August, 2023

Issue 8

Volume 16

August 2023

THE TOWNSHIP OF ST. CLAIR

Municipal Notes Pages 2-3
WORKS DEPARTMENT
Pages 5-7

This pair of beautiful paddock pals stole the show during a secret photo shoot for an upcoming Som- bra Museum project. The project will soon be revealed but for now, only the horses are in on the secret and they’re not talking. B. Stevenson photo

What’s new on the inside?

Heritage Corner Page
14-15

Community Contact
Page
17

Around the Township Pages
20-18

This guy was spotted at the Sombra Museum…
now he’s in The Beacon…but where?

They’re big, they’re beautiful, they’re disappearing.
How and why do we save unwanted barns?
See page 15

CONTACT THE BEACON: beacon@stclairtownship.ca

White Line bridge to be resurrected
The White Line bridge that spans Clay Creek just east of the St. Clair Parkway has been closed to traffic awaiting demolition since 2022 but it has now received a stay of execution by order of council.
This is good news for the many residents, service, and delivery vehicle drivers that have been forced to take an 8.6 kilometre detour to bypass the dead end the closure has caused.
When the order to close the bridge was passed by the former council, it prompted the formation of the ad hoc White Line Bridge Re- vival Committee which has been circulating a petition to have the bridge rehabilitated and reopened since its inception. The petition has since been signed by about 225 people and it was part of a presentation the current council heard at its June 10 meeting.
Committee spokesperson Krista Klompstra and a large group in favour of the White Line bridge reopening attended the meeting anx- ious to defend the importance of having the bridge reopened.
Krista noted maintenance on the bridge, built in 1935, has never been observed by resi- dents in the area and it was a large hole in the bridge, discovered in 2022, that prompted the decision to close it.
She reasoned the request for the reopening of the bridge was in line with the County of Lambton’s Strategic Plan, which stresses car- ing, growth, and innovation. She pointed out the bridge closure is disrupting the movement and response times of emergency vehicles like fire trucks and ambulances, and hampering the flow of service vehicles such as mail, snowplow, garbage, recycling trucks, and school buses that must take alternate routes. “That doesn’t feel like caring,” she said, add- ing it could discourage new growth in the area and maybe cause some current residents to leave. “(Some) people have property on both sides (of the bridge) so they have to drive around all the time. Nobody expected to live on a dead-end road with no access,” she said. An example of a resident cut off from his

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

property by the closed bridge involved a livestock produc- er who must drive around the detour route twice a day just to water his cattle.
The environmental and financial impact of the extra kilometres made necessary by the bridge closing is also of concern. “We’re having to drive a lot more,” said Krista. Extra kilometres mean more fuel spent, more carbon di- oxide in the air, and fewer dollars in the pocket.
In conclusion, Krista called the situation “unacceptable”. She cited a report submitted to council by the township’s engineering department in May of this year which revisited the bridge closure, offered four op- tions for council’s consideration, and gave the estimated cost of each: 1. Replacement-$2,676,200; 2. Rehabilita- tion – $610,00, 3. Removal – $203,000, or 4. Do nothing for now (but eventually spend $203,000 to demolish and remove it). Option four, which required no immediate action, was originally chosen by the former council be- cause of the considerable costs involved with Options 1-3. (Five other bridge projects, one estimated at $3 million, are currently underway, severely depleting the allotted 2023 budget.)
However, the rehabilitation of the White Line bridge is now scheduled for 2024. Paul DaSilva, Coordinator of En- gineering for St. Clair Township, explained that for the Clay Creek bridge project, “We’ll need to design and go through regulatory approvals, environmental approvals, things like that. It’s not going to happen tomorrow. We’ll put it in the budget for 2024 and once we get the okay on that we can start engineering unless council wants to start engineering sooner than that. I can bring a report back with some of the options.”
Mayor Agar agreed there is a lot of expensive bridge

work going on in the township, but council agreed engi- neering should develop a report on options to be consid- ered for the rehabilitation of the bridge.
Council’s decision to repair and put the bridge back in operation was met with an appreciative round of applause from those who had come to hear and be heard.

NOTICE
ZION CEMETERY
St. Clair Township has submitted by-laws to the Registrar of the Funeral, Burial, and Cremation Services Act, 2002. Any interest- ed parties may contact Jeff Baranek at
(519) 862-2021 for information, or to make copies. By-laws or amendments may be re- viewed or copied at 1155 Emily St. Moore- town.
These by-laws are subject to the approval of the Registrar, Funeral, Burial, and Cre- mation Services Act, 2002. Telephone: Be- reavement Authority of Ontario 647-483- 2645 or 1-844-493-6356.

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 ser- vices 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, which in- cludes a wide number of Help At Home services, is informed by feedback gathered from community members and care provides within Sarnia and Lamb- ton County.
For those who prefer to speak to someone about lo- cal supports, please call: The Older Adult Care Path- way, or 519-336-3600 or 1-888-347-8737.

The Beacon of St. Clair Township August 2023 Page 4
Heat warnings are serious matters-

Know how to handle them.
We’ve had some high temperatures this summer and Au- gust will probably bring us more of them. Don’t try to ig- nore the heat because heat-related illnesses can affect people of any age (and animals, too) and they can be avoided.
Lambton Public Health advises everyone to know the signs of heat-related illness and know what to do about it.
Symptoms include: rapid breathing, dizziness or fainting, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, extreme thirst, and decreased urination. If these symptoms occur, get into a shaded or air conditioned area, drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids, and rest. If you are alone, contact your health provider, a fam- ily member or a friend.
Heat strokes are considered a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if you are caring for someone who has a high body temperature, is unconscious, confused, or has stopped sweating.
If you know someone who is vulnerable (young children, seniors, medically fragile, etc.) or who may need help to keep cool or take other preventative actions, check on them regularly during a heat event to be sure they are well.
To avoid falling victim to high temperatures, here are some steps to take.
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
• Avoid strenuous activities between 11 a.m. and 3
p.m. and reschedule outdoor activities to a cooler time.
• Avoid exposure to the sun if possible, wear sun- screen and sunglasses to avoid skin and eye damage.
• The sun can pose a health risk if you’re taking cer- tain medications. Check with your health care pro- vider.
• Use cool compresses and wet towels on face, neck, or arms.
• Keep curtains closed to keep rooms cool.
• NEVER LEAVE PETS OR PEOPLE of any age IN A PARKED CAR!
• Make sure pets have a shady or cool place to rest and fresh water in their bowl to drink. Shelter and sufficient hydration is as important for them as it is for us.

Special Olympics come to CAP

Above: Some happy young members of the Storm soccer team stand for a photograph with Mayor Jeff Agar and event coordinator Tana Manchester, right.

Mayor Jeff Agar says it was a privilege to be in- vited to attend and speak at the Special Olympics Ontario soccer event at the Corunna Athletic Park on June 25. Two Sarnia teams, as well as teams from Woodstock, London, and St. Thomas, played. “These kids really try hard, and they work hard to be there,” he said. “They came from all over to play at CAP park.”
Special Olympics Sarnia is dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals in the Sarnia-Lambton area with intellectual disabilities through the power of sport.
Tana Manchester, community coordinator for the event, told Mayor Agar that the young participants of the event love to come to CAP park to play.

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 are underway.

To contact the Mooretown Sports Complex, call 519-867-2651, or to website at: www.stclairtownshipcommunityservices.ca
We’re also on:

Water utility appointments require 48 hours notice

St. Clair Township By-Law 16 of 2022 requires at least 48 hours notice in advance of scheduling appointments with the Public Works department to avoid service fees.

BRUSH COLLECTION CANCELLED
• Due to operational budget cuts, St. Clair Township will not be offering any brush 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 7 The Beacon of St. Clair Township August 2023 Page 7 From page 6 The Beacon of St. Clair Township August 2023 Page 8 LPH issues advisory re: increase in suspected opioid ODs Lambton Public Health has issued an advisory in the wake of a higher than average incidence of suspected opioid overdoses in early July. In a news release, LPH reminded readers that free Naloxone kits are available from Lambton Public Health at 160 Exmouth Street in Sarnia as well as local pharmacies and several Community Health Centres. Naloxone comes in an easy- to-use nasal spray format to be administered if some- one is showing signs of opioid overdose or toxicity. Signs of an opioid overdose or toxicity include: diffi- culty walking, talking or staying awake; blue or grey lips or nails; very small pupils; cold, clammy skin; diz- ziness and confusion; extreme drowsiness; choking, Startup of world’s first CMF plant good news for environment On June 19, the world’s first CMF plant was commis- sioned in Sarnia at the Vidal Street Arlanxeo site. In a media release from parent company Origin Materi- als, Inc., it was explained that Origin 1 is the first commer- cial sustainable manufacturing plant using non-food bio- mass, such as wood residue, to produce CMF (chloromethyl furfral), a versatile chemical building block that can be used as a base ingredient for the production of *PET plastic. It will also produce HTC (hydrothermal carbon) that can be used in the making of sustainable carbon black for vehicle tires. These products will be used to produce renewable, carbon negative products. The Beacon was among the invited media, guests, and dignitaries at the ribbon-cutting ceremony officially ac- knowledging the startup of the Origin 1 facility. In the invi- tation, Zach Gorin, Origin’s Senior Vice-president of Strate- gurgling, or snoring sounds; slow, weak, or no breath- ing; inability to wake up, even when shaken or shouted at. If you suspect someone of overdose or toxicity:  Call 911 immediately.  Stay at the scene to provide information to para- medics (the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects you)  Administer Naloxone if you have it. LPH advises caution when using opioids or if using drugs that are not prescribed to you. Don’t mix opioids with alcohol or other drugs, and don’t use alone. Know the signs of an opioid overdose and carry a Na- loxone kit. gic Communications and Advisory, explained, “The new plant will supply industry with intermediate chemicals and materials that can be used across a wide range of end mar- kets, including clothing, textiles, plastics, packaging, car parts, tires, carpeting, toys, fuels and more, with a ~$1 trillion addressable market.” In a general media release from Origin Materials, Inc. announcing the startup of Origin 1, the plant’s stated pur- pose was to act as an innovation centre for the scaling up and deploying of the company’s core technology platform, with a focus on funded joint development programs and qualifying materials for higher value applications. The com- pany expects work done at the Sarnia facility will make CMF available on a commercial scale for the first time to enable the production of renewable, carbon negative products like those mentioned above. ~Editor Bonnie Stevenson *PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is a clear, strong, light- weight, 100% recyclable plastic. Corunna200 apparel on display The Almost Canada’s Capital Corun- na200 phenomenon continues to gain mo- mentum with the arrival of the fantastic logo apparel and swag. Left: Some mem- bers of the Corunna200 Committee model t-shirts and hoodies, and display insulated tumblers that are sure to be- come collectibles in the days to come. Other logo-bearing items include drink koozies, stickers, and beverage opener key chains. Packages containing one of each of these three items will be on sale at Captain Kidd Days. Logo-bearing mugs are also available. Models for this impromptu photo shoot include, from left: Jacob Starr, Jordan Elnicki, Shannon Timbrell, Tracy Kingston, Nicole Smith, and Will Graham (who will be a featured artist at the family-friendly Sept. 23 Corunna200 street festival). A display of these shirts and other items will be installed at Corunna Home Hardware as well as a reminder that they can be purchased at Two Water Brewing on Lyndoch Street. The celebration of Corunna’s little- known moment of glory is the brain-child Tracy Kingston, who was a St. Clair Township councillor when she suggested it to council. Given the go-ahead to develop the event, it wasn’t long before she had formed a committee and was on the way to creating a summer event that has already attracted na- tional media attention. Tracy recently announced the committee has been well supported by donors, from individuals to industries and businesses. She says plans and events for the September 23 street festival are looking great. So far, vendor interest has been brisk and vendor fees may be waived to ease the burden of ad- ministration. Are you a good sleuth? YOU COULD WIN A 60”TV! Join the Corunna200 Scavenger Hunt and you’ll be eligible for a chance to win a large-screen TV. A Scavenger Hunt card can be obtained at any of the participating businesses including: Esso Gas, Bad Dog, Home Hardware, St. Vincent De Paul, Gold- en Palace, Dynamic Graffix, Burger Rebellion, St.Clair Animal Hospital, Eye Opener, Sal’s Restaurant, Green Scene Lawn Care, Padre’s Grill House, Co-Operators Insurance, Pet Value, Moda Salon, Foodland, Pharmasave, Corunna Library, Sissio’s, Corunna Chiropractor, Myers Insurance, Rustic Scoops, Two Water Brewery, Pets Life, Pizza Hut, Lapiers Flowers, Anto- nio’s, Ken’s Mini Mart, Downriver Pool and Spas, and WCK Hon- da. To play: Visit each business on the list once a month to read the fact and the question which will be posted on the window, and write your answer on your playing card. For each line complet- ed, you will receive one ballot for the 60” TV. To win: On Sept. 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the Corun- na200 Street Festival on Lyndoch Street, submit you card for ballots at the Moda Hair Salon tent. Remember to start your day with a Legion breakfast! See page 20 St. Clair Region Conservation Authority Seeking Public Comment on disposition of two conservation areas The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) is seeking public comment on the proposed disposition of the Highland Glen and C.J. McEwen Conservation Areas to the Town of Plympton-Wyoming. The C.J. McEwen Conservation Area is located at 4318 Lakeshore Road. The property boasts a 200-metre beach at the base of a 50-foot shoreline bluff along Lake Huron. The recreational area of this prop- erty includes mowed grass, mature shade trees, picnic tables, a washroom facility, and an earthen ramp to the beach. The remainder of the site consists of a mixed forest plantation. The Conservation Area was leased to the Town of Plympton-Wyoming in January of 2021. The Highland Glen Conservation Area is located 10 kilometres west of Forest at 5046 Lakeshore Road. The property is comprised of ap- proximately 10.5 hectares (26 acres) of predominantly wooded land along with an access roadway, parking lot, pavilion, and boat ramp with seawall and groyne protection. The Town of Plympton-Wyoming leased the property and boat launch in April of 2022. At the June 22 meeting of the SCRCA Board of Directors, the draft purchase agreements, and conservation easements for both proper- ties were approved along with the initiation of the 45-day public comment period required under Section 21(4) of the Conservation Authorities Act for the disposition of land. Public comment will be received until August 26, 2023, at 11:59 pm. Comments can be submitted by email to comments@scrca.on.ca. For more information on the proposed disposition of the Highland Glen and C.J. McEwen Conservation Areas visit https:// bit.ly/3NLxy2R. Damp weather didn’t dampen Sombra Days festivities Sombra Days Saturday was less than perfect this year, but it didn’t stop any- one from enjoying the occasion. Baseball teams took to the baseball diamond as planned, the splashpad was in constant operation, and the air was filled with the smell of good food. Between the busy kitchen, the good music and the 50/50 ticket table, tummies were kept full, attendees were entertained, and tickets purchased carried with them the possibility of future wealth. Left: The ticket table was a busy place as event visitors like Sombra native Ila Boshaw, right side of the table, stopped by to try her luck with some 50/50 tickets. The Greg Peters B Division team was all smiles after their first–place showing. The rain and wet conditions on the baseball diamond didn’t seem to dampen their enthusiasm. B. Division photo Cellar Door, the tal- ented Chatham duo of Nickolas Swan, left, and Philip Smith, kept spirits light with music that inspired two kids to hit the dance floor, where a dance move called “flossing” was masterfully demonstrated. August 2023 Page 11 New childcare facility opens in Brigden; demand for placement is high Kiddie Korner childcare in Brigden is a facility that has been about three years in the making. Its existence was spearheaded by Ross George (green plaid) and Mark Steadman (orange plaid), two local dads who became aware of the shortage of childcare facilities in their area. To correct that shortage, they bought the empty building at 3017 Brigden Road in the village with the goal of putting a licensed child- care facility in it and, with help from the Masonic Lodge, the men got the building kid-ready. “The Masonic Lodge worked with us,” said Mark. “They shared our vi- sion and supported it.” When word of the new Brigden location became known, the positive public reac- tion was immediate. Parents from all over central Lambton, from downriver to Oil Springs, expressed interest in signing up their child in Brigden. The Brigden facility is the second Kiddie Korner location in Lambton County, an ex- pansion of the original non-profit Kiddie Korner that operates in Petrolia. Location supervisor Carrie Westgate says the site is staffed by qualified Early Childhood educa- tors. Above: Shown at the June Kiddie Korner Brigden site open house are, from left: Penny Kearney, program director for both the Pe- trolia and Brigden Kiddie Korners; St. Clair Township Deputy Mayor Steve Miller; Ross George and kiddies; Mark Steadman and kiddies; and the Robertson family who came out to celebrate the occasion. Bonnie Stevenson photo Community support for the Brigden site has included special garden boxes and a composter donated by the Kiwanis Club of Petrolia through its Green Leader grant. The children are encouraged to help plant and take care of the planters as a learning experience. The grant also included a donation of children’s literature and $100 in gift cards for Windover’s Nursery near Petrolia. According to Carrie Westgate, Supervisor of the Early Childhood Educators at the new Brigden day care, the children continue to enjoy the gardening and reading experience. “The children water the plants when they’re thirsty and they have enjoyed the books in our classroom,” she said. As licensed facilities, registration is handled by the County of Lambton. Penny Kearney, program director of both the Petrolia and Brigden facilities, explained parents who wish to register their children to attend Kiddie Korner must apply to be put on the pre-school wait list for the childcare location of their choice. This can be done online at: onehsn/County of Lambton. When a space becomes available, eligible applicants are contacted. Registration for a day or five-day slots can be done, although five-day slots are given priority. Penny says more childcare spaces are needed and they aren’t opening up fast enough. “It’s a slow go but there are lots of hoops to jump through,” she said, adding that a standard $10/day will eventually be in place for licensed child care facilities across Canada. The standard rate is slated to be in full effect by September 2025. In the meantime, current rates will be slowly decreased. Gardeners In Bloom Left: These three tiny gardeners were among the six who enjoyed helping fill the planters with pretty petunias, for which they continue to care. The happy group of horticultural novices included: Luxley, Chloe, Emma, Rae, Edson, and Joanie. Kiddie Korner photos Mayor Joe Dedecker honoured with memorial marker stone On June 29, under a warm, smoke-obscured sun, a memo- rial stone to the memory of Joe Dedecker, Mayor of Sombra Township in its final years, and first Mayor of St. Clair Town- ship, was dedicated. The stone is a tribute to his love of com- munity and his efforts to see it thrive and prosper in his care. The marker stone, located in Branton-Cundick Park near the boat launch, was sponsored by Suncor’s St. Clair Ethanol Plant and the St. Clair River Trail. It marks the place where the River Trail from Guthrie Park in the north linked up with the River Trail from Brander Park in the south. It replaces a marker that was badly damaged by wave action during high water levels. Representatives from the St. Clair Ethanol Plant and the St. Clair River Trail, as well as Mayor Jeff Agar and Warden Kevin Marriott, were on hand for the dedication. The St. Clair River Trail (SCRT) Committee was represent- ed by Dave Cramm and Jane Marsh, who advocated for and spearheaded the progress of the trail right from the commit- tee’s first meeting in 1997. During the dedication, Jane Marsh recalled that after the 2000 amalgamation of Sombra and Moore Townships, Mayor Dedecker supported the committee’s work. “Joe became a great supporter of the trail...he institut- ed a program that helped us survive,” she said. “For every dol- lar the SCRT raised, the township would donate two dollars.” Attending the dedication of the memorial marker stone for Joe Dedecker are, from left: Micaela Street- er, Director, St. Clair Ethanol Plant; Jane Marsh, SCRT; Jason Vaillant (BASES); Karen, Joe, & Brianna Dedecker; Mayor Jeff Agar; Lambton County Warden Kevin Marriott. She also praised the support the trail received the community. “Industry and commercial people, and people on the street all got behind the trail. Industry donated very well and that also kept us going,” she said. Micaela Streeter, Director of the St. Clair Ethanol Plant, noted that Mayor Dedecker’s willingness to satisfy his own misgivings about the ethanol plant played an important part in its approval. “The success of the St. Clair Eth- anol Plant was only possible because Joe was willing to set aside some initial concerns and learn about our pro- ject, then share what he had learned and understood with others in the community,” she said. St. Clair Township Mayor Jeff Agar spoke about Mayor Dedecker’s municipal service beginning in 1975, when he was first elected to Sombra Township, and continuing in municipal service through amalgamation in 2000 to be- come the first Mayor of St. Clair Township and a Warden of Lambton County. “His service to the community and to Lambton County speaks to the kind of man he was,” said Mayor Agar. “Joe’s marker on the St. Clair River Trail not only pays homage to his incredible life but reminds us of his efforts to make St. Clair Township the place it is today.” Editor’s Note Left: Shown with the new “river blue” bench dedicated to Mayor Joe Dedecker is his son, Joe, with wife, Karen, and daughter, Brianna. (Joe and Karen’s sons Brennan, Nathaniel, and Christopher were unable to attend the event.) B. Stevenson photos I was assigned to cover Sombra Council in the early 1990s when Mayor Dedecker had the centre seat and Steve Arnold, Steve Miller, and Darrell Randell were young councillors unaware that their municipal careers would ex- tend well into the new millennium. The first encounter I had with Mayor Joe happened when I was at the begin- ning of my career as a journalist. It was the first council meeting I had ever attended; I felt inadequate for the job and nervous about how I’d be received. On the drive downriver, I imagined I’d enter a place of stuffy formality and, to be frank, it freaked me out. At the door to the quiet council chamber, I collected my wits and tiptoed into the room. The silence was suddenly shattered by a loud “Come in” emanating from the front of the room. It was Mayor Joe, grinning at me like a kid who had just pulled a suc- cessful prank on a friend... I knew all would be well. Over the years, I came to know Joe as a big-hearted man with a tough side who took seriously the job the people had elected him to do. He was a plain talker who rarely left you guessing what was on his mind. But he was also a gentle soul with a mischievous streak who cherished friendship, his family, and his faith. It was a privilege to know Mayor Joe Dedecker and his wife, Carol, and an honour to witness and document the dedication of the memorial marker in his honour. ~Bonnie Stevenson Connection Cube available at Sarnia library People who want to access private meeting space for in-person and virtual appointments with government agencies and community organ- izations are now able to reserve a Connection Cube at Sarnia Library. The installation of the Connection Cube was funded by the Sarnia-Lambton Ontario Health Team. The Connection Cube is a private meeting space that comes equipped with an iPad, Wi-Fi, and phone connectivity. The Cube is free to book and can be reserved by visiting the Sarnia Library or calling the library at 519-337-3291. While a library card is not required to book the space, identification and contact information is required to complete the booking. “The Sarnia-Lambton OHT is proud to partner with Lambton County Li- brary on this exciting and innovative initiative. A key focus of the OHT’s system navigation work this year was to bring additional access points for health and social services to our community,” says Steve Pacino, Executive Lead, Sarnia-Lambton OHT. “Our hope is that this is the first Connection Cube of many in Sarnia-Lambton.” The guidelines for use are as follows: • Available during regular library hours (up to 15 minutes before closing). • Maximum 2 hours per day / per person. • Reservations are recommended. • Please check in with library staff before using the Connection Cube. • Maximum capacity is two people. • Food is not permitted. • Beverages in closed containers are permitted. • Connection Cube doors do not lock. Personal belongings should not be left unattended. • Lambton County Library is not responsible for lost, damaged or stolen items. • Patrons using the Connection Cube are expected to leave it clean and in its original condition. The Beacon of St. Clair Township August 2023 Page 14 Time Traveller visits Bury House during Blueberry Social The Sombra Museum Blueberry Social not only offered visitors a huge variety of blueberry baked goods and lovely live music, it also had a special guest hiding in the Bury House across the street. It was up to museum assistant Jesse Vanderveeken to seek out a time traveller who found the Victorian house a comfortable and familiar place to rest from his exertions. Being a mischievous fellow, the traveller stashed clues throughout the rooms that could be used to discover his location should the museum staff wish to communicate with him. Throughout the Blueberry Social, Jesse led groups of visitors through the house looking for places where the clues might be hidden. The Beacon photographed the search that ultimately revealed the traveller’s whereabouts. 1. In the Victorian kitchen, Jesse discovered one of the clues hiding in the oven under a freshly-baked baguette. After following several clues, Jesse was directed upstairs. The first upstairs bedroom Jesse searched held a collection of vintage dolls who greeted his intrusion with silent, indignant stares. He quickly moved on. 2. Continuing on his quest for the final clue, he eventually found it in the drawer of a vintage chest-of-drawers. As directed, he hurried downstairs again to meet the mystery visitor. 3. When Jesse arrived in the Victorian dining room he discovered he was just in time for High Tea, hosted by the time traveller. Jesse was treated to a perfectly- brewed cup of Earl Grey tea, blueberry scones, and other sweet comestibles while the tiny traveller regaled him with tales of his adventures through the space-time continuum. Before he disappeared, the traveller promised to return soon with his good friend, Herbert George Wells. Volunteer retirements announced at Moore Museum volunteer dinner At the Moore Museum’s annual volunteer appreciation dinner, held July 19 at the Corunna United Church, Museum Coordinator Fiona Doherty announced the retirement of three long-time vol- unteers: Marilyn Johnson, with 31 years of volunteering, and Shirley Warner and Joyce Brock, both with 26 years as volun- teers. Fiona told the assembly of volunteers the museum wel- comed over 3,000 visitors in 2022, and several public community events were hosted on the museum site. The educational pro- gramming attracted over 800 students from 27 classrooms. She praised the volunteers for their dedication. “Your willingness to share both your time and talent by volunteering with Moore Mu- seum says a lot about each of you as human beings and speaks to both your strength and the quality of your character, she said. New volunteers are always welcome at Moore Museum. Shirley Warner with Fiona Doherty Our volunteers enjoy participating in productive activities and spending happy hours with new friends. M o r e H E R I T A G E C O R N E R Sombra muSeum’S 2024 calendar will change your mind about BARNS Barns of the past were necessary to the running of any farm. They were built with massive support posts cut from single stout tree trunks and finished with rough hand -hewn timbers. Those who study the construction of barns can tell the approximate age of a structure by looking at its roof line and at the inside construction of the skele- ton. Barns were crucial to the success and growth of any agricultural community, but many have disappeared, vic- tims to the march of time and to the new innovations made in agricultural building materials and methods. Fortunately, many have survived. Some have been maintained and are still in use on working farms, but some have been given new purpose. The Sombra Museum’s full-colour Barns of Sombra Township 2024 calendar will reveal how some old Som- bra barns have defied time. This calendar is not only a practical way to keep track of the things we need to do and when to do them, it’s a reminder of the ingenuity, resourcefulness, and stubborn determination our early farmers brought to their use and stewardship of the land. Barns featured in the calendar are monuments that should inspire us to reflect on what we will leave behind for future generations. The Barns of Sombra Township 2024 calendar is in the production stage and will soon be on sale. Keep an eye of the Sombra Township website, Face- book page, or The Beacon for more information. Lambton County Library branches offer much more than books Your Lambton County 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 na- ture or just your neighbourhood by borrowing a pair of walking poles, go bird-watching with a set of Tasco 10x42 bin- oculars, 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 current 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 infor- mation on locations, services, and hours of operation, visit: lclibrary.ca . Summer reading program in progress. See page 16 for more information. Weekly St. Clair Township libraries hours of operation *Brigden 519-864-1142): Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Wednes- day, 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. 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 summer 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 Chal- lenge Yourshelf for adults. Registration for these programs is now open. “The summer reading program encour- ages reading, imagination, outdoor engagement, and community involvement,” said Vanitia Campbell, Public Services Coordinator, Youth Programs and Outreach. “Participating in the summer read- ing 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 electronic 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 activi- ties, games, and challenges and set reading goals for themselves. Books can be borrowed at any library location, 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 Pi- rate 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, includ- ing a passport, program instructions, supplies for a DIY activity, activity sheets, and a recommended 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 help- ing 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 challenges 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 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Book library meeting rooms Six Lambton County Library branches (Corunna, Sarnia, Wyo- ming, Thedford, Forest, and Alvinston) have meeting rooms that can be booked. Visit lclibrary.ca to see room details, terms and conditions of use, and contact information to book a room. It is not necessary to have a library card. Note: Commercial enterprises are not eligible to book meeting rooms. Optimist Club of Moore hosts bicycle rodeo Good bicycle safety practices are important when young people are negotiating public streets. The Optimist Club of Moore bicycle rodeo on June 24 hosted about 50 children and their parents to teach the rules of the road. Knowing when to stop, how to cross a street or a railway crossing with a bicycle, as well as maneuvering around obstacles and signaling turns was taught by Optimist members. The young cyclists enjoyed treats and snow cones, and two of them won a new bicycle. Optimist members were pleased with the turnout for the event. Event chair, Optimist Jeff Rovers, said it was nice to see that the riders all came equipped with helmets. Left: Optimists in charge of the event included, from left: President Mary Lou Abrams, Ken Nimmo, Christine Taylor, Gord Dawson, Davida Nimmo, Stan Marsh, Tracy Kingston, and Event Chair Jeff Rovers. Right: A young cyclist listens carefully as Optimist Stan Marsh explains the procedure for negotiating a railway crossing. B. Stevenson photos The Beacon of St. Clair Township August 2023 Page 18 Brigden Fairgrounds, 2435 Courtright Line, Brigden Camping available $25/night: hydro and water Nothing parked before 10 a.m. Aug. 2 Daily jamborees at 7 p.m. Friday-Banana Split Night Saturday-Brigden Market, Ontario Vintage tractor pull @ noon Roast beef dinner @ 5 p.m. Sunday-Breakfast followed by Open Gospel at 9 a.m. For more information, contact Bill Myers 226-627-1679 or Brigden Fair office 519-864-1197 Watch the Brigden Fair Jamboree FB page for updates One of the most entertaining and in-demand musical 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. Library, 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 Fri- days at 7 p.m. The cost per game is $3 per person. 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 discuss opportunities for you and/or your company to be- come 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 de- tails and you’ll find out all of the possible catego- ries 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. Mu- seum 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 chil- dren under age three. Moore Sports Complex SUMMER CAMP Registration now open Our 2023 Camp brings the exciting experience of summer camp to children with crafts, songs, games, swimming, and much more! Each day will be filled with fun, adventure and lots of activity. Summer camp registration can be for the week or the full sum- mer. 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. 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. For more infor- mation 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 . 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. TRIVIA NIGHTS, Thursdays 7-9p.m. Aug. 17; Sept. 21; Oct. 19, Nov. 16 $5 per individual/$15 per team, all monies returned as prizes. Door prizes to be won. Refreshments from bar and snacks available Br. 447 Special events Sept. 16: Elton John Tribute Sept. 23: Corunna200 Breakfast 8a.m.-11a.m. Enjoy a hearty breakfast to power you through the day. Sept. 30: Pub Night with Andrew Borody, 6-9p.m. Oct. 3: Ham Bingo, doors open at 6:30p.m., play starts at 7p.m. Admission now $30 and includes 5 cards. The building is wheelchair accessible. Corunna Legion, 350 Albert St., Corunna August 4-6 See page 18 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ CAPTAIN KIDD DAYS August 3-6 See page 18 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ K of C broasted chicken dinner Enjoy the annual broasted chicken dinner hosted by the Knights of Columbus in Port Lambton on Sept. 24, from 4 – 6:30 p.m. The annual dinner is supplied by Car Barn in Wheatly at Sacred Heart Church Hall, 466 John St. in Port Lambton. Ad- vanced tickets only sell for $22/adult and $10 for children under 10 years old. Dine-in and take- out will be available. Tickets are sold after Sun- day Mass by calling Frank Johnston (226) 626 - 6507, Pete Bogaert (519-436-8651), or Mike Be- chard (519-384-3102). Courtright Friendship Club activities The Courtright Friendship Club meets every first Thursday of every month next to the Courtright 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. This summer, The Beacon can also be found in the lobby of the Moore Museum.