Review-Mirror
Connecting Communities
Review-Mirror is your local news source, dedicated to serving the Westport community. We provide comprehensive coverage of local events, news, and issues that matter to you. Our mission is to strengthen the community by supporting local businesses, promoting local initiatives, and fostering a sense of belonging. Find our paper in local stores, online, or have it delivered right to your doorstep.
Owner & Publisher
Sarah Gillingwater is a passionate advocate for local journalism. As the new owner of the Review-Mirror, she is dedicated to transforming the newspaper into a vital resource for the Westport community. Her vision is to provide comprehensive coverage of local news that truly matters to residents, while also supporting local businesses and fostering a stronger community.
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With a strong foundation in design, Sarah graduated from the York University/Sheridan Bachelor of Design program and further honed her skills in the Algonquin Illustration and Concept Art program. Over the past five years, she has gained valuable experience working with small businesses and running her own design business, Sweet Prints Design. This hands-on experience has equipped her with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing local businesses.
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Sarah is excited to share her vision with readers and connect with them in meaningful ways through vibrant, engaging content.
History of the Review-Mirror
The Westport Mirror was established in 1893 by Harry E. Bywater, an experienced newspaper man from Southern Ontario. After four years of ownership, Bywater sold the paper to William B. Adams. Bywater continued his career in journalism, eventually acquiring the Athens Reporter. He passed away in Athens in 1924.
Adams, whose family still has ties to the area, tragically passed away in 1916 while swimming in the Upper Rideau.
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The Niblock family, Arthur and Cassie, took ownership following Adams' death. Their son, James R. (Jimmy) Niblock, continued the legacy until his passing in 1966, followed but the death of his mother, Cassie Niblock, who passed in 1969. Jimmy Niblock’s death caused a disruption in the publishing schedule that lasted for nearly a year, causing almost all issues before 1967 to disappear.
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On January 24th, 1967, Frederick and Phyllis Hutchinson breathed new life into the Mirror, guiding it for nearly two decades.
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The Runciman family, with Leeds Grenville MPP Bob Runciman and his father Sandy, took the helm in May of 1986. Sandy, a veteran journalist from the Brockville Record & Times, oversaw operations until Bob took over following his time in politics. Soon after, Bob Runciman’s political career took a turn in the right direction, leading him to sell the paper in August of 1987 to Phil Rutherford and Bob Loucks.
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Howie Crichton acquired the Mirror in November, 1993. Later, the free-distribution paper, The Review, was bought out and incorporated into the publication.
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In 2022, John Fenik purchased the Review-Mirror from Crichton following his time as Mayor of Perth for sixteen years. With a strong interest in writing, filmmaking, and photography, John wished to make a significant contribution to the community of Westport through The Review Mirror.
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As of January 1st, 2025, Sarah Gillingwater has become the new owner of the Review Mirror. Gillingwater is passionate about local matters and hopes to transform the newspaper into a valuable resource for the community. Her vision is to provide coverage of local news that truly matters to residents, while also supporting local businesses and strengthening the Westport community.
We acknowledge the support of the Government of Canada