Organ concerts a
common treat at Moore Museum
Moore Museum volunteer and Heritage St. Clair historian Dave Pattenden has the pleas- ant task of keeping the museum’s pump organ in good working condition, a job that requires him to play the exquisite instrument often through the year.
An accomplished keyboard player, Dave recently treated the other workers in the main museum building with an impromptu concert that included the Finlandia Hymn (also known as Be Still, My Soul) and Ancient Words.
The organ, powered by internal bellows that are activated by the player’s feet, is a beautiful example of craftsmanship and design from the late 1880s.
The old beauty is treated much better now that it has a home at the museum. Dave says when it was a church organ, it was only played on Sundays and was subject to damage caused by the chill of an unheated church the rest of the week – not a good situation for such a finely-tuned instrument.
Santa’s list is full of kind people who shop locally for their Christmas treats and treasures, and support their local food banks throughout the year. Be sure you’re on Santa’s “NICE LIST”. Please shop local and support your local food bank.
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 online, and the printed version distributed by January 1, 2023.
Municipal & Works Dept.
Election Notices
wrap-up Pages
Pages 6-8
2-5 OPERATION CHRISTMAS TREE SACRED HEART FOOD BANK CHRISTMAS PROGRAMS
PAGE 17 Community Around the Contact Township
Page Pages
15 20-18
Out-going council meets final time
The final meeting of the 2018 -2022 St. Clair Township Council began with a warm “Welcome back” to Councillor Jim DeGurse, who has “Zoomed” into the council chambers for most of his 4-year term.
Both rinks at MSC now in use
Projects involving the pool, and Rinks 1 and 2 at the Moore Sports Complex have all been com- pleted just in time for you to explore the many ways you can stay in shape despite your urge to hibernate this winter. The public is invited to try fitness classes free of charge or enjoy a family skate or swim. Aqua fitness classes are offered as well as yoga, kids craft sessions, and much more. For information about how you can win the battle of the bulge this winter, call the MSC at 519-867-2651.
Notes from St. Clair Township Community Services
*Much of the roof at the MSC has undergone improvements. All township facilities will be subject of a roof audit, and a report on the find- ings will be presented during the 2023 budget deliberations.
*The St. Clair Parkway Golf Course has been operating during the good autumn weather, but the simulator is now open for the winter as well and bookings are being taken.
*Upgrades have been done at the St. Clair Township Civic Centre, including the conversion of the committee room to increase office space.
*The project to solve the issue of floor mois- ture at the Sombra Community Hall is expected to be completed before the end of November.
*River park washrooms are now closed for the season.
Enbridge public meeting explains proposed battery power storage projects
Enbridge’s Renewable Power group held a vir- tual public meeting on Nov. 17 to provide infor- mation on three battery power storage projects proposed for St. Clair Township.
In a letter to St. Clair Township CAO John Rodey, the company cited the growing demand for electrical energy in southwestern Ontario as the reason the projects are being undertaken. The letter explains, “Battery power storage is an excellent means of adding reliable capacity to Ontario’s electricity grid while making efficient use of the resources already producing clean power throughout the province.” The stored en- ergy capacity will be fed into the grid during pe- riods of high demand, making the grid more reli- able.
Enbridge intends to submit proposals for the projects to the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) for consideration under its expe- dited Request for Proposals which will be consid-
More Municipal Notes, page 3
Winter curbside parking by-law aids snow removal efforts
As of Dec. 1 , vehicles, whether li- censed or unlicensed, must NOT be parked on a highway, road, or street in such a manner that it interferes with the clearing of snow or any winter control operation conducted by municipal forces or contractors between the hours of 1
a.m. and 7 a.m. The by- law, which will be in effect until April 1, 2023, includes: camping trailers, commercial trailers, derelict vehicles, marine vehicles, and recreational trailers.
All obstructions including basketball nets and garbage cans must also kept off the streets during this period.
Property owners are also reminded it is against the law to shovel snow off drive- ways and side-
walks onto public streets. These snow piles create dangerous obsta- cles that can con- tribute to need- less automobile collisions and the loss of control of a vehicle.
The St. Clair Township Beacon is issued monthly by St. Clair Township as a public service to township residents. Production by Bonnie Stevenson.
The Beacon of St. Clair Towns ip December 20 2 Page 3
More Municipal Notes
From page 2
ered in December. Proposals that are accepted will be announced in February, 2023 with the provision that the new projects begin operation by May 2025.
The three proposed project locations are: 4534 Ladysmith Road, Corunna; 3132 Tecumseh Road, Courtright; and 1129 Petrolia Line, Corunna.
The presentation from the virtual meeting will be posted on the following three websites:
Mayor’s Christmas Greetings
As we approach the end of another challengi
look forward to the holiday season, we reflect o accomplished in each of our lives this past year.
g year and what we have
www.enbridge.com/dowmoore ;
www.enbridge.com/tecumsehfarm; www.enbridge.com/petrolia .
These websites will be updated as the IESO’s process proceeds. See page 9 for story.
Antenna replacement planned for Emergency Services building
The current antenna at the Ontario Provincial Police Corunna office in the Emergency Services building in Corunna needs to be replaced. A new one will be erected to ensure vital communication will continue unimpeded.
Renovated Lambton Shared Services Center now open
The newly-renovated Lambton Shared Ser-
vices Centre in the former Bayside Mall build-
The holiday season comes with mixed emotions for some people. For my family, it is all about tradition – spending time with family and friends, putting up the decorations, and at- tending the Christmas Eve church service. It is also a time to remember the less fortunate, the elderly, and the shut-ins; may we keep them in our thoughts and prayers.
As 2022 has progressed, our lives have slowly returned to normal. I am looking forward to 2023 and what the year has to offer.
My family and I wish each and every St. Clair Township resident good health, happiness,
and prosperity this holiday season.
On behalf of St. Clair Township Council and Staff,
I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas
and a Happy New Year! ~Mayor Jeff Agar
ing in Sarnia has be reopened for business. The new facil- ity houses several county departments. For more infor- mation about services provided by Lambton County, visit www.lambtononline.ca
The Lambton Shared Services Centre was relocated to the basement of the mall building in March, 2021 to allow for the complete renovation of the upper floor.
The Beacon of St. Clair Towns ip December 20 Page 4
2022-2026 ST. CLAIR TOWNSHIP COUNCIL SWORN IN
Above: The new St. Clair Township Council has been sworn in and will take charge of a municipality that will both satisfy and challenge them. The first order of business on November 21 required everyone to swear an Oath of Elected Office and an Oath of Alle- giance. Members of the new council are, from left: Cathy Langis; Bill Myers; Brad Lang- staff; St. Clair Township CAO John Rodey; Mayor Jeff Agar; Clerk Jeff Baranek; Deputy Mayor Steve Miller; Holly Foster; and Pat Brown.
Below L Piper Tom Rankin heralded the new council’ o the council
chambers. Centre: Family and friends gath- ered to witness a
new beginning
for their commu- nity.
Below: Pastor
Jon Fitter from
Church On The
Rive in Port
Lambton, left, gave the blessing
for the new
council.
The Beacon of St. Clair Towns ip December 20 Page 5
Council of 2018-2022 holds final meeting & honours three departing members
Before the new council began its term in office, the f rmer St. Clair Township Council
held their final meeting. They took care of some pending matters and honoured those who
were d arti and had ser ed so well duri the their e rs in munici l service.
Four council members who will not be returning for the next term received certificates
and rystal mementos in recognition of their dedication to the important work of municipal
government. Mayor Steve Arnold made the presentations to: Councillor Jim DeGurse, top right, who has served on several Moore and St. Clair Township Councils; Councillor Rose Atkins for one term; and Tracy Kingston, who had served for two terms.
Left: Mayor Steve Arnold, who has retired after 37 years of service, beginning with Som- bra Township as a councillor and eventually rising to mayor of St. Clair Township, also received recognition for his service and leadership. The pre entation was done by St. Clair Township CAO John Rodey.
Bonnie Stevenson photos
Retirement event celebrates 37 years of service to Sombra & St. Clair Township
Retiring Mayor Steve Arnold’s 37 years in municipal p li- tics was celebrated with a reception at the St. Clair Parkway Golf Club on Nov. 8 with political figures from across Lamb- ton County and beyond coming out to join the celebration.
Mayor Arnold says his many years of public service have been rewarding, with many opportunities to help the com- munity he loves to grow and prosper. He commended his councils, and the exceptional knowledge and assistance of township staff, for their assistance and support through nu-
merous challenging times, most notably ,the pande ic years.
Right: Lambton County Warden Kevin Marriott came by to present a certificate of congratulations from Lambton County Council.
Below left: MPP Bob Bailey and MP Marilyn Gladu were joined by Plympton-Wyoming Deputy Mayor Muriel Wright, standing, in offering their best wishes.
Below left: Mayor Arnold welcomes long-time colleague Brooke-Alvinston Mayor Don McGugan and his wife, Anne. Mayor McGugan has also retired after 20 years of municipal service.
The Beacon of St. Clair Towns ip December 20 2 Page 6
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.
More WORKS, page 7
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 his equipment being collected by the Public Works Departments and stores at the Public Works Operational Centers.
When was the last time you checked your chimney?
Look for loose bricks, crumbling mortar, dark stains and white powder; they all indi- 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 of a wood stove pipe chimney also spells trouble. The SAFEST and most practical way to check and maintain your chimney, woodstove, and fireplace is to contact a WETT* certified Chimney Sweep.
The Beacon of St. Clair Towns ip December 202 Page 8
Enjoy a fire safe holiday season by following these tips:
• Always stay in the kitchen when something is cooking on the stove.
• Place lit candles away from anything that can burn and out of the reach of children and pets where they can’t be knocked over. Remember to snuff out candles before leaving the room or going to bed. Consider using battery-operated or electric flameless candles.
• Drink responsibly. Attempting to cook or smoke while under the influence of alcohol is too of- ten a contributing factor in fatal fires.
• Make sure the base of real Christmas trees is always immersed in water to prevent them from getting too dry.
• Check all sets of decorative lights before putting them up and discard any sets that are damaged.
• Develop and practice a home fire escape plan so that everyone in your home knows what to do if the smoke or CO alarms sound.
May your holidays be filled with safety!
~YOUR St. Clair Township Fire Dept.
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.
Enbridge proposes three new battery power storage projects for St. Clair Township
Enbridge is a familiar name in St. Clair Township, from the company’s pipelines and natural gas storage facilities, to its corporate presence as a community supporter, which includes donations to the township’s fire department as part of its Enbridge Project Assist program.
Enbridge is not usually associated with renewable ener- gy, yet it has been pursuing this technology since its first investment in a wind farm in 2002. Enbridge investments now include 23 wind farms, seven solar energy projects, five waste heat recovery facilities, 1 power transmission project, one hydroelectric facility, and one geothermal project.
The company’s latest proposed venture for St. Clair Township is the construction of three battery energy stor- age facilities that will be able to store energy and make it available when electricity production is not enough to sup- ply demand. In the past, there have been “brown outs” and “black outs” and “rolling blackouts” that have all caused problems for industries and residential customers alike. Although many were caused by transmission prob- lems, equipment failures, or damage caused by storms, some were caused by inadequate energy availability (capacity).
If Enbridge’s Request for Proposal (RFP) submission is approved by the IESO (Independent Electricity System Op- erator), the three Enbridge projects will be located at: Corunna, Dow Moore Power Storage project, 4534 Lady- smith Road; Courtright, Tecumseh Farm Batttery Power Storage, 3132 Tecumseh Road; and Corunna, 1129 Petrolia Line. All will be developed on Enbridge-owned property.
Battery storage units like the ones shown in the photo- graph, below right, will be used to store excess electricity when it is available, creating capacity, and to supply that surplus capacity to maintain electrical service when the available supply of electricity is inadequate. The target online date will be in 2025.
The need for extra capacity is determined by the IESO based on forecasts it has developed.
During a virtual public meeting on Nov. 17, Enbridge Inc. presenter Denise Heckbert, Strategy and Markets Policy, Power, described why and how these forecasts are accom- plished. She explained, “IESO generates forecasts that span up to 15 years into the future to determine what will be needed, then they use that information to inform annual acquisition reports …(the reports) tell them what they ac- tually need to buy or what RFPs they need and what op- tions they need to have…”
Heckbert explained that, based on the forecasts the IESO has made, a major expansion in southwestern Ontario is happening now in the agricultural sector and the con- struction and operation of greenhouses. If that boom accel- erates faster than anticipated, it could create a lot more electricity demands as well. “IESO had identified south- west Ontario as a place where people will want to use that power, but there will not be capacity available to serve those needs. Chatham up to Sarnia and everything west of that down to Windsor is a key area to get new capacity built in the province,” said Heckbert.
While nuclear power generation is thought to be “pretty steady” for now, Heckkbert pointed out the *Pickering nu- clear plant will eventually be retired, leaving hydro (water generated) power facilities as well as solar, wind, and gas generation to pick up the slack. But these renewable ener- gy sources are under contract, and those contracts are go- ing to start expiring. The IESO knows that if those contracts are not extended or new projects built in their place with new contracts signed, shortages will be inevitable. The supply available to serve the increasing demand will not be sufficient.
Without energy to make up the deficit the IESO is fore- casting, Heckbert said replacement electricity supplies will have to be found. “IESO’s analysis in the broader picture is they’re going to have to buy new electricity. It may be ex- tending contracts for some of this generation, it may be buying new power, but their most pressing need is capaci- ty,” she said. The battery energy storage solution proposed by Enbridge is part of the effort to create that capacity.
The IESO’s first RFP requires four gigawatts of new ca- pacity this year and next year. A second RFP will be issued next year to procure an additional 600 megawatts.
The Province of Ontario has directed the IESO to pro- cure a minimum of 900 megawatts in battery power stor- age, with the first expedited RFP projects to be online in 2025. A second RPF for another 600 megawatts will be is- sued next year to be online by 2027.
Heckbert emphasized the current RFPs are only for the acquisition of capacity through battery energy storage to be used during times when the electricity supply requires support. They are not required to provide additional power generation.
NOTE: Pickering Nuclear Gen-
erating Station, originally
From an actual planning outlook, Heckbert said the IESO
due to cease operation in
expects significant increases in demand. “It keeps increas- ing more and more because electrification and electricity
2025, is now slated to contin- ue operation until September
demands are outpacing expectations.” She added the in-
2026, pending approval of
crease has many causes, such as more people driving elec- tric vehicles or electrifying things that currently run on oil or gas.
the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. The station, commissioned in 1971, has a capacity of 3,100 megawatts.
Lambton County Library branches offer much
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.
Winter can’t stop the volunteers at Moore Museum
The two-year pandemic shutdown made it impossible (Oddfellows); Masonic Lodge; Women’s Institute; etc. The
to winterize the site, and many benches and other out- room is painted a striki g
door items had to be left out in the elements over two shade of red to set the
winters. The restoration and refurbishment effort to bring scene. When complete ,
those items back to their former beauty is proving to be a big job. Every Tuesday, volunteers gather at the site to take on this massive task as well as other new projects.
Above: Three of the museum’s dedicated volunteers were in the museum workshop on Nov. 15 sanding the
the room will become part of the museum’s tour of- ferings.
Right: Large projects aren’t the only things on
wood items that could be saved and cutting new pieces the agenda. Newly r –
for items that needed a more aggressive facelift. At the back of the workshop, left, Dan Hayward works on wooden louvres for the fire hall. In the middle of the
cruited volunteer Joe Doherty was busy with the restoration of some
shop, Dave Taylor looks for safety issues and keeps the workshop tidy and clear of hazards. In the foreground, Leo Griffith cuts wood planks to size as he builds a wheel chair ramp that will make the new Lodge Room
old oars in need of refi – ishing.
Bored this winter?
Handyman and hand –
accessible for everyone.
The Lodge Room is being created in one of the two
women volunteers a e always welcome to join
large storage pods to the south of the Shaw Building,
which houses large vintage vehicles and a number of dis- plays that illustrate various facets of daily life as it was in early Moore Township. Items for the room will be used to
the Tuesday work be . Call the Moore Museu at 519-867-2020 f r
more information.
The Beacon of St. Clair Towns ip December 20 2 Page 11
Thank you to our donors from Moore Museum
Moore Museum is appreciative of the continued support of the community. We would like to acknowledge the support of the following donors who have contributed to museum this year to ensure its growth and sustainability:
• Margaret MacPherson
• Leopold Temple Association
• Lambton Mutual Insurance Company
• J.D. Lawn Service
• Knights of Columbus 9447
• Royal Canadian Legion Branch 635
• Watson TimberMart
• Royal Canadian Legion Branch 447
• Elanor Vargo
• Moore Optimist Club
• Moore Community and Recreational
Foundation
• Arlanxeo
School house hosts avid students
Students from the local Communi y
one- room school house at Moore Mus – um. Using chalk on the blackboard w s of particular interest to two of the st –
dents, who enjoyed trying out this early
version of the i Pad. At least there w s
no fear of the battery needing to be r –
charged. Shelley enjo yed playing teach- er as Jake watched her draw.
Group Christmas tours are now unde –
o
Brigdeƍ’ NJ maiƍ NJtree Ʀ becomeơ Christmaơ marke Ʀ
The Brigden Country Christmas was off to a windy, chilly start on Nov. 19 but it didn’t dis- courage shoppers from coming out to seek some ideal gifts for family and friends. TOP LEFT: At
the rigden Optimist Club raffle table, Marilyn
Shaw, green parka, finished choosing the raffle items she wanted to win with the ballots she
had ought. Behind her, Marie Gorton was still
trying to decide. CENTRE LEFT: Inside the com- munity hall, Brigden Public School students Ava, left, and Gemma, right, made Christmas deco- rations as volunteer Heather Krestick of Brigden watched the masterpieces take shape. BELOW LEFT: Wood crafter Keith Schikor of Brigden
had
display filled with cleverly designed wood decorations, including snow- flakes and a spiral Christmas
tree. truck his
Keith, an 18-wheeler driver by trade, says ood crafting is a side
job for now. CENTRE: Barb
Steadman keeps watch on
the ot dog stand being op-
erated by the Brigden United Church.
The hot dog tent was also a temporary warming sanctuary for a grateful Beacon photogra- pher and her camera.)
Shopper Niki Nauta came all the way from Camlachie to shop in Brigden with her handsome canine buddy Kingston, a friend- ly four-year old golden shepherd.
Royal Canadian Legion Leslie Sutherland Br. 447 celebrates 75th anniversary
Above: The head table of dignitaries from the community and Legion leaders from across the province, stands to receive a salute from Br. 447 Past President John Cormier. Below left: The colour party enters to begin the for- mal ceremony as Royal Canadian Legion Leslie Sutherland Br. 447 Corunna celebrates its 75th anniversary. Be- low right: The Sarnia Legion Pipe Bands drummers perform some aerial drumstick moves while keeping the beat. Bottom left: Mayor Elect Jeff Agar and his wife, Sue, left, chat with friends and family at their table before din- ner is served. Bottom right: Mayor Steve Arnold congratulates Br. 447 on its 75th anniversary and its work to ensure the memories of the fallen and the welfare of those who survive will be maintained. Bottom centre: MP Marilyn Gladu presents a certificate from the Federal government to Br. 447 President Eric Hancock in recogni- tion of its 75 years of service to veterans and the community.
A time to remember the sacrifice of the fallen
As 11 a.m. approached on November 11, a large crowd gathered at Corunna Clock Tower Park to remember the loved ones, the friends, and the strangers who died fighting so that we might live in a better world. Re- membrance Day also gave us time to pause and remember and appreciate those who still serve and defend our freedom.
Left: The Royal Canadian Legion Corunna Br. 447 Colour Guard comes to attention while Branch 447 Secretary Marg Emery reads the familiar fourth verse of For the Fallen.
Below: Padre Paul Woolley leads the assem- bly in prayer for the fallen and for those who continue to serve.
Above: Mayor Steve Arnold plac- es a wreath for the residents of St. Clair Township who died in both World Wars. His Legion es- cort is Br. 447 Past President John Cormier.
For the Fallen
4th verse
They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them,
nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the evening,
We will remember them.
~by Robert Laurence Binyo
191
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.
We now offer online program registration!!
Please visit https://www.nlchc.com/services/wellness- programs/ (Be sure to specify which program you are registering for on the top of the form.)
To register, call 519-344-3017 ext. 237 or email adinell@nlchc.com to register and/or receive the Zoom link.
**Reminder: Exercises classes will end on Dec. 16 and resume Jan. 9
In Person-Low Impact Exercise:
Mooretown Low Impact: Held Thursdays at 9 a.m. at Mooretown Sports Complex, 1166 Emily Street. Low-impact exercises are performed using body weight and resistance bands. All abilities wel- come.
**If you would like to be notified for Brigden classes, please call Amy at 519-344-3017 ext. 237.
Virtual Exercise:
Virtual Chair Groovin’ Class: Being held until Dec. 14 (Zoom) from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Chair Grooving’ is a virtual seated chair exercise program designed to get you movin’ and groovin’ to the beat! To regis- ter call 519-344-3017. ext. 259.
Virtual Low Impact Exercise: Wednesdays and Fridays (Zoom) at 9 a.m. Low impact exercises performed using body weight and resistance bands. All abili- ties welcome. To register call 519-344-3017 ext. 237, or email adinell@nlchc.com to receive the Zoom link.
Virtual Shibashi: This activity is being held Tuesdays via Zoom at 11 a.m. Tai chi/qigong is a practice of aligning breath and movement for exercise and health. Shibashi consists of 18 simple steps. It is easy to learn and perfect for beginners.
Virtual Sit or Stand Exercise: On Mondays at 1:30
p.m. via Zoom, enjoy Virtual Chair Exercise. No- impact exercise is performed standing or seated in
a chair, and resistance bands are used. All exer- cise abilities are welcome.
Cooking Buddies: Children’s cooking classes are happen- ing again for ages between 6-12 years old. The class will focus on learning to read recipe cards, measure ingredi- ents, try new foods, and to have fun! Classes will run monthly. CLASSES ARE FULL AT THIS TIME! Locations: Forest, Dec. 15; Corunna and Brigden, Dec 19.
Coffee Time: Everyone is welcome to join us for coffee and conversation, free of charge, on Fridays from 11 to noon at the Cardiac Rehab site, 460 Christina St N. Park- ing is available at the back of the building, off Maxwell Street.
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.
Meditation: Mondays from 10 a.m. to 11a.m. at West Lambton CHC, increase self esteem, improve concentra- tion, lower blood pressure, reduce stress and anxiety, and emotional balance.
Night Light: Thursday, Dec. 15 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at WLCH, 429 Exmouth Street), find hope and wellness while managing anxiety and depression.
**Currently, this session is at maximum capacity. We are taking names for the next upcoming session.
Opening Doors: Healthy lifestyle program for individuals living with mental illness or seeking mental health sup- port. For information, please call 519-344-3017, ext. 277. Virtual Ho Ho Ho Help Workshop: Monday, Dec. 12 at 2:30 p.m. Identify your holiday stress habits and learn 10 tips and strategies to limit holiday stress. To register call 519-344-3017, ext. 277.
North Lambton Community Health Centre is proud to be accredited through the Canadian Centre for Accredita- tion, a third-party review based on accepted organiza- tional practices that promote ongoing quality improve- ment and responsive, effective community services.
The Beacon of St. Clair Township cem er
2 Page 17
Note of thanks for support of K of C Charity Night
On behalf of the Port Lambton Knights of Co-
lumbus, Council 10873, and the Sacred Heart d Bank, we would like to thank all those who
donated to the Charity Night auction table.
e want to thank those who sold meal tickets
and raffle tickets, those who went to the busi-
Each year, Operation Christmas Tree (O.C.T.)creates community excitement during our annual holi- day food and toy collection pro- gram in St. Clair Township Ward 1
(Corunna, Courtright, Mooretown, Brigden, and surrounding areas). Coordinated by the Optimist Club of Moore, Opera- tion Christmas Tree assists over 125 local families each year by providing a non-perishable food hamper and toy vouch- ers.
Families also receive a toy hamper of new toys, books and clothing, all matched to the children’s ages, and delivered by local firefighters. An additional initiative also provides financial support for local fire victims.
HOW TO REGISTER TO RECEIVE SUPPORT
Register at the Operation Christmas Tree headquarters at the Emergency Services building, 392 Lyndoch Street, Co- runna, until Dec. 16, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Visit www.operationchristmastree.com for eligi-
bility requirements. FIVE 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 until 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.
5. Sunday K of C breakfast on Dec. 4 from 9
a.m. to noon at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall, 346 Ber- esford, Corruna. Eat in or take out. To order, call 519-862-5785. Proceeds to O.C.T.
nesses requesting donations, and the Port Lamb- ton C.W.L. for cooking the fantastic meal. Also, thank you to the following people who donated the wine: Val and John Valle, Mike Smith, John and Catherine Wilmott, Wayne and Sue Kiser, and Mark and Patty Relouw.
This evening of fun raised $6,273 for the Sa- cred Heart Food Bank. In eleven months, the food bank has spent over $38,000 in food and gift cards, so we know in the old Sombra Town- ship area (Ward 2). Thank you to our communi- ty for supporting this worthwhile event.
List of donors:
Greg Bourdeau Painting and Decorating, Mayor Steve Arnold, Linda Franks, Maureen, and Col- leen Clancy, Margaret Clancy, Mitchel’s Bay Va- riety, St. Clair Township, St. Clair Golf Course, Towell’s Auto Body, Wallaceburg New Vision, Port Athletic Association, Chuck and Bea Jones, Sombra Township Optimist Club, Westbrooks Flowers, Duchene’s Paint and Wallpaper, Shakin and Bait Variety, Big Chief Drive-In, Craig Smith, Fastenal-Wallaceburg, Claudette Cler- mont, Ian Donkers-Riverview Restaurant- Courtright, Papa’s Place-Walpole Island, Blue Willow Restaurant-Sombra, Nautical Hills- Sombra, Phil and Doreen Johnston-PJ Welding Port Lambton, Tom and Al’s Furniture- Wallaceburg, Patterson Motors-Wallaceburg, Brad McDougall-McDougall Tool and Die, Lee Van Landeghem-Bartech, Tom Daaman, Greg Shaw- GJS Construction, Bogey’s Inn and Venue, CMF Group (Tobin Johnston), Val and John Valle, Ruth and Bill Urquhart-Riversite Reality-Pete Allaer, George Langstaff Construction, Jan and Frank Borcharding, Ryan Feddes, Bill’s Interna- tional Pizza-Wallaceburg, Sydenham Farms-Peter Bogaert, Progressive Ford-Wallaceburg, NAPA Auto Parts-Wallaceburg, Accent Alley- Wallaceburg, Steve and Morgan Murphy, Ivy Johnston, Select Finishing-Wallaceburg, Shop- pers Drug Mart-Wallaceburg, Melanie McDougall Hair Styles-Port Lambton, James Street Eatery- Wallaceburg, Giuliano Pizzeria-Port Lambton, Black Goose Restaurant-Wallaceburg, Mary Houle, MTM-Shelly McDougall, Kentucky Fried Chicken (Area Manager Stacey Christie)- Wal- laceburg Eye Care-Drs. Steven and Acanne.
Frank Johnston Sacred Heart Food Bank
Merry Christmas and a Happy 2023 to all
The Beacon of St. Clair Towns ip December 20 2 Page 8
Sombra Community Mural Contest
Sombra and surrounding areas, we have a creative challenge for you!
A large mural will be installed on the North side of the Klompstra Construction/Blue Willow building (formerly Riverview Restaurant) and your input is invited! We need your designs for our magnificent mural.
The mural must incorporate a blend of histo- ry, life in our community, our people, and our surroundings.
The wall is 43’ wide by 20’ high, with two windows on the second floor, and two large windows and a door on the main floor.
It will welcome everyone as they enter Som- bra from the North.
: $1,000 to the winner who creates this mammoth mural. $100 per submission will be awarded if several are chosen and the mural is built from a composite of these entries.
All submissions must be entered by February 28, 2023 by emailing to kris- ta@klompstra.com or dropping off at 3465 St. Clair Parkway.
The winner(s) will be chosen by the contest sponsor, Klompstra Construction Ltd., with input from the Sombra Museum. The winner(s) name(s) will be acknowledged on the mural.
Contact Krista if you want exact dimen- sions for a grid template. Questions? Contact Krista Klompstra @ (519) 330-9807 or kris- ta@klompstra.com .
The Beacon of St. Clair Towns ip December 20 Page 9
From page 20
fects, BMX bicycle stunts, acrobats and a mischievous elf are guaranteed to entertain. For more information, vist: https://www.ontbluecoast.com/holidaydreams or Tourism Sarnia-Lambton at 1455 Venetian Boulevard, Point Edward.
Moore Ag Society Jamborees set for December and January
Country Jamborees are back at the Brigden Fair- grounds Exhibition Hall. The Country Christmas Jambo- ree is set for Sunday, Dec. 11, 2022 . Doors open at 12 noon and music starts at 1 p.m. Cash bar. Ham and scal- loped potato dinner will be offered at 5 p.m. Dinner tickets will be $15 per person at the door. A $5 cover charge will apply if you are just coming for the music and fellowship. Bring your partner, your dancing shoes and your love of music. Musicians are welcome.
Country Jamborees will continue into the new year at the Brigden Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall. The first Jamboree for 2023 will be held on Sunday, Jan. 8, 2023. Doors open at 12 noon and the music will start at 1 p.m. Cash bar. Ham and Scalloped potato dinner will be served at 5 p.m. Dinner tickets will be $15 per person at the door. A $5 cover charge will apply if you are just coming for the music and fellowship. Bring your partner, your dancing shoes and your love of music. Musicians are welcome.
Not sure what to get that special someone for Christmas? How about a gift certificate to the Brigden Fairgrounds Jamboree. They can be pur- chased at the fair office or at the December Jamboree.
MAS Annual General Meeting set
The Moore Agricultural Society Annual General Meeting is set for Saturday, Jan. 21 at 1 p.m. in the Ex- hibition Hall. Registration and membership renewal will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
Knox Moore Presbyterian Church Holiday services
Two special holi- day services will be held at the Knox Moore Presbyterian Church, 1354 Roke- by Line. On Christ- mas Day, Dec. 25, and on New Years Day, Jan.1, services will be had at 11
a.m. Everyone is invited to come and worship in celebra- tion of the Birthday of Christ and the beginning of 2023.
The Beacon of St. Clair Towns ip December 20 2 Page 20
Brigden Legion to hold raffles in December
The Royal Canadian Legion Br. 635 will hold a raffle on Saturdays on Dec. 3, and Dec. 17 at 4:30 p.m.
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.
Operation Christmas Tree program The annual Operation Christmas Tree Christ- mas hamper program is ready to go. Help Operation Christmas Tree spread Christmas cheer to those who are in need.
at the Knights of Columbus Fundraiser Breakfast (eat-in or take-out) on Sunday, Nov. 4 from 9 a.m. to noon at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall, 346 Beresford Street in
Corunn. For more details, see page 17.
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 indi- viduals of south St. Clair Township can be found on page 17. To make a financial 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 receipt. 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 volunteers supported by several community organizations, local schools, and community churches.
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. Have a great shopping experience finding perfect gifts for those “hard-to-buy-for” people on your list from over 30 vendors. Check out the Brigden Market Facebook page for up to date listings.
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.
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 Sa-
cred Heart Church on John Street in Port Lambton.
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/ (see poster page 18)
Holiday Dreams cirque show coming to Sarnia
A Las Vegas-style family-friendly holiday show is coming to the Progressive Auto Sales Arena in Sarnia on Friday, Dec. 16. Cirque performers, lasers, special ef-
More Around the Township, page 19