> Banner week for WLMH reno/rebuild endeavour /Pg 4 > West Lincoln extends COVID-19 relief Pg 6 > Mike says ‘thanks’ for 25 years! Pg 15 > West Lincoln food drive rocks Pg 17 Thursday, May 7, 2020 Vol. 9 Issue 1
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Basic discussion descends into council mayhem Grimsby council struggles to work through the simplest of administrative issues By Mike Williscraft NewsNow A simple budget item to establish the Town’s tax rate set off another round of finger pointing, raised voices, points of order, calls for sanctions and microphones being muted at Monday’s meeting of Grimsby council. After Grimsby’s director of finance Steven Gruninger worked through the document which sets the Town’s tax levy and tax rates - with 2020 total revenue at $14.37 million up from $12.48 million in 2019 - Coun. Lianne Vardy renewed her call for a review of the 2020 budget “to give our residents some relief.” Aside from the matter of ex-
treme time conincrease on the traints outlined Town portion “There are 2-3 by Gruninger due of the tax bill. to filing dead- councillors - from their He said counlines of tax rate limited knowledge of cil should wait information with after municipal budgets - until Niagara Region hearing the and the Province who propose to reduce June 1 report of Ontario, some before conthe budget” members of sidering such Coun. Dave Sharpe a move. council thought a review comCoun. Dave pletely unnecessary while oth- Sharpe noted that Niagara Reers said it was premature since a gion has already announced COreport on the financial impact of VID-19’s impact will be about $7 COVID-19 on the town is expected million while Welland has conat the June 1 council meeting. firmed a $4.4 million hit, so he did Coun. Kevin Ritchie called it not want the budget changed so “crazy” to review the budget, the town did not double up on which brought in a 13.4 per cent the financial hit.
As far as the eye can see
GBF’s parking lot was packed with donations, sorted by the volunteers from the Grimsby Firefighters Association and Town staff on Saturday. All this came from the one day ‘Feed Hope’ food drive. For more, turn to Page 8. Marks - Photo
Sharpe said if revenues are reduced and COVID-19 pushes costs up, the Town would pay “two ways”. “It’s a mistake,” said Sharpe of lowering the budget. “There are 2-3 councillors - from their limited knowledge of municipal budgets - who propose to reduce the budget.” Similar to Coun. Randy Vaine’s assertion at the previous meeting of council that the CAO should have the ability to make unilateral decisions, Sharpe said the town had experienced staff who should make the call on spending. At that point, Vaine threw more gas on the fire by citing the debate See DEBATE, Page 3
Page 2 • News Now • Thursday, May 7, 2020
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DEBATE From Page 1 regarding a $72,000 lawnmower purchase approved at the last council meeting, what he considered a waste of money to get a legal opinion on an interim control bylaw discussed earlier Monday and the Town’s spend on a heritage study planned for Main Street East which he has noted several times is not needed. “If you want to spend your money on pet projects, let’s bring back the biodigester. That was a pet project.” At that point, Vardy called a point of order, saying, “I am offended”, before she was cut off by Vaine, who maintained he was “on topic”. When he persisted as Mayor Jeff Jordan attempted to take control, Vaine’s microphone was cut off and comments simply moved on to Coun. Reg Freake. “I take offence at Coun. Sharpe saying we don’t know anything about budgets,” said Freake. “Revenue is what makes a budget, then you put costs around them. If we can cut costs, then we don’t spend money on hirings we don’t need. It’s not in the best interests of the Town. What is it about that that you guys have such a negative atti-
tude about going back and looking at it (spending).” What Sharpe seemed to misunderstand noted Coun. Reg Freake was that his interest in a review was to get projected costs down to create a financial buffer for the COVID-19 financial hit council knows is coming. The subsequent item on the agenda - the extension of some financial measures waiving tax late fees and interest - was estimated to cost the Town about $180,000 on its own, noted Freake. “It happens all the time in the business world, every quarter budgets are reviewed. I get frustrated when we keep sticking our heads in the sand when this (a review of spending) is in the best interests of the Town.” In the past, Freake and others had supported a hiring freeze, among other possible measures, with the Town having approved many new positions in the 2020 budget, however five councillors who largely pushed the budget through have remained steadfast in not allowing any reconsideration of expenses or directions they have already approved. Vardy had sought to get a twothirds majority to bring the budget up for review Monday night, but Jor-
dan noted staff were not prepared and said he would support dealing with it at the May 19 meeting of council. In the subsequent debate regarding the relief measure from COVID-19 impact, Sharpe suggested residents would be better off to pay other expenses and withhold their tax payments since the Town’s interest rate was only 1.25 per cent. When Jordan noted it was 1.25 per cent month - 15 per cent annually Sharpe realized his error. “Don’t follow my financial advice,” he laughed. Freake renewed his assertion that costs need to be put in check immediately. “These guys (Niagara Region and Welland) are looking at their budgets and figuring out where they can cut costs,” said Freake. CAO Harry Schlange said there have been two rounds of cuts - March 14 and April 6 - already. “We thought you would come back with another request,” said Schlange, so another review has been ongoing looking for more cost savings. He asked council to wait for his June 1 report which he said would give a “comprehensive look” at the Town’s financial picture.
When Vardy weighed back in to say she would prefer to reopen the matter Monday as opposed to waiting two more weeks, and followed that with a request the mayor sanction Vaine “for his disparaging remarks”, Vaine jumped in again saying he found Vardy’s comments offensive and he requested the mayor sanction Vardy. Gruninger noted the clock was ticking with June 1 being the deadline when tax information had to be submitted elsewhere. So with Schlange, Ritchie and Sharpe all saying council should wait until June 1’s report, Jordan said it was clear that suggestion was worthless. “So waiting to June was bad advice. We need to do this May 19,” noted Jordan. Sharpe, again, went off seemingly missing Freake’s point again. “If we reduce the budget, it saves money for taxpayers but we have to pay for things,” said Sharpe. “It’s backwards.” Sharpe’s sound was cut off. “How did we get so off topic,” asked Coun. Dave Kadwell. Council got back on topic and passed the relief measures unanimously.
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Tender issued for WLMH Stage 3 design fixture upgrades, and by the hospital.” delay in the process. By Mike Williscraft “This is very millwork. From HHS’s perspecStage 3’s request for proNewsNow It has been a very big week posals for the planning, de- tive, officials there are “The Action Commitimportant to get for West Lincoln Memorial sign and conformance team thankful for the support tee is very pleased with shovels in the ground HHS and Infrastructure for the new build has been of the MoH. Hospital. “HHS’ Capital Planning First, it was announced issued. Infrastructure OnOntario fulfilling their which we are still that provincial officials tario will lead this process. team continues to work to rehoping for Fall of 2021,” commitment have given the green light The RFP, which was devel- with Infrastructure Onbuild our beloved hos- Action Committee to allow Hamilton Health oped with support from the tario, Ministry of Health, pital, which we need Sciences to issue the ten- HHS team, was released in consultants, and other more than ever,” co-chair Tony Joosse now partners, to advance der for Stage 3’s design for mid-April. said Tony Joosse, cobeen placed on its concrete While combining stages plans for the new hospithe rebuild process. chair of the WLMH Action Second, the air handler - to streamline processes tal and remains on track,” pad. Committee. Visitor restrictions in the the major component part is not unusual, the flow of said Kelly Campbell, HHS’s “Under these unusual of the immediate renova- approvals has been given vice-president, corporate hospital have impacted times, we’re pleased to see tion work needed to get the expedited consideration by services and capital devel- some internal work asso- the air handler has arrived ciated with infrastructure and this is key to getting facility’s operating rooms the provincial government. opment. “We have worked closely projects. “I’m so glad to see the back online - has arrived back to two fully operaOutside the building, con- tional operating rooms in work is continuing on the with government to develand is set to be installed. In 2019 the Ministry of new hospital. It’s vitally im- op a combined Stage 2/3 tractors are reaching proj- September, understanding Health (MoH) approved portant for our communi- process to complete Stage ect milestones, including: with no clients we will need HHS’s working on both ty,” said Niagara West MPP 4 (Financial Close) by June • Commissioning the coolto build the traffic back up 2022. With ongoing collab- ing tower; Stage 2 and Stage 3 simul- Sam Oosterhoff. to full capacity. We hope “Seeing Hamilton Health oration and support from • Completing the wiring taneously. HHS has staff in place to fill Stage 2 focuses on the Sciences work simultane- everyone involved, we can needed for the second the expected need.” development of the “Func- ously on Stages 2 and 3 is achieve this goal. The flex- generator; As for the Stage 3 tender tional Program”, identifying an excellent step forward ibility, commitment and • Planning for lab upprocess getting underway, how services will be situ- for the speedy completion ongoing leadership pro- grades, and; that is another key part ated and work together in of the project. I know every- vided by provincial and lo- • Laying the concrete pad of achieving the end goal, one has worked very hard cal government partners to for the operating room the new building. said Joosse. Staff and physician user to get to this stage, and it support this work is appre- (OR)/endoscopy area air “Seeing the confirmation handling unit. groups are currently pro- couldn’t have happened ciated.” of the tender call for dePlans are in place to com- sign and conformance conviding input on this plan- without the incredible sup- WLMH INFRASTRUCTURE plete the second part of the sulting services for the new RENOVATIONS ning work. Some of this port and momentum of the lab infrastructure work the WLMH is a key plank in the With Monday’s arrival of work had to be deferred residents who are served the air handler - a major last week in May. due to COVID-19. Teams Stage 3,” said Joosse. Work is underway to prepiece of the renovawill be engaged in the “This tender closes May “Seeing Hamilton tion puzzle which had pare for the OR/Endosco- 12th with the hope of an planning process as Health Sciences work to be designed and py work (i.e., inventory of early award of the consoon as it is safe and built specifically for stock and equipment, emp- tract to ensure Phase 3 is simultaneously on practical to do so. WLMH’s needs - the tying endoscopy rooms) taking place while HHS finIt is expected that Stages 2 and 3 is ongoing renovation with a review plans with the ishes stage 2. This is very submission of Stage 2 an excellent step project is on time and contractor ongoing. documentation will go important to get shovels There is also some work in the ground which we on budget, according to the MoH in the late forward,” to complete in a few areas are still hoping for Fall of to HHS officials. fall. HHS officials do not MPP Sam Oosterhoff The air handler has of the hospital- paint, light 2021.” see this as a significant
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Grimsby businesses launch gift card drive Help the merchants of downtown Grimsby give the gift of support to the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital’s frontline workers. From May 8 to June 24, Grimsby residents can support both local business and their hospital by buying a downtown Grimsby gift card package. Downtown merchants have pooled together gift cards to sell packages totalling $200 in value for only $100. The packages will contain an assortment of $25 gift cards from local Grimsby businesses such as Harmony Jewellers, Giant Tiger, Casa Toscana and much more. All proceeds will go directly to the WLMH. Drive organizer Lacey Horn, who is also the general manager of Harmony Jewellers, said this is a way for businesses
to get a head start for when the province starts easing restrictions while also supporting Grimsby’s community. “We’re seeing a lot of people want to support local by buying gift cards for when things open again,” said Horn. “At the same time we merchants want to give back to the
community as a downtown.” The gift card bundles will be available for purchase from any of Grimsby’s participating businesses. Participating businesses will also be sharing information via social media on how to purchase gift card bundles from them during the ongoing shutdown.
News Now • Thursday, May 7, 2020 • Page 5
NIAGARA’s
other essential services Keeping Niagara Maintained
During the COVID-19 pandemic a number of critical municipal services must continue in order to keep our communities safe, healthy and functional. public lawn, Forestry & park maintenance to Control overgrowth, Rodents, ticks, and weeds Lacey Horn, general manager of Harmony Jewellers is one of the downtown merchants organizing the gift card drive. Marks - Photo
Repairs & other Operations to Bridges, roads, sidewalks, traffic Signals, and water and wastewater Services Outdoor sports facilities to maintain quality and function of baseball diamonds, golf courses, soccer fields and more
FOR MORE INFO GO TO NIAGARAREGION.CA/COVID19 These services being done by Niagara’s municipalities meet the Province of Ontario guidelines for essential services.
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Page 6 • News Now • Thursday, May 7, 2020
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By Tristan Marks NewsNow Residents in the Township of West Lincoln are getting some more breathing room when it comes to paying municipal fees. Council passed a resolution to extend measures aimed at providing financial relief to residents and property owners at their April 27 meeting. The following financial relief measures have been extended until June 30: • The waiver of penalty for nonpayment or late payment of taxes levied and charged in 2020 • The waiver of penalty and any other
associated fees for non-payment or late payment of water bills issued in 2020 • The waiver of penalty on Accounts Receivable amounts past due • The waiver of NSF (non-sufficient funds) charges. The original measures, which were enacted at a March council meeting, were slated to end May 31. The extension comes after the Province of Ontario extended its state of emergency until May 12. According to a report from West Lincoln treasurer Donna DeFilippis, continuing the financial relief would keep the
Township consistent with most of Niagara’s other lower-tier municipalities. Coun. William Reilly said this extra help would “go a long way” for residents affeted by the ongoing closures and impact to the economy. “I think this is going to help a lot of those families who aren’t having much luck,” said Reilly. Coun. Jason Trombetta asked the treasurer what percentage of residents are opting to utilize the deferrals rather than paying up front. DeFilippis said the Township has no way of knowing until the April 30 tax deadline, which had not yet arrived at the time of
this meeting. Her report estimated that the town would have a total estimated impact of $35,000 to the Township’s revenue. The waiver of water penalty and fees would result in an estimated revenue loss of just over $9,800. According to the treasurer’s report this loss “will have a direct impact on the water and wastewater reserves.” To mitigate these mounting costs, West Lincoln has laid off crossing guards and cancelled spring fitness classes. The township will also delay the hiring of new positions approved in the 2020 budget
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Page 8 • News Now • Thursday, May 7, 2020
GBF drive reaches single-day donation record By Tristan Marks NewsNow The Grimsby Benevolent Fund (GBF) called on the community to step up, and step up they did-in droves. The GBF side parking lot was near full of donations to the food bank on Saturday for the Feed Hope drive. Total donations for the day reached a final count of 19,000 kilograms. “This was a single day record,” said Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jordan. “Unbelievable.” Members of the Grimsby Firefighters Association along with their family members and town staff came out to gather up nonperishable food and other household items from front doors and sort them out in the GBF parking lot starting at 8 a.m. Only employees were able to join
in the sorting as their volunteers were told to stay home as a COVID-19 precaution. Everyone handling the donations wore masks and gloves. Although the firefighters finished gathering donations early in the afternoon, they brought in so much from the community that GBF ran out of boxes to hold the food. “I could absolutely cry right now seeing what the community has given today,” said GBF executive director Stacy Elia. She thanked the firefighters and Town of Grimsby staff who provided eager hands as well as the community for its town-wide display of generosity. “I want this community to know that they are truly changing people’s lives today with what they gave today,” said Elie.
Paul and Marcy Stone help sort through the field of donations in the GBF parking lot. Photos by Tristan Marks
L-R) Jennifer, Katie, Ray, and Sylvia Weninger work together as a food-sorting family unit.
(Below): Laura Cunneyworth picks up the last of a load of food donations delivered via a firefighter service vehicle.
GBF president Irene Podolak works the food bank sorting table.
News Now • Thursday, May 7, 2020 • Page 9
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Lincoln calls on community to share memories and photos to celebrate town’s 50th birthday The Town of Lincoln is calling for help from its residents to help remember the past in celebration of its 50th anniversary. Lincoln residents are called to submit photographs and memories from the past half century to info@lincoln.ca before July 31. They can also submit entries on social media using the hashtag #LincolnON50. These entries will be compiled into an interactive digital exhibit curated by and for the Lincoln community. Lincoln CAO Michael Kirkopoulos said the town was originally planning on using the entries to
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make a Lincoln 50 mural in the Fleming Centre. Since the centre and other Lincoln facilities are shut down, the town has had to improvise for this and other planned events. “We’ve had to get creative on so many fronts on how we deliver programming and celebrate what were typical and traditional events,” said Kirkopoulos. “People more than ever want to connect to something and so we’ve tried where possible to use technology to connect as a community.” Those who submit their photographs and memories for this exhibit will have a chance to win a $50 gift card for their favourite business in Lincoln.
McNally House webinar May 14 McNally House Hospice has scheduled a special COVID-19 bereavement webinar for Thursday May 14. ‘Bereavement in a time of COVID-19’, which will be presented by McNally bereavement clinician Jennifer Jowla-
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Niagara West Consumer Survey
Please take a few minutes to offer information which will be utilized to help you, good reader, have your needs met by shopping local. All personal information is confidential. Businesses, just like residents, are not sure of what the future holds. However, by providing a little insight into what your needs are going to be moving forward, Niagara West merchants want to be ready to fill those needs. For your troubles, one lucky respondent will win a draw for a fabulous reward!!! Chef Jan-Willem Stulp of Grand Oak Culinary Market has graciously offered to supply an in-home Dinner for 8 ($100pp value), including 2 flights of wine (must be over 19). It will be a gourmet, multi-course dinner with menu and timing (no Sundays) to be confirmed with the successful survey respondent. Thanks in advance and good luck!!! 1. Are you 18 years of age or older? Yes o No o 2. What local news source are you using most now? Mark three Boxes. Local Newspaper............... o Local Newspaper website.... o Television.............................. o Radio....................................... o Apple News.......................... o Facebook.............................. o Twitter.................................... o Other....................................... o 3. What news information is important to you right now? Check all which apply. Weekly updates on Covid-19 impact on our community............................ o Local resources available to our community to lessen impact of Covid-19.............. o Personal stories on the impact of Covid-19 on households........................... o Community news and town council coverage.... o Feature stories: personal profiles, heritage................ o Online services being offered in the community.. o Unemployment resources for persons laid off............ o Assistance resources available for local businesses... o Other....................................... o 4. What information would you like to see from local businesses? Check all that apply. General Status..................... o Hours of Operation........... o Services Offered................. o New Services Offered...... o Online Services Offered.. o Employment Needs........... o Other....................................... o 5. Have you or any member of your household read the local newspaper in the past WEEK? Yes o No o
6. Which Automotive Service do you expect to utilize in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Auto Body Shop................. o Auto Detailing Shop......... o Auto Glass Repair.............. o Oil Change Station............ o Auto Parts Store ............... o Auto Repair Shop.............. o New Vehicle Dealership... o Used Vehicle Dealership. o RV Dealership...................... o Tire Shop............................... o None of the above............. o 7. Which of the following Grocery Stores do you or members of your family plan to use in the next 30 Days? Health Food Store............. o Farmers’ Market.................. o Grocery Store...................... o Specialty Food Market..... o 8. Which of the following Personal Care businesses do you or members of your family plan to use in the next 3 months? Barbershop........................... o Day Spa.................................. o Hair Salon.............................. o Nail Salon.............................. o 9. Which of the following Sporting/Recreation Goods businesses do you or a family member plan to use in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Bicycle Shop........................ o Golf Course........................... o New Sporting Good Store.o Used Sporting Good Store.o 10. Which of the following Event Planning services do you plan to utilize in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Catering Service................. o Room/Hall Booking........... o Restaurant............................ o 11. Which of the following Financial Services businesses do you or any member of your family plan to
GET NEW or CHANGE your current provider for in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Bank........................................ o Credit Union......................... o Financial Advisor................ o Stockbroker.......................... o None of the above............. o 12. Which of the following types of Health and Medical Practitioners do you or members of your household plan to GET NEW or CHANGE your current provider in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Chiropractor......................... o Dentist.................................... o General Practitioner.......... o Family Practitioner............ o Optometrist.......................... o Pediatrician........................... o None of the above............. o 13. Which of the following Local Services do you or members of your family plan to shop at in the next three months? Check all that apply. Bottled Water Delivery.... o Courier/Delivery Service.o Cremation Services........... o Dry Cleaning/Laundry...... o Electronics Repair.............. o Funeral Service Provider.o IT Services............................. o Marriage Counsellor.......... o Moving Truck Rental......... o Mobile or Cell Service/ Repair..................................... o Propane Dealer................... o Self-Storage Facility......... o Sewing/Alteration Shop.. o Small Engine Repair.......... o 14. Which type of Home Service Contractor do you plan to use in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Electrician............................. o Painter.................................... o Plumber.................................. o Renovator............................. o None of The Above........... o
15. Which of the following Home Service Contractors may you or a member of your household use in the next three months? Check all that apply. Air Duct Cleaner................. o Concrete Contractor......... o Furnace - new or repair... o General Contractor............ o Handyman............................. o Heating & Air Conditioning.. o Home Security..................... o Junk Removal...................... o Kitchen/Bath Remodelling.o Landscaper........................... o Moving Company............... o New Home Builder............ o Remodelling Contractor.. o Roofing Contractor........... o Septic Tank Contractor... o None of the above............. o 16. Which Home Service Businesses do you or members of your family plan to use in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Carpet Cleaning.................. o Fuel or Oil Home Heating.o Furnace Cleaning............... o Home Theatre Installation.o Home Gardening Service.o House Cleaning Service... o Landscaper........................... o Pest Control......................... o Pool Cleaning....................... o Shades/Blinds Installer.... o Television or Internet Provider................................. o Water Treatment Supply/ Service.................................... o Window/Door Installer.... o None of The Above........... o 17. Which of the following Pet and Animal businesses do you or members of your family plan to use in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Animal Daycare.................. o Animal Shelter..................... o Bird Seed Store................... o Pet Groomer........................ o Pet Sitter............................... o
comp Survey c a new leted by n be snow g Click niag oing to a Cons ‘Niagar ra.com a ume r Sur West vey” Pet Store................................ o Veterinarian.......................... o None of The Above........... o 18. Which of the following Real Estate services do you or a member of your household plan to GET NEW or CHANGE your current provider in the next 3 months? Check all that apply Realtor.................................... o Real Estate Brokerage..... o Apartment Rental Agency.o Estate Liquidator................ o Mortgage Broker................ o Mortgage Banker............... o Real Estate Appraiser....... o None of the Above............ o 19. Which of the following Restaurants do you or a member of your family plan to use in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Fast Food Restaurant....... o Family Style Restaurant.. o Food Cart/Food Truck..... o Fine Dining Restaurant.... o Restaurant w Lounge/Bar.o Pizza Restaurant................ o None of the above............. o 20. Which of the following General Retail Businesses do you or a member of your family plan to use in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Art/Craft Supply (Dollar Store)...................................... o Consignment Shop............ o Bookstore.............................. o Christian Book Store......... o Computer Store.................. o Department Store.............. o Discount Store.................... o Drugstore/Pharmacy........ o Fabric Store......................... o Florist...................................... o Gift Shop............................... o Hobby Shop......................... o Marijuana Dispensary....... o Mobile Phone Store........... o Shopping Centre................ o Thrift Shop............................ o Wholesale warehouse, Club Store............................. o Yarn Store............................. o Yard Equipment Store..... o Vitamin or Supplement Store........................................ o Equipment Rental Store.....o Gold/Silver/Precious Metal Dealer..................................... o Monument of Memorial Shop........................................ o Gift Shop............................... o Security Service.................. o None of the above............. o
News Now • Thursday, May 7, 2020 • Page 13 Name: (Optional) ________________________________
Submit by email!! Take a photo of your survey, send to: mike@wn3.ca
Niagara West Consumer Survey
21. What services do you plan to use from local restaurants over the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Home Delivery with fee... o Free Delivery....................... o Drive-Thru............................. o Carryout................................. o Curbside Service................ o None of the above............. o 22. Which of the following types of Retail Home Product Businesses do you or the members of your household plan to shop at or purchase from in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Building Supply/Lumber Yard......................................... o Carpet Store......................... o Fireplace/Wood Stove/ BBQ Store............................. o Flooring Store..................... o Furniture Store.................... o Hardware Store................... o Home & Garden Centre... o Home Decor Store............. o Major Appliance Store..... o Mattress/Bedding Store.. o Outdoor Furniture Store.o Plant Nursery/Garden Supply.o Paint Store............................ o Tool Rental Centre............ o TV & Appliance Store....... o Vacuum Store...................... o None of the Above............ o 23. Which of the following types of Retail Apparel Businesses do you or the members of your household plan to shop at or purchase from in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Clothing Accessory Store.o Clothing Store..................... o Ladies’ Fashions................. o Children’s Clothing............ o Menswear.............................. o Eyewear & Optician Store.o Jewelry Store....................... o Shoe Store............................ o None of the above............. o 24. Which of the following types of Professional Services do you or the members of your household plan to shop at or purchase from in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Accountant........................... o Insurance Agency/Broker.o Legal Firm/Lawyer............ o Tax Advisor.......................... o Investment Firm................. o None of the above............. o
25. In the past month, have you or members of your household contacted a dealer for more information or purchased a vehicle after seeing an ad in the local newspaper or publication? Yes o No o 26. What size of vehicle are you or members of your household considering? Compact Car........................ o Full-size Car......................... o Luxury Vehicle.................... o Mid-Size Car......................... o Pickup Truck........................ o Sport Utility Vehicle.......... o Van or Mini-Van.................. o None of the above............. o 27. Which of the following types of Health/Wellness Services & Products do you or the members of your household plan to have in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Health Related Products.o Physical Rehabilitation Services.................................. o Hearing Aid/Services....... o Health/Wellness Supplements o............................................................ Treatment for Back Pain.o Eye/Vision Exam................ o Purchase prescription Eyeglasses.o Purchase Prescription Contact Lenses...............................................o Senior Travel........................ o Use Personal Trainer......... o Chiropractic Care............... o Do Corrective Exercises.. o Purchase Vitamins............. o Purchase Medical Supplies/ Equipment.......................................... Hire a Caregiver/Respite Worker................................... o Nutritional Counselling.... o Physiotherapy..................... o Join Weight Loss Group/ Food Plan....................................o 28. Which of the following types of Lawn & Garden Products do you or the members of your household plan to have in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Bark Dust/Mulch................. o Bedding Plants.................... o Fertilizer................................. o Flower Pots.......................... o Garden Ornaments............ o Gardening Tools................. o Indoor Garden Supplies... o Lawn, Seed, Turf................. o Shrubbery or Trees........... o Fountains............................... o
Gazebo................................... o Patio Heater......................... o Outdoor Smoker................ o Patio Cover/Awning/ Enclosure............................... o Pool Shed.............................. o Lawn Mower......................... o Rototiller................................ o Storage Shed....................... o Leaf Blower.......................... o 29. Which of the following types of Building Supplies & Products do you or the members of your household plan to have in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Decking.................................. o Doors...................................... o Electrical Supplies............. o Fencing.................................. o Lighting and Fixtures....... o Lumber................................... o Paint........................................ o Plumbing Supplies............. o Screen Door......................... o Hardwood Products.......... o Carpeting.............................. o Kitchen Cabinets................ o Rain Gutters......................... o Siding...................................... o Water Softener................... o Windows............................... o Carpet Cleaning.................. o Carpenter/Woodworking..o Chimney Cleaning.............. o Concrete Repair................. o Drywall Installation/Repair.o Excavation............................ o Flooring - DIY New............ o Flooring - DIY Repair........ o Flooring - Installed............ o Home Remodel House Cleaning Service... o Landscape Service............ o Computer Repair................ o Home Security Service.... o Interior Design Consulting.o Party Equipment Rental.. o Solar heating/power install/ Repair...........................................o Tool Rental............................... o Curtain/Drapes/Blinds...........o Furniture......................................o 30. Which of the following types of Art do you or members of your households plan to purchase in the next 3 months? Paintings......................................o Fine Art........................................o Photographs..............................o Pottery.........................................o Blown Glass................................o Carvings - Stone or Wood..o Sculpture.....................................o Stained Glass.............................o Ceramics......................................o
Email: ________________________________ Phone: ________________________________
Memorabilia................................o 31. Which of the following types of Personal Care Products & Services do you or the members of your household plan to have in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Bath & Body Products...... o Beauty Products................. o Cosmetics............................. o Babysitting........................... o Hair Care Products............ o Hair Coloring........................ o Hair Cut.................................. o Manicure................................ o Massage Therapy............... o Pedicure................................. o None of the above............. o 32. Which of the following types of restaurant foods do you and your family members plan to eat in the NEXT 30 days? Check all that apply. Fish & Chips................................o Barbeque.....................................o Chicken Wings..........................o Pizza..............................................o Hamburgers...............................o Chicken........................................o Sandwiches................................o Sushi..............................................o Pasta (Italian)............................o 33. Which of the following Real Estate Plans apply to you or your household in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Use a Realtor to Sell real estate............................................o Use a Realtor to Buy real estate............................................o Use a Realtor to Sell real estate............................................o Plan to sell property myself.o Use a real estate broker........o None of the above...................o 34. If you or a member of your household were to buy OR sell real estate in the local area in the next 3 months, do you know a firm or realtor to call? Yes o No o 35. Which of the following Alcohol and Tobacco purchasing plans do you or members of your household have in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Imported Beer...........................o Craft Beer....................................o Sparkling Wine (Champagne).o Premium hard liquor...............o White wine..................................o Red wine......................................o Smokeless tobacco.................o Major brand cigarettes...........o Domestic Beer...........................o
E-Cigarette supplies...............o Alcoholic Cider..........................o 36. Which of the following do you or the members of your household plan to do in the next 3 months? Check all that apply. Attend an online religious service..........................................o Donate to a charity.................o Donate to a church..................o Donate to a political party...o Volunteer.....................................o Join a church.............................o Get married................................o Retire............................................o Have a baby...............................o 36. In the LAST 30 DAYS, which of the following have your or a member of your household viewed or used? Check all that apply. Local business website..........o Local business email...............o Snapchat.....................................o Instagram....................................o Facebook business page......o Reviews (Yelp or Google)....o YouTube videos........................o Local Business text message.o Pandora........................................o Online Yellow Pages...............o Google Search...........................o eBay..............................................o Spotify..........................................o Pinterest......................................o Google+Local............................o Clicked on a Google Sponsored Ad...........................o LinkedIn.......................................o Angie’s List.................................o Craigslist......................................o Bing...............................................o Twitter..........................................o Amazon........................................o Digital Billboard........................o Xing...............................................o None of the above...................o 37. Have you ever responded to or clicked on a Facebook post that was sponsored by a business? Yes o No o 38. Are you or anyone in your household a business owner or do you help make purchasing decisions at your place of employment? Yes o No o 39. Which age bracket do you fall into? 18-25..............................................o 26-30............................................o 31-35..............................................o 36-40............................................o 41-45.............................................o 46-50............................................o 51-60.............................................o 61-70.............................................o 71-plus...........................................o
Page 14 • News Now • Thursday, May 7, 2020
ShopLincoln.ca
is a Town-led initiative and your one-stop shop to connect with local businesses. From craft beverages and greenhouses to gift shops, restaurants and everything in between, our local businesses have plenty to offer.
Visit ShopLincoln.ca and support our local businesses
News Now • Thursday, May 7, 2020 • Page 15
Thanks for 25 great (at times) years! S By Mike Wiliscraft o first, good reader, let’s talk about this photo to the right which depicts two things that do not exist any longer: 1) The Grimsby Independent, and; 2) That “skinny” version of me. But seriously folks, I would like to take a moment to thank anyone and everyone who has put up with me for two-and-a-half decades of covering Niagara West. That’s right folks, May 10, 1995 is the anniversary date of my first day - walking into an empty office at the old Grimsby Independent office, which was located on the site of what is now the Grimsby Public Art Gallery. I will get around to why the office was empty when I arrived, but there are a few other bases to cover first. First of all, some thank-yous. To cover everyone, I would like to thank anyone who ever worked with or for me. I will name a few, but could never name them all, so I want to ensure all feel appreciated. In no particular order starting old school, Tim Dundas. He was the publisher who fired me in 1995 after a discussion about a special section we had published in The Independent in support of West Lincoln Memorial Hospital. If not for that move, Grimsby Lincoln News (1997) and NewsNow (2012) would never have existed. In terms of staff: Sandy Baillie, Donna Wisnoski (who is still with me today), Scotty Rosts, Lorri Willis, Tom Haire, Nora Piotrowski, Katherine Nadeau (at the time), Maria Clute and Erica Huisman (also still putting up with me for some reason), just to name a few of the people who helped get The News up and off its knees. A couple of start-up stories....the first time I talked Harry DeVries into taking at ad in The News, fall 1997, Cole’s Florist was to be the back page. About midnight I get a call from CanWeb Printing - a marvelous team who saved my butt more times than I can remember and I miss them all tremendously - “can you come by, something is missing off your back page.” So I head over to the South Service Road printing plant and grab a copy of the paper off the press. All looked great on the ad except there were no prices. It was an ad with 20 items, five rows of four items. Each spot has a big hole in the middle which was empty. That was when I learned what it meant to set something in RGB in a PDF as opposed to CMYK colour breakdown. It defaults and you get a whole lotta nodda. So I called Lily, my graphics person at that time, got her out of bed, and she came down to our office, which is where Donna’s Fashions is today, and I took the print out back over to the plant. The plates were redone, all got reset, and it eventually printed perfectly. I kept a couple of wrong copies just for sport and freaking out my staff, but it all worked out. But it may not have. And from that point in 1997 there were countless - and by countless I would ballpark at about 100 examples of incidents where, had the chips fallen the other way, I (and NewsNow) would not be here.
This photo was taken for a commemorative publication when the late Henry Burgoyne sold Rannie Publishing.
Back to my first day, when the office was empty; was a huge red flag as to how things would go. First, the staff were all huddled in the office lunch room where the HR manager was explaining to the team how their previous editor had been fired the night before right after putting the paper out. They open the door and walk out, some staff in tears, there I am...the new guy. Just a few hours after that, I am sitting in my office trying to get the lay of the land and I hear a loud, gruff voice bellow, “Is the new editor here?” As I listened to Sandy explain I was in but she was not sure if I was busy, I thought I would save her the walk to my door, so I poked my head out and looked to the front door. There stood a scruffy, bearded, cover-all wearing farmer type who was staring me down. “Are you going to write any editorials about kittens and rainy days?” he shouted. “No, sir,” I replied. “Well alright then!” With that, he turned, walked out the door and I have never seen him since. Serving up softballs was never my style, and never will be. If someone - whether it be an individual, a business person, a service club or community group, or an elected official - has the best interests of the community at heart, I will help them any way I can. I simply have no time for those who are only out to help themselves, often at the cost and detriment of others and the community. I think I get that from my mother’s side of the family (grandparents were Polish and Scottish) - they were a no-bull, hard-working couple with huge hearts. There are a ton more stories, more people to thank - Grimsby Kinsmen Club (whose members gave me the idea to start The News) - and a gazillion more stories, but they will have to wait for my 50th anniversary, or a book, whichever comes first, but before I run out of room, I will use the rest of my space to talk about my family.
My mom has always been there for me and continues that support to this day. She will never know how much I appreciate her. My younger brother, Tom, himself an accomplished publisher, has been a sounding board and offered ideas and advice whenever I needed a boost. To my ex-wife, Maria, I also owe a huge thanks. You, too, were supportive and understanding. My kids, Sarah and Michael, well, I understand exactly how they feel to have a Dad who simply worked too much when they were small. My Dad was like a ghost. He worked seven days a week, gone from the house by 7 a.m., rarely getting back by dinner time. Time demands on me were and are never-ending. I always knew and understood what I was in for, so that is not a complaint. Those around me have paid the price for me loving what I do. My kids, Sarah and Michael, are all grown up and have their own lives underway, so I don’t see them much. They know they are loved and that is what’s important. This week I hit my 25th anniversary of covering all things Niagara West and it also marks the eighth anniversary of NewsNow. Let me tell you, NewsNow (and quite likely me) would not be here without my special lady and fiancee, Catherine Bratton. As testimony to the above, we got engaged last year when we took our first vacation together in seven years. Later, we set Saturday, May 24, 2021 as the big day. Enter COVID-19. With all hands on deck, we knew right off the bat we simply would not have any funds to have a wedding, so that date was cancelled. There is nothing good about that other than the understanding exemplified by a first-class woman whom I love immensely. In 25 years, I’ve broken stories, exposed deceit and lies, covered a ton of fundraisers, created dozens of community events, sat through blindingly painful council meetings, told some incredible personal stories and LOVED every gosh darn second of it. I can’t wait to see what unfolds in the next 25 years.
Page 16 • News Now • Thursday, May 7, 2020
EHC: West Niagara businesses readying up to hire post-COVID
Hey Lincoln, help us celebrate our 50th birthday! Take part in an interactive digital exhibit curated by our community! Submit your photographs and memories of Lincoln from the last 50 years on social media using #LincolnON50 or email them to info@lincoln.ca
Submit before July 31 to win a $50 gift card to your favourite local business in Lincoln Submitting a photo grants Town of Lincoln licence rights to use submitted photo in print and digital collateral
@TownofLincolnON
Special Hours To Service Our Customers Better!
FROM MARCH 20 TO JUNE 15, 2020
5249 King Street Beamsville
905-563-4787
By Tristan Marks NewsNow The labour market may have taken a hit in West Niagara due to COVID-19, but employers are already planning for when restrictions are lifted said Employment Help Centre (EHC) executive director Gary Bruce. He cited statistics from the EHC’s second quarter employment forecast survey, which compiles data collected from businesses in Grimsby, Lincoln and West Lincoln. A net 11 per cent of responding businesses across Niagara West said they expect to increase staffing levels in the coming quarter. He added that there are still a number of available positions in the meantime. Most of these positions are in the retail sector from businesses deemed essential services. “We’ve seen an increase in job postings primarily from grocery stores,” said Bruce. “They need a lot more
people right now.” Bruce added that many essential manufacturing businesses such as Ophardt Hygiene Technologies in Beamsville or Stanpac in Smithville are “desperately” looking to fill positions. However, this doesn’t necessarily reflect the creation of new jobs. “Many employees are opting to stay home due to the pandemic, and many of these postings are looking to fill existing positions,” said Bruce. Still, according to the survey, 70 per cent of manufacturing businesses indicated they were anticipating an increase to their staffing levels. Bruce said some of the 50 positions posted at the EHC come from businesses anticipating an inevitable lifting of restrictions. “Now is the time to be posting job opportunities to gather resumes and data for when the restrictions are lifted,” said Bruce.
According to the survey, West Lincoln saw the most businesses anticipating a hiring spree, with a net 31 per cent of businesses expecting to grow their staff. Of the Niagara West municipalities, only Lincoln saw more businesses looking to shrink their staff than not. A net five percent of Lincoln respondents indicated that they expect staffing levels to decrease in the coming quarter. On the flip side, Bruce said the EHC has seen a decline in job seekers, which he also attributes largely to COVID-19. “We feel they’re taking a similar approach to these businesses,” he said. “They’re waiting but getting prepared for when restrictions lift.” Although the EHC’s offices are closed because of the pandemic, jobseekers can still access helpful resources online. To access these services and more visit employmenthelp.org
News Now • Thursday, May 7, 2020 • Page 17
Record-breaking food drive benefits WLCC The 11th annual Kids Care Food Drive was not only a success this year despite COVID-19, it outperformed previous years, said event organizer Melanie Felvus. The drive gathered over 5,000 pounds of food donations for West Lincoln Community Care (WLCC) from all over Smithville and even beyond. Twelve teams of volunteers combed Smithville to gather curbside packages filled with donations for WLCC. There were even volnteers collecting donations in West Lincoln’s rural areas. Felvus said any doubts she had to-
wards the event’s success were shattered. “We went into this wondering if this would be a success because of COVID,” said she said. “The food drive didn’t take a hit, in fact we were over from previous years.” The food drive’s final count came to 5,300 pounds of food, $150 in gift card donations and $1,725 in cash donations. Felvus thanked the community for its “tremendous generousity,” as well as the volunteers who “went above and beyond and took on larger routes, putting themselves out there despite the risk.”
(Above): Volunteer Jamie Wright collects a box full of donated food from a Smithville home. (Above Right): Madeline Felvus unloads a pickup truck’s worth of food at the WLCC food bank. (Bottom RIght): Lisa Ardito-Wright shows off her vehicle, which was filled to the roof with collected food drive donations.
Story and photos by Tristan Marks
Dean Allison Member of Parliament for Niagara West
We are all currently facing a difficult and stressful situation. I cannot stress the importance of reminding people to do whatever you can to stop the spread of this virus. I would encourage you to continue to follow the recommendations from Health Canada and Niagara Health authorities. Together we will make it through.
Please remember that you must reapply for the CERB each month.
COMMUNITY NOTICE
Annual Vegetation Management Program Every year, CN is required to clear its right-of-way from any vegetation that may pose a safety hazard. Vegetation on railway right-of-way, if left uncontrolled, can contribute to trackside fires and impair proper inspection of track infrastructure. As such, for safe railway operations, the annual vegetation control program will be carried out on CN rail lines in the province of Ontario. A certified applicator will be applying herbicides on and around the railway tracks (primarily along the 16-feet gravelled area). All product requirements for setbacks in the vicinity of dwellings, aquatic environments and municipal water supplies will be fulfilled. At this time, we expect that the program will take place from May to October 2020. Visit cn.ca/vegetation to consult the list of cities as well as the updated schedule. Safety is a core value at CN and in the actual context of the COVID-19 pandemic, our employees and contractors are taking all measures to stay healthy and to protect the communities in which we operate. For more information, please visit cn.ca/covid-19-update.
To contact Dean
Toll Free 1.877.563.7900 info@deanallison.ca | www.deanallison.ca
For more information, please contact the CN Public Inquiry Line at contact@cn.ca or 1-888-888-5909.
cn.ca CNC_201019_CommNotice_Ont_5.063x5.714.indd 1
dossier : CNC-201019
client : CN
description : COMMUNITY NOTICE ANGL
date/modif.
Avril
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relecture
2020-04-30 10:46 D.A.
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Page 18 • News Now • Thursday, May 7, 2020
NewsNow’s Business BOOST week 3: free listing Niagara West businesses (Editor’s Note: The following is Week 3 of NewsNow’s Business Boost - Free word ad offered to Niagara West business community to let readers know they are open and what level of service is available) Dr. Agate & Audet Optometry – Main Street Eye Clinic & Optical Handling Ocular emergencies via, phone, web or in person. Also handling emergency eyeglass and Contact Lens needs. The phones are monitored daily & the office manager & Dr’s are available Mon-Fri 10-4 p.m. & Sat 10-1 p.m. Call the office at 905945-4823 or visit mainstreeteyeclinicandoptical.ca OR visit us via Facebook @ Main Street Eye Clinic & Optical – Agate & Audet Optometrists Mrs. Greenway We are currently offering online ordering at mrsgreenway.ca and have free delivery within Grimsby over $25 and free delivery over $50 to Beamsville. All other orders we offer contactless store pickup. We have still have a good selection of hand soap, cleaning products and hand sanitizer. We are still doing refills on all our products. We are filling sanitized repurposed jars. Refill products can be ordered on oneearthrefillery.ca. Free delivery parameters are the same as Mrs Greenway. Phone number 905-309-5555 (I have the store number forwarded to my cell) The Dutch Shop 52 Main St W., Grimsby Store is currently onlineonly. Our entire catalogue is available at www.DutchShop. ca with delivery or curbside pickup. Email: Contact@DutchShop. ca Casa Toscana We are OPEN Wednesday to Saturday from 3-7 p.m. for take-out and delivery through the website: toyourdoorstep.ca. Phone 289-235-8888. email: lucacasatoscana @gmail.com Centennial Park Baptist Church is currently closed to normal operations but available to serve you online. Please
visit our website www. grimbsybaptist.org to join our online services Sundays at 10:30 am or to view past services. Please contact us at 905-945-8932 if you need anything as we are checking messages daily. Centennial Park Baptist Church is here to help! Lincoln Hearing We are deemed essential as well, however, due to the personal closeness our business requires we aren’t fully operational (not booking appointments) however we are open limited hours daily – 10-2 for “curbside” supplies, repairs emergencies etc. We are also monitoring emails/voicemails on a consistent basis when we are not in the office. Hammered Ink Promotions We are open for business offering essential workwear, masks, bandanas, medical scrubs and much more. Please call Kerry @ 905-7305779 to find out what options are available. Feel free to visit www.hammeredink.ca to find out more about us. JB AUTOSPORT COVID-19 hours of operation: MON-FRI 9 am-4 pm. Full automotive service. All safety precautions followed. 181 South Service Rd W. Unit 3 (behind Car Quest plaza) 905-945-5660 jbautosport.ca Noni’s Pizzeria We are open 3-8:30 Sunday to Thursday and 2-9:30 Friday and Saturday. We are doing pickup and deliveries. Call us at 905-662-1050 and 4 Livingston Ave. 905-3093553 Lakeside Automotive Monday - Friday 8-5 By Appointment. Pickup and delivery upon request. (905) 562-5955 4608 Victoria Ave., Vineland Wicked Things Even though the store is closed, we’re able to be reached through Email (wickedthings@live.ca), Facebook and Instagram. Side door pick-up and local delivery is available. A huge Thank you to everyone who has supported us during this difficult time. Forestview Community Church remains open to serve the
community via telephone (905) 945-9529 or email at info@forestviewcommunitychurch.ca Services online at www.forestviewcommunitychurch.ca Special Occasion Tent Rentals Have you had to move part of your business operation outdoors and could use some shelter? We’re here to help with any potential tent needs! 289-439-0493 www.specialoccasiontentrentals.com Smithville Presbyterian Church Even though our doors are closed for now, everyone is invited to attend service by going to Youtube/Smithville Presbyterian Church. Smithville Legion Your Smithville Legion hopes you’re all staying safe and healthy during this time. We will keep you updated when we have a date for reopening. Anyone needing assistance email: legionpro393@hotmail.com Smithville Pharmacy Pharmacy hours - Mon- Fri : 9 am-7 pm, Sat : 9 am-4 pm. The walk-in clinic hours MonFri: from 10 am-3 pm, Sat from 9 am-2 pm. For patients not able to come to the clinic we offer a virtual call with one of our doctors. Fax any prescription, lab work requisition forms or X-ray Ultrasound requisition. Dan Parker Carpentry We are still operational during this time. Design your dream kitchen or project. Video calls for product selections and curbside delivery or pick up available. 905-563-6124 danparkercarpentry.com Forty Creek Construction Offering: Decks, fences, sheds, shade roofs and many other exterior projects. 8 am-8 pm Monday-Saturday. 40creekconstruction.ca 905-966-4332 Lincoln Park Retirement Residence is still open to essential visitors, and will continue to support our local seniors. 265 Main St E, Grimsby. (905) 309-0055 Adult Learning Center We offer programs in literacy and basic skills. We can provide a free Tutor to help adults. Achieve a grade 12
diploma. Learn basic computers skills. Comfortable atmosphere – no pressure learning. Everyone welcome Call 905-563-1515 Curves Grimsby We are offering a brand new On Demand Online Workouts that can be done on any device at home. While we are physically closed phones and email will be answered daily at 905-309-6630 and curvesgrimsby@gmail.com. Daily posts and online workouts at https://www.facebook.com/ curvesgrimsbyon/ Boo’s Bar Our hours are Mon-Tues 10-6. Fri-Sat-Sun 10-6. Full menu available follow Boo’s Bar & Eatery on Facebook for weekend specials. Community Care of West Niagara OPEN Monday-Friday from 8:30 am-4:30 pm. CCWN has made changes to operations to keep clients and the community safe during this time. Please call ahead for more information. 905-563-5822. For service, please go to the back door, ring the bell and wait for a staff member to assist you. Harmony Jewellers “Our team is still here for you. Should you require any assistance please contact our concierge by phone, text or email. We are offering curbside pickup, safe doorstep drop off, and free shipping. Phone: 905-945-4411 or email: info@harmonyjewellers.ca web: harmonyjewellers.ca Elipsis Day Spa “We are temporarily closed due to Covid restrictions but looking forward to serving Grimsby again soon. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates. We are taking product & gift certificate orders for local delivery. Email us info@elipsisdayspa. com” Cave Springs Cellars We are open for curb side pick up 7 days a week from 11 am-5 pm please be sure to call ahead. 905-562-3581 x 302. We are currently offering Free Shipping on a minimum $75 wine order within Ontario until mid May. wineshop.cavespring.ca Hildreth Farm Market will be opening on May 2
for the season. Our hours will be Monday-Friday from 8 am-6 pm and Saturday; Sundays and holidays from 8 am-5 pm. We will be offering both walk-in service as well as online ordering with curb side pickup. We are located at 5529 Greenlane Road, Beamsville. Website: hildrethfarms.ca Bella & Coop Our Retail Store is closed. We are operating online at www.Bella-Coop.com and offer FREE LOCAL Deliver on any orders over $20. We deliver 3 days a week (Monday, Wednesday & Friday) and offer no contact porch drop offs. You can also buy gifts for any occasion online and we will deliver them directly to your recipient if they are in our free delivery zone. Check website for more information. Windmill Appliance Service We’re an essential service open regular hours, Mon-Sat, 8 am-8 pm. Konkle Plumbing Safety is priority. Konkle technicians are available Mon-Fri for plumbing, pumps, heating, air conditioning and gas line work. See our safety strategy and protocol: konkleplumbing.com or call 905-563-4847. Louwes We’re open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. for curbside pick-up only. Louwes Windows & Siding, 3435 King Street, Vineland. 905-5625831. Village Interiors We are available for phone or video consultation as well as video or traditional installation, following all proper physical distancing protocols. We are also available for repairs. Please call to discuss your specific needs. 905-9458008. Vik’s Meats Curbside service. Call in your pre-paid order, we accept Visa or MasterCard. We will give you a call when your order is ready for pick-up. 257 Main St. East, Grimsby, 905-309-4552. Vineland Nurseries Open for curb side pickups and deliveries. Please contact us at info@vinelandnurseries. com or (905) 562-4836 for all your plant inquiries.
News Now • Thursday, May 7, 2020 • Page 19
Grimsby Library cancels author series spring season
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Online ticket purchasers have already received a notice of refund. Those who purchased tickets in person must bring their tickets to the library once it reopens to process their refund. In the meantime, the Grimsby Author Series Steering Committee is busy planning the line up for the Fall 2020 series. They will con-
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Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Grimsby Public Library GPL has announced the cancellation of its Grimsby Author Series Spring Season. The library will issue refunds to all who purchased tickets. The process of receiving this refund will be different depending on how the ticket was purchased.
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OBITUARIES
Haynes, Garry Lloyd
Please call to place your Classified Ad 289-235-9500 OBITUARIES
Bartkowiak, Harry
Peacefully at his home, with his loving wife by his side, on Tuesday, April 28th, 2020 at the age of 91. Beloved husband of Patricia (nee Gunn) for 58 years. Loving father of Robin Droste. Cherished and proud grandfather of Tara and Lacy. Greatgrandfather of Brayden, Lyla and Colton. He will be dearly and sadly missed. The family wishes to thank friends for reaching out and remembering Harry. As per Harry’s wishes, cremation has taken place. If desired, memorial contributions to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755. www.smithsfh.com
Passed away at Albright Manor, Beamsville, on Tuesday, April 28, 2020 at the age of 77. Beloved husband of Jackie (nee Warren) for over 55 years. Loving father of Brian (Debbie Church), Theresa Haynes (Ted Mackie), and Trish Haynes (Greg Leboeuf). Cherished and proud grandfather of 5 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Dear brother of Bill Haynes and Bobby Haynes. Predeceased by his parents, Lloyd and Dot, his brother, Richie Haynes and his sister, Joy Hipwell. He had a great love for his family and was a devoted husband and father. He had a great appreciation for baseball, fishing, boating and nature in general. He was a dedicated employee of Stelco in Hamilton for over 37 years. He will be sadly missed. The family wishes to extend their thanks to the nurses and staff at Albright Manor for their care and compassion. As per the family’s wishes, cremation has taken place with a Celebration of Garry’s Life to be held at a later date. If desired, donations made to GBF Community Services would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755. www. smithsfh.com
Hamilton, Jean Fraser (also Leyland, Sear) 1924-2020
Jean passed away peacefully at Deer Park Villa LTC, in Grimsby at the age of 95, on Saturday May 2, 2020, where she has lived for the past 16 years. The family wishes to thank all the wonderful staff and volunteers for their outstanding, patient and loving care. Having been afflicted with dementia and blindness, my mom’s spirit was quite amazing. Throughout her life, Jean provided much comfort and care in her role as a Registered Nurse in various hospitals and settings. Her proud “Wellesley Hospital” classmates remained close throughout their lives. She was at her best when people needed her most and loved by many friends and extended family. I will remember her keen interest in everything and everybody - always an interesting conversationalist. Predeceased by her parents Mercer and Marjorie Hamilton , brothers Jack and William. She is survived by her daughter Marji Peglar (Stephen Peglar), grand-children Stephanie Peglar (Adam Klassen) of Beamsville and Christopher Peglar (Kirsten Clarke) of Auckland, New Zealand as well as her great-grandchildren Zoe, Maddy and Arie. Cremation has taken place. A private interment will take place at Grimsby Mountain Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Stonehouse-Whitcomb Funeral Home, Grimsby, 905-945-2755. Online condolences may be made at www.smithsfh.com
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Formerly of Vineland passed away at the Caressant Care Nursing Home, Fergus on Friday, April 24, 2020 in her 91st year after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. Cherished wife of the late Spencer Moyer (1980). Beloved mother of Sherri Moyer and her husband Bob Armstrong of Fergus, the late Stephen Moyer (1984) and the late Scott Michael Moyer (1966) in infancy. Also survived by her sister Doris Hardy and family. Bernice is now free of her burdens and reunited with the love of her life, Spencer. Private family interment in the Vineland Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to the Heritage Funeral Home, Drayton. www.heritagefuneralhomes.ca
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News Now • Thursday, May 7, 2020 • Page 21
3rd Annual
Volunteer Pay Subscription Drive
“It is not the strongest or the most intelligent who will survive but those who can best manage change.” - Leon C. Megginson Dear Reader,
Whoever would have thought the world would find itself in this position? COVID-19 is impacting every person on the planet, and every business, in one way or another. NewsNow is certainly not immune (pun intended) to its effects. In the face of drastically declining revenue - as evidenced by this edition marking the second time in a 35-year career the publisher has run a paper with less than 16 pages, reality is upon us. Expenses are up considerably to ensure we get our community paper to those who matter to us most, our readers. If you have the means, please consider supporting NewsNow. If you cannot, we will love you just the same!!
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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
Quashing bylaw absolutely necessary
It was pretty easy to tell by the pained expression on Mayor Jeff Jordan face, he was at a loss...as was, I am sure, any one of the 28-29 other lost souls watching Grimsby’s Monday council NewsNow is owned & operated by 1602207 Ontario Ltd. extravaganza. Housekeeping matters Office Locations turned into intense debates. Grimsby Office Beamsville Office Councillors posturing both 1 Mountain Street, P.O Box 614 to explain their own actions Grimsby, ON, L3M 3J6 Beamsville, ON, L0R 1B0 or non-actions as well as to Ph: 289-235-9500 Ph: 289-235-7848 run cover for the chief administrative officer. NewsNow is published EVERY Thursday Shouting, people being delivered to homes in West Niagara & Winona, 26,529. offended (feigned or otherwise), accusations, rehashing...yep, we had pretty much everything in a meeting which spanned just over four hours. And we didn’t even really deal with the topic which set social media ablaze last week - namely a controversial bylaw which would have given the Town’s bylaw officer the authority to not only enter someone’s home, but to confiscate material if it was deemed pertinent to a COVID-19-related infraction. First, THIS PROPOSED BYLAW WAS PULLED AND NEVER DEALT WITH! I hate all caps, but I want to make sure all know, Mayor Jordan noted right off the top this bylaw was withdrawn with no reservation, apologies were issued for it getting on the agenda and all were ready to move forward. Helping one T at a time... It cannot be overstated Grimsby’s Tous Jours Women’s Clothing Boutique is doing how wrong that bylaw was. its share to support Grimsby Benevolent Fund by contribut- I saw a ton on social media, ing $2 from the sale of special T-shirts to the organization. some was concise and ac“Straight Outta Grimsby”, “Keep Calm & Stay Home” and curate, a lot was just piling “Straight Outta Quarantine” Ts are all part of the program. on (which is typical) and To order, go to @tousjoursgrimsby on Instagram Tous Jours’ going into personal attacks. Facebook page. I wanted to comment and clarify things, but I also didn’t want to get carried down the river of subsequent comTown of Lincoln is getting progressive and helping out local ment which was inevitable, businesses by creating its Shop Lincoln website. The venture will harness any businesses which have their own so I waited to ramble in this site to act as point-of-purchase location. It will be a directory space. tool for consumers to source local service and retail providers. First, I checked the source. These days, when any edge is a good edge, having another In a note to Reg. Coun. centra source to connect consumers is a good thing. M.W. Wayne Fertich, Daryl Barn-
Shop Lincoln rolled out
MIKE WILLISCRAFT hardt, who is the executive officer to the regional chair, noted this: “I can confirm that the bylaw you mentioned was not debated on the Mayor/Chair call, nor was it the idea of the Niagara Region.” “It is my understanding, however, that the by-law you are referring to was discussed by the regional CAO group as something that has been passed by a number of other municipalities across Ontario. It was being considered as another “tool in the tool box” for enforcement of the specific provisions under the Emergency Management and Civil Protections Act. I believe that Pelham passed their version of the by-law at the April 27 meeting.” Second, I confirmed a similar bylaw was approved in Pelham April 27. How this was done without anyone’s head blowing up due to the glaring Charter of Rights and Freedoms infringement is beyond me. Third, I got a legal opinion on what I thought was the glaring infraction, confirmed. Then I waited for Monday. Mayor Jordan did the noble thing and fell on the sword. Councillors Dave Sharpe and Kevin Ritchie took the opportunity to reinforce this - Sharpe by noting the mayor admitted fault and Ritchie by ensuring the teflon was secure on CAO Harry
Schlange. It really is hard to watch. In his initial announcement, Jordan noted the bylaw was essentially added to the agenda “sight unseen” since it had originated at the CAO group meeting and was up for consideration in other municipalities. As as aside, this is why Coun. Dorothy Bothwell was exactly correct in suggesting a new site alteration bylaw be vetted by the Town’s lawyer even though it was largely drafted from an existing bylaw in Twp. of West Lincoln. Any municipality simply cannot adopt a potential liability from another’s bylaws and it should not matter if it was 100 per cent duplicated. Pay attention to your fiduciary responsibilities and cross a few T’s and dot a few I’s before you get all high and mighty about how awesome a budget you created which didn’t have an ounce of fiscal restraint. So, here’s the thing - yes, Jordan fell on the sword, but where was the faithful CAO? The CAO meeting was the source of the document. Did the CAO not review it? Did he not make a recommendation to the mayor to put it forward and include it on the agenda. Perhaps the answer is no to both of those questions. But then my question is why was there no input? Jordan showed class in taking the bullet. I didn’t see an ounce from Mr. Schlange in sharing any responsibility. Jordan noted things are in a constant state of change and paperwork and emails are rolling through at a steady pace - and I can attest to that. However, Pelham better give its head a shake as should any other council which considers such as egregious infringement of a citizen’s right. Good on Jordan for being definitive and getting rid of it.
News Now • Thursday, May 7, 2020 • Page 23
Job description for Grimsby EDO hire a ‘joke’: reader Dear Editor, I read the full page article in the April 30th NewsNow about Grimsby’s ill-conceived and wasteful decision to hire an Economic Development Officer (EDO). There was absolutely nothing in that story that gave me the slightest feeling of comfort about the necessity of
LETTERS the EDO position. This is nothing but a big, black hole that will consume Grimsby tax dollars. The job description outline for this position is an absolute joke! All it indicated was some ‘busy work’ that will cost Grimsby tax-
payers $150,000 per year without one measurable objective for our tax dollars! This is insane and an insult to Grimsby taxpayers. We can thank councilors John Dunstall, Kevin Ritchie, Dave Sharp, Dave Kadwell and Randy Vaine for this inept and wasteful decision. Take some
Constituents not represented: writer Dear Editor, With the Grimsby Five, we are not getting our money’s worth. The words uttered recently by the Councillor for my Ward (3) would be comical were they not so indicative of what is going on at Grimsby Town Council as a result of the actions (or, in this case, inactions) of the Grimsby Five. And, in this instance, Coun. Randy Vaine and his fellow Ward 3 councillor are examples of how ineptitude reigns where laziness lives. If Mr. Vaine had one little bit of initiative, and integrity, he would be doing his darndest to
learn what is going on in the CAO’s office. Mr. Vaine, and the other members of the Grimsby Five councillors, would be giving their all to do the best on behalf of those to whom they swore to be honest, transparent and to diligently work on behalf of - the constituents who cast their votes to elect them. Instead, we have Mr. Vaine stating openly that he doesn’t understand how the Town runs and has said he doesn’t want to be bothered to learn. By his words, he has spoken openly about what is apparent in the actions of four of the
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Grimsby Five. It appears that doing the hard work of councillor (and earning the money we are paying them, by the way) is too onerous a task. It seems that it is easier to lay back and vote for anything that is proposed by Kevin Ritchie and, sadly, Dave Kadwell. Pathetic laziness has allowed the current CAO to have a free run with our money, including, now, spending $72,000 we don’t have on a lawn mower. Really? Tragedy after tragedy. They need to hear us. Bud Hightower Ward 3, Grimsby
time to contact them to let them know how you feel about this wasteful decision that they rammed through council by banding together. Our chief administrative officer, Harry Schlange, seems to think that spending $150,000 of taxpayer money on something with no measurable objectives is just fine. In fact, he seems to think that we should waste money on this EDO position for the next 5 years before any measurable deliverables need to be established. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to waste $750,000 of our tax dollars over the next 5 years on this EDO position and get absolutely nothing for it! Make no mistake… any job that doesn’t have measurable objectives is a waste and unneeded. Maybe we should be looking for a new chief administrative officer. One who understands that every position paid for with tax dollars needs to have firm, measureable objec-
tives. Just in case Mr. Schlange is not aware, these are called Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in the real world. A position like an Economic Development Officer is basically a sales position to get companies to come to Grimsby to set up shop, or to otherwise take actions that will increase the town’s commercial tax base. So if we are going to continue with this insanity (which we clearly should not) let’s give this position a hard sales target to meet. Here’s a simple Key Performance Indicator (KPI) that we should set for the proposed Economic Development Officer: Incrementally increase the commercial tax base for the Town of Grimsby by a minimum of $300,000 annually for each and every year that this position exists. That would give us an ROI of 2:1 on this position. If this was done and the measurable objective was met, after 5 years we’ll have an incremental $1,500,000
of annual commercial tax revenue for our investment of $150,000 per year. Assuming of course that this position is actually needed and the individual that was hired could actually do the job by meeting the annual objective of increasing commercial tax revenues. By-theway, I stopped believing in the Tooth Fairy a long time ago. If Grimsby moves forward with this wasteful decision, the EDO position should not be a permanent position. At the most it should be a 3 year contract position, with an annual opt out clause for the Town of Grimsby, to see if it actually pays for itself. I predict this initiative will end up being another DKRSV (Dunstall/ Kadwell/Ritchie/Sharp/ Vaine) boondoggle and a total waste of Grimsby tax dollars. Don’t blame the mayor or the other three folks on Grimsby council for wasting your tax dollars. They did their best to stop this insanity. Tom Stirr, Grimsby
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