On Wednesday, Oct. 29, Grimsby Mayor Bob Bentley and the Grimsby Economic Development Advisory Committee are teaming up to present the luncheon, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Casablanca Winery Inn in Grimsby.

"As we look for ideas on how to continue to attract businesses to Grimsby, we felt it was important to bring business leaders together to thank them for their efforts," said Mayor Bentley. "This lunch provides an opportunity for us to thank all businesses in Grimsby, and hear from our business leaders on what we can do to continue to grow."

The highlight of the lunch is a panel of well-known business leaders whose companies are located in Grimsby. The panel will be relating their experiences challenges and successes. The panel includes Mike Blonski, President of John Deere Limited; John K. Hall, President and CEO of Kittling Ridge Wines & Spirits; Stephanie Hawke, owner of Cocoon in Grimsby; Bob McNeil, President of NRB Inc.; and Dennis Parass, President of Handling Specialty Inc.

"We're fortunate to have these business leaders who are prepared to share their time and their experiences," says GEDAC member and event organizer Brian Purdy. "This is a top-notch panel and we will all learn something from them."

Structured as a "working lunch", the event will also offer networking opportunities and offer business owners and employees a chance to work with other leaders to develop mentoring structure for ongoing business assistance.

Sponsors for the luncheon are The Royal Bank Grimsby, Venture Niagara, Kittling Ridge Wines & Spirits and the Town of Grimsby. Greg Owen, of Venture Niagara, will be the emcee for the night.

Seating is limited, so organizers are encouraging those wishign to attend to reserve tickets early. Tickets are $25 apiece and can be purchased through the Town of Grimsby, Nancy Simon (905) 309-2019, or online at: nsimon@towngrimsby.on.ca.