> Grimsby to implement downtown construction plan over ’26-’27 /Pg 3 > Grimsby Polar Bear Dip set for Jan. 1 at Bal Harbour Pg 8 > Non-residential recycling pick up ends Jan. 1 Pg 11 > West Lincoln sets new building fees Pg 17 Thursday, January 1, 2026 Vol. 14 Issue 35
newsnowniagara.com 100% Niagara West owned & operated
Proudly serving Grimsby, Lincoln, West Lincoln & Winona Circ: 29,006
World record holder
Children from St. John Catholic Elementary School’s YMCA Child Care Centre have earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World
Records. They completed the longest chain of Rainbow Loom bracelets. For more coverage, please turn to Page 4.
Affordable housing: foundation of stable, strong community By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow Affordable housing can change lives for residents of Lincoln but the policy makers and the people who live there must decide what kind of community they want to be, say advocates with Affordable Housing Lincoln (AHL).
The precarious life that comes with homelessness may not be as visible as in larger urban centres, but a growing number of Lincoln households are spending far past the 30 per cent of income benchmark to keep a roof over their heads, leaving less for food and health care - a house of cards
where one crisis, one lost paycheque, can trigger imminent collapse. In Lincoln alone, one of the fastest growing municipalities across Niagara, the number of households with unaffordable housing will more than double, from 1,215 to 2,500, by 2051. A recent panel or-
ganized by Affordable Housing Lincoln (AHL) and Poverty Project Trinity United Church Beamsville drew a large crowd, including a full slate of Town councillors to the Fleming Centre in Beamsville. Panelist Mike Kirkopoulos, CAO Town of Lincoln said preliminary plans for
affordable housing on Town-owned land at the former Beamsville District Secondary School (BDSS) will go to Council in the first quarter of the new year. It’s a good start, an opportunity that will only come around once say AHL members, but they See HOUSING, Page 6
Page 2 • NewsNow • Thursday, January 1, 2026
66 Main Street E, GRIMSBY 860 Queenston Road, STONEY CREEK 261 Martindale Road #14C, ST. CATHARINES
Niagara » Hamilton/Burlington » Oakville
HAMILTON » BURLINGTON:
2025 WAS A RESET — NOT A RETREAT!
NIAGARA REGION:
• The market shifted into a balanced, more predictable pace.
• Slight price softening and increased • Fewer sales but more listings = balanced, supply created ideal move-up conditions. opportunity-driven market.
• Prices dipped slightly (2-6% depending on the area) but stabilized in the second half of the year.
• Communities like Grimsby, Lincoln, Niagara Falls, and Welland saw steady interest from GTA and Hamilton buyers.
• Inventory increased, giving buyers options and breathing room.
• Lifestyle-driven moves (downsizers, upsizers, retirees) stayed strong all year.
• Families continued targeting these areas for schools, amenities, commutes, and value compared to the GTA.
BUYERS Had More Choice — SELLERS Still Had Success
What This Means
What This Means
• More listings = less pressure and fewer bidding wars.
• Presentation, strategy, and timing matter more than ever.
• Rates are stabilizing; some forecasts point to mild improvements.
• Well-priced, well-presented homes continued to attract strong activity.
• Inventory is expected to stay moderate » more competition, but also more serious buyers.
• More listings = less pressure and more negotiation room.
• Conditions (financing, inspection) became normal again, improving confidence on both sides.
Smart-Buyer Territory
FOR SELLERS IN 2026
• Professional marketing and pricing accuracy will be major differentiators.
A Healthier Pace
• DOM stretched into the 30-50 day range, allowing thoughtful decision-making.
FOR BUYERS IN 2026
• 2026 is shaping up to be a "sweet spot" year for first-timers, upsizers, and investors.
CONFIDENCE IS RETURNING = HEALTHY MARKET! REALTORS ® Lynn Fee / Stephanie McIvor / Wendy Murray-Nicholson / Tracey Cerisano / Stephanie Yole Bloch BROKERS Torrin Fee / Ralph Musitano / Rocco Mastromattei
News Now • Thursday, January 1, 2026 • Page 3
Grimsby opts for downtown construction plan over two years The Town of Grimsby has opted for an extended construction program for its long-discussed Downtown Reimagined Project (DRP). Downtown Reimagined is a major infrastructure and streetscape revitalization initiative focused on renewing aging underground infrastructure while transforming the downtown core into a vibrant, pedestrian-priority destination. “Based on what we have heard from businesses, residents, and stakeholders – and with a shared focus on supporting a successful outcome for downtown commerce and the broader community – the Town has made a decision to adjust the project schedule,” states a release from the Town. “Rather than completing construction in a single year, the DRP will now take place over two carefully planned phases, beginning in 2026 and concluding in 2027. This revised approach is intended to better balance the technical re-
quirements of the project with traffic management, business access, and day-to-day community needs. Key to the “technical requirements” is fulfilling the guidelines of a $1.9 million provincial grant. Consultant Steve Overend told those at an information session for downtown stakeholders earlier this month that the first stage of construction includes sewer repairs, water main replacements and road resurfacing at the intersection of Main and Christie, along Elm and Mountain, and at other key roadways in the area. The second phase of construction will replace much of the infrastructure on Main Street from Mountain to Elm and will include general facelifts to the area, such as improved streetlighting, crosswalks, wayfinding and landscaping. Overend told the crowd this section of Main would be closed to cars during construction slated to start in April 2027 and wrap up
September the same year. “The primary benefit of this approach is improved traffic and access management. By organizing the work across two phases, the Town will be better positioned to maintain traffic flow, minimize disruption, and support continued access to businesses and residences throughout construction,” states the release. This revised phasing also allows for a more strategic rollout of the most sensitive work in the downtown core, with added flexibility to adapt to seasonal considerations, business operations, and ongoing feedback from stakeholders. Importantly, it provides opportunities to fine-tune the timing and sequencing of construction activities in response to concerns raised by the business community. Some business owners at the meeting suggested switching the order of the two phases and doing Main Street work first, but Brandon
Wartman, Grimsby’s director of public works said that would prove costly. “We have a $1.9 million or a $2 million grant that is tied to the completion of the water main component. The bulk of the water main component is outside of the core. So we have to complete that work first,” he said. Casa Toscana owner Luca Vitali noted his preference would be to start construction on Main in January 2027 to minimize impact on the summer months. Wartman said construction in winter would be less efficient and potentially more costly due to weather interruptions. Vitali also asked the town to consider holding the annual Happening in Grimsby on Main in 2026 since the section of Main from Christie to Ontario Street will be open, but was informd plans are set to host those events at the Peach King Centre.
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Page 4 • NewsNow • Thursday, January 1, 2026
YMCA program kids now in Guinness Book of World Records
Wishing everyone a safe, happy and healthy Christmas season and new year! West Lincoln Mayor Cheryl Ganann
May the spirit of the season fill your heart and your home, and may you and your family enjoy the warmth of an old-fashioned Christmas. We appreciate your support.
Merry Christmas from all of us
at pyett spring & alignment Caistor Centre
It’s official: children from St. John Catholic Elementary School’s YMCA Child Care Centre are in the Guinness Book of World Records. The kids completed the longest chain of Rainbow Loom bracelets to earn the distinction. “One of the the little girls (Adela Arciszewski) from the program had a big dream to get a world record for a loom
project. She realized it was too much for her to take on, so she asked us (those in the YMCA program),” said program supervisor Ashley Bergen. It took 24 kids, plus staff, nearly a whole school year to complete it but to the process from idea to acceptance by Guinness was nearly 15 months. “It took a lot of legwork,” said Bergen.
Just a friendly little greeting and a heartfelt wish for cheer… May the peace and joy of Christmas stay with you all through the New Year!
With deep gratitude for your loyal support, we wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season.
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HOUSING
From Page 1 want a commitment before the next municipal election. “Will there be a commitment to affordable housing at BDSS before the municipal elections in October?” asked panelist Dr. Noel Walker, chair of the Lincoln Housing Select Committee. “We want to hear Council say that before next year’s election,” he said. The Town bought the 16-acre property from the District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) for $2.85 million in January 2025. A previous motion to commit a portion of the site for non-profit affordable housing was deferred by Council in May. “There is a commitment to affordable housing,” Kirkopoulos said. The Town “will be in front of Council in the next few months with plans and strategy.” It will take time to plan, with more than just affordable housing vying for a share of the land use. “Affordable housing will be part of the plan. Lincoln is committed to affordable housing.”
A December panel discussion on how affordable housing can change lives for residents of Lincoln brought a full house to the Fleming Centre in Beamsville. McDonald - Photo Panelist and AHL ing and Mortgage Cor- banks can free some (Yes In My Back Yard) member Dr. Karl Stobbe poration) is under ex- grocery money, it’s not stance towards develstressed the urgency treme pressure with an a sustainable approach. opment. with affordable hous- overwhelming number “Housing insecurity can A member of AHL and ing needs set to double of applications for fund- happen to anyone. Peo- Poverty Project Trinity over 25 years. “We’ve ing. He said the federal ple can’t wait that long,” United Church Beamsgot a good road map and provincial levels of Liptay said. “It’s time to ville, Romagnoli called for building one, but we government will have to confront the reality and the audience to speak make affordable hous- for those most affectalso need a plan in order come to the table. to keep the ball rolling ed and as applications Co-founder of Re- ing part of the story.” Town planning staff come forward, to drown and identify what will gional Essential Access happen next.” to Connected Health- calculated that the aver- out the voice of NIMBY Kirkopoulos agreed care (REACH) which age one-bedroom apart- (Not In My Back Yard.) there needs to be a short provides healthcare for ment rent was $1,820 Lincoln mayor Sanlist of shovel ready sites. homeless and marginal- per month. A single per- dra Easton said the “We have the land. We ized people across Ni- son would need to make large meeting response need provincial capital.” agara, Dr. Stobbe said $38 an hour to afford to the community-led Communities across access to diverse, af- this rent. And wait lists movement adds weight Ontario are strug- fordable housing is a key are up to 14 years. to provincial applicaCountering stereo- tions to move ahead gling with a shortage determinant of health types of affordability in with housing plans. “To of affordable housing. and well being. He sees a homelessness local mobile home parks, come to an event like Kirkopoulos said the one audience member this….they know there is CMHC (Canada Hous- train fast approaching. “What is the plan over said “some of the dou- a need,” Mayor Easton the next 30 years when blewide (trailers) are said. we have 2500 people at selling for $400,000.” “Affordable housrisk of homelessness in He said building at the ing is not only about Lincoln.” BDSS property can be compassion - it’s smart Panelist Dora Liptay, part of the solution, “but planning. Communities client services coordi- when are we actually with stable housing see nator for Community going to do something? lower emergency serCare of West Niagara, Get a back hoe in there vice costs, better health said weekly visits to the and start digging.” outcomes, and stronger food bank save resi“The louder the voice workforce retention,” dents around $400 a the more likely the out- said AHL member Anmonth. CCWN reports come,” said panel mod- thony van Engelen. For that 42 per cent of its erator Irene Romagnoli, more information email Lincoln CAO Mike Kirkolpoulos addresses the afford- food bank users are urging audience mem- affordablehousinglinable housing session crowd. McDonald - Photo working and while food- bers to support a YIMBY coln@gmail.com
News Now • Thursday, January 1, 2026 • Page 7
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Page 8 • NewsNow • Thursday, January 1, 2026
raised will Polar Bear set for Jan. 1 goAlltofunds McNally House Grimsby’s popular Polar Bear Swim is set for 2 p.m. this Thursday, Jan. 1. Organizer Gavin
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Recycling extended for core Grimsby businesses Recycling pick up for Niagara’s nonresidential properties will cease effective this Thursday, Jan. 1. The change comes following an update to Ontario’s Blue Box Regulations, which now applies only to residential properties. As a result, industrial, commercial, institutional, and similar non-eligible properties will no longer receive recycling collection through the Region’s residential program. While most Niagara municipalities have opted to leave it up to businesses to plan alternative recycyling pick up options at their own expense, Town of Grimsby has decided to pick up the tab for 49 nonresidential properties in its downtown core for 2026 to help offset impacts of planned construction. Grimsby council allocated nearly $45,000 to maintain Blue Box collection for these properties, helping to ensure continuity during a period of significant infrastructure work in the downtown core.
The support aligns with the upcoming Downtown Grimsby Reimagined project, which begins next spring and includes major watermain upgrades, storm sewer installation, sanitary sewer repairs, and full road reconstruction. Picking up the tab is intended to ease impacts on businesses already preparing for construction-related disruptions. The Town will reassess recycling service options for the 49 supported properties for 2027. Possible options for other businesses includes: • Contacting private recycling service providers operating locally to arrange pickups, or; • Recycling materials may also be self-hauled to landfill site dropoff locations across the region if preferred. These changes do not affect residential recycling service. Residents will continue to receive curbside recycling collection under the updated Blue Box program.
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Rudolph’s arrival delayed
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
Christmas Eve in the early seventies my family and I spent Christmas with our cousins in Scarborough. That evening, my 5-year-old sister and cousin, were told to head upstairs, brush their teeth then my mother and aunt would read them The Night Before Christmas. Minutes later we heard
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On behalf of Sue and all our family, we wish you a safe Holiday Season and a very Happy New Year.
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7:00pm to 9:00pm
Royal Canadian Legion Branch #613 141 Highway 20 East, Fonthill
Peninsula Ridge Winery 5600 King Street West, Beamsville
This is a great opportunity to ring in the New Year together and for constituents to share their local priorities and concerns.
SAM OOSTERHOFF MPP - Niagara West
4961 King St. E, Unit M1, Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 905-563-1755 • sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org samoosterhoffmpp.ca
BOXING SALE ONE WEEK SATURDAY, DEC. 27 - SATURDAY, JAN. 3/26 40% - 70% OFF
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7 Main St. West, Grimsby
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& restoration
Page 14 • NewsNow • Thursday, January 1, 2026
s g n i t e e r G Season’s
Wishing you all the joys of the season and happiness for the coming year.
Wishing you much peace and joy during this blessed season. Alan, Michelle, Jon, Connor
Serving the community since 1969 for all your collision needs!
From Council, Staff and Firefighters at the Township of West Lincoln
Niagara Peninsula Energy Inc.
Holiday Office Hours Monday, December 22 - Open Tuesday, December 23 - Open Wednesday, December 24 - Closed Thursday, December 25 - Closed Friday, December 26 - Closed Monday, December 29 - Open Tuesday, December 30 - Open Wednesday, December 31 - Closed Thursday, January 1 - Closed Friday, January 2 - Open
If you are experiencing a hydro outage or emergency, please call 1-877-270-3938 to report it. Repair crews are available to respond at all hours. Phone | 1-877-270-3938 Email | info@npei.ca Website | www.npei.ca Facebook | NPEIHydro X | NPEIHydro Instagram | NPEIHydro
Calm. Bright. Peaceful. Beautiful.
Merry Christmas to All
Name Business
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May your holiday season be all this and more.
From �ur �amily to yours, thank you �nd Merry Chri��m�s. We �p�reciate your business, �nd we wish you �ll the be�t.
News Now • Thursday, January 1, 2026 • Page 15
Supportive mom created a long-lasting Christmas memory with sewing skills I am a transplant from the U.K. On Dec. 19, 1968 I gave birth, unexpectedly. to a darling baby girl. I was released from the hospital on December 24th - in maternity clothes because nothing fitted me. When I got to the apartment I was stunned, surprised and overjoyed to find my mother unexpectedly had boarded a plane and was here in Canada to
Best Christmas Memory
help with the new arrival. I was feeling low as I had nothing to wear but maternity clothes on Christmas Day for dinner at a friend’s house. My dear mother suggested I go to the plaza and pick something out that wasn’t maternity.
I did and came home with a red pleated dress which was far too long and actually frumpy but it fit. My mother, bless her, after travelling for hours from the U.K. that day, sat until the wee hours of the morning to hem up the dress to fit properly so I wouldn’t feel so depressed on Christmas Day. I will never forget the over-
Season’s Greetings Here’s hoping your holiday is beautiful in every way.
Thanks for your business!
RACHEL KREMBLE Hearing Instrument Specialist
905-563-HEAR (4327) Love your ears!
4413 Ontario St., Suite 103, • Beamsville • www. hearrightcanada.ca
whelming love I felt for her and how thankful I was to have a mum who would push herself to the limit for her daughter so far away. I will once again be re-living this story this year. My Mother isn’t with us any more to add her part of the story but I will always make sure the story is passed on to future generations. Sheila Dale Vineland
Creating Inspired Living Spaces for Over 40 Years for all your Decorating Needs.
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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! May your days be Merry and Bright at Christmas and all through the year! Thanks to all for Your Wonderful Support throughout our 87 years
Beamsville Lions Club
Page 16 • NewsNow • Thursday, January 1, 2026
Catherine Williscraft
Erica Huisman
Donna Wisnoski
Grimsby Square Plaza
FOOD, FUN & SPIRITS
30 Main St. West, Grimsby
36 Main St. West, Grimsby
HAT TRICK HOCKEY
Week 9 (Standing as of Dec. 28th, 2025)
Mike Williscraft
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:
Wishing our community a Joanne McDonald
• $15 Gift Card, courtesy of Tim Hortons, Grimsby: Henry Doners • $15 gift certificate courtesy of Jordan Flowers,Grimsby: Brian Whitaker • $15 Gift Card courtesy of Judge & Jester, Grimsby: Jacob Reilly • $15 Gift Card courtesy of Canadian Tire, Grimsby: Allison Brand • Large, 3-Item Pizza, Pick-Up Only, courtesy of Gino’s Pizza, Grimsby: Rachel Wang • $15 Gift Card courtesy of Memphis BBQ., Winona: Ryder Kallies • 2 Tickets to a Grimsby Peach Kings game, Grimsby: Eileen O’Brien
Very Merry Christmas and all the
Winners can stop by the NewsNow office to pick up their winnings.
Best for 2026
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Top Standings
Seasons come and go, but our best wishes remain with you today and always. Thanks to your generous advertisers and reader alike for their ongoing dedication & support. We appreciate all of you and we wish you a wonderful holiday.
1. Couch, Jesse ...... 774 2. Zdriluk, Jacob ...760 3. Redding, Jeff ..... 759 4. DeVries, Mark.... 759 5. Stuive, Cindy ......757 6. Crowder, Tom ... 754 7. Klages, Lilian...... 753 8. Klages, Keith ......752 9. Simmons, Cam....751 10. McIntosh, Megan 749
11. Klages, Robert.. 749 12. Kraan, Alisha .... 747 13. Ciszec, Fred...... 746 14. Van Roon, Jim . 746 15. Ritz, Jon ............. 744 16. Heywood, Kevin 743 17. Dunda, Riley ..... 742 18. Mous, Brent ...... 742 19. Jacobsen, Sean ..741 20. Poz, Cindy ....... 739
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Our Finest Wishes at the Holidays
DIMTSIS D.D.S. May your Christmas beDR. rich DAN in friendship, love, peace, health and happiness. We wish you and yours all the best, and we thank you for your support this past year. DR. KIMBERLY WOODS D.D.S.
Dr. Dan Dimtsis Dr. Kim Woods
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News Now • Thursday, January 1, 2026 • Page 17
West Lincoln sets new building fee structure to offset department deficit
br
g o v er
40
1983 - 2023
rs
Proud to be part of the Community Since 1963
in at
Yea
Merry Christmas
ceeded revenues generated for the municipality through building permit fees, resulting in deficits. The Township conducted a Building Permit Fees Review, which recommended new fees based on the operating costs of the building division. The new building fees are aligned with other municipalities in Niagara. Council also approved an updated Consolidated User Fees and Charges By-law at its Dec. 15 meeting, see: westlincoln.ca/en/township-office/ rates-and-fees.aspx.
Cele
Township of West Lincoln Council approved new building permit fees at its Dec. 15 meeting. The updated fee structure will come into effect this Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026. The Building Code Act requires that a building fee by-law be amended publicly to charge permit fees such that the building division can operate self-sufficiently and not be a burden to the Township tax levy. Over the last few years, the cost to operate the building division has ex-
4687 Christie Drive, Beamsville Phone: (905) 563-4963 Fax: (905) 563-4040 Website: www.cla-val.ca
Reg Freake
Town of Grimsby Councillor, Ward 1
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from West Lincoln
Memorial Auxiliary
CLA-VAL CANADA CORP.
Automatic Valves 9001-2015 438981
Best Wishes For The Christmas Season!
Thank you to everyone in West Niagara for their support in 2025.
& Many Thanks ~ Julius, Reg, Dan & Mark
3984 Spring Creek Road, R.R. #1, Vineland, (Tintern) 905-563-7961
Page 18 • NewsNow • Thursday, January 1, 2026
May your home be filled with light, joy and happiness! Our warmest wishes to you and your family this Christmas season!
On behalf of your local fire services, we wish the Niagara West community a safe and Happy Holiday season!
Please have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms on every storey of your home, and prepare and practise your home fire escape plan
News Now • Thursday, January 1, 2026 • Page 19
Parade key to memories Some of my favourite Christmas memories were around the Santa Claus parade. When I was a kid my father, Dennis Pyatt, organized the parade for about ten years. He would draw, colour and create models of all the entries. Then he would create a parade on his work bench, moving the pieces around to make sure everything was just right. That there was a band with the majorettes and dance troupes. The loud bands were not too
Best Christmas Memory
close to the horses. The floats mixed through out for a good show. I also was part of the parade as a majorette or pompom dancer with Mae Rawcliffe’s school of dance. Freezing cold in our uniforms. Loving every minute of it. But watching my dad was the best part. He was so happy. Kate Pyatt Grimsby
Have a Merry Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year!
special
Lianne Vardy Town of Grimsby Grimsby Councillor, Ward Ward 22
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Windmill Appliance Service Happy Holidays filled with gre smiles 63 Main St. W. #7, Grimsby,atOn , 905-945-4975 www.emeraldorthodontics.com
bob & Cara Needham 905-945-9688 Cell: 905-971-4681
windmillappliance@hotmail.com www.windmillapplianceservice.ca Wishing you a Very Blessed Christmas & New Year!
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675) 309-WORK (9 ., Unit 6, 90563 Main St. W LE IL SV Am bE 5) 563-WORK (967 , Unit 11 • 9054520 Ontario St. E LL VI H SmIT t By Appointmen sville Office sby or Beam im Gr r ou ll ca .org Please ploymenthelp www.em
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BUSINESS WORKING TOGETHER
Page 20 • NewsNow • Thursday, January 1, 2026
OBITUARIES
289-235-9500 OBITUARIES
linton, Sylvia Jane (nee Allan) August 30, 1947 December 25, 2025
Loving wife to the late Billy Linton. Loving sister to David Allan (Marianne) of Beamsville. Loving Aunt to many. Sylvia was a long time employee of John Deere in Grimsby. She was a devoted, cherished friend and a fierce lover of cats. She has donated to many charities over the years. In lieu of flowers a donation to a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated. Online condolences at www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca
in memoriam
Harry Spittal 1955 - 1981 Cousin
Sgambato, gennaro
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Gennaro Sgambato on December 26, 2025, at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Grimsby. Born on July 13, 1939, in Calvi Risorta, Italy, Gennaro is predeceased by his parents, Giuseppe and Anna (née Zanni) Sgambato, and his brother Carmine (Janet) Sgambato. Upon immigrating to Canada in 1964, Gennaro settled in Beamsville, where he built a loving family and established a home shaped by warmth and tradition for the rest of his life. Beloved husband of 50 years to Rita (née Mastrangelo), Gennaro showed the truest expression of love through his devotion, patience, and compassionate care for his wife throughout her illness. His children, Josey (Neil) and Anthony, will forever carry gratitude for the example of love, integrity, and kindness that he modeled. Gennaro was fiercely proud of his family, cherishing above all the love and bond they shared. His greatest joy was being a loving and dedicated “Nonno” to Nicolas, Nina, Lucas and Atticus. He will also be greatly missed by his brother Salvatore (Donna) Sgambato, as well as his numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Gennaro had a genuine love for people and the gift of conversation, finding joy in sharing stories and laughter with everyone he met. He carried a deep passion for Italy, soccer, his beloved Montreal Canadiens, and the simple pleasures of good food—best enjoyed around a full table where family and friends were always welcome. Warm, loving, and generous in spirit, he celebrated life’s milestones, big and small, and lived by the enduring Italian values of family, togetherness, and hospitality. While Gennaro’s absence leaves an immeasurable void, his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know and love him. The family would like to extend their deepest appreciation to Dr. DePetrillo and the staff at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital for their exceptional care, compassion, and support over the past few years, which brought comfort during this most difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honour Gennaro’s memory to consider a donation to the WLMH Foundation, in gratitude for the care he received.
Can it be so long ago That smiles turned to tears. I treasure all the moments We shared while you were here. The memories I have of you Are in my heart to stay. I think of you more often Than words can ever say.
Visitation was held on Monday, December 29, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Tallman Funeral Homes, 3277 King Street, Vineland. The Funeral Mass was held on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Helen Roman Catholic Church, 4106 Mountain Street, Beamsville. Burial followed at Mount Osborne Cemetery, 4230 William Street, Beamsville. Online condolences at www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca
Miss ya Harry - always will. Love Cathy
CARS
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CARS, trucks, old farm machinery for scrap or repair. We pay cash. Flatbed service. 905-386-6181 or 289-686-5059.
Little Black Lulu Lemon pouch. Lost at Teddy’s in Grimsby on Saturday. 289-2448703
RUBBISH & JUNK REMOVAL. Call Ken 905-973-3235
Advertise in the classifieds. Call 289-235-9500
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
MASONRY
grey rock masonry
Chimney & Porch Repairs, Interlock Restorations, Parging Call: 905-512-9565 info@greyrockmasonry.com
SNOW REMOVAL Primary access snow removal. For PSW home access. No charge for first service. Call Take Care Property Services 289-4072325
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 Me and My Wife Painting. We paint your home like it’s our home. Residential painting, door spraying, wall treatment, refinishing and painting household furniture. Specializing in small residential jobs. Call/ text us for a quote today. Doug and Sylvana 905-979-2151
News Now • Thursday, January 1, 2026 • Page 21
OBITUARIES
Aranka (“Goldie”) Gale Coombs (née Jarecsni)
As dawn broke on December 13, 2025, the day before her 81st birthday, our beautiful wife, mom and gram quietly decided it was time. Goldie is survived by her devoted husband of 59 years, Randy Coombs of Grimsby; her children, Derek (Cinnamon) of Strathroy, Gregory (Sarah) of Huntsville, and Tracy Loch of New Hamburg; and her cherished grandchildren, Tanner, Nic, Caleb, Maddie, Peri, Emily, Evan, and Ryan. She is also survived by her siblings: Dr. Emil Jarecsni (Roberta) of Leamington; Dr. Monica Dahl (the late Dr. Ed) of Courtenay, British Columbia; Lillian Graham (Ron) of Coquitlam, British Columbia; the late Andrew Jarecsni (Julia) of Merlin; and Ted Jarecsni (Cheryl) of Chatham. Goldie was also a beloved sister-in-law and was “Aunt Goldie” to many nieces and nephews. Born in Chatham, Goldie was the daughter of the late Andrew A. Jarecsni and Anna (née Eros) of Merlin, Ontario. She attended St. Joseph’s Hospital School of Nursing in London, graduating in 1965 as a Registered Nurse. While in nursing school, she went on a blind date arranged by her friend Judy and met Randy. In 1966 they married at St. Patrick’s Church in Merlin and went on to build a loving family together. Goldie’s nursing career spanned many years. She worked at St. Joseph’s in London, Cambridge Memorial, West Lincoln Memorial in Grimsby and Joseph Brant Hospital in Burlington, where she worked until her retirement in 2005. She embraced life fully traveling the world with Randy, tending to her gardens and bird feeders, and spending time with her family. She especially loved her Canada Day pool parties in the backyard. Goldie enjoyed backgammon, golfing, tennis, badminton, and volunteering at McNally House and the GBF. She also loved cooking for her family, playing the piano, growing the hottest Hungarian peppers, and playing bridge with her friends. Above all, she treasured her role as “Gram” and ensured her grandchildren were spoiled, just as a Gram should. Heartfelt appreciation is extended to the staff at Henley House LTC home in St. Catharines for the care they provided and the compassion they shared. Family and friends are invited to join us on January 19, 2026 at 11am for a funeral Mass at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 5773 Tenth Line, Merlin, with interment to follow. Lunch will be held afterwards at the Merlin Community Hall, 150 Aberdeen Street. A celebration of Goldie’s life will also be held on January 25 from 12pm -4pm at Station 1 (Upper Level Lounge), 28 Main St. E., Grimsby. As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Society of Ontario. Online condolences can be made at www.ccbscares.ca
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Do you like to walk? Why not get paid for it? A great chance for children to earn their own money and learn how to manage it! Are you an avid reader who would like to help out in the midst of the current Canada Post strike?
NewsNow is looking for carriers in Grimsby, Beamsville/Vineland and Smithville
Call Catherine at the office 289-235-9500 or call her cell 289-442-0352 • Email: catherine@wn3.ca
Bob Gale named as regional chair
The provincial government has stepped in once again to name Niagara’s regional chair, Bob Gale. Gale will replace the late Jim Bradley. “I am pleased to announce Bob Gale as the new Chair of the Regional Municipality of Niagara. His decades of experience in regional governance, executive leadership and public safety make him wellpositioned to lead the advancement of provincial priorities in the region, including improving municipal service delivery for local residents, supporting greater efficiency and lowering costs for local taxpayers,” said Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Rob Flack A lifelong resident of the Niagara Region, Gale will be building on his strong track record of public service, including as regional councillor for the City of Niagara Falls and as Chair of the Niagara Parks Commission. Gale was also a member of the Niagara Regional Police Services Board from 2014-2022 and assumed chairmanship from 2014-2018. In the 1970s, he was a Niagara Regional Police officer before leading his family’s oil company in 1980.
Page 22 • NewsNow • Thursday, January 1, 2026
100% Niagara owned & operated Our Team: Publisher - Mike Williscraft mike@wn3.ca 289-442-4244 General Manager - Catherine Williscraft Sales Consultant - Erica Huisman Graphics - Donna Wisnoski NewsNow is owned & operated by 1602207 Ontario Ltd.
Office Location 45 Main St. West, Delivered via Canada Post Grimsby, ON, L3M 1R3 Ph: 289-235-9500 Ph: 289-235-7848 NewsNow is published EVERY Thursday & delivered to all homes & businesses in Niagara West, 29,006
Christmas memory winners
Emalin Hart, left, of Grimsby and Nicole Schrock of Caistor Centre were two of the lucky winners of NewsNow’s Christmas Memories Contest, co-sponsored by Giant Tiger Grimsby. The third winner was Sue Gracey of Vineland. Each earned a $100 gift certificate from Giant Tiger for submitting their favourite Christmas memory - each of which was published in NewsNow’s Christmas edition last week. Thanks to all who submitted.
Wish for 2026: better time management I am not a big one for New Years resolutions, but, seeing how this week’s edition is dated Jan. 1, it’s a little difficult to get off that idea. Personally, my goal for 2026 is to try to figure out a way to be even more efficient with my time. The end game there is to carve out a bit more time, any time, really, to allow some separation from work and then to take that time to investing in myself. I am very bad at that. Generally speaking, I have always been one to put myself at the back of the line when it comes to needing or wanting things. It’s a hard habit to break since I think the world could use a few more million people who take on the same ideology. Think about how many people you know or have ever met. Now, if you had a problem - even a minor one but required help of some sort - how many of those people you know would drop what they are doing and either come help you themselves or figure out a way to network a solution immediately. If you have one person in your life like that, consider yourself very lucky. If you have two, well, that’s just gravy. Most don’t have a single one. A big part of the reason I believe this selfless approach is the way to be is how it has been proven out over and over and over that all those favours
MIKE WILLISCRAFT and supportive gestures to family, friends, community groups and even advertisers has come back to me when I needed it most on countless occasions. I can tell you, there have been some dark - nearfatal days for my business endeavours over 30 years of running newspapers in Niagara West. That is not a complaint in any way shape or form far from it - just reality. Going back to Grimsby News days in 1997, when I was putting in over 110 hours per week and only drawing $200 in weekly pay, I had 17 uncashed cheques in my wallet. The rule I was taught: never bounce a cheque. If you don’t have the funds, don’t write the cheque. Buy time. Figure out a way to connect cash flow to what needs to get paid. That means staff get paid first. I was always at the back of the bus. There are a lot of small business owners who can relate to that these days, so I don’t consider that remarkable
behaviour in any way. It’s just how it needs to be. My point there is, doing that, finding a way, teaches resiliency. There was no whining, no waiting on a government program bail out, no rich relative with a chunk of money burning a hole in their pocket. That resiliency, combined with another great lesson I learned from my boss back in my Ottawa days - “You can do anything you want, just don’t spend any money” - is what has made my penchant for helping others work against me at times. Usually, I can figure out a way - by connecting those with different attributes and skills - to get things done for little or no cost. It makes it doubly hard to see someone waste time or money when I know I can help. Back to my resolution... what I need to do is figure out how to keep doing those things - which I think are vital to maintaining our smalltown support system - and take a beat for myself. If I can do that, it will be a successful year and everything else will just fall in place. And that is what I wish for you, good reader. Whatever you need to make 2026 a positive year for you, that is what I hope comes to you - whether that in better health, more money, closer family ties, whatever. I wish you all a safe and happy 2026.
News Now • Thursday, January 1, 2026 • Page 23
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FRESH PORK CUTLETS OR SCHNITZEL
NATURALLY SMOKED MINI BLACK FOREST HAMS
FROZEN PRODUCE
GROCERY
CUT FROM CANADA GRADE AA BEEF OR HIGHER
6241 Spring Creek Rd, Smithville
Tues - Sat 9:00am - 6:00pm, Sun, Mon - Closed
ALSO ON SALE AT HIGHLAND COUNTRY MARKETS!
$3
41
/100G
MAMA NITZ TOCINO $6.99 EA
Page 24 • NewsNow • Thursday, January 1, 2026