>Grimsby entrepreneur partners with Sting for new venture Pg 5 > Queen’s Park debates halting ARC closures Pg. 3 > Woods concert to support Rose Cottage Pg. 6 > GHS talks Willowbank Pg 9 Thursday, March 9, 2017 Vol. 5 Issue 44
www.wn3.ca 100% Niagara owned & operated.
Proudly serving Grimsby, Lincoln, West Lincoln & Winona
Circ: 26,111
New grads
Grimsby Kinettes graduated its 50th anniversary class from its babysitting course last month. The program was hosted at Grimsby Fire Department’s Station 1. On hand on graduation night were firefighter Ryan Newton, far left, and Kinettes Tracy Spalding, to his left, and Barb Gresko, far right. Graduates, in no particular order were: Amber VanSoelen, Olivia Stackhouse,
Kiera Deklerk, Ava D’Addazio, Mikaleigh Kosh, Nadia Talukdar, Aiden Talukdar, Tanner Weiss, Bronwyn Glassco, Mackenzie Topp, Adam Buitenwerf, Caleigh Middaugh, Jordan Reid, Marcus Cardozo, Jasmine Benard, Sydney MacDonald, Carter Ferrell. Absent- Noah Ollmann. Niagara Regional Police also took part in the program. Submitted photo
Inn operator found guilty of charges Escarpment Inn and Residences owner fined $27,000-plus for 2014 infractions By Mike Williscraft NewsNow The operator of a west Grimsby facility has been found guilty of several infractions and fined a total of $27,000, plus a 25 per cent victim surcharge. The operator of the Escarpment Inn and Residences, Elder Life Care, located at 575-577 Main St. W. was found guilty in proceedings at the Fort Erie provincial courthouse on Feb. 6. The owner was convicted for: • failing to provide a fire safety plan, which resulted in a fine of $7500;
• failing to comply with a inspection order, which resulted in a fine of $10,000, and; • The corporation of the property was convicted of failing to comply with an inspection order, which resulted in a fine of $10,000. The infractions came about as a result of matters which arose in March 2015. NewsNow covered a series of stories dealing with operator’s handling of evictions for a large group of tenants at the site. Grimsby Fire Department laid several Provincial Offences charges under the Fire Code and Fire Protection and Prevention Act.
In years immediately previous to this incident the department had engaged in a process to update safety strategies in three key property categories: seniors residences, multiresidential units and the downtown core. At the time of its inspection of the property, Grimsby Fire found several issues which needed attention, including a lack of working fire alarm system. It was reported at the time that, under order by the Grimsby Fire Department to install working smoke alarms, the land owner instead See FINES, Page 2
Page 2 • News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017
FINES From Page 1 opted to empty the building of its occupants by evicting the tenants. After Grimsby Fire officials notified the property’s management that they were
responsible for a fire watch, due to not having an operating system, a security company was hired to monitor the site. “Grimsby Fire Department’s Fire Safety Inspections and Fire Code Enforcement operat-
ing guideline addresses the first two lines of fire protection services; public fire and life safety education, and code enforcement, said Fire Chief Mike Cain. Cain identified that the operating guideline states,
Join the Beamsville Lions Club
for Breakfast
Sun. Mar. 19, 2017
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 pm All you can eat pancakes, bacon, sausages, French toast, scrambled eggs, fruit cup, juice, coffee or tea. Adult $9.50 Children (under 12) $5.00 Location: Lincoln Centre, 4351 Central Avenue Beamsville
A notice posted at 575-577 Main St. W. in March 2015. File Photo
“An effective inspection program must identify if the owner is maintaining a fire-safe property and reinforce fire-safe behaviours of property owners; not just identify infractions. “This operating guideline establishes a procedural reference from which to conduct inspections. As the second line of defense in community fire safety, fire safety inspections sometimes result in the need to initiate legal proceedings in order to achieve compliance,” said Cain. “This operating guideline provides guidance for progressive actions promoting compliance up to and including prosecution.” Cain reinforced that Grimsby Fire remains committed to protecting the community through a prevention-centric approach to fire protection.
Durham Automotive PROFESSIONAL AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE • SINCE 1971
2013 Volkswagen Jetta
2012 Acura MDX
52,000 km, 4 Cyl, Auto, A/C, CD, Sun Roof, Heated Seats, Car Proof Clean, Comfortline
85,000 km, V6, All Wheel Drive, Heater Leather, Sun Roof, Backup Camera, 7 Passenger
2012 Toyota Sienna
2014 Honda Accord LX
73,000 km, V6, Auto, A/C, 7 Passenger, New Tires, Car Proof Clean, Low KM
43,000 km, 4 Cyl, Auto, A/C, Back Up Camera, Heated Seats, Car Proof Clean, Low KM
2013 Ford Fushion SE
2010 Toyota Corolla CE
$13,995
$28,995
March 13-19, 2017 $19,995
$15,995
$18,995
$9,995
107,000 km, 4 Cyl, Auto, A/C, CD, Keyless 52,000 km, 4 Cyl, Auto, A/C, CD, Ecoboost, Entry, Car Proof Clean, Economical Sync, Bluetooth, Back-Up Sensors HST and licensing not included.
4630 Durham Road, Beamsville (Between Grimsby & Beamsville)
905-945-0378 • www.durhamautomotive.ca
News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017 • Page 3
ARC process
High school closures “about money”: Bentley By MIke Williscraft NewsNow District School Board of Niagara’s consideration of closing three Niagara West high schools is purely about dollars and cents, says Grimsby Mayor Bob Bentley. At Monday’s Grimsby council meeting, Bentley related comments he made last week at a special meeting of the DSBN where the findings of an Accomodation Review Committee report were discussed. “I said there I thought the decision was made before the start,” said Bentley, noting there were only two other speakers listed on the agenda to address the board. Because there were so few speakers, it allowed for some questions and answers, noted Bentley. “Finally, one of the trustees admitted this is about money,” said Bentley, noting he told the board its goal is “supposed to be about
providing postive student outcomes.” He explained that student environment and experiences are a major part of those outcomes. Ald. Nick DiFlavio, who has the unique experience of having worked as a teacher at both Grimsby Secondary and Blessed Trinity, told council schools are about more than bricks and mortar. “It’s about the staff, the students and the parents, too. Changing a building will not change the issues,” said DiFlavio, who said GSS had great school spirit when he started his career there in 1977. “Then I moved to BT and we had great spirit there in a bunch of portables. The spirit was built by staff and students. You can have spirit in a cardboard box.” Bentley noted that he and two other speakers opposed the proposed closures, while Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton spoke in favour.
He added that his application to speak was emailed to the appropriate address on Jan. 20 but when a call was made to confirm it was found he was still not on the list to speak. “We used the contact email and nobody was administering it,” said Bentley. Niagara West Glanbrook MPP Sam Oosterhoff, who was in attendance at both the Beamsville and Grimsby ARC public meetings, said Tuesday he has requested the minister of education suspend closures until the ARC process can be overhauled. A full debate took place at Queen’s Park on Tuesday afternoon on the subject after the Oosterhoff’s Progressive Conservative Party brought forward a motion to halt closures in all rural areas due to concerns about quality of life concerns for students. “Unfortunately, the provincial
Liberals have shown their utter disregard for rural Ontario time and time again. Desperate for cash after their Green Energy Act debacle, E-health, and the gas plant closures, the Ontario Liberals are looking to balance their budget leading up to an election year, and they have shown no compunction to doing so on the back of rural schools and students.” In his letter to Mitzie Hunter, Minister of Eduction, Oosterhoff wrote: “It is due to your funding formula, your shortened accommodation review rules and your disregard for rural communities that school boards such as the District School Board of Niagara feel obliged to close local schools to the detriment of parents, students, teachers, staff and the community at large.” Bentley said he hoped the vote Tuesday would pass to allow time for more public input. The debate continued long after press time.
Are you ready to “think outside the bank”?
NEW HOURS: MON-FRI 8:30-6:30, Sat 10-4
4696 Bartlett Rd., Unit 5, Beamsville, L0R 1B1
When purchasing a home, don’t assume that having a bank mortgage pre-approval is any guarantee that you will successfully obtain financing; The bank pre-approval is essentially an interest rate-hold, and nothing more! Once you enter into an agreement to purchase a property, we must then re-submit your application to the lender for a firm approval. At this point, the lender will thoroughly underwrite the file, and ask you for full income and downpayment documentation. The lender may also request that an appraisal be done on the property, to confirm the market value and overall condition. Include a financing clause in your purchase agreement. If your financing is not approved, or the home appraises for less than what you agreed to pay, you are able to back out of the purchase, and your deposit is returned to you - but only if you have included a financing condition in your offer. For more information on this topic, or any other mortgage-relatedquestions, please contact me. I welcome this opportunity to assist you with your home-purchase plan.
905.563.0697
hairwhisperteam@gmail.com www.hairwhisper.ca
Margo Wynhofen, B.A.Econ. Principal Broker Verico
One Mortgage
Corp.
NOW HIRING A HAIR STYLIST - CALL TODAY!
Each Verico Broker is an Independent owner operator ™ Trademarket of Vercio Financial Group Inc.
Verico One Mortgage Corp. FSCO Licencer #10460
7 Livingston Avenue, Grimsby, ON L3M 1K4 Tel: 905.309.8850 Toll -Free 866.864.9595 Fax: 866.210.3533 www.mymortgageadvisor.ca
Page 4 • News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017
West Niagara service clubs, organizations and non-profit groups are welcome to submit meeting dates, fundraising information and invitations to the public in News Now’s Around Town feature. This service is provided free of charge and is done on a space availability basis. Museum (552 Ridge Rd., Stoney Creek). Cost of $20.00 includes all supplies. Please pre-register at 905-662-2691 or erlandleemuseum@fwio. on.ca Harry Potter Day - March 13th from 3:30PM to 4:30PM at Smithville branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Come experience the magic of being a student at Hogwarts with Potions class, Quiddich tryouts and more. Registration is required. Soroptimist International of Stoney CreekNiagara are having their annual Awards Banquet on Monday March 13th 2017 to honour outstanding women in our community. The dinner will be held at the Innsville Restaurant 1143 Hwy #8 Stoney Creek Ont. at 7 pm, the cost is $40. per person. If you are interested in this great event please contact Kathie 905-6437487. Puzzle Challenge - March 13th from 6:30PM to 8:30PM at Wellandport branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Drop by the library during our open hours and put a puzzle together with friends and family. Wii Bowling - March 14th from 2:00PM to 3:00PM at Caistorville branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Strikes, spares and more! Bring your family and friends for some fun at the library with a game of Wii Bowling. Rock Painting - March 14th from 1:00PM to 2:00PM at Smithville branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Forget about art on paper or canvas, come paint yourself a 3D work of art at the library and bring home your own pet rock! Registration is required. Button Making - March 14th 6:30PM to 8:30PM at Wellandport branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Drop by during our open hours with your favourite picture or colour a picture here in the library and make it into a button for free. Super Heroes Unite - March 15th from 6:30PM to 7:30PM at Caistorville branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Bang! Pow! Boom! Come dressed as your favorite Super Hero as we celebrate super heroes with lots of fun, super activities. Registration is required. Friendship Bracelet Making - March 15th from 1:00PM to 2:00PM at Smithville branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Make a friendship bracelet for yourself and one to give away! Registration is required. Make a Picture Collage - March 15th from 9:00AM to 4:00PM at Wellandport branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Drop by during our open hours to design and make a picture collage about yourself using words and pictures from magazines. Thursday At Ten Programs - Winter/Spring 2017 (Livingston Activity Centre, 18 Livingston Ave., Grimsby) Mar 16 “Feng Shui”. Improve health, prosperity & romance. Speaker
NATURALLY GAS LTD. NATURALLY GAS LTD.
2014/2013 2016 IN THE
BEST WEST DIAMOND AWARD
905-945-8493
TSSA Member
• Gas Furnaces • Central Air • Installation • Dryers
Dianne Bullied Story Day - March 16th from 1:00PM to 2:00PM at Smithville branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Enjoy a snack while listening to some fun stories! Registration is required. Robot Makerspace - March 16th from 6:30PM to 8:30PM at Wellandport branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Drop by during our open hours and get a chance to play with all the cool new tech at the library, can you help our robots complete a top secret mission? Yoga Game Night - March 16th from 6:30PM to 7:30PM at Caistorville branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Little yogis can practice their focus, balance and concentration while playing fun yoga games and do a kid friendly art project. Al Kazaam Magic Show - March 17th from 10:30AM to 11:30AM at Caistorville branch of West Lincoln Public Library. There’s magic in the library! You will be thrilled and AMAZED by the magical Al Kazaam. Registration is required. Fun with Yoga - March 17th from 3:30PM to 4:30PM at Smithville branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Have fun with stories and Yoga in the library! Kids who wear green to the library will get a leprechaun treat. Registration is required. St-Patrick’s Dinner March 18th at St-John’s Presbiterian Church. (10 Mountain Street, Grimsby) Doors open at 5:30 followed by 6pm dinner. Entertainment is provided. $25/person includes Roast Beef dinner, dessert, tea, coffee, jouice. Wine can be purchased. Call 905-9455352, 905-945-0132 or 905-945-5837. Deadline for tickets is March 12. The Great chili cook off at the Smithville Legion BR. 393, Sat. March 18th. Bring your best chili in to be judged 1st, 2nd & 3rd cash prizes, judging at 5 pm, chili sell off $2.00 bowl, everybody welcome 905-957-3935 Bead Bracelet Creation - March 18th from 9:00AM to 4:00PM at Wellandport branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Drop by during our open hours and make a bracelet out of beads for yourself or a friend. Lucky Library Leprechaun Hunt - March 18th from 10:00AM to 4:00PM at Caistorville branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Drop in During our open hours and get in the Irish spirit with a fun and challenging St. Patrick’s Day themed scavenger hunt. Grimsby Toastmasters welcomes you as our guest to our next meeting Mon., Mar. 20th. We meet at Grimsby Secondary School, 5 Boulton Ave. from 7pm – 8:45pm. Come & learn about developing your communication and leadership skills. www.grimsbytoastmasters.org Grace Notes Concert! Sat. Mar. 25th. First Baptist Church, Beamsville. Corner of Beam & Mountain. Refreshments served 7:30pm, Con-
Call for personalized in home, no cost estimates.
Spring is on its Way!
• BBQ’s • Pool Heaters • Ranges • Sales • Service
Upgrade your Heating and Cooling System today and save up to $1200 per year on utilities
cert begins 8:00pm.Bake sale & marketplace after. Tickets $15.00. Phone Betty905-229-2157 or Cathy 905-563-5935 All proceeds to Grandmother to Grandmother campaign, Stephen Lewis Foundation. Grapevine Grans say “See you there!” Live History performs “In Time” at the Erland Lee Museum (552 Ridge Rd., Stoney Creek), April 8th and 9th. Part live theatre, part escape room, Live Theatre brings history to life and audiences are active participants in the storyline: it’s 1897 and the eve of the first Women’s Institute meeting, but Erland and Janet Lee have run into some problems & they need your help! Lives are at stake. History could be changed. Will you be in time? Show times are 11:30, 1:30, and 4:00 both days. Tickets are $25 each and include refreshments. Call 905-662-2691 for tickets. All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast at the Erland Lee Museum (552 Ridge Rd., Stoney Creek), Sat., Apr. 22nd, 8:00am-Noon. Bring the whole family for delicious pancakes, sausages, and maple syrup generously cooked by the Battlefield Optimists. Adults $8, children 12 & under $4. Proceeds support the Erland Lee Museum. Call 905-662-2691 for more information. Thursday At Ten Programs - Winter/Spring 2017 (Livingston Activity Centre, 18 Livingston Ave., Grimsby) Mar 23 “All About Niagara’s Seasonal Workers”. Speakers Karon Edwards and Mike Hann CENTENNIAL PARK BAPTIST CHURCH: Gospel Music Award (GMA) winner, Music Pastor & School Director Sean Dayton is a recording artist from North Bay. He has released five albums along with his wife, Aimee. Setting the Psalms to music, Sean performs the Psalms in a musical & imaginative way, taking you on a rich musical & spiritual journey. Sun., March 26th 10:30am Worship Service. “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.” – Psalm 150:6 Visit grimsbybaptist.org for location. The Lincoln Seniors Club will be hosting a Community Potluck Supper on Monday, March 27, at 5:45 p.m. Please bring a main dish (6-8 servings) and a dessert to share, plus your own plates, cutlery cup, etc. Entertainment will be “Two Sheets to the Wind “, a mix of Celtic, Country and Down East music- they’re really good! Everyone is welcome!” Thursday At Ten Programs - Winter/Spring 2017 (Livingston Activity Centre, 18 Livingston Ave., Grimsby) Mar 30 “Bus Trip to St. Jacob’s Theatre. Musical “Singing In The Rain”. Cost, $68.00. Call Annelien 905-945-8368 for tickets Saturday, April 1st, mini succulent terrarium workshop from 10 am to noon at the Erland Lee Museum, 552 Ridge Rd., Stoney Creek. $35 to register, and includes all materials and refreshments. Please pre-register by calling 905-6622691 or erlandleehome@fwio.on.ca
From
2015
BEST WEST
IN THE
UPCOMING EVENTS Smithville Legion Br. 393 March Events. Mon – Friday, Free Pool 2 – 5 PM, Monday, Cribbage 2 – 4 PM, Tuesday, Free Pool 12 – 10 PM, Tuesday, Dart League 7 PM, Thurs. Euchre 2 – 4 PM, Thurs. 9th and 23rd Bingo 6 PM, Friday 24th, Progressive Euchre 7 PM, Sat. 4th “Soundwave” Live 8pm, Sat 18th Chilli Cook-off at 5pm. Sunday 26th, Breakfast, 8 AM – 12 PM. Hall rental available. You do not have to be a legion member to participate, 172 St. Catharines St. P – 905-9573935 Fit Living - March 9th from 6:30PM to 7:30PM at Caistorville branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Learn about Heirloom Vegetable Gardening with Linda Crago of Tree and Twig Heirloom Vegetable Farm. Please bring a food donation for West Lincoln Community Care. Teen Tech Week - Photo Editing Fun. March 10th from 6PM to 7PM at Smithville branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Celebrate Teen Tech Week at Smithville Library and how to have some fun playing with photos and putting yourself in different settings. Registration is required. P.A. Day at Your Library. March 10th from 10:00AM to 4:00PM at Caistorville branch of West Lincoln Public Library. Lego will be out all day, come in and get creative with friends on your day off. Monthly Vegan Supper Club, Mon. March 6th, 6:30. Held at Lincoln Pioneer Church in Grassie on Mud St. Full meal, recipes included, demo on growing microgreens. Cost.$15/per person or $25/2 family members. To reserve your spot, call Carole 905-957-3667. Next event Mon. April 11. Euchre Party, Beamsville WI, Monday Mar. 6, 2017 Lincoln Center at 7:30 PM. 1st and 2nd prizes, door prize. Refreshments provided. Thursday At Ten Programs - Winter/Spring 2017 (Livingston Activity Centre, 18 Livingston Ave., Grimsby) Mar 9 “Canadian East Coast and Highland”. Travel with Earl Clint A special presentation by the Niagara Peninsula Hawkwatch as a fundraiser for FORT in Grimsby. Thurs. March 9, from 7 pm to 8:30 pm at Station1 Coffeehouse. Bruce Mackenzie, an area naturalist, will be illustrating birds and their lives along the length of the Niagara Escarpment. Minimum $2.00 admission fee. All proceeds go to FORT. Info: kintail52@gmail. com. The presentation will be on the second floor which is not wheelchair accessible. The Lincoln Seniors Club will be hosting a St. Patrick’s Day Lunch on Friday, March 10 at 11:30 a.m.. Lunch menu includes homemade stew, soda bread , and dessert. Cost/person is $8. Everyone is welcome! “Tunisian Crochet” also known as Afghan Stitch will be presented on Saturday, March 11th from 10 am to noon at the Erland Lee
To let us know about your community event, email to: catherine@wn3.ca or call 289-235-9500
Get your furnace tuned up today!
AIR CONDITIONING / HEATING
GAS FIREPLACE SPECIALIST
DIAMOND AWARD
2014/2013 2013/2014
BEST WEST
IN THE
For Local Community Events and Non Profit Groups
DIAMOND AWARD
Sting partners with Grimsby entrepreneur Farm neighbours in Italy now business partners in Canada Quick. What does Grimsby and Sting have in common? If you guessed Luca Vitali and his shop, Casa Toscana, you would be correct. A connection that has been 10 years in the making was finalized recently which will have Casa Toscana diversifiying its own olive oil sales with that of Sting’s noworganic certified product originating from a farm “just down the road” from Vitali’s childhood farm in the Cianti Region of Italy. “Sting bought a villa about 10 kms away from my farm in 1997 and has been working to get it certified for organic production for many years. They now have that certification,” said Vitali, who noted he got to meet with Sting at his Toronto show on Sunday night. “This will be high-end production olive oil, like mine. We’re talking 4,000 bottles per year. He was looking for someone who could actively enhance his brand. He didn’t want it getting lost on a shelf some place.” “He recognized we were a neighbour also selling a high-end product right from the farm. I think this could be good for my business, so we worked out a deal.” Vitali, who has a couple of bottles of autographed product in his store currently, said the first shipment will arrive in Montreal on March 20 and make its way to his shelves shortly after. Vitali, who hosts regular tours of Italy, said Sting’s (whose real name is Gordon Sumner) villa is an excellent property and he plans to take his tours there. “It is a 17th century villa. They have an excellent winemaker and shop on site. It is an impressive place. I will be going there next week to talk about plans.”
News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017 • Page 5
Business Directory Our Business Directory is an economical way to promote your business or service, call 289-235-9500
MERRITT
FUNERAL HOME 287 STATION ST., SMITHVILLE
“Serving Families For 4 Generations Since 1921” Director: Thomas C. Merritt CANADIAN - INDEPENDENT GROUP OF FUNERAL HOMES
905-957-7031
LARRY THE HANDYMAN Home Renovations Anything from changing a door handle to renovating your home. Larry
905-563-3436
www.merritt-fh.com
WYRCIMAGA TREE SERVICE PROFESSIONAL TREE CARE
• Removal & Pruning • Stump Grinding • Hedge & Shrub Trimming • Complete Tree Care • Fully Insured
Casa Toscana owner Luca Vitali, left, and his wife Sonia, met with Sting backstage at his Toronto show on Sunday night.
Ron: 905.563.4593
Cell:
905.651.8733 (TREE)
K.T
Kim Thanh
Aesthetic Services
Tuesday-Saturday 10 am to 6 pm After Hours on appointment
• Facials • Eyelashes • Eyebrows • Make-up • Waxing • Nails
20% OFF
any products, eyelash extensions & Eyebrows Microblading
Kim’s Family Hair Care & Associates 76 Main Street West, Grimsby Tel: 416.242.5554 or 905.945.3900
Jennifer Parker - Wedding Officiant
Schol’s
For A Very Personal Ceremony
Lawn Maintenance
ELOPEMENTS • INTERFAITH RENEWAL • COMMITMENT CEREMONIES (Respectful of any Beliefs and Values)
Weekly Lawn Services Spring Clean Up • Est: 1994 Call for free quote: 905-563-4544 • Cell: 905-327-9961 gwschol@outlook.com
“You Get Mow for Your Money”
JOHN W. SHIPTON Let me help you make this celebration to your image! Call for consultation:
Barrister & Solicitor
SZPIECH, ELLIS, SKIBINSKI, SHIPTON
Wills, Family, Real Estate 107 Griffin Street South, Smithville, Ontario L0R 2A0
905-957-7898
414 Main St. East, Hamilton
905-524-2454
289.214.7411 • withthisringweddingchaplain@gmail.com
jshipton@sesslaw.ca
Leave
It
2Me
Roofing Painting • Odd Jobs Phil 289-668-2728
leave.it@inbox.com facebook: Leave It 2 Me Quality You can Trust Value You Can Afford
Fully Insured • Free Estimates
Yaroslav Diduch We are Niagara’s Lawyers since 1882. As a partner at Lancaster, Brooks & Welch, Yar is an important part of the family law team. Growing up in the Niagara Region, Yar has built strong ties to his community and possesses a passion for the people and the region � ���� � � � � � �� � � ������ ������� �� �� � �� �� � � ������ language. The focus of Yar’s practice is on matters of family law, civil litigation, wills, and estate matters.
800 - 80 King Street, St. Catharines, ON L2R 6Z1 | 905.641.1551 | TF: 1.866-835-3934 | www.lbwlawyers.com
Page 6 • News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017
Glenn’s Painting Services Established in 2000
Booking Now For Summer Call Anne 905-945-3782
www.glennspaintingservices.com
We Pay Top $$ For Scrap Vehicles Used Auto & Truck Parts 9530 Silver St., Caistor Centre 905-957-8111 www.plazek.com
Fiddle champ to perform for Rose Cottage Renowned Canadian Fiddle champion Scott Woods will bring his two-hour Branson style live show to Beamsvile in support of Rose Cottage. The show will include traditional country, dancing, wholesome family humour and Woods’ famour fiddling tricks. Joining Woods on stage will be his back-up band, Twin Fiddle Express. The band includes his sister,
Kendra Norris, a multi-instrumentalist and threetime Canadian Duet Fiddle Champ with Scott. Also on stage will be guitarist Steve Piticco, who has won a Canadian Country Music Award and Guitar Player of the Year honours; Patrick Linton, bass player, step dancer and vocalist, and; Bill Carruthers, drummer/vocalist. Woods is a two-time Ca-
Lincoln’s News Now
Spring the Town of Lincoln CapitalatBudget Overview: Update
Mother Nature has been sending This past Monday, staff provided Councilsome an update Heritage House once the Stage 4 the coming weeks. on themessages budget process andwinter specifically look atso, the Archaeological One of the principles of long-term capitalis planning mixed this buta even around the house capital budget. is to optimize the investment in existing municipal Spring is on the horizon with the first completed in this Spring. Come visit infrastructure to ensure that all assets are in a official day ofcapital Spring coming on March us at Beam Street. So what is the condition that allows them to meet intended budget? service levels and community expectations. A bal20, 2017. Rink Side Cafe has opened at the • It is those items like roads, parks, and buildings ance between growth and renewal should ensure As themunicipalities Town has Fleming Centre and is offering their thatSpring are “hard”approaches, infrastructure that that investments in infrastructure assets maximize must replaceon! and build. benefits, lower risk, and provide satisfactory levels of a lot going customers cofffee/tea, hot chocolate, service to the public. We’ve gotimportant? a number of recreational or coldWith beverages, slushies, French fries, Why is this both an aging and growing community, The Town of Lincoln is responsible for providing balancing investment choices between renewal and cultural activity programs launched for chicken fingers, onion rings, hot dogs, and maintaining capital assets and infrastructure growth is a significant challenge. As infrastructure Spring to include: popcorn, chips, chocolate bars, candy, to serve our residents and businesses. This can only ages, more maintenance and rehabilitation is • occurMarch Break skating if we are sustainable in maintaining our capital pizza slices and fresh baked muffins required to ensure that infrastructure is performing infrastructure assets and our financial assets over the well and continuing to meetis theopen needs of citizens. At • Clean Up Our Community and cookies. The Cafe long-term. the same time, demands arise for new infrastructure Month (April) Public infrastructure is essential to all residents and Monday-Friday to support growth. from 3:30 p.m. 10 in the Town of Lincoln and critical to the p.m., Saturday 6 a.m. to arena close, • businesses Canada 150 Mosaic event competitiveness of our local and regional economy. This year you will see us look at projects in the • The ability Health Kids Community and Sunday to build and properly maintain following ways:7 a.m. to arena close. Be assets is essential to ensure we can 1. Basic renewal projects usually your roads and infrastructure Challenge Playpacks sure to stop by and enjoy a coffee, provide services and remain an attractive and cost parks; Visit the Town’s website at snack or meal. There are tables effective place to live, work and play. 2. Preparing for growth related projects which are Over the last 9 years our capital expenditures year available funded and not www.lincoln.ca to find out more to through sit anddevelopment enjoy yourcharges items. over year have increased and decreased. Our goal is on the back of the levy; information and registration details for Rink Side Cafe is also available to cater to ensure we invest as necessary and maintain a level 3. And those transformational projects, that are theofSpring programming. investment that is affordable. The impact on taxes your events at the Fleming Centre or critical for the future of our community. has also ranged from a 1.2% decrease in capital The Jordan Historical Museum of the other Town facilities. spending to a 0.4 % increase in spending. This year some additional items will also be Twenty is moving to their temporary To keep up to date on Town This year, and as of today, we are looking at recommended to ensure investment in basic services something in the 0.3% range, plus examining other and infrastructure wellprogramming, as items that Council location in mid-April at 4996 Beam business, events asand ways to address our roads infrastructure deficit. At identified throughout the year. These items specifiStreet in Beamsville. The Town has the end of the day, Council will be reviewing the bud-visit the website at www.lincoln.ca, like cally focus on the Sport, Culture and Recreation get and providing direction and budget guidance in us on Facebook, and follow us on Department (Facilities, Cemeteries and Parks). begun making plans for the sale and removal and/or demolition of the Twitter.
nadian Open Fiddle Contest champ and has earned Fiddle Entertainer of the Year honours. The show is set for Saturday, April 8 at Providence Christian Reformed Church in Beamsville, starting at 2 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children age 6-12, children five and younger are free. For more information, call 905-309-5071.
Lions wild game dinner April 7 Jordan Lions will host its very popular wild game dinner Friday, April 7 at St. John’s Anglican Church in Jordan Station. The annual event raises funds for Lions projects. The cost is $45pp. Cash bar will be available with an “attitude adjustment hour” from 6-7 p.m. with smoked trout and mussels. Dinner will be at 7 p.m. Live auction starts at 9 p.m. The club is looking for donations for the auction. The event usually sells out, so call Ray Dykstra, 289-237-0593 to book your tickets or if you’d like to sponsor the event.
Salt and Pepper - Exploring the Fundamentals of Seasoning, with a Chef’s Tasting Menu!!
Themed dinner Thursday, march 30Th 6:30 rsVP
4600 VicTOria aVe., VineLand, ONTARIO L0R 2B0 • 289-567-0487 WWW.GrandOaKcuLinary.ca
NEW GRAND CARAVAN CVP for Only LEASE A
O.A.C. 30 Month Lease allowing 18,000 kilometers per year. $1462.00 Taxable Downpayment Required.
$
169
Grimsby Chrysler
+ HST per month
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (just west of Casablanca Blvd.) •
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (Just west of Casablanca Blvd.)
www.grimsbychrysler.com
905.945.9606 • www.grimsbychrysler.com
News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017 • Page 7
New Chamber board
Grimsby Chamber of Commerce installed a new board of directors at its AGM last week. Back (L to R) Joe Lowes, David Greig, Kristen Montgomery, Jessica Andrusko, Ross Matheson, Lyndsay Dobson, Mark Dawson, Scott Maskell, John Dunstall and executive director Jinny Day. Front: Suzanne Greenfield, Marion Thorp, president Marshall Deeth and Randy Donald. Absent, Rob Falconer. Photo courtesy of Bryan Macaulay, Village Studio
The Financial Race
No one starts a race without knowing where the start and finish lines are. The financial race starts with knowing what you own and what you owe. Today. We call it a statement of personal net worth. Saving is what we do during the race to get us to the finish line. And our retirement wealth target is the finish line. We’ve talked about the retirement wealth target and how to calculate that. Now let’s talk about the starting line. Today is the perfect time to create your statement of personal net worth. Your December 31st investment statements, RRSP statements, mortgage statements and all sorts of paperwork are arriving in the mail. Save each one and start a spreadsheet. In the first column write down the financial institution and number of the account. In the second column, write down the value of that account from your December 31st statements. If you
have a spouse, create a third column for them; if you own accounts jointly, you’ll have a fourth column. And the last column is the total of the numbers in yours, your partner’s and the joint columns. Don’t forget to list your debts like the mortgage, credit lines and even any income taxes you might owe for 2016. If you own a home and vehicles, you might want to check out what they’re worth too and put them on the statement. Go crazy and be as accurate as you can be. Now you know what the starting line looks like. We’ve determined our retirement wealth target and even calculated what we have to save each year to get there. Now set your goals for 2017. Make another list. How much do you need to put in your RRSP in 2017? In your spouse or partner’s RRSP? In your TFSA? In your emergency savings account? They say the best way
to eat an elephant is one bite at a time. I have no plans to try it but financial goals are best accomplished one bite at a time. If you need to contribute $12,000 a year to your retirement, that means $1,000 per month. Go on-line, visit your friendly bank or investment advisor and set up a pre-authorized withdrawal for your monthly contribution. Time it to come out the day after your paycheque goes in. If it’s not there you won’t be tempted to spend it. If creating spreadsheets and running mathematical calculations sounds intimidating, visit us and we’ll help you understand how this specifically applies to your life. We sell advice, not products. Delight Davoli is a Chartered Professional Accountant, a Chartered Financial Planner and a Registered Retirement Consultant with Southcott Davoli Professional Corporation.
SPRING
R E G I S T R A T I O N S
march break sewing camps make bags and bears, p.j.’s and pillows!
$
lessons that last.
ages five and up full or half days five days of hands on fun
$
call stephanie for more information 905-945-1085
www.sewingwithstephanie.ca
For only $175 + HST per child UnlimiTed ClaSSeS from May to August.
There’s a program for every age • Go Ninja • Tumble (All Levels) • Acro • Conditioning Classes • Bootcamp (for ladies)
are you interested in Completive Cheer? Please join us monday, march 6 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Conversations Café to learn about upcoming season. For more information visit our website at
www.allstarathletics.net P.O. Box 68 4-76 Main St., West, Grimsby Ont. L3M 4G1 Tel: 905-945-4942 Fax: 1-905-945-0306 Email: contactus@southdav.com
4290 Bartlett Road, Beamsville, On. Phone: 289-769-1211 • Email: info@AllStarAthletics.net Tax deductionsreceipts provided.
2016 DODGE JOURNEY V-6 MODELS
0%
O.A.C.
Grimsby Chrysler
FINANCING
FOR 84 MONTHS
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (just west of Casablanca Blvd.) •
Page 8 • News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (Just west of Casablanca Blvd.)
www.grimsbychrysler.com
905.945.9606 • www.grimsbychrysler.com
Region hosts transit meeting March 23 Ongoing effort to develop an inter-municipal transit program will take another step later this month with Niagara Region hosting a public meeting. The region’s working group, tasked with devising a sustainable model, have published their initial findings in a report - Niagara Transit Service Delivery and Governance Strat-
Niagara Neighbours Spring Specials
Sara Topham
$42 TICKETS — $22 for students
egy - available on the Region’s website. Major elements of this strategy call for the formation of a consolidated transit system and service enhancements. St. Catharines, Niagara Falls and Welland councils have unanimously agreed to move forward with the next steps in the intermunicipal transit process and have asked Niagara Region to become an official transit provider and partner. At a Special Council meeting on March 23 at 6:30 p.m., recommendations will be brought forward to Regional Council on the future of inter-municipal transit services including recommendations on the Region’s involvement as
a transit provider and recommendations on the Region’s involvement with the next steps in the inter-municipal transit process. In January of this year regional council approved the extension of its current inter-municipal transit service, Niagara Region Transit. This extension allows for the time needed to make decisions on the recommendations presented in the Niagara Transit Service Delivery and Governance Strategy towards a permanent inter-municipal transit service. To register as a delegation at the Special Council meeting on March 23 or for further information visit: www.niagararegion.ca.
Winter Savings
Me and My Girl
Saint Joan
The Tony Award-winning hit musical, updated by the brilliant Stephen Fry.
Bernard Shaw’s greatest play about the most remarkable teenage girl in history.
1PM: MAY 14 2PM: APR 5, 6, 8, 15; MAY 4 7PM: APR 30, MAY 7 8PM: APR 22, MAY 18
2PM: MAY 3, 12 8PM: MAY 4, 6, 10, 11
Dancing at Lughnasa Irish playwright Brian Friel’s life-altering masterpiece about five unforgettable women.
1PM: MAY 14 8PM: MAY 20
1979 Michael Healey’s razorsharp — yet humane — new comedy about Joe Clark: the prime minister who barely was.
2PM: MAY 20
BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW! Offer ends March 20. Quote code FRIENDS to book. eBonus! Book online and save on the handling fee. $3.50 online, $8.50 by phone.
SUPPORTED BY
2017 SEASON | April 5 to October 15 | Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON Tim Carroll, Artistic Director | Tim Jennings, Executive Director
Offer is based on availability, not applicable to previous purchases and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Blue seating. Upgrade to Gold for $10/ticket. Excludes Restricted, Platinum, Marquee and Gallery seating. Limit of six tickets per production. Price includes CRF fee but not tax and handling.
1.800.511.7429 | SHAWFEST.COM Design: KeyGordon.com
the beauty expert for your Professional Needs!
K.T
Kim Thanh
Aesthetic Services
Tuesday-Saturday 10 am to 6 pm After Hours on appointment
Facials • Full • Mini • Eye Treatment Eyelashes • Permanent Curl • Extentions • Tinting Eyebrows • Permanent Make-up • Microblading • Tinting • Treading Make-up • Application • Bridal Waxing • Eyebrow • Lips/Chin/Sideburn • Arms • Bikini/Brazilian • Legs • Chest Nails • Shellac • Design • Manicure • Pedicure
20%
OFF
any products, eyelash extentions & Eyebrows Microblading
“Beauty is About enhancing what you have. Let yourself Shine through!” – Janelle Monáe
Located in Kim’s family Hair Care & Associates 76 Main Street West, Grimsby, ONT. Direct Tel: 416.242.5554 or 905.945.3900
0%
YOUR RAM us l P TRUCK CENTRE. 45 Ram 1500’s In Stock Now.
FINANCING
FOR 60 MONTHS
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (just west of Casablanca Blvd.) •
Grimsby Chrysler
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (Just west of Casablanca Blvd.)
www.grimsbychrysler.com
905.945.9606 • www.grimsbychrysler.com
News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017 • Page 9
Willowbank on GHS menu Willowbank House and School in Queenston will be Grimsby Historical Society’s topic of discussion at its March 15 meeting. Grimsby Museum will host the discussion, starting at 7:30 p.m. Willowbank is one of the finest examples of a house built in the Greek Revival style. Located in Queenston, the house sits on a slope that holds evidence of early encampment sites and was the logical starting point for a portage around Niagara Falls. This ancient site has revealed artefacts dating back 9,000 years.
Willowbank is not just a house. Its adjoining School of Restoration Arts offers tuition by leading heritage professionals, master tradespeople, designers, academics and artisans to teach the exploration and
Looking for positive, energetic, and outgoing people to join our staff this summer! If you have a passion for the Hospitality, Culinary, and Events Industry you might just be exactly who we are looking for!
conservation of existing built, natural and cultural resources. Director Crystal Bossio will introduce meeting-goers to this magnificent house, historic site and school. A true heritage experience.
Positions:
• Wine Retail Store • Kitchen Staff-Cooks/Prep Cooks/Dishwasher • Bistro Servers • Wedding Servers • Front of House Supervisor • Wedding Head of House • Event Set-Up • Ground Maintenance When:
Wednesday, March 8th & 15th Wednesday, April 5th & 12th
Where: 4060 Jordan Rd., Jordan Ontario Time: 4 pm-7 pm Please Bring Resumé and References Phone: 905-562-4339
Household Hazardous Waste Depots Open Year-round Niagara now has four full-time Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Depots open all year where you can dispose of your hazardous waste. Residential materials only, accepted free of charge.
Are you a person with a Disability and have concerns with Accessibility, or do you own a business and are having issues making it Accessible? Join
Sam Oosterhoff MPP Niagara West - Glanbrook
for an
Accessibility Round Table Saturday, March 18 • 2-4 pm Grimsby Town Hall • Council Chambers 160 Livingston Avenue, Grimsby
RSVP By March 14th to: Pamela Haire 905-563-1755 or email pamela.haire@pc.ola.org 4961 King St. E.., Unit M1, Beamsville ON. L0R 1B0
Niagara Road 12 HHW Depot*
Bridge Street Waste and Recycling Depot*
7015 Concession Road 7, 1300 Bridge St., West Lincoln Fort Erie (Enter from Grimsby Road 12) * Niagara Road 12 Household * Batteries, oil, propane tanks and Hazardous Waste Drop-off Depot is point only accepted at Bridge available to all residents of Niagara Street. region for the drop off of HHW only. Closed Mondays.
Humberstone HHW Depot
Thorold Yard HHW Depot
700 Humberstone Rd., Welland
3557 Thorold Townline Rd., Thorold
Hours: Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Regional Road 12 Depot closed Mondays)
Saturdays / Statutory Holidays: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Closed: Sunday, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day Find a list of acceptable items at niagararegion.ca/waste. Space provided through a partnership between industry and Ontario municipalities to support waste diversion programs.
$
PURCHASE A NEW DODGE GRAND CARAVAN CVP For Only
19,995
Grimsby Chrysler
+ HST
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (just west of Casablanca Blvd.) •
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (Just west of Casablanca Blvd.)
www.grimsbychrysler.com
905.945.9606 • www.grimsbychrysler.com
Page 10 • News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017
LIQUIDATING TO THE WALLS! ALL 4-SEASONS ON SALE! Sale Will Last Until April 1/2017
Choose From A
GREAT SELECTION of
PROM and
GRADUATION DRESSES Loyalty To Our Customers – “We Won’t Sell the Same Dress to the Same School Twice”–
The
resser D rawer
D
Your Unique Boutique
Like us on
7568 Regional Rd. 20, Smithville • www.dresserdrawer.ca • 905-957-5535
News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017 • Page 11
Tables should be turned on apology request Dear Editor, The West Lincoln Feb. 21 Committee meeting left me with a series of questions and disappointed with the behavior and abilities of six members. Independent thought by each councillor was not obvious; it appeared a prearranged decision would prevail. It should be noted that all of the excellent presentations earlier in the evening had been ignored. The presentations represented a realistic and practical view of the Multiple Use Recreation Site (MURS) project. NewsNow published a representative group of articles from the public that carried similar messages prior to the meeting, that were ignored as well. Acknowledgement of and addressing the concerns of the presenters should have put doubt into the necessity of the MURS project. This was not a surprise to the people whose presentations on the IWT problems have been ignored for six years. When a Public Advisory Committee on wind turbines presented a proposal, it was ridiculed by Mayor Joyner with his dewworm statement. Any funding for IWT’s problems would interfere with the MURS funding. We
Letter see this playing out now. Diversion from hearing from Coun. Bylsma and seeking a practical solution for municipal necessities started with CAO’s Carter’s long explanation of the history of the MURS project as a justification for its existence. The Chair, Coun. Trombetta, was trying to derail Coun. Bylsma with interruptions but, with some difficulty, Coun. Bylsma managed to show the deception of the tax increase in the first year was 5% and not 3.5 % as the public was told. As pointed out by Coun. Bylsma, the MURS project is to be funded by three unsecured sources and one secure source, the taxpayer. The other three are based on assumptions that the economy, interest rates, government and population growth will increase for the next 30 years. This is ‘fortune telling’ on a grand scale. Coun. Bylsma’s integrity was well defended when challenged by the mayor. It is the mayor’s integrity that is now in question as well as that of some other councillors. If anyone has been giving
out deceptive information, it is the mayor not Coun. Bylsma. Not one councillor had the intestinal fortitude to challenge or disagree with Mayor Joyner, who should apologize for his false accusations and behavior. Due to diversions by councillors on the topic, we still don’t know how the approved MURS project went from the $14 million, that was too expensive in the summer, to $23 million. Council has ignored the writings in NewsNow, the petition regarding this project and the hundreds of informed taxpayers that will foot the bill. The increase in property taxes on top of MPAC increased assessments will surely come to haunt Council next year. In all of the disjointed discussions, a good point was made by Councillor Ganann regarding the floor area of the proposed new library, and that there was no consultation with the Library Board. It was the only sensible comment by MURS proponents all evening. When councillors don’t consult and listen to their constituents, the decisions made are obviously questionable or wrong.
36 Main St. West, Grimsby
569 Main St. W., Grimsby 905-643-1221
HAT TRICK HOCKEY Week 14
Be sure to look online at: wn3.ca to see the full standings, but here are some of the leaders and lucky random draw winners:
l $10 certificate - Teddy’s Fun, Food & Spirits – Cal Billyard l Large One-Item Pizza - Pizza Shak – Sally Quider l $10 gift certificate - Cole’s Florist – Patrick Casey l Large One-Item Pizza - Noni’s Pizzeria– Nathan & Lucas Faserk Winners can stop by the NewsNow office to pick up their winnings. © NHLPA. Officially Licensed Product of the NHLPA. NHLPA, National Hockey League Players’ Association and the NHLPA logo are trademarks of the NHLPA
Top Standings
1. Marklin, Murdoch . 1035 2. Poziomka, Brett ... 1032 3. DeVries, Harry .... 1031 4. Boulter, Brian ....... 1030 5. Stuive, Alex ........... 1028 6. Kusy, Wally ............ 1027 7. McNamara, Debbie 1019 8. Lowry, Katherine . 1009 9. O’Toole, Bernie ... 1009 10. Thomas, Robert . 1006
Ed Engel Caistor Centre
11. Pryde, Linda ..........998 12. Poz, Rick .................998 13. Herale, Faye&Lauren ..998 14. Allington, Piers ......996 15. Lawrie, John ...........996 16. Pachan, Claude .....993 17. Schilte, Frank .........993 18. Fozard, Micheal .....992 19. Jaskula, Jenny .........992 20. Schilte, Kaia ...........991
Sponsored by:
FOOD, FUN & SPIRITS
56 Main St. West, Grimsby • 905-945-5311
The Pizza Shak
3934 Victoria Avenue Vineland • 905-562-1234
30 Main St. West, Grimsby
4 Livingston Ave. Grimsby • 905-309-3553
49 Main St. W Grimsby • 289-235-9500
147 Main St. East, Grimsby • 905-945-2219
ALL-NEW 2017 GMC ACADIA $
179 @ 0 BI-WEEKLY
%
$ INCLUDES
LEASE RATE
1,000 LEASE BONUS
FOR 36 MONTHS* ON 2017 GMC ACADIA SLE-1. INCLUDES $2,650 DOWN PAYMENT, $750 GM CARD APPLICATION BONUS AND $500 LEASE CASH.
2017 ACADIA DENALI SHOWN
MARCH 1 - 31 • SEATS UP TO 7 WITH INDUSTRY FIRST REAR SEAT REMINDER **
WHEN EQUIPPED WITH THE OPTIONAL DRIVER ALERT PACKAGE
• TRI-ZONE CLIMATE CONTROL
2017 GMC TERRAIN
0
%
• 20” BLACK PAINTED ALUMINUM WHEELS
FINANCING
• 7” COLOUR TOUCH SCREEN • AVAILABLE REAR VISION CAMERA (INCLUDES $1,000 GM CARD APPLICATION BONUS) THAT MEANS YOU PAY $35,995
NHTSA 5-STAR OVERALL VEHICLE SCORE **
OR STEP UP TO
189 @ 1.9 ( 5.1 % *
BI-WEEKLY
2017 SIERRA KODIAK CREW CAB SHOWN
• REMOTE VEHICLE STARTER SYSTEM
LEASE RATE
APR
• DUAL ZONE CLIMATE CONTROL
• MULTI-FLEX REAR SEATING
%
MONTHS
$ 2017 TERRAIN NIGHTFALL EDITION SHOWN
84 (4.0 )
PLUS $2,000 FINANCE CASH
APR
OR
5,500
IN CASH CREDITS*
INCLUDES $750 GM CARD APPLICATION BONUS
• STABILITRAK WITH TRACTION CONTROL
• REAR VISION CAMERA NHTSA 5-STAR OVERALL VEHICLE SCORE **
GMC PROGRADE PROTECTION:
2017 GMC SIERRA DOUBLE CAB $
FOR
%
)
FOR 48 MONTHS* ON 2017 SIERRA 1500 KODIAK EDITION. INCLUDES $3,950 DOWN PAYMENT, $3,000 DELIVERY CREDIT, $500 LEASE CASH, $1,000 GM CARD APPLICATION BONUS AND $1,600 TRUCK MONTH CREDIT
• TRAILERING EQUIPMENT
NHTSA 5-STAR OVERALL VEHICLE SCORE **
COMPLIMENTARY 2-YEAR/ 48,000 KM LUBE-OIL-FILTER MAINTENANCE †
5-YEAR/160,000 KM POWERTR AIN LIMITED WARR ANT Y ††
AVAIL ABLE ONSTAR 4G LTE WITH WI-FI ® HOTSPOT ‡
VISIT YOUR LOCAL DEALER TODAY
*Offer available to qualified retail customers in Canada for vehicles delivered from March 1 to 31, 2017. $10,500 is a combined total credit for retail cash purchases on an eligible 2017 GMC Sierra Double Cab Elevation Edition. Credit consists of: $3,000 manufacturer-to-dealer cash credit (tax exclusive), $1,600 manufacturer-to-dealer (tax exclusive) Truck Month Credit, $750 manufacturerto-dealer Option Package Discount Credit (tax exclusive), $1,000 manufacturer-to-consumer GM Card Application Bonus (offer applies to individuals who apply for a Scotiabank GM Visa Card (GM Card) or current GM Card cardholders) (tax inclusive) and $4,150 manufacturer-to-dealer delivery credit (tax exclusive) towards the retail cash purchase, finance or lease for an eligible new 2017 Sierra Double Cab Elevation Edition at participating dealers. At participating dealers. Void where prohibited. See dealer for details. Discounts vary by model. Dealer may sell for less. Limited time offer which may not be combined with certain other offers. General Motors of Canada Company may modify, extend or terminate offers in whole or in part at any time without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. Offers may not be redeemed for cash and may not combined with certain other consumer incentives. ®Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia. Eligible 2017 Sierra Kodiak Double Cab: Lease based on suggested retail price of $49,145, $3,000 available manufacturer-to-dealer delivery credit (tax exclusive), $500 lease cash (tax exclusive), available $1,600 manufacturer-todealer delivery credit (tax exclusive) and $1,000 manufacturer-to-consumer GM Card Application Bonus (offer applies to individuals who apply for a Scotiabank GM Visa Card [GM Card] or current GM Card cardholders) (tax inclusive). Bi-weekly payment is $189 bi-weekly for 48 months at 1.9% interest rate (5.1% APR) on approved credit to qualified retail customers by GM Financial. $3,950 down payment is required. Total obligation is $23,646, plus applicable taxes. Option to purchase at lease end is $21,825. Eligible 2017 GMC Acadia SLE-1 AWD: Lease based on suggested retail price of $39,364, $500 Lease Cash (tax inclusive), $1,000 manufacturer-to-dealer (tax exclusive) Lease Bonus and $750 manufacturer-to-consumer GM Card Application Bonus (offer applies to individuals who apply for a Scotiabank GM Visa Card [GM Card] or current GM Card cardholders) (tax inclusive). Bi-weekly payment is $179 for 36 months at 0.0% interest rate on approved credit to qualified retail customers by GM Financial. $2,650 down payment is required. Total obligation is $16,650, plus applicable taxes. Option to purchase at lease end is $21,091. Consumer may be required to pay Dealer Fees. Price and total obligation exclude license, insurance, PPSA, registration, taxes and optional equipment. Excess wear and tear charges not included. Other lease options are available. Dealers are free to set individual prices. See your dealer for conditions and details. As part of the transaction, dealer may request documentation and contact General Motors of Canada Company to verify eligibility. Annual kilometre limit of 20,000 km, $0.16 per excess kilometre. Security deposit may be required. Payment may vary depending on down payment/trade. ®Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia. 0% purchase financing offered on approved credit by TD Auto Finance Services, Scotiabank® or RBC Royal Bank for 84 months on a new or demonstrator 2017 GMC Terrain. Model shown may include optional equipment available at extra cost. Participating lenders are subject to change. Rates from other lenders will vary. Down payment, trade and/or security deposit may be required. Monthly/Bi-weekly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Example: $20,000 at 0.99% APR, the monthly payment is $247 for 84 months. Cost of borrowing is $748, total obligation is $20,748. Freight and air tax ($100, if applicable) included. Please see your dealer for the most accurate and up-to-date product and pricing details. ®Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. $5,500 Cash Credit is a Manufacturer to Dealer, (Tax exclusive) credit and applies to cash purchases of new 2017 GMC Terrain models at participating dealers in Canada. By selecting lease or finance offers, consumers are foregoing this $5,500 credit which will result in higher effective interest rates. Dealer may sell for less. Offer may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. General Motors of Canada Company may modify, extend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without notice. See dealer for details. **U.S. government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s New Car Assessment Program (www.SaferCar.gov). ** Does not detect people or items. Always check the rear seat before exiting the vehicle. ††The 2-Year Scheduled LOF Maintenance Program provides eligible customers in Canada who have purchased, leased or financed a new eligible 2016 MY GMC vehicle with an ACDelco oil and filter change, in accordance with the Oil Life Monitoring System and the Owner’s Manual, for 2 years or 48,000 km, whichever occurs first, with a limit of four Lube-Oil-Filter services in total, performed at participating GM dealers. Fluid top-offs, inspections, tire rotations, wheel alignments and balancing, etc., are not covered. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives available on GM vehicles. General Motors of Canada Limited reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. Additional conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. ††Whichever comes first, fully transferable. Covers select powertrain components. See dealer for complete details. ‡Visit onstar.ca for coverage maps, details and system limitations. Service plan required. Available 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot requires WPA2 compatible mobile device and data plan. Data plans provided by AT&T. Services vary by model, service plan, conditions as well as geographical and technical restrictions. OnStar with 4G LTE connectivity is available on select vehicle models and in select markets. Vehicle must be started or in accessory mode to access Wi-Fi.
Page 12 • News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017
classifieds takin’ care of busines sports business HELP WANTED
GARDENING ENTHUSIASTS
Please call News Now to place your Classified Ad OBITUARY
289-235-9500
IN MEMORIAM
Mark Alan Mihalides
June 23, 1964 March 9, 2009
In Memory of Our beloved son
BROOKS, Carol May (nee Leitch)
Passed away peacefully at McNally House Hospice in Grimsby on Monday, February 27, 2017 in her 80th year. Predeceased by her loving husband Ron. Loving mother of Barton (Esther) of Grimsby, and Stephen (Colette) of Ottawa. Cherished grandmother of Jonathan, Stephanie, Jessica, Ryan, Barrett, and Michael. Survived by her loving brother, Donald (Norma) of Mount Albert, and predeceased by her three sisters, and three brothers, Phyllis (Willis) Harrison, Norma (Morris) Harrison, Morley (Alexina) Leitch, Teresa (Gordon) Gunton, Orval (Agnes) Leitch, and Clayton (Marie) Leitch. Loving aunt to many nieces and nephews. The family would like to express their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from family and friends. Carol’s kind heartedness reached out to many people, and she will be greatly missed by family and friends. Special thanks to the staff and volunteers at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital and McNally House Hospice both of Grimsby, and specifically to Dr. Glenn Pierce, and Dr. Denise Marshall, for their dedicated and compassionate care. Services and Interment have already taken place.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation or to McNally House Hospice would be greatly appreciated by the family.
APPLIANCE REPAIR
DEBT
DEPT PROBLEMS? Know your options. Call Ralph Culp - Trustee in Bankruptcy. No charge consultation. 905309-5676. ralphculp.com
HANDYMAN SERVICES APT. FOR RENT GRIMSBY, near Canadian Tire, junior, 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms. Call 905-309-8738, 905-560-7428.
CARPET/FLOORING
CARPETS - I have several thousand yards of new Stainmaster & 100% nylon carpet. Will do living & dining room for $389. Price includes carpet, pad & installation (25 sq. yds) Steve 905682-5320, 905-777-1170; carpetdeals.ca
LAWN ROLLING & AERATION YARD & GARDEN Clean up. Call Ken 905-957-5731.
RUBBISH AND JUNK REMOVAL. Call Ken 905-9575731.
FOR SALE A1 MATTRESS FACTORY DIRECT
delivery available. All sizes including custom split box springs, orthopedic 20 year set starting $240. 30 year tight-top sets starting $340. Deluxe, no-flip Pillowtop & “Crown” series, Eurotop sets from $390. New waterbeds, futons, end of line discontinued items available. 905-847-2020 905-681-9496 905-563-6903
Not a day goes by that Mark is not with us Treasured memories and silent tears To spend the day with him To hear his voice and see him smile To have a hug, to give a kiss And tell him all that is in our hearts. So deeply loved forever missed Never to be forgotten Until we can hold him again
Mark, for eight years I have looked up to the brightest star in the darkest night and wish you were here. Knowing you are at peace and your heart won’t be broken again eases some of the pain and brings some comfort to get through the next day, the next week, then the next year ... You are deeply missed and loved forever and always. Sharleen
MISCELLANEOUS
VINTAGE VOGUE We now carry “Country Chic” Chalk & Mineral Based Paint, no VOC’s. Call for Workshops. 905-531-3222, 41 B Main Street, W. Visit our new Grimsby location.
HELP WANTED
CR - Celebrate Recovery, a Christ Centred 12 step Recovery Program for any Hurt, Hang-up, or Habit. Every Wednesday at 7pm. Confidential and Anonymous. 132 Lake St, Grimsby. All welcome. Info: CR@forestviewcommunitychurch.ca
Joshua Contracting & Sales
GENERAL POSITIONS
• Basic Tool Skills • Ability to work in a crew setting • Physical labour - outdoor construction work Will train
For more details and to set up an interview call .....
905-563-4445
Submit resumes to: neilrensen@gmail.com
TRUCK DRIVER & MAINTENANCE
Local nursery requires a 2 truck drivers, one with an AZ License and one with a DZ license. Driving is seasonal. No winter driving. Deliveries are within Ontario and the northeast US. Must have clean abstract, professional appearance and be customer friendly. Will be required to assist in unloading truck. Maintenance work in winter. Welding, carpentry, plumbing, tractor and equipment maintenance skills are an asset. This is a full time position. Rates are hourly and competitive. Resumes, together with abstract can be dropped off between the hours of 8:00 a.m-4:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 8:00 a.m.-12:00 noon on Fridays at:
(We thank you for your application, however only those considered will be notified).
NURSERY HELP
Specialized small dogs Daycare, walking, sleepovers, vacation, sickness. I will administer shots & medication. Private park. Vaccinations required. Welcome old cats.
SUPPORT GROUP
Email: info@vinelandnurseries.com Subject Line: Hiring Deadline: March 23, 2017
Human Resources 935 Victoria Avenue, Fenwick, On L0S 1C0 No phone calls please.
PET SITTING
905-348-8610
VINELAND NURSERIES
Willowbrook Nurseries Inc.
PET SITTING
Text or call Diane
Seasonal nursery help wanted for part-time position(s) (up to 3 days/week, especially during busy season) day shifts. Candidate must be reliable, honest, well organized, have excellent interpersonal skills, enjoy working with plants and love the outdoors. The job will include assisting customers with plant selection, labeling, pricing, moving plants, watering, weeding, etc. Some plant knowledge is a must. Some weekend work involved. Send resumé to:
VEHICLES WANTED
Wholesale nursery growing container grown perennials, vines, flowering shrubs, evergreens & dwarf trees seeking individuals who desire a career in horticulture. We are in need of part time (April, May, June) and full time general labourers as well as those skilled in the growing, management and shipping of nursery stock. Plant knowledge and experience is an asset. If you are an individual who has organizational skills and dedication as well as a willingness to work as a team player, we look forward to hearing from you. Wages will commensurate with experience. Resumes may be dropped of between the hours of: 8:00a.m.-4:30p.m. Monday to Thursday or 8:00a.m -12:00 noon on Fridays at:
Willowbrook Nurseries Inc.
Wanted - Scrap Cars and Trucks Cash paid Same day pick up Lampman Salvage Licensed Auto Recycler
905-957-2193
935 Victoria Ave., Fenwick, On Attention: Human Resources No phone calls please.
(We thank you for your application, however only those considered will be notified).
ROOFING ROOFING Over 25 years of experience. Shingles and Flat warranty. Call Ken 905-973-3235.
To Advertise in the Classifieds Call 289-235-9500
WL council disappointing: reader Dear Editor, After attending and speaking at the West Lincoln town council meeting on Monday, I am still less than impressed with our town council and their so-called involvement with the Accommodation Review facing “West Niagara”. At this meeting the mayor and several councilors finally publicly admitted that they have been involved in the process, commenting directly to me that while it may not seem they are involved they actually are only quietly (and not in any way that the public would be aware.) Thank goodness for a local working mother of two, Nicole Scime, who forced council to put the ARC on their agenda at this meeting, after the mayor attempted to only speak to us regarding our concerns one on one. She challenged the council to call a public meeting regarding the closure of South Lincoln. Her efforts finally made council go on public record, and the councillors representing the Township of West Lincoln (again, finally) unanimously supported their official opposition to the closure of South Lincoln and that the resolution be forwarded to the DSBN and appropriate government agencies and communities. How appalling is it that since the ARC was first mentioned in town council, on Oct. 11, 2016 by the mayor, that they have not themselves been compelled to bring forward their official opposition to this closure. One would think that the mere words “South Lincoln is to close” would spark instant concern or action on their part. Furthermore, you would think it would have some desire to speak on the record about it, discuss their concerns, or even
Letter raise an eyebrow. You can find on the youtube minutes where on the two occasions the ARC was mentioned in council chambers (Oct. 11, 2016 at 1:43:16 [part2] -- and Feb. 21, 2017 at 2:17:00), brought forward by the mayor and Coun. Trombetta, where their comments were met with almost complete silence. No further comments were offered, no admissions that they are against it, absolutely nothing. Now, nearly five months later, and only when pushed by a resident with true heart, did they concede and go on the public record against it. Why is it so difficult for our town council to go on the record and publicly fight against this closure? As the mayor pointed out, other rural towns are facing similar situations, though it would be worth noting that other mayors involved in such a process are speaking out, not only in their community and in the Accommodation Review process, but at various levels of governments lobbying for support and change to save our rural schools. I urge the town council to make this a priority and in this 11th hour of the accommodation review process, follow up their official opposition statement with some real action. Be a real voice, make some noise, challenge our government. We deserve better from our elected town council. They should not be whispering their support behind the scenes. They should be loudly voicing their support for all to hear and taking further action. Join the fight, don’t just watch your residents fight. Melissa LeBlanc Caistor Centre
2 Toppings
Option 1
Option 2
• One Year Trial Membership • GOLD* full playing privileges • No Bond - No F&B Minimum No Initiation • Includes Range – LockerClub Storage
$1995 + HST (per person)
27 + Tax
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Sun.-Thurs. 11 am-9 pm; Fri. 11 am-11 pm; Sat. 11 am-10 pm
$1995 + HST (per couple)
Corporate Memberships Available For more details please visit our website or contact Ron Kenesky Ext. 225 The Pro Shop Ext. 1 Natasha Pisano Ext. 5 3814 Yonge St., Vineland ON
905-562-5641 • twentyvalley.com
PERSONAL SUPPORT WORKER PROGRAM OGRAM provincially recognized and accredited by PSWEPA P PA
PSW programs run un September through June ne Recruitment fo ffor r 2017-18 begins now! w! With hands-on clinical experience in co-op placements, DSBN PSW graduates see a 90% job placement rate in the Niagara Region earning $16-$22 per hour.
You can also earn your high school diploma while completing the DSBN PSW program!
Join Us to Learn More!
Attend an information session at your preferred site.
March 22, April 19 & May 17, 2017 20 017 Daytime Program Info Session Time: 1:00pm
Evenings/Weekends Program Info Session Time: 6:00pm
905-562-1234
• One Year Trial Membership • Intermediate Couples Membership (under 40 years of age) • Silver Playing Privileges • No Bond – No F&B Minimum – No Initiation • Includes Range – Locker – Club Storage
Niagara Region’s Finest Member Owned/Semi-Private Golf & Dining Experience Since 1959
Vineland
13
$
New Members Only* • 1st Come/ 1st Served • Limited Availability
Lifetime Learning Centre Port Colborne High School ol 535 Lake St., St. Catharines 211 Elgin St., Port Colborne ne
PICK-UP SPECIAL
PIZZA
2017 TRIAL MEMBERSHIP OFFER
3934 Victoria Ave., (Just North of Hwy. 8)
12-Slice
News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017 • Page 13
Westlane Secondary School 5960 Pitton Road, Niagara Falls
Tel: 905-687-7000 E-mail: psw@dsbn.org Web: dsbn.org/community or lifetimelearning.ca Ask us if funding options are available for you.
Page 14 • News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017
100% Niagara owned & operated Our Team: Publisher - Mike Williscraft mike@wn3.ca 289-442-4244 General Manager - Catherine Bratton Sales Manager - Tom Haire Sales Consultant - Erica Huisman, Jen Wilkinson, Graphics - Donna Wisnoski, Dorothy Deak NewsNow is owned & operated by 1602207 Ontario Ltd. Office Locations Grimsby Office Beamsville Office 49 Main St. W., P.O Box 614 Grimsby, ON, L3M 1R3 Beamsville, ON, L0R 1B0 Ph: 289-235-9500 Ph: 289-235-7848 NewsNow is published EVERY Thursday delivered to homes in West Niagara & Winona, 26,111.
Two councils late to ARC party, one out in left field Some finger pointing and heated exchanges have materialized in different corners of Niagara West as the highly flammable District School Board of Niagara ARC process has sped along. And make no mistake, this thing has been rolled out in record time, just to allow for proper notice to be given to allow for South Lincoln High students that their institution has blown away in a very light breeze. It has been noted on this page that councils have been slow to post public condemnation of the District School Board of Niagara’s worst kept secret - that the three Niagara West public high schools will be shuttered in favour of a mega school. All the milestones of systemic shutdown have been evident for years. The plan is coming together nicely for the board as they seek to victimize Niagara West residents in the name of saving a buck. it was great to hear Grimsby Mayor Bob Bentley sound off at council on Monday. He smelled a rat and called out trustees, who finally admitted in open session the movement to make a one-for-three trade is rooted in the almighty buck. Bentley noted his surprise that Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton spoke in favour of the closures. Having spoken to Mayor Easton about her general views on education, and yes, paraphrased - maximizing educational capabilities any way possible, even if that means a mega school, should be the course of action taken - her logic is understood but not agreed with. That thinking makes sense for university aged kids, not high school students. High school aged kids are not only there for education. Some will go no further. That stage is about different facets of life and these institutions hold great levels of stature in their communities as a result of this far-reaching impact. Should they go? Hell no! But the ARC has sailed. M.W.
Chamber dinner takes surreal tone It was a bit surreal for me as I gazed around the room at Winona Vine Estates last Wednesday night. The occasion was the Grimsby & District Chamber of Commerce’s annual general meeting. What would make that a surreal experience you ask? Well, the last time I was there was 2012. It was the first time I went out of my house except to run errands after I got the lessthen-golden handshake from the organization with which I now compete. That night in 2012 was bizarre for a lot of reasons. I had not talked to many people, so did not realize people who had been looking for me were not told I was not longer employed there. That lightbulb moment came when, as is typical of some chamber functions, guests went around the room to introduce themselves and note what organization they represent. It was the first time I had been to an event of that nature and I was not “from” anywhere. I had no idea what to say, but had to think quickly as I was at the third table in order. When my turn came around, I simply rose and said something to the effect of, “My name is Mike Williscraft and up until the last month or so I was with Grimsby Lincoln News.” After what seemed like an eternity of deafening silence as I took my seat, I got the over-the-glasses glance from chamber president Naomi Beirnes who was presiding over
MIKE WILLISCRAFT the event, “Uhh, I think we’re going to require a little more information,” she said. At that point, I really didn’t have much information. My termination meeting took a handful of minutes, ending a relationship with a publication I created. No reasoning was given. And on went the evening. What certainly was a low point in my career if not my entire life, soon turned around within a couple of hours when the meeting wrapped up. Soon a line formed not unlike a wake. It was solemn to be sure. Nobody really knew what to say, myself included, just a lot of well-wishes and “you need to do it again” sentiments. The “do it again” comments were nice, but really not taken seriously. GLN had taken a lot of credibility hits with ongoing format changes but it was still in much better shape than The Grimsby Independent when I started what was only Grimsby News at that point in 1997 - that’s right, people, 20 years ago next month.
That is hard to believe. But, the seed was planted and reinforced 40 times over within a 20-minute span as people filed out and the notion for NewsNow was growing in my mind. While it took me just over a month to develop and create GLN in 1997, NewsNow was planned for a May launch so I had double the time, but I also had a contract job going over to England, Belgium and France to freelance stories for a good friend who operated educational tours. On top of that, I was media chair for Round 2 of Save The Hospital Campaign all through that time, so getting things in place without people widely finding out what was in the works was no easy task. Yet, it all came together and here we are. Five years later and I was sitting at the same event where the idea of NewsNow was born. There has been nothing taken for granted and no easy steps. Our team has worked for every inch of market we have been able to earn. But you won’t hear a complaint. I thought it was the right thing to do then and still believe that to be true. This community needs a true, independent voice that will call a spade a spade and not worry about losing revenue over it. Five years, wow! That is hard to believe. But, that is yesterday’s news. Let’s look ahead to the next five, 10, 20 even, who knows? It’s a great ride.
News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017 • Page 15
WL taxpayers hoping for political saviour: reader Dear Editor: Thank you for your comments in the March 2nd edition of NewsNow. It outlined very clearly and succinctly the issues currently seething around the MURS issue. You say that if only the West Lincoln council would think objectively about why so many cheesed off taxpayers turned up at the Feb. 21 council meeting, and created such a hullabaloo, they would understand that the main issue is about council “living to a budget with which … voters agree”, and that, after all, is why they are there. But will they? There has been a lot of discussion in the media lately about the rising tide of populism, not only in the U.S. and Europe, but in Canada. Most journalists and commentators seem fixated on the more repugnant aspects of right wing populism, forgetting that populism can exist right across the political spectrum and, in fact,
Office
905-788-3232
Direct
905-650-9378
Letter was responsible for initiating the struggle to achieve many of the democratic reforms we take for granted today, such as labour laws, consumer protection, women’s right to vote, the secret ballot, a graduated tax system, the regulation of banks and big business. They also forget why populism gains a foothold in the first place. It all started in the late nineteenth century when western farmers saw that they were being gouged by railroad monopolies, which took advantage of their need to store their crops and transport them to markets. The populists saw that their representatives, chosen in mass impersonal elections, were frustrating democracy by serving private moneyed interests instead of the public good. There was, they sensed, a rich vein of citizen discon-
COMING SOON!
Looking for a 3000 sqft home with a 3600 sqft detached shop with heated floors, 12’ high roll up doors, 10 acres of clear land and very well-manicured lands, Additional workshop of roughly 600 sqft with private bathroom and plenty of storage. $1,299,900 Located in Pelham
LAKEFRONT PROPERTY
Located in Heritage Community of Grimsby Beach this 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home has amazing views of Lake Ontario. Quiet Community within minutes the QEW. Call for More Details. 33 Victoria Terrace Grimsby, $599,900
MINUTES TO THE LAKE
Secluded yet close to everything! This amazing 2400 sqft newly built bungalow sits on a stunning 5 acres and still consists of a small orchard of fruit trees. Features 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, 3 storey barn, additional storage garage and so much more. Visit www.ALRABY.ca for more details or call to schedule a private viewing. 4864 Cherry Ave North Vineland, $1,199,900
Email alraby@sympatico.ca Visit me at www.alraby.ca
Your Local Bi Bilingual Br Broker
Call Today for fo a Free
Home Evaluation! Eva
ADVANTAGE ADV REAL EESTATE INC. BROKERAGE
tent to be tapped into. Fast forward to West Lincoln, Grimsby and Lincoln in 2017, where the high-handed, arrogant actions of local councils and the Board of Education are stirring up so much controversy. The ratepayers of West Lincoln in particular see that if council continues to ram through its arena agenda regardless of their concerns, there will be little money left for other services, such as road maintenance and repair, civic beautification, sewer and water upgrades. Voters understand that they will see their taxes going up while they get fewer benefits in return, and while the minority living in Smithville and the privileged few moving into the new subdivisions embraced by the mayor and his cronies enjoy a cadillac recreation centre. They don’t like it. They want council to consider more affordable options.
But the mayor and most of council lashed out at Dave Bylsma, the only champion of the dissatisfied ratepayers. They boorishly did their best to discredit him by accusing him of spreading “boldfaced lies”, when he was simply doing his job, which is to to represent his constituents. In the end, the council chose to ignore the legitimate concerns of the ratepayers and confirmed its intent to forge ahead with the $23.5 million MURS. Why the unseemly haste in the face of such vocal ratepayer opposition? Could the sign put up recently by Marz Homes on St Catherine Street provide a clue? And what will happen when it’s time for an election in 2018? Do the councillors who voted for MURS think that
most voters will choose to not look up from their TV and computer screens, leave the newspapers unread at the end of their driveways and forget the contempt their elected representatives showed for their concerns? Will the voters just hold their noses, enjoy the new MURS which their representatives hope will be built by then and vote for the same old? Or will an as yet undiscovered charismatic politician emerge and mobilize the angst so deeply felt by so many in West Lincoln? All we need is a politician who, unlike the current council, can connect with the voters and tell them that they do, in fact, matter. Naomi Brusse Wellandport
Contact Zammit Orthodontics for a FREE Orthodontic Consultation. Proudly Serving Niagara’s Orthodontic Needs For Over 40 Years!
Flexible Payment Plans
Specialists Treating Children & Adults
Braces – Regular & Clear, Self Ligating, Low Friction *Invisible Aligning * TMJ Treatment * Snoring Devices * Shortened Treatment Options Go to www.mysmileconsult.com to preview your treatment! Mark Zammit B.D.S., M.Sc.D. (ORTHO.) F.R. C.D. (Canada) Ronald Delia B.Ch.D., D.D.S., D. ORTHO., M.Sc.D Pleased to be longtime community members of the Niagara Region. 905-682-8375 93 Ontario St. St. Catharines, ON
905-931-8375 5041 King Street Beamsville, ON
www.zammitortho.com
905-894-5903 179 Ridge Road Ridgeway, ON
Page 16 • News Now • Thursday, March 9, 2017
YEAR ROUND SUPPORT FOR SMALL BUSINESSES.
From corporate and self-employed returns to GST returns and tax advice, we’re here to take care of the details so you can focus on growing your business.
We offer affordable bookkeeping, payroll, and accounting services, including: • Payroll • Financial statements
• GST returns • Corporate Tax Returns
• T4s and T5s
For more info, visit an H&R Block location near you.
HRBLOCK.CA | 1–800–HRBLOCK (472–5625)
7 Main St E. Grimsby 4943 King St Beamsville (905) 945-3933 & 563-1677