Grimsby choir to honour local “heroes”
The Grimsby Celebration Choir is looking to recognize some of Grimsby’s community heroes.
The choir will be hosting a special concert on Saturday, March 7, at 7 p.m. - dubbed Heroes vs. Villains: A Celebration Concert.
During the program, community heroes will get some much-deserved recognition.
The choir is encouraging community members to nominate a herosomeone from their neighborhood, a friend, or a family member - who deserves to be celebrated. Each nominee will receive a free ticket to the concert, a “hero” souvenir gift, and will be honoured on stage with their name and photo displayed while a special tribute song is performed. In addition, all heroes will have the chance to win a series of special prizes.
“This concert is our way of giving back to the people who inspire us every day,” said choir director Jennifer McKillop.
Those wishing to nominate a hero must do so by Feb. 18. Go to the group’s website: www.grimsbycelebrationchoir.ca.
As part of the nomination pro cess, heroes - or those nominat ing them - can also choose to join the choir for a special tribute song, making the celebration even more personal. Participants will at tend 2–3 rehearsals, with practice tracks available to learn the music at home.
In addition to celebrating com munity heroes, the choir will hon our the dedicated staff at McNally House, recognizing their tireless work supporting people in need. A portion of the ticket sales from the concert will be donated to McNally House.
Tickets for the concert can be purchased online at: www.grimsbycelebrationchoir.ca.
Prices are $20 for adults, $5 for students, and free for children under 12.
MEDALS
From Page 1
• Kurt Whitnell, former HHS board of directors member and WLMH board chair;
• Mary Volk, former HHS board of directors member and WLMH board vice-chair;
• Charles Criminisi, former chair, HHS board of directors;
• Dr. Mat Wohlgemut, former interim site lead, WLMH;
• Kevin Antonides, WLMH
Foundation Chair, and;
• Pam Ellens, WLMH Foundation executive director.
“It’s a real honour to receive this medal from Mayor Easton and Town of Lincoln on behalf of the thousands of volunteers who helped save and rebuild WLMH,” said Joosse.
Introduced in 2017 as part of an ongoing recognition program, the Mayor’s Medal is presented to members of
the community to recognize special achievements or contribution - often awarded at the Mayor’s Annual Gala, on overseas visits or to those who have represented the Town in some way.
“It is a tremendous achievement, and tonight, the Mayor’s Medal will be presented to a truly deserving group whose leadership and commitment helped make this progress possible.”
Mayor Sandra Easton handed out Mayor’s Medals to (L to R) Tony Joosse, Dr. Gary Benson, Aaron Levo, Mary Volk, Kurt Whitnell and Charles Criminisi on Monday night. Missing the ceremony were: Dr. Matthew Wohlgemut, Kevin Antonides, Pam Ellens.
Guest Speaker Kaitlin Peters, Heritage Department of Niagara Parks
“Reform & Rebellion: Printing in Upper Canada”
Thursday, February 12, 2026
In Upper Canada during the 19th century, three men all sought to reform the fate of the province but their publications could not be more opposite: one stood to maintain British control while the other sought to abolish it. The Upper Canada Gazette was started by Louis Roy and John Graves Simcoe in 1793 and the Colonial Advocate began in 1824 by William Lyon Mackenzie – who would not only publish his newspaper, but lead an armed rebellion for reform. When it comes to the fate of a nation, truly the pen is mightier than the sword.
Kaitlin Peters is a member of the leadership team in the Heritage Department of Niagara Parks. She has worked for the organization for ten years and is an overall expert on the man who was William Lyon Mackenzie, and the caretaker of the Louis Roy Press housed at the museum.
GHS members – complimentary Non-members - $10.00
Grimsby Historical Society Monthly Speaker Series
GHS Monthly Meeting Thursday, February 12, 2026 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Major Refrigeration Peach King Centre Multi-Purpose Rm BC Everyone Welcome!
Grimsby Historical Society 25 Adelaide Street, Grimsby, Ontario 905-309-0796 grimsbyhistoricalsociety.com
SENECA AllEgANy RESORT & CASINO 2026 fEATURINg ShOPPINg IN ERIE, PA
$519 p.p. twin
3 Days, 2 Nights
Mar. 16-18 • Nov. 23-25, 2026
Your Front Line Tours Package Includes
• 2 Nights / 3 Days at the Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino
Hotel also has a large indoor pool as well as a heated outdoor pool for swimming or relaxing.
• 3 Breakfasts at the Hilton
• $30 Dining Vouchers
• $40 Slot Bonus at Casino
• City Tour of Ottawa with local step on Guide
• Guided Tour of Rideau Hall – Home of the Governor General of Canada
• Admission to Canadian Mint or Canadian Museum of History
• Time to Shop & Dine at the ByWard Market
• 2 Buffet breakfast
• $40 Food Credit (March date receives $45 Food Credit)
• $100 free slot play (March date receives $125 Free slot play)
• Optional “TAX FREE” Shopping Excursions at Millcreek Mall in Erie
• Duty Free Stop -PLUS- shopping stop en route to Casino
All Taxes are included in Price and in Canadian Dollars
• Please note that a valid passport is required
HAT TRICK HOCKEY
Week 14 (Standing as of Jan. 31th, 2026)
Be sure to look online at: wn3.ca to see the
standings, but here are some of the leaders and lucky random draw winners:
• $15 Gift Card, courtesy of Tim Hortons, Grimsby: Lauren Mous
• $15 gift certificate courtesy of Jordan Flowers,Grimsby: Linda Low
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Judge & Jester, Grimsby: Zach DeVries
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Canadian Tire, Grimsby: Sandy MacDonald
• Large, 3-Item Pizza, Pick-Up Only, courtesy of Gino’s Pizza Grimsby: Brody Walsh
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Memphis BBQ., Winona: James Waring
• 2 Tickets to a Grimsby Peach Kings game, Grimsby: Julie-Anne Nixon Winners can stop by the NewsNow office to pick up their winnings
Top Standings
1. Zdriluk, Jacob1 ....... 116
2. DeVries, Mark 1096
3. Klages, Keith 1088
4. Heinen, Eric 1088
5. Couch, Jesse 1085
6. Stuive, Cindy 1082
7. Dunda, Riley 1082
8. Simmons, Cam 1080
9. Kurpis, Steve 1079
10. Johnson, Debbie 1079
11. Heywood, Kevin .. 1078
12. Klages, Robert 1076
13. Van Roon, Jim 1071
14. McIntosh, Megan . 1070
15. VanderHeide, Clarence1067
16. Jacobsen, Sean 1065
17. Baer, David 1065
18. Halliday, Colin 1063
19. Mous, Brent 1063
20. Poz, Cindy 1061
Envision Grimsby 2051: Official Plan Review Project
Notice of Public Meeting and Open House
The Town of Grimsby is the final stages of reviewing the Draft Official Plan. This notice is to provide information on the upcoming statutory public meeting and open house.
What 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.
Grimsby Official Plan Review Process
Grimsby’s current 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 have occurred since 2009, requiring the Town to update the Grimsby Official Plan.
The Official Plan Review Project began in 2023. Various in-person events and online engagement opportunities have been held since this time to gather public input on the plan and inform the vision and policy direction. This input was incorporated into the Draft Official Plan that was made available on www.letstalkgrimsby.ca/officialplan in October of 2025.
Please Note: Written comments are encouraged and must be submitted to Town of Grimsby, Planning Department 160 Livingston Avenue, Grimsby, Ontario L3M 0J5 or by emailing grimsbyop@grimsby.ca referencing the Official Plan Review. Unless indicated otherwise, all submissions, including personal information, will become part of the public record and will be included as an appendix to the staff recommendation report.
Open House
The statutory Open House is being held under provision of Section 17 and 26 of the Planning Act. Please note that there will be no staff presentation at the Open House. Information about the Transportation Master Plan will also be available at this event. For more information about the Transportation Master Plan project visit: https://www.letstalkgrimsby.ca/tmp.
The Open House will be held as follows:
Date: February 12, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Town Hall Atrium (160 Livingston Avenue)
Public Meeting
The statutory Public Meeting is being held under provision of Section 17 and 26 of the Planning Act. The Public Meeting will be held as follows:
Date: February 23, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Town Hall (160 Livingston Avenue) and via Zoom
The meeting can be attended in-person or via Zoom. If you wish to appear as a delegation in person or at the meeting via Zoom, please register with grimsbyop@grimsby.ca. Note only those individuals that register will be given the Zoom link. If you do not wish to speak, our meetings will be livestreamed at https://www.grimsby.ca/livestream/.
For more information about this matter, including information about appeal rights, please visit Town Hall during normal business hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.), or you may contact:
Town of Grimsby, Planning Department
160 Livingston Avenue, Grimsby, Ontario L3M 0J5
Telephone: (905) 945-9634
Email: grimsbyop@grimsby.ca
An information report regarding the Draft Official Plan will be available at Town Hall and on the Town’s website at www.grimsby.ca. A staff recommendation report will be presented at a subsequent meeting of Council. If you wish to be notified of the decision of the Town of Grimsby regarding the Draft Official Plan, you must make a written request to the Director of Planning at the address above.
No injuries result from early morning West Lincoln shooting
No injuries resulted from an early morning shooting in West Lincoln on Jan. 13.
Niagara Regional Police 8 District officers responded just after 1 p.m. to a call about a shooting at a Young Street residence in West Lincoln. Investigation revealed that an unidentified suspect had fired three rounds into the residence at approximately 3:30 a.m. There were no injuries as a
result of this incident.
Detectives with 8 District Criminal Investigative Bureau (CIB) have taken carriage of the investigation and are appealing to the public for any information regarding the shootings.
Officers have been in the area canvassing for video surveillance footage and witnesses to the incident.
Detectives are requesting
that residences and businesses in the area of Young Street review any video surveillance footage between 3-4 a.m. and contact police if any suspicious vehicles or persons are observed.
Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact the Niagara Regional Police Service’s 8 District at 905-688-4111, option 3, ext. 1009383.
paul@settimilaw.com www.settimilaw.com
7th Annual Volunteer Pay Subscription Drive
“Were it left to me to decide if we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.”
Thomas Jefferson, 1787
(Couldn’t we use more of that thinking south of the border right now)
We are about to complete our 13th year of serving our dedicated readers and advertisers in Niagara West! That seems hard to believe, but it’s true. Just like every stitch of content you read in our pages. We’ve tried to shoot photos at every community event, expose serious stories which were very much in the public’s interest, and let all know the goings on for our great services club and community groups. If you’re looking to social media for information, good luck. It’s a cesspool of misinformation. In short, if it moves, we’re on it! And we still have a lot to do. By helping us out with a voluntary subscription you can support that goal
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.
Simply, this means, rain (or snow) or shine, you will always – each and every week –receive your copy of NewsNow - whether that be with Canada Post or if we have our own carrier force. 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 wishes of good health to you all!
45 Main Street West, L3M 1R3, Grimsby • 289-235-9500
Mike Williscraft Publisher
OBITUARIES
fralick, linda (nee kurpe)
feller, Isabel Howie
Isabel Howie Feller, 84, of Grimsby, passed away peacefully in hospital, surrounded by love.
Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Isabel carried her Scottish heritage close to her heart throughout her life. Her pride in her roots, strength of character, and quiet determination shaped not only her journey, but the lives of all who knew her.
Isabel was devoted to her family above all else. She was the beloved wife of Andrew, a loving mother to Gary (Debbie), and the late Grant (Shelly) She was a cherished grandmother to Alick (Codi-Lea), Anisha (Nick), Andrew, Steven, David, and Amanda (Lee). She was also a treasured great-grandmother to Sophia and Tanner (children of Anisha and Nick), Zoey (child of Andrew), Ava (child of Steven), James (child of David), and Kaydence, Lincoln, and Liam (children of Amanda).
Isabel will be remembered for her warmth, her love of family, and the quiet strength with which she lived her life. Her presence was comforting, her love unwavering, and her legacy enduring.
Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are invited to visit at Stonehouse - Whitcomb Funeral Home, 11 Mountain St., Grimsby, Ontario, on Saturday February 28th from 1-2 pm. Following the visitation there will be a service of remembrance in the chapel beginning at 2 pm.
“Lang may yer lum reek wi’ love.” (“May your hearth always be warm with love.”)
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. $1700 per month. 647-9911496
Peacefully at home and surrounded by family, Linda was Welcomed Home by her Saviour Jesus Christ on January 28, 2026. Predeceased by her parents Steve and Alice. Loving wife to Gary for 45 years. Sister to Terry (Jim). Cherished Mother to Kristel (Josh) and Alyssa (Kevin). Devoted and fun Nana to Grace, Isaac, Owen and Everly.
Linda’s vivacious and outgoing personality made it easy for her to meet people and to maintain long lasting relationships and friendships. She had an intuitive, caring nature and was always eager to help others while sharing her love and faith in Jesus. Linda started her own in-home preschool “Stepping Stones to School” which she loved teaching and was passionate about for 20 years. She was dedicated to her family and prioritized spending her time with loved ones. Her positivity and outlook on life, along with her faith in God, set an encouraging example to everyone that she encountered in her life. Linda truly lived her life to the fullest and even in her own struggles, she continued to be strong, positive and optimistic. Her love for all animals showed the kind of person who Linda was and reflected her compassion towards all. She was loved by so many and will truly be missed.
2 Corinthians 4:16-17 Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
A Celebration of Linda’s Life will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Winona Gospel Church, 218 Glover Rd., Stoney Creek , from 2-4 p.m. with a service starting at 2 p.m. Online condolences and notes of sympathy may be left at www.donaldvbrown.ca.
APT. FOR RENT
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
grimSby - 1-bedroom apartment, walk to town, all inclusive $1500.00 adults only contact marktherealestateguy1@gmail. com
CARS
carS, truckS, old farm machinery for scrap or repair. We pay cash. Flatbed service. 905-386-6181 or 289-686-5059
martin, Connie anna
Connie Anna Martin, of Beamsville, died peacefully in her 92nd year at United Mennonite Home, on January 24, 2026.
Connie was born June 8, 1934 in Port Colborne, Ontario to Joseph and Margaret Chuno. Her only sister Margaret Chuno predeceased her.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 72 years John, their children David (Lori), Susan (Adrian) and Robert; a loving grandmother to Fraser, Parker, Brendan, Vanessa, Melissa, Daniel and four great grandchildren.
Connie took up downhill skiing in her forties and she and John spent many years skiing in Ellicottville with friends and family. Once her children were grown she and John enjoyed travelling to the Caribbean, Europe, USA and Canada. She was a consummate shopper with refined taste who was always elegantly attired.
In keeping with her wishes, Connie was cremated. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a future date. A private family interment will follow.
We wish to thank the staff at United Mennonite Home in Vineland for their kind and compassionate care of Connie during the past 6.5 years. In Connie’s memory the family suggests donations to the United Mennonite Home or charity of your choice.
She will be missed.
Online condolences at www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca
jones, Phyllis Ruth eileen (nee Murdock)
FirearmS Wanted for $$$
Especially 303 Lee Enfield’s and Winchesters, others considered as well as parts and accessories. Have valid license (PAL). I’m local. 1-867993-3911 or email to thirtypound@hotmail. com
Peacefully, after a brief illness, at the Juravinski Hospital, on Sunday, January 25th 2026, in her 88th year. Predeceased by her beloved husband Raymond (2010) and son Roy (Sharon) (2006). Loving mother of Karen and Dave Leslie, Ray and Kathy Jones, Rick and Bernadette Jones and Linda and Mark McNulty. Cherished Gramma to 12 grandchildren and GG to 17 great-grandchildren. The family wishes to thank the staff at the Juravinski for their care and kindness shown to our mom over the last month. Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Phyllis’s Life will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 393, 172 St Catharines St., Smithville, ON L0R 2A0, on Sunday, February 22nd, 2026 from 2-4 pm.
“GG loves you”
REEVE, Kenneth Ernest
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Kenneth Ernest Reeve in his 88th year on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. Ken was the beloved husband of 66 years to his soulmate “Honey” Alfreda (nee Sagan) and cherished father of Daryl (Doreen), Kelly Purser (James), and Sheri Spadaro (predeceased). He was adored by his grandchildren Daniel, David, and Dylan Reeve (Justine), Julia and Annilea Purser, Hunter, Madison, and Ciera Spadaro and was great grandpa to Dawson Reeve.
Ken is survived by his sisters Beverley Hagen and Linda Stockman (Brian). Predeceased by his parents Ernest and Hilara, brother Michael and grandson Gabriel Spadaro. He was loved by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends including longtime family friend Ray Houslander (Jackie).
Ken proudly wore many hats in life. The early years had him playing “call to post” on horseback at the Fort Erie Raceway and later playing trumpet with the Guelph Royalaires Drum and Bugle Corps where he forged lifelong friendships. He began his career with the Department of National Revenue at Seagrams Distillery in Waterloo. This opportunity eventually brought his young family to Grimsby. His office was located in Reider Distillery, now known as Forty Creek Distillery. He had a long and successful career as a public servant and retired as Regional Manager of Excise Duty in 1995.
Throughout his life, Ken served his community and spent 11 years with Grimsby Minor Hockey as a coach, team manager, league convenor, and eventually president. He joined Grimsby Community Policing at its inception in 1996 and was proud of the work they did for the design and construction of the Grimsby Skate Park. Through Grimsby’s Civic Recognition Program, he was recognized as Citizen of the Year in 2003. He and Alfreda enjoyed volunteering with the GBF food bank where they formed special friendships. He loved woodworking in his shop where he created many pieces over the years including his cedar strip canoe of which he was extremely proud. Treasured memories were created while camping with lifelong friends, winning ring toss tournaments at Reeve Reunions, playing cards with the cousins, and spending time with his children and grandchildren.
Visitation at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (289) 949-2619) on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 3-7 p.m. Celebration of life to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in Ken’s name to Grimsby Benevolent Fund.
OBITUARIES
REEVE spadaRo, sheri
It is with profound sadness that the family of Sheri Reeve Spadaro announces her sudden passing on January 24th, 2026 at the age of 56. Sheri shared four beautiful children with Dean Spadaro, Angel Gabriel, Hunter, Madison (Matt) and Ciera who were the centre of her world. Sheri will be deeply missed by her beloved puppies, Phoebe and Zuri, and is now reunited with her cherished Chloe. Sheri was the loving daughter of Ken and Alfreda Reeve and a devoted sister to Daryl and Doreen Reeve, and Kelly and Jamie Purser. She was a beloved aunt, cousin, and friend to many, and will be deeply missed.
Sheri, lovingly known as Gary, Boop or Sherbear by those closest, was many things. A professional cheer and basketball mom, a beautiful and thoughtful friend, a hard worker, a constant source of love and support to those around her, and a bright light. She loved singing and dancing in the car with her children, creating memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. Sheri spent many years working at the Canada Revenue Agency, and most recently at Shoppers Drug Mart. She generously volunteered her time with the PAIL network highlighting her true love of helping others. Her warm presence, along with her famous banana bread and green bean casserole, will be dearly missed. Cremation has taken place. Celebration of life to be held at a later date. If desired, donations in Sheri’s name can be directed to the Pregnancy and Infant Loss (PAIL) Network, an organization she held close to her heart.
grove, Patricia
Grove, Patricia (Pat) nee Greenhalgh died peacefully at West Park Health Centre (St. Catharines) on Saturday, January 24, in her 93rd year.
Beloved wife and best friend of the late Don Grove (2020). Loving mother of Carl (Nancy) of Ottawa and Peggy Daniel (Doug) of Brantford. Loving Nana to Frieda, Jeff & Jess, Dave & Sarah, Tabitha & Eli, Gabe, Sam & David, and to great-granddaughters Grace, Laura, & Emma. Sister of pre-deceased brothers, Jack & Frank. And Auntie Pat to many.
As a family, we acknowledge a special outpouring of thanks to Helen Neal for her many years of love and friendship to Pat.
Pat had wonderful listening skills and always had insightful comments and encouragement for those she spoke with. We have all benefited from her love, care, and support.
Thank you to the many Lakeview Avenue area neighbours who watched over Pat in her later years. Thank you to the caring and supportive staff at West Park for taking such good care of Pat in her final months.
Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be held in the spring.
If desired, a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society would be greatly appreciated.
Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSEWHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905945-2755.
www.smithsfh.com
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
OBITUARIES
Wright, Lesley-Jane
It’s with unbelievable sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother, wife and friend Jane Wright.
Beautiful Jane slipped from this world with her family holding her hands on January 31st at the Greater Niagara Hospital in St. Catharines, after a 3 year brave battle with cancer. She will be deeply missed by her adoring husband, Andy Wright. Her two daughters Corey Wright (Barry) and Allison Wright (Mike). Her grandchildren, Talia, Lochlan and Eleanor. Her golden retriever Barley, two cats Lottie and Sable and her horse, Sir Godfrey.
Lesley ‘Jane’ Wright, nee Treeby, was born April 20th 1950 in Plymouth England. Predeceased by her parents, Charles Leonard Treeby and Jean Helen Treeby, both of Filton, England.
In her youth in England she was a trained ballerina. In her 20’s she worked for Rolls-Royce and then British Airways in Filton, working as a liaison assistant for the Concorde Project. There she met the love of her life, Andy Wright, they married in 1975 and emigrated to Canada in 1976.
Jane spent most of her early years in Canada working for Boehringer Ingelheim in Burlington where she made life long friends. In her later years, her love for horses steered her to work for the Greenhawk Equestrian Store in Beamsville, where she worked for 20 years and looked after her other true love, her beloved horse, Sir Godfrey.
She will be sorely missed by many different friends, family and communities in Canada and the UK. She loved her family, friends and animals so dearly.
We would like to take this time to extend our overwhelming gratitude to the care and support we have received from the Walker Family Cancer Centre. Specifically, Dr. Rachel VanderMeer, her nurse Debbie and her unbelievable team of nurses and support staff, She cherished you all. We would also like to thank all the doctors and nurses in the ICU and the incredible team that helped our mom and family through this difficult and painful time. You all are truly angels.
As per the family’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be a Celebration of Jane’s Life on April 20th, 2026, 2pm -4:30pm at the Tallman Funeral Home, Fireside Room in Vineland. All who loved her are welcome.
In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations to the Walker Family Cancer Centre in Jane’s name.
“When cardinals appear, angels are near” She really was our Angel.
Online condolences at www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca
GOUDSWAARD, Johannes “Joe”
It is with great sadness that the family of Johannes (Joe) Jan Goudswaard announce his passing at the age of 88 on Jan. 30, 2026 at Belleville Hospital.
Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Ena (nee Lageweg), of 66 years; loving father of children, Shirley (Phil Davey), Ken (Ann) and John (Bev); Beloved Opie to Kristen (Bill Halman), Danielle (Brad Mullin), Caleb (Morgan), Dustin, Myles (Jessica), Spencer, Skyler and Sydney; and great grandchildren Jack, Clara, Delilah, Blake, Ash, Persephone and Theadora.
Many people will remember Joe through his construction company, Gouds Construction.
Joe touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed.
To honour Joe’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no funeral service.
To share online condolences, please visit: www.rushnell.com.
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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
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Be your own community’s statesman (woman)
There is not a day goes by when I don’t still think about my grandmotherAlma Williscraft.
She’s been gone since passing away in the home in which she was born - at 104 years of age - in London, Ont., in 2012.
I miss her, to be sure, but at the same time I know she lives on in the knowledge and lessons she passed on.
show, I would pause at different points and we would debate what was just said. Initially, my son has cancelled Chappelle in his mind. My mission was not to sell him on anything different but to shine light on a differing opinion.
Yes, some traits are hereditary, but we are all also products of our environment. Parents and grandparents who invest time in their family will reap dividends of that time for themselves and society as whole will benefit as well.
See what you recognize
When crime drama Borderline airs after the Super Bowl on Feb. 8, viewers from Niagara West may want to pay close attention to see what visuals they recognize. That particular episode was shot in and around Grimsby in Fall 2024. Many will recognize Minnie Driver (above), Emmy and Academy Award nominee, who is new to the show this season. For the episode, you will notice the core area is dubbed “Downtown Joyce”.
Of late, little things I have seen and heard have set my mind off with replays of things my grandmother said or did, which have stuck with me to this day.
One item, which I expanded on a couple of weeks ago, noted how politicians of today should read the room and recognize we don’t need diatribes without positive options cited.
The grandma lesson there was “listen to people”. She used to always say, “There is nothing wrong with opinion, but recognize other people have their views, too. You don’t need to agree and you should not be worried about convincing others of your view.”
This scenario played
out on the weekend when my son was visiting. We watched Dave Chappelle’s new standup on Netflix where he explained his reasoning for performing at the Saudi Arabia Comedy Festival.
My son said Chappelle jumped the shark with that one, no way to justify it. For me, it’s definitely a hit to his credibility, if you believe he has any at all. I appreciate his perspective and wit.
A key point which Chappelle made repeatedly in the show was that he felt more free to comment on Saudi Arabia than he did in the U.S.
Now, that’s a cop out, to be sure, because the Saudis would be totally onside with much of Chappelle’s subject matter. It would be interesting to see if he survived a whole set if he started making Islam jokes. I don’t think he’d be making light of Jamal Khashoggi’s end. He’d live it.
I mention all this because, as we watched the
A couple of times in the last year he has come over breathing fire about one topic or another based on something he saw online. I happened to know what he was seeing was false, plain and simple. After talking him down, I would explain the fact of the situation.
In some cases, I was adamant, this is how it really is, but you decide. On other topics, it was more like, “yes, but here is another perspective...”. The point is....talk. It’s not about arguing. It’s not about telling someone they are wrong. It is not about presenting polarized views and shutting off any possibility that maybe two things could be true in a situation simultaneously.
When I saw headlines this week with former prime ministers Jean Chretien and Stephen Harper both on the same side where Canadian unity is concerned it made me think of all this. You cannot get two with more differing views politically, but both are solid statesmen.
You, good reader, can be a good statesman, or stateswoman in your own community. Just listen.
MIKE WILLISCRAFT
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