BUY CANADIAN
G&M lists Grimsby one of “most livable” communities in Canada
By Mike Williscraft NewsNow
Town of Grimsby, which did not crack the Top 100 in 2003, was recognized by The Globe & Mail’s 2026 “Most Livable Communities” survey as one of Ontario’s best.
Grimsby was chosen as:
• #37 Overall
• #10 among medium-sized cit-
Politicians serve up opinion at chamber breasfast
By Mike Williscraft NewsNow
Breakfast with a side of opinion was served at Lincoln Chamber of Commerce’s event Iast Friday, Feb. 6, as Lincoln’s elected officials covered the issues of today.
The annual Politician’s Breakfast drew a capacity crowd to The Shore in Vineland with Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton, Reg. Coun. Rob Foster, MPP Sam Oosterhoff and MP Dean Allison covering many current topics in a difficult political climate.
“From a municipal perspective, we are at a pivotal moment. Never before have policy decisions being considered at the federal and provincial levels carried such immediate implications for local governments,” said Easton.
“That presents real opportunity, provided those policies recognize See BREAKFAST, Page 8
ies in all of Canada (population 30,000–99,999)
• #8 in all of Ontario (all population sizes)
•#2 among medium-sized cities in Ontario (population 30,000–99,999)
•#2 among medium-sized cities in Ontario ranked by best features. It is The Globe’s third such
survey which ranked 454 cities across the country, each with a population over 10,000.
Climate variables were added this year to measure how long periods of cold or heat affect energy costs, strain infrastructure and cause discomfort.
As well, three health care factors were added considering
availability of hospitals and doctors, how much people trust the system and how often they use its services.
The evaluation analyzed 58 variables across 10 categories identified as particularly crucial for individuals contemplating relocating to a new area.
See SURVEY, Page 3
Great memory
Joyce Long and Diana Stephenson were as giddy as school girls when they got to meet Leafs great
Darryl Sittler on the anniversary of his legendary 10-point game. The ladies - both residents at The Jacob in Beamsville were recipients of the facility’s Grant A Wish program. As lifelong Leafs fans they entered their wish to go to a game. For more
REALTORS ® Lynn Fee / Stephanie McIvor / Wendy Murray-Nicholson / Tracey Cerisano BROKERS Torrin Fee / Ralph Musitano / Rocco Mastromattei
SURVEY
From Page 1
The categories were economy, housing, demographics, health care, safety, education, community, amenities, transportation and climate.
West Lincoln also made the Top 75, coming in at 70.
In 2019, Grimsby ranked #2 in a survey of 415 communities by MacLean’s Magazine.
“That one was a little different as it considered things more along the development lines, where this one assessed a variety of categories,” said Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jordan.
“We scored high on healthcare, so the hospital helped there. We also did well on amenities due to our proximity to a lot of natural features like hiking trails, the lake, the escarpment. We also did well with mobility and proximity to larger centres. It
was great to see.”
Jordan noted that a couple new key items - one being the newly reopened Major Refrigeration Peach King Centre - could boost the town a little further when the next version of the survey comes around.
“Also, when the new GO station comes in, that will help a lot, too,”
Jordan added.
A release issued by the Town noted livability looks different for everyone, the ranking allows readers to compare communities by population size and life stage, acknowledging that factors like pace of life, access to services and community connection matter just as much as economic data.
Jordan said Grimsby’s strong showing reflects the everyday choices, care and collaboration that shape life here – from local businesses and
community groups, to volunteers, residents, town council and municipal services working together to create a place where people can truly thrive.
“This recognition is a testament to the people of Grimsby – our residents, local businesses, volunteers
and community groups – who make this town such a wonderful place to live. While our municipal team works to plan and support the community, it’s the collective spirit and everyday contributions of everyone who calls Grimsby home that truly make this possible.”
Why I Love My Community returns
Why I Love My Community is back for its fourth year.
The reader submission promotion was initiated in 2023 as the Niagara Westlike every other community on the planet - tried to break out of the negativity brought on by COVID-19 in 2020.
“It proved to be so popular, we just decided to carry it on,” said NewsNow publisher Mike Williscraft.
“West Niagara residents can let us know what it is about their community, their neighbourhood, that makes them love their home.”
Readers can take
a few minutes - submissions need only be up to 200 words maximum - and send your thoughts to: love@wn3.ca
“Readers are also welcome to drop their submissions at our office at 45 Main St. W. in Grimsby. There is a mailslot for anyone coming by outside of regular hours,” said Williscraft.
“The program is open to all, the young and not-soyoung alike. It’s just a little good fun at a dreary time of year.”
The deadline for submissions is Saturday, Feb. 21 at 5 p.m.
From all entries, three will be ran-
domly chosen with winners receiving a gift certificate for their favourite shop or restaurant valued at $100, $75 or $50. Submissions should include an address, phone number and email.
“It’s easy to be negative. We all fall into that trap from time to time, but we have a lot of great things in our area and this is a great opportunity to remind our neighbours of that,” said Wiliscraft.
“It could simply be your favourite walking area, like the waterfront or an escarpment trail. Maybe it’s just the quality of life? You tell us.”
NCF tops $100 million in
It took 26 years to get there, but the Niagara Community Foundation has surpassed the $100 million in assets threshold.
“The growth of NCF is an incredible achievement for Niagara,” said executive director Bryan Rose. “Over the last 10 years, we have seen donors come to us with
Inclusion West Niagara: A New Name, the Same Heart
After more than six de cades of service, Com munity Living Grimsby, Lincoln & West Lincoln has a new name and a new look — Inclusion West Niagara.
The new name reflects a modern, inclusive vision that aligns with Ontario’s Journey to Belonging framework — a province-wide shift toward person-directed supports and community inclusion.
“I’m proud to say that only the name is changing,” says Cathy Turner, Chief Execu tive Officer of Inclusion West Niagara. “But a new name and strategy spark new ideas. It takes innovative thinking to get outside the box on barri ers to inclusion.”
The organization’s tagline — Supporting Dreams • Build ing Community • Celebrating Abilities — captures its endur ing mission to help people lead meaningful, self-directed lives.
gifts of all shapes and sizes and, collectively, they have doubled our growth. This $100 million is thanks to the 400-plus fundholders who believed in Niagara’s charitable sector and invested their donations with NCF.”
The largest donation (to date) in Niagara’s history is $19 million
The rebrand was shaped by staff, families, and the people
“Thinking in new ways helps us reimagine what inclusion really means — and how to Lincoln, and West Lincoln, rooted in the principles of choice, integrity, and dignity.
191 South Service Road
Grimsby, ON, L3M 4H6
Phone: 905-563-4115
info@inclusionwestniagara.ca
assets
from the David S. Howes Foundation. As a community foundation, donations are pooled in an income earning endowment fund. The returns are reinvested into the community through grants. NCF is part of a larger collection of over 200 community foundations across Canada.
Baseball greats - Richard and Daniel.
4106 Mountain St., Beamsville ON
BREAKFAST
BEAMSVILLE LEGION
R.C.L. Branch 612 5545 King St., Beamsville 905-563-4612
MEaT DRaW
Every Saturday at 3 pm until March 14, 2026
- 5:00 pm
From Page 1 the condition of our existing assets and support investment that improves productivity and economic growth. This includes transportation infrastructure such as rail, highways, bridges, marine connections, and future GO and local transit, alongside transit-oriented and affordable housing.”
Easton added that reliable infrastructure must support those items.
That infrastructure theme was consistent with Foster’s view as well.
From an infrastructure point of view, if we want to have renewed investment in tourism, etc., we have
to ensure our infrastructure is up to date. Niagara Falls wastewater treatment plant is certainly an example of a plant that - if it goes down - Niagara Falls is in trouble. Sandra and I have been on tours of the facility and to say it is out of date is an understatement,” said Foster.
Foster added that Niagara Region’s connection with Niagaraon-the-Lake’s airport should be held in check.
“I am not in favour of expanding the Niagara District Airport, but I do think additional investments in rail, to make them ready for high speed as opposed to what is currently there now, would be beneficial,” said Foster.
Oosterhoff recognized that key decisions are on the table across all levels of government these days.
“Governments have to make hard choices right now, but so does everyone else. We need to focus on needs, not wants,” said Oosterhoff.
“Needs are hard infrastructure investments that increase productivity and help the economy - things like roads, water services, bridges, and transit. To get housing built and to support industry, investment here needs to happen.
He cited 7,000 restaurants closing since COVID hit, Canada’s highest food inflation among G7 nations at six per cent, taxation on all points of the food chain as major problems.
“Canadians are resilient and resourceful. But they need a government that understands the real-world impact of its decisions and is prepared to change seen-to-be failing policies. The cost-of-living crisis we face today is because of bad policies, we can fix bad policies.
Too often governments get distracted by wants and nice to haves - but in this economic environment, we can’t afford that.” Allison pointed to several economic indicators as reasons he believes a change in government is needed at the federal level.
There are many reasons to LOVE our communities in Niagara West and we want to hear what you think! With Family Day approaching, this can also be as fun activity for parents to help their young ones explain what they LOVE about the community in which they live!
But we want to hear from young and not-so-young alike.
Please take a few minutes to create a submission of up to 200 words.
All submissions can be dropped off at our 45 Mountain St. office in Grimsby OR email to: love@wn3.ca
The deadline for submission is Saturday, Feb. 21 at 5 p.m.
&
gift certificates to their favourite Niagara West restaurant or shop!
HAT TRICK HOCKEY
Week 15 (Standing as of Feb. 10th, 2026)
Be sure to look online at: wn3.ca to see the full standings, but here are some of the leaders and lucky random draw winners:
• $15 Gift Card, courtesy of Tim Hortons, Grimsby: Serena Sinnett
• $15 gift certificate courtesy of Jordan Flowers,Grimsby: Rich Barich
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Judge & Jester, Grimsby: Sara Waring
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Canadian Tire, Grimsby: Edward Nemett
• Large, 3-Item Pizza, Pick-Up Only, courtesy of Gino’s Pizza Grimsby: Sharon Allchin
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Memphis BBQ., Winona: Brooks Berry
• 2 Tickets to a Grimsby Peach Kings game, Grimsby: Josh Hodgkins Winners can stop by the NewsNow office to pick up their winnings
Officially
Top Standings
1. Zdriluk, Jacob 1169
2. Heinen, Eric 1139
3. DeVries, Mark 1139
4. Couch, Jesse 1136
5. Klages, Keith 1132
6. Heywood, Kevin 1132
7. Dunda, Riley 1128
8. Johnson, Debbie 1125
9. Kurpis, Steve 1124
10. Van Roon, Jim 1123
11. Simmons, Cam 1122
12. Stuive, Cindy 1121
13. McIntosh, Megan 1116
14. Baer, David 1115
15. Halliday, Colin 1113
16. Jacobsen, Sean 1112
17. Mous, Brent 1111
18. VanderHeide, Clarence 1110
19. Poz, Cindy 1109
20. Johnston, Stan 1108
Spin for Ukraine
Feb. 22, 2026 marks the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full scale invasion of Ukraine and 2026 will mark a fifth year of fundraising for Ukrainian Relief, says event organizer Joe Hube.
More than $90,000 has been raised for Ukrainian humanitarian charities since 2022, he said.
On Saturday and Sunday, March 28-29, the 5th annual Spin for Ukrainian Relief event is planned.
The Spin event will once again be held in the private, exclusive spin studio at the farm of Bill and Linda Emslie - 3754 Walker Rd in Lincoln.
“We will be offering three, 45-minute spin classes each morning starting at 9 a.m. (20 bikes per class). At noon on both days participants can enjoy a line dancing class in the barn for Ukrainian Relief with Barb Vint, said Hube.
Enroll in a class online for $25 by checking out the program’s Eventbrite site, pick a time and book a ticket.
“All proceeds from this event go to Ukrainian Relief charities,” noted Hube.
“The Spin for Ukrainian Relief event is a whole lot of fun for all who attend and a great way to raise money for the heroic people of Ukraine.”
For more information, or for questions, contact Joe Hube, 905-563-4034.
Public Notice: NOTICE OF WORKSHOP
VINELAND CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT
STRATEGIC VISION AND MASTER PLAN
The downtown/central business district area in Vineland is a vital component of the Town of Lincoln and is anticipated to grow and evolve over time. In recognition of this and in anticipation of the Niagara Region’s streetscaping upgrades along King Street, the Town of Lincoln is inviting the surrounding community to meet and discuss development of a vision to guide growth and development.
A key step in this exercise is to obtain input from residents living in Vineland. The goal of this meeting is to provide information on the existing land use permissions in the Vineland CBD and identify key principles and objectives that should shape a long-term plan to create a vibrant and attractive destination in Vineland. Municipal staff will be in attendance to answer your questions, provide the Provincial and local policy context and identify constrains and opportunities for future development.
WORKSHOP MEETING DATE
6–8 p.m. FEB 19
Lincoln Pelham Public Library (Rittenhouse Branch)
4080 John Charles Blvd., Vineland
MORE INFORMATION
The meeting will begin with a brief staff presentation followed by questions and open discussion format. For further information please contact Joshua Warkentin, Senior Planner at jwarkentin@lincoln.ca or by calling 905-563-2799 ext. 503 during regular office hours Monday to Friday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm. Additional context on this visioning process can be found on the Town’s engagement website: https://speakuplincoln.ca/visionvineland
REGISTRATION
To register for this meeting please send an email to planningpublicmeetings@lincoln.ca with the name, address, telephone number and email of those who will be in attendance, no later than Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026.
Sittler still making memories of Leafs fans
By Mike Williscraft NewsNow
Since they were little girls Diana Stephenson and Joyce Long have loved their Toronto Maple Leafs.
The residents at The Jacob in Beamsville thought they would try their luck entering the home’s Grant A Wish program - never
thinking they would win.
“Joyce and I are table mates and talk hockey frequently. One day, I said, ‘let’s enter our wish to go to a Leaf game’ - never thinking for a moment that our wish would be granted. Well, it was and, of course, we were shocked and
We’re Ready!
Thanks to a great response! NewsNow has not skipped a beat to deliver for our community.
There are just a few routes vacant, so if you happened to miss your copy - or if you live in a rural area - we have planned a large list of helpful outlets to allow for quick and convenient pick ups.
Beamsville
ecstatic. We started counting how many more sleeps before the big day which came in April last season.
With all the talk about the 50th anniversary of then-Leafs captain Darryl Sittler’s legendary 10-point game against the Boston Bruins, the memory of their adventure burned brighter than ever.
“What a day: we had great seats and screamed our heads off each time the Leafs scored, like two silly old girls. They won that night 5-0. We were even on the Jumbotron!” Stephenson said.
with hung on the walls…. Johnny Bower, Tim Horton, etc.”
“But, of course, the most special part, just before game time, was meeting #27. We were totally surprised when this good looking guy walked towards us with an assistant carrying two large bags. OMG, it was Darryl Sittler….older but still a good looking guy. We shook hands, hugged and chatted.”
And it was not just Diana, now 86, and Joyce, now 91, who were enamored.
“We were treated royally by staff and our guide took us for a tour seeing places the public never does. We strolled down Foster Hewitt Lane where large photos of old timers we were very familiar
“A crowd began to gather wondering who these two old girls were to be getting this attention from this wonderful Canadian who is so down to earth and whose celebrity never went to his head,” Diana said.
It was a very memorable evening, a dream come true. ROBERT JAMES, Sales Representative Office: 905-945.1234 Email: robertjames@royallepage.ca
We’re creating over 150,000 new jobs during the construction and operation of our new nuclear facilities, delivering new opportunities for workers.
That’s
T:9.786"
OBITUARIES
cross, richard
June 24, 1931 - February 01, 2026
Richard passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 1st , 2026 at the age of 94 years. www.smithsfh.com
Zabransky, Friedrich Franz
Passed away at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, on Sunday, January 11, 2026, in his 91st year.
Beloved husband of Mary-Ann. Loved father of Richard Zabransky (Michelle), the late Andrew Zabransky, Jason Zabransky (Carole), Lisa Chapman (Ryan), Susan Musgrove (Josh) and Peter Bajus (Tracy). A proud and cherished grandfather to numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Loving brother of Monica Harding (Ted) and Elizabeth. Predeceased by Roland, Harald, Klaus and Herbert. He will be sadly missed by his many relatives and friends.
Fred was a retired professor and held a doctor of philosophy in applied mathematics.
A private family service and burial at Grimsby Mountain Cemetery has taken place. A celebration of his life will be planned at a later date. If desired, memorial contributions to the Heart and Stroke Foundation (https://hsf.donorportal.ca) would be sincerely appreciated by the family.
APT. FOR RENT
bright & SpaciouS one bedroom basement apartment in Grimsby. Full bathroom, all utilities included. (Heat, hydro, water) in suite laundry. Steps from the lake. A Minutes from the highway. $1600 per month. 647-9911496
got a StorY to teLL? call 289-235-9500
SpaciouS, Quiet, 2 bdrm, Adult, 50+ building, close to town, $1795 per month. Available March 1, First and last. Credit check. Hydro and Internet extra. 905-719-9229
carS, truckS, old farm machinery for scrap or repair. We pay cash. Flatbed service. 905-386-6181 or 289-686-5059.
OBITUARIES
Cory Dumoulin
march 19th,1986 - Januray 24th,2026
Our family is heartbroken to announce the peaceful passing of our very loved, son, partner, brother, uncle and friend to many, Cory Dumoulin.
Cory will be deeply missed by his life partner, Bobbi Fisher and fur babies Honey and Olive. He will be missed by his father Ray Dumoulin (Lisa), his mother, Jane Dumoulin (Andy), his brother Bruce Dumoulin (Alicia), sister and best friend Jodi Park (Todd), sisters Mylanna (Joel) and Tia (James), in-laws Ralph Fisher, Jill Fisher (Dave Vaillancourt), and nieces and nephews Maddy, Nick, Logan, Olivia, Mickayla, Isla and Parker.
Cory will be truly missed by many aunts, uncles, cousins, family from far and near, from Grimsby and surrounding areas, all the way up to Thunder Bay, where Cory has resided for the past 10 years.
Cory and Bobbi met in Grimsby as teens and years later were reconnected up in Thunder Bay. Cory filled his time outside of work with Bobbi, sharing many adventures together, travelling most of Canada, from East to West and to just being out in the wilderness enjoying, hunting, minnow trapping, growing pumpkins, fishing and ice fishing. He’d become a knowledgeable bushman over the years with some great fishing stories.
Cory had a life long love for toys, always out on his boats, snow machines, the side by side and his latest obsession, his dual sport motor cycle.
Cory had an infectious smile and a way to make everyone around him happy. To know Cory was to be around love and laughter. He had a deep love for his family and his long time friends, always keeping in touch and going the extra mile to visit them and welcoming everyone who came up to Thunder Bay into his home with open arms.
Cory was a genuine person who made everyone around him feel loved and cared about with his big hugs. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need and always had a story sure to put a smile on the faces around him.
Cory is now together again with his Roxy but has left a void around us that cannot be filled.
We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the beautiful, fun filled life of Cory Dumoulin. Two celebrations will be held, one in Grimsby and one in Thunder Bay.
Grimsby details:
Saturday, March 7th, at the Grimsby Legion 233 Elizabeth street, Grimsby. From 2pm to 8pm.
Thunder Bay details: April 1st, at the Stanley Tavern, 739 Harstone Dr., Kakabeka Falls, ON P0T 1W0. From 4PM till 9PM.
No dress code in effect at either event. Please come in your favourite camo, vintage band T-shirt or the best wildlife T-shirt you have and be ready to share your favourite memories.
In lieu of flowers, donations to The Kidney Foundation of Canada would be greatly appreciated in support of his sister’s recent transplant.
CELEBRATE RECOVERY
StruggLing With hurtS, hangupS 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
HOME IMPROVEMENT
SpeciaLized in carpentrY - Painting, Small renovations, Fence & Decks. Hardwood & Vinyl Flooring, Power Washing, Senior discounts. Serving all West Niagara. Call Angelo 289-439-1485
greY rock maSonrY chimney & porch repairs, interlock restorations, parging call: 905-512-9565 info@greyrockmasonry.com
rubbiSh & Junk remoVaL. Call Ken 905-973-3235
Wanted for $$$ Especially 303 Lee Enfield’s and Winchesters, others considered as well as parts and accessories. Have valid license (PAL). I’m local. 1-867-993-3911 or email to thirtypound@hotmail.com WANTED
Raso, Michael Anthony
Oct. 19, 1973 – Feb. 11, 2024
In loving memory of our beloved Michael, passed away 2 years ago.
As time unfolds another year, we move forward replaying cherished memories of Michael over and over each and every day. He gave us so much to remember... His laughter resurfaces first. Joyous and unstoppable as if time never managed to steal his voice. Then come all the endearing memories.
Always a smile, a hand when needed, true, thoughtful, compassionate, loving and kind with an understanding heart. These memories sustain us in our grief and keep Michael’s light alive in our hearts. He was our light, our blessing. Michael’s presence will remain strong. He is part of everything that still feels like home. We talk about Michael, say his name and share his story as we carry his light forward in the ways he changed us forever. Michael changed us. Not with time, but with love. A love that doesn’t fade with absence but settles in quietly and stays forever.
“To the world, Michael was one, to us Michael was the world”. Michael you are loved with a love beyond telling and missed with a grief beyond all tears.
Love Momma, John, David, Layla, Julie, Rabecca & Stella, Auntie O
CCWN receives $18,000 grant from FEED Niagara
Community Care of West Niagara is the happy recipient of a sizable grant from FEED Niagara - $18,144 from FN’s Feeding Possibility! grant from Feed Ontario to build program.
Feed Ontario’s Feeding Possibility! grant program was created in 2020 with the goal of improving the overall resilience of the provincial food bank network and to help support member food banks in their capacity to serve their communities.
Since 2022, Feed Ontario has provided over $2 million to food banks to support innovative programming and improve food bank operations across the province.
is an important part of our work,” said Carolyn Stewart, chief executive officer at Feed Ontario.
The food banks in Niagara continue to realize an increased need for their services.
Members of FEED Niagara are responding to an unprecedented increase of visitors over last year. This increased need is linked to the rising cost of food, the lack of affordable housing, and inflationary pressures.
The members of FEED Niagara work together in an effort to reduce hunger across Niagara. In order to continue to meet the needs in their respective communities, FEED Niagara is building capacity in the region. This funding will purchase necessary warehouse safety and operational equipment that will allow members of FEED Niagara to acquire, receive, store and distribute much needed food.
“Supporting the unique needs of food banks in our network
“CCWN has seen the benefit and positive impact that FEED Niagara has created for the member food banks and the residents we serve through increased collaboration and partnership” says Carole Fuhrer, executive director of CCWN.
“FEED Niagara is committed to building a safe, sustainable food security network in Niagara that will allow us to provide additional resources and services to our member food banks as they fight against hunger” says David Vandersteen, manager of FEED Niagara.
“The Feeding Possibility! grant has been instrumental in providing essential safety and operational equipment to our team in order to bring our members the support they need”.
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Our Team:
Publisher - Mike Williscraft
mike@wn3.ca
289-442-4244
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Province needs to ban overpass demonstrations
Good letter this week from a reader concerned about far right demonstrators strutting their pro-white leanings in Grimsbyagain.
Innovative grandma!
Typically, this is a time of year when kids take to their backyards - when there is any snow - to see what they can concoct. In this case, a Grimsby grandmother - Lorraine Robinson - took to her yard to create likenesses of her grandchildren - Charlie, Gabe, Natalie and Jacob.
Nine strikes and you’re out
It’s not nine - it’s more if you include all the initial Notice of Motions and such - but the relentless push to have Grimsby Power Inc.’s financials rolling through the Town’s finance committee may finally, and mercifully, be dead. Another attempt, this time a request for Q4 finanicials, was defeated again 5-4 at Monday’s council meeting. No, you do not see a story elsewhere in this edition. It is not worth the time. There is nothing new. Provincial still, and always will override local bylaws and terms of reference. Hydro comes under separate legislation with their own checks and balances, as well as Ontario Energy Board guidelines. Grimsby’s elected officials have full access to all financial information and will see all at the AGM in June. This should never come back to council, M.W.
A couple of weeks ago, the same core message was on display at the downtown drive-through Tim Hortons outlet. The reason for that protest, it would seem, was a todo about hiring (or firing) practices related to that location which they claimed has used foreign worker subsidies to replace long-time employees.
Now, that is a separate matter when set beside “Support White Workers” banner waving “ demonstrators.
The issue goes from supporting local workers - or any worker, really - to one of a group using a baseless connection to what is a real issue to further their own radical view of the world.
There is a lot to unpack here.
First, I have no tolerance for hate speech. That is why I did not give their demonstration at Tim’s any oxygen. Social media can have at it.
Second, there are many people who don’t like any government program which helps immigrants get any kind of leg up. In some cases, that is a valid debate - which is part of the reason recent steps were taken to have immigrants pay more for
health care. Well reasoned debate on these matters is welcomed.
What we also don’t need is masked clowns running across the QEW so they can snap a photo of their buddies on the Casablanca overpass. Last time I checked, foot traffic on the QEW is illegal. But that is exactly what happened last week when a group of about a dozen masked protesters rolled out their banners on the overpass.
These people have every right to protest. You will never hear me say otherwise, but the provincial government needs to step in on this via Ministry of Transportation to say “no gatherings on overpasses - period.
They can demonstrate, but there has to be some rules about what is appropriate and safe. Causing a visual diversion to drivers on the province’s busiest roadway - combined with creating a pedestrian situation - should prove enough is enough of that.
The subject material of
the demonstration has nothing to do with it. The Ottawa COVID protesters were out there regularly causing the same issues. I will note I do not recall even one incident of any of them running across lanes of QEW.
For the Unite The White - or whatever their mantra is - if you want to have any credibility whatsoever, lose the masks as a starter. It’s like signing a Letter to The Editor. I get lots of letters I cannot print because people won’t stand behind what they say - or fear retribution, as in an ongoing case I am dealing with right now (and you may see something as early as next week on that).
If your message is so “out there” you think you need to wear a mask to tout it, maybe you should reconsider what you are saying.
And again, demonstrators on all topics should be free to speak their mindunless you happen oppose views of the Great Orange One south of the border, then you could be shot in the street apparently.
Isn’t Canada better than that?
There will always be differing views, and that’s ok. However, when you drift into radical hate speech, that’s not what anyone wants to see save for an infinitesimal percentage of our population who will come a runnin’ when they hear those kinds of dog whistle views.
MIKE WILLISCRAFT
Delivered via Canada Post
Hate has no home in Grimsby or Canada: writer
Dear Editor,
Residents travelling along the QEW this week were confronted with a disturbing sight on the Casablanca Boulevard bridge: a small group of individuals dressed entirely in black, faces concealed by balaclavas, displaying handpainted flags calling for “mass deportations now” and urging support for “white workers.”
The messaging was as repugnant as it was cowardly. Those who believe so deeply in their cause should have the courage to show their faces. Instead, they chose anonymity, an implicit admission that their views cannot withstand public scrutiny.
Canada is not, and has never been, the kind of country where these messages resonate. Our nation was built by
immigrants. It continues to grow because of immigration. From construction sites and farms to hospitals, small businesses, and classrooms, newcomers are not only contributing to our economy, but strengthening our communities and shaping our future.
We are a country that understands the realities of a global economy and the necessity of welcoming people who want to work hard, raise families, and participate fully in Canadian society. Multiculturalism is a lived reality and a point of pride.
Canadians have seen this kind of ignorance before. During the COVID-19 pandemic, fringe groups waving our own flag under the guise of “freedom” were met with broad public rejection. The overwhelming majority of Canadians understand that freedom does not include the right to demean, exclude, or intimidate others based on race, origin or ignorant belief.
Casual dress bothers reader
Dear Editor,
I was dismayed at the dress of the members on the front page for the Peach King opening.
Racist slogans and baseless claims do nothing but alienate the very people who help make this country better. They insult the sacrifices made by generations of immigrants and their children who have fought, worked, and built the freedoms we all enjoy today.
I’m old and used to a different approach to public appearances.
Joe Dingwall, Smithville
To me they looked like candidates for welfare. Whatever happened to dress shoes and ties?
If those standing on that bridge truly believe that only “white workers” deserve recognition, then they are fundamentally at odds with Canadian values. Just because the United States has once again amplified the voices of an uninformed fringe does not mean we are obligated to tolerate the same here.
Grimsby, like Canada, is better than this. Hate has no home on our bridges, in our towns, or in our national identity.
Brian Barron, Beamsville
WEEKLY SPECIALS FLYER - FEB 12TH - FEB 18TH
