Issue 11
Volume 14
November 2021
T H E T O W N S H I P O F S T . C L A I R
Pie Ladies multi-tasking: On occasion, the Brigden Fair Pie Ladies are called upon to use their consid- erable baking skills to make more than delicious pies. Before Thanksgiving, organizers of a horse show being held at the fairgrounds asked the ladies create some magnificent munchies to feed those who attended the event. Above: Busy preparing food for the event in the Brigden Fairgrounds kitchen, Cheryl McGuire turned her hand to making pies for the event while other members of the group worked on delicious projects like the muffins in the fore- ground. At the refrigerator gathering ingredients for another project is Carol Robinson.
Santa
Claus
Parade
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November 2021 Page 3
wire mesh; and concrete forming. Eight tenders were reviewed and all came in below the set budget. Council
New corporate resident for township
The latest new corporate resident to set up shop in St. Clair Township is CANDO Rail and Terminals. Tim Yamashita, CANDO VP Infrastructure Development, made an introductory presentation to council and fielded their questions at the regular Oct. 18 meeting.
He said the CANDO operation at 403 LaSalle Line will be one of a network of eight hubs located throughout Canada. The existing site is appropriately zoned and currently has space for 85 rail cars. It also includes a repair shop, a two-car rail car wash, and supporting storage and arrival/departure tracks that were built by the previous owner.
Mr. Yamashita noted the site has space for a much larger storage facility and, when the new facility is complete, it will hold an additional 400-500 railcar spots.
New environmental features to be developed will involve the introduction of a storm pond, control valves, and an oil-grit separator.
To summarize the presentation, Mr. Yamashita said, “We look at the industry; we look at solving in- dustry issues and problems. We are a design, build, maintain, operate company, so we not only look at their issues, we try to problem-solve them and we in- corporate that into our design and build for our cus- tomers.”
Council raised concerns about the nature of the work to be done at the facility and the contents of the rail cars that will be stored there. Mr. Yamashita as- sured them, “…there will not be any unloading of haz- ardous waste.” He added, “Repairs will not play a large part in the facility’s daily operation…the majority of the cars will be empty. It is a staging yard for the cus- tomer. We don’t plan on doing a lot of rail car repair. It was minimal when we took the site over and, apart from the large footprint of the shop, we really don’t have plans to take that on. It’s primarily a car storage facility.”
Concerns were raised that the increased movement of rail traffic to and from the facility along the CN tracks in Corunna would cause delays at the level cross- ing on Hill Street. However, Mr. Yamashita explained the nature of the facility will limit delays. “The yard is structured such that we will be able to accommodate shorter cuts of cars. The frequency of rail cars will go up but they will be shorter so we should be able to deal with them in our yard a lot more efficiently.”
Mr. Yamashita noted the Track Smart safety proto- cols observed by CANDO is acknowledged industry- wide. He noted the company was recognized by the industry when it received the Railway Association of Canada Safety Awards in 2018 and 2020.
The presentation stated CANDO’s benefits to the community are numerous. Along with the additional jobs it will bring, the company’s community involve- ment includes staff-led charity initiatives, a high school scholarship program, and a corporate sponsorship pro- gram. The employment of local support services will create additional jobs and the operation of the new facility will lead to property tax benefits for the town- ship. (For map of the CANDO site, see page 16).
Arena Phase 1 approvals given
Approvals for the first phase of the Rink 1 and Rink 2 upgrades at the Moore Sports Complex were consid- ered at the Oct. 18 council meeting. Phase 1 will in- volve the following work and materials: slab demolition and excavation; structural steel and metal fabrication; mechanical work; hollow metal doors, frames and hard- ware; rigid insulation; masonry; reinforcing steel and
approved the recommendations of the Director of Com- munity Services Kendall Lindsay and work is now well underway at the site.
Underaged drivers complaint
Complaints from some residents regarding underaged drivers in their community were reviewed by council at the Oct. 18 meeting. It was agreed that any complaints of this kind are the domain of law enforcement and must be reported to the Ontario Provincial Police.
Lambton County receives AA rating
S & P Global, the worlds foremost provider of trans- parent and independent ratings, has given Lambton County a ‘AA’ rating. Contributing factors to the posi- tive report included the county’s prudent financial man- agement and recovering economy, the stability of key industries that have supported recovery from COVID-19; and a well-balanced relationship between the county and the Province of Ontario. With these factors in mind, S & P expects budgetary performance to remain stable, with debt low; the generation of stable operating bal- ances; and a strong liquidity position that will support its creditworthiness.
Enbridge receives support for project
Enbridge Senior Advisor Brian Lennie presented an update to council regarding the company’s proposed 2023 Dawn Corunna project. The project will require the decommissioning of seven of the eleven natural gas compressors at the Corunna station, which are reaching the end of their useful lifecycle. A new 36-inch diame- ter steel natural gas pipeline will be constructed be- tween the Corunna and Dawn stations.
The project is dependent on approval from the On- tario Energy Board (OEB) which, if given, will allow the project to get underway in 2023. The projected date of completion will be late 2024. It is estimated the project will inject between $200 to $250 million into the local community, using local trades and locally-produced ma- terials.
Mr. Lennie confirmed local First Nations have been consulted and he requested a letter of support from council to accompany the Enbridge application to the OEB. A council motion to support the project with a let- ter was based on the company’s assurance the project will maintain the safe and reliable operation of the Enbridge Gas system in the local area, create temporary construction jobs within the township, and source con- struction materials from local suppliers when possible.
Brigden Community Hall not open
In the October 2021 issue of The Beacon, the third recommendation for public buildings was that all com- munity halls would be closed until 2022, with the excep- tion of the Brigden hall which, at the request of the hall’s operators, would be kept open for the use of spe- cific groups, using all COVID-19 safety protocols. Hall operators subsequently withdrew the request and the hall is closed until 2022.
County Council to resume in-person meetings Lambton County Council has agreed to resume in- person meetings in 2022. However, members may at- tend remotely in accordance with Council’s policy of remote participation. This decision will be revisited if the provincial reopening plan changes, or if there are
concerns about health, safety, or public transparency.
Changes in council meeting protocol to be discussed at Nov. 1 meeting
At Beacon publication time, the November 1 council meeting has not yet been held, so protocol decisions are unavailable. Council’s decision will be available at the township website: www.stclairtownship.ca
Sewer Main Flushing
Public Works will be flushing sewer mains connect- ed to the St. Clair Township Sewer System, during the hours of:
Friendly Waste Reminders
Just a few friendly reminders in regards to waste collection days and some winter tips that will make this winter’s waste collection seamless.
Rapid at home Covid tests are considered “medical waste” and can’t be put in regular garbage. These must be disposed of in same way as all medical waste. Bulk items are picked up weekly with your regular waste collection. You can place 2 items at the curb as long as the items do not exceed more then “100 lbs”
per item.
Please tie all garbage bags. Contractors will not collect “loose garbage” so remember to tie them up.
As we are approaching winter weather garbage pails are being weighed down by rain and snow. This makes waste collection hard. We suggest drilling holes in the bottom of your garbage pails so that excess water can drain out or placing a lid on top of your garbage pail.
7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
May 2021 – Fall 2021
For current areas affected, refer to stclairtownship.ca
During this maintenance procedure, you may notice some gurgling noises in your drains.
If conditions persist after 24-48 hours of normal use, please notify Public Works at 519-867-2993.
See more Works, page 5
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2021 Page 5
From page 4
See Yard Waste/Brush Collection, page 6
From page 5
Some St. Clair Township Services still suspended
St. Clair Township Council will discuss potential lifting of some protocols at the Monday, November 1 meeting. (Until in-person meetings are approved, they can be viewed on Facebook or through the St. Clair Township website below.
Up-to-dated details for municipal office operations will be posted at: www.stclairtownship.ca
Several employees are working from home but will have access to their email. Please email or leave a voicemail and the employee will get back to you as promptly as possible.
The following services have resumed but significant delays can be expected:
a) Issuance of Marriage Licenses
b) Issuance of Lottery Licenses
c) Processing of all Planning Act Applications
The following Township buildings are closed until further notice:
a) St. Clair Township Civic Centre
b) Emergency Services Building (Fire Department)
The Township thanks you for your continued patience throughout these
difficult times and it remains our priority to offer professional and courteous service when we ’re able.
All Planning Applications can be accepted at the Civic Centre by appointment.
Employees will continue to occupy these buildings and can be reached their email or by phone at:
a) Moore Sports Complex 519 -867-2651
b) Public Works 519-867-2993
c) Finance/Drains/Clerks/Building/Planning 519 -867-2021
D) Fire Department 519-481-0111
Creative County Grant Program 2022 application now being accepted
Lamb-
ton Coun-
ty’s Crea- tive County Grant Pro- gram is now receiv-
ing funding applications for cultural, heritage, and arts initiatives occurring in Lambton County in 2022.
The program invests in new and innovative pro- jects that build cultural capacity, strengthen the creative community, define the County’s unique identity and enrich the quality of life of all resi- dents. Organizers of new or expanding initiatives are encouraged to apply online for funding to cover up to 50 per cent of project costs.
The program, normally reserved for operational expenses, has expanded its application criteria due to ongoing public health restrictions preventing many cultural events and programs from taking place. For 2022, the committee will consider appli- cations for minor capital purchases to support such projects as the purchase of specialized equipment, public art installations, murals, monuments, herit- age markers/plaques, signage etc. Expenses related to capital renovation or construction projects are not eligible.
The committee will prioritize projects led by, or in partnership with, Indigenous communities that foster awareness of Indigenous heritage and cul- ture, or support local organizations with the imple- mentation of the Calls to Action outlined in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s report.
“The expansion of program criteria is designed to support cultural organizations in Lambton County with the needs they have identified, and celebrate the diversity of our community,” said Brian White, Creative County Committee Chair. “There is also an intentional effort to advance reconciliation with our neighbouring First Nations communities with the support of this funding. The public commemora- tion of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process, and the new criteria the committee has added helps to advance recon- ciliation as a priority in Lambton County.”
Applications for the Creative County Grant Pro- gram will be accepted online only at lamb- tononline.ca/creativecounty . The application peri- od will close on Monday, November 15, 2021 at 4:00
p.m. A budget of $75,000 in available funding for the 2022 program year.
Since its inception in 2013, the Creative County Grant Program has supported over 150 cultural ini- tiatives across Lambton County.
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2021 Page 8
Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, November 1-7
By Andrew McMillan
St. Clair Township Deputy Fire Chief
• Ensure all portable fuel-burning heaters are vent- ed properly, according to manufacturer’s instruc-
Ontario’s Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week runs from November 1-7, and the St.
tions.
Never use the stove or oven to heat your home.
Clair Township Fire Department reminds you to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) in your home by getting all fuel- burning appliances inspected annually.
Carbon Monoxide is known as the “silent killer” be- cause it is an invisible, tasteless and odourless gas that can be deadly. It is produced when fuels such as pro- pane, gasoline, natural gas, heating oil or wood do not burn completely in fuel-burning appliances and devices such as furnaces, gas or wood fireplaces, hot water heat- ers, stoves, barbeques, portable fuel-burning heaters and generators and vehicles.
In Ontario, more than 65% of injuries and deaths from CO occur in the home. We want to make sure eve- ryone is safe from CO. Get all fuel-burning appliances inspected by a registered contractor.” Vis- it COSafety.ca to find a registered contractor near you.
The St. Clair Township Fire Department also reminds you to install CO alarms in your home if you have a fuel- burning appliance, a fireplace, or an attached garage. Fuel-burning appliances can include furnaces, hot water heaters, gas or wood fireplaces, portable fuel-burning heaters and generators, barbeques, stoves, and vehicles. You must have a working CO alarm adjacent to each sleeping area of the home if your home has a fuel-
burning appliance, a fireplace or an attached garage. For added protection, install a carbon monoxide alarm on every storey of the home according to manufacturer’s
instructions .
Prevent CO in your home:
• Ensure fuel-burning appliances, chimneys and
• Open the flu before using a fireplace for adequate ventilation.
• Never run a vehicle or other fueled engine or mo- tor inside a garage, even if the garage doors are open. Always remove a vehicle from the garage immediately after starting it.
Know the symptoms of CO:
• Exposure to CO can cause flu-like symptoms such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, as well as confu- sion, drowsiness, loss of consciousness and death.
• If your CO alarm sounds, and you or other occu- pants suffer from symptoms of CO poisoning, get everyone out of the home immediately. Then call 9-1-1 or your local emergency services number from outside the building.
• If your CO alarm sounds and no one is suffering from symptoms of CO poisoning, check to see if the battery needs replacing, or the alarm has reached its “end-of-life” before calling 9-1-1.
Know the sound of your CO alarm:
• Your CO alarm sounds different than your smoke alarm even if it’s a combination alarm. Generally, in a CO emergency, a continuous set of four loud beeps – beep, beep, beep, beep means CO is pre- sent in your home. A smoke or fire emergency is a continuous set of three loud beeps.
• Test both alarms monthly and make sure everyone in your home knows the difference between the
vents are cleaned and inspected annually. Vis- it COSafety.ca to find a registered contractor near you.
• Check that all outside appliance vents are not blocked.
• Gas and charcoal barbeques should only be used outside, away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings. Never use barbeques in- side garages, even if the garage doors are open.
• Portable fuel-burning generators should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from windows, doors, vents and other building open- ings.
two alarm sounds.
Don’t be confused by the sound of your CO alarm’s low-battery warning. Follow your CO alarm manu- facturer’s instructions so you know the difference between the low-battery warning, the “end-of- life” warning, and the alarm alerting you to the presence of CO in your home.
For more CO safety tips, visit COsafety.ca.
For more information, contact:
Andrew McMillan – 519-481-0111
Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership has launched the Apprenticeship Network in an effort to help keep recent graduates in Sarnia and Lambton County and grow the local economy.
The goal of the project will be to help employers navigate apprenticeship resources and processes, ac- cess training incentives, and connect directly with apprentices. Activities will include: one-on-one con- sultations; information sessions; employer recogni- tion; and a new online platform to streamline the re- cruitment of suitable apprentices.
“As we continue growing our population, this pro- gram is aligned to the longer-term economic strategy
of retaining and attracting in-demand skills to our ar- ea,” said Stephen Thompson, CEO of the Sarnia- Lambton Economic Partnership. “A strong talent pool, including apprentices, is also important in attracting future investments and growing our existing business- es.
Employers interested in knowing more about the project or how to participate can contact Cari Meloche at SLEP by email: cari@sarnialambton.on.ca or by calling 519-332-1820.
The Employment Ontario Project is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.
Public information session set regarding Lambton G.S. blast plan
A public information session regarding the blast plan for the Lambton Generating Station site will be held at the Courtright Fire Station on Thursday, Dec. 2. The ses- sion will be dependent on the COVID-19 restrictions in effect on that date.
However, Ontario Power Generation and Delsan-AIM representatives will present the blast plan to St. Clair Township Council during its regular Nov. 15 meeting,
which convenes at 6 p.m.
Steve Repergel, OPG Sr. Communications Advisor, Stakeholder Relations, says the demolition effort at the Lambton G.S. site is on schedule. In his report to St. Clair Township Council, Mr. Repergel noted OPG and Del- san-AIM will present the blast plan to Walpole Island First Nation, Aamjiwnaang First Nation, and Chippewas of the Thames First Nation in early November.
Hydro One to carry out improvement project in township
Hydro One crews will be carrying out an improvement project on the transmission line between Hydro One’s Chatham Switching Station, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, and the Lambton Trans- former Station located in St. Clair Township. The work is being done to accommodate future electrici- ty growth, improve reliability to homes and businesses, and support local industries in Southwestern
Ontario.
The project will include some locations within St. Clair Township. It will include the replacement of end-of-life poles, the lowering of distribution lines, and the burial of overhead distribution lines. There are also a few locations where trees need to be trimmed to ensure adequate clearance with Hydro One’s distribution and transmission lines. The project is now in progress and is expected to be completed by December, 2021.
Lambton nursing homes receive funding for long-term care
Provincial funding of $3,401.867 will be divided be- tween eight long-term nursing homes in Lambton.
The funding is intended to help increase staffing levels, providing more direct care for residents and increasing their direct care to an average of four hours per day by 2024/25.
Nursing homes that will benefit from this funding in- clude: Lambton Meadowview Villa, Fiddick’s Nursing
Home; Marshall Gowland Manor; Twin Lakes Terrace; Af- ton Park Place; Vision Nursing Home; Trillium Villa Nurs- ing Home; and Sumac Lodge.
The government will invest a total of $4.9 billion over a four-year period to help hire qualified care staff by more than 27,000 people. Guidance on staffing models will also be issued to long-term care facilities.
Businesses benefit from Sarnia Lambton Economic Partnership (SLEP) programs
Grant received for Digital Service Squad
Small businesses have experienced challenges during the pandemic that have made it difficult to thrive. Traditional meth- ods of conducting business have given way to new ones through the use of digital technologies.
The Sarnia Lambton Economic Partnership (SLEP) recently announced the formation of a Digital Service Squad (DSS) thanks to a $60,000 grant from Digital Main Street’s Ontario Grants Pro- gram (OGP). Small businesses now have access to the assistance of trained DSS digital specialists who can help them cope with online technologies and digitally transform their sales, marketing and back-office operations, all at no cost. The squad is already visiting businesses in Sarnia and Lambton County.
This is the third year SLEP has been able to offer OGP, which is administered by the Ontario BIA Association in partnership with
the Toronto Association of BIAs. Locally, the program will provide 3,000 Digital Transformation Grants to qualified brick-and- mortar small businesses. It will include support for basic website setup, Google My Business profiles, 360o photos, social media presence, and more. Where COVID-19 restrictions are in place, DSS members can provide support through phone and video tools such as Zoom.
Apprentice required?
The SLEP Apprentice Job Match tool can connect Sarnia- Lambton employers with apprentices seeking available opportu- nities. Registration is free and can be found at www.sarnialambtonapprentice.ca .
More information about the Job Match Program can be found by calling 519-332-1820, ext. 225 or online at: appren- tice@sarnialambton.on.ca
The Rapids Family Health Team clinic, located in the Shell Health Centre at 233 Cameron Street in Corunna, is not yet offering in-person programs. How- ever, the clinic can be contacted online at www.rapidsfhteam.ca or by calling 519-339-8949 to speak to reception.
Lab services are offered from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Monday through Friday.
The lab is a specimen collection site only. Patients with concerns regarding billing or their online profile for test results, may contact LifeLabs at 1-877-849-3637.
Vaccinations still available and still vitally important to COVID-19 eradication
Residents can register for their vaccination or attend a drop-in clinic. Full details are available online at
getthevaccine.ca .
Several local pharmacies are also administering vaccinations. Information is available at the Lambton Public Health website where a new dedicated “Pharmacy page” can direct individuals to these options.
Transportation to vaccination sites are available for people age 50 and over who do not have any other transpor- tation options to use. Contact Lambton Elderly Outreach (LEO) at 519-845-1353, ext. 360, or the Canadian Red Cross at 519-332-6380.
COVID and its Delta variant threatens you and all those you love.
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2021 Page 12
The extensive archival resources at the Lambton County Archives can now be accessed via a virtual service. The service also allows patrons access to the researchers and genealogists who can facilitate family, property, and his- torical searches.
Virtual appointments must be booked in advance with the Archivist. They will include two 15-minute video or telephone meetings, and one hour of research time. The Archivist will also assist by reviewing research and an- swering questions. The cost is $20 for members and $40 for non-members, which includes 1.5 hours of research support. Additional research time can be purchased as required.
Those who wish to be introduced to the various online genealogical and lo- cal history resources can ask to be in- troduced to AncestryLibrary, Onland, and other programs.
To book appointments or make a reservation, visit the Lambton County Archives website.
Below: Are any of these people related to you?
Newly updated Heritage St. Clair page features map showing historic plaques and storyboards situated throughout the township
Heritage St. Clair has updated its page on the St. Clair Township website, and one of the features now on view St. Clair Township’s Historic Points of Interest map. This interactive map points out the locations of these colourful and educational installations and includes photographs of them so you’ll be sure not to miss them. Here’s a link you can use to go directly to St. Clair Township’s Historical Points of Interest page:
See More Heritage, page 13
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2021 Page 13
From page 12
Stag Island was a holiday destination for city dwellers
Stag Island as it is today.
Stag Island, now a cozy summer cottage retreat, was once a summer holiday destination for city dwellers like Windsor and Detroit who reached the island via steam ships like the Tashmoo and the Greyhound. Local resi- dents could ride from Corunna to the island on a steam yacht owned by the David family. This turn-of-the-20th century resort island boasted a 103-room hotel, up to 23 cottages, beaches, and sports and amusement areas that included tennis, croquet, boating and fishing. A second 100-room hotel was soon built, and all park buildings were illuminated with electric lighting. But after WWI, the island’s popularity began to wane and not even the
lure of lower accommodation rates could save it from falling on hard times, even when a roller coaster was built in the 1920s.
Cottages and land were soon on sale and through the years, the island’s landscape was transformed into the idyllic scene we see in the aerial photo above. Stag Is- land, named for the deer that once lived there, is a Cana- dian island that has many American seasonal residents and is overseen by the Stag Island Fraternal Fellowship Association.
~Background information courtesy Moore Museum
Mike Coene photo, Bluewater Drone Pix
Moore Museum seeks information about history of old Moore Township schools
Moore Museum continues to accept information for a virtual exhibit for the museum’s website. It will feature brief histories and photos of the schools in the former Moore Township prior to centralization in 1963. There were 19 school sections in Moore, four of which were union schools – two shared with Sombra Township and two with Sarnia Township. To see the map that indicates where the schools were located, see the March or April 2021 Beacon (can be found on the St. Clair Township website– click on The Beacon). It can be accessed, along with further information, by going online the St. Clair Township website home page. Click on The Beacon, top right of the page. ~Laurie Mason, curator, Moore Museum
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2021 Page 14
All Lambton County Library locations open; hours of operation adjusted
All 25 Lambton County Library locations are now open to the public. They all offer in-person browsing according to each site’s provincially designated ca- pacity limit, and scheduled computer use, wi-fi use, and academic research. Curbside pickup will continue. Library COVID-19 protocols require visitors over the age of two must wear masks or face coverings and no food or beverage is permitted. Computer appoint- ments are limited to 45 minutes once per day, patrons browsing may spend no more than 45 minutes in the
library, and capacity limits are in effect at all sites.
To book an appointment for public computer use, wi-fi use and academic research, cardholders can call the location they wish to visit, book online at www.lclibrary.ca/appointments or call the cen- tral booking line at 519-337-3291 ext. 5900, toll free at 1-866-324-6912 ext. 5900. Walk-in appoint- ments will be accommodated as space and time al- lows.
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Library hours of operation have been adjusted to better align with individual community and opera-
tional needs. St. Clair Township locations and public hours of operation are as follows:
Brigden 519-864-1142): Monday, Tuesday, Thurs-
day, 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, Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Wednesday, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
* To become a Lambton County Library card- holder, call or visit your local library during open hours.
For more information on locations, services and hours of operation visit www.lclibrary.ca
This aerial view of a St. Clair Township community should be easy to identify. Hint for history buffs: in 1869, it was selected to be the western terminus for the Canada Southern Railway and it was named in honour of the company president. A hint for anyone who knows their community: it is home to a public building nicknamed Silverdome.
Mike Coene, Bluewater Drone Pix
Equipment bound for Shell Corunna facility lands at gov’t dock
The Coastal Titan, a Toronto-based 91.5 metre-long multi-functional barge, above, delivered a weighty regen vessel in time for it to take its 30 kilometre journey to a Shell Corunna construction site on Sept. 25. Powered by the muscu- lar tug Salvage Monarch to make the trip to Sarnia, the megabarge moored at the
Above: A mammoth regen vessel bound for the Shell Corunna facility stands on its wheeled Mammoet transport trailer at the Sarnia govern- ment dock. Compare its size to the tiny worker in red, bottom right.
government docks and unloaded itself, using onboard twin booms capable of lifting a total of 432 tonnes. The slow transportation of the regen vessel to the Shell site took place at night, using the oversized-load corridor through Sar- nia and south into St. Clair Township. The sheer size of the load, and the partial closure of LaSalle Line due to bridge construction, made it necessary to bring the massive load down Hill Street in Corunna and north along the St. Clair Parkway to its destination. The logistics of the move required a partnership between St. Clair Township, Lambton County, the City of Sarnia, and the Ministry of Transportation, and took 21 months to finalize.
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2021 Page 17
OPERATION CHRISTMAS TREE
It’s been a difficult year for many people in St. Clair Township and it’s easy to forget that others are suffering as well. Christmas is the time when we have an opportunity to look around us and offer help to those in need. The Optimist Club of Moore spearheads Operation Christmas Tree (OCT) each year to brighten the lives of our less fortunate neighbours.
Last Christmas, the lives of 92 families, including 102 children, were brightened by Operation Christmas Tree because the community came through with gen- erous donations. This year, non-perishable food, new unwrapped toys, and gift cards to local food stores and Walmart, are needed to ensure this miracle will hap- pen again.
Donations to the 2021 OCT program can be mailed to: Operation Christmas Tree, P.O. Box 32, Corunna,
Ontario, N0N 1G0. Donations can be dropped off at the Corunna Emer- gency Service building (Hill Street/ Lyndoch Street intersection) as well when hours of operation are posted. Operation Christmas Tree can also be accessed on Facebook and on the website: operationchrist-
mastree.ca
ST. ANDREW’S FOOD BANK CONTINUES
TO SUSTAIN THOSE IN NEED
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. It operates in association with the Inn of the Good Shepherd in Sarnia.
The food bank serves those in need, offering a variety of food products to help people eat healthily, including milk, eggs, bread, and meat, as well as daily requirements like household cleaning supplies, toiletries and baby needs. The fresh food supplied at the food bank costs approximately
$75 per week to purchase. Anyone wishing to make a finan- cial 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.
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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 assembled 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 contin- ue into the fall and they hope to continue it as long as there is a need for it.
Moore Agricultural Society membership
Interested in becoming a member of the Moore Agricul- tural Society or need to renew your membership? Member- ships can be paid either by dropping off payment and mem- ber information (name, telephone number, email address, home address) at the Brigden Fair office or through e- transfer at Finance@brigdenfair.ca . Memberships are $10 per person until further notice. For more information on the membership role, contact info@brigdenfair.ca .
Wanted: Motivated youth seeking adventure
The Royal Canadian “1st Hussars” Army Cadet Corps Petrolia is welcoming boys and girls ages 12-18 to learn join the ranks and learn valuable skills they can use for a life- time. Cadets are not required to join the military. For more information, call 519-332-6555 or visit: www.petroliacadets.com
Note: The Down River Jr. Optimist group (Sombra) has been disbanded.
See More Community Contact, page 18
From page 17
New members welcome – Lambton County Junior Optimist Club
The Lambton County Junior Optimist Club is always on the lookout for youth who want to make a difference in their community. Club members ages 10 through 18 volunteer in the community and fundraise to put on their own pro- grams and to donate to other youth pro- grams. Hours spent volunteering with the club can be used toward members’ volunteer hours at school. The club meets the first Monday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Courtright Community Centre (closed during COVID-19 shut- down). For more information, call Mary Lou at 519-862-3950.
Local TOPS weight control group meetings
Local TOPS weight control groups can be contacted for information as follows: Brigden—519-864-1865; Corunna-519- 381-5584. People of all ages are wel- come to attend.
Good listeners wanted – Family Counselling Centre Good listeners are needed by the
Family Counselling Centre to staff the Distress Line, speaking with individuals who need support and need to feel con- nected. Volunteers are also needed to staff the Tel-Check program line, plac- ing daily calls to seniors and persons with disabilities who live alone and are feeling isolated. To register or to find out more about this effort, call Donna at the Family Counselling Centre, 519- 336-0120, ext. 251.
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2021 Page 19
From page 20
Up-to-date bulletins available on SCRCA website/Facebook page
The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority has been kept busy this year monitoring water levels throughout the SCRCA wa-
tershed. Spring and fall have both presented chal- lenges.
The latest in October brought several incidents of heavy rain and the threat of increased runoff and flash flooding, as well as flooding in both urban and rural areas because of exceeded storm drain capaci- ties and saturated soil.
When threatening conditions persist, it is wise to be aware of any that pose a risk in your community. Go online to www.scrca.on.ca or The SCRCA Face- book page to get the latest bulletins about such conditions as unusually high water levels, flood warnings, when flooding is imminent, and flood watches, when there is a potential for flooding.
SCRCA welcomes new general manager
The SCRCA welcomed a new general manager to the team on Nov. 1. Ken Phillips will replace Brian McDougall, who is retiring from the SCRCA after a 30 year career.
Community Law School (Sarnia-Lambton) Inc. workshops planned
In cooperation with the Deerhaven Centre for Social Justice Virtual Community Law School
Social Justice Advocacy
Effective social justice advocacy involves a multifac- eted approach. This series provides the opportunity to discuss successful efforts from around the world. Partic- ipants will be encouraged to think about change needed in their communities and how these techniques can be used to achieve those ends.
Workshops convene via Zoom on the following dates: November 2, 2021: Effective Public Awareness Cam- paigns; November 9, 2021: Informed Voting and Effec- tive Voting Campaigns; November 16, 2021: Effective Protests, Boycotts and Petitions; November 23, 2021: Effective Lobbying/Law Reform Initiatives; November 30, 2021: Effective Public Interest Litigation.
The workshops will be facilitated by Margaret Capes, Legal Education Coordinator of the Community Law School and Kelly Chappell of the Lambton College Cir- cles program. Those registered will receive a Zoom link by email before the workshops and electronic handouts. To register, please email: virtualcommunitylaws- chool@gmail.com no later than October 25, 2021 at 12 noon. Please send any questions to: virtualcommu-
nitylawschool@gmail.com
AN AMAZING LADY
Helen Vandevenne of Wilkesport admires two flashy bal- loons that proudly herald her 98th birthday. The Thomp- son Gardens resident is said to be an active “amazing la- dy” who participates in chair exercises, social times, quilting, all card games, bingo, and rock painting.
Photo submitted
Corunna Legion hosts weekly activities
The Royal Canadian Legion Corunna Branch 447 will host four weekly activities. They are: Cribbage, Thursdays at 1 p.m.; Bridge, Fridays at 1 p.m.; Meat darts, Fridays, 7 p.m.; Meat draw, Saturdays, 4 p.m. All COVID-19 protocols will be in ef- fect.
A drive-by chicken dinner served with roast potatoes, peas, coleslaw, and dessert will be offered on Nov. 23 at a cost of
$15. Please call ahead to reserve a time to pick up your din- ner. Call 519-862-1240.
Join the Corn Hole League!
Don’t give in to the Winter Blahs – Join the Corn Hole League! The Corunna Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 447, is starting up a Corn Hole League in January, 2022. A youth league for ages 8 to 16 will play from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., and a couples adult league will play from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30
p.m. on Monday evenings. The league will run for 13 weeks plus closing tournament. Registration for youth is limited to the first 32 individuals and the adult teams is limited to 16. Please con- tact the branch at 519-862-1240 for further information or to register.
See More Around the Township, page 19
Opening Doors: Healthy lifestyle program for individuals living with mental illness or seeking mental health support. For information, call 519-344-3017, ext. 277.
Virtual Night Light: Scheduled for Thursdays, until Dec. 9 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., find hope and wellness while man- aging mental illness. To register call 519-344-3017, ext. 223.
Virtual Pulmonary Rehabilitation (for existing cli- ents): Held Monday and Thursday for people living with lung disease. Learn to self-manage through education and exercise. To register or for more information, call Brenda at 519-786- 4545, ext. 265 or Lorie at 519-491-2123, ext. 227.
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For your convenience, your free digital copy can be emailed to you.
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beacon@stclairtownship.ca
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I f you have a non – profit or charity event or activity coming up in St. Clair T ownship, or an event that will benefit the residents of the township, put your event in the spotlight free of charge here in T he St. Clair Twp. Beacon.
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Santa Claus returns to Corunna!
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