BUY CANADIAN
Grimsby tourism strategy viewed with jaundiced eye
By Mike Williscraft NewsNow
While a vast majority of Grimsby council spoke of concern and skepticism about a tourism strategy outlined at Monday’s council meeting, the plan earned an 8-1 vote of endorsement.
A staff report noted the strategy provides a roadmap to guide deci-
sions, attract investment, and align community efforts over the next five years to build the tourism sector in Grimsby and better connect with the larger tourism community in Niagara and beyond.
It also defines clear roles for municipal departments, tourism operators, business associations, and residents in shaping a shared desti-
nation identity.
Consultant William Schutten of Context Research Group Inc. outlined the basics of strategy in what he repeatedly noted was a slimmed down version of his 80-page report to fit into his allotted 10 minutes for a presentation.
Some members seemed to take the 14 slide presentation as an in-
dicator items were being left out of this presentation but were part of his findings by design.
Coun. Nick DiFlavio noted there was no detail on a cost/benefit analysis.
Coun. Veronica Charrois suggested there was little detail on implementation costs.
See STRATEGY, Page 4
Firefighters furnish food
Community Care of West Niagara received $3,000 in food and supplies thanks to the efforts of firefighters at Beamsville Fire Station 1 who came out last Tuesday night in full force to load up
and
van. (L-R)
Tony Corallo, Jesse Van der Mass, Jacob Pritchett,
District Chief Brian Culp were on hand
Photo
Arrest made in Gateway shooting
One day after a shooting at Grimsby Gateway last Thursday the alleged assailant has been charged.
On Friday, 33-yearold Ferdinando Pio of Thorold was arrested and charged with:
• Aggravated Assault
• Discharge Firearm with Intent
The night before at approximately 5:15 pm, Niagara Regional Police 8 District (Grimsby/Lincoln/ West Lincoln) responded to reports of a shooting at the Niagara Gateway In-
formation Centre in Grimsby.
A man had been shot outside and made his way into the building seeking help.
Niagara Emergency Medical Service (NEMS) attended the scene and subsequently transported the victim to an out-of-region hospital for treatment.
The victim’s injuries were serious but non-life threatening.
The investigation at the time revealed that the suspect fled the scene prior to police arrival.
Police also noted
the incident was targeted, so the public at large was not in peril.
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From Page 1
Coun. Delight Davoli asked about baseline measurables which seemed to be missing from the presentation.
Coun. Don Howe, who noted, “We missed the boat” on the Grimsby Gateway marketing opportunity over the years, asked about partnering to keep costs down.
Coun. Jennifer Korstanje noted concern with having any financial impact from endorsement of the approval at all.
Schutten was frank and detailed in his assessment of what needed to be done, how costs would roll out and provided examples of how different aspects of the plan would play out.
Only Coun. Reg Freake and Coun. Jacob Baradziej spoke in favour of the strategic outline with Freake pointing out Grimsby has never invested anything in a tourism plan while Baradziej picked up on a point made by Schutten that the town would be best served by joining the Lincoln/St. Catharines tourism marketing group.
The strategy itself noted the challenges faced by any tourism plan:
• Fragmented brand identity
• Lack of packaged experiences
“There are a lot of cool things that Grimsby has to offer that are maybe dispersed a little bit among the community, so looking at ways we can leverage and build cohesion and collaboration among the different offerings and attractions and assets from a tourism perspective, that Grimsby has,” said Schutten.
• Inconsistent operating hours
“Travellers and businesses have noted inconsistency – standardized hours would help,” said Schutten, adding that signage and wayfinding would also be of benefit.
• Insufficient Accommodation Capacity
There are only two in town now, Casablanca Hotel and Quality Inn. There was some discussion about bed and breakfasts, but that was described as “a handful” of units.
• Parking Constraints
“There are some great assets, especially along the waterfront, not a
lot of parking right now. So people visiting now are parking in residential areas which can cause some tension with residents,” said Schutten.
“Looking at ways we can optimize and provide an appropriate amount of parking for all the people who want to visit all the great offerings that Grimsby has.”
• Car Dependence and Mobility Gaps
• Resident Hesitance Toward Change
“We need to serve the residents of Grimsby too, revenue improves businesses improves infrastructure and assets that the Town has in creating cool initiatives, packages and events is not only for visitors but for residents of Grimsby itself,” said Schutten.
“Make sure the important communication channel is there to prevent any resistance and hesitation among local residents to get everyone to buy in.”
In terms of implementation, Schutten noted repeatedly there is a series of low-hanging fruit which could be picked off at minimal cost and have a positive effect.
“The cost would not be large or prohibitive,” he said.
In terms of administration, he suggested the Town’s existing economic development body - GEDAC (Grimsby Economic Development Committee) “would be a great fit” - since the organization already has a strong cross-section of members “broad breadth and different perspectives from the community.”
To keep costs in check, he noted the advent of AI has created a lot of opportunity.
“There’s a lot of AI tools that can help you do it for free, so you don’t need a marketing expert,” said Schutten noting templates and strategies are available online.
Noting the QEW corridor ensures the flow of potential tourist traffic on a daily basis, he suggested targeting one per cent of that market would have massive effect locally.
“If you got one per cent of visitors to Niagara, you aim for one per cent, you would generate $61.2 million and overall GDP impact is over $57 million,” he said.
That point marked the beginning
of questions from DiFlavio who called those numbers irrelevant and asked if a cost/benefit analysis had been done.
Schutten noted he was only given 10 minutes to outline the strategy and all the details on cost/benefit were in his full report. In terms of the positive financial impact of tourism dollars, he pointed out his data was based on provincial benchmarks.
“Those are the numbers that the province uses to calculate its GDP and what the minister uses for tourism, so they’re not pulled out of thin air. It’s a provincial model,” said Schutten.
DiFlavio asked about how Grimsby could or should work with others on a tourism plan.
Schutten was clear on best path.
“It’s likely best to work with Lincoln and St. Catharines who just established a DMO, a Destination Marketing Organization,” said Schutten.
“They have a designated tourism coordinator and she’s excellent. There would still be some costs for you to buy in. They initially wanted Grimsby to sign up but they felt you were a bit low capacity and would just ride on their coattails so you either need to pay to play with them on that because they have a pretty significant marketing platform set up, a website set up, they’ve done a lot of groundwork and built a lot of infrastructure.”
“For you to buy into that, you need to literally buy in or build out your own and then you can start collaborating on some initiatives. That would be best.”
Davoli wanted to know how to set baseline data for measurables which would help with assessing successes or shortcomings of any tourism strategy. As an example, she cited a short-term accommodation and a potential MAT (Municipal Accommodation Tax) tax, but noted that sector is not monitored by the Town currently.
Schutten said that data is also in his full report. Research found thatusing a 60 per cent occupancy level for current Grimsby units - a MAT would generate $80,000 in revenue to the Town.
“That, essentially, offsets the cost. Once you start developing and running these things, it becomes a costneutral program and, ultimately, a revenue generator for the Town. A MAT would offset the cost of tourism coordinator,” he said.
Charrois, reading from the report said it noted first-year costs would be $155,000-$235,000. She claimed staff time would be used, a coordinator would be needed, if the Town opted into the Lincoln/St. Catharines DMO that would have a cost, too.
Schutten reiterated his point that initial steps would have very little cost and the estimates in the report reflected a full-on drive to roll with implementation.
“The budget you outline is if you do everything. You don’t have to do everything. If you did absolutely everything, went 110 per cent, then yes, that is the cap,” said Schutten.
“We provided you with a laundry list of things you can do, it’s a l carte. My report today highlighted what I think are the key, short-term, low-hanging fruit items. You could do those things in Year 1 for around $20,000-$25,000.”
For Freake, he noted his disappointment so much negativity was the focus of what could be a positive economic development step - adding he was happy to see supportive representation from Grimsby’s new ambassadors, Lincoln and Niagara Region in the gallery to support the strategy.
“We now have an opportunity to crawl, which is what we’re going to do first, before we walk and then walk before we run and like any journey, it starts with a first step. Every municipality that started a tourism program started where we’re starting now. Now we have a framework, a potential strategy and the first year is going to cost us minimal,” said Freake
“We have lots to offer. Let’s piggy back off those things, structure them and then the following year maybe we could start to put together packages.
The tourism report was endorsed in an 8-1 vote with only Coun. Don Howe opposed.
Have your say: West Lincoln launches Road Safety Study and Action Plan
The Township of West Lincoln has initiated the development of a Road Safety Study and Action Plan. The Study aims to guide long-term mobility safety policy and investment decisions to ultimately reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities across both urban and rural areas of West Lincoln while supporting Township’s broader strategic infrastructure goals and road network priorities.
Get involved!
A Public Information Centre (PIC) is being held to introduce the Road Safety Study and Action Plan and provide an overview of the Study background, timeline, and work completed to date.
When: Thursday, November 27, from 5 to 7 p.m. Where: West Lincoln Community Centre, Library Program Room, 177 West Street, Smithville Format: Drop-in open house style (no registration required)
The purpose of PIC #1 is to present initial findings on existing road safety conditions in West Lincoln, along with a summary of relevant policies, and next steps in the study process.
The Project Team is seeking to receive public including stakeholder input on road safety concerns on roads under the jurisdiction of West Lincoln to help guide future recommendations and road safety implementation process.
All interested parties are invited to attend the PIC and provide comments on the information shared. Members of the Project Team will be available to answer questions and receive comments.
For further information about this Study, including ongoing updates, please visit the study webpage at www.westlincoln.ca/road-safety.
Beamsville firefighters answer call
There was some heavy lifting Tuesday night at Beamsville Fire Station 1 as firefighters loaded $3,000 of food and supplies headed to Community Care of West Niagara.
It’s a major donation and much appreciated said Emma Shipley, CCWN Outreach and Support Coordinator.
District Chief Brian Culp credited the support of the community and local businesses making it possible to gather the much-needed supplies for CCWN.
“This donation is only possible thanks to the residents of Lincoln donating to the scrap metal bin behind the fire station in Beamsville at 4594 Ontario Street,” said Culp. All metal, appliances, old vehicles and electronics are accepted.
“We would also like to thank VR Recycling in West Lincoln for their ongoing support with switching out our bins and hauling the scrap to their facility. A special thanks to JNE Recovery in Vineland for picking up donated vehicles and Bartkiw farms for their multiple donations of farm vehicles and equipment. It is greatly appreciated.”
Beamsville Lawn Bowling Club wishes to Thank our 2025 sponsors for their generous donations:
Stoney Creek Furniture
Jerry’s Auto Body
Beamsville Medical Pharmacy
Meridian Credit Union
Beamsville Home Hardware
Tallman Funeral Homes
Beamsville Dental Office
Beamsville’s Community Pharmacy
Glen Elgin Real Estate Corp.
Elizabeth Spoja
Colleen and Dave Ridler
Premium Home Services Inc.
The Butcher and Banker
Tim Hortons
Town of Lincoln
Also, many thanks to local businesses who donated gifts/coupons.
K of C share the warmth
It was the best year ever for the St. Helen of the Cross, Council 15999 Knights of Columbus support for Community Care of West Niagara, donating 120 new winter coats, cash, and an additional $1,200 raised by the Cherry Hill Men’s Golf League. On hand for the presentation were (L to R) Knights Joe Giraldi, George Savage; Dora Liptay of CCWN; Al Rizzuto, Grand Knight; Emma Shipley of CCWN; and Ray Francoeur, deputy Grand Knight. McDonald - Photo
$624,900. • 4 BEDS, 2 BaTHS Gorgeous Townhome, 1050 Square Feet. 2+2 bedrooms, 2+2 baths. Completely finished lower level with gas fireplace. Downstairs has a chair lift which can be removed. New laminate flooring, newly renovated bathroom, central air, flexible closing.
SCOTT WOODS
Parade route: Departing from the West Lincoln Community Centre, traveling east on West St., south on Regional Rd. 20 then concluding at the corner of St. Catharines St. and Industrial Park Rd.
Road closures: From 3:30 PM to 8 PM. Please do not park along the parade route during that time.
Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities available!
West Lincoln seeks safety study input
The Twp. of West Lincoln is seeking input for its Road Safety Study and Action Plan.
The Study aims to guide long-term mobility safety policy and investment decisions to ultimately reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities across both urban and rural areas of West Lincoln while supporting the Township’s broader strategic infrastructure goals and road network priorities. A drop-in style PIC is planned for Monday, Nov. 27 from 5-7 p.m. at West Lincoln Community Centre, Library Program Room, 177 West Street.
robertjames@royallepage.ca
Facial Season Is Here
Peninsula Players bring seasonal comedy to town
By Evan Loree For NewsNow
There’s a tongue-incheek stage comedy in Grimsby this month.
The Peninsula Players Community Theatre Company will be performing Michael Parker’s No Sex Please: It’s Christmas! at Trinity United Church for the next three weekends only.
Opening night for the festive farce is Friday, Nov. 7, at 7 p.m., with subsequent shows on Nov. 8 at 8 p.m., the following Fridays and Saturdays at the same time, Nov. 16 at 2 p.m., and finally the show closes Sunday, Nov. 23, also at 2 p.m.
Caistor resident Paul Marshall is directing the eight-person play with a cast of actors from all over Niagara Region.
Paul’s wife and fre-
quent collaborator, Shirley, was at a dress rehearsal Oct. 29, giving the cast some additional constructive feedback.
She said they had put out the casting call in June and had been rehearsing for about eight weeks.
The play tells the story of sales associates Ben Adams, played by Wesley Detlor, and Casey Cody, played by Nikki Blain, attempting to sell a futuristic house on behalf of their employer, Mr. Broadbent, played by Peter Jonasson.
Broadbent has instructed his workers to pose as a couple renting the home to sway husband and wife Fred McNicoll, played by Ray Johnston, and Gladys McNicoll, played by Kimberly Jonasson, to buy.
He hopes some
Christmas spirit will tip the scales and help close the deal with the McNicolls.
The cast is rounded out by Claire Gaumond, playing chef Sue Johnson, Rob Goslin, playing the maintenance man Eddie Cott and Simon Pellegrino playing Mr. Brooks.
Shenanigans ensue as the characters go to further and further extremes to conceal their identities.
Meanwhile, the house’s automated closet and trash bin malfunction and slowly strip characters of their clothes.
Johnston explained his character, the henpecked McNicoll husband, is completely different from his own personality.
He uses his experience and training as a clown and comedian to convey the character’s submissiveness through body language.
“I really love playing him because he is like my polar opposite. I am totally not this guy,” he said.
Meanwhile, Detlor is comfortable with his character, saying Adams is “about a step and a half removed” from his own personality.
Show tickets are going for $25 to $35 and can be purchased at the tickets page at the theatre company’s website, peninsulaplayersgrimsby.ca.
Peninsula Players volunteer Bonnie Wallace, left, helps Claire Gaumond with her costume during a dress rehearsal Wednesday night.
Actor and comedian Ray Johnston dons his costume backstage readying for rehearsal.
Photos By Evan Loree
Claire Gaumond plays cook Sue Johnson, who flirts with flustered realtor Ben Adams, played by Wesley Detlor.
Cast members (L to R) Claire Gaumond, Wesley Detlor, Nikki Blain and Rob Goslin on stage and in character for a rehearsal of No Sex Please It’s Christmas
Professor Mark Rector, Author, Public Speaker, Educator
“OH CANADA! Our Home and Inventive Land!”
Thursday, November 13, 2025
From a life long passion for Canadian Inventors Professor Rector inspired his students with tales of great Canadian inventors. Now he’s speaking across the country about his smash bestseller “OH CANADA! Our Home and Inventive Land” now in its SEVENTH PRINTING with OVER 6,500 copies sold!!
This fun and engaging bathroom reader has many of the intriguing and poignant tales of amazing Canadian ingenuity! This multimedia road show presentation will have you standing and cheering Canada, a you will hear many stories from the book including the tragedy of the Avro Arrow, to the triumph of millions saved by the pacemaker, to the complexity of the most intricate robot ever built The Canadarm! As well as the triumphant story of this professor’s project with four students that made history with a world’s first!
Grimsby Historical Society Monthly Speaker Series
GHS Monthly Meeting Thursday, November 13, 2025 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Livingston Activity Centre 18 Livingston Ave., Grimsby Everyone Welcome!
Grimsby Historical Society 25 Adelaide Street, Grimsby, Ontario 905-309-0796
grimsbyhistoricalsociety.com
The Rotary Club of Grimsby and Town of Grimsby teamed for Grimsby Glows last Saturday in Coronation Park. (Above) Jessica Coulter and seven-year-old daughter Cambria dance to some live music at the event.
(Left) Dakota Unrau and Kennedy Richeson with their two-year-old American bully Deja, who took first place in this year’s Grimsby Glows dog costume contest with her fairy outfit. Loree - Photos
Hat Trick Hockey
Week 1 Continued
817. JMM 207
818. Vallorani, Andrea 207
819. B, Gabrielle 207
820. Pryer, Jim 207
821. Lipsitt, Del 207
822. Davoli, Tony 207
823. Steele, Rolond 207
824. Anello, Cory 207
825. Reile, Iris 207
826. Struiksma, Logan 206
827. Hensen, Isaac 206
828. Soos, John 206
829. Kylee & Belise 206
830. DiBattista, Al ..... 206
831. Scotney, Paula 206
832. Myer ...................... 206
833. Greenwood, Danielle 206
834. Holodniuk, Alana 205
835. FunTimes 205
836. McLellan, Shaw 205
837. Davies, Martin 205
838. Sheridan, Jen 205
839. Barclay, London 205
840. Hoekstra, Evan 205
841. Young, Carter 205
842. van den Bogerd, Amy 205
843. H, PJ 205
844. Parry, Rich 205
845. Lecinski, Doug 205
846. Ellis, Corey 204
847. Kuypers, Martin 204
848. Kyky 204
849. Donders, Lisa 204
850. Halliday, Ingrid 204
851. Pugsley, Jim 204
852. Heywood, Sean 203
853. MacMullan, Bonnig 203
854. McGregor, kasen 203
855. Simmons, Hunter 203
856. Susnyar, Nik 203
857. Buttar, Carson 203
858. H, Mama 203
859. L, Brendan 202
860. England, Adrianna 202
861. Savage, Ryder RyDawg 202
862. MacDonald, Sandy 202
863. Williams, Mackenzie Mackie 201
864. Hornung, Mike 201
865. Halliday, Ron 201
866. Devries, Ryan 201
867. Philbrick, George 201
868. Battgirl 200
869. DeVries, Jeanette 200
870. Morrell, Scott 200
871. Young, Abby 200
872. Kurgan, Grant 199
873. Grandpa Tom 199
874. Reid, Dave 199
875. Dave, Ronrel 199
876. Tyce 199
877. Reid, Steven ....... 199
878. Riley, Benjamin 199
879. Ritz, Samantha .. 199
880. Rienties, Sherry 199
881. Sinopoli, Jonathan . 199
882. Lipsitt, Bill 199
883. Duffy 12 ................ 199
884. McCord, Kate 199
885. Lecinski, Diana .. 198
886. Walsh, Logan 198
887. Marshall, Kathy 198
888. Zdriluk, Ron 198
889. Shawna & Sloane 198
890. Lats78 198
891. Serwatuk, Michael 198
892. Eccles, Steve 198
893. Morrell, Ross 198
894. Ball, Matthew 197
895. Buswell, Chris 197
896. Ostermeier, Dirk 197
897. Andreatta, Anne 197
898. Girl, Honey 197
899. Reile, Alexander 197
900. Young, London 197
901. Papiez, Renee ......197
902. Walsh, Caleb 197
903. Wang, Rachel 196
904. Jurychuk, Olia Mama196
905. Allan, Laurie ....... 196
906. Duncan, Keith 195
907. Vanbrederode, Tina ...195
908. Carter, Stan 195
909. DeVries, Dan 195
910. DeVries, Kyle 194 911. PJ 194
912. Jackson, Aaron Cam 194
913. McLellan, Pete 194
914. Bristo, Lorne 194
915. England, Katerina 194
916. Chicken, Peter 194
917. Green, Ryan 193
918. Haines, Henry 192
919. Green, Jack 192
920. Griffin MMA 192
921. Sheridan, Terence 192
922. Campbell, Tammy 192
923. Morrell, Preston 191
924. Wodog 191
925. Hoeskstra, Liam 191
926. Louws, Fred 190
927. Al’s Grandkids 190
928. Anello, Rebecca 190
929. Heczko, Amanda 190
930. VanHart, Mackenzie 190
931. Shepherd, Rober 190
932. Feddema, Connor 190
933. Ireland, Doug 190
934. Puddi 189
935. DeVries, Ethan 189
936. Hodgkins, Greg Hodge 189
937. Waning, Sara 189
938. Leclerc, Kathy 189
939. Head, Dylan 188
940. Kovacs, Nancy 188
941. Halliday, Brad 188
942. Sheridan, Spencer 188
943. Gillard, Rita 188
944. Philbrick, Isabel 187
945. Nemett, Maggie 186
946. DellaValle, Adam 186
947. Walters, Dawson 185
948. Bosiljeval, Jane 185
949. Lats#9 184
950. Heywood, Anthony 183
951. Ballinger, James 182
952. D., John .................. 182
953. Leroux, Michel 182
954. Williams, Colin ..... 182
955. Bousquet, Nicole 182
956. Haines, Nick 181
957. Lats07 180
WL hopes LEAF Project draws support
The Township of West Lincoln has applied to the 2025 Commonwell LEAF Grant and is hoping the community will rally behind it. The project aims to upgrade dishwashing stations in the Community Room of the West Lincoln Community Centre and in the Program Room of the West Lincoln Public Library Smithville branch. Public Health has indicated that these spaces cannot operate as inspected kitchens without commercial dishwashers. These kitchens enhance the community spaces by providing valuable educational and social opportunities.
Recipients of the LEAF Grant are selected based on a variety of factors, including community support demonstrated through the LEAF website and through social media engagement.
Visit West Lincoln’s LEAF Project Page, click the “Support this Project” button and add a comment, photo or story about what these community kitchens mean to you. Residents can follow up with the township and library social media posts about the project by reacting, commenting and sharing.
Community support for the project is open until Nov. 14.
November 11, 2025
Lincoln installed a second veterans’ crosswalk at King and William streets last month.
Lincoln installs second veterans crosswalk
Lincoln installed its second Veterans Crosswalk - located in downtown Beamsville near the intersection of King Street and William Street last month.
The crosswalk serves as a lasting tribute to the men and women who See CROSSWALK, Page 17
CROSSWALK
From Page 16 have served, and continue to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces.
This installation builds on the Town’s commitment to honouring veterans and promoting remembrance within the community. The design, featuring the silhouette of a soldier with the words “Lest We Forget,” reflects the deep gratitude of Lincoln residents for those who have sacrificed for our freedoms.
The project was made possible with support from the Beamsville Firefighters Association, who contributed to the funding of the crosswalk painting.
“On behalf of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 612 Beamsville, we are honoured to see the installation of another Veterans Crosswalk here
Charlie’s Barber Shop
Lest We Forget
in our community,” said Roy Mackey, president of Legion Branch 612.
“This initiative helps ensure that the sacrifices of our veterans are remembered not just on Remembrance Day, but every day.”
The Veterans Crosswalk in Beamsville follows the installation of the Town’s first Veterans Crosswalk at the Fleming Centre, unveiled in 2024.
“Our Association was proud to help fund the painting of this Veterans Crosswalk as a way to give back to our community and honour those who have served,” said Brian Culp, Lincoln Fire & Emergency Services District Chief and member of Beamsville Firefighters Association.
“It’s a visible reminder of respect, gratitude, and unity for all who pass through this part of town.”
Remembrance Day
November 11, 2025
Niagara West Remembrance ceremonies set
Nov. 11 will be a busy day across Niagara West as communities take the time to pay homage to those who made the ultimate sacrifice serving our military.
Grimsby will host its Remembrance Day ceremony at its cenotaph located on the lawn at Grimsby Museum, 6 Murray St.
The service will start at 10:45 a.m. After the service, Grimsby Royal Canadian Legion Branch 127 will host a light lunch.
Smithville Royal Canadian Legion will host its service at the cenotaph located on its front lawn at 172 St. Catharines St. in Smithville.
The service will start at 10:45 a.m. with a light lunch following in the Legion hall.
Lincoln is home to two services with Lions Park - 2793 Fourth Ave., Jordan Station - kicking things off on Friday, Nov. 7. That ceremony will start at 10:40 a.m.
Beamsville Royal Canadian Legion Branch 612 will then shift its focus to
Beamsville on Tuesday, Nov. 11 for a ceremony starting at 10:40 a.m. at the recently renovated cenotaph at the corner of William St. and King St.
A light lunch and refreshments will also follow this service at Beamsville Legion, 55 King St.
GRIMSBY LEGION
233 Elizabeth St., Grimsby • 905-945-8421 Facebook: Grimsby Legion
Remembrance Day
NOVEMBER 11
10:45 AM at the Cenotaph Beside Grimsby Museum & Murray Street
Following the Ceremony, Please join us for a light lunch at The Grimsby Legion, 233 Elizabeth Street, Grimsby All Welcome www.grimsby.ca/remembranceday
Grimsby Legion Supports YOUR Local Community
LEWIS SETTIMI
Remembrance Day Service
Grimsby installs veterans’ banners
Several years in the making, Grimsby installed a series of commemorative banners along Clarke Street - between Ontario and Christie streets in Grimsby - last month.
Former town councillor and Le-
gion member Wayne Fertich and Kelly Latam - both banner committee members - helped steer the process from idea to installation.
“It took a long time, but it was worth it. I think it is a great way for Grimsby to honour
those who sacrificed greatly for all we have today,” said Fertich.
In total, 11 banners have been installed with photos and names emblazoned on each along what has been unofficially dubbed, “Grimsby Veterans Way”.
Caistor, Gainsborough & South Grimsby, ON Branch. 393 Please join us at the cenotaph for the Ceremony & Wreath laying, followed by a Veteran’s Luncheon in the Legion Hall.
Smithville Cenotaph 10:30 a.m., November 11th Ceremony Begins at 10:45 a.m. 172 St. Catharines St., Smithville 905-957-3935
rcl393smvl@cogeco.net
Vanderhyden
anne (nee rumford)
Called Home to the Lord on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, with her husband by her side. Anne loved deeply and cherished her family and friends. Beloved wife of Peter for more than 47 years. Loved mother of Matt Vanderhyden (Jodi) and Mackenzie Vanderhyden. Cherished grandmother of Hailey and Chloe. Dear sister of Paul Rumford (Kris) and Don Rumford (Sandy). Visitation at STONEHOUSEWHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755) on Friday, November 7, 2025, from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m. The Funeral Service will take place at Trinity United Church, 100 Main Street West, Grimsby on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 11 a.m. Private burial will take place at St. George Fairvalley Cemetery, Coldwater, at a later date. If desired, memorial contributions to Trinity United Church or Humane Society of Greater Niagara would be sincerely appreciated by the family. www. smithsfh.com
OBITUARIES
Daly, Carol Jane Sheppard
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Carol Jane Sheppard Daly. Carol left this world with so much more she wished to see and do, and with so many more people to care for.
She was predeceased by her parents, John Gavin Sheppard and Suzanne Wood Sheppard, as well as her brother John Scott Sheppard, who is lovingly remembered by his partner Vance Smith. Carol is survived by her devoted husband Charles, her loving sons Gavin (with Heather) and Scott (with Lauren), her cherished daughter Suzanne, and her beloved grandson Woods, who brought her immeasurable joy.
She is also lovingly remembered by her brothers Blair Sheppard (with Martha) and Guy Sheppard (with Lana), along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply.
Carol will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering care for others. As a guidance counsellor, she dedicated her life to supporting and uplifting young people, helping them find their confidence and purpose. Beyond her career, she had a zest for life that was truly infectious — embracing every opportunity to travel, experience art, and connect with others. Her kindness, compassion, and joy in living each day to the fullest will continue to inspire all who knew her.
A Celebration of Life will be held at her home on Saturday, November 8th, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to join in remembering and honouring Carol’s life.
licensed gas
• Installation, Service Maintenance • Heating, Cooling, Gas Lines
• Local Free Quotes
• References upon request. call Blake 365-889-7838
- 1995
Thirty years have come and gone
Yet it seems like yesterday.
We sat and talked and shared some laughs.
We whiled the hours away.
A special day’s not needed
Treasured memories keep you near.
We think of you often Grandpa
Not just this day of the year.
Always remembered with love - Cathy & Joe
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Carol’s memory to the PET Scan Project at Juravinski Hospital or the Stratford Chefs School.
TrUcks, old farm machinery for scrap or repair. We pay cash. Flatbed service. 905-386-6181 or 289686-5059.
To designate properties as being a place of architectural, historical and/or contextual value or interest
TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Town of Lincoln passed By-law Nos. 2025-52 and 2025-53 on the 27th day of October, 2025, to designate the following properties pursuant to the provisions of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter O.18, Part IV, Section 29.
2944 Twenty-First Street | Lot 21, Concession 8, Louth Township, Registered Plan 30R1313, Part 2, Jordan, in the Town of Lincoln, in the Province of Ontario.
4235 Queen Street | Lot 264 and part Lot 265, Corporation Plan 3, Beamsville, in the Town of Lincoln, in the Province of Ontario.
AND TAKE NOTICE that any person or public body may appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal in respect of the By-law by filing with the Clerk of the Town of Lincoln not later than the 6th day of December, 2025, a notice of appeal to the by-law. A notice of appeal must:
i. Be made in writing;
ii. Must set out the reasons for the appeal; and
iii. Be accompanied by a fee of $1,100.00 in the form of a certified cheque, money order, or credit card payable to the Minister of Finance (This is the fee required by the Ontario Land Tribunal). An appellant may request a reduction of the filing fee to $400, if the appellant is a private citizen or eligible community group. The request for a reduction in the fee must be made at the time of filing the appeal.
Further information respecting the designation may be obtained by contacting Planning & Development at (905) 563-2799 or by email planningapplications@lincoln.ca
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One step forward, three steps back
So another example of how Grimsby can take something that has nothing but upside and potential and crush the soul out of it until just a hint of a pulse is left.
Up on the coroner’s table this week a shiny new - just for a minutetourism strategy.
Spooky set up
The Hildebrands: Kingston, 7, mom Cheryl and Morgan, 9, check out the spooky decorations at the Grimsby Glows pumpkin parade in Coronation Park on Saturday. Loree - Photo
If you need bird cage filler, call me
So a couple of weeks back, our office got a strange call from Grimsby Town Hall.
It seems Coun. Veronica Charrois descended upon the scene, asked for a couple of staff members who were unavailable, and then proceeded to scoop up all the NewsNow copies at the front counter and departed. The call to us was asking for more copies, which we had no issue dropping off. Note to Coun. Charrois: I have no idea what would motivate taking a whole pile of papers, but if you need bird cage filler or something, call me. We have lots of back copies. M.W.
Off the top, I’ve got to say the consultant they had running lead on this project was the best I have seen on any file in any municipality.
William Schutten of Context Research Group Inc. not only “gets it” but he can explain things in terms which even Grimsby council should be able to understand. I say “should be” because it is not clear his many points and detailed answers to all their questions on Monday night made even the slightest dent in the mountain of negativeness the strategy faced.
That noted, some of the questions were very good - and needed, like due diligence 101.
Coun. Delight Davoli was bang on with her noted need to see KPIs (key performance indicators) set in the process from the start. Completely valid pointand it still haunts her a bit from the joint fire services experiment which really did not have any - but that should have been a simple point to be made and then move on to other issues or, God forbid, something positive.
Concerns about costalso 100 per cent valid for
any council to watch like a hawk - dragged on and on and were exacerbated by Coun. Veronica Charrois drawing partial information from the full 80-page report to make it look like the “real” cost of the strategy’s first year would be in the $155,000-$235,000 range.
In his presentation - which Schutten noted at several points was pared down due to his 10-minute time constraint of council - he said at several points “low-hanging” fruit could be picked off in Year 1 with minimal cost, something in the range of $20,000-$25,000 if that.
The key being, “We provided you with a laundry list of things you can do, it’s a la carte.”
A good example used was the Grimsby BIA currently doing a rebrand exercise while the Town is doing the same - with no communication or synergy between the two. That’s just wasteful and enhances the already wide chasm between the two.
If council chooses not to invest a dime, there is still things which can be done to better position the whole
tourism file to generate some financial upside.
Soley implementing a MAT (Municipal Accommodation Tax) could generate enough to pay for a tourism coordinator. There were lots of positives there if anyone chose to absorb them.
Coun. Nick DiFlavio was actually kind of funny in a disconnected way. He looks a super sharp expert in the eye and tells him his numbers are “irrelevent” - to which Schoutten shut him down explaining what the methodology was behind arriving at his projections and how it is the industry standard used in all other areas from the Province of Ontario on down.
But that kind of view is par for the course anymore.
Bear in mind, this is not a blank cheque or 100 per cent support for the tourism strategy. It is simply a recognition that Grimsby council cannot get out of its own way.
For the anti-Coun. Reg Freake crowd - typically that’s Charrois, DiFlavio, Korstanje and a hint of Davoli - they would not say anything about this plan because it is very much his baby, born through the Grimsby Economic Development Advisory Committee. For sure the angst-ridden comments on Monday, for some, were an attempt to keep another councilllor from scoring points with an election now a year a way. Just about anything you see will be tainted from here on out, so be wary.
Simply, the strategy has legs and I hope it garners enough support to get it off the ground.
MIKE WILLISCRAFT
WEEKLY SPECIALS FLYER - NOV 6TH - NOV 12TH
