Serving Lake Erie’s North Shore Friday November 20, 2015
INSIDE Letters My compliments to The Lake Erie Beacon for running T.J. Pignataro's article concerning the Chemical effects on our groundwater and lake condiSTORY PAGE 2 tions.
Port Bruce Report Approximately 30 people attended the celebration event on November 4th. STORY PAGE 2
Be Active This Fall The new Elgin-St. Thomas Cycling & Hiking Trail Map highlights that Elgin St Thomas has so many wonderful ways to be active. STORY PAGE 3
Remembering The Big Fitz The 40th anniversary of the loss of the Edmund Fitzgerald The SS Edmund Fitzgerald is the largest ship to have sunk in the Great Lakes.
Media
Port Stanley Report Only this week we learned that a new CIBC ATM machine has been installed at the Foodland Store in Port Stanley, STORY PAGE 4
Saving the Straffordville Community Centre These controversial issues need to be dealt with by another and more formal and democratic process , STORY PAGE 5
Elgin Shoreline Management Plan Approvals The Elgin County Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) was developed over the past year. STORY PAGE 6
War of 1812 Veteran Graveside Recognition Project Over the first phase of the project we hope to honour up to 1000 War of 1812 veterans, STORY PAGE 9
LOOK AHEAD Community Events
Page 10
Classifieds & Service Directory Page 11 Business Roladex
Pages 8 & 12
LEB Circulation The Lake Erie Beacon is delivered free of charge to over 6000 homes, apartments and businesses along the north shore of Lake Erie. In addition copies are available at selected locations in Rodney, West Lorne, Dutton, St.Thomas, Copenhagen and Port Stanley for a total print run of 7000.
The SS Edmund Fitzgerald was an American Great Lakes freighter that sank in a Lake Superior storm on November 10, 1975, with the loss of the entire crew of 29. When launched on June 7, 1958, she was the largest ship on North America's Great Lakes, and she remains the largest to have sunk there.
Left: An underwater photograph of the Fitz pilot house sitting 530 feet (160 m) deep. Left Below: The ship is broken in half with the bow section sitting upright and the stern section turned over.
For seventeen years the Fitzgerald carried taconite iron ore from mines near Duluth, Minnesota, to iron works in Detroit, Toledo, and other Great Lakes ports. As a "workhorse," she set seasonal haul records six times, often breaking her own previous record. Captain Peter Pulcer was known for piping music day or night over the ship's intercom while passing through the St. Clair and Detroit Rivers (between Lakes Huron and Erie), and entertaining spectators at the Soo Locks (between Lakes Superior and Huron) with a running commentary about the ship. Her size and record-breaking performance endeared the Fitzgerald to boat watchers. fated voyage from Superior, Wisconsin, near Duluth, on the afternoon of NoCarrying a full cargo of ore pellets vember 9, 1975. En route to a steel mill with Captain Ernest M. McSorley in near Detroit, the Fitz joined a second command, she embarked on her ill-
freighter, SS Arthur M. Anderson. By the next day, the two ships were caught in a severe storm on Lake Superior, with near hurricane-force winds and waves up to 35 feet (11 m) high. Shortly after 7:10 p.m., the Fitzgerald suddenly disappeared in Canadian waters 530 feet (160 m) deep, about 17 miles (15 nautical miles; 27 kilometers) from Whitefish Bay near the twin cities of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, and Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario — a distance Fitzgerald could have covered in two hours at her top speed. Although Fitzgerald had reported being in difficulty earlier, no distress signals were sent before she sank; Captain McSorley's last message to Anderson said, "We are holding our own." Her crew of 29 perished, and no bodies were recovered. Continued On Page 10
Lots of visitors Jim Taylor So were the big bucks, very big bucks, spent on turning the battered, little used, worn out piece of concrete jutting out into the lake, known locally as the west pier (as opposed to its eastern neighbour) worth it? The short answer is .... yes it was. In spades. From the vantage point of my living room window high on the bluffs I note there seems never a time when the “new” pier isn’t littered with locals ... and visitors. Lots of visitors And if you think that’s all well and good, but who really cares? And why was all that money spent just so local residents and visitors, could gawk at the gulls? And I admit I had some doubts.
Hey, I’m a journalist. I’m supposed to have doubts. And I still have some, well, quibbles, but .... A local shop owner was asked if she saw any change since the new pier opened. The question brought an immediate smile. She said there was a considerable pickup in business. And I’m sure if you checked with other local eateries and shops you’d get the same response. And let’s face it, tourism is the village’s biggest asset. Always has been, likely always will be. Even though it has long been subsumed by a political entity that is still a foreign body to longtime residents whose family put down roots in the village long before the turn of the century. Like mine. Ah, that’s the century before the last one ..... Well, you get the picture. Continued On Page 8
Page 2 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday November 20, 2015
LETTERS The T.J. Pignataro's Article Dear Editor, My compliments to The Lake Erie Beacon for running T.J. Pignataro's article concerning the Chemical effects on our groundwater and lake conditions. He does a great job outlining the problem and makes suggestions how we, as residents, can do our part to eliminate these toxins from entering our water system. This subject is near and dear to my heart, and I have eliminated these pollutants. Toothpaste ( natural), dish detergent ( natural), hand and shower soap ( natural goats milk) AND laundry detergent. Yes.... I have not used laundry detergent for 8 years. I import and distribute Magnetic Laundry Systems to replace laundry detergent. Save a lot of money and the groundwater for healthier lakes and families,and they come with a lifetime guarantee. Magnetic Laundry Systems are available here in Wallacetown or on line at www.magneticlaundry.ca I look forward to T.J.'s 2nd enlightening article. Yvonne Brooks Wallacetown
Off-leash Dog Park Righteous anger, maybe. My grandson has two dogs that, because of his out-oftown work schedule, need to be let out for a midday romp. I have been taking them down to the area at the end of Main St., west of Little Beach, to do what dogs do. For weeks, no problem. Then, several days ago the bigger of the two dogs approached a couple polishing their truck in what a young man, in the strongest terms, described as a “threatening manner." I didn't witness the dog-meets-man meeting but I do know Tucker's main threat is his wagging tail or enthusiastic sniffing for dog cookies. Indeed, in the years I have known him I have never heard him growl or bark. Between dog and man, based on his reaction, I definitely felt the latter was the greater threat. However, I have to admit he was right in one very important respect. Dogs are required to be on leashes. Which brings me to this suggestion for the municipality. Establish an off-leash dog park on the Berm. I am sure man's best
friend, dog owners, and dog haters, would welcome such a facility. Guy Goodwin Port Stanley
Stealing My Land, just retreat, run away, just leave Dear Editor, On 24 Nov 2015 at 9am The Elgin County Council will be stealing my dreams and my land away from my family and I. In 2014 Kettle Creek Conservation Authority hired Baird Engineering from Ottawa to rewrite the four conservation authorities Shoreline Management Plan. If you own Water Front property on Lake Erie, be very afraid, you are about to loose all your rights to protect your buildings and your land. Pick them up and move them away. Don’t think because you live in a Port your protected. Once the water gets behind your Port you will be gone too. Once the lake gets to Catfish Creek part way up Dexter Line Port Bruce will be dry. The report uses the word retreat, they want you to leave your land take your buildings and flee. I take great exception to retreating. Did our neighbours in Essex County Conservation Authority give up? They are progressive and have done an outstanding job developing Lake Front. Get informed Read Essex’s “Strategic Plan”. Its “Progressive by nature” it’s not about doing nothing. Catfish Creek, Long Point and Lower Thames have already adopted the new policy. We have two chances left to stop this policy. On the 12 Nov 2015, I spoke at the Catfish Creek Meeting. I was appalled to hear a Councilor openly admit to not reading the new policy and not reviewing the management plan. I take great offense for someone to vote on a plan that changes my life, and the board is not even informed. Yet, they still voted to adopt the policy. Councilors don’t even read the information to make an informed decision. After the KCCA staff did the presentation on the new policy, the Catfish staff had to force the councilors into accepting the Continued On Page 8
PORT BRUCE REPORT Cathy Crane
Welcome Sign Appreciation Event Approximately 30 people attended the celebration event on November 4th. The purpose of the event was to thank the many businesses and individuals who have contributed time, money and or services to the sign refurbishing project.
with a ramp, complete with a steel hand rail to ensure everyone’s safety. The finishing touches included adding some stones and a few new shrubs. As a finale, the blue heron was again mounted on top of the sign. This is actually the third blue heron to adorn the sign in the past 10 years, as the previous herons had disappeared. The honour of cutting the ribbon to mark the completion of the project went to Malahide Mayor Dave Mennill, Calvin Grissom and John Blankenship, chair of the Port Bruce Ratepayers Association. The community is grateful to the Ratepayers Association, the many businesses and volunteers who have contributed to the sign’s refurbishing. Such a beautiful entrance to welcome visitors the village! The refurbished ‘welcome’ sign at the bottom of the hill on Imperial Road, welcomes both visitors to the village and residents returning home.
Santa Claus is coming! Everyone is invited to attend the annual Tree Lighting and visit with Santa on Saturday, December 5th, starting at 7 p.m. Santa will light the beautiful tree in During the celebration, the history Wonnacott Park (by the pavilion) and of the sign’s origins was recounted by lead everyone in a few Christmas songs. Calvin Grissom. In 2005, the first disThen, he’s off to the club house at North cussions of building a sign at the ImpeErie Marina for story time and a chance rial Road entrance took place, and the hear what everyone wants for Christto original design was sketched on a mas. Please bring a few munchies for paper napkin. Later that year the origiSanta. Hot chocolate and coffee are pronal landscaping was completed and vided. the “Port Bruce’ sign was later erected. The initial project, undertaken by the Port Bruce Ratepayers Association, was headed up by Wilf McKee, Russ Charlton and Calvin Grissom. In 2013, the original sign was beginning to rust, and the Ratepayers decided to undertake its refurbishing. The sign and lighthouse were dismantled and repainted with a durable coating and new reflective lettering was applied. The lighthouse was improved, with plexiglass windows installed at the top. The memorial plaques that were originally made of paper enclosed in plastic were replaced with black granite slabs with the names of loved ones engraved. The cement steps leading to the memorial plaque were replaced
Mrs. Claus looked on as Santa read a story to the children at last year’s visit with Santa. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be in Port Bruce again this year on Saturday December 5th at 7 p.m.
Port Bruce Ratepayers Continued On Page 4
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The Lake Erie Beacon is a community newspaper published every second Friday by Kettle Creek Publishing Ltd. Over 6000 copies are delivered by Canada Post to homes, apartments and businesses along the Elgin County north shore of Lake Erie. The Beacon is also available through Variety Stores, Restaurants, Inns and B&B’s in Dutton, West Lorne, Rodney, St. Thomas, Copenhagen and Port Stanley bringing our distribution to 7000. The Lake Erie Beacon shall not be liable for changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of advertisements or other similar material that has been included in this publication. We reserve the right to edit all submissions including letters to the editor which must be signed and include your name, address and phone number, be in good taste and follow the laws of libel and slander. Anonymous letters will not be published. Articles written by freelance writers do not necessarily reflect the views of The Lake Erie Beacon.
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FRI. NOVEMBER 20/2015 to SAT. DECEMBER 5/2015
The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday November 20, 2015 • Page 3
Looking For Great Locations To Be Active This Fall? a few of the programs offered.
Exercise Program
Von Bereavement Walking Program: Our Mourning Walk
Contrary to many stereotypes around the idea of “healthy aging” relating only to a person’s physical health The VON Bereavement Walking Pro- and well-being, notions of aging in a gram “Our Mourning Walk” is for indihealthy way include both the physical viduals who are grieving the death of a and emotional health of someone as parent, spouse, child or significant indi- they age. vidual. For more information on recreation Looking To Play Indoor Sports? and leisure activities in Elgin – St. Thomas check out www.activeelgin.ca East Elgin Community Complex is or contact Elgin St. Thomas Public introducing a new initiative! Health at 519-631-9900 ext. 1324 for Von-S.M.A.R.T. Volunteer And more information.
Elgin St. Thomas Public Health The new Elgin-St. Thomas Cycling & Hiking Trail Map highlights that Elgin St Thomas has so many wonderful ways to be active. The map features routes where you can walk, hike, jog, cross country ski, and cycle on the beautiful trails and parks throughout Elgin and St. Thomas. Hiking, cycling and enjoying the outdoors are excellent activities to keep active year round. Many of the routes included in the map are new and result from the Elgin St Thomas Cycling Master Plan which was adopted by all Elgin St Thomas municipalities in September 2014. The map also includes the location of additional recreational facilities that are available in Elgin-St. Thomas, such as parks, basketball courts, and outdoor skating rinks, just to name a few. “Even though winter is just around the corner, as long as you’re bundled up there are plenty of trails that are beautiful to hike or walk throughout Elgin County.” Laura Crandall, Health Promoter. The Elgin-St. Thomas hiking and cycling trail maps are available at Railway City Tourism, Elgin County Tourism, Elgin St. Thomas Public Health, and throughout the County at each Municipal office. Get your trail map today and start exploring what our community has to offer!
Don’t let winter deter you from getting out and enjoying the beautiful scenery
Being Physically Active And Less Sedentary Has Huge Health Benefits Whether you join a sports team, take dance lessons or be creative in an art class, Active Elgin can help you find an activity that interests you and your family. Discover the many great activities and programs offered right here in Elgin-St. Thomas! The following are just
HealthTalk Steve Bond,
World Diabetes Day November 14th marked World Diabetes Day. This day highlights a campaign that focuses on diabetes education and prevention. It is estimated that more than 9 million Canadians are living with diabetes or pre-diabetes, and many are unaware. As these numbers continue to grow, so do the costs – by 2020, diabetes will cost the Canadian healthcare system $19.2 billion per year. If left untreated or poorly managed, diabetes can result in a variety of complications, including: heart disease; kidney disease; eye disease; impotence; and nerve damage. Signs and symptoms of diabetes include the following: unusual thirst; frequent urination; weight change (gain or loss); extreme fatigue; blurred vision; frequent or recurring infections; cuts and bruises that are slow to heal; tingling or numbness in the hands or feet; or trouble getting or maintaining an erection.
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The Canadian Diabetes Association recommends getting tested once you reach 40 and every 3 years after that or more often if you have risk factors or symptoms. Some risk factors include: having a close relative (parent or sibling) with type 2 diabetes; belonging to a high-risk population, such as those of Aboriginal, Hispanic, Asian, South Asian or African descent; having heart dis-
BScPhm, RPh, CDE Pharmacist/Manager
ease; a history of gestational diabetes; high blood pressure/high cholesterol; and/or being overweight. Early diagnosis and intervention leads to better outcomes. For example, the onset of type 2 diabetes may be prevented or delayed, through increased physical activity, healthy eating and weight loss. In a large study, people at risk of type 2 diabetes were able to reduce their risk by 58% by exercising moderately for 30 minutes a day and by losing 5 to 7% of their body weight. In people age 60 and older, the risk was cut by almost 71%. Also, there are numerous studies showing that better blood glucose control reduces complications. A 1% reduction in A1C (a test used to measure average blood sugars over 3 months) can result in 37% reduction in many complications and a 21% reduction in death from diabetes. Working with a certified diabetes educator (CDE) such as nurse or pharmacist can help you to reach these targets. If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have diabetes- get tested. If you have diabetes, speak to your doctor or a CDE to see how you can best manage the disease.
Take care of yourself and each other. For more information, check out our blog: yurekpharmacy.wordpress.com 519 Talbot Street, St. Thomas 631-3330 PROFESSIONAL CONSULTATION AVAILABLE CONVENIENT HOURS: Monday to Friday 9 am - 9 pm, Saturday 9 am - 6pm, Sunday 10 am - 4 pm
Page 4 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday November 20, 2015
PORT BRUCE REPORT Continued From Page 2
Meeting The monthly meeting of the board of the Port Bruce Ratepayers Association was held on November 3rd at the Corner View Café with 9 board members present. Discussion included finalizing plans for the welcome sign donor event and replacing defective Christmas tree lights in Wonnacott Park. Santa’s visit is confirmed for Saturday, December 5th at 7:00 p.m. and final preparations will occur at the December 1st meeting. An update was provided on the plans for the Canada 150 Grant, which includes improvements to the pavilion, park and pier areas. More detailed plans will be available in the next few months. The fall newsletter is on schedule to be available by mid-November and a Ratepayer’s website is to be developed over the winter months. The next meeting is planned for December 1st at 7 p.m., with the location to be determined.
Beach Restoration On October 22nd a beach restoration event was led by Ministry of Natu-
ral Resources staff with assistance from community volunteers and students from the Environmental Leadership Program at East Elgin Secondary School. The project included removal from the beach of some white sweet clover plants and planting of new beach grasses. Snow fence was erected on the beach to help protect the new grass and assist in building a sand dune. There are reportedly plans to do more dune building over time to help protect the beach area.
Future of Port Bruce Provincial Park There has been great progress in the Port Bruce Provincial Park in 2015. Special thanks goes to John Salo and his staff for their help in bringing a balanced approach of one third recreational and two thirds natural. Based on the increase in the number of beachgoers this summer, a large number agree with the compromised position. I am looking forward to the 2016 season when we have a mobi mat in place enabling accessibility to the beach for all, without disturbing the natural grasses and dunes. In closing, thank you to all who were involved in making Port Bruce the jewel that it is.
PORT STANLEY REPORT Andrew Hibbert
tention of CIBC head office.
CIBC ATM Machine Returning Only this week we learned that a new CIBC ATM machine has been installed at the Foodland Store in Port Stanley, at 291 Colborne Street, and that it will be up and running by November 20th.
CIBC Bank Machine returning to Port Stanley In August we contacted the CIBC Client Care Centre in Toronto, outlining our concerns and the concerns of the village that the CIBC ATM machine had been removed from the Mac’s Milk store in Port Stanley. We asked why the machine had been removed. We received this reply. Dear Mr. Hibbert: I am in receipt of and thank you for your letter outlining your concerns with CIBC. I appreciate you bringing this matter to our attention so that we may have an opportunity to address your concerns. CIBC's internal guidelines regarding the handling of customer concerns or complaints require that the CIBC Client Care Centre be given the first opportunity to resolve the matter at hand. As such, I have taken the liberty of forwarding your letter to them, for a thorough investigation and response directly to you. As a matter of information CIBC Client Care may be contacted at: Email: client.care@cibc.com Fax: 1877-861-7801 Telephone: 1-800-4652255 or by letter. Postal Address: P.O. Box 15, Station A, Toronto, ON M5W 1A2. Thank you again for taking the time to bring your concerns to our attention. Sincerely, Aida Salazar Office of the CIBC Ombudsman Our letter was followed up by articles in the August and September editions of the Lake Erie Beacon. We were never given an official reason for the removal of the CIBC ATM machine other than it was a regional management decision. We have since been told that both the CIBC Bank in St. Thomas and the Toronto contacts were inundated with phone calls and emails from local residents complaining about the removal of the ATM.
PSVA Petition As well as the many personal letters and phone calls regarding the CIBC ATM machine the Port Stanley Village Association put out a petition locally which garnered hundreds of names of local residents who wanted to see an ATM brought back to the village. It seems that all these efforts got the at-
Harbour Dredging The dredging of the harbour will continue into the winter as long as possible and has to be completed by March of next year before the spring spawning season starts. The material dredged up from the harbour bottom is being used to fill the new Hofhuis Park. More information in an upcoming issue.
Assault And Fire In The Village On Saturday November 14th, 2015 at approximately 6:19 p.m. Elgin County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) as well as Central Elgin Fire responded to a residential fire on Brayside Street in Port Stanley. As police arrived at the scene they were advised by neighbours that there had been some type of confrontation outside of the residence and a male known as Doug Spink had been holding the male owner of the residence, which was now on fire, at knifepoint. Witness advised that Spink had since fled down the street and broken into a nearby house. Spink was located on the street a short distance away and when confronted by police, resisted arrest. While being transported in the police cruiser SPINK continued to resist causing extensive damage to the police vehicle. As a result of the investigation police have charged Spink with; 1. Assault with a Weapon contrary to the Criminal Code. 2. Uttering Threats contrary to the Criminal Code. 3. Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose contrary to the Criminal Code. 4. Resisting a Police Officer contrary to the Criminal Code.
The Harbour? The Berm? The Pier? Condos? The School? The Lighthouse? Port Stanley Signage? What’s happening? Find out at the
Annual General Meeting of the
Port Stanley Village Association at The Port Stanley Legion Thursday Nov. 26, 2015 - 7 PM
Everyone Welcome!
5. Mischief under $5000 contrary to the Criminal Code. 6. Break and Enter contrary to the Criminal Code. 7. Assault with the Intent to Resist Arrest contrary to the Criminal Code. Spink is currently being held in custody pending a show cause bail hearing. Police along with the Ontario Fire Marshalls Office are currently investigating the cause of the residential fire. Thanks to PC Troy Carlson - Media Officer for this report.
The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday November 20, 2015 • Page 5
Saving the Straffordville Community Centre will ever help The Ojibwa be successful? Where do you think it’s going to go now??? Its a fixture in the Bayham community and eventually we will benefit from it… but, the process of getting it to that point needs all of our support including not just those we elected.
Serge Pieters The results of this past council meeting on November 5th, in favour of saving the Straffordville Community Centre (SCC) was just another example of why municipalities need to do referendums or plebiscites on thorny controversial issues.
So… suck it up buttercups, work together as a community without self interest and try and lose the poor attitudes against your fellow neighbours ... North or South or East or West, Mennonite or not, and members of council and stop being so damn angry and resentful.
The situation with the SCC is not a whole lot different than that of the controversy regarding the Ojibwa... many people voted in favour of the sub, not all but, at least it was a general indication of the support for its being brought to the community… just like the SCC situation.
It’s been a tough run but I am confidant and encouraged that ultimately we can find common ground that we can all be respectful of and all of Bayham can benefit from. functional facility not just as "in favour" of keeping the Vienna CC? It’s not about entitlement… although many seem to feel so entitled.
These controversial issues need to be dealt with by another and more formal and democratic process as clearly the existing process is just causing further division within the community.
In the interests of having a centralized hall… are the Parliament Buildings in Saskatchewan? Or the Ontario Government building in Sudbury? I don't really mind the short drive to the SCC for future community events but I will not if... we do not get their support for ALL the Bayham residents! The CCOB Group seem to only have shown huge emotional concerns for "their" hall, I never heard the term "our Bayham' or "the other community halls" even spoken.
As far as The Concerned Citizens of Bayham (CCOB) group, I think they did a fabulous job and they are to be both congratulated and encouraged as a group to move Bayham forward but, all of Bayham, not just their localized interests. Not all are going to agree with me but really was a solution brought forth by this group as to what now to do with the Vienna CC or the Eden CC? So without that concern or consideration has this situation not also negatively affected the desires and wishes of those in Vienna and Port Burwell or Corinth or Richmond or Eden? Is it now fair that efforts to save the SCC may now come down to "surplussing the VCC" and those who have supported it for multiple generations as well? Vienna also had a Town Hall since 1850ish? Are the residents of W1 and specifically a still
Now the continuing saga of the Ojibwa… what is being done to support it by residents that more feel the need to criticize the decision to bring it to Port Burwell? Had it been successful would that same negativity and criticism still exist? Poor management and probably a little bad luck caused its demise, not a decision made by the council of the day based on the wants of the people in favour… those who also spoke just as the situation above. We can only hope that the same critics now, so passionate about the SCC and, that the Municipality of Bayham will step up and help support the Ojibwa and make it successful. Its truly unfortunate that it failed to meet its financial obligations and yes, it likely (but not yet necessarily, as we don't truly know this for sure… yet cost us all). Do you truly feel that the
constant criticisms and rumbling, mumblings and outright anger is helpful against those who are trying to make good and successful decisions, I also heard this past Thursday night,
And please… it’s not a "Win"... if it’s a win, who is the loser? It’s also NOT a "Victory" as, with any victory, there are those who are defeated. Would it not be better called a "New Start"?
Page 6 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday November 20, 2015
Port Burwell Food And Toys For Christmas Care Baskets Laureena Smith During the Christmas parade in Port Burwell the 1st Port Burwell Cubs And Beavers will be collecting the above items to help fill the Christmas Care Baskets. The Port Burwell Christmas Parade
will be held on Saturday December 5th at 6 PM starting at the Legion and ending at the Light House. Watch for the Scouting Elves and help bring a merry Christmas to those in need. Items can be left at the Post Office ahead of time if preferred.
Elgin Shoreline Management Plan Approvals Elizabeth VanHooren General Manager Kettle Creek Conservation Authority
The Elgin County Shoreline Management Plan will be presented for the consideration of the board of directors of four Elgin County conservation authorities over the coming month. The Elgin County Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) was developed over the past year in cooperation with a Steering Committee and a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC). The TAC included representatives of the four Elgin County conservation authorities – Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA), Kettle Creek Conservation Authority (KCCA), Catfish Creek Conservation Authority (CCCA), Long Point Region Conservation Authority (LPRCA) – the County of Elgin and its shoreline municipalities – West Elgin, Dutton Dunwich, Southwold, Central Elgin, Malahide and Bayham. In 2014 the Catfish Creek Conservation Authority (CCCA), Kettle Creek Conservation Authority (KCCA), Long
Point Region Conservation Authority (LPRCA) and Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) and the County of Elgin and its shoreline municipalities collaborated on an Elgin County Shoreline Management Plan (SMP). Prior to 2014, CCCA, KCCA, LPRCA and LTVCA had separate Shoreline Management Plans covering the coastal zone of the Lake Erie shoreline in their respective watersheds. These reports were prepared independently by the same consultant in the late 1980s or in the case of LTVCA were a compilation of different reports pertaining to shoreline erosion and management. The existing plans were out-of-date and needed to take into consideration current mapping and technical standards pertaining to shoreline hazards. A collaborative approach to shoreline management for the entire north shore of Lake Erie within Elgin County provided a more consistent technical study area and guide for municipal land-use Continued Above On Page 7
The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday November 20, 2015 • Page 7 planning along the shoreline and a more accurate investigation into the dynamics of the entire extent of the shoreline rather than a sectional or watershed view. In addition, a joint plan eliminated the retention of multiple consultants and streamlined meeting and administrative costs. Elgin County Council agreed to cover fifty per cent of the project costs with lower tier shoreline municipalities being asked to fund the other half based on the amount of shoreline within their jurisdiction. The project was tendered in 2014 and the winning bid was submitted by W.F. Baird & Associates for $186,000. While the price of the project was over the projected budget of $144,000 the conservation authorities felt strongly about the quality of product offered by Baird and agreed to cover the shortfall. In addition, because of the collaborative nature of the project Environment Canada came to the table with $40,000. Three Open Houses were held in August 2014, one in West Elgin, one in Central Elgin and one in Port Burwell. At each Open House an afternoon and evening session was held. A formal presentation was provided on the development of the SMP and the consultant presented the preliminary findings and management approaches. In addition, a select number of the draft hazard maps were on display for the attendees to view. Each session also included a question and answer sections. A synopsis of these sessions is included in Appendix C of the SMP. Drafts of the report including its recommendations were vetted through the Technical Advisory Committee, which included representatives of each Conservation Authority, the County of Elgin, the shoreline municipalities and MNRF. 90 km Of Shoreline The plan which encompasses 90 km of shoreline includes updated coastal hazard maps to assist stakeholders and regulators to evaluate future development permits and assess infrastructure at risk along the Lake Erie shoreline. “The collaborative nature of this plan means in many ways it is consistent with the goals and objectives of the Elgin County (2012) Official Plan,” said Elizabeth VanHooren, general manager of KCCA. “The plan balances environmental, social, cultural and recreational objectives with the boundaries of natural coastal systems, such as littoral cells.” The SMP outlines management approaches for high bluffs, large fillet beaches, navigation channels, and the existing shoreline development in port communities. These approaches were presented at a series of Open Houses in August 2014 and were approved by the Steering Committee and Technical Advisory Committee. The plan can be viewed at the following link: http://www.kettlecreekconservation.on.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/ElginCoSMP-2015.10 .13.pdf After approval by the individual CA boards, the plan will be presented to County Council. Elizabeth VanHooren on behalf of Kettle Creek Conservation Authority, Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA), Catfish Creek Conservation Authority (CCCA) and Long Point Region Conservation Authority
The Chemicals In Some Everyday Soaps Threaten Lake Water Quality T. J. Pignataro The Buffalo News Part 2 of a 2 part article Industry reaction For its part, the industry considers triclosan safe, even as many companies now shift from using the chemical in their formulas. Colgate Palmolive Co., which markets Softsoap, switched to benzethonium chloride, an alternative antimicrobial product, a few years ago. The company called studies biased because of sampling near wastewater treatment outfalls. The company said the chemical dilutes into reduced, environmentally safe concentrations in water. “The safety of triclosancontaining products has been well-demonstrated and the science on triclosan has not significantly changed since EPA completed its comprehensive review of triclosan in 2008,” Colgate Palmolive Co. told the EPA in May 2013.
triclosan is removed – between 67 and 99 percent – depending on the treatment system. But remnants of the chemical, or byproducts associated with the process, are spilled into lakes in treated discharge water from the plant, according to a report by the Alliance for the Great Lakes.
products.
“The extent to which it’s filtered out or removed depends on the system,” said Olga Lyandres, an Alliance research manager. “Some are more effective at it than others.”
The Buffalo Sewer Authority is not required to test and monitor triclosan as part of its environmental discharge permit, according to Julie Barrett O’Neill, the authority’s lawyer.
Others companies have also shifted away from triclosan, including Johnson & Johnson and P&G. “Although triclosan is known to be safe through numerous studies and regulatory reviews, there are ongoing discussions about how effective it is for reducing bacteria compared to regular soap,” according to P&G’s website. “Due to our limited use of the ingredient, we have decided to eliminate triclosan from our products. We have eliminated triclosan from more than 99 percent of the products where it was used and have an exit plan for the few remaining uses.” Most recently, Dial’s “new active total clean formula” line of hand soaps and a “triclosan free” hand soap by Top Care are landing on store shelves, displacing much of the stock containing triclosan.
Clean water advocates call that good progress, but too late. “Triclosan, and its cousin triclocarban, as a result of widespread use in many over-the-counter, ‘down-thedrain’ products, have succeeded in contaminating waterways and wastewater systems,” said Nichelle Harriott, science and regulatory director at Beyond Pesticides.
No local testing The suds from all those products get washed down the drain and into the sanitary sewer and then the wastewater plant. At the plant, a large amount of the
There’s no data showing how much triclosan sewage plants release into Lake Erie or the Niagara River.
The same is true for Erie County’s faArnold’s Minnesota study concilities, Fiegl said. firmed triclosan concentrations in in“That’s not something we specifically land Minnesota lakes and Lake test for,” he said. “The plant is not Superior originated from treated wastedesigned to remove it, but it specifically water plant discharges. may.”
‘Cocktail of chemicals’ What’s released into the water from chlorine-treated wastewater plant discharges is any triclosan not removed by the treatment process and also “chlorinated triclosan derivatives,” said Arnold, the Minnesota professor.
As for Colgate Total, the company maintains the “uniquely formulated” toothpaste with 0.3 percent triclosan “provides an important health benefit recognized by health authorities” in promoting oral health and small amounts of the chemical in the environment are safe. “It is important to recognize that presence of a chemical does not equate to risk of harm,” the company said in a statement to The Buffalo News. “Detailed assessments based on realworld environmental concentrations – which take into account drought and other worst-case conditions – show no evidence of harm from the low level of triclosan entering the environment.”
“Many safer and effective alternatives already exist,” said Jill Jedlicka, executive director of Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper.
“The issue with triclosan is once it gets into the environment, it forms a number of different things,” Arnold said. The problem is exacerbated when triclosan and byproduct molecules are exposed to sunlight. That’s when they’re phototransformed into one of four different forms of dioxin.
Phosphates in detergents can fertilize rivers and lakes, causing algal blooms that use up oxygen and kill fish life. That prompted Minnesota to ban the chemical from products, except in restaurants and hospital settings, starting Jan. 1, 2017. It’s the only state to do so. Restrictions on the chemical’s use are in effect in the European Union, and clean water advocates are pressuring U.S. and Canadian governments to remove triclosan from personal care
Dioxin, in the same family of chemicals responsible for the contamination of Love Canal in Niagara Falls, is a chemical regarded by the EPA as “highly toxic” and carcinogenic. It’s also linked with reproductive and developmental problems as well as impaired immune and hormonal function, according to the EPA. Other toxic post-treatment byproducts include chloroform or methyl-triclosan. “You have this cocktail of chemicals that are discharged in the wastewater, and there is very little information as to the effects,” said Lyandres, of the Alliance for the Great Lakes. Continued On Page 8
Page 8 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday November 20, 2015
Exercise Program Geared To 55 And Older Victorian Order of Nurses Keeping older adults healthy, safe and strong is the focus of a unique exercise program offered by the Victorian Order of Nurses (VON). The Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together (SMART) program aims to assist older adults in exercising muscles that are needed to keep up with daily living, helping them to stay independent longer. This gentle exercise program is geared to people 55 years and older and adults with a disability and the best part is that it is free to attend! SMART participants often comment on the positive effects that the SMART exercise program has on their lives. Many have improved their strength
and mobility which allows them to take the stairs in place of relying on the elevator or being able to bend down to tie a shoe. Exercise classes of varying mobility levels take place at multiple locations throughout Elgin County. Regardless of your experience level with fitness there is a class for you!
But, as I know my Dad would love to hear, the fishing industry still survives and prospers. If only on a smaller scale. But ocean vessels no longer arrive at the west dock from exotic European ports carrying cargos such as marble chips, olives, exotic wines, European cars, etc., etc. And I no longer make big bucks, big for a school kid, unloading those goods. The harbour looks strange now. Almost empty, with the silos where I worked summers and weekends as a kid, now gone. Just as the east side of the harbour looked strange to me when huge piles of coal that heated area homes and powered plants disappeared. Still … bureaucracy, it seems, is still bureaucracy. How else to understand why the powers that be would close off that pier during the beautiful fall season? Can’t be because it’s dangerous. A few days ago we walked the pier with waves higher than I have ever seen. And I’ve seen a few over the years. The only danger on the pier, thanks to the protection of its walls, was getting a little wet. As in doused. And I was. No matter. Even though every day at any time of the day the pier has been literally filled with visitors. So on a sunny afternoon we hustled down to watch the sun setting as it can only be seen from that unobstructed view and we were stunned to find … the pier was closed. Big Brother is watching out for us. Or so we are told.
Continued From Page 7
What’s more, the chemicals and byproducts cling to particles in the water and then eventually the sediment of lakes and rivers.
Great Lakes advocates contend triclosan leads to unnecessary environmental side effects and human health hazards, because most antimicrobial products aren’t any more effective than formulas without the chemical.
LETTERS
Continued From Page 1 Times have changed and Port Stanley is now a tourist town above all else.
Studies suggest exposure to triclosan can have chemical effects on the human endocrine system, which regulates hormones, and promotes the rise and proliferation of resistant bacteria.
Officials at Colgate-Palmolive point out that the dioxins resulting from the breakdown of triclosan “are considered low in toxicity and do not demonstrate the characteristics of dioxins of concern” and that use of the term in connection with environmental and human risk is “unwarranted.” The company also said risk evaluations show the balance of the ecosytem remains unaffected by triclosan.
VON will soon be offering SMART Stroke Exercise classes in Aylmer to help individuals who have had a stroke get back into being physically active. These classes include walking; balancing and completing functional tasks to help regain independence. For more information on participating in the SMART exercise program, please contact Katherine Harrison at VON 519-637-6408 to register today!
Lots of visitors
Some Everyday Soaps Threaten Lake Water Quality
policy. You could see clearly they did not like it. Staff said if they did not accept the policy changes, they would need to spend more money. The KCCA said erosion cannot be stopped on Lake Erie. Who are these people? You and I paid $185,000 on an Ottawa engineers report and they did not even use actual data from this area. They did not use 40 years of data collected at the water treatment plant. Why because it goes against their plan to run away. The conservations authorities mandate is clear and this policy violates the mandate. The conservation authorities are to create programs that conserve, restore, develop and managed; to “Facilitate” help us, work with us, but they want us to run away and retreat. They want to do nothing! Get this, if you don’t remove your house before it falls in the lake your going to get a big fine. Don’t throw a rock in the water. You get fined for that too. Kettle Creek’s meeting is the 18th Nov at 10am Ferguson Line and Elgin County’s Meeting is the 24th. Nov at 9 am at the County Building Sunset Dr. I will be presenting my case at both these meetings; we need to stop this madness. I will be carrying a letter from MPP Jeff Yurek dated 13 Nov 2015 sent to the Elgin Council and KCCA to stop this process and to get more public input. Please attend these meetings, If you can not attend call Mayor David Marr, KCCA board member at 519 782 3836 call Warden Paul Ens 519 866 5295 and tell them your not happy, call your local Mayor and ask questions, don’t standby, we are about to be made fools of. Kyle Cronk Dexter Line
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And, for Lake Erie – which holds half of the fish in the Great Lakes basin – that matters. “It’s an example of a chemical we use in our houses by choice,” Arnold said. “The choices we make have the potential for effects well beyond our household.”
and pass carefully as their movement is unpredictable;
Elgin County OPP Elgin County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the County of Elgin are urging drivers to increase their deer alert awareness, especially this time of the year. “Most vehicle collisions with deer occur during the months from October to December due to the fall mating and migration seasons, Wild animal collisions tend to occur early morning or just after sun-set because of increased traffic, reduced visibility and deer movement patterns. Drivers need to pay extra attention.” said Elgin County OPP Detachment Commander Brad Fishleigh. OPP spokesperson Troy Carlson said there are steps drivers can take to reduce the chance of a collision. “Deer-related collisions can cause injuries ranging from bumps and bruises to serious injuries or even death. Being more aware of the dangers and following some basic safety guidelines can help avoid collisions,” Carlson said.
Ways drivers can reduce risk: •
A yellow deer crossing sign indicates a high risk area, slow down and drive with caution;
•
If you see wildlife beside the road, slow down, honk the horn
T H E LAKE ER I E B EACON
Sales Representative
Harriott, of Beyond Pesticides, added: “It has a trickle-up in the food web affect. It can biologically accumulate in aquatic organisms like fish.”
DON’T VEER FOR DEER – Stay alert and Drive Safe!
Continued From Page 2
Bonnie Mudge
“It’s certainly a biologically active compound,” Arnold said. “We think of algae as a nuisance, but it’s also the base of the food chain.”
•
Use high beams at night and watch for glowing eyes of animals;
•
Never swerve suddenly as you could lose control of your vehicle; •
If an animal is crossing the road ahead, brake firmly – never assume it will move out of the way; • Stop as safely as possible if an animal is crossing the road; remember that other animals often follow; • Drive defensively at all times.
“Close to half of all of the collisions the Elgin OPP investigated last year involved a vehicle striking a deer. Out of the 878 collisions Elgin OPP investigated in 2014, 377 of them involved collisions with deer. So far in 2015, Elgin County OPP officers have investigated 223 collisions involving deer. Of those 223 collisions 11 people were injured. We certainly would like to see a reduction in those numbers. The costs associated to those collisions are astronomical. If you take into consideration the police resources required to investigate and process these collisions, insurance claims, costs to the health care system and obviously the emotional impact on drivers and families is staggering.” said Carlson.
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The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday November 20, 2015 • Page 9
The Corporation of the Municipality of Central Elgin
Municipal Winter Control Operations OBJECTIVES
War of 1812 Veteran Graveside Recognition Project The Historic Military Establishment of Upper Canada Overview of the Project The Historic Military Establishment of Upper Canada is proud to announce a project that is unique in Canadian History since it will see us map, and identify rank and file veterans of the War of 1812, and mark their graves with a bilingual black granite plaque with the 1812 commemorative medal inscription identifying them as veterans, so all Canadians can honour their service. The details of this bicentennial project can be viewed at a recently launched website by going to www.1812veterans.ca The Historic Military Establishment of Upper Canada is a non-profit living history group that brings the War of 1812 period to life through heritage displays, re-enactments and education programs. In its many years of heritage programming this organization has brought the War of 1812 period to life for tens of thousands of Canadian school children. The recognition of War of 1812 veterans has not been done in our history, and has been an oversight in terms of recognizing the efforts of Canadians of all cultures who joined together in a common cause and defended our nation during the War of 1812. These veterans are buried in cemeteries all over Canada without any way of identifying them, or honoring their service. The Historic Military Establishment of Upper Canada, has taken on the project to ensure that the War of 1812 veterans get the recognition that they deserve, not only in the defense of Canada, but also for their dedication in building the foundation of the Canada that we live in today. War of 1812 veterans have never had a distinctive headstone, or a way of identifying them as founders of our nation. This project will remedy that situation so that anyone visiting a cemetery in Canada will be able to know that they are standing at the gravesite of a War of 1812 Veteran. This project was fortunate enough to receive funding from the Federal government War of 1812 Commemorative Fund and we thankfully acknowledge the support of the Government of Canada for this Bicentennial initiative. This is a national project that will also have a website dedicated to providing a searchable data base of the biographies of War of 1812 veterans for the
use of students and researchers alike, a data base that until now has never been attempted. Each plaque placed at a War of 1812 Veteran’s gravesite will relate to corresponding biographies of the veterans with the location of the grave on our website. Over the first phase of the project we hope to honour up to 1000 War of 1812 veterans across the country and post the biographies that will tell the stories of these Canadian heroes. The project's website is intended to make the visitor aware of the people, the places, and the foundations that our forbearers made, sometimes in the face of extreme hardships. The first two plaques to be placed will be at St. James-on-the-Lines Anglican Church in Penetanguishene, Ontario, an historic jewel in our midst, a church built by veterans of the War of 1812, and a living legacy, left for our use by the very veterans we will be honouring. One plaque honouring Captain James Keating of the Royal Artillery and the other honouring Captain James Moberly of the Royal Navy, both storied veterans of the War of 1812 with fascinating personal histories, and both responsible for the creation of the church. The black granite plaque design contains a copy of the Upper Canada Preserved Medal; a medal struck in 1813 and meant for War of 1812 veterans, but very few ever received them. One side of the medal has the words "For Merit, Presented From A Grateful Country". The Upper Canada Preserved Medal was created by the Loyal and Patriotic Society of Upper Canada, that ultimately could not agree on the distribution of the medals, so they were melted down in 1840. The funds generated from the precious metals were used to help sustain the Toronto General Hospital. On June 18, we will be taking the first step on a long overdue journey to acknowledge the courage and resolve of these founders of our nation. After 200 years, we will finally deliver the medals that their service to the country has warranted, in the form of a permanent bilingual black granite plaque marking their graves. The website will feature the biographies of these long forgotten veterans as well as a map to show their final resting places.
Website Officially Launched The website for the War of 1812 Veteran Graveside Recognition Project Continued On Page 11
Through our policies and procedures, the Municipality of Central Elgin is making every effort to ensure we not only meet our winter control obligations but to do so as effectively and as economically as possible. Through good operations, we are trying to facilitate the handling of emergencies by our fire, police, and ambulance officials. It is our goal to maintain safe passable transportation routes and to minimize the economic losses of the community and industry during the winter season. Your co-operation is appreciated.
PRIORITIES The Municipality’s winter control procedures are in place to meet or exceed the Minimum Maintenance Standards as set out in the Municipal Act. As such, some streets are given a higher priority. Not all streets will be maintained in the winter to the same degree. The degree of winter maintenance will vary in accordance with the roll the road/street plays in the transportation network and its classification according to the Minimum Maintenance Standards.
SIDEWALK MAINTENANCE The municipality will undertake sidewalk winter control as per the Municipal policy. The policy states: •
All commercial property owners are responsible for the clearing of snow and ice from the sidewalks adjacent to their properties or businesses.
•
Plowing will commence when snow has accumulated to 100mm and the storm is substantially over. This time may vary due to the availability of manpower. Plowing will be carried out during normal working hours.
•
•
If required, the maintained sidewalks may be treated with salt or sand as soon as possible after the storm or when manpower/equipment becomes available and during normal working hours. The Municipality will not perform winter maintenance on any sidewalk that is less than 1.2 meters wide.
Although we all look forward to having the streets plowed, no one really looks forward to that pile of snow left at the end of the driveway. Plows push most of the accumulated snow along the roadway. Some snow normally travels alongside the blade. As the plow moves past driveways, that snow falls to one side forming a windrow. It is unfortunately up to the home owner to clear this snow left behind by the plow.
If you have any questions, please contact the Physical Services Department, Municipality of Central Elgin at
(519) 631-4860
ATTENTION The Municipality will be enforcing the relevant sections of the Highway Traffic Act and Municipal By-law EG1.
Traffic Laws Section 170(12) of the Highway Act which prohibits parking so as to interfere with the clearing of snow from the highway and Section 170(15) provides for the removal of offending vehicles at the owners expense.
Municipal By-Law By-Law EG1 prohibits the parking of any motor vehicle on municipal streets between the hours of 3:00am to 5:00am. Owners of vehicles which are in contravention of this by-law are subject to a fine. Any vehicles in contravention of this by-law are subject to removal at the owner’s expense.
Mailboxes The Municipality of Central Elgin will replace broken mail boxes only if snow removal equipment makes physical contact with the mailbox. Landowners are responsible to ensure mail boxes are securely attached to their post.
The Municipality will not be responsible or held liable for damage to private installations which encroach on the Municipal Right of Way. Further that, the Municipality would encourage landowners to remove any existing items that may encroach onto the right of way. Any items that are fixed such as boulders or posts that pose a threat to public safety will be required to be moved at the landowner’s expense.
Page 10 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday November 20, 2015
North Shore Community Events F E S T I V A L S
PORT STANLEY 2015
Port Stanley Community Policing Requires volunteers. To help protect your village, call 519-782-3934 or Carroll at 519-782-7616, email pscp@rogers.com Port Stanley Library 782-4241 304 Bridge St. Mon, Tues, Thurs, 10 - 8:30 Fri 1 - 5, Sat 9 - 1. Children’s Programs *NEW* Read with Maggie! Tuesday, Nov. 24, 6-6:30pm. Sign up for a reading session with Maggie the Therapy Dog! For reluctant readers ages 6-12 Please preregister. Maker Mondays 5:30-6:15pm. Calling all makers! Come for a hands on maker session as we explore a multitude of mediums! For ages 6-12. Please preregister. Pajama Rama Mondays, 6:30-7pm Stories and songs for all ages & their caregiver please preregister PreSchool Story Time Tuesdays, 10:15-11am Join us for songs, stories and crafts! For ages 0-5 and their caregiver please preregister ADULT PROGRAMS & EVENTS Adult Book Club Ru by Kim Thuy New Members always welcome! IttyBittyKnittyCommittee Thurs. Nov. 26, 7-8pm. Bring your knitted or crochet project for an informal meeting. Share projects & patterns, learn from others & pick up new tricks! Scrapbooking Monday, Nov. 23, 10am-12pm. Join Mickey to turn your photos into a creative page for your scrapbook! $5 / person please preregister! New glasses? Drop off your old ones (even in pieces!) and cases to the library which works with the Lions Club to send to people in need. Christ Anglican Church Sunday Morning Service, 9:30 am with Eucharist. We invite all to join in worship with us. Coffee follows downstairs. St. John's Presbyterian Church Tom Jeffrey Pastor. Sunday Worship 10 am followed by Fellowship Hour. The Door is always open, why not join us? Sunday School starts at 10:20 am. Port Stanley United Church Service of Worship at 10:30 am followed by a time of fellowship. Come join us. We are now wheelchair friendly and barrier free. Port Stanley United Church Cantata The Jesus Gift Cantata will be sung by a 23 voice choir led by Lindsay Traichevich on December 6, 10:30 am. A perfect beginning to the Christmas season. Wheelchair accessible. Port Stanley Community Bazaar Saturday, Nov. 28, 9am - 1 pm. Port Stanley Arena, Free Admission, Lunch Room Available, Sponsored by Local Non-Profit Groups Port Stanley Village Association meets the second Thursday of the month 7- 8:30 pm at the Legion. All welcome. Al-Anon Meeting, Christ Anglican Church 7:30 pm every Friday. If there is an alcohol/drug problem of a family member or friend that is affecting you, the Alanon Family Groups may be able to help you. Port Stanley & Community 55+ Club Meets every Monday 1:30 -4 pm to play Euchre at the Port Stanley Arena. For info call 519-782-4801 (John Brenders) or 519-685-2101 (Marie Geerts). Port Stanley Legion Branch #410 Winter Hours: Mon. 12-7, Tues., Wed., Thurs., & Fri., 12-10, Sat. & Sun., 12-7. Port Stanley Legion Branch #410 Don’t forget the Legion offers the following: Seniors Bridge, Tues. night, Euchre: Wed. night Legion Darts Tuesday night 8 pm Men’s Darts Saturday Afternoon Meat Draws 3-5 pm Port Stanley Legion Bottle Returns Mon & Thurs- Closed, Tues, Wed., Fri, Sat 12-4 pm. Port Stanley Legion Ladies MahJongg, Fridays 1:30pm. We are looking for beginners as well. If you like to play MahJongg come on out! Port Stanley Legion Port Stanley Karaoke, Every 3rd Friday of the month, 7pm - 11pm. Come for the fun.
PORT BURWELL/VIENNA 2015
Port Burwell Trinity Anglican 11:30 am Port Burwell Lighthouse Gospel Church 10:45 am Port Burwell Legion Br. 524 Trivia on Monday evenings, start 5pm. In the club room, all welcome. Port Burwell Legion Br. 524 November 28 Turkey Raffle all welcome, starting 5 pm. Port Burwell Legion Br. 524 December 5 Breakfast with Santa 8 am till 11 am. Port Burwell Legion Br. 524 December 5th All you can eat Spaghetti Supper 3:30 pm till 5:30 pm, $10 per person, Kids half price. Have your supper before going to Santa Parade. Port Burwell - Bayham Horticultural Society, Meets Every 3rd Monday, 7 pm at the Port Burwell School, Strachan Street. For more Info 519 874-4260. Port Burwell Historical Society meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month, 7 pm at the Marine Museum. Call 519 874-4135. Oriental Masonic Lodge meets the 4th Tuesday of the month at the Vienna Masonic Hall, 7:30 pm. New Members Welcome! Call 519 874-4135. Photographers of the Otter Valley (POV) meet the last Monday of the month, 6:30 pm, Bayham Public Library in Straffordville. All are welcome. Call Bruce at 519 874-1822.
AYLMER 2015
Aylmer 50 + Seniors Welcome you to join them for Euchre or Bridge Every Monday 1 - 3:30 pm upstairs at Aylmer Legion Admission $2. Aylmer-Malahide Museum Christmas Tour off Homes 4 Unique Homes decorated for Christmas Plus the Museum, Friday Nov 20, 7-10 pm, Saturday Nov 21, 1-9 pm Tickets $15 at the Museum, homes or local merchants. Turkey Supper, Baptist Church, $15 Fri. Nov 20 773-9723 or 773-5575
DUTTON 2015
Annual LIONS Turkey Bingo Friday, Nov. 20th, 6:30 pm Dutton Dunwich Community Centre, Annual LIONS Turkey Bingo @.25 cents per card, per game. A fun night for all ages. West Elgin Choral Society presents A Picturesque Christmas, Dec. 18, 7:30 pm. Upper Town Hall
The Lake Erie Beacon 204 A Carlow Road Port Stanley, Ontario N5L 1C5 Phone: (519) 782-4563
&
E V E N T S
Dutton,Tickets $12 adv. $15 at the door, under 16 free, $7 students. Tickets 519 768-3491 or 519 762-2862. “Dutton’s Santa Clause Parade” Sat., Nov. 21, with LIONS again serving free ‘Hot Chocolate’ downtown. Poinsettia Bazaar Sat., Nov. 21, Dunwich United, 179 Nancy Street, Hosted by the UCW ladies 10 am - 2pm. Huge bake table, crafts, and "good-as-new" items
EAGLE 2015
Eagle Community Centre, Saturday, November 21, 10am -3pm - Unique one of a kind items, with a rural touch, from 12 talented individuals in Southwestern Ontario. Homemade lunch and baked goods. Hosted by the Eagle Community Centre. For info Janet at (519) 768-2698.
FINGAL 2015
Knox Presbyterian Church Worship 10 am. Coffee, cookies, fellowship follows: Sunday school/nursery 10 am. For info (519) 769-2157. Come and worship with a warm and friendly group of people, we are barrier free.
SHEDDEN 2015
Shedden Library Hours: Tues. 2:30-8:30, Thurs. 2-5, Fri. 10 - 5, Sat. 2 - 5 764-2081. Children’s Programs PreSchool Story Time Fridays, 11:00-11:45am Join us for songs, stories & crafts! For children ages 0-5 with a caregiver. Please preregister Adult Programs & Events *NEW* Book of the Month! The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd. Sign up to read our book of the month chosen by your librarians! *NEW* Knitting and Crochet Group Tuesday, Nov. 24, 7-8 pm. Join us with your latest project for an informal group to sit and share, learn from others and pick up new tricks! Communities in Bloom Information Seminar, Wednesday, November 25, 7-9 pm Keystone Complex. Presentations by: Kettle Creek Conservation Authority, Tree Planting - Jeff Lawrence, Elgin Clear Water Program, Water Conservation - Betsy McClure. Info call Karen Graff 519 6710563, Anna Lunn 519 769-2555. In 2015 Southwold won 4 out of 5 Blooms! Wabuna Rebekah Lodge Shedden Annual Snowflake Bazaar Sat. Nov. 28 9am-12 noon Shedden IOOF Hall, Talbot Line.
SPARTA 2015
Sparta Stitchers Every Tuesday 1- 4 pm, Sparta Community Hall. We quilt, tat, knit, embroider, smock, crotchet, etc. Everyone welcome. Cost is $5. session. Come learn a new skill. Sally Martyn (519-775-2292). Qigong will run every Sunday from 1:00 till 2:30 pm. Call Christine for more information 519-775-2748. Sparta Country Christmas Nov 21-22, 12pm-3pm Santa will be at the Sparta House tearoom Free pics with Santa and they can be mounted at Robson Studios for free. Participating stores will have various activities More info contact 519-775-0054 (Sparta Candles)
ST. THOMAS 2015
Abundant Life Fellowship Join us at the Timken Community Centre - Doug Tarry room (2 Third Ave.) at 6 pm on Saturdays for a free meal followed by our celebration service. For more info call 519-633-9207 or go to www.abundantlifestthomas.ca Central United Church, Carols by Candlelight - Sunday, Dec. 6th at 7:00 p.m. Join us in singing Christmas Carols, and also enjoy some special music presented poceeds to The Talbot Teen Centre. For Information call 519-614-3249. The Holly Fair First United Church, November 21st, 9 a.m. - 12 noon. Sweets' n Treats, Holiday Entertainment, Crafters Market, The Pantry, Book Room, Attic Treasures , Bake Shop and Draw table St Anne’s Centre Juno Award winners The Ennis Sisters East Coast Family Christmas Show on Thurs Nov 26 7:30 P.M. Tickets $ 20 Supporting a refugee family from Myanmar. Call 519 633 2390.
TYRCONNELL 2015
Backus-Page House Museum, 29424 Lakeview Line, 519-762-3072. Backus-Page House Museum Monthly Clubs! 4th Tuesday, Family History Club 7pm THS Members free or $5/person. 2nd Wednesday, Textile Arts Club (bring your own project or hand quilt with us) 7pm THS Members free or $5/person
UNION 2015
Union United Church, 6008 Stonechurch Rd., Rev. David Mitchell leads worship with Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. We are welcoming friendly Family of Faith and are barrier free. For info 519-631-0304 and our website: www.unionunitedchurch.ca Union United Church, 6008 Stonechurch Rd., Holly Berry Market Nov. 21 9am-noon, Come Christmas shopping for some unique gifts, preserves, baking, etc. Stop and chat with your friends over a cup of tea or coffee.
VIENNA 2015
Bayham Historical Society meets the 2nd Thursday of the month, 7:30 pm at the Vienna Community Centre. All are welcome. Call Bruce at 519 874-1822.
WEST LORNE 2015
Treble Makers Women's Choir Christmas/Fall Concert. "A Concert to End War," Saturday, November 28, 7:30 PM at Calvary United Church, 221 Stinson, Rodney, Ontario. Our concert will feature music from WW I, WW II through the present as well as Christmas songs and songs of peace. Call 519-768-1717 for information & tickets. Optimist Family Movie Night at West Lorne Community Complex on Friday, November 20th at 7 pm. featuring "We Bought a Zoo". Free popcorn. Bring sleeping bags or pillows. Phone 519-785-1557. Optimist Santa Claus Parade on Friday, November 27th. Nightime parade. Floats and spectators welcome. Phone Karen 519-768-2220
The Lake Erie Beacon is pleased to support your local community events. We will make every effort to post promptly and accurately. If you would like to have your event posted on this page contact us at: See The
519 782-4563 or linda@lebeacon.ca
Lake Erie Beacon on facebook and www.issuu.com
Remembering The Big Fitz Continued From Page 1 Many books, studies, and expeditions have examined the cause of the sinking. Fitzgerald might have fallen victim to the high waves of the storm, suffered structural failure, been swamped with water entering through her cargo hatches or deck, experienced topside damage, or struck a shoal in a shallow part of Lake Superior. The sinking of Edmund Fitzgerald is one of the most well known disasters in the history of Great Lakes shipping. Gordon Lightfoot made it the subject of his 1976 hit song "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" after reading an article, "The Cruelest Month," printed in Newsweek's November 24, 1975, issue. The sinking led to changes in Great Lakes shipping regulations and practices that included mandatory survival suits, depth finders, positioning systems, increased freeboard, and more frequent inspection of vessels. The bell, recovered by divers in 1995, is on permanent display at the
Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum in Michigan and is used each November 10th in the bell-ringing ceremony in memory of the 29 crewmen of the Edmund Fitzgerald. This museum is located on Lake Superior at Whitefish Point near Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan. The Dossin Great Lakes Museum in Detroit also features an Edmund Fitzgerald display. The following is a verse from the Gordon Lightfoot song "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald".
Does anyone know where the love of God goes When the waves turn the minutes to hours? The searchers all say they'd have made Whitefish Bay If they'd put fifteen more miles behind her They might have split up or they might have capsized They may have broke deep and took water And all that remains is the faces and the names Of the wives and the sons and the daughters
The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday November 20, 2015 • Page 11
North Shore Community Classified Serving over 7000 Homes, Apartments, Farms & Businesses Thank You
PORT STANLEY OPTIMIST - ANGEL TREE The Optimist Club of Port Stanley will once again sponsor their Christmas Angel Tree at the Port Stanley Library. Our Angel Tree Service The tree will be set up will be in the Library on in the Library on Saturday, November 21, 11 am Saturday, December 5th, 11 am
On Nov.1st an Open House was held at the Port Stanley Legion for my retirement. I was truly overwhelmed by those who came by to wish me well in my retirement. I give my deepest thanks for all the best wishes and for all the cards and gifts I received there and at the office. It has been an honour and privilege serving you all and my community. John Hofhuis MD
COTTAGE FOR RENT Port Stanley The Beach House – 2 bedroom Beach. Artist Cottage – 1 bedroom Beach. Available: 1 October 2015 – 31 May 2016. No smoking, no pets. See www.westharbouronthebeach.ca
or for further details call 519-434-2229.
FOR RENT
If you would like to purchase a Remembrance Angel for a family member or friend please call Linda Hibbert at 519 782-4563 for details. Please make cheque payable to: Optimist Club of Port Stanley. The cost for an Angel is $10 each. You may drop your cheque off to the Lake Erie Beacon Office, 204-A Carlow Road, Port Stanley, side door. Behind LCBO. Angels are to celebrate the lives of family members or friends who are no longer with us.
The Port Stanley Lioness wish to thank our business community of Port Stanley, Sparta and St. Thomas for their generous support of our event. “Our Ladies Night” was a great success due to your support and all the ladies who attended. Such “Fund Raising” events make all of our many projects possible. This year we will again make a donation to the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital to the “Great Expansion Project”. – Port Stanley Lioness.
PORT STANLEY VOLUNTEER GARDENERS - Thank You The Port Stanley Volunteer Gardeners say a BIG Thank You for all the support our Village People have given us, especially during geranium campaigns every spring. Please continue! Visit the BIG BAZAAR – Saturday, November 28. Shop our tables as well as 27 other vendors at the Port Stanley Arena. See you there and thanks so much! New Members always welcome! – Laurie Nagge
Port Stanley - Long Term Rentals. Choose from: 1. Harbourview 1 bedroom Apt. $750. Inclusive.
Nov. 25 - General Book Fair Viewing for classes Nov. 26 - General Book Fair purchasing day for classes Nov. 28 - Building Event Shopping Extravaganza 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
The plaque is 10″ wide x 6″ high x 3/4″ thick (25.4 x 15.24 x 1.90 cm). Visiting a local building company, you can purchase a block, in this example a retaining wall cap that measured 12″ wide x 8″ high x 3″ thick (30.48 x 20.32 x 7.62 cm). Using LePages’s PL Premium Construction Grade Adhesive, glue the plaque to the block purchased in Step 2. Ensure that you follow the instruction on the glue and coat the entire surface of the plaque. You’ll require a caulking gun to apply the adhesive. Once cured, the block with plaque can be placed at the gravesite. Ensure that you contact and work with the cemetery personnel for assistance.
Canadians wishing to post a vet-
North Shore SERVICE DIRECTORY
Sponsored by the Port Stanley Lions & Lioness Club for more information call:
Paul F. Lépine LAW OFFICE
All have parking & laundry available.
350 Carlow Rd., Port Stanley, N5L 1B6 Phone: 519-782-3983
launched June 18, 2013 - the 201st anniversary of the declaration of war by the United States. This site contains all the information required to apply for a plaque to honour a veteran of the War of 1812, and also allows a process to upload your biography of the veteran. To access the website go to www.1812veterans.ca We would like to thank everyone for your patience in getting this project up and running and we look forward to viewing the biographies of our War of 1812 veterans that you have researched. Lyn Downer & David J. Brunelle Historic Military Establishment of Upper Canada.
Placing A Plaque
519-782-3007, 519-782-3186, 519-782-4308
2. Beachhouse, 3 bedroom, 5 appliances $1000+.
Port Stanley Public School Activities November 2015
Continued From Page 9
eran's biography and apply for a plaque can do so at http://www.1812veterans.ca
PORT STANLEY LIONESS - Thank You
LOOKING FOR A “FOREVER HOME”!!!
519 782-3701
War of 1812 Veteran Graveside Recognition Project
Josey
Lacey
Living in the country has it's benefits but, also it's drawbacks. Some people find the country a convenient place to discard unwanted pets. We received a call from an overwhelmed gentleman who called us with a huge problem. Since he is not the type of person to turn an animal in distress away, things became totally out of control. Pregnant little Josie was rescued March 21, 2015 and gave birth to 3 kittens shortly after. Josie was terribly unsure and apprehensive in the begin-
ning but, has recently turned a corner and now enjoys being petted and fussed over. Lacey was rescued from the same location April 10, 2015. She also started out being apprehensive but, like Josie has begun to respond to attention. Both girls are just over 1 year old and since both are calicos, the same size and look so similar, I believe they are sisters. These girls need a chance. A chance to prove themselves and learn to trust. A quiet, child free home with people patient enough to wait for the girls to come to them would be ideal.
Animal Aide Association 333 Talbot St. St. Thomas
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Fall/winter hours Thursday to Sunday 4pm to 9pm (weather permitting)
Our Specials for November: Thursdays : Large pizza 3 toppings plus 10 wings and garlic breadstix , 2Lt pop $27.99 Fridays: Family Night 2 medium pizzas 3 toppings on each, garlic breadstix, 2Lt pop $25.99
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Page 12 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday November 20, 2015
Ontario Honours Louis Riel Day Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs
dian Confederacy.
We are proud to stand with the Métis Nation of Ontario to celebrate not only Louis "This marks a significant date of obRiel’s contributions, but servance for Métis people. On Novemthe contributions of the ber 16 in 1885, Métis leader Louis Riel Métis Nation to Onwas executed for leading the Northwest tario’s past, present and Resistance in defence of Métis rights. future. Ontario is lucky Louis Riel is credited with playing a pivto have a vibrant Métis otal role in the history of Métis people, culture and language as well as the formation of the Canathat values and celeDavid Zimmer, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, issued the following statement to mark Louis Riel Day:
brates diversity.
shared priorities.
Our government has been working hard to broaden and deepen our relationship with the Métis Nation of Ontario. Last year, we renewed a five-year Framework Agreement, underscoring our continued commitment to work in partnership on our
We remain committed to working together to invest in and improve the well-being of Métis children, families and communities.
T H E L AKE ER I E BEAC ON
It is important that we acknowledge Louis Riel’s contributions to building Canada and that we recognize and respect the history, culture and identity of Métis people. We are grateful for their historic and present contributions to Ontario and Canada.”
R OLAD EX Thinking of Buying or Selling a Home? Centre City Realty Inc.
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Brenda Johnston Broker
Valerie & Steve - Owners
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519-782-5505 www.brenjohnston.com 208 Main Street Port Stanley
Port Stanley’s Health Food Store & More 208 Main Street Port Stanley, ONT N5L 1C3 STORE HOURS:
Healthy, Eco Friendly Gift Items Available Home of Barb’s Brickle – Gift Certificates Open Mon-Sat 10am to 5pm Sun By Chance
Mon.- Fri. 10 am - 6 pm Sat. 10 am - 5 pm Sun. 11 am - 5 pm
211 Main Street Unit 2
519-782-3392
Phone 226-658-0122
Your Local Elgin Chrysler Dodge Jeep Dealer 275 Wellington Street • St. Thomas • Ontario • N5R 2S6
Don MacKinnon ME Dan Vernackt ME Rob Lukasik ME Steve Todd
Residential • Commercial Installation and Service Port Stanley, Ontario
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Contractor Licence ECRA-ESA #7001912
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ALLAN D. HUGHSON GARY M. HUGHSON DIAL (519) 631-0850
M U RDO M ACLE AN Pager: 1 888 504 4869 Opening & Closing Cottages
438-B West Edith Cavell Blvd. Port Stanley, Ontario N5L 1E8
Plumber & Gas Fitter
Kitchen & Bath Repairs, New Installations Electric Eel Drain Cleaning, Natural Gas & Propane Piping for BBQ’s, Fireplaces, Dryers & Stoves We provide complete water services, including installation of the water meter, from the road to your home.
Fax #: 519-631-8318
Get Your Vehicle Ready for Winter SPECIAL FREE ENGINE CHECK LIGHT SCAN
Offer valid at this location only.
519-633-2800
OPEN: Mon-Fri 8-5 Sat. 8-Noon *SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY. CALL FOR DETAILS One coupon per customer. Present coupon at vehicle drop off. May not combine with other discounts or offers.
261 Talbot Street St. Thomas www.mistertransmission.com
A Great Christmas Gift! The new history of Port Stanley, The First 100 Years.
519 782-5144
MAC PLUMBING
1241 Talbot Street St.Thomas, Ont. N5P 1G8
“We provide families with a full range of personalized services. From simple cremations to traditional funerals, pre-planning and prepayment options. See the difference your local Shawn Jackson Funeral Director/Owner funeral professional will make.”
This Full colour book by authors Bob Burns and Craig Cole available now at The Lake Erie Beacon, The Village Square Coffee Shop & The PSTR Gift Shop. $25. Book size 8.5” X 11” A Heritage Port publication