> West Niagara businesses, organizations showcased in Then & Now /Pgs 8-11 > West Niagara mayors give 2020 reviews Pgs 5&11 > Hat Trick Hockey is back Pg 6 > Beamsville restaurant COVID pivots to bodega retailer Pg 7 Thursday, January 7, 2021 Vol. 9 Issue 38
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Pennachetti accepts Order of Canada appointment By Mike Williscraft NewsNow While motorists are not supposed to text and drive, it may be a good idea to add no taking messages from the Governor General’s office while driving to that list. “I almost drove off the road,” said Len Pennachetti of the moment when he received word he had been appointed to the Order of Canada. The formal announcement came Dec. 20. “The Order of Canada is one of our country’s highest civilian honours. Its Companions, Officers and Members take to heart the motto of the Order: Desiderantes Meliorem Patriam - They desire a better country,” stated the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada’s press release. Pennachetti, who has been a dominant force on the local wine and tourism scene for decades earned his new status as a “member”, according to the release, “For his key role in developing the Ontario wine industry and for fostering tourism in the Niagara Peninsula region.” The news was a com-
Len Pennachetti, well-known for his work in the wine and tourism industries and the force behind Cave Spring Cellars, has been appointed to the Order of Canada. Williscraft - File Photo plete shock to Pennachetti. “I got a call from Rideau Hall. I was driving. I still remember where I was. I was driving through the valley right here in Jordan,” he recalled, noting the woman who called was one of the governor general’s fact checkers.
“I nearly drove off the road. It was quite an interesting conversation because she knew a lot about me.” A short time later, some additional information arrived by mail, with two, snowflake lapel pins part of the package. “I was told I would be allowed to wear
them starting yesterday (Dec. 30 when the appointment was announced). As one might suspect in this current COVID-19 environment, the traditional formal presentation many may be familiar with seeing has been put off. “They are delaying it.
That was made clear in the letter I received with the package,” said Pennachetti. “It’s indefinite. They have not made any decisions.” Pennachetti’s drive to grow the fortunes of the wine and tourism sectors ascend far beyond what was his Jordan-centric op-
erations - Cave Spring Cellars and Inn On The Twenty. In 2017, Inn on the Twenty was sold to Vintage Hotels and its owner Jimmy Lai. About two years ago, he was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Niagara Entrepreneur of See LEN, Page 3
Page 2 • News Now • Thursday, January 7, 2021
Obstetrics services resume next week! Starting January 12, mothers in labour can deliver at WLMH from Tuesday morning to Friday afternoon.
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News Now • Thursday, January 7, 2021 • Page 3
LEN
From Page 1 the Year Award committee. Key at that time, and a major pillar in his Order of Canada nomination, was Pennachetti’s stellar industry record. Among his cherished accomplishments: his prized, internationally recognized vineyard for Cave Spring Cellars; the building of Main Street Jordan into a major tourism entity, and; his tenure on the Vintners Quality Alliance board of directors during the time the VQA designation was developed and eventually proclaimed by the provincial government in 2000. The application process goes far beyond the providing of a career overview. Three nominees have to sign on. Supporting letters from a series of leading industry contacts and formal interviews with those people as well
as others are all part of the research and fact checking which goes into reviewing a nomination. “It’s been over three years since we sold the hospitality side of it. It has worked out well,” said Pennachetti. “We’ve got a great partnership with Vintage Hotels.” Going off topic, Pennachetti discussed the serious situation facing that company’s owner at present. “I never met Jimmy Lai, but it’s just really horrible to think that they just put him in jail today in Hong Kong,” he said last Thursday, Dec. 31. “In my mind, he’s a freedom fighter and he deserves our support and it’s a shame. That speaks a lot about that company. If he was a Canadian citizen, and I don’t think he is, I would be nominating him right now for the Order of Canada. What
Order of Canada appointee Len Pennachetti among his Cave Spring Cellars vineyard. he is doing is extraordinary.” The sale of the hotel was, in part, to allow a full focus and further development of the Cave Spring entity. This meant new and replanted vineyards as well as a new retail operation at their Cave Spring Road site. The difficulties in the
restaurant sector due to COVID-19 have impacted wineries since a major partner of the industry has been largely shut down. “We’ve had to pivot,” said Pennachetti, noting the importance of the LCBO remaining open to at least maintain a connection to the market for those who sell
through that avenue. That is about the only positive thing he has to say about the LCBO and how the government has wine sales structured and that COVID has forced consumers to buy direct from their favourite winery, a silver lining of sorts. “We have far better profit margins in that channel, so that’s a blessing but, as you know, we, as an industry, have been arguing for years that we should have direct access to our own market and the explosion of online web store sales has essentially given us a virtual version of what we always wanted.” “I would change the entire beverage and alcohol system - regulatory and taxation. If you were the minister of finance and you told your deputy minister, ‘Go and design a system which will maximally disadvantage the domestic wine industry,
your deputy minister would come back with the LCBO’.” “We don’t have access to our own customers in our own market, which is just punitive.” The most recent addition in his arsenal of features is the new tasting room at Cave Spring Winery, located at 4043 Cave Spring Road. “I was worried one location would cannibalize the other, but that did not happen,” said Pennachetti. “It’s a totally different experience. We’re so fulfilled to finally have some place to showcase the vineyard because, you know, we’re called Cave Spring for a reason.” “We’ve always been associated with Jordan, but the average person would have no idea we’ve got 200 acres of vines up there.” “It’s a thrill for us to showcase it and welcome the public.”
One Resolution You Can Keep Long-Term! NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING Under the Development Charges Act, 1997 On Monday, February 1, 2021 the Council of the Town of Grimsby (the Town) will hold a public meeting pursuant to Section 12 of the Development Charges Act, 1997, as amended to present and obtain public input on the Town’s proposed Development Charges By-law and underlying Background Study. The meeting will be held:
Monday, February 1, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. Town Hall Council Chambers 160 Livingston Avenue Grimsby, Ontario (electronic participation)
The Development Charges Background Study and the proposed By-law are being made available on the Town’s website at www.grimsby.ca/2020dcstudy on December 21, 2020. Copies of the proposed By-law and Background Study are also available by appointment. To book an appointment, please call the Town Clerk (905-945-9634). All interested parties are invited to attend the Public Meeting virtually on February 1, 2021. Any person wishing to speak to the proposed By-law or Background Study are asked to register online or with the Town Clerk (905-945-9634). Individuals who would like to be a delegation must have registered and submitted a written outline of their proposal to the Town Clerk by 12:00 p.m. (noon) on Friday, January 29, 2021.
The New Year is typically the time of year that we commit to a new diet, exercise, or lifestyle change, with the objective being to improve our longterm health and wellbeing… New Year’s resolutions for habits to stop & start, that come February, fall apart! Could your finances benefit from a New Year’s resolution - a commitment to change how you treat your money? And, can you make it a resolution that you won’t abandon after a few months? With my help, this is one resolution you can keep long-term! In addition to providing mortgage solutions for new home buyers, I also offer complimentary counselling to existing homeowners - providing longterm solutions on how to deal with one’s debt. Sometimes, it’s a simple solution of just restructuring that debt. Restructuring one’s debt can improve cash-flow and fast-track mortgage pay-down. Another benefit of restructuring debt is that it empowers a homeowner to save money; I truly believe that homeowners who have emergency savings are less prone to illness caused by stress. When a homeowner follows my plan, there is ultimately less reliance on credit cards, as there is no longer any cash-flow shortfall. Of course, a shift in behaviour needs to occur as well truly questioning whether a purchase is a true need, or simply a “want”. I will do my best to provide you with a mortgage refinance solution, and improve your financial literacy so that you don’t continue the cycle of credit card reliance. Who knows - This could be an easier resolution to keep than any food & alcohol resolution! Call me today for your complimentary assessment. Think outside the bank for a change. Talk to Us…. You’ll be impressed.
The passage of the By-law is anticipated for the March 1, 2021 Council meeting at 6:30 p.m. The Public Meeting and Council meeting will be live-streamed and will be available for viewing here: vimeo.com/grimsbycouncilchambers Sarah Kim Town Clerk (905) 945-9634 ext. 2015 skim@grimsby.ca
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Page 4 • News Now • Thursday, January 7, 2021
Despite perils, society has chance to reset
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Several times a day, I offer up a plea that the Mighty One in heaven will rescue us from all the dangers
in today’s world – the pandemic, climate change, threats of violence. Then I ask myself “Why should He/She listen to such pleas?” After all, we haven’t been trustworthy or responsible tenants of this planet. We’ve polluted the oceans, lakes and rivers; we’ve damaged the ozone layer, the Arctic and the Antarctic. We’ve rioted, fought wars over religion, and allowed hatred to proliferate. We’ve overbuilt on precious farmland, and encouraged everyone to buy, buy, buy as much material goods as possible. Now when I say “we”, I don’t mean you and me. Individually, we have little power.
A Small Drop of Ink By Dorothy Turcotte I mean We the human race which seems to be going off the rails in spite of plenty of warnings. We all want to get back to our normal lives. The problem is that those normal lives are gone forever, and we have to create new normal lives for ourselves within the framework of the circumstances we face. The future may include traditions and habits that are quite different from what we are used to. There’s no point in whining. Other generations have had to adapt to change
before us. So what about the future? In spite of all the perils, we have a wonderful opportunity to reset our direction by choosing green options when they’re offered, by learning to do with less (remember less is more?), and by paying more attention to our own personal development as quality human beings capable of making things better. After a medical emergency some years ago, a friend sent me a card that said “Keep Calm and Carry On.” That’s a perfect motto for us all to adopt as we step into 2021 and a brand new world.
Wishing you all a Happy New Year from the members of the Christian heritage party of canada.
HAROLD JONKER Niagara West Candidate
1-888-868-3247 1-888-VOTE-chp • chp.ca
Major achievements in tough year: Jordan By Jeff Jordan Mayor, Town of Grimsby For NewsNow It is customary as the New Year approaches that we look back and reflect upon the year that was. While this has been a difficult and challenging year for most, it has also given us an opportunity to slow-down, reflect and strengthen our ties with family and friends. Our challenges have also created a greater community bond, with people coming together to support their fellow residents, social organizations and our local businesses. This care was evident at our “Reverse Santa Claus Parade” which resulted in over three times the amount of food and donations collected in 2019. The GBF was also the recipient of a
very special donation allowing the creation of its Wellness Hub that will support the wellbeing of local residents and our community at large. In spite of the everchanging pandemic, Council has begun to enact its strategic plan and has prioritized initiatives that will most benefit the community. The largest of these community projects is supporting the building of the new West Lincoln Memorial Hospital. The initial design work has been ongoing and the process to find a builder of our new hospital has just entered its first stage. Transit has also been an important area of focus for the Town. The launching of NRT OnDemand in August was an important mile-
stone that helps enable the mobility of all residents to travel around Grimsby or the Region, at their convenience. This service will also create a local link and support for the Grimsby GO Station. Council and Town staff have been actively working with the Region and Metrolinx to expedite this important transit connection. As we look towards 2021 and an eventual return back to our regular day-to-day life, please keep supporting one another and our community. I certainly look forward to once again meeting you and our fellow residents, and together continuing to move Grimsby ahead. In closing, I wish you and your family joy, health and prosperity in the New Year.
WL council ready to revive, post-COVID By Dave Bylsma Mayor, Twp. of West Lincoln For NewsNow To suggest that 2020 was a year of an unprecedented use of the word unprecedented may be the best way to reflect on the year as whole. Many will take stock in numerous ways, but for now I may offer what I believe to be some of the significant milestones and achievements from this year. Probably the biggest guide to what was supposed to be a solid year was the completion of West Lincoln’s strategic plan at the close of 2019. This offered the framework for our next 10 years of focus. One key element of the plan was the reboot and launch of our new township website. This has been a great asset during this COVID-19 event. It also provides updates to the strategic
plan and is a well-timed portal to communicate to our residents. Safely, but surely, the staff have been able to maintain the township’s physical assets. Many repairs and upgrades were completed in 2020. Not the least of which was the brand new bridge over 20 Mile Creek on Reg. Rd. 69 at Campden Road and our own two bridge rehabilitations on Patterson Road and South Chippawa Road - as well as the almost-complete reconstruction of Reg. Rd. 20 right through the heart of Smithville. In keeping with council’s desire to improve infrastructure is the securing of $4.2 million dollars in federal and provincial funds to make improvements to St. Ann’s Road. This represents one of the biggest-ever partnership grants with the other tiers of government and West Lincoln. Full credit
goes to staff for securing these funds. The joint effort with our West Niagara neighbours to propel the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital rebuild forward did not miss a beat. This is a collaborative win for all three municipalities and the Region in conjunction with the Foundation and HHS. To be exactly on track at the end of the year is no accident. Finally, COVID-19 closures and restrictions did hamper many of the social and community aspects of our community. Humans do not do well in lockdowns and especially seniors and those with special needs have endured great hardship. I believe I can speak for Council that we are committed to restoring these functions as safely and quickly as possible so that West Lincoln continues to be a thriving complete community.
News Now • Thursday, January 7, 2021 • Page 5
Get Involved Town of Lincoln Council & Committee meetings are currently held virtually during the pandemic.
View our new Council & Committee meetings calendar! Visit lincoln.ca to view the Council & Committee meeting calendar & upcoming agendas
Speak to Town Council Town of Lincoln Council welcomes your ideas and suggestions about the community. We encourage people to speak at an open virtual meeting of Council or Committee.
Register to delegate: Email clerks@lincoln.ca For more information, visit lincoln.ca/council
@TownOfLincolnON
Dean Allison Member of Parliament for Niagara West Contact Dean’s office for inquiries & assistance with: Federal Programs Legislation and Regulations Immigration and Citizenship Veteran’s Affairs Income Security Programs CPP, OAS, GIC Canada Revenue Agency Commemorative Certificates Constituency Office 4994 King Street, Box 880 Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 905.563.7900
Toll Free 1.877.563.7900 info@deanallison.ca | www.deanallison.ca
HAT TRICK HOCKEY IS BACK!!
Page 6 • News Now • Thursday, January 7, 2021
5 To Enter - FINAL Entry Deadline 4 pm, Monday, Jan. 25, 2019
$
Yes, we have a mail slot in our front door!!! 1 Mountain Street, Grimsby, across from Basics
Grand Prize Sponsored By:
HOW TO PLAY: 1. Choose ONE player from EACH letter group below for a total of twenty players. Each player gains one point per goal or assist received. At the end of the regular season, the grand prize will be awarded to the entrant with the most points on his or her team. 2. Use last year’s statistics as a guide to make your best GM judgment. The contests runs through the 2021 regular season with prizes awarded as shown. You could win just by entering the contest! Watch NewsNow & your local sponsors for regular standings & prizes.
MAIL** OR SUBMIT THE ENTRY FORM BELOW. **Entries must be received at 1 Mountain St. by the contest registration deadline.
905.945.4161 www.grimsbyford.com
Weekly Random Prizes • $10 gift certificate courtesy of Teddy’s Food, Fun & Spirits • $10 Gift Card courtesy of Tim Hortons Grimsby • $10 gift certificate courtesy of Cole’s Florist • Large, 3-Item Pizza, Pick-Up Only, courtesy of Gino’s Pizza, Grimsby • $10 Gift Card courtesy of Canadian Tire Grimsby
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2021 PLAYERS r A1. Leon Draisaitl r A2. Connor McDavid r A3. Artemi Panarin r A4. Nathan MacKinnon r A5. Mika Zibanejad r B1. Brad Marchand r B2. Nikita Kucherov r B3. Patrick Kane r B4. Auston Matthews r B5. Evgeni Malkin r C1. David Pastrnak r C2. Mitchell Marner r C3. Brayden Point r C4. Sidney Crosby r C5. Mikko Rantanen r D1. John Carlson r D2. J.T. Miller r D3. Steven Stamkos r D4. Sebastian Aho r D5. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins r E1. Jack Eichel r E2. Elias Pettersson r E3. Mark Stone r E4. Bryan Rust r E5. Jake Guentzel r F1. Jonathan Huberdeau r F2. Max Pacioretty r F3. Matthew Tkachuk r F4. Ryan O’Reilly r F5. John Tavares r G1. Kyle Connor r G2. Mark Scheifele r G3. Alex Ovechkin r G4. Johnny Gaudreau r G5. Cale Makar
TEAM EDM EDM NYR COL NYR BOS TB CHI TOR PIT BOS TOR TB PIT COL WAS VAN TB CAR EDM BUF VAN LV PIT PIT FLA LV CGY STL TOR WPG WPG WAS CGY COL
The winner of the 2021 Hat Trick Hockey Contest will receive a cash payment of $1,000, courtesy of Grand Prize sponsor Grimsby Ford.
Early Bird Prize sponsored by
DR. Ches MacNeil ORTHODONTIST $200 GIFT Certificate for Judge & Jester Pub, Grimsby
Entry Deadline Saturday, Jan. 16 4 p.m.
© NHLPA. Officially Licensed Product of the NHLPA. NHLPA, National Hockey League Players’ Association and the NHLPA logo are trademarks of the NHLPA
2nd Prize $250 Giant Tiger gift certificate
3rd Prize
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This feature sponsored by these community businesses Goals Assists Total 2021 PLAYERS TEAM Goals Assists Total Name: ___________________________ 43 67 110 r H1. Andrei Svechnikov CAR 24 37 61 City: __________ Ph: _______________ 34 63 97 r H2. Jonathan Toews CHI 18 42 60 Address: _________________________ 32 63 95 r H3. David Perron STL 25 35 60 E-mail: ___________________________ 35 58 93 r H4. William Nylander TOR 31 28 59 41 28 33 33 47 25 48 16 25 16 19 15 27 29 38 22 36 27 21 27 20 23 32 23 12 26 38 29 48 18 12
34 59 52 51 33 49 47 51 39 31 22 60 45 37 28 39 42 39 42 29 23 55 34 38 49 34 35 44 19 40 38
75 87 85 84 80 74 95 67 64 47 41 75 72 66 66 61 78 66 63 56 43 78 66 61 61 60 73 73 67 58 50
r H5. Patrice Bergeron r I1. Teuvo Teravainen r I2. Mathew Barzal r I3. Ryan Strome r I4. Andre Burakovsky r I5. Gabriel Landeskog r J1. Patrik Laine r J2. Sean Couturier r J3. Victor Hedman r J4. Elias Lindholm r J5. Kevin Fiala r K1. Roman Josi r K2. Blake Wheeler r K3. Anze Kopitar r K4. Travis Konecny r K5. Brayden Schenn r L1. Aleksander Barkov r L2. Jaden Schwartz r L3. Reilly Smith r L4. Brock Nelson r L5. Dougie Hamilton r M1. Nicklas Backstrom r M2. Quinn Hughes r M3. Alex Pietrangelo r M4. Sean Monahan r M5. Nazem Kadri r N1. Jakub Voracek r N2. Tony DeAngelo r N3. Bo Horvat r N4. Shea Theodore r N5. Kailer Yamamoto
CONTEST RULES: Please read. 1. Points are awarded for each goal and assist gained in the NHL by the selected players. 2. Limit of 1 entry per person, maximum of three entries per household. 3. All entries must be completed fully on original newsprint forms. (NO PHOTOCOPIES, unless initialled). 4. The contest runs over the regular 2021 regular season, playoffs are not included. 5. All ties will be broken using the following formula: i) most goals ii) random draw 6. Prizes must be claimed in person at the newspaper office, and are not redeemable for cash. All winners agree to use of his/her name, address, and photograph for publicity purposes.
BOS CAR NYI NYR COL COL WPG PHI TB CGY MIN NSH WPG LA PHI STL FLA STL LV NYI CAR WAS VAN LV CGY COL PHI NYR VAN LV EDM
31 15 19 18 20 21 28 22 11 29 23 16 22 21 24 25 20 22 27 26 14 12 8 16 22 19 12 15 22 13 5
25 48 41 41 25 23 35 37 44 25 31 49 43 41 37 33 42 35 27 28 26 42 45 36 26 17 44 38 31 33 26
56 63 60 59 45 44 63 59 55 54 54 65 65 62 61 58 62 57 54 54 40 54 53 52 48 36 56 53 53 46 31
2021 PLAYERS r O1. Evgeny Kuznetsov r O2. Brock Boeser r O3. Kyle Palmieri r O4. Chris Kreider r O5. David Krejci r P1. Tomas Tatar r P2. Nikolaj Ehlers r P3. Taylor Hall r P4. William Karlsson r P5. Nikita Gusev r Q1. Claude Giroux r Q2. Torey Krug r Q3. Pierre-Luc Dubois r Q4. Dominik Kubalik r Q5. Zach Hyman r R1. Jonathan Marchessault r R2. Mikael Backlund r R3. Jason Zucker r R4. Anthony Mantha r R5. Brandon Saad r S1. Filip Forsberg r S2. Ryan Suter r S3. Pavel Buchnevich r S4. Jordan Eberle r S5. Oliver Bjorkstrand r T1. Evander Kane r T2. Zach Parise r T3. Victor Olofsson r T4. Tyler Ennis r T5. Nico Hischier
TEAM WAS VAN NJ NYR BOS MON WPG BUF LV NJ PHI STL CLB CHI TOR LV CGY PIT DET COL NSH MIN NYR NYI CLB SJ MIN BUF EDM NJ
Goals Assists Total 19 33 52 16 29 45 25 20 45 24 21 45 13 30 43 22 39 61 25 33 58 16 36 52 15 31 46 13 31 44 21 32 53 9 40 49 18 31 49 30 16 46 21 16 37 22 25 47 16 29 45 20 21 41 16 22 38 21 12 33 21 27 48 8 40 48 16 30 46 16 24 40 21 15 36 26 21 47 25 21 46 20 22 42 16 21 37 14 22 36
7. A maximum of two monthly prizes may be claimed by the same entrant. Subsequent monthly prizes will be given to the next highest point recipient. 8. The decisions of NewsNow are final in all matters. 9. Mail* your entry form to: NewsNow, 1 Mountain Street, Grimsby Ont. L3M 1R3. Entries must be received at 1 Mountain Street, Grimsby by the registration deadline. PLEASE DO NOT MAIL CASH. 10. By entering the contest, entrants acknowledge having read the rules, and agree to be bound by them.
Sassafras converts space to grocery/food retail Scott Brownlee is proof positive that necessity is the mother of invention. COVID-19 impacts bringing on the lockdown and ban of inrestaurant dining has necessitated some sort of invention to enable Brownlee’s brand new business to survive somehow. Sassafras Coastal Kitchen & Bar was scheduled to open in March of 2020 - timed, unfortunately, with the first COVID wave. A delayed opening and quick reset to adjust the offering and add a major outdoor patio in the rear parking area helped limit that initial impact. Then, just as the market was returning, added restrictions and the eventual lockdown put the fledgling operation in serious jeopardy. “We had to make a change and the way to do that was to get into some grocery products,” said Brownlee, who has 30-plus years or restaurant experience, 20-plus as an owner. “It will be more of a
News Now • Thursday, January 7, 2021 • Page 7
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Within a year of opening, Sassafras Coastal Kitchen’s owner Scott Brownlee is going his eatery a gourmet market makeover. Williscraft - Photo bodega-style store with signature Sassafras menu items and other prepared food as well as fresh produce and other items,” said Brownlee, noting the restaurant will still be offering its take-out menu. “We had to do something else to create enough revenue to survive.” To accommodate the change, Brownlee has redone half of his restaurant seating space
with hot and cold display cases as well as a beverage cooler. “We’ll have prepared items people can drop in and pick up, new items daily,” said Brownlee. With these new offerings, Brownlee is looking to source as much product locally as possible. “It will be a gourmetlevel market,” said Brownlee. “Whether it is meat or vegetables, I want all
of it to be local. That is key.” Among the items to be offered, Brownlee noted: • fresh meat • seafood, with regular lobster coming in • vegetables • prepared salads • hot & prepared meals • fresh-made breads • A variety of cheeses Brownlee said the market will be fully read and operational in midJanuary.
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Page 8 • News Now • Thursday, January 7, 2021
presents
2021 1879 GRIMSBY FIRE DEPARTMENT 261 Ontario Street Grimsby
THEN & NOW
The Following wish to express thanks for your continued business, friendship and loyality.
1940 DURWARD JONES bARkWEll & cO. llP
1958 BEAMSVILLE BAKERY Specializing in European Baking
Proprietors: Klaas & Benjamin Salverda
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1891
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Vineland
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West LincoLn chamber of commerce
WILLS
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1921 MERRITT FUNERAL HOME 267 Station Street, Smithville
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Serving the Community For Over 90 Years
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1949
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1949
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STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME
1964
CARRUTHERS PRINTING
TEDDY’S
JERRY’S AUTO BODY
11 Mountain Street Grimsby
131 College Street, Smithville
Gwen, Todd
905-945-2755
938 Silver St., Caistor Centre
Design, Print, Finish
905-957-3751
info@carruthersprinting.com
FUN, FOOD AND SPIRITS 30 Main Street West, Grimsby
905-945-5013
www.teddysportsbar.com
Beamsville 905-563-7374 St. Catharines 905-646-0199 www.dykstrabros.com
COLLISION CENTRE Complete Collision & Restoration Repairs 905-563-7702 www.jerrysautobody.ca
News Now • Thursday, January 7, 2021 • Page 9
presents
2021
THEN & NOW
The Following wish to express thanks for your continued business, friendship and loyality.
1969
1978
LINCOLN DESIGN HOUSE
bert vis
4548 Ontario St., Beamsville 905-563-0070 info@lincolndesignhouse.ca
1970 Charlie Bee-Honey
3591 Mountain Road Beamsville 905-563-7285
flooring and cabinets
1981
West LincoLn MeMoriaL HospitaL Foundation
1985 LincoLn chamber of commerce
905-957-7779 www.bertvis.com
167 Main street e., Grimsby 905-945-WLMH (9564) www.wlmhfoundation.ca
4961 King St. Unit T2 beamsville 905-563-5044 info@lincolnchamber.ca
1978
1982
1985
Dr J. SCOTT PEAKER
GRIMSBY ELECTRIC LTD.
214 St. Catharines St., Smithville
Optometrist & Optical Store
14 Elm Street Grimsby
Sean Verbeek
NIAGARA ACADEMY FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Quality Dance Training for 30 Years Sandra Hodgins, Director
80 Main Street, Grimsby
905-945-0349
905-945-4321
905-971-4959
1971
1978
1983
1987
DURHAM AUTOMOTIVE
Grimsby Seniors
DR. CHES MacNEIL Orthodontist
Beamsville Denture CliniC
5665 King St. Beamsville
905-945-3545
www.durhamautomotive.ca
18 Livingston Ave., Grimsby 905-309-2075
1973
1978
HOUSE OF HAIR DESIGN
HUBBARD AIR
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
www.niagaraacademy.org
63 Main St. West, Grimsby Village Inn Plaza
905-945-4975
Dr. Joseph Formicuccia D.D. 4440 Ontario street, Beamsville 905-563-5134
1983
1987
EMPLOYMENT HELP CENTRE
GRIMSBY AUXILIARY MARINE RESCUE UNIT
www.houseofhairdesign.info
www.hubbard.com
Grimsby 905-309-9675 Beamsville 905-563-9675 Smithville 905-957-9675 www.employmenthelp.org
1975
1978
1983
1987
HARMONY JEWELLERS
mountaineer movers
ERICWAY TIRE
SMITHVILLE HOME HARDWARE
3924 Victoria Ave., Vineland
905-562-7206
37 Main St. West, Grimsby
17 John Street, Grimsby
905-945-3722
905-561-8880 1-800-263-4561
905-945-4411
www.harmonyjewellers.ca
www.mountaineer.on.ca mountaineermovers@gmail.com
1977
1980
MARLENE SMITH’S DECORATING & GIFTS
SMITHVILLE CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL
19 Main St. West Grimsby
Belong. Believe. Succeed.
5249 Reg. Rd. 81, Beamsville 905-563-4787
1988
TINTERN AUTO
Serving the Community for over 30 Years!
BEAMSVILLE HOME HARDWARE
905-563-7961
905-563-8254
Marlenesmithdecorating.com
905-957-3255 • www.smithvillechristian.ca
1977
1981
1984
40 Hunter Road, Grimsby 905-945-5351
www.originalgreenscapes.com originalgreenscapes@sympatico.ca
konkle plumbing & heating HHHHH 905-563-4847
Smithville, Village Square Mall 905-957-2544 smithvillehomehardware.ca
1983 3984 Spring Creek Rd. Vineland (Tintern)
ORIGINAL GREENSCAPES
www.gamru.ca
2646 Industrial Park Rd.
6488 Smithville Townline Rd.
905-945-2675
Accepting registrations for Sept. 2021
905-945-3087
MOUNTAIN GROOMING
Dog & Cat Grooming Olga Thompson 52 Elm Tree Road West, Grimsby
905-945-8871
4992 King Street Beamsville
1988 JUDY SWEETING Sales Representative
RE/Max GaRDEN CITY REalTY INC. bRokERaGE
64 Main St. W., Grimsby 905-945-0660
Page 10 • News Now • Thursday, January 7, 2021
presents
2021
THEN & NOW
The Following wish to express thanks for your continued business, friendship and loyality.
1989
1992
ABLE BODY RENO
GRIMSBY CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP LTD.
Complete Interior & Exterior Renos Rocky 905-570-5776
421 South Service Rd. Grimsby
1996 AQUAJET SERVICES
2000 Grimsby Power inc. 231 roberts road Grimsby 905-945-5437
rockyrenovator@hotmail.com ablebodyrenos.com
905-945-9606 www.grimsbychrysler.com
Grimsby, Ontario 905-945-0128
www.grimsbypower.com
1989
1992
1997
2005
LAMPMAN SALVAGE & TOWING
MOBILE MARINE SERVICES
DR. DAN DIMTSIS DR. KIM WOODS
Naturally Gas ltD. ProviDiNG Quality HeatiNG & air services (905) 945-8493 www.naturallygasltd.com
8252 Concession 3 Road Caistor Centre
905-957-2193
261 Hunter Rd., Grimsby 905-945-4994
FAMILY DENTISTRY
Cell: After Hours & Emergencies 905-730-4722
146 Main St. E., Grimsby
www.mobilemarineservices.net
905-945-2323
1989
1992
1998
2005
ZOI OUZAS
MAYNARD’S AUTOMOTIVE 241 South Service Rd.
GUARDIAN INTERNATIONAL PROTECTIVE SERVICES INC.
FIELDING ESTATE WINERY
Sales Representative
RE/MAX GARDEN CITY REALTY 905-945-0660 • 905-563-8527 zoi@zoiouzas.com www.zoiouzas.com
(Just west of Christie) Grimsby 905.945.1700
1990
1992
1998
FIVE STAR COLLISION & RESTORATION
WINDMILL APPLIANCE SERVICE Bob Needham
margo wynhofen verico one mortgage group
905-945-0071
windmillappliance@hotmail.com
1990
155 Mountain Street Grimsby
GINO’S PIZZA
24 Main Street East Grimsby
Major Appliance Repair & Installation
905-945-9688
4460 Ontario Street Beamsville Office: 905-563-5080
4020 Locust Lane Beamsville 905-563-0668
2006
sharon rizzuto CFP®, FDs, B.Comm Financial advisor
2013 iPC seCurities CorP
7 Livingston ave., grimsby 905-309-8850
18 ontario street, Grimsby 905-309-6777
1993
2000
2008
TIM HORTONS
DESJARDINS INSURANCE
AUGUST RESTAURANT
Grimsby
Craig Budd, Agent
49 Main St. W., Grimsby
5208 King Street Beamsville, ON
Serve You!
905-309-4440 www.craigbudd.ca
www.augustrestaurant.ca
1990
1994
2000
2008
GRIMSBY MUFFLERS & BRAKES
ACTION PRINT
GIANT TIGER
CLASS EH! ROOFING
905-945-4434
4 Locations to
905-563-0200
299 Mountain Rd., Grimsby
36 Main Street West Grimsby
905-945-3632
4987 King Street East Beamsville, Ontario 905-563-8231 www.actionprint.ca
905-309-4511
www.classehroofing.ca
1991
1994
2009
Real Estate Corp., Brokerage David Jarvis, Broker of Record
SHEAR IMAGE SALON BEAUTIQUE
2000
Complete Automotive Repairs
GLEN ELGIN
Grimsby Place 76 Main St. W., Grimsby
905-945-7730 • glenelgin.com
Orchardview Plaza 155 Main Street West, Grimsby
905-945-5541
www.shearimagesalon.ca
Glenn’s Painting Services
905-309-3782 www.glennspaintingservices.com
289-687-6924
CASA TOSCANA
FiNe FOOdS ANd CuCiNA 22 Main St. W., Grimsby 289-235-8888 www.casatoscana.ca
News Now • Thursday, January 7, 2021 • Page 11
presents
2021THEN & NOW
The Following wish to express thanks for your continued business, friendship and loyality.
2011
2016
NIAGARA DANCE FITNESS STUDIO
NONI’S PIZZERIA
4961 King St. E. Beamsville Towne Centre
905-327-1439
4 Livingston Ave., Grimsby
www.niagaradanceandfitnessstudio.com
905-309-3553
2012
2017
NEWS NOW
K9 KOUTURE
49 Main St., West, Grimsby
289-235-9500 Sales@wn3.ca www.newsnowniagara.ca
Your K9 Spa
45 Main Street West, Grimsby
905-309-0047
K9KoutureGrooming@cogeco.ca
2012
2017
robins electric
smithville pharmacy
cUstoM resiDentiAl lAYoUts coMMerciAl/resiDentiAl/ AGricUltUre 24-Hour Emergency Service
905-957-9425
www.robinselectric.ca
2012 WEST LINCOLN PHARMASAVE 239 St. Catharines Street Smithville
128 st. catharines st. Unit 102 905-957-9000
2018
Oak Hill OrtHOdOntics
70 livingston ave., Unit 2 Grimsby
905-957-5700
905-945-1997 www.oakhillortho.ca
2014
2018
TOUS JOURS
SMOKE & MOONSHINE
32 Main St. W. Grimsby 905-309-8888
2015 You Had Me at Pizza
24 olive Street, Grimsby, oN 289-235-7757 youhadmeatpizza.com
2016 40 PUBLIC HOUSE 10 Main Street West Grimsby 905-309-4040
Authentic Barbeque
5205 King Street, Beamsville
289-237-8153
www.smokeandmoonshine.com
2019 Brick Shack
50 Main Street West Grimsby 905-309-0037
2019 Mablelies Drawer 6 Ontario Street, Unit 3 Grimsby
905-309-7777
Mayor Easton gives year-end thoughts By Sandra Easton For NewsNow As we close out 2020, I reflect on the challenges, hopes, and accomplishments we have made as a community. Like the rest of the world, the global pandemic has caused many hardships for the residents of Lincoln. Some members of our community have lost loved ones to this horrible disease, and many of our small businesses are hurting because of public health measures being enforced to curb the spread of COVID-19; my heart goes out to everyone affected. But I am encouraged by the way our residents have responded to the challenges of the pandemic. Our frontline essential workers have gone above and beyond in caring for our most vulnerable, from grocery store workers to our
medical community, we have risen to the occasion of hardship and I am proud of each of you. We are nearing the end of this ordeal; a safe and effective vaccine has been developed that will end this pandemic and staff are working closely with Niagara Public Health to ensure our community has access to it. In the meantime, staff have been working closely with members of our community and our small businesses to provide guidance and support. By launching ShopLincoln.ca we have given our community an avenue to engage with our local businesses, we have seen great success with the website, and we will continue promoting a shop local message to help our small business. In 2021 Council will continue advancing
our priorities for the remainder of the term, as our goal is to create a Lincoln that is welcoming, connected, vibrant and resilient; all key elements that will create a community that is a place to grow, a place to prosper, and a place to belong. These are not just idle philosophies; these are aspirations that each member of council believes will make our community a better place. Thank you for everything you have done in 2020 and will do in 2021 to make our community a better place. As we finalize our 2021 budget, we will continue to keep affordability in mind, while also continuing to invest in the high-quality programs and services that our community has come to expect. Stay safe and have a happy and prosperous New Year.
Grimsby mirrors DSBN issues: reader Dear Editor, I have lived in Grimsby since 1986. Thank you for addressing the issue at hand, one that has taken place over the years - community growth and school confusion. In this case, it’s the high school. Many years ago it was boundary changes. I was a parent involved with that debacle. I am relieved to see you point out how unfortunate we have been in listening to the proposed changes to the high school plans. There was no reason to sell Grimsby high school, except that someone made a lot of money off the sale of that land, considering the land prices in the
LETTER last few years. I agree with your point and many people in the Beamsville/Grimsby area also agree. The older schools should have been updated, renovated and a smart plan could have been made to keep students in schools while renovations went on. All this would have saved a lot of money for the taxpayer. It appears someone is asleep at the wheel, much like the Town of Grimsby. Uncontrolled development, no regard for what the town was or has been. I have said this for years, Grimsby looks
like all the areas along the QEW going into the GTA - Mississauga brown. Shame on our town councils. Shame on the bungling board of education for this mess. People in this area need to voice their opinions. Mike you are also right on the Heritage Conservation Study. Through the last 30 years I have watched Grimsby/Beamsville sold to the highest bidder, with little or no regard to our heritage and the lovely buildings left. I think the Town of Grimsby should be renamed ‘Grimssauga’. Faye Billing Beamsville (Formerly of Grimsby)
Page 16 • News Now • Thursday, December 31, 2020
Please call to place your Classified Ad
289-235-9500 obituarY
TREE CARE
HOWELL, Elizabeth Johnston “Betty”nee Higgins
Fully Insured
Passed away peacefully at McNally House Hospice on Thursday, December 31, 2020 in her 89th year. Betty was the eldest daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Higgins. Betty was born on October 1, 1932 in Edinburgh, Scotland. She spent her youth in the Town of Musselburgh, Scotland. She is predeceased by her husband George Howell (February 27, 2010) and son Glenn Howell (June 28, 2013). Grandmother of Mason Howell. Survived by her sister Margaret White, nephew Alan and his wife Margaret, their children Lucy (Charlie) and Kevin and grandniece Holly, all of Scotland. Betty will be missed by Allan and Sharleen Colbey as well her friends and neighbours on Morrison Crescent. Special thank you to Dr. Ysselstein and the nurses and volunteers at McNally House for their compassionate care. As per her wishes, cremation has taken place. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Betty are asked to please consider McNally House Hospice. Memories of Betty may be shared through the funeral home website or sent to 11 Mountain Street, Grimsby L3M 3J7 care of Margaret White. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755. www.smithsfh.com
CLOCK REPAIRS
Clock Repairs
All makes and models, guaranteed workmanship, pick-up and delivery, specializing in Grandfather clocks.
905-935-1962
harrissonclockrepairs.com
Got a story to tell? Call News Now
289-2359500
PAINTING SERVICE
Glenn’s Painting Services Established in 2000
Interior Painting 2020
IN THE
BEST WEST DIAMOND AWARD
Call Anne
905-945-3782
www.glennspaintingservices.com
YOUNG MCNAMARA Barristers • Solictors • Notaries J. Christopher Young
Specializing in Family Law, Real Estate, Corporate and Wills & Estates
Main Office
WANTED TO RENT
GRIMSBY or BEAMSVILLE
Small living area. Retired senior, male, neat and clean. Prefer in private residence. 905-516-2437 References available.
@fadeawaygrimsby
18 Albert St. E., Thorold, ON L2V 1P1 T: 905-227-3777 • F: 905-227-5988 E: youngmcnamara@hotmail.com Grimsby T: 289-205-1265 • F: 905-227-5988
Business Directory Our Business Directory is an economical way to promote your business or service call
289-235-9500
12 Ontario Street, Grimsby, Ontario • 905-401-8478 Unit #4 (2nd floor) Specializing in urban styles, catering to all hair textures! Book your appointment on Instagram or online today: https://fadeawaygrimby.setmore.com
HANDYMAN SERVICES
VEHICLES WANTED
RUBBISH AND JUNK REMOVAL. Call Ken 905-973-3235
CARS, trucks, old farm machinery for scrap or repair. We pay cash. Flatbed service. 905-386-6181 or 289686-5059.
SUPPORT GROUP “Celebrate Recovery (CR)”, the Christian recovery program for all of life’s Hurts, Habits and Hang-ups takes place Weds. at 7 pm at Forestview Community Church, 132 Lake St, Grimsby, On. All are welcome. Covid-19 social safety measures are in place & enforced. For further info., call 905-945-9529 (Tracy) Join us!
Wanted - Scrap
Leave It 2 Me Roofing & Painting
PHIL NIEMI
OWNER/CRAFTSMAN
Call for a Quote! (289) 668-2728 leave.it@inbox.com
Barrister & Solicitor
SZPIECH, ELLIS, SKIBINSKI, SHIPTON
Wills, Family, Real Estate 107 Griffin Street South, Smithville, Ontario L0R 2A0
905-957-7898
414 Main St. East, Hamilton
905-524-2454 sheeley@sesslaw.ca
perfect painting plus Residential Interior & Exterior Painting Drywall I Drywall Repair Taping I Trim I Doors Carpentry I Flooring Electrical I Plumbing Handyman Services
tOM sulliVan
289-442-7388 tomsullivan123@bell.net
Frank Veldman
(owner)
286 Main Street W., Grimsby On L3M 1S4 Cell: 905.325.1266
Bathrooms Basements • Sheds Decks • Trim Work • Drywall
Cars and Trucks Cash paid Same day pick up Lampman Salvage
Stan Macievich
905-957-2193
High Quality Craftsmanship expert residential painting
Used Auto Parts For Sale
SEAN D. HEELEY
Blue Ribbon Painting
In business locally for over 25 years
905-945-1543
MERRITT
FUNERAL HOME 287 STATION ST., SMITHVILLE
“Serving Families For 4 Generations Since 1921” Director: Thomas C. Merritt CANADIAN - INDEPENDENT GROUP OF FUNERAL HOMES
905-957-7031
www.merritt-fh.com
News Now • Thursday, January 7, 2021 • Page 13
4th Annual
Volunteer Pay Subscription Drive
“What a newspaper needs in its news, in its headlines, and on its editorial page is terseness, humor, descriptive power, satire, originality, good literary style, clever condensation, and accuracy, accuracy, accuracy! Joseph Pulitzer Dear Reader,
I think NewsNow delivers on the above quote from the fellow for whom the Pulitzer Prize is named. Without NewsNow, Niagara West readers have no understanding of the impact of Grimsby’s biodigester project or council shenanigans. There would be very little knowledge of the lengthy and serious issues which have plagued West Lincoln Memorial Hospital in recent years - although the corner seems to be turned of late. More recently, nobody would be aware of the $12 million in cost overruns for a super school which has not even seen its construction start. And this is nothing to say of the countless items of community support out team rolls out every week. These next few months will be make or break. If you can, and choose to do so, please consider supporting NewsNow.
Based on the excellent feedback from previous years’ volunteer pay subscription drive, we are launching Year 4! Is NewsNow’s independent, accurate voice in the community of value to you? Would you like to support NewsNow in its efforts? This is your opportunity.
If yes, we have set up an infrastructure to allow for a Volunteer Pay System
Simply, this means, rain (or snow) or shine, you will always – each and every week – receive your copy of NewsNow. That will NOT change!!!!
Subscriptions: 3 Months - $15 suggested • One Year - $40 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 or Rose 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 Happy New Year to all,
1 Mountain Street, L3M 3J6, Grimsby • 289-235-9500
Mike Williscraft Publisher
Page 14 • News Now • Thursday, January 7, 2020
100% Niagara owned & operated Our Team: Publisher - Mike Williscraft mike@wn3.ca 289-442-4244 General Manager - Catherine Bratton Reporter - Tristan Marks 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.
Making 2020 extinct
Rina B. Velcourt went Jurassic on Morrison Crescent in Grimsby to celebrate the end of 2020, symbolically consigning it to the landfill. Her goal was to redeem the year of pandemics, lockdowns and other disasters with some much-needed humour. “I just wanted to cheer up the neighbourhood, give everyone something to smile about,” she said. Marks - Photo
Book of Len completes another chapter It was just under two years ago this publication ran a feature entitled, “More chapters ahead in the Book of Len” when a presitigous Niagara award was bestowed. The Len in question, of course, is Mr. Pennachetti, who is featured on this edition’s front page for his appointment to the Order of Canada. Interviewing Mr. Pennachetti always leads to uncharted territory - this time covering industry history, world-scale politics, local geography. He is a learned man. When he was asked if he should be called “sir” now, “Let me put it this way, today was garbage day and (his wife) Helen said it is still my day to take out the garbage. So does that answer your question,” he said laughingly. His accomplishments are many and his focus is now on Cave Spring Cellars. The next chapter in The Book of Len is highly anticipated. M.W.
Mixed bag to kick off 2021 Hat Trick Hockey will do its bit to maintain some level of normalcy in a ridiculous time. The venerable contest returns for a 26th season in Niagara West with this week’s edition thanks to very understanding sponsors who jumped on board at a moment’s notice. Normally, it takes 2-3 weeks to get all in order, but with the NHL just getting its schedule in place before Christmas, it was last Wednesday before I had a chance to do anything. All was set up and nailed down by Saturday with details sent off to the NHL players association for approvals...record time! Some changes: • The top prize is a $1,000 cash prize sponsored by Bob Clark, owner of Grimsby Ford. Bob has always been there to answer the call when I needed help and this year was no different. With no travel possible, the usual hockey game trip is not possible and who could not use $1,000 in their pocket these days? • There are fewer weekly prize sponsors. This was sheerly due to time constraints. With a shortened season, we needed to get the contest up and running, so I just sought enough sponsors to make it float. That took about three hours with Tim Hortons Grimsby, Canadian Tire, Teddy’s Food, Fun & Spirits and Gino’s PIzza Grimsby all jumping on board almost immediately after being asked. Shout out to Teddy’s, which has been a sponsor every single year since I first started Hat Trick at the old Grimsby Independent in 1995...thanks Teddy and Sandy! Please note, the FINAL deadline for entry is 4 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 25. All entries must be in our News-
MIKE WILLISCRAFT Now office at 1 Mountain St. Grimsby or arrive shortly thereafter with a postmark from that date or prior. Please note: we have a mail slot in our door, so if you have any safety concerns you can simply drop your entry through there any time of day or night (please make sure your $5 entry fee is enclosed). If you come by during business hours, you are welcome to come in and submit it, but putting it in the mail slot while staff are in the office is just as good. Some families require more than one registration form, so I remind all we drop copies at about 50 locations in Niagara West - depending on if they are open right now but we do have extra copies at the office so you can stop in and pick up copies there too. We will print the entry form over three editions, so you could wait for those to come. That said, if you want a crack at our Early Bird prize, sponsored by Grimsby’s Dr. Ches McNeil, of a $200 gift certificate to The Judge & Jester Pub, you need to get your form to us by Saturday, Jan. 16 at 4 p.m. Good luck to all and let’s have a little fun!! ******* Lots of letters, comments and feedback on last week’s major story about District
School Board of Niagara’s situation regarding the cost overrun on the new super high school to be built on Hwy. 8. Of note, I think, it is the Letter to The Editor from Brian Jaworsky, who notes several major complications which seem likely significantly higher costs will materialize for several reasons on the site. Before you get to the building part, anyone who has driven by will see there is still a massive hole there. Just filling it to grade would all be added to what has already weighed in as a $12 million overrun on site remediation. Someone smarter than I and in the gravel business would be able to estimate the cost of a dump truck load, plus the number of trucks it would take to fill that hole. Then the very good point made by Mr. Jaworsky...what of heightened cost due to building on a lot which was purely guessing here - 250300-feet deep when fully excavated? If the more-than-triple cost of remediation was not anticipated, how can any taxpayer assume major additional costs to shore up the new building’s foundation on a floating pool of fill would have been built into that $42.5 million construction cost estimate? As well, none of this anticipates any issues with the underground streams which are known to flow under the site. I said it during the ARC. I said it a year ago. DSBN would still be better to cut its losses, admit its error, sell off that site, renovate Grimsby Secondary and Beamsville District and likely save $10 million, plus generate revenue from the sale of the Hwy. 8 wading pool.
News Now • Thursday, January 7, 2021 • Page 15
Quality representation starts at the ballot box, resident
Town Council. Coun. Sharpe’s shared responsibilities are to his ward and the people of Grimsby, not a collection of autocrats. This Coun. Sharpe is not whom we in Ward 4 put our hopes and faith in on election day. For that, he needs to apologize and use the time well until the Fall of 2022 to regain trust. Respectfully submitted, W.G. McClure Ward 4 resident Grimsby
Super school cost overrun just starting: reader Dear Editor, It is interesting to see the numbers coming in for the soil remediation works for the new DSBN high school. In Gleanings From Grimsby, by Dorothy Turcotte, she states in the Grimsby Brick and Tile Company chapter, that when it closed in 1978, “The Ministry of the Environment approved the dumping of 500,00 tons of inert waste oxides to fill in the quarry.” DSBN knew full well what the conditions were on this land, before
they decided to purchase it, therefore there were No hidden conditions at this contaminated brown field site. The current $17 million is only the beginning of cost overruns. The site is now only 40 per cent backfilled, with 3/4 crusher run, and will need at least an equal amount to backfill, once the foundations are in. And because the building will not be on native soils, the foundation costs will also more than double. So far, over 1,000
heavy trailer loads of quarried material have passed through Beamsville’s downtown, so expect at least, a couple thousand more. Contrary to what Lincoln’s CEO claims about the schedule, originally, this high school was supposed be occupied by now. If DSBN had chosen, say, the just sold acreage to the south east of the traffic circle, the school could have been completed by now. Brian Jaworsky Beamsville
NATURALLY GAS LTD. NATURALLY GAS LTD.
2020
IN THE
BEST WEST DIAMOND AWARD
905-945-8493
TSSA Member
• Gas Furnaces • BBQ’s • Installation • Dryers
• Central Air • Pool Heaters • Ranges • Sales • Service
COVID not a time for humour Dear Editor, I am writing this with a sense of disappointment, but not surprise, regarding the letter (Grimsby councillor clarifies comment), penned by Coun. Dave Sharpe which appeared in the Dec. 31st edition of NewsNow. In his letter, Coun. Sharpe argues that his social media message about the likelihood of the Province moving to “Red Control Stage” was intended to warn the public to get their Christmas Shopping done ahead of the impending changes in restrictions. Coun. Sharpe argues that the addition of the comment, “make sure you have enough toilet paper to last you through the Holidays because Niagara could be heading into” the
restricted stage (his words) was, merely, an intended bit of humour. Perhaps he saw it as humorous, but given the seriousness of the health situation we all face in Niagara, as well as the most of the rest of the Province, I suggest that this is not the time for humour as relating to the current COVID-19 infection and death rates. In fact, attempting to draw the minds back to the onset of the pandemic last March, and the panic buying of toilet paper to the point where none could be found anywhere is hardly the kind of comment needed as the situation becomes increasingly dire in the health care system. That Coun. Sharpe
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felt it appropriate to be humorous in the face of such a serious health threat is not what we should expect, or accept, from an elected town official. In the end, he takes the now familiar tact of his colleagues in the Grimsby 5 group. When an error in judgment is made and uncovered, don’t apologize for it, turn to the bully tactic and demand an apology for being challenged about the issue. On behalf of our house, and I suspect many others in town, I think it is we and Mr. Williscraft who deserve the apology. But, I doubt we’ll get one. Bullies don’t apologize. At least not in Grimsby. Bud Hightower, Ward 3
Call for personalized in home, no cost estimates.
2017
BEST WEST
IN THE
parent decisions. In retrospect, like so many politicians, he said whatever necessary to garner votes. It is my personal opinion Coun. Sharpe needs to offer a sincere apology to the voters of Ward 4 for failing to provide a better voice, the positive change or character decisions. The cabal you often refer to as the Grimsby 5 - and whomever is behind the curtain - has usurped the democracy we grant our
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Dear Editor, Ward 4 Coun. Sharpe is correct with his recognition that an apology is due. However, it is not from you, Mr. Editor, rather from the councillor himself. His Sept. 22, 2018 submission to your fine gazette included objectives to be: • a better voice for the residents for Ward 4 • to make positive change on council • providing honest, accountable and trans-
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Get your Furnace tuned up today!
2020
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HEATING SPECIALIST
2015
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Redirect requested apology: writer
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2014/2013 2013/2014
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do their homework for which candidates to vote based on merit, the candidates’ history and ideology. The last is a very big issue for how they view dealing with OPM, Other
ers itself untouchable. As Mike pointed out, from the start this high school project was handled very poorly. Instead of due diligence to get the optimum result and a balanced budget, the people involved took the easy way out rather than doing the hard work. The sad part is that the interest of students and parents is often secondary, while union involvement is focusing on their own and their members’ interests first. Until people finally understand the enormous impact of which candidate they elect, this situation and many other problematic wasteful examples of taxpayers’ dollars will continue. Rob Janssen Beamsville
IN THE
LETTERS
Peoples Money, our tax dollars and are taking taxpayers for granted with no accountability for their failures as we see happening time after time. This is true especially for the political left or the socialists, who are known to make decisions based on ideological views rather than respecting taxpayers’ dollars. Their focal points are big governments (government knows best), power, big spending and staff are chosen based on identity politics instead of by merit or competence of which the Federal Government is a great example. The DSBN - just like the Niagara Region - has become a very large ineffective and very expensive governmental department, which is not held to account and consid-
IN THE
Dear Editor, Mike’s column in regards to the very large budget overrun for West Niagara’s new high school project highlights, again, the public sector’s incompetence and disrespect for taxpayers’ dollars. It is a never-ending problem because taxpayers themselves - at election time - don’t care and don’t
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9 lb
Page 16 • News Now • Thursday, January 7, 2021
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