NewsNow E-Edition September 21 2023

> Pioneer Days: A perfect day to experience living heritage /Pg 8

> West Lincoln ready for Harvest Routes Pg 5 > Beamsville girl, 6, joins Guinness Book elite Pg 15 > Grimsby project $1.27 million surplus Pg 19

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Vol. 12

Issue 21

www.wn3.ca

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Proudly serving Grimsby, Lincoln, West Lincoln & Winona

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Hot time in the old town

Gennaro Politano - with some help from firefighter Matt Dancer, aims the fire extinguisher to douse the flames during a live fire demonstration at Grimsby Fire Department’s annual open house Saturday at Station 2. For more coverage, please turn to Page 6.

McDonald - Photo

Smithville’s Highland plant gets $1.7 million boost

In an effort to support development of the agri-food industry, the provincial government has stepped up to support Highland Ridge in Smithville with a $1.7 million grant.

The grant is one of 15 the Province is making as part of a $25 million push to help expand food-processing capacity in the province and strengthen food supply.

The Highland Ridge - a division of Highland Packers - plant boasts nearly 18,000 sq ft for meat processing equipment, including slicers, scales, metal detectors, smokehouse, grinders and mixers.

“As a leading meat processor in Southern

On

Ontario, Highland Ridge is a model of innovation and economic growth in our region,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West.

Highland Packers president, Marinus de Jonge, said the grant

would go a long way.

“The new Highland Ridge facility in Smithville will provide our growing operation with the space needed to continue producing our naturally smoked and ready to eat meat

products,” said de Jonge.

“This project, funded in part by the Strategic Agri-Food Processing Fund, helps increase our production capacity and we are thankful for this opportunity.”

Fridays in October

First Friday (Oct. 6) Jukebox night.

Second Friday (Oct. 13) Open Mic with hosts Don and Connor Wilson. Third Friday (Oct. 20) Karaoke with Matt Duncan. Kitchen open Thursday and Fridays at 4:30.

hand for the announcement were: (L to R): Bryan Bebas, Highland production control manager; Edwin, Nick and Fred de Jonge of Highland’s leadership team; Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff; Marinus and Janneke de Jonge and Janet DeVries, also of Highland’s leadership Team.

On Sale

Lincoln bumps tree canopy review to front of the line

By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow

Private and public tree policies and bylaws are being strengthened to protect the canopy over the Town of Lincoln.

Coun, Tony Brunet brought the motion to council last Monday “to ensure that they reflect current best practices, research, data, science and the need for an enhanced tree canopy that promotes livable communities and climate change adaption.”

“We have had unprecedented growth in Lincoln over the past three to five years, especially in Ward 2 with a number of subdivisions and thousands of new homes and with that comes additional obstacles,” Brunet said.

“It’s important that we do strengthen it because of the stresses that we are seeing especially in development.”

“We had some clear cutting in Ward 2 and that sent shockwaves through the community. We don’t want to deal with that on a regular basis,” Brunet said.

“A healthy tree canopy is critical to climate change,” said Coun. JD Pachereva who seconded the motion. “Do what you can locally and it will have an effect globally.”

Brunet said there needs to be tree lists and policies for

developers that are heavily favoured to native trees, naturalization plans for parks and that it needs to be a collaborative effort. “We need to make sure we are meeting goals for decades.” Along with addressing climate change and tree canopy there is a need to preserve heritage. “We have trees that are 200 years old.

Supporting the motion, Coun. Lynn Timmers said the landscape of the Town has changed drastically and looking at the heritage aspect, “some of our trees are our oldest assets that we have.”

Mayor Sandra Easton said she had been tempted over the last month to tie lots of blue ribbons around the 222-year old oak tree on Mountain St., “so that people know to keep their hands off.”

CAO Michael Kirkopoulos said bylaw and planning processes will be aligned, and the Town will remain vigilant. “If you see something let us know. We will make sure it does get addressed.”

The review which has been moved up from 2025, will be a collaborative effort with the Town seeking input from residents and all stakeholders including developers. Staff will come back with updates in early 2024.

West Lincoln

Harvest Routes rolls Sept. 29-30

West Lincoln’s popular Harvest Routes event is set to run in several locations across the municipality.

A celebration of arts and culture, the event runs Sept. 29-30.

Harvest Routes workshop registration opens at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 21.

Workshops are $20 each for adults, $15 each for older adults (55+), and kids’ workshops are $10 each. Workshop costs are subsidized by the Township.

West Lincoln Public Library drop-in workshops are free and Deb’s Holiday Workshop is free with a nonperishable donation to West Lincoln Community Care.

In addition to artistic workshops, Harvest Routes will also feature an Artists’ Marketplace on Saturday, Sept. 30.

Local artists, crafters and makers will display and sell their creations at the West Lincoln Community Centre, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

REGISTRATION

Those wishing to attend workshops must register and pay in advance (unless otherwise noted). Registration will be available online through Activenet. A small number of workshops will be reserved for those who need to register in-person at the West Lincoln Community Centre. Registrations will not be accepted by phone or email.

It is important to note that spaces are limited and workshops fill up very quickly. Interested participants are encouraged to set up their Activenet ac-

count in advance to speed up registration when it counts.

Other events part of the event mix include:

• Ker Church - tours and will hold a coat drive on Sept. 30 at 9353 Twenty Rd., Smithville.

• Smithville United Church - mindfulness workshops on Sept. 29 and 30, 116 West St., Smithville. Watch Smithville United Church social media accounts for further information.

• West Niagara Agricultural Society will be conducting workshops on Sept. 30. Learn

Education, treats and fun at Grimsby Fire open house

Firefighters served up kitchen fire safety tips along with a lot of fun for youngsters Saturday at Grimsby Fire Department Station #2.

Local families packed the fire hall to hop on the fire trucks, hug

Sparky, watch live demonstrations and enjoy a hotdog lunch.

Firefighters with Niagara West Fire & Emergency Services enacted exciting live fire demonstrations, auto extrication and a rope rescue.

Kids lined up for cotton candy including Ruby Hubbard with firefighter Evan Moss.

Most exciting event of the day for Lincoln King, 3, was sitting in the firetruck driver’s seat with firefighter Rob Fleming.

Mirko and Marina Manojlovic with their mom Jovana, peer through the windshield of a vintage fire truck, Ol’ Betsy, a 1935 Chevrolet.

The crowd watched in silence as firefighter Chris Decker rappelled down a wall to save a “stranded” window washer.

Sparky was a hit with Mirko Manojlovic left, and Phoenix Kendall.

Jr. firefighter Jaxton Maravilla, 3, was dressed for the part.

Story, Photos By Joanne McDonald

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HILLSIDE HAVEN

Located on over one lush acre, this EstateSized property is located on Grimsby's premier hillside court. A spacious & gracious home boasting gorgeous vistas from every room, with numerous updates throughout. Large windows that permit plenty of natural light. Gourmet kitchen with doors that open to the back deck. The primary bedroom is an intimate retreat, complete with a walk-in closet, sitting area, & private balcony! Features too numerous to mention! $1,799,000

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Extraordinary lakeside raised ranch, ideal for possible in-law accommodation. Located near fabulous waterfront park. Open-concept design with cathedral ceilings. Formal dining room, large updated eat-in kitchen with abundant cabinetry & quartz countertops. Open staircase to fully-finished lower level with full walk-out, separate entrance, bedroom, family room with fireplace & games room. Double car garage & long interlock double paved driveway. This beautifully cared for home in most sought-out neighbourhood by the lake is waiting for you! $949,900

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Jordan’s Pioneer Days

Experiencing the past

The pioneer spirit was fully alive Saturday at the 57th annual Harvest Pioneer Day at the Lincoln Museum and Cultural Centre in Jordan.

“We had the best attended event since

Covid,” said Olivia Rozema, curator of education and engagement. Close to 2000 visitors came through the gates. There was music, dancing, artisans, heritage arts and craft demonstrations and the perennially favourite vintage machines and tools,

from Jim Bucknall’s 1914 steam engine, to Eileen Moore’s 1890s hand cranked washing machine.

A staple in Jordan since 1967, money from Pioneer Day goes to the endowment fund to support work at the museum and in the community.

Story, Photos By Joanne McDonald

Kate Alaimo, 6, takes a turn on the apple cider press.

Stencilling moccasin patterns that identify First Nations communities, (L-R) Vayda Rotella with Lisa Barnai-Rotella, Mia Barnai, Aliya and Mileena Rotella.

Preparing samples of maple syrup taffy rolled on ice (L-R) Emily Bigger, Luc LeBlanc and Wynne Reichheld.

David Walsh and Arthur Lawyrk try their hand at dipping candles.

Serving up fresh apples are 1st Vineland Scouts (L-R) Jude Carlton, William Poos, Kaleb Austin and Liam Dempster.

Three spirited pioneer women a (L-R) Scarlett Allingham with Julia and Laurel Shuttleworth.

Lincoln wants roads removed from EA

By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow

The Town of Lincoln wants to get in front of the Region’s $2.5 million Individual Environmental Assessment (IEA) to study a proposed escarpment crossing that has been expanded to include Mountainview Road and Thirty Road.

A notice of motion requested by Coun. Tony Brunet will go to Council Oct. 2, and once approved, to the Region.

The motion supports the IEA and an escarpment crossing, but calls the Region to build the north-south corridor at the longtime recommended location of Bartlett Ave. and Park Road South in Grimsby.

It states Thirty and Mountainview are local roads that do not fit the technical requirements for a highway crossing with many businesses and tourists using these roads. A

2016 study discounted both roads for technical reasons, such as a lack of direct access to the QEW.

Several studies and master plans dating as far back as 1997 have recommended the Bartlett Ave. – Park Rd. corridor as the preferred site.

The Town and the Mountainview Niagara Escarpment Community Association (MNECA) worked collaboratively on the motion, that once approved, will go to regional staff.

Mayor Sandra Easton said last Saturday she appreciates the work and strong support from the community.

“There has been much consternation in the community,” said Coun. J.D. Pachereva, adding the intent of the motion is to ensure the Town’s position is clear. “We just want to get out in front of it.”

Ward 4 Town Hall

We invite you to attend a Town Hall meeting to learn more about what’s happening in your ward and across Lincoln.

As Councillors for Ward 4, we look forward to learning what matters most to you. We will provide updates from Town Hall, and a few members of senior staff will also be in attendance to help answer any questions you may have.

Councillor Lynn Timmers

ltimmers@lincoln.ca

905-563-2799 ext. 304

Councillor Greg Reimer

greimer@lincoln.ca

905-563-2799 ext. 308

General Meeting

McNally’s Hike for Hospice set for Oct. 1

Hike for Hospice in support of McNally House Hospice is back on Sunday, Oct. 1 at Coronation Park in Grimsby.

“Hike for Hospice is an opportunity for our community to honour and remember those we have loved and lost, to show support for those who are grieving,” said Amanda Black, McNally’s community engagement coordinator.

“The event also ensures that McNally House can continue

to support some of our most vulnerable community members as they navigate their end-of-life journey.”

West Niagara residents are invited to fundraise and join in the 5-km hike in Grimsby. Anyone wishing to participate should visit: www.mcnallyhousehospice.com to register and begin fundraising.

“Although the Ministry of Health provides McNally

House Hospice with a portion of our nursing costs, we still have the challenge of fundraising over $1 million each year through events such as this to meet our operating needs,” said Black, adding this year’s sponsor is Shopper’s Drug Mart Grimsby, “Our goal is to raise $95,000 at our Hike for Hospice this year which will go directly to the care of the residents here at McNally House.”

www.grimsby.ca/pkcexpansion

Participants at the 2022 Hike for Hospice.

What

Town of Grimsby Planning Department

Notice of Special Meeting of Council Review of the Grimsby Official Plan Creating a New Official Plan for the Town of Grimsby Have your say in Grimsby’s Future!

is an Official Plan?

The Grimsby Official Plan is a long range land use planning document that includes a vision, goals, and land use policy directions for the Town. It provides direction and contains land use policies to guide growth and change in Grimsby through to the year 2051. The Official Plan must comply with provincial policies and plans, and the Niagara Region Official Plan. The Plan provides direction for future development in the Town.

Why is Grimsby creating a new Official Plan?

The purpose of creating a new Official Plan is to assess and ensure that it is up to date with changes to Provincial and Regional plans and policies, and reflects and supports the stategic goals and prioirities of the community and Council.

Creating a New Official Plan

Grimsby’s Official Plan was approved by Council in 2009 and was intended to provide direction for the Town until 2031. Various amendments have been made to the Plan since that time. Significant changes in Provincial policy has occurred since 2009, and the Region updated their Plan in 2022. These changes require the Town to update the Grimbsy Official Plan. Resources have been allocated to develop a New Official Plan that is more user friendly, reflects the current comprehensive planning framework, and provides dirction for future development applications.

The New Official Plan

The completion date for the New Official Plan is anticipated by early 2025. The content will address where and how Grimsby will develop, opportunities for employment, transit and tranportation, protection of significant environmental systems and features, protection of agricultural lands and the agricultural economy, cultural heritage and address climate change.

Public Meeting

The public meeting to initiate the New Official Plan is being held under provision of Section 26 of the Planning Act.

Date: Tuesday, October 24, 2023

Time: 6:00 PM

Location: Council Chambers (Grimsby Town Hall, 160 Livingston Avenue)

This meeting can be attended in-person. If you do not wish to speak, this public meeting will be livestreamed at https://www.grimsby.ca/livestream/

Have Your Say

Public input on the development of a new Official Plan is welcomed and encouraged.

You can provide input by speaking at the special meeting of Council, future engagement events, on the Let’s Talk page for the Official Plan, or by emailing the Town at grimsbyop@grimsby.ca

The Town’s Let’s Talk Grimsby page at http://www.letstalkgrimsby.ca/officialplan will be updated with information about the process and currently includes a survey. You can also contact staff by calling Town Hall during normal business hours (8:30 to 4:30):

Terri Donia-Edwards, Supervisor of Planning

Lauren Burkhardt, Policy Planner

Town of Grimsby, Planning Department 160 Livingston Avenue, Grimsby, Ontario L3M 0J5

Telephone: (905) 945-9634 ext. 2192, Fax: (905) 945-5010

Email: grimsbyop@grimsby.ca

Glenn’sServicesPainting

Elm Street Café Grill

Some of the Voices of Niagara Choir members: (L to R) Marlene McBride, Patti Dueckman, Elsie Chappel, Bonnie Bervoets, Karin Schneider, Corrie Smid, Tim Barnai, Lee Mayhew, Andrew Poaps (at piano, musical director). Amber Macleod, Laura Hay, Bette Pender,

Beamsville-based choir seeks members

By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow

There is nothing like a choir to sing out loud and share the joy of music.

The Voices of Niagara Choir meets every Sunday afternoon and the call is out for new members to come out to join a community of people who just love to sing.

“There are no auditions. Anyone who wants to sing with us is welcome,” said choir treasurer Lee Mayhew.

Formerly called the Andante Celtic Choir, the

Voices of Niagara choir will be singing a wide variety of music. They received a $1700 community grant from the Town of Lincoln to purchase sheet music for a new repertoire, they have a dynamic choir director, Andrew Poaps, and they’ll be practicing for a concert in December.

All ages are welcome and for those who doubt they can sing, Mayhew reassures them the choir will carry them along.

Dues are $30 a month but won’t be applied until new-

comers have had a chance to decide if they want to join.

The choir is now up to 25 strong but the doors are open “for as large a choir as the community wants to support,” Mayhew said.

The Voices of Niagara Choir meets every Sunday, 2-4 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 4264 Mountain St., in Beamsville. Timothy Healey is the club president.

For more information contact Lee Mayhew, 905563-8567 or Laura Hay, 905-563-4348.

Marlene Smith, Brynna Toogood-Segrave, Janet Fletcher, Ed Whittington.

6th Annual Volunteer Pay Subscription Drive

“What a newspaper needs in its news, in its headlines, and on its editorial page is terseness, humour, descriptive power, satire, originality, good literary style, clever condensation, and accuracy, accuracy, accuracy!

Joseph Pulitzer

Dear Reader,

Here we are, against all odds, in our 11th year of publishing. Our little paper that started in the basement of our house has flourished into what you are reading today. We’ve had ups and downs, two printing plant closures, sale of our distribution company, a world-wide pandemic and... we are still here. Because of you, good reader - as well as our loyal and dedicated advertising base - through ensuring great response via your intense readership as well as your generous subscriptions. We truly appreciate your support!

Based on the excellent feedback from previous years’ volunteer pay subscription drives, we have launched Year 6!

Is NewsNow’s independent, accurate voice in the community of value to you? Would you like to support NewsNow in its efforts? This is your opportunity.

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

Simply, this means, rain (or snow) or shine, you will always – each and every week – receive your copy of NewsNow. Whether you live in a single-detached home, apartment, condo or at a business, NewsNow is now everywhere –29,000-plus circulation strong. That will NOT change!!!!

Subscriptions: One Year - $50 suggested

We will back HST out of each payment to make things as simple as possible. You can pay by cheque (bring into the office or mail), credit card (call Catherine at 289-235-9500) or e-transfer (send to: subscriptions@wn3.ca - make security answer - newsnow ) For more information, please do not hesitate to call, email or drop in. All inquiries are welcome!!

Thanks very much for your time and we wish good health to you all!

1 Mountain Street, L3M 3J6, Grimsby • 289-235-9500

Mike Williscraft Publisher

Call For All Your Real Estate Needs!

905-807-2391

Who? Voices of Niagara

What? A community choir

Where? First Baptist Church 4264 Mountain St. Beamsville

When? Sunday, Sept 24 from 2 pm to 4 pm

Why? We love to sing and would welcome anyone who would like to join us to experience the physical and mental benefits and fun of signing with others. No experience necessary, no audition. For more info email: voicesofniagarachoir@gmail.com

Musicians invited to sit in with Hamilton Accordian Club

The Hamilton Accordion Club is looking for new members and all musicians are welcome to come listen or play on the open mic stage.

“It’s informal fun,” says member Ingo Andersen. “You never know who you will meet. Walter Ostanek was there one night.”

Accordionists are predominant but all musicians and instruments are welcome. They’ve wel-

comed guitar, trumpet, saxophone players and singers. “It’s the camaraderie and shared love of music and respect for each other.” The club meets the second Wednesday of every month, 7-9:30 p.m. at St. John’s Anglican Church, 1285 Hwy. 8, Winona. There is a $5 cost for the evening. For details, call Ingo Andersen 905-634-9033 or visit: https://www.hamiltonaccordionclub.ca/

Charge laid in connection with West Lincoln accident

A 53-year-old Smithville woman has been charged with careless driving causing bodily harm by Niagara Regional Police Service in relation to a Hwy. 20 accident on Aug. 28.

The accident occurred on Hwy. 20 near Streamside Drive, in the Township of West Lincoln.

Initial investigation determined that a collision occurred between a blue Hyundai Tucson and a white Harley Davidson motorcycle.

As a result of the collision, the motorcycle operator, a

59-year-old female from West Lincoln was transported to an out-of-town trauma centre for advanced medical care. She remains in hospital listed in stable condition at this time.

On Sept. 13, detectives charged the driver of the Hyundai Tucson, a 53-year-old female from Smithville with one count of careless driving causing bodily harm, contrary to section 130(3) of the Ontario Highway Traffic Act.

She is scheduled to appear at the Welland Provincial Courthouse, located at 445 East

Main St. in the City of Welland on Nov. 7.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the lead detective by calling 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009569.

Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-2228477. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information which leads to an arrest.

Hamilton

Simar Khurana is officially

Six-year-old Beamsville girl holds Guinness World Record

By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow

It’s not easy to crack the code on winning a title that puts you in league with the best in the world.

But six-year-old Simar Khurana has been named officially as the youngest video game developer in the world and now holds a Guinness World Record.

The youngest Nobel Laureate, Malala Yousafzai, the youngest ‘Time’ Person of the year, Greta Thunberg – Simar is in good company with her amazing accomplishment and she owes it to an innate capacity for both logical and creative thinking, hard work, and a family that early on recognized her aptitude for math and coding.

Her dad Paras, said Simar was doing Grade 3 math while still in Kindergarten.

She was also making crafts and games with whatever she could lay her hands on. Amazon boxes were some of her first toys and she used them to make crafts and games and robots. It seemed natural that she would excel at coding as she had the ideal combination of skills.

“It’s hard to find this combination,” said Paras who comes from a background in Human Resources.

“We thought we’d try her in

coding and she loved it.”

They tried to enrol her in a coding program but no one was willing to take a six year old. So they found a tutor, her developing journey began, and within a few months, Simar was making her own video games.

She went from one class to

three and four classes a week of coding, meanwhile maintaining a schedule that included dance, karate, gymnastics, plus school and 15 to 20 hours per week of coding practise.

Simar developed a fun, educational video game ‘Healthy Food Challenge’ after a visit to

the family doctor who told her about the importance of eating healthy food. Two characters, one who eats junk food and the other who eats healthy food are in a race and the game player has to pick the winner.

Paras reached out to Guinness. They laid out the process and it took weeks to submit the necessary documentation and then months while Guinness checked all the sources, including verifications from certified professionals and independent interviews by IT personnel.

They were thrilled when the news came that Simar was indeed the youngest game developer in the world.

While being listed in the Guinness World Record book means that you have accomplished something that no other human has done, Simar is a sweet, polite and busy little girl whose interests cover a well-rounded range of interests.

But the question of what she wants to do in the future is redundant. Simar, whose family includes her mom Manpreet and sister Livia, is now 7 and in Grade 2, and she plans to pursue a career in coding and game development.

You can follow Simar and play her games on her YouTube channel Simars World.

Simar Khurana with her official Guinness Book of World Records certificate. McDonald - Photo

OBITUARIES

Please call to place your Classified Ad 289-235-9500

OBITUARIES

HAND, Doug

Doug passed away peacefully at home in Grimsby, as he wished, on September 12, 2023 at 5:34 pm surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband of Linda (Hargin) for 46 years; loving father of James “Jamie” (Vicki) and grandfather of Noah. Predeceased by his parents Andrew “Andy” and Dorothy (Beckett) Hand, brother Michael Hand (1978) and sister Donna Smedley (2020). Survived by nieces and nephews: Prima (Martin) Davies, Heather (Scott) McClinchey, Andrew (Heather) Smedley, Rob (Claudia) Hargin and Jodi (Don) Walsh and their families. Fondly remembered by sisterin-law Nancy (Gary) Wilson, brother-in-law Bob (Shirley) Hargin and many cousins in the Hand and Beckett families.

Doug grew up in Hamilton and followed his father’s footsteps into a career at Procter & Gamble for over 30 years before retiring to Grimsby. He, Linda, Jamie and the entire family enjoyed many happy years making memories cottaging on Lake Erie. Golf (especially the 19th hole with friends), baseball, men’s league hockey, and “Market Day” were his favourite pastimes. Doug loved cars, from his Corvettes to his Miatas, and with Linda riding shotgun had many road trip adventures with the Niagara Peninsula Miata Club.

Thank you to our family doctor, Dr. Heather Roelfsema for her wonderful care and support, especially over this past year. To the team at McNally House Hospice, including staff and volunteers, thank you for your unwavering support and care. You made Doug and his family truly feel at home.

Respecting Doug’s wishes, cremation has taken place with a private interment to follow at Queen’s Lawn Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

Our amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend will be sorely missed. To honour his memory donations to McNally House Hospice would be greatly appreciated.

Keith Alexander Johnston

The family of Keith Johnston announce his passing on Sunday, September 10, 2023. Keith was surrounded by the love of his family during his year-long battle with cancer, which had been a great source of comfort to him. He is survived by his beloved son, Austin, and his Mother, Lyn; Father, Norman; Brother Phil; and Sister, Ashleigh, who provided unwavering support and care throughout Keith’s courageous journey. Keith’s kindness, light-hearted humour, and generosity will be remembered by numerous other family members and friends alike.

His family expresses great gratitude to the McNally House Hospice nurses and volunteers for their care and support during this difficult time.

For those who wish to honour Keith’s memory, his family encourages supporting McNally House, which played a significant role in his final days: McNally House Hospice 148 Central Ave Grimsby, ON L3M 4Z3.

Online condolences at tallmanfuneralhomes.ca

Catharine Isabella Smith

At the United Mennonite Home on Sunday September 10th, 2023, Cathy passed away peacefully in her 91st year, surrounded by her loving family. She will be dearly missed by her brother Anthony Easton (Sandra), her 3 daughter’s Patty Smith (Dave, deceased), Pam Mataseje (Ernie) and Cindy Cameron (Ian). Fondly known as “Grams” to her 4 granddaughter’s Julie, Peggy, Kaitlyn, and Miranda and 9 great grandchildren. Predeceased by her husband of 70 years William (Bill), Jack Easton, Mervin Easton, and Sylvia Campbell. Cathy and Bill were wellrespected fruit farmers of a Century Farm in the Niagara Region. Cathy’s happiest times were spent with family and friends up north enjoying the great outdoors.The family would like to thank the United Mennonite Home Meadow Lane staff for their caring and compassion. Donations in Cathy’s memory can be made to the United Mennonite Home, 4024 TwentyThird Street, Vineland, Ontario L0R 2C0.

MacGillivray, Orvena (nee Bender)

Passed away at Albright Manor, on Friday, September 15, 2023, in her 93rd year. Beloved wife of the late Alexander (2007). Loved mother of Allison MacGillivray (Ivan Otis) and Iain (Patricia) MacGillivray. Cherished grandmother of Michaela and Gavin. A private graveside service has taken place. If desired, memorial contributions to Alzheimer’s Society would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSEWHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755. www.smithsfh.com

Dell, Judith Ann (Nee House)

June 7th, 1944 - September 15, 2023

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Judith Ann Dell on September 15th, 2023, at the age of 79. Judy’s life was a testament to love, family, and faith. Lovingly remembering Judy is her son, Jeff Dell, and his wife Jacqueline Dell, daughter, Terra Kramer, and beloved grandchildren, Sierra, Mackenzie, Preston, Ava, and Evan. Predeceased by her parents, Hugh and Hellen House, and sister Madeline (Ray) Sorge. She will be greatly missed by brother Byron House, and wife Donna, and a supportive circle of family, friends, and neighbours. Our family treasures all the wonderful memories we had with her. Special thanks to McNally House Hospice for the wonderful care and support. Cremation has taken place. Visitation at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755) on Wednesday, September 20, 2023 from 3-5 and 7-9 pm. where a Service of Remembrance will take place on Thursday, September 21, 2023, at 11 am. If desired, memorial contributions to McNally House or Trinity United Church would be sincerely appreciated by the family. www.smithsfh.com

MASONRY

MASTER MASON: chimney repair, stucco, parging, brick restoration, stone, all cement finish work. Professional, reliable, excellent referrals. Estimates.

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HELP WANTED

H O u SE k EEPER / ClEANiNg PERSON wanted for 1600 square feet bungalow located in Campden. Weekly or bi-weekly. Call or text 289 9694724

ANNOuNCEMENT

ANNOUNCEMENT

NOTICE TO CLIENTS OF M. G. VANDEYAR THAT HE WILL BE RETIRING FROM THE PRACTICE OF LAW EFFECTIVE AS OF SEPTEMBER 30TH, 2023. CLIENTS SHOULD CONTACT MONTY G. VANDEYAR BY PHONE AT: 905-563-8818 to obtain THEIR ORIGINAL WILLS OR POWERS OF ATTORNEY DOCUMENTS, CORPORATE PROPERTY AND RECORDS, other valuable property or documents, AND FUNDS HELD IN TRUST BY FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH, 2023

Peternel, Olga

In loving memory of our dear Mother who passed away on September 18th, 2022

Missing you dearly every day, Your warm gentle smile, caring voice and ways. We were blessed with cherished memories.

Of all that life has given us, and all that’s left to do, we’ll never know a greater gift, than the years we spent with you.

Forever in our hearts, Your loving family

APT. FOR RENT

griMSBy One BedrOOM quiet smoke free 4 plex. Fridge and stove included. Laundry facilities available. 1 parking space. Suitable for mature person. References required. 905945-2848

weSt niagara, close to Grimsby/ Hamilton. A modern 1500 square foot raised basement suite on highway 20. 2 bedrooms and laundry, suitable for a quiet, mature adult(s) or working person/s. References required, 1650/month outdoor smoking, small pets, utilities to discuss for possible rent revisions. Call Mark: 905-643-2066

VEHICLES WANTED carS, trUcKS, old farm machinery for scrap or repair. we pay cash. Flatbed service. 905-386-6181 or 289-686-5059.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

StrUggling witH HUrtS, 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 905-945-9529

FOR SALE

nOritaKe iSaBella dinner set 12place. $250 obo 905-562-8961 pOwer tOOlS for Best offer, Delta Table Saw + steel stand + wheeled platform $70. Craftman Radial Arm Saw + steel stand + wheeled platform $100. Craftman 12 inch Planer + steel stand + wheeled platform $250. Bosch 14 inch blade Steel Cutter + work table $300. 905-562-8961

HANDYMAN SERVICES

Specialized in carpentry - Painting, Small renovations, Fence & Decks. Hardwood & Vinyl Flooring. Senior discounts. Serving all West Niagara. Call Angelo 289439-1485

rUBBiSH & JUnK reMOVal. Call Ken 905-973-3235

ROOFING

rOOFing Over 25 years of experience. Shingles and Flat Roof warranty. Call Ken 905-973-3235.

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

Calendars ready

Elaine Magri, left, and Carole Mazur, of Grimsby Historical Society (GHS) show a couple of images from group’s 2024 calendar - titled “Vanished Grimsby Tourist Destinations” - which is ready for purchase for $10 each. Funds raised going towards the ongoing operation of the GHS Archives. Buy your calendar at: GHS Archives, Monday, Wednesday or Fridays from 9-1, Grimsby Museum and the Grimsby Art Gallery Shop or at grimsbyhistoricalsociety.com

Save the dust up, keep focus

Grimsby Council wasted 20 minutes they’ll never get back debating whether or not tourism should be part of an economic development review.

A town that has millions literally stopping at its door at Grimsby Gateway, maybe, just maybe, tourism should be part of ec dev initiative...don’t you think. It would help if some on council even understood what a tourism dollar is, but we’ll save that for another day. Eventually, they passed the motion to support a strategic plan but, again eye off the ball. M.W.

Wow.

Anyone who knows me, the times in my life I have been speechless one could count on one hand.

This week, as a whole, and to deal with this space, is surely one of them.

First and foremost, let me say I feel sick for those caught up in the bankruptcy proceedings of Metroland Media Group.

The team there was still comprised of virtually all people I hired myself back in a previous incarnation of my community newspaper career.

Good people all. Some were provided landing spots by the parent company, many did not. Those who did not are among the 600 plus who were offered no pay in lieu or severance package. Brutal.

From what I am hearing, lawsuits will abound on all that, if no class action can be set up - really not sure how all that works.

What I do know is there are now more than 70 communities who lost an important local voice.

Even in Niagara, there are now communities with no community newspaper for the first time in recent memory.

Locally, this marks the second time since I moved to Grimsby in 1995 when I have run a one-paper-town situation.

At that time, it was the Grimsby Independent, when it was a genuine independent paper. Soon after I arrived in May of that

going to see price hikes and they will continue to receive the highest level of personal service we know how provide.

MIKE WILLISCRAFT

year, the Rannie chain was sold to Southam; then Hollinger did a hostile takeover and assumed control.

I got shuffled out in April 1997 after arguing a point on behalf of the community with a money grubbing publisher in that stretch. There was CanWest Global; then Osprey Media; then Sun Media; then Post Media, and; finally, Metroland completed the long list of pretenders to the throne of Niagara West newspaper dominance.

Now, it’s just me.

And no, there is no throne or crown for that matter.

What I feel is responsibility; the same responsibility which drove me to start Grimsby News back in 1997 and drove me to start NewsNow in 2012.

Is anything going to change? I sure hope not.

Readers are going to continue to find the best local stories and photos we can muster within the pages of this mighty little paper.

Advertisers are not

We’ve had a gazillion inquiries about ad space in the last four days. We are sending out the same rate card set in December of last year. That rate card was only the second time I had raised rates at all since 2012 and that was done as my expenses had gone up 35 per cent during COVID and I would not be here today if I had not.

Side note: when I came to town in 1995, Rannie Publications had what was called the GBS buyGrimsby, Beamsville and Smithville. The total circulation combined of The Independent, Post-Express and Review was roughly 7,400 homes. A full GBS page cost $1,100 black and white. Colour was $350 more.

Today, 2023, you can walk in our door and get a full page including colour, going to 29,000-plus homes for less than thatand that is how I want to keep it.

We are a small business. Small businesses make our community hum and are 100% worthy of your investment, good reader. We do all we can to help new businesses grow and hope to do so for decades to come.

We’re still here - which is a miracle unto itself - and we appreciate that miracle every single day.

We’re still here happy to be so

Grimsby projecting $1.28 million surplus

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

Town of Grimsby is projecting a surplus for the coming year end of nearly $1.2 million.

Coun. Delight Davoli, chair of the finance committee, detailed how the surplus developed over the last fiscal year.

“The interest income; with the rise in interest rates, we are doing much better than ever before and so that is increasing our revenue in the neighbourhood of $700,000 for the year,” said Davoli.

“The second item is something they call wage gapping...what

it really means is that when we have a vacancy in our staff, it often takes a couple of months, sometimes even longer before we find that replacement, the budget is for all 12 months.”

The numbers are accurate, but reversed as, checking with the Town’s fi-

nance department, the exact numbers are:

• $432,500 in surplus from interest income due to increases in Bank of Canada rates, and;

• $751,000 in surplus- wage gapping due to various vacancies across departments.

AirTags help police recover stolen trailer

An Apple AirTag on a dump trailer helped police recover the stolen item last Friday.

The communications unit of the Niagara Regional Police Service received a telephone call from a complainant indicating their utility dump trailer had been stolen from an address on Oakdale Avenue, in St. Catharines and was pinging by way of an AirTag to a rural property located on Thirty Road in West Lincoln.

Investigation has determined the theft took place between Sept. 14 at 4 p.m. and Sept. 15 at 3:30 p.m. from a fenced commercial property on Oakdale Avenue near Hickory Street, in St. Catharines.

During the afternoon hours on Sept. 15, the owner of the $15,000 utility dump trailer

activated a hidden Apple AirTag tracer that was installed on the trailer.

Officers assigned to 8 District - Grimsby / Lincoln / West Lincoln - responded to and secured the rural property where the stolen trailer was suspected to be stored.

Detectives assigned to the 8 District Criminal Investigative Branch applied for and received judicial authorization to enter the property and search for the stolen trailer. The warrant was executed on Sept. 16.

The stolen trailer was located and the property owner Andrew Lee Wayne, 36, of West Lincoln was arrested and charged with one count of possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime over $5000, contrary to section

355(a) of the Criminal Code of Canada.

Further investigation revealed James William Graham, 58, of Grimsby was responsible for the theft and towed the trailer to Wayne’s property. Graham has been charged with one count of break enter and commit place other than a dwelling, contrary to section 348(1) (b) of the Criminal Code of Canada.

Wayne was held for a bail hearing that took place on Sept. 17 via video. He was released from custody and is scheduled to appear on Sept. 29 at the Robert S.K. Welch Courthouse. Graham was released on a Form 10 Undertaking and is scheduled to attend the Robert S.K. Welch Courthouse on Oct. 13.

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