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> Rotary at Noon’s Mayor’s Gala packs Casablanca Inn /Pg 13 > WL Chamber hears north/south access key Pg 6 > West Niagara ball readies for season Pg 9 > Check out some Home Improvement tips Pg 10-11 Thursday, February 28, 2019 Vol. 8 Issue 41

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Ontario Health to replace LHINs

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow A new super agency announced yesterday will, “gradually” replace the LHIN (Local Health Integration Network) organization, says Health Minister Christine Elliott. In an interview with NewsNow Tuesday afternoon, Elliott said the new organization, Health Ontario, will create a onecall stop for all inquiries. Elliott said the major shift is in response to countless stories related to government officials about problems in connecting with care both in and out of hospitals. Local health teams, made up of existing professionals in local areas will be formed and “they will have financial accountability”, said Elliott. “(Health teams) will gradually replace the LHINs,” she said, noting full integration will take “a couple of years”. WLMH Regarding West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, Elliott said they are continuing to work with Hamilton Health Sciences to get the operating room nurse staff to a point where the weekend closures started last week can cease. “I know it has been very upsetting for the people of Grimsby and surrounding area,” she said.

Signing in

Lincoln Coun. Paul MacPherson and his wife, Leslie, right, check in with Coldest Night of The Year volunteers Marie Solvason, left, and Lindsay Dressel. More than $40,000 was raised at Saturday’s event, which was sponsored by Phelps Homes. For more coverage, please turn to Page 3. Marks - Photo

WL council reverses decision

Climate change assessment grant accessed by West Lincoln & Lincoln By Mike Williscraft NewsNow While Town of Lincoln announced last week it had received a $125,000 grant to assess possible adaptations for climate change, the Twp. of West Lincoln rejected and now has approved becoming part of the program. The program is facilitated by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ (FCM) Climate Change which grants funds to help address staff-

ing gaps and increase capacity to adapt to the effects of climate change or reduce greenhouse (GHG) emissions. “Under the leadership of council, Lincoln is aiming to build a sustainable community,” said CAO Mike Kirkopoulos. “Climate adaptation is a critical element of sustainability and developing an action plan to guide staff and Council, is a step towards success. We are grateful for

the funding to support this initiative funded by the Government of Canada.” West LIncoln council initially voted down participating in the program, but Monday night put the matter back on the table. “We had initially voted that project down, but we did not have all the information,” said West Lincoln Coun. Mike Rehner, adding there were some other concerns which received answers.

West Lincoln, too, will get the $125,000 grant, bringing the number of participating municipalities in Ontario to 60. To access the grant, Rehner said the cost to West Lincoln will be $15,000. “That’s not a lot of money to be able to access a grant of that size, so it makes sense,” said Rehner. The grant is for a two-year term and Rehner noted the See CLIMATE, Page 5

Page 2 • News Now • Thursday, February 28, 2019

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News Now • Thursday, February 28, 2019 • Page 3

“Coldest Night” raises $40K By Tristan Marks For NewsNow The YWCA held their 4th annual Coldest Night of the Year event in Grimsby on Saturday Feb. 23, raising more than $40,000 to benefit West Niagara Af-

fordable Housing. Participants went on 10km, 5km and 2 km walks in the cold of the night to raise money for those in need of transitional housing. After the walk, participants returned to take part

Volunteer Emily Ens prepares to serve up some hot chili to CNOY participants. Marks - Photo

in a chili cook-off. About 175 walkers and volunteers came together to make the night a success. Katie Ritchie, who walked and represented the lead sponsor of the evening, Phelps Homes, said it’s important to help people get out of the cold and into homes. “We are truly motivated to see this event grow and we’re hoping this event will grow and more people will catch on,” she said. “I want to help those that need transitional homes and to get there we need to walk, we need to raise money and

Kyle van Sickle, left, and Bill Amodeo are put through their paces in the Coldest Night 5 km walk. Marks - Photo

we need to get ourselves in their shoes to see what it’s like being out there in the cold.” The YWCA’s event director Arienne Good said the night was a great success. “We were once again amazed by the

way all communities across West Niagara came together for Coldest Night Of The Year. The kindness and generosity of our walkers and their sponsors is truly humbling and we couldn’t be more grateful,” she said.

“The funds we raised benefit the more than 20 kids and their parents who are currently staying in our program and will help them find permanent housing and a place to call home. Thank you, West Niagara.”

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hosted by Margo Wynhofen. Our presenter will be “The CHIP Lady”, Angela Lattuca-Efstathiou, District Vice President of HomeEquity Bank™ HomeEquity Bank™ is Canada’s only provider of the well-known CHIP reverse mortgage plan, and the “Income Advantage” plan. Angela & Margo will provide you with the facts on reverse mortgages, including a discussion of alternative equity-release programs. There will be plenty of time for your questions. If you are interested in attending, please call or email Margo Wynhofen to reserve a spot.

Seating is limited. Can’t make this date, but want more information? Call today to book a complimentary consultation. Margo is a local mortgage broker, who has been providing expert, impartial mortgage advice to homeowners since 1998. In addition to providing traditional mortgage solutions to homeowners, Margo is also a “Certified Reverse Mortgage Specialist” for HomeEquity Bank™ . All attendees will have the chance to win a gift card with a $200 value, plus other exciting prizes!

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Page 4 • News Now • Thursday, February 28, 2019 To let us know about your community event, email to: catherine@wn3.ca or call 289-235-9500

West Niagara service clubs, organizations and non-profit groups are welcome to submit meeting dates, fundraising information and invitations to the public in News Now’s Around Town feature. This service is provided free of charge and is done on a space availability basis.

St. Helen Bingo – Feb 28 at 11 am. at the Beamsville Legion: $700. March 1 @ 7 pm. at St. Helen’s Church $1100. Also thousands of dollars in cash prizes every week. Admission is free. Hot food available. Info:905-562-7427. Smithville Legion #393 March Events – Tuesday – Sunday Free Pool Open to Close, Tuesday Cribbage 2-4 pm, Thursday Euchre 2-4 pm. Sundays Kiwanis Bingo 8 pm – 9 pm. Only $3 for 4 chances to win $500+. Sat. Mar. 9th: candy bar bingo. Thurs. Mar. 14th gift card Bingo. Mar. 15th Progressive Euchre 7 pm. Mar. 16th Jimmy Parks (live music) Mar. 29th Dawn’s Paint Pallet 6 pm. Mar. 28th Cornbeef, Cabbage & Potato Dinner. Mar. 28th Eclectic Revival (live music) 905-957-3935 The show Joseph and his amazing Technicolour Dream Coat is being presented by St. Joseph’s Catholic Church community. It involves students from Blessed Trinity, St. Joseph’s and Our Lady of Fatima schools. The show runs Thursday Feb 28, Friday March1, Saturday March 2 at 7 pm. and Sunday March 3 at 2 pm. The new venue is Cardinal Newman Secondary School, 127 Gray Rd., Stoney Creek, ON L8G 3V3 Pre-teen dance for Students in Grades 4 to 8 Presented by: Grimsby & District Lions Club Friday, Mar. 1, 2019, 7-10 pm at Peach King Arena, Livingston Ave, Grimsby COST: $10. at the door. MUSIC: by DJ Maurice of RJM Sounds Door Prize: Donated by Grimsby Canadian Tire ECKO UNLTD WIRELESS HEADPHONES Four Dance Prizes: Donated by Wendy Murray Nicholson of KW Realty - Lynn Fee Team Four $15.00 Gift Certificates. FREE Waffle Wednesday Lunches at Maplecrest Wednesdays in March from 11:30-1:00 pm. All that is needed is to RSVP to Ma-

plecrest 905 945-7044. World Day of Prayer – Mar 1st @ 2 pm. An Interfaith service at Smithville United Church. Refreshments following service. Wheelchair accessible. World Day of Prayer Grimsby– Mar 1st @ 2 pm. at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, Main Street and St. Andrews Ave. Grimsby. Refreshments following service. World Day of Prayer in Beamsville will be at the Beamsville Church of Christ, 4900 John St. Beamsville L0R 1B6, March 1, 2019 at 2:00 pm. Grimsby Trinity United Trivia Night March 2nd 2019 from 7 pm to 10 pm Fun filled evening of pop trivia & free pizza. $20/person. Call 905 945-2249 for tickets. The Grimsby Seniors’ Choir presents our SHOWCASE CD RELEASE CONCERT on Sun., March 3rd, at 6:30 pm. at Trinity United Church, Grimsby. Tickets are $10 minimum donation at the door. Our special guests, the St. Joseph’s School choir; the Smith School choir; and the Trail Ridge Montessori School choir. St. John’s Presbyterian Church Pancake Breakfast. March 3rd at 8:30 to 10 am. Pancakes, sausages, fruit, juice, coffee, tea, hot chocolate. Tickets $10, kids under 12 is $5 and family of 4 or more $30. 905-945-5352 Euchre Party - Mar. 4, 2019. Sponsored by Beamsville WI. We welcome interested men & women to this social and challenging evening. Be at The Lincoln Centre, Beamsville, 7:30 p.m. sharp. $3 to participate. 1st and 2nd door prizes. Refreshment provided. Community Pancake Supper Tues., March 5th, 5 pm - 6 pm. First Baptist Church, 4264 Mountain St. Beamsville No Charge Donations Accepted. Annual Pancake Supper at St Luke’s Anglican Church, 216

Station St. Smithville, Tues., March 5th, 5 pm. to 7 pm. $8 for adults, $4 for children 5 to 10. Children under 5 free. Trinity United Church Pancake Dinner. Tues., March 5th at 5 pm – 7 pm. Memory Hall 100 Main St. W., Grimsby. Pancakes, sausages, syrup, coffee, tea, apple juice, cookies/squares (Gluten-free option available) Free will offering Sponsored by Christian Education Committee Pancake Supper: All you can Eat Pancakes and Sausage, Tuesday March 5 from 5 pm to 7 pm at St. Andrew’s Church, 156 Main St West. $7.00, 3-12 years $4. Everybody welcome. Prime Time Seniors’ lunch and program at St. Ann’s Community Church, 5425 Regional Rd #69, St. Ann’s Wed. March 6, 11:30-1:30 Free will offering. See you there. St. Patrick’s Day Community Luncheon. Presented by the Lincoln Senior’s Club. Fri. March 8th from 11:30 am to 1 pm at the Lincoln Centre, 4361 Central Ave, Beamsville. $8 per person. Irish stew, dessert, tea, coffee. ‘Lunch is on Us!’ – Sat. March 9 at First Baptist Church, Beamsville (corner Mountain & Beam Sts). Free community lunch 11:30 am – 1 pm. All Welcome! The Soroptimist Club of Stoney Creek, Niagara, will meet on Mon. March 11th in Stoney Creek near Centennial Parkway at 6:30 pm. We are a global volunteer network of women working to improve the lives of women & girls. For info. re: visiting call Marg. @ 905-628-3198 The Rock n Roll Diner – (A night of 50’s & 60’s music with food & fun for the whole family with Live Bands, Door Prizes, Silent auction and Food). March 23 at Great Lakes Christian High School (4875 King St., Beamsville). TICKETS : $10/person ($5 for ages 4—12,

FREE for ages 3 and under). Pay At Door. Cash only event. Show starts at 6pm. Reserve Tickets at rocknrolldiner@bell.net. More info at www.rocknrolldiner.webs. com Easter Concert Sat., March 23 @ 7:30 pm at Mountainview Church (290 Main Street E., Grimsby) $15 ea. Or 35/family avail. at Dutch Shop or at the door. Net proceeds to McNally Hospice. Family Heirlooms Seminar at the Erland Lee Museum (552 Ridge Rd., Stoney Creek). Sun., March 24th 1:30-3:30 pm: Presented by Kelly Juhasz, Principal, Fine Art Appraisal and Services and President of the Canadian Chapter of the International Society of Appraisers. This seminar will discuss the importance of collecting family history and early planning for your estate property. $10 per person. Call 905-6622691 to pre-register. Proceeds to support the Erland Lee Museum. Thursday@10 Bus Trip. Thurs. March 28th to St. Jacob’s Country Playhouse Theatre. Play is Priscilla Queen of the Desert. Price is $70. Tickets on sale. Contact Ruth Feist 905-945-4428 GSS Rowing Team Trivia Night on Fri. March 29th @ 7 pm at Grimsby Secondary School. There will be door prizes as well as prizes for winning team. Pizza & snacks included. Tickets are $20. Funds raised help support students rowing on Henley Island. Please email sandra.coppinger@ dsbn.org for tickets. Grimsby Public Art Gallery – Back to the Garden, Fundraising Auction March 30th, doors open at 7 pm, the silent auction is open until 8:30 pm, before the live auction starts at 9 pm. Throughout the event guests will groove to the colours and sounds of the Woodstock Music and Art Festival – Celebrating the 50th Anniver-

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sary of this seminal event! “With a little help from our friends” … we can make this fundraiser historic! TICKETS are on sale now! Only $35 includes one drink. Phone or email the Gallery or visit in person to reserve yours! Community Beef on a Bun fundraiser in support of youth ministries. St. Martin of Tours Church, 166 West St, Smithville, Sun., Mar., 31st. 2-8 pm, Adults $10 in advance or $15 at the door, Children 12 and under $5. Free children’s activities. Tickets, 905-870-4866 or 905-975-0364. All are welcome. Worden & R Covlin share The Gospel Message, told simply (non-denominational). Sundays 4- 5pm; Tuesdays 7:30 – 8:30 through February at the Livingston Activity Center, 18 Livingston Ave. For info: 905-531-7961 All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast at Christ Church (1307 Woodburn, Hannon) in support of the Erland Lee Museum Sat., March 30th 8:00 am-Noon. Adults $8.00, Children (10 and under) $5.00, $25 per family (2 adults, 2 children). Enjoy a delicious breakfast of fluffy pancakes, sausage, juice, tea, and coffee. Pancakes generously cooked by the Battlefield Optimists. 905-662-2691. Ham & Turkey Roll Sat. April 13 at St. Helen’s Church (4106 Mountain Street Beamsville) 7 pm. Food, wine and pizza. Half and half draw, raffles, prizes. 905-5627427 Giant CFUW Book Sale Sat. April 13 9-1 pm at the Livingston activity Centre. Donations gracefully accepted Fri. April 12, 9 am to 5 pm. Info 905-945-2433. Proceed to scholarship fund. GROUPS & CLUBS JOIN our new WRITING GROUP in West Niagara. Call me if interested and we’ll go from there! Donna 905-321-8841

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From Page 1 term and any contractor hired will not be extended beyond that. “There was some concern about that because we were involved in a program before and the township ended up creating a full-time job and keeping the person on. We do not want to do that again,” said Rehner. “The upside of the program is it allows

News Now • Thursday, February 28, 2019 • Page 5 us to get some things done which have been mandated by the government but it will free up staff time. It may also allow us to access additional grant opportunities down the road.” Since the program had been voted down previously by council, a unanimous vote was needed to bring it back on the table. After debate, Coun. Chris Coady request-

ed a recorded vote which ended up 5-2 with Mayor Dave Bylsma and Coun. Harold Jonker as the two dissenters, with Councillors Rehner, Coady, Jason Trombetta, Cheryl Ganann and William Reilly voting in favour. “Essentially, Jason Trombetta and I reversed our votes after we had all the information. It made sense once we had all the details.”

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NOTICE OF MEETINGS TO DEAL WITH 2019 OPERATING & CAPITAL BUDGETS

This is to advise that the Council of the Corporation of the Township of West Lincoln has approved the following dates to deal with the 2019 Operating and Capital Budgets: Presentation of 2019 Draft Operating and Capital Budget to be held on Monday, March 4 at 6:30 p.m. The 2019 Draft Operating and Capital Budgets will be presented at a Special Council Meeting. Public Open House to be held on Thursday, March 7th at 7:00 p.m. At the Public Open House, a Budget Overview Presentation will be made by the Treasurer/ Director of Finance at 7:00 p.m. Members of the public will also have an opportunity to review with staff members elements of the Budget Overview. Formal Budget Meeting and Adoption to be held on Monday, March 25th at 6:30 p.m. and Tuesday, March 26th at 6:30 p.m. (if required) The 2019 Operating and Capital Budgets will be reviewed during the Special Council Meeting scheduled for Monday, March 25, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. An additional date will be set for further deliberation, if required, on Tuesday, March 26, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. Copies of the Budget Meeting agenda will be available at the meeting or can be picked up at the Municipal Office after 4 p.m. on Friday, March 22, 2019 or during regular office hours on Monday, March 25 2019. All of the above meetings will be held at the Municipal Administration Building, Council Chambers, 318 Canborough Street, Smithville. Budget information and updates will be posted on the Township of West Lincoln’s website at www.westlincoln.ca Meeting location is wheelchair accessible. For further information please contact: Donna DeFilippis, Treasurer/Director of Finance 318 Canborough Street Smithville, Ontario L0R 2A0 (905) 957-3346

PUBLIC NOTICE Proposed Regional Official Plan Amendment No. 15 (ROPA 15) Exemption Policies PURPOSE The Regional Municipality of Niagara will hold a Public Meeting pursuant to Section 17 of the Planning Act R.S.O. 1990, as amended, to discuss an amendment to the Regional Official Plan to revise the existing policies relating to the exemption of local official plan amendments. PROPOSED CHANGE The Region has undertaken a review of the existing exemption policies in Section 14.E.6-14.E.9 of the Regional Official Plan. The exemption policies identify the circumstances where the Region will exempt local Official Plan Amendments from Regional approval. The proposed amendment will streamline these policies to provide clarity and certainty to the exemption process for the Region’s local area municipalities. The proposed policy was done in conjunction with an update to the Memorandum of Understanding between the Region and the local area municipalities, which included discussions with the local area planners. HAVE YOUR SAY Public input on this proposed amendment is welcomed and encouraged.You can provide input by speaking at the public meeting or by making a written submission to the Region. PUBLIC MEETING This Public Meeting is being held under the provisions of Section 17 of the Planning Act at the following time and place: DATE: Wednesday, March 20, 2019 TIME: 1:00 p.m. LOCATION: Niagara Region Headquarters Campbell West, Council Chambers 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Thorold, ON WRITTEN SUBMISSION To provide input in writing or to request personal notice if the proposed change is adopted, please send a letter c/o Regional Clerk, Niagara Region, 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way , P.O. Box 1042,Thorold, Ontario L2V 4T7, or email clerk@niagararegion.ca. MORE INFORMATION For more information about the proposed amendment, including information on appeal rights, please contact Kirsten McCauley, Senior Planner, by phone at 905-980-6000 ext. 3532 or email kirsten.mccauley@niagararegion.ca. A copy of the proposed amendment, and information and materials related to the amendment are available for inspection in the Planning and Development Services Department at the above address Monday to Friday between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm. If you require any accommodations for a disability in order to attend and participate in meetings or events, please let us know in advance so that arrangements can be made in a timely manner. Special accessibility accommodations and materials in alternate formats can be arranged by contacting the Niagara Region’s Accessibility Advisory Coordinator at 905-685-4225 ext. 3252 or accessibility@niagararegion.ca. LEGAL NOTICE The Planning Act i. If a person or public body would otherwise have an ability to appeal the decision of the Council of the Region of Niagara to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal but the person or public body does not make oral submissions at the public meeting or make written submissions to the Region of Niagara before the proposed Official Plan Amendment is adopted, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision. ii. If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Region of Niagara before the proposed Official Plan Amendment is adopted, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to add the person or public body as a party. Dated this 28th day of February, 2019.

Page 6 • News Now • Thursday, February 28, 2019

The Little Clinic With The Big Heart Annual health exams & Spays and neuters vaccinations Home Euthanasia Geriatric Pet Care Parasite Prevention Dental surgery & x-rays Laser Therapy for chronic pain

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Members of the new West Lincoln Chamber of Commerce include: (L to R) Rob Wood, president; Wilma DeHaan; Lou Stranges, treasurer; Jennifer Ahlstedt, Chaundra Perkins, Alejandra Wichartz, Paul Robertson, vicepresident; Marlene Bergsma, Amy Wisniewski and Terry Bell. Missing from the photo: Melissa Vandenbrink and Coun. Harold Jonker, board liaison.

North/South access top township priority

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With a long list of meetings with provincial government officials held already, and more to come, Mayor Dave Bylsma told the West Lincoln Chamber of Commerce a north/south access road is a top priority. Speaking at the chamber’s AGM on Thursday evening at the old train station, Bylsma said he has had many meetings with key stakeholders pushing for a new road to connect Smithville to the QEW. “West Lincoln Memorial Hospital is right at the top of the list as well, but the north/south access has to happen,” he said, noting truck traffic issues in Grimsby and Beamsville have all three Niagara West municipalities working together on this file. “The groundwork is being laid. Grimsby, Lincoln and West Lincoln are involved in all the meetings,” said Bylsma. “We need this road. West Lincoln is no longer a diamond in the rough but a polished gem waiting to be discovered.”

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Lincoln to team with Vineland Research The Town of Lincoln and Vineland Research and Innovation Centre entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) last Tuesday to allow for collaborative support and advancement of innovation, commercialization, and sustainability of horticulture in Lincoln The Town’s efforts to forge strategic partnerships continue with the signing of this MOU with Vineland. Lincoln’s diverse economy includes a robust agri-business sector. The recent five-year map for economic growth highlighted a focus on agriculture and food and beverage production, emphasizing the important role horticulture plays in Lincoln. “A collaboration such as this, where both organizations have a shared vision of sustainability in one of our most important sectors, will only enhance Lincoln’s foothold in horticulture innovation and commercialization,” stated Mayor Sandra Easton. “When research, industry, and policy makers come together it creates the necessary building blocks for success and prosperity.” Since its start in 2007, VRIC has championed the importance of business development partnerships while investigating and identifying leading edge technologies and innovations of value to Canadian horticulture.

News Now • Thursday, February 28, 2019 • Page 7

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Page 8 • News Now • Thursday, February 28, 2019

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The reports of West Niagara Minor Baseball’s death have been greatly exaggerated, says board member William Reilly. Not only is the group not fading away, Reilly said one age group alone had 60-plus players. “We’re the only 100 per cent hardball committed baseball league and program in all of West Niagara, and we’re here to stay,” said Reilly. “With WNMB, their Rally Cap and Tim Horton’s Jr. Rookie divisions is a unique program unlike anything else in town. It offers players the chance to learn each technique before they enter into a game.” In the beginning, each player rotates around to each station learning how to accurately hold and throw a ball, swing a bat, run the bases, catch balls both in the air and on the ground, and to know and understand where the ball needs to go. For more information on West Niagara Baseball and its programs, call Reilly at 365-366-3447, or check the website: westniagarabaseball.com

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Page 10 • News Now • Thursday, February 28, 2019

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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Simple ways to make a front door pop Making certain changes to an entryway can go a long way toward improving curb appeal. Entryways also can set the scene for a home’s interior. Whether one chooses to be classic or bold, modern or traditional,

there are various ways to quickly transform a home’s entryway. · Bold front door color: Color can dramatically enhance an entryway. Painting an existing door or replacing it with a more vivid option can

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do the trick. The DIY Network says certain colors stand out as favorites. These include turquoise, yellow, red, indigo, orange, and black. The door color should complement the other shades of the home, such as those on siding and trim. · Custom walkway: Guide guests right to the front door with an attractive (and safe) walkway. Stamped concrete or decorative paver blocks may fit the bill. This walkway can extend to the street or to the driveway. · Contain plants.

Landscaping around the entryway should be neat and welltended. Overgrown plants or shrubbery may give off an air of neglect. Container plants and carefully curated shrubs can create a neat and inviting aura. · Highlight the address. Make sure the home can be found easily with bold and decorative house numbers. The entryway to a home garners a lot of attention. Homeowners can enhance their spaces with entryways that really make a statement.

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News Now • Thursday, February 28, 2019 • Page 11

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

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How to maximize kitchen functionality Many homeowners wish for expansive kitchens. Modernized kitchens that include sought after features and showcase the latest trends go a long way to improving the overall value of a home. As desirable as such kitchens may be, some homes simply don’t have enough space for a centerfold-worthy kitchen featuring an island, wine refrigerator and walk-in pantry. However, homeowners with small kitchens can still improve the form and function of their existing spaces. CABINETRY Homeowners whose kitchens are small of-

ten lament their lack of storage. Redesigning the layout of cabinets, and possibly adding some more cabinetry, may take care of certain storage issues. The experts suggest utilizing corner space with LeMans units, lazy susans and other gadgets to make access to these areas easier. Going vertical with wall cabinets that extend to the ceiling also can add more storage, as can roll-in work carts. WORK WITH THE WALLS Small kitchens require clever usage of vertical space. Vertical storage units, hooks, shelving, and

more can move items out of drawers and off of counters. Consider an under-the-cabinet toaster oven and microwave to create more counter space. SCALED-DOWN

APPLIANCES Shop with size in mind when looking at new appliances if you have a small kitchen. Compact versions take up less space than larger alternatives.

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Page 12 • News Now • Thursday, February 28, 2019

classifieds 289-235-9500 takin’ care of business sports business Please call News Now to place your Classified Ad

Aline Thomas Barre

October 28, 1932 - March 2, 2016 gh

Time slips by and life goes on, But from our hearts you’ve never gone. We think about you always, We talk about you too. We have so many memories, But we wish we still had you.

OBITUARIES

Paterson, Rev. George Morton (Mort)

Rev. George Morton (Mort) Paterson (aka GMP2) passed away on Friday, February 22, 2019 in Beamsville, Ontario in his 85th year. Born in Unity, Saskatchewan on February 15, 1935, son of George Martel (aka GMP1) and Edna Paterson. Beloved husband of Liesbeth Dienaar. Proud father of Judi (Olli), Linda (Gary), and George Michael (“Mike”, aka GMP3). Loving “Grandpa Mort” of Derek, Tara (Chris), Brennan, Brianna, and George Mitchell (“Mitch”, aka GMP4). Brother of late Robert (Marion), Lorna (Bill) and Edwin. Former husband of Ruth, the mother of their three children, and Dora (MacCallum) Sadler. Mort will also be missed by some very special life-long friends. He was ordained a minister of the United Church of Canada in 1963 and served several congregations in Ontario, as well as the Hamilton Conference of the United Church as Mission Officer. He also taught Philosophy at Acadia University, Wolfville, N.S., and at Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario. At the time of his death, Mort was a resident of Albright Manor Long-Term Care Residence. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the Nursing and Support staff at Albright Manor, and to the larger Albright Gardens Retirement Community for their continuing love and support over the years. Visitation and Service took place at Trinity United Church, Beamsville, on Wednesday, February 27, 2019. If desired, memorial donations to your local Food Bank, the Mission and Service Fund of the United Church of Canada, or the Albright Foundation would be sincerely appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755. www.smithsfh.com

To Advertise in the Classifieds Call 289-235-9500

Sanders John Lewis

Passed away at his home, on Friday, February 22, 2019, at the age of 64. Beloved husband of Shelley. Loved father of Rebecca and her husband Jeff Dougall. Cherished grandfather of Olivia, Pyper and Hunter. Dear brother of Nancy Strupp (Gary) and Richard Sanders. Predeceased by his parents Alice and Lewis Sanders and by his brother Ron Sanders. Son-in-law of Arthur and the late Minnie McAndrew and brotherin-law of Scott McAndrew (Sandy). He will also be dearly missed by his friends Carol and Ron Finucane and his dog Minnie. John was a long-time member of United Association Refrigeration Workers Local Union 787. Special thanks to Grimsby Fire and EMS for all of your care and assistance. A Memorial Gathering will take place at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755) on Tuesday, February 26, 2019, from 5 - 9 p.m., with tributes at 7 p.m. for those who wish to say a few words about John. If desired, memorial contributions to McNally House Hospice, West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation or GBF Community Services would be sincerely appreciated by the family. www.smithsfh.com

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Vermeer, Cornelia Maria “Mary” (nee van der Wel)

July 9, 1931 - February 13, 2019 After a long journey with Parkinson’s, we wish to announce that Cornelia Maria Vermeer died peacefully in her 88th year on February 13, 2019 at Shalom Manor in Grimsby, Ontario. Mary leaves her beloved husband, William “Bill” Vermeer after 66 years of devoted marriage. She is predeceased by her dearly loved son Walter Vermeer (2012). Cherished mother to Anne (Arne) Yaraskavitch, Janet Macleod (Tony Brull), Chuck (Meme Huisman), PJ (Margaret), Bill (Alice), Arch (Lorraine), Lisa Heuving (Darren Brown), Terry, Ian (Mireille), Dave (Nancy). Mary leaves behind her two brothers in the Netherlands John (Annie) van der Wel and Wim (Wil) van der Wel. She will be fondly remembered by 37 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. Mary’s passing will be mourned by many extended family and friends. Visitation took place at Mountainview Christian Reformed Church, 290 Main Street East, Grimsby on Monday, February 18, 2019 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. with the Funeral Service being celebrated at the church on Tuesday, February 19 at 12 p.m. If desired, memorial contributions to Shalom Manor or Grimsby Life Centre would be sincerely appreciated by the family. www.smithsfh.com

CARPETS - I have several thousand yards of new Stainmaster & 100% nylon carpet. Will do living & dining room for $389. Price includes carpet, pad & installation (25 sq. yds) Steve 905682-5320, 905-7771170; carpetdeals.ca

DEBT

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SUPPORT GROUP CR - Celebrate Recovery, a Christ Centred 12 step Recovery Program for any Hurt, Hang-up, or Habit. Every Wednesday at 7pm. Confidential and Anonymous. 132 Lake St, Grimsby. All welcome. Info: CR@ forestviewcommunitychurch.ca

VEHICLES WANTED

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News Now • Thursday, February 28, 2019 • Page 13

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Mayor’s Gala co-organizer Carolyn Webb conducts a draw at Saturday night’s Mayor’s Gala with help from Brian Glenn. Macaulay - Photo

PROFESSIONAL TREE CARE

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Packed house for gala at Casablanca The Casablanca Inn ballroom was filled to capacity Saturday night for Rotary at Noon’s annual Mayor’s Gala. “We’re not sure how much was raised as yet, everyone had a great time and the silent auction went well,” said co-organizer Carolyn Webb. The recipient for proceeds of

this year’s event is Gillian’s Place, which

Mayor Jeff Jordan addresses the crowd. Macaulay - Photo

was one of Ontario’s first shelters for abused women and children. Gillian’s Place joined with West Niagara Second Stage Housing in May 2018. “It was a great night,” said Mayor Jeff Jordan. “It was nice to see so many out in support of a great cause and to have a little fun.”

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Page 14 • News Now • Thursday, February 28, 2019

100% Niagara owned & operated Our Team: Publisher - Mike Williscraft mike@wn3.ca 289-442-4244 General Manager - Catherine Bratton Inside Sales Manager - Sheryl Hutton Sales Consultant - Erica Huisman, Rose Bayer Graphics - Donna Wisnoski NewsNow is owned & operated by 1602207 Ontario Ltd. Office Locations Grimsby Office Beamsville Office 1 Mountain Street, P.O Box 614 Grimsby, ON, L3M 3J6 Beamsville, ON, L0R 1B0 Ph: 289-235-9500 Ph: 289-235-7848 NewsNow is published EVERY Thursday delivered to homes in West Niagara & Winona, 26,529.

Youngest winner

Matteo Marrama, 2 , brought his parents along when he dropped in at NewsNow’s office on Saturday to pick up this Tim Hortons gift certificate, earned as a weekly winner in Hat Trick Hockey. Matteo, the youngest known winner in the 23-year history of the contest was pretty excited to be getting some Timbits, as were his mom, Brittany, and dad, Angelo. Williscraft - Photo

Been a long time since a slow week This is the quietest week in more than six months. It feels odd. It surely is not because nothing is going on. Work is continuing on all the major files we have been covering in recent months, but there is nothing key to report. On all fronts except West Lincoln Memorial Hospital that is a good thing - to some degree. It isn’t like a grand solution to the biodigester woes has suddenly arisen. Although, I must say, one of the funniest things (if it weren’t so sad) arose out of Saturday night’s Mayor’s Gala at the Casablanca Inn. That is always a first class affair, black tie, the whole ball of wax...including a silent auction. While I could not be there due to a family matter, I started getting texts about a certain silent auction item, people asking if I was interested. The item listed on a make-shift “silent auction form”?: the good old biodigester. There was one bid, $1. I laughed out loud when I heard that...then it sinks in that it is not really funny, but that just made me laugh more. All the while over these many weeks since the harsh economic reality of the white elephant was made public, I hear the voice of the late Michael Rozender from nearly three years ago. He wrote letters, he begged local officials, don’t build it yet, don’t cancel, just don’t build yet. Get an independent, third party assessment of the business plan and if it makes sense, proceed. He was adamant it would show $1 million per year in operating loss and he was bang on considering

MIKE WILLISCRAFT most of the information we had cobbled together was from other operators. That never happened and Grimsby is stuck with the pride project. With WLMH, no news is bad news. Yes, there have been two OR nurses hired in the last couple of weeks (as I understand it), but when the complement was down to four and 12 is normal, two is not good. It is still two more than HHS has hired for Grimsby in the last year, but a long way to go and there has been no mention of where the staffing needs to be to halt the weekend closures which started last weekend. No, I am not holding my breath. ****** Having not had a chance to go off the board in months, this is the week, so wanted to touch on a couple of things. Just in terms of current affairs, the Oscars, did anybody care this year? I surely did not. I have no problem with people voicing their opinions, but I watch those shows for entertainment, not to hear what a singer thinks of 45 (even though I may agree) or what an actor thinks of social injustice. Again, that may just be

me, but when all that stuff pounds away and pounds away on every front, it is pretty sad when even entertainment has to take on the same tones as 60 Minutes. The whole host, no host, thing for the Academy Awards was the last straw for me. People do or say one stupid thing - even though it may be super stupid - 20 years ago and they get their career and quite possibly their lives derailed. While that is partially the bizarro world of social media we live in - where partial truth or outright lies become apparent truth via repetition - society is just not very forgiving anymore. The fuse is short. Except here in Niagara West. For some reason, Niagara West residents have given Hamilton Health Sciences and the old Grimsby town council far more rope than they ever should have been given. Grimsby council members, being the elected sort, got their comeuppance in the last election, but HHS is immune to that - unless the provincial government gets tired of the ongoing dance. And it is that ongoing dance that gets us to this week. Not much going on; just another week. However, the weekend OR closures have started. Soon they will be part of the furniture and bad things are going to start and keep happening until there is nothing left by the time Premier Ford arrives with his $105 million of provincial dollars to build a scaled-back version of WLMH. It will happen and sooner than later, but if the current management formula persists, there won’t be much left.

News Now • Thursday, February 28, 2019 • Page 15

Is WLMH merely Chedoke II, asks writer Letter has deemed weekend closures of the OR and OB to be OK because they have done everything they could to recruit OR Staff. I am not surprised at this reality for two reasons. This is how Mr. MacIssac and cronies killed Chedoke Hospital.

And, how can one expect better management from a man who uses the 5:2 argument (five weekday: two weekend days) to argue that there are more births during the week than on weekends to justify closing the OR and OB on weekends. When will we see the end of MacIssaac and his cronies in the offices

of HHS, and get what the premier promised for WLMH back on track…AND OUR HOSPITAL BACK??? Mr. Oosterhoff, I know you told us a hand written letter has more punch but I fear that waiting for Canada Post to deliver this would be too long, given the circumstances. Bud Hightower, Grimsby

www.grimsbyford.com

HAT TRICK HOCKEY Week 16

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:

• $10 gift certificate, courtesy of Teddy’s Fun, Food & Spirits - Adam Della Valle • $10 gift certificate, courtesy of Cole’s Florist - Nick Bolibruck • $10 gift certificate, courtesy of Tim Hortons - Noah Gelderman • Two 60-minute massages, courtesy of Ontario College - Jeremy Talsma • $10 gift certificate, courtesy of McDonalds, Grimsby - Rick Attema Winners can stop by the NewsNow office to pick up their winnings.

Top Standings

1.Visentin, Jeff ........... 1190 2. Team NBA #2........ 1181 3. TRUFR8 .................. 1173 4. Scobie, Brett ......... 1167 5. Albrethsen, Jens ... 1167 6.Van Roon, Cory ... 1166 7. Pohl, Christina ...... 1162 8. Pettigrew, Jason .... 1159 9. Kurpis, Branko ..... 1158 10. Chambers, Cheryl 1158

Staff are the kids in WLMH divorce: reader Dear Editor, It has been about a year since I have sent in a letter of any sort. Sadly, until the last couple of weeks, that seems about the same timing an OR nurse was hired for West Lincoln Memorial.

Usually, letters embellish (some attempt colourfully) to prove a point. What is disappointing here is that is no exaggeration. The leads provided in town and stories in your paper have done more for recruiting than the organization has

36 Main St. West, Grimsby

done which will employ them. How does that make sense? Keep doing what you are doing. Keep the residents of Niagara West informed. I don’t know what we’d do without you. Stephen Owen, Grimsby

11. Macklin, Barry ..... 1158 12. Davedge ............... 1158 13. Izatt, Jack ............. 1157 14. Bos, Diane .......... 1156 15. Lecinksi, Doug ... 1155 16. Renda, Hailey ..... 1155 17. Readman, M&S ... 1154 18. Sciamonte, John . 1154 19. Dunder, J. ............. 1154 20. Attema, Joel ........ 1115