The St. Clair Township
Issue 7
Volume 16
July 2023
THE TOWNSHIP OF ST. CLAIR
Municipal Notes Pages 2-4
WORKS DEPARTMENT
Pages 6-8
Heritage Corner Page
14-15
Community Contact
Page
A proud pair of Canada geese recently took their family of 13 for a swim in Talfourd Creek while getting some exercise in Guthrie Park. The St. Clair River shoreline becomes an avian nursery each spring and treats those who use the parkway to charming scenes like this one. B. Stevenson photo
What’s new on the inside?
Wilkesport resident celebrates 150th Anniversary Page 14
Why are firefighters wrecking
this car? Page 10
17
Around the Township Pages
20-18
Why is this boat at a car
show? Page 13
Grade 2 student Hudsyn Davidson is a budding entrepreneur who loves to help others in spite of his own challenge.
NASA photo gallery background taken by
the James Webb deep space telescope
See page 12
CONTACT THE BEACON: beacon@stclairtownship.ca
The Beacon of St. Clair Township July 2023 Page 2
Trail sweeping discussed
The need for increased sweeping along the St. Clair River Trail was discussed in response to safety concerns over certain stretches of the trail. In his report to council, Works Coordinator of Operations Dave Neely noted that the cleanli- ness of the asphalt surface varies throughout the season depending on weather events, con- struction at properties abutting the trail, over- growth of uncut grass, and other factors.
The entire trail, on– and off-road sections, is swept twice a year in the spring and the fall. On
-road paved shoulders are swept by the Town- ship-owned and operated street sweeper truck, usually in conjunction with urban street sweep- ing. Off-road sections are swept by a local con- tractor equipped with an appropriately-sized machine.
Mr. Neely reported the cost of sweeping is about $6,000 per cycle, with two cycles per sea- son funded by the trail maintenance portion of the operational budget.
But through the season, keeping the trail clean of debris, sticks, Continued on page 3
Notice to property owners to destroy noxious weeds
Notice is hereby given to all persons in possession of land, in accord- ance with the Weed Control Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter W.5, Sections 3, 13, 16, and 23, that unless noxious weeds growing on their lands within the municipality of the Township of St. Clair are destroyed throughout the season, the municipality may enter upon said lands and have the weeds destroyed, charging the cost against the land, plus an administration charge as set out in the Act. (Minimum charge per parcel is $80.)The co-
operation of all land owners is earnestly solicited.
Jeff Baranek, Clerk
The Beacon of St. Clair Township July 2023 Page 3
From page 2
leaves, building materials
and other hazards is a problem in some areas and they require occasional clean- ing. Council decided that, in the inter- est of keeping the trail safe for use, sections that require sweeping will be swept and the cost may be recovered from property owners who fail to clean up any mess they make on the trail.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Family makes presentation to council
Deputations to council are usually pretty standard, but a family presenta- tion at the June 19 meeting was some- thing special.
The Houf family of Corunna attended council to ask that a by-law be made to allow, with restrictions, boulevard gar- dens. That alone was not unusual, but when the presentation became a family affair, it became a fascinating lesson in civics.
Above: The Houf family makes their presentation to council while viewing their power point information on the large display screen as they speak.
The family came prepared with a well-researched and organized power point presentation managed by 10-year-old Beatrice and narrated, in turns, by dad, Brian, mom, Erica, and 12-year-old Hayden. The family responded to council’s
Family makes presentation…..continued on page 4
Age-Friendly Sarnia Lambton benefits older adults’ quality of life
Challenges faced by older adults are often difficult to handle, both for themselves and for those who care about them. Aging at home is a prefer- ence for many, but self-sufficiency issues can make that choice impossi- ble.
The goal of Age-Friendly Sarnia- Lambton is to make access to community supports and health services easier. It’s a convenient, easy one
-stop access point for finding over 600 social and health supports in Lambton County.
For more information about Age-Friendly Sarnia- Lambton, go online to: agefriendlysarnialambton.ca
The Age-Friendly Sarnia-Lambton website focuses on adults age 55+. It has expanded to support active, healthy, and engaged living for people at all stages of life. It was launched through a grant from the Minis- try of Seniors and Accessibility, and has evolved with the help of several other grant opportunities.
The age-friendly content of the website is in- formed by feedback gathered from community mem- bers and care provides within Sarnia and Lambton
County.
For those who prefer to speak to someone about local supports, please call: The Older Adult Care Pathway, or 519-336-3600 or 1-888-347-8737.
Help at Home Services for Sarnia-Lambton residents
The Help at Home services include: *In-home dental care services; *In-home foot care services;
* Falls Assessment and Prevention programs; *Friendly Visiting; *Home and Community Care support services;
* Home Help and Homemaking; *Home Maintenance and Repair; *Home Modification; *In-home Hospice Palliative Care; *In-home Personal Support; *Meal de- livery services; *Personal Emergency Response sys- tems; *In-Home Rehabilitative Care; *Seniors’ Inter- vention and Assistance services; *Shopping and Gro- cery assistance. There is also information on food de- livery in Sarnia-Lambton and what to expect from home care. Caregivers can also find
Continued from page 3 they could be dug up if necessary with no expectation
that the township or utility provider would restore the
questions and explained why they decided to approach
council with their ideas.
Township by-law 31 of 2014 requires property owners to cut the grass on Township boulevards fronting or adja- cent to privately-owned lands when grass exceeds 15 cm. (six inches) in height. The Houf family seeks a change in the by-law to allow boulevard plantings that compliment the residence they front. Small pollinator gardens and oth- er complimentary small height-limited landscapes would be possible and, if well-kept, would compliment the ap- pearance of the neighbourhood. The plantings could use salt-resistant species to be able to cope with road salt.
The family listed some ecological and economic bene- fits the boulevard plantings would offer – reduced lawns to mow, more habitat for pollinators, and increased biodiver- sity within the area.
The family acknowledged that township and utility in- frastructure is buried under most boulevard properties, but the plantings would be done with the knowledge that
planting.
Council thanked the Houfs for their information. Since a new strategic plan is still in the works for St. Clair Township, public input is still being invited and consid- ered.
Sarnia-Lambton Real Estate Board deputation
George Mallay of the Sarnia Real Estate Board made a presentation to inform council of how the board can be helpful in providing market data, buyer behaviour data, and input for the development Official Plans and other township policies.
Mr. Mallay said the board has 320 local realtors repre- senting 3,000 buyers and making more than $1 billion in annual transactions. 2022 figures for St. Clair Township showed there were 127 MLS residential sales and six com- mercial sales. The median list price for a residence in the Township is $599,900, with the county average at
$530,420.
It takes a community to help police fight vandalism
Bonnie Stevenson
Vandalism is considered mischief, but that la- bel doesn’t change the fact that the Canadian Criminal Code says it’s a crime. The deliberate damaging of property not your own is a criminal act according to the Criminal Code of Canada.
OPP Cnst. Jamie Bydeley says the public should feel confident reporting an act of vandal- ism, which includes painting on private or public property, as soon as it is noticed, but it’s im- portant to call the right number.
“It’s not an emergency when you wake up and you find that your shrubs in the front yard have been damaged because somebody decided to walk on them or you have spray paint on your driveway,” he said. “That doesn’t warrant a 911 call. They should call 1-888-310-1122 – it’s called the non-emergent line.”
The need for speed can make the difference between catching the culprit or putting up with further damage to property. Complaining to someone other than the police doesn’t stop the crime. Cnst. Bydeley says some people report it to their police services representative instead of the police. “If there’s been a crime of mischief, you need to contact the police and then, we can come and investigate it in a timely manner ra- ther than waiting for the month-end police ser- vice board where we’ll have nothing to go on,” he said.
He added that people should not hesitate to call in a report of any crime. “They don’t have to feel bad about contacting the police, even if they were on the fence about whether to call or not,” he said. “Non-emergent line calls are dis- patched in a non-emergent fashion so that when officers are able to attend, they will absolutely do that.” In some cases, the officer may call the person who reports the crime to gather infor-
mation while it’s still fresh in his or her mind. “An officer may call and say, “There’s nothing we can do right now but I’ll create a report so it’s on file. There are a lot of different op- tions,” said Cnst. Bydeley.
When the vandal or vandals are apprehended, there are several ways to proceed. “If we were able to identify the individual that’s done the crime, we’d be able to take a number of differ- ent steps,” he said. “If it’s a young person as defined by the Criminal Justice Act, we would have the option of a Rebound program.”
The program is intended to divert young of- fenders from vandalism by teaching them how their actions affect others. “It’s a good program to get a young person into if they’re going down that path because it will, hopefully, help them realize the consequence of their choices,” said Cnst. Bydeley.
However, the severity of those choices may require a stronger course of action. “We can move all the way up to criminal charges if we deem they’re warranted. They will result in the individual having to go to court to answer to the charges,” he said. “We have a range of ideas or paths we can take depending on all of the cir- cumstances.”
So the next time you are the victim of an act of vandalism, report it as soon as you see it.
“I encourage people to report any kind of crime,” said Cnst. Bydeley. “Call the OPP right away and then it can be investigated.”
Summer Camp registration
Summer’s on the way and parents will be pleased to know the Mooretown Sports Complex will offer junior and senior day camps. Registration is now available online, by phone, or in person. Camps begin July 3.
To contact the Mooretown Sports Complex,
call 519-867-2651, or to website at: www.stclairtownshipcommunityservices.ca
We’re also on:
Facebook at: @mooretownsportscomplex or Email: info@stclairtownship.ca
After hours emergency
~1-888-441-4204~
Public Works/Roads…519-867-2993 Fax 519-867-2128
Website…www.stclairtownship.ca Civic Centre, 1155 Emily Street, Mooretown
Water utility appointments St. Clair Township By-Law 16 of 2022 requires at least 48 hours
require 48 hours notice notice in advance of scheduling appointments with the Public
Works department to avoid service fees.
Attention: Changes to Yard Waste Collection
BRUSH COLLECTION CANCELLED
• Due to operational budget cuts, St. Clair Township will not be offering any brush collec- tion for the Spring or Fall collection going forward.
• Yard waste will continue through both seasons. The number of collection weeks has been reduced from 14 to 11. Collection will be cancelled again on Oct. 16 and 18.
• Christmas tree collection will remain the same for January, 2024.
St. Clair Township has introduced a new Water Treatment, Transmission and Metering fee that now appears on your water/sanitary bill. The new water fee is being introduced to help the municipality pay for costs related to water treatment, metering and distribution facilities that, with the growing water demands and aging infrastructure, will enable the ongoing delivery of safe drinking water to every cus- tomer in St. Clair Township and ensure that it is properly metered.
Residents will notice a new line item on their bill containing the Treatment, Transmission and Meter- ing Fee information. An average residential customer with a 3/4 -inch water meter will see “Water Fixed Fee Res Qtly < 1 inch”. The fee is based on your meter size and rate class. For example, residential customers with a 3/4-inch diameter meter will receive a monthly Water Treatment, Transmission and Metering Fee of $4 ($12 billed quarterly) in 2023. The new water fixed fee will be adjusted over the next two years until new infrastructure costs are being financially balanced with the added revenue.
St. Clair Township will continue to ensure that its Municipal customers receive reliable, safe, and ef- fective service related to its infrastructure and related systems.
Hydrant Flushing Public Works will be undertaking annual flushing of fire hydrants connected to the St. Clair Township Water Distribution System, during the hours of:
7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
April 2023 – October 2023
For current areas affected, refer to stclairtownship.ca
During this maintenance procedure, you may notice some water discoloration using your taps, flushing toilets, doing laundry etc., as some sediment may be drawn into your residence. We recommend that you run the cold water tap for a few minutes or until the discoloration disappears. Sewer Main Flushing Public Works will be flushing sewer mains connected to the St. Clair Township Sewer System, during the hours of:
7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
April 2023 – October 2023
For current areas affected,
refer to stclairtownship.ca
During this maintenance procedure, you may notice some gurgling noises in your drains. If conditions per- sist after 24-48 hours of normal use, please notify Public Works at 519-867-2993.
No changes needed for new recycling provider
See page 8
The Beacon of St. Clair Township July 2023 Page 8
From page 7
www.stclairtownship.ca/operations-construction-project-mapping/
New refrigeration systems for Moore Sports Complex rinks dedicated
Above: Councillors and guests received a tour of the new refrigeration facilities and saw Rink #2 in action during the Refrigeration Project Recognition event. The group included, from left: St. Clair Township Councillors Cathy Langis, Brad Langstaff, Holly Foster, Pat Brown, Mayor Jeff Agar, Ontario Trillium Foundation representative Bob Sutton, MPP Bob Bailey, Deputy Mayor Steve Miller, and retired Mayor Steve Arnold, who’s council and staff worked to obtain the funding and set the project in motion.
A new, safe indirect cold brine refrigeration system now serves both rinks at the Moore Sports Complex (MSC) thanks to a
$500,000 Community Building Fund-Capital grant from the Ontar- io Trillium Foundation (OTF). On May 25, MPP Bob Bailey and OTF rep Bob Sutton met with the township’s Community Services team and St. Clair Township Council at the MSC to dedicate the new system and take a tour of the sparkling new compressor room that houses it.
The old, potentially dangerous refrigeration system pumped ammonia directly out under the concrete rink surface to create ice.
The new system uses ammonia to chill a brine solution before it is pumped out of the compressor room and under the concrete rink surface.
The rink project focused on the compressor room and the sec- ondary refrigerant lines that run out under the new cement pad in Rink #2. The floor was also outfitted with in-floor heat which allows for the year-round availability of ice by adding up to 5,000
more hours of available ice time each year. It also increases the flexibility and output of activities. When the ice is removed, the concrete floor can still be used for other activities and events.
Calvin Cornish, the stationary engineer/electrician that oversees the new system, explained the system has modern monitoring capa- bilities for four compressors - two for each rink, and two chillers — one for each rink. He said he was surprised when he first saw how rapidly the new system made ice.
An indication of how radical the difference is between the old and new systems is the comparison Mr. Cornish made when he saw the cold brine system in action. He told his crew that working with the new system was like driving a Corvette after driving an old Stu- debaker.
Top right: In the compressor room, Calvin Cornish, back to the camera, explains the operation of the cold brine system during the tour. His audience includes, from left, Councillor Holly Fos- ter, Steve Arnold, Mayor Jeff Agar, and MPP Bob Bailey.
Bottom right: St. Clair Township Director of Community Services Kendall Lindsay and Councillor Holly Foster check out the new control panel that keeps the new system running. B. Stevenson photos
July 2023 Page 10
Two St. Clair Township fire stations host special events
The June 10 weekend saw two St. Clair Township fire stations hosting special events. At the Port Lambton station, fire- fighters invited the public to join them in celebrating the station’s 75th anniversary of service. The celebration featured activi-
ties for the children, an exciting auto extrication demonstration, a stove fire demonstration, air pack and fire attack demonstration, and picture displays, plus a barbecue, prizes, the command unit and tower truck, a visit from the Ontario Fire Marshall Jon Pegg, speeches and presentations.
TOP RIGHT: The 75th anniversary open house was a family affair for this happy group. Clock- wise from left: Barb Taylor with sleepy 8-month old Ryan Van Dommelen, Lindsay Van Dommelen, standing, with husband Eric, Christine Pelletier and her grandson Kaysin Pelletier, Ken Taylor standing behind his great-grandson Kaysin, Miria Pelletier, Kaysin’s aunt, Cathy Myers, Taylor
Maw and son Connor, 2. The Beacon apologizes for missed or muddled names.
RIGHT: The barbecues were sizzling with burgers and hot dogs to feed the hungry crowd attending the celebration. The grill masters included, from left: Matt Anthony, Adrian Kloet, and Shawn Lozon.
BELOW LEFT: Port Lambton District Chief Jake Taylor re- ceived a St. Clair Township Certificate of Congratulations for 75 years of service from Mayor Jeff Agar.
BELOW MIDDLE: St. Clair Township Fire Chief Richard Boy- es presents Port Lambton firefighter Dave Taylor with his 45 year bars.
BELOW RIGHT: Port Lambton District Chief Jake Taylor receives a Certificate of Congratulations for 75 years of service, issued by the Office of the Fire Marshall of Ontario and presented by St. Clair Fire Chief Richard Boyes.
An extrication exercise demonstrated a race against time to free a trapped crash victim.
Left: Heavy hydraulics, crow bars, and lots of muscle were on display as a determined crew of Port Lambton firefighters demolished a donated vehicle to demonstrate how crash victims are re- moved from badly damaged vehicles. The remov- al of the top of the car enabled the use of a stretcher if the victim’s injuries warranted spe- cial care. Derelict vehicles used by St. Clair Township fire stations to practice the use of these specialized cutting tools and extraction techniques are donated. See St. Clair Fire Depart- ment’s Facebook page to donate a vehicle. In
return, the
Victim freed, job done!
donor receives a tax receipt for $500 issued by St. Clair Township.
More fire department fun, page 11
The Beacon of St. Clair Township July 2023 Page 11
From page 11
St. Clair Township Corunna station holds Firemen’s Field Day …….with a twist
The Firemen’s Field Day at the St. Clair Township Corunna fire station featured an adorable twist this year. Instead of the firefighters competing in skill testing games, the children had a chance to try their hands at some important firefighting exercises. The bunker-coated kids tried their hand at several skills such as fire hose deployment, life sav- ing, and putting out a mock house fire.
The event also featured the ever-popular bouncy inflatables, lots of food and treats, and safe- ty demonstrations.
TOP RIGHT: The 100-foot boom on mighty tower truck #22 was deployed to kid level to supply a refreshing spray of water.
BELOW RIGHT: 1. Pint-sized fire- fighter trainee, three-year-old Neviah MacKenzie, maneuvers through the field day course carry- ing her rescued victim and encour- aged by Lambton College Fire Sci- ence student Alexis Harback.
2. Alexis helps Neviah reel in the heavy hose after completing her rescue mission. Neviah is the grand- daughter of Corunna residents Rog- er and Debbie MacKenzie.
Corunna fire station firefighter Scott Brown said, “The Lambton College Fire Science students did an amazing job with the children who attended.” B. Stevenson photos
Royal Canadian Legion Leslie Sutherland Branch 447 supports local sports
Royal Canadian Legion Leslie Sutherland Branch President Shawn MacNeil, left, presents cheque for $650 to the U11 Lady Giants Select. The group includes, front left: Sophia Kennedy, Khloe DaPont, Riley Stokes, Kate Leitch, Kenzie Salisbury, Skyla Vandenheuval, Taylor Lovegrove, Claire Schieman, Claire Marsden. Back row left: Kennedy Ross, Coach Dallas Leitch, Cali Vandershlagt, Aven Douglas, Coach Paul Salisbury. Photo submitted
The Beacon of St. Clair Township July 2023 Page 12
Benevolent barbecue benefits bunnies
A charity barbecue to benefit the bunnies at Sweeties Rescue, held June 17 at the Green Scene Lawn Care location on Hill Street, was a great success. It attracted people from the neighbourhood and passers-by who stopped to grab a bite and do some shopping at the vendor stalls. Many stopped by the Corunna200 table to find out more about the Corunna-wide summer scav-
enger hunt and the upcoming street celebration on Sept. 23. But one of the highlights of the event was the delicious refreshment being served by young entrepre-
Hudsyn
neur Hudsyn Davidson, above right. For 50 cents, this shy but motivat- ed Grade 2 student was serving up a well-balanced lemonade garnished with a delicate slice of lemon hooked over the rim of the glass; it was- n’t your average lemonade stand. Although Hudsyn was born with a heart defect, his mom, Amber, says he has forged ahead with his goal of learning how to make money. He lists fundraising as one of the things that makes him happy and it’s a feeling he highly
recommends. “It’s good to help,” he said during a brief in- terview with The Beacon. His mom says her son enjoys help- ing and making people happy. “He has a big heart,” she said. Top Left: Green Scene Lawn Care owner Conner Oakes tends the grill as customers Sheila Nichols, left and Carolyn Burke wait pa- tiently for their lunch.
Right: Sweetie’s Rescue operator Ashley Mulvihill says her Sarnia- based operation, which rescues stray, abandoned, or owner- surrendered domesticated rabbits, has been in operation since July 2018. The rabbits are spayed/neutered and vaccinated, and availa- ble for adoption. Volunteers, foster homes, and donations are needed and much appreciated.
To find out more, email: sweetiesrescue@outlook.com
or call 519-490-8979.
Do you have a question, an idea, or need info?
EMAIL: corunna200@gmail.com
PHONE: 519-312-3747
WEBSITE: www.corunna2023.com
The Royal Canadian Legion Leslie Sutherland Branch recently pre- sented a cheque that will help provide wagon rides during the Co- runna200 street celebration on Sept. 23. The rides will be held in conjunction with the breakfast being hosted at the Corunna Legion hall the morning of the celebration.
On hand for the presentation, left: Branch 447 President Shawn MacNeil, Corunna200 Committee members Ashley Robbins, Melissa Atyeo, and Nicole Smith, and Branch 447 Treasurer Dan Watson.
B. Stevenson photo
SOCIAL MEDIA: Find us on
Facebook or Instagram
MAIL: Donations can be sent to:
Corunna 200
c/o St. Clair Township Finance
Department
1155 Emily St., Mooretown, ON,
NON 1M0
CORRESPONDENCE: Corunna 200
4014 Kimball Rd. Corunna, ON, NON 1G0
The Beacon of St. Clair Township July 2023 Page 13
Right: A SunLiner tri- pontoon “party boat”, complete with retracta- ble stilts for docking, was also on display at the car show while its owner took in the auto extravaganza.
The show attracted 227 fantastic vehicles.
Below: Ken Hall, left, and his custom-built 1938 Dodge coupe had admirers lined up to get a look at the shiny 392 Hemi engine that pow- ered the car. Fellow car enthusiast Lang Chase, shown right, was one of those admirers.
Ken says the car took 10 years to build and he did most of the custom work himself, right
down to the curly maple finish on the dash board. “There’s not much stock left in it other than the block,” he said. He added that the hood ornament was original to the car and the leather interior was professionally done.
B. Stevenson photos
Wilkesport United Church celebrates 150 th anniversary
The Wilkesport United Church was built in 1873 with lumber hewed from the surrounding forest.
And on a sunny Sunday in 2023, Wilkesport United Church, still standing and lovingly tended, celebrated 150 years of service to the community.
Outside, a newly-planted Autumn Blaze maple sapling and a commemora- tive rock and plaque waited to be dedi- cated. Inside, Pastor Betty Jean Page delivered a sermon that carried a mes- sage of optimism and thanks. Woven throughout the service was beautiful music, supplied by organist David Lee, pianist Myrna Hyatt, the vocal duo, Mercy, comprised of Mikkie Burnham and Helen VanderHeide, and hymns sung by the congregation.
The church’s fascinating history was revealed by Sombra Museum Curator Kailyn Shepley and Mayor Jeff Agar deliv- ered a Certificate of Congratulations on
behalf of the people of St. Clair Township.
After the service, a sumptuous after-service lunch was en- joyed by the congregation in a newly-painted community room. The building has new stained glass windows designed and made by artist Margaret Anne McKichan, and the exterior is landscaped with a donated Weeping evergreen and flowers.
The congregation would like to express their appreciation to the following businesses and helpers who made the celebration a tremendous success: DeGroot’s Nursery and John DeGroot for his guidance in choosing the maple tree; Feddes Fabrication for the metal cross; All Seasons Trophies and Signs; BB Painting, Wal- laceburg, and paint donor Beth Burrell who used it to beautify the community room; Courier Press; Sarnia and Lambton County
This Week; Wilkesport UCW; Radio Chatham-Kent 89.3 FM for advertising; the St. Clair Township Beacon for publicity; Pastor Page for donating the celebration cake; Jerry and Karen Annett; Chuck and Betty Lauwereys; Jeff and JoAnn Shepherd; Beth Marchand; Bill Myers; Facebook coordinator Shirley McKeegan; Ann, Deb, and Pam Shepley.
Thank you to all who helped make this special day happen!
Wilkesport United Church Pastor Betty Jean Page, front of congregation on right, holds up the Certificate of Congrat- ulations on the church’s 150th anniversary that was presented to her by Mayor Jeff Agar (front middle).
B. Stevenson photos
Recycle used batteries at Lambton County Libraries
Lambton County Library has partnered with Call2Re- cycle Canada, Inc. to host battery recycling collection boxes in select Lambton County Library locations to en- courage the proper disposal of used batteries.
“Increased access and convenient battery drop-off locations will help safeguard our environment for future generations,” said Andrew Meyer, General Manager, Cul- tural Services. “Through the Call2Recycle program, bat- teries are safely collected and properly recycled to en- sure that heavy metals and toxic chemicals do not im-
pact groundwater and soil.”
Anyone wishing to recycle batteries must prepare them for recycling by following the Call2Recycle guide- lines, which include bagging the battery in a provided clear bag or taping over the battery’s terminals before depositing them in the Call2Recycle collection boxes. Lambton County residents can drop off their used sin- gle-use and rechargeable household batteries (weighing up to 5 kg each) at the following 12 Lambton County Library locations: Brigden, Corunna, Petrolia, Bright’s Grove, Alvinston, Forest, Grand Bend, Mall Road, Petrolia, Point Edward, Sarnia, Watford, Wyo- ming.
Lambton County Library branches offer much more than books
Your library lends out much more than hard copy and online books: the Library’s Active Living Lifestyle collection loans out a number of items to keep Lambton County moving. Enrich your wanderings through nature or just your neighbourhood by borrowing a pair of walking poles, go bird-watching with a set of Tasco 10x42 binoculars, find out how many steps you take with a borrowed pedometer, then find out where you are with a GPS unit. These are available to those who have a cur- rent Lambton County Library card, which is free to anyone who lives, works, studies, or owns property in Lambton County, or who resides in a First Nations community. For more information on locations, services, and hours of operation,
visit: lclibrary.ca .
Weekly St. Clair Township hours of operation
*Brigden 519-864-1142): Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 2
p.m. to 7 p.m.; Wednesday, Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
*Corunna (519-862-1132): Monday through Friday, 10
a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
*Courtright 519-867-2712): Tuesday, Saturday, 10 a.m.
to 2 p.m.; Thursday, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
*Mooretown (519-867-2823): Monday, Saturday, 9 a.m.
to 1 p.m.; Wednesday, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
*Sombra (519-892-3711): Tuesday, 3 p.m.to 7 p.m.; Thursday, Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
*Port Lambton (519-677-5217): Monday, Saturday, 10a.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.
From page 20 Quilt show to display dozens of quilts and handmade items
The North Lambton Quilters’ Guild, established in 1989, have exhibited their work at the Lambton Heritage Museum for over 15 years. Their shows have expanded to include other handmade items like clothing, wall hangings, table toppers and quilted accessories. Historic quilts from the museum’s collection will also be on display to highlight old and new techniques. The show will also feature quilting demonstrations, a tea room, and vendors selling quilting supplies and books, and the Guild’s quilting rummage sale.
couraging children to read throughout their child- hood has a number of positive benefits. Many par- ents already read to their children, but there are parents who, due to work responsibilities outside the home and within the home, can’t find the time to do this.
The Summer Reading Buddies program can help those parents give their children valuable exposure to the magic of words and the joy of hearing a sto- ry unfold on the page.
Students interested in being a Summer Reading Buddy can all 519-332-487, email:
tracy.pound@literacylambton.org,
or connect on Facebook, @literacylambton Facebook or @literacylambton
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Reading an important life skill
Parents polled during the State of Kids and Reading in Canada study noted reading was a valu- able tool in helping develop vocabulary and lan- guage skills. It encouraged children to use their imagination and created an enthusiasm for read- ing.
In the long-term, it provided an alternative to excessive hours spent with technology and promot- ed greater success at school. The ability to read and understand the written word is crucial to a child’s future success.
mission 2018-2019 study of Ontar-
io student performance, 18 per cent of Grade 6 students did not meet the provincial writing stand- ard. The study noted, “...data on reading is cause for concern...too many Ontario students are being left behind.”
Every three years, 15-year old students across Canada are tested for their reading, mathematics and science skills. This testing in 2018, done in 79 countries through the International Student As- sessment (PISA), (a collaborative effort among members of the Organization for Economic Cooper- ation and Development of which Canada is a mem- ber) focused on literacy.
Ontario students performed well in the 2018 testing, but areas of concern were also noted, in- cluding: girls performed significantly better than boys in reading; since 2000, overall reading scores have declined; the reading gap between students with the highest and lowest performance levels has widened; 13 per cent of students (about one in seven) performed at the lowest levels of PISA; so- cio-economically advantaged students performed better than socio-disadvantaged students by about
4.8 per cent. About 24 per cent of advantaged stu- dents and only 7 per cent of disadvantaged stu- dents were top performers in reading.
Lambton County Library launches annual Summer Reading Program
Lambton County Library’s sum- mer reading program is back this year with opportunities for children aged 0-12, teens aged 13-17, and adults. This year’s themes are An Ocean of Possibilities for children, Make Waves for teens and Challenge Yourshelf for adults. Registration for these programs is now open.
“The summer reading program encourages reading, imagination, outdoor engagement, and community in- volvement,” said Vanitia Campbell, Public Services Coor- dinator, Youth Programs and Outreach. “Participating in the summer reading program aids in learning skills outside of the classroom.”
To register, create an account with Beanstack, and join the summer reading challenge. Beanstack is an elec- tronic reporting software that can be accessed using a mobile device, a computer, or with the help of library staff at any location. Once registered, participants can pick up their registration kits from any Lambton County Library location during operating hours.
Through July and August, participants can take part in activities, games, and challenges and set reading goals for themselves. Books can be borrowed at any library loca- tion, and eBooks are available through digital platforms found at www.lclibrary.ca.
Activities, games, and challenges launch on July 3, 2023. Events will be taking place across Lambton County,
including Pirate Parties, Stargazing Parties, StoryWalks, Tales from the High Seas, Captain Corbin’s Boatload of Fun Pirate Adventure Magic Show, and more!
An Ocean of Possibilities – Children’s Program
Participants will receive an age-specific registration package (0-4 years, 5-8 years and 9-12 years) in English or French, including a passport, program instructions, sup- plies for a DIY activity, activity sheets, and a recommend- ed reading list. For every five books read, kids will earn one free book prize to
Make Waves – Teen Program
This year’s theme for teens is Make Waves, and the program focuses not only on reading, but exploring the outdoors and helping your community. By signing up for the program, teens, aged 13 - 17, can read and complete activities to earn book prizes and entries into prize draws for $50.00 Amazon gift cards. Teens will receive a book prize for every 200 minutes read, to a maximum of three book prizes.
Challenge Yourshelf – Adult Program
Adult readers can take on activities and reading chal- lenges and set personal reading goals along the way. Complete activities and earn reading log badges in Beanstack and submit ballots each time you visit a library for a chance to win a $50 to $100 Tourism Sarnia-Lambton gift certificate.
For more information about the summer reading program, visit www.lclibrary.ca/srp
The Beacon of St. Clair Township July 2023 Page 18
Brigden Fair Ambassador wanted for 2023-2024
The Brigden Fair Ambassador competition is just weeks away and we’re looking for candidates
from 17 to 24 years of age as of August 1, 2023, either male or female, to apply. Applicants who have already represented any Ontario fair in the past
are not eligible, but previous contestants are welcome to enter again. Previous partici- pants of the CNE Ambassador of the Fairs Competition are not eligible. Applicants must be willing to represent Moore Agricultural Society at the Brigden Fair on October 6, 7,
8 and 9, and attend various parades, banquets and other events as required to enhance fair representation in the community.
Competitors need not come from a farm but should have some agricultural knowledge
and must be capable of representing the rural, farm aspect of our community.
For details and entry form, go online to:
https://www.brigdenfair.ca/fair/ambassador/
One of the most entertaining and in-demand musi- cal acts you’ll ever see is Scott Manery and the Barnburners. Lucky you! They’re coming
to Brigden Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall on Sept. 9. Tickets are just $10 per person (19 and over) are available at the fair office or from MAS directors. Cash only please.
The Beacon of St. Clair Township July 2023 Page 19
PORT LAMBTON GALA DAYS
Gala Days are on the way the weekend of Au-
From page 20
an adult. Pre-registration is required online at: Lambtonfarmsafety@gmail.com or by calling 519- 344-7858.
Sombra Museum Blueberry Social
Another summer favourite is back at the Sombra Museum. The Blueberry Social is slated for July 8 from 1p.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature lots of activities, scrumptious desserts, and live entertain- ment. The suggested donation for the social is $5.
NOTE: The Sombra Museum will have a table at Sombra Days on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. making little sail boats out of foam.
2023 SPECIAL EVENTS
Saturday, September 10 at 9 a.m.
Enjoy geocaching
Enjoy a geocaching adventure at the beautiful Lorne C. Henderson Conservation Area. It’s open to everyone - those who know how to do this or are interested in learning about it. No registration will be required for this fascinating activity.
Sunday, September 10 - 9 a.m.
Sunday, September 24
Foundation Memorial Forest Dedication
On Sunday, Sept. 24 at 2 p.m. at the Lorne C. Henderson Conservation Area, the SCRCA Foundation will host the dedication of its Memorial Forest. The forest contains trees planted in loving memory of those who have passed away. Their loved ones and donors to this time of remembrance will be invited to attend, by everyone is welcome to attend.
For more information about remembering a loved one in this special way, email the SCRCA office at stclair@scrca.on.ca .
For more information about activities, email: dblue@scrca.on.ca or stclair@scrca.on.ca .
gust 4-6. The event will feature 2-pitch baseball and a dance on Friday night, the parade on Satur- day at 11 a.m. and volleyball/2-pitch on Sunday with a Home Run Derby after the men’s ball final.
Also on Saturday, there will be children’s games and activities on Saturday from noon to 2
p.m. 50/50 tickets will be sold, a penny table will be open all day, and there will be music by Mat Gauthier, The Gypsy Flats, and Brothers Wilde.
Gala Days Parade - Sat. Aug.5, 11a.m.
To enter your float, truck, classic car, farm equipment, etc. for the parade, call Jordan at 519-312-7499. ENTRY IS FREE! Staging will be at the Port Lambton United Church (corner of Wil- liam and Hill Street.) Judging will be at 10:40 a.m.
There will be cash prizes for the best float. Due to safety concerns, no water balloons or water guns should be used, and candy must be hand de- livered, NOT THROWN.
ID will be required for the purchase of alcohol and wristbands will be required.
SEE YOU AT GALA DAYS!
Moore Sports Complex SUMMER CAMP
Registration now open
Our 2023 Camp brings the exciting experience of sum- mer camp to children with crafts, songs, games, swim- ming, and much more! Each day will be filled with fun, adventure and lots of activity. Summer camp reg- istration can be for the week or the full summer.
Register online or call 519-867-2651.
Camp Hours of Operation
*Regular Camp Hours: 8:30 am – 4:30 p.m.
Monday – Friday
*Extended Before care begins at 7:30 a.m.
Monday – Friday
*Extended after care ends at 5:30 p.m.
Monday – Friday
Royal Canadian Legion Leslie Sutherland Branch 447 will host a cornhole
tournament on Saturday, July 15.
Play will start at 10 a.m., with teams going head-to-head on multiple sets of boards.
Entry fee of $30 per team is due upon registration - pre-registration is required.
Door prizes from local sponsors.
For more information or to register, contact:
Russ Lloyd (519) 312-5241
Russlloyd94@gmail.com
Join the fun at the Br. 447 hall, 350 Albert St. in Corunna!
The Beacon of St. Clair Township July 2023 Page 20
Corunna Legion Br.447
events/activities
The Royal Canadian Legion Br. 447 Corunna will host the following activities.
Regular Legion Br. 447 Activities
Every Monday is Pepper at 1 p.m.
Every Wednesday is Wacky Wednesday all day. Every Thursday is Cribbage at 1 p.m.
Every Friday is Bridge at 1 p.m.
Every Saturday is Meat draw at 4 p.m. Every Friday - Fun Darts at 7 p.m.
Special Branch 447 events
*Saturday, July 15 - Cornhole Tourney. Pre- registration required. $30/team. Email:
Russlloyd94@gmail.com or call 519-312-5241.
*Thursday, July 20-Trivia Night -$5/person or a team of two for $15. All monies re-
turned as prizes.
Please note the building is wheelchair accessible.
Courtright Friendship Club activities
The Courtright Friendship Club meets every first Thursday of every month next to the Courtright Li- brary, 1533 Fourth Street. Annual membership is
$10, but non-members are welcome to come out to
the groups weekly card games. Euchre is played on Wednesdays at 1 p.m. and Pepper is played on Fridays at 7 p.m. The cost per game is $3 per per- son.
Raffle tickets for Brigden Fair quilt on sale
If you haven’t ordered your Brigden Fair Home-
craft Division Annual Quilt Raffle tickets yet, you can get them from any Homecraft member (in per- son), at events such as the September Downriver
Craft Show (Mooretown), at the fairgrounds, or you can purchase by e-transfer at:
quiltraffle@brigdenfair.ca . Be sure to include how many tickets you want to purchase, including
names and contact information for the tickets. The cost is $2/ticket or 3 for $5, and they can al- so be purchased in larger quantities. Your tickets will be emailed to you. The winning ticket will be drawn Thanksgiving Monday, but don't delay! Lim-
ited tickets are available.
Brigden Fair sponsors invited to get on board
If you’ve ever thought about being part of the Brigden Fair, now is the time to do it. Let’s dis-
cuss opportunities for you and/or your company to become a class sponsor at the fair. It’s easy - just give us a call at 519-864-1197 to talk about it or
email: info@brigdenfair.ca or
michelle@evanitski@brigdenfair.ca
A Homecraft sponsorship can cost as little as
$25. Livestock sponsorship is higher so please call for details and you’ll find out all of the possible categories you can chose from.
Quilt show at Lambton Heritage Museum
The Lambton Heritage Museum is hosting the bi- annual North Lambton Quilt Show until Sept. 2. Museum hours are Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Admission is $5 per adult, $4 per senior/student, $3 per child, and free for children under age three. ( See page 14 for background)
Progressive Agricultural Safety Day
The Progressive Agricultural Safety Day, sponsored by the Lamb- ton Farm Safety Association, will be held at the Petrolia Arena on Thursday, July 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This FREE, fun and informative family event will include lunch. Children must be accompanied by
More Around the Township, page 19 & 18
PRINTED BEACON NOW AVAILABLE
Get your copy at: all St. Clair Township library
branches, Thompson Gardens in Corunna, and at the St. Clair Township Civic Centre at front door.
Just look for the Beacon Bin.
This summer, The Beacon can also be found in the lobby of the Moore Museum.
