“I was given the opportunity to sign onto that letter but I never saw a copy of it. That’s something I would never do, sign a letter blind.”
Jordan’s only contact was via text from Gale, which read:
“Hi Jeff -I hold a legal opinion confirming council’s motion lacks enforceability and offers no real barrier to provincial action on restructuring.
I am finalizing my recommendation to Minister Flack.
I’m calling to let you know I’m stepping back from pushing harder on amalgamation —not because I have to, but out of goodwill and to advance Niagara’s interests.
This aligns directly with what council stated in its recent motion: prioritizing a data-driven governance review over unilateral amalgamation efforts.
This opens the door to collaborative progress on efficiencies, service delivery, and cost controls without the divisiveness of forced amalgamation right now.
Can I include your name on the list of the supportive mayors?
Thanks, Bob”
Jordan not only noted he did not sign Gale’s letter, but he was concerned the regional chair ignored the wishes of his council to send the letter at all.
At council’s Feb. 26 special meeting, a motion was passed demanding the chair refrain from pushing his governance agenda and not use staff or regional resources on the matter.
Gale promptly went out and got a legal opinion that, because council’s motion from a committee of the whole session had not been ratified by council, it was still
not in effect.
“That was an end run. I am completely disheartened that Chair Gale would do this when the spirit of council’s motion was for him to stand down. He went against council, got a legal opinion and used the timing of it to ignore council’s wishes,” said Jordan.
Ganann, too, was onside with Jordan’s thinking.
“I think (Reg. Coun.) Vance Badawey, and other people alluded to the fact that, as chair of our council, he (Gale) speaks on behalf of our council and he was directed he was no longer to do that,” said Ganann.
“He knew the intent of that (motion). There is a lot of mistrust as to the motivation of the chair by residents and members of regional council. Ultimately, the power is in the hands of the province, so, if he sees that direction as being more important for regional council because he feels more secure in his position, that’s the way things will go.”
On the contents of Gale’s letter itself, Ganann largely dismissed much of it, but some of it she noted was consistent with the plan developed the day before that document was released.
On Tuesday of last week, eight mayors of the region’s smaller municipalities met to craft their own made-inNiagara plan - with only Lincoln’s Mayor Sandra Easton being absent as she had noted her support for a fourcity model and Gale’s vision for the future.
The eight mayors’ proposal put its backing behind the “comprehensive governance and service delivery review” process approved by regional council Feb. 26.
In their own letter to Flack, the eight mayor proposed three key areas of focus:
• Water and Wastewater: Establishing one or more Water and Wastewater Public Corporation(s) under the Water and Wastewater Public Corporations Act, 2025.
• Regional Services: Subject to a financial review, reforming local and regional services to drive savings and deliver better value for every tax dollar – such as transitioning the Regional road network and remaining services such as Social Services, Public Health and EMS to locally-governed Public Service Boards.
• Council Size: Reducing the number of politicians by streamlining councils to reflect the needs and scale of each community.
“There are some things that are similar, but some things differ. One of the things that differed was that he (Gale) had arbitrarily assigned numbers, in my mind, to the size of each of the councils. When I read that, on purpose, the letter that the eight mayors was sending did not do that because then we would be pre-supposing an answer to a letter that had not been asked,” said Ganann.
“The letter from the eight mayors actually selected a path forward. Some of it (the mayors’ plan) was also in Gale’s letter, so I don’t know who might have shared information, I don’t know if information was shared. Some of getting the letter out was the issue of trying to actually have every mayor read that letter, approve the writing, and actually put a Docusign signature on it.”
“The letter from Chair Gale had names of some mayors, supposedly, who were in agreement with his letter, but there were no signatures attached to that.”
Three mayors - Junkin,
Zalepa and Grant - had their name appear on both letters.
Junkin said he allowed use of his name on Gale’s letter because he wanted to see some movement on the governance issue.
“The letter by the eight mayors I 100 per cent agree with. Then this letter that Bob sent out - when I signed it, I didn’t totally agree with it; one or two things. But, for the sake of getting these letters to Rob Flack and the details can be worked out once the election is held and we start meeting together in earnest to plot the future of the Niagara regional government system,” said Junkin.
Junkin acknowledged that Gale’s letter said nothing about follow up discussion or consultation on how changes would be worked out or phased in adding, “I hope there is consultation after the fall election.
“What I see these letters are - and it doesn’t really matter if it’s the eight that sent it out or Gale’s letter - I just see it as giving the basic idea going forward, with the election taking place in the fall, that all these things are items that will have to be worked out. After the election is held, we start hashing it out among local councils and mayors. Then we get exactly what we pin down as far as councillors and what have you,” said Junkin, who reiterated he did not agree with all in Gale’s letter.
He said his understanding from Oosterhoff was that Gale’s vision was not “written in stone.”
I talked to Sam, actually, on Tuesday. The same night (as the eight mayors meeting) we had a Citizen of The Year ceremony. I happened to be sitting beside Sam at the head table. During that time, him and I had quite a discussion. He asked me if I
would be ok with this, this, and this?,” said Junkin.
“I said, ‘yes’. At that time he talked, more or less, about the three bullets (in Gale’s letter). I said I would be in favour of that and it would be a good starting point. I expressed that we’ve got to make sure we get this election out of the way so then we have the players on the field that can make the decisions going forward,” adding that he believes it could take 1-3 three years to nail down the ultimate blueprint for governance plans.”
However, neither Gale or Oosterhoff have mentioned public consultations or input into a possible governance change.
“What that premier said is bang on. Everyone agrees that there needs to be change. Not everyone agrees on what that change should be but I don’t think you’re ever going to get everyone to agree,” said Oosterhoff.
“It’s been a conversation that’s been ongoing almost since I have been in elected office, so almost a decade at least, so I am sure even longer.”
As to the final outcome, Oosterhoff, like many, wants to see positive change.
People can go back and forth on amalgamation all they want, but based off the two letters that I saw, I didn’t see that in those letters but I saw a pretty strong consensus on reducing the number of politicians, which the premier has talked about, improving service delivery and duplication. I would like to see more harmonized planning between municipalities, so you don’t go 100 meters down Mud Street and have a different set of rules in Grimsby than you do in West Lincoln than you do in Lincoln,” said Oosterhoff.
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A major step forwardthe start of a Notice of Commencement - for the Grimsby GO Station planning process was announced last week.
This marks the start of a formal provincial review process that will study the project, gather community input, and assess potential environmental considerations.
The new station will be on the South Service Road near Casablanca Boulevard.
The station is expected to be delivered in phases and may include features such as:
• A customer platform for GO Train service
• Station infrastructure to support rail operations
• A bus loop connecting GO Bus and on-demand Niagara Region Transit services, with the future plan to include fixed route connections
• Customer shelters and fare payment kiosks
•Digital screens with real-time travel information, and more.
West Lincoln facilitates public feedback on governance review in Niagara
The Township of West Lincoln is inviting residents to share their thoughts on governance in Niagara Region.
Whether you are in support of or opposed to potential changes, your perspective matters.
Public Meeting
Wednesday, March 25, 5 p.m.
Township Administration Council Chambers
318 Canborough Street, Smithville
Attendees will have the opportunity to speak for up to five minutes. The meeting will be live streamed through the Township YouTube.
Written Comments
West Lincoln residents can also email governance@westlincoln.ca to provide written comments. Written feedback will be collected and consolidated into a report for review and analysis and may be shared with the Province.
Relevant information about Governance Review is being posted on the Township website at www.westlincoln.ca/governance-review.
Questions regarding public meeting procedures may be directed to Justin Paylove, Manager of Legislative Services/Clerk at jpaylove@westlincoln.ca.
Grimsby, West Lincoln plan governance input meetings
Grimsby and West LIncoln have planned public meetings to facilitate residents’ input into the hotly debated regional governance discussion.
Town of Lincoln approved a motion Monday night to only take comment via a SpeakUp Lincoln webpage - which has not gone live yet - or email:
governance@lincoln.ca
West Lincoln’s meeting is set for Wednesday, March 25, at 5 p.m., in town hall’s council chambers, 318 Canborough St., Smithville.
Grimsby’s Public Information Centre (PIC) will also be Wednesday, March 25 from 4:30-6 p.m. in its town hall council chambers, 160 Livingston Ave.
We offer a variety of free employment services including resumes, interview skills and local job postings on our job board. Walk in or call us today to get a team of employment experts on your side.
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- Frank & Dinah
By Mike Williscraft NewsNow
Lincoln’s exclusion from a letter resulting from a meeting with eight small municipality Niagara mayors spurred a separate motion at Monday’s regular council meeting.
Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton - who has backed a four-city amalgamation and resulting major changes in administrative processes - was not part of a discussion last Tuesday among the eight mayors.
Key findings were recommendations for a water/wastewater commission structure to be struck, a reduction of elected positions in the region and streamlining and possible downloading of several services.
“There were some eyebrows raised in the community on our exclusion from that letter and some of the ambiguity that our council may or may not
view and, secondly, noting the the Province “that there should be some financial considerations for any changes in governance, any costs associated with the governance and, again, to give our council an opportunity to weigh in on this motion and the one at regional council,” said Russell.
Coun. Mike Mikolic had a series of concerns which were not outlined in Russell’s motion.
“In this motion that we have now, there is nothing that acknowledges that there is any concern on our part as a council with the methods or the manner in which Chair Gale is proposing his governance review and solutions. Should we add something? said Mikolic.
Russell questioned the effectiveness of having any impact on the conduct of Gale as part of his reluctance to accept a friendly amendment.
Legion speakers impress
Grimsby Legion hosted its annual Public Speaking contest for local students on on Saturday, Feb. 28, with students from Grand Avenue Public School, Nelles Public School, Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School and Jordan Christian School. The event celebrated the art of public speaking and highlighted the confidence, creativity and courage of the town’s youth. Top finishers who will advance to the Zone level are Booker Cruise (Grade 7), Rebecca Wagenaar (Grade 6) and Maddy Reynolds (Grade 3). Missing from the photo is Elena Telahun. Students competing were: Back(L to R) Mia Moniz, Linnea Sorensen, Shadia Chana, Nyla Hoa, Ayah Ziric, Varvara Voloshyna, Weston Heidman, Booker Cruise, Mishka Bhardwaj. Front: Rebecca Wagenaar, Maddy Reynolds, Abigail Najapfour, Anna Najapfour. Missing from the photo, Elena Telahun.
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Email: robertjames@royallepage.ca
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Guest Speaker Sara Nixon, The Brown Homestead
“Secrets of Short Hills”
Thursday, March 12, 2026
The wild ruggedness of the Short Hills is rich in history spanning millennia, and offers a unique lens into the story of Niagara. Join Sara Nixon from Brown Homestead to discover the surprising stories hidden in the hills, valleys and waterways. We’ll uncover clues to early industry and settlement, attempts to build a military fortress, the dramatic 1838 raid led by cross-border rebels and lots more.
Sara Nixon is the Director of Community Engagement at The Brown Homestead. Raised in Grimsby, Sara grew up fascinated with the local history that surrounded her. She earned a Master’s degree in Public History at Carleton University and has built a career in the museum and heritage fields over the past decade. Sara also currently serves as Chair of the Grimsby Heritage Advisory Committee. Grimsby Historical Society Monthly Speaker Series
GHS Monthly Meeting Thursday, March 12, 2026
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
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Grimsby Historical Society 25 Adelaide Street, Grimsby, Ontario 905-309-0796 grimsbyhistoricalsociety.com
Public Notice: NOTICE OF INTENTION TO DESIGNATE PURSUANT TO THE ONTARIO HERITAGE ACT, R.S.O. 1990
TAKE NOTICE that the Town Clerk of the Corporation of the Town of Lincoln intends to designate the following real property, specifically the Grand Oak Tree, as having cultural heritage value or interest, pursuant to the provisions of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter O.18, Part IV, Section 29.
4600 Victoria Avenue, Concession 2, Part Lot 1, RP 30R7878; Part 1, Clinton, in the Town of Lincoln.
Description of Property
The Grand Oak is a mature white oak (Quercus alba) located at 4600 Victoria Avenue at the corner of Victoria Avenue and Greenlane Road in Vineland, Town of Lincoln. Situated in a lawn area beside a two-storey commercial building and parking lot, its crown extends toward the Greenlane right-of-way. The tree measures approximately 160.5 cm in trunk diameter at breast height, has a crown spread of about 26 metres, and a trunk base roughly 3 metres in diameter. It remains in good structural condition and overall health, with only minor issues noted. The Grand Oak holds significant physical, historical, associative, and contextual value as an increasingly rare old-growth white oak in southern Ontario. Although the species itself is common, mature specimens of this size and age are now uncommon due to historic deforestation. Estimated to be between 300 and 450 years old, it is considered one of the oldest documented white oaks in the region.
Historical Value
The Grand Oak holds historical and associative value through its connection to both Indigenous presence and early Mennonite settlement. Likely germinating between 1575 and 1725, it predates colonial settlement and reflects a period of Indigenous stewardship, followed by the establishment of the “Twenty” Mennonite settlement in 1799. The tree is also linked to land patented in 1803 and owned by the Culp family, prominent settlers
who influenced the community’s agricultural and cultural development.
Physical Value
The tree’s physical value lies in its impressive form and presence. Its longevity provides insight into pre-settlement forest conditions, species durability, and ecological resilience within the Lake Erie–Lake Ontario Ecoregion.
Contextual Value
The tree’s contextual value stems from its contribution to the character of the historic “Twenty” settlement and its status as a remnant of the Carolinian forest ecosystem. Despite extensive land use changes, it remains a visual and ecological anchor. Its prominent location at Victoria Avenue and Greenlane Road makes it a recognizable landmark, symbolizing the region’s natural and cultural heritage and linking Indigenous and settler histories in southern Ontario.
Additional Information relating to the full particulars of the reasons for designation is available in the Clerk’s Office located in the Town Hall, 4800 South Service Road, Beamsville.
NOTICE OF OBJECTION to the proposed designation, together with a statement of the reasons for the objection and all relevant facts may be served to the Town Clerk before the 12th day of April 2026.
DATED at the Town of Lincoln this 12th day of March 2026.
Ridge Road East barn fire causes $750K damage
An early morning barn fire on Sunday on Ridge Road East in Grimsby caused about $750,000 in estimated damage, while requiring support from Niagara West fire departments to get it under control.
About 7:30 a.m., Grimsby Fire Department responded to a structure fire call to find an unoccupied ablaze.
No injuries were reported. The large structure housed a retail outlet and kitchen operation along with storage area.
A total of 12 fire apparatus and
approximately 30 firefighters and support personnel responded to the scene, including automatic aid from Lincoln Fire and Emergency Services and West Lincoln Fire & Emergency Services. Additional support was provided by Niagara Regional Police Service, Niagara EMS, and Grimsby Hydro. Lincoln Fire and Emergency Services also deployed their specialized rehabilitation unit to support crews operating on scene.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered visible flames, heavy
smoke, and high heat conditions. Property owners on scene confirmed the structure was unoccupied and crews initiated an aggressive defensive exterior attack to ensure firefighter safety.
Water tanker shuttle operations were required. Four tankers from Grimsby, Lincoln, and West Lincoln coordinated to maintain a continuous water supply, delivering 23 separate loads of water to the scene.
The fire was brought under control; however, significant damage
was done to the building and its contents. The town of Grimsby supplied a large backhoe and operator to help remove contents and assist firefighters in ensuring flames were out.
Following fire suppression and overhaul operations, the scene was turned over to the property owners. Grimsby crews remained on scene for two hours after crews left to perform fire watch and handle any flare ups. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
FORM 6
SALE OF LAND BY PUBLIC TENDER Municipal Act, 2001
Ontario Regulation 181/03, Municipal Tax Sales Rules
ThE CORPORATION OF ThE TOwNShIP OF wEST LINCOLN
Take Notice that tenders are invited for the purchase of the land(s) described below and will be received until 3:00 p.m. local time on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at the Township Council Chambers, 318 Canborough Street, Smithville, ON L0R 2A0.
The tenders will then be opened in public on the same day as soon as possible after 3:00 p.m. at the Township Council Chambers, 318 Canborough Street, Smithville, ON L0R 2A0.
Description of Lands:
ROLL NO. 26 02 010 003 12300 0000, 702 JOHN ST, CAISTOR CENTRE, PIN 46068-0099 LT, LT 7 W/S JOHN ST TP PL 26 CAISTOR; S/T EXECUTION 98-01123, IF ENFORCEABLE; WEST LINCOLN, FILE NAWL23-005
Minimum Tender Amount: $64,947.00
According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $83,000.
• Tenders must be submitted in the prescribed form and must be accompanied by a deposit of at least 20 per cent of the tender amount, which deposit shall be made by way of a certified cheque/bank draft/money order payable to the municipality.
• Except as follows, the municipality makes no representation regarding the title to, existing interests in favour of the Crown, environmental concerns or any other matters relating to the land(s) to be sold. Any existing Federal or Provincial Crown liens or executions will remain on title and may become the responsibility of the potential purchaser. Responsibility for ascertaining these matters rests with the potential purchasers.
• This sale is governed by the Municipal Act, 2001 and the Municipal Tax Sales Rules made under that Act. The successful purchasers will be required to pay the amount tendered plus accumulated taxes and any taxes that may be applicable, such as land transfer tax and HST.
• Effective January 1, 2023, in accordance with the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act (SC 2022, c 10, s 235) (the “Act”), non-Canadians are now prohibited from purchasing residential property in Canada, directly or indirectly, pursuant with the terms as set out in the Act and Regulations under the Act.
• Any non-Canadian who contravenes the Act, or any person who knowingly assists in contravening the Act is liable to a fine of up to $10,000 and may be ordered that the property be sold, therefore it is highly recommended that any potential purchasers obtain independent legal advice to ensure they will not be in contravention of the Act.
• It is the sole responsibility of the tenderers to investigate into the details of what constitutes a non-Canadian, residential property, any exceptions or exclusions, or any other matters or determinations relating to the Act. The municipality accepts no responsibility whatsoever in ensuring that any potential purchasers comply with the Act.
• Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST) applies to the purchase price for a transfer of residential property located in Ontario which contains at least one and not more than six single family residences if any one of the transferees is a non-resident of Canada, foreign entity or taxable trustee.
• The municipality has no obligation to provide vacant possession to the successful purchaser.
• A copy of the prescribed form of tender is available on the website of the Government of Ontario Central Forms Repository under the listing for the Ministry of Municipal Affairs.
For further information regarding this sale, please visit: www.westlincoln.ca or you may contact: Sarah Petrina, Property Tax & Payroll Coordinator 318 Canborough St., P.O. Box 400, Smithville ON L0R 2A0 Tel: (905) 957-3346 Ext. 6718, Email: spetrina@westlincoln.ca
HAT TRICK HOCKEY
Week 19 (Standing as of March 8th, 2026) Be sure to look online at: wn3.ca to see the full standings, but here are some of the leaders and lucky random draw winners:
• $15 Gift Card, courtesy of Tim Hortons, Grimsby: Vince D’Amico
• $15 gift certificate courtesy of Jordan Flowers,Grimsby: Lucas Head
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Judge & Jester, Grimsby: Roger Regneurus
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Canadian Tire, Grimsby: Katherine Woo
• Large, 3-Item Pizza, Pick-Up Only, courtesy of Gino’s Pizza, Grimsby: Dave Raab
• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Memphis BBQ., Winona: Philip Fiorantis
• 2 Tickets to a Grimsby Peach Kings game, Grimsby: Clark Walthan Winners can stop by the NewsNow office to pick up their winnings
Top Standings
1. Zdriluk, Jacob 1284
2. Heinen, Eric 1255
3. Klages, Keith 1249
4. Heywood, Kevin 1246
5. DeVries, Mark .......... 1244
6. Couch, Jesse 1242
7. Stuive, Cindy 1241
8. Kurpis, Steve 1238
9. Mous, Brent 1238
10. Dunda, Riley 1238
11. Poz, Cindy 1238
12. Baer, David 1233
13. Johnson, Debbie 1233
14. Campbell, Matt 1232
15. McIntosh, Megan 1231
16. Dearman, Travis 1229
17. Van Roon, Jim 1229
18. VanderHeide, Clarence 1226
19. Stephenson, Will 1223
20. Jacobsen, Sean 1221
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Thanks to a great response! NewsNow has not skipped a beat to deliver for our community.
Our carriers go door-to-door in Grimsby, Beamsville, Vineland, Jordan & Smithville.
There are just a few routes vacant, so if you happened to miss your copy - or if you live in a rural area - we have planned a large list of helpful outlets to allow for quick and convenient pick ups.
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Side-splitting comedy strikes Grimsby stage
By Evan Loree For NewsNow
Heralding the arrival of spring, the Grimsby Peninsula Players theatre company is putting on a comedic production for the month of March.
Starting Friday, the community theatre group will be staging performances of Canadian playwright Michael G. Wilmot’s 7-10 Split.
Grimsby’s Lisa Cook takes a second stab at the director’s chair, taking command of a small cast of veterans and stage rookies alike.
Cook has been acting for about 15 years, most recently appearing in previ-
ous Peninsula Players productions like The Game’s Afoot in November 2024.
It all started as something to do in the evenings but has grown into a steady hobby.
“I had the hubris, I came, I saw a show, I watched it and I thought ‘you know I bet you I could do that,’” Cook said. Wilmot’s 7-10 Split tells the story of Earl, an ex-pro bowler chasing one get-rich-quick scheme after the other.
For his newest scheme, Earl plans to turn the tables on a foreign prince trying to sneak his
wealth out of his home country.
The self-styled Crown Prince Gustaf, just needs a little seed money from Earl to get the ball rolling.
The prince says he’ll wire Earl $15 million if he can lend him $10,000 in seed money.
And Earl thinks he can pocket the millions at no expense by wiring a bad cheque.
Stage veteran Ray Johnston plays the delinquent Earl alongside rookie Quinn Ciardelli, playing the prince.
Rounding out the cast are Lori Bruni, playing Earl’s wife
astonished
Brenda, and Jimi MacDonald playing Earl’s brother Larry. Bruni has worked with the Peninsula Players on and off the stage, while MacDonald is new to the scene.
“He’s a lot like me,” MacDonald said of his character.
Larry is not likely to take any of his brother’s nonsense, MacDonald said.
The brothers have frequent spats, verbal and physical, during the show’s runtime.
The play is “just absolutely ridiculous,” Cook said.
In the real world, thugs would not show up on your doorstep looking to collect $10,000, as Gustaf does with Earl, Cook said.
The opening show starts 8 pm, Friday
at Trinity United Church in Grimsby.
It runs the subsequent Fridays and Saturdays at the same time until Mar. 29.
There will also be performances the next three Sundays
at 2 pm. Tickets can be purchased from the theatre company’s box office page, https://peninsulaplayersgrimsby. ca/box-office/, starting at $25 per ticket.
Lori Bruni plays Brenda, wife to the play’s lead character, Earl.
Stage rookie Quinn Ciardelli plays Crown Prince Gustaf, seen here
after finding a rare bowling ball in Earl’s possession.
Ray Johnston, as Earl, holds Jimi MacDonald, playing Larry, in a headlock during a childish fist fight between the on-stage brothers.
8th Annual Volunteer Pay Subscription Drive
“Were it left to me to decide if we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.”
Thomas Jefferson, 1787
(Couldn’t we use more of that thinking south of the border right now)
We are about to complete our 14th year of serving our dedicated readers and advertisers in Niagara West! That seems hard to believe, but it’s true. Just like every stitch of content you read in our pages. We’ve tried to shoot photos at every community event, expose serious stories which were very much in the public’s interest, and let all know the goings on for our great services club and community groups. Real. Honest. Accurate. No hiding. No keyboard jockeys. By helping us out with a voluntary subscription you can support our weekly goal! Is NewsNow’s independent, accurate voice in the community of value to you? Would you like to support NewsNow in its efforts? This is your opportunity.
Simply, this means, rain (or snow) or shine, you will always – each and every week –receive your copy of NewsNow! That will NOT change!!!!
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Williscraft Publisher
Grand oak heritage designation set
Majestic tree anchors corner of Greenlane and Victoria for centuries
Joanne McDonald For NewsNow
Jan-Willem and Jane Stulp have the oldest neighbour in all of Niagara Region.
She’s beautiful and strong, resilient and wise, and she’s escaped the jaws of deforestation since before Mennonite settlers first farmed along the Twenty.
The grand oak tree has been a visual and ecological anchor for the past 300 to 450 years - according to an expert arborist hired by the Town of Lincoln to assess it - rooted securely on the property of Jan-Willem and Jane, owners of the Grand Oak Culinary Market.
The market is located at the corner of Victoria Avenue and Greenlane Road in Vineland.
“In the summer she’s so beautiful and majestic,” says Jane.
People come from all over to sit in the shade under her branches.
It was, in fact, how the popular restaurant and market first got its name when it was owned by Mike Culp.
The Town of Lincoln is planning an official ceremony to designate the grand oak tree under the Ontario Heritage Act for its cultural heritage and value.
And it dovetails perfectly with the Stulp’s own milestone anniversary this summer as 15-year owners of the business and stewards of the tree.
They’re happy for the designation which will help protect the tree in future.
It’s a distinction that will put the popular Vineland
(Above) The centuries-old oak tree located at Grand Oak Culinary Market at Greenlane and Victoria.
(Bottom Right) Jan-Willem and Jane Stulp, owners of Grand Oak Culinary Market, provide a little size perspective on the massive trunk of the grand oak. McDonald - Photos
market and its beloved tree on every historical and tourism map as a must see when visiting the Town of Lincoln.
Assessed by Rui Feliz, Certified Arborist from ERA Architects, the tree is in good structural condition and overall health, measures approximately 160.5 cm in trunk diameter, has a crown spread of about 26 metres, and a trunk base roughly three metres in diameter.
It carries significant physical, historical, associative and contextual value as an increasingly rare old-growth white oak in southern Ontario. While estimated to be upwards of 450 years old, it is considered one of the oldest documented white oaks in the region.
The official designation ceremony will held in early summer on a date to be announced.
wolfe, Jim “Smokey”
olmsted, lawrence murray
Murray passed away on March 1, 2026, at the age of 77. He leaves behind his son Brian, daughter-in law Frida, granddaughter Josephine and sister Marjorie Hughes. He was predeceased by his parents Laura Jean Olmsted (Hiscott) (1992) and Hugh Watson Olmsted (2008) and his beloved wife Teresa Mary Olmsted (Vella) (2024). He was a friend to many and will surely be missed. A private memorial service will be held with family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to CNIB, Diabetes Canada or West Lincoln Memorial Hospital. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755.
www.smithsfh.com
PRINCE, Benita Helen (nee Hackett)
Passed away at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, on Sunday, March 1, 2026, in her 93rd year. Beloved wife of the late Paul Prince (2012). Cherished mother to Heather Scobie (Wayne) and Blaine Prince (Barb). Loving grandmother to Adam (Roslyn), Brett (Michaela), Josh (Sarah) and Matt and adoring great-grandmother of Liam, Rowan, Addison and Halena. Sisterin-law of Hartley Prince (Margaret Anne) and Nancy Prince (the late Arthur). Survived by many nieces and nephews. As per Benita’s wishes, private family services and cremation have taken place. A celebration of her life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the West Lincoln Memorial Auxiliary would be gratefully accepted. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755. www.smithsfh.com
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Jim Wolfe at the age of 74 with his family by his side at McNally House Hospice on March 7, 2026. Born and raised in Hamilton Ontario, he spent his childhood years following in his father’s footsteps, growing his passion and love for the game of baseball between the base lines at Mahoney Park and Bernie Arbour Stadium. He would carry that same passion into the game of hockey through officiating and volunteering as a member of the board for the Grimsby Minor Hockey Association for over 20 years.
Jim would eventually call Grimsby home with his wife Jan (nee Stirling) of 48 years. Here they would spend the next 25 years raising their three children before eventually moving to their home in Smithville. Jim was a longtime employee of the #2 Rod Mill at Stelco Inc. for over 35 years before retiring in 2009.
He enjoyed his summer days at the trailer with friends and working on his golf game in his retired years. Whether you knew him as James, Jim, Harold or Smokey his proudest name and accomplishment was “Papa”. His cherished grandchildren Leah, Nolan, Logan and Wyatt were his pride and joy and kept him young in his older years.
He is survived by his wife Jan, his two sons Darryl (Jenn) and Matthew (Brooke) and his daughter Christina. Jim was the son of the late Harold and Shirley Wolfe. He is reunited with his sister Darlene (John) and is survived by his sister Pat (Michael) and his brother Rick (Sue).
He would meet his cancer diagnosis a mere 10 months ago head on with optimism and courage. His ability to make those around him smile and laugh with his quick wit and jokes, stayed true in his final days. A sincere and heartfelt thank you to the staff at McNally House Hospice for providing peace and comfort through this difficult time.
Friends will be welcomed at the STONEHOUSEWHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY, ONTARIO (905-945-2755) on Thursday March 12, 2026, from 2:00pm to 4:00pm and 6:00pm to 8:00pm. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to McNally House Hospice in Grimsby Ontario would be appreciated by the family. www.smithsfh.com
CLAYTON JARVIS
CLAYTON JARVIS
1932- 2019
1932- 2019
Uncle & Godfather
Uncle & Godfather
An Uncle is a special gift, especially if he’s you.
I wish God could have waited but
He knows what must be.
The day He called you home
He loves you unconditionally and everything you do.
Was much too soon for me.
If only l could turn back time
He’s so much fun to be with, the greatest pal you’ll ever have.
Before you had to go.
He teaches you so many things;
We’d love to have you here with us
he’s your back-up Dad.
Because we miss you so.
Memories will never fade
You ticked off all these boxes with your own special touch.
You’ll never be truly gone.
No wonder Uncle Clayton that you’re still loved so much.
Forever in our hearts -
You’re still with us Uncle Clayton
For love itself lives on.
Tho time may pass and years fly by
We know that you’re in Heaven and trust you realize;
We’ll miss you everyday.
In Heaven you’re shining brightly
How much you’re missed, how much you’re loved
So you can light our way.
By those you left behind.
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In loving memory of Karen MacKIe, who passed March 15 2025. Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday. Unseen, unheard, but always near; still loved, still missed and very dear.
Love always, ed
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The second round of Shine On - an online charity auction in support of West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation and McNally House Hospice - is set to launch on Sunday, March 29.
The second auction was not initially planned but the edition of Shine On was so successful in a variety of ways, a second edition was merited, said Luttjehuizen of Harmony Jewellers, which is coordinating the show.
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
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“It went so well, we got a lot of great donations both in terms of volume and quality, so it made doing a second one an easy decision,” said Luttjehuizen.
As with the first auction, every item has been 100 per cent donated and will be sold no reserve, no buyer’s premium, and no sales tax, creating a rare opportunity to acquire exceptional jewellery and watches while directly supporting two vital community care organizations.
All auction transactions are handled by the WLMH Foundation, with proceeds shared equally between the Foundation and McNally House.
Harmony Jewellers will match every financial donation with jewellery donated to the auction, maximizing the impact of every contribution.
Item donations (including broken pieces) are still being accepted until March 26.
The auction is open to the public, with opportunities to participate by bidding or donating.
The second auction will run from March 29-April 12.
For more information, check: https://harmonyjewellers.ca/pages/shineon For auction preview/sign up, see: https://harmonyjewellers.ca/pages/catalogue-preview
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Dog’s governance breakfast could be cleaned up
This is one of those weeks, good reader, when there was simply more going on than I could get to in a week. For that I apologize, but I will get to all of it for next week.
So count on an expanded Grimsby GO and Grimsby Integrity Commissioner finding into Coun. Veronica Charrois’ complaint vs Coun. Jacob Baradziej - spoiler, council approved a 15-day pay suspension for Baradziej for a series of late and missed meetings.
because the numbers remmaining have always got a pay increase for the added workload and other impacts eat up the minor saving of a couple less councillors.
In a similar vein, Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton read a prepared statement on Monday night and mentioned a key point worth noting.
A little touch up
Lori Bruni, who plays Brenda, doubles as a make-up artist touching up Quinn Ciardelli’s look before a dress rehearsal last Wednesday night. Their play, 7-10 Split opens tomorrow night in Grimsby. See Page 17 for details. Loree – Photo
Learn more about affordable housing
West Niagara Secondary School’s theatre will be the scene for a Wednesday, March 25 screening of “Thinking Beyond the Market: A film about Genuinely Affordable Housing.
Writer/director of the film, Brian Doucet, associate professor in the School of Planning at the University of Waterloo, will be on hand. The documentary seeks to answer questions on the minds of many: Are we asking the right questions? What if it isn’t just a question of how much housing, but what kind of housing and for whom? The film will run 7-9 p.m. Admission is free. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. M.W.
But let’s get into what is in this edition. First and foremost, before you ever get into the logic or illogic of Reg Chair Bob Gale’s writing abilities when it comes to regional governance, what mayor on the planet would put their name on any documentrepresenting their electorate - which they had not read nor even seen a full draft.
Not one, but three Niagara mayors did just that, And Gale needed every one one of those names to create his 75 per cent threshold demanded by Premier Doug Ford as one of his two requirements for a made-in-Niagara governance plan. The other was a majority of Niagara’s 12 mayors had to be onside. If Gale lost even one name, his document would be a moot point for Ford.
Aside from the haste with which the whole process has been stuffed down Niagara residents and regional council’s collective throats, there are many other alarming things which have gone on.
Gale’s recent letter does not mention either public consultations or even input from local or regional council
as part of the future process. He states he has already had “discussions and consultations”, so his whole plan could be greenlit to march on after this fall’s municipal elections - which, of course, could have new local council structures thanks to his words of wisdom.
The potential of no future consultations was confirmed when I spoke to MPP Sam Oosterhoff, who cited longterm discussion and input over many years so, why, in essence, drag it out again?
It is true there has been ample debate - going back even 30 years when Niagara almost got ruined like Hamilton, Ottawa-Carleton and ChathamKent were by designation as one-tier regions - but that does not mean you set aside discussions which should determine the best path forward for each municipality.
For example, you could shoot for the low-hanging fruit and say, “let’s make local councils smaller, too”.
But why?
It has been shown in the past that downsizing of local councils has no positive affect on budgets, no savings,
“If structural change moves forward, and the options are limited to a single-city model or a 4-city model, my preference is for a 4-city model,” Easton said.
When I spoke to her a couple of weeks ago that support for four-city was not made conditionally, so that is an important distinction.
More importantly for Lincoln, Easton noted, a formal motion was passed to get the municipality included as a supporter of the region’s governance review plan. Some council members also noted initiatives offered by the eight mayors who met, sans Easton, to send their own ideas to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Rob Flack.
Simply, the whole matter is a mess - compounded by needless speed. I say needless, but it is clear the Province wants to move on the size of regional council by this fall like their political lives depend on it.
The eight mayors got it right in one meeting - downsize regional council (but let lower tiers decide their own council size fate), strike a commission structure for water and wastewater, and allow for revamping services by newly elected folk after the fall election. Easy peasy.
MIKE WILLISCRAFT
Delivered via Canada Post
U9 boys conquer U.S.
A few short hours after the USA handed Canada’s men’s Olympic hockey team an overtime gold medal defeat, another collection of determined Canadian skaters stood shoulder to shoulder to face down an American squad to determine another international hockey championship....and they won. The U9 West Niagara Flying Aces squared off against the Lockport Sharks in the final game of the three-day tournament, played in Buffalo. On hand for the win were: Back (L to R) Head coach Cole Stephenson, trainer Chad Caldwell, assistant coach and Derek Young, assistant coach. Team members: Blair Boychuck, Beckham Recon, Beau Harvey, Brayden Boychuck, River Wiebe, Beau Boniface, Nick Joki, Chris Nicholls, Everett Parsons, Chase McClure, Nicholas Angelini, Jack Shaw, Grayson Young, Knox Stephenson, Hudson Wight, Noah Day and goalies Nathan Caldwell and Jaxson Parsons.
