NewsNow E-Edition November 24 2022

Colourful wares

By Mike Williscraft For NewsNow

It took just over a year, but the West Lin coln Memorial Hospital Foundation’s Take It to The Finish fundraising campaign has reached its $7.5 million goal.

Just over a year ago, the campaign sat at $6.3 million, but at last Tuesday’s Philanthro py Day event hosted by the Foundation at Casablanca Inn it was announced the finish line had been reached.

“It just goes to show the resilience and heart our community has,” said campaign chair Andrew Smith.

“Every dime, every hot dog, every glass of lemonade mattered to make it all happen. It was a whole commu nity effort.”

The overall cost of the project is project ed to be about $200 million.

The municipal share is about $21.65 million

with Niagara Region supporting the project with $10.5 million.

Donations needed from the community are $17.85 million with about $10.4 million al ready in a Foundation designated capital re serve from prior cam paigns. This left $7.5 million in new commu nity fundraising as the goal.

“The results overall are astounding. The Foundation must take a bow for their leader ship and every citizen has contributed to the over $30 million munic ipal share,” said Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton.

“We are all very proud and look for ward to greater security for hospital care in West Niagara.”

The Foundation also announced that eve ning Tony Joosse had been awarded the Phi lanthropist of The Year Award.

West Lincoln Chamber of Commerce volunteer Brooke Spanic (left) warms up with a cosy quilt made by Deb Furry of Twenty Valley Quilts, Saturday at the Chamber’s annual Holiday Home & Gift Show at the West Lincoln Community Centre. The quilt was just one of many items for sale at the annual show. McDonald – Photo

West Lincoln’s new council sworn in Monday night

Adhering to public sentiment is key to future successes for West Lincoln coun cil, says Mayor Cher yl Ganann.

“We were elected to find better ways of approaching ageold problems or situ ations. In order to do so, we need to pay close attention to what the public is saying and has been saying along the campaign trail,”

said Ganann during West Lincoln’s inau gural council meet ing Monday night held at West Lincoln Community Centre.

“I heard, as I am sure did you, that working coopera tively with our dedi cated and knowl edgeable staff, we will need to make deliberate plans to protect green spac es, our natural heri tage systems and

work to develop ap propriate parks and people spaces, as we grow.”

Deveoping em ployment areas, pro tecting the farming community and ad vocating for an “im proved police pres ence” were listed among priorities.

The first full meet ing of council - which will be a committee of the whole - will be held Dec. 12.

The return of the Co-signor: Asking Mom or Dad to co-sign on your mortgage is a popular solution, once again.

For many homebuyers, the dream of homeownership is just that - a dream. This is primarily due to the Federal Government’s mortgage qualifying stress test, and higher interest rates than we’ve experienced over the past five years, as well as runaway house prices.

Another challenge: Wages have not kept pace with the increase to home values.

One possible solution to help you qualify for a mortgage is to source a Co-signor. It can be anyone who is financially stable and with whom you have mutual trust, but typically mortgage lenders prefer that your Co-signor be an immediate relative.

The Co-signor will have to meet the same financial qualifications as you, the primary borrower. This will include a good credit score, reliable income and low debt service ratios.

Retired parents with modest pension income may not be the best candidates, even though they may be mortgage free in their own home.

Agreeing to co-sign for someone implies risk, and little benefit, other than the joy from helping your loved one realize their home ownership dream. All parties should be fully aware of what is at stake, with a clear understanding of the arrangement before entering into such an agreement. I also recommended that all parties seek independent legal and accounting advice before entering into this type of arrangement.

A co-signor is just one possible solution to a successful mortgage application. I welcome the opportunity to help you determine your options for mortgage financing. Talk to us, you’ll be impressed.

7 Livingston Avenue, Grimsby, ON L3M 1K4 Tel: 905.309.8850 email: margo@mymortgageadvisor.ca www.mymortgageadvisor.ca

Township of West Lincoln’s 2022-2026 council was sworn in at its inaugural meeting on Monday night. On hand were (L to R) Jason Trombetta, Shelley Ann Bradaric, Mayor Cheryl Ganann, Joann Chechalk, Terry Bell and William Reilly. Mike Rehner was absent. Walker - Photo

Wynhofen, B.A.Econ., Principal Broker

Public engagement key to Grimsby term: Jordan

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

Reverting back to the standing committee format for meeting structure will be the first order of business, Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jor dan confirmed during his inaugu ral address Monday night. Council members were sworn in during the session in council chambers.

“One of the first priorities for this council is to return our gov ernance to a standing committee system, thereby restoring resident participation on committees and ensuring the expertise of coun cillors is placed where it is most beneficial to the community,” said Jordan.

Noting the electorate was definitive in its direction at the ballot box, Jordan said council needs to carry that direction through.

“They (voters) want all mem bers of council to be committed to transparency, accountability and integrity, but also to respect those principles and put them into actual practice. Being granted a seat in these chambers is a privi lege for each and every one of us,” he said.

In summation, he added, “To you, our residents, Council looks forward to listening and working with you to ensure that our shared community visions are guided and realized. Your voice will always be heard and respected.”

SCHEDULE

Thurs., Nov. 17 @ 6:30

Sat., Nov. 19 @ 10:00 am

Thurs., Nov. 24 @ 6:30 pm

Sat., Nov. 26 @ 10:00 am

Thurs., Dec. 1 @ 6:30 pm

Sat., Dec. 3 @ 10:00 am

Thurs., Dec. 8 @ 6:30 pm

Sat., Dec. 10 @ 10:00 am

Thurs., Dec. 15 @ 6:30 pm

Sat., Dec. 17 @ 10:00 am

WLMH

From Page 1

Joosse has been a tireless worker on be half of WLMH, noted Smith.

“Tony has been an outstanding propo nent of our Hospital and key in working with stakeholders to get the project moved forward so quickly. I don’t recall any other provincial project of this size moving as quickly as the WLMH rebuild,” said Smith.

“It was a pleasure working with Tony in his role as a member of the Advisory Coun cil for the Take It To the Finish fundraising campaign.”

For Joosse, there

The past four years has been a long roller coaster ride. I couldn’t have done it without the support of my family, the entire save

work along with the government financial support ensuring we had the funding to keep our existing pro grams and upgrade

WLMH Foundation’s Philanthropist of the Year, Tony Joosse.

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

Development and the Green belt are hot topics these days, this was confirmed dur ing Mayor Sandra Easton’s address at Lincoln council’s inaugural meeting Monday night at Vieni Estates.

“The Town of Lincoln con tinues to grow in the heart of Niagara, with a population of 25,000 individuals who can be found in the communi ties of Beamsville, Vineland, Vineland Station, Jordan, Jordan Station, Tintern, and Rockway. Lincoln has a land mass of 163 square kms; with more than 67 per cent as a protected Greenbelt, and the remaining protected by the

important in face of development: Easton

a unit.

“Our commitment as Coun cil is of a shared vision for Lin coln, with a mindset that fo cuses on continuing the work that has been completed over the last eight years. We aim to intentionally achieve priorities set out in our evolv ing work plan and a belief in creating a future-fit community,” said Easton.

able for development growth, and the Town intends to ensure that the greenbelt boundaries remain intact and wetlands are protected. Pro

“Our community vision is a place to grow, a place to prosper, and a place to be long. Council’s collective, strategic direction guides us to the resilience demon strated in policy, and rooted in Lincoln’s financial, social, environmental, and economic well-being.”

Mayor Sandra Easton addresses the crowd Monday night.

Downtown Grimsby readies for Moonlight Madness

Laughs, line-ups and ringing cash registers combined for a trifecta of fun at last Thursday’s Grimsby DIA Ladies night event downtown.

The event kicked off a busy run of activities in downtown Grims by with Moonlight Madness com ing up next on Friday, Dec. 2 - the night before the Santa Claus Pa rade.

Last Thursday, stores were open late, offering added hospitality, with in-store specials and draws. Stores were packed all night with downtown visitors also perusing wares at an outdoor market.

The night was capped off by a full house at a special comedy show hosted at Elm Street Cafe.

“It really could not have gone better,” said DIA president Mike Williscraft.

“The weather cooperated. Busi

Next Friday’s Moonlight Mad ness - 5:30-8 p.m. - will offer family fun with elves patrolling downtown giving out candy canes, well-known singer Juliet Dunn will perform on

restaurants have to offer.

Sue Zdelar of Grimsby won the Grimsby DIA bingo promotion, a $500 shopping spree downtown.

Sherwin

John Deere

Marine rescuers searching for new heroes

South Shore Search

And Rescue’s annu al recruitment drive moved into its final phase for 2022 with an information session for prospective members.

Recruits were invited to hear more about the organization and meet some of the leaders at a special meeting on Monday, but anyone interested can still get involved by contacting membership director Matt Tulk. Member ship is open to anyone in the community 18 years of age or older.

Potential members must be physically able to work effective ly in a difficult marine environment and live

within 30 minutes of the base at Fifty Point Marina. Previous boat ing experience is an asset.

“We’re constantly renewing our member ship and we want to reach as many quali fied potential candi dates as possible each fall before classroom training starts in Janu ary,” said Tulk.

After weekly class room training in the winter, recruits will begin on-water train ing in the spring and are assigned to crews that are on stand-by 24/7 during the boat ing season.

Members are also expected to help with

the vital fundraising.

“It’s a real commit ment to serve our community,” Tulk adds, “but it’s also very gratifying.”

More than 40 active volunteers maintain a fully-equipped rescue vessel.

Potential new mem bers can contact Tulk for more details at: membership@gamru.ca

NOTICE TO EMERGENCY SERVICES

PUBLIC NOTICE

Regional Road 20 (West Street)

Regional Road 14 (Station Street)

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE

Saturday, November 26th from 4:00pm until 8:00pm

Motorists and the general public are hereby advised that Regional Road 20 (West Street) from South Grimsby Road 5 to Townline Road and Regional Road 14 (Station St.) from Smits Cove to Forest Avenue in the Township of West Lincoln will be temporarily closed to through traffic on Saturday, November 26th from 4:00pm until 8:00pm weather permitting.

The road closure is necessary for Township of West Lincoln to host their Santa Claus Parade.

The detour routes for the closures are as follows:

D1: South Grimsby Road 6 / Regional Road 14 (Townline Road) / Townline Road

D2: Young Street/ South Grimsby Road 5/ Regional Road 20 (West St)/ South Grimsby Road 6/ Regional Road 14 (Townline Rd.)/ Townline Road

Businesses and residents will have access during the closure but may be directed to take an alternate route to get to their destination.

Any inquiries concerning this closure may be directed to Montaha Awil, Corridor Technician, at (905) 980-6000 Ext. 3426

Your co-operation and patience during this period of inconvenience will be appreciated.

Bruce Zvaniga, P.Eng

Commissioner of Public Works (Interim) Niagara Region

History can offend, but important to study

It is pleasing to know that there is an appreci ation for Grimsby’s his tory among both new comers and long-time residents.

It is disturbing, though, that overall, our knowledge of history of Canada, and of the en tire world is sadly lack ing. In recent years, the education system has placed more emphasis on mathematics, and seems to relegate his tory to the back of the classroom.

Math is important, es pecially for those who plan to go into any branch of the sciences. History, on the other hand, is important to everyone!

That may seem like an overstatement, but it is a fact. Through the study of history, we learn not

A Small Drop of Ink

By Dorothy Turcotte

only facts about the past, but also why and how life on earth has evolved. There is a lot to be learned, if only we will open our minds to it instead of repeating the old refrain “I hate his tory!”.

During the last couple of years, I have been fol lowing the writings of Heather Cox Richard son, an American histo rian and professor who writes on the internet five times a week to ex plain American history and how it relates to what is happening day by day in 2022.

What a learning ex perience it has been, far more than a year of Dr. McDonald’s American

History lectures at Mc Master U in the 1940s. A lot of history has been created since then; what is happening today is history, too. If anyone knows of a Canadian history counterpart to Ms. Richardson, please let me know.

According to Trilby Kent’s new book The Vanishing Past, Canadi an children miss out on many important parts of our history.

Let it be known that history often does of fend us - the Inquisition, the Holocaust, any war you can think of, they are all offensive - but they do give us practi cal lessons on how not to solve our personal or our country’s prob lems. This is what we should be teaching in our schools.

Celebrate the Season in Niagara-on-the-Lake

November 18 - December 23

If you’re dreaming of a white Christ mas, you won’t want to miss this classic holiday favourite. Two soldiers, returning home from a USO song-anddance team, fall for two sisters in an other act. Together, they put on a show to save a Vermont inn. This musical never fails to please: you can’t help falling in love with the characters, the dancing and, of course, the singing, especially since the title song is Ber lin’s most famous and most beloved. www.shawfest.com

THE SHAW FESTIVALA

November 18 - December 23

Arrive feeling “Bah, humbug!” and leave full of warm, fuzzy Christmas spirit. www.shawfest.com

TASTE THE SEASON

Join us in Niagara-on-the-Lake for the Candlelight Stroll, Santa Claus Parade, Rotary Holiday House Tour, and Christmas Tractor Parade. Shop for Christmas presents, see a Shaw Christmas play, relax in a winter spa experience, and take in our beautiful winter gardens. Stroll through the heritage district with extended shopping hours and enjoy the decorated store windows and Christmas trees. Enjoy barrel-room wine tastings in one of our 40 wineries. Celebrate the season’s bounty with exceptional VQA wines and holiday-inspired food pairing experiences during our signature Taste the Season event. Spend a few nights at one of our elegant hotels or charming bed and breakfasts to take in the magic of this holiday season in beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake. Visit niagaraonthelake.com for more information.

TWILIGHT JAZZ & BLUES SERIES

The TD Niagara Jazz Festival presents an intimate live jazz experience in the heart of wine country. This series fea tures high-caliber jazz artists perform ing on an acoustic grand piano at the Hare Wine Co. The Mark

niagarajazzfestival.com

THE SHAW FESTIVALWHITE CHRISTMAS

CHRISTMAS CAROL

Ebenezer Scrooge is back! Nestled in the heart of the ultimate Christmas village, the charming holiday favourite A Christmas Carol returns to the Shaw Festival’s Roy al George Theatre. It’s the perfect annual reminder of what Christmas is all about.

4 weekends in November Join us this November for our Taste

Eisenmann Trio (Nov 21), Genevieve Marentette Quartet (Dec 5) and the Music of a Charlie Brown Christmas (Dec 19). Tickets: $19 - $39 + HST / 3-Show Pass: $99 + HST.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a true winter wonderland and the perfect place to celebrate the holiday season. Cozy up in one of our charming hotels or bed and breakfasts, or sip ice wine in one of our 37 wineries. Enjoy the Shaw Festival’s Christmas shows, or shop until you drop at our holiday market and authentic Christmas village. Pamper yourself in one of our five spas, or take in the lights and liveliness of our Candlelight Stroll and Santa Claus Parade. Whether you want to rock around the Christmas tree or enjoy a silent night, we’ve got something on offer for you!

choice of 2 short lectures about our community’s unique history. Tickets: $150 per person, which includes a three course meal and a $50 tax receipt.

notlmuseum.ca

CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND AT THE PILLAR & POST

The Gardens at Pillar and Post turn into a true seasonal wonderland complete with sparkling lights, holiday music, festive snacks, an ice rink, warming fire pits, and holiday movies under the stars. vintage-hotels.com

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE ROTARY

HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR

Fri, Dec 2 - Sat, Dec 3, 2022

9:30 am to 4:30 pm

If you like interior design, architecture, and seasonal decorations, the annual Niagaraon-the-Lake Rotary Holiday House Tour is for you. Tour six gorgeous, beautifully decorated homes. Visit local historic and cultural sites; sample complimentary tast ings from 3 featured wineries; and enjoy specially priced luncheons and dinners for attendees as well! And all the profits go to charitable causes.

niagaraonthelakerotary.ca/page/ holiday-house-tour

A MERRY & BRIGHT CHRISTMAS TOUR

Friday, Dec 2 & Saturday, Dec 3

A Rotary Club of Niagara-on-the-Lake event: Presented by the McArthur Family, an evening indoor/outdoor tour of the seasonally deco rated, spectacular McArthur Estate. Enjoy an enchanted tour of the grounds and the first & second floor of the McArthur Estate, exqui sitely decorated for the holiday season, with seasonal lights, live music, Santa & the Grinch,

sparkling wine, warm cider, cookies, the Ca nine Manor, the reindeer stables, children’s activities, and more!

niagaraonthelakerotary.ca

HOLIDAY MARKET AT THE NIAGARA PUMPHOUSE ART CENTRE

Dec 2 - 11

Who knew holiday gift-giving could be so much fun! Find unique and hand-made gifts and decor crafted by artisans. To further enhance the shopping experience, holiday helpers and a gift packaging station are available. The opening weekend is part of the Rotary Club Holiday House Tour! Everyone is welcome to make a shopping stop at the Hol iday Market. Proceeds from the event benefit children & seniors’ programs. holidaymarket.ca

SANTA CLAUS PARADE

Saturday, Dec 10 11:00 am

The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Santa Claus Parade is back! The parade will start at the intersection of King and Center Street in Old Town and travel throughout its traditional

route down Castlereagh, Wellington, Byron/ Prideaux, Simcoe and Queen Streets. notl.com

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE CHRISTMAS TRACTOR PARADE IN VIRGIL

Thursday, Dec. 15, beginning at 6 pm

Starting at the arena in Virgil, this twinkling parade of lights will travel Four Mile Creek Road, past Pleasant Manor, onto Eldon Road, left on Line 1 Road, across Niagara Stone Road to Concession 4, then Line 2, and finally back to the arena. Additionally, consider purchasing a Winemakers’ Selec tion Tasting Pass for $35. The Tasting Pass allows you to enjoy one tasting of a Wine maker’s Selection wine at each participating winery Monday through Friday for the rest of the year. Details: wineriesofniagaraonthelake. com All proceeds for any of the passes sold this month and next will go to the NOTL Farmworker Hub.

SPARKLE AND ICE GALA

Friday January 20th 2023

8:00 pm - 11:00 pm

To commence this wonderful festival, we

invite you to the Sparkle and Ice Gala in the ballrooms of the Old Courthouse. It’s a celebration with Niagara-on-the-Lake icewine makers and their VQA wines. Cu linary delights will be paired with Niaga ra-on-the-Lake premium wines. Live enter tainment will keep you dancing to the end of the evening’s festivities. To end the night there will be a toast outside as you watch the skyline dazzle with fireworks. For tickets contact 905-468-1950 or visit niagaraonthelake.com

THE ICE WINE FESTIVAL

Icewine Village

January 21st - 22nd 2023 & January 28th - 29th 2023 Saturdays 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Sundays Noon - 5:00 pm

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Festival takes place over two wintry weekends in Jan uary. The gorgeous Heritage District sets the stage for a magical experience. The Icewine Village becomes a historical winter wonder land with delicious icewine from local winer ies and delectable food pairings from upscale restaurants. The Icewine Festival will be held

outdoors on Queen Street. There will be free admission to the Icewine Village. niagaraonthelake.com

ICEWINE COCKTAIL COMPETITION

Saturday, January 28th 2023

7:00 pm -10:00 pm

The Icewine Cocktail Competition will be in the ballroom of the Old Courthouse. If you’ve ever wondered what you can do with icewine be yond sipping its sweet nectar, this event is for you. Local wineries will compete to claim this year’s trophy with their mixologist-approved icewine cocktails. These cocktails combine the creativity and passion of NOTL spirits and ice wine. With a DJ, live entertainment, and photo booths it will be a memory to keep. Included with purchase of a ticket you’ll be able to try up to 3 cocktails with the opportunity to purchase more and delicious charcuterie boards to en joy. You vote on the winning creation and the winner will be announced that evening.

For tickets please contact 905-468-1950 or please visit niagaraonthelake.com for more information.

Ball’s Falls Holiday Trail open next week

day Trail opens next Friday, Dec. 2.

sands of sparkling lights alongment, and immersive activities at

The Holiday Trail is an evening trail walk experience featuring a 1.5 km (round trip) illuminated path agara Escarpment and Twenty Mile

nificant natural areas, ensuring nature for all for years to come!”

Guests of all ages will play win ter scavenger hunt games, visit the holiday craft station, capture the perfect selfies, warm up by the campfire, enjoy heritage tours and demonstrations, hear choir and musical performances from local school groups and organizations, and so much more. Fridays and Saturdays feature live musical per formances by local artists.

ning fun outdoors, with stunning lights and activities. Set within the tors will experience the magic oftions and festive music,” says Alicia Powell, manager of Conservation

“Funds raised through this event

Guests must reserve a two-hour time slot. Reservations must be made online in advance. Trails are stroller friendly. The trail will run Dec. 2-8, 12-23, and 27-30, with time slots from 5-7 p.m. and 7:309:30 p.m. It will be closed on Dec. 24-26, and 31. To reserve, go to: npca.ca/events/detail/holidaytrail

Admission is $12 for general ad mission and $10 for seniors and children ages 3 to 11. Children under two years of age are free. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. The event is rain or shine.

Sold out!

Anyone who dropped by Elcho United Church in West Lincoln on Saturday would had to have been early to get any baked goods as tables were cleaned out by 10:30 a.m. Here, (L to R) John Vaughan, Terry Burtt and Theodore Volpatti make their penny sale decisions.

Williscraft - Photo

“Need” creates misplaced action Letters

Dear Editor, In your Nov. 10 issue of NewsNow, MPP Sam Oosterhoff par rots Doug Ford’s po litical reiterations on the immediate need for 1.5 million homes.

This “need” in turn, is used to justify his Greenbelt rezoning and construction of a new highway.

Additionally, it’s been reported that developers with close ties to Ford recently purchased significant Greenbelt acreages

slated for rezoning.

This evidence aside, who will benefit from the new housing? The homeless, the first time buyers, young folks in the workplace, not likely.

More certainly, it will serve the same people who contrib uted to driving hous ing prices out of reach of the aforemen tioned groups in the first place.

This would include, but not limited to, the investors, speculators, both here and over seas and of course the house flippers.

Their actions, in the absence of any gov ernment intervention, have driven prices to levels not attainable by those truly in need

Thanks

the

Men’s

be

In Grimsby, we are a community that loves our neighbours. We are family, and we pull together! This year, more families in our small town are hurting ‘big time’ because of rapidly rising costs on pretty much everything! This holiday season, let’s give them something to celebrate: please support our annual GBF Christmas Hamper Program.

Your Donation will be Doubled!!

Because of the generous support of the Winona Men’s Club, this year when you give to GBF’s Christmas Hamper Program, you will help TWICE AS MANY neighbours in need. That’s because your gift will be doubled up to $15,000 if it’s received by December 31st. At a time when dollars don’t stretch as far as they used to, isn’t it great to know that your donation will be doubled?! Please give as generously as you are able.

LOCAL FAMILIES NEED YOU TO BE A G REAT B IG F RIEND

GRIMSBY LEGION

233 Elizabeth St., Grimsby • 905-945-8421

Facebook: Grimsby Legion

EVENTS

Fri., Nov. 25: Kitchen Open 4:30-7 pm. Come for Dinner

LIVE BAND: Watts Up & Co. 7:30-11 pm

All Welcome. No Cover, Playing all your favourites!

Sat., Nov. 26: TUrkEy roLL 3 pm. Support the Community!

Dance Party 9 pm

Fri., Dec. 2: Kitchen Open 4:30-7 pm. Come for Dinner

Karaoke 7:30-11 pm. All Welcome. No Cover.

Sat., Dec. 3: Meat Draw 3 p.m. Support the Community!

Dance Party 9 pm

Fri., Dec. 9: Kitchen Open 4:30-7 pm. Come for Dinner

Karaoke 7:30-11 pm. All Welcome. No Cover.

Sat., Dec. 10: Meat Draw 3 p.m. Support the Community!

Dance Party 9 pm

Kitchen Open Sundays too!

Make a dining room more elegant

Dining rooms may not be top on the list of spaces to renovate, as they tend to be used infrequently. But a dining room make over may still be a worthy endeavor.

Watch NFL Sundays on Big Screen

Grimsby Legion Supports yoUr Local Community

Membership Meeting on Jan. 24, 7 pm

Here are some ideas: • Clear out the clut ter. The first step toward improving a dining room eat ing area is to remove any extraneous items from the space. If the dining room table is not used very often, it likely has become a catch-all for other items, such as bills, newspapers or kids’ homework. Rather

than using the dining space as a makeshift office or homework station, invest in a rolling cart to store those papers and other items. Simply roll it into a closet or another room when it’s time to host a party.

• Hang a statement light. Few decorative items add as much drama and ambiance to a dining space as a new overhead light. People hear chande lier and think a bejew eled or crystal design. But various chande lier styles can fit the aesthetic of a home.

The light will be a fo cal point and instantly make the dining area more elegant. Install the light on a dimmer to adjust the illumina tion as needed to set the mood.

• Invest in new linens. Purchase coordi nating table linens that will be used for special occasions. A decorative table cloth or table runner coupled with cloth napkins and place mats helps to set the scene of any party.

• Add a piece of artwork. Many mod ern homeowners have eschewed the

China cabinet that once was standard in dining rooms. Rather than a bulky piece of furniture, a large piece of statementmaking artwork or framed photos over a more minimalistic buffet table or small service bar is prefer able. Choose artwork that complements the colors in the space.

• Include a center piece. Centerpieces add sophistication to the table and tie into the event. Floral arrangements, a bowl or basket of fruit, pine cones can serve as centerpieces.

Whether it’s new windows and doors or siding, soffit, fascia and eavestrough; now is the perfect time to renovate your home. North Star energy-efficient windows save you money keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

*** LoWEST DrINk PrICES IN ToWN ***

guide to outdoor lighting

Homeowners who plan to utilize outdoor spaces like back yards, front porches and walkways to the fullest should think carefully about light ing. These guidelines can assist with select ing outdoor lighting fixtures.

SECURITY LIGHTING

Flood lights and security lights are a good investment for those who want to beef up visibility and security around the home.

These lights are high-intensity and designed to illumi nate large areas. The

brightness and reach can serve as a preven tive measure to keep animals and even criminals away. Motion-sensor lights will immediately engage if something crosses the path of the sen sor. Some lights will remain on from dusk until dawn. Using the correct wattage on outdoor security lights is important.

WALL, POST CEILING LIGHTS

Wall lights are mounted to the outdoor wall of the home. These typically flank doorways or the garage.

Post lights are often installed on the posts of decks and porches, or are free-standing on properties, providing visibility but also style. Ceilingmounted lights may be above doorways or installed in any structure that has an overhead area.

Warm-colored temperature bulbs in these fixtures can create an inviting at mosphere that is not too bright and jarring, especially when mul tiple lighting fixtures are working together.

When selecting lighting for wall-

mounted fixtures, ex perts suggest sizing up if you are not sure of the size to pick, as lights will look much smaller in scale from a distance.

OBITUARY

HODGKINS, John Albert

It is with deep sadness that we announce John’s passing at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, on Wednesday, November 16, 2022, in his 85th year. Beloved husband of Christine (nee Bicknell). Loved father of Doug Hodgkins, Greg Hodgkins (Debra), the late Steven Hodgkins (late Shelley) and the late Brian Hodgkins. Cherished grandfather of Jennifer Shaw (Evan) and Joshua Hodgkins and great grandfather of Cooper Shaw. Dear brother of Bev Reynolds (late George), Lois VanKerkhoven (late John), Norma Letourneau (Joseph), Shirley Lockhart (Jim), Cathy Firth (late Ken), Victor Hodgkins (Nancy), the late Ellen Cort (late Bob) and the late Ken Hodgkins. John will also be missed by many nieces, nephews and friends. Special thanks to Dr. Donaghy and the nurses and staff at WLMH for all of your care. Cremation has taken place. A memorial gathering will take place at STONEHOUSEWHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755) on Friday, November 25, 2022, from 1 - 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation would be sincerely appreciated by the family.

www.smithsfh.com

HANDYMAN SERVICES

Residential. Licensed Gas Technician. HVAC, Plumbing, Handyman Installation, Service. Heating, Cooling, Gas Lines. Clogged Drains. Honest, Reasonably Priced. Free quotes. Call Blake 365-889-7838

RUBBISH & JUNK REMOVAL. Call Ken 905973-3235

LAWN ROLLING & AERATION

fRONt & BACKyARd Call Ken 905957-5731.

ROOFING

ROOfING Over 25 years of experi ence. Shingles and Flat Roof warranty. Call Ken 905-9733235.

SUPPORT GROUP

TREE SERVICE

Fully Insured

Struggling with life? “Celebrate Recovery (CR)” a 12 step Christian recovery program for any Hurts, Habits and Hang-ups. Wednesdays at 7 pm at Forestview Com munity Church, 132 Lake St, Grimsby, On. All are welcome! Please call for info. or help - 905-945-9529

VEHICLES WANTED

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5th 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,

Well, here we are again – another new frontier - circulation via Canada Post. About two months are in the books and processes are still being ironed out but, all in all, it was a strong start and we appreciate the efforts of everyone at each postal outlet in Niagara West!

So far, response from readers and advertisers has been excellent. Quality and consistency are key and that is our main goal. The more support we get, the more content we can publish. If you can support us, and choose to do so, we greatly appreciate it!

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.

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 –28,000-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 wishes of good health to you all!

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Mike Williscraft Publisher

Based on the excellent feedback from previous years’ volunteer pay subscription drives, we have launched Year 5!

If yes, we have refined the infrastructure for our Volunteer Pay System

100%

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Social education is dead

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Yes, I could take another swing at the whole Green belt shuffle in the name of affordable housing - which will not transpire in my lifetime - but I cannot let another week pass without some recognition of the ridiculous sanitization of what little heritage North America has.

So, Girl Guides Canada has bowed to a concern of “several” - so certainly that cannot constitute public pressure - who informed the organization the name “Brownies” has caused them “personal harm”.

Is there no logic to reason and education anymore?

All it takes is a handful of people who don’t under stand something to blow up more than 100 years of tradition?

Happy shopping

Joan Dicks did a little shopping at Home Sweet Home last week, earning a $500 Grimsby DIA shopping spree for her time. Joan is the Week 1 winner of the 2022 Christmas Shopping Spree. She has chosen to split up her winnings with gift certificates for Home Sweet Home, Giant Tiger and The Shoe Box. If you spend more than $25 in downtown Grimsby, email your receipt to shoplocal@wn3.ca to win.

A significant loss to Lincoln

If there is something good and positive in Lincoln, almost assuredly the Fleming family has its fingerprints on it.

Quietly, and with rare exception, Val Fleming was often behind the scenes with unfailing community support.

The Lincoln community lost this champion last Wednesday, Nov. 16 at age 94. Aside from the obvious contribution to the Beamsville arena named in her family’s honour, Val also gave time and support to Brock University, Shaw Festival, Ham ilton Philharmonic Orchestra and Niagara College over the years. Her loss is a significant hole in the fabric of the com munity. Deepest condolences to the entire family. M.W.

There are so many exam ples of this utter nonsense these days it is very easy to get bogged down in the weeds, so we will stick with just two beauties for this week’s ramblings.

The innocent Brownies one is the topper for me, but hearing what one cor poration has told its marketing staff regarding Black Friday is right up there. I will get to that.

So, Brownies; yep, it sort of touches on a colour, but colour has zero to do with the group’s identity.

According to Guide lore, Lady Baden Powell chose to name the 7- 8-year-old age group Brownies after a type of fairy in 1919. These fairies are known to be helpful, and extremely kind

to everyone. This value of kindness associated with the Brownie Fairy is a core teaching in the organization.

How nasty!? Who would ever want to be called such a thing.

Kids can be stupid, we all can. If a handful of kids take a name and turn into a negative comment, should any group have to change its entire identity.

Guides Canada official say they don’t want to see anyone harmed because of a name. Sure, I totally get that. Who would?

But in this wishy-washy age of having zero guard rails in life for youth is it being a good example to simply roll over illogically without a positive conver sation about definitions and differences.

Because so many guard rails of society have either been moved or simply erased on so many levels and at every turn, the youth of today have learned noth ing about having a con versation in which - in the end - you still disagree. This

need to have arrows point ing in the exact same direction has charted a course devoid of many traditions, simply because people can not be bothered to learn the meaning or intention behind things. It’s nothing more than gut reaction can cel culture at its worst.

Two weeks ago, I hear a major corporation issued an internal statement saying “Black Friday” should not be used in any marketing material any longer.

I was not aware that stat ing something was simply ‘black’ could be a negative connotation, but no doubt it was a defensive move because someone whose goal it is to generate dollars does not want their company to get caught in any social media whirlwind.

Instead, for a major U.S. campaign, they were told to use “Turkey Day” to denote the biggest retail day of the year. It mattered not the true origin of the day dates back to an 1869 stock market crash driven by plum meting gold prices, or even the adopted definition from the 50’s that the big spend ing day marked the calen dar with when retailers got out of the red and into the black ink in their ledgers thanks to increased sales.

Don’t even get me started on the Edmonton Eski mos or Cleveland Indians - sports franchises named to honour their namesakes, not mock them. Society is in a freefall in many ways, these silly issues just toss fuel on the fire.

MIKE WILLISCRAFT

Dear Editor,

GOTL resident scoffs a “affordable” housing notion Letters

I found MPP Sam Oosterhoff’s recent statements quoted in “News Now” quite lu dicrous. We live across the street from the property at Hunter Rd and Winston Rd.

There is no way this Greenbelt property can be developed for affordable housing.

Our rent this past year increased more than 40 per cent when the owner sold our townhouse next door, which we had occupied for over five years. We were formerly at unit 16 until our landlord decided to sell.

Fortunately, unit 18 came available about the same time, so we didn’t have to move far. Our rent increased from $1,800 per month to $2,550 overnight.

Now rents in the area are $2,800-$3,100.

Rents in this area have been steadily in creasing; now so high that we will have to move out of Niagara West if we have to pay any more. As retirees on fixed income, we have reached our limit, and then some.

The greed of home

owners, developers and realtors will only make this situation worse.

I read about devel opers’ costs being capped, then the costs above the cap will be borne by the new home buyer and the municipality. When the new home buyer pays the costs, the cost of the housing (and rents) will have to rise accordingly, contrib uting to unaffordable housing.

I am sure that future development of the Winston Road prop erty will result in new construction of the services. We have lived through construction in the neighborhood on sewers, water and natural gas for the past six years and dread the prospect of more disruptions. These activities must be com pletely borne by the developer.

If you want to build affordable housing, don’t kid yourself or us that it can be obtained along the lakeshore.

It was just announced that the shutdown of

the Casablanca Inn has been put off by a year.

I haven’t seen a reason, but I suspect it has to do with the developer getting nervous about profitability with the falling real estate mar ket and high interest rates.

It seems unlikely a new development will be started by the 2025 date stipulated.

Also, for example, the development on the Lakeshore, east of Casablanca, hasn’t shown signs of start ing. Sure can’t see how changing the 321 Hunter from Greenbelt makes any sense. You will do better to look for other property for ‘affordable’ housing.

We recently made a drive to Montreal and had to use the 407 to avoid traffic conditions on the 401 in Toronto, and save ourselves an hour each way, along with avoiding the add ed stress.

On both trips there and back, the 407 was a breeze - no slowdowns or busy highway, and this was in the busy rush hour morning and evening. Why on Earth does Premier Ford

need the 413, when he could save money and the Greenbelt, by dropping the fare to use the 407? Unless, of course, that would upset his property owner friends? Likely the same buddies who will benefit from the Greenbelt land shift!

Robert Griscom Grimsby

Garden City Realty Inc., Brokerage

Garden City Realty Inc., Brokerage

Garden City Realty Inc., Brokerage

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