The St. Clair Township
Issue 11
Volume 15
November 2022
This group of happy kindergarten students from Jen Brown-Mead’s class at St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Corunna has good reason to celebrate. Next spring, the garden they are standing in front of will not only be beautiful, but it will provide nourishment for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds. The entire St. Joseph’s population will be able to enjoy outdoor educational opportunities and studies beside it, and learn about the importance of nature preservation. This picture was taken as the group was shouting “bees please”, an invitation to the garden’s future residents.Above: The students were joined by a group of equally happy adults including, from left: Teacher Jen Brown-Mead, ECE Laura Teschke, Grade 3/4 teacher/parent Maureen Houston, St. Clair Township Councillor Tracy Kingston, native plant grower/landscaper Nick Alexander, St. Clair Township Deputy Mayor Steve Miller, St. Clair Township Coun- cillor Pat Brown, St. Clair Township Director of Public Works Brian Black, St. Joseph’s Principal Mark Bernard, and Father Matthew Bedard. For more about the Pollinator Garden initiative, see page 10. Stevenson photo
EARLY JANUARY, 2023 BEACON DEADLINE
If you have any items to be published in the January 2023 issue of the St. Clair Township Bea- con, they must be sent in by Monday, Dec. 9 at noon. This early deadline is necessary to meet printer and municipal staff holiday schedules, allowing us to have the publication printed and online by January 1.
Christmas events galore in Around the Township, pages 20-18.
Municipal & Election Notes Pages
2, 3 Works Dept. Notices Pages
5, 6 OPERATION CHRISTMAS TREE Brigden Fair in review Pages
12 & 14 Community Contact Page
16
SACRED HEART FOOD BANK
CHRISTMAS PROGRAMS
PAGE 18
The newly-elected St. Clair Township Council
will be sworn in during its inaugural meeting on Monday, Nov. 21.
Memories from Election 2022 – Monday, Oct. 24
The people of St. Clair Township had their say and here’s what happened next.
At 8:35 p.m., Clerk Jeff Baranek delivered the elec- tion results to the waiting crowd. Right: Mayor Steve Arnold congratulated Mayor Elect Jeff Agar. Left: Mayor Elect Agar and his wife, Sue, celebrated with a kiss.
Clerk Jeff Baranek
announces the results.
Creative County Grant Program now receiving applications
The Lambton County Creative County Grant Program is now receiving funding applications for arts, culture and heritage initiatives occurring in Lambton County during 2023. This program invests in new and innovative pro- jects that build cultural capacity, strengthens the creative community, de- fines the County’s unique identity, and enriches the quality of life for all res- idents. Organizers approved for funding receive up to 50 per cent of the pro- ject costs.
Applications for the Creative County Grant Program will be accepted online only at: lambtononline.ca/creativecounty.
Applications will close on Monday, Nov. 14 at 4 p.m. The County of Lambton has allocated a budget of $75,000 in available funding for the 2023 program year. Since inception, the program has supported over 170 cultural initiatives across Lambton County.
“Last year, the program supported 21 different projects that demonstrated innovation and resilience throughout the turbulence of the pandemic,” said Andrew Meyer, General Manager, Cultural Services Division.
Lambton Remembers series honours veterans for Remembrance Day
Renowned military historian to speak and host documentary film
Renowned military historian and author Andrew Rob- ertshaw will be at the Sarnia Library Theatre on Wednesday, Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. to speak and present the screening of the WWI documentary They Shall Not Grow Old. This event is being held in partnership between the Lambton County Library and the Canadian Great War Society.
Mr. Robertshaw will talk about his experiences as a historical and military advisor on such films as War Horse, 1917, and They Shall Not Grow Old, Director Peter Jackson’s 2018 documentary. (Peter Jackson is most well-known for his Academy Award winning film trilogy Lord of the Rings.) Mr. Robertshaw is also an educator specializing in television programs like Time Team and Two Men in a Trench.
They Shall Not Grow Old features original footage of the First World War obtained from the Imperial War Museum archives. Most of the footage is previously un- seen and it is all over 100 years old. Audio is from the BBC and from Imperial War Museum interviews with British servicemen who fought in the conflict. Most of the footage has been colourized and transformed with modern production techniques, and sound effects and voice acting have been added to bring the viewer closer to the soldiers’ actual experiences.
Lambton Remembers –
Valour Remembered
On Wednesday, Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Sar- nia Library Theatre will host the Sarnia War Remem- brance Project, a comprehensive historical record of Sar- nia’s contributions and sacrifices made during times of war.
Project creator and local historian Tom Slater will discuss the project, the research process and infor- mation on the resources used, the vision for how the book will be used by the community, and where to ac- cess it.
The second half of this presentation will feature Tom Slater and fellow local historian Tom St. Amand sharing excerpts from the stories in their upcoming book, Valour
Remembered, about several Sarnia-Lambton veterans and fallen soldiers. Tom Slater and Tom St. Amand are retired teachers who have collaborated over several years, researching and writing stories about Sarnia- Lambton’s veterans and fallen soldiers. All their work is volunteer, and their hope is to make people aware of the sacrifices made by of some of the local soldiers and their families.
Lambton Remembers –
Researching Military History
On Wednesday, Nov. 2 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., Sar- nia Library Theatre will feature Nicole Aszalos, archivist with Lambton County Archives, who will give an over- view of the war records that can be found free online from your library and Archives Canada, including infor- mation on resources to access WWII records or War Brides records. She will also highlight Lambton County Archives’ military history records and additional book resources available to review on the Archives website that detail Lambton individuals who answered the call to serve their country.
Now Showing – 1917
The Sarnia Library Theatre will be showing the movie, 1917, free of charge on Wednesday, Nov. 9 at 6 p.m. The story takes place on April 6, 1917, at the height of World War One. Two soldiers are tasked with crossing into enemy territory to deliver a message that could po- tentially save 1,600 of their comrades. In a race against time, they must achieve this impossible task before dis- aster strikes. The movie is two hours in length and is rat- ed 14A (violence, language, smoking).
Port Lambton Library More Lambton Remembers-
Local Stories from WWI & WWII
On Wednesday, Nov. 9 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Port Lambton Library, learn about the local men and women of St. Clair Township who served in the World Wars and what was happening on the home front to sup- port the war effort. This will be a presentation featur- ing first and second-hand sources, followed by a ques- tion-and-answer period. Space is limited at all programs and registration is required. To register call your local library or visit: lclibrary.ca/lambtonremembers .
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2022 Page 5
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.
All homeowners are reminded to clear recreational sports equipment (e.g., basketball nets, goalie nets, etc.) off and away from roads and streets. This includes sports nets that are located on the street surface near the back of the curb. A verbal and/or written warning will be issued to homeowners with sports nets on or near the road.
Please take notice
Failure to remove sports nets and other equipment from roads and streets will result in this equipment being collected by the Public Works Departments and stores at the Public Works Operational Centers.
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 cross- walk until the pedestrian is no longer on the roadway.
When a vehicle is approaching a pe- destrian crosswalk and is within 30 me- ters of it, the driver of any other vehi- cle 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.
Failure to do so can result in the following fines:
OFFENSE
Failing to yield at a pedestrian crosswalk, school crossings, and crossovers. FINE
Up to $1,000 DEMERITS
Four demerit points
When was the Look for loose bricks, crumbling mortar, dark stains and white powder; they all indi- last time you cate problems in a masonry chimney. Inside a chimney, buildups of black, tarry cre- osote can cause devastating house fires. Dark stains and white powder at the joints
checked your of a wood stove pipe chimney also spells trouble. The SAFEST and most practical
chimney? way to check and maintain your chimney, woodstove, and fireplace is to contact a WETT* certified Chimney Sweep.
Would you be prepared to handle a minimum of 72 hours without outside aid?
Emergencies don’t wait until we are prepared for them – do it now!
Make an emergency kit that includes: an adequate supply of warm blankets and clothing, flashlights, food, safe drinking water, necessary medications, a First Aid kit, *pet supplies, *baby supplies, etc., and have a designated safe shelter area. Develop a fire escape plan and designate an outside meeting place.
Make sure your emergency strategies are prepared and be ready for unexpected emergencies.
Go online to: www.getprepared.gc.ca for more information. * if applicable
Check smoke detectors, too! Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, November 1 to 7:
Beat the Silent Killer:
Prevent CO in Your Home
Ontario’s Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week runs from Nov. 1 to 7. The St. Clair Fire Depart- ment reminds you to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) in your home by getting all fuel-burning appliances inspected annually.
In Ontario, more than 65% of injuries and deaths from CO occur in the home. Visit COSafety.ca to find a registered contractor near you that can in- spect your fuel-burning appliances.
The St. Clair Fire Department also reminds you to install CO alarms in your home if you have a fuel- burning appliance, a fireplace, or an attached gar- age. 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,” said Deputy Fire Chief Andrew McMillan. “For added protection, install a carbon monoxide alarm on every storey of the home according to manufacturer’s instructions.”
Lambton International Plowing Match Scholarships presented at Brigden Fair
On-site at the Brigden Fair, the happy scholarship recipients and their presenters are, from left: IPM Trustees Dennis Bryson and Barb McNeil, Scholarship recipients Kara MacKinlay, Nikki Boere, and Rawson Donald, and event Emcee Bryan Boyle. Bonnie Stevenson photo
The spirit of the Lambton 1991 International Plowing Match lives on with the annual presentation of scholar- ships to post-secondary school students from Lambton County.
This year, the tradition continued as three deserving students received IPM scholarships of $2,000 each during the Brigden Fair.
Scholarship candidates must have completed one year of post-secondary training and be enrolled in their second year of any college or university. They are chosen using criteria designed to rate each applicant. They include: Community involvement-50%; Academic record-20%; Fi- nancial need-20%; and Discretionary need-10%.
Nikki Boere, 19, is from Warwick. She is attending McMaster University in her second year of B.Sci in nursing with the goal of becoming a Registered Nurse or Nurse
Practitioner.
Rawson Donald, 19, of Plympton-Wyoming, is enrolled at Lambton College studying Chemical Production and Power Engineering Technology with the goal of becoming a process operator, a volunteer fireman, and the owner of his family farm.
Kara MacKinlay, 20, of Plympton-Wyoming, is attend- ing the Ontario Institute of Audio Recording Technology in London with the goal of becoming an audio engineer for musical artists and for working on visual media projects.
The annual Lambton IPM executive and staff is com- prised entirely of volunteers who work tirelessly to make the event a success. The 2022 plowing match raised over
$125,000 which will be used to support agricultural com- munity initiatives such as the scholarship program. The funds are overseen by the IPM’91 Trust Fund.
Lambton County Library branches offer much more than books
Ode to the Lambton County Library Winter days are on the way, with winds we can’t abide;
but warm up with a good book; you’ll forget the mess outside. Immerse yourself in books, or view an offering online;
Your Lambton County Library’s the place to spend some time. So liberate your library card, or get a card – they’re free;
and mock Jack Frost by getting lost in lovely literacy.
~ Ruby Reader
For more information on locations, services and hours of operation visit www.lclibrary.ca
*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, Saturday, 10 a.m. to
2 p.m.; Wednesday, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
*Wilkesport (519-864-4000): Tuesday, Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Thursday, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
If computers are not your thing, get the latest paper version of the St. Clair Township Beacon at your local library!
First Nations Cultural Tourism event educates and entertains appreciative crowd
The Maawn Doosh Gumig Aamjiwnaang Community Centre was the scene of the First Nations Cultural Tourism family event on Oct. 1. The rich First Nations culture was highlighted in many different ways to celebrate and rec- ognize the important heritage and hon- oured traditions of the First Nations people.
Above: Dancers representing Aamjiwnaang, Walpole Island Bkejwanong Territory, and Chippewas of Kettle & Stony Point First Nations, as well as visiting dancers from the Oneida, Munsee, and Moraviantown Nations, participated in the traditional Grand Entry wearing colourful symbolic regalia as they entered the performance space. Several traditional dances were demonstrated to the drumming and songs that tell the stories be- hind the movements of the dancers.
Visitors of all ages were invited to
join the dancers in
the performance space.
Left: A rare breed of horse, long believed to be the only breed devel- oped by Indigenous people, stole the hearts of visitors to the event.
Two Ojibwe Spirit Horses ,a mare and her foal from TJ Stables in Chat- ham-Kent, are members of a breed currently classified as Critically En- dangered on Canada’s Conservation List.
Thousands of this small, robust breed, known as the Ojibwe Horse, once roamed freely through the boreal forest. The Indigenous people considered it a spirit animal and valued it as a service animal as well to carry heavy loads, but the horses were hunted to near extinction once European colonization began in North America.
Four remaining mares discovered on Lac La Croix in Northern Ontario in 1977 were deemed to be a health risk by Canadian health officials and were slated to be destroyed.
The slaughter was avoided when four Indigenous men managed to round up the mares and escape with them. They became the founda- tion of a breeding program and today, about 200 Ojibwe horses, de- scendants of those mares, are alive because of that far-thinking group of men. In a report issued after DNA testing, evidence confirmed that
the horses were “…different from European-introduced horse breeds in distinctive ways that made them an integral and harmonious part of the North American boreal forest.” For more about the Ojibwe Spirit Horse and the breed’s recovery from the brink of extinction, search online: Lac La Croix Indigenous Pony or Ojibwe Spirit Horse.
Right: The opening ceremony for the First Nations Cultural Tourism event included the sweet, mellow sound of a wooden flute played by Kettle and Stony Point artist Jeffrey ‘Red’ George. The flute was crafted by Mr. George out of a beautiful piece of maple burl wood for which he made an odd trade. “I saw the piece of wood when I went to a pow-wow five years ago,” he said. “I traded a moose antler and a hundred dollars for it.”
Having played the flute for 10 years, the self-taught virtuoso was able to carve the wood into a flute that produces music as beautiful and as pleasing to the ear as the instrument itself is to the eyes. The result of Mr. George’s craftsmanship was centre stage as he played “Morning Sunrise” to open the ceremony and “Down By The River” to close it.
When he isn’t making music, Mr. George is an artist who interprets the stories and concepts of his culture with carefully imagined works of art.
Bonnie Stevenson photos
Pollinator Garden provides outdoor education opportunities
By Bonnie Stevenson
The new Pollinator Garden at St. Joseph’s Catholic School is one of many that have been developed in St. Clair Township. The idea for the garden was proposed last year after the township began the FoodCycler pro- ject.
Grade 3/4 teacher Maureen Houston, who is also a parent on the school’s advisory council, got the idea after a conversation she had with Brian Black, Director of Public Works for St. Clair Township. While chatting about the FoodCycler which was donated to the school, the topic of recycling and the environment gave rise to the possibility of having a garden. “Brian talked about the FoodCycler, which creates compost (for fertilizer) and the idea for a pollinator garden,” said Maureen.
Working with the township, Nick Alexander, a native plant grower and landscaper, was brought in to create a garden with plants that will be easy on the eyes, and provide a perfect habitat and diner for pollinators.
Maureen added the garden would not only teach the students about the environment, but it would fulfill some of the curriculum requirements as well. “It pro- vides outdoor education and learning opportunities,” she said. “The goal is, how do we protect the environ- ment for future generations.”
Maureen added the garden will also offer something for the soul. “The students can enjoy a nature walk with God,” she said. “I see this as a space we are all
going to grow with.”
St. Clair Township is mounting its own initiative to increase pollinator populations. The township has planted pollinator gardens at waste water treatment plants where unused land was available. Maureen says the school garden project was made possible with the assistance and guidance of the township, and the school would like to extend “a huge thank you to the township.”
The hope is that pollinator plantings will become more popular garden choices in residential and com- mercial areas. It isn’t difficult to create a beautiful show garden and still make it pollinator-friendly. Flow- ers such as iris, begonias, geraniums, petunias, sun- flowers, and cosmos, to name a few, are all pleasing to the eye as well as perfect feeding stations for pollina- tors.
Bees, butterflies, and some species of birds and in- sects are critical to the heath of our ecosystems, but pollinator habitats and food supplies are being wiped out by habitat loss, disease, climate change, and toxic pesticides.
This matters. Pollinators are responsible for the con- tinued reproductive success of plants that, in turn, produce food for other species, including mankind. An estimated one out of three bites of the food we eat is made possible because pollinators started the growth process. Environmental researchers warn that the loss of sufficient pollinator populations will lead to devas- tating food shortages. If crops fail, your local grocery store will have empty shelves and freezers.
When the food chain is interrupted, people starve.
For more information, visit pollinator sites such as: ontarionature.org or ncc-ccn.gc.ca
Left : Landscaper Nick Alexander, an expert on na- tive plants, kneeling right, explains what a pollinator plant does and what kind of plants he has included in the garden to attract a variety of pollinator species.
Stevenson photo
The north side of the No Frills in Corunna was wall
-to-wall with kids and pumpkins on Oct. 23. The an-
nual Moore Optimist Pumpkinfest was a Halloween
paradise with a haunted house, a pumpkin maze, hot dogs, pumpkin bowling, shown below, and a perfect autumn day to enjoy it.
Optimist Club of Moore offers a HUGE VOTE OF THANKS to Chris
Chaves and the No Frills staff.
Above: Fireman-in-training, William, and his fairy princess sister, Lilli, with mom, Kery, check out the fire truck.
Above: The pumpkin maze was enjoyed by parents as well as their children.
Most magical man in township commemorated with story boards
Above: The dedication of the Stewart James story board installation was attended by, from left: Heritage St. Clair members Dave Taylor, Paul Smith, and Jan Smith, St. Clair Township Councillor Tracy Kingston, Heritage St. Clair Chair Dave Pattenden, St. Clair Township Deputy Mayor Steve Miller, and St. Clair River Trail Committee Chair Mary Jane Marsh. One of the story boards is shown in the background.
A new trio of story boards now installed at Courtright Riverfront Park tells the tale of a magic man from Courtright. During a weather-challenged ultra-brief dedi- cation interval on Oct. 15, representatives of Heritage St. Clair, the group responsible for bringing the story of Stew- art James to life, hosted the dedication that has been five years in the making. Heritage St. Clair started the conceptual planning for the story boards well before COVID-19 happened. The group’s leader, David Pattend- en, says the project was hard to realize because there weren’t enough people to do the research and take care of all the details that such a project required.
The story boards reveal the life of a modest man pos- sessed of a remarkable gift for puzzles and magic which became apparent from the age of nine. Although his gift enabled him to develop over 1,000 tricks and to write a ground-breaking book outlining those tricks, he continued to live in Courtright all of his life. He left only to serve in the Canadian army theatre and entertainment group The Haversacks during WWII, but his reputation attracted the attention of a roster of famous and powerful people, many of whom became his friends.
One of them, a wealthy philanthropist, media magnate, Canadian rock and roll radio pioneer, and magic enthusi- ast, Allan Slaight, became a good friend to James. The friendship lasted beyond the magician’s death in 1996. A portion of the funding for the story board installation was donated by the Slaight Family Foundation, along with the St. Clair River Trail and St. Clair Township.
St. Clair River Trail Committee Chair Mary Jane Marsh
said that when the trail was being planned, it was hoped story boards would add interest to the trail experience.
Dave Pattenden noted more story boards are being de- veloped for installation along the length of the St. Clair River Trail to raise awareness of the rich heritage that exists in St. Clair Township.
The lack of project volunteers and the onset of COVID- 19 were cited as factors that slowed down the completion of the Stewart James installation. Deputy Mayor Steve Miller agreed community volunteers are crucial to the success of such a project and commended Heritage St. Clair members for their hard work and determination to complete the project.
Today, the name Stewart James looms large in the pan- theon of honoured magicians and revered magic innova- tors. His book is still a valuable reference for aspiring and professional magicians alike. The tricks he devised, and the many variations they have inspired, continue to be mainstays for even the most famous magicians in the world. Though he did not have the benefit of a formal education, Stewart James is acknowledged around the world as one of the most prolific inventors in history.
Stewart James spent the last 21 years of his life deliv- ering mail on a rural postal route while still working on magic.
New members welcome
Heritage St. Clair is always looking for new members. All are welcome to join and help explore the fascinating history of St. Clair Township. To contact Heritage St. Clair email: secretaryheritagestclair@gmail.com
he 2022 Brigden Fair was one for the books, with a schedule packed with fair favourites and some new features. A soggy opening day evaporated into a weekend blessed with sunshine.
Top left: The opening day ceremony included the naming of the 2022 Brigden Fair Parade Marshalls, Jim and Stephanie DeGurse, recipients of the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) Service Award for 2022. Jim and Stephanie were acknowledged for their many years of tireless dedication and support for the OAAS. Stephanie read a statement of thanks and the couple enjoyed their ride at the head of the 2022 Brigden Fair parade.
Top Right: The livestock barns were a place of wonder on the opening morning of the fair during the Agricultural Awareness family event. Here, a group of school kids from Wallaceburg
stopped in the horse barn to admire Gracie, a 6-month old mule who seemed to enjoy the attention. Other children and their parents roamed the grounds discovering the real source of the things they eat, drink, and enjoy. Below left: A rider from the Canadian Great War Society Cavalry show stays on the alert during the fair pa- rade. The precision riders were equipped as mounted Canadian soldiers would have been when they went into battle during WW1.
Bonnie Stevenson photos
Above: The thrilling animatronic Dinosaurs Live exhibit turned a field into a moving, roaring Jurassic wonder-
land. The exhibit is the travelling arm of Canada’s Dinosaur Park. Established in 1998, the park became a train- ing facility for all Canadian Federal Wildlife Officers and other government agencies. For more information, go online to: dinosaurslive.org .
A grand experiment took place during the Ontario 4- Hitch Show on the closing day of the fair. Two pairs of horses took to the field without a moment of practice together. St. Clair Township residents Dennis and Shari Robinson of Beaver Meadow Stables joined forces with Clayton and Tori Scott and daughters from Holyrood, On-
tario, to put together a 4-hitch team for the fair. The Robinsons’ white Percheron/Morgan crossbred mares
Misty & Molly took the lead position while the Scotts’ team of black Percheron/Hackney crossbreds Jack and Jill were the wheel team. When the competition was over, Dennis was pleased with the way things went con-
sidering the circumstances. “It was the first time hooking them together and we were pleasantly surprised with the drive that was accomplished,” said Dennis.
The success of the first effort means it will probably
would like to hook a four-horse hitch more often but the distance apart makes it difficult to accomplish,” said Dennis. As for the initial trial, he said the team, human and equine, hoped the performance went over well with the people in the stands. “We hope the salt and pepper combination was acceptable to the audience at Brigden Fair 2022!” said Dennis.
Above: The experimental team is on the right, with Clayton Scott driving and Dennis Robinson riding shot- gun. In the background on the left, a professional team owned by Don J. Graham of Dutton, Ontario leaves the field after a winning performance.
Below: The four 4-Hitch rigs stand ready to be judged while the crowd in the bleachers choose their own favourites. The judge gave first place to the well- practiced mule 4-hitch team, second from the right,
Homecraft Division not only active during the fair
The Brigden Fair Homecraft Division is always looking for ways to give back to the community no matter what time of the year it is. An opportunity to do this came after a member of group sug- gested they see if they could be of as- sistance to the Pathways Health Centre for Children.
The Centre was in need of vests with zippers, Velcro, and snaps designed to help the children develop both fine and gross motor skills. The group set to work to create 70 bright, colourful vests, then kept going to complete an additional 31 weighted lap bags com- plete with pillowcase style covers, and 86 treat bags with zippers and buttons. Above: Always looking to have some fun and socialize while assisting their com- munity, the Homecraft Division were found at an earlier meeting this year sporting their assorted hats as they prepared for this year’s Brigden
Fair. After all, how can you take “Hats Off To Brigden Fair” when you aren’t wearing one?
Above right: Taking delivery of the donated items are Pathways staff members Samantha Parsons, Caitlin Wright, Molly McKinlay, Abby Mahu and Nicole Font. The Homecraft Division delivery crew included: Michelle Evanitski, fourth from left, Marie Gorton, and Homecraft President Cheryl McGuire.
Right: Abby Mahu hauls the donated Homecraft goods into the Pathways Health Centre for Children.
Homecraft members have also recently produced and donated: 33 pillowcases for Pediatrics at Bluewater Health via Petrolia Optimist; 15 quilts and 10 pillow- cases for the Women’s Interval Home (this is the eighteenth year Homecraft has donated quilts to the Interval Home); 28 knit/crochet items and 1 tied quilt (29 items) to the Inn of the Good Shepherd; and 2 fidget quilts to Marshall Gowland Manor.
Note: Community members who enter their handmade items at the Brigden Fair can compete and donate at the same time. The Giving Back to the Community Class is a division at the fair that allows exhibitors to show their items and then donate them to community groups.
Homecraft Division photos
Santa Claus parade comes to Corunna on Saturday, Nov. 26 at 6:30 p.m.
The Moore Optimist Club will host the Corunna Santa Claus parade on Saturday, Nov. 26 at 6:30 pm. The parade will follow its normal route from Chris’ No Frills to Beckwith St. Or- ganizers are anticipating over 50 entries, including the Lambton Shriners, Great Lakes High- school Band, fire trucks, and a lot of floats by local groups and businesses. Non-perishable food items will be collected for the Corunna food bank along the parade route in coordina- tion with Operation Christmas Tree. This year, after the parade, the festivities will continue at the Corunna Clock Tower Park with hot chocolate provided by Nicole Smith from Exit Re- ality Twin Bridges and Green Scene Lawncare, and kids of all ages are invited to enjoy a meet-and-greet with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
The Optimist Club of Moore and Santa extend heart-felt thanks and
gratitude to the local businesses and community supporters who helped to make this parade possible.
Registration forms for parade entry, and information about the parade and its sponsors can be found on the parade website (www.CorunnaSantaClausparade.com) and on Facebook.
Sacred Heart food bank –
help your community thrive
The Sacred Heart Food Bank Christmas ham- per program will soon be underway. Please see page 18 for more information about the upcoming effort to make the holidays brighter for those in need. Our neighbour- hood food banks continue to come to the aid
of the community all year ’round. Nourishing food and daily supplies like personal hygiene items, baby needs, and household cleaning supplies, as well as grocery store gift cards and monetary donations, are always gratefully accepted. In Ward 2, The Sacred Heart Food Bank has shelves that need to be replenished on a regular basis, not just on special occasions. No matter what time of the year it is, please keep the Sacred Heart food bank in mind when you shop for your own groceries. See page 18.
St. Andrew’s food bank continues to help 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 Thurs- day morning from 9 a.m. to noon. It operates in association with the Inn of
the Good Shepherd in Sarnia. Operation Christmas Tree, and the Optimist Club of Moore’s effort to collect toys and food to make the holidays less difficult for neigh- bours in need. For details, see page 18.
The food bank serves those in need, offering a varie- ty of food products to help people eat healthily, includ- ing milk, eggs, bread, and meat, as well as daily re- quirements 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 financial donation to the food bank can do so through Food Bank, C/O St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, 437 Colborne Drive, Corunna, On- tario, 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 Corunna, 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 program provides a bag of nutri- tious 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 pro- gram can find these bags at the St. Joseph 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 continue into the fall and they hope to continue it as long as there is a need for it.
“Please support local foodbanks and share your love this Christmas”
Lambton County Junior Optimist Club invites new members to get involved
The Lambton County Junior Optimist Club invites youth from age 10 through 18 to join and discover the fantastic feeling of volunteering in the community. Members put on their own programs and find creative ways to fundraise for other youth programs. Hours spent volunteering with the club count toward the volunteer hours needed at school. The club meets the first Monday of every month at 6 p.m. Meetings are now held at the Emergency Services Building in Corunna at the intersection of Lyndoch and Hill Streets. 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 welcome to attend.
New website reveals Lambton’s contributions to the global oil industry
The Oil Museum of Canada, National Historic Site, has launched a new website showcasing the important contri- butions to the world-wide oil industry by local Interna- tional Oil Drillers. From the mid-1870s until the mid- 1940s, more than 800 international drillers from Lambton County provided Canadian oil drilling expertise and equip- ment to nearly 90 countries.
The website is available in both in English and French.
Visit: www.internationaloildrillers.ca to learn more.
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2022 Page 17
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 447 Corunna
Remembrance Day set for Clock Tower War Memorial
The 2022 Remembrance Day service will be held on Friday, Nov. 11, 2022, with ceremonies tak- ing place at the War Memorial by the Clock Tower on Lyndoch Street (Derek Drouin Drive) . This year’s Remembrance Day Service will be back to normal. The parade will form up at 10:40 a.m. at Lyndoch and Beckwith Streets. Attendance will be open to Legion Members, Veteran’s, Colour Party, Dignitaries and the general public. All wreaths will be laid. Dignitaries will be standing in front of and facing the Memorial. Wreaths will be prepositioned. These wreaths will include Federal, Provincial, Municipal, Legion, and Ladies Auxiliary only. Other wreaths will be laid three at a time as they were prior to COVID. If you wish to purchase a wreath please contact the Corunna Legion at 519-862-1240. Spectators are encouraged to attend, however, you may choose to wear a mask and/or practice physical distancing as a precaution. We are happy to advise that we will stream the ceremonies live on the Co- runna Legion Facebook page so you can watch from home, school, or work.. Find our page on Face- book (Royal Canadian Legion, Leslie Sutherland Branch 447 Corunna) and ‘like’ our page, then go to the page at the date and time noted at the top of this notice. You will see the entire ceremo-
ny.
Marg Emery, Corunna Legion, Branch 447
Please visit https://www.nlchc.com/services/wellness- programs/ (Make sure you specify which program you are registering for on top of the form.)
IN PERSON-OTHER EXERCISE CLASSES:
LINE DANCING: At Emmanuel Presbyterian Church, 120 Russel Street S. on Wednesdays, Oct. 5—Nov. 9 at 1p.m. All abilities welcome, no previous experience necessary. Space is Limited.
SHIBASHI: At Canatara Park on Wednesdays at 10 a.m.
**NEW DAY 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 be- ginners. Meet at the picnic pavilion adjacent to the chil- dren’s playground. Closest to the Point Edward entrance. SIT OR STAND EXERCISE: Held at Canatara Park on Wednesdays at 10:45 a.m. **NEW DAY No impact exercise performed standing or seated in a chair, resistance bands are used. All exercise abilities are welcome.
VIRTUAL EXERCISES:
VIRTUAL CHAIR GROOVIN’ CLASS: Starting Nov. 30
(Zoom) at 1 p.m.-2 p.m. Chair grooving’ is a virtual seated chair exercise program designed to get you movin’ and grooving’ to the beat! To register call 519-344-3017 ext.
259.
VIRTUAL LOW IMPACT EXERCISE: Wednesdays & Fridays (Zoom) at 9 a.m. **NEW DAY ADDED. Low impact exercises performed using body weight and resistance bands. All abilities welcome. To register call 519-344-3017 ext. 237 or email adinell@nlchc.com to receive the Zoom link.
VIRTUAL SHIBASHI: Tuesdays at 11 a.m. **NOW ON ZOOM.
Tai chi/qigong is a practice of aligning breath and move- ment for exercise and health. Shibashi consists of 18 sim- ple steps. It is easy to learn and perfect for beginners.
VIRTUAL SIT OR STAND EXERCISE: Mondays (Zoom) at
1:30 p.m. Virtual Chair Exercise: No impact exercise per- formed standing or seated in a chair, resistance bands are used. All exercise abilities are welcome.
VIRTUAL YOGA FUSION: Thursdays, until Nov. 17 (Zoom) at 11 a.m. Yoga Fitness Fusion combines yoga postures,
breath work and fitness repetitions to tone and strengthen the body. We calm the nervous system through breath and intention while focusing on connection to the earth and elements. Feel nourished, connected, and renewed in this gentle practice. To register and receive the Zoom link, call 519-786-4545 ext. 327.
COFFEE TIME:
Held Fridays starting Nov. 4 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.at Cardiac Rehab Site-460 Christin St N. (Parking is at the back of the building, off Maxwell Street.) **NEW! Join us for coffee and conversation, free of charge, everyone wel- come!
COOKING BUDDIES: Starting Nov. 18 at 1 p.m. (Sarnia), Nov. 24 at 6 p.m. (Corunna), and Nov 28 at 6 p.m.
(Brigden). Children’s cooking classes for ages 6-12. Learn to read a recipe, measure ingredients, try new foods, read nutritional labels, and have fun! Classes will run monthly. Schedule will be provided once finalized. To register call Amy at 519-344-3017 ext. 237 or email adinell@nlchc.com GARDEN FRESH BOX: The Garden-Fresh Box is an inexpen- sive monthly food buying club for anyone who wants fresh vegetables and fruit all year round.
NIGHT LIGHT: Held Thursdays at 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. until Dec. 15 at WLCHC—429 Exmouth Street. Find hope and wellness while managing anxiety & depression. Space is Limited!
VIRTUAL BABY FOOD MAKING CLASS: Nov. 22 from 1:30
p.m.-3 p.m. Learn about updated guidelines, progressing food textures, baby led weaning and healthy meals/snack ideas.
VIRTUAL EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE WORKSHOP: Mon-
day, Nov. 21 at 2:30 p.m. Learning to identify your emo- tions and their purpose. To register call 519-344-3017 Ext. 277.
VIRTUAL MINDFUL EATING: Continues through Nov. 9 from 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. Emotional eating and food craving management group. To register call 519-786-4545 ext. 307 OPENING DOORS: Healthy lifestyle program for individuals living with mental illness or seeking mental health sup- port. For information, 519-344-3017 Ext. 277.
The Beacon of St. Clair Township November 2022 Page 18
Each year, Operation Christmas Tree creates com- munity excitement during our annual holiday food and toy collection program in St. Clair Township Ward 1 (Corunna, Courtright, Mooretown, Brigden, and surrounding areas). Coordinated by the Optimist Club of Moore, Operation Christmas Tree assists over
125 local families each year by providing a non- perishable food hamper and toy vouchers.
Families also receive a toy hamper of new toys, books and clothing, all matched to the children’s ag- es, and
delivered by local firefighters. An additional initia- tive also provides financial support for local fire vic- tims.
HOW TO REGISTER TO RECEIVE SUPPORT
Register at the Operation Christmas Tree headquar- ters at the Emergency Services buildingl, 392 Lyndoch Street, Corunna Nov. 28 and Dec. 16, Monday to Fri- day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Visit www.operationchristmastree.com for eligi-
bility requirements.
FOUR WAYS TO DONATE
1. Drop off can goods, non-perishable food and new, unwrapped toy donations can be delivered to Emergency Services Building, 392 Lyndoch St. (Hill St. entrance at northeast corner of Hill & Lyndoch Streets), Corunna from Nov. 28 to Dec. 16 from 9
a.m. to 3 p.m.
2. E-transfer donations can be sent to: operationchristmastree@outlook.com
3. Cheque donations can be mailed to Operation Christmas Tree, P.O. Box 32, Corunna, ON N0N 1G0.
4. OPP DONATION DRIVE-THROUGH
OPP (Corunna Detachment) Emergency Services Building, 392 Lyndoch St., Corunna
Saturday, December 3, 10:00am-2:00pm.
An easy, convenient way to donate cash/cheque do- nations, toys, can goods, and non-perishable food.
Sacred Heart food bank helping the community since 1960s
Since the 1960s, the Sacred Heart food bank has been helping the less fortunate families in south St. Clair Township. In 2021, volunteers collected and dis- tributed over five tons of donated food for local families in need. Long time volunteer Frank Johnston says,”It takes many hands and endless hours to support and maintain the Sacred Heart food bank and our communi- ty is blessed with many generous and caring residents who make this happen.” It’s easy to donate to the Christmas program using one of several different op- tions.
Making a financial donation is a convenient and effec- tive way to support the Sacred Heart Food Bank. Financial donations are used to make economical bulk purchases and items to meet current needs. Cheques can be mailed to Sacred Heart Food Bank c/o Claudette Johnston 243 Lambton Line Port Lambton, ON N0P 2B0. Financial dona- tions of $20 or more will receive an income tax receipt.
Convenient ‘Home Pick-ups’ will take place on Sun- day, Nov. 20 from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m The collection area includes the villages of Sombra, Port Lambton, Wilkesport, and all residents living between Stanley Line south to Whitebread Line and east to Highway 40. To help protect the health and safety of both volunteers and residents, please leave donated items on your porch or at the end of your driveway before 1 pm.
‘Drop-Off Opportunity’
Saturday, Nov. 19, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Donors can bring canned goods and non-perishable items to the Port Lambton Anglican Church (corner of Lambton Line and Merritt Street, Port Lambton).
Corunna and proceed up Lyndoch Street to Thompson Gardens. Dress for the weather and enjoy this annual kick-off to the holiday season!
Christmas Brigden Market set for Brigden fairgrounds
Spend some productive Christmas shopping time at the Christmas Brigden Market slated for Saturday, Dec. 3 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Brigden fairgrounds exhi- bition hall. Be sure to mark your calendar and have a great shopping experience finding perfect gifts for those “hard-to-buy-for” people on your list. Anyone who would like to be a vendor at this event can contact Aliat : alison.dion@brigdenfair.ca.
Sacred Heart Food Bank to hold Christmas Fowl Bingo
The Sacred Heart Food Bank will host the Christmas Fowl Bingo on Wednesday, Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. at the Port Lambton Community Centre (Sombra Community Centre is closed for repairs). Admission will be $2 with 15 rounds for chickens and 3 special rounds for
turkeys. Draws will also be held for two turkey dinner baskets, with tickets $2 each or $5 for three. Everyone is invited to come out and support their local food bank.
Sacred Heart Church Hall hosts
K of C presentation
After Remembrance Day, on Thursday, Nov. 17 at 7
p.m. at Sacred Heart Church Hall, Port Lambton, the Knights of Columbus Speaker Series will host historians Don Poland and Gord MacKenzie to present the Second World War raid on Dieppe France. The raid, known as “Operation Jubilee,” had a second mission that was re- vealed in secret documents recently released by the Canadian government. Scores of soldiers from Lambton County engaged in the raid. Five thousand Canadian soldiers participated, 907 died, 586 were wounded, and 1,874 were captured. Everyone is welcome. Please join us for this free event with donations going to the
Literacy Lambton offers Train Your Brain
The Train Your Brain program is offered at both the Mooretown Sports Complex and the Petrolia Lions Hall.
Train Your Brain is a FREE program for Grade 3 & 4 students and registration open. All programs run from 6
p.m. to 7:30pm. The Mooretown Sports Complex will host the program on Wednesday nights and the Petrolia Lions Hall will host it on Thursday nights. Registration can be done online at:
https://www.literacylambton.org/programs/family- literacy-program/train-your-brain/
Holiday Dreams cirque show coming to Sarnia A Las Vegas-style family-friendly holiday show is com- ing to the Progressive Auto Sales Arena in Sarnia on Fri- day, Dec. 16. Cirque performers, lasers, special effects, BMX bicycle stunts, acrobats and a mischievous elf are guaranteed to entertain. For more information, vist: https://www.ontbluecoast.com/holidaydreams or Tour- ism Sarnia-Lambton at 1455 Venetian Boulevard, Point
K of C to host hay ride/caroling through Port Lambton
On Saturday, Dec. 3 at 1 p.m., the Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus invites you and your family to a fun
-filled afternoon of hay riding and caroling through Port Lambton, followed by
hot chocolate, popcorn and a Christmas movie in the Parish Centre. The fun begins at Sacred Heart Church on John Street in Port Lambton.
See page 18 for more Christmas Information
after fair parade
The Royal Canadian Legion Br. 635 will hold a raffle each Saturday at 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 5, Nov. 19, Dec. 3,
and Dec. 17.
The Brigden Legion will be selling soup and chili with a bun during the Brigden Little Country Christmas on Nov. 19.
The hall is wheelchair accessible and all are welcome. Call the Corunna Legion for more information closer to event dates at 519-862-1240. The Beacon will also list information as it becomes available.
Brigden Legion Remembrance Banquet
Honours & Awards
The Royal Canadian Legion Br. 447 Corunna will hold its 75th Anniversary Celebration Remembrance Ban- quet-Honours and Awards on Saturday, Nov. 5, with cocktails at 5 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. Veterans, members, and the public are all welcome to attend. Tickets are $10 per person and are available at the
charge.)
Remembrance Day service in Corunna
The Royal Canadian Legion Corunna Br. 447 will hold its Remembrance Day service beginning at 10:45 on Friday, Nov. 11 with the parade to the Corunna Clock Tower park. A time of fellow- ship will be held at the Legion hall following the service. More information on page 17.
Remembrance Day service in Brigden
The Royal Canadian Legion Brigden Br. 635 Remembrance Day Service on Nov. 11 will be back to normal at the Cenotaph. Everyone is welcome. Please arrive no later than 10:45 a.m.
The ceremony will commence precisely at 10:55
a.m. At the conclusion of the ceremony, a reception will be held at Branch 635.
Country Music Jamboree in Brigden
WAHOO! The monthly Country Music Jamborees are back! They’ll be held at the Brigden fairgrounds exhibition hall every second Sunday of each
month from November to March. The Novem- ber Jamboree is set for Sunday, Nov. 13. Doors open at 12 noon with music starting at 1
p.m. Supper will be served at 5 p.m. Shake off those winter blues with a stompin’ good time at the Country Music Jamborees!
Brigden Country Christmas
The Brigden Country Christmas downtown is slated for Nov. 19 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information see poster on page 19.
Operation Christmas Tree program ready
The annual Operation Christmas Tree Christmas ham- per program is ready to go. Help Operation Christmas Tree spread Christmas cheer to those who are in need. For full details, see page 18.
Sacred Heart Food Bank Christmas food drive on the way
Information regarding the annual home pick-up, drop-off opportunity and other ways you can brighten the holidays for the less fortunate families
and individuals of south St. Clair Township can be found on page 18. To make a finan- cial donation in support of the food bank, cheques can be mailed to Sacred Heart Food Bank c/o Claudette Johnston, 243 Lambton Line, Port Lambton, ON, N0P 2B). Financial
donations of $20 or more will receive an income tax re- ceipt. Donations are needed to make economical bulk purchases and items to meet current needs. The Sacred Heart Food Bank is a non-denominational group of volun- teers supported by several community organizations, local schools, and community churches.
Moore Optimist Santa Claus Parade
Santa Claus is coming to Corunna on Satur- day, Nov. 26 at 6:30 p.m. The parade route will begin with assembly at No Frills south of
More Around the Township, page 19
PRINTED BEACON NOW AVAILABLE
Get your copy at: all St. Clair Township library branches, Thompson Gardens, Corunna, and the St. Clair Township Civic Centre. Just look for the Beacon bin.
