grimsby’s business community.

“It’s a privilege to stand with our community and celebrate what we accomplished together at the Grimsby Economic Gala. I am incredibly proud that this event resulted in a donation of more than $69,000 to McNally House Hospice – an organization that means so much to Grimsby and to the families it supports,” said Mayor Jeff Jordan.

“This contribution reflects what can happen when businesses, volunteers, and residents unite behind a shared purpose. Grimsby is stronger because of moments like this.”

Funds raised will support McNally House Hospice at a pivotal moment, as the organization begins construction on its expanded 10-bed residence – an increase of 70% from its current capacity. The expansion will allow McNally House to grow from serving approximately 120 residents annually to supporting nearly 200 individuals with compassionate end-of-life care close to home.

Town of Grimsby’s Economic Gala generated just over $69,000 for McNally House Hospice. On hand for the cheque presentation were: (L to R) event sponsor Gabe DeSantis of DeSantis Homes; McNally House board of directors chair Murray Bain; Grimsby Councillor and GEDAC chair Reg Freake; McNally House executive director Pamela Blackwood; Mayor Jeff Jordan, and Town of Grimsby Business Ambassador Tony Joosse.

The Gala also highlighted major local achievements, including the celebrated expansion of Commisso Estate Winery, Grimsby’s only winery, nestled atop the Niagara Escarpment.

The event marked the official launch of Grimsby’s Business Ambassadors, a dedicated group of local leaders committed to promoting why Grimsby is an exceptional place to live, work, invest, and grow.

The Gala builds on the Town’s efforts to strengthen relationships with local businesses, fol-

Grimsby economic development officer Frank Miele, along with Mayor Jeff Jordan (second from right) and Coun. Reg Freake (right) presented keynote speaker Daniel Tisch, president and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce with a gift.

lowing recommendations from Grimsby’s Business Retention and Expansion report. Through events such as the Annual Mayor’s Business Breakfast, the 2nd Annual Mayor’s Masters Golf Tournament, the Grimsby Energy Summit, and the Grimsby Economic Gala, the Town continues to foster dialogue, promote local success, and reinforce a supportive environment for economic growth.

Municipal events play a vital role in building community pride, supporting local business, and raising funds for meaningful causes.

The Grimsby Economic Gala exemplifies these values – bringing people together, celebrating local leadership, and giving back to the organizations that care for residents when they need it most.

“I am incredibly proud of the dedicated Town staff who worked tirelessly to bring the Grimsby Economic Gala to life. Their hard work, creativity, and commitment made this event not only possible, but truly memorable,” said Sarah Kim, Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Grimsby.

“We could not have achieved this remarkable contribution to McNally House Hospice without their exceptional efforts and passion for serving our community.”

Together, Grimsby continues to build a strong, connected, and compassionate community.

Page 16 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

Wishing Everyone A Safe, Healthy & Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!

Jeff Jordan Mayor Town of Grimsby

Christ Our Savior Church member Elizabeth Greb arranges some of the tasty baked goods.

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Cheryl Sinasac scours Arlene Whatmough’s crocheted dolls for her favourite during Christ Our Saviour Lutheran Church’s Christmas Bazaar. Loree - Photos

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DIMTSIS D.D.S. May your Christmas beDR. rich DAN in friendship, love, peace, health and happiness.

We wish you and yours the best, andWOODS we thankD.D.S. you for your support this past year.

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News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 17

Wishing everyone a safe, happy and healthy Christmas season and new year!

West Lincoln Mayor Cheryl Ganann

Durham Automotive PROFESSIONAL AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE SINCE 1971

H

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

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ope you had a have a

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from West Lincoln

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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

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Sales, Service, Parts and Accessories

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It’s been an exciting year at the Niagara Region representing the people of West Lincoln and West Niagara.

I would like to wish everyone another year of Health & Happiness.

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Merry Christmas from our family to yours this Holiday Season,

We Thank You for Your Trust in Us. Over

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Twp. of West Lincoln Regional Councillor Albert Witteveen

Just a friendly little greeting and a heartfelt wish for cheer…

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Page 18 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

Jason Trombetta Councillor, Ward 1 Twp. of West Lincoln

Thanks to everyone who has given us the opportunity to serve them this year! We really appreciate your support, and we hope to see you around town this holiday season.

Name Sponsor

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s g n i t e e r G Season’s

Wishing you all the joys of the season and happiness for the coming year.

From Council, Staff and Firefighters at the Township of West Lincoln

News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 19

West Lincoln Skating Clubs hosts memorable 50th anniversary party What does a packed house, West Lincoln figure skaters and Canadian figure skater Kurt Browning have in common?

The were all at West Lincoln Community Centre on Satur-

Kira Roy gets her skate signed by the legendary Kurt Browning.

Maggie Steven, 8, was enthralled watching friends and fellow skaters perform.

Photos By Evan Loree

day celebrating West Lincoln Skating Club’s (WLSC) 50th anniversary.

It was an afternoon to remember for local skaters and parents alike as Browning performed - including his

famous Singin’ In The Rain number - and did a meet-andgreet with autographs after the show.

“It went really well,” said Tiffany Stainton, WLSC’s treasurer.

West Lincoln Skating Club performers on Saturday were: Back (L to R) Athena Carella, Mia Dion, Farrah Dunphy, Gwen Stainton and Kira Roy. Front: Lilianna Carella, Natalie Burgener, Lia Haining and Brooklyn Pataran.

Figure skating fans and West Lincoln Skating Club parents packed the West Lincoln Community Centre to watch Canadian figure skating legend Kurt Browning perform and skate with their children.

Page 20 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

We’re Ready!

Thanks to a great response!

NewsNow has not skipped a beat to deliver for our community.

We are now having our carriers go door-to-door in Grimsby, Beamsville, Vineland, Jordan & Smithville.

There are just a few routes vacant, so if you happened to miss your copy - or if you live in

a rural area - we have planned a large list

of helpful outlets to

allow for quick and convenient pick ups.

Grimsby Puddicombe Farms

Sobeys Beamsville

1468 Hwy. 8 (Main. St. W)

4610 Ontario St.

Apple Tree Convenience

Beamsville Relay Restaurant

409 Main St. W.

4673 Ontario St.

Grimsby Gateway

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424 South Service Rd.

Sobeys Grimsby 44 Livingston Ave

Beamsville Towne Centre - 4961 King St. E.

Grimsby Town Hall

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160 Livingston Ave.

Food Basics

63 Main Street West

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4800 South Service Rd.

45 Main St. W.

Shoppers Drug Mart

150 Main St. E. & 42 St. Andrews Ave.

West Lincoln West Lincoln Town Hall 318 Canborough St.

Smithville Foodland 239 St Catharines St.

Vineland

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Hopkins IDA - 3387 King St. E. Avondale - 3916 Victoria Ave Vineland Foodland - 3357 King St.

Campden

Lowden’s Feed Supplies 7269 Hwy. 20

Wellandport Home Hardware 5157 Canborough Rd.

Beamsville

West Lincoln Community Centre

Campden General Store 4205 Fly Rd.

177 West. St. - Courtesy Counter

Caistorville Public Library 9549 York St., Canfield

We Deliver!

News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 21

Lloyd Clarke: Stalwart Lincoln volunteer honoured

By Evan Loree For NewsNow Long-time Lincoln volunteer Lloyd Clarke has spent almost 40 years supporting the 1st Beamsville Scouts brigade.

And after all that time, Clarke’s community has given him a great big thank-you.

Earlier this year, Beamsville company Niagara Outdoor Landscaping announced it was giving away a $100,000 renovation to one individual who had gone above and beyond to give back to his or her community.

Company president and co-founder Greg Brunet said Clarke was selected from almost 50 other nominations.

Brunet said Clarke’s long tenure with the Scouts and Beamsville Lions Club really stood out amongst the other nominees.

“Once I met Lloyd, I really was assured he was

the right person,” Brunet said.

Brunet and Clarke met for the first time in the summer when Brunet told him he’d been selected for the free renovation.

A team of workers spent two weeks on the renovations in the fall, wrapping up with a big reveal at Clarke’s St. Catharines home in October.

Many of Clarke’s own Scouts and fellow volunteers were there to celebrate and witness his reaction.

Clarke’s wife, Dianne, also at the reveal, said she was moved to tears.

“We were overwhelmed,” Dianne said, recalling the surprise just before Thanksgiving.

Scout mom Michelle Ferreira nominated Clarke having seen the long-time volunteer’s unwavering commitment to the troop and the example he sets for her son, Isaac.

“Lloyd’s always been

Dianne and Lloyd Clarke seated on their new backyard patio in St. Catharines. Loree - Photo

there,” she said.

“He’s never wavered in his commitment. He’s never asked for anything back,” Ferreira said.

Ferreira said she also sees Clarke at all the community events, often cooking hot dogs and burgers for the Lions Club.

Clarke, who moved to

St. Catharines from Corner Brook, Nova Scotia, in search of work almost 40 years ago, said he just enjoys it.

“I’ve always said it was for the kids,” he said, adding the Beamsville troop has “quite a crew.”

After 40 years with Beamsville’s Scouts,

Greg Brunet, right, of Niagara Outdoor with Lloyd Clarke in front of a custom-built front porch Brunet’s company built for the long-time Lincoln volunteer and Scout leader. Loree - Photo

Clarke said his favourite memory was when he and 20 other Scouts flew to Iceland in 2024 for a massive gathering of international Scouts.

Clarke estimated there were about 3,500 Scouts and leaders there.

Though his work with Scouts has taken him on other trips around North America, Clarke said it was the first time he’d been overseas.

He said the troop is currently working on a fundraising campaign for a similar trip to Switzerland in July 2026.

Brunet said about 18 suppliers and community partners pitched in to help make Clarke’s renovations a reality.

Brunet’s crew installed a backyard patio, custom garden shed, front porch, paved driveway and fresh sod as part of the renovations.

He said Clarke’s only ask was that there be space for his snowblower and lawn mower.

Page 22 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

Happy Traditions began after second set of twins Holidays!

I had so many wonderful Christmases as a child! Surrounded by

family, parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles and cousins.

We’d like to send out a big “Thank You” to all our valued customers & dedicated staff for making 2025 another great year. Wishing you all a joyful, happy and healthy holiday season & beyond!

VINELAND NURSERIES

My twins Elliott and Emily, age 4, and Evan and Erin, age 3 months, in 1994.

But I think my favourite Christmas was 1994 when my own little family was complete!

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This was the year I started many traditions! These traditions are still carried on with my grandchildren.

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Merry Christmas to all!

Submitted by Sue Gracey, Vineland

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We Pay Top $$ For Scrap Vehicles Used Auto & Truck Parts 9530 Silver St., Caistor Centre 905-957-8111 www.plazek.com

Free Family Skate

Tuesday December 30th, 2025 from 3-4pm West Lincoln Community Centre 177 West St, Smithville ON Free hot chocolate and timbits to be served.

Hope to see you there!

SAM OOSTERHOFF MPP - Niagara West

News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 23

On behalf of your local fire services, we wish the Niagara West community a safe and Happy Holiday season!

Please have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms on every storey of your home, and prepare and practise your home fire escape plan

Page 24 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

7th Annual

Volunteer Pay Subscription Drive

“Were it left to me to decide if we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.”

Thomas Jefferson, 1787 (Couldn’t we use more of that thinking south of the border right now)

We are about to complete our 13th year of serving our dedicated readers and advertisers in Niagara West!

That seems hard to believe, but it’s true. Just like every stitch of content you read in our pages.

We’ve tried to shoot photos at every community event, expose serious stories which were very much in the public’s interest, and let all know the goings on for our great services club and community groups.

If you’re looking to social media for information, good luck. It’s a cesspool of misinformation.

In short, if it moves, we’re on it! And we still have a lot to do.

By helping us out with a voluntary subscription you can support that goal

Is NewsNow’s independent, accurate voice in the community of value to you?

Would you like to support NewsNow in its efforts? This is your opportunity.

Simply, this means, rain (or snow) or shine, you will always – each and every week – receive your copy of NewsNow - whether that be with Canada Post or if we have our own carrier force.

That will NOT change!!!!

Subscriptions:

One Year - $50 suggested

We will back HST out of each payment to make things as simple as possible.

You can pay by cheque (bring into the office or mail), credit card (call Catherine at 289-235-9500) or e-transfer (send to: subscriptions@wn3.ca - make security answer - newsnow ) For more information, please do not hesitate to call, email or drop in. All inquiries are welcome!!

Thanks very much for your time and wishes of good health to you all!

Mike Williscraft Publisher

45 Main Street West, L3M 1R3, Grimsby • 289-235-9500

News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 25

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Wishing you much peace and joy during this blessed season.

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John Darch Insurance & Investments Inc | Co-operators Financial Investment Services Inc. Commercial insurance is underwritten by Co-operators General Insurance Company. Not all products are available in all provinces. Please refer to your policy for applicable coverage details, limitations and exclusions. Co-operators® is a registered trademark of The Co-operators Group Limited. © 2025 Co-operators General Insurance Company. Visit cooperators.ca or contact 1-800-265-2662. C0085 (04/25)

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

May your days be Merry and Bright at Christmas and all through the year!

Thanks to all for Your Wonderful Support throughout our 87 years

Beamsville Lions Club

Serving the community since 1969 for all your collision needs!

Season’s Greetings Here’s hoping your holiday is beautiful in every way.

Thanks for your business!

RACHEL KREMBLE Hearing Instrument Specialist

905-563-HEAR (4327) Love your ears!

4413 Ontario St., Suite 103, • Beamsville • www. hearrightcanada.ca

Page 26 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

Catherine Williscraft

Mike Williscraft

Erica Huisman

Donna Wisnoski

Wishing our community a Joanne McDonald

Very Merry Christmas and all the Best for 2026

Seasons come and go, but our best wishes remain with you today and always. Thanks to your generous advertisers and reader alike for their ongoing dedication & support.

We appreciate all of you and we wish you a wonderful holiday.

45 Main Street West, Grimsby Ontario • Phone: 289-235-9500 newsnowniagara.com

News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 27

Diabetes donation bins being misused

By Jessica Barton For NewsNow For the last at least 10 years-plus Paul Lizak has hosted Diabetes Canada donation bins on the edge of Lizak Farms’ property on Nelles Road at the South Service Road in Grimsby.

These bins are used to collect and hold clothing donations in order to support Diabetes Canada, which then take the clothes from the bins and sells them to Value Village for resale. The proceeds made from the sale goes towards diabetes research.

However, some people have been using the spot as a dump for all kinds of things.

“Once one person leaves something it only gets worse.” said Lizak on the growing problem with dumping at the donation bin.

This fall, dumping has gotten more comon and theft has now entered the equation.

Locks were cut in late October with some clothes being removed and found in

Paul Lizak in front of a couple of the donation bins located at the South Service Road and Nelles Road North. Barton - Photo the ditch. Lizak is un- has seen people who sure if this was purely did clean up the area vandalism or if other by the bins. items were stolen.

“We are also trying “It’s not a dump to make people aware area. We’re trying to that it is a clothes-only keep Grimsby clean. program, and we want We’re trying to offer to thank all the people something to a good, that do it. There are charitable cause and so many great people we just ask - because that do contribute to it takes a lot of our these bins in Grimsby own time - that peo- and the surroundple keep the area ing area. We want to clean.” Lizak said. continue it and keep Lizak is aware that, Grimsby clean.” said sometimes, there can Lizak. be people who take Lizak is even open advantage of spaces to other preventative such as these to dump means to keep the unwanted belongings, area clean and used however, there is also for its intended, charigratitude to be ex- table purpose. tended to those who “If people are willdo donate clothing to ing to volunteer time the bins. As well, he to monitor, then we

would be happy to have the help.” said Lizak.

If interested in helping, call NewsNow, 289-235-9500.

As a clothes-only program, anything left that could be considered “hard goods” - such as furniture or plastic bins - immediately cannot qualify, and it then becomes Lizak’s issue to have to dispose of these goods on his own time.

For those looking for places to take their used hard goods, there are plenty of options such as the Grimsby ReStore (Habitat for Humanity Niagara), Grimsby Benevolent Fund, New Again Construction Essentials in Beamsville, or even the Niagara Road 12 Waste Management Facility.

If you find yourself unable to make it to any of these locations, there is also the option of leaving unwanted belongings at the end of your driveway with a sign for passersby to willingly take off your hands, but do choose this option carefully.

233 Elizabeth St., Grimsby 905-945-8421

Working for You, Delivering for Niagara West For assistance with provincial government services

SAM OOSTERHOFF MPP - Niagara West

4961 King St. E, Unit M1 Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 905-563-1755 sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org

Page 28 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

We appreciate your patronage Merry Christmas Thank you for all your support Wellandport Home Hardware

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Ave., Vin

s

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4840 King Street Beamsville

16 Main St. W., Grimsby, 289-439-3737 jordans.flowers

Merry Christmas

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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all my Furry Friends and their People

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Employment Help Centre

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Clovelly Kennels

Charlie’s Barber Shop

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Farm Market

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52 Elm Tree Rd. W, Grimsby

Beamsville e ar Home Hardw as tm Merry Chr, is Beamsville et 4992 King Stre 905-563-8254

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Lincoln Chamber of Commerce

BUSINESS WORKING TOGETHER

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windmillappliance@hotmail.com www.windmillapplianceservice.ca Wishing you a Very Blessed Christmas & New Year!

YOUR HOME FOR QUALITY USED VEHICLES AND SERVICE

News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 29

Trees of HEALTHY WISHES

Thank you for supporting the

West Lincoln Memorial Hospital

The following donations were received as of December 17, 2025 Sanjoy & Ann Acharya From the Vigil....to the final building becoming a reality. Well Done! Now we wish all members of medical staff, including ancillary and administration all the very best for the coming Christmas and New Year. Also many thanks for the excellent service from the staff, past and present.

Ed & Annette Alblas A Wish to all the residents of West Lincoln and their families to have a Blessed Christmas and a Healthy New Year!

Arlene & Ian Allington Wishing all our family and friends a Merry Christmas

Pam & Larry Alward In memory of Patricia Mona Conway Kevin and Karen Antonides May everyone keep their faith and kindness this Christmas. Wishing everyone good health and much happiness throughout the holiday, season and the new year!

Kevin Antonides As Chair of the WLMH Foundation Governing Board, I wish our communities peace, joy and prosperity throughout the coming year. During this season, we take time to reflect on the good things we have like our partnership with you, our supporters.

Sponsors Winona Concrete and Pipe Products Limited Bart & Esther Brooks Cla-Val Canada Stanley & Mary Dinga Angelo Georgakakos & Family Dr. Jonathan & Karen Ginsburg Green Sums Limited John & Joanne Holbourne Charles & Ann Jones Dennis & Bernadette Martin

Nel Oosterhoff Barbara Phelps James & Ruth Ridgley Gary Sexton – Financial Focus David & Cheryl Spiece Graham & Pearl Sweeting Elizabeth Swick Mrs. June H. Wilkinson Christine Zych

WINONA CONCRETE AND PIPE PRODUCTS LIMITED West Lincoln Memorial Hospital is vital to our community and participating in the Trees of Healthy Wishes Campaign is an honour for our organization. Our gifts directly impact the healthcare available to our friends, family and neighbours. We wish our community a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Page 30 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation Holiday Greetings

Taylor & Pam Arkinson Happy Holidays 2025. In memory of Robert, Gloria, and Joel Arkinson Dan & Valerie Baarda We wish all our family and friends a very Blessed Christmas.

Gay Baas In memory of Loved Ones

As the holiday season surrounds us with warmth, reflection, and a spirit of giving, the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation extends our sincere gratitude to our community for once again coming together in support of the Trees of Healthy Wishes campaign. Your generosity and thoughtfulness continue to be a meaningful source of strength for our hospital and all those who rely on its care.

This season holds special significance as we celebrate an extraordinary milestone with the official opening of the new West Lincoln Memorial Hospital on November 23. This long awaited achievement marks the beginning of a new chapter in healthcare for our community, one that reflects years of dedication, collaboration, and shared vision. The new hospital stands as a symbol of hope, progress, and our collective commitment to providing exceptional care close to home, now and for generations to come.

The Trees of Healthy Wishes campaign beautifully captures the spirit of the season and the heart of our community. Each dedication represents a message of hope, remembrance, gratitude, and well wishes for loved ones, caregivers, and neighbours.

When viewed together, these wishes create a powerful display of unity and compassion, reminding us that even in times of challenge, we are never alone.

We extend our deepest appreciation to the caregivers, physicians, volunteers, and hospital staff who provide exceptional care every day. Your dedication, skill, and kindness form the foundation of our hospital, and your impact reaches far beyond the walls of the building into the lives of countless patients and families.

Although the doors of our new hospital are now open, our work continues. A hospital is only as strong as the community that supports it. Contributions through the Trees of Healthy Wishes campaign help ensure our caregivers have access to the advanced medical equipment and technology needed to support surgeries, births, diagnostics, and lifesaving treatments. Your continued investment plays a vital role in enabling our hospital to deliver the highest standard of care today and into the future.

From all of us at the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation, we wish you and your loved ones a peaceful holiday season filled with comfort, hope, and good health.

Thank you for being an essential part of our hospital family and for helping to make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.

Warmest wishes, Kevin Antonides Chair, WLMH Foundation

Pamela Ellens Executive Director, WLMH Foundation

Correen Baas, Greg, Josie & Sammi Dobie In memory of Uncle Peter Lovell and Mojdeh Bakhit Sylvia Balazovic Barich Family Warm healthy wishes to our family & friends! In memory of our cherished fathers Joe & Harold.

R & L Batenburg Ralph & Joann Baughman Brian & Penny Benoit In loving memory of our great friend Dan Parent J. Bjegovich Kindness Heals Wendy Blackwood & Family Merry Christmas to all in memory of my husband Tom Blackwood who passed away in August of this year. The care he received at WLMH was outstanding at such a difficult time Rebecca Blakeley With thanks for care received

News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 31

Marg & Jim Bowman Wishing all of our family and friends a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Ken & Beverley Cooper

Eveline Breukelman Thank you for the work done!

Rob, Barb & Pauline Cosby The new hospital is a tremendous gift to our community. Merry Christmas

Laura Brooks Remembering loved ones at this special time of year. They would be so pleased to see our hospital completed Bart & Esther Brooks Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas! And in honour and memory of our parents; Ron & Carol Brooks and Rose Philip Allen & Joyce Brown When Allen was admitted to hospital this summer, he was exhaustively listed for possible complications other than Alzheimer’s. We are grateful for the quality of care.

Bruch Family In gratitude to the community for saving and rebuilding our hospital!!

Larry & Charlotte Bucknall Blessings to everyone this Christmas and throughout the year!

Doug & Karen Burke In loving memory of our son Michael Paul Burke Sept. 26, 1975 - Dec. 9, 1995 Zenaida & Alfonso Canonizado Wish for Good Health for Family & Friends Jim & Elizabeth Church Thinking of our loved ones no longer with us as Christmas draws near. Harry and Kay Campney, Orlan and Dorothy Church, Diane (Campney) Rubel.

M and J Clarke

Robert Corson 11 Christmases without Bob

West Lincoln Memorial Hospital 2025 Holiday Message

The Coulter Family In loving memory of our parents Wib (1988) and Gloria (2000) Coulter and our sister Wendy Baarda (2021). Forever in our hearts. Never forgotten.

Bob & Joan Cranfield In memory of our great granddaughters Rylie and Avery Miller Ralph Culp & Family Have a Merry Holiday Season and a Healthy New Year Sheila & Vic Della Valle Continued great nursing care Bev Davies In memory of David and grateful for our new hospital Martha DeRoos In memory of Andy. Blessed Christmas to all Peter & Jane DeVisser DeWitt Family In loving memory of Fred DeWitt, forever in our hearts.

And celebrating the birth of our newest family member, Valentina! Wishing health, love and joy to our family and friends at Christmas and throughout the New Year Stanley & Mary Dinga Happy Healthy Wishes to All Barry & Lori Doucet Elaine Doughty In memory of my daughter Vicki.

Let your light shine bright

This holiday season, I’m reflecting on an extraordinary year for West Niagara.

The opening of the new West Lincoln Memorial Hospital is a major milestone, made possible by the dedication of so many, and a powerful example of what our community can achieve together.

Across Hamilton Health Sciences, it’s also been a year of real progress, including continued growth as a nationally leading research hospital, the launch of our first Indigenous Health Plan, and our Integrated Stroke Program being awarded Stroke Distinction by Accreditation Canada.

I’m grateful to our teams for their professionalism, compassion, and continued focus on patients and families through a year of change.

I’m optimistic about 2026 as we build on this momentum.

Thank you for your continued support of WLMH and best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season.

Tracey MacArthur President & CEO Hamilton Health Sciences

Page 32 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

Tony & Carol Duivesteyn Joanne Dykstra & Family In loving memory of our Dad/Papa, Joseph Barich (2006). As well, remembering the night when our town rallied together, with candles in hand, to save our hospital.

A 30-year mission has come to fruition! Our new WLMH is amazing!

BRAVO! George Dykstra For - Mason/Cruson/Lucy/Maeve/ Deacon - May God Bless You Murray and Cathy Easson Gordon & Pamela Ellens This Christmas, our wish is for health, hope, and togetherness for all families in our community.

May the season remind us of the strength found in caring for one another, sharing kindness, and supporting those close to home.

Wishing you a joyful Christmas and a New Year filled with peace and good health.

Joan Edwards Michael and Sandy Ensley Best Wishes to All! Rob Falconer Honouring loved ones who are no longer here. Wonderful to finally have a new hospital.

Lynn Fee As a dedicated contributor to WLMH, my family & our Real Estate Team are elated to see the dream finally come true! Here’s to a bright & healthy future for everyone who will benefit from this incredible accomplishment!

Lois French In Loving Memory of David French Angelo Georgakakos In Memory of Tom and Effie. And a Merry Christmas to all.

J & A Gerritsen We wish the LORD bless the New Hospital Keith & Iris Gibson Happy, Healthy Holidays to everyone!

Linda Gibson In loving memory of my wonderful husband Douglas Arthur. Always in my heart and thoughts.

Robert C. Gibson In memory of Margaret, Robert & Helen Gibson Karen & Jon Ginsburg To all the staff at WLMH, the Foundation and the Auxiliary.

Wishing you all the best in the new facility. Congratulations on a spectacular success Ed & Lorraine Heczko / Green Sums Limited Merry Christmas & years to come to all health care people Don & Joan Gretzinger We wish all the people who work at the hospital a happy, healthy Christmas and New Year and thank you for your work David & Lynne Grosvenor Wishing everyone a happy and healthy Christmas Season Derry & Judy Hails In loving memory of our Daughter Kristin & our dear friend Gerry Smith David Hall Wishing everyone a Merry and Healthy Christmas!

Jay & Stefanie Hamilton Kimberly Hepburn In honour of Doug Hepburn.

Forever in our hearts. Kim & Cody

Arthur, Aimee, Seamus, Ciaran & Ronan Hilson May your Christmas sparkle with moments of love, laughter, and goodwill. Have a joyous holiday season!

John & Joanne Holbourne Best wishes to Grimsby Carol & Charles Honey Wishing our sister & brother-inlaw - Wendy & Val Casciani a very healthy 2026 Susanne & Brian Hutchings A wonderful welcome to our granddaughter Quinn Susanne Tapsell born at WLMH in 2025!

Hutchings Family In memory of Wes Hutchings Sr. also known as Hartford Love, one of Love Brothers wrestling duo.

Chuck & Ann Jones In memory of our parents Doug & Heather Junke In Memory of Loved Ones Geraldine Kelter Merry Christmas and best wishes for a happy healthy 2026.

David & Gayle Kemp Merry Christmas & Happy Healthy New Year to our Family & Friends June Kirn Merry Christmas, I appreciate the staff and care I have received from the hospital Jack & MJ Knight For a healthy, happy 2026. In memory of Aunt Lillian.

Helen Koop Norm & Joyce Laidlaw Always remembered especially at Christmas Florence & Charles Slack and dear friend Nancy Moore

News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 33

Lori Laird In memory of my dad, Bill van Asperen. In my heart, always.

Hope Martin Happy Christmas to all staff & patients in our new hospital!

Greg & Michele Legge A Christmas Wish come true! The new Hospital is open! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!

Dennis & Bernadette Martin In memory of Stan and Frances Mosakoski and Estelle Martin

Carol & Michael Lipischak Wishing a healthy and a happy new year to all.

Michael & Martha Loncarich Diane Love Celebrate your good fortune to live in Niagara Jim & Pamela Love Health and Happiness to All Throughout the New Year John & Josephine Lumley In memory of our son Allan Dianne Lumley In memory of Carolyn Vilim The Dwight Lupish Family In loving memory of Mary Jane, my dearest wife for 58 years, a caring mother, and a doting Baba. She was given wonderful care in E.R., especially the compassion shown

by E.R. nurse, Kathy Harstone Rob & Dara Macleod & Family We wish for peace in our homes, warmth in our hearts, and goodwill in our community. May the season bring comfort to those who need it most and joy to all.

Steve & Marta Magdic Peace on Earth Genowefa Marchalewicz Family is everything. Thinking of you all and sending you love and best wishes.

The E. Marconato Family Jane & Ken Martens With thankful hearts & loving memories of our parents, Sam & Myrla Balint, Peter Martens

Jane & Larry Marucci In memory of Bill & Mary-Jo Murakami Bruce & Barbara McFarlane Doug & Lynn McLellan Good health to all in 2026 M. A. McManus Thanks and Best Wishes to all employees & volunteers for the New Year – 2026 Judy Meldrum Thank you to everyone who worked to make out beautiful new hospital a reality.

Irene Mewhiney Merry Christmas to all from - The Mewhineys Brenda & Doris Miculan In memory of our parents Joseph and Ines Miculan. Life is not forever - love is. Treasured and cherished memories of our dear beloved parents always in our hearts. Love you both forever and always, Brenda and Doris Bruce & Linda Minter May the New WLMH be a wonderful blessing to all!

Teddy & Family In memory of Andy Mowat.

A loving Husband, Father, Grandfather & Great Grandfather Lucia Muraca & Family In loving memory of our husband, father and grandfather, Carmen(2014) and son, brother, uncle, husband, father and grandfather, Joseph (2009).

Loved and missed every day.

Bill Nestorovich Happy Holidays and God Bless all of the staff at WLMH for the wonderful and compassionate caring of all the patients.

Nel Oosterhoff Joanne Oram In memory of my husband Bryan Oram with thanks to all our friends & relatives for your support!!

Joan Panes In memory of my husband, Jim Panes Mary Anne & Pierre Paradis We are thankful for the amazing people at HHS who have been there for us through the years. Merry Christmas and a Happy, Blessed 2026.

Anne Parent Wishing everyone love, joy and peace and hope this Christmas season is full of light and laughter. In memory of our dear husband, father and grandpa, Dan Parent We miss you so much. The Parent Family Helen Parker Merry Christmas Hank & Marg Patkau A very Grateful Thanks to our old WLMH and Welcome to our New One! Blessings of the Season Bill Patterson Hoping this helps support completion of services as the new facility moves forward to completion.

Barbara Phelps Stan and Linda Popp Remembering family and friends we carry in our hearts.

Ron & Alice Posthumus May Joy be your gift this Christmas and may Faith, Hope, and Love be your treasures in the New Year.

Page 34 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

Vincenzo Presti Caterina Giuseppe Rose Presti George and Sylvia Prins Ross & Barbara Pyett Remembering family & friends at this special time of year. Thankful for our new hospital!

Derek Rankin In Memory of Bruce, Thora and Diana Rankin.

Sharon & Dirk Rathe In Loving Memory of Mary Lou and Richard Sandmaier (1934-2008) Sharon & Dirk Rathe In Loving Memory of Harry Rathe (1928-2011) and Ursula Rathe (1934-2022) Don & Janice Raymond We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Healthy New Year Joyce & Wally Reid Merry Christmas and thankful for new WLMH Anne Reining In loving memory of Jim and Catherine Plenderleith.

Veronika Reiser Ruth & Jim Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All Marlene & Steve Rizzuto To stay healthy and happy!

Dorothy Schrodt In loving memory of my dear parents and brothers. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas. May you have good health and happiness in the coming year Margaret Sebben Many thanks to all involved in every aspect for the completion and opening of our brand new hospital Gary Sexton – Financial Focus May peace, joy, hope and happiness be yours during this holiday season Janet Shuker Thinking of Lynn & Dave & Ken this Christmas Dave & Jean Smith The Spence Family In loving memory of Mary and Jim Spence, Lillie Spence, Len Spence, Monique Allain-Spence and Lilian Hadsley David & Cheryl Spiece Health & Happiness in 2026 and Beyond....

Elizabeth Spoja In memory of Frank Spoja

Marion Robinson In loving memory of Douglas

Grace Stieva In memory of Eric Stieva, dearly loved and dearly missed

Jim & Cathy Rowaan Blessings to family and friends this Christmas and a healthy new year.

Don & Wendy Stewart In memory of Marlene and Richard

Wayne Russell In memory of Mom, Dad and June George & Pat Savage Vicki Schindel In memory of my friend Carol Daly.

In remembrance of my parents, Jean and Rudy Schindel. Many Blessings to all!

Beverley Stewart Merry Christmas and so happy to finally see our beautiful new Hospital.

Doreen Stokes & Fred Warner Blessings to our Friends Near & Far

Hilda Stuive Wishing everyone good health in the New Year. In memory of my parents: Bill & Miny Stuive Sunrise Greenhouses Ltd. Linda & Neil Sutherland Merry Christmas & A Happy & Healthy New Year to our wonderful Family & Friends Lia & Jim Swanson Graham & Pearl Sweeting Elizabeth Swick So grateful for our new hospital!

In memory of the Sweet & Swick Families!

Ron Tallman Remembering Linda and honouring our children and their spouses, our grandchildren and their spouses and out great grandchildren, Madison, Harper & Teddy The Taylor Family In loving memory of Marie and Frank Taylor and Paul Taylor Nancy Taylor In loving memory of Ron Hewitt Nancy, Sean & Kristen Taylor In loving memory of Chris Taylor Clara Terryberry In loving memory of Earl Terryberry L. Townsend Sharon Trojner In loving memory of Lynn, John, Lois & Don Revell; and Merry Christmas to our beautiful grandsons Oliver & Nolan George Tsigenoupoulos Family May this Christmas be filled with Health, Peace & Joy for everyone Dave & Sally Tyson Wishing everyone a Safe and Healthy 2026!

News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 35

Fred & Dianne Usher Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to family & friends

Aldert Wortel In memory for my wife Grada Wortel. Merry Christmas to All

Sandra Zumstein Remembering our Parents Nora and Carson Zumstein

Pauline & John Valk In loving memory of Rodney & his Grandparents

Joan York With thanks for a long awaited new hospital

Christine Zych In loving memory of Louis Edward Zych

Angela & Ebrahim Valli A blessed and healthy 2026 to you and your family

Emma Young

Jim & Mary Volk Merry Christmas to all and a huge thanks to everyone who helped us achieve our goal of a new hospital.

Trees of Healthy Wishes!

Wishing you peace, joy, friendship and all the Wishing you wonder peace, joy, thatfriendship makes this holiday season and all the special! wonder

James & Beth Wagner We are grateful for our wonderful new hospital, and for all of its amazing staff!

Diana Wallingford Merry Christmas and Happy New Years Doug Welch In memory of Merl & Ruth Welch & Glenna Carol & Jim Wheeler Marie Whitbourn Best wishes for WLMH. In memory of parents & husband, Fred Peter & Joan Wiebe Happy Healthy 2026

that makes this holiday season special!

Best wishes

Thank you for helping WLMH

sparkle & shine sparkle

Thank you for helping WLMH

& shine

June H. Wilkinson Best wishes for the future of WLMH. In memory of loved ones Winona Concrete and Pipe Products Limited West Lincoln Memorial Hospital is vital to our community and participating in the Trees of Healthy Wishes Campaign is an honour for our organization. Our gifts directly impact the healthcare available to our friends, family and neighbours.

We wish our community a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Trees of Healthy Wishes!

from the Governing Board, Staff and Take itfrom to the theFinish Campaign Team Governing Board,

Best wishes

Staff and Take it to the Finish Campaign Team

Convey your healthy wish in our second edition of the Trees of Healthy Wishes by donating before January 13th.

Convey your healthy wish in our second edition of the Trees of Healthy Wishes by donating before January 13th.

TODAY

Donate Donate

TODAY

Page 36 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

OBITUARIES

289-235-9500 OBITUARIES

heywood, (nee dier) Catherine (Cathy) Faye

Peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by her family, on Friday, December 19, 2025, in her 71st year. Beloved wife of John Heywood, devoted mother to Sean (Jenn) and Kevin (Marie), and proud grandmother to Taylor, Trystan, Evelyn, and Cole-whom she loved to the moon and back. Cathy dedicated 40 years to nursing, serving at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hamilton and West Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Grimsby. She cherished traveling, skiing, and cheering on her sons at every sporting event. Later, her greatest joy was watching her grandchildren and neighborhood kids grow and play. The family extends heartfelt thanks to all relatives, friends, doctors, nurses, and PSWs who provided exceptional care and support over the past few months. As per Cathy’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held in Spring 2026. Donations to West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation would be deeply appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755.

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tuck, Judith “Judy” Lynn

On Sunday, November 30th, at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, Judith Lynn Tuck (née Ranger) passed away in her 77th year.

Judy’s passing leaves a profound void in the life of her husband of 60 years, James “Jim” Tuck.

She was a proud and loving mother to Dennis (Geri) and Teresa (Tom), and she lives on through the hearts of her grandchildren—James (Andrew), Jacob (Olivia), Nathan (Hailey), Alex (Alex), Mitchell, and Myles each of whom she adored deeply. Her love for her family was unwavering, and the memories she created with them will be carried forward always.

Judy also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will forever cherish the warmth, kindness, and joy she brought into their lives.

Judy lived a simple but joy-filled life. She loved bright colours, warm weather, and the celebration of every holiday. To her friends, she was the energizer bunny—always ready for a round of golf, a day of traveling, or another day under the sun. She stayed active through biking, skiing, walking, sewing, canning, pickle ball and golfing, and she proudly taught each of her grandchildren to ski, encouraging them to embrace a life of adventure, just as she had.

Above all, Judy had a heart for helping others.

She always made time, always found room in her day, and always knew how to put a smile on someone’s face. Those moments, repeated over a lifetime, left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. To know Judy was to feel truly cared for.

She was the best partner Jim could have asked for, spending many winters together in Florida and Arizona, building a lifetime of memories side by side. As a mother, she always made sure her children knew they were loved and there wasn’t anything she wouldn’t do for her grandkids. Jim’s other half will live on in spirit through her family and all who knew her. She was a wonderful friend, and she loved her community deeply.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Merritt Funeral Home, Smithville. A celebration of life will take place at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #393, Smithville on Saturday, January 3, 2026 from 1:00 - 5:00 P.M. If desired, memorial donations to the Terry Fox Foundation can be made by contacting the funeral home (905) 957-7031.

Tim Hortons Grimsby his happy to support NewsNow and its excellent carrier team!

This week, NewsNow carriers will receive a $5 Tim Hortons gift card to for their ongoing efforts in delivering local news to our communities.

Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for 2026!

Tim Hortons 4 Grimsby Locations timhortons.ca

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News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 37

In Memory of Terry Laba January 21st, 1959 – December 19th, 2006

Business Directory 289-235-9500

MERRITT

FUNERAL HOME

It seems like yesterday that I came home looking forward to enjoying Christmas Eve dinner with you and the family, but sadly I ended up having to say “Fair Winds & Following Seas” to you instead!

The Heavenly dinner table you sit at is filling up more each year with other loving family members placing a chair at the table and joining you once again. One day the rest of us will rejoin you too, and we’ll all be happily reunited at that family dinner table enjoying good times!

You can count on every one of us, yet to show up, to proudly salute you, and everyone with you this Christmas by raising a glass and toasting all of you! I know the salute will be proudly returned to all of us, from all of you up there!

Wishing a Warm & Heavenly Merry Christmas to all of you, Terry!

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Page 38 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

100% Niagara owned & operated Our Team: Publisher - Mike Williscraft mike@wn3.ca 289-442-4244 General Manager - Catherine Williscraft Sales Consultant - Erica Huisman Graphics - Donna Wisnoski NewsNow is owned & operated by 1602207 Ontario Ltd.

Office Location 45 Main St. West, Delivered via Canada Post Grimsby, ON, L3M 1R3 Ph: 289-235-9500 Ph: 289-235-7848 NewsNow is published EVERY Thursday & delivered to all homes & businesses in Niagara West, 29,006

How special is that?!

It’s not every day a four-time Canadian and World Champion figure skater drops into a smalltown arena but that is exactly what happed at West Lincoln Community Centre on Saturday. Kudos to West Lincoln Skating Club for getting the legendary Kurt Browning who landed the first ratified quadruple jump at the 1988 World Championships in Budapest, Hungary - to be part of its 50th anniversary. What a treat! Loree photo

By far - WLMH tops list of 2025 events It’s been just over 35 years I have mangled C. Clement Moore’s A Night Before Christmas in the Christmas edition of whatever paper I was working on - all the way back to my Manotick Messenger days in Ottawa in the early 90s.

I got a few paragraphs into it this year, and pulled the plug. Not this year. It’s been a good run.

Usually, that column takes me a couple of weeks to work through in my mind.

There are a lot of highlights - and lowlights - which happen in the span of a year and I always try to touch on the top five or six in that piece.

This year, aside from being extremely time-compromised by the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital opening - and the magazine we published commemorating that milestone - being pushed back a month due to supply chain issues with some equipment. That meant the magazine pushed right into our Christmas rush. Translation, it’s been full speed since the middle of July.

Compounding things, taking two days in five months caught up to me and got a doozy of a bug last week. I rarely get sick, maybe every 5-6 years, but wowzer, last week was harsh.

Additionally, we backed up deadline an extra day due to Christmas deadlines and here I am, Monday, filling this space.

I know I’ll get some calls about not sucking it, and that’s ok. Readers look forward to that column every year. It is quite a tradition. It will return next year, guar-

MIKE WILLISCRAFT anteed, but even Cal Ripken - after passing Lou Gehrig, of course, had to end his consecutive game streak in baseball.

So, let’s just simply review a couple of things which have come to pass in 2025.

WLMH - by far #1.

Seeing that place re-open will be the greatest thing I see happen in Niagara West in my community newspaper career here. Nothing will compare. When you consider the positive impact on a host of fronts, the hospital will continue to be a cornerstone of the community for many decades.

What could be #2 on that list, but has not happened yet, is the planned opening of a GO Station in Grimsby.

I don’t believe I will still be on the planet when the impact and benefit of that transportation system is developed. Given we still have no idea when it will happen, the maturation of the transportation will take another decade after completion - if it ever comes.

I’m going to say the GO will be a reality in 5-6 years, maybe. It could easily be 10.

But the development of significant ridership - after the effects of COVID - will take another 10-15 years to evolve. But changing commuter habits and getting them out of the convenience of their own vehicles - if they ever have to actually go to a job anymore - will be near impossible to break.

On an inter-municipal level, Grimsby and Lincoln need to look to giving residents the gift of harmony on the shared fire services front.

It was the right move to halt its recent process, but I would use the term “suspend” over stop or kill the concept. It needs to happen, but methodology needs to be air-tight, not incomplete and vague.

That needs to be a frontburner item of the new councils which are successful in the Fall 2026 elections.

And on that election front, all residents deserve a professional election season.

To say, “especially Grimsby” will bring smiles to residents of Lincoln and West Lincoln who have been able to watch the show here for the last seven years from afar. You’re lucky.

Lincoln has been smooth sailing for while, but issues are on the horizon. West Lincoln Hatfield and McCoy years are not that far behind.

But Grimsby, poor Grimsby, hopped out of the frying pan and into the fire in 2022 both with council and its DIA. I must say I am not optimistic based on who I hear has been telling people they’re running, but let’s make that a New Year’s wish: I wish for good candidates.

News Now • Thursday, December 25, 2025 • Page 39

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Page 40 • NewsNow • Thursday, December 25, 2025

CHRISTMAS CLEAR OUT