The St. Clair Township
Issue 12
Volume 16
December 2023
Inside
MUNICIPAL NOTES
Pages 2-4
Best wishes to all for a Merry Christmas and a New Year blessed with peace and happiness
~St. Clair Township Council and Staff
WORKS DEPARTMENT
Pages 6-9
REMEMBRANCE
EVENTS
Pages 13-14
AROUND THE TOWNSHIP
Pages 20-18
Two elves from the North Pole, in Corunna checking out the Santa Claus Parade route for Santa’s visit, recently stopped by the Corunna Legion Craft Sale with some samples of their own wares. They were overheard discussing the lack of snow on the ground. Appar- ently, Santa just had flashy new alloy racing runners installed on his sleigh and he’ll be disappointed if he has to put the old wheels back on instead. (It was later discovered the elves were actually Sombra residents John and Sandra Hyland. John is a 25-year member of the Royal Canadian Legion Leslie Sutherland Br. 447 Corunna.)
Bonnie Stevenson photo
PUBLISHING DEADLINE NOTICE: EARLY DEADLINE FOR THE
JANUARY 2024 BEACON will be Monday, December 11 by noon.
Official Plan update public meeting
At the November 20 meeting of St. Clair Township Council, the fourth step in a five-step assessment pro- cess was taken to bring the township’s official plan into conformance with the official plan of the County of Lambton.
During a public meeting, Kenneth Melanson, Manager of Planning and Development Services for Lambton County, explained how the functions of all three tiers of government must agree. “Everything in your official planning act has to conform with the Planning Act, the provincial planning statements, and the County Official Plan as well as other acts of legislation in the province,” he said. He added that’s why the current effort to up- date the township’s official plan is being done.
“There have been a lot of changes made to the offi- cial planning act…there have been three changes so far this year and more are lined up for next year,” he said. “We’re never going to get ahead because as soon as we get ahead, we’re behind again, but we do our best to keep it up to date.”
To clarify the need for an official plan, Mr. Melanson described the planning horizon, which is now set to 25 years in the future. “It’s where you want to see industri- al, residential, economic policies, and urban design poli- cies, where buildings are being placed on land – it’s a bunch of different things,” he said. “Quite simply, it’s what you want to be when you grow up at the end of your planning horizon if all things play out equally.”
One of the areas the new official plan must address is the unexpected level of growth that has happened in 11 Lambton County municipalities, including St. Clair Town- ship. This could have potential impacts on land supply.
Mr. Melanson says when the last land supply analysis was done, using a formula incorporating statistics gath- ered from the most recent census results and other fac- tors, Lambton County was not growing. ”When the Coun- ty plan was done, we were in a low-growth scenario,” he said.”
The original population range established in the Offi- cial Plan for St. Clair Township was between 12,536 to 16,876. But when the 2021 census was done, the actual population count was well beyond the high end of that
See more Official Plan update, page 3
The Beacon of St. Clair Township December 2023 Page 3
Continued from page 2
projection. And with the expanding population came the need for more dwelling units, which the Official Plan had set at 55 units per year. This was not sufficient to ac- commodate the actual population growth, so more units were needed. Addressing council, Mr. Melanson said, “I can tell you the township is still batting above that 55 number. That takes your land supply down over the plan- ning horizon.”
Referring to the unforeseen growth, Mr. Melanson said, “This is growth that has never been anticipated, so now, we need to reassess those numbers, then take them and figure out the actual land supply we need for each municipality. The question becomes, is that draw-down enough that you suddenly need expansion or not?”
The disparity between the projected population growth and projected dwelling unit count, and the actu- al population and dwelling numbers, will be considered before a decision can be made as to whether or not a boundary expansion is needed.
“Even though population expectations are exceeded, and dwelling units exceeded, it may not be enough land supply within the planning horizon to warrant expan- sion,” said Mr. Melanson. “That’s what the County Offi- cial Plan is going to look at and assess,” he said. “It de- pends on what the output is through the formula estab- lished by the province.”
Mr. Melanson noted that once the County Official Plan has been developed, it must receive provincial approval. “Any County Official Plan update has to go to the minis- ter,” he said. “It typically takes nine to 14 months to get approval.” He added that estimate was based on the cur- rent processing rate.
During the meeting, concern was raised regarding the potential threat of expansion into woodlots. It should be noted Lambton County currently has a woodlands conser- vation by-law in place.
“If expansion was needed, we would only move the boundary line to the developable area and protect those woodlots,” said Mr. Melanson.
He assured meeting attendees that any issues con- cerning St. Clair Township would be brought to council for discussion. Boundary expansion will be determined through the County Official Plan update; an expansion is not guaranteed.
During the meeting, Corunna resident John Flesher cited the comfortable feel he and his family experienced in Corunna, but he had noticed the growth the town had already experienced had made it less safe. As an exam- ple, he cited the speeding traffic along residential streets.
A member of the Heritage St. Clair Committee, Tracy Kingston, commented that some members of the com- mittee are concerned about possible additional responsi- bilities the plan may assign to them. They feel they may not be able to efficiently accommodate those responsi- bilities.
Zoom presenter Karina DeLorey, calling on behalf of a couple in their 80s who are waiting to have a property issue resolved, asked if the issue could be expedited. Mr. Melanson responded that a resolution to the issue will be a lengthy process that cannot be rushed.
As updates to the respective official plans are consid- ered and developed, Mr. Melanson says there may be ‘firsts’ arising from them. “Part of it is going to be that when we’re doing these site-by-site considerations, for the first time in the County Official Plan, put some poli- cy in the Plan that will then flow down to yours,” he
said. An example of a ‘first’ he gave involved a scenario where the County’s expectations, when presented to council, do not go ahead if council is uncomfortable with those expectations. “We’re going to treat everybody in- dependently,” he said.
Mr. Melanson informed those present at the meeting and those watching via Zoom, that notes were being tak- en regarding comments and concerns raised by the pub- lic, whether in person or in written form.
The final step in the official plan process, which be- gan in September with the draft official plan policies and mapping, is expected to take place in December with the adoption of the Official Plan.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Diageo Crown Royal project moves ahead
A request for a conditional building permit, submitted by Diageo Canada, the group that owns the Crown Royal whiskey brand, was considered by council at the Nov. 20 meeting. The request was made to allow the project to proceed while the details of a design revision are being finalized.
The design revision involves a 30 per cent reduction to the gross floor area of the distillery building, a reduc- tion that will address operational and functional require- ments that have recently emerged. The company assured council the distillery redesign does not impact or change the surrounding layout as it was proposed in the original submitted site plan.
Council approved the conditional permit, which will apply to the first barrel warehouse building. If all goes as planned, the permit will allow the construction process to begin around March, 2024.
Above: The lobby of the St. Clair Township Civic Cen- tre became a display floor for the Nov. 6 Official Plan Open House. Visitors were able to view changes of the updated official plan and discuss and clarify them with St. Clair Township Council members and staff. Topics discussed at the open house were later re- viewed and considered during the follow-up public meeting held on Nov. 20 during the regular council meeting. Kenneth Melanson, Manager, Lambton County Planning and Development Services, attended the meeting to present the ‘journey’ the official plan had taken to date and what was to come.
More Municipal Notes, page 4
MORE MUNICIPAL NOTES
Ontario Public Library Week includes everybody
A special guest reader recently took
on story time duties at the Corunna library during Ontario Public Library Week. On behalf of Lambton County Council, St. Clair Township Mayor Jeff Agar read some Toddler Tales to the “Littles”. At the conclusion of the sto- ry, Mayor Jeff and Librarian Tim Hough enjoyed sharing playtime with the young audience, who showed their appreciation with a drum and maraca concert.
Ontario Public Library Week is an annual event to raise awareness of the valuable role libraries play in the lives of the people of Ontario, regardless of their age.
Your Lambton County Library branch has more than just books. Check it out and be amazed.
Susan Agar photo
Age-Friendly helps adults 55+ access services
Challenges faced by older venient, easy one-stop access point for finding adults are often difficult to over 600 social and health supports in Lambton handle, both for themselves County.
and for those who care about For more information about
them. Aging at home is a preference for many, Age-Friendly Sarnia-Lambton, go online to: but self-sufficiency issues can make that choice agefriendlysarnialambton.ca impossible. For those who prefer to speak to someone
The goal of Age-Friendly Sarnia-Lambton, for about local supports, please call: The Older adults age 55+, is to make access to community Adult Care Pathway, or 519-336-3600 or 1-888 supports and health services easier. It’s a con- -347-8737.
NOTICE – ZION CEMETERY
St. Clair Township has submitted by-laws to the Registrar of the Funeral, Burial, and Cremation Services Act, 2002. Any interested parties may contact Jeff Baranek at (519) 862-2021 for infor-
mation, or to make copies. By-laws or amendments may be reviewed or copied at 1155 Emily St. Moore- town.
These by-laws are subject to the approval of the Registrar, Funeral, Burial, and Cremation Services Act, 2002. Telephone: Bereavement Authority of Ontario, 647-483-2645 or 1-844-493-6356.
NOTICE – BRADSHAW CEMETERY
St. Clair Township has submitted by-laws to the Registrar of the Funeral, Burial, and Cremation Services Act, 2002. Any interested parties may contact Jeff Baranek at Tel: (519) 862-2021 for
information, or to make copies. By-laws or amendments may be reviewed or copied at 1155 Emily St. Mooretown.
These by-laws are subject to the approval of the Registrar, Funeral, Burial, and Cremation Services Act, 2002. Telephone: Bereavement Authority of Ontario, 647-483-2645 or 1-844-493-6356.
Please keep fire safety in mind this holiday season
For many of us, the holidays in-
volve friends, family, festivities, and
food. However, these celebrations can pose some fire risks at home.
While fire can happen anywhere, at any time, it most often strikes when we let our guard down – when we’re
distracted by the hustle and bustle of the holidays, by our cellphones, by the kids, or by the doorbell.
All it takes is for a pot to be left on the stove, or a candle left burning unattended, and a family’s hol- iday celebrations can turn into tragedy.
Enjoy a fire-safe holiday season by following these tips:
• Always stay in the kitchen when something is cooking on the stove.
• Place lit candles away from anything that can burn and out of the reach of children and pets where they cannot be knocked over. Remember to snuff out candles before leaving the room or going to bed. Consider using battery-operated or electric flameless candles.
• Drink responsibly. Attempting to cook or smoke while under the influence of alcohol is too often a contributing factor in fatal fires.
• If you have a real Christmas tree, be sure the base of its trunk is always immersed in water to prevent it from getting too dry.
• Check all sets of decorative lights before putting them up and discard any sets that are damaged.
• Test your smoke and CO alarms every month and install new batteries if needed.
• Develop and practice a home fire escape plan so that everyone in your home knows what to do if the smoke or CO alarms sound.
~Deputy Chief Andrew McMillan
Recent report identifies farmer mental health crisis in Canada
Bonnie Stevenson
A report, co-released recently by the National Farm- ers Union (NFU) and the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA), identifies factors affecting the mental health of many farmers. The report was devel- oped through the use of interviews with agricultural producers and surveys in which they participated.
Field Notes: Looking Upstream at the Farmer Men- tal Health Crisis in Canada identifies several factors that contribute to this crisis, such as the precarious nature of farming and the pervasive economic uncer- tainty farmers face due to challenging weather condi- tions brought on by climate change. The report says, “Farmers are on the front line of the climate change and it’s exhausting and traumatizing at times.” The lack of economic stability and the imbalance in reve- nue between farmers and large corporations is also noted. The report says “All of the risks of producing food is put on the farmers, while all of the protection and profits go to large corporations. It makes the hard
work feel futile some days.”
The report makes six recommendations that could help decrease the severity of the stressors agricultural producers face.
They are: 1. Implement policies which enhance eco-
nomic stability for farmers and farm workers.
2. Continue and enhance supports to farmers transi- tioning to sustainable farming practices.
3. Include food sovereignty in the federal goals for agriculture.
4. Rebuild rural infrastructure.
5. Address on-going discrimination and violence in the farming sector.
6. Expand access to mental health care for farmers and support existing farm organizations that are providing support, advocacy, and research.
The report can be found online at:
www.nfu.ca/campaigns/mental-health/
Appreciate and support our agricultural community.
CRIME STOPPERS SARNIA-LAMBTON
Your information can be submitted by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or going online to: www.p3tips.com
Callers are guaranteed 100% anonymity. Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to any call display services. If your tip leads to an arrest or charges being laid, you may receive a cash reward.
Water utility appointments
require 48 hours notice
St. Clair Township By-Law 26 of 2023 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 collection for the Spring or Fall collection going forward. Christmas tree collection will remain the same for January, 2024.
Drivers are required to yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian who is standing at the curb waiting to cross.
When a pedestrian is crossing on the roadway within a pedestrian crosswalk, the driver of a vehicle approaching the crosswalk:
• MUST stop before entering the crosswalk
• MUST not pass another vehicle already stopped at the cross walk
• MUST not proceed into the crosswalk until the pedestrian is no longer on the roadway
When a vehicle is approaching a pedestrian crosswalk and is within 30 meters of it, the driver of any other vehicle approaching from the rear must not allow the front of their vehicle to pass beyond the front of the other vehicle.
Pedestrians must not leave the curb or other place of safety at a pedestrian cross- walk and walk, run, or move into the path of a vehicle that is so close that it is
impossible for the driver of the vehicle to be able to safely stop.
Failing to yield at a pedestrian crosswalk, school crossings, and
crossovers is an offense that can lead to a fine of up to $1,000 and four demerit points.
• Residents wishing to report any recycling collection issues are to contact the Contractor (Emterra Environmental) directly at 1-888-597-1541.
• Alternatively, visit their website at: emterra.ca, and click on “Customer Service” section.
• For further recycling issues and concerns, residents may also contact “Circular Materials” by email at: customerservice@circularmaterials.ca
The Beacon of St. Clair Township December 2023 Page 8
Active Transportation Master Plan Survey requires input
St. Clair Township is developing its very first Active Transportation Master
Plan to improve conditions for people as they walk, bike or wheel through the
community. We want to hear from you!
We want to learn more about how you use the Township’s trails, sidewalks, and cycling routes, what types of changes you would like to see.
And how the Township and our partners can make walking, cycling and wheeling more convenient, comfort- able, and enjoyable.
Complete the project survey at:
www.stclairtownship.ca/atmp and sign up for project up- dates to stay informed as the project moves forward.
Please take the survey and be part of the plan.
SCRCA Seeking Landowners interested in Tree Planting and Stewardship Projects
Stewardship and tree planting specialists at the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) are planning for the 2024 season and are looking to engage landowners interested in implementing projects on their properties.
“Stewardship and tree planting initiatives provide many benefits for both the environment and the property in gen- eral”, said Jessica Van Zwol, Healthy Watershed Specialist at the Authority. “We can assist landowners and provide both technical and financial support for a number of different projects.”
The St. Clair Region watershed consists of over 80% agri- cultural land. Stewardship and tree planting projects imple- mented on farmland not only improve habitat for many plants and animals to thrive, including Species at Risk, but can also help reduce soil erosion, protect rural water quality, increase crop yields, and potentially reduce the amount of fertilizer needed to ensure a successful harvest. The Authori- ty supports a variety of projects including wetland creation, tree planting, cover crops, erosion control structures, and planting riparian buffers.
“The success of our tree planting and stewardship pro- gram is really due to the commitment of landowners throughout our watershed,” explained Jeff Sharp, SCRCA’s Conservation Services Specialist, “Since 1980, we have plant- ed over 4 million trees and created 100 hectares of wetland
thanks to property owners taking on naturalization projects.” Interested landowners are welcome to connect with Au- thority staff who can help manage projects from start to fin-
ish and answer questions related to funding sources and grants that are available to offset eligible project costs. Presently, funding is available through the SCRCA for several stewardship projects including the creation of shallow wet- lands, the planting of riparian buffers to separate agricultur- al fields from watercourses, the installation of erosion con- trol berms and grassed waterways (see below) in farm fields to slow runoff, and the installation of fencing and alternative water sources to limit livestock accessibility to local water- ways.
For more information and to discuss potential projects, contact Jessica Van Zwol, Healthy Watershed Specialist (jvanzwol@scrca.on.ca; (519) 245-3710, ext. 241) or Jeff Sharp, Conservation Services Specialist (jsharp@scrca.on.ca;
(519) 245-3710, ext. 217).
Corunna200 takes final bow at Corunna Clock Tower park
Above: Tracy Kingston, the mastermind behind the Almost Canada’s Capital/Corunna200 event, addresses the crowd during the dedication of historic plaques and storyboards at the Corunna Clock Tower. Visible on the clock tower wall is the commemorative Corunna200 logo plaque and the storyboard (waiting under the blue cover for its unveiling) that explains the events that re-
sulted in Ottawa beating out Corunna and several other candidates for the position Canada’s capi- tal.
Above: The logo that became a common sight during the summer of 2023 now
has a permanent place on the Corunna
Clock Tower
Above: Unveiling one of the photographic storyboards researched and designed by Heritage St. Clair are RBC storyboard
sponsors, from left: Shelley Podolinsky, Tyler Haddon, and Jill McCallum.
The storyboards we see at intervals along the St. Clair River Trail, as well as significant places throughout St. Clair Town- ship, are developed by the dedicated members of Heritage St.
Clair. Their work introduces us to our community’s past by put- ting the stories of significant people, events, and locations there before our eyes.
Above: Standing beside one of the new storyboards unveiled on Nov. 1 are some members of Heritage St. Clair, including, from left: Tracy Kingston, Dave Pattenden, Bob Goodearle, Dave Taylor, Jan Smith (artist assistant) and Paul Smith (graphic artist). The Smiths have been responsible for produc- ing several of the Heritage St. Clair storyboards, including the ones at the St. George’s Square parkette on Hill Street.
Below: A large rectangular cube has been custom- designed and fabricated by CIMS and donated to Co- runna200 for use as a time capsule. The rugged time traveller will be stuffed with items and images from 2023 and sealed, to be opened in 50 years.
Some items have already been collected but appro- priate contributions are still being accepted.
Anyone who has a good idea about what to put into the time capsule OR has an item that represents life in 2023 and wants to donate it, should contact Tracy Kingston at: Corunna200@gmail.com
The Beacon of St. Clair Township December 2023 Page 11
Please show you care.
CHRISTMAS CARING
Please support these Christmas efforts in your community
Yes, the time is at hand when our kids begin to dream of yuletide sweets, Santa Claus, and the goodies he might bring, while their parents dream of budget-busting shopping trips and scale-busting holiday feasting with friends and family.
But some families can only dream of a merry Christ- mas. The volunteers at the Sacred Heart Food Bank and Operation Christmas Tree work hard to help these fami- lies and individuals, and they are hoping the kindness and generosity their communities have shown in the past will continue this holiday season. Donations of canned and non-perishable food will be much appreciated by the following organizations.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
In St. Clair Township’s Sombra Ward, the Sacred Heart Food Bank Annual Food Drive will be collecting canned goods and non-perishable food items.
*Financial Donations appreciated!
E-transfer to Sacredheartfb2@gmail.com (Charitable receipt for donations over $20. Please include your mail- ing address in the comment section if you qualify for one.)
Cheques – payable to Sacred Heart Food Bank can be mailed to Susan Moran, 4138 St. Clair Parkway, Port Lambton, ON, N0P 2B0
*AND DON’T MISS THE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS FOWL BINGO
at the Sombra Community Centre on Monday, Dec. 4 at
7 p.m. at the Sombra Community Centre!
Proceeds will benefit the Sacred Heart Food Bank.
For information, contact: *Frank Johnston 519-677-5328
*Claudette Johnston 519-677-5410
*Susan Moran 519-677-5410
In St. Clair Township’s Moore Ward, Operation Christmas Tree (OCT) will once more be making the hol- idays brighter for those in need thanks to the Optimist Club of Moore.
FOUR WAYS TO DONATE
1. Drop off -Canned goods, non-perishable food and
new, unwrapped toy dona- tions can be delivered to Emergency Services Build- ing, 392 Lyndoch St. (Hill St. entrance at northeast corner of Hill & Lyndoch
Streets), Corunna from Dec.
4 to Dec. 15, 2023, Monday
to Friday from 9:00am-3:00pm.
2. E-transfer donations can be sent
to operationchristmastree@outlook.com (enter home address in message box for taxable receipt)
3. Cheque donations can be mailed to Operation Christmas Tree, P.O. Box 32, Corunna, N0N 1G0.
4. OPP Donation Drive-through event on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023, 10:00am-2:00pm. Cash/cheque dona- tions, toys, can goods and non-perishable food.
HOW TO REGISTER TO RECEIVE SUPPORT
Register at the Operation Christmas Tree headquar- ters at the Emergency Services Bldg., 392 Lyndoch Street, Corunna Nov. 13 to Dec.1, 2023, Monday to Friday from 9:00am-3:00pm. (Wheelchair accessi-
ble). Visit www.operationchristmastree.ca for
eligibility requirements.
FUNDRAISING EVENTS FOR O.C.T.
*OPP donation drive-thru
Saturday, Dec. 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
* Knights of Columbus Fundraiser Breakfast Sunday, Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. to noon
* Nook Hair Salon to host O.C.T. fundraiser Saturday, Dec. 9 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
For these event locations see page 19
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.
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 Lambton County Library St. Clair Township locations: Brigden, Corunna, and Petrolia.
The Harvest Home event in Wilkesport was a great success, with around 200 people attending the event. Event spokesper- son Betty Lauwereys said, “It went very well and was a great fundraiser for the Wilkesport Community Centre, Wilkesport United Church, and the Sombra Museum’s Smith log cabin
preservation project.” The autumn feast of beef, chicken and all the trimmings was served buffet-style with a variety of homemade pies as dessert. The event featured a silent auc- tion and a live auction conducted by John Van Klaveren of John Van Klaveren Auctions Inc.
Below: With a stage full of auction items, Bill Myers shows off one of the delectable pies on offer as Auctioneer John Van Klaveren encourages the bidders.
Right: Harvest Home is al- ways a great place to catch up with friends and
acquaintances. Doing some catching up are, clockwise from left: Sue Agar, John DeMars, Malcolm Rogers, Mayor Jeff Agar, and Janice Miller.
Hundreds of shoppers crowd the Corunna Legion craft sale
Below: Over 500 shoppers descended on the Corunna Legion hall on Nov. 18 to check out the huge selection of handiwork, needlework and crafts on display. The event raised $1,500 to help the Legion continue its valua- ble community support work. Right: Customer Andrew Lackie of Corunna found the Tastee Treats Bakery table irresistible and ended up with two bags full of sweet treats that were sure to please his family.
B. Stevenson photos
The Beacon of St. Clair Township December 2023 Page 13
B.Stevenson photos
Top photo: The faces of fallen soldiers from the area gaze down from the flags atop Corunna’s street light poles as Parade Sgt.-At-Arms Bob Chambers leads the colour party down Lyndoch Street to Clock Tower
Park. Above left: A salute in the silence of the moment is offered by, from left: Cadet Corporal Middough; Branch 447 Veterans Services & Indigenous Veteran Shaun Osborne; Parade Sgt.-At-Arms Bob Cham- bers and Legion member Logie McKenzie.
Above right: Padre Paul Woolley leads the service in prayer and offers
a solemn truth; “In war, there are no unwounded soldiers.”
Left: Representing the people of St. Clair Township, Mayor Jeff Agar pauses before the wreath he has just placed for them at the cenotaph.
Remembrance Banquet and Awards Ceremony recognizes those who choose to serve
Bob Churchill receives Lifetime Membership
Dignitaries gather at Remembrance and Awards Banquet
The head table at the Nov.4 ban- quet was lined with dignitaries from government and from Royal Canadian Legion leadership. Among the guests who attended the event were veter- ans from several theatres of conflict, including Viet Nam and Afghanistan.
A piper led the Br. 447 Colour Guard into the hall to mark the begin- ning of the event and the evening was filled with speakers who reminded those present that there is no glory in war, just broken spirits and broken lives.
At the Nov. 4 Remembrance and Awards Banquet held by the Royal Canadian Legion Leslie Sutherland Br. 447, several of their members were recognized for their years of service and acts of distinction. Presentations of the Years of Service awards revealed the heartening fact that the choice to serve the community is a long-lasting notion for many people. Awards varied widely, from five years to 50 years, an inspiring benchmark three Legion members achieved this year.
One of the three, Bob Churchill, not only received a commendation for his readiness to turn his hand to any task, he was also award- ed the title of Lifetime Member.
Bob was surrounded by family members who shared the happy event, although a few were unavoidably absent.
Left: Bob displays his Life Member plaque and his 50 year membership certif- icate. Joining him for a group photo, clockwise from his right side: Rosemary Churchill, Bob’s wife; Susan, Dan, Meaghan, Dylan, Addison and Jeff Peters.
Community in action all year ‘round
Sew Crazies use their skills for the Baby Bookworms pilot project
Project ensures that every baby born at Bluewater Health receives a literacy welcome. Thanks to a large group of sewing enthusiasts, including our local Sew Crazies group, shown left, each baby is gifted with a
beautiful handmade bag that holds board books, a 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten keepsake log, and infor- mation on how to contact local resources new parents need. So far, 1,200 bags have been made, with Sew Cra- zies contributing almost 100 of them. The Sew Crazies were featured in a previous Christmas Beacon for their donation of expertly made children’s winter pajamas to Operation Christmas Tree.
The Baby Bookworm pilot project has been so suc- cessful that it will continued in 2024 with the help of
Bluewater Power, Sarnia Community Foundation, and the 100 Women Who Care Sarnia-Lambton group.
Any individual or group wanting to sew bags
Literacy Lambton, along with community sponsors including Shell Sarnia Manufacturing, Bluewater Power,
Rotary of Sarnia-Bluewater, and several others, engaged in a pilot literacy project in 2023. The Baby Bookworms
for the 2024 project can contact Tracy Pound at Literacy Lambton, info@literacylambton.org or by calling 519-332-4876. Submitted photo
The Beacon of St. Clair Township December 2023 Page 16
Please remember others this Christmas Sacred Heart food bank helps community thrive
The Sacred Heart Food Bank continues to aid the community address food insecurity all year long. Nourishing food items and daily supplies like per- sonal hygiene items, baby needs, and household cleaning supplies, as well as grocery store gift cards and monetary donations, are always gratefully ac- cepted. Food bank shelves need to be replenished on a regular basis.
St. Andrew’s food bank continues to help those in need
Operation Christmas Tree/ Food Bank
The food bank at St. Andrew’s Church on Col- borne Street in Corunna is open every Wednesday evening from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and every Thursday
morning from 9 a.m. to noon. The food bank serves those in need, offering a variety of food products to help people eat healthily, including dairy products, bread, and meat, as well as daily requirements like household cleaning supplies, hygiene products, and baby needs. The fresh food supplied at the food bank costs approximately $75 per week to purchase. Anyone wishing to make a financial donation to the food bank can do so through Food Bank, C/O St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, 437 Colborne Drive, Corunna, Ontario, N0N 1G0. Gift cards to Foodland and No Frills are also welcome.
St. Joseph-St. Charles Catholic Church Community to participate in food program
The St. Joseph-St. Charles’ Catholic Community in Co- runna, along with the Catholic churches in Petrolia, Forest, and Watford, has worked collaboratively with the Boys and Girls Club of Sarnia-Lambton to extend Project Backpack, a food assistance program, into Lambton County. The pro- gram provides a bag of nutritious food that can be easily dis- tributed to people ages 14-24 who are in need of a healthy meal. Each bag also contains hygiene items and helpful in- formation from community partners. People who qualify for this program can find these bags at the St. Joseph Catholic Church Parish office at 346 Beresford Street in Corunna dur- ing regular office hours (Monday from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Tuesday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.). Program organizers say the program will continue into the fall and
they hope to continue it as long as there is a need for it.
Courtright Friendship Club activities
The Courtright Friendship Club meets every first Thursday of every month next to the Courtright Library,1533 Fourth Street. Annual membership is $10, but non-members are welcome to come out to weekly card games. Euchre is played on Wednes- days at 1 p.m., and Pepper is played on Fridays at 7 p.m. The cost per game is $3 per person.
Weekly St. Clair Township libraries 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 Fri- day, 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, Satur- day, 10a.m. to 2 p.m.; Wednesday, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
*Wilkesport (519-864-4000): Tuesday, Satur- day, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Thursday, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Get your copy of the ST. CLAIR TOWNSHIP BEACON at your local library!
We now offer online program registration!! Please visit https://www.nlchc.com/services/wellness-programs/ (Be sure to speci- fy which program you are registering for on the top of the form.)
To register, call 519-344-3017 ext. 237 or email adinell@nlchc.com to register and/or receive the Zoom link.
West Lambton CHC Health Promotion Calendar
In Person Programs
Brigden Low Impact : This class is held Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. at the Brigden Fair Grounds, 2976 Brigden Rd, Brigden.
Mooretown Low Impact: This class is held on Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. at the Mooretown Sports Com- plex, 1166 Emily Street in Mooretown.
Anger Management: This class is full, but names are being accepted for future programs. *This class runs every Thursday night from 6-7:30 p.m. at West Lambton CHC. Identify your anger triggers, patterns, and practice positive & effective anger management skills. To register for the next session, call 519- 344-3017. ext. 237 or email adinell@nlchc.com .
Garden Fresh Box: The Garden Fresh Box is an inexpensive monthly food buying club for anyone who wants fresh vegetables and fruit all year round. For information, call 519 -344-3017, ext. 237 or email adinell@nlchc.com. Orders are accepted in person with payment. Cash ONLY please.
Meditation: Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. at West Lambton CHC. Increase self-esteem, improve concen- tration, lower blood pressure, reduce stress & anxiety, emotional balance. To register, call 519-344-
3017, ext. 237 or email adinell@nlchc.com .
Virtual Programs
Eat Well, Live Healthy Wellness Workshop: Virtual discussion with our Registered Dietitian to discuss
healthy eating, nutrition tools, resources and more! For more information about dates/time and to regis- ter, call 519-786- 4545, ext. 307.
Heart Healthy Living: Virtual discussion with our Registered Dietitian to discuss types of cholesterol,
heart smart diet and healthy heart lifestyle habits. For more information about dates/time and to regis-
ter, call 519-786- 4545, ext. 307.
Shibashi/Sit or Stand Combo: Tuesdays & Fridays at 10:15 a.m. for a 75 min class. A combination of movements used in Shibashi and Sit or Stand classes. Shibashi, a combination of Tai chi/qigong, is a
practice of aligning breath and movement for exercise and health. Shibashi consists of 18 simple steps. It is easy to learn and perfect for beginners. It can be performed with the options of either standing or sit- ting in a chair. Resistance bands are used. All exercise abilities are welcome. To register, call 519 -344-
3017, ext. 237 or email adinell@nlchc.com
From page 19 M O R E A R O U N D T O W N S H I P
Brigden Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall
Hockey Canada’s National Women’s Team takes on United States
in Sarnia GO, CANADA, GO!
Hockey Canada’s National Women’s Team will play against USA Hockey Women’s Team at the Progressive Auto Sales Arena (Home of the Sar- nia Sting) on Saturday, Dec. 16 at 5 p.m. Sarnia is on the seven-game 2023-24
Rivalry series tour that in- cludes other Canadian locations including Kitchener, Saskatoon and Regina. Tickets for the Dec. 16 game are now on sale online at: HockeyCanada.ca/ Tickets at a cost of $30 per ticket.
3rd Wednesday – Corunna
See below to register
Lambton Elderly Outreach (LEO) offers seniors Diner’s Club
Lambton Elderly Outreach (LEO) Diner’s Club offers a hot meal and entertainment in Corunna at Wellings from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. once each month at a cost of $17 per person. In Sombra, the Diner’s Club offers a monthly light lunch and entertainment from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for
$12 at the Sombra Museum Cultural Centre hall. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED TO ATTEND.
To register for lunch or for more information, contact Della at 519-845-1353, ext. 301
The Beacon of St. Clair Township December 2023 Page 19
M O R E A R O U N D T H E T O W N S H I P
From page 20
Annual Sacred Heart Food Bank Fowl Bingo
The FOWL BINGO to benefit the Sacred Heart Food Bank will be held on Monday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. at the Sombra Community Centre, 152 Smith Street. Admission is $5 to participate in 15 regular rounds for chicken and 3 Special rounds for turkey. Come and enjoy this evening to help the Sacred Heart Food Bank.
The Sacred Heart Food Bank operates year ’round and donations are always appreciated to help meet the community’s needs. Donations of food and money are still being accepted for the food bank’s Christmas efforts. Frank Johnston, a volunteer who oversees this seasonal collection, says food can be dropped off on the porch of his house at 426 Broad- way Street in Port Lambton. Cheques can be made out to: Sacred Heart Food Bank and sent to: P.O. Box 65, Port Lambton, ON. N0P 2B0. Please include your name and full address so that a receipt can be sent to you.
Nicole Smith Exit Realty
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Operation Christmas Tree fundraisers
OPP DONATION DRIVE-THROUGH
OPP (Corunna Detachment) Emergency Services Building, 392 Lyndoch St., Corunna,
Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (Santa and Mayor Jeff will be there!)
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FUNDRAISER BREAKFAST
(Eat-In or Take-Out) Sunday, Dec. 3, from 9 a.m.- Noon at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall, 346 Beresford Street, Corunna. (To order call 519-862-5785).
NOOK HAIR SALON TO HOST O.C.T.BENEFIT
The Nook Hair Salon in the Corunna Pharmacy building
will hold a grand opening on Saturday, Dec. 9 from 5
p.m. to 9 p.m. Donations to Operation Christmas Tree will get visitors a draw ticket for prizes and proceeds will go to Operation Christmas Tree or Corunna Food Bank.
The Beacon of St. Clair Township December 2023 Page 20
PUBLISHING DEADLINE NOTICE: The JANUARY 2024 DEADLINE FOR THE BEACON will be early to
allow for Christmas holiday business closings.
Corunna Legion Br.447
350 Albert St., Corunna 519-862-1240
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
Membership is NOT necessary to enjoy the facilities.
Wheelchair accessible
Regular Legion Br. 447 Activities
Every Monday at 1 p.m. sharp – Pepper Every Thursday at 1 p.m. sharp – Cribbage Every Friday at 1 p.m. sharp – Bridge Every Saturday at 4 p.m. – Meat Draw
Every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. – Chair Yoga Every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. – Beginners Yoga Call the Corunna Legion to register (519) 862- 1240. Arrive 15 minutes before actual start time. Wheelchair Accessible
Legion hosts a Pay-It-Forward event Saturday, Dec. 2, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Free wagon rides with food or cash donation to St. Andrews Church Food Bank. Fun, food and pictures with Santa!
This is an outdoor event. Please dress for the
weather. See poster, page 19.
FB: The Royal Canadian Legion Leslie Sutherland Br.447
All welcome! No membership required to enjoy the facilities!
More information on the above events is available by calling (519) 862-1240
or on Facebook: The Royal Canadian Legion, Leslie Sutherland Br.447
Online Subscription
Available
A free subscription to The St. Clair Township Beacon
is available by emailing:
beacon@stclairtownship.ca Please type “ Subscription ” in the Subject l ine and include
your full name.
To find THE BEACON online, visit the township
website homepage at:
www.stclairtownship.ca
and click on The Beacon icon.
Items that qualify for publication
THE BEACON is open at no charge to not-for-profits in St. Clair Township (i.e. service clubs, youth/seniors groups, agricultural groups, charity initiatives, etc.) AND groups, events, or activities that will benefit and/or interest residents of St. Clair Town- ship.
Dec. 2 – No Meat Raffle Dec.7 – Euchre 7 p.m. Dec. 15 – Pool at 7 p.m.
Dec.16 – Meat Raffle at 4:30 p.m. Dec. 22 – Pool
Dec.29 – Trivia
We are open Thursday, Friday, and Saturdays from 6 p.m.to 9 p.m.
On meat Raffle Saturdays, we open from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. 9:00 p.m. closing only if there are no patrons.
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To submit information, photos, or a notice, email: beacon@stclairtownship.ca
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS
EARLY JANUARY DEADLINE
IS Monday, December 11 by noon.
Have a great shopping experience finding perfect gifts for those “hard-to-buy-for” people on your list from over 30 ven- dors. Check out the Brigden Market Facebook page for up to date listings.
More Around the Township, page 19
PRINTED BEACON now available at all St. Clair Town- ship library branches and at the St. Clair Township Civic Centre at front door.