NewsNow E-Edition March 28 2024

Grimsby, Beamsville see rash of break/enters

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

A rash of eight break and enters in Grimsby and Beamsville last week are still under investigation by Niagara Regional Police.

On Wednesday, March 20, 8 District officers responded to the homes finding the break-ins occurred between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.

Fill the boots

Grimsby firefighters will be out at several locations this Saturday as they host their annual boot drive. This year - as shown by (L to R) campaign chair Andrew Medwid, Grimsby Firefighters Association president Christian Giovannini and event committee member Chris Decker - the volunteers will have a new tap feature to help with donations. For more details, please turn to Page 13 Williscraft - Photo

“Thieves entered homes when people were sleeping through unlocked exterior doors to residences and attached garages,” said police.

“Thieves stole personal items including identification and credit cards. Detec-

tives determined that some of the stolen credit cards were later used in the Hamilton area.”

The break and enters occurred in the areas of:

• Grimsby - Olive Street and Princess Boulevard

• Beamsville - Lincoln Avenue, Northgate Crescent, and Frances Crescent.

Damage and loss estimates are not completed.

“The investigation is in its early stages, but detectives believe three suspects were involved,” according to a police statement.

See B&Es, Page 10

DIA’s financial process changes to council April 2

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

Grimsby Downtown Improvement Area board’s announcement to members regarding proposed financial reforms is still premature, say Town of Grimsby officials.

Last Friday, the DIA emailed its first communication to members in several months under the heading

“Finance Reforms Announcement”. The document outlined a series of good information about the “whys and wherefores’ of the board’s decision from earlier this month to create more financial separation from the Town of Grimsby.

A fly in the ointment may be that Town officials were not aware of the proposed changes and, more

importantly, have yet to approve the financial autonomy report.

“No board can move forward with procedural matters such as what has been proposed until council has approved their minutes. That is just basic administrative process for any board, including the Grimsby DIA,” said Mayor Jeff Jordan, who also acts as a council liaison on the

DIA board.

“It still has to come to council on April 2.”

In last week’s edition of NewsNow, Coun. Delight Davoli, who is also a council liaison, noted several major issues she brought up at the March meeting when the matter was being discussed.

APPROVAL

From Page 1

At issue were contradictions of DIA’s procedural bylaws and breaches of the Municipal Act.

Many issues were recognized by Town officials last year to the point where a Town of Grimsby staff member was dispatched to board meetings to ensure proper procedures were followed.

This week, concerns from long-time Grimsby DIA partner in beautification Grimsby Garden Club has noted problems getting information about another new direction from the board respecting hanging baskets along Main Street.

For nearly 20 years, the club has supplied hanging baskets at cost.

The board has opted to seek quotes for baskets this year, which is not at issue.

“We do recognize that the DIA can spend their money in whatever way they choose and if they want to bring in professionals to create these baskets, it’s their prerogative to do so,” said Karen Gough, in a written submission to NewsNow.

“But for us to learn about this decision in the manner we did is unbelievable. I still have not had any contact from anyone on the board of the DIA.”

Gough noted she tried many times to find out what the DIA had planned but no connection or information came. The club found out about the change when planning its annual planting event for

the baskets at Trillium Hill Greenhouses, which would normally care for the baskets until they are ready to be put up.

“It is very disappointing to our membership that the DIA has shown no appreciation or respect for the work we have done over the years. In truth, the word disappointment doesn’t adequately express how this has impacted us,” Gough said.

CLARIFICATION

In last week’s edition of NewsNow dated March 21, 2024 a report which Coun. Delight Davoli cited as arriving hours before Grimsby DIA’s March 13 meeting was the executive director’s report, not the report regarding financial process changes. NewsNow regrets any confusion caused.

Village Studio makes tracks for Village Inn Plaza

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

For a guy who does not like to move, Bryan Macaulay of Village Studio realizes his track record does not reflect that feeling.

“You’d never know, would you?” said Macaulay with laugh as related his next planned move from his long-

time Main Street Grimsby location to Village Inn Plaza just down the street.

“This will be move number five, and this will be it.”

While there are some other contributing factors to the move, the main reason is to relocate to a site with better and sustainable

parking.

“Having fabulous parking and being next to the grocery store will boost access and visibility for me. Leaving here is hard. This is my downtown and I am not leaving downtown I will be off the main strip but it is going to be very difficult along here for the next

couple of years,” said Bryan, recognizing the water and sewer main replacement project as well as the soon-tostart Century Condos, which will cause major Main Street traffic issues for what is projected at 18 months-two years,” said Macaulay.

“Then with Downtown Reimagined, I cannot be in favour of losing even one parking spot. I’m sorry, that person in a story recently who said Grimsby people are spoiled, these spots are used every day and I have a front row seat.”

In one of the industries which has changed drastically in the last 10-15 years, Macaulay’s customerfirst attitude has allowed him to survive and thrive.

“In 1993, in one month, I did 500 rolls of developing film, that’s an average of 20 per day, plus the film for the studio. Then, ‘poof’, it’s all gone,” recalled Macaulay.

His move, and merger with Special Effects Art Shoppe, will allow him to expand his offering to those cus-

After more than three decades at his Main Street location, Bryan Macaulay is moving his Village Studio into Village Inn Plaza next month.

tomers significantly.

“Todd will still be around. He’ll be teaching me about the framing side of things but he has reviewed my work to check the background used most often and come up with some frames which work best,” said Macaulay of Todd Reilly, who has 35-plus years of framing experience.

The added space will also allow for added service as well.

“Everything will basically be the same, except I am going to be able to offer new and additional products and services. I am going

to have a kiosk where people can come up to the computer, go onto my website and upload images right away,” said Macaulay.

“After I’ve shown you, I can let you know that every device is that same kiosk. Your phone can be a kiosk. A laptop can be a kiosk. It makes it easier to take away some things about technology that scares some clients.”

Macaulay’s tenure at his current shop wraps up this weekend. He will work out of his new location in Village Inn Plaza as of Monday, April 1.

The Woolverton gets green light from OLT

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

The Woolverton - a seven-storey apartment complex proposed for downtown Grimsby - got a green light for its last remaining road blocks courtesy of an Ontario Land Tribunal decision last month.

“This exciting development opens the door to a new era, of reimagining and revitalization of the downtown neighbourhood. Grimsby council, staff, and community have responded to the housing challenges our growing community faces. Responsible and respectful growth can and should occur here,” said Harley Valentine of Castlepoint Numa.

“Our project team is preparing site plan approval submissions and is looking to a project launch in the near future.”

At issue was an Official Plan Amendment (OPA) and a Zoning Bylaw Amendment (ZBA) which had been denied by town council.

The proposed OPA would be to increase the permitted height of the building on the site to seven storeys, whereas a maximum of six storeys is currently permitted.

The ZBA would modify the existing lot coverage, side yard and height requirements to accommodate the proposed development.

The Feb. 8 finding noted at a second case management conference on Nov. 30 developer Castlepoint Numa and the Town had reached an agreement on issues, so the meeting was to “consider and approve the settlement, if warranted.”

Also at that meeting, Kevin Luttjehuizen of Harmony Group of Companies (HGC), submitted a written statement against the Woolverton project claiming the addition of an added lot to the proposal necessitated an entirely new evaluation and noted the process already conducted, included process irregularities.

“Examples of procedural concerns

included: a rushed closed-door endorsement of the settlement agreement; absence of updated impact studies; and lack of the public’s meaningful participation in discussing the revised Proposal,” wrote Luttjehuizen.

However, OLT member Bita Rajaee disagreed.

“The parties adequately responded to the concerns raised by HGC,” Rajaee found.

The site has evolved to include: 120 residential units, amenity space, Woolverton Hall, 169 parking spaces and 90 bicycle parking spaces.

The development will also include ground-floor commercial space.

Among Luttjehui-

zen’s was the parking complement. The decision noted Luttjehuizen contended the amount of parking proposed was deficient in light of the parking challenges facing the Town’s downtown and the proposal aims to use and rely on the adjacent Balsam municipal parking lot to address the parking deficiency.

In the report, Rajaee was not buying it.

“With respect to the parking issue, the Applicants submitted that there is sufficient parking availability to accommodate the Proposal’s parking requirements. Moreover, in her Affidavit, (land use planner) Ms. (Emma) West addressed the issue of parking extensively,

opining that the parking proposed was sufficient. She explained that the revised Proposal before the Tribunal included an increase in the number of vehicle and bicycle parking spaces from the earlier versions of the Proposal,” wrote Rajaee.

With the added considerations Castlepoint had added to the proposal, Rajaee noted all the tests have been met.

“As a result of improvements made for the adjusted proposal and expert evidence provided, Rajaee confirmed the OP and Zoning Bylaw Amendments be allowed.

“The Tribunal accepts the uncontested opinion evidence of Ms. West and finds

that the requested OPA and ZBA, as revised by the settlement agreement, meet the required legislative tests, satisfying all provincial, regional, and local planning policies.

Moreover, the Tribunal finds that the OPA and ZBA, and the Proposal they will facilitate, represent good planning and are in the public interest.

As such, the Tribunal finds that the OPA and the ZBA warrant approval,” stated Rajee.

“With respect to the concerns raised by the Participant, the Tribunal finds that they are appropriately addressed by the evidence before the Tribunal or lie outside of the jurisdiction of the Tribunal.”

Artist’s rendering of The Woolverton’s Mountain Street view which depicts the new, seven-storey build in the back and Woolverton House on the left at 13 Mountain and what was originally Grimsby Baptist Church - built on land donated by Charles Woolverton - at 19 Elm Street on the right. Both those historic buildings will be preserved.

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ELEGANT 3-BDRM FREEHOLD TOWNHOME WITH STUNNING ESCARPMENT VIEWS! Fabulous open-concept design, located in sought-after family neighbourhood in the heart of town. Great kitchen overlooking main floor family room. Sliding doors from kitchen lead to fully-fenced, private yard. Bright finished lower level with rec room, den, 3pc bath & oversized window overlooking patio. Short stroll to parks, recreation centre, shopping & quick access to QEW. Impeccable inside & out! $734,900

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Beamsville & District Lions Annual

Easter Egg Hunt

Saturday, March 30th, 2024

Beamsville Lions Club Park at 5100 Fly Road

Egg Hunt Schedule

Under 4 years • 9:30 am

Age 4-6 years • 10:00 am

Age 7-9 years • 10:30 am

Age 10-12 years • 11:00 am

Come out and enjoy a family Easter day.

Live Entertainment from 9-11 a.m.

“Meet the Easter Bunny”

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

• Over 15,000 eggs to be hunted!

• Find the SPECIAL EGGS & win incredible prizes!

• Meet the Easter Bunny!

In support of this event, a cash or non-perishable food donation woud be greatly appreciated. Thanks to & Central Fabricating & Christie’s Dairy in Beamsville for their support!

Town releases info re speed camera ticket payments

In response to an influx of inquiries after tickets were received from speed cameras, Town of Grimsby issued information last week due to confusion on payment processes.

Tickets can be paid online at:

pulse.ly/oo697cnl1b;

By phone at: 905-687-6590

Or in person at Provincial Offences Court, 445 East Main St., Welland. Cameras are active near Blessed Trinity Secondary and Park School.

Spring Maintenance in Lincoln Municipal Accommodation Tax in Lincoln

On December 13, 2023, Town of Lincoln Council passed By-law No. 2023-68, a By-law to Implement a Municipal Accommodation Tax.

The newly enacted By-law mandates a 4% Municipal Accommodation Tax COLLECTION on all:

• Traditional hotel accommodations (28 days or less), effective April 1, 2024

• Short-term accommodations (28 days or less), effective July 1, 2024

This tax is to be applied exclusively to the accommodation portion on the guest invoice.

What is MAT?

MAT is a mandatory tax aimed at providing essential funding to support one of Lincoln’s most significant economic sector, tourism, and spur further economic growth and job creation. It will help fund destination marketing and tourism development initiatives. The MAT program, authorized by the Stronger, Healthier Ontario Act 2017, empowers municipalities to levy a transient accommodations tax. The MAT applies to the sale of overnight accommodations only and is paid for by the visitor.

Why is the Town of Lincoln implementing MAT?

The revenues from MAT will help fund the DMO, which will:

• Develop projects and initiatives that promote tourism in the Niagara Benchlands;

• Support the creation of additional tourism-related jobs;

• Spur economic growth.

Are you an Accommodation Provider in Lincoln?

The Town is providing point-of-purchase business resources to help our local operators effectively communicate and contribute to a positive guest experience. Please visit our website to download resources or contact the tourism team at tourism@ niagarabenchlands.ca or 905-563-2799 and find out how to join our Co-Lab Business Portal.

NiagaraBenchlands.ca

BenchlandsON NiagaraBenchlands

Hydrant Flushing is performed annually in the spring for the general maintenance of the water distribution system and covers the Beamsville, Vineland and Jordan serviced areas. You may experience temporary low-water pressure during flushing and/or cloudy or discoloured water conditions after flushing is completed. Running your taps for about 10 minutes will typically clear any cloudiness or discolouration.

Street Sweeping is performed twice a year, in Spring and Fall. The Town’s urban areas are divided into eight sections which will take approximately 10 weeks to complete, weather permitting. Rural areas commence April and will continue until complete.

If you have any questions, please contact the Town at 905-563-2799 ext. 234 or publicworks@lincoln.ca.

Office: 905-945.1234

Email: robertjames@royallepage.ca NRC

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B&Es

From Page 1

Anyone with information about these incidents are asked to contact the investigating officers by calling 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009023. Police are also asking for help with any video surveillance in the key neighbourhoods.

“Anyone (residents

or businesses) in the areas where the break and enters occurred with closed circuit security cameras, doorbell video cameras, or dash cameras are asked to review their footage for suspicious activity for the period between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m. on August 20, 2024,” stated an NRP release.

NRP included some

safety tips for homeowners:

• Create a security routine every night at the same time. Lock everything up. All doors, all windows, gates, and cars.

• Lock doors and windows: Ensure all doors and windows are securely locked, even when you’re at home during the daytime.

• Keep valuables out of sight: Close blinds or curtains to prevent potential burglars from seeing valuable items inside your home.

4106 Mountain St., Beamsville ON ROBERT JAMES, Sales Representative

West Lincoln Memorial Auxiliary

The West Lincoln Memorial Auxiliary (WLMA) is actively seeking a Volunteer to fill the role of Vice President on our Executive for a one (1) year term followed by two (2) years as President and two (2) years as Past President.

This is a very exciting time for WLMA and West Lincoln Memorial as we prepare for the new hospital and this person will play a crucial role!

West Lincoln Memorial Auxiliary is a non-profit volunteer organization of like-minded individuals that are passionate about giving back to their Community and supporting West Lincoln Memorial Hospital (WLMH) in Grimsby. Our Volunteers manage and staff the Front Information Desk, the Gift Shop and the Coffee Shop and provide administrative support in a number of Clinical areas. Proceeds from the Gift Shop, Coffee Shop and our fundraising efforts go towards the purchase of much needed new hospital equipment for WLMH. The primary role of the V.P. is to assist the President oversee the day to day operations of the Auxiliary.

Your term as V.P. will provide you with the opportunity to learn about our protocols, build meaningful relationships while giving back and develop new skills. Time commitments include attending monthly WLMA Executive and Committee meetings and ad hoc meetings.

Preferred candidates will possess good organizations skills, be effective communicators and have the ability to work collaboratively with others. What better time to make a positive impact in our Community!

Interested in learning more ?

Please contact :

Gail Bartlett

Past President

West Lincoln Memorial Auxiliary gailbartlett@mac.com

• Install quality locks: Use deadbolts and high-quality locks on all entry points to deter forced entry.

• Utilize security systems: Install a home security system with quality cameras and alarms to deter burglars and alert authorities of any suspicious activity. Two-way communications, sirens, and a strobe light are good accessories to consider when purchasing a system.

ST. HELEN CHURCH

Wishing All Our Bingo Family A Blessed Easter Bingo is CANCELLED This Week

Closed Thursday, March 28 and Friday, March 29

Bingo Returns Thursday, April 4 and Friday, April 5

With $$$ thousands $$$ in cash prizes every week

Admission Free - Tea and Coffee Free

905.945.4161

www.grimsbyford.com

FOOD, FUN & SPIRITS

30 Main St. West, Grimsby

36 Main St. West, Grimsby

HAT TRICK HOCKEY

Week 22

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:

• $10 Gift Card courtesy of Teddy’s Food, Fun & Spirits, Rob Hensen

• $10 Gift Card courtesy of Jordan Flowers, Mike Strad

• $10 Gift Card courtesy of Canadian Tire, Carey Fracchioni

• $10 Gift Card courtesy of Forty Public House, Phil Heinen

• Large, 3-Item Pizza, Pick-Up Only, courtesy of Gino’s Pizza, Steve Dumoulin

• $10 Gift Card courtesy of Tim Hortons, Susanne Enderby Winners can stop by the NewsNow office to pick up their winnings

© NHLPA. Officially Licensed Product of the NHLPA. NHLPA, National Hockey League Players’ Association and the NHLPA logo are trademarks of the NHLPA

Top 20 Standings

1. Marrama, Angelo 1426

2. Hall, Keith 1424

3. Varga, Ric 1423

4. Tucker, Everett 1414

5. Griffiths, Owen 1412

6. Rankin, Paul 1399

7. Bradt, Veronica 1395

8. Szarkd, Jack 1393

9. Schilte, Frank “the tank” 1391

10. Seibel, KJ 1388

16

Grimsby’s Finest

11. Hoffmann, Dawn 1385

12. Caller, Moose 1385

13. Herale, Willie 1384

14. Fillmore, Linda 1383

15. Havens, Robert 1383

16. Boulter, Brian 1381

17. Vanegmond, Sheryl 1376

18. Bylsma, Micah 1374

19. Rajczak, David 1374

20. Lenman, Jen 1374

Sponsored by:

166

Easter events ready to roll

The Easter Bunny has his running shoes on and he’s ready for this weekend’s Niagara West Easter Egg Hunt activities.

Grimsby will kick the weekend off with its Grimsby Kinettes Easter Egg Hunt held in the rose garden at Centennial Park on Good Friday, March 29. Festivities start at 10 a.m. and will include hunts for varying ages, raffles and balloon animals.

As well, monetary donations will be accepted for the Kinettes’ main charity in support of cystic fibrosis research as well as McNally House Hospice.

While the Lynn Fee Team sponsors the event as a whole, Tim

Hortons provides refreshments.

WEST LINCOLN

The Twp. of West Lincoln will play host to its Easter fun on Good Friday as well from 9 a.m-Noon at the West Lincoln Community Centre.

This year’s event will depart from the standard egg hunt and present a fun, new approach for our community to enjoy Easter together, including free activities and entertainment for the whole family.

Included in their program will be a petting zoo, fire truck and emergency vehicles tours, face painting, balloon twister, a visit from the Easter Bunny and, yes, chocolate.

BEAMSVILLE

The Beamsville Lions Club is ready for its big event on Saturday, March 30 at Lions Park, 5100 Fly Road.

As in the past, several hunts have been planned with more than 15,000 eggs up for grabs:

• Under 4 years • 9:30 a.m.;

• Age 4-6 years • 10 a.m.;

• Age 7-9 years • 10:30 a.m.

•Age 10-12 years • 11 a.m.

There will also be live entertainment from 9-11 a.m.

The Easter Bunny will be on hand for photos and he will be hiding “special” eggs which will give the finder an equally special prize.

Grimsby firefighters set for boot drive fundraiser

Grimsby firefighters will be in force this Saturday, not to fight fires but to raise funds for those in need.

The Grimsby Firefighters Association members will be located at several locations around town, including: Canadian Tire, Sobeys, Real Canadian SuperStore, Food Basics, RONA and Shoppers Drug Mart.

“The boot drive is one of our three core events, along with the annual turkey roll and our Santa Claus Parade food drive,” said boot drive chair

Andrew Medwid.”

“The community is always extremely supportive and we all appreciate that.”

This year, the beneficiaries of boot drive will be McNally House Hospice and a local family which has had some difficult circumstances arise, added Medwid.

This year, for the first time, firefighters will have an added feature to make it very easy for anyone to contribute.

“It has been much more common in recent years for people to not have cash on them,” said Medwid

noting other departments had tested out new technology with some of their events with great results.

“We were able to get a ‘tap’ system in place this year, so people can just use their cards to donate $5, $10 or $20 directly,” he said.

“It is a great feature to able to offer.”

The firefighters will be in place starting at 8 a.m. this Saturday and welcome any contribution at all.

The event is sponsored by Grimsby Ford.

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431

DIA issues unfortunate: reader

Dear Editor,

Letter

It is unfortunate to see how things have transpired with Grimsby’s DIA but nobody should be surprised based on how things went down

Notice of Intention to Designate

TAKE NOTICE THAT the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby intends to designate 2 5th Street to be of cultural heritage value or interest under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act:

2 5th Street

THE REASON for the proposed designation is to recognize the architectural value of the building in context of its contribution to the heritage character of the Town of Grimsby.

The structure at 2 5th Street is a representation of the wooden frame cottages that were built during the Chautauqua Methodist movement. The cottage at 2 5th street located on the lakeshore is historically known as Ilfracombe Lodge and was constructed in 1887. These waterfront cottages were referred to as “Millionaires Row”. The cottage was owned by Reverend Dr. Alexander and Sarah Burns. Alexander Burns was a Reverend, an associate of the Methodist Church and a top North American academic and lecturer of the period. Dr. Burns was active in every phase of the Grimsby Park community, preaching at the auditorium, teaching Sunday school and thorough involvement in all the social programs held in the Park.

FURTHER INFORMATION can be found at: https://www.grimsby.ca/en/parks-recreation-culture/heritage-properties.aspx

ANY PERSON may within thirty days of the publication of this notice, send by registered mail, or deliver to the Town Clerk of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby his or her objection to the proposed designation, together with a statement of the reasons for the objection and all relevant facts. When a Notice of Objection has been received, the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby will refer the matter to the Ontario Land Tribunal for a hearing.

FURTHER INFORMATION respecting the proposed designation is available from the municipality by contacting Bianca Verrecchia, Heritage Planner:

Email: bverrecchia@grimsby.ca

Phone: (905) 945-9634 Ext. 2122

THIS NOTICE PUBLISHED on the 28th of March 2024.

Victoria Steele, Town Clerk Town of Grimsby 160 Livingston Avenue Grimsby, ON, L3M 4X1

last year.

It went from a very active group to almost completely dormant - at a time when shop owners need them most.

Now they are going to spend all that month

on staff and students when major upheaval is on the horizon with construction projects? Good luck businesses!

Stephen Owen Grimsby

Notice of Intention to Designate

TAKE NOTICE THAT the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby intends to designate 227 Main Street East to be of cultural heritage value or interest under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act:

227 Main Street East

THE REASON for the proposed designation is to recognize the architectural value of the building in context of its contribution to the heritage character of the Town of Grimsby.

The house at 227 Main St East shows an atypical blend of Italianate and Craftsman building styles, necessitated by restorations completed after a historic fire. The property at 227 Main Street East has direct associations with notable families and the fruit boom in Grimsby, which directly supported the prosperity of the Town. The Kitchen & Griffith families maintained and ran a fruit farm on the original parcel. Since the late 1800s, the house at 227 Main St East has stood in situ, despite the historic fire and years of poverty suffered by the Griffith family during the Great Depression.

FURTHER INFORMATION can be found at:

https://www.grimsby.ca/en/parks-recreation-culture/heritage-properties.aspx

ANY PERSON may within thirty days of the publication of this notice, send by registered mail, or deliver to the Town Clerk of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby his or her objection to the proposed designation, together with a statement of the reasons for the objection and all relevant facts. When a Notice of Objection has been received, the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby will refer the matter to the Ontario Land Tribunal for a hearing.

FURTHER INFORMATION respecting the proposed designation is available from the municipality by contacting Bianca Verrecchia, Heritage Planner:

Email: bverrecchia@grimsby.ca

Phone: (905) 945-9634 Ext. 2122

THIS NOTICE PUBLISHED onthe 28th of March 2024.

Victoria Steele, Town Clerk Town of Grimsby

160 Livingston Avenue

Grimsby, ON, L3M 4G3

Calling All Carriers!!

NewsNow is looking for carriers to fill newspaper routes in All its communities.

• Grimsby • Beamsville • Vineland

• Jordan • Smithville • Winona

Be first in line to have a route in your neighbourhood!

Each edition would be delivered to your home on Wednesdays for distribution that week.

We are also looking for drivers to make those deliveries from our depot to carriers’ homes.

Flyers may be included.

We have had many calls about this in the last couple of years and have kept contact information for all inquiries, but feel free to contact us again if you are still interested.

We are researching now to assess interest from the community. To be clear, we will make the best choice on how NewsNow arrives at your door no matter what!!

Canada Post has done a good job for us, but if creating our own carrier force once again proves a better model, we are there for you readers!!

Once we have compiled a roster of interested carriers much more detail will be provided to all at that time.

To get your name on our list, contact Catherine at: catherine@wn3.ca include name, address and phone number.

1 Mountain Street, Grimsby • 289-235-9500

6th Annual Volunteer Pay Subscription Drive

“What a newspaper needs in its news, in its headlines, and on its editorial page is terseness, humour, descriptive power, satire, originality, good literary style, clever condensation, and accuracy, accuracy, accuracy!

Joseph Pulitzer

Dear Reader,

Here we are, against all odds, in our 11th year of publishing. Our little paper that started in the basement of our house has flourished into what you are reading today. We’ve had ups and downs, two printing plant closures, sale of our distribution company, a world-wide pandemic and... we are still here.

Because of you, good reader - as well as our loyal and dedicated advertising base - through ensuring great response via your intense readership as well as your generous subscriptions. We truly appreciate your support!

Based on the excellent feedback from previous years’ volunteer pay subscription drives, we have launched Year 6!

Is NewsNow’s independent, accurate voice in the community of value to you? Would you like to support NewsNow in its efforts? This is your opportunity. If yes, we have refined the infrastructure for our Volunteer Pay System

Simply, this means, rain (or snow) or shine, you will always – each and every week – receive your copy of NewsNow. Whether you live in a single-detached home, apartment, condo or at a business, NewsNow is now everywhere –29,000-plus circulation strong. That will NOT change!!!!

Subscriptions: One Year - $50 suggested

We will back HST out of each payment to make things as simple as possible. You can pay by cheque (bring into the office or mail), credit card (call Catherine at 289-235-9500) or e-transfer (send to: subscriptions@wn3.ca - make security answer - newsnow ) For more information, please do not hesitate to call, email or drop in. All inquiries are welcome!! Thanks very much for your time and we wish good health to you all!

1 Mountain Street, L3M 3J6, Grimsby • 289-235-9500

Mike Williscraft Publisher

OBITUARIES

VANDERHORST, Wayne Conrad

With a heavy heart, and an immeasurable void created by the absence of a significant person in our lives the tragic passing of Wayne Conrad Vanderhorst a father, brother, uncle and friend, on March 20, 2024, of age 55. A man respected and admired for his character, persona, and love for all those who were fortunate enough to be a part of his journey. A devoted protector, enforcer, and one of the hardest workers we know. Although our hearts are heavy with his passing, it brings us some peace knowing he’s now resting with his dad, Melis Vanderhorst (2017) and brother Melvin Vanderhorst (2020). Also comforting to remember him, not as he left us, but as the man who lived, loved, who made us laugh with his dad jokes, and whose memory will be forever etched in our hearts and minds. Loved and missed by his mother Willy Vanderhorst of Grimsby (the late Melis), son Kayne, daughter Simone, Annette, devoted brother Neil (Sara) Vanderhorst of Grimsby, all nieces and nephews, uncles, aunts, and many friends. Cremation has taken place and a Memorial Gathering was held at STONEHOUSE

WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755) on Wednesday March 27, 2024 from 3-6 p.m. If desired, memorial contributions to the Heart & Stroke Foundation would be sincerely appreciated by the family.

www.smithsfh.com

CARPENTRY

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OBITUARIES

DREW TOMA, Ella

Passed away peacefully, on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, in her 91st year. Predeceased by husband Jack Drew (1989) and husband Peter Norman Toma (2021). Mother to Rona Stewart (Larry) and Kevin Weegar (Kim). Grandmother of Allison Barthe (Aaron), Dan Stewart (Erin), Matthew Weegar (Amanda) and Nicole Weegar. Great-grandmother of Maelle, Lille, Emma, Zak, Sawyer and Julia. Ella was loved and will be fondly remembered by many extended family members and friends. A special thank you to the staff at The Jacob Retirement Home and McNally House Hospice for their care and compassion. Cremation will take place to honour Ella’s wishes. If desired, memorial contributions to McNally House would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755. www.smithsfh.com

PAINTING

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ARSENAULT, Rita (née Bisson)

With great sorrow, after a lengthy battle with dementia, we announce the passing of Rita, who on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, died peacefully in her 91st year, surrounded by her loving family, at Albright Manor in Beamsville, Ontario. Predeceased by her beloved husband of 47 years, Paul Arsenault (2008); parents Gonzague and Flore (née Goulet) Bisson; and her siblings, Richard Bisson, Yvonne (late Fernand Bourdeau) and Marie (Richard Matte). She is survived by her dear children Simone (Jim Lounsbery) and Donald Arsenault; her cherished grandchildren, Malcolm, Alysia and Cassandra; her siblings, Ernest Bisson (Thérèse Racine), Régina (late Rhéo Bourdeau), Cécile (Ovide St-Pierre), Thérèse (Claude Legault) and André Bisson; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

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Born in 1933, in the rural town of Marionville, Ontario, Rita grew up on the family farm. In her twenties, after marrying Paul, she moved to Hamilton, Ontario, and soon began a family, taking her love of children, gardening and cooking, and a can do spirit with her, she became a fabulous homemaker. Throughout the years, Rita worked at Woolworth’s department store, owned a house cleaning service and was a bookkeeper for the family run gas station. She also was a volunteer for the Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal. Her commitment to family and her compassion and empathy for those in need whether family, friends or strangers, were shining examples to all that knew her.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to all the Nurses, PSWs and front line workers at Albright Manor Long Term Care Home. Your care and compassion throughout the many years in often very challenging times has been nothing short of inspiring. Thank you.

Family and friends will be welcomed to CRESMOUNT FUNERAL HOME, 322 Fennell Avenue E. Hamilton, Ontario L9A 1T2 on Saturday, March 30th, 2024, for visitation between 10-12 noon, with a memorial service at 12:00 pm followed by a luncheon reception. The link for livestreaming is available via; ttps://funeraweb.tv/diffusions/87825

Donations may be made to The Albright Foundation or The Alzheimer’s Society. Online condolences available at: cresmountfennellchapel.com

OBITUARIES

Yellow, Frances Jane (nee Tait)

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Frances, surrounded by family and love, on Saturday, March 23, 2024. Predeceased by her husband Ernest, son Geoff and daughter-in-law Nancy. Dear mother of Mary Dancer (Jeff) and John Yellow (Colleen). Loving grandmother of Heather (Dustin), David (Shelby), Brett (Sylvia), Robert (Alyssia), Matthew (Sara) and Jordan (Brooke) and great-grandmother of Milo, Bella, Jaxon, Logan, Alex, Daniella and Hailey. Frances was born in Scotland and moved several times before settling in Hamilton, where she made some lifelong friends, then moving to Grimsby in 1967. She cherished her family and many friends. She enjoyed her previous work at Eaton’s, her card club, prayer shawl group and many others. She loved spending time with family, cottage time and travel. Many thanks to Dr. Donaghy, Dr. Reade and the staff at McNally House. Cremation has taken place. Visitation at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755)

on Thursday, March 28, 2024, from 6-8 p.m. A Service of Remembrance will be held at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, 156 Main Street West, Grimsby, on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at 11 a.m. Private burial at St. Andrew’s Church yard Cemetery. If desired, memorial contributions to McNally House Hospice would be sincerely appreciated by the family. www.smithsfh.com “Dearly loved and always remembered.”

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Happy 65th Anniversary!!!

Happy 65th Anniversary!!!

Russ and Fran Gaulton

Russ and Fran Gaulton

April 3, 1959 –2024

April 3, 1959 –2024

In 1961 Russ and Fran left Hamilton to build a home in Grimsby and raise their family. Countless family gatherings have and continue to take place in that home built by their love and hard work.

Warmest Anniversary Wishes, Mom & Dad!

Your love and commitment to each other and your family has been a remarkable inspiration to us all. For 65 years you have kept the lights on and the door always open and for that we have been truly blessed.

Much love and many hugs from your Children, Grandchildren & Great Grandchildren xoxoxo

OBITUARIES

BURTON, Douglas (Doug)

Doug passed away peacefully on Wednesday March 20, 2024, at the United Mennonite Home in Vineland, Onatario.

Doug was born on November 25, 1929, in Campden, Ontario, and attended Beamsville High School, where he focused on the Commercial Program. Though his heart always remained in the Beamsville area, his strong sense of duty and service called him to leave his home town and enlist in the Canadian Armed Forces. He began his basic training in Aylmer in 1950 and rose up through the ranks, earning a promotion to Corporal in 1955 and an officer’s commission in 1967. By the time he retired in 1984, Doug had achieved the rank of Major. His military career saw him posted to locations across Canada and Europe, including a brief stint in Egypt as part of the first U.N. Peacekeeping mission during the Suez Crisis. After his retirement from the military, Doug chose to return to the Niagara Region and finished his working life as a public servant at the Canada Center for Inland Waters in Burlington, ON.

Doug met the love of his life, Clarisse Burton (Lamarre), while stationed in Lachine, QC. They were married on April 29, 1961, and enjoyed a 60-plus year union until Clarisse’s passing in 2022. Doug and Clarisse began their married life in Germany and enjoyed weekend camping trips to neighbouring countries for the four years of Doug’s posting. With Clarisse at his side, Doug enjoyed a long retirement that included international travel, community volunteering with the Lions Club of Beamsville and Community Care of West Niagara, and spending time with friends and his growing family.

Doug will be profoundly missed by his son, Richard (Donna), his daughter Linda (Gary), his remaining siblings, Pauline, Dorothy, Russell, Mary, John, and Joyce, and many in-laws, nephews and nieces. His three granddaughters, Madeleine (25), Cadence (21), and Jacqueline (21) were the apples of his eye and will deeply grieve their grand-papa’s loss.

If desired, memorial donations may be made to any of the following organizations that Doug supported:

The Lions Club of Beamsville - https://beamsvillelions.ca

The Canadian Cancer Society - https://cancer.ca/en/ Community Care of West Niagara - https://www.communitycarewn.ca/site/home

The Alzheimer Society of Niagara Region - https://alzheimer.ca/niagara/en

Visitation will be held at the Vineland Chapel of Tallman Funeral Homes Ltd., 3277 King St., Vineland on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at 9:30 am, followed by a service at 11am in the Chapel and then refreshments at the Fireside Room. For anyone unable to attend the service in person, a live stream link can be accessed through Doug’s obituary page at tallmanfuneralhomes.ca

Online condolences at www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca

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Clearing up some deep DIA water

The water is very deep with the Grimsby DIA and I want to be sure to be very clear here.

Last week it was noted in this space that the board of directors needs more oversight, not less, and I absolutely stand by that.

Open for business

Friends, family, Lincoln council and Chamber of Commerce members all turned out earlier this year for a grand opening ceremony and to offer best wishes at Lincoln Kitchens at 4716 Ontario St., Beamsville. Owners Jivan and Kami Malhi, on right, hosted the event.

We’re not in Kansas anymore

Not that anyone has to accept it, but Grimsby - and in another 10 years Beamsville - has changed.

It is not about, change is coming. It’s here.

How many jokes, which really aren’t jokes, about all the drug deals that go down in GOTL?

Beamsville has its own one-liners based on the Greenlane’s Utopia complex and it’s still only a one-off in that area.

Of late, there has been what seems to be a rise in more “serious” crime - this week eight B&Es in a matter of hours had people talking.

Some neighbourhoods are more susceptible to B&Es given their proximity to the QEW accesses but, in general, the volume of people in and out of town has skyrocketedand it will continue to rise. Niagara Regional Police offered some safety tips. Please adhere to them. It may help. M.W.

This does not mean anything untoward or dastardly is taking place, merely that major aspects of process have proven challenging with a body which deals with tax dollars. There is, and always should be close scrutiny of such situations.

The findings of ongoing issues are not new and not something which I merely conjured from thin air. For those boohooing in their Cornflakes about any falsehoods, I welcome them getting in touch to let me know where any issues may be:

mike@wn3.ca

cell: 289-442-4244

Suffice to say, when a municipality sees issues to the point where sending staff to oversee meeting happenings is required, you should be able to recognize process needs to be improved.

One aspect which does need clarification, hence the note on Page 3, in my conversation with Coun.

Delight Davoli last week two different reports came up - both the financial autonomy report and the executive director’s report.

When she noted a

report came early in the morning on the day of the meeting, I noted in last week’s article that the late-arriving report was financial autonomy document. That was wrong. Davoli sent me a note to follow up confirming the financial autonomy report arrived Monday afternoon. While that is a minor point, it still merits clearing up and it should not take away from the issues which remain - which are many.

As I replayed the interview in my mind after reading Davoli’s email, I tried to figure out how wires got crossed. As I reviewed my notes, I realized I didn’t know there was a new executive director hired by the DIA at that point in our conversation. As well, there was no ED report attached to the agenda posted on the DIA’s website.

This is not an excuse, but it was easy to connect “report” to the one included in the meeting package, as opposed to one not posted and submitted

by someone in a position which did not exist (prior) to my knowledge. No notice to members had been sent out.

So that comes down to communication, which it seems is another issue based on information received from the Grimsby Garden Club.

That is another situation that is truly unfortunate.

For decades club members have provided a beautification service free of charge in terms of manpower. The hanging baskets and flower beds the club members put in each spring were done at cost - with help from Trillium Hill Greenhouses.

As Karen Gough from the club noted, the board can absolutely choose to seek quotes and, in the end, go any way they choose. But one would think a community group which had done nothing but right by the DIA for 20 years would merit inclusion in an information loop when looking for quotes and be permitted to submit.

Again, process issues.

There is more than enough to chew on if one sticks snugly to black and white matters of fact. If you choose to get into every small matter and open the Pandora’s Box of opinion we could fill three newspapers. That is why I am sticking with fact, check opinion at the door.

The oversight need will be crystal clear.

MIKE WILLISCRAFT

DIA disconnect from garden club ‘disappointing’

Dear Editor,

It’s Sunday, March 24 and today I’m supposed to be joining 30 volunteer Grimsby Garden Cub (GGC) members at Trillium Hill Nurseries for our annual “hanging basket planting session”. But instead I’m writing this “Letter to the Editor” to share some very disappointing news.

On Thursday, I emailed Trillium Hill to let them know how much the members of the garden club were looking forward to our Sunday event.

I learned from them that the DIA has been reaching out for quotes on the hanging baskets and plant boxes on Main St. and it seems they have decided they no longer want the Grimsby Garden Club involved.

I then contacted Delight Davoli and Jeff Jordan (council reps on the DIA) for confirmation of this decision. They in turn sent my email to Mark Wood president of the DIA and he informed Delight that this information was indeed correct.

This was a total shock to us as I had repeatedly made efforts this winter to reach Mark Wood

Letter

about the baskets – by email (which came back to me as blocked), by telephone messages, and by visiting The Forty three times and leaving detailed messages for him to contact me.

In frustration at not being able to connect with Mark, we dropped in to Jordan’s Flowers.

A bit of background might be helpful here. About 15 years ago the garden club, the town and the DIA collaboratively determined that summer hanging baskets was a great way to beautify the Main Street of Grimsby during the summer months.

The garden club looks after the planning and the planting. The DIA pays for the plants and for Trillium Hill’s tending of the plants until they are ready to be hung. The town hangs the plants and waters them through the summer season - great collaboration!

We are stunned that despite repeated attempts to reach the DIA they moved in a totally different direction without contacting

us. Stephen Hargrave (GGC president) and I presented to the DIA last year in an effort to develop a working relationship with the new board. Obviously, we weren’t very successful – despite having a strong working relationship with the previous board.

GGC’s goal is very simple – it’s to beautify Grimsby and encourage a love of gardening. We have always been willing to assume a leadership role in such initiatives.

Along with the hanging baskets, we plant the spring planters. We plant and tend the Elm St. beds near the liquor store and create a beautiful garden around the town Christmas tree.

We do recognize that the DIA can spend their money in whatever way they choose and if they want to bring in professionals to create these baskets, it’s their prerogative to do so. But for us to learn about this decision in the manner we did is unbelievable. I still have not had any contact from anyone on the board of the DIA.

This year we are celebrating our 60th Anniversary as a club. It

is very disappointing to our membership that the DIA has shown no appreciation or respect for the work we have done over the years. In truth, the word disappointment doesn’t adequately express how this has impacted us.

Karen Gough Civic Improvements

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LARGE GREEN CABBAGE LOCAL..........................................$3.49 EA

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BRIOCHE DINNER ROLLS 6PK......................................2/$3.00 OR $1.99 EA

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