BUY CANADIAN
Banner day for Niagara West ~ WLMH opens
A long-awaited day
The official opening of the new West Lincoln Memorial Hospital was hosted in the lobby area of the new facility last Friday. Among those on hand for the ribbon cutting were: (L to R) West Lincoln Mayor Cheryl Ganann; Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jordan; Jackie Labonte, traditional healing coordinator; Tony Joosse, co-chair Save
& Rebuild Committee; MPP Sam Oosterhoff; HHS CEO Tracey MacArthur; WLMH site director Catherine Duffin; Premier Doug Ford; Minister of Health Sylvia Jones; Acting Minister of Infrastructure Todd McCarthy; Pam Ellens of WLMH Foundation; Fred Lilley of the WLM Auxiliary and; Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton. Williscraft - Photo
Ford, Oosterhoff deliver on 2018 WLMH rebuild promise
By Mike Williscraft NewsNow
West Lincoln Memorial Hospital has seen a lot of deliveries over the years, but when it counted the most, Premier Doug Ford wants Niagara West residents to know one thing - Sammy delivered.
Ford was on hand for WLMH’s grand opening last Friday, hosted in the new build’s lobby.
In his address to the crowd gath-
ered, Ford wanted to be clear about who the people were who got behind the rebuild, set things in motion and got it done.
“There’s been numerous champions, but you always have to have that one person leading the charge and in the community, Tony (Joosse), you’re as passionate as they come, but honestly, at Queen’s Park, all the credit goes to Sammy, and sorry, I call him Sammy,” said
Ford, recalling a post-election trip to WLMH and thinking at the time, “boy, this is an old, old place.”
“But what stood out were those (lawn) signs and the passion about everyone around the community and rah, rah, rah... And I can’t say this would have happened if it wasn’t for you, Sammy, up there jumping up and down.”
Ford was referring to Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff, who,
as Joosse outlined in his speech to the gathering stayed laser focused on WLMH from the moment he was first sworn in after winning a byelection at 19 years of age in 2016.
“In Nov. 30, a couple weeks after getting sworn in, he stood up in Queen’s Park and the first question was to the Minister of Health; the residents of Niagara West have been waiting four or five years, See OPENING, Page 2
From Page 1 what is going on,” said Joosse.
“A year later on Oct. 24,, 2017, he submitted the first petitionagain to the Minister of Health.”
And the push by Oosterhoff continued after the 2018 election of the Ford government.
“Every time Sam got elected, the day afterwards, he sent a letter off to the premier
See PRIORITIES, Page 3
his speech,
(L to R) MPP Sam Oosterhoff; Norm Beal and Debbie Zimmerman, who both co-chaired the initial fundraising drive for the WLMH rebuild which raised $13.6 million; Premier Doug Ford, and; Save & Rebuild co-chair Tony Joosse. Williscraft - Photo
After
Premier Doug Ford stops to speak with Dr. Gary Benson, WLMH’s retired medical director, while MPP Sam Oosterhoff looks on. Williscraft - Photo
Premier Doug Ford addresses the crowd. Williscraft - Photo
PRIORITIES
From Page 2
and said his priorities that he learned by lis-
BUY CANADIAN
tening to the people at the door. Each time he got elected, the priority was West Lincoln Memorial Hospital rebuild, very, very clearly,” said Joosse. Oosterhoff appreciated the comments, but told the crowd he
remembered the start of the 2018 push for a different reason.
“This is a day that genuinely - at some points over the years - felt like it might not happen, said Oosterhoff, who related a story about “one of the scariest days of my political career”, See PUSH, Page 4
Arguably, three of the most pivotal points in the near-30-year struggle to get to the WLMH grand opening on Friday. Above - the scene from Grimsby Secondary’s rooftop of the 1997 vigil. Williscraft Photo
The whiteboard message written by Premier Doug Ford.
The packed house - with a few thousand more outside at Trinity United Church in Grimsby just four days after “the bomb” announcement that WLMH’s ORs would be closed. - Williscraft Photo
The Town of Lincoln proudly joins our partners and community in celebrating the completion and upcoming opening of the new West Lincoln Memorial Hospital – a remarkable milestone in West Niagara’s growth and wellbeing. This project stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration, vision, and dedication.
Together with the municipalities of Grimsby, and West Lincoln, and in partnership with Niagara Region, Hamilton Health Sciences, and our community, we advocated for and invested in a modern, future-ready hospital. The new hospital will enhance access to high-quality care, attract skilled health professionals, and strengthen our community’s foundation for decades to come.
Thank you to the Province of Ontario for investing in West Niagara. This is more than a hospital – it’s an investment in people, progress, and healthier, more vibrant communities.
It’s an exciting time to be living in Lincoln!
@TownofLincolnON
R) former long-time CEO Gord Gibson, Dr. Jonathan Ginsburg, WLMH Foundation executive director Pamela
PUSH
From Page 3 the same day he happened to get engaged.
“When that news came forward (about the ORs being closed in 2018), we didn’t know it was going to happen and Tony was texting me non-stop and wondering why I wasn’t picking up; it was because I was on one knee.”
“But now, to see where we are, this is just it’s surreal,” said Oosterhoff, looking around the lobby.
It was on that first trip - after what Joosse termed “the bomb” announcement that WLMH’s ORs would close - that Oosterhoff gained his most significant measure of confidence.
“I won’t exactly quote exactly what he (Ford) said, but I’ll say he said, ‘we got to get down there.’ He was down here (at WLMH)
within a week. He was meeting with community members and I’ll never forget when you signed that whiteboard and said we’re going to get you a new hospital,” Oosterhoff recalled.
All of the speakers addressed the vast array of people, organizations and levels of government it took for WLMH to first survive and, then, raise funds and work through the rebuild process.
For Ford, the thank yous started within
WLMH’s walls.
“I just want to thank the the frontline healthcare workers here because they take such pride and, I’ve always said, I’ll put our health teams anywhere against anyone in the entire world. We have the best docs. We have the best nurses,” said Ford.
“I just want to say, God bless each and every one of you and I’m so, so grateful you invited me today.”
Tracey MacArthur, CEO
See HHS, Page 5
Dr. Nwachukwu (ChuChu) Nwebube was on hand Friday evening with his wife, Dr. Anne.
The last three chairs of the WLMH Foundation governing board (L to R) current chair Kevin Antonides, past chair Andrew Smith, and past past chair Niagara West MP Dean Allison. McDonald - Photo
Some of the key players in WLMH’s storied past were on hand at a reception after the grand opening: (L to
Ellens and former director of nursing Pam Licsko. McDonald - Photo
Mayor Sandra Easton, Council and the Leadership Team for the Town of Lincoln
Chef Jan-Willem Stulp of Grand Oak Culinary Market catered Friday night’s affair. He was helped here by sister-in-law Adria Stulp.
HHS
From Page 4 of Hamilton Health Sciences, said the staff have provided a cornerstone on which WLMH’s reputation was built.
“Hospitals don’t just provide care, but they can actually provide a foundation for a community. They can represent strength, certainly resilience, and, in this case, perseverance in bringing a community together,” said MacArthur.
“Until now, this care has been delivered with a great deal of heart and a great deal of skill but, perhaps, in a facility that no longer meets the standards or demands of modern healthcare but we loved that old build-
ing. There were a lot of tears shed by our staff as we’ve thought about moving on from it.”
The new build, she said, opens doors to a bright future for local healthcare.
“Together we’ve built a hospital that elevates the standard of care,” said MacArthur.
“It combines leading edge design with that secret sauce that I think is so inherent in our community, that compassionate, community-focused service, world class care with a small town touch.”
Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton concurred with MacArthur’s sentiments that the impact of WLMH goes beyond its wall.
“It’s not just a cel-
A NEW CHAPTER FOR CARE!
Grimsby Town Council and Staff proudly and warmly welcome the opening of the new West Lincoln Memorial Hospital. A milestone reflecting our community’s strength and spirit
Lincoln, West Lin coln, Grimsby and beyond and we really come together today with such great pride, knowing that the same compassionate and personal care will continue in a modern and truly state-of-the-art facility that is ready to serve our region for decades to come.”
“The opening of the new West Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Grimsby is more than the unveiling of a building – it is the realization of a shared dream. It stands as a symbol of hope, unity, and perseverance, built by a community that refused to give up.
She, too, thanked Joosse for his tireless effort in the rebuild process.
See TIRELESS, Page 6
It’s not only a place where generations are born, healed, and cared for, but where the community continues to grow stronger for the future. Together, we haven’t just built a hospital – we’ve strengthened the very heart of West Niagara.”
Mayor Jeff Jordan, Town of Grimsby
HHS CEO Tracey MacArthur ad dresses the Friday evening re ception gathering.
Dr. Andy Lam, left, and Dr. Seamus Donaghy were among those on hand for Friday night’s post-grand opening reception. McDonald - Photos
THANK YOU
to the Province for their steadfast support, to Hamilton Health Sciences for their expertise and leadership, to the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation and the Hospital Auxiliary for their passionate fundraising; and perhaps most of all, to every community member who ardently advocated for this new hospital. It took many hands and many voices to make this possible. We did it!
Township of West Lincoln Council & Staff
TIRELESS
From Page 5
“Tony, you know, we laugh at your enthusiasm, but sometimes when things were really a bit down, we’d get that message about the dream team and it would lift us all up and get us going again,” said Easton.
“It’s amazing what a group of people standing in the middle of a football field in the middle of a snowstorm holding candles (could do). These are the people that never gave up,” said Easton, noting the leadership of key people combined with the drive of the community kept WLMH alive.
“It reminds us what is possible when a community stands together with a shared purpose.”
In 2001 the rebuild could have been done for $136.8 million with the community’s share of $13.6 already raised. It ended up costing $224 million.
West Lincoln Mayor Cheryl Ganann was appreciative of the varied levels of support for the rebuild.
“First of all, thank you to the province – this would not have been possible without the steadfast com-
Tony Joosse, co-chair of the Save & Rebuild Committee discusses the WLMH process with Premier Doug Ford. Williscraft - Photo
mitment from Premier Ford and our local MPP Oosterhoff. I would like to thank Hamilton Health Sciences for their expertise and leadership, and the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation for their passionate fundraising and support,” said Ganann. But perhaps most of all, I would like to recognize every community member who refused to let this matter fade from the forefront of public attention. I am so proud to be able to say to every one of those people: We did it!”
Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jordan said the completion of the rebuild positions the community’s healthcare for decades.
“A new hospital represents far more than bricks and mortar. It is a symbol of hope, progress, and harmony. It ensures families can access quality care close to home, strengthens the local economy and attracts skilled professionals and, most importantly, it reflects a community of shared pride,” said Jordan.
Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton greets Premier Doug Ford. Williscraft - Photos
(Above) West Lincoln Mayor Cheryl Ganann speaks to the crowd.
(Below) Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jordan takes his turn.
Main St. West in Grimsby - special event Saturday with sommelier Katie Cyr.
Participants can enlighten their senses and knowledge of teas and tisanes through an interactive tea blending workshop. Explore over a dozen herbs, fruits and spices and create your own custom tea blend based on what flavours, tastes and health benefits appeal to you. Cyr,
creator of The Monarch Tea Co., will educate on the art, history and culture of tea blending as well as tips and tricks for creating your own brew. Guests will enjoy samples of tea throughout the workshop and take home three custom hand blended teas, perfect for gifting, as well as their own tea tasting wheel. The Saturday, Nov. 22 event will start at 1 p.m. Tickets are $60pp. Space is limited. Tickets are at the museum, info@nellesmanor.ca, or Eventbrite.
Grimsby Fire launches support for GBF’s Hamper Program
By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow
It’s a tall order- Grimsby Benevolent Fund (GBF) will be filling more than 300 Christmas hampers this season – but then, together with the Grimsby firefighters, they’ve had decades of practice.
And what never changes is the generosity of the Grimsby community’s support for their neighbours in need.
The Grimsby Firefighters Association is once again teaming up with GBF for the annual Christmas Hamper program. Firefighters will be walking at the front of the Grimsby Santa Claus parade Saturday, Dec. 6 and collecting donations.
“As an agency we want to take the opportunity to embrace the firefighters and challenge everyone to bring something to the parade to celebrate the firefighters and 60 years of participation,” said GBF CEO Stacy Elia. GBF is
celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.
Firefighter Jeff Dancer said Grimsby firefighters have been participating in the Christmas hamper program since the early 1990s, and closer to 2000 started collecting donations along the parade route.
Firefighter Jim Bergshoeff recalled that Christie’s Dairy was the sponsor at the time and provided the paper bags for collecting.
Turned out the parade and paper and inclement weather didn’t always bode well for the bags.
The community can support with donations of food, gifts for a variety of ages, gift cards, sponsoring a family and financial donations are also gratefully accepted.
Donations from the parade will be transported to Mountainview Church for sorting, Dec. 10-11 and packing of hampers, Dec. 12.
do not drop donations at the firehall but take them directly to GBF.
While the greatest need is for teenager and male gifts, there is a long wish list needing to be filled.
Food items can include children’s snacks, juices, cereals, coffee, tea, canned meat, fish vegetables, fruit, soups and stew; personal hygiene products, household cleaning supplies, baby food, and diapers. For information about the Christmas Hamper Program, contact Ashley Marr, director of programs, programsdirector@gbfgrimsby.com or call 905-309-5664 Ext. 25.
On hand for GBF’s Christmas Hamper Program kick-off were: (L to R) Front: Jeff Dancer; Ashley Marr, GBF director of programs; Stacy Elia, GBF CEO; long-time GBF volunteer Bruce Bond; and Jim Bergshoeff. Back: Ryan Green, Ken Bell, Aaron Crawford and Christian Giovannini. Please
McDonald - Photo
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 127 – Grimsby
Dedicated to Our Community
Mission Statement
Our mission is to serve Veterans, which includes Serving Military and RCMP members and their families, to promote Remembrance and to serve our Communities and our Country.
We raise funds through various avenues: Annual Poppy Campaign, Meat Draws, Lottery Draws, Nevada Ticket Sales, bar and food sales, Special Events such as Golf Tournaments, New Year’s Eve Galas and Event Space Rentals.
We donate to National and Provincial programs that directly serve Canadian Veterans.
We support local Community charitable and non-profit organizations through both cash donations and free services:
• West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation
• Local Boy Scouts and Girl Guides
• Grimsby Basketball Association
• Grimsby Town Youth Soccer Club
• Grimsby Baseball Association
• West Niagara Minor Hockey
• McNally House Hospice
• Air Cadets
• Rose Cottage Visiting Volunteers/ West Niagara Palliative Care Services
• Grimsby Fire Department
• West Niagara Secondary School
• Blessed Trinity Catholic Secondary School
• Lincoln Leapers
• Peach King Hockey
• Grimsby Minor Hockey
• The Fort
• Gillian’s Place – Grimsby
• Special Olympics West Niagara
• Community Care
• Grimsby Benevolent Fund
• Stockings of Love (for local retirement home residents at Christmas time)
• Grimsby Rotary Club
• GAMRU
• YMCA
• Big Brothers & Big Sisters
• St. Joseph Care –for Veterans Care & Comfort
• Grimsby Fishing Club – Youth Tournament
• Grimsby Gentlemen Rugby Football Club
• Kinnette Club of Grimsby
• Camp Maple Leaf: for children of Military, Veteran and First-Responder families, and those facing unique life challenges, come together to build confidence, resilience, and lifelong friendships.
• Remembrance Literary and Poster Contests
• Grimsby Firefighters Association
• Redcoats Lacrosse
• Local restaurant initiative to provide a free hot Christmas meal to those in need
• Veteran’s Banner Project
•Grimsby Remembrance Day Ceremony and Reception
•Annual Veteran’s Lunch And many more over the years!
GRIMSBY LEGION AND REMEMBRANCE DAY CAMPAIGN
Grimsby Legion wishes to thank those who attended the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 127 Grimsby Cenotaph and braved the cold weather as well as all local organizations, service providers and the Town of Grimsby for assisting and participating in this year’s Remembrance Day Ceremony.
THE GUARDIANS OF REMEMBRANCE
We, as Members of The Royal Canadian Legion, strive to keep the memory alive of the hundreds of thousands of Canadians who paid the supreme sacrifice in the service of Canada during World wars and on subsequent operations. This goal is achieved through our annual Poppy Campaign and the Remembrance Day services organized by this great organization throughout the country and by our fellow citizens who are working far from our shores.
62 Phantom Air Cadets
FORT Gillian’s Place Special Olympics
WLMH Foundation
Beamsville 4Paw Rescue has more than 60 cats and kittens looking to find their forever home before Christmas.
4Paw Rescue is hosting adop-
tion events every weekend from Grimsby to St. Catharines to Niagara Falls, with interactive Cat Lap Lounges to help you bond with potential new family members.
Township of West Lincoln 2024 Financial Statements
The Township of West Lincoln’s 2024 Audited Financial Statements have been posted on the Township’s website at westlincoln.ca/budget A hard copy may be picked up from Township Administration at 318 Canborough Street, Smithville, during the regular hours of Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
If you have any questions, please contact Katelyn Repovs, Director, Corporate Services/Chief Financial Officer, at krepovs@westlincoln.ca.
Dates, times and locations for these adoption events can be found on Beamsville 4Paw Res cue’s website: beamsville4pawrescue.com
Public Notice: NOTICE OF INTENTION TO DESIGNATE PURSUANT TO THE ONTARIO HERITAGE ACT, R.S.O. 1990
TAKE NOTICE that the Town Clerk of the Corporation of the Town of Lincoln intends to designate the following real property, including the lands and building, as a property of cultural heritage value or interest, pursuant to the provisions of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter O.18, Part IV, Section 29.
4881 King Street, Part Lot 161, Corporation Plan 3, Beamsville, Parts 1 to 3 on 30R-7905, in the Town of Lincoln.
Description of Property
4881 King Street contains a 2.5-storey residential building on the north side of King Street in Beamsville, Town of Lincoln, situated between East Street and Bartlett Road and adjacent to Great Lakes Christian College.
Historical Value
The property has historical value for its association with prominent local individuals. Before 1886, the land was owned by John Henry Smith and his wife Rosetta. Smith was the grandson of John Smith, one of Grimsby’s earliest settlers, arriving in 1787. Rosetta was a member of the Prudhomme family, also well known in the region. The Smiths sold the property to Hugh Sinclair, who constructed the house circa 1905.
Hugh Sinclair was active in Beamsville’s civic life. He served as one of the first directors of the Mechanics’ Institute formed in 1884, continuing in this role until 1897. He was elected to the Board of Education in 1886 and served for many years. Sinclair was also village auditor, a director of the Clinton, Louth and North Grimsby Agricultural Society, secretary to Senator William Gibson, and Beamsville’s Postmaster.
Architectural Value
The dwelling has architectural value as a rare and notable example of a red pressed brick house combining Queen Anne Revival and
Edwardian Classicism styles, built in the early 20th century during a period of significant economic and population growth in Beamsville. At this time, the village was expanding following the rebuilding of its commercial core after the 1891 fire, and industries such as the Beamsville Pressed Brick Company and a major carriage works were thriving. Within the Town of Lincoln’s proposed Heritage Conservation District, Queen Anne architecture represents only 4% of building stock and Edwardian Classicism 6%. The house also reflects the work of a significant local builder, using red pressed bricks and rough brick voussoirs supplied by the Beamsville Pressed Brick Company, established in 1875.
Contextual Value
The property supports the heritage character of the East End Mixed-Use Corridor, an area of modest setbacks and predominantly nineteenth-century buildings that reflect Beamsville’s prosperous industrial past, including stonecutting, brick pressing, and fruit growing. The property is physically, functionally, and visually linked to its surroundings, contributing to the pedestrian streetscape. West of Great Lakes Christian College, residential properties have shallow front yards, while the College features broad lawns. Bartlett Creek bisects the area, with larger residential lots to the east and mixed commercial and industrial uses on the north side of King Street.
Additional Information
Full particulars of the reasons for designation are available in the Clerk’s Office, Town Hall, 4800 South Service Road, Beamsville.
NOTICE OF OBJECTION to the proposed designation, with reasons and supporting facts, must be served to the Town Clerk before December 20th, 2025
DATED at the Town of Lincoln this 20th day of November 2025.
Lincoln considering 1.84% 2026 tax increase
By Mike Williscraft NewsNow
After its capital budget was tabled Nov. 5 and the operating budget discussed last week, Nov. 12, Lincoln council is now weighing the merits of a proposed 1.84 per cent 2026 tax increase on an average assessed home of $385,000.
The budget calls for $2.13 million to go into roads and sidewalk rehabilitation and $1.2 million for water and wastewater renewal.
“When residents look at their property tax bill, it’s important to understand that only a portion of it funds the Town of Lincoln. The majority actually goes to the Ni-
ST. HELEN CHURCH
4106 Mountain St., Beamsville
agara Region and the Province for education. For every dollar collected, the Town receives roughly a third, the remaining two-thirds fund regional services such as policing, public health, paramedics, social services, long-term care, waste collection, and regional infrastructure,” said Lincoln CAO Mike Kirkopoulos.
Niagara Region is looking at a 9.9 per cent increase on its portion.
Lincoln council has less than a week to consider any revisions to the budget through amendments.
If no amendments are made, the proposed budget will be adopted effective Nov. 25.
Big Payout With Progressive Jackpot
Thursday, Nov. 20 - 11 am in the Church Great Hall
Jackpot $1,150 Hot Lunch - Sandwiches available at Noon
Friday, Nov. 21 - 7:00 pm in the Church Great Hall Jackpot $2,900
Niagara Irrigation Initiative Project
Notice of a Workshop for Growers, Producers, Greenhouse Operators and Agricultural Landowners & Public Information Centre
Feasibility, Costing and Preliminary Design Study for a New Piped Irrigation System in Lincoln and West St. Catharines
The Study
The Study is an undertaking to consider the feasibility, costs, and preliminary design of a communal irrigation system in the areas below the Niagara Escarpment between Beamsville and St. Catharines. This Study will advance previous irrigation work, recommend the most efficient, environmentally sound and cost-effective design and provide the foundational technical, financial, and engagement work needed to move toward detailed design and implementation.
Join Us – Your Input is Important
The Project Steering Committee, supported by Niagara Region Staff and Project Consulting Team is hosting a Workshop and a Public Information Centre.
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Ball’s Falls Conservation Area: Glen Elgin Room
3292 Sixth Avenue, Lincoln, ON
Workshop: 3 - 5 p.m.
(Formal workshop with presentation starting at 3 p.m.)
The purpose of the session is for growers, producers, greenhouse operators, and agricultural landowners who have an interest in irrigation to receive updates regarding technical work completed since the kick-off session in July 2025 and to provide input on the problem and opportunity statement, water demand, evaluation criteria and highlevel list of alternatives under consideration.
The session will include a presentation and interactive discussions. While invitees are welcome at both sessions, it is highly recommended that growers, producers, greenhouse operators, and agricultural landowners attend this workshop for more focused and technical discussions.
Public Information Centre: 6-8 p.m. (Drop-in anytime)
Members of the public and interested people are invited to attend, learn about the importance of irrigation in Niagara and provide feedback on the problem and opportunity statement, evaluation criteria and a high-level list of alternatives under consideration. This open house drop-in event will feature display boards and a survey. Materials will also be available on the Study webpage following the event: niagararegion.ca/projects/irrigation-initiative/
Contact Us
If you are interested in the Study but cannot attend, please e-mail us at: irrigation@niagararegion.ca and we will include you on the contact list.
For additional information please contact: Sean Norman, PMP, MCIP, RPP Senior Planner, Niagara Region 905-980-6000 extension 3179 sean.norman@niagararegion.ca
If you require any accommodations for a disability to participate in meetings or events, please let us know in advance so that arrangements can be made in a timely manner. Special accessibility accommodations and materials in alternate formats can be arranged by contacting Sean Norman, at 905-980-6000 extension 3179 or sean.norman@niagararegion.ca.
Information collected, used and disclosed is in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Questions about this collection and disclosure should be directed to the Access and Privacy Office at 905-980-6000 extension 3779 or extension 3468 or FOI@niagararegion.ca.
Lake Ontario
Lincoln
Thorold
Welland
Pelham West Lincoln
“Because of GBF, We are able to leave a little something extra under the tree for our children. Without your generosity, the magic of the season would pass our family by.”
Mom and Dad of two children.
When you give to our Christmas Hamper Program, you are making sure a neighbour in need has something to look forward to this holiday season. Neighbours like a mom and dad who struggle to provide for their two children after paying for rent,
food and utilities. Knowing people close by care for our family gives us strength when days are so difficult.
Lucky Winner
Bernedetta Walsh - with ticket #1144 - was the winner of The Knights of Columbus Our Lady of the Lake Council 4917’s 50/50 draw at the club’s annual Trivia Knight hosted at the Mountain Ridge Community Centre. Michael Bradica, Grand Knight, left, and Carmine Filice, Deputy Grand Knight, presented Bernedetta with her winnings. The proceeds from the draw and the Trivia Knight will be used to make donations to various organizations in Grimsby including McNally House Hospice, the Grimsby Life Centre, Rose Cottage Visiting Volunteers, the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation and others. The Knights thanked all those who supported the 50/50 Raffle and the Trivia Knight. “Without your support we would not be able to support the community. Thank you everyone,” said Bradica, who helped with the event.
We’re Ready!
Thanks to a great response!
NewsNow has not skipped a beat to deliver for our community. We are now having our carriers go door-to-door in Grimsby, Beamsville, Vineland, Jordan & Smithville.
There are just a few routes vacant, so if you happened to miss your copy - or if you live in a rural area - we have planned a large list of helpful outlets to allow for quick and convenient pick ups.
Grimsby
Beamsville
A fundraising centerpiece workshop will be hosted at the Erland Lee Museum’s 1873 Cottage House on Saturday, Dec. 13 from 10 a.m.-Noon. The cost, including all supplies is $40pp. The musem is located at 552 Ridge Road. For more details, call 905-662-2691 or email: fwio@fwio.on.ca
West Lincoln
HAT TRICK HOCKEY
Week 3 (Standing as of Nov. 16th, 2025)
Be sure to look online at: wn3.ca to see the full standings, but here are some of the leaders and lucky random draw winners:
• $15 Gift Card, courtesy of Tim Hortons, Grimsby: Brian Chesta
• $15 gift certificate courtesy of Jordan Flowers,Grimsby: Shelley Later
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Judge & Jester, Grimsby: Samantha Bitar
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Canadian Tire, Grimsby: Ben Bos
• Large, 3-Item Pizza, Pick-Up Only, courtesy of Gino’s Pizza Grimsby: Alaina Holodniuk
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Memphis BBQ., Winona: Roberta Greenwood
• 2 Tickets to a Grimsby Peach Kings game, Grimsby: Anne Scott Winners can stop by the NewsNow office to pick up their winnings
1. Redding, Jeff 405
2. Van Roon, Jim 398
3. Kraan, Alisha 391
4. Ritz, Jon 389
5. Fozard, Draj 387
6. Murray, Nick 387
7. DeVries, Mark 386
8. Jacobsen, Sean 385
9. Van Roon, Cory 385
10. Simmons, Cam 385
11. Zdriluk, Jacob 384
12. Halliday, Colin 384
13. Couch, Jesse 384
14. Chesla, Karen 382
15. Wilson, Corey 380
16. Mous, Lauren 380
17. Stuive, Cindy 379
18. Fiorantis, Philip 379
19. Agius, Joe 379
20. Klages, Lilian 379
Wrapped In The Coziest Blanket
By Rosemary Addison
When Stephanie DiTomasso walked into McNally House Hospice with her father, Marian Juras, who was being admitted, she felt like someone had wrapped her in the coziest blanket.
This genuine warmth and compassion has continued through Marian’s stay.
Marian uses the words caring and compassion when speaking about McNally. Another word he uses is love. He feels that the staff and volunteers love caring for the residents.
Marian shares stories, building a soap box car when he was 12, driving exotic cars, building a dollstrip canoe and about his greenhouse and farm
Marian Juras
relationship with staff and volunteers.
integrity, and, respect shown to residents and their families. They encourage people not to hesitate to inquire about McNally House Hospice and the genuine, supportive care provided.
Marian has a clear view of the construction of the new 10-bed hospice and was given the title of honourary Supervisor of the Building Project, hard hat and all. Times like this fill him with warmth and love.
“This is my home now. Everyone here is my family.”
From holiday dinners and family tea parties, to special art projects and being serenaded with Polish songs, to singing along with a Newfoundland ditty and sharing comfort, food,
teers, for all of this and so much more, Marian says with full heart, thank you, thank you, thank you!
McNally House is about life. McNally House is home. McNally House is about receiving a hug on the first day, a feeling of being wrapped in the coziest blanket possible, a feeling that stays throughout the whole journey.
Government funding covers only 44% of our operating costs. Each year, more than $1.8 million must be raised to ensure our hospice residents and programs remain available to our community.
This season of giving, your donation makes that possible. Visit:
West Lincoln honours the fallen
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 393 member Kevin Wadden stands his post before the Canadian and Ontario flags and British ensign.
(Left) Air Cadet Flight Sergeants Kennedy Kyle (left) and Dylan Kyle guard the Smithville cenotaph on Remembrance Day.
Photos By Evan Loree
John Calvin Grade 8 students Seth Lenting and Eddie Jagt were two of three students reading In Flanders Fields at the Smithville Remembrance Day ceremony.
(Above) Smithville
Lily Toth-Banier, 10, gives the Girl Guides’ three-fingered salute.
Air Cadet Sgt. Noah Martin marches with Afghanistan veteran Chris Kivell.
Smithville Legion president Karen Kemp opens the Remembrance Day ceremony at the Legion hall in Smithville.
Grimsby remembers
(Above) Grimsby firefighers (L t0 R) Ken Bell, Ryan Green, Retired Whitby Fire Platoon Chief Don Moor, District Chief Jim Taylor, Retired District Chief Paul Kucharuk, Deputy Fire Chief Jim Kay pay their respects.
(Left) Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jordan lays a wreath during the proceedings at last Tuesday’s Remembrance Day ceremony in Grimsby.
Photos By Mitch
Brown
Attendees at
Grimsby’s Remembrance Day ceremony were met with the remnants of the first snow of the season.
Standing post, 62 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron’s Sgt Pralica.
A blanket of poppies adorns the wall at Grimsby Museum.
Notice of Front-Ending Agreement
Notice of Front-Ending Agreement Region of Niagara
November 12, 2025
November 12, 2025
November 12, 2025
Region of Niagara
Notice of Front-Ending Agreement
Region of Niagara
PW-22-2025
PW-22-2025
PW-22-2025
The Council of the Regional Municipality of Niagara, at its meeting on May 1, 2025 , approved Bill No. 2025-20 to authorize the consolidation and extension of a front -ending agreement between the Regional Municipality of Niagara and Marz Homes (Smithville West) Inc. The frontending agreement enables an updated financial strategy for the installation of a Phase 1 Trunk Watermain and Streamside Sewage Pumping Station Upgrades to service the Northwest Quadrant Secondary Plan in Smithville whereby 3% interest w ill be paid annually on agreed upon costs to the Developer with reimbursement of costs to be fully satisfied in 2028, in alignment with planned Regional capital works.
The Council of the Regional Municipality of Niagara, at its meeting on May 1, 2025 , approved Bill No. 2025-20 to authorize the consolidation and extension of a front -ending agreement between the Regional Municipality of Niagara and Marz Homes (Smithville West) Inc. The frontending agreement enables an updated financial strategy for the installation of a Phase 1 Trunk Watermain and Streamside Sewage Pumping Station Upgrades to service the Northwest Quadrant Secondary Plan in Smithville whereby 3% interest w ill be paid annually on agreed upon costs to the Developer with reimbursement of costs to be fully satisfied in 2028, in alignment with planned Regional capital works.
The Council of the Regional Municipality of Niagara, at its meeting on May 1, 2025 , approved Bill No. 2025-20 to authorize the consolidation and extension of a front -ending agreement between the Regional Municipality of Niagara and Marz Homes (Smithville West) Inc. The frontending agreement enables an updated financial strategy for the installation of a Phase 1 Trunk Watermain and Streamside Sewage Pumping Station Upgrades to service the Northwest Quadrant Secondary Plan in Smithville whereby 3% interest w ill be paid annually on agreed upon costs to the Developer with reimbursement of costs to be fully satisfied in 2028, in alignment with planned Regional capital works.
As per Section 46 of the Development Charges Act , notice is required to be given, not later than 20 days after the day the agreement is made, by mailing to every owner of land within the area defined in the front ending agreement (Schedule B to the agreement).
As per Section 46 of the Development Charges Act , notice is required to be given, not later than 20 days after the day the agreement is made, by mailing to every owner of land within the area defined in the front ending agreement (Schedule B to the agreement).
As per Section 46 of the Development Charges Act , notice is required to be given, not later than 20 days after the day the agreement is made, by mailing to every owner of land within the area defined in the front ending agreement (Schedule B to the agreement).
An owner of land within the area defined in the front -ending agreement may object by filing a notice with the Clerk, including the reasons supporting the objection. The Ontario Land Tribunal will hold a hearing to deal with any notice of objection forwarde d by the Clerk. Any benefitting landowner may file a notice of objection to the front -ending agreement, with reasons for objection, to the Clerk no later than 40 days after the agreement is made. The last day for filing an objection to the agreement is December 12, 2025.
An owner of land within the area defined in the front -ending agreement may object by filing a notice with the Clerk, including the reasons supporting the objection. The Ontario Land Tribunal will hold a hearing to deal with any notice of objection forwarde d by the Clerk. Any benefitting landowner may file a notice of objection to the front -ending agreement, with reasons for objection, to the Clerk no later than 40 days after the agreement is made. The last day for filing an objection to the agreement is December 12, 2025.
An owner of land within the area defined in the front -ending agreement may object by filing a notice with the Clerk, including the reasons supporting the objection. The Ontario Land Tribunal will hold a hearing to deal with any notice of objection forwarde d by the Clerk. Any benefitting landowner may file a notice of objection to the front -ending agreement, with reasons for objection, to the Clerk no later than 40 days after the agreement is made. The last day for filing an objection to the agreement is December 12, 2025.
A copy of the front-ending agreement is available for inspection at the Regional Municipality of Niagara Office, Campbell East Visitors Entrance (1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Thorold) between the hours of 8 a .m. and 4:30 p.m.
A copy of the front-ending agreement is available for inspection at the Regional Municipality of Niagara Office, Campbell East Visitors Entrance (1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Thorold) between the hours of 8 a .m. and 4:30 p.m.
Should you have any questions, please contact clerk@niagararegion.ca .
A copy of the front-ending agreement is available for inspection at the Regional Municipality of Niagara Office, Campbell East Visitors Entrance (1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Thorold) between the hours of 8 a .m. and 4:30 p.m.
Should you have any questions, please contact clerk@niagararegion.ca
Should you have any questions, please contact clerk@niagararegion.ca .
Beamsville Lions tree lot open
Scout Ryker Bonner, 10, pulls his weight as Beamsville Lions set up their Christmas tree lot on Saturday - located on Ontario Street, north of the tracks in Beamsville. The lot is open weekdays 3-9 p.m.; Sat./ Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. for cash, debit and credit sales.
(Above) Karly Mellor gets some trees in ine for public viewing.
(Below) Scout Rosie Hugill-Bourque and Alivia Bartley, ages 13, help to unload over 500 Christmas trees delivered to the Lion’s lot.
Steven Weiterman displays some deft balancing skills with his one-handed tree moving between sips of coffee.
Lions members Bob Cranfield and John Burton take a break from hauling trees.
Beamsville Lion Jon Van Velden strips mesh netting off a Christmas tree.
Please call to place your Classified Ad
OBITUARIES
garvin
James “Jim” Frederick
Passed away peacefully at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the age of 82. Beloved husband and best friend to Gloria (nee Barber) for 33 years. Loving father to Jennifer, Ken, John (Leeanne) and Cheryl. Dear grandfather to Eric, Joel, Lauren, Mackenzie, Michael, Kayleigh, Austin, Maks and Owen. Predeceased by his parents Norman and Gloria (nee Kilgour). As a career, Jim was a proud and devoted employee of Bell Canada. After retirement at age 55, Jim pursued his passion as an antique collector and dealer. He will be fondly remembered as a dedicated volunteer at the Grimsby Benevolent Fund, where he served his community and made friendships along the way.
To honour Jim’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755.
www.smithsfh.com
CARS
CArS, truCkS, old farm machinery for scrap or repair. we pay cash. Flatbed service. 905-386-6181 or 289-686-5059.
CELEBRATE RECOVERY
Struggling with hurtS, hAnguPS or hAbitS?
“Celebrate Recovery (CR)” 12 step Christian Recovery for Healing, Help and Hope. ALL WELCOME!
Wednesdays at 7 pm. Forestview Community Church, 132 Lake St, Grimsby. For info. or help, CR@forestviewcommunitychurch.ca 905945-9529
OBITUARIES
HugHes, David Joseph
Passed away at United Mennonite Home, on Sunday, November 16, 2025, in his 90th year. Beloved husband of Shirley (nee Davidson) for more than 68 years. Loved father of Marianne Buchanan, Michael Hughes and Judi Rock. Cherished grandfather of Kate Buchanan, Karen Reis (Brett), Meghan Hughes, Melanie Rock, Rachel O’Hagan (Bryce) and the late Jenna Hughes and great-grandfather of Skyleigh, Logan, Oliver, Beau, Rory and Desmond. Dear brother of Cath Nesbitt (late Bob), Larry Hughes and the late Mary Strecker (late Phil) and brother-in-law of Bill Davidson (Joanne). Dave was a long-time employee of Dofasco. Visitation at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, 135 Livingston Avenue, Grimsby, on Thursday, November 20, 2025, from 3-5 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at the church on Friday, November 21, 2025 at 10 a.m. Burial to follow at Our Lady of the Angels Cemetery. If desired, memorial contributions to the Cancer Society or the Alzheimer Society would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755). www.smithsfh.com
COMING EVENT
hELP WANTED
Job oPPortunitY Parttime Pianist Needed. 4-5 hours per week: Sundays from 10:00am – 12:00pm, 2-3 hours practice time at your convenience. Jordan Station United Church. 905-562-4454. info@jordanstationunitedchurch.org
hOUSE CLEANING
CleAning If you need your house or condo cleaned call Irena. independent europeen cleaning lady. I use all natural cleaning products. 289-207-2097
rubbiSh & Junk reMoVAl. Call Ken 905-973-3235
mudge margaret (maggie) edythe
Passed away peacefully at United Mennonite Home, Vineland, on Thursday, November 13, 2025, in her 94th year. Beloved wife of the late Harry Otto Mudge. Loved mother of Christina Rossi, Laura Smits (Fred), Kevin Mudge (Melanie) and Tim Mudge. Cherished grandmother of Corinne (John), Sarah, Leanna (Don), Melissa, Greg, Tyler (Katie), Stephanie (Derrick), Stephen (Natisha) and Vik and 12 great grandchildren. Dear sister of the late Donald Allen (Carole), late Herb Allen (Jackie), Marvin Allen (late Carolyn), late Robert Allen (Cheryl), Norm Allen (Selena), and Shirley Muir (late Jim Muir).
Cremation has taken place. A Service of Remembrance will be held at STONEHOUSEWHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755) on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 1 p.m. If desired, memorial contributions to the charity of your choice or The Canadian Cancer Society would be sincerely appreciated by the family.
www.smithsfh.com
IN MEMEMORIUM
CARE
Business Directory
Complete Basements and Bathrooms
• Painting
Cermamics
• Finishing Trim
Drywall
Email: timvanoosten7@gmail.com Call 905-563-5904
Williams Welding & Fabrication
Custom
HVac Licensed gas Technician • Installation, Service Maintenance • Heating, Cooling, Gas Lines
• Local Free Quotes
• References upon request. call Blake 365-889-7838
Colourful fundraiser
West Lincoln Memorial auxiliary has kicked off its annual Poinsettia Sale. Supporters can choose from red, white and pink varieties - supplied by Linwell gardens. a 6-inch pot is $10 with 8-inch pots at $20, tax included. all proceeds go to support the auxiliary’s efforts for raise funds for equipment at WLMH. Poinsettias can be purchased in the lobby of the new WLMH building on Nov. 26 & 27 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. each day. On hand for the launch were: (L to R) auxiliary members Marlene Morais, Rosalind Lilley, kathy Smart and Fred Lilley with Linwell gardens Edie groen and amanda Boverhoff. For more details, check wlmhauxiliary.ca Williscraft - Photo
100% Niagara owned & operated
Our Team:
Publisher - Mike Williscraft
mike@wn3.ca
289-442-4244
General Manager - Catherine Williscraft
Sales Consultant - Erica Huisman
Graphics - Donna Wisnoski
NewsNow is owned & operated by 1602207 Ontario Ltd. Office Location 45 Main St. West, Grimsby, ON, L3M 1R3 Ph: 289-235-9500 Ph: 289-235-7848
NewsNow is published EVERY Thursday & delivered to all homes & businesses in Niagara West, 29,006
Words hard to come by
It’s been a long time since I have been nervouslikely not the correct word - going to an event, but last Friday morning was not a normal morning and not a normal event on the NewsNow event docket.
REALIZED
Coming to your home next week....
The day we’ve all been waiting for - no, not another WLMH magazine - but the opening of our NEW West Lincoln Memorial Hospital. To commemorate this momentous occasion in Niagara West, we have created a wall-to-wall glossy magazine with every detail we could muster detailing the new facility. We hope you enjoy it!
I am just one person. On the weekend - as the comments and happenings of Friday’s grand opening at the NEW West Lincoln Memorial Hospital sunk into my brain - I thought back over how much time has been invested to try to keep a pulse going for the place and, in recent years, to raise funds and get the construction moving and on to completion.
My estimate is 1,500 hours over 29 years for me - that’s 10 hours per week over that span, which is a little shy really, but my point is to give you an idea, good reader, how many 10s of thousands of hours from countless community members were needed to make this new build happen.
It was thinking back on those first meetings of the Save WLMH committee back in 1997 and all the good folks along the way that made me a bit nervous. I think it was the anticipation of it all which had me wound up.
Many, dozens in fact, did not live to see Friday arrive. Virtually everyone in town would have known someone who would have done whatever was needed, whatever was asked of them, to get a new hospital.
The waves of emotion felt over that long, long time have been extreme on both ends of the scale.
The despair when the first notice was first decreed the facility would close in the winter of ‘96; then the now-legendary candlelight vigil at Grimsby Secondary - roughly 6 months before MPP Sam Oosterhoff was even born at WLMH; then petitions and demonstrations, meeting after meeting, trips to Queen’s Park, you name it.
There was a TON of heaving lifting long before the “fun” stuff came along in the last few years once the rebuild was greenlit.
We all know the pain and angst experienced since 1997 but now, finally, let’s turn the page, be appreciative of what just happened and look ahead to the ridiculously bright future for WLMH and Niagara West as far as healthcare is concerned.
One glaring issue which repeatedly reared its ugly head at WLMH has been staff recruitment. Aggressive campaigns had to be
constructed to fill staffing holes pretty much across the board.
In Friday’s speeches, Tony Joosse noted a recent posting for a registered nurse position at WLMH generated 70 applicants. Get your mind around that. Remember a couple of years ago when Grimsby, Lincoln and West Lincoln were considering going back to those incentive packages to draw healthcare professionals to the area?
With all the new - services supported by stateof-the-art equipment - the employment roll at WLMH is projected to hit the 500-plus mark as things fill out and get up to speed.
Yes, we think about healthcare with the new facility - and rightly sobut WLMH will also pack a serious economic benefit punch in a good way for Niagara West. Staff will want to be “on this side of the bridge” if not living right in one of our communities. With the added services will come new spin-off businesses, some of which we have seen introduce themselves to the community already.
For a guy who is supposed to be good with words, I am finding words scarce to encompass all I feel and want to relate you, good reader.
Simply, it’s awesome. A day I didn’t think would come, at times, has come and I am pretty darn happy about it.
MIKE WILLISCRAFT
WEEKLY SPECIALS FLYER -
20TH - NOV 26TH
