Lincoln doc shortage headed for ER
By Evan Loree NewsNow
A cash incentive may be the key to attracting more
family physicians to town, at least that is what Lincoln council is hoping.
Representatives of the
Lincoln Medical Centre came to council Oct. 15 warning of an existing and worsening doctor shortage
impacting the residents of Lincoln.
“Ontario is experiencing a significant lack of fam-
ily doctors,” clinic manager Jade Neilson told council at the meeting.
The Lincoln Medical Centre has been trying to replace a retired doctor since 2022, but has been unsuccessful, Neilson said.
With population increases, Lincoln is currently short four doctors.
Neilson said this could double in the next 2-3 years because four more doctors at the Lincoln Medical Centre were preparing to retire.
This would leave 12,000 residents without a primary physician, Neilson said.
Worse still, if the retiring doctors are not replaced, the remaining physicians will be unable to support the clinic, forcing it to close.
Dr. Maria Cescon, who attended the meeting with Neilson, said if the clinic closes, the patients will have to seek care at walk-in clinics and emergency rooms, resulting in “major backlogs and wait times.”
Beamsville Medical Centre faces a similar situation with 3-4 doctors ready to retire in the next five years.
And while it’s beyond the Town itself to fix the problem, Neilson said it could do more to attract doctors.
“We’re in competition with the rest of Ontario. And we’ve come to tell you that See DOCTORS, Page 4
Autumn Nichol, 8, marvels at her aim after loosing a toy arrow at
inflatable target. West Lincoln firefighter Amer Balloutine shows her how to draw back the string as part of the programming at West Lincoln Fire Department’s Station 1 open house in Smithville on Saturday. Loree - Photo
Meet your candidates
West Lincoln Ward 3
What is the most important matter facing West Lincoln’s future?
Candidates provided answers to three questions and a more lengthy overview - all of which are available for reading at: www.newsnowniagara.com/category/west-lincoln/
Answers for questions were capped at 100 words and are printed verbatim.
CORRECTION
In the Oct. 17 edition of NewsNow, a word was incorrectly printed. Below is the corrected submission for: “Why should I vote for you?” NewsNow apologizes for any confusion.
Doug Joyner: West Lincoln Ward 3
You should vote for me because I bring a proven track record of dedicated public service and community engagement. As a former mayor, regional councillor, and Local Planning Appeal Tribunal adjudicator, I have the experience needed to address the key concerns of our residents. My priorities, such as improving infrastruc-
ture, supporting community health initiatives, and ensuring fiscal responsibility, reflect my commitment to making West Lincoln a better place for everyone. I am passionate about listening to your needs and advocating for strategic development that preserves our rural charm while promoting economic growth.
West Lincoln Ward 3
Greg Maychak: West Lincoln Ward 3
It’s growth. I’ve been knocking on doors and I can tell you our neighbours are concerned about it. Here’s what they are saying:
1. We live here because we love Smithville’s peaceful charm and what property taxes are not out of control. These must be preserved.
2. Any additional
growth must be done with public input.
3. If additional housing is on the way, it must be subject to smart and careful planning, to ensure it improves our services, roads and other infrastructure, without unnecessary costs. My priority is working with you to ensure growth works for us.
Stefanie Bonazza: West Lincoln Ward 3
What I have been hearing is that most West Lincoln residents are worried about runaway growth and development. Residents want to see responsible growth and development that makes sense, keeping West Lincoln’s values at the forefront. We need to strive to grow our community while ensuring we maintain our agricultural lands and greenspaces, and continue to preserve our natural heritage areas. With increased growth comes enhanced community programs, high quality investment and gainful employment, which are all positive things that residents want to see in our community.
Gord MacCharles: West Lincoln Ward 3
We need well planned, responsible, and sustainable growth, and we need to ensure that our community and small-town charm is not lost in the coming expansion. We need to focus on ensuring our commercial growth matches our residential growth, like additional childcare and medical centres
for the growing number of families on waiting lists, and a budget friendly grocery store, like Food Basics or No Frills, to assist those in our community on a fixed budget. Growth may be inevitable, but we can control the pace of that growth to make sure it does not get out of hand.
Heather Gill: West Lincoln Ward 3
My priority will be to fight high property taxes by attracting small, medium, and large businesses in order to offset the burden on residential property taxpayers like you. At the same time making sure that we provide vital services to our seniors and young families.
West Lincoln lost our only high school because enrolment was way down. It cost our local economy millions. We need a plan to attract families whose children will graduate high school and after college come back to start their own careers & families here. Read my plan at www. HeatherGill.ca. On election day vote Heather Gill.
Doug Joyner: West Lincoln Ward 3
The most important matter facing West Lincoln’s future is balancing growth with maintaining our rural identity. As our community develops, we must focus on strategic initiatives that support economic growth while preserving the charm and character that define us. This includes improving
local infrastructure, enhancing community services, and ensuring public safety. By prioritizing responsible development, we can create a vibrant, sustainable future that benefits all residents, attracting new businesses and families while protecting our agricultural heritage.
DOCTORS
From Page 1 without offering incentives, Lincoln will be completely overlooked by incoming physicians,” she said.
The Lincoln Medical Centre has interviewed six doctors in the last year, five of whom joined practices in towns offering cash incentives to help clinics get off the ground.
Neilson said doctors are graduating with up to $300,000 in student debt, and are weighed down by clinic start-up costs.
Cescon said Welland offers doctors a $100,000 cash incentive to start practicing there.
The neighbouring municipality has successfully attracted nine doctors in the last year using this incentive program.
“Without recruitment incentives, Lincoln will not be able to attract physicians. If this occurs our clinic will close in two to three years and 18,000 residents will be without a primary care physician,” Cescon said.
“Actually, things are much worse,” Mayor Sandra Easton said.
There are no doctors supporting the communities of Jordan and Vineland.
The people who live there most likely travel to Grimsby or St. Catharines for primary health care, said Jill Croteau, the region’s head of physician recruitment.
When asked by Easton, she
was unable to say how many people in the rural areas around Lincoln lacked a primary care provider.
Coun. Adam Russell asked about the staffing requirements for walk-in clinics compared to family practices.
Cescon was clear that walk-in clinics were not a substitute for family doctors.
Walk-ins are like a “drivethrough McDonald’s,” she said.
They have their purpose but family physicians are “the ideal,” she added.
As well, Easton said care gets more complicated as people age and develop chronic illnesses.
“What concerns me is that competitive nature of the program,” Russell said.
If Lincoln tries to match the incentive offerings of bigger, wealthier towns, “We would become very uncompetitive very quickly,” he said.
In the end, council directed staff to report back on the costs and merits of an incentive program for new doctors.
Council also ordered staff to advocate for a region-wide incentive program at all upper levels of government.
After hearing the mayor’s concerns about health services available to rural residents, Coun. Dianne Rintjema suggested staff report back on where people are getting their health services.
Councillors unanimously supported the three orders.
Niagara transit budget to rise more than projected
By Evan Loree NewsNow
crease in transit funding since 2024.
Niagara taxpayers may be paying more for regional transit services in 2025.
Lincoln Reg. Coun. Rob Foster shared data with Lincoln council on Monday which shows the regional transit commission’s budget is projected to increase 5.9 per cent in 2025. The commission is preparing for an $87.5 million budget for 2025.
Lincoln will be asked to kick in a share of more than $1.8 million, up from about 1.57 million in 2024, to support the transit commission’s costs.
The rise in annual property taxes for an average Lincoln property valued at $404,000 is about $26, according to a staff report from the transit commission.
Foster told council he “totally” supports the proposed budget.
“We’re the victims of our own success,” Foster said after the meeting.
Ridership rates are much higher than initially projected in Lincoln and, as they continue to rise, the Town can expect to spend more on the commission’s transit services, he said.
saying the region-wide increase of 5.6 per cent was “reasonable.”
“Long term its the right thing to be doing,” he said.
Foster said the province has a prerequisite for inter-municipal transit system to qualify for additional GO transit services.
The forecast budget for 2020 was based on ridership data from 2019 but COVID-19 crushed ridership.
“Nobody was riding a bus at that point in time,” he said.
are waiting longer than they would like to,” she added.
Lincoln CEO Mike Kirkopoulos said ridership is high enough it may warrant regularly scheduled bus routes in the future. He would not say if the new system was more efficient than the old one.
“The two systems are hard to compare,” he said.
Avertex
Bert Vis Flooring
This represents an almost 19 per cent in-
Foster disagreed that the cost was too high,
Belanger Power Sweeping
Charlie-Bee Honey
Galaxy Pallets
ICON Fitness
In Memory of Kaye and Ken McGrail
McFeeters Wood Shavings
McIntyre Electric
Meester Insurance
Merritt Funeral Home
Modular Transport Canada
Natural Landscaping
Niagara Peninsula Energy
Oqin Solar Canada
Premier Equipment
Robins Electric
Robins Water
Mayor Sandra Easton said ridership for the region’s ondemand transit system is “so popular that It can’t even keep up,”
“Sometimes people
The old transit system was entirely internal, whereas the new system provides opportunities for riders to visit other municipalities in the region.
Regional council has not approved its budget for 2025. Budgets will be discussed again at Region Nov. 7.
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Voices of Niagara Choir
Ball’s Falls gets heritage designation
Ball’s Falls Conservation Area has offically been declared a heritage property.
The Town of Lincoln Heritage Advisory Committee and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) hosted a special ceremony Oct. 11 to mark the occasion.
The historical significance of the site, municipally known as 3292 Sixth Avenue in
tion of our community’s rich history,” said Mayor Sandra EAston.
“This designation ensures that its legacy will be preserved for future generations while celebrating the historical significance of the site. We look forward to seeing residents and visitors enjoy and learn from this heritage property for many years to come.”
The designation recognizes the architectural, historical, and contextual importance of Ball’s Falls, which has been a key landmark in Lin-
coln and the broader Niagara region for generations.
“Today’s heritage designation of Ball’s Falls Conservation Area is a tremendous honour and a recognition of the rich history and cultural value this site holds for our community,” said John Metcalfe, Chair, NPCA Board of Directors
“For 50 years, the Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival has been a celebration of Niagara’s heritage, bringing people together to experience the natural beauty and traditions of the region. We’re thrilled to see the festival’s legacy and the conservation area itself formally recognized, ensuring that this beloved site will continue to inspire and educate for generations to come.”
The designation ceremony was a highlight of the grand opening of the 50th Anniversary Thanksgiving Festivalwhich celebrated 50 years of culture, heritage, and family traditions.
Grimsby BIA to host fun
Fun will be the name of the game when Grimsby’s Business Improvement Area board hosts its inaugural
Nighmare on Main Street. A series of events are planned throughout the day on Saturday, Oct. 26, in-
cluding pumpkin carving, costume photos courtesy of Village Studio, costumed characters and an outdoor
movie at Station One coffee shop at 6:30 p.m.
All events are free of charge.
SNACK & LUNCH
Craft Guild bazaar planned for Nov. 2
The Grimsby Craft Guild is bringing back its annual Christmas Bazaar Nov. 2 at the Livingston Activity Centre.
The craft guild will be selling handmade crafts and baked goods, the proceeds of which will benefit Grimsby charities.
Guild president Silvia Passalent said the group had not yet voted on the beneficiaries but they would likely include those from previous years, including McNally House, Gillian’s Place and others.
The group meets every Thursday at the Livingston centre from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and is looking for volunteers who can help sew and contribute wares to the bazaar.
The annual bazaar runs Nov. 2 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
VILLAGE
Trillium helps with new van for Village of Hope
With a boost from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), Village of Hope Niagara (VoH) has a new electric van.
Niagara West MPP
Sam Oosterhoff was on hand this month for the formal announcement, with Cheryl KeddyScott, VoN chief executive officer, and George Mitges of OTF’s grant review team which provided more than $78,000 for the van.
“This provincial grant through the Ontario Trillium Foundation to purchase a new electric cargo van will help Village of Hope increase capacity and capability in serving the needs of our local community in Niagara West,” said Oosteroff.
The new van, which replaces an older inefficient vehicle, will provide a more reliable, cost-effective and environmentally sustainable way to facilitate pickup and delivery services across rural areas of the Town of Lincoln.
“This electric vehicle represents a lifeline between VoH and those we help, bringing essential items to the lives of our neighbours in need,” said KeddyScott.
“Now we can achieve this goal of alleviating the burden of an escalating cost of living, all the while reducing our carbon footprint.”
Village of Hope Niagara assists vulner-
able residents and families in need across the Town of Lincoln through several programs of empowerment and assistance, including a thrift store and community garden. The local nonprofit organization currently serves over 2,000 residents per month.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province.
Last year, the Ontario Trillium Foundation invested more than $110 million into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships.
Hot time at West Lincoln Fire’s annual open house
Photos By Evan Loree
(L to R) Elijah Mitchell, 9, Jason Davey, 8, and Jennifer Davey line up to grab a hot dog at West Lincoln Fire Station 1 in Smithville’s annual open house.
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(Above) Kara Nichol with 18-month-old daughter Brielle, watches firefighters demonstrating how to take the doors off a car.
(Right) Ivy VanderWier, 5, shuts off the water on a fire hose as firefighter Nolan Baker keeps it steady.
Firefighter Corey Simon tells a crowd how firefighters break into cars to extract injured people at crash sites.
Notice of Submission: Terms of Reference
Niagara Escarpment Crossing
Comprehensive Environmental Assessment
Town of Grimsby, Town of Lincoln, Township of West Lincoln
The Study
In Spring 2023, Niagara Region initiated an Individual Environmental Assessment Study (now known as “Comprehensive Environmental Assessment”) to provide a north-south transportation corridor crossing of the Niagara Escarpment between the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) and Regional Road 20.
The Study Process
The Study is being carried out in accordance with the Environmental Assessment Act as a Comprehensive Environmental Assessment. A Comprehensive Environmental Assessment is a two-step approval process with the first step being the preparation of a Terms of Reference. The Terms of Reference is a document that sets the work plan for the planning and decision-making process during preparation of the Environmental Assessment and includes such aspects as the alternatives that will be considered and the consultation activities that will be carried out.
Review of the Terms of Reference
Review agencies, Indigenous Communities, the public and other interested persons may inspect the proposed Terms of Reference during normal business hours at the following locations:
Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks
Environmental Assessment Branch
135 St. Clair Avenue West, 1st Floor Toronto, Ontario M4V 1P5 416-314-8001 / 1-800-461-6290
Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks
Niagara District Office
301 St. Paul Street, 9th Floor St. Catharines, Ontario L2R 3M8
905-704-3900
The proposed Terms of Reference is also available online starting on October 18, 2024 niagararegion.ca/projects/niagaraescarpment-crossing
Simon Zhao
Project Officer
Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks
Environmental Assessment Branch
135 St Clair Avenue West, 1st floor Toronto, Ontario M4V 1P5
Simon.Zhao@ontario.ca
A copy of all comments will be forwarded to the Region for their consideration. Please contact either of the following two Project Team members for further information:
Maged Elmadhoon, M.Eng., P.Eng.
Manager, Transportation Planning Transportation Services Division Public Works, Niagara Region 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Thorold, ON 905-980-6000 ext. 3583 escarpmentcrossingIEA@niagararegion.ca
Katherine Jim, M.Eng., P.Eng.
Senior Project Manager, Transportation CIMA+ 400–3027 Harvester Road, Burlington, ON 289-288-0287 ext. 6835
Town of Grimsby
Queen Elizabeth Way RegionalRoad 18 Regional Road 20 Bartlett Ave
Township of West Lincoln
Legend
Niagara Escarpment Plan Boundary Preliminary Study Area Regional Road 12 Municipal Boundary Smithville N
Town of Lincoln
Personal information collected or submitted will be collected, used, and disclosed by members of Regional Council and Regional staff in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. The written submissions including names, contact information and reports of the public meeting will be made available. Questions should be referred to the Privacy Office at 905-980-6000, ext. 3779 or FOI@niagararegion.ca
If you require any accommodations for a disability to attend and participate in meetings or events, please let us know in advance so that arrangements can be made in a timely manner. Please contact the Accessibility Advisory Coordinator at 905-980-6000 ext. 3252 or accessibility@niagararegion.ca
This notice was first issued on Oct. 17, 2024.
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Hallowe’en Safety Tips
Walk Safely
1. Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks.
2. Look left, right and left again when crossing and keep looking as you cross.
3. Put electronic devices down and keep heads up and walk, don’t run, across the street.
4. Teach children to make eye contract with drivers before crossing in front of them.
5. Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible. Children should walk on direct routes with the fewest street crossings.
6. Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Teach children to never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars.
Trick or Treat With an Adult
1. Children under the age of 12 should not be alone at night without adult supervision. If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, they should stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups.
Keep Costumes Both Creative and Safe
1. Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, choose light colours.
2. Choose face paint and makeup whenever possible instead of masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision.
3. Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers.
4. When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls.
OBITUARIES
bouwmeester, Leendert
Passed away peacefully at Shalom Manor in Grimsby, on Friday, October 4, 2024, in his 98th year. Predeceased by his wife Ann (1997). Leen found love again with his wife Hendrika (nee Pennin) for 23 years. Leen was a loving father to Margaret Goeree (Ken), Beverley Kubushesky (Ivan), Edward (Jennifer) and Elizabeth Temple (John). Dear step-father to Albert (Cheryl), Deborah (Glenn), Ben (Kristina), Madison, Robyn, Adrianna and Hannes. Proud Opa of Stephanie (Josh), Crystal (Dave), Lindsay (Reily), John (Ally), Summer (Taylor), Anna, Justin (Kyra), Lucas, Jessica and Kiersten (Dean) and great-grandfather to 13 great-grandchildren. Predeceased by his sister Janny Smit (late Loek). Leen will be fondly remembered and missed by many extended family and friends on the Canadian East Coast, Florida, Australia and Holland.
KLINOWSKI, Oryst “Ory”
It is with deep sorrow and broken hearts that our family announces the passing of our brother Ory Klinowski at the age of 68, on Sunday, October 13, 2024. We take comfort knowing that his family in Heaven has lovingly greeted him. Ory was predeceased by his father Lucas (1988), mother Ksenia (2016) and special friend Maria Corsini (2023). He is survived by his brothers Peter (Carla) and Paul (Debbie). Loved uncle of Joshua (Kate), Natasha, Andrew, Chris and Kevin (Erica) and their families. Visitation took place at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755) on Friday, October 18, 2024, from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m with Funeral Mass at St. Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Catholic Church, Beamsville on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. Interment followed at Queen’s Lawn Cemetery. If desired, memorial contributions to Community Living Grimsby, Lincoln and West Lincoln would be sincerely appreciated by the family.
CROOKS, Earl George
OBITUARIES
1938 - 2024
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our patriarch Earl Crooks. He leaves behind his wife of 65 years Elaine (nee McMaster). Beloved father to Debbie (John), Denise (Adrian), Glenn (Kim), and Wayne (Julie). He was predeceased by his daughter Colleen (2007). Proud Grandfather to Stephanie (Ron), Jason (Amy), Brett (Heidi), Nadine (Chris), Shaena (Eric), Sarah, Ryan (Sarah), Kevin, Rob (Jessica), Dan (Alana), and Matthew (Gabby). Blessed with 21 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild. He is survived by his sister Isabell and brother Hugh. He is predeceased by brothers Archie (Rose) and Burley (Margaret), brother-in-law Bill and sister-in-law Twila. A Special mention to Alfie (Karen), Tyler and Tage. Earl started work at Rittenhouse and went on to Stelco, where he worked for 17 years while building his own business Earls Machine Service. He was very involved in antique tractors and also the Plowing Association. Where he was a long-standing member of North Niagara Plowing, this also lead him to become involved in 4-H Club of Canada, teaching children how to plow fields. Dad and mom also enjoyed many years of dancing becoming members of Opry Niagara. The family would like to thank Dr. Mat Wohlgemut and the rest of the Palliative Care Team. A Visitation was held at Merritt Funeral Home, 287 Station Street, Smithville on Sunday, October 20. The Funeral Service was held at Smithville United Church, 116 West Street, Smithville on Monday, October 21. If desired memorial donations to be made to Smithville United Church or Merritt’s United Church can be made to the funeral Home.
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hofland, William
Peacefully, on Sunday, October 20, 2024, after a short illness, William Hofland passed away in Juravinski Hospital in Hamilton, ON, at age 90. Loving husband for 69 years of Truus/Trudy Hofland. Beloved father of: Jenny and John VanderHeide, Fran and George Dekker, Lucy Hofland, Fred and Alaine Hofland, and grandfather/Opa of 17 grandchildren and great-grandfather/Opapa of 35 great grandchildren. Dad had a green thumb with plants thriving under his care and with Mom worked together building up a Greenhouse Business growing only Carnations. He also enjoyed his hobby of photography for many years participating in the local photography club. Another hobby was playing the organ which he did daily, also volunteering to play at Shalom Manor for church services and hymn sings. As a handyman he helped numerous grandchildren with home projects and renovations, as well as participating in several CRWRC / World Renew Disaster Response Service trips in various US States always with Mom at his side. Visitation at Mountainview Christian Reformed Church, 290 Main St E., GRIMSBY on Sunday October 27 from 3-5 pm. Funeral Service will take place at Mountainview Church on October 28, 2024 at 11:00 am. Interment at Pleasantview Memorial Garden with immediate family only prior to the service. If desired, memorial contributions to World Renew would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755. www.smithsfh.com
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
TUCK, John Thomas
Passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Thursday, October 17, 2024, in his 89th year. Loving husband of the late Maureen (2010). Beloved father of Kim Medcalf (Tate) and Karen Kot (Billy). Cherished grandfather of Coleman, Emilia and Hailey. Dear brother of Ross (Shorty) Tuck and the late Lloyd and Sam Tuck.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Andrew’s Church Parish Hall, 7 St. Andrew’s Avenue, Grimsby, on Saturday, November 23rd 1 pm to 3 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-9452755.
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PERSONALS
HOLY SPIRIT, you who solve all problems, light all roads so that I can attain my goal. You who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things as you confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you ever, and in spite of all material illusion, I wish to be with you in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy toward me and mine. The person must say this prayer three consecutive days. After three days the favour requested will be granted, even if it may be difficult. This prayer must be published after your favour is granted, without mentioning the favour. A special thanks to St. Rita, St. Jude, Sacred Heart, Blessed Virgin Mary and all the angels and saints. Especially to Saint Rita of Cascia. Only your initials shall appear at the bottom. C.E.
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Should your town pay $100K for a doc?
Ah, the good ol’ days - no, not the good ol’ days in the long past when seeing your family doctor could be arranged right in your livingroom for a house call - but the more recent good ol’ days of the late 90s and early 2000s when communities had to start anteing up if they wanted to attract general practitioners to open up shop in their communities.
committee which helped seek and plan the incentive packages 25 years or so ago, from what I understand, the currentday economics blow those incentives away.
Welland kicking in $100K? Seriously? That’s straight up bananas.
Shining example
(L to R) Dr. Joe Paolasini, Amanda Black of McNally House Hospice, Carey Paolasini and Dr. Alana Paolasini were all on hand for the presentation to McNally of $5,200 raised as part of Dr. Joe and Associates’ annual Smiles for Life campaign. Loree - Photo
Want GO? Regional transportation a must
The picture on regional transportation costs coming in higher than expected is going to be an every year thing in perpetuity.
Since it was first proposed, this theme has been mentioned many times on this page. That won’t change.
Once the Pandora’s Box of regional transportation was opened, there is no way to maintain any level of cost control. So much is beyond control and there is precious little way to project anything with any level of accuracy.
The main problem evident from the start was regional staff were less than honest with local councils when they first set out transportation budgets - not unlike the photo radar system, but that’s another story. If you want, GO, regional transportation is a costly must, it is that simple. M.W.
The bidding for doctors is back to front and centre after 25 years of relative comfort on service levels and the ability for local residents to obtain a doctor for themselves and/or their family.
There are still many without right now - but some new docs have filtered into Niagara West and quietly posted “Accepting New Patients” signs. They were quickly filled up, but they have been there.
Now though, if you read the front-page story already, you will see there is a freight train running once again and it is headed straight for Lincoln - at this point - but the effects will be far-reaching.
Where we are at as a community is right where we were 25 years ago - short docs and we’re about to get shorter.
In the late 90s, a committee was struck not only to develop an incentive package which could be offered to physicians in an attempt to attract them to our humble community
but also to plan representation for health care fairs.
Yep, hard to imagine we are right back where we were, but local representatives are going to have to get on their respective horses, ride into the GTA to attend job fairs and be ready to showcase what the area offers in terms of quality of life, along with the “sweeteners”.
I don’t know about you, but that just feels dirty to me. I get the need, but it does not seem to be a very good foot to get off on when you have to bribe a doc to come to your community.
I really want to a say, “You want 100 grand to set up in town? Are you nuts! Get the heck outta here!!” guy, but that is not realistic.
If I was a doc coming out of school and ready to get started - having put in years of time, effort and major dough - I would want what they want, too.
That does not mean I have to like it.
Having been part of the
What happened in the late 90s was - when West Lincoln Memorial Hospital was still on its own but had a great relationship with Hamilton Health Sciences - WLMH used its status as a “rural” hospital”, combined with a focus as an educational component through McMaster University to bring young docs out who would see what a great area this was to live in.
That combination, along with some relatively minor incentives - compared to today’s ridiculous standards - was enough to stabilize the doctor colony in Niagara West at the time.
Now, it seems the next generation of docs is ready to retire and Niagara West has been part of the McMaster/HHS mix for so long it must not have the same kind of draw it did in the late 90s: that combined with other municipalities offering outrageous sums, has and will magnify the issue.
So, a question: what should councils do? Ante up? Leave it to the Province? Send in a letter or just a quick thought: mike@wn3.ca
MIKE WILLISCRAFT
Delivered via Canada Post
Tubman play fundraiser at WNSS Friday
Leslie McCurdy will invoke the ‘spirit’ of abolitionist and social activist Harriet Tubman in the one-woman play “The Spirit of Harriet Tubman” Friday, Oct. 25, 6:30 p.m. at West Niagara Secondary School Theatre.
McCurdy follows the life of Tubman in the 1850s through her escape from captivity and many missions to rescue enslaved family and friends as a conductor on the Underground Railroad.
Tubman’s hope, belief, sorrow and courage will be compelling and inspiring on the WNSS theatre state.
Harriet Tubman has been honoured by both Canada and the United States.
The Salem Chapel, on Geneva Street in St. Catharines is a historic site to her memory, as well as the ‘Harriet Tubman Public School’ on Henry Street that opened in 2015.
In the U.S., Harriet Tubman was named 71st of the Top 100 Most Influ-
ential Persons. She was named as the new face on the U.S. $20 bill, and on June 1, 2024, a largerthan-life monument of Tubman was unveiled in South Carolina.
The performance is a joint fundraiser for Jordan Station United Church and WNSS.
The school is located at 5699 King St., in Lincoln. Tickets are $20.
Call or email: 905-5624454admin@jordanstationunitedchurch.org
