The Lake Erie Beacon September 25 2015 by Linda Hibbert

Serving Lake Erie’s North Shore Friday September 25, 2015

INSIDE

Ziplining Over Port Stanley Harbour?

Letters Congratulations on a job well done with the “Opening of the Pier” in Port Stanley on Sept. 5, 2015. STORY PAGE 2

Port Bruce Report The proposed mobility mats for accessibility to the Port Bruce beach are closer to reality. STORY PAGE 2

Heritage Port Message from the Chair We will be able to tour the museum and take part in a special activity guaranteed to be lots of fun. STORY PAGE 3

Doors Open Port Stanley And Sparta The heavens opened and the rain poured down, soaking everyone who was out visiting the many Doors Open venues. STORY PAGE 3

Andrew Hibbert At the September 14th Central Elgin Council meeting Londoner John Kudelka presented his proposal for a multi-use application for one of the Silos in Port Stanley. John’s company Junction Climbing Centre operates a climbing wall in London. John is suggesting a multiple use sports function for the Silo that, he believes, would appeal to multiple markets, multiple income streams and would result in multiple visits of tourists to Port Stanley. He sees the activities he would offer as, not fitness based but selling a unique experience for everyone.

Port Stanley Report We have had reports of groups of young teens wandering around the village in the middle of the night often causing trouble. STORY PAGE 4

Discovering More History In Sparta Don Anger has done extensive research to discover some of the early history of Jonathan Doan. STORY PAGE 5

West Nile Virus Found in Local Horse a horse in Eastern Elgin County has tested positive for West Nile Virus. STORY PAGE 8

LOOK AHEAD Community Events

Page 6

Classifieds & Service Directory Page 7 Business Roladex

Pages 4 & 8

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.

John sees the saved Silo as having an observation deck, a QuickJump down line, a Rock Climbing area for youth, a Sport Climbing area for adults and a Zipline for everyone.

easy piggy backing onto the observation tower infrastructure and a huge ‘Wow’ factor for passing traffic. The John used the Observation Tower in Rock Climbing component would use the Haliburton region of Ontario as an new Autobelay technology that allows example. His research has shown that simpler, safer climbing and improves they get as many as 600 cars per day at the capability for group visits John sees peak season, that they sell seasonal and the Sport Climbing area as offering family passes and that it even has an longer, more technical climbs with a historical interpretative component vertical height that will draw climbers that discusses the heritage of the site. from across the province but requires an assessment of climbers skills that The QuickJump component of the his company has experience doing on operation offers fast turnaround time,

Above: An artists concept of what a zipline over the harbour might have looked like. Left: The Quick Jump apparatus. a daily basis. Lastly the Zip Line component is an excellent value added element to the Quick Jump. He said that modern technology improves rider experience and offers better braking. The Zip Line could extend several hundred feet from the tower and could in future have Twin Zips. John then talked about the capital expenses of the project. He suggested a two phase project the would include two spiral staircases to access the top of the tower, a balcony around the top, and the Quick Jumps to open the project to the public. Phase 2 would include the rock climbing and sport climbing walls. He then reviewed projected operating expenses including salaries, insurance, rent of the tower, administration and marketing. He also showed expected revenues and profit margins. Other concerns were also discussed including the current state of the towers asking will one of them be strong Continued On Page 4

Thames Talbot Land Trust Launching the “Soaring Higher: Hawk Cliff and Beyond Campaign” Suzanne McDonald Aziz TTLT Executive Director

the Doors Open event on Saturday September 19th.

The Thames Talbot Land Trust (TTLT) announced the launch of the Soaring Higher: Hawk Cliff and Beyond Campaign on September 17th 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at the Kettle Creek Golf and Country Club in Port Stanley, Ontario. This event featured the announcement of the campaign, highlights of the property and TTLT’s restoration plans. TTLT also announced two major donations received in support of the campaign. TTLT staff and volunteers were on hand to answer questions and share information about this exciting campaign. The Thames Talbot Land Trust was also on hand at Hawk Cliff during

About Hawk Cliff Woods: Hawk Cliff is well known to bird enthusiasts who visit the area annually to view the hawk migration. The area is also an important stop along the migration route for the Monarch butterfly, a species of Special Concern. Hawk Cliff Woods is one of the largest remaining deep interior forests in Elgin County. This special place is identified as critical habitat for the Endangered Acadian Flycatcher. Hawk Cliff Woods provides nesting habitat for other Species at Risk including Bank Swallow (Threatened), as well as Eastern Wood-Pewee, Continued On Page 6

Page 2 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday September 25, 2015

LETTERS Port Stanley’s West Breakwater Looks great...A very nice extension to our daily walk. But here we go..... There seems to be a destructive element in this community that takes joy in wrecking anything they don’t own. This morning two broken graphite poles and missing lifesaving equipment on the pier!!! What next??? Will the pier now have to be closed off at night, security cameras installed etc.... Terry Campbell Port Stanley

I guess Port Stanley is changing Someone stole our Buddha head statue from our driveway a few days ago. We would really like to get it back. We have owned that statue for 15 years. We moved to Port Stanley 8 years ago and it has been sitting as a marker in our driveway for the past 8 years. It was great when giving directions to our house. Our house is on a dead end street a bit hard to see, because it is set back a bit behind trees, so if we told friends to turn at the Buddha head it was easy to find. It bothers us quite a bit that it was stolen. First of all the fact that someone came on to our property and took something. Secondly because it had a lot of sentimental value to our family. It is somewhat large and heavy, so not an item that could be picked up and walked away with. However if anyone did see someone walking down Hill Street struggling with a large Terra Cota Buddha it was not theirs. Not sure, but I would assume that stealing a Buddha is really bad karma. Pavia Family Port Stanley

Magna Makes Transformational Gift to STEGH’s Great Expansion Magna’s philanthropy is truly an inspiration to OUR community. Building upon 30 years of partnership, Magna and the STEGH Foundation continue to build on that partnership for the future. Magna’s commitment to our community continues through

a $1 million gift towards the largest investment in our award-winning Hospital since it was built in 1954. “As a long-time partner in the St. Thomas community, Magna is proud to contribute to STEGH’s Great Expansion project,” said Marc Neeb, Magna Chief Human Resource Officer. “Our employees take great pride in knowing that their hard work not only contributes to the success of the company, but allows us to provide financial assistance to projects like this that make a big impact in the communities where we operate.” STEGH will see the construction of a new building that will house a new Emergency Department, Surgical Suites, a permanent home for our Mental Health Program, as well as a Medical Device Reprocessing Department. This project will enable our Hospital to keep pace with a dynamic and changing healthcare system that provides our community with a local state-of-the-art healthcare facility. As a Provincial leader in ER wait times, the Great Expansion will only improve an increasingly high performing Hospital. “Magna has a strong relationship with this community as they have the Formet and Presstran facilities here, and today’s gift represents the importance Magna places on the health and well-being of its local employees, their families, and the entire community,” explains Ken Monteith, Campaign Chair. “Having a state-of-theart healthcare facility is an important part of our local infrastructure; it attracts and retains businesses of all sizes to Elgin County and St. Thomas.” The community is invited to join Magna in support of the incredible transformations taking place at STEGH. There are many ways individuals, businesses and civic organizations to get involved and the best place to start is by visiting ItsOURHospital.ca.

Municipality of Central Elgin: Congratulations on a job well done with the “Opening of the Pier” in Port Stanley on Sept. 5, 2015. Continued On Page 6

Published by Kettle Creek Publishing Ltd. 204 A Carlow Road Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C5 Telephone: 519.782.4563

Publisher/Editor Andrew Hibbert andrew@lebeacon.ca Advertising Linda Hibbert linda@lebeacon.ca David Crober West Elgin beacon@lebeacon.ca Gloria Wilson East Elgin beacon@lebeacon.ca Letters to the Editor andrew@lebeacon.ca

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.

The Advertising Deadline is: Friday Noon Prior to Publication. Member: Member: Member: Member: Member:

Distribution Audited by CCNA Ontario Community Newspaper Association Canadian Community Newspaper Association St. Thomas and District Chamber of Commerce Dutton/Dunwich Chamber of Commerce Elgin Tourism Services

PORT BRUCE REPORT Cathy Crane

Successful Fish Fry Approximately 280 people enjoyed Lake Erie perch at the Port Bruce Ratepayers Association’s annual fish fry. Although the number attending was down from last year, the Ratepayer’s volunteers served up the ‘all you can eat’ dinner with no one leaving hungry. The final tally on money raised for community projects is not yet available, but should be in line with other year’s successes. Thanks to the organizing committee made up of Linda Newman, John Blankenship and Helen Hall, as well as all the other volunteers and donors who

made the event a success.

Community Update Forum A Community Update Forum was held on September 10th at Malahide Community Place. This was the first of a series of forums to give Malahide residents an opportunity to hear what’s happening in their community and share issues of interest with council members and Malahide’s senior staff. Unfortunately, only a few taxpayers took advantage of this opportunity. Mayor Mennill and each of the Councillors were on hand to answer questions and hear resident’s ideas and concerns. There were several information displays set up relating to various township programs. One display included a description of plans for improvements to the Port Bruce pavilion and pier area over the next 2 years, funded in part by a Canada 150 grant. Hopefully more taxpayers will be involved in future forums. Watch the Township of Malahide’s website for future events.

Celebrating Legion Week Sept 20th to 26th Andrew Hibbert Open houses, parades, BBQs, concerts, maybe some face painting for Moms and Dads and family festivities are happening at your local Legion Branch during “Legion Week”. Join the celebrations! The Ontario Command includes 400 Branches with over 121,000 members. Drop in any one of these branches, say hello, enjoy the entertainment and learn about all the great things the Legion does in your community. You’ll be surprised! The official Proclamations of “Legion Week” by Governments is a testament to the dedicated community service of The Royal Canadian Legion. Legion Week is a time of celebration, intertwining the tradition of duty, service and sacrifice with the patriotic nationalism of our country and our citizens. People from diverse

cultures and of all ages come together enjoying festive events, learning about history and sharing in the heritage of what has made communities vibrant and strong. The Royal Canadian Legion is very much a part of this heritage, as a cornerstone in the community. We were contacted by Roger March who represents the Port Burwell Legion 524. Roger is a new guy but asked if we could make a note of Legion Week in our next edition. Unfortunately our “Every Second Week” schedule means we need to get this kind of information well in advance. This year Legion Week concludes on September 26th. Port Burwell will be hosting many events during the week but will wrap up the festivities with Killer Pool and Shuffleboard @6:00 on the 24th, Meat darts @7:30 on the 25th and Music with Roger, Debbie and guests from 2:00 to 5:00 on the 27th. Roger says there will be a number of daily events as well as complimentary meals during the week.

The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday September 25, 2015 • Page 3

Doors Open Port Stanley And Sparta Eleanor Robson gave guided tours of her home ‘The Abbey” dressed in a period costume. The Abbey stands beside the Peter Robson art studio in Sparta.

Port Stanley Sparta

munities interest you and plan your weekend getaways accordingly. You could spend a spring weekend in Guelph, or enjoy a fall Doors Open in London. Wherever you go, there’s a Doors Open Ontario event waiting for you! These events are great tourist draws and some of our local venues have seen over 300 people visit in a day. Visitors come from across the province and some from other parts of Canada. We have even had visitors from Europe, who happen to be in Canada, and from the United States.

Saturday September 19, 2015 Andrew Hibbert The heavens opened and the rain poured down, soaking everyone who was out visiting the many Doors Open venues. You could say it’s the luck of the draw but after several weeks of reasonable weather before the event and then several sunny days following the event one might wonder why that one day was drowned out. Outdoor venues like Lawton Park in Union and Hawk Cliff were especially vulnerable to the elements. In Port Stanley the one outdoor venue featured the King George VI Lift Bridge. Unfortunately the displays that were supposed to be shown were stored in the basement of someone who was away on holidays so were not available. Our stalwart volunteers who were at Glover Park beside the bridge braved the elements and stayed for the day to answer questions. The east tower of the bridge was also open to visitors and the bridge operators were kind enough to give guided tours of the bridge operations. Thanks to Central Elgin for allowing the bridge tower to be open. In Sparta the venues were all inside so visitors could wait out the rain showers. One of the new venues this year was The Abbey a private home in Sparta. This was once originally the home of the Moedinger Family and

It was surprising that many of the 2015 Doors Open venues still had good turnouts despite the rainy weather.

was built in the early 1840's. The home had been the site of a newspaper; girls' school, an inn and a furniture and coffin shop. It is currently the home of Eleanor Robson and stands beside the Peter Robson art studio. Eleanor gave guided tours of her home dressed in a period costume, shown in the attached photo. The Doors Open Committee would like to thank Eleanor for allowing a reproduction of a Peter Robson painting called “Sparta Sunday Afternoon” to be used as the featured image on poster and the tour booklet.

Heritage Port Message from the Chair John Morrow Chair, Heritage Port I hope everyone had an enjoyable summer. Fall is quickly approaching and so is our next Heritage Port meeting. Our September meeting will be held at the Elgin County Railway Museum in St. Thomas, and it will be a most interesting event. I encourage all active and former members of Heritage Port to join us. Why not bring a friend? We will be able to tour the museum and take part in a special activity (guaranteed to be lots of fun, says Dave Harding). The business portion of our meeting will bring a resolution to a couple outstanding areas of concern. At a Heritage Port meeting last spring, one member threatened to take control of our group and its assets by incorporating the name, “Heritage Port”. Later, he explained this was only to frighten us into incorporating the club before someone else took our name. This led to an investigation about incorporation and two methods were explained at a later meeting. One method of incorporation involves following those steps used by small businesses. The other is only available to historical associations in Ontario and

involves incorporation through the Ontario Historical Society. I will be looking for a motion from the floor to incorporate following one of these two methods. Our Association members can then vote yes or no. Whether the group chooses to vote in favor of or against incorporation, we will put an end to this ongoing question. During informal discussions following the DowlerKarn Museum tour during the summer, some members expressed interest in developing a museum in Port Stanley, separate from the Elgin County Museum located on Sunset Road. As you can imagine, this would be a major undertaking. Someone may wish to make a motion that we open a Port Stanley Museum. If this happens, and you support this initiative, you should be prepared to be actively involved in the project over the long term. Your input on these major decisions is most welcome. As Chair, the only time I am eligible to vote is to break a tie. I look forward to seeing you all at this weeks meeting.

New members always welcome.

While in Sparta I spoke to Helen Graham and Janice Heaton of St. Thomas. Helen said they love to visit Sparta because it has such an interesting history but particularly enjoyed visiting during Doors Open when they can see the interior of homes like The Abbey. There are dozens of Doors Open events across Ontario to attend each year starting in April and running until October. Some events run for a single day, while others run for an entire weekend. You can choose which com-

HealthTalk Psoriasis Psoriasis — pronounced so-RYE-a-sis (the p is silent) — is a condition affecting about 1 million Canadians of all races and affects genders equally. With such prevalence, it’s no wonder that October has been declared National Psoriasis Awareness Month. Normally our skin cells reproduce themselves every 28-30 days. In psoriasis patients, this occurs over 3-4 days leading to thick, silvery scales or red inflamed patches. The lesions can be painful and/or itchy and vary in size. Since plaques consist of dry, flaky, inflamed skin, they may also crack and bleed. While lesions can appear anywhere on the body, the most common sites are elbows, knees, scalp, chest and lower back. It is well established that genetics plays a role in psoriasis. In those people who carry the genes, the disease becomes active or flares up in response to triggers. While individual triggers vary, some are common such as: stress, injury to the skin, Infection and certain medications. There are many treatments for psoriasis both overthe-counter and by prescription. Moisturizers won’’t heal psoriasis, but they can reduce itching and scaling and can help combat the dryness that results from other therapies. One of the oldest treatments is coal tar. Coal tar has few known side effects, but it’’s messy, stains clothing and

Steve Bond, BScPhm, RPh, CDE Pharmacist/Manager

bedding, and has a strong odor. Another over-thecounter option is salicylic acid, which promotes sloughing of dead skin cells and reduces scaling. It is often found in combination with other products such as steroid creams or coal tar. The list of topical prescription options for psoriasis include: steroids, vitamin D like creams, vitamin A analogues and immunity modulators. These all have advantages and disadvantages and should be discussed with your prescriber. In more resistant cases, they may prescribe tablets or injections for psoriasis. Phototherapy (or light therapy) involves exposing your skin to controlled amounts of natural sunlight. Other forms of light therapy include the use of artificial ultraviolet A (UVA) or ultraviolet B (UVB) light either alone or in combination with medications. While phototherapy is beneficial, excessive exposure may actually worsen the condition and cause skin damage. If you suffer from psoriasis, it is important to recognize and try to avoid your triggers and speak to your doctor about treatment options. Take care of yourselves and each other.

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 September 25, 2015

PORT STANLEY REPORT Andrew Hibbert

Repainting the Mineral State Mural Ron Blair is Chair of the Mural Restoration committee for Heritage Port, the Port Stanley Historical Society. Ron, a member of Heritage Port, organized the return of mural artist Fred Harrison to commence work on the Jackson Mural last week. Fred has been provided with pictures of what the mural looked before it was covered by new metal siding by the Jackson family. The original mural was completed many years ago by Mr. Harrison and was touched up several years ago when it started to peel. Unfortunately the mural had become extremely weathered and damaged and was deemed to be un-repairable. To help create a more durable substrate the Jackson family decided to clad the building with the metal siding in colours that matched the original mural base colours red and blue. Heritage Port will cover the cost of having the mural repainted.

Unfortunately Fred Harrison, who used to live in this area, moved to the east coast a couple of years ago and so had to make arrangements to travel back to Port Stanley and to stay with a member of Heritage Port. The mural is nearing completion but Mr. Harrison has more work to do. He has been asked by Heritage Port to touch up the mural on the Fire Hall doors and the Stork Club mural near the corner of George and William Streets.

the six-man crew of the schooner into their little craft. As dusk was falling the lifeboat men brought their staunch rescue craft back into the safety of the harbour. A seventh survivor was the schooner’s mate George Hazelwood who did make a perilous attempt to swim to shore for help wearing the only available life preserver. He landed exhausted on the narrow beach and spectators had to haul him up the steep cliff by rope. Each of the brave souls involved in the rescue was awarded a gold medal by the United States Consul. The Lifesaving crew included Alonzo Taylor, Frank Eveland, Thomas Hough, Henry Sherry, Fred Pollock and William Hough.

This historic mural tells the story of the dramatic rescue of the crew of a sinking ship called the Mineral State. At the height of a vicious storm in October of 1902 the 140’ American schooner Mineral State was driven relentlessly towards the east beach of Port Stanley. The three masted sailing schooner grounded on an outer bar and almost immediately started to break up. Too far from shore for most of the crew to attempt the swim and being unable to escape in their own lifeboat the crew clung helplessly to the ships rigging. Huge breakers continued to smash their ship to pieces.

All remnants of the once proud schooner have disappeared beneath the waves but soon the depiction of the dramatic rescue will be seen again on the wall of Jackson’s Fish Market. Heritage Port is also planning to have Mr. Harrison look at the Dominion of Canada (DOC) building as a potential site for a new mural depicting the early history of Port Stanley harbour. This mural will have to be approved by Central Elgin who now owns the harbour and the DOC building.

On shore a small crowd gathered on the bluffs overlooking the disaster. They watched anxiously as the driving wind tore at the helpless schooner. Then out of the storm a tiny boat was seen, being towed by the steam tug Gordon Brown, fighting the towering waves in a perilous effort to reach the

Thefts & Damage in Port Stanley We have had reports of groups of young teens wandering around the village in the middle of the night often causing trouble. It is suspected that these same teens are committing minor thefts and causing property damage. Already there has been damage done on our new pier. It was reported that a life ring was stolen off the new pier soon after it opened and some of the poles that deter the seagulls were damaged. It is important to remember that the theft of a life ring or other life saving equipment puts lives at risk and is a criminal offence punishable by severe penalties. If someone dies in the water because a life ring was stolen, whoever stole the ring may be guilty of causing the death. Please folks remember this is your pier and any damage done has to be paid for out of tax dollars. I hope that if anyone sees these groups of teens at 3:00 in the morning they will call police. I would also like to know what their parents are doing allowing young teens to be out at this time of the night.

Shown is Fred Harrison on the scaffolding completing the repaint of the Mineral State mural for Heritage Port. The Jackson family has been very supportive of having the mural repainted and have always appreciated having the mural on their building at the south end of Main Street.

The CIBC Bank Machine

stricken vessel. Manned by seven of the village’s stalwart sailors the Port Stanley Lifeboat on nearing the wreck let go of the tug and rowed relentlessly towards the broken ship. Under the steady guidance of Captain John Reginald Moore the gallant boatmen pulled the lifeboat into the lee of the schooner. After great difficulty the rescuers were able to take

The Bank Machine at Mac’s Milk is still here and the sign that said it was going to be removed is gone. But if you are still concerned call the CIBC Branch in St. Thomas 519-631-1280 Krystal Yorke, Branch Manager.

T H E LAKE ER I E B EACON

Bonnie Mudge Sales Representative

519-983-6939 Tri-County Realty Inc, Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated

Selling? Buying? Call Bonnie - Your Local Sales Rep.

bonnie@tillsonburghomes.com

Ziplining Over Port Stanley Harbour? Continued From Page 1 enough to do all of this? And what about accessibility, does it need an actual electrically operated elevator? Other concerns were discussed including landscaping, power, water and bathrooms and because it is an outdoor facility, security when closed or out of season. John said he did not see this as saving a Silo tower but rather using a tower. He sees the tower as a unique asset, and there is nothing like them to be found anywhere else on the Lake Erie or Huron Shores. He suggested that it would be an anchor for the harbour walk connecting the two beaches. He also asked for more time to explore the feasibility but said this can only be done if there is a tower to use.

All Five Silos Coming Down At the September 21st meeting Central Elgin Council chose to demolish all five of the silos. Work should start in a couple weeks around October 1st and should take no more than four weeks to complete the demolition. Council was given an extensive report from Staff regarding the many issues and difficulties with proceeding to save one Silo for commercial use. As well as the above proposal from John Kudelka, Ted Halwa who was working with a number of Heritage Port members authored another proposal, for an observation tower. Several issues were brought forward by staff including the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. — The intent of this legislation is to make all of Ontario's public places and businesses completely accessible by 2016. This would have required a proper electric elevator at an estimated cost of $250,000. The elevator would also have required annual safety inspections at additional cost. Another issue was liability. The only way to protect the Municipality from liability would be to assign the operation of the tower to an independent third party either through ownership or lease. A Lessee would be required to indemnify the Municipality from potential liability. There are also environmental concerns. The Municipality is aware that there is some contamination on the JRI lands and is currently undertaking studies to more accurately determine the location and levels of contamination that exist. There are concerns that vapour from hydrocarbons might contaminate any structure on the site. Staff also noted that one of the largest challenges with working on or painting a structure such as a silo is the shear height of the structure and the ability to work safely and comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act. When the municipality painted the Port Stanley Water tower in 2010 the Continued On Page 6

R OLAD EX

SCOTT LEWIS AUTO “A NAME YOU CAN TRUST” 6728 SPRINGFIELD RD. IN MT. SALEM PHONE 519-765-3834

• Siding, Soffit & Facia GENERAL REPAIRS TO ALL • Seamless Eavestrough MAKES AND MODELS. • Vinyl Windows & Doors USED CARS Tires, Batteries & Transmission Repairs

Since 1963

519.631.1012

FREE ESTIMATES • CALL TODAY www.kielstra.ca

The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday September 25, 2015 • Page 5

Discovering Sparta History Don Anger with his wife show a photo of their Daniel Abell cabinet.

Andrew Hibbert On Saturday September 19th after the Doors Open event Linda and I attended a lecture at the Sparta Church Museum on Quaker Road in Sparta. The lecture was given by Donald Anger who spoke about the early history of Jonathan Doan one of the founders of Sparta and Daniel Abell a cabinetmaker also one of the early settlers in the village of Sparta. The village of Sparta began in 1813 when Jonathan Doan, a Quaker, traveled down Lake Erie by flat bottomed barge to Kettle Creek seeking a safer place for a Quaker settlement. He had fled the United States after the American Revolution and settled in the Niag-

ara region. When attacks began in the Niagara Region during the War of 1812, he feared losing his property again. He purchased 100 acres at what is now the present site of the Quaker Cemetery and stayed the winter. He was accompanied by his nine-year-old grandson, Jonathan Steele. The following spring he returned to the Niagara Region and encouraged other Quakers to move to the Sparta area. He and his family set up a gristmill, a sawmill and a tannery in the community as well as giving land for the Quaker Cemetery and the first Meeting House. Many other Quakers followed and by 1820 others were also attracted to this rich farming area. Don Anger has done extensive research to discover some of the early history of Jonathan Doan particularly about the time he spent with his family in the early Niagara Sugarloaf settlement in Port Colborne. Doan was not originally a Quaker but became a Quaker after marrying Jane Thompson in 1789. Christian Zavits was a neighbour of Doan’s at Sugarloaf. The Yarmouth Quaker Meeting was born out of Doan’s deep religious connection to the Quaker community. The story is an extensive one and Don Anger has discovered the many difficulties that Doan faced in acquiring Continued On Page 7

Page 6 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday September 25, 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! Monday, September 28, 5:306:00pm. Sign up for a 10 minute session to read with Maggie the Therapy Dog! For reluctant readers ages 6-12, please preregister. Maker Mondays check in with staff for times! Calling all makers! Come for a hands on maker session as we explore a multitude of mediums! For ages 6-12, please preregister PreSchool Story Time Tuesdays, 10:15am-11:00am starts September 15 Join us for songs, stories and crafts! For ages 0-5 and their caregiver please preregister ADULT PROGRAMS & EVENTS Book of the Month for Men Defending Jacob by William Landay Sign up to read your monthly copy! (Join "Port Stanley's Gentlemen's Book Club" on facebook to find out about discussing this title) 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. St. John's Presbyterian Church, will be celebrating their 161st Anniversary on September 27 at 10 a.m. Come and join us in our celebration of our Christian life. Information 519-782-3971. Port Stanley United Church Service of Worship at 10 am followed by a time of fellowship. Come join us. We are now wheelchair friendly and barrier free. Port Stanley Lioness Club Ladies Night Wine and Cheese, Friday, Oct. 23, Port Stanley Arena. Doors open at 6:30 P.M. Call 782-3589 for tickets. Proceeds to the STEGH Expansion. Heritage Port The meeting for September is Thursday September 24th at 1:30 at the Railway Museum. Surprise event in the offering. Post Card books Vol 2 only available, $90 each, only 1 remaining. Port Stanley the First 100 Years, $25. Get yours at the Lake Erie Beacon, 204-A Carlow Road, side door, 1-5 pm. Proceeds to Heritage Port. 519 782-4563. Port Stanley Village Association meets the third Thursday of the month 7- 8:30 pm. 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 Summer Hours: Mon. & Thurs., 12-7, Tues. & Fri., 12-10, Wed. 11-10. 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 Stanley Festival Theatre 2nd Annual Night of Improv starring Karen Parker and her fellow comedians from Second City. Tickets are only $35 with all proceeds going to the Port Stanley Festival Theatre. (ticket price includes pre-show hors d'oeuvres and a lot of laughs!) Get your tickets today at our box office 519-782-4353 or online www.portstanleytheatre.ca

PORT BURWELL/VIENNA 2015 Port Burwell Trinity Anglican 11:30 am Port Burwell Lighthouse Gospel Church 10:45 am Port Burwell Legion Br. 524 Mixed Dart Tournament, Everyone Welcome. Sign up 10:am Start 11:00am. Teams & Doubles. $40:00 per team. Order of the Eastern Star Areme Chapter #15, OES meets the first Tuesday of every month, at 7:30 pm at the Vienna Community Centre, Vienna. Otter Valley Naturalists Monthly Meeting is the second Monday of the month, 7 pm to 9 pm. Please call 519-874-4028 for information. Museum Bayham meet the 2nd Wednesday of the month 7pm, Municipal Office in Straffordville. Call 519 874-4135. Port Burwell - Bayham Horticultural Society, Meets Every 3rd Monday, 7 pm at the Port Burwell School, Strachan Street. For more Info 519 874-4260.

The Lake Erie Beacon 204 A Carlow Road Port Stanley, Ontario N5L 1C5 Phone: (519) 782-4563

E V E N T S

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. Port Burwell Periscope Playhouse presents COMEDY: "Nana's Naughty Knickers" by Katherine DiSavino" 8:00pm Thurs. Sept. 23, Fri./Sat. Sept. 24-Oct. 3; 2:00 matinees Sun. Sept. 27 & Oct. 4 Community Centre, Eden Line, Eden For tickets $17 519-874-4026, 226-271-3815

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.

LETTERS Continued From Page 2

Being a business owner in the Village of Port Stanley, and also paying one of the highest business taxes in Central Elgin, I was a bit surprised that my business, The Port Stanley Foodland, was not even approached about making or donating the cakes for the “Grand Opening”. It was a little disappointing to find out that the cakes came from a bakery in Aylmer, which is not even in our Municipality. This was a huge event in our community and it would have been proper to have been asked to support something local. We try to donate or offer a good price to support events in our community, but when not even asked, this is a little difficult to do.

Ziplining Over Port Stanley Harbour?

FINGAL 2015

Continued From Page 4

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.

cost to paint that steel reservoir alone was $388,000 and required the use of extensive scaffolding.

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

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 starting the first Sunday in October. Call Christine for more information 519-775-2748. Sparta Scarecrow Fall Festival Saturday, September 26, 10:00 to 4:30. Lots of contests to enter to win prizes: pie baking, fall wreath making, scarecrow poster for all ages or colouring contest for 9 and under. Two bands, face painting, henna tattoos and a food booth. See posters in the Village Market, the downtown stores and web site for more details. Come on out and celebrate at this family fun day.

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

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 Community Centre Low Impact Circuit Training Classes at the Union Community Centre starts back on Sept. 29th - a six week session on Tuesday nights from 7 8 p.m. The cost for the session is $40. Call Vicki for information - 519-631-3840 V.O.N. Seniors' Exercise Classes - at the Union Community Centre every Tuesday and Thursday morning from 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. - no charge - just come out and enjoy.

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.

WALLACETOWN 2015 Wallacetown Historic St. Peter’s Anglican Church, 29596 Lakeview Line, Wallacetown, open for tours on Tues. and Fri. 10 am to 4 pm. Located next door to Backus Page Museum.

WEST LORNE 2015 Treble Makers Women's Choir begins 9th Season! Learn to Sing & Read Music, 7pm-9pm WESES 519-7681717.

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

Louisiana Waterthrush and Wood Thrush (all three of Special Concern). Rare trees such as Butternut and American Chestnut (both Endangered) are found here. The understorey of the ravine slopes and moist bottomland in this mature beech/maple woodland contains a diversity of ferns, including the Rare Broad Beech Fern and the Creeping Fragile Fern.

Rob Burns, Owner Port Stanley Foodland

DUTTON 2015 The John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library is celebrating Culture Days. Friday, September 25th at 1:30 p.m. - Author Al McGregor. Saturday, September 26th, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. - Stations set up around the library with Artists, Authors, Re-Enactors and Historians.

Thames Talbot Land Trust “Soaring Higher” Continued From Page 1

Another issue is the cost of engineering required for any major construction of this kind. It seems that although there are many good ideas presented for the use of public spaces we do not always take into consideration the many underlying issues that could affect not only the Municipality but also the people involved as well as all citizens of the community.

About The Thames Talbot Land Trust: The Thames Talbot Land Trust is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection of lands and waters having significant natural, recreational, scenic, historical, or agricultural value. Our name reflects the geographical context and cultural heritage of the lands along the Thames River and historic Talbot Trail. Our area of focus includes Middlesex, Elgin, Perth, and Oxford counties. As of May 2015, The Land trust owns 12 conservation properties and holds one conservation easement, protecting more than 1,000 acres (400 hectares) of land in total.

The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday September 25, 2015 • Page 7

North Shore Community Classified Serving over 7000 Homes, Apartments, Farms & Businesses APSA (The Association of Port Stanley Artists) is seeking new members!

Giant Barn & Yard Sale

If you live in Port Stanley or have a business in our community please check our website. portstanleyartists.com Use the "contact us" link and phone me for more info. Marcia Pensa, President, APSA

Lots of items Large & Small Pig Roaster, Furniture, Household Items, Antiques, Crafts, & Lots More...... Sat. Sept 26, 2-4 Crimson Hollow 5652 Godby Rd Vienna (Gps Bayham) Visit us on Facebook

The Last Word What do you call a dinosaur with an extensive vocabulary? A thesaurus.

Lakeview Pizza will be open year round running on part time hours for the fall- winter season. Starting after Thanksgiving weekend our hours of operation will be Thursday to Sunday, from 4pm to 9pm. We accept cash, debit/ credit. View our menu online via Yellow Pages under lakeviewpizza.ca

Lakeview Pizza

519 782-4500 Assistance Needed for transportation to attend YMCA classes in St. Thomas. Please call 519-782-7243.

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.

COTTAGE FOR RENT Rent for a Weekend or Weekly. Apartment style cottages, fully furnished with fully equiped kitchen. Great lake view, close to beaches and good fishing. 2 units available $600 a month plus utilities, From Nov. 1st - End of April. Units fully furnished. For information call Ed 519-5347904 or text. Port Bruce Ontario.

CLASSIFIEDS or FLYERS

Did you know we can insert your flyers? Call Linda at 519 782-4563!!! Classified Ads are an inexpensive way to get things noticed. Our classifieds are $1.55 per line, based on 25 characters or spaces per line.

Call Linda at: The Lake Erie Beacon Office 204-A Carlow Road, Port Stanley, On for details

519 782-4563 Let’s do this together!

hanged for treason in London in 1839. Most of the others gradually returned from the USA and took up their lives in the area once more.

Continued From Page 5

The community grew and prospered so that by the 1870's it was a thriving village with close to 1500 residents. When the American railways went through St. Thomas, Sparta shrank and St. Thomas grew. The village has remained a small settlement with many of its early buildings still standing and used for shops and homes.

the 50 land grants, each containing 200 acres and how the Quaker community came about. Doan had returned to the Niagara area and to the US on several occasions to recruit more Quaker settlers for the Sparta community. In 1837, the Quaker community became involved in the Rebellion of 1837 and many fled to the United States of America after the aborted attack in the Duncombe Uprising. Joshua Doan, son of Jonathan was one of these rebels and was captured at the attack on Windsor in 1838 and

Don Anger has written several books about the history of the area including one called Daniel Abell of Malahide (1784–1868) and his time as a cabinetmaker on Talbot Road. Don and his wife own one of Daniel Abell’s cabinets.

North Shore SERVICE DIRECTORY CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP

LAKEVIEW PIZZA

ASSISTANCE NEEDED

Discovering Sparta History

“Caring For You” features a topic related to dementia and an opportunity to discuss the caregiver role with those who understand.

VEZINA'S MOBILE POWER WASH

1st Wednesday of every month 1:00- 2:30pm Kettle Creek Inn 216 Joseph Street, Port Stanley First group is Wednesday, October 7th No registration is required

High Pressure Water Wash: Truck, trailers, Heavy Equipment, Boats, Houses, Patio, wooden or stone/cement decks We offer too: Complete interior detailing and shampoo of your truck, car or Boat

Port Stanley Public School Activities September- October 2015 350 Carlow Rd., Port Stanley, Ontario, N5L 1B6 Phone: 519-782-3983 Principal: Ms. Sheila Pinder Secretary: Mrs. Debbie Sutherland Oct. 3 - Professional Development Day

Port Burwell Public School Activities September 2015 30 Strachan Rd., Box 209, Port Burwell, Ontario, N0J 1T0 Phone: 519-874-4558 Principal: Ms. Linda Westaway Admin Assistant: Ms. Julie Thiessen LOOKING FOR A “FOREVER HOME”!!!

Joel Vezina. Cell: 519-614-1107 519-768-1111 Email: thevez66@gmail.com

Paul F. Lépine LAW OFFICE Working Together To Serve Port Stanley

VEDOVA & CHAMBERLAIN Purchases & Sales of Property, Mortgages, Wills & Estates, Powers of Attorney, Family Law Paul Lépine will service all of Rob Chamberlain's clients. Please call him at 519-432-4155

Tel: 519.782.4562 or 226.658.4155 221 Colborne St., Port Stanley N5L 1C2

Rachel I think that all cats are special. Some cats are just a little more special because their needs are also special. Sometimes they may have vision issues, need special food or just a quiet type of home. For the month of October, Animal Aide would like to focus on our Special Needs Cats by reducing their adoption fee to $100. A prime example would be Rachel. Rachel is a petite tabby who was rescued with her two kittens. It was discovered that Rachel had some serious issues with her gums and, as a result, had to have her teeth removed. Rachel will need a wet food diet.

Riddle 8 year old Riddle is currently being treated for a urinary infection and will need to be on a vet approved diet. He is a brown and white tabby, declawed male who just happens to be a real sweetheart. Both of these cats have stolen the hearts of the volunteers but, if someone would love them more than we do, we would let them go. We have many more extra special, fabulous felines who would be wonderful in a home of their own so, please plan to drop in and take a look. Also, Casper has been adopted since being featured in the Beacon - thanks so much!

Animal Aide Association 333 Talbot St. St. Thomas

519 633-3788

Ad sponsored by

Allergy season is here Stock up on atoma Pharmacist Approved allergy fighting products. Weekdays 9 am-6 pm Sat. 9 am - 3 pm Sun.- Closed FREE Local Delivery

20% Off Wednesdays for Seniors 222 Colborne Street Port Stanley 519 782-3324

Page 8 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday September 25, 2015

West Nile Virus Found in Local Horse Elgin St. Thomas Public Health Elgin St. Thomas Public Health has received notification that a horse in Eastern Elgin County has tested positive for West Nile Virus. This is the second reported equine positive West Nile Virus incident to occur in Ontario in 2015, and Elgin County’s 1st since 2004. Elgin St. Thomas Public Health will continue to monitor for the presence of

West Nile virus in the mosquito popula- and your family against West Nile Virus tion through its mosquito trapping pro- include: gram. To date, no mosquito traps have • Wearing light-coloured clothing tested positive for West Nile Virus in with long sleeves, pants and socks in Elgin County for the 2015 season. areas where mosquitoes are present, The Health Unit is reminding resiespecially at dusk and dawn when dents to take steps to protect themthey are most active. selves from being bitten by mosquitoes. • Following directions for use when This includes removing standing water applying insect repellent containing from their property, covering up, and DEET, especially for children. using repellants that contain DEET. • Fixing holes in screens, windows Other ways to help protect yourself

T H E L AKE ER I E BEAC ON

and doors. • Regularly emptying any standing water from garbage cans, wheelbarrows, toys, flowerpots and saucers, pool covers, tires, and other items around your home and yard. • Changing water in bird baths every other day. • Keeping pool pumps circulating. • Covering openings in rain barrels with screens.

R OLAD EX Thinking of Buying or Selling a Home? Centre City Realty Inc.

Brokerage Independently owned and operated

Brenda Johnston Broker

Valerie & Steve - Owners

Call me Direct 519-495-4532 brenjohnston@rogers.com

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

ROTO-STATIC ®

Your Local Elgin Chrysler Dodge Jeep Dealer 275 Wellington Street • St. Thomas • Ontario • N5R 2S6

Don MacKinnon ME

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists

Dan Vernackt ME Rob Lukasik ME

• Carpet & Upholstery Protectant • Residential & Commercial • Commercial Entrance Mat Service • Area rugs (synthetic & wool) • Insurance flood Service

TEL: 519-637-ROTO (7686) PAGE: 519-435-6510

Steve Todd

Residential • Commercial Installation and Service Port Stanley, Ontario

Home Of The 12 Minute Drive Thru Oil Change “New” A/C Service and Safety Checks

519-782-3589

Contractor Licence ECRA-ESA #7001912

Quality Equipment Well Maintained

For all your rental needs CALL!

Offer valid at this location only. 519-633-2800

www.stthomasrentall.com

*SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY. CALL FOR DETAILS

1241 Talbot Street St.Thomas, Ont. N5P 1G8

OPEN: Mon-Fri 8-5 Sat. 8-Noon

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

WilliamsFuneral HomeLtd. Pre-Arrangement Counselling

45 ELGIN STREET ST. THOMAS, ONTARIO N5R 3L9

ALLAN D. HUGHSON GARY M. HUGHSON DIAL (519) 631-0850

Fax #: 519-631-8318

1207 Talbot St. St. Thomas, ON N5P 1G8

Tel: (519) 633-0240 Fax: (519) 633-4766

M U RDO M ACLE AN

519 782-5144

Pager: 1 888 504 4869 Opening & Closing Cottages

MAC PLUMBING 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.

To place your business card in the Roladex “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.”

call Linda at 519.782.4563

Reaching over 6800 Homes, Apartments Farms & Businesses Now on Facebook & issuu.com