NewsNow E-Edition May 14 2026

BUY CANADIAN

Proudly serving Grimsby, Lincoln, West Lincoln & Winona

The Woolverton passes by 5-4 vote

By Mike Williscraft

NewsNow

The much-debated The Woolverton apartment complex proposed for downtown Grimsby got the approval from council on Monday in a 5-4 vote.

The project, proposed for seven storeys and 150 units, has been in the works for eight years.

While density and traffic impacts were initial concerns, parking has taken over as a hot button issue with one space per unit being the proposed formula with a parking-

in-lieu formula added to the mix.

During the public delegation portion of the meeting, Harmony Jewellers owner Kevin Luttjehuizen said the long-term parking burden presented by The Woolverton project should give council pause.

“This development is far too large for the level of parking being provided. We are already discussing the loss of additional on-street parking through Downtown Reimagined, while simultaneously expanding cash-in-lieu agreements and reduced parking standards

Bloomin’ good deals

Lincoln Garden Club member Donna Unrau spent her Saturday morning setting up displays and helping customers at the club’s plant sale in Vineland.

before the Town’s broader parking framework has even been completed,” said Luttjehuizen.

Project developer Harley Valentine told council his organization has jumped through every possible hoop.

“We were looking to bring something new and fresh to downtown Grimsby,” said developer Harley Valentine, citing years of community engagement to fashion the best possible fit.

“We have been on a journey where we have worked with staff.

we have worked with the Niagara Escarpment Commission. We have worked with Heritage to receive the green light to move forward on this project. We have also consulted the community in three different engagement sessions.”

Valentine cited a litany of planning steps and consultations which have been executed over the years.

“When Kevin talks about what is the next step under the Planning Act, we have a very strong case. We have a strong project that holds up to the test of good planning. That is supported by experts, the Town’s own staff.”

Coun. Veronica Charrois started council’s discussion by introducing a motion for the Town to acquire property downtown for additional municipal parking and that council approving an earlier version of The Woolverton site plan prior to the acquisition of 23 Elm St.

That motion was lost with only Charrois and Coun. Don Howe supporting it.

Coun. Nick DiFlavio clarified that Monday night’s meeting was council’s last opportunity to vote on the project plan as site plan details would be dealt with by town staff..

Jordan confirmed that and added, “I do agree with Coun. Charrois that this isn’t the same as what the previous council approved in 2022. I would much rather see a building which was more step back like we have down at Grimsby on the Lake. Aqua Zul is a step-back building. I think that would be a lot more compatible at the escarpment.”

WOOLVERTON

From Page 1

“The massing of that building, as a straight wall, does anything but blend into the escarpment. It’s just not the same building that we approved in 2022,”

Jordan noted that council had previously approved a 2017 application for six storeys. The seven storeys applied for in 2022, in his opinion, “is a completely different iteration of what we see here in 2026.”

While Howe agreed staff oversee details of site plan dealings, he said staff can be given “marching orders” by council to ensure what council wants gets implemented as far as the massing, the softening and colouring.

Grimsby planner Kirsten McCauley noted changes to the Planning Act put the responsibility for site plan work onto staff.

“We have encouraged the applicant to go through a design charrette, so that would be an opportunity to invite the public and invite the experts to

give input into the design of the building,” said McCauley, adding there would also be a heritage report coming to council via the Heritage Committee.

Coun. Jennifer Korstanje noted she was voting in favour of the project largely because seven storeys and 120 units is already approved, “So, that’s happening.”

“As a born and raised resident, do I want to see seven storeys downtown? No, absolutely not, but this is the reality that we’re at right now. The new Official Plan is going to allow up to 12, I don’t want to see that either. This, to me, is an extension of what has already been approved onto another property. It’s going to add 30 more units - 15 residential and 15 affordable units. That is a desperate need.”

Korstanje noted that sending it to OLT jeopardizes much.

“If this goes to OLT, a higher height will be asked for. The data, which we hear from staff and consultants that we paid and we hired support this. They

support the parking. They support the process of it.”

“People will say, ‘this is political suicide. You’re not going to get elected again.’ So be it. You know what? I am going to do what is in the best interest of our community. I’ll sacrifice my own personal goals for that. That’s ok. This is the right thing to do based on the data that we have.”

Charrois said a charrette would not prove effective and this project has gotten more push back from residents and the business community than any other she has seen, noting the project started on two properties with 70 units. Then another lot was acquired and the number of units jumped to 120; then another lot was acquired and the units jumped again to 150.

In the end, Councillors Delight Davoli, Lianne Vardy, Reg Freake, Don Howe and Korstanje approved the project while Jordan, Charrois and Councillors Jacob Baradziej and Nick DiFlavio voted against.

Education, fun at Grimsby Community Safety Day

Travis Kerkhof, 8, hurls a GAMRU search and rescue rope bag while learning about the nonprofit’s work at Community Safety Day in Grimsby hosted at Southward Park on Saturday.

(Right) Casey Gillis, 3, plays the farmer-at the-wheel of a John Deere tractor.

Photos By Evan Loree

ELEGANT 3 BEDROOM 4 BATH TOWNHOME

Nineteenth St. fire claims a life Happy Victoria Day

A Nineteenth Street, Jordan, fire claimed the life of one man on Monday afternoon.

Lincoln Fire Rescue was called to the scene at 2:45 p.m.

“Upon arrival, firefighters entered the home which was well involved in fire and removed one resident in serious medical distress. The fire was extinguished quickly, and there were no injuries to firefighters.

The cause of the fire and estimate of damages has not yet been determined,” said Fire Chief Greg Hudson.

Niagara Regional Police confirmed the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

NRPS 8 District Criminal Investigations Bureau (CIB) have taken over the investigation. 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009383.

Saturday, May 16 • 9 am • Until Sold Out

The thrift store which does much of the fundraising heavy lifting for Big Brothers Big Sisters Niagara re-opened last week after an unexpected six-week hiatus.

The store, located on Queen Street in Niagara Falls, was closed after failing pipes caused extensive damage to the shop and its inventory.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who stood by us through this difficult time,” added Erin Graybiel, BBBS executive director.

Spring Open House

Friday May 29

Join us for a wine and paint afternoon. Spots are limited, please RSVP with Danielle at 905-309-0055.

Saturday May 30 1:00pm - 4:00pm 11:30am - 4:00pm Open House 10:30am - 11:30am Walk for Alzheimers

Join us for a walk as we raise awareness and support for those affected by Alzheimer’s and Dementia. Light refreshments to follow. Scan the QR code below to learn more. 265 Main St. East Grimsby

Volunteers honoured

The 2025 International Plowing Match & Rural Expo - held at West Niagara Fairgrounds last Sept. 16-20 - was a great success for a lot of reasons, not the least of which were the army of volunteers who worked behind the scenes. Among those recognized at a special Volunteer Appreciation Night on April 26 were: Back Row L to R - Tony Oodshorn, Mayor Cheryl Ganann, Dave Murray, Francis Topp, Henry Swieringa, Mary Jane Combe, Mike Firmin, Chris Freure, Renate McGillivray, Steve Ecker, Joanne Chechalk and Harvey Pot. Photo courtesy of Corrine Bosch.

Background On July 18, 2022, West Lincoln Council approved Official Plan Amendment 62 (OPA 62) which added additional lands to the Hamlet of Fulton. These lands are intended to become a “Rural Employment Area” that supports a variety of businesses who can take advantage of the strategic location between Smithville and Hamilton.

What

In this first phase, the Township is seeking to establish vision for the long-term development of these lands. This will be implemented through new policies in the Township’s Official Plan and new provisions in the Zoning By-Law.

Where are the lands?

Notice of Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment for Fulton Rural Employment Lands (Fulton Hamlet Settlement Area) By the Corporation of the Township of West Lincoln

The Study Area is comprised of approximately 36 hectares (89 acres) of lands bordered by South Grimsby Roads 18 and 19 to the east and west, Regional Road 20 to the south, and the Hydro One corridor to the north.

The Township of West Lincoln has initiated the Fulton Rural Employment Land Use Study and requires an Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment pursuant to Section 22 and Section 34 of the Planning Act R.S.O. 1990, c. P. 13, as amended.

LOCATION: Fulton Hamlet Settlement Area (2973, 2931, 2915 S. Grimsby Rd. 19, 9185, 9177, 9159, 9127, 9103, 9057 Regional Road 20, & Part Lot 34, Concession 8, West Lincoln)

FILE NUMBER: Official Plan Amendment File No. 1701-002-26

Zoning By-law Amendment File No. 1601-003-26

PURPOSE AND EFFECT:

The Study Area is comprised of approximately 36 hectares (89 acres) of land within the Fulton Hamlet Settlement Area located west of South Grimsby Road 18, east of South Grimsby Road 19 and north of Regional Road / Highway 20.

The Study Area was added to the Township of West Lincoln settlement area boundary through the Niagara Official Plan and Township Official Plan Amendment No. 62. An Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment is required to establish land use designations, policies and zoning regulations for a designated Rural Employment Area within the Subject Area and that can be applied to other settlement areas for rural employment in the Township

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION:

The Public Open House is an opportunity for the local to identify specific goals, objectives and principles for the development of these lands.

An introductory presentation will be provided, followed in style event with opportunities for discussion with members the project team. As this is an in-person drop-in event, registration is required to participate.

The Township of West Lincoln is seeking your comments on the proposed Official Plan land use designation and policies as well as the proposed Zoning By-law permitted uses and regulations for Rural Employment Uses. The Public Meeting is an opportunity for public input prior to Council making a decision.

PUBLIC MEETING INFORMATION:

DATE: Monday June 8, 2026

TIME: 6:30 p.m.

LOCATION: Council Chambers Township Office, 318 Canborough Street, Smithville

WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS & NOTIFICATION:

If you would like to be notified of the Township Council’s decision with respect to this planning application, or if you are unable to attend, please submit your written comments or request to be notified to the Township Clerk, Justin Paylove - contact information below.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

The documents and background material for this application can be made available by contacting West Lincoln’s Growth and Sustainability Department – contact information below or on the Township’s webpage link Fulton Rural Employment Area Land Use Study - West Lincoln.

APPEAL INFORMATION:

Only the Minister, the Applicant, specified persons, public bodies, and the registered owner of the land to which the by-law would apply, as defined in the Planning Act, may appeal the decision of Council to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT).

If a person or public body would otherwise have an ability to appeal the decision of Council to the OLT, but the person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Township of West Lincoln before the by-law is passed, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision unless, in the opinion of the OLT, there are reasonable grounds to do so.

The notice of appeal must be filed with the Clerk or submitted through the OLT’s e-file portal (olt.gov.on.ca/e-file-service), by selecting “West Lincoln (Township) : Clerk” as the approval authority, must set out the reasons for the appeal, and be accompanied by the fee required and paid online through e-file or by certified cheque/money order to the Minister of Finance, Province of Ontario. More information on fees can be found on the OLT’s website: olt.gov.on.ca/fee-chart.

The decision of the Township of West Lincoln is final if filing of an appeal is received after 4:30 p.m. of the date of the Notice of Passing in person or electronically and will be deemed to have been received the next business day. If the e-file portal is down, you can submit your appeal to the Township of West Lincoln, 318 Canborough Street, PO Box 400, Smithville, ON, L0R 2A0.

Copies of the Staff Report will be available Friday June 5, 2026 after 4:00 PM on the Township’s website www.westlincoln.ca

Contact:

Susan Smyth

Manager, Community Planning and Design

Justin Paylove

Clerk,

Manager of Legal and Legislative Service ssmyth@westlincoln.ca

905-957-3346 ext. 5133

jpaylove@westlincoln.ca

905-957-3346 ext. 5129

Date of this Notice: May 7, 2026

NATIONAL WEEK

This year we celebrate National Nursing Week from May 11 – 17.

Thank you for caring for our community. You create a lasting impact every day by helping people with your extraordinary skills, commitment and leadership.

Hamilton Health Sciences is honoured to have over 5,000 nurses in frontline and advanced nursing practice roles.

Lamplighter packs ’em in at WNSS

Lincoln Rotary’s Lamplighter Tour appears to have found a new home at West Niagara Secondary School.

The event was hosted at WNSS for the first time last weekend.

“The Show was a great success,” said

Lindsay Dressel, Heather Kirk and Cathy Hayes star in Gary Dandridge’s The Birthing Decision, directed by Loretta Fischer - part of the Lincoln Rotary Club’s Lamplighter Tour.

Martha Kralt, the show’s assistant producer.

“As for the tour, it required some rethinking of how to tell the

stories of our communities, but our artistic team came up with a great concept,” said Rob Foster, who coordinated ticket sales and fundraising.

“Titled ‘Our History

in Motion’, we were able to weave both time and communities together using train travel with our conductor leading the way. We also set a Lamplighter Tour record

The cast of Liz Benneian’s Good Neighbours: Back L to R - Samantha Sansone, Tyler MacKay Robinson, Tommy Terzakis and Leighanna Cushnie. Front: Addison Jeffs and Alexandra Slavin.

PAUL LEWIS SETTIMI

paul@settimilaw.com

Meridian Credit Union was title sponsor.

ROADS

The Study

Notice of Public Information Centre #2

Schedule ‘C’ Municipal Class Environmental Assessment

Smithville Downtown Bypass (Highway 20 / Regional Road 20) in the Township of West Lincoln

Niagara Region, through their consultant WSP Canada Inc., has initiated a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study to examine a potential Highway 20 (Regional Road 20) bypass around downtown Smithville in the Township of West Lincoln. The Study Area surrounds Downtown Smithville, as shown in the key plan.

The Study builds on the Niagara Region’s 2017 Transportation Master Plan and the Township of West Lincoln’s Smithville Master Community Plan, which recommended exploring a bypass north or south of Downtown Smithville. The Study will assess routing options, traffic impacts and infrastructure needs, with a focus on improving safety for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers.

The Process

The Study is being completed in accordance with the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment process as a Schedule C project. It will complete Phases 1 to 4 of the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment process, including evaluation of alternatives and identification of a preferred solution. Upon completion of the Study, an Environmental Study Report will be made available for a 30-day public review period.

You Are Invited to Participate

Consultation with Indigenous Communities, the public, agencies and interested parties is a key part of the Study. Public Information Centre #1 has been held, with two additional sessions planned.

Public Information Centre #2

Date: June 4, 2026 Time: 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Location: West Lincoln Community Centre, Community Room 2 and 3

Address: 177 West St, Smithville, ON L0R 2A0

The in-person, drop-in session will focus on Phase 2 of the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment process, including the long list of bypass alternatives, the evaluation process used to identify short-list alternatives, and feedback received to date. Materials will be available online by June 4, 2026, and comments will be accepted until June 26, 2026.

Stay Connected

Project updates will be posted on the project webpage at niagararegion.ca/projects/smithville-downtown-bypass

For questions, comments, or to be added to the project mailing list, please contact:

Amy Shanks, MCIP, RPP Project Manager, Transportation Planning Niagara Region 905-980-6000 ext. 3532 Amy.Shanks@niagararegion.ca

Jay Goldberg, P.Eng., PMP Senior Project Manager, Transportation Planning WSP Canada Inc. 289-835-2489 Jay.Goldberg@wsp.com

Personal information collected or submitted in writing at public meetings will be collected, used and disclosed by members of Regional Council and Regional staff in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Written submissions, including names, contact information and reports of the public meeting, will be made available. Questions should be referred to the Privacy Office at 905-980-6000 ext. 3779 or FOI@niagararegion.ca.

If you require any accommodations for a disability in order to attend and participate in meetings or events, please let us know in advance, so arrangements can be made. Please contact the Accessibility Advisor at 905-980-6000 ext. 3252 or accessibility@niagararegion.ca

This notice was first issued on May 21, 2026.

Notice of Public MeetiNg

AffordAble HousiNg coMMuNity iMProveMeNt PlAN AMeNdMeNt by tHe corPorAtioN of tHe towNsHiP of west liNcolN

The Township of West Lincoln is initiating an amendment to the Affordable Housing Community Improvement Plan (CIP) in accordance with Section 28 of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990. This amendment will consider the introduction of a Tax Increment Equivalent Grant (TIEG) program to support housing development within the Township.

PurPose ANd effect

The purpose of this amendment is to enhance the existing Affordable Housing CIP by introducing a potential TIEG program to help offset upfront infrastructure costs associated with development.

The amendment process will assess how a TIEG program can be effectively structured and implemented to complement the Township’s existing incentive framework. It will support the continued goal of increasing the supply and diversity of housing options while addressing key barriers to development. The amendment will be undertaken in alignment with the Township’s Official Plan and applicable provincial legislation.

Public PArticiPAtioN

The Township of West Lincoln is seeking your comments on the Affordable Housing Community Improvement Plan Amendment.

Public MeetiNg iNforMAtioN

date: June 8, 2026

time: 6:30 p.m.

location: Council Chambers, Township Administration, 318 Canborough Street, Smithville

writteN subMissioNs & NotificAtioN: If you would like to be notified of the Township Council’s decision with respect to any planning application, or if you are unable to attend, please submit your written comments or request to be notified to the Township Clerk, Justin Paylove.

for More iNforMAtioN

The documents and background material for this application can be made available by contacting West Lincoln’s Growth and Sustainability Department.

APPeAl iNforMAtioN

Only the Minister, the applicant, specified persons, public bodies, and the registered owner of the land to which the by-law would apply, as defined in the Planning Act, may appeal the decision of Council to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT).

If a person or public body would otherwise have an ability to appeal the decision of Council to the OLT, but the person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Township of West Lincoln before the by-law is passed, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision unless, in the opinion of the OLT, there are reasonable grounds to do so.

The Township anticipates presenting the proposed CIP amendment to Council for consideration in July 2026. copies of the staff report will be available friday, June 5, 2026, after 4 p.m. on the township website www.westlincoln.ca.

contact:

Gerrit Boerema,

Justin Paylove, Director, Growth and Sustainability Clerk gboerema@westlincoln.ca jpaylove@westlincoln.ca 905-957-3346 ext. 5131 905-957-3346 ext. 5129

Additional information regarding the Affordable Housing CIP amendment will be available on the Township of West Lincoln’s website at www.westlincoln.ca/affordable-housing-cip.

OBITUARY

SHOESMITH, Beverley Donna (nee Bacon)

Peacefully at Linhaven Long Term Care in St. Catharines on Friday, April 10, 2026, in her 89th year, Beverley Shoesmith passed away. Bev leaves behind her children, Barbara (Robert), Bruce (Pam), and Christine (Andrew). She will be remembered by her grandchildren, Steven (Kally), Adam (Jaclyn), Jennifer (Jim), Bryan (Andre), Christopher, Jacob (Talia), and Nolan (Carly). Bev is also missed by her great-grandchildren, Lilyann, Devin, Zoey, Alex, and Smith. She is predeceased by her husband, David, and her infant sister, Eleanor. Bev gave many wonderful years of service to the community of Smithville and St. Lukes Church and received the Order of Niagara for her significant contributions. She will be sorely missed. She was also an active member of the Smithville Legion and the Smithville Garden Club for years. Visitation took place at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, Smithville on Wednesday, April 15. A funeral service followed at the church. If desired, memorial donations to St. Luke’s Anglican Church can be made by contacting Merritt Funeral Home at (905) 957-7031.

Our plan to protect Ontario is fighting for every steel job

As

That’s how we protect Ontario.

The theme for Police Week 2026, “Protecting Ontario Through Service” speaks to the heart of modern policing; a commitment that extends beyond enforcement to meaningful, communityfocused service. From Sunday, May 10 to Saturday, May 16, Police Week gives us a moment to recognize the dedication of our sworn and civilian members, and the many partners who stand alongside us in keeping our communities safe. Together with service agencies,

CHIEF

From

we continue to build trust while strengthening relationships and addressing the evolving needs of our region.

Much of what our officers do happens quietly; important work that often goes unseen and sometimes unrecognized.

Police Week gives us the opportunity to shine a light on that everyday commitment, and to thank our members for their professionalism and com-

Barber Shop

With the warmer weather upon the region, major outdoor projects start to take priority.

Many residents use this time to make repairs to their homes and properties. In the past there have been many scams for driveway repairs by fly-by-night or illegitimate companies.

These companies use high pressure sales and scare tactics to lure would be clients into agreeing to a contract.

The scammers then either do not complete the work, use subpar ma-

From all the guys at Cicen, Stay Safe

Cicen

terials or pressure clients into further “emergency” work that is often not needed.

Recently, there have been reports of a similar scam in the roofing industry.

Companies that appear to be real come door to door and use high pressure tactics to get people to agree to have “necessary” or “emergency” repairs to their roofs. A price is quoted and a down payment is requested and made. The company then states that the

See SCAM, Page 23

SCAM

From Page 22 job is much bigger than what was first believed and demand an astronomically high amount to “fix” the roof. Residents feel pressure to comply because now their roof is off and/or covered with a tarp.

Always ask for a written

quote which should include:

• An itemized list of materials to be used and their cost;

• The cost of labour for the time estimated for the work;

• The name of the company and/or the company’s registered business number as well as contact information.

Anyone with fraud concerns

lice Service at 905-688-4111, to file a report.

Dean Allison MP

Helping Your Teen Drive with Confidence

BAKER, Dale Vincent Roger

Dale Vincent Roger Baker passed away peacefully on Friday, May 8, 2026, surrounded by family and friends at McNally House Hospice, after a long and courageous battle with Multiple Myeloma. He faced his illness with the same determination, humour, and strength that defined his life. Dale shared 52 years of marriage with his best friend Eve, and was the proud father of Jason (Dawn) and Jenn (Adam Finocchi). He was the very best Papa to Tessa, Boden and Deacon, who he meant the world to. Born in Cornwall on April 5, 1954, to Orval and Shirley Baker, Dale was one of six children. He was predeceased by his brothers Kenneth Baker, Daniel Baker (Sue), and Corey Baker (Lois), and his sister Patricia Bissonnette (John). He is lovingly remembered by his sister Diana Taylor (Charles), as well as many extended family members, neighbours and lifelong friends. Dale will be remembered for his sarcastic wit, legendary Irish goodbyes, and the simple joys he loved most such as watching football, riding around town on his motorcycle, tinkering in the pole barn, and spending time with family and friends. He cherished quiet moments on the porch with Eve and their canine companion. He proudly dedicated over 30 years to the Town of Grimsby, where he was known for his strong work ethic and generosity. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Maida, Dr. Volz, and the compassionate staff and volunteers at McNally House Hospice for the exceptional care and kindness shown to Dale and his loved ones. In keeping with Dale’s wishes, there will be no service or celebration of life. A private cremation has taken place and family and friends are encouraged to honour Dale simply by remembering him. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever quoted by all who had the privilege of knowing him. If desired, memorial donations to the Myeloma Canada or McNally House Hospice would be sincerely appreciated by the family. On-line tributes and condolences can be made at www.smithsfh. com. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755.

mckinnon, Christopher

(Chris) Gerrard

Christopher “Chris” Gerrard McKinnon passed away suddenly at his home in Niagara Falls on the morning of May 3, 2026, at the age of 64. His dry wit and unique take on the world will be missed by his sisters Cathy Bogusat (Jim), Debbie Knight, Kelly Christie, Tracey and his brothers Mike (Joanne) and Guy. He adored his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, and was always there to celebrate each milestone, births, good grades, graduations, and first jobs. Uncle Chris was their biggest cheerleader, and he will be missed dearly by all who knew and loved him. Christopher was predeceased by his parents, Ang and Charlie; his older brothers, Jim and Brian; and his sister, Maureen. He graduated from Beamsville District Secondary School and continued his education in Toronto. It is there that he worked in the hospitality industry for several years before returning to the Niagara Region. Chris always enjoyed a good game of bridge and played online daily. He was the McKinnon family historian, always remembering every date and detail in the life of each family member. Christopher appreciated the finer things in life and recognized good quality when he saw it. His belief in Jesus was very important to him and brought him great peace. In keeping with Chris’ wishes, cremation has taken place, and arrangements have been entrusted to Essentials Cremation and Burial Services. A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, May 23, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 612. In lieu of flowers, donations to the CNIB Foundation Guide Dogs program would be greatly appreciated (https://secure.cnib.ca/ui/GNdonate/donations/ start). Online condolences may be shared on Chris’ tribute page at essentialsniagara.com

HELP WANTED

Waterview Farms: Greenhouse Worker

4925 Martin Rd. N., Vineland Station, ON L0R 2E0

Seasonal Full-Time September to December 2026. $17.60/hour - 40 to 60 hours/week.

Hours each week vary depending on weather and crop readiness.

Will train employees for Soil preparation, filling pots, planting, pinching plants, weeding, irrigating, packaging and harvesting and preparing for shipping plants. Inside and outside work in all weather conditions. Spanish speaking skills an asset. Own transportation required. Applicants must be reliable, willing and able to perform the physical job duties.

Send resume and cover letter to Ron at: rons@waterviewfarms.com

FREE

BIg solId oak taBle and 2 table leaves, with 5 double pedestal chairs. Needs a little refinishing. 905-945-3448

De Bruyne, Pastor

Peter William “Pim” Passed away at Shalom Manor in Grimsby, on Monday, May 11, 2026, in his 94th year. Beloved husband of the late Anne (nee Heerema) (2023). Loved father of Cathy Miedema (Peter), Vivian Luymes (Alan), Peter DeBruyne (Deb) and Anna DeBruyne. Cherished Opa of Jonathan (Rachel)), Eric (Kathleen), Matthew (Lindsay), Amy (Daniel), Nicole (Michael), Julia (Stuart), Jessica (Nathan), Christian (Pearl), Jacob (Candice), Daniel (Davita), Zachary (Malorie), Nicholas (Tessa), Henry (Danielle), Marja and Cilene (Scott). Great-opa of 36 great-grandchildren. Dear brother of Peter, Otto and the late Ad, Cees, Rinie, Nel and Frits. Special thanks to the nurses and staff at Shalom Manor for their exceptional care and compassion.

“I lift of my eyes to the mountains, where does my help come from?

My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth “ Psalm 121:1&2

Visitation at Mountainview Christian Reformed Church, 290 Main Street East, Grimsby, on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., where the Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 11 a.m. Private family interment at Queen’s Lawn Cemetery will take place before the service. If desired, memorial contributions to Karis Disability Services (formerly Christian Horizons) or Shalom Manor would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755. www.smithsfh.com

kent, Clyde

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Clyde kent on April 22, 2026 at McNally House Hospice. He brought joy to all who knew him. We will miss him.

master mason: chimney repair, stucco, parging, brick restoration, stone, all cement finish work. Professional, reliable, excellent referrals. Estimates. Evan 905-921-5226

OBITUARIES

jeremy, Patricia marie (nee

Cousins)

Passed away peacefully at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, on Friday, May 8, 2026, in her 86th year. Beloved wife of the late Joseph Jeremy (2013). Loving mother of Deborah White (Claude), Pamela Beckwith (Richard) and Joseph C. Jeremy (Pamela Wilson). Cherished and proud grandmother of Candace Allen, Karleen Crane (Christopher), Richard Beckwith Jr. (Christine), Liam Jeremy and Juniper Jeremy. Special great-grandmother of Cooper Allen, Christopher Allen, Zackary Crane and Travis Crane. She will also be fondly remembered by her nieces, nephews and extended family. Predeceased by her parents Alice and Alfred Cousins, and her brother Raymond Cousins, and survived by her dear friend and sister Joan Coulthard (nee Cousins). Following Pat’s wishes, there will be no service and cremation has taken place. If esired, memorial contributions to GBF Community Services, Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of your choice would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755). www.smithsfh.com

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

sTruggling WiTh hurTs, hang-ups or habiTs? “Celebrate Recovery (CR)” 12 step Christian Recovery for Healing, Help and Hope. All Welcome! Wed. at 7 pm. Forestview Church, 132 Lake St, Grimsby. For info. or help, CR@forestviewcommunitychurch.ca 905-9459529

painTing

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 Doug for a quote today at 905-979-2151.

LANDSCAPING

ron’s Tree & shrub service Removal, pruning, stump grinding, shrub care. Call Ron 905-563-4593

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sat. & sun., May 16 & 17 8 a.m - 3 p.m. 1762 Abingdon Road, Caister Centre

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MAY 23

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5020 Serena Dr., Beamsville Main parking lot (south side)

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/// Meet Public Works trucks & equipment

/// Family-friendly activities & games

/// Coffee provided by Tim Hortons

/// Beamsville Lions Club food truck – food & drinks available for purchase

The Age-Friendly and Active Community Advisory Committee Presents:

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SATURDAY RIDE WITH US OR 11AM 1PM

MAY 23

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Love it or hate it, Grimsby council got it right

I have disagreed with Grimsby Coun. Jennifer Korstanje on many fronts during her time on council.

However, I must say, her statement in support of The Woolverton was as on point as any elected official could ever be.

Birthday surprise

There was a great turnout Saturday when an open house was hosted in Smithville to honour the community’s favourite son, Ivan Carruthers. There are few good reasons to go on social media any more, but to salute Mr. Carruthers was one. So when I saw Steve Ecker’s post noting West Lincoln Fire Department turned out to salute his Dad, I offered, “As West Lincoln continues to be built into a community which is and will be the envy of many, all who enjoy that bright future should be aware of the people like Ivan Carruthers whose shoulders the community was built on.” West Lincoln should have a volunteer or community builder award that is NOT annual, but is only presented to those rare few who come close to setting the bar Mr. Carruthers has set. A fine gentlemen. A class act. A pillar of the community to be sure!

“If this goes to OLT, a higher height will be asked for. The data, which we hear from staff and consultants that we paid and we hired support this. They support the parking. They support the process of it.”

“People will say, ‘this is political suicide. You’re not going to get elected again.’ So be it. You know what? I am going to do what is in the best interest of our community. I’ll sacrifice my own personal goals for that. That’s ok. This is the right thing to do based on the data that we have.”

Preach!

Now, there was even more to it than that, but those comments were at the heart of what Grimsby council needed to do on Monday.

The haters - and there are many - need to step back and look at the reality of the planning environment in which we live today.

No, not the 70s. Heck, not even the 2000s. Today, we have planning processes which are a greased track to stuff downtown Toronto planning needs into the smallest communities in the province.

Build, build, build. No matter what, when or where.

And do it fast.

The Planning Act has been rejigged and refashioned so

many times in recent years, municipalities are having to hire consultants just to keep up with the interpretations. Then when they think they have the lay of the land, the Ontario Land Tribunal - or is it the Ontario Municipal Board - or is it....bah, the appeal process has been bastardized beyond recognition to the point where developers come away with even more than they were originally asking for.

It’s bananas!

Even aside from the current planning environment, Grimsby’s parking problems started decades ago when the first hi-rise was set for Grimsby-on-the-lake. Every condo built since has been 15 per cent - at least - underserviced for parking. Now, in GOTL, that impact is somewhere between 450-500 parking spaces underserviced.

The precedent is long established, yet another reason the Town would lose big time with any OLT appeal. It would be a complete waste of time, money and effort.

You want to complain, Grimsby residents?

Pick up the phone and call MPP Sam Oosterhoff. The planning guidelines set in motion by the provincial government are 100 per cent responsible for what you are seeing and what you will see built. Sadly, and make no mistake, it is sad, local councils have next to no say any more.

If you’re angry, if you’re upset. You are fully entitled to feel that way. Both sides of the equation are correct, which is odd, but true. Those who voted in favour did so based on the current planning merits and to stem the economic and potential of an even larger build impacts on the town. Those who think it too big, too many units, not enough parking are also correct - if you are trying to match up Grimsby’s historic feel with a development set to today’s standards.

As I have stated before, parking, parking, parking rose to the top as the main issue. Interestingly, the Grimsby BIA supported a design which will remove nearly two-thirds of on-street Main Street parking but have been up in arms about The Woolverton’s lack of parking. Residents, if there is any impact on parking, will cause an issue at night when home from typical work hours - as studies show. During business hours, what will have a bigger impact then? Losing 20 on-street spots at the front door of Grimsby stores, or parking out back, vacated during the day while residents are at work?

Look past the obvious electioneering here people. Some are just playing the game.

GBF docuseries to be released May 21

By Evan Loree For NewsNow

A new Grimsby Benevolent Fund documentary will be shown for the first time Tuesday, May 19 at Mountainview Christian Reformed Church at 6 p.m.

The five-part docuseries - produced by Grimsby filmmaker Adrian Gentili - will be released in full on Bell Canada’s Fibe TV1 May 21, after the screening of the first three episodes on May 19.

Each episode is about 15-20 minutes.

Fibe TV1 broadcasts hyperlocal, under-reported stories in communities all across Canada.

The GBF Initiative, the title of the new docuseries, sheds light on the history and impact of Grimsby’s 60-year-old food bank and community charity.

Gentili said he was scouted by the television broadcaster which was looking for filmmakers native to Niagara.

Gentili already thought the GBF would be a good subject for a documentary.

“I thought, ‘you know what, it’s worth diving deeper into something like this.’”

Gentili, who grew up in Stoney Creek, attended Toronto Metropolitan University for his education in film and moved to Grimsby about six years ago.

Gentili has worked on a range of projects, including the Shudder TV docuseries Cursed Films

and romantic drama Darkest Miriam.

After getting the green light for the documentary from Fibe TV1, he reached out to GBF chief executive officer Stacy Elia who was immediately on board.

“I was thrilled,” Elia said.

The timing couldn’t have been better, she said, as the GBF was in the middle of celebrating its 60th year in operation, she added.

Filming started April 2025 and wrapped up in late December.

“Originally the project was supposed to end with their big 60th celebration that happened in September,” Gentili said.

But knowing the charity was prepping for some of its biggest fundraisers in the fall, he decided to get an extension from Fibe.

“I had no idea, the scope of

their operation,” he said.

The GBF runs a thrift store out of its main building, but before he started filming, Gentili said he was unaware it ran a food bank out of the same building.

According to Elia, the GBF serviced 490 households and had 18,179 visits to its foodbank in 2025.

Gentili was also surprised to learn the store needs to close its warehouse to deliveries periodically after hitting capacity.

“That really blew me away,” he said.

Still, Gentili said he could have filmed more as he did not have much time to cover the non-profit’s history.

“He just did a beautiful job” Elia said.

Elia and a couple of other GBF team members were treated to a private screening of the final product.

In addition to shooting the charity’s fundraisers, Gentili interviewed almost 40 people for the project, including staffers, volunteers and even some of its clients.

Elia was impressed he managed to whittle hundreds of hours of footage into a little more than 90 minutes.

“I’ve had such a great time working on this project,” Gentili said.

Unsure of what to work on next, Gentili said he’d be interested in doing more hyperlocal documentory work like this.