Santa’s Coming… Page 18
The St. Clair Township
Issue 11
Volume 16
November 2023
THE TOWNSHIP OF ST. CLAIR
MUNICIPAL NOTES
Page
2
WORKS DEPARTMENT
Pages 9-11
Corunna200 Street Festival A big hit!
Page 15
AROUND THE TOWNSHIP
Page
20 –18
Above: MX rider Kassie Boone from London, Ontario, grabs maximum air doing the splits in spite of the high winds that added to the difficulty of her jump. Growing up in a moto- cross family, she knew she wanted to ride at the age of five. Encouraged by her father, Blair, she mastered dangerous MX moves like Superman feet grabs, heel clickers, and switchblades. Kassie’s impressive skills earned her a place touring the world with Mon- ster Jam. Now 33, she has been called a “pioneering freestyle motocross (FMX) rider”.
Bonnie Stevenson photo
PUBLISHING DEADLINE NOTICE: EARLY DEADLINE FOR THE
JANUARY 2024 BEACON will be Monday, December 11 by noon.
THE PURPOSE OF THE OPEN HOUSE AND PUBLIC MEETING
The Council of the Township of St. Clair will hold an Open House, pursuant to Section 17(16) of the Planning Act, R.S.O., 1990, as amended, and a Statutory Public Meeting, pursuant to Section 17(15) of the Planning Act, R.S.O., 1990, as amended, for the purposes of discussing the revisions that are being proposed as part of the update to the Municipality’s Official Plan.
The Open House will be held as follows:
NOVEMBER 6th, 2023
2:00 – 3:00 P.M.
Township of St. Clair Civic Centre 1155 Emily Street
Mooretown ON N0N 1M0
The Public Meeting will be held as follows:
MONDAY NOVEMBER 20th, 2023 6:10 P.M.
Township of St. Clair Civic Centre 1155 Emily Street
Mooretown ON N0N 1M0
* For anyone wishing to participate virtually please submit a written submission beforehand by notifying Carlie McClemens by email at cmcclemens@stclairtownship.ca to be a party for the ZOOM meeting
THE OPEN HOUSE AND PUBLIC MEETING are intended to discuss the revisions that are proposed to the Township’s Official Plan. It is intended to provide an opportunity for the public and Township Council to offer comments and ask questions regarding any issue or matter that were included in the draft Official Plan Amendment.
BACKGROUND ON THE OFFICIAL PLAN REVIEW
The Township of St. Clair’s Official Plan outlines the Township’s goals, objectives, and policies primarily used to support growth, economic development, and building St. Clair’s future. The plan also establishes a frame- work for managing the effects of growth on the social, economic and natural environment of the Township.
The Planning Act requires that an Official Plan be updated to ensure that it: conforms with provincial plans or does not conflict with them; has regard to matters of provincial interest; is consistent with provincial policy statements; and addresses recent legislative changes. Taking into account the timing of the approval of the current Official Plan, the introduction of a 2020 Provincial Policy Statement and amendments to the Planning Act, R.S.O., 1990, as well as a new Lambton County Official Plan, the Township has initiated a comprehen- sive update to its Official Plan.
SUBJECT LANDS
The update to the Official Plan will affect all lands within the municipal boundary of the Township of St. Clair. Accordingly, no key map is provided.
YOUR INPUT IS IMPORTANT
Any person may attend the special public meeting and/or provide written or a verbal representation. If you are
unable to attend the meeting, you may provide written comments by submitting them to the address below.
Mail: Township of St. Clair Civic Centre Clerks/Planning Department
1155 Emily Street Mooretown ON N0N 1M0
Public Notice of Open House/Meeting continued on page 4
The Township of St. Clair, the County of Lambton, and NPG Planning Solutions Inc. have completed a 5-year review of the Official Plan for the Town. The draft Official Plan Amendment (OPA) No. 28 is intended to shape policy and land-use across St. Clair up to the year 2046, with public input gathered throughout the process critical in identifying priorities such as housing, economy, natural heritage and more.
The Township’s draft Official Plan Amendment and the associated mapping and supporting documents may be viewed on the Municipality’s Website at https://www.stclairtownship.ca/.
YOUR INPUT IS IMPORTANT
Any person may attend the Open House, the Statutory Public Meeting and/or provide written or a verbal rep- resentation. If you are unable to attend the meetings, you may provide written comments to the Deputy Clerk/ Coordinator of Planning, Carlie McClemens at cmcclemens@stclairtownship.ca or by submitting them to the below address:
MAIL: Township of St. Clair Civic Centre Clerks/Planning Department 1155 Emily Street
Mooretown ON N0N 1M0:
Open House: November 6th, 2023
Statutory Public Meeting: November 20th, 2023
Copies of the agenda for the Open House and Statutory Public Meeting, including the presentation and any
attachments, will be available at:
Open House: 4:00 p.m. on October 31st, 2023
Statutory Public Meeting: 4:00 p.m. on October 31st, 2023 NOTICE OF COLLECTION
Personal information collected as a result of this public meeting is collected under the authority of the Munici- pal Act, the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA), the Planning Act, and all other relevant legislation, and will be used to assist in making a decision on this matter. All personal infor- mation (as defined by MFIPPA), including (but not limited to) names, addresses, opinions and comments col- lected will be made available for public disclosure to members of the public, at the meeting, through requests, and through the website of the Township of St. Clair. Questions regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of this personal information may be directed to the Clerk, Township of St. Clair; Township of St. Clair Civic Centre,
1155 Emily Street, Mooretown, ON, N0N 1M0.
This notice published on October 23, 2023.
COVID-19 Information:
The health and safety of residents, Council, and staff is the most important part of this meeting. Residents who do not wish to attend the meeting have the option of submitting their comments in writing. Both in per- son and written comments are equally valued.
Deputy Clerk/Coordinator of Planning, Township of St. Clair
Respect for private property required during hunting season
Bonnie Stevenson
Autumn is a time when the woodlots that grace many rural properties in St. Clair Town- ship become a riot of gold, red and orange, a poet’s muse and a property owner’s pride. Un-
fortunately, they can also vibrate with the sound of hunters in search of game and weapons being fired on land the hunters have no legal right to be on.
According to the Province of Ontario Trespass to Property Act, anyone entering premises (includes land and structures) without the permission (preferably in writing) of its owner is trespassing. Penalty provisions in the Act, if convicted of tres- passing, include damage awards that can be from
$2,000 up to $10,000. This holds true for all proper- ty including agricultural lands and woodlots.
Some woodlot owners in St. Clair Township are speaking up after being plagued by the illegal pres- ence of hunters for several years.
A farm owner in the Kimball/Bickford area, as well as many farm owners in her neighbourhood, is weary of this seasonal threat posed by armed people roaming the family woodlot without first asking per- mission. Margaret Capes, a lawyer as well as a third- generation farmer, says she has known of this issue all her life, having seen her father and grandfather cope with it before her. “Anyone who wanted to come onto the farm to bow hunt or hunt with a shotgun would come to the door and respectfully ask if they could hunt on the place,” she said.
But some hunters now trespass without regard to property ownership or boundaries. “I’ve been on the farm since the 1990s and less than five times have I ever had anybody coming to the door to ask,” said Capes. Signs posted at the property boundaries have also been ignored.
After several attempts to discourage hunters from coming on the Capes’ land, Margaret noted the hunters are often hunting in groups which are quite intimidating to confront. “I have noticed in the past years large groups of people are coming from out- side this area. They might know a few people from around here and they gather, and they descend on our part of the township,” she said. “I’ve had to be quite aggressive in keeping them off because they can access our place on three sides. Last year was particularly bad, especially when shotgun season was on, and I had to go out and literally throw somebody off who was with another three people. They had already taken three deer down,” said Capes. “I’m back there all the time because I enjoy the woodlot, and when we’re back there, especially during shotgun season, we’re on pins and needles.”
She noted calling the police or MNR official to come when hunters are in the woodlot is some- times futile. “The hunters are gone by the time they come,” she said. “It’s intimidating to wade into a group of guys who have guns. When the police go to talk to the hunters, they usually move
along, but we shouldn’t have to do that.”
Capes and other farm neighbours she has spoken to would like to see restrictions. “Some of my neighbours who do allow hunting are distressed at the numbers that are descending on the township now.”
The constant need to call the OPP or Ministry of Natural Resources enforcement officers, or person- ally confront armed trespassers during hunting sea- son, has been a frustrating annual exercise for some St. Clair Township farmers. Capes says, “That’s why I’ve had enough. I’ve put signs out making it (trespassing) clear, but it has been increasingly less civilized.”
Capes recently brought the issue to attention of Clair Township Council. “Council has the ability to put hunting on hiatus on Sundays or at least a cou- ple of days during shooting season,” she said.
As a lawyer who is involved in several community
-oriented causes, Capes sums up the situation with a simple question: “Would you like somebody walking around in your back yard with a shotgun?”
She pointed out that laws ,defending the proper- ty owner’s rights to prevent trespassing, are on the books at both the provincial and federal level. Capes cited the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act 1997 as an example.
It should be noted that that the Trespass to Prop- erty Act also applies to motorized ATVs and snow vehicles that are operated on other people’s land land without the permission of the land owner.
At the Oct.16 meeting of St. Clair Township Council, the matter of a Sunday prohibition on hunt- ing was raised in response to Capes’ request, but it was decided that a prohibition would not solve the trespassing problem. In addition, Mayor Agar noted 67 objections to the prohibition had been received and there had been no emails of support for the prohibition.
The fact remains that trespassing is a provin- cial and federal offence that can be enforced by police or Conservation Officers. The Ontario Con- servation Officers Association website states, “A hunting license does not give a hunter the right to enter private property. Always ask for permission and obey signs.”
Creative County Grant Program open for grants
The Creative County Grant Program is now receiving grant applications for arts, culture, and heritage initia- tives in Lambton County in 2024. The applications will be
accepted online only at lambtononline.ca/creativecounty . The appli-
cation period will close Nov. 14 at 4 p.m.
This grant program invests in new and innovative projects that build cultural capacity, strengthen the creative community, and en- rich the quality of life of all residents. Organizers of new or expand- ing initiatives can apply online for funding to cover up to 50 per cent of project costs. These initiatives can involve visual arts, music, dance, theatre programming, festivals, film production, historical recognition, cultural events, public art installations, and more.
St. Clair Township presents awards for years of service
Several St. Clair Township employees were recently acknowledged for their years of service. At a lunchtime cer- emony, the honourees re- ceived tokens of the munici- pality’s appreciation. On hand for the presentation included, from left: Honourees Kim Shepley, 15 yr.; Brian Black, 5 yr.; Paul DaSilva, 15 yr.; Brad Waring, 10 yr.; Award pre- senter Township CAO John Rodey; Mayor Jeff Agar; and Phoebe Pickle, 5 yr. Absent from the presentation were: Karie Noyle, 5 yr.; Corey Soden, 5 yr.; and Nichole O’Donnell, 5 yr.
B. Stevenson photo
During the Brigden Fair, the newest addition to the fairgrounds was opened giving emergency responders an opportunity to get acquainted with their newest re- source. The Emergency Services Trailer, will now provide a dedicated site for First Aid response as well as a cen- tral destination for lost children. The trailer, located beside the tallest flagpole in the fairground, is easy to find in case of an emergency.
John Scott, president of the Moore Agricultural Socie- ty (the organization that brings us the Brigden Fair), says MAS has been looking for a suitable accommodation for a permanent First Aid station for a long time. When one was located, MAS applied for funding to Enbridge Oil and Gas, one of its community partners, and along with other partners that included Harold Marcus Limited, Cangrow,
Waste Management, Curran Recycling, and Watson Tim- ber Mart, the trailer was acquired and converted. It’s use will soon be expanded to provide an outpost for the police. It can also be put to other uses such as meetings throughout the year, with the exception of fair time. It may provide an alternative command post for police if their command post is unavailable.
Mr. Scott expressed gratitude to the many MAS mem- bers and other volunteers who helped do the trailer con- version. A kitchen and cupboard array, salvaged from the exhibition hall kitchen renovation and improvement pro- ject, was repurposed and installed by the resourceful crew to provide storage for supplies and equipment. Communication facilities were also installed to ensure dependable communication during emergency situations.
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2023 Page 7
Col. Cameron snack program receives support
The Col. Cameron Public School snack program recently re- ceived a much-appreciated donation from Mainstreet Credit Un- ion. Principal Mrs. Ladd, centre, and two Col. Cameron students received the donation from Mainstreet Credit Union representa- tives Lindsey, left, and Brianne. Photo submitted
St. Clair River Run May 11
The St. Clair River Run is back on track to hit the tarmac at Brander Park on May 11. For a few hours that day, St. Clair Parkway
will be diverted to allow runners of all ages a clear path to the finish line.
The event plan, as presented to St. Clair Township Council at the Oct. 16 meeting, is: Starting at 7 a.m., run- ners will gather and a light breakfast (Burns $6.99)will be available for pur- chase. At 7:30 a.m., runners will col- lect their chits and from 8:30 to 9 a.m., buses will transport participants to their start places. At the starting area, stretches will take place from 9
a.m. to 9:30 a.m. The race will begin at 9:15 a.m. and at the finish line, medals will be awarded near the bar cart.
The River Run will require volun- teers to help with the many tasks that have to be done and students are be- ing recruited for this task.
A website is being set up for the event and it will be announced as soon as it is finalized.
Start training for the St. Clair River Run and make May 11 a personal-best day to remember. Or just sign up and let your legs propel you along the sce- nic run route.
Brigden Demolition derby results for 2023
The derby had a total field of 45 cars, an outstanding spectator turn out considering the weather conditions, and some happy
drivers!
Final results of the merry mayhem Stock Car – 1st Dustin Worsley , 2nd Tianna Hart; Stock Van – 1st Ty Miller, 2nd Lucas Caradonna; Stock Truck – 1st Caleb O’Leary, 2nd Zack Kaz ; Modified Car – 1st Braedon Hilchey, 2nd Carter Donais; Modi- fied Truck – 1st Col Hart, 2nd Nic Edgar; Modified V8 – 1st Ed Young, 2nd Teddy
Chouinard; Consolation Round – 1st Sean Hart, 2nd Tate O’Leary.
Cutline: Braedon Hilchey got his first ever win at Brigden and got the Mad Dog Award as well. Here’s Braedon happily displaying his award in front of the tough machine he drove
to victory .
Handy volunteers needed at Moore Museum
The activities and projects Moore Museum volunteers work on vary widely; from wood working, vehicle maintenance, building maintenance, and display preservation work, to assisting with mu- seum events, the museum staff and its volunteers work to preserve and share the history of St. Clair Township. The only qualification our volunteers require is the will to help us make Moore Museum a place where local history lives and thrives.
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2023 Page 8
Are you ready to help?
CHRISTMAS CARING
Please support these Christmas efforts in your community
Yes, the time is at hand when our kids begin to dream of yuletide sweets, Santa Claus, and the goodies he might bring, while their parents dream of budget-busting shopping trips and scale-busting holiday feasting with friends and family.
But some families can only dream of a merry Christ- mas. The volunteers at the Sacred Heart Food Bank and Operation Christmas Tree work hard to help these fami- lies and individuals, and they are hoping the kindness and generosity their communities have shown in the past will continue this holiday season. Donations of canned and non-perishable food will be much appreciated by the following organizations.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
In St. Clair Township’s Sombra Ward, the Sacred Heart Food Bank Annual Food Drive will be collecting canned goods and non-perishable food items.
*On Sunday, Nov. 19, from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m., the Door-to- door pick-up will take place in the former Sombra Town- ship (Stanley Line south to Whitebread Line and east to Highway 40).Please leave donations on porch before 1 p.m.
*On Saturday, November 18, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Port Lambton Anglican Church (Corner of Lambton Line & Merritt St.) a Drop off Opportunity will be availa- ble. Please use basement rear door.
*Financial Donations appreciated!
E-transfer to Sacredheartfb2@gmail.com (Charitable receipt for donations over $20. Please include your mail- ing address in the comment section if you qualify for one.)
Cheques – payable to Sacred Heart Food Bank can be mailed to Susan Moran, 4138 St. Clair Parkway, Port Lambton, ON, N0P 2B0
*AND DON’T MISS THE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS FOWL BINGO
at the Sombra Community Centre on Monday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. at the Sombra Community Centre! See page 6. Proceeds will benefit the Sacred Heart Food Bank.
For information, contact: *Frank Johnston 519-677-5328
*Claudette Johnston 519-677-5410
*Susan Moran 519-677-5410
In St. Clair Township’s Moore Ward, Operation Christmas Tree (OCT) will once more be making the holidays brighter for those in need thanks to the Optimist Club of Moore.
FOUR WAYS TO DONATE
1. Drop off -Canned goods, non-perishable food and new, unwrapped toy donations can be deliv-
ered to Emergency Services Building, 392 Lyndoch
St. (Hill St. entrance at northeast corner of Hill & Lyndoch Streets), Corunna from Dec. 4 to Dec. 15, 2023, Monday to Friday from 9:00am-3:00pm.
2. E-transfer donations can be sent
to operationchristmastree@outlook.com (enter home address in message box for taxable receipt)
3. Cheque donations can be mailed to Operation Christmas Tree, P.O. Box 32, Corunna, N0N 1G0.
4. OPP Donation Drive-through event on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023, 10:00am-2:00pm. Cash/cheque dona- tions, toys, can goods and non-perishable food.
HOW TO REGISTER TO RECEIVE SUPPORT
Register at the Operation Christmas Tree headquar- ters at the Emergency Services Bldg., 392 Lyndoch Street, Corunna Nov. 13 to Dec.1, 2023, Monday to Friday from 9:00am-3:00pm. (Wheelchair accessi-
ble). Visit www.operationchristmastree.ca for
eligibility requirements.
FUNDRAISING EVENTS FOR O.C.T.
Details for these events are on page 19
*OCT Benefit Luncheon at Corunna Legion Wednesday, Nov. 15 from 11:30 – 1:30p.m
*OPP donation drive-thru
Saturday, Dec. 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
*Knights of Columbus Fundraiser Breakfast Sunday, Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. to noon
Trail blazer Jane Marsh presented with bench
The St. Clair River Trail is now a scenic paved 34 kilometre walkway that runs the length of St. Clair Township. Fortunately, weary walkers who dare to traverse the entire length of the trail, as well as those who favour a specific section of it, can now rest along the way on any one of the 120 comfortable “river blue” benches that have been installed from end to end.
The last bench to be installed is special; it bears a plaque that pays trib- ute to the woman who proposed the idea of a river trail over four decades
ago – Mary Jane Marsh. Her story reaches far beyond the river trail to her role in the development of this community. The plaque that marks the bench is brief, but it speaks vol- umes about her commitment to her community and her determination to help it thrive and grow.
The bench was presented to Jane when she retired as chair of the St. Clair River Trail Committee. She is proud of the work that has been done to make the trail a reality, and the volunteer committee members, past and present, who made it happen. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to have worked with a great trail committee,” she said.
Water utility appointments
require 48 hours notice
St. Clair Township By-Law 16 of 2022 requires at least 48 hours notice in advance of scheduling appointments with the Public Works department to avoid service fees.
BRUSH COLLECTION CANCELLED
Due to operational budget cuts, St. Clair Township will not be offering any brush collection for the Spring or Fall collection going forward. Christmas tree collection will remain the same for January, 2024.
Drivers are required to yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian who is standing at the curb waiting to cross.
When a pedestrian is crossing on the roadway within a pedestrian crosswalk, the driver of a vehicle approaching the crosswalk:
• MUST stop before entering the crosswalk
• MUST not pass another vehicle already stopped at the cross walk
• MUST not proceed into the crosswalk until the pedestrian is no longer on the roadway
When a vehicle is approaching a pedestrian crosswalk and is within 30 me- ters of it, the driver of any other vehicle approaching from the rear must not allow the front of their vehicle to pass beyond the front of the other vehicle.
Pedestrians must not leave the curb or other place of safety at a pedestrian crosswalk and walk, run, or move into the path of a vehicle that is so close that it is impossible for the driver of the vehicle to be able to safely stop.
Failing to yield at a pedestrian crosswalk, school crossings, and crossovers is an offense that can lead to a fine of up to $1,000 and four demerit points.
• Residents wishing to report any recycling collection issues are to contact the Contractor (Emterra Environmental) directly at 1-888-597-1541.
• Alternatively, visit their website at: emterra.ca, and click on “Customer Service” section.
• For further recycling issues / concerns residents may also contact “Circular Materials” by email at: customerservice@circularmaterials.ca
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2023 Page 11
Active Transportation Master Plan Survey requires input
St. Clair Township is developing its very first Active Transportation Master
Plan to improve conditions for people as they walk, bike or wheel through the
community. We want to hear from you! We want to learn more about how you
use the Township’s trails, sidewalks, and cycling routes, what types of changes you would like to see.
And how the Township and our partners can make walking, cycling and wheeling more convenient, comfort- able, and enjoyable.
Don’t become a victim of the Silent Killer—Check your CO alarms!
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer” because it is an invisible, tasteless and odourless gas caused by the incomplete burning of fuels such as wood, charcoal and gas. Fuel-burning appliances like hot water heaters, fur- naces, and stoves, as well as vehicles and generators, pose a threat in an enclosed environment like a house or trail- er. All fuel-burning units throughout the home, including fireplaces, should be kept clean and inspected annually to ensure they are working efficiently, and vents should be checked for blockages. Vehicles and portable fuel-burning generators should never be operated inside, even in the garage with the garage door open.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning
Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause flu-like symptoms like headaches, nausea and dizziness, as well as confu- sion, drowsiness and loss of consciousness that can lead to death. Be familiar with the sound of your CO alarm and read the manufacturer’s instructions to understand how to care for it. If you or other occupants are experiencing CO symptoms, get out of the building immediately, then call 911 from outside. Do not re-enter the building until it has been checked by an emergency responder and you are told you can enter safely.
~Andrew McMillen, St. Clair Fire
Emergency preparedness workshop urges “Know the hazards”
Are you prepared for an emergency? Chances are, you don’t know the whole story, which leaves you and your family vulnerable to a list of potential threats. At a re- cent Emergency Preparedness workshop in Corunna, two of our local emergency experts opened some eyes about how to assess hazards that could affect them and what to do to prepare for a time when one of them might hap- pen.
A number of recent local emergency situations were used to illustrate that the “won’t happen to me” philoso- phy some people believe has really happened in this ar- ea, leaving a path of confusion and panic in their wake.
Presenters Jay Vanklinken, Lambton County Emergency Management Coordinator, and St. Clair Township Fire Chief Richard Boyes, began with the Polymer extraction unit explosion of 1951, which left a was heard 100 km.
Emergency preparedness workshop at the Corunna library was conducted by Lambton County Emergency Management Coordinator Jay Vanklinken, left, and St. Clair Township Fire
Chief Richard Boyes.
away in London and Detroit. This catastrophic event re-
sulted in panic and confusion throughout community; there were no emergency plans in place and little infor- mation released to calm the public. This event illustrated the need for an emergency public information system and within three days, the Chemical Valley Control Commit- tee was formed, followed by the Mutual Aid Committee. These were the precursors to our current CAER (Community Awareness Emergency Response).
Other real-life local emergencies included two devas- tating tornadoes (Sarnia -1953 and Reeces Corners -1983) and heavy three-day Snowmageddon -2010, which caught
everyone by surprise and stranded 1,500 people on Hwy.
402. Most recently, the COVID pandemic and its supply shortages adversely affected the unprepared.
Would you be prepared to handle these emergencies if
they happened again?
Do you have a well-stocked emergency kit of basic items that can sustain you for a minimum of 72 hours? In a dire emergency, emergency responders may not be able to reach you quickly. Make an emergency kit and…
BE READY!
Find out how at: emergencieslambton.ca
Thanksgiving wouldn’t be the same without the Brigden Fair. This year, 35,567 visitors agreed, and why not? The fairgrounds are a treat for the senses; from the tempting fair food and the squeals of little children taking their first midway ride, to the barn yard sounds of animals being groomed to strut their stuff in the Coliseum show ring, the Brigden fairgrounds came alive to celebrate agriculture and those who make it their life’s work.
Members of the Brigden Community Church, with their backup band in tow, wait patiently to wave at the crowd as part of the Brigden Fair parade.
B. Stevenson photos
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2023 Page 14
VIPs attending the opening ceremonies of the 173rd Brigden Fair later sat down to a scrumptious lunch provided by the Brigden Fair Homecraft members. The lucky diners are shown here standing, from left: Homecraft Second VP Kathy Scott; MAS Director Michelle Evanitski, MAS President John Scott, MAS Director Malcolm Rogers, Homecraft First VP Diane Murray; Homecraft President Cheryl McGuire, Sarnia-Lambton MP Marilyn Gladu, Reigning Brigden Fair Am- bassador Emma Wheeler, Ambassador’s Courtier Savannah Denommy, Sarnia-Lambton MPP Bob Bailey, Lambton Coun- ty Warden/Mayor of Enniskillen, St. Clair Township Mayor Jeff Agar. Seated left: Donors/supporters Tiffany and Joe Alix; MAS/OAAS Service Award recipient Orrie Wigle, MAS/Parade Marshalls Mona May and Harold Thompson.
Canadian Remedial Action (RAP) Plan Implementation Committee hosts river status update
“Honouring the St. Clair River” was the theme of a recent event held to update stakeholders on progress being made in the “cleanup” of the St. Clair River. The river was identified as a Great Lakes Area of Concern (AOC) under the 1987 Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement due to the severe environmental degradation of water quality and the aquatic environment. After 30 years of cooperation between organizations in Canada and the U.S., the good news is that significant improvements have been made due to legislative and voluntary measures. Of the 12 beneficial uses identified as either impaired or requiring further assessment in the St. Clair River AOCs, seven have been addressed and delisted. Four of the five remaining AOCs are identified as impaired and are the current focus of the Canadian RAP Implementation Committee. The fifth is now being assessed.
Working together, partners of the Remedial Action Plan have made a tremendous difference to the health of the St. Clair River. The partners include: Rural Lambton Stewardship Network; the St. Clair Region Conservation Authori- ty; Friends of the St. Clair River; municipalities including St. Clair Township; the Bluewater Association for Safety, Environment and Sustainability; Aamjiwnaang First Nation; Walpole Island First Nation; as well as provincial and fed- eral agencies.
Corunna200 committee plans 2024 sequel to 2023 street festival
The overwhelming success of the Corunna200 Sept. 23 street festival got the Corunna200 or- ganizing committee thinking about the future when the mem- bers recently met to tidy up the loose ends of the event.
As the meeting progressed, it was clear there was consensus for some form of September street festival next year. By the end of the meeting, the Corunna Street Festival committee core group was raring to go, pending approv- al from St. Clair Township Coun- cil.
In her wrap-up report, the committee’s fearless leader Tra- cy Kingston wrote, “We all agreed to do it again on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024…did we have any doubt that we wouldn’t?” She noted the community’s generous support of the summer-long Almost Canada’s Capital event (nickname Corun- na200) resulted in a project that ended solidly in the black. Some of the remaining funds will be donated to community projects and the rest will provide a finan- cial springboard for the 2024 event.
Tracy says, “The format will be similar to this year and we will start thinking of a location (on Lyndoch Street), again, with Council’s per- mission.” The committee agreed that knowledge gained during the 2023 event will make the sequel much easier to arrange. It did- n’t hurt to have the advice of veteran Captain Kidd Days committee members, who were on board to share their wisdom.
Corunna200 Time Capsule
The Corunna200 time capsule will be filled
with items that represent life in St. Clair Town-
ship. It will be opened again 50 years from now by as-yet undetermined people who are currently young students.
Above: The large metal time capsule, custom-made by CIMS and McIntosh Mechanical Inc. will hold our message to the future.
The contents of the capsule will com- municate how we lived, played, worked, dreamed, and conducted our
daily lives.
Final Corunna200 event Nov. 1
The final event in what has become a memorable year for many Corunna residents will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 11 a.m. at the Corunna Clock Tower. New storyboards, made possible by Heritage St. Clair, and new plaques on the clock tower, will be un- veiled and the Corunna200 time capsule will be sealed. Thanks to Royal Bank and Katoen Natie for their support of this event. Attendees will receive a free gift to mark the occasion.
Original chalk mural designed by artist Will Graham for Corunna200
The food bank at St. Andrew’s Church on Colborne Street in Corunna is open every Wednesday evening from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and every Thursday morning from 9 a.m. to noon. The food bank serves those in need, offering a varie- ty of food products to help people eat healthily, including dairy products, bread, and meat, as well as daily require- ments like household cleaning supplies, hygiene products, and baby needs. The fresh food supplied at the food bank costs approximately $75 per week to purchase. Anyone wishing to make a financial donation to the food bank can do so through Food Bank, C/O St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, 437 Colborne Drive, Corunna, Ontario, N0N 1G0. Gift cards to Foodland and No Frills are also welcome.
St. Joseph-St. Charles Catholic Church Community to participate in food program
The St. Joseph-St. Charles’ Catholic Community in Co- runna, along with the Catholic churches in Petrolia, Forest, and Watford, has worked collaboratively with the Boys and Girls Club of Sarnia-Lambton to extend Project Backpack, a food assistance program, into Lambton County. The pro- gram provides a bag of nutritious food that can be easily distributed to people ages 14-24 who are in need of a healthy meal. Each bag also contains hygiene items and helpful information from community partners. People who qualify for this program can find these bags at the St. Jo- seph Catholic Church Parish office at 346 Beresford Street in Corunna during regular office hours (Monday from 11
a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Tuesday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.). Program organizers say the program will con- tinue into the fall and they hope to continue it as long as there is a need for it.
Courtright Friendship Club
activities
The Courtright Friendship Club meets every first Thurs- day of every month next to the Courtright Library,1533 Fourth Street. Annual membership is $10, but non- members are welcome to come out to weekly card games. Euchre is played on Wednesdays at 1 p.m., and Pepper is played on Fridays at 7 p.m. The cost per game is $3 per person.
Weekly St. Clair Township libraries hours of operation
*Brigden 519-864-1142): Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 2
p.m. to 7 p.m.; Wednesday, Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
*Corunna (519-862-1132): Monday through Friday, 10
a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
*Courtright 519-867-2712): Tuesday, Saturday, 10
a.m. to 2 p.m.; Thursday, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
*Mooretown (519-867-2823): Monday, Saturday, 9
a.m. to 1 p.m.; Wednesday, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
*Sombra (519-892-3711): Tuesday, 3 p.m.to 7 p.m.;
Thursday, Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
*Port Lambton (519-677-5217): Monday, Sat- urday, 10a.m. to 2 p.m.; Wednesday, 3
p.m. to 7 p.m.
*Wilkesport (519-864-4000): Tuesday, Satur- day, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Thursday, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
We now offer online program registration!! Please visit https://www.nlchc.com/services/wellness-programs/ (Be sure to speci- fy which program you are registering for on the top of the form.)
To register, call 519-344-3017 ext. 237 or email adinell@nlchc.com to register and/or receive the Zoom link.
West Lambton CHC November Health Promotion Calendar 2023
We now offer online program registration!! Please visit https://www.nlchc.com/services/wellness-programs/ (Be sure to specify which program you are registering for on the top of the form.) To register, call 519-344-3017 ext.
237 or email adinell@nlchc.com to register and/or receive the Zoom link.
In Person Programs
Brigden Low Impact : This class is held Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. at the Brigden Fair Grounds,
2976 Brigden Rd, Brigden.
Mooretown Low Impact: This class is held on Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. at the Mooretown Sports Com- plex, 1166 Emily Street in Mooretown.
Anger Management: This class is full, but names are being accepted for future programs. *This class runs every Thursday night from 6-7:30 p.m. at West Lambton CHC. Identify your anger triggers, patterns, and practice positive & effective anger management skills. To register for the next session, call 519- 344-3017. ext. 237 or email adinell@nlchc.com .
Cooking Buddies: Children’s cooking classes for ages between 6 -12 years old. The class will focus on learning to read recipe cards, measure ingredients, try new foods, and to have fun! Classes will run monthly. CLASSES ARE FULL AT THIS TIME! Locations: (Brigden—2435 Courtright Line, Brigden),
(Corunna – St. Joseph’s Church, 346 Beresford St), (Sarnia—429 Exmouth St. Sarnia), (Forest—59 King St. Forest).
Garden Fresh Box: The Garden Fresh Box is an inexpensive monthly food buying club for anyone who wants fresh vegetables and fruit all year round. For information, call 519 -344-3017, ext. 237 or email adinell@nlchc.com. Orders are accepted in person with payment. Cash ONLY please.
Meditation: Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. at West Lambton CHC. Increase self-esteem, improve concen-
tration, lower blood pressure, reduce stress & anxiety, emotional balance. To register, call 519-344- 3017, ext. 237 or email adinell@nlchc.com .
Virtual Programs
Eat Well, Live Healthy Wellness Workshop: Virtual discussion with our Registered Dietitian to discuss
healthy eating, nutrition tools, resources and more! For more information about dates/time and to regis- ter, call 519-786- 4545, ext. 307.
Feeding Your Toddler-Dietitian Visit: Nov. 29 at 1:30 – 3 p.m. Virtual discussion with our Registered
Dietitian for feeding your toddler. Learn how to support your fussy eater and get healthy meal and snack ideas. To register, email EarlyON@nlchildcare.ca
Heart Healthy Living: Virtual discussion with our Registered Dietitian to discuss types of cholesterol,
heart smart diet and healthy heart lifestyle habits. For more information about dates/time and to regis- ter, call 519-786- 4545, ext. 307.
Master Your Health— Chronic Disease: Oct. 24—Nov. 28 at 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. The six-week virtual pro-
gram includes managing chronic conditions, healthy eating and managing daily activities. To register,
call 519-344-3017, ext.237 or email adinell@nlchc.com
Loneliness & Social Isolation Wellness Workshop: Nov. 20 at 2:30 p.m. Explore contributing factors to
isolation and learn practical ways to manage loneliness. To register, call 519 -786-4545, ext. 279 or email
reveraert@nlchc.com
Shibashi/Sit or Stand Combo: Tuesdays & Fridays at 10:15 a.m. for a 75 min class. A combination of movements used in Shibashi and Sit or Stand classes. Shibashi, a combination of Tai chi/qigong, is a
practice of aligning breath and movement for exercise and health. Shibashi consists of 18 simple steps. It is easy to learn and perfect for beginners. It can be performed with the options of either standing or sit- ting in a chair. Resistance bands are used. All exercise abilities are welcome. To register, call 519 -344-
3017, ext. 237 or email adinell@nlchc.com
Recycle used batteries at Lambton County Libraries
Lambton County Library has partnered with Call2Re- cycle Canada, Inc. to host battery recycling collection boxes in select Lambton County Library locations to en- courage the proper disposal of used batteries.
Anyone wishing to recycle batteries must prepare them for recycling by following the Call2Recycle guide- lines, which include bagging the battery in a provided
clear bag or taping over the battery’s terminals before depositing them in the Call2Recycle collection boxes. Lambton County residents can drop off their used sin- gle-use and rechargeable household batteries (weighing up to 5 kg each) at the following Lambton County Library St. Clair Township locations: Brigden, Corunna, and Petrolia.
From page 19 M O R E A R O U N D T O W N S H I P
Brigden Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall Hockey Canada’s National Women’s Team takes on United States
in Sarnia GO, CANADA, GO!
Hockey Canada’s National Women’s Team will play against USA Hockey Women’s Team at the Progressive Auto Sales Arena (Home of the Sar- nia Sting) on Saturday, Dec. 16 at 5 p.m. Sarnia is on the seven-game 2023-24
Rivalry series tour that in- cludes other Canadian loca- tions including Kitchener, Sas- katoon and Regina. Tickets for the Dec. 16 game are now on sale online at: HockeyCana- da.ca/Tickets at a cost of $30 per ticket.
CORUNNA SANTA CLAUS PARADE
Saturday, Nov. 25 at 6:30 p.m.
The Moore Optimist Club will host Santa’s parade. It will fol- low the usual route – from Chris’ No Frills north along Lyndoch to Beckwith Street. See over 50 entries including Great Lakes High School band, Lambton Shriners, fire trucks and lots of fantastic local groups and businesses showing off their floats. Non-perishable food items for the Corunna food bank will be collected along the parade route in cooperation with Operation Christmas Tree. The after-parade gathering at the Corunna Clock Tower will include hot
chocolate provided by Nicole Smith, Exit Realty Twin Bridges. Registration forms/info about the parade and sponsors on website: www.CorunnaSantaClausparade.com and on Facebook.
Contact: Darcy Vink 519-328-6465 or email:
santacorunna@gmail.com
3rd Wednesday – Corunna
See below to register
Lambton Elderly Outreach (LEO) offers seniors Diner’s Club
Lambton Elderly Outreach (LEO) Diner’s Club offers a hot meal and entertainment in Corunna at Wellings from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. once each month at a cost of $17 per person. In Sombra, the Diner’s Club offers a monthly light lunch and entertainment from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for $12 at the Sombra Museum Cultural Centre hall. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED TO ATTEND.
To register for lunch or for more information, contact Della at 519-845-1353, ext. 301 or email: dcroxford@lambtonelderlyoutreach.org
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2023 Page 19
From page 20
Annual Sacred Heart Food Bank Fowl Bingo
The FOWL BINGO to benefit the Sacred Heart Food Bank will be held on Monday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. at the Sombra Community Centre, 152 Smith Street.
Admission is $5 to participate in 15 regular rounds for chicken and 3 Special rounds for turkey.
Come and enjoy this evening to help the Sacred Heart Food Bank .
FOR MORE NFORMATION ABOUT THE CHRISTMAS SACRED HEART FOOD BANK ACTIVITIES SEE PAGE 8.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Operation Christmas Tree fundraisers
OPERATION CHRISTMAS TREE BENEFIT LUNCHEON
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 447, 350 Albert St.,
Corunna on Wednesday, Nov. 15 from 11:30 a.m.-1:30
p.m. No fee, donations only.
OPP DONATION DRIVE-THROUGH
OPP (Corunna Detachment) Emergency Services Building, 392 Lyndoch St.,
Corunna, Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (Santa will be there!)
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FUNDRAISER BREAKFAST
(Eat-In or Take-Out) Sunday, Dec. 3, from 9 a.m.- Noon at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall, 346 Beresford Street, Corunna. (To order call 519-862-5785).
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OPERATION CHRISTMAS TREE
SEE PAGE 8
Have a great shopping experi- ence finding perfect gifts for those “hard-to-buy-for” people on your list from over 30 vendors. Check out the Brigden Market Facebook page for up to date list- ings.
More Around the Township page 18
Corunna Legion Br.447
350 Albert St., Corunna 519-862-1240
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
Membership is NOT necessary to enjoy the fa-
cilities.
Wheelchair accessible
Regular Legion Br. 447 Activities
Online Subscription Available
A free subscription to The St. Clair Township Beacon is available by email- ing:
beacon@stclairtownship.ca Please type “ Subscription” in the Subject line and include your full
name.
To find THE BEACON online, visit the township
website homepage at:
www.stclairtownship.ca
and click on The Beacon icon.
Items that qualify for publication
THE BEACON is open at no charge to not-for- profits in St. Clair Township (i.e. service clubs, youth/seniors groups, agricultural groups, charity initiatives, etc.) AND groups, events, or activities that will benefit and/or interest residents of St. Clair Township.
To submit information or notices, email: beacon@stclairtownship.ca
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS
BEACON deadline is the third Monday of each month
for the following month.
DEADLINE FOR DECEMBER
Monday, November 16 by noon.
EARLY SUBMISSIONS ARE PREFERRED
EARLY DEADLINE FOR JANUARY BEACON, 2024
Monday, December 11
Every Monday at 1 p.m. sharp – Pepper Every Thursday at 1 p.m. sharp – Cribbage Every Friday at 1 p.m. sharp – Bridge Every Saturday at 4 p.m. – Meat Draw
** No Meat Draw on Nov. 11, Remembrance Day Every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. – Chair Yoga Every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. – Beginners Yoga Call the Corunna Legion to register (519) 862- 1240
Arrive 15 minutes before actual start time. Wheelchair Accessible
FB: The Royal Canadian Legion, Leslie Suther- land Br447
All welcome! No membership required to enjoy the facilities!
*************************************************
“Lest We Forget”
Saturday, November 11 at 10:45, join us at the Remembrance Day Service at The Corunna Clock Tower. Pay Honour, Re- spect and remember our Veteran’s of Yes- teryear and today.
************************************************* Corunna Legion Christmas Craft Show Saturday, Nov. 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
$2 entrance fee goes to Operation Service Dog Everyone welcome!
**************************************************
*Meat Darts at 7 p.m., Friday, Nov. 10 and Nov. 24.
*Pub Night with Matt Gauthier
No Cover Charge
Saturday Nov. 18 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
*Open Jam – Saturday, Nov. 25 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Everyone welcome!
*Jim “Mitch” Mitchell Progressive Euchre Tour- nament
Sunday, Nov. 26, 2-person team
Register between 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., play at 1 p.m.
Food Available
*Turkey Bingo
Thursday, Nov. 30, Doors open at 6:30 p.m., play starts at 7 p.m.
Food Available – Top Prize of $1,000
$30 for 25 Ham Games
$3 for Special Strip
More information on the above events is available by calling (519) 862-1240 or on
Facebook: The Royal Canadian Legion,
Leslie Sutherland Br.447
More Around the Township, page 19
PRINTED BEACON now available at all St. Clair Township library branches and at the St. Clair Township Civic Centre at front door.
