The West Niagara U13 Flying Donkeys are carrying on a West Lincoln Christmas tradition with a toy and food drive for West Lincoln Community Care. On hand on a Saturday to collect offerings were coaches James Gunn, Trevor Dunham and Colin Poag - with their helpful crew: Colton Poag, Matthew Gunn, Owen Leithead, Lyon Gilfillan-Hunter, Benjamin Chechalk, Brayden Dunham, Sam Quaranta,
and Brayden Blanchard. See Page 21 for more details. Loree - Photo
Theo Volpatti, Jimmy Gunn, Katie Gunn, Kaylie Poag
Christmas spirit galore Smithville’s Glen and Carrie Hipkiss only know one way to do Christmas, BIG! The couple opened their home Dec. 14 for a reception in support of West Lincoln Community Care with attendees donating food and toys for their holiday program. “They have the most amazing display of Christmas decorations I have ever seen. These people love everything Christmas their collections are enormous,” said guest Brenda Walker. Submitted photo.
Rough ride, but Lincoln Lodge to get rebuild
By Evan Loree NewsNow
A 70-year-old special care group home in Vineland is getting new digs.
After being subject to three years of public scrutiny and planning revisions, Lincoln town council has approved plans to rebuild Lincoln Lodge.
The lodge, located on Rittenhouse Road near Victoria Avenue, provides specialized care and support to 31 individuals with mental health disorders.
The home - and two single-family units adjacent to it - are to be demolished and replaced with facility with a maximum height of three storeys comprising a 26-unit condominium complex.
The rebuilt Lincoln Lodge will service the same residents but will be “purposebuilt” to meet their mental and physical health needs, said LIncoln CAO Mike Kirkopoulos.
Forty two parking spaces are included in the plans.
Consultant John Ariens of Arcadis said the new care home would be built first, so the current residents of Lincoln Lodge would have a place to move into and the condo
would come second.
Just as they have at previous discussions on the project, residents came out to a meeting Dec. 2 to object to the project proposal.
Vineland resident Chris Juzda objected to the size of the proposed buildings which are neighboured by single-storey bungalows.
“We’re basically trading one eyesore for a much larger eyesore,” he said.
He advocated for a lowrise building with ample green space.
Ariens said there was a public park across the street from the care home.
Juzda also suggested the residents at Lincoln Lodge were “not getting the care that you might think they’re getting.”
Juzda said he and his neighbours have had recurring issues withl lodge residents trespassing on their properties.
He said the home did not appear to have sufficient staff at all hours and the owners were not as quick to respond to neighbourly concerns as they ought to.
The care home’s website says it responds to complaints within 48 hours.
“If you have a problem
with a resident, a 48-hour response time is not gonna cut it,” he said.
Written comments from resident Rosanne Kotzer were attached to the meeting agenda..
In her letter, Kotzer expressed concern about the shelter’s proximity to Twenty Valley School nearby.
“The safety of children in every neighbourhood should be front of mind and a primary concern of elected appointed officials who sign off on these decisions,” her letter said.
There were 27 pages of additional correspondence from residents, a mix of support and opposition, attached to the agenda with staff’s recommendations to approve the project.
“The current facility houses the exact same people and same number who have been there for 60 years. We shouldn’t attempt to use a land use application to debate the merits of special care,” said Kirkopoulos.
Ariens said concerns about the operation of the facility and care quality provided therein were not a land use issue and therefore could not be ad-
dressed through the zoning amendment application.
Standards of care at Lincoln Lodge are overseen by Good Shepherd, a charitable organization that provides emergency and transitional housing and mental health support to Toronto and Hamilton.
Good Shepherd has been appointed by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care to oversee standards in group homes contractually run by private operators its Community Home for Opportunity (CHO) program.
John Lee, a Good Shepherd program director, said staff inspect the facility annually and meet with the homeowners twice weekly to address ongoing challenges.
Kirkopolous said the project has been “significantly scaled back” and provides more parking spaces than are available on site.
Town planner Monika Cocchiara said the property owners initially came forward with plans for a 60-bed special care home to replace the lodge and an 80-bed long-term care facility in place of the apart-
ment.
Both of these would have been serviced by 23 parking spaces.
“Staff are of the opinion that the application has considerably improved since the initial submission,” she said.
Mayor Sandra Easton said resident concerns were “not insignificant problems,” but the town had nothing to do with the operational standards of the home.
“I hope this is the last time we have to have a discussion about the operations of this facility,” said Mayor Sandra Easton.
Easton asked what needed to be done to educate the community about the realities lived by the people who live at Lincoln Lodge.
“We need to appreciate that we’re dealing with human beings,” Lee said.
Easton said the services offered by homes like Lincoln Lodge were important to the community.
“I’m very, very proud to support this,” she added.
Council gave final approval to the project at a meeting Dec. 16 when it ratified a zoning amendment that allows the project to move forward.
By Evan Loree NewsNow
The congregation of St. John’s Presbyterian Church has put $20,000 towards a trio of Grimsby charities this Christmas season and challenges residents to give a little more - if they can.
“No gift is too small and any gift can make a difference,” Rev. Kyle Dore said.
The church has given $10,000 to the Grimsby Benevolent Fund and $5,000 each to McNally House Hospice and the Foundation
of Resources for Teens Youth Centre (FORT).
The money comes from the roughly $2 million sale of the congregation’s old church at 10 Mountain St., which was sold in June.
The congregation now rents space at Trinity United Church on Main Street West in Grimsby.
Dore said the idea of reinvesting some of those funds had been floating around amongst the congregation’s elders even before the sale was finalized, but it
wasn’t until October that they settled on the beneficiaries.
Dore hopes to help generate another $10,000 on behalf of the community charities through the church’s campaign, Grimsby Gives.
People can give directly to their charity of choice in the name of Grimsby Gives.
“Our hope is just to encourage generosity for folks in our community,” he said.
“When we find ways to work together collectively, we can increase our impact.”
2:00pm to 4:00pm Royal Canadian Legion Branch #613 141 Highway 20 East, Fonthill
7:00pm to 9:00pm Peninsula Ridge Winery 5600 King Street West, Beamsville
"My family highly recommends the Ouzas team. From the moment we met Zoi until we purchased our house, her and her team (thanks Kate and Caitlyn!) were honest, responsive, and helpful with everything. We felt like we were in good hands all throughout the process and it made buying a home feel even more exciting. Unfortunately, there are some dishonest Realtors out there, but Zoi and her team gave us faith that there are also good, honest realtors who will think of their clients' needs first. If you're looking for good and honest representation, definitely give them a call. We're so happy we decided to work with them. Thank you, Ouzas team, we appreciate everything!"
- Adam & Stephanie M.
waterfront views. Fully finished basement with
Seas ’s Greetings &B t Wish for a Safe and Happy New Year
As the year comes to a close, the Town of Lincoln Council extends to all of you warm wishes for a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Happy New Year to you and your loved ones!
We’re excited to announce the winner of the Children’s Christmas Card competition. The impressive array of entries showcased the creativity and festive spirit of our young Lincoln residents. If you haven’t yet, be sure to explore these wonderful submissions on our Town of Lincoln social media (Facebook, X, and Instagram). A heartfelt thank you to all the talented young artists who spread holiday cheer.
We would also like to thank Lincoln residents for their ongoing contributions and community spirit. As a Council, we remain dedicated to making Lincoln the best place in Niagara to Grow, Prosper, and Belong.
We wish everyone a safe, joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year!
— Mayor Sandra Easton & Members of Town of Lincoln Council
Artist:
Cat Cino, Grimsby ‘Twas the week before Christmas when all through the house, you could smell the turkey roasting, too big for a mouse.
By celebrating early, I get to enjoy without the stress and chaos or even a toy.
This extra time with family is done so happily!
The turkey was
and cheese covered in giblet gravy and don’t forget the mashed please.
The sides were green beans and roasted sweet potatoes drizzled with syrup and crunchy cashews made a sweet dish I was glad
A local sparkling wine bubbled away the joy of family gatherings will never sway.
Telling stories and filling bellies ‘til we crashed in front of the tellie!
Happy Christmas to all and to all a good night. No room for dessert our pants were too tight!!!
Last night’s meal; today’s turkey sand-
Yoga to help navigate the gradual changes in perimenopause and beyond
Unlock Your Inner Calm – email hello@yogamatt.ca or call 416.399.5301 to learn more and register your spot! Classes in Beamsville starting January.
Kiwanis penny sale comes through West Lincoln Kiwanis and 4H hosted a series of penny sales through the Christmas season pooling all proceeds to generate a donation of $1,751 for West Lincoln Community Care jointly by West Lincoln Kiwanis and 4H. On hand for the presentation were (L to R) Brenda Walker, Cathy Howey, Mike Firmin, Cheryl Ganann, Benjamin Chechalk, Ann Marie Chechalk and Joann Chechalk. Submitted photo
Season's
Region budget increase skewered in West Lincoln
By Evan Loree NewsNow
West Lincoln councillors were cool to the news that regional taxes are slated to rise by 9.6 per cent in 2025 at the Dec. 16 council meeting.
This translates to an approximate $194 increase on a property with an average value of $298,000.
Mayor Cheryl Gannon said regional budget talks began in October and wrapped up Dec. 12.
The budget increase was initially proposed at 13 per cent before being cut back to a “still very ugly 9.6 per cent.”
Coun. Mike Rehner opened discussions when he asked Reg. Coun. Albert Witteveen, who attended the meeting to provide an update, if he supported the tax increase.
Witteveen said yes.
“I guess the question that I have to ask is why?” Rehner said, adding why would the Region come up with “such an astronomical number,” at a time when people are struggling to pay for groceries.
Witteveen said 92 per cent of the services provided by the region are provincially mandated; one being policing. Its budgetary ask accounts for more than half (five per cent) of the 9.6 per cent.
Witteveen said new provincial guidlines had a major effect since more resources for staff, technology and infrastructure are now mandatory to maintain compliance.
Witteveen said it was “very frustrating” when the province mandates services but does not provide any funding for them.
Rehner said West Lincoln
is only served by two police cruisers.
“So, what West Lincoln is doing basically is paying for the police services for the 11 other municipalities,” he said.
It also put a lot of pressure on West Lincoln council to keep its costs low when it starts budgeting for 2025 in the new year, Rehner said.
Setting the police budget aside, Witteveen said the bud get increases at Region were “very reasonable.”
“This is just a bad time in a bad economy to come up with a wicked number,” Rehner said.
In her account of the bud get talks, Gannon said she and Witteveen voted in favour of cuts wherever they could, though voted in favour of in creased spending on emer gency response services.
everyone a safe, happy and healthy Christmas season and new year!
Wishing
West Lincoln Mayor Cheryl Ganann
UPCOMING FAMILY SKATES
Santa drops by Casablanca Hotel
(Right) Maria SusanGeorge, 6, works on her colouring project under mom Aiby Varghese’s, watchful eye - at a breakfast with Santa at Casablanca Hotel on Dec. 14.
(Right) L to R - Jordan Sprott, Katy Willis, Tilly Sprott, 1, and Mary-Ann Willis were there to see Santa.
(Left) L to R - Joe Boudreau; Frances Dyason; Holly Boudreau; Oliver, 7, and Declan, 9, Boudreau were there to support the event which asked for toy or cash donations for Grimsby Benevolent Fund.
(Right) Emma Henderson-Alford, 2, was excited to meet the legend.
Photos By Evan Loree
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.
Merry Christmas from our family to yours this Holiday Season,
Lianne Vardy
Lianne Vardy
Town of Grimsby Councillor, Ward 2
Town Grimsby Councillor, Ward 2
May the spirit of the season fill your heart and your home, and may you and your family enjoy the warmth of an old-fashioned Christmas. We appreciate your support.
Twp. of West Lincoln Regional Councillor Albert Witteveen
Merry Christmas from all of us at pyett spring & alignment Caistor Centre
that keeps on serving!
Rick Shaver
You need to start the New Year with a smile and a grin…and there is no better way than to do that then serve up a meal full of flavour and sauces.
My favourite family meal on New Year’s Day was the buffet set up at noon that runs until the last person drops.
Start off with a mansize deep dish lasagna with plenty of layers; filled with a meat and tomato sauce with a mix of cheese mixed in.
That starts off your plate. Then add in your meat balls in a heavy dark gravy filled with mushrooms and onions, bordered in with a six-layer scalloped potato serving. Next to the cabbage rolls and macaroni salad.
This all served up with fresh rolls and a tall Diet Coke. Enjoy.
Explosion temporarily closes popular Grimsby eatery
An explosion at FAI Mama’s Kitchen at 26 Main St. in Grimsby on Dec. 4 injured one man and closed the restaurant pending an engineer’s assessment of the building.
Just after 3 p.m. Grimsby Fire Department (GFD) received a 911 call reporting a structure fire and explosion.
The first GFD emergency response unit arrived on scene within two minutes.
Upon arrival, no visible fire or smoke was found.
However, further investigation re-
vealed a man with head injuries and bleeding.
Niagara Paramedics arrived quickly on scene, provided medical care, and transported the man to Hamilton General Hospital’s Trauma Unit.
The investigation revealed that the explosion occurred in the kitchen prep area at the rear of the building.
It was caused by repairs to the refrigeration unit and has been deemed accidental, said Jim Kay, GFD’s deputy chief.
Due to concerns about structural in-
tegrity, the Chief Building Official (CBO) attended the scene, along with Niagara Regional Police (NRP) and the Ministry of Labour (MOL) as a precaution.
The Town of Grimsby’s Chief Building Official is working closely with the affected parties and insurance providers to ensure the situation is addressed quickly and safely.
A re-opening date has not yet been set as structural issues and insurance matters are worked through.
Friday, December 20 - Open
Monday, December 23 - Open
Tuesday, December 24 - Closed
Wednesday, December 25 - Closed
Thursday, December 26 - Closed
Friday, December 27 - Open
Monday, December 30 - Open
Tuesday, December 31 - Closed
Wednesday, January 1 - Closed
Thursday, January 2 - Open
Friday, January 3 - Open
Our Christmas dinner is made up of our favourite appetizers which always includes: meatballs, sausage rolls, shrimp and a smorgasbord (cheese crackers, meat, pickle). Our main meal is: juicy turkey with tasty gravy and of course, mashed potatoes! We also like salad and rolls. Dessert is
sugar cookies. We would NEVER include, fruitcake, pudding, or mince pie. But to each their own! Below is a photo of our Christmas dinner with Grandpa and Grandma. (Grandma and Mom present but not photographed) 2021.
Zachary Armstrong Grimsby
dinner 2021 (L to R) Grandpa Robert Armstrong, Zachary, 9, and Dad, Adam Armstrong. Grandma and Mom present, but
photographed. Submitted Photo.
Being a BBBS mentor highly rewarding: volunteer
By Evan Loree NewsNow
Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) is working to heighten its profile in Niagara West every day since its two branches in the region amalgamated in 2022.
Executive director Erin Graybiel said the organization doesn’t need the brick and mortar to deliver on its services.
She said the organization maintained its office in Grimsby throughout the pandemic but did not see much foot traffic in that time.
And BBBS continues to hear from perspective volunteers in the area, but they are look-
ing for more. Graybiel said the organization has been able to “reduce some overhead costs” by sharing that space in a small satellite office at Community Care of West Niagara in Beamsville. The proximity to CCWN has also helped with referrals, she added.
“More exposure is always great,” she said. And though BBBS has seen more inquiries from perspective volunteers in West Niagara since speaking to Lincoln council in October, “We’d always love to have more.”
For Emily Wood, the reward of helping a “Little” is something
she won’t soon forget.
“I am a resident of West Niagara and a proud mentor with BigBrothers Big Sisters of Niagara. I’ll never
forget the first time I met my mentee Raya almost three years ago,” said Wood.
“She was shy and I was nervous, wonder-
ing if I’d have enough to offer. But that first meeting quickly turned into years of adventures, mishaps and a lot of laughs.”
Those laughs came from a host of activities.
“Together, we’ve learned to paddleboard, gotten lost in corn mazes, crafted, baked, and even got dressed up for a party or two,” Wood recalled.
“Watching Raya grow and become more confident has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”
Graybiel said volunteer rates are trending down across the entire charity sector.
“Everyone is seeing a decline in volunteerism since COVID-19,” she said, adding people seem to have less time to volunteer as they invest more hours in work to keep up with rising living costs.
But as families put in more work hours, they may have less time to invest in families, which could also cause an increased need for the services at BBBS, Graybiel said.
“If you’re ready to make a difference in a young person’s life, visit: bbbsniagara.ca or call 905-357-5454 to become a mentor today,” said Wood.
West Niagara match Ray and Em.
Flying Donkeys team for toys
By Evan Loree NewsNow
What do pre-teen hockey players do when they’re not on the ice?
If you play for the West Niagara U13 Flying Donkeys, you may have spent your Saturday collecting Christmas toys for those in need.
The team was at the Smithville Community Centre last week for its annual toy drive, which benefits West Lincoln Community Care.
“It’s not just about the skills they learn on the ice, it’s more important what they learn off the ice,” said team head coach James Gunn.
Gunn said he wanted to teach the kids good community values at an early age.
Part of that meant working to make sure everybody had something to put under the Christmas tree.
By the end of the toy drive, the team had collected more than
$1,000 in cash donations and 100 toys for WLCC.
This is the fourth annual toy drive put on by the team, but Gunn said the West Lincoln Minor Hockey Association held a bigger toy drive every year before it was amalgamated into the West Niagara Minor Hockey Association.
“I’d love to see more teams get involved,” he said.
The seven-year coach said he’d like to see the annual toy drive take place at all three ice rinks in West Niagara.
Gunn got into the game late, never having the opportunity to play hockey as a child.
And after learning to play as an adult, he jumped on the opportunity to coach and has been doing it ever since.
“I try to give the kids the opportunity I never had,” he said.
Gunn said the team couldn’t do it without and greatly appreciated the support of the community.
Beamsville Lions Club
Young Grimsby author publishes first short story
By Evan Loree NewsNow
A young author from Grimsby is getting his name inked in print.
Joseph Brink, a 20-year-old writer currently enrolled in The Authors Conservancy, is publishing his first story in the school’s third student anthology, Voices of the Future: Stories of Adventure & Imagination, which comes out Dec. 3.
Brink said it was “an exciting and kind of scary thought,” that people would soon be reading his story in print.
The Author Conservancy is an international, online school that teaches young writers how to write and get published in the book industry.
Young writers are coached by industry professionals and successful writers like New York Times best-selling author Christopher Paolini, among others.
Among Brink’s program accomplishments:
• Drafting 10 full-length novels
• Implementing both developmental and line edits from professional editors
• Receiving interest in two novels from a publisher at the Write-to-Publish writing conference, and;
• Running his own pop-up business to learn marketing, networking, and selling skills
Brink, who graduates from the program in the spring, said the annual school anthology is something in which not every student gets published.
“It’s maybe not quite as big a deal as publishing my own novel, but it is still a huge step in my career,” Brink said.
Brink has been writing since he was very little and was always encouraged by his parents who homeschooled him.
Books he said, have had a big impact on him and he wanted to do the same for younger readers.
His story, What Lives Beneath the Skin is a scary children’s tale about a 12-year-old boy named Timmy who begins to investigate a creepy noise coming from beneath the wallpaper of his fixer-upper home while babysitting his younger sibling Milo.
Brink has four siblings and was inspired by some of his own experiences babysitting them.
“Also, I like the adrenaline kick when you read a scary story,” he said.
He said he tries not to get too spooky, though, since his stories are targeted at a young audience.
Brink celebrated the publication with a release party at the Grimsby Public Library last week. The book is available at https://www.josephbrink.com/books
Rookie author and former NewsNow carrier, Joseph Brink with his first book.
Thank you for supporting the
West Lincoln Memorial Hospital
The following donations were received as of December 17, 2024
Ed & Annette Alblas
Have a Merry Christmas and a Healthy Life to All!
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!
Dan & Valerie Baarda
We wish all our family and friends a very Blessed Christmas
Brian & Penny Benoit
In memory of our dear friend, Dan Parent. We still miss you every day
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.
Gay Baas
In memory of Dan Nolan
Liz Betts
Merry Christmas and a heartfelt thanks to all our dedicated healthcare workers
Sponsors
Winona Concrete and Pipe Products Limited
Anonymous Cla-Val Canada
Stanley & Mary Dinga
Joan Etherington
Angelo Georgakokos and Family
Dr. Jonathan & Karen Ginsburg
Ted & Karen Konkle
Konkle Plumbing & Heating Inc.
Dennis & Bernadette Martin
Gary Sexton – Financial Focus
Somerville
Graham & Pearl Sweeting
Winona Concrete & Pipe Products Limited
Christine Zych
WINONA CONCRETE AND PIPE PRODUCTS LIMITED
West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation Holiday Greetings
As the holiday season brings us together in celebration and reflection, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation this year.
To our incredible donors: your generosity has been nothing short of extraordinary. Your contributions have enabled us to continue providing vital support to our hospital, ensuring that our community has access to excellent healthcare close to home. Every gift—big or small—makes a meaningful difference, and we are so thankful for your partnership.
Your charitable support has made it possible for the Foundation to grant West Lincoln Memorial Hospital more than $14.8M to date. Most recently, because of our generous donors, the Foundation was able to grant some $777,000 to WLMH for equipment needs in fiscal year 2023/24 providing advancements in surgical services, maternal and newborn care, education and pharmacy services. All equipment purchased will be transferred into the new hospital.
Looking ahead, we are filled with excitement and anticipation for 2025, when the doors to our new hospital will officially open in August 2025. This milestone represents years of collaboration, vision, and commitment from our community. Together, we are building a future of healthcare excellence for generations to come.
We will continue to collect donations and pledges for the new hospital while also supporting the current healthcare needs of the programs and services offered at WLMH. Together, as partners in 2025, we will celebrate the realization of a shared vision for exceptional healthcare in our community.
We are grateful for the caregivers and hospital staff who, every day, provide exceptional care to patients and families, embodying the spirit of service and excellence. You are the heart of WLMH, and our community is stronger because of you.
From all of us at the WLMH Foundation, we wish you a joyous holiday season filled with peace, love, and happiness. Here’s to a bright and hopeful new year!
Kevin Antonides Pamela Ellens Chair Executive Director, WLMH Foundation WLMH Foundation
Laura Brooks
Remembering loved ones at this special time of year
John & Ruth Burton
Jim & Elizabeth Church
Remembering at Christmas our loved ones not here to celebrate with us. Orlan and Dorothy Church, Harry and Kay Campney and sister Diane (Campney) Rubel
Murray & Joanne Clarke
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.
DeWitt Family
In loving memory of Fred DeWitt. Forever and always in our hearts. Wishing health, love and joy to our family and friends, at Christmas and throughout the New Year!
Jennie Dinga
In memory of Paul Dinga
Stanley & Mary Dinga
Wishing all WLMH Staff and their families Happy Healthy wishes
Correen Baas, Greg, Josie & Sammi Dobie
In remembrance of Dan Nolan
Barb Eichstaetter
In loving memory of Andy, Eric, Ron, and Maria
Gordon & Pamela Ellens
Wishing you a holiday season filled with joy, love, and cherished moments with those who matter most. May the New Year bring peace, happiness, and endless possibilities
Lynn Fee & Family
In 2025, we wish for a state-ofthe-art hospital, offering patient-centric care including wellness programs, outreach programs, integrated mental health services, multidisciplinary care teams tailored to patient needs, a modernized ER with triage, trauma & disaster response processes AND be full of happy, dedicated staff to service all of West Niagara
Gary Sexton - Financial Focus
May peace, joy, hope and happiness be yours during this holiday season
Darlene & James Friedt
In loving memory of our daughter Jessica
Cheryl & John Ganann
Wishing our friends and family members a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and healthy 2025!
Alice & Jerry Gerritsen
The Lord bless our children, grandchildren and great grandchildren in the year 2025. Love to them all
Angelo Georgakakos
In memory of my parents Tom & Effie
Robert C. Gibson
In memory of Margaret, Robert & Helen Gibson
David & Lynne Grosvenor
In Memory of Our Parents. Seasons Greetings
Jonathan & Karen Ginsburg
Wishing all the staff at WLMH a Merry Christmas and a Happy & Healthy New Year. Thank you for all the hard work you do
Joanne & David Hall
Looking forward to the opening of the new hospital in 2025! Best wishes to everyone for a Happy and Healthy 2025!
Jay & Stefanie Hamilton
Bob Harrison & Family
Always in our thoughts and hearts, Wife and Mother Joan and Daughter Joanne
Rex & Joyce Harrison
Merry Christmas to our Friends and Neighbours
Arthur, Aimee, Seamus, Ciaran & Ronan Hilson
May your Christmas sparkle with moments of love, laughter, and goodwill. Have a joyous holiday season!
Bruce & Janis Hunter
Best wishes to all
Susanne & Brian Hutchings
Our thanks for the care and delivery of our new Grandson
James Tapsell and Great Nephew Parker Lowry
Jack & MJ
In memory of all who we lost this year especially Aunt Shirley and our dear cousin Maryanne
Darrell & Diane Jones
Merry Christmas from Henry & Toby Jones
Geraldine Kelter
Hope, peace, joy and love to all this Christmas season
West Lincoln Memorial Hospital 2024 Holiday Message
As we approach the holidays, I’ve been reflecting on my first calendar year with Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS). I am grateful for the warm welcome I’ve received from our hospital’s entire community, including West Lincoln Memorial Hospital (WLMH) and West Niagara.
It’s been a privilege to learn more about the exceptional work our teams do every day, supported by the incredible communities we serve.
Together with our partners, HHS and the 18,000 people who work here made some amazing achievements in 2024. We continue to be recognized as a leader in our sector – as a top employer, an influential research hospital, and a vital contributor to health system improvement.
In West Niagara, we are collectively delivering a new, state-of-the-art hospital which will transform care for people in our region for generations to come. I am inspired by the dedication and generosity poured into this effort by staff, partners, and community members alike.
As we step into 2025, I want to thank each and every one of you for your unwavering support of WLMH. I am excited for the monumental year ahead.
Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season.
Tracey MacArthur President & CEO Hamilton Health Sciences
David & Gayle Kemp
Merry Christmas & A Happy Healthy New Year!
Gabe Kocsis
In memory of Zoltan, Vera and Elizabeth. To a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year
Konkle Plumbing & Heating Inc.
Wishing our community a holiday season that shines with health and happiness
Ted & Karen Konkle
In memory of Blake Konkle
Lori Laird
In memory of my dad, Bill van Asperen. In my heart, Always
Doug & Sue Lawrence
All the very best to family and friends this holiday season. Have a Happy Christmas and New Year!
Michael & Carol Lipischak
To all the friends we’ve lost in the past years - gone but not forgotten!
Diane Love
Looking forward to the new, long awaited WLM hospital being operational Summer 2025!
Congratulations to all involved
Nancy & Cliff Love
Rob & Dara Macleod
Wishing everyone a Christmas filled with love, joy and the magic of togetherness
Dennis & Bernadette Martin
In memory of Stan and Frances Mosakoski and Estelle Martin
Lillian McDonald
Wishing everyone a happy and healthy holiday
Jim & Gay McIIwain
Giving thanks for all the medical and support staff of WLMH. May the Lord bless you and yours with peace, joy, love and good health this holiday season and throughout the New Year
Doug & Lynn McLellan
Good health to all in 2025
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.
xo Brenda & Doris
Lucia Muraca & Family
In loving memory of our husband, father and grandfather Carmen (2014) and son, brother, uncle, husband, father and Nonno Joseph (2009). You are both loved and missed everyday
Joan & Paul Myles
Mike & Sharon North
We wish all our Friends and Family a Happy and Healthy 2025!
C & T Palmer
Kindness, Love and Light to all
Mary Anne & Pierre Paradis
Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a blessed and healthy 2025
The Parent Family
In memory of our dear husband, father and grandpa, Dan Parent, who we miss dearly. We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Stephen & Marji Peglar
Thanks to all the hospital staffespecially the Emergency Department
Barbara Phelps
In loving memory of Peter Phelps
Stan & Linda Popp
In memory of our loved ones
Ross & Barbara Pyett
In memory of our loved ones and thankful for so many blessings!
Sharon & Dirk Rathe
In Loving Memory of Harry (19282011) and Ursula Rathe (1934-2022)
Sharon & Dirk Rathe
In Loving Memory of Mary Lou and Richard Sandmaier (1934-2008)
Ruth & Jim Ridgley
Best wishes
Douglas & Marion Robinson
Dorothy Schrodt
In loving memory of my dear parents and brothers. Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas. May you have a healthy and Happy New Year
Clare & Claire Short
In thanks to our Grimsby Friends
Janet Shuker
Missing Lynn & Jasper at this time of year
Ed & Estelle Sobkowich
Merry Christmas to Family & Friends. Much Health & Happiness
Somerville
Holiday Wishes and Merry Christmas to all staff and business partners. All the best for a successful and healthy 2025
Grace Stieva
In memory of Eric Stieva, dearly loved and dearly missed
Beverly Stewart
In memory of Luella and Pentland Book. From Beverley & Gerry
Graham & Pearl Sweeting
Rob & Wenonah Tallman
Giving Thanks for our granddaughters Madison Rose born 2023 and Harper Grace born 2024 at WLMH
The Spence Family
In loving memory of Mary and Jim Spence, Lillie Spence, Len Spence, Monique Allain-Spence and Lilian Hadsley
The Taylor Family
In loving memory of Marie and Frank Taylor, and Paul Taylor
Nancy Taylor
In loving memory of Ron Hewitt
Sharon Trojner
In loving memory of Lynn, John, Lois & Don Revell, and lots of love to our grandson, Oliver
Dave & Sally Tyson
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
Mary & Jim Volk
Wishing everyone a healthy, happy and safe holiday as we await the exciting opening of our new hospital next year
Carol & Jim Wheeler
Peter & Joan Wiebe Healthy & Happy 2025
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
Chris Zych
In loving memory of Louis Edward Zych
Thank you for helping WLMH & sparkle shine
Healthy Wishes!
Wishing you peace, joy, friendship and all the wonder that makes this holiday season special! Best wishes from the Governing Board, 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.
IN MEMORIUM
George E. Travis
With tears in our eyes, we watched you su er, and we saw you fade away.
Jim Atkinson 1940 - 2024
Remembering My Dad At Christmastime
It’s my first Christmas without you
The first in 64 years,
The joy of the season has left me
It’s been dampened by my tears.
I can’t imagine not hearing your voice
Or seeing your smiling face,
I’ll miss the twinkle in your eyes
And the warmth of a loving embrace.
Memories bring smiles
Though the loss makes me cry,
I’m thankful for moments
Just between you and I.
Spending the day with Daddy
Was the greatest stroke of luck,
A little girl riding shotgun
In Daddy’s big tanker truck.
Coffee breaks of hot chocolate
And gooey buttertarts,
Daddy you could never know
How that memory warms my heart.
Riding along in that great big truck
With Daddy at the wheel,
As snowflakes fell around us
I can’t describe how it made me feel.
Nothing changed as the years passed by, I could always count on you,
In your quiet way you showed me your love, In the things you would say and do.
I’ll cherish our final moments
The familiar warmth of you holding my hand, As l quietly whispered “I love you”
We exchanged a look we could both understand... I know you’ll always be with me
And you know I’ll always love you.
Daddy, you’re forever in my heart.
Cath - Froggie xoxo
APT. FOR RENT
BeAmsville Large 3 bedroom apt. on 2 level. Parking included. $2000 + Utilities. 905-309-1706.
DOg gROOMINg
in st. Anns - 18 years experience. One on one setting. Text or call Karen. 905-328-6616.
CARS
CArs, truCks, old farm machinery for scrap orrepair. we pay cash. Flatbed service. 905-386-6181 or 289-686-5059.
Our hearts were saddened as you fought so hard to stay. We knew you had to go, but never were alone. As a part of us went with you the moment you le our home.
HANDYMAN
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
ruBBish & Junk removAl. Call Ken 905-973-3235 PUPPIES
PureBred, ChoColAte lABrAdor retriever PuPPies. Born October 1, 2024. $600 each. 905-563-7470
LOST lost tennis BrACelet in Giant tiger or back parking lot area last week. REWARD for returning it to Newsnow (if not open, slide through mail slot). Great sentimental value. 289235-9500
Sadly, missed by wife Carolyn, sons Mike (Cecelia), Jamie (Leanne) and your grandchildren.
WANTED
St. John’s Jordan Family & Pet Cemetery
Established 1841
Services include traditional ground disposition, cremation ground burial, scattering garden, columbarium inurnment, pet section and natural green burial.
O % financing available
St. John’s Public Cemetery is a non-profit, non-denominational historic public cemetery serving Ontario.
Superintendent Brian G. Culp 905-641-5945 (Cell) bculp2@cogeco.ca
CELEBRATE RECOVERY
struGGlinG with hurts, hAnG-uPs or hABits? “Celebrate Recovery (CR)” 12 step Christian Recovery for Healing, Help and Hope. ALL WELCOME! Wednesdays at 7 pm. Forestview Community Church, 132 Lake St, Grimsby. For info. or help, CR@forestviewcommunitychurch.ca 905945-9529
PAINTINg
me And my wife
PAintinG. We paint your home like it’s our home. Residential painting, door spraying, wall treatment, refinishing and painting household furniture. Specializing in small residential jobs. Call/ text us for a quote today. Doug and Sylvana 905-979-2151
sPeCiAlized in CArPentryPainting, Small renovations, Fence & Decks. Hardwood & Vinyl Flooring, Power Washing Senior discounts. Serving all West Niagara. Call Angelo 289-439-1485
hvAC licensed
Gas technician • Installation, Service Maintenance
• Heating, Cooling, Gas Lines • Local Free Quotes • References upon request. Call Blake 365-889-7838
home imProvements
• Roofing • Siding
• Eavestrough • Soffit
• Gutter Guard • Fascia 30 years experience! mike 905-598-5355
old fireArms wAnted for $$$ . Especially 303 Lee Enfield’s and Winchesters, others considered as well as parts and accessories. Have valid license (PAL). I’m local. 1-867993-3911 or email to thirtypound@hotmail. com
need CAsh $$$
I pay it for all your old hockey mags, books, hockey news, programs, ticket stubs and cards. Do your winter cleaning now. Any questions. Call Tim 905-5103658 - Beamsville
PUBLIC NOTICE
Thank You to All of Our Volunteers, Clients and Community Partners for your support! Your donations make it possible for us to provide free hospice support services in your community, as we have done since 1985! Help us help others - Volunteer or donate today!
info.rcvv@gmail.com • 289-566-9588 P.O. Box 4, 4289 Hixon Street, Beamsville, L0R 1B0 http://www.rosecottagevolunteers.com Visit our website for more info
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
NewsNow is published EVERY Thursday & delivered to all homes & businesses in Niagara West, 29,006
Turning the page to 2025
Phew! On hands and knees a bit, but we’ve made it to the New Year. Feels a bit more like Thanksgiving because I am very thankful for that.
Here’s to a brighter, more friendly 2025!
If we can just achieve that I think we would all be better off.
As Bob Seger says, Turn The Page.
finally here - is the OPENING of the new West Lincoln Memorial Hospital.
It seemed like it would never come and, “poof”, here it is. Yes, it’s been developing before our eyes and you physically see it when you drive by, but when it finally opens its doors, boy, that will be a BIG day.
Blast from the past
The Jordan Arena is turning 50 years old and Town of Lincoln is hosting a celebration on Friday, Jan. 10 from 2-4 p.m. Pictured here is a blast from the past with Jordan Figure Skating Club’s (Back L to R) Maggie Garriok, Kim Troup, Brian Gula, Paul Jeffrey, Paula Keon and Carol Couseno. Front: Katherine Doede, Barb Roscoe and LeaAnne Andrusiw.
One of the things I am looking forward to is my office away from the office - FAI Mama’s Kitchen (also known as Grimsby Sub Shop) - re-opening. It was closed in early December after an explosion in the back room.
Aside from being a Grimsby institution, both of my newspapers were, for all intents and purposes, born there.
In 1995, I launched Grimsby News in April. For about a month prior I was parked at the table in the back right corner with my laptop with people and coming and going much of the day.
Mama and Tina were incredibly supportive - and patient.
Again in 2012 when NewsNow was in the works, it was a full-on reboot. There I was, same table, same chairs, 17 years later.
A couple of years after that when the place got a makeover, Tina showed up at my office with a van and delivered that very table and a set of chairs which are in my office today.
A very nice gesture. So, I wish nothing but the best for Mama, Tina and the family in 2025.
Another thing I am hoping to realize in 2025 is another vacation.
An actual break is not something that happens often, but last year I was able to take a whole week off for the first time in six years. We had structured things to do that again but time away became another victim of the Canada Post soap opera.
We knew it was coming and we knew it would be long, so we didn’t bother booking anything so at least we didn’t lose any money. Just the same, once we get this issue delivered to carriers’ homes we are going to plan some day trips, house projects, clean up the war zone at the office and pretty much do things we have not had time to do in many months.
By far and away, the number one thing I am looking forward to in 2025 - and it is unbelievable it is
I am already thinking of the people who were the foundation on which the facility’s survival program was built back in the 90s. A lot of really good people put in tons of thankless hours just to get the place off life support when it was first slated for closure.
There was a genuine panic and fear in community that this colossal part of community could simply dissolve before our eyes. The fact it survived subsequent similar circumstances again in 2012 is a testament to those who set aside their lives to fight to make Niagara West’s future brighter.
All you good folks who were here then know of what I speak and if you moved to the area after 2012 let me just say you are very lucky to live in an area that has a local hospital minutes away and it is thanks to those people.
I can’t wait for the official opening date to be set so I can start counting the sleeps like it’s Christmas because the new West Lincoln Memorial Hospital is the very best gift any of use could receive.
MIKE WILLISCRAFT
Grimsby firefighters perform rope rescue to save hiker
Grimsby Fire Department’s rope rescue team extricated a 21-year-old hiker trapped on the Beamer Conservation Trail on Dec. 6. Niagara Regional Police, and EMS responded to a highlevel rescue call at Beamer Conservation Area at about 1 p.m. that day.
The hiker was heard yelling for help after sustaining injuries and becoming trapped on the trail.
Grimsby Fire deployed 20 personnel with four fire apparatus and three support vehicles, including the GFD Rope Rescue Team, to assist in the complex operation.
In coordination with five Niagara EMS paramedics, five Niagara Regional Police officers, and three Critical Care Air Orange paramedics, the team worked together to locate and extricate the injured hiker from a difficult position on the escarpment.
Utilizing advanced technology, the GFD’s drone was launched to help locate the individual, while both drone operators and on-foot personnel worked alongside EMS to carefully package and transport the patient to a safe location.
The patient was then successfully moved to the base of the escarpment, where he was transported by ground ambulance to Hamilton General Hospital’s Trauma Centre.
To facilitate the rapid airlift of the patient, the GFD set up a landing zone for the Air Orange helicopter at the former Grimsby Secondary School soccer field.
The combined efforts of four emergency response agencies and more than 33 responders ensured the successful resolution of the incident, said Grimsby Fire deputy Chief Jim Kay.
“This rescue serves as a reminder of the dangers of hiking
alone and in challenging weather conditions. The public is encouraged to use the what3words app when hiking or participating in outdoor activities,” said Kay.
“This app, used by
905.945.4161 www.grimsbyford.com
emergency responders, allows individuals to pinpoint their exact location, providing critical assistance in emergency situations and potentially saving valuable time and resources.”
HAT TRICK HOCKEY
Week 7 (As of Dec. 15, 2024)
Be sure to look online at: wn3.ca to see the full standings, but here are some of the leaders and lucky random draw winners:
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Teddy’s Food, Fun & Spirits, Sarah Davis
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Jordan Flowers, Patricia Bardy
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Judge & Jester, Jeff Lowel
• Large, 3-Item Pizza, Pick-Up Only, courtesy of Gino’s Pizza, Jack Julius
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Canadian Tire, Clarence Vander Heide
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Memphis BBQ, Carolyn Langley Winners can stop by the NewsNow office to pick up their winnings.
Top Standings
21. Langley, Carolyn . 568
22. Clark, Nick ......... 567
23. Van Koon, Jim .... 566
24. Marrama, Matteo 566
25. Vien, Elsa Dawn 563
26. Smith, Jenny 562
27. Warren, Mary-Ann 562
28. Jackson, Cam 561
29. Mourtos, Leo ...... 561
30. Frank ‘the Tank’ .. 561
31. Bitar, Samantha .. 560
32. Schilte, Julie ....... 560
33. Boekestyn, Sara Mae560
34. Tintern, Blondie .. 559
35. Porkolab, Matthew 558
36. R R & H 557
37. Giff, Robo 557
38. Rose, Briar 556
39. Wiebe, Peter ...... 555
40. Boulter, Brian ..... 555
24 - Close at 5
• Dec 25 - Closed BoxinG Day - catch thE acE thursday, Dec. 26 tickets sold 2 pm - 8:15 pm License #RaF1420676 - Closed at 6 pm
Reopen at 8 pm for ticketed New Year’s Eve party. Jan 1 - Closed Jan 2 - Open at 2 pm Kitchen Closed Re-opens
