> Canada Post dispute imperils FORT’s major
> Grimsby plans to ramp up infrastructure budget Pg 6 >Santa
Business owners feel financial crush of Ontario Street construction
By Evan Loree For NewsNow
Beamsville business owners are as excited about the end of Ontario Street construction as local kids are to see Santa next month.
The Niagara Region public works project, which replaces 1.7 kms of watermain and upgrades to sanitary sewer lines, began in Winter 2023 and is scheduled to wrap up by the end of January 2025, according to town staff.
Restaurant owner Sharon Meikle said she’ll be “more than happy” when it’s over.
Meikle owns the Butcher and Banker Pub on Ontario Street and said the construction has been “horrible” for business.
She said there have been instances where both entrances for her location have been closed off construction.
Although construction is shut down by
evening, the restaurant has been dead quiet during weekday lunches.
“Our lunch sales have been terrible,” Meikle said, who added she could have applied to Niagara Region for some financial relief but decided not to because of the amount of time and information required was too daunting. These included tax returns, sales numbers and other data.
Construction workers have also taken up prime parking spaces during lunch hours which could otherwise be used by customers, she said.
Just down the street from Meikle’s restaurant is one of Ontario Street’s longest operating businesses, Old Post Bakery, which has also seen a significant decline in business.
Bakery owner Ed Hughes said business
Old Post Bakery owner Ed Hughes says the Ontario Street construction has stretched his business to its limits. Loree - Photo
DECLINE
From Page 1 from walk-in customers has declined 15-20 per cent, while he expects about 75 per cent of customers who have opted to go elsewhere during construction will not return. As well, he’s had to let go of two part-time employees and decided not to replace a full-time staffer who left after the construction began.
a contract with the construction company where these conditions were stipulated but was told the contract was private and could not be provided without a freedom of information request.
Meanwhile, construction vehicles have been blocking laneway accesses, he said.
“It’s hard,” he said. “It’s cost people their livelihood and reduced people’s income.”
Hughes said the bakery is not at risk of closing, but it is unlikely to turn a profit this year, adding he and his partner will have to put more money into it to help cover losses.
He said municipal staff have been responsive, adding business owners were told before construction that impacts to businesses would be minimized where possible.
Hughes said he was also told about regional compensation programs for business owners but - after research - they are not designed to compensate for the loss of business.
Lincoln spokesperson Makenna Maiers clarified the Region does not offer financial relief to businesses impacted by construction, but does compensate for damaged property.
Hughes also noted, while business owners were told workers would not block access to driveways or park in their driveways, these commitments do not appear to be binding.
He asked staff to see
Maiers said the town attempts to mitigate the impact of construction on local business owners by providing advanced notice, signage to redirect traffic and indicate open businesses, provide regular updates on construction progress and stagger construction into phases to minimize impacts
Grimsby plans 2025 infrastructure top-up
By Evan Loree NewsNow
Grimsby officials are projecting a $25 million budget tab for 2025 capital projects.
Town finance director Tony Del Monaco presented a proposed capital budget to council Nov. 14 which recommends the town spend just shy of $25 million on big capital projects in 2025.
About $23 million of the budget would cover 72 new projects and the remaining $1.5 million would cover 24 projects currently underway throughout the town.
The town budgeted about $10.5 million for capital expenses in 2024.
What’s more, the town will have to set aside more tax dollars each year to help pay for big projects like these.
Del Monaco recommended a capital infrastructure levy of about 2-2.5 per cent - about $250,000be raised each year in addition to what is currently saved and put into reserves. The Town’s asset management study, mandated by the province, shows a need to increase savings for future capital needs by $5 million annually.
The $250,000 would be an initial step.
He said the increases, done over 10 years, would get the municipality back on track.
The funding gap is not unique to Grimsby;
towns all over Ontario are experiencing similar gaps between capital expenses and funding sources, he said.
In the short term, the town could defer infrastructure projects or debenture to pay for them, but neither solution was “sustainable in the long term,” he said.
Council requested no changes to the proposed budget.
After about 20 minutes of debate, council voted to receive the proposed budget as information.
While Coun. Nick DiFlavio asked staff to come back with more information on which projects would be paid for with debt, and which would be paid for the tax levy, a multi-year forecast for funding sources was already initiated during Finance Committee discussions.
Coun. Veronica Charrois asked how councillors should present their feedback on specific issues.
Mayor Jeff Jordan said councillors should email their thoughts and suggestions to Del Monaco and set up private meetings where they could get into specifics.
“That way you can get a lot more information, rather than trying to do things on the fly tonight, which was not the intent of this meeting,” Jordan said.
“So we’re not allowed to actually discuss any of this unless
it’s a private meeting?” Charrois asked.
Jordan said “highlevel” feedback was fine but they weren’t going to “get down into the weeds” on specific budget items. Charrois later brought up a few items in the budget that were previously budgeted for in 2024 and were reappearing at higher costs.
Jordan said these items were “carryover” projects and had not incurred any expenses in the previous year.
The biggest project in this year’s capital budget is an infrastructure makeover of Main Street valued at $8.5 million.
The town plans to install a new watermain between Patton and Robinson Streets.
It also plans to narrow and repave Main Street, install bike racks and benches and improve the overall walkability of the area.
The town is also budgeting $1.47 million for various road repavings around town and 2.54 million to repair sanitary sewers.
Del Monaco said stormwater is infiltrating the sewer lines, which results in the town paying to treat more sewage than it needs to.
The town is budgeting almost $1.2 million on upgrades to town parks, including $600,000 for the outdoor ice rink on Livingston Avenue.
IMPECCABLE 4-LEVEL SIDESPLIT
- Laurie
Smithville ready for Saturday’s parade
The 34th annual Smithville Santa Claus Parade is ready to go, starting at the West Lincoln Community Centre at 5 p.m.
A special, sameday holiday market will also be
held from 9 a.m.-1 p.m at the community centre, an opportunity for some unique holiday shopping amongst local artisans.
The parade itself - an annual community highlight
- will start at the community centre and proceed east through the downtown core, always delighting huge crowds.
Dress warm and be ready for some magical fun.
St. Helen Bazaar set for this Saturday
The St. Helen Church Christmas Bazaar runs this Saturday, Nov. 30, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Vendors will offer Christmas wreaths, handmade items, faith-inspired gifts, wood Christmas trees,
Hearing healthcare is not one-size-fits-all, by listening to our clients and asking questions, we can recommend the right solutions for your unique hearing and financial needs.
Next week’s GAMRU auction caps busy 2024 rescue season
The 2024 season ended this month for the marine rescue volunteers of South Shore Search And Rescue but work to rebuild its membership and financial backing in 2025 continues.
The marine rescue volunteers were called out 31 times during the 2024 boating season, on par with the 2023 season in a busy year that saw them come to the aid of 34 persons and recover more than $382,000 in property, according to statistics collected by the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary/Central & Arctic.
Demand for the volunteers’ efforts has steadily grown over the past decade from a low of just eight calls in 2014. Over the past three years, South Shore Search And Rescue has been called to 108 rescue missions on Lake Ontario.
“The 2024 season was a mix of everything,” said unit leader Ben Upper. “From disabled vessels and boats on the rocks to capsized boats, people
in distress in the water and missing vessels, it was a textbook season with a little of everything.”
Marine rescue calls across the Great Lakes were generally down vs last year, Upper added.
With the rescue boat hauled out for the season, the volunteers turn their attention to two important missions on land: new member recruitment and the annual auction fundraiser.
A recruitment drive that started in October is nearing completion. Interested individuals can contact membership director David Rohr through the website: https://www. gamru.ca/contactus.
Equally urgent is the group’s annual charity auction set for Dec. 3-7. Members gather gift cards and gift certificates from generous supporters and auction them in a fun and frenzied four-day on-line bidding contest.
Bidding starts Tuesday, Dec. 3 at: 32auctions.com/GAMRU2024
Emmanuel Lutheran Church
George Street, Beamsville
Invites you to Worship with Them
Sunday Services at 11 am
December 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29
Wednesday Midweek Advent Services
December 4, 11 and 18 at 7 pm followed by Coffee Time
December 15 at 3 pm Christmas Carol Sing followed by Coffee Time
December 24 Christmas Eve Service at 7 pm
December 25
Christmas Day Service at 11 am
All are Welcome to worship with us
NRC Realty, Brokerage. Independently Owned and Operated
ROBERT JAMES, Sales Representative
Office: 905-945.1234
Email: robertjames@royallepage.ca
Kitchen open Thurs/Fri 4-7pm
GRIMSBY LEGION
233 Elizabeth St., Grimsby • 905-945-8421
Facebook: Grimsby Legion
catch the ace thursdays, tickets sold
2 pm - 8:15 pm
License #RAF1420676
NOVEMBER 28
Josh coulter is playing 5 pm - 7:30 pm
DECEMBER 13
Karaoke 8 - 11 pm
DECEMBER 20
Moonshine and Grits
7-11 pm
Meat draws
Every Saturday - Tickets Sales 3 pm start License #M785953
Grimsby Legion Supports YOUR Local Community
Grimsby Ford kicks off food drive
Grimsby Ford helped launch the Grimsby Benevolent Fund/Grimsby Firefighters’ Association food drive Saturday, collecting food and money for the annual Christmas campaign. Helping out were: (L-R) Grimsby Ford staff Clint Heidman, Isabella Dinardo, Sabrina Repergel; firefighter
Matt Dancer; Grimsby Ford’s Kiaya Barker; firefighters Jason Mottershead and Ken Bell; Grimsby Ford’s Robert Fattore; and firefighters Jeff Dancer and Christian Giovannini. McDonald - Photo
ST. HELEN CHURCH
4106 Mountain St., Beamsville ON
Big Payout With Progressive Jackpot
Thursday, Nov. 28 - 11 am in the Church Great Hall
Jackpot $200 Hot Lunch - Sandwiches available at Noon
Friday, Nov. 29 - 7:00 pm in the Church Great Hall
Jackpot $1,100 Fresh baked Pizza available at 6 pm
Also $$$ thousands $$$ in cash prizes every week
Admission Free - Tea and Coffee Free
PAUL LEWIS SETTIMI
General Law Practice
PROUDLY SERVING NIAGARA WEST FOR NEARLY 30 YEARS 36
paul@settimilaw.com www.settimilaw.com
McNally House - Where Compassion Grows Community
By Melissa Marchewka
Bob Forsyth and his family have always lived in Grimsby. When Bob was admitted into McNally House Hospice early this year, his family knew the hospice and had donated, but had never entered the building.
Kim Crooks – Bob’s daughter – came with Bob on that first evening. She felt a sense of community the moment they walked through the door and it never faded.
“Dad and I arrived at McNally House to an amazing nurse who greeted us with love and gentle care,” Kim said.
McNally House was a relief to Kim during her father’s time there.
Thanks to the dedicated staff, she never had to worry, there was always someone who would be there for her dad.
“Everything that you could possibly need was just so avail-
Bob Forsyth
feel like home, have no pain, but instead happiness and joyfulness.”
Irene Kurpe, Bob’s
portant to tell neighbours who had not heard of the hospice how they were able to help him in the final months of his life.
“I was telling her how well they cared for him, and I would tell anybody that it’s the best place to be if you have to
Where Compassion Grows Community
place where people at the end of their lives can die peacefully. Just as important, it is an opportunity for people to live their final days with their loved ones, as Bob and his family were able to do.
In addition to provincial funding, which supports a portion of our nursing costs, more than $1.6M is needed annually to ensure the hospice residence and all other community programs remain available.
But, we can’t do it without you.
In this season of giving, we invite you to support McNally House Hospice by visiting
Over the last 16 years, McNally House Hospice has supported more than 1400 people, together with their families in their end-of-life journeys. Our vision was built with the support of our community and the belief that everyone deserves dignity, comfort and compassion at end of life.
But we can’t do it without you.
Glenn’sServicesPainting
FORT’s financial future at risk due to Canada Post strike
By Mike Williscraft NewsNow
As is the case with many important local charitable organizations, FORT (Foundation of Resources for Teens) has been caught up in the Canada Post labour dispute.
Unlike some others, their main fundraiser
of the year is typically done via a direct mail campaign.
“As we enter the holiday season, the FORT needs the community’s help.
Annually, the FORT sends out our biggest fundraising effort of the year, our Holiday Card Campaign through Canada Post.
We’re Ready!
Thanks to a great response over the last few weeks, NewsNow is ready to deliver for our community. We are now having our carriers go door-to-door in Grimsby, Beamsville, Vineland, Jordan & Smithville. There are still a handful of routes not filled, so if you happened to miss your copy - or if you live in an outlying rural area - we have planned a large list of helpful outlets to allow for quick and convenient pick ups.
Grimsby
Puddicombe Farms
Grimsby Gateway
Sobeys Grimsby
Grimsby Town Hall
NewsNow office
Shoppers Drug Mart
150 Main St. E. Location
West Lincoln
Twp. of West Lincoln Town Hall
Smithville Foodland
Wellandport Home Hardware
Unfortunately, the campaign accounts for a significant amount of our annual budget and is key for the FORT to be able to do what it does best: deliver crucial and free programs and resources for atrisk youth in our communities,” says executive director Beth Shaw, who added the need for their services continues to grow.
FORT’s programs include:
• social programs which build important friendships, mentor/mentee relationships and effectively combat depression, anxiety and isolationism;
• support in the areas of free mental health counselling;
Beamsville
Sobeys Beamsville
Beamsville Relay Restaurant
Conversations Cafe
Ryan’s No Frills - Beamsville
Fleming Centre
Courtesy Counter
Beamsville Town Hall
Grand Oak Culinary Market
Vineland Foodland
Campden General Store
• job search and resume building, and;
• post-secondary application assistance programs.
“While we will still be delivering our Holiday Card Campaign regardless of the delivery date, we humbly ask for the community’s assistance now.”
Anyone interested in supporting the FORT with a financial gift, can donate online or in person. Online, visit: thefortyouthcentre. com/donate-online or drop by either of FORT’s centres in Grimsby and Smithville.
“Youth are our future and we are thankful for the continued support we receive from community members, donors, business partners, grantors and government agencies,” said Shaw.
“Providing these programs and resources is vital to ensuring the best opportunity for future success,” said Shaw.
OBITUARIES
lipsitt, timothy Edward (1966 - 2024)
It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Tim Lipsitt, November 18, 2024, at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital with his adoring wife by his side. Those that knew Tim knew how big his heart was, it just wasn’t strong enough for him. Tim was a lifelong resident of Grimsby / St. Anns and was the owner operator of Tim Lipsitt Excavating for over 35 years. He will be sadly missed by the love of his life, Jodi (Bessey) Lipsitt. Beloved son of Bill and the late Marilyn Lipsitt, brother of Delanne and dearest son-in-law of Lynn Bessey and George Bessey. He will be especially missed by all those that loved him. Tim shared many memories and great times with friends that were family from across the globe. He loved his daily visits to the garage with Brad, Deb and Jake Fuller and those laughter filled trips to the Rock to see Darren and Marlene Smith. Tim loved everything fast; race cars, Sea Doos, snow mobiles and helicopters. He loved animals, never turning away a stray. Many thanks go to Dr. DePetrillo and the excellent care of the Emergency Staff at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital. In lieu of flowers donations to Tim’s favourite charity, McNally House Hospice would be appreciated. Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at West Niagara Agricultural Centre, 7402 Mud Street West, Grassie, Thursday, November 28, 2024, from 4-8 p.m.
My dearest husband, we were fortunate to pack a lifetime of adventures into our years together. In all the world, there is no heart for me like yours. In all the world, there is no love for you like mine….Forever, Pinky Swear!
Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSEWHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755.
www.smithsfh.com
OutdOOr
from Dec1-2024 to April 1-2025 call Marg 905-978-3274
James RobeRt atkinson
June 12, 1940 - november 18, 2024
It is with broken hearts that we announce Dad’s passing.
Our wonderful Dad passed peacefully in his sleep in the early morning hours of Monday, November 18th, 2024. He was in his 85th year. Joe & I (Cath) were blessed to be with him the night before; holding his hands and having him acknowledge us before drifting off to sleep.
Our last words to him being “Good night Dad, we love you.”
Dad was born in Dunnville, the first child of eight born to James & Marjorie (Gordie & Marj) Atkinson.
Dad lived his adult life in Stoney Creek and Smithville in later years. A hard working man from an early age; Dad became a truck driver at the age of 16 and, in 1956, went to work for John Clough & Son Fuels in Stoney Creek.
In 1977, Dad started his own trucking company hauling home heating fuel, scrap metals and water. Being the owner/operator of a business with three trucks on the go kept Dad very busy; often working 18 to 20 hour days, particularly in the winter. Dad kept this little company of his thriving until 2010 when, at the age of 70, he finally decided to slow down a bit.
To that end, he went to work for Dawson Water Delivery for a few years.
At age 74, Dad had to give up being behind the wheel after cataract surgery
Later, Dad would say “If it wasn’t for those cataracts, I’d still be truckin’.”
Dad loved stock car racing both as a spectator and participant.
He raced both dirt and pavement on and off from 1968 to 2013.
Dad raced Sportsman, Hobby division and Vintage class.
In fact, Dad rolled his Hobby car on two separate occasions of hard racing and walked away both times with out a scratch. Then he returned to go at it again the next Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Nerves of steel this man and good pioneer stock.
Dad had to give up racing at the same time, and for the same reason he gave up trucking. Referring to that, Dad would say, “Nobody wants a guy in a stock car who can’t see the next left turn.”
Dad had a steering wheel in his hand, one way or another, everyday for 58 years.
Dad was a true “wheelman”.
To me personally he was Daddy, to Joe & I he was Dad, to family and friends he was Jim and to his buddies he was Jimmy.
To each and everyone, despite his stature, he was a big man simply because of his huge heart, his great integrity, honesty and dependability.
Dad was always there whenever and wherever he was needed.
Most of all we loved and appreciated his quiet demeanor and his sparkling sense of humour In every recounting of Dad, people inevitably say...“Jim always has time to stop and talk no matter how busy he is.”
We will miss the twinkle in his eye and the slight smile that was ever present.
As the song says... “They don’t make ‘em like my Daddy anymore.”
Jim is survived by his daughter and son (in-law), Cath & Joe Merritt, his sister-in-law Corona Jarvis and his great-nephew and namesake Cody James (Rachel) Schwoob.
Jim is also survived by two very special cousins Will (Pat) and Harvey (Beth) Spittal, two sisters and a brother Marie, Gail and Lee; as well as several nieces and nephews.
Predeceased by his brother-in-law & friend Clayton Jarvis, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Judy & Albert Grobb, very special cousins George and Harry Spittal, and three brothers and a sister Ronnie, Randy, Greg and Nora.
Many thanks to the United Mennonite Home in Vineland for providing a safe, caring and compassionate environment for Dad’s last three and a half years.
Special thanks to Dr. Woodland, Dr. Briggs, Kelly Chuckry, Lorraine Wilson and the loving and caring staff of Harbour Lane including Sean, Head of Maintenance whom Dad loved talking with about working and racing.
Visitation will be held at Merritt Funeral Home 287 Station St. Smithville on Sunday, December 1st from 1-5pm. Service also at Merritt Funeral Home on Monday, December 2nd at 11am with interment at Mount Osborne Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the United Mennonite Home in Vineland would be appreciated and may be made by cheque at Merritt Funeral Home.
If to live in the hearts of those we leave behind means not to die; Dad will live on forever.
OBITUaRIES
Wotherspoon, Kenneth harold
“When I come to the end of the road, and the sun has set for me, I want no rites in the gloom-filled room.
Why cry for a soul set free?
Miss me a little… but not too long, and not with your head bowed low, Remember the love that once we shared. Miss me… but let me go.”
“For this is a journey, that we all must take, And each must go alone.
It’s all part of the Master’s Plan, a step on the road to ‘HOME.’
When you are lonely and sick at heart, Go to the friends I knew, and bury your sorrows in doing good deeds. Miss me… but let me go.”
Kenneth Harold Wotherspoon - 61 years old.
Born: June 30, 1963
Chose assisted death: November 14, 2024
Son of Pat Wotherspoon and the late Gerry. Brother of Darin and Jeffrey Wotherspoon, Husband of Darla.
Step-father of Damien and Andy Emmerson, father of Justin Wotherspoon. Seven dearly loved grandchildren.
From a very young age, Ken loved to camp outdoors under the stars with his pup tent, canoe and a bag of french fries for his Coleman stove to share with his dog.
He grew up in Jordan Station, attending both Jordan Public School and Beamsville Secondary School.
As a young teen he loved sports and when the Jordan arena was first built, he joined the “Figure Skating Club” where he quickly worked his way through the C.F.S.A. badges in figures and dance, earning the first gold medal in dance for the club.
As a certified welder, he found himself dangling in a basket from the Queenston/Lewiston Customs Bridge between Canada and the U.S.A.
As a certified scuba diver he loved to explore the many sunken underwater wrecks. His love of animals (especially dogs) led him to work for a time with “Danes in Distress.”
But his wanderlust and sense of great adventure found him joining forces to drive long-haul double tandem transports, traversing every Canadian province and territory as well as the United States, with a fishing pole tucked into the sleeping compartment.
After moving to the Dominican Republic, Ken and Darla established a rescue and training centre for stray dogs on the island, before he returned to Ontario to resume trucking with “Challenger” in Cambridge. But, in 2019, on a trip back to the Dominican it was discovered that he had developed sepsis from a leg injury, which quickly was spreading throughout his entire body.
Immediately, Ken returned to Ontario to seek medical treatment where he spent his final five years.
being transferred from hospital to hospital to long-term care homes, undergoing endless prolonged surgeries which left him paraplegic with damaged eyesight.
Finally, after five years with no chance of recovery, Ken chose assisted death and his wishes were carried out on Nov. 14 2024.
Rest now in peace!
Ken’s final request was that the family spread his ashes on the water at the place he held most dear in Jordan Station.
He also asked that a celebration of life be held in his memory with family, friends and school chums to honour his legacy.
The chosen date for the open house will be Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024 - Noon to 3 p.m. Light lunch provided at Jordan Station United Church, 4105 Bridgeport Dr., Jordan Station, ON.
Memorial donations may be made to Jordan Station United Church in Ken’s name.
gkiokas, ionnis “John”
John Gkiokas of Smithville passed away at Albright Manor, Beamsville surrounded by his family on Friday, November 22, 2024, in his 90th year. Beloved husband for 49 years of Magdalini Gkiokas (nee. Filopoulos). Loving father of Rose and Sam Vergiris, and of Tony and Rozalia Gkiokas. Cherished grandfather of Alex, John and John Peter. Dear brother of Anastasia. Predeceased by siblings Yiorgos, Panagiota, Constantinos and Eleni. He will be dearly missed by the Tsementzis, Papanikolaou and Gkiokas families, the Filopoulos families of Winnipeg and Halifax and their children. John loved and adored his family above anything else. He cherished his life-long friendships; and took pride in helping and serving the Greek community of Niagara. He was a man of courage, strength , and determination. Together with his loving wife, Magdalini by his side, there wasn’t anything they couldn’t accomplish. He will always be remembered for his kindness and generousity, his wisdom, and most of all his witty sense of humour. John Gkiokas was a gentleman. Visitation at Merritt Funeral Home, 287 Station Street, Smithville on Wednesday, November 27 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. with Prayers 7:00 p.m. The funeral procession will leave from the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 28 for St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church, 585 Niagara Street (corner of Linwell), St. Catharines where the funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. Interment Smithville United Church Cemetery. If desired, memorial donations to St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church would be appreciated and can be made through the funeral home (905) 957-7031 or merritt-fh.com
May his memory be eternal.
aPT. FOR REnT
BEAMSVILLE Large
3 bedroom apt. on 2 level. Parking included. $2000 + Utilities. 905-309-1706.
ROOm FOR REnT
MAStER BEdROOM ensuite bathroom in Grimsby available January 1st. Utilities, parking, laundry wi-fi and a shared house. $1500/month. Diana (289) 455-9902.
dOG GROOmInG
IN St. ANNS - 18 years experience. One on one setting. Text or call Karen. 905-328-6616.
& JUNK REMOVAL. Call Ken 905-973-3235
WanTEd
HOUSEHOLd HELp NEEdEd in Beamsville. Suitable for Students afterschool or adult looking for part time work. Food prep, vacuuming, play with toddler, tidying-up etc… 905-563-8828 or 306316-3809
Concrete, Colour Concrete, Stamped Concrete, Exposed Aggregate Driveways, Porches, Patios, Stairs, Sidewalks, Garage Floors, Leaky Basement. Repairs as well.
Serving Niagara Area for over 30 years. LpJ CONCREtE CONtRACtOR Call 905-651-9462
CELEBRaTE RECOVERy
StRUggLINg wItH HURtS, HANg-UpS 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
Ververgaert, Allan David
Passed away suddenly but peacefully on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at the age of 58. Allan is survived and lovingly remembered by his mother Joanne Verrege (Peter), father Peter Ververgaert (Joan), companion Sarah, son Jacob, brother Pete (Penny) and by his sons mother, Tracey and her daughter Trudy. Predeceased by his son Joshua. Allan is also remembered by his many extended family, friends and co-workers. Special thanks to Penny. Allan was a retired Elevator Mechanic with 36 years and positions on the executive board with the I.U.E.C., Local 90 retiring as Business Representative. If desired, memorial donations to charity of your choice would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Cremation has taken place. A private family celebration will take place at a later date.
waddell, James “Jim”
It is with sadness we announce the passing of James “Jim” Waddell on November 15th, 2024 at the age of 84. Jim is survived by his wife of 57 years Margaret Waddell. Jim Enjoyed golfing, Skiing, and was an avid gardener outside of his professional life as a mechanical engineer. Jim sense of humor will be missed by those that were close to him. Arrangements have been entrusted to Merritt Funeral Home, Smithville. If desired memorial donations to the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Auxiliary or a charity of your choice would be appreciated and can be made through the funeral home (905)957-7031.
Specialized in carpentryPainting, Small renovations, Fence & Decks. Hardwood & Vinyl Flooring, Power Washing Senior discounts. Serving all West Niagara. Call Angelo 289-439-1485 BenchBark dog
• call natalia 289 922-8274
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
1 Mountain Street, Grimsby, ON, L3M 3J6 Ph: 289-235-9500 Ph: 289-235-7848
NewsNow is published EVERY Thursday & delivered to all homes & businesses in Niagara West, 29,006
If you read it on a picket sign.... It must be true....not.
Tree lighting soirees set this week
There is a ton of fun on the horizon and I intended to review it all in the adjacent piece, but I had to throw that under the bus to revisit some other details. Key are Niagara West municipalities officially kicking off their Christmas seasons with tree lighting events over the next week. West Lincoln hosts their event tonight Wednesday, Nov. 27 - since our carriers are delivering again I know many of you will see this in time at the community centre from 6:157 p.m.
Grimsby’s event will be on the Town Hall grounds starting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 28 with music and refreshment setting the scene.
Lincoln will host its event on Saturday, Nov. 30, 5-8 p.m. at the Fleming Centre. Free hot chocolate, crafts and a free public skate will be part of the fun. M.W.
Ugh!
Let’s try this again
I really dislike having to burn space being redundant, but it appears some people insist on seeing words that do not appear or choose to purposefully misinterpret words to suit their narrative, so I must - my apologies.
Last week, this space contained this paragraph:
“Canada Post is a coast to coast service paid for by your tax dollars. Supporters of posties going out are quick to say mail delivery is a government service and there should be a cost to that, so the company does not and should not be a profit centre.
True.”
Now, do you see anything in there that says taxpayers are part of Canada Post’s day to day operations?
No.
Do you see anything that would indicate the federal government is somehow part of Canada Post’s management?
No.
Do you see anything that says Canada Post is not a FOR PROFIT organization?
No.
In context of the column - and context is very important, good readerthe above paragraph was followed by many details on the corporation’s hefty losses, more than $3 billion since 2018 and subsequently it was noted it was a poor time for taxpayers to be potentially on the hook for Canada Post’s - a Crown Corporation’s - losses.
When this point was made to a man who said he was a 22-year employee of Canada Post, he, initially, flat out refused to acknowledge that
taxpayers are absolutely on the hook for losses of the Crown Corporation should things descend that far financially. I noted, repeatedly, I was not making this up out of thin air, adding it was clearly laid out in the Canada Post Corporation Act. Here is the excerpt, which I promised to publish, outlining this: Compensation (3) Where the Governor in Council is satisfied that the Corporation has sustained or is likely to sustain financial loss in complying with any directive given to it under subsection (1) or section 89 of the Financial Administration Act (https://laws.justice. gc.ca/eng/acts/F-11), he may compensate the Corporation for that loss....
The Act goes on to note the mechanism for determining the amount and when the debt would be paid.
So there’s that.
The second sentence in that graph was intended to support the union’s efforts in that Canada Post - as an entity - should not have a mandate or be worried about being in the black every year. Taxpayers need to recognize the corporation
is a vital service extended to every corner of the country. Like other services, there is a cost to them. Saying they should not be beholden to profit does mean it isn’t a FOR-PROFIT organization.
Jan Simpson, CUPW National President, stated it clearly in a release from Monday, Nov. 25, “Canada Post is a public service. It is not a private, for-profit operation. Postal workers deliver to every address in the country – no matter how remote. We go places the private sector won’t go because profit not service is their bottom line. While the competition puts corporate profit over everything else, we’re proud to offer services to everyone.”
Late in my 10-minute conversation with the 22year employee, I noted there was plenty of information in the column outlining data and other opinion to round out the piece. At that point, he said he did not read the whole column, he just “skimmed” some of it.
Hmmm.
Many make a big deal about pay, but that is only one aspect of negotiations. Protection for FT jobs, benefits, protected break and vacation time and more are part of the mix as the corporation tries to reset. Problem is, corporations are not fun places to be when re-organization rolls out. They tend to burn employees - as I have felt myself - so I feel the pain of the ‘posties’ in that regard.
Regardless, my job is to have opinions in this space - some may agree and some may disagree - but we can all agree, clarity is key.
MIKE WILLISCRAFT
Christmas at Grimsby Legion
Jillian and Steve Zasucha stopped by the Grimsby’s Royal Canadian Legion Branch 127 Christmas Market Saturday especially for the creative and delicious gifts offered by Dianne Tennant, left, and Denise Hensen. McDonald –Photo
Hamper, Wish
programs return for CCWN
The Angel Wish and Christmas Hamper programs have returned for Community Care of West Niagara. The hamper program helps low-income and financially strained families put presents under the tree and food on the table for
905.945.4161 www.grimsbyford.com
the holidays, while the wish program provides similar support geared to children CCWN executive director Carole Fuhrer says rising rent and grocery costs have fueled an increased demand. For details, see: communitycarewn.ca
HAT TRICK HOCKEY
Week 4 (As of Nov. 24, 2024)
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 Teddy’s Food, Fun & Spirits, Wendy Roorda
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Jordan Flowers, John Ritz
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Judge & Jester, Stewart Cook
• Large, 3-Item Pizza, Pick-Up Only, courtesy of Gino’s Pizza, Sean Nixon
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Canadian Tire, Bryson Carey
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Memphis BBQ, Vincent De Vito 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
1. Herale, Willie 417
2. Alexa ................... 410
3. VanGeest, Owen ... 410
4. Schilte, Tate 408
5. Draan, Alisha ....... 407
6. Norris, Ozzy ......... 402
7. Dandridge, John 399
8. Clark, Nick ........... 398
9. Hoekstra, Liam ..... 397
10. Zdriluk, Jacob 397
11. Babin, Samantha 396
12. Hall, Keith .......... 396
13. Sheridan, Carter . 395
14. Frank ‘the Tank’ 393
15. Hall, G. .............. 393
16. DeVries, Leo....... 392
17. Kiers, Declan 391
18. Havens, Robert ... 390
19. Jackson, Cam ..... 389
20. Schilte, Julie 389 Top Standings
CANADIAN LEGION 5545 King Street, Beamsville Call: 905-563-4612 for more information
