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More misinformation adds to speed zone consternation
By Mike Williscraft For NewsNow
While several members of Grimsby Council were left scratching their collective heads at the notion of lower speed limits on Main Street
and expanding school safety zones, some key misinformation may not have helped matters.
During her update to council, Reg. Coun. Michelle Seaborn outlined several successes of the controver-
Hammer time
sial speed camera program which is part of the Niagara Region’s Vision Zero Road Safety Initiative. Among the favourable results were lower average car speeds.
When several councillors pushed
back on new plans to lower speed limits along Main Street and significantly expanding School Safety Zones, Seaborn told council that accidents involving children was part
It was full-on demo at the former NRB site on Grimsby’s South Service Road to make space for Phase 1 of a $120 million innovation centre. (L to R) Coun. Reg Freake, Chair of the Grimsby Economic Development Advisory Committee; Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jordan; site owner and developer Fiore Vacca, president of 129 SSD Inc. and CEO of Northstar Windows and Doors, and: Frank Miele, Grimsby economic development officer were some of the dignitaries on hand. For full details, please turn to Page 6. McDonald - Photo See CAMERAS, Page 3
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From Page 1
of the decision-making process.
“There is one area in Grimsby that has had two pretty serious accidents with children, while the cameras have been... fairly recently, since the beginning of the cameras,” said Seaborn, who was speaking to the expansion of the Park School safety zone which will extend from Bartlett in the west to the entrance of Queen’s Lawn Cemetery (across from Centennial Park).
Niagara Regional Police could not find any accidents involving children in their system anywhere in Grimsby from Fall 2023 when the program started to current.
“Regarding collision history within the Community Safety Zone, the warrant scorecard considers pedestrian or cyclist collisions within the zone over the past five years. For the Main CSZ this is six pedes-
trian and two cyclist collisions over that period of time, which reflects a rounded average of two collisions per year. These collisions do not specifically involve school children but rather vulnerable road users of any age,” said Scott Fraser, associate director, Transportation Planning.
Fraser also clarified,”
Niagara Region does not have access to ages of individuals involved in collisions, as we can only confirm if vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and/or cyclists are involved. We can tell you that between 2019-2023, there were a total of eight collisions resulting in injuries for the Community Safety Zone on Main Street East (Regional Road 81) from Cemetery Road to Bartlett Avenue – six involving pedestrians and two involving cyclists.”
Fraser also noted that the speed limit is not being reduced to 40 kph for all Main Street.
The expansions also include:
• A West Niagara Secondary School, the new zone will go from Durham Road to Lawrence Road, leaving a 500 m gap between Lawrence and Bartlett where the Park School zone will start.
• The Blessed Trinity zone will start at Roberts Road to the west and extend into downtown at Patton Street, leaving a gap through the core to Queen’s Lawn.
At last week’s meeting, Coun. Lianne Vardy suggested just making the entire stretch 40 kph to save motorists the hassle and confusion of not knowing where the limit changes.
However, several other councillors vehemently suggested 40 kph along the town’s main thoroughfare was exceedingly low. Also key among complaints, aside from inferior signage is the planned removal of the flashing amber lights at the former Central School.
WL land use permit refusal appealed
By Evan Loree For NewsNow
West Lincoln council’s decision to reject a permit extension for a Reg. Rd. 20 property being used for rain barrel storage has been appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal.
Larry Pomerantz, owner of 9127 Reg. Rd. 20, has appealed a council decision to the Ontario Land Tribunal. The appeal was filed with the town shortly
In a report, staff recommended Pomerantz’s temporary use permit end in June, his rain barrels be removed, the land be restored, and his threeyear permit extension request be denied.
After a closed session discussion March 3, council opted to defend its decision.
“It’s just a non-issue for us right now because we can’t do anything about it,” said
Several residents raised concerns about the impact his business had on the land.
They raised concerns about flooding problems, contaminated soil and potential fire hazards.
The staff report from Feb. 10 said the plastic barrels do not ignite or sustain fires easily.
At the meeting in January, Pomerantz said the barrels were made from food-grade
NewsNow publisher named to newspaper Hall of Fame
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$120 million innovation centre to bring manufacturing jobs
By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow
Three years ago Fiore Vacca approached the Town with a plan to redevelop the NRB site on the South Service Road in Grimsby.
Last week, sledgehammers in hand, Vacca and a ‘demolition party’ including his partner developers and local officials, broke ground, or rather a few old walls, to launch Phase 1 of the Grimsby Innovation Centre, a four-phase $120 million redevelopment that will be home to several high-tech/advanced manufacturing companies.
Phase 1, to be completed by November, is starting with the demolition of a 60,000 sq. ft. building to make way for a new 120,000 sq. ft. building that has been leased to ATCO Structures and Logistics, the first tenant in the new Centre. When the site is fully completed there will be a total of 376,000 sq. ft. with several additional buildings and clients.
Vacca, CEO of Norstar Windows & Doors, purchased the former NRB site last year. He will redevelop the property over the next three years and is currently in the site planning process.
NRB, which was purchased by Horizon North Logistics (which changed its name to Dexterra Group in 2020) in 2019 for $16.5 million, was then sold to ATCO for $40 million in September 2024.
“The redevelopment of NRB is more than just a construction project – it is a promise of new opportunities, renewed prosperity and a stronger local economy,” Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jordan said at the demo site. Anticipat-
ed to bring more than 400 jobs to Grimsby, “it will attract new businesses, stimulate investments, and create a ripple effect of economic growth.”
A longtime ICI developer, (Industrial, Commercial and Institutional) Vacca is president of 129 SSD Inc., a company formed with his partners - John Vacca, President of Norstar Windows & Doors, David Horwood and Ari Yakobson - to build the centre.
“Today, we are gathered here to help Fiore and his team get this ATCO project started so let’s grab a sledgehammer and let’s start demolishing this building to make way for Phase 1,” said Coun. Reg Freake, chair of the Grimsby Economic Development Advisory Committee (GEDAC). He said the economic development team, including Town and Regional staff has dedicated much time, expertise and cooperation to design the best plan for the site.
On hand for the demo party, Niagara Region’s Marika Swain, Niagara’s senior business advisor with the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, said investors like Vacca give companies a place to grow in Niagara.
“We are very excited to be working with the Town of Grimsby. The development is spread out in four phases totaling over 400,000 sq. ft.,” Vacca said. “Now let’s get that hammer and get started.”
Business media called it a strategic acquisition with NRB’s robust business operations and expertise.
NRB has been a major industrial cornerstone for decades. It dates back to 1979 with founders Jean and Bob McNeil and since then has been a strong supporter of the community.
Discussions since the acquisition have been centred on keeping NRB on site. Calling it a unique redevelopment, it’s a win all round says Frank Miele, Grimsby Economic Development Officer. “We’re not losing a business but retaining it under a larger multi-national corporation.” ATCO will build on the existing skills and expertise from NRB.
And attracting a global corporation Miele says, will spin off in other companies coming to Grimsby. “There is a demand for industrial buildings, no doubt about it.”
ATCO was founded in Alberta in 1947 with initial revenues of $1,077 and 15 utility trailers to rent. Seventy years later, its revenues are $24 Billion. The company has a wide portfolio that includes construction of modular homes, industrial and educational structures.
Miele said Vacca has vision and extensive experience in ICI developments and networking, “which means if he builds a building, he’s got a network,” adding “and we’re working closely with him.”
“Fiore is a professional and a developer who not only lives in Grimsby but builds in Grimsby. We struck a positive relationship to make the demolition party happen,” Miele said. “He’s genuine.”
Last June the publicly-traded Calgarybased company ATCO Structures and Logis tics announced the acquisition of NRB which is now part of ATCO’s operations in Grimsby.
“We’re working hard to develop the site and attract new tenants to fill the industrial space,” Miele said. “We’re letting everyone know Grimsby is open for business.”
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Pen Players’ Exit Laughing opens Friday
By Evan Loree For NewsNow
Theatre-goers are in for a few laughs with the Grimsby-led Peninsula Players Community Theatre Company’s latest production.
For the next three weekends only, people can catch showings of the comedic stageplay Exit Laughing, by Paul Elliot, at Trinity United Church in Grimsby.
Shows run Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. until April 12, and Sundays at 2 p.m. until April 13.
Exit Laughing tells the story of elderly southern belles Connie, Leona and Millie as they play one last night of bridge with the ashes of their recently deceased friend Mary holding the fourth seat at their table.
The women are joined by Connie’s daughter Rachel Ann, played by Cheyenne McIntyre, who finds herself at home after being stood up on a date.
Adam Topolinsky plays a police offi-
cer who interrupts their game halfway through the evening having been called to the scene looking for trouble.
Heather Kirk plays the innocent and naive Millie, who spontaneously steals Mary’s ashes from the local funeral home after convincing herself the dead friend wanted to join them for one last night of Bridge.
Bev Pitt plays the brash alcoholic Leona and Lori Bruni rounds out the cast as Connie, who hosts her friends for the evening.
This is Bruni’s first time on stage, but she has previously worked behind the scenes with the Peninsula Players to help with makeup, costumes and other essential roles.
“It’s a full experience for me now, It’s been wonderful working with all the other actors,” she said.
McIntyre, a 23-yearold Brock University student, said acting is mostly a hobby for her at the moment.
McIntyre said she enjoys portraying the “internal conflict” of Rachel Ann as she goes through the emotional rollercoaster of her mother’s chaotic Bridge night.
Director Jennifer Toews said this is her first time directing a full-length stageplay, though she’s done some smaller productions with other companies in the past.
“It’s been more intense,” she said.
Toews said the company has been rehearsing three times a week since January to get ready for opening night.
The company’s audience tends to like comedy, but Toews said she wanted to direct one with “a lot of heart.”
Tickets to Friday’s opening night show are $35. Other shows are $25.
Tickets can be purchased online at: peninsulaplayersgrimsby.ca /box-office/
(L to R) Lori Bruni as Connie, Heather Kirk as Millie and Bev Pitt as Leona fondly remembering their friend, Mary. Loree - Photo
Cheyenne McIntyre as Rachel Ann.
Grimsby Hyundai earns 2024 Hyundai
Grimsby Hyundai earns 2024 Hyundai
Grimsby Hyundai earns 2024 Hyundai
President’s Award of Merit
President’s Award of Merit
President’s Award of Merit
Grimsby Hyundai has been honoured as a recipient of 2024 Hyundai Auto CanPresident’s Award of prestigious recogniawarded to only 15 out dealerships across
Grimsby Hyundai earns 2024 Hyundai President’s Award of Merit
Grimsby Hyundai earns 2024 Hyundai President’s Award of Merit
Ranked #2 nationally,
Grimsby Hyundai has been honoured as a recipient of the 2024 Hyundai Auto Canada President’s Award of Merit, a prestigious recognition awarded to only 15 out of 225 dealerships across Canada.
Grimsby Hyundai has been honoured as a recipient of the 2024 Hyundai Auto Canada President’s Award of Merit, a prestigious recognition awarded to only 15 out of 225 dealerships across Canada.
Grimsby Hyundai has consistently demonstrated excellence, earning this distinction for eight consecyears. Nestled along the scenic Escarpment—ofbeautiful test drive route—Grimsby Hyundai out with its commitment to "Friendly PeoFive Star Service." The dealership, along with its adjoining collision centre, employs 73 full- and part-time team members dedicated to serving the community.
Grimsby Hyundai has been honoured as a recipient of the 2024 Hyundai Auto Canada President’s Award of Merit, a prestigious recognition awarded to only 15 out of 225 dealerships across Canada.
Grimsby Hyundai has been honoured as a recipient of the 2024 Hyundai Auto Can ada President’s Award of Merit, a prestigious recogni tion awarded to only 15 out of 225 dealerships across Canada.
Ranked #2 nationally, Grimsby Hyundai has consistently demonstrated excellence, earning this distinction for eight consecutive years.
Ranked #2 nationally, Grimsby Hyundai has consistently demonstrated excellence, earning this distinction for eight consecutive years.
Share, Grimsby Chamber of Commerce, Grimsby Public Library, Grimsby Public Art Gallery, and various local
Ranked #2 nationally, Grimsby Hyundai has consistently demonstrated excellence, earning this distinction for eight consec utive years.
Ranked #2 nationally, Grimsby Hyundai has consistently demonstrated excellence, earning this distinction for eight consecutive years.
recognition.
Nestled along the scenic Niagara Escarpment — offering a beautiful testdrive route — Grimsby Hyundai stands out with its commitment to “Friendly People. Five Star Service.”
The dealership, along with its adjoining collision centre, proudly employs 73 full- and part-time team members dedicated to serving the community.
Nestled along the scenic Niagara Escarpment—offering a beautiful test drive route—Grimsby Hyundai stands out with its commitment to "Friendly People. Five Star Service." The dealership, along with its adjoining collision centre, proudly employs 73 full- and part-time team members dedicated to serving the community.
Nestled along the scenic Niagara Escarpment—offering a beautiful test drive route—Grimsby Hyundai stands out with its commitment to "Friendly People. Five Star Service." The dealership, along with its adjoining collision centre, proudly employs 73 full- and part-time team members dedicated to serving the community.
take pride in delivdealership experithat’s as friendly as it professional," says Mario General Manager. team is dedicated to
Nestled along the scenic Niagara Escarpment—offering a beautiful test drive route—Grimsby Hyundai stands out with its commitment to "Friendly People. Five Star Service." The dealership, along with its adjoining collision centre, proudly employs 73 full- and part-time team members dedicated to serving the community.
“We take pride in delivering a dealership experience that’s as friendly as it is professional,” says Mario Bruno, General Manager.
providing fivestar service, ensuring every visit—whether for sales, service, parts, or collision—is effortless and enjoyable." Beyond exceptional service, Grimsby Hyundai is also pet-friendly— with Tucker, the dealership’s adorable mascot, often greeting visitors.
"We take pride in delivering a dealership experience that’s as friendly as it is professional," says Mario Bruno, General Manager. "Our team is dedicated to
"We take pride in delivering a dealership experience that’s as friendly as it is professional," says Mario Bruno, General Manager. "Our team is dedicated to
"We take pride in delivering a dealership experience that’s as friendly as it is professional," says Mario Bruno, General Manager. "Our team is dedicated to
providing fivestar service, ensuring every visit—wheth er for sales, service, parts, or collision—is effortless and enjoyable."
providing fivestar service, ensuring every visit—wheth er for sales, service, parts, or collision—is effortless and enjoyable."
Mario Bruno and his family have been proud members of the Grimsby community for over 33 years. In 2024, Mario was recognized with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Rotary Club of Grimsby for his contributions to the town.
eighth consecutive President’s Award of Merit recognition.
ceptional ser vice, Grimsby Hyundai is also pet-friendly— with Tucker, the dealership’s adorable mascot, often greeting visitors.
ceptional ser vice, Grimsby Hyundai is also pet-friendly— with Tucker, the dealership’s adorable mascot, often greeting visitors.
A Strong Commitment to Community
Beyond exceptional service, Grimsby Hyundai is also pet-friendly—
Since opening its doors in 2012, Grimsby Hyundai has actively supported numerous local initiatives, including the Rotary Festival of Trees, West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, McNally House, Grimsby Benevolent Fund, West Lincoln Food
A Strong Commitment to Community
Beyond exceptional service, Grimsby Hyundai is also pet-friendly—with Tucker, the dealership’s adorable mascot, often greeting visitors.
Share, Grimsby Chamber of Commerce, Grimsby Public Library, Grimsby Public Art Gallery, and various local sports teams.
Grimsby Public Library, Grimsby Public Art Gallery, and various local sports teams.
Share, Grimsby Chamber of Commerce, Grimsby Public Library, Grimsby Public Art Gallery, and various local sports teams.
Mario Bruno and his family have been proud members of the Grimsby community for over 33 years. In 2024, Mario was recognized with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Rotary Club of Grimsby for his contributions to the town.
Share, Grimsby Chamber of Commerce, Grimsby Public Library, Grimsby Public Art Gallery, and various local sports teams.
Mario Bruno and his family have been proud members of the Grimsby community for over 33 years. In 2024, Mario was recognized with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Rotary Club of Grimsby for his contributions to the town.
With award-winning service and a deep commitment to giving back, Grimsby Hyundai continues to set the standard for excellence.
Mario Bruno and his family have been proud members of the Grimsby community for over 33 years. In 2024, Mario was recognized with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Rotary Club of Grimsby for his contributions to the town.
Mario Bruno and his family have been proud members of the Grimsby community for over 33 years. In 2024, Mario was recognized with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Rotary Club of Grimsby for his contributions to the town.
A Strong Commitment to Community
Grimsby Hyundai’s mascot, Tucker.
“Our team is dedicated to providing five-star service, ensuring every visit—whether for sales, service, parts, or collision—is effortless and enjoyable.”
Since opening its doors in 2012, Grimsby Hyundai has actively supported numerous local initiatives, including the Rotary Festival of Trees, West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, McNally House, Grimsby Benevolent Fund, West Lincoln Food
A Strong Commitment to Community
A Strong Commitment to Community Since opening its doors in 2012, Grimsby Hyundai has actively supported numerous local initiatives, including the Rotary Festival of Trees, West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, McNally House, Grimsby Benevolent Fund, West Lincoln Food
With award-winning service and a deep commitment to giving back, Grimsby Hyundai continues to set the standard for excellence.
With award-winning service and a deep commitment to giving back, Grimsby Hyundai continues to set the standard for excellence.
With award-winning service and a deep commitment to giving back, Grimsby Hyundai continues to set the standard for excellence.
Visit Grimsby Hyundai today and experience firsthand what "Friendly People, Five Star Service" truly means!
Since open -
Since opening its doors in 2012, Grimsby Hyundai has actively supported numerous local initiatives, including the Rotary Festival of Trees, West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, McNally House, Grimsby Benevolent Fund, West Lincoln Food Share, Grimsby Chamber of Commerce,
ing its doors in 2012, Grimsby Hyundai has actively supported numerous local initiatives, including the Rotary Festival of Trees, West
Visit Grimsby Hyundai today and experience firsthand what "Friendly People, Five Star Service" truly means!
Visit Grimsby Hyundai today and experience firsthand what "Friendly People, Five Star Service" truly means!
With award-winning service and a deep commitment to giving back, Grimsby Hyundai continues to set the standard for excellence.
Visit Grimsby Hyundai today and experience firsthand what "Friendly People, Five Star Service" truly means!
President’s Award of Merit recognition.
Grimsby Hyundai’s mascot, Tucker.
The team at Grimsby Hyundai celebrates their eighth consecutive President’s Award of Merit recognition.
Grimsby Hyundai’s mascot, Tucker.
The team at Grimsby Hyundai celebrates their
The team at Grimsby Hyundai celebrates their eighth consecutive President’s Award of Merit
The team at Grimsby Hyundai celebrates their eighth consecutive President’s Award of Merit recognition.
Grimsby Hyundai’s mascot, Tucker.
We’re Getting Ready ...Again!
First, thanks again to the nearly 200 helpers who delivered NewsNow for us during the November/December Canada Post strike.
In May, just two months away, there is a likelihood of another work stoppage as negotiations have gone nowhere. So, to all those who helped before, we will be reaching out to confirm if you will be interested in helping out again. As well, we are looking to fill out all our carrier routes with an eye to setting up a permanent delivery system. This does not mean anyone who helps out in May needs to be permanent themselves. No doubt we will need dozen of carriers to help in the short-term while we seek permanent ones. Simply, papers will get delivered to your home every Wednesday morning for delivery by Thursdays at 7 p.m. Carriers may also receive our ClubWest Magazine or other special publications - for which they will be paid extra. Flyers could also be part of the mix, but first things first. We don’t want to get ahead of ourselves. Please email catherine@wn3.ca to get on the list or if you have any more questions.
Tips
People considering buying or selling a home are facing a unique market. The real estate market has been in flux for several years, and high interest rates have made it more expensive to borrow.
Homeowners with properties they are considering listing for sale would be wise to make certain changes that will help garner the best prices from buyers.
Make kitchen and bath improvements
The kitchen is the heart of many homes. Real estate agents may recommend that homeowners make minor to moderate kitchen upgrades like resurfacing cabinets, upgrading countertops and changing fixtures or hardware to give the room an overhaul.
Homeowners also should look to bathroom updates as smart investments that can improve
home value. Katie Severance, author of The Brilliant Home Buyer, characterizes kitchens and baths as “money rooms” that add the most value to a home.
Declutter the home
Homeowners should clean out items they no longer need. Decluttering can make a space feel bigger, which is beneficial in a market where open concept floor plans remain popular among home buyers.
When buyers walk through a prospective home, they want to envision themselves living there, something that is more easily done if the home isn’t overrun with the current homeowner’s belongings.
Get to painting
Painting a home is a cost-effective renovation with a lot of oomph. Freshly painted rooms appear clean and updated, says HGTV, and that can appeal to buyers.
Homeowners should choose neutral colors to accommodate the widest array of potential buyers.
Improve the landscaping
The exterior of a home is the first thing potential buyers will see as they roll up to view a property or look at a listing online. Homeowners should start by evaluating and enhancing the landscaping. Ensure the lawn is well-maintained and add plants that provide color without a lot of maintenance. Expand usable space
Homeowners can think about adding to the usable space in a home. This translates into finishing basements or attics or even converting garages to rooms. Or it may involve adding a three-season room.
Homeowners can consider a number of improvements to increase the resale value of their properties.
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Four signs of potential electrical hazards in a home
When cleaning a home, homeowners can pull double duty and look for potentially hazardous situations.
of which poses a significant safety hazard. Again, homeowners to contact a qualified electrician immediately if they sense a smell of burning rubber in their homes.
With that in mind, homeowners can keep an eye out for these four signs of potential electrical hazards when working around the house.
1. Tingling when touching an electrical appliance: Homeowners should call a qualified electrician immediately if they experience a tingling feeling when touching an electrical appliance. Homeowners who experience such a feeling should avoid the location and warn others in the home to do the same.
2. Wall outlets that look or feel unusual: Wall outlets do not garner much attention, as
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many are low enough to be out of sight or even behind furniture. So a cleaning session might be the only time homeowners will notice issues with wall outlets. Discolored outlets or outlets that feel warm to the touch is a sign of an electrical problem. Various issues can cause outlets to look or feel unusual. An outlet could be short-circuiting or wires could be damaged, and each issue merits the attention of a qualified electrician.
3. Foul odors: An odor that calls to mind burning rubber is another indicator of an electrical problem. Various electrical experts indicate such odors can be indicative of damaged wiring, an overloaded circuit or loose connections, each
4. Flickering lights: Homeowners won’t need to wait until cleaning sessions to notice flickering lights. Such flickering is hard to miss regardless of what residents are doing inside a home. Sometimes lights flicker because of a loose bulb, so check. If the bulb isn’t loose, then lights could be flickering for a multitude of reasons. A loose connection can cause flickering, as can an overloaded circuit.
If a home is old, then flickering lights could be due to old wiring that needs to be replaced.
BAILLIe, Linda Mae (nee Krock)
It is with great sadness and heartbreak that we announce the passing of Linda Baillie on March 21, 2025 at the age of 72, after a long and courageous battle with cancer, at her home surrounded by her loving family.
Beloved wife and best friend of James of 52 years. Much loved mother of Scott (Darlean), Jared (Darlene) and Candice (Michael) Pendzinski. Cherished nana of Taylor (Jake) Baillie, Ava and Jaxon Pendzinski, Helana (Luke), Logan (Abby), Hunter and Halle.
Linda faced her cancer battle with unwavering grace, strength and courage, embodying the same resilience and kindness that defined her life. She will be lovingly remembered by her family and friends who were touched by her friendship and love. There are no words that can truly convey the impact that Linda had on those who knew her. She was the sunshine in any room, her warmth and kindness will be missed by all who know her.
Though she may no longer be with us, her love and spirit will continue to live on through her family and friends.
Many thanks to nurse Jan and RPN Ari who enabled Linda to live her life on her own terms.
Family and friends will be welcomed to join us at the Vineland Chapel of Tallman Funeral Homes, 3277 King Street, Vineland, on March 26, 2025 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm for visitation.
A private family service and burial to take place.
Memorial donations can be made to Wounded Warriors of Canada or to the Canadian Cancer Society in lieu of flowers would be appreciated by the family.
Online condolences at www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca
VAN ROON, Nick
Passed away peacefully at his home at Deer Park Villa on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the age of 90. Predeceased by Fina (2020) his beloved wife of 61 years. Loving father of Jim (Leslie), Debbie, Linda (Jeff) and Ron (Niki). Cherished grandfather of Kelly (Brad), Cory (Maddy), Mark (Tania), Karlene, Michelle (Adam), Heather (Scott), Erin (Josh), Nick, Ashley and Cooper. Great grandfather and Opa of Lennon, Nash, Brooks, Max, Jake, Connor, Afina, Jett, Summer and River. Nick will also be fondly remembered by his extended family and friends. Nick immigrated to Canada from Holland as a young teenager but he never forgot his roots. Our family carried on many of the traditions of our Dutch parents and we will continue to share these with our growing families. Nick always enjoyed his summers at the trailer at Opeongo Trail Resort, spending time with family and friends, going fishing, and making pancakes for his grandchildren. Nick and Fina also enjoyed many winters in Florida over the years. Nick spent his leisure time watching football and Nascar races.
The family would like to thank the wonderful and caring staff at Deer Park Villa for their support and compassion. Nick was not there long, just over five months, but he enjoyed his time there and just loved the staff. He was a jokester and always had people laughing. He will be missed.
Visitation at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755), on Friday March 28 from 6-8 pm.
A Family Service will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, March 29. Cremation will follow. If desired, memorial donations to a charity of your choice would be sincerely appreciated by the family. www.smithsfh.com
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“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 905-945-9529
Celebration of Life DON ARMSTRONG
It is with profound sadness that the family of Don Armstrong announces his passing on March 3, 2025.
Don’s kind heart and generous spirit touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on his community. As the owner of Carefree Lawn Maintenance in Grimsby, Don took great pride in his work and was known for his unwavering commitment to his customers and community.
He will be deeply missed by his sons, Trevor and Eric; his siblings, Bob, Christine, Terry, Theresa and Tony; and his many nieces and nephews. Don has been reunited with his beloved son, Shayne, his parents Agnes and Bob, and is now at peace.
The family invites friends to join them at a Celebration of Life to share happy memories and stories of Don’s life. The Celebration will be held on Sunday, April 6th from 1 pm to 4 pm at the Grimsby Legion, located at 233 Elizabeth Street, Grimsby, ON.
Please join us as we gather to honor Don’s memory, celebrate his life and find comfort in the company of those who loved him.
ANNIVERSARY
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Celebrating their 70th Wedding Anniversary on March 28/25
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OBITUARIES
McMASTER, Donald
November 29, 1945 - March 11, 2025
We are heartbroken to announce the sudden passing of Don (Donny) McMaster on March 11, 2025 in Hamilton, Ontario in his 80th year. Don is predeceased by his mother Dorothy (Norton), father Alexander, and brother Dennis. Don is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years Andrée (St. Pierre). Don and Andrée fell in love as teenagers and have been best friends and partners in life ever since. Don adored his son Mark (Johanna Gallant) and his daughter Lori (Doug Ballantyne). He was a proud, loving, and fun grandfather to Quintin Ballantyne. He cherished his short time with Sofia. Don is survived by his siblings Lloyd, Colleen (Dave) Morrison, Bette Ann (Rob) Brown, Doug (Lyse), Sandy, Karen, Jay (Cheryl Boyachek), and Sue (Ken) Janssens. He cherished his many nieces and nephews. Don is also survived by his brother-in-law and childhood friend Michel St. Pierre and nephew Eric of Montreal. Don was born and raised in the east end of Hamilton. Although he moved to Grimsby in 1976 and put down roots in his new town, he remained connected to Hamilton. The second child in a large family, from a young age Don took on responsibilities to care for his younger siblings and the family home. Even after moving out at age 18, he would visit most days to make sure that everyone and everything was looked after. He was among the first students to attend Viscount Montgomery School, recently showing us a tree at the school that he helped plant when he was a student there. He attended high school at Delta then moved to Glendale the year it opened.
It was inevitable that Don would become a truck driver since his father, both his grandfathers, and his uncle all worked in the industry. Through these mentors, Don learned about life, driving trucks, business, and “creative” ways to fix just about any problem. After high school Don went on a working adventure across Canada eventually ending up in Cassiar, BC where he drove a Euclid dump truck at an asbestos mine.
Don and Andrée married on September 2, 1967 at St. Eugene’s Church in Hamilton and soon after started a family. In the early days, Don worked for Orly Robertson, Les Smith and White Oak Transport but soon realized that he wanted to be in charge of his own destiny by becoming an owner-operator. The year after buying their first home in 1971, Don purchased an H-Model Mack and grew the company from one truck to as many as seven. For many years he drove truck and ran all operations from truck stop pay phones and the family home. Although Don came off the road in 1985 and retired the trucking business in 2010, he remained a truck driver at heart, staying close to his many friends in the trucking community. Beyond trucking, Don’s business pursuits involved a variety of investments, but he was most passionate about his truck terminal on Nash Road. There he got to drive his treasured “toys”: the Hough and John Deere 544 front-end loaders. Most importantly, he was a daily presence at the property and was well known by all the people who worked at the various businesses on site. He also enjoyed hosting gatherings of friends in his make-shift office in the basement boiler room, furnished with vintage steel desks, a Ms Pac-Man video game, and countless novelties. Don worked hard and approached his recreational pursuits with the same enthusiasm. Along with Andrée, he was a dedicated member of the St. Catharine’s Road Runners and Walkers for over 30 years, rarely missing the weekly group runs and walks. Don frequently ran races in Hamilton, Niagara and Western New York. He completed the Around the Bay race in Hamilton numerous times as well as 5 marathons including Dublin and Big Sur. He never missed the 12 Mile Creek Half Marathon in St. Catharines. With many of his running friends, Don started cycling, and enjoyed many group rides on the back roads of the Niagara Peninsula and beyond. Don and Andrée started skiing in their 40s and formed many close friendships at Holiday Valley in Ellicottville, New York. They enjoyed ski trips with friends and family to Austria, France, Quebec, Alberta and British Columbia. Ten years ago Don was introduced to hot power yoga by his dear friend Katie, and from there regularly practiced yoga with his new yoga family (including his niece Sheena) at InPower Yoga in Grimsby.
From their first vacation to Barbados in 1973, Don and Andree had many amazing trips. Highlights include: Northern Ireland (to seek his family roots), Scandinavia, Alaska, and a tour of Machu Picchu in Peru and the Galapagos in Ecuador.
Don was a loving and dedicated family man and a friend to many, who thought of him as family. A child at heart, at any gathering you would find him with the kids (usually stirring up trouble). Despite being a busy person he was always willing to help, and if he couldn’t fix it, he “knew a guy” who could. He was intelligent, infinitely curious, and amazing with numbers: within seconds he could calculate the pace of a run, the monthly payment of a mortgage, the average time of ski runs, or the date of any important event without referring to a calendar. He remembered the details of people’s lives and sent birthday messages to many. He was always ready with a hug or a warm handshake, a funny story, a silly joke, or a question about your life. He lived life to the fullest with positivity and love, and although he has left us too soon, we are comforted by the love and the memories that live on.
The family would like to thank family physician Dr Woodland and cardiologist Dr Zandi, as well as the medical staff in the Fracture Unit, Emergency and Cardiology departments at the Hamilton General Hospital for their compassionate care over the past year.
A private family gathering has taken place at Smith’s Funeral Home, Stoney Creek. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will follow on Sunday, April 13, 2025 at Winona Vine Estates, 269 Glover Road, Stoney Creek from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Words of remembrance at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to McNally House Hospice or Hamilton General Hospital would be appreciated.
May the road rise to meet you
May the wind be always at your back
May the warm rays of sun fall upon your home
And may the hand of a friend always be near.
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Grab bag this week, with a touch of history
I’m not going to go on about it again, it has been said many times in this space but this speed camera program should be scrapped.
I totally agree with those in the crowd who say, “what’s the big deal? People just need to go the speed limit, whatever that is, and shut up about the rest.”
growth, history can get swept away, so seeing an entity maintained is a bonus.
* * * * * * *
I guess I must have been doing something right all these years after all. Who knew?
Behind the scenes
Heather Kirk, who plays Millie in Peninsula Players’ Exit Laughing which opens tomorrow (Friday, March 28) sits for makeup artist Louis Lemire in preparation for a dress rehearsal. Loree - Photo
WLMH incommunication
As a huge corporation, Hamilton Health Sciences, does tryat times - to communicate what is going one to the people in the areas it serves.
The current round of public input is not one of those times.
Yes, NewsNow did publish an ad asking residents to complete an online survey. Digital surveys have been proven highly ineffective time and time again in this area in terms of getting a decent response.
As well, a stakeholder meeting was planned for this week, invite only, no public. A “public engagement session by phone” is also planned...whatever that is.
Simply, if HHS want public input on any matter pertaining to the facility, just open the door to an open house. It’ll be packed - as always. M.W.
At its core, this is a true statement.
The problem is, there is considerable peripheral information which makes the program a joke - right from the time it was hatched and pitched to Niagara’s member municipalities.
Partial information, wholly wrong information and misinformation have been part of the process from the start. Only Grimsby council - the previous term - saw through the crud.
Now here we are; bad signage and the best way to signal drivers of a reduced speed limit (flashing amber lights) is being removed from where they exist and not installed in each speed camera zone. As well, zones are being expanded far beyond where any issue has ever existed, plus a host of other issues.
Of course there are accidents on our roads. There always will be. Making Grimsby’s main thoroughfare mainly 40 kph is silly - unequivocally.
As one letter writer noted, the crosswalks, crossing guards and normally reduced limits near schools
were working just fine. The reason the boat was rocked was that safety plan did not result in any cash for Niagara Region.
The cameras do.
‘Nuff said.
* * * * * * *
It’s not every day a community gets a $120 million industrial investment fall in its lap, so it’s great news the former NRB site is getting a makeover to allow for several new entities to establish new roots and bring jobs to Grimsby.
That is good any time, particularly manufacturing jobs, which are a precious commodity these days.
Welcome to Fiore Vacca, CEO of Norstar Windows & Doors, who purchased the site and has set his innovation centre plans in motion. While Vacca’s interests are new to town, NRB is just the opposite. That company was born and raised here by the McNeil Family and it’s great to see it continuing to grow and evolve right here.
As often happens with
Gotta say, it was pretty cool to get the call from my very good friend, Rick Shaver - long-time publisher and fellow provincial and national newspaper board colleague - letting me know I had been named to the Ontario Community Newspaper Association Hall of Fame.
I will expand on this later, after the induction in April, but I did want to just say a quick thanks to the many people who have chipped in some of the smallest ways to keep my various publications alive.
It’s not easy.
This is not a complaint.
I’ve known what I was in for since 1997 when Grimsby News was launched. Starting with zero clients to growing what is now a base of 800-plus active advertisers is incredible when you think about it.
I’ve always tried to do my level best for Niagara West and the residents of its three member communities.
I hope I’ve got a lot more years in me because there is still a lot of work to do here and I’m up for the challenge.
MIKE WILLISCRAFT
40 kmh limit on arterial road “beyond insane”: writer
Dear Editor,
The removing of flashing lights warning drivers of a 40 km speed limit anywhere in Niagara is a pure cash grab by the Region.
Letters
Having to drive at 40 kph from one end of Grimsby to the other along Main Street is beyond insane. People can drive up our side streets at 50 km but turn onto the
main arterial road in Grimsby and have to reduce your speed makes no sense. Until I retired I was an insurance broker in Grimsby so I was aware of most of the serious accidents in Grimsby.
Speed zone expansion half-baked: reader
Dear Editor,
I read incredulously this week about the Niagara SCCG (Speed Camera Cash Grab) Plan.
It would appear that the decisionmaker foisting this on Grimsby residents must have designed this on his or her first day working for the Niagara Region.
The plan makes little or no sense.
Currently along the Main/Livingston corridor of 9.8 kms, the zone near Central School is the only 40 kph zone when the lights there are flash-
ing, and rightly so.
That zone represents 5.1 per cent of the total distance.
The new plan changes the corridor significantly.
If implemented, 42.9 per cent of the 9.8 kms will have a speed limit of 40 kph and 57.1 per cent will have a speed limit of 50 kph.
And a significant proportion of the 50 kph zone is the downtown business core of Grimsby where many people can be observed to be jaywalking freely.
I strongly believe
Speed camera info nonsense
Dear Editor,
It’s clear regional officals are not listening to us. That blather at last week’s council meeting was the topper. The speed camera program should be cancelled. It’s nonsense.
Nora Stevens, Grimsby
The few serious accidents have been caused by heavy trucks driving through town and on the service roads where they intersect with Christie, Ontario and Maple Streets.
that council needs to stand up to the Region and resist this half-baked proposal.
Paul Myles Grimsby
Perhaps the Region should deal with these problem areas before they worry about reducing our speed to 40 kph other than around schools.
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