BUY CANADIAN
New recruits solve one fire department issue
By Mike Williscraft NewsNow
One piece of a very important puzzle has been nudged into place with 12 new Niagara West Fire and Emergency Services recruits having been sworn in May 30.
The new recruits for Lincoln
bring the department up to full capacity.
“This class brings Lincoln’s complement back up to full strength of 118 firefighters. Niagara West Fire has a total complement of 174 firefighters including Grimsby,” said Greg Hudson, Niagara West Fire
Chief.
“Despite the 10 new recruits in Grimsby, we have had to launch another recruitment campaign even before the current cohort graduates. This is the first time we have ever had to do that and is, I believe, indicative of the state of
Making Lord Stanley proud
Paul Charlwood , right, bodies Lincoln Belford out of the way in a bid for control during action in an informal ball hockey tournament on Saturday. Organizer Tom Charlwood said $600 was raised for the event through collection of empties. A custom metalworker, he fashioned Stanley Cups for the winners. More than 20 kids participated. Loree - Photo
volunteer firefighting throughout Canada,” said Hudson.
The spectre of diminishing recruits was key to Grimsby and Lincoln opting to join fire services back in 2021 in an attempt to streamline operations overall.
“Annual surveys by the Canadian
“Like most communities in Ontario, Grimsby and Lincoln are served by a volunteer fire department and do not have full-time firefighters staffing the fire stations. As our community continues to grow and the demands on the fire department continue to increase, it becomes increasingly difficult for our firefighters to balance family life, their full-time occupations, and other competing priorities in their lives. In recent years, it has been a challenge to retain our firefighters for longer than a few years.”
Because of this trend, a consultant is currently conducting a fire service review to look at, among other things, the future needs of the fire service in Niagara West and how to sustain the economical and efficient volunteer fire service
See RECRUITS Page 6 Association of fire chiefs are showing an alarming trend. Throughout Canada, it is becoming increasingly difficult to recruit and to retain volunteer firefighters. In Niagara West, we have always been fortunate to have such an excellent pool of skilled and dedicated members of our community to serve as volunteer firefighters,” said Hudson.
Rally For McNally fundraising push launched
June is Rally for McNally month with a major fundraising push planned for its $16.5 million expansion program.
In 2019, McNally House embarked on a transformative journey to expand palliative care in our community by building a new 10-bed hospice and converting the current hospice into a dedicated day hospice program. This expansion is designed to better serve the caring, dying, and grieving in our community.
“We have raised over $14.5 million. With just over $2 million left to raise, we are confident that the West Niagara community will rise to the challenge and complete this important project together,” said Pamela Blackwood, McNally’s executive director.
Supporters can make a donation to the campaign. You
can do this online, by calling McNally House or completing the donation form that has been mailed to your home.
Business owners and community groups can host a fundraiser or run a promotion to support the expansion, while anyone can help by picking up a free “Rally for McNally” lawn sign to show their support.
“Supporting the expansion of McNally House Hospice through Rally for McNally is a meaningful way for local businesses to demonstrate true corporate responsibility and community spirit,” said Amanda Black, capital campaign manager.
Features of the 10-bed expansion include:
• Capacity expansion of 70%;
• With the four addition-
al beds, care for up to 200 community members can be facilitated annually;
• An overnight suite for families and loved ones
• New outdoor spaces
• New Reflection Room
• Family spaces to provide dignity and comfort for those staying by the side of their loved ones
CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS
On Jan. 6, ground was officially broken for the new 10-bed hospice residences, and tremendous strides have been made since then.
McNally House is expected to take occupancy of the building in May of 2026, with residents officially moving in June of 2026.
Renovation on the current building will commence once the residents are moved into the new building.
NURSERIES
‘Happening’ on this weekend
Summer cannot be far behind when plans roll out for the annual Happening in Grimsby festivities, which will overtake downtown this week from June 12-14.
The fun will kick off next Thursday with the Grimsby Farmers Market from 3-7 p.m. and a concert in Coronation Park by Music on The Forty, who will close out the evening - Groove Miller will perform from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Friday, the Lunch on The Lawn at Coronation Park is always a popular event. That starts at 11:30 a.m.
Main Street will be busy from 5:30 p.m. on with the Main Stage being taken over by a Grimsby Idol com-
petition; Stone House Road at 7 p.m., and; the Blackstones closing out the night starting at 9 p.m.
All that sets the stage for a very busy Saturday which will include a host of activities from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. - before more great music takes to the Main Stage in the evening.
The Vendor Alley on Main, between Christie and Patton is always a big draw, running from 10-5 p.m.
Coronation Park will have entertainment throughout the day from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., including Pete & Anna, Calvin The Magician and Crash. A host of inflatables will also be out for some bouncy fun.
The Main Stage will include: West Niagara Secondary School Jazz Band, WNSS Drumline, WNSS Jazz Combo, Studio Forte and Kinetic Elements Dance.
To close out the event, the roster will be: 3 p.m., Melody Minds; 5 p.m. Tragically Trip; 7 p.m. The Postmen and; 9 p.m. Jonesy.
A shuttle will run every 30 minutes starting at 5 p.m. Friday and Noon on Saturday between Mountainview Christian Reformed Church, GBF Hub and Blessed Trinity. Last stop Friday and Saturday will be at midnight. Main Street will be closed from Thursday, June 12 at 1 p.m. to Sunday, June 16 at 6 a.m.
RECRUITS
From Page 1 for as long as possible.
“I believe you will always have volunteer firefighters in both Lincoln and Grimsby. The problem we are facing is the demands for service are exceeding our capacity in our current configuration,” said Hudson.
“As we look to the future and see significant population growth, the current system will need to make changes to meet the demands. The study is looking at the suitability of the current complement of
volunteer firefighters and whether or not more may be required, if we have the right number of fire stations and in the proper locations, if it may be necessary to augment the volunteer firefighters with a full-time crew at certain times, and the level of service we are currently providing versus what we may require in the future.”
The core issues are twofold, volume of calls and the composition of new builds, added Hudson, noting the growth in volume is directly tied to population growth, which won’t
slow any time soon.
“In terms of fire risk, higher density developments - especially high-rise buildings - are an order of magnitude greater risk in terms of delivery of fire protection services. Fighting fires in these buildings is much more labour-intensive and requires significantly higher numbers of firefighters and resources to respond,” said Hudson.
Between the two towns, Niagara West responds to over 1,600 calls per year – and growing - more than four calls per day.
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Big Brothers Big Sisters online auction open
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Niagara (BBBSN) has launched its first ever online auction in support of this year’s Golf For Kids’ Sake.
All items have been generously donated by local businesses, with every dollar raised directly supporting youth in Niagara.
Whether you’re teeing off in one of BBBSN’s golf tournaments or not hitting the greens at all, Niagarans can still support the group’s vital youth-mentoring programs by bidding on amazing prizes.
Bid on incredible items like:
• Ultimate Arizona Getaway | $5,000 value;
• 3-month unlimited mat pilates membership;
• Platinum tickets to the Niagara IceDogs;
• Stay and dine at Hilton Niagara Falls;
• Two passes to all Niagara Parks attractions;
• Hot Spot Desk pass;
• Hydro-therapy sessions;
• Vacation Get-A-Way to 3,600 sq. ft. oasis in Glendale, Arizona - complete with private pool, hot tub, fishing off a dock and a full game room.
• And so much more! Bidding is open until June 23 at 8 pm.
“Don’t miss your chance to support a great cause and take home something special. Every bid helps BBBSN create a brighter future for kids across Niagara,” said Erin Graybiel, BBBSN’s executive director.
Check out:
https://www.zeffy.com/ en-CA/ticketing/golf-forkids-sake-online-auction
Police make arrest in Jan. Harmony robbery
The ongoing investigation by Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) into a January robbery at Harmony Jewellers in Grimsby has resulted in an arrest of a young offender.
The robbery occurred at Harmony Jewellers located at 37 Main Street West on January 18, 2025.
As a result of the investigation detectives have identified, located and charged one youth.
A 16-year-old male from Toronto has been arrested and charged with the following criminal code offences:
• Robbery
• Disguised with Intent
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000.
The regulations of the Youth Criminal Justice Act of Canada prohibit the Niagara Regional Police Service from releasing the identity of a young person (under 18 years) charged with
a criminal offence.
The accused remained in custody until Friday, June 6.
This investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 905-6884111, dial option 3, ext. 1009341.
Members of the community who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-2228477. Crime Stoppers
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING INVITATION
The Board of Directors and Administra�on of GBF Community Services cordially invites you to join our Annual General Mee�ng.
DATE & TIME: Thursday, June 26, 2025 @ 6:00PM
LOCATION: St. Andrews Parish Hall, 7 St. Andrews, Grimsby, ON
Pre-register by sending an email to stacy@gbfgrimsby.com or by calling Stacy Elia at 905-309-5664 ext.33.
For those not a�ending, but wish to receive a copy of GBF’s Annual Report, please send an email to stacy@gbfgrimsby.com.
offers cash rewards to people who contact the program with information which leads to an arrest.
Thursday, June 12, 2025
NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Grand Erie Business Centre invites you to attend the annual AGM.
Taking place on Wednesday, June 25th, 2025 11 a.m.
Location: Cayuga Library Please RSVP to mjhaist@granderie.com
director for the Lin coln Soapbox Derby Association says the
Lincoln Soap Box Derby set for June 21
Pit row on Lincoln Soap Box Derby day - hosted this year on June 21 - will be a busy place again.
ingleby, William “bill” Russell
Peacefully, yet unexpectedly, on June 4, 2025, William Russell Ingleby passed away. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Barbara Ingleby (née Shipman), and is lovingly remembered by his daughters Janna (Matt) and Meaghan (Kevin), as well as his cherished grandchildren Ruby, Miles, and Rhett.
Bill enjoyed a successful career in sales, but his true passion lay in sports. He spent much of his adult life refereeing hockey and football, a commitment that brought him great joy and camaraderie. In his retired years, he enjoyed volunteering at Grimsby Benevolent Fund.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Cremation has taken place. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755) In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s memory may be made to the Grimsby Benevolent Fund. www.smithsfh.com
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OBITUARIES
patterson, neil Charles
september 10, 1941 - June 3, 2025
Neil Charles Patterson passed away peacefully on Tuesday June 3rd, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on September 10, 1941, in Vancouver to Donald Patterson and Mary (Benson) Patterson, he spent his formative years in Manitoba and Huntsville Ontario.
He was a devoted father to four children— Doug, Ben, Meredith, and Greg—each of whom carry forward his values, integrity, and independent spirit in their own unique ways. Neil found immense joy in his role as grandfather to Pearl and Violet, who brought so much love and laughter to his days.
Neil was fortunate to share many beautiful years with his beloved partner, Jay Du Boisson. Together, they created a life rooted in love, laughter, companionship, and adventure.
Neil made a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know him, and his spirit will continue to live on in the memories we share and the stories we tell. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Neil’s honor to Doctors Without Borders or Ducks Unlimited.
Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSEWHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755. www.smithsfh.com
Join us to pay a last homage to Andrew
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worKsHoP Saturday, June 14th at the Erland Lee Museum, 552 Ridge Road, Stoney Creek 10 am - noon, cost $45.00. Register at 905-563-7274 or bstones@cogeco.ca
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On hand for the Ambassador Program launch were: Back (L to R) Coun. Jacob Baradziej; Coun. Reg Freake; Breckon Husband, SVP & team leader, AON Canada; Murray Bain, vice-president of marketing, Stanpac; Fiore Vacca, vice-president, Norstar Windows and Doors; David Arkell, president & CEO, 360 Energy Inc.; Azam Foda, president & CFO, DeciZens Inc.; Tony Joosse, VP of operations, Battlefield Equipment Rentals; Frank MIele, Grimsby economic development officer, and; Jim Hills, CEO, VTR Feeder Solutions. Front: Coun. Veronica Charrois, Grimsby CEO Sarah Kim, Mayor Jeff Jordan, Coun. Delight Davoli and Coun. Lianne Vardy.
Grimsby launches Ambassador program
The Town of Grimsby’s Ambassador program has been reborn. It’s been well over 25 years since the first configuration of the of 10 distinguished ambassadors, the program now enters its next phase—actively engaging the business community to champi-
dent & CFO, DeciZens Inc.
• Jim Hills, CEO, VTR Feeder Solutions
• Breckon Husband, SVP & team leader, AON Canada
• Tony Joosse, VP of operations, Battlefield Equipment Rentals
• Fiore Vacca, Vicepresident, Norstar Windows and Doors
“Grimsby is no longer an unnoticed bedroom community. We are now one of the most progressive municipalities in the GTHA and Niagara Region,” said Coun. Reg Freake, chair of GEDAC. Ambassadors’ responsibilities include:
• Acting as liaisons between local businesses and the Town of Grimsby.
• Representing the Town at public events,
100% Niagara owned & operated Our Team:
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Careful crafter
Marisa MacIntyre - with her grey French bulldog Gracie - was among the big crowd which stopped by the grand opening of Beamsville’s new pet shop, Pet Country Market on Ontario Street. The event included many successful rescue pet adoptions. Loree - Photo
BUY CANADIAN
Niagara West fire working through pains
A lot to get to this week, so let’s jump right in.
More letters than I could ever print on the Canada Post matter. Tons of redundant comment; one kind of supporting union efforts but realities of the corporation’s economics were also noted. On the other hand, 30 letters saying, basically, “get a grip, take what you’ve been offered so the corporation can reset to compete in today’s market.”
These writers also noted the government should cap or eliminate any bonuses for management - or other shenanigans by management, until financials are in order.
To sum all that up, the union has extremely little support in the general public.
Moving on - 7 Patton St. - got 8 letters on that topic. In case you missed it, that was the issue where council chose not to designate a home which appeared to a significant history behind it.
Seven letters said council made the wrong decision, one said no home owner should be limited in what they could to their property no matter what.
I am just trying to sum up sentiment offered because I could fill a book with what has come in and when the paper is small, it is tough to balance what is time sensitive and needs to get in with what readers want to read about. So these opinions are not being ignored, I assure you.
So, that’s some housekeeping....regarding new
information, take the time to review comments from Niagara West Fire Chief Greg Hudson in the Page 1 storyif you have not already. Main reason being, fire services - while vital - are also very expensive, even when the firefighters are of the “volunteer” variety. I can guarantee you, if any municipality is forced to go from volunteer to full-time paid firefighters it will be in for a world of financial hurt with massive cost increases.
That is part of the reason the Niagara West department - you may recall Grimsby and Lincoln entered into a joint fire services experiment in 2021 - has a consultant reviewing the current state of affairs with, hopefully, a success course for the future coming out of it.
The heart of the matter - and most glaring issue in recent years - has been keeping up the complement of firefighters on the rosters. Lincoln is just coming off a highly successful recruiting campaign which has topped up their numbers to
full for the first time in years. Grimsby...not so much.
As Chief Hudson noted, back-to-back recruiting efforts, overlapping in fact, are in motion for Grimsby.
On that, interested candidates are required to attend one of two mandatory orientation sessions - with significant others strongly encouraged to attend.
The sessions are set for Thursday, June 19 at 7 p.m. OR Saturday, June 21 at 9 a.m.
Registration for the orientation session will be completed at the time of Information Guide pick-up. Each orientation session will be two hours in length. Doors are locked promptly at the indicated start time. Contact hr@grimsby.ca with any questions.
Firefighters are special people, make no mistake about it. I have seen a lot of things I cannot unsee in my time in the community newspaper game, but my experiences pales by comparison to what these folks have dealt with.
It’s not easy, physically or mentally.
But I hope enough firefighter hopefuls show interest to get Grimsby numbers back up to a health level when combined with the current group which is working through the program.
We owe a great debt to these men and womenWest Lincoln’s crew, too! I don’t want to leave them out just because they are not in the joint agreement.
MIKE WILLISCRAFT
Fuller win kicks off Trillium Program
The Grimsby Trillium Program officially kicked off its 2025 season by awarding 35 Orchard Parkway as its first winner.
The home is owned by Rose Fuller.
Up to five gardens can be nominated each week, with judging taking place Thursday mornings and a garden receiving a Trillium Award each week of the summer.
Fuller’s garden is close to the Niagara Escarpment facing west on Orchard Parkway.
Anchoring the sunny front lawn is a brilliant yellow Sunburst Locust. The bright yellow theme is contrasted with deep burgundy throughout the garden. The raised rock-enclosed perennial and flower garden features yellows and reds, with snow on the mountain with its white blooms, noted the judges.
The raised front of the house has an extended porch which welcomes visitors with a generous seat
Rose Fuller’s 35 Orchard Parkway home was the first recipent of Grimsby Garden Club’s 2025 Trillium Award Program.
-ing area and a canvas--covered roof.
A notable and creative focal point is the ‘face statue’ set in a weeping spruce so it looks like hair around the face. Beside that is a beautiful ceramic urn water feature with birds regularly visiting.
There are many more features in the
garden - planter pots, beautiful Japanese Maples, and a lovely birch tree near the street.
The program goes from June to August, so there are lots of opportunities to nominate a garden you like or your own. Check out how to nominate and more at: grimsbygardenclub.ca
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